Menopause and Anxiety: Cultivating Calm

In this podcast episode, I learn more about anxiety management during menopause with anxiety warrior Heather Lillico.

Heather shares her own experiences of anxiety and how she found holistic solutions to feel calm. We highlight the importance of diet, meditation, and yoga as a three-pillar approach to shift the mindset and manage anxiety.

Heather is busy building a community and offering support on her app, 'Cultivating Calm'. We explore how these three Pillars of anxiety management practices can help balance hormones and how they can fit into any daily routine.

Chapters

00.00 Introduction

00.00 Understanding Anxiety and Meditation

00:32 Welcome to Moving Through Menopause

01:06 Dealing with Anxiety and Overthinking

01:43 The Three Pillar Approach to Managing Anxiety

02:34 Heather's Journey with Anxiety

10:29 The Role of Diet in Managing Anxiety

16:49 The Power of Yoga in Managing Anxiety

21:30 The Impact of Meditation on Anxiety

33:59 The Importance of Community in Managing Anxiety

37:18 Conclusion: The Power of Holistic Practices

Understanding Anxiety as a Menopause Symptom:

Menopause is a significant period of transition for women and can sometimes cause a surge in anxiety levels. This is due to the changing hormonal levels that influence the emotional centres in the brain including the Hippocampus. Anxiety can lead to panic attacks, they present as rapid heartbeats, sweaty palms, a sense of impending doom, and an inability to think logically. Despite its uncomfortable nature, anxiety isn't dangerous to the body. and we can learn to recognise these physical symptoms and deal with them.

Creating Healthy Habits to Beat Anxiety:

Do not underestimate the importance of cultivating healthy habits for anxiety regulation. Making practices such as yoga, mindful eating, and meditation can boost our feelings of self-worth and self-determination, which can significantly impact anxiety levels.

Consistency is key; tiny, everyday changes like spending a few minutes in meditation, moving the body in a supportive way, or incorporating mood-boosting foods can lead to significant transformations in your life.

Try it out for yourself

Anxiety and menopause might seem like an insurmountable challenge, but it is entirely possible to navigate this path and come out stronger with an improved quality of life.

The combined effect of engaging the mind and body using yoga, adjusting food habits, and practising meditation can work wonders in managing anxiety. As Heather rightly points out, consistency and regularity in these actions can lead to positive and transformational changes in dealing with anxiety during menopause.

Thanks to my guest

Heather Lillico

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Disclaimer: Please note that any information we provide in this podcast does not constitute medical guidance. You should consult your medical practitioner before making any changes that could impact your health.