In this episode of Menopause Conversations, Angela dives deep into why sleep is critical for women’s health—especially during the menopause transition.

You’ll discover:

• Why poor sleep raises risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even dementia.
• The difference between deep sleep (detoxifying the brain and body) and REM sleep (memory, learning, and emotional regulation).
• How changing hormones affect sleep cycles and brain “remodeling” during menopause.
• Practical strategies to improve sleep, from morning sunlight and regular routines to winding down with calming rituals.
• Why your sleep tracker isn’t always telling you the full story.

👉 Angela also shares a free downloadable Sleep Guide to help you make sleep a true priority for your health and wellbeing. Download the Sleep Guide here.

If you’ve ever struggled with restless nights or wondered how to wake up feeling truly refreshed, this episode is for you.

In this episode, Angela breaks down why energy can decrease during the menopause transition and what you can do about it.

From hormonal shifts that affect your energy systems to everyday habits and hidden drains most women miss, she shares simple steps to rebuild steady energy without relying on things like caffeine.

She covers:

• What “energy” really means (and how your body produces it)
• Why energy drops in menopause: hormones, stress load, sleep disruption, nutrition gaps, alcohol, iron deficiency, toxin exposure, overcommitting your time
• What to check if you’re always tired: iron levels, sleep routine, daily stressors, diet quality, hydration, environmental chemicals
• Boundaries = energy: how saying no protects your reserves
• Move to make energy: why any movement helps (especially when you don’t feel like it)
• Build more energy (no coffee required): where you can start
• Eye-opening statistic: though we may be living long now, 70% of people over 60 are in poor health and will stay in poor health for the rest of their life — be the 30% who buck the trend

Next week: a deep dive on sleep and how to get it working again.

If this episode helps, follow/subscribe and share it with a friend who’s feeling flat.

Drawing from cutting-edge neuroscience and her own experiences, Angela reveals that your brain isn’t breaking down—it’s upgrading.

Discover the real reason behind menopausal brain fog as Angela compares the brain’s hormonal rewiring to a chaotic home renovation. She unpacks how the communication between your brain, ovaries, and adrenal glands shifts during this transition, and what that means for your focus, decision-making, and emotional clarity.

Angela also explores practical, science-based strategies to support your brain:

🧠 Foods that nourish cognition

💤 How sleep flushes out toxins

🚫 Why alcohol disrupts brain repair

📅 Life-saving tools like sticky notes & calendar reminders

Plus, she highlights research from leading experts Dr. Lisa Mosconi (The Menopause Brain) and Dr. Louann Brizendine (The Upgrade), showing that women don’t lose intelligence through menopause—in fact, they gain wisdom.

This episode is a must-listen for women in business or leadership roles who want to thrive through the menopause transition.

Free Resource:

🎓Menopause Brain Masterclass + Smart Woman’s Brain Boost Guide

Share This Episode:

If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or colleague navigating this same stage of life. Let’s keep the Menopause Conversation going!

Is the shift in your hormones the cause of your symptoms or triggering some of the symptoms that your hormones were previously masking from other underlying issues?

Angela explores:

• How thyroid dysfunction (including subclinical issues) may be flying under the radar.
• The role of nutrient deficiencies like iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium.
• Why insulin resistance and that stubborn “meno belly” are often overlooked.
• The impact of chronic stress and high cortisol on digestion, hormones, and weight.
• Practical lifestyle shifts for reducing internal stress and supporting your body naturally.

This is a must-listen if you’ve ever been dismissed, told “it’s just your age” or just intuitively know something is not quite right.

You’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what else to check, plus empowering steps you can take to feel like yourself again. Get some answers to questions you have probably been asking for a while now.

📘 Download Angela's free eBook: Thriving in Menopause

🎧 Related Episodes: Nutrient Series

• Magnesium
• Iron
• Calcium
• Zinc

📝 Rate & Review if this episode resonates—help more women get the support they deserve.

You have a business plan. You have a financial plan. But what about a health plan?

In this episode of the Menopause Conversations podcast, Angela poses one of the most important — and overlooked — questions midlife women need to ask themselves:

Do I have a plan for my health as I age?

With honesty and insight, Angela dives into the concept of health span vs. lifespan, and there’s a difference you probably haven't considered. Most women begin to experience a noticeable health decline around the age of 63 BUT that doesn't have to be your reality.

She explores the everyday symptoms so many women brush off or tolerate — brain fog, fatigue, sleep disturbances, weight gain, aches and pains, hot flushes, rising blood pressure or cholesterol — and explains how these are signals your body is out of balance, not just inevitable signs of aging.

You’ll also hear:

• The real reason symptoms only show up once the body is already under stress.
• What movement does to your brain and hormones (and why you need more of it).
• How simple, sustainable choices — from better food to fresh air — can help you thrive.
• An honest question to ask yourself about where you want to be in 6 months, 1 year… or even 5 years?

Angela shares her personal story of slipping out of balance earlier this year, how she found her way back through consistency and mindset shifts, and how you can do the same — without overhauling your entire life.

This episode is your invitation to stop putting your health last, and start building the future you want to live in.

Grab your free guide: Thriving in Menopause

In this powerful opening episode, Angela shares personal stories and expert insights on how hormonal shifts affect your brain, energy, confidence, and ability to show up in your work. She explains why symptoms like brain fog, disrupted sleep, and burnout aren't just "part of the deal"—and what you can do to take back control.

Angela introduces the idea of becoming the CEO of your health, with real, actionable strategies to help you thrive both personally and professionally during menopause.

Learn why your schedule, energy cycles, and even the way you eat and move might need a reset—and how aligning your lifestyle with your biology can change everything.

✨ Whether you're a business owner, leader, or career-driven woman navigating midlife, this episode is a must-listen.

🔗 Download your free Smart Woman’s Brain Boost Guide here

🎧 Listen on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

📺 Now streaming live weekly on Facebook, Instagram & YouTube!

In Australia we have seen a Senate inquiry into perimenopause and menopause, resulting in 25 recommendations aimed at better supporting women. In New Zealand, we’ve seen organisations like Gender at Work being instrumental in promoting menopause awareness and celebrating World Menopause Day on October 18, 2024, with resources designed to smash stigma and highlight support options.

Globally, high-profile women like Michelle Obama, Naomi Watts, Halle Berry & more, have been candid about their menopause journeys, further normalising the conversation and advocating for increased research and education on menopause.

In addition to this, we talk through some other key highlights including:

• Menopause-inclusive workplace initiatives in New Zealand and beyond.
• Breakthrough research on hormone therapy and its impact on health.
• Lifestyle Implications and the role of active lifestyles in managing menopause symptoms.
• Personal wins, challenges, and reflections from our host, including the success of the embrace Program.
• The M Factor Movie.
• A couple of great books to explore to support your menopause transition & symptoms.

As we wrap up the year, I encourage you to reflect on your wins and lessons learned. We tend to focus on what we didn’t achieve or what went wrong, but let’s focus on what you did do really well, what lessons you learned even if through challenging times and what has this led you to do differently?

What are you ready to leave behind in 2024, and what are your goals for 2025?

🎧 Listen now and celebrate the journey with us.

Want to learn more? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

If not, you're not alone.

In today’s episode of Menopause Conversations, I’m joined by Sonya Lovell, an advocate for challenging societal stigmas and taboos, and for promoting better education and resources for all people as they transition through menopause.

Sonya’s journey began at 47 when she experienced induced menopause due to breast cancer treatment. Feeling overwhelmed, unsupported, and under-educated about menopause, Sonya struggled to understand what was happening to her rapidly changing health.

Experiencing anxiety, mild depression, and a host of other physical symptoms, Sonya set off on a mission to understand everything she could about peri-menopause and menopause.

This has led her to recently presenting at the Senate inquiry into Peri-Menopause and Menopause, and she’s here to discuss:

• What a Senate inquiry is and why it was necessary
• What unfolded during the inquiry
• Who participated, including people with lived experiences, health professionals, government bodies, University Representatives
• The key recommendations and next steps

We also explore how every one of us can contribute to ensuring these recommendations are implemented—whether by writing to local and federal representatives or initiating conversations at schools, workplaces, and in our personal lives.

Menopause impacts everyone: over 50% of the population will directly experience the transition, and 100% will feel its ripple effects. By starting conversations and advocating for change, we can make a significant difference for the generations to come.

This inspiring & encouraging episode highlights the power of advocacy, education, and conversation in creating real change.

I encourage you to learn more about Sonya Lovell and what you can do to advocate for change by taking a look at these resources:

• Menopause After Cancer: Sonya Lovell’s Personal Journey
• Dear Menopause Podcast

Want to take action? Download a template to write to your local member and join the movement for better peri-menopause and menopause support: Demand Action on Peri & Menopause! - WellFemme

Be a part of the change you want to see!

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Imagine your body as a symphony orchestra. Each hormone plays an essential role, but the one conducting the gig is your gut. There is more to your gut than just digestion, it's central to hormone balance.

In this episode of Menopause Conversations we explore how different hormones are influenced by your gut such as:

• Serotonin - Your Feel Good Maestro
• Melatonin - Your Sleep Regulator
• Thyroid Hormones - Your Metabolic Pacesetters
• Oestrogen - Your Feminine Essence

We'll also look at the signs your gut is giving you when it needs help and when it may be time to seek professional help.

If you think your gut is fine, sometimes the signs are more subtle than you expect so I'll share how you can bring your gut and hormones back into harmony.

To top it off, I share some tips to build a sustainable routine.

Consistency is key when it comes to your gut health and when you take care of your gut, every part of your body will follow suit.

If you found this episode helpful, share it with a friend and if you haven't already, subscribe to the Menopause Conversations Podcast so you never miss an episode.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

In this episode of Menopause Conversations, we highlight the surprising ways menopause impacts your skin and how you can take charge of your skin’s health with natural, effective strategies.

Many women will experience dryness, wrinkles, dullness, or sensitivity during perimenopause and beyond, but it’s not just because you're “getting older.” Hormonal shifts, particularly declining oestrogen levels, play a big role in hydration, elasticity, and collagen production.

Beyond hormones, factors like gut health, hydration, and stress management all influence how our skin looks and feels.

In this episode, we uncover:

• What’s Behind the Changes? Explore how declining oestrogen impacts hydration, elasticity, and collagen production, leading to dryness, wrinkles, and thinning skin.
• Gut Health and Skin: Learn why your gut microbiome (especially the estrobolome) is key to clear, glowing skin and how to naturally support gut health with prebiotic foods and regular detoxification.
• Hydration Hacks: Discover how much water you really need (hint: it’s more than you think!) and how hydration impacts both your skin and digestion.
• Collagen’s Role: Find out why we lose up to 30% of our collagen in the first 5 years of menopause and which types of collagen (hint: marine collagen Types I and III) are best for supporting skin health naturally.
• Topical Solutions: Get tips on using hyaluronic acid, antioxidant serums, and facial oils like rosehip and argan oil to hydrate, protect, and nourish your skin.
• Face Yoga for Skin Health: We revisit Episode 170 with Vanamala from Face Yoga Australia to explore how simple exercises can tone facial muscles, boost circulation, and reduce wrinkles.
• Nutrition for Vibrant Skin: Understand the importance of omega-3s, brightly colored fruits and vegetables, and fiber-rich foods in promoting radiant skin from the inside out.
• Stress and Skin: Learn how chronic stress accelerates aging through cortisol’s effects on collagen and simple practices like breathwork and meditation to manage stress effectively.

This episode is packed with natural, actionable tips to help you embrace your skin’s journey through menopause. With the right care, your skin can remain healthy, glowing, and vibrant at any age.

Take care of yourself and your skin and don’t forget to revisit Episode 170 on face yoga and subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Today in the Menopause Conversations Podcast, we dive into the causes of hair loss during menopause, from hormonal imbalances to thyroid issues, stress, and nutrient deficiencies. I'll walk you through practical steps to manage hair loss and support regrowth, including tips on managing stress, checking androgen levels, and supplementing with essential nutrients like zinc.

Plus, I explain the hair growth cycle and why patience is key.

Tune in to take control of your hair health and find ways to support a full, vibrant look and if you haven't already, join the Menopause Conversations Facebook Group for more support, discussions and encouragement on all things Menopause!

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Whether it’s recurring headaches, itchy skin, sinus congestion, brain fog, heightened anxiety or even eczema, these symptoms could be a result of fluctuating hormones that spike your body’s histamine levels.

In this episode of Menopause Conversations, we dive into the surprising reason behind why allergies often worsen in menopause and, more importantly, how you can find natural relief.

I uncover how estrogen and histamine interact in the body, often creating an “allergy storm” as estrogen fluctuates during perimenopause. From sinus issues to hives and everything in between, many symptoms are a result of the interplay between histamine and hormonal shifts.

What We’ll Explore:

• The Role of Hormones in Allergy Flare-ups – Understand why perimenopause triggers histamine intolerance and mast cell activation, making you more sensitive to allergens than before.
• Natural Dietary Adjustments – Discover foods to avoid (like aged cheese, wine, and certain fermented foods) and which nutrient-dense options can help stabilise histamine levels and calm your symptoms.      
• Gut Health and Histamine – The gut plays a critical role in processing histamine. We’ll cover how probiotics, prebiotic foods, and digestive support can help your body manage histamine more efficiently.      
• Holistic Solutions and Supplements – Learn about natural antihistamines like quercetin and stinging nettle, liver-supporting supplements, and bioidentical progesterone options to help balance your hormones and reduce histamine buildup.
• Lifestyle Tips for Allergy Relief – From hydration and moderate exercise to stress management practices, we cover easy lifestyle tips to help you reduce your histamine load and take back control of your wellness.

Tune in to discover empowering, natural solutions for managing histamine intolerance.

With the right combination of diet, lifestyle adjustments, and supportive supplements, you’ll feel equipped to calm those allergy symptoms without relying on harsh medications.

Let's dive in!

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

We explore why migraines become more severe during perimenopause, the cause and what you can do to help alleviate them.

