After undergoing a hysterectomy several years ago, I've felt like I've been standing at the brink of a new chapter in my life as I transition through menopause.

This period has brought changes that have significantly affected how I feel in both my body and mind.

This time has brought its challenges—I felt physically less robust, my bones less sturdy, and my overall comfort fluctuated. However, I realised that these changes presented a powerful opportunity for growth and empowerment.

Through a combination of Pilates and strength training, I have gained newfound strength and mobility. I also discovered herbalism as a form of support for my menopause symptoms, embracing herbal infusions for nourishment that have helped nurture my confidence and well-being in wonderful ways.

The Joy of Pilates

Pilates has not just been an exercise for me; it's been a nurturing experience that has resonated deeply with me at this stage of my life, offering many heartwarming benefits:

Core Strength and Stability

Through my Pilates practice, I've learned that a strong core is like the anchor of my body, improving my posture and reducing back pain. This foundation has empowered me, instilling a sense of control and confidence in my movements.

Enhanced Flexibility and Mobility

I have also found that Pilates encourages fluid movements that keep me working on my flexibility and balance. This is not only a beautiful way to minimise the risk of falls and injuries as I age, but it allows you to move with more grace and joy every day.

Championing Pelvic Floor Health

Now, this has been a game-changer for me! Like many women, I have experienced pelvic floor weakness during menopause, which, I don't mind admitting, has led to one or two embarrassing moments. Pilates offers targeted exercises to strengthen these crucial muscles, helping to restore control, which, in turn, has helped to boost my confidence.

Nurturing Your Mind-Body Connection

One of Pilates's most surprising benefits has been its focus on breathing techniques and mindfulness. My teachers have invited me to reconnect with my body on a deeper level. For me, it's a wonderful way to reduce stress from a busy professional job, find mental clarity, and really savour moments of relaxation.

A Gentle Yet Powerful Workout

I have never been a fan of high-intensity workouts, which often left me feeling overwhelmed and, quite frankly, a failure. Pilates, however, has provided me with a gentle yet highly effective alternative. It's a great way to strengthen and tone my body without putting excessive strain on my joints.

I began my Pilates practice following COVID-19 at Clinic Equilibrium, a local studio that offers mat, reformer, and tower classes. They also teach various styles, including dynamic, athletic, and classical Pilates classes, all of which I have incorporated into my exercise routine.

Another revelation for me on this journey to physical fitness has been the benefits of strength training

In April 2024, I joined my local gym, Aspire. I hadn't been to a gym before and was a little bit anxious about it. However, I had done lots of reading on the benefits of strength training for women as we age, so I wanted to give it a go.

I can honestly say it has been one of the best experiences of my life. Just putting to one side the physical benefits of joining a gym, strength training has the added benefit of being a natural mood enhancer. The endorphins released during a workout have lifted my spirits, soothed my anxiety, and helped me tackle the common sleep disturbances that we, as women, often experience during menopause. All of these have brought me calm and joy in my days.

I also have gained new friends who have encouraged me to achieve my goals and supported me every step of the way.

Why Strength Training Has Been My Ally

Strength training is like a best friend standing by me in midlife, offering support and encouragement as I navigate the changes in my life.

Strength training is helping to keep my muscle mass alive. As I watched my mother age, I saw her lose muscle and strength, which eventually led to her becoming housebound. I didn't want that to be an inevitable consequence of ageing for me, so strength training has given me the power to fight back. By engaging in regular strength workouts, I have stimulated muscle growth and kept my metabolism humming, which means I feel strong and capable.

After my surgery, I realised that the decline of estrogen during menopause would pose challenges for my bones, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Research has shown that incorporating weight-bearing exercises into your routine helps build bone density, giving you a solid ground to stand on in every sense.

Did you know that muscle burns more calories at rest than fat? I didn't. This means that this form of exercