Forget hot yoga! A recent study found that yoga can reduce the dreaded hot flashes of perimenopause and menopause by 66 percent. Other studies have shown that yoga and meditation are effective tools in a woman’s midlife toolbox to ease multiple side effects of menopause.
According to Dr. Natiya Guin, who is co-hosting the Radiant Beginnings Retreat menopause retreat with Desi Bartlett MS CPT E-RYT, yoga and meditation help alleviate perimenopause and menopause symptoms in 6 key ways.
-
Reducing Stress and Anxiety
Menopause often brings about emotional turbulence, including increased anxiety and stress. Yoga and meditation are proven to reduce stress levels by calming the mind and promoting a sense of inner peace. Pranayama (breathing techniques) and mindfulness practices, help women learn to manage stress more effectively.
-
Improving Sleep Quality
Sleep disturbances are a common complaint among menopausal women. Yoga, particularly restorative and yin yoga, can help improve sleep quality by relaxing the nervous system to reduce insomnia. Meditation practices, such as guided relaxation and yoga nidra, can also enhance sleep by calming the mind before bedtime.
-
Alleviating Hot Flashes
Research has shown that yoga is an effective method for mitigating vasomotor symptoms (VMS), also known as hot flashes and night sweats. Up to 75% of women experience hot flashes with menopause. Specific postures and breathing techniques can help with VMS.
-
Enhancing Physical Strength and Flexibility
Menopause can lead to a decrease in bone density and muscle mass. Yoga helps in maintaining and even building strength and flexibility through weight-bearing poses and dynamic flows. This not only supports physical health but also boosts confidence and overall well-being.
-
Balancing Hormones
Yoga and meditation can positively influence the endocrine system, which is responsible for hormone production and regulation. Specific practices, such as inversions and twists, can stimulate the endocrine glands, promoting hormonal balance.
-
Promoting Emotional Well-being
The mid-life phase can be an emotional rollercoaster. Yoga and meditation offer a sanctuary for emotional release and healing. Through mindful movement and inner reflection, you can cultivate emotional resilience and a positive outlook.
The Radiant Beginnings Retreat will take place in Playa del Carmen from January 24-27, 2025, Dr. Guin and Bartlett will share the power of yoga and meditation to ease menopausal symptoms. The retreat will also focus on friendship, empowerment and support to help women navigate the physical and emotional aspects of midlife to emerge ready for an unprecedented second act. To learn more about this powerful retreat click here.