As you may have suspected, HORMONES are the key contributors as we ride the rollercoaster of fluctuating hormones during the menopause transition, and I will walk you through what exactly is happening with your hormones and look at some natural strategies you can use to manage and reduce migraine frequency and severity.

I cover:

• Supplements, like Magnesium
• Foods to avoid & overall dietary changes
• How to manage exercise
• Sleep
• Mind-body practices
• Essential oils
• And much more

There is a lot within your control once you understand what is going on in your body and what you can be doing to help reduce debilitating migraines.

Remember, you don’t have to do it alone! 

If sleep is one of the key areas you need to change, here is a link for your download on SLEEP and if you found this episode helpful, please share it with someone who could benefit, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Until next time, take care of yourself and be kind to your body!

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Want to learn more? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Angela is a coach and mentor who specialises in helping women create "next chapter" businesses. Whether it’s the second, third, or even fourth chapter of life, Angela guides women as they explore new ventures.

Together, we discuss the importance of face-to-face connections and the longing many women feel for something different, especially as their children become more independent.

Angela highlights the power of following your heart and overcoming the common challenge of self-doubt. Her advice? Act with confidence, and the feeling of confidence will follow.

There’s so much wisdom in this episode, and I’m excited for you to hear it.

Learn more about Angela here. Follow her on Facebook and/or Instagram.

Enjoy the conversation!

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

As a survivor of the Bali bombings, Carren faced immense tragedy, losing her two best friends in the attack and endured years of depression. She draws on her own experience of trauma and recovery to inspire audiences worldwide making her a prominent figure in resilience, self-discovery and spiritual growth. What happened in Bali transformed Carren's life and led her to discover the power of universal connection.

Carren shares her journey from a high-achieving, Type-A businesswoman to someone who now lives with "effortless ease."

Together, we dive into meaningful topics such as letting go, acceptance, ego versus essence, and discovering your true self, especially in midlife when so many women begin to question their purpose and identity.

This episode offers deep insight into:

• The difference between letting go and acceptance.
• How ego and essence impact how we show up in the world.
• The importance of self-discovery and embracing ease during midlife transitions.

I hope Carren's personal story of resilience and transformation will leave you feeling inspired and empowered.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

In this week's Menopause Conversations episode I revisit a conversation I had with Tegan Marshall, author of several books, including Facing Fears and Courage to be Brave.

Tegan’s passion is to make a difference in someone else’ life, making their journey a little easier by providing inspirational role models she never had and help to ignite courage in others so they can live a truly magnificent life of freedom. In whatever form freedom means to them.

Tegan and I talk about some of my fears and how I can overcome them and while this was a bit of a personal coaching session for me, the information that Tegan shares is valuable for everyone.

She helps us understand and gives us tools to identify fear:

• What we are really afraid of.  
• What is in our control.
• Tips to help anyone that may notice a continual fear that keeps coming up, to manage this - including, breaking your fears down into sizeable chunks.
• The confidence & excitement that comes from starting to tackle your fears.

I hope that you enjoy this conversation and take away something that may help and excite you.

Learn more about Tegan's story, her work and available resources, books and courses at https://www.teganmarshall.com.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Lynda, the author of Age is an Attitude, shares insights on how we can reshape our experience of growing older by changing our perspective on aging. She also dives into fascinating research by Dr. Mario Martinez, a clinical neuropsychologist, who examines how cultural beliefs impact our health and longevity.

Lynda's key takeaway? Let go of anything that no longer serves you as you embrace the journey of aging. For Lynda, 70 is the new 50.

To learn more about Lynda’s work or explore her books, visit https://lynda-dyer.com

Share your biggest takeaway from this conversation on Instagram or Facebook and feel free to tag me @angelacounsel. I’d love to hear how you're planning to shift your mindset around aging!

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Taryn shares her unique journey from pharmaceutical rep to being a Tantra Coach who teaches men and women how to re-connect to their sensuality.

We covered a range of topics including:

• The difference between sex and intimacy.
• The role of self-love in relationships.
• Reclaiming your sexuality and sensuality.
• The shame of talking about intimacy and sex.
• The definition of Tantra and the misconceptions about it.
• Healing our wounds as women.
• Reconnecting with pleasure, especially after having children.
• Empowering yourself again as a woman.

Taryn also offers three simple tips for re-connecting to our sensual energy.

To learn more about the work that Taryn does, visit her website tantricmedicinewoman.com or follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

For many years the topic of menopause was not discussed in public and certainly was not spoken about in the workplace. In fact, a study showed that when asked, women felt a sense of secrecy, isolation, being too scared to speak up because of the stigma around the topic and being discriminated against.

One in four women consider leaving their job when in menopause, yet, more and more menopausal women are in the workplace, so it is so important that we start talking about what is happening to them and find ways to assist them to fulfil their job roles.

Women report that their greatest concern at work is their brain fog and inability to retain information, this leaves them fearing that they will lose their jobs and impacts their confidence. This is where my guest Thea O'Connor comes in.

Thea's program 'menopause at work' focusses on helping organisation's become menopause-friendly through awareness, education and small workplace support. As a result, this can increase the engagement & retention of some of the work forces more experienced people. After all, it is a natural and temporary stage of life.

It is up to all of us to start having more open conversations about menopause and to stop treating it as a joke or as a medical condition. I loved this conversation and I hope that you do as well, please let us know what you thought by leaving a review.

Visit the https://www.thea.com.au/menopause-at-work/ website for more information and learn about the amazing work Thea is doing.

Let’s talk about the essence of what makes us female.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

For some women it is a time of new beginnings, for others it is a time of endings, and some may find relationships challenging so in this episode I chat with Couples Counsellor Iman Iskander to talk through all of this.

Iman shares the different stages a relationship goes through and what happens if we happen to get stuck at a particular stage of relationship development. We also talk about women who “stay for the kids” and what happens once their kids are older and no longer dependent on them.

Relationships with one person for a lifetime can be hard, but are we really supposed to be with the same person for our entire adult life? This is the question that I ask Iman and she shares different research studies that show whether this is a good thing or not. This leads to a conversation about different cultures and how they see relationships and the role of women.

This was a great conversation and I am grateful to Iman for sharing her expertise in this episode, it certainly got me thinking about my relationship. Will I be looking to move to the country and setup a community of only women? Only time will tell, but I do already have the farm in the country!!!

If you would like to learn more about the work that Iman does you can visit her website or follow her on Facebook @Culture of Care - AU

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join our upcoming FREE 4 Day workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Denise is an ex-nurse and highly experienced Personalised Health Coach, Personal Trainer, Nutrition, Mindset, and Trauma-Informed Coach with over 25 years of expertise in the health and fitness industry.

She is passionate about helping women connect authentically with their bodies as they move through this transformative stage of life.

As we age, our bodies change, and so do our needs, particularly in maintaining muscle mass and bone health.

Just as our experiences with puberty & periods were unique, so is our experience of menopause. Denise will guide us through understanding how to protect our muscle mass, the critical role movement plays in preventing osteoporosis, and how building strength is about more than just eating protein.

We'll also explore how to find enjoyable activities, the importance of recovery, and how movement isn’t just about hitting the gym—it’s about staying functional, mobile, and balanced in everyday life. Denise is a firm believer that movement is youth, and today she’ll show us how staying active can help with longevity, brain function, and overall vitality.

Whether you're already experiencing menopause symptoms or simply preparing for the journey ahead, this episode offers practical advice and offers a way forward, so tune in as Denise shares how you can embrace this stage of life and thrive.

Want to learn more? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

In this podcast episode I’ll walk you through Personalised Health, a truly groundbreaking approach to your health, particularly important during this transition.

Personalised Health isn’t just another trend; it’s a tailored approach that considers your genes, environment, and lifestyle. It’s about understanding what’s best for your body, based on your unique makeup and circumstances.

From the foods you eat to the workouts you do, and even the climate you live in—these factors all influence how you experience menopause. That’s why no two women go through menopause the same way, and why some solutions work wonders for some but not for others.

Here’s what makes personalised health so special:

• It’s Precise: Tailored to you and your body.
• It’s Predictive: Your genes can reveal potential health risks.
• It’s Preventative: Knowing your risks allows you to take proactive steps.
• It’s Participatory: You’re in control of your health journey.

The current one-size-fits-all health model isn’t working.

With more chronic diseases, obesity, and mental health concerns than ever before, something needs to change. That’s where personalised health comes in, allowing you to take control and live your best life.

So, how does it work?

You’re born with a unique set of genes, which can influence your health. But your genes don’t dictate your destiny; your lifestyle and environment also play crucial roles.

Your physical traits, like body shape and waist-to-hip ratios, can be indicators of metabolic health. Visible signs, such as cracked lips, might signal a vitamin deficiency. Even the length of your ring finger can offer insights into hormone levels, which affect your menopause experience.

By understanding your phenotype—the expression of your genes—you can reverse-engineer your lifestyle to suit your genetic blueprint.

Curious about your genetic type? Your body shape, how you store fat, and your

weather preferences offer clues.

If you want to learn more, join me for the “Secret to Thriving in Menopause Without HRT” workshop. We’ll explore genetic health types and how you can use this knowledge to thrive during menopause.

To register, visit https:/bit.ly/thrivemenopause

With an extensive knowledge of the body, mind and spirit acquired over 35 years of working with people, Vanamala's focus is empowering women and instilling a positive body image for mental and physical wellbeing. Especially as women age and start to see themselves differently.

In 2019, she set the goal to reach as many women as possible with face yoga and help women stop using antidepressants, mutilating cosmetic surgery, and invasive injections.

This is a wonderful conversation about:

• Celebrating women. 
• Putting yourself back on top of your to do list. 
• If you are thinking about botox, fillers or surgery, consider Face Yoga first as a less toxic approach. 
• Having Fun & the positive impact of a simple smile. 
• How to release tension in your face, neck & shoulders, afterall, stress is anchored in your facial muscles.
• How to start seeing yourself differently & rediscover your inner beauty as you age.

Face Yoga is so much more than lifting the droopy eyelids or getting rid of a double chin, it's about loving YOU, getting your confidence back, releasing tension, having LOTS of fun and being part of a great supportive place for women.

Vanamala runs lots of courses and workshops online, or in person from group activities to personal coaching and I encourage you to give it a try.

Take a look at her website, find her on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn to learn more.

 https://faceyogaaustralia.com/

https://www.facebook.com/FaceYogaAustralia

https://www.instagram.com/face_yoga_australia/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanamala-mayr-reisch-b8072a254

This could be the wonderful 'lift' you are looking for. 

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Want to learn more? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause

Follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Discover:

• What antioxidants and essential fatty acids are, and why they’re crucial for your health.
• Why women in menopause need more of these nutrients.
• The best foods to include in your diet and if supplements are necessary.

Learn how these powerful nutrients can help you manage menopause symptoms, support hormone balance, support cardiovascular health and protect against chronic & age-related diseases.

Tune in now for insights and practical tips to help you thrive!

For more information, grab a copy of my free Essential Nutrients to Thriving in Menopause Ebook.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

We explore how zinc helps balance estrogen and progesterone levels, supports bone density to prevent osteoporosis, and aids in maintaining mental clarity and emotional well-being. You'll also learn about the best dietary sources of zinc, how to recognise signs of deficiency, and when to consider supplements to meet your needs.

Whether you're currently experiencing menopause or preparing for it, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate this transition with the support of zinc. Tune in to discover how this mighty mineral can make a big difference in your health and wellness journey.

For more on crucial nutrients to help during the menopause transition, grab a copy of my free Nutrient Ebook.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Most of us know that it's essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, but it does much more than that. On a cellular level, calcium is involved in various activities that keep our bodies running smoothly & in this weeks episode of Menopause Conversations we explore the essential functions that calcium plays such as healing wounds, muscle function, nervous system & more.

We'll guide you through the best dietary sources of calcium beyond just dairy, discover the serious health risks associated with calcium deficiency, and learn to recognise the signs of a deficiency and understanding when it might be time to consult a healthcare professional for advice and testing.

We also look at the value of calcium supplements, who might need them, and the different types available to ensure you make informed decisions about your health.

This episode is packed with practical advice and insights to help you navigate your calcium needs during the menopause transition.

Don't miss this essential episode and greater learning on how to support your health through menopause.

For more information, grab a copy of my Free Nutrient ebook below.

https://embracemenopause.com.au/meno-nutrients

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

In this episode, we dive into the vital role of magnesium in women's health.

Discover why this often-overlooked mineral is essential for hundreds of bodily functions and how a deficiency can impact your well-being.

We discuss symptoms of deficiency, such as irritability, headaches, muscle cramps, and insomnia, and explore the many benefits of magnesium, including mood stabilisation, hormone balance, improved sleep, and increased energy. All of which we tend to experience during the menopause transition.

We'll also cover how to identify if you have a magnesium deficiency which can be hard to pinpoint.

Learn practical ways to boost your magnesium levels through Epsom salt baths, magnesium-rich foods, and supplements. Tune in to find out why magnesium might be the supplement you need to jumpstart your healing journey.

Join me for upcoming episodes of Menopause Conversations as I cover more of the important nutrients you need to support you through the menopause transition and if you want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

We'll explore why iron is essential, focusing on its functions for oxygen transport and energy production, supporting the immune system, and aiding cognitive function.

Learn:

• The best way to determine if you have an iron deficiency.
• How to recognise common symptoms of iron deficiency.
• Understand the various causes and the potential health concerns related to iron deficiency, especially if experienced over a long period of time.

Nature has an amazing way of supporting us through many things in life & this is no different.

I’ll share how particular foods can help with iron intake & absorption & answer the question, "do you need to supplement"?

Enjoy another informative and empowering conversation on maintaining optimal health & supporting yourself during menopause.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Imagine living through a time when Menopause was considered a 'disease' and treated as such. Many other conditions were blamed on Menopause as very little research had been done on women's health & the medical field simply didn't know any better.

Fascinating research is now showing the role that the brain plays in the Menopause transition. It's not all about the uterus & the ovaries.

And as everyone's brain is different, we all have different experiences of menopause but the one common thread? Menopause is not to blame for every symptom we experience.

It can be disheartening when your physician may dismiss your symptoms, or, blame every symptom on Menopause so it's time to get a holistic view of what is going on.

There is so much we can do. Menopause has always been a part of women's lives but how we experience it has changed and there are so many options that mean women can thrive in menopause.

Enjoy this episode and if you are keen to learn more about the menopause transition, join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

It may be something you have never experienced before now. Maybe your experience with it has previously been mild or only at certain times in your life and brought on by certain events.

It could be something you have consistently struggled with.

So why is it that in Menopause we are more likely to experience it?

In this episode of Menopause Conversations I take a deeper look at:

• The key characteristics & signs of Anxiety.
• Why Anxiety can be worse during Menopause.
• Common triggers for Anxiety in Menopause.
• Natural solutions to reduce Anxiety.

There are many ways in which you can support anxiety from food & lifestyle to natural supplements & self care.

With understanding comes the ability to do something about it!

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Learn how to Balance your Hormones through a powerful ancient practice of Seed Cycling.

Also supported by a lot of science and research, this practice has been shown to help PCOS, hormonal acne, PMS, thyroid, fatigue, mood swings, food craving, sore breasts, insulin resistance and many other symptoms experienced during women's cycles.

Take a listen to hear about 'How' to Seed Cycle & 'Why', as well as 'What' seeds to consume and the supportive & protective benefits they provide.

What have you got to lose?

Grab a copy of my Seed Cycling Handout to keep the 'How To' at your fingertips.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

It's a natural and essential part of the body's immune response to injury, infection or harmful stimuli so why is it that for women this increases during the menopause transition?

In this episode I talk about what inflammation is and:

• The difference between acute and chronic inflammation.
• Identifying the signs of chronic inflammation and what happens when we experience it over a prolonged period.
• The connection between mental health, gut health & inflammation.
• Why it is worse during peri-menopause & beyond.

There are so many signs our bodys give us when we are in an inflamed state but are we always listening?

If skin reactions, lack of sleep or carrying extra weight are even one issue you are experiencing, take a listen to this episode as there is a lot you could be doing to feel better.

I'll share some tips on what you can do to combat and reduce your inflammation.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

For women going through the peri-menopause, menopause transition, it's more important than ever to be getting enough sleep & good quality sleep but how?

In this episode of Menopause Conversations we share:

• The impact on your body & it's functions when you're not getting enough sleep.
• Why sleep it so important for the body, brain, cell repair, immune system, cardiovascular health and so much more.
• Some alarming statistics of how poor sleep can shorten your lifespan.
• The right time to sleep.
• What you need to avoid of an evening before bedtime.
• Just how much sleep you should be getting.

But it's not all doom & gloom. There are some very simple things you can be doing & good habits to create that will help you to get your sleep back on track.

Listen in now & if you want to learn more, use this link to get access to our 'Getting A Good Nights Sleep Ebook'.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

You are likely experiencing typical symptoms of the menopause transition.

In this episode of Menopause Conversations, we talk through the impact of Menopause on your Brain and address the increased concern many women have about developing Alzheimer’s or Dementia.

If you have a parent or grandparent with Alzheimer’s or Dementia, this does not have to be your story also.

Two thirds of people suffering from Alzheimer’s are women, it is the second leading cause of death in Australia and the leading cause of death in women.

While there has been a drastic increase in Alzheimer’s, there is also an increase in study and testing in the area leading to more diagnoses but also greater understanding of the contributing factors to this, how our brains change during menopause and what we can do to support our brain health and minimise risk.

 In this episode we talk about:

• The connection between the brain & our hormones & how they communicate with each other.
• The symptoms we experience like affected memory, behaviour, our ability to think clearly, as well as others.
• Diet, lifestyle, stress & toxins that play a role.
• The difference between Women & Men’s brains, especially as both go through hormonal changes.
• What studies show in terms of the changes taking place in our brain and just how amazing the body is in adjusting to this rewiring.

Most importantly, what you can be doing to take charge of your health.

If you want to empower yourself with more knowledge, you can find some great additional resources on the topic below:

• The Upgrade by Dr. Louann Brizendine
• The Menopause Brain by Dr Lisa Misconi
• Dr Sarah McKay – while her work is not specifically on Menopause, she is doing a lot of work on changes that happen to women during their life cycle, puberty to menopause & beyond. You might like to check out her book: The Women's Brain Book - The nuroscience of health, hormones and happiness.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Yvonne has helped change the lives of many women in their 50s & over from burnt out Corporate workers to exhausted mothers, grandmothers and women that are feeling a little lost, unlike themselves & looking to experience more adventure in their lives in a supportive environment.

Through 10 years of Women’s Fitness Adventures Yvonne has created a space for women to come together, support each other, have some fun and do things they never

thought they’d be able to do.

She has helped to empower thousands of women to grow stronger and more confident, forge lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.

If a community of amazing women looking for adventure, travelling to exciting places around the world, creating new friendships, looking & feeling good & discovering or rediscovering what their own capabilities & strengths are, you’ll love listening to this episode.

Whatever success means for you, you might find it by joining this group. You too could be achieving something beyond your wildest dreams and have a whole new lease on life.

To learn more about Yvonne’s work, Women’s Fitness Adventures and the Couch2Mountain Program, take the time join her upcoming webinar on 6th June via this link.

And for a little hit of inspiration, enjoy a look at what others have had to say about their recent adventure:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEq9ZG8RNTo

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

What about the effects that alcohol is having on your health, especially if you are already consuming other things like medications?

In this episode of Menopause Conversations we are joined by special guest, Sarah Rusbatch.

Sarah is a multi award winning Grey Area Drinking Coach, Menopause Coach, Author of the best-selling book 'Beyond Booze', Motivational Speaker and founder of a community of over 20,000 women. She has been featured on ABC News, Mamania, Body & Soul, Women's Health & The Sunday Times and is also a regular contributor on Channel 9.

Sarah has supported thousands of individuals to change their relationship with alcohol with a goal to 'love yourself', and live your best life so we encourage you to take a listen to this fascinating and thought provoking discussion as we talk about:

• The alarming statistics of alcohol consumption in women over 45 & it being on the rise.
• The difference between how women's bodies metabolise alcohol vs men and the increased health risks in older women.
• What you gain when you remove alcohol.
• Why you think you can't do without it and changing your thinking about what that means.
• Grey Area Drinking
• The messaging in both society & marketing around social use, using it to unwind or deal with stress, 'you deserve it', and 'how do I have fun without it?'
• What does an unhealthy relationship with alcohol look like?
• Non-alcoholic wines and other drink replacements.

To learn more about Sarah, get in touch or discover more about the great working she is doing, you can find her via:

• Instagram - Sarah Rusbatch (@sarahrusbatch) • Instagram photos and videos
• Facebook - The Women's Wellbeing Collective Facebook Group
• Her Website

To grab a copy of her book, visit any big department store (in Australia) or go online to purchase via her website, Amazon or Booktopia.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Many of us have a belief that the scale is the ultimate measure of health and wellness but when it comes to menopause, this couldn't be further from the truth.

Hormonal changes, water retention, and shifts in body composition can all skew the number on the scale so let's explore why this number is not only misleading but can be downright harmful to our understanding of health during menopause.

The fixation on the scale can lead to scale anxiety, body image issues, and even disordered eating behaviours. It's a cycle that's tough to break, but it's possible.

Knowledge is power, and the more we understand about the limitations of the scale, the better equipped we are to take control of our health.

If you're keen to learn more about this and other important factors in Menopause and how to thrive, join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

How do you know what stage you are in?

Join me in this episode as I share a recent Menopause Demystified Masterclass I ran to help guide women through the changes that happen with your hormones as you move through the menopause transition.

You'll discover:

• The 4 different stages of peri-menopause and how to identify which stage you are in.
• The roles of the different reproductive hormones and what happens as they start to decline.
• Other key hormones that you need to be aware of during peri-menopause and beyond.

In this call I reference a guidebook to help you follow along & identify what stage you may be in so if this interests, you, you can download it here: https://angelacounsel.com/menopause-demystified-hub

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

• 95% of Americans have some kind of metabolic disorder eg; insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes.
• 6 in 10 Americans have a chronic disease and 4 in 10 people have more than 1 chronic disease.
• Type 2 diabetes, cardio vascular disease and other chronic conditions continue to rise.
• Over 1 billion people worldwide are classified as obese & over 2 billion are classified as overweight.

Australia's statistics are much the same.

Is it any wonder why people are desperate for a quick solution and that these quick solutions are also on the rise?

But, how safe are they for you? What are the benefits vs the side effects? What do the studies show and do these 'solutions' offer a long-term fix?

It's a tricky one to navigate in a culture of immediacy so let's dive in to this one together and explore how you can teach your body to be more metabolically flexible. 

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

In this episode we answer all of these questions and more as we take a closer look at Cholesterol, it's functions in the body and look to remove the fear that is often surrounding it.

We consider diet, your genetics, your bodys production of cholesterol and why, the side effects of cholesterol lowering medications, how to talk to your Dr, LDL vs HDL, and what you can be doing naturally to support a healthy balance.

Want to learn more about how to naturally reduce your cholesterol levels, lose your meno-belly and thrive in menopause?

Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Join me for this episode as I talk about the benefits and risks of including soy in your diet, especially for women going through menopause.

We'll look at the balances between nutritional science, cultural practices, individual health needs, the quality of the product, and a greater understanding of what Soy actually is and what you need to consider for your own personal health.

Keen to learn more about how to support your health during the peri-menopause and menopause transitions? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

What does it mean? What causes it and what can you do about these imbalances.

Education is empowerment so take an active role in managing your menopause journey by becoming educated on hormone imbalances and the natural methods available to support your health.

As you finish this episode, catch up on previous episode where I go into Using Seeds to Balance Your Hormones.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

The short answer is, I don't. I am pro-choice and believe this should be each individuals choice, not my choice or that of a Dr but yours.

It is important to be educated on the risks and benefits when making that choice as some women do need HRT, some simply can not take it, some women try it and it doesn't work for them, others choose not to take it and are looking for an alternative and naturopathic approach. This is where my scope of practice lies.

Join me for the next 20 minutes as I dig deeper into the topic of HRT and in the context of what is actually happening to your body during this stage of life. I'll offer some information for you to consider to make the right choice for you.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

https://angelacounsel.com/understanding_menopause_ebook/

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Let's begin by understanding the role of genes in our menopause experience. Our genetic makeup is what makes us unique individuals. While we all possess specific genes inherited from our parents, it is the environment that determines their activation and expression. Genes act as our body's potential, dictating how it could behave. However, they require external stimulation to be activated or deactivated. For instance, when we exercise, we stimulate specific genes related to muscle strength. Similarly, environmental factors can trigger or suppress certain genes, influencing our health and well-being during menopause.

Moving on to nutrition, we discover a fascinating concept: our digestive system is actually external to our bodies. Visualize it as a big hose running through us, with the inside of the hose being external and the outside being internal. When we consume food, it enters this external environment and interacts with our microbiome, breaking down nutrients and processing toxins. Proper nutrition is crucial for our brain function, hormonal balance, and overall cellular health. Consuming foods that align with our individual needs can trigger positive gene expression and contribute to improved well-being.

Next, let's explore the impact of social interactions and mental well-being. The people we surround ourselves with significantly influence our gene expression. Some individuals thrive when interacting with others, while others prefer solitude or smaller groups. These preferences are driven by our genes and can influence our stress levels. Understanding and honouring our social preferences can help create an environment that supports our unique needs, promoting overall mental well-being during menopause.

Now, let's turn our attention to the physical environment and nature's influence. The place we inhabit plays a crucial role in our gene expression and overall health. Each individual has different preferences for their environment. While some find solace in nature, others thrive in bustling city environments. Nature has been shown to have profound effects on well-being, reducing stress and lowering blood pressure for many individuals. However, it's important to recognize that different people may have diverse responses to various environments. Creating a supportive environment that aligns with our genetic blueprint can enhance our menopause experience and alleviate symptoms.

To wrap up, we invite you to join the "Thriving in Menopause Without HRT" workshop. This comprehensive workshop offers a holistic approach to help you navigate this transformative phase. Over the course of five days, you will gain insights into your genetics, environmental influences, and actionable steps you can take to create a blueprint for optimal well-being. From understanding your nutritional needs to identifying the right exercise frequency and designing a supportive social and physical environment, this workshop empowers you to make informed choices that align with your unique physiology and genetics. Join us and discover how to embrace your menopause journey with grace, resilience, and joy.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

I, a naturopath, kinesiologist, and personalised health coach, has dedicated my career to women's health and gut health. However, when it came to menopause, I found myseld unprepared and unaware of its true impact. Menopause was not given much attention during my naturopathic studies, and my knowledge was limited to common symptoms like hot flushes and mood swings. It wasn't until I experienced perimenopause firsthand that I understood the complexity of this transitional phase.

During perimenopause, I had just given birth to my second child and attributed the physical and emotional changes to the demands of motherhood and a busy clinic. However, as my symptoms persisted and worsened, I began to connect the dots and realised that menopause was the underlying cause. Mood swings, joint pain, body aches, weight gain, and a sense of purposelessness became prominent challenges in my life.

Determined to find a solution, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and personalised health. I learned about genetic personalised health and the profound impact it can have on overall well-being. By understanding my genetic makeup and listening to my body's needs, I made strategic changes in my diet, exercise routines, and sleep patterns. The results were astounding—I effortlessly shed weight, experienced a reduction in pain, and gained strength and vitality. My stress levels decreased, and I discovered a renewed sense of purpose.

Inspired by my own transformation, I now share my knowledge and strategies with other women.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Definitions

Intermittent Fasting: Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that alternates between periods of fasting and periods of eating. It involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting, typically in specific time windows. The fasting periods are longer than the typical overnight fast and can range from several hours to a full day or more. There are various intermittent fasting methods, such as the 16/8 method (16 hours of fasting, 8 hours of eating) or alternate-day fasting, where fasting and non-fasting days alternate.

Restricted Time Eating (also known as Time-Restricted Eating): Restricted time eating is a form of intermittent fasting that focuses on limiting the daily eating window rather than the duration of fasting. It involves condensing all meals and caloric intake within a specific time frame each day. For example, a common approach is the 14/10 method, where you fast for 14 hours and have a 10-hour eating window. This means all meals and snacks are consumed within that 10-hour period, while fasting for the remaining 14 hours.

In summary, intermittent fasting is an overarching concept that encompasses various fasting patterns, while restricted time eating is a specific type of intermittent fasting that focuses on limiting the daily eating window.

Points For Intermittent Fasting for Women in Menopause:

Hormone Regulation: Intermittent fasting can help regulate hormones in women going through menopause. By providing a consistent eating window, it can potentially alleviate hormonal imbalances and reduce symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.

Weight Management: Menopause often leads to weight gain due to hormonal changes. Intermittent fasting can be an effective strategy to manage weight during this phase. By limiting the eating window, it can help create a calorie deficit, promote fat loss, and maintain a healthy weight.

Insulin Sensitivity: Intermittent fasting has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for women in menopause. As hormonal changes can affect insulin regulation, intermittent fasting may help maintain stable blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing insulin resistance.

Mental Clarity: Some women in menopause experience cognitive challenges like brain fog and memory issues. Intermittent fasting may promote brain health by increasing the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports neuron growth and improves cognitive function.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: Menopause is often accompanied by increased inflammation in the body. Intermittent fasting has been linked to reducing inflammation markers, potentially offering relief to women experiencing inflammatory symptoms such as joint pain and stiffness.

If you're curious about whether intermittent fasting is suitable for your genetic profile and body type, I invite you to join me for a transformative workshop called "The Secret to Thriving in Menopause Without HRT."

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

1. why having a healthy gut is vital for balancing your hormones
2. the importance of a healthy gut brain connection when it comes to moods and brain function
3. some simple steps you can take to improve your gut function

Let’s start with the role of specific gut bacteria required to balance your hormones. These bacteria are know as your Estrobolome.  The estrobolome refers to a group of bacteria in the gut microbiome that plays a crucial role in activating and regulating estrogen in the body. It influences estrogen metabolism and balance, which can impact various aspects of our health, particularly during menopause.  When the estrobolome is unhealthy or imbalanced, it can contribute to issues such as heavy bleeding, uterine fibroids, breast tenderness, and other menopausal symptoms.

So, what are some factors that influence the estrobolome? Several factors can affect its composition and health. Genetics, diet, alcohol intake, environmental exposures, and medications all play a role. I will share some strategies that can help you have a healthy estrobolome shortly.

Now that you have a better understanding of the role of specific bacteria in balancing your hormones let’s have a chat about the role of other bacteria in reducing symptoms such as foggy headedness, depression, anxiety and reducing your risk of alzheimers and dementia.  

The gut and brain are intricately connected through a communication pathway known as the gut-brain axis.  

• Nervous system connects brain and gut.
• More serotonin receptors in gut than brain
• Research has shown a direct link between unhealthy gut bacteria and depression
• A healthy gut microbiome plays a vital role in maintaining optimal brain function and regulating mood. 
• Imbalances in the gut microbiota can disrupt this connection and contribute to mood swings experienced during menopause.
• the gut microbiome is involved in the production of neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine. These neurotransmitters, often referred to as "feel-good" chemicals, influence our mood and emotions. 
• When estrogen levels from the ovaries decline during menopause, serotonin and dopamine levels can also be affected, impacting our emotional well-being. This is where a healthy gut becomes crucial. There are oestrogen receptors in the gut (refer to the estrobolome that I have already spoken about)

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Let's dive in and explore five key points from this episode:

• HRT is not a cure-all: I've noticed a lot of chatter on social media claiming that HRT is the only way to alleviate menopause symptoms and prevent conditions like osteoporosis, heart disease, and dementia. However, it's crucial to understand that there is no definitive research supporting these claims. While HRT may reduce the risk of osteoporosis, there are other effective strategies for managing bone health that I discussed in a previous episode.
• Non-HRT options exist: Many women I speak with are hesitant to take HRT, either due to personal health concerns or simply a preference for alternative methods. I want you to know that there are numerous options available that can help you effectively manage symptoms, lose weight, and thrive during menopause without relying on HRT.
• Personalised nutrition and exercise: When it comes to eating well, it's essential to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Each of us has a unique genetic makeup and health history that determines what our bodies truly need. It's about finding the foods that nourish your specific body and support its thriving. Similarly, exercise should be tailored to your body's preferences and requirements. Some women benefit from weight-bearing exercises, while others find strength in activities like yoga or weightlifting.
• Minimising exposure to environmental toxins: Environmental toxins, such as xenoestrogens and obesogens found in plastics, personal care products, and pollution, can disrupt our hormones. By reducing our exposure to these toxins, we can help bring our hormones back into balance. It's about being mindful of the products we use and the environments we inhabit.
• Managing stress as a priority: Stress plays a significant role in hormonal balance during menopause. As our ovaries produce fewer hormones, the burden falls on our adrenal glands, responsible for producing stress hormones. Managing stress levels becomes crucial. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and spending time in nature can support hormone balance and alleviate menopause symptoms.

Remember, these are just some of the key points I covered in this episode. I want you to know that your menopause journey is unique, and it's essential to listen to your body and make informed decisions based on your individual needs and preferences.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Here are five key takeaways from the episode:

• Magnesium deficiency is common: Due to depleted soil, most of our food lacks sufficient magnesium. Coupled with high stress levels, women in perimenopause often experience magnesium deficiency. Supplementing with magnesium is essential for optimal health.
• Calming the nervous system and stress response: Magnesium plays a vital role in modulating the HPA axis, our stress response system. By ensuring sufficient magnesium levels, we can effectively manage stress and prevent a prolonged stress response, leading to improved overall well-being.
• Balancing blood sugar levels and insulin: As estrogen levels decrease during menopause, women may become insulin resistant, leading to weight gain and potential health issues. Magnesium helps regulate blood sugar levels, reduces sugar cravings, and supports insulin balance, promoting better metabolic health.
• Enhancing sleep quality: Erratic sleep patterns often accompany the menopause transition. Magnesium supplementation aids in calming the nervous system, promoting relaxation, and improving sleep quality. Taking a magnesium supplement before bed or enjoying an Epsom salt bath can support restful sleep.
• Supporting hormone production: Magnesium plays a critical role in supporting the adrenal glands, which take over hormone production as ovarian function declines. Adequate magnesium levels help maintain optimal progesterone production and contribute to hormonal balance during perimenopause and beyond.

Addressing magnesium deficiency has wide-ranging benefits, including reducing stress, improving sleep, supporting thyroid function, boosting energy levels, and even slowing down the aging process. While blood tests for magnesium deficiency are not accurate, women experiencing stress and hormonal changes can benefit from magnesium supplementation.

Discover the various forms of magnesium supplements available, such as magnesium citrate for constipation relief and magnesium glycinate for easy absorption without bowel issues. Angela recommends a combination product that includes magnesium, taurine, and B vitamins to enhance energy, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support menopause transition and beyond.

Remember, optimizing magnesium levels is a foundational step for women navigating menopause. Tune in to the full episode to gain a deeper understanding of the role of magnesium in promoting overall well-being during this transformative stage of life.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

• Menopause is not a disease: Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the transition to the end of a woman's reproductive years. It is experienced by all women who have had a period, and it should not be considered a disease or disorder.
• Menopause is not oestrogen deficiency: While oestrogen levels do drop during and after menopause, it is incorrect to label menopause as oestrogen deficiency. The body naturally lowers oestrogen levels because it is no longer preparing for pregnancy. Oestrogen deficiency implies that there is something wrong with women, which is not the case.
• Symptoms associated with menopause: Many symptoms that are commonly associated with menopause may have underlying causes other than menopause itself. Factors such as stress, diet, sleep, alcohol consumption, thyroid issues, or nutrient deficiencies can contribute to these symptoms. It is essential to explore the root causes rather than attributing everything to menopause.
• Hormone therapy as a therapy, not replacement: Hormone therapy (previously known as hormone replacement therapy or HRT) should be viewed as a therapeutic intervention rather than a hormone replacement. It may be necessary for some women to alleviate specific menopausal symptoms, but it should not be a lifelong treatment. Hormone therapy is recommended for the short term, and its use should be carefully evaluated based on individual circumstances and risks.
• Addressing misconceptions and having an open conversation: There is a need to challenge the prevailing narrative that every woman needs to be on hormone therapy to navigate menopause successfully. Angela emphasizes the importance of having an open conversation about menopause, its misconceptions, and alternative approaches. By addressing stress, nutrient deficiencies, and other underlying factors, women can find balance and thrive during this stage of life without relying solely on hormone therapy.

Join me in future episodes as she explores more misconceptions surrounding menopause and invites guest experts to shed light on the diverse perspectives and experiences associated with this life phase.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Key Points:

Bone Density Measurements: Bone density is commonly measured using a DEXA scan, which provides T-scores and Z-scores. T-scores compare bone density to that of a healthy 30-year-old, disregarding age and other factors. Z-scores compare bone density to people of the same age, sex, and ethnic background, providing a more accurate assessment.

Osteopenia: Osteopenia is a term used to describe lower bone density that is one to two standard deviations below the average for a healthy 30-year-old. It is not a medical diagnosis but indicates a higher risk for osteoporosis. Some experts criticize the use of osteopenia as a disease category, suggesting it has been over-medicalized.

Bone Density vs. Bone Strength: Bone density is not the sole indicator of bone health. Strong bones require not only density but also quality and strength. Factors such as nutrition, exercise, lifestyle, and exposure to environmental toxins influence bone health. High bone density does not guarantee fracture prevention if the bones are brittle and weak.

DEXA Scans and Limitations: DEXA scans, while commonly used to measure bone density, are not perfect predictors of fracture risk. Results can vary depending on the machine used. Additionally, DEXA scans focus on density rather than strength. Therefore, it is important to consider other factors beyond bone density when assessing bone health.

Maintaining Strong Bones: To promote strong bones during menopause and beyond, several strategies can be employed:

• Ensure adequate calcium intake from various sources, such as leafy greens, nuts, and seeds.
• Maintain optimal vitamin D levels through sunlight exposure and supplementation if necessary.
• Consider vitamin K2 and soy isoflavones as supplements that may support bone density.
• Engage in weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, and weightlifting, to stress and strengthen the bones.
• Quit smoking, as it can hinder bone regrowth and overall health.
• Limit alcohol consumption, as it interferes with calcium absorption.
• Live a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and minimizing exposure to toxins.

Remember that while HRT may reduce the risk of osteoporosis, it is not a guaranteed preventative measure. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate options for individual circumstances. Prioritizing overall health through a holistic approach will contribute to maintaining strong bones and reducing fracture risk during menopause and beyond.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

• Breaking the Silence: Menopause is often considered a taboo subject, leading to a lack of understanding and shame. Many women hesitate to even mention the word "menopause" due to societal stigmas and the fear of being judged.
• Changing the Narrative: While progress has been made in recent years, there is still lingering shame and misconceptions around menopause. Women's bodies are remarkable, capable of menstruation, pregnancy, and childbirth. Yet, the very process that allows for these miracles is often shrouded in shame and silence.
• Taboos Around Periods: The shame associated with menopause can be traced back to the secrecy and taboo surrounding periods. In the past, discussing menstrual issues or seeking help was discouraged, which created a culture of silence and misunderstanding.
• Aging and Loss: Menopause is often associated with aging and loss, leading to negative stereotypes and societal expectations. Media portrayals of menopausal women as "old hags" or "crazy" perpetuate the shame and fear surrounding this natural transition.
• Challenging the Worst-Case Scenario: The narrative that menopause is the worst time of a woman's life can be detrimental to mental health and overall well-being. While some women do experience physical and emotional changes, it is crucial to dispel the myth that menopause universally leads to a decline in quality of life.
• Taking Control: Menopause is a time of transition and change, and women have the power to navigate it with grace and resilience. By understanding their bodies, managing stress, adopting healthy lifestyle choices, and seeking support, women can embrace menopause as a transformative phase.
• Medical Misunderstandings: Many women face dismissive attitudes from healthcare professionals who lack adequate knowledge about menopause. This further fuels feelings of shame and discourages women from seeking help. It's crucial to advocate for more comprehensive education and support within the medical community.
• Shifting Mindsets: Menopause conversations need to be open, honest, and multidimensional. By challenging the shame and stigma associated with menopause, we can empower women to approach this phase with positivity, self-care, and self-compassion.
• Mental Health Matters: Menopause can impact mental health, with increased risks of depression, anxiety, and other conditions. However, it is essential to differentiate between natural hormonal changes and underlying mental health concerns. Addressing mental well-being during menopause is a vital aspect of overall self-care.
• The Wisdom of Menopause: Menopause can be seen as an opportunity for personal growth, self-discovery, and pursuing one's passions. By shifting our mindset and embracing this new stage of life, women can embrace their wisdom and lead fulfilling lives.

