The third panel of the Menopause Festival, titled Holistic Pathways to Wellness in Midlife, was more than just a discussion—it was a journey into the untold stories and science of midlife wellness.
From personal experiences to professional insights, the panelists shed light on how women can navigate the physical, emotional, and social challenges that menopause brings.
The Yin-Yang of Life
"We are born with a lot of yin," said Aileen, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner, her voice calm and measured. "Life peaks at 28, and by 49, our yin drops significantly. This imbalance is what many women feel as their bodies change."
For Aileen, these changes are a natural part of life’s rhythm, but they don’t have to be overwhelming. Using herbal remedies tailored to each person’s constitution, she helps restore balance. Her approach offers a blend of ancient wisdom and practical healing.
The Strength of Pilates
When Sudha spoke, her words carried the energy of someone who practices what she preaches.
"Pilates isn’t just exercise—it’s empowerment," she shared.
One of the attendees, Mary, nodded in agreement. She had her own story to tell:"I used to be athletic, but midlife brought random weight gain and muscle stiffness. I couldn’t even walk like I used to. Pilates helped loosen my body and regain strength."
Sudha added, "It doesn’t matter where you are in life. Pilates can be tailored to your needs. Strength training, in particular, can work wonders for muscle health and overall well-being."
Beauty Beyond the Surface in Holistic Care
For many women, midlife isn’t just about internal changes but external ones too. Mary asked about dry skin and beauty issues.
Dr. Jeanel, a medical practitioner with a keen understanding of aesthetics, responded:
"Hyperpigmentation often goes untreated, and it only worsens with time. For women looking to improve skin texture and quality, I recommend skin booster cocktails with laser treatments."
Aileen chimed in from a TCM perspective:"Radiance starts from within. With acupuncture over three months, we can rejuvenate the skin and bring back its natural glow."
Their combined approaches emphasized that beauty isn’t superficial—it’s a reflection of inner health and balance.
The Emotional Rollercoaster
Mary’s voice trembled as she recounted her struggles with emotional changes."I was always bubbly, but midlife brought hopelessness. My husband didn’t understand, and my sons were clueless. When a gynecologist revealed my estrogen was dangerously low, things finally made sense."
Swapna, drawing from both personal and professional experiences, added:"When I was 12, I found my mom bawling in the toilet. I didn’t understand then, but it was perimenopause. Today, I help women navigate these emotions by creating safe spaces where their fears and anxieties don’t constantly trigger their amygdala."
Her message was clear: emotional wellness is just as critical as physical health, and it begins with understanding and seeking help.
Finding Balance in Relationships
Imagine Swapna, a counselor, sitting across from a woman who has been struggling silently with mood swings and irritability. For her, the work doesn’t stop there."Her struggles ripple outward," Swapna explained.
"They affect her marriage, her relationship with her children, and even her friendships. That’s why I don’t just talk to her; I involve her family."
It is about building a support network that understands and empathizes, ensuring no one walks this journey alone.
Bringing Men into the Conversation
One question struck a chord with the audience: How do we help men understand menopause?
Swapna answered simply but powerfully:"Women must start the conversation. Use ‘I feel—I need’ statements. For example, ‘I feel lonely in my challenges with menopause, and I need someone to listen to me.’"
Mary added her own experience:"Once, I had to wipe my face constantly because of sweating. When I explained why, the men around me were shocked. If we don’t start the conversation, how can they learn?"
Their advice highlighted that understanding begins with open dialogue, no matter how uncomfortable it may seem.
Solutions for Incontinence and Strength
The panel rounded off with practical advice. For women struggling with incontinence, the solutions were varied:
Aileen suggested raising qi through TCM to warm the body and address the issue.
Dr. Jeanel offered electromagnetic stimulation as a medical solution.
Clare, a physiotherapist in the audience, highlighted the importance of pelvic health physiotherapy and ultrasounds to guide recovery and exercise.
Each solution reinforced that no problem is too small or too embarrassing to address.
Closing Reflections
The panel ended on a note of empowerment. When asked how she encourages women to prioritize strength training, Sudha simply said:"I let them see me lifting equipment. Inspiration is contagious."
For those concerned about the cost of wellness services, Dr. Jeanel had a heartfelt response:
I don’t sell Botox; I sell dreams. It’s about the value I bring to each patient’s life."
The session was a powerful reminder that wellness in midlife isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s a journey that requires understanding, support, and a willingness to explore solutions—physical, emotional, and relational.
At its heart, this panel celebrated the resilience and strength of women navigating the often-unspoken challenges of midlife, proving that wellness is always within reach.
Missed the Menopause Festival 2024? Join Us in 2025!
This year’s Menopause Festival 2024 was a groundbreaking event, filled with insightful discussions, inspiring stories, and empowering resources for women navigating menopause.
If you missed it, don’t worry—we’re already gearing up for an even bigger and better festival in 2025!
Get ready for an even bigger and better experience at the Menopause & Midlife Festival 2025! This year, we’re opening up conversations that matter to both women and men, addressing topics that impact everyone as we navigate midlife together.
Enjoy interactive workshops, expert-led discussions, and a curated marketplace designed to provide resources and products that support well-being in midlife.
Join our waiting list NOW and be the first to know all event details!
Let’s celebrate, learn, and grow together – because midlife wellness is for everyone!