Menopause is often viewed as a woman's mostly dreaded journey through hormonal upheaval marked by hot flashes, mood swings, and night sweats. While these are the negative associations of this transitional phase, there is much more to menopause than meets the eye that should be celebrated. 

Menopause is the general term used to describe the time in a woman’s life when she may experience symptoms related to fluctuating and ultimately falling hormone levels, when she will eventually stop having monthly periods. Medically, menopause is defined by the day following 12 consecutive months without a period.
 

The stages of menopause are:

Perimenopause - The time when hormone levels start to fluctuate and you may experience menopause symptoms
which could include anxiety, low mood, hot flushes, brain fog and vaginal dryness, amongst many others. Periods can change and become lighter, closer together or further apart.

Menopause - Defined by 12 consecutive months without a period.

Post menopause - The time in your life after menopause.

Traditionally, menopause has been described as the "end" of a woman's reproductive years. However, it can also be seen as the "beginning" of a new and liberating phase of life, after all no more periods to deal with or worry about using contraception again.

This is a time to reflect on personal goals, passions, and desires that may have taken a back seat during the earlier years whilst focusing on careers, partnerships and families. The wisdom accumulated over decades can now be harnessed to embark on new adventures and projects. 

It can be a very exciting time as women enter menopause, they often find a new level of strength and self confidence as the changes caused by hormonal fluctuations can lead to emotional introspection and growth. 

This self-awareness can result in a newfound sense of assertiveness, self-assuredness and wisdom. Many women find that menopause is an opportunity to reconnect with their bodies. It's a chance to prioritize self-care, engage in mindful practices, and nurture overall well-being.

It is also a time when less emphasis is placed on societal expectations and other peoples judgments matter less. Older women can explore their passions and interests without the constraints of convention, making it a truly unique and liberating phase. 

Menopause can be physically and emotionally challenging, but it also shows a woman's strength and resilience. Coping with the physical changes and hormonal shifts can be a testament to one's ability to adapt and overcome adversity.

As women we are so adept at creating change in each stage of our life, I believe as we reach this enduring stage of our life we can get through it with ease but there are measures we can take to make this transition smooth and easier:

1. An overall holistic approach to health during menopause is important and this includes physical, health, mental health, emotional well-being, and also spiritual growth. We can use good nutrition, natural supplements, exercise, meditation and other therapies to help us through this.
    
2. Ensuring we have a good support network of friends and family who understand the unique challenges of menopause can provide a strong foundation for navigating this phase. We don't have to do this alone.
    
3. Talk with a healthcare provide who specialises in menopause. They can offer personalised advice, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) if appropriate, to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. There is so much more help out there now than even 5 years ago so make the most of it.
    
4. Prioritise your self care and take up activities like meditation, yoga. Find a buddy who will join you in your new endeavours. Take up journaling as this can help manage stress and enhance self-awareness. 
    
5. Embrace the physical and emotional changes that accompany menopause as part of the natural progression of life. Celebrate the wisdom and experience that comes with age. 

Remember menopause is just the end of the old chapter of your life and the beginning of a wonderful new life going forward and finding yourself again! 

"So many women I've talked to see menopause as an ending. But I've discovered this is your moment to reinvent yourself after years of focusing on the needs of everyone else. It's your opportunity to get clear about what matters to you and then to pursue that with all of your energy, time and talent." — Oprah Winfrey