It's time to break the silence, challenge societal stigmas, and foster open conversations about menopause. Together, we can empower women to approach this transition with confidence, support, and the understanding that menopause is a normal and natural part of life.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - In this episode of Menopause Conversations, we delve into the topic of menopause and the shame that often surrounds it. As a female podcaster, I understand the importance of open discussions about menopause and aim to empower women through knowledge and support. Let's explore the key points discussed in this episode:

• Breaking the Silence: Menopause is often considered a taboo subject, leading to a lack of understanding and shame. Many women hesitate to even mention the word "menopause" due to societal stigmas and the fear of being judged.
• Changing the Narrative: While progress has been made in recent years, there is still lingering shame and misconceptions around menopause. Women's bodies are remarkable, capable of menstruation, pregnancy, and childbirth. Yet, the very process that allows for these miracles is often shrouded in shame and silence.
• Taboos Around Periods: The shame associated with menopause can be traced back to the secrecy and taboo surrounding periods. In the past, discussing menstrual issues or seeking help was discouraged, which created a culture of silence and misunderstanding.
• Aging and Loss: Menopause is often associated with aging and loss, leading to negative stereotypes and societal expectations. Media portrayals of menopausal women as "old hags" or "crazy" perpetuate the shame and fear surrounding this natural transition.
• Challenging the Worst-Case Scenario: The narrative that menopause is the worst time of a woman's life can be detrimental to mental health and overall well-being. While some women do experience physical and emotional changes, it is crucial to dispel the myth that menopause universally leads to a decline in quality of life.
• Taking Control: Menopause is a time of transition and change, and women have the power to navigate it with grace and resilience. By understanding their bodies, managing stress, adopting healthy lifestyle choices, and seeking support, women can embrace menopause as a transformative phase.
• Medical Misunderstandings: Many women face dismissive attitudes from healthcare professionals who lack adequate knowledge about menopause. This further fuels feelings of shame and discourages women from seeking help. It's crucial to advocate for more comprehensive education and support within the medical community.
• Shifting Mindsets: Menopause conversations need to be open, honest, and multidimensional. By challenging the shame and stigma associated with menopause, we can empower women to approach this phase with positivity, self-care, and self-compassion.
• Mental Health Matters: Menopause can impact mental health, with increased risks of depression, anxiety, and other conditions. However, it is essential to differentiate between natural hormonal changes and underlying mental health concerns. Addressing mental well-being during menopause is a vital aspect of overall self-care.
• The Wisdom of Menopause: Menopause can be seen as an opportunity for personal growth, self-discovery, and pursuing one's passions. By shifting our mindset and embracing this new stage of life, women can embrace their wisdom and lead fulfilling lives.

It's time to break the silence, challenge societal stigmas, and foster open conversations about menopause. Together, we can empower women to approach this transition with confidence, support, and the understanding that menopause is a normal and natural part of life.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

I personally grew up in the era of low-fat and low-carb diets, where going on various restrictive diets was the norm in an attempt to lose weight. However, what many of us didn't realize is that these dieting practices were actually impacting our experience of the menopause transition.

As a podcaster focused on supporting women through this transformative phase, I often receive criticism for seemingly perpetuating the diet culture that pressures women to conform to a certain body image. However, I want to clarify that my program is not about diets. It's about empowering women to reconnect with their bodies, listen to their bodies, and restore hormonal balance by truly understanding how their bodies work and what is best for them.

I, too, have followed different diets throughout my life, recommending the popular keto diet to many seeking weight solutions. While it initially seemed effective, I realized that it was just another restrictive diet with limitations. There have been countless diets like Weight Watchers, liquid diets, and more that have shaped our beliefs about our bodies.

It's important to recognize that the reasons behind our past dieting efforts were often rooted in striving for an unrealistic image of ourselves. We were chasing a different body, influenced by airbrushed images and glossy magazines. Moreover, the belief that being thin automatically equates to being healthy is a misconception we need to challenge.

During the menopause transition, many women start putting on weight and feeling uncomfortable in their bodies due to the natural changes occurring. However, it's crucial to understand that weight gain does not equate to being unhealthy. There are various body types, and health is determined by factors beyond size. We need to break free from the limited role models and embrace the diversity of body shapes and sizes.

The low-fat era instilled a fear of certain foods and led to nutrient deficiencies, as fats were replaced with sugar and additives in processed foods. Cholesterol, demonized during that time, is actually essential for hormone production, especially during menopause. It's important to consume healthy fats from natural sources and avoid manufactured fats that can be harmful to our health.

Counting calories and obsessively tracking food can create stress and guilt around eating. Instead, we should shift our focus to the quality of food and listen to our bodies' needs. It's about nourishing ourselves and enjoying food without feeling guilty.

Over-exercising and not eating enough can be counterproductive during menopause. Our bodies perceive stress, and excessive exercise combined with inadequate nutrition can hinder our well-being. It's crucial to find a balance and listen to our bodies' signals.

It's time to embrace the changes that come with menopause and shift our focus from anti-aging to embracing the wisdom and opportunities that lie ahead. Aging is a natural process, and rather than trying to fight it, we should celebrate and create something fantastic for the next half of our lives.

Let's foster a better relationship with food by understanding our individual body needs and nourishing ourselves accordingly. Accepting and embracing our bodies as they are essential for our well-being. It's about thriving through intuitive eating and self-acceptance.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - In this episode, I want to touch on the topic of diet culture and its significant impact on the menopause journey for women. If you're a woman who is anywhere in the middle of the menopause transition (around 40 and above), this episode is especially relevant to you.

I personally grew up in the era of low-fat and low-carb diets, where going on various restrictive diets was the norm in an attempt to lose weight. However, what many of us didn't realize is that these dieting practices were actually impacting our experience of the menopause transition.

As a podcaster focused on supporting women through this transformative phase, I often receive criticism for seemingly perpetuating the diet culture that pressures women to conform to a certain body image. However, I want to clarify that my program is not about diets. It's about empowering women to reconnect with their bodies, listen to their bodies, and restore hormonal balance by truly understanding how their bodies work and what is best for them.

I, too, have followed different diets throughout my life, recommending the popular keto diet to many seeking weight solutions. While it initially seemed effective, I realized that it was just another restrictive diet with limitations. There have been countless diets like Weight Watchers, liquid diets, and more that have shaped our beliefs about our bodies.

It's important to recognize that the reasons behind our past dieting efforts were often rooted in striving for an unrealistic image of ourselves. We were chasing a different body, influenced by airbrushed images and glossy magazines. Moreover, the belief that being thin automatically equates to being healthy is a misconception we need to challenge.

During the menopause transition, many women start putting on weight and feeling uncomfortable in their bodies due to the natural changes occurring. However, it's crucial to understand that weight gain does not equate to being unhealthy. There are various body types, and health is determined by factors beyond size. We need to break free from the limited role models and embrace the diversity of body shapes and sizes.

The low-fat era instilled a fear of certain foods and led to nutrient deficiencies, as fats were replaced with sugar and additives in processed foods. Cholesterol, demonized during that time, is actually essential for hormone production, especially during menopause. It's important to consume healthy fats from natural sources and avoid manufactured fats that can be harmful to our health.

Counting calories and obsessively tracking food can create stress and guilt around eating. Instead, we should shift our focus to the quality of food and listen to our bodies' needs. It's about nourishing ourselves and enjoying food without feeling guilty.

Over-exercising and not eating enough can be counterproductive during menopause. Our bodies perceive stress, and excessive exercise combined with inadequate nutrition can hinder our well-being. It's crucial to find a balance and listen to our bodies' signals.

It's time to embrace the changes that come with menopause and shift our focus from anti-aging to embracing the wisdom and opportunities that lie ahead. Aging is a natural process, and rather than trying to fight it, we should celebrate and create something fantastic for the next half of our lives.

Let's foster a better relationship with food by understanding our individual body needs and nourishing ourselves accordingly. Accepting and embracing our bodies as they are essential for our well-being. It's about thriving through intuitive eating and self-acceptance.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

In this episode:

1. Unraveling Genetics: We'll start by demystifying genetics and DNA. Genetics refers to your unique DNA sequence, the study of which provides insights into your physical health attributes, such as eye color, hair color, and height. We'll also explore genes associated with specific health conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. While genes can predispose you to certain conditions, it doesn't mean you're destined to experience them. We'll debunk the myth that you have no control over your genetic fate.

2. The Power of Epigenetics: Ever heard the saying, "It's all in your genes"? Well, not quite! Enter epigenetics, the study of heritable changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence itself. Epigenetics reveals that you have the ability to influence whether a specific gene is turned on or off, similar to pulling the trigger on a loaded gun. We'll discuss how epigenetics gives you the power to make a difference and reshape your genetic destiny.

3. Taking Charge of Gene Expression: We'll introduce you to the exciting world of epigenetic control and explore the factors that can influence your gene expression. From the food you eat to your environment, exercise habits, and stress levels, various elements play a significant role in determining which genes are activated or suppressed. We'll emphasize the impact of nutrition, physical activity, environmental factors, mindset, and belief systems on your gene expression during menopause.

Remember, menopause is not a one-size-fits-all journey. By understanding the dynamic relationship between genetics and epigenetics, you can take proactive steps to optimize your health, well-being, and overall experience during this transformative phase of life. So, let's explore the incredible potential within your genes and empower you to live your best life during menopause!

Tune in to this episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast and take charge of your genetic destiny today. It's time to unlock the secrets of your genes and embrace the power of epigenetics in shaping your menopause experience. Stay tuned and join us on this exciting journey!

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Key messages:

• Metabolic syndrome is a medical condition that involves a group of risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other health problems
• Insulin resistance is a form of metabolic syndrome that can develop over time and has symptoms such as high blood sugar levels, increased hunger, and difficulty losing weight
• Insulin is a hormone that helps the body take up glucose from food and store it in cells for energy
• When the cells are full, insulin stores the excess glucose as fat, primarily around the waist
• Insulin resistance occurs when the body continually puts glucose into the body through food, and insulin has to store it as fat after the cells are full
• Low-fat diets and artificial sweeteners can trigger insulin resistance and lead to weight gain
• Women who have PCOS have an imbalance in insulin resistance, making it a metabolic condition rather than a reproductive one
• During menopause, estrogen levels decline, which can reveal insulin resistance that was masked before
• To manage insulin resistance, one should consume more fibre, fat, and protein in their diet, along with adding more vegetables

Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome can be managed through diet and lifestyle changes. Eating more fibre, fat, and protein, along with adding more vegetables, can help improve gut health and manage insulin resistance

Thanks for tuning in to this week's episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

As women, we are highly dependent on cycles, including your menstrual cycles, daily cycles, and seasonal cycles. Your personal biorhythms are essential to your health, and being out of alignment with them can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, depression, sleep disorders, and hormonal imbalances.

The host shares her personal story of discovering her natural sleep cycle and how making a simple change to her exercise routine improved her health. She emphasizes that each person is unique and that understanding one's personal biorhythm is crucial to living a healthy life during menopause.

Angela also shares the story of one of her clients who made changes to her routine and discovered that understanding her personal biorhythm positively impacted her health. The client was able to reduce joint pain, lose weight, and think clearer by aligning her exercise routine to her personal biorhythm.

Overall, this episode highlights the importance of understanding your personal biorhythm and how it can help you live a healthier life during menopause.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Key Points:

• Our host experienced symptoms of menopause despite eating a healthy diet and taking supplements.
• She initially tried to lose weight through diets, but realized that diets do not work for everyone, especially during menopause.
• The concept of bio individuality suggests that every woman's experience of menopause is different, and therefore a generalized approach to diet and lifestyle does not work.
• The host suggests avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and hot chili foods to help with hot flushes and eating more vegetables to improve overall health.
• It is important to find an individual solution that works for each woman and her unique symptoms and needs.

Thank you for listening to this episode on Understanding Menopause and Bio Individuality. We hope you found it informative and helpful. Don't forget to tune in next week for another insightful episode.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Introduction

• Welcome to Menopause Conversations for 2023
• Introduction to the topic of Phytoestrogens and their role in regulating hormones during menopause
• Importance of understanding natural ways to manage hormones during menopause

What are Phytoestrogens?

• Definition: compounds found in certain foods that mimic the effect of estrogen in the body
• Regulate hormones by filling up estrogen receptors in the body and clearing excess estrogens
• Common sources: soy, flaxseed, sesame seeds

Benefits of Phytoestrogens

• Soybeans can reduce hot flushes, night sweats, improve vaginal dryness, and improve bone health
• Flaxseed can bring down hot flushes and improve cardiovascular health
• Sesame seeds are good for cardiovascular health, rich in zinc which is important for skin, bones, brain health, immune system and more.

Research on Phytoestrogens

• A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that soy isoflavones reduced hot flushes in perimenopausal women
• A study in the Journal of Women's Health found that flaxseed reduced hot flushes, night sweats, and improved vaginal dryness
• A study in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Journal found that Sesame seed oil reduced hot flushes and depression in post-menopausal women
• A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Food and Sciences and Nutrition found that soy products reduced hot flushes.
• Maryon Stewart's research on phytoestrogens and their impact on menopause symptoms

Conclusion

• The inclusion of phytoestrogens in the diet can not only regulate hormones but also improve overall health.
• More research is available on the efficacy of phytoestrogens in reducing hot flushes and other menopause symptoms.
• Join us for our next episode to learn more about managing hormones during menopause naturally.

Extra Resources

Link to Interview with Maryon Stewart on Phyto-Oestrogens

Link to podcast on HRT

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

After losing everything, including her health, Beverley saw this as the chance to remove the masks that she had been hiding behind and find her voice.

Once Beverley healed the trauma of her childhood she knew that she had to help others find their voice as well. As a constant high achiever managed to retrain as a coach in a short time frame so that she could start helping others as soon as she could.

Beverley that silence makes the guilt and shame worse, this is why she believes it is her legacy is to use her voice to help others and she does this every single day with her words and her actions. This was a truly inspiring conversation that I thoroughly enjoyed.

To learn more about the work that Beverley does you can visit her website, her instagram is @stepforward_tohaveavoice and her facebook is @StepForwardRecovery.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Destiny Rescue is a Not-for-Profit organisation started in Australia over 18 years ago and is dedicated to fighting the trafficking and sexual exploitation of children in seven nations. Their highly trained agents run covert and raid rescue operations, day and night to locate and rescue children being used and abused.

With the ongoing support of generous donors, Destiny Rescue has successfully liberated over 5,200 individual victims of human trafficking. They have been instrumental in the closing of many bars, clubs and brothels known to be targeting children for sex work and have seen numerous perpetrators prosecuted.

Their tireless work has also helped keep hundreds more young ones from entering the sex trade through various local community prevention programs and delivered justice and care for those who have been rescued

I didn’t say much in this episode because I felt that I needed to be quiet and let Marc share the story of these children. By the end of the episode I was in tears. If there is anything that you can do to assist please visit www.destinyrescue.org and either give a one time gift or help to rescue a child.

Have a listen to the story that Doris has to share, of how she found a way to manage her symptoms naturally and now helps other women who are on a similar journey to what Doris has been on.

If you have enjoyed this episode or any of the previous episodes of Menopause Conversations please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you are listening to this podcast.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

There was so much fun and laughter throughout this episode particularly when Bron shares the story of the time she turned "crazy old lady" to get a flight upgrade. Bron has so many fun stories to share and she is proud of her "crazy old lady" status.

You will also learn a quick exercise to help you start laughing, follow along with Bron and I guarantee no matter what mood you are in, you will very quickly feel your mood lift as you experience the healing effect of laughter.

If you want to learn more about Bron you can visit her website or find her on LinkedIn as Bron Roberts.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Iman shares the different stages a relationship goes through and what happens if we happen to get stuck at a particular stage of relationship development. We also talk about women who “stay for the kids” and what happens once their kids are older and no longer dependent on them.

Relationships with one person for a lifetime can be hard, but are we really supposed to be with the same person for our entire adult life? This is the question that I ask Iman and she shares different research studies that show whether this is a good thing or not. This leads to a conversation about different cultures and how they see relationships and the role of women.

This was a great conversation and I am grateful to Iman for share her expertise in this episode, it certainly got me thinking about my relationship. Will I be looking to move to the country and setup a community of only women? Only time will tell, but I do already have the farm in the country!!!

If you would like to learn more about the work that Iman does you can visit her website or follow her on Facebook @Culture of Care - AU.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

I really enjoyed this conversation with Janet, her voice is so gentle and she holds space while we talk about a topic that can be a sensitive one for many women. I thoroughly enjoyed reading her book and had many ahha moments as I was reading through. There is so much that we can still learn about intimate relationships, things that are completely different to what we have learnt in the past.

I hope that you enjoy this conversation and if you would like to learn more about Janet you can visit her website at www.janetmcgeever.com or www.makingloveretreat.com.au. You can also find Janet on facebook and instagram as @janetmcgeever.

I would love you to leave us a review about what you thought about this conversation, let me know what you think. The more reviews that the podcast gets the more it will show up in the various podcast platforms search options. I will be back next week with another episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

We discuss discovering who you are beyond your label as a mother, wife, daughter etc. and the endless possibilities that are available to you. Anne shares a simple exercise that you can do to discover who you really are.

Anne is so passionate about the work that she does with women particularly when it comes to finding your purpose in life. If you would like to learn more about the work that Anne does you can visit her website or on social media:

Facebook 

Instagram 

LinkedIn 

Twitter 

In this conversation we discuss breaking the rules that we have been taught by the dominant patriarchal society that has kept women trapped for many generations. And yes, there is a discussion around witches, in fact it was a question about witches that first attracted me to Lisa and why I wanted to have her as a guest on the podcast.

As we uncover what it is to be a wise woman Lisa shares that wise women are comfortable with the mystery of life whereas before finding our wisdom, we often are looking for certainty and control. She shares how our wisdom comes from deep within our wombspace and how we can connect to our own womb.

In this current world where chaos appears to be the dominant force, healing of the world will come from our feminine energy. Once women are able to re-connect to their physical, emotional and spiritual energies there will be a healing power that re-balance a world that seems to be spiralling out of control.

This is an episode that might need a couple of listens, we go deep in some places. I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation, and it isn’t often that I get to have such an open conversation with someone who is on a similar wavelength to me. If some of what we speak about is a little difficult to grasp, please be gentle on yourself and know that the more you listen the more you will understand.

If you would like to connect with Lisa, her website and social media links are:

Website

Facebook 

Instagram 

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Whilst she was on her journey Franziska had many different adventurers and met so many people who showed her those moments of humanity that she was looking for. This is a fun conversation with Franziska as she shares stories from her journey and what she learnt about courage from the back of her motorbike.

You can learn more about Franziska and get a copy of her book The Courage Map on her website.

You can also get a free copy of the Courage Map Journal from her website as well, so that you can start your journey of courage.

If you would like to see some of the videos that Franziska created of her journey check out her youtube channel.

Grab your journal and create a quiet space where you can spend some time simply reflecting on the year that was. You could make a ritual of this experience by lighting a candle, making a relaxing cup of tea, burning some beautiful essential oils, anything that helps you to get into a calm place.

This is the final episode for 2022 but that doesn’t mean you need to miss out on your weekly dose of the Menopause Conversations podcast. For the next 2 months I will be re-publishing some of the past 100 episodes. Many of these episodes will be under the title of Wise Women Conversations because that was the name of the podcast before this current name of Menopause Conversations. Enjoy listening to these republished episodes and I will be back in 2023 with some brand new episodes and guests for you to listen to. Have a great holiday break and I will be back in 2023.

The diagnosis shocked Sonya but what was to come was chaos and confusion as Sonya was plunged very quickly into menopause.  Sonya shares her story of not feeling well informed about what would happen to her when it came to her menopause and the lack of support that she received from the medical fraternity.

In this episode Sonya not only shares her experience she also shares what her dreams are for the future of cancer treatments and the support of women through medically induced menopause.  I am thankful that Sonya was open about her story and that she was able to share some of her tips that helped her through some of her worst times.

To learn more about Sonya visit

Website

Podcast

Instagram

We Are Stellar Women Community

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

I don’t think of myself as inspiring when I share my story because I am simply doing what I need to if I want to be able to stay health and mobile as I age but I have been told that my story is inspiring. If only one woman gets inspiration from what I have achieved, then I will continue to share.  

Mobility, balance and flexibility is so important as we age.  These are what will continue to give us a good quality of life and for me it means that I can continue to do the multi-day hikes that I love to do.  I love the challenge of deciding to do a hike and then the planning process to get fit and strong to be able to complete the hike.  My next big hike is in Iceland on July 2023.  I have already started my training, 9 months out, so that I will be able to complete this challenging hike.

If you would like to learn more about Women’s Fitness Adventures and the hikes that they organise visit:

Website

Facebook 

Kim Morrison is a 5 times best-selling, award-winning author, founder of Twenty8 Essentials, an aromatherapist, health and lifestyle educator, mentor, Master NLP Practitioner and Time Line therapist, Advanced Hypnotherapist and a multi-tasking wife and mum. With two aspiring athletic children, one a ballerina and the other a rugby player, Kim is married to former NZ Cricketer Danny Morrison who, as a family, moved to the Sunshine Coast in 2006.

With athletic goals herself, she played netball well into her 40’s and proudly represented Auckland from 1983-1986. Kim took up the crazy sport of ultra marathon running in her early 20’s and set a world record as the youngest female to run 100miles in less than 24 hours. She went on to represent Australia at the world indoor 24 hour championships in the UK where she set 8 Australian records in 1990.

68-year-old world record holder Cliff Young was her mentor at the time and, to this day, lives by his ethos that success is 90% mental and 10% physical. She has used her running story as a direct metaphor for life – riding the highs, hitting the walls, pushing through the pain barriers, crossing the line and never, ever giving up!

In this episode Kim shares:

• The changes that happen to your skin as you age
• The myths around the anti-ageing marketing messages
• Why it is important to use skincare that doesn’t have toxic ingredients
• How you can have a simple skincare routine that enhances your skin
• Why the most important thing you can do for your skin has nothing to do with the skincare products that you use

If you want to learn more about the work that Kim does and her skincare range, Twenty8 visit:

FACEBOOK

Kim Morrison Training – Facebook Business Page

Twenty8 Essentials – Facebook Business Page

INSTAGRAM

Kim Morrison

Twenty8

TWITTER

Kim Morrison

LINKED IN

Kim Morrison

WEBSITES:

Kim Morrison

Twenty8 

Books

• Queen Menopause by Alison Daddo
• Art of Self-Love by Kim Morrison
• The Upgrade by Dr Louanne Brizadene 
• Goddesses Never Age by Dr Christiane Northrup 
• The Wisdom of Menopause by Dr Christiane Northrup
• The Hormone Repair Manual by Lara Briden 
• Magnificent Midlife by Rachel Lankester 

Podcasts

• The Self Love Podcast with Kim Morrison 
• Magnificent Midlife Podcast with Rachel Lankester 
• Essentially You by Dr Mariza Synder 
• Dear Menopause by Sonya Lovell 
• Self-Kind with Erica Webb 
• Thriving Thru Menopause with Clarissa Kristjansson 

Communities

• Menopause Conversation Facebook Group 
• Women’s fitness Adventures 
• The Self-Kind Hub 
• 35+ Where to Shop Facebook group 
• Magnificent Midlife
• Women 40+ - Self Love, Body Love and Swimsuit Confidence Facebook group 
• Midlife Refuel

Personal Care Products

• Twenty8 
• Zeroco
• The ethical beauty expert 
• Olive and Ash
• Happy Pause Menopause Balm 

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

She has helped tens of thousands of women around the world overcome PMS and menopause symptoms without using drugs or hormones. She has had her own TV and radio shows as well as contributing to many other shows and series. In 2018 she was awarded the British Empire Medal and was recognized as one of the 50 most inspirational women by the Daily Mail.

In this episode we talk about

• Women’s expectations and fears around menopause
• The role that phyto-oestrogens can play in helping you to get through your menopause transition with relative ease
• The different research projects that Maryon has conducted to understand more about women’s experiences in menopause and the best method to support women through this transition without the use of additional hormones or drugs.

If you would like to purchase a copy of Maryon’s book click here.

You can connect with Maryon via the following links:

Facebook 

Twitter 

Instagram 

YouTube

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

In this episode of the Menopause Conversations podcast I have a look at some of these headlining statistics and delve into the ‘real’ truth behind the numbers. One thing that I learn many years ago when I was studying to be an Accountant is that you can often “mold” the numbers to tell the story that you want to tell. Add these headlines to the fact that women are being told that everything is “normal” leads women to feel like they are not being heard or that there is nothing that they can do to feel great again, and that life is a downward slide as they reach their menopause transition.

This episode is a little bit of a rant from me, but I think that it is important that we don’t take things at face value, especially the narrative that there is nothing good that happens with menopause and the only way to get through this time of life is to take HRT.

Apparently, HRT not only stops every symptom, it also makes sure that you don’t lose your share of the $7bill and you get to keep your job until official retirement age! Check the episode that I did on HRT HERE

What do you think about what I have had to say in this episode?  

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Vanamala’s mission is to empower women to build their confidence and feel proud of who they are. She is a certified face yoga teacher, physiotherapist, eye fitness trainer and the founder of Face Yoga Australia.

Face Yoga is a natural way to lift the face and a pathway to profound inner transformation. Vanamala is deeply passionate about sharing her extensive knowledge about the body, mind and spirit, acquired over 35 years of working with people.

Have a listen to the episode and try a couple of the exercises that Vanamala shares for a couple of weeks and see if you notice a difference.

Vanamala offers a variety of face yoga classes, workshops, coaching programs, one-on-one consolations and corporate classes in person and live-online.

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

In this episode Bernadette shares:

• Her first attempt at renovating when she was 13 years old
• How you can renovate for a profit without being ‘on the tools’ yourself
• Why the popular renovating TV shows are unrealistic
• How you can get started with renovating even if you don’t have a lot of money to start with

If you have ever thought about renovating as a way of funding your retirement, then this is the episode to listen to.

Bernadette is running a live event called She Renovates Live 2022 in Sydney on October 30th 2022 at The Grounds of Alexandria.  Click the here to learn more.

Yvonne has built a great community of women who train with her to get fit and strong for different adventures and she also creates those great adventures as well.  With hiking trips all around Australia and overseas there are always a variety different experiences available for various levels of fitness, and if you don’t feel fit enough to do a specific adventure Yvonne will support and train you so that you feel confident and take on any adventure that you want.

For the month of October (2023) Yvonne is offering a special discount for members of this podcast.  

Listeners can save an additional 10% on an Annual Membership to Women's Fitness Adventures. This offer is valid through until October 31st, 2023. Use the code ANGELA at the checkout, where the discount will automatically be applied.

This represents a 33% saving over monthly membership, - that's almost 4 months free.  To join visit - https://womensfitnessadventures.com/join-membership

To follow more of Yvonne’s adventures visit

Website

Facebook

Instagram

In this episode we discuss

• The difference between body confidence and swimsuit confidence
• The role of the media in women’s confidence about their body, particularly in a swimsuit
• The annual Cossie Confidence photoshoot that has women coming back year after year to have their photos taken in their swimsuits and how this event has changed the lives of many women
• The importance of finding the right swimsuit that provides support and confidence

Speaking with Anita is always fun, and she brings a special sense of fun wherever she goes. I am sure that you will enjoy listening to this episode as much as I did recording it.

If you want to learn more about the work Anita is doing with the Summer Confidence Society, she is running some free Masterclasses in October. The Reclaim Your Swimsuit Confidence Masterclass is for you if:

      ⭐ You feel stuck. You hesitate and miss out on making precious summer memories because of how you feel in a swimsuit; you know it’s time to care less and do more of what matters most.

      ⭐ You're tired of 'making do' and settling for what you know isn't serving you well. It's time to find the swimsuit style that will lift your spirits and feel great on.

      ⭐ You’re tired of wasting precious time and money on swimsuits that just don’t fit right and don't do the job for you.

      ⭐ You want a new swimsuit but don’t know where to start, you're overwhelmed and confused.

The Masterclass is being run on 2 dates (choose the date/time that suits you best) – October 5th at 7pm AEST & October 6th at 12pm AEST

To register visit – bit.ly/anita_masterclass

Dr. Dweck is the co-author of three books and has appeared on The Today Show and Good Day LA. She contributes regularly to multiple in print and online media outlets. She has been voted “Top Doctor” in New York Magazine and Westchester Magazine.

When she’s not helping women improve their health, Dr. Dweck enjoys time with her husband, two sons and “girly” English Bulldog. She is an avid runner and sports car enthusiast.

In this episode we discuss:

• Vaginal Health
• The difference in the terms ‘vulva’ and ‘vagina’
• The main causes of the common symptom’s women experience as their hormones drop
• What you can do about these symptoms
• The use of topical oestrogen to alleviate symptoms
• The importance of looking after your pelvic floor

You can learn more about the work that Dr Alyssa is doing by following her:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

The human body spends its entire life trying to stay in balance, this is what we call homeostasis. When your body is out of balance you will experience symptoms while the body tries to re-balance itself again. If you don’t listen to the messages and the situation doesn’t change your symptoms will get worse and worse until you have no choice except to stop and make change (or you die!)

As women go through their menopause transition, they often start to experience new symptoms that appear to come out of nowhere. They haven’t come from nowhere and they are not caused by your hormones. In fact, hormones are simply messengers that pass messages between different cells in your body. Your reproductive hormones are quite protective and as these hormone levels come down you start to lose some of the protection these hormones provided you and symptoms start to be more evident. The symptoms aren’t new, they are simply more evident now that the protection offered by oestrogen and progesterone is being diminished.

Some of the common messages that occur in the menopause transition are:

• Joint pain, which is inflammation mainly caused by food choices
• Hot flushes caused by general stress and liver stress
• Weight gain caused by stress or insulin resistance (due to food choices)

There is an underlying cause for every symptom that you are experiencing, and stress generally is playing a significant role. 

So what can you do?

1. Stop and listen to your body rather than mask with pills.
2. Don’t think that you are broken, you aren’t. Your body is simply trying to bring itself back to balance.
3. Process any past trauma(s)
4. Respond by eating the right food for your body, move your body the way that feels best, reduce your exposure to environmental toxins, reduce stressful situations in your life and change your mindset around ageing and menopause.
5. The books that I mentioned in the podcast were
6. The Body Keeps Score by Bessel Van der Kolk
7. The Secret Language of Your Body by Inna Segal
8. You Can Heal Your life by Louise Hay

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

• some have hot flashes and night sweats and others don’t
• some put on weight and others lose it
• some have excruciating joint pain and others don’t
• there are so many different symptoms associated with menopause and no 2 women have the same experience

Your experience of menopause is unique to you, this is why what works for others might not work for you.  It is time to get rid of the cookie cutter approach when it comes to menopause and start seeing every woman as the unicorn that they are.  This is what personalised health is all about, recognising your uniqueness and creating a solution that will work for you

So what makes you different to every other woman on the planet – your genes? (except for identical twins but I will get to that in a minute)

Your genes determine

• How tall or short you are
• What your natural hair, skin and eye colour are
• Where you predominantly store fat
• Whether you are naturally lean
• Whether you grow muscle easily or store fat easily
• Whether you have a higher risk of certain diseases eg CVD, Breast Ca
• Your genes also give you some clues as to how and when you will go through menopause

But genes are not the full story

• Genes give clues but we also need to consider epigenetic factors
• Epigenetic = above the genes
• These are the factors that determine whether a specific gene is turned on or off.  
• Epigenetic factors include – diet, lifestyle, environment, toxic exposure (cigarettes, drugs etc), relationships, family/social, work, stress, travel
• Basically every decision/action you have taken in your life impacts your genes
• With identical twins even though their genes are the same their life decisions (epigenetics) are not, this is why you can have twins with totally different health expressions

How does all this information help you to work out what is the right eating or exercise plan for you?

You were born with an inherited body type based on skeletal frame and body composition. Most people are unique combinations of the three body types: ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph or a combination of any 2

• Ectomorphs are generally tall and lean
• Mesomorphs tend to be shorter and more muscular
• Endomorphs tend to hold onto more fat
• The different body types give us clues as to the biology of your body for example:

            o When to eat, how much to eat

            o When to exercise, the type of exercise

            o How your brain handles stress

            o The impact of various hormones on your body

All of this information is evidence and science based.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

The changes in women’s bodies and their hormones means that there is less tolerance to the impacts of alcohol than there was in the younger years. Some of the common symptoms that are associated with alcohol consumption are:

• Alcohol creates stress in your body and causes symptoms such as:
• hot flushes and night sweats
• joint and body pain
• weight gain around tummy
• sleep problems
• low energy
• foggy headedness
• mood swings
• depression and anxiety

Have a listen to the episode to get a better understanding of what happens to your body when you drink that glass of wine and why your body reacts the way that it does.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Fiona admits that she used to be a real ‘style tragic’, she loved clothes but had no idea how to put them together in a way that looked great. She obviously has learnt a lot since those early days and now she loves working with women who are over the age of 40, helping them to dress to suit their changing body shape and their changing hair colour.

In this episode Fiona shares:

• The concept of Style Personalities and when you understand what your Style Personality is how easy it is to find clothes that not only look great and help you feel great as well
• We talk through 2 of my Style Personalities and Fiona helps me understand why I prefer certain styles
• We have a very important discussion about how long pants should be “above the ankle or below”? Can you guess what I prefer? Have a listen to the episode find out

Fiona is running a free Revamp Your Wardrobe Masterclass - The 3 Secrets to Putting Together Outfits You Love Without Starting from Scratch or Spending Thousands of $$$ on Aug 31st and Sept 1st at 8pm AEST (2 dates but the same masterclass). In this Masterclass you will discover:

• The secret ingredients to creating a wardrobe where everything goes together (less pieces - more outfits)
• How to avoid wasting $$$ on clothes you never wear
• How to avoid the 'alien effect' and choose pieces that you look and feel great in
• Size is not a barrier to looking good. SIZE doesn't matter, it's all about proportions
• How to set yourself up for shopping success and come home with winners!

To register for the Masterclass visit – www.thewardroberevamp.com

You might have gained weight despite your best efforts to exercise regularly and pay attention to your nutrition, especially in the hard to lose Meno-Belly region. But the issue is the former weight loss strategies that used to work for you typically cease working once you enter menopause.

Women's hormone levels begin to fluctuate in their early 40s. Along with other variables, these hormonal changes play a big part in menopause weight gain. As women progress through menopause, they may gain weight for a variety of causes (often a mix of these).

• Lowered Thyroid Function
• Insulin Resistance
• Stress
• Oestrogen Receptors
• Dietary Choices

The good news is that you can shed those excess kilos, but it will require some effort on your part. Understanding how your body functions can help you take the actions that will have the biggest impact.

You may have noticed that not everyone responds well to a particular diet. On a ketogenic diet, some women will thrive while others may find it difficult. Everyone is unique, so as your body changes your need changes. The secret to discovering to lose your meno-belly is understanding your genetic profile.

Finding out your unique genetic HealthTypeTM makes losing weight simple. You will learn the right foods to consume, the perfect times to eat them, how to exercise properly, when to sleep well, and more. Following your individual HealthTypeTM will:

• Reduce insulin resistance
• Improve thyroid function
• Reduce stress on your body
• Reduce inflammation
• Rebalance hormones

This will minimize your discomfort and reduce your menopausal belly.

Want to learn more about the menopause transition? Join my upcoming FREE workshop on the Secret to Thriving in Menopause without HRT.

Register at bit.ly/thrivemenopause and follow me on social media - Facebook or https://www.instagram.com/angelacounsel

Inflammation is most frequently brought on by our food, but there are other causes as well. Collagen is what keeps our skin appearing smooth and young, it also keeps our ligaments and tendons working properly. So, when collagen levels decline, we may become stiffer and less flexible. Meanwhile, our muscle tissue and joint membranes are protected in part by Oestrogen. It aids in the repair of our joints and contributes to the cell turnover process. The normal wear and strain on the joints are another factor that needs to be taken into account. Women who regularly exercise are more susceptible to joint wear and tear.

Nonetheless, we must acknowledge that Menopause is a period of life that happens naturally and it not actually the problem. The issue stems from how we have, up to this point, handled our bodies. Most of us use excessive amounts of alcohol, consume diets heavy in inflammatory foods like sugar, and fail to get adequate sleep. But the good thing is we can get rid of this pain by making changes in our lifestyles. Listen to this episode to find out more.

If, while listening to this podcast episode, you find that you now want to take better care and control of your life, why not join us on a FREE 5-day workshop called "The Secret to Thriving in Menopause" where I will share the exact steps you will take to thrive. Click HERE to register.

But that wasn’t end of physical challenges for Tania, she then decided to complete a full Ironman event. It took her 3 years of training, while her menopause symptoms were getting worse due to the stress that she was putting her body under and then along came covid and threatened to derail everything that she had trained for. Tania kept training but she knew there was a chance that she wouldn’t make the cut off for the event or even be able to travel interstate as border closures came in virtually overnight. Listen to the podcast to hear what happened.

Tania’s story is one of grit and determination and she realised that she was more capable than she ever thought possible. Her message to all women is that you can do anything that you put your mind to and she believes that menopause makes you stronger.

If you are struggling with symptoms like Tania was or you have developed a meno-belly that you can’t seem to shift then why not join me for the free 5 Day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop that kicks off again soon, to register and to get access to a bonus free Understanding Hormones E-course click HERE.

- What the role of insulin is in the body

- What insulin resistance is

- How the shift in your reproductive hormones can trigger insulin resistance

- The other factors that you need to consider when it comes to insulin resistance

- What you can do to reverse insulin resistance and get rid of your meno-belly

If you want a better understanding of why you put on weight as you move through peri-menopause and beyond why not download a copy of the free Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly Ebook. You will find further information about Insulin Resistance, Thyroid Concerns and other causes of your weight gain and most importantly you will discover the steps that you can take you reduce your meno-belly and your other symptoms that are often associated with menopause. To grab your copy click HERE.

Some of the topics that we cover in this episode include:

• Why it is important to take a kinder approach to ourselves through peri-menopause and beyond
• How to shift from blaming and criticising ourselves to self-acceptance
• Clarissa shares her journey through menopause while she was in a high level corporate role
• Some mindbody practices to help you to manage your symptoms

To follow Clarissa and learn more about the work that she does visit

Website

Email

LinkedIn

Instagram

Podcast

If one of your concerns around menopause is weight gain that won’t shift regardless of what you do then why not grab a copy of my free ebook called The Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly. Click HERE and get ready to start shifting your meno-belly.

• The role your thyroid plays in keeping you healthy
• The specific nutrients you require for a healthy thyroid
• Why the liver plays such an important role in keeping your thyroid functioning well
• How you can support your liver through food and nutrition

Weight gain is one of the most common symptoms that women complain about when it comes to menopause and while the thyroid might be playing a role there are several other factors that are also impacting your weight and importantly your ability to lose the extra kilos.  This is why I have written an ebook called The Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly, you can grab your free copy HERE.

This menopause conversation goes in many different directions, just like menopause itself really. The underlying message from Sandy is that menopause and midlife are opportunities for women to connect to their inner wisdom and embrace their next stage of life. This is not a time of life to be held back by conditions such as vaginal dryness and whether you experience dryness or not every woman deserves to feel great ‘down there’.

Why not take the Happy Pause Challenge that Sandy speaks about in this episode, to learn more visit www.happypause.com.au.

You can also follow Sandy on Instagram and Facebook.

Most women understand that the liver is where you get rid of toxins from your body, but it also plays an important role in the manufacture of new hormones and the break down of old hormones. You could say that your liver is a manufacturing and re-cycling plant all in one. How amazing is that!

Some of the common signs that your liver is not functioning at an optimal level are:

• Weight gain
• Foggy headedness
• Skin rashes
• Digestive issues
• Hot flushes and night sweats
• Sleep problems
• Joint pain
• Hormone imbalances particularly oestrogen dominance

When you look at this list you might notice that there is a lot of similarity with the common symptoms associated with menopause.

One of the most common culprits that causes issues with stops your liver from functioning optimally is alcohol consumption. This is something that many women don’t want to hear, but unfortunately it is true. Your liver’s ability to breakdown and excrete alcohol declines as you go through your menopause transition, this results in many of the symptoms that you might be experiencing.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine liver meridian time is between 1-3am. If you find yourself waking at this time with night sweats, wanting to go to the bathroom, tossing and turning then this is a sign that your liver is not functioning optimally. Of course, alcohol is not the only culprit here, medications and exposure to toxic chemicals can also play a role.

If you think that your liver might be playing a role in your symptoms your first step is to consider your alcohol intake and any other chemicals that you might be exposing your body to. Eating a diet high in vegetables and lots of water will also help with your detoxification pathways. If weight gain is one of your most troubling concern about your menopause transition why not grab a free copy of my ebook The Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-belly where I share the other reasons (besides your liver) that are playing a role in the unexplained weight gain. You can download your free copy HERE.

That’s all for this week and next week I will be back with another fantastic guest. Please leave a rating a review wherever you are listening to the podcast, this helps other women find this information. Or why not share the podcast with a friend who you think would like to learn more about what is happening with her body as she moves through her menopause transition. The more women who have this information the better the world will be.

Rachel was diagnosed with early menopause when she was trying to fall pregnant, as you can imagine this was a complete shock to her especially when she didn’t really think there was much wrong with her hormones. After following some great advice around her diet and lifestyle Rachel was able to reverse the ‘early menopause’ diagnosis but sadly didn’t go on to fulfil her dream for another child. This experience sent this avid researcher on a mission to learn more about menopause and the midlife experience that many women go through.

Rachel has her own very successful podcast called Magnificent Midlife and she has some wonderful guests. Her podcast shares the stories of everyday women doing extraordinary things and it is her mission to share with as many women as possible that midlife is not a time to hide and suffer it is your time to shine because the world needs you now more than ever.

To learn more about Rachel visit

Magnificent Midlife Website

Magnificent Midlife Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Magnificent Midlife Book

Instagram: @magnificentmidlife

Facebook: @magnificentmidlife

If you can’t blame menopause and hormones, then why is that sometimes you feel terrible as you move through your menopause transition? To find the answer you need to look below the hormones to what the hormones are reacting to. In this episode I share with you the 3 primary causes of all symptoms that are commonly associated with menopause and the best thing is that you can control each of these causes with your choices.

If you are struggling to get rid of your meno-belly why not download your free copy of The Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly where I go even deeper into the reasons why you are putting weight on around your midline and most importantly what you can do to shift it. To download click HERE. 

• If you invest in yourself, you can create anything in life so long as you back yourself
• The difference between natural talents and strengths
• Traditionally we have looked to find out what is wrong so that we can “fix” it rather than focussing on our strengths and natural talents
• Everyone has a talent; it is the essence of who you are being
• To turn a talent into a strength
• o Name your talent
• o Claim your talent
• o Seek ways to actively put your talent into practice until it becomes effortless
• Don’t ignore your weaknesses, be aware of them and own them and lean on your natural talents to overcome your weaknesses

To learn more about the work that Juliet does and to discover your own strengths and talents visit Juliet’s website.

The topic of taking HRT can be a very divisive one with women sometimes being very rude to each other as they take one side or the other. This situation saddens me mainly because it is being driven by pharmaceutical companies who have a big agenda when it comes to the sale of HRT.

Prior to the controversy around HRT a few years ago, HRT was the highest sold prescription medicine in the world. Then the Women’s Health Initiative study stated that synthetic hormones increased the risk of a woman developing breast cancer. As you can imagine this put a big dent in the income of the large pharmaceutical companies, now they are back with a form of HRT which they claim is safer and there is a significant push to tell women that if they want a great quality of life in menopause the only way this can happen is if they take HRT (or MHT which it is now known as).

I share my opinion (and it is only my opinion) on the message that is being fed to women. I know that it is possible to move through the menopause transition with ease if you manage your stress, eat well and live well.

If you would like to learn how you can navigate this time of life with ease why not join the Menopause Conversations facebook group where I share lots of tips that will help you to thrive in peri-menopause and beyond. When you request to join the group and leave your email address I will send you a free Hormone Balancing Recipe book.

Some of the key points that we cover in this episode are:

• The importance of specific gut bacteria to metabolise oestrogen
• How we can manipulate our gut bacteria to influence our hormone levels
• The connection between poor gut health and conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis and breast cancer
• The difference between probiotics and prebiotic foods and why it is essential to include more prebiotic foods in our diet
• The importance of a diverse diet that is high in plant foods and includes all colours of the rainbow
• Switching your meals to be primarily vegetables with the meat as a ‘side’ or condiment portion
• Investigating some traditional diets and how our ancestors ate food

One of the key take aways that Ange shared is that it is important to make small consistent changes over time to allow your gut time to adjust. Making changes too quickly or too drastically can cause more gut issues.

To learn more about the work Ange does or to book a free 15 minute call with her to discuss your situation visit her website.

And you can follow Ange on Instagram.

• Testosterone
• TSH, T3 and T4 (thyroid hormones)
• Cortisol (stress hormones)
• Ghrelin and Leptin (appetite and hunger hormones)

Understanding the role of the hormones in your health wellbeing will help you to know the correct steps that you can take to navigate your menopause transition with ease.

If you want to learn more about your hormones and more importantly what you can do to re-balance your hormones so that you can navigate your menopause transition with ease why not put yourself on the waitlist for the next round of the Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop. During this 5 day workshop not only will you discover the real cause of your symptoms and weight gain (and it is not all due to hormones), you will also have the opportunity to create your own personal blueprint that will allow you to Thrive in Menopause. The link to get onto the waitlist so that you are the first to be notified when the next workshop will be run is HERE.

• The difference between exercise and kind movement
• Learning to trust that your body is doing exactly as it is meant to, even if that isn’t what we want it to be doing
• Taking responsibility for self- healing rather than outsourcing this to others
• How to use somatic movement to tune into your body and to heal your body

You can connect with Erica here:

Website 

Instagram

Podcast: SelfKind with Erica Webb

The SelfKind Hub 

Today is your last chance to join this round of the Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop where you will:

• Discover the role that your genes play in the way in which you will experience menopause
• Learn how your body shape holds the clues to losing your meno-belly
• Create your own personalised Menopause Blueprint with the steps that you need to navigate your menopause journey with ease

Register HERE.

In fact, even before women start their menopause transition high levels of oestrogen can be a major concern. Many women experience what is known as PMS (pre-menstrual symptoms) just before their period these are due to what is known as Oestrogen Dominance or higher than expected oestrogen levels.

Each month both Oestrogen and Progesterone cycle up and down and ideally both hormones are kept in relative balance with each other. As one hormone rise the other declines and vice versa as you move through your cycle.

Due to stress, diet and exposure to hormone disrupting toxins over 80% of women experience oestrogen dominance which results in symptoms such as:

• Bloating
• Weight gain
• Mood swings
• Heavy bleeding
• Insomnia
• Migraines
• Breast tenderness

In this episode I talk about the causes of oestrogen dominance and some of the steps that you can take to re-balance your hormones as you move through your menopause transition, so that your symptoms reduce or completely disappear.

If you would like to learn how you can re-balance your hormones, lose your meno-belly and reduce your symptoms join me for the free Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop that kicks off shortly. To register (or to put yourself on the waitlist) click HERE.

Many women I talk to tell me that they experience body and joint pain, and this limits their ability to be able to exercise and can often result in them putting on weight, which gives more pain and they exercise less and the cycle continues. Peta is on a mission to get women off this cycle or what she calls the “slippery slope”.

Peta focuses on 3 basic foundations of movement – stability, strength and power. You need all three of these foundations to be working together otherwise you will find your body out of balance and likely to be in pain or have limited mobility. We discussed these foundations in details particularly as I shared that whilst I was strong and had the power, my stability has not been the best in the past (due to a weak core) and this ended up putting more pressure on joints such as my hips, knees and ankles resulting in pain and a higher risk of injury.

The common signs of a weak core are:

• Low back pain
• Poor posture (this one is SO common these days)
• Issues with your balance
• Low endurance for standing
• Shortness of breath
• General weakness in the body

As you can see these signs are very common and it is likely that most of us have weak core muscles due to the type of life that we lead. It is important to note that just because you can do a heap of sit-ups doesn’t mean your core is strong. Your core muscles are not just your ab muscles.

Peta shared her favourite way to get a stronger core with Habit Stacking, which is doing some core strengthening exercises when you are doing other things that you normally do like cleaning your teeth, waiting for the kettle to boil plus more.

There was so much great information in this conversation with Peta, have a listen and let me know what your biggest ahha moment was or what small thing you are going to do to strengthen your core.

If you want to learn more about Peta or do her upcoming Stronger Core Stronger Body Challenge here are the links to everything

To join Stronger Core Stronger Body: https://bit.ly/StrongerCoreStrongerBody

Free Download:  The Never-Fail Way to Start Exercising When You Have Aches and Pains 

Strong Healthy Women COMMUNITY

Peta’s Facebook Page 

Women Over 50 Get Active & Healthy Group 

Peta LinkedIN

Strong Healthy Women Instagram

Strong Healthy Women Youtube

Peta Instagram

Most of the focus around menopause hormones is on declining levels of oestrogen when in fact in the peri-menopause stage of life oestrogen levels are quite high as they fluctuate wildly form day to day. It is the up and down changes of oestrogen that is the trigger for many of the symptoms that women experience, and once women are post-menopausal and oestrogen levels settle at their new lower level most symptoms simply disappear. This is why it is important to support your hormone production via your adrenal glands (refer to the episode on progesterone for an explanation of this) during your peri-menopause years so that there is not such a big fluctuation in your oestrogen levels.

Role of Oestrogen includes:

• Builds muscles strength
• Strengthens bones
• Protects the heart
• Maintains healthy brain function
• Maintains healthy metabolism
• Protects against insulin resistance
• Anti-inflammatory
• Increases desire to move the body
• Encourages ovaries to release egg
• Stimulates breast tissue*
• Thickens uterine lining*

*can potentially increase risk of cancer if oestrogen levels are too high.

When you look at the role of oestrogen in your body it might seem that when your levels drop that you lose the protection of the hormone and while this is true this doesn’t mean that you are doomed to a life with weak bones, heart issues and insulin resistance. This is where you have the opportunity to put yourself in control rather than relying on your hormones, most of the functions of oestrogen can be supported through healthy diet and lifestyle choices.

If you would like to discover the best way for you to navigate through your changing hormones and the impact this has on your body join me for the FREE 5-day Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop which kicks off on May 8th. To register click HERE.

But the pain, the shame, the sleepless nights sent me looking for answers. I knew that what I was going through wasn’t normal (even if it is common) I wanted to find a different way. I was lucky I did find a solution that resulted in me dropping the weight, getting rid of the pain, and sleeping through the night again. Once I found the solution that worked for me, I started sharing it with others and it worked for them as well.

In this episode I share with you my journey from the struggle of menopause to thriving in menopause.

If you want to learn more about how I was able to go from struggling to thriving join me for my free workshop – The Secret to Thriving in Menopause. Over 5 days I will share with you what I learnt when it came to losing my meno-belly (and other meno-weight), getting rid of the intense body pain and getting my life and health back again. You will have the opportunity to create your own personal menopause blueprint that you can use to navigate your menopause transition with ease.

Role of progesterone

• Support the growth of egg and first 3 months of pregnancy
• Provides a sense of wellbeing
• Promotes restful sleep
• Anti-anxiety
• Calms the brain
• Natural anti-inflammatory
• Builds bones
• Protects the heart
• Increase metabolic rate
• Normalises immune function

Low progesterone symptoms

• Mood swings including anxiety and depression
• Problems sleeping
• Joint and body pain
• Weight gain
• Tendency to auto-immune conditions
• Fatigue
• More painful periods especially cramping
• Heavy bleeding
• Decrease in bone density

If you want to discover how you can get control of your hormones and navigate your menopause transition with ease then why not join me for the free Secret to Thriving in Menopause Workshop that kicks off on May 9th.  To register click HERE. 

Infinite Love and Gratitude

Angela

Jai has qualifications in business, beauty therapy, teaching, disability and so on one hand, she quite traditional. She also has a huge passion and empathy for the human spirit, in particular women. She has this drive to see women step into their own confidence, beauty and take control of their destinies.

Jai is also a reiki practitioner, light worker, an energy healer and spiritual student, so in her words “I’m quite woo-woo”.

In reality, Jai is just like you – everyone is at different stages of life. Jai is real, sometimes raw, sometimes a little chaotic, mostly calm, always honest, kind and most of all, loving. Her passion is to share her insights and unique spin on life with women who are drawn to work with her.

In this episode Jai give you permission to “strut your stuff” the best way that you know how.  She also shares the 3 steps to the Fabulosity Flip, which are:

1. feel the feels
2. find a temporary solution if you can
3. flipit, find a way to see the situation as an opportunity rather than a disaster

Why not try the Fabulosity Flip in your life, you can start with something small, you can work up to bigger things in the future.  Try it and see if your life starts to look different.

Currently Jai’s signature program “Journey to Fabulosity” isn’t open, but should you wish to learn more, why not join her free facebook community called Gratitude, Attutide & Joyous Abundance with Jai [https://www.facebook.com/groups/gratitude.attitude.joyous.abundance.with.jai]

Or if you would like to experience an online Reiki Session with Jai visit her website at www.reikilovejai.com.

And Jai’s message to you is “remember you are unique, sparkle, sparkle”

If you have a friend who you think would benefit from a little bit of Jai’s Fabulosity in their life, share this episode with them.  I would also love a rating and review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you are listening to this episode) this means that more women can find the Menopause Conversations Podcast and learn more about their hormones, menopause and other things that impact women as they move through this time of life.

The link to download your free copy of The Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly is – bit.ly/menobelly-ebook

Until next week don’t forget to Sparkle, Sparkle

Infinite Love and Gratitude

Angela

If you have had a full hysterectomy or some cancer treatments then you will likely skip all four stages and go straight to post-menopause.

The 4 phases are as follows:

Phase 1 – Very early peri-menopause

• Can start in late 30 to early 40s
• Generally last between 2-5 years
• Cycles can shorten to 21-26 days
• Less progesterone
• More oestrogen which can lead to heavier periods, increased period pain, migraines and sleep problems

Phase 2 – peri-menopause

• Starts around mid 40s
• Can last up to 5 years
• Your cycle can start to become more irregular
• Progesterone is lower, due to missed ovulation
• Oestrogen is fluctuating up and down, and when it drops it goes lower than before this can trigger worse hot flushes

Phase 3 – late peri-menopause transition

• This phase can last for up to 4 years
• This is when you start to miss periods and have cycles that can last over 60 days (note – cycle is time between bleed)
• Hot flushes and night sweats could get worse
• Breast pain should ease
• you might still have a couple of very heavy periods

Phase 4 – menopause transition

• This is the time when you are waiting to see if your last period was really your last
• This period is 12 months
• Symptoms should start to ease as oestrogen levels stabilise at a lower level

Once you haven’t had a period for 12 months you are now post-menopausal for the rest of your life.

In future episodes, I will share with you more about what happens with each of your specific hormones in each of these phases, starting with Progesterone.

If you are struggling with your weight since you started your menopause transition (regardless of which stage you are in) why not grab your free copy of the Secret to Getting Rid of Your Meno-Belly ebook (https://angelacounsel.com/understanding_menopause_ebook/) and get a Bonus Invitation to an upcoming Menopause Workshop.

In this presentation Fiona shares

• what is a style personality
• the 8 different personalities 
• how you might be a combination of more than one style personality
• once you know your personality what is the next step

Fiona has also shared her presentation slides with me if you are a visual person and need to see the different styles photos, here is the link where you can download the slides - https://angelacounsel.com/Style-Personality-Slides.pdf

If you are not sure about which Style Personality you are, you can do the Style Personality Quiz at https://www.styleliberation.com.au/style-personality-quiz

Fiona is also running some free webinars on March 16th and 17th, 2022 called The Wardrobe Revamp if you would like to register for either of these visit https://thewardroberevamp.com

I am passionate about educating women about how their hormones work because I believe with knowledge comes power and when women have a better understanding of the changes that are happening in their body they can make more informed choices rather than relying on the limited knowledge of someone else.  

If you want to continue this conversation why not join me in the Menopause Conversations facebook group where I share more information that will help you to navigate your menopause transition with ease.

We discuss discovering who you are beyond your label as a mother, wife, daughter etc and the endless possibilities that are available to you. Anne shares a simple exercise that you can do to discover who you really are.

Anne is so passionate about the work that she does with women particularly when it comes to finding your purpose in life. If you would like to learn more about the work that Anne does you can visit her website http://annemckeown.com/ or on social media

https://www.facebook.com/2Mpower.co/

https://www.instagram.com/anne_mckeown_coach/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/2mpower/

https://twitter.com/2Mpower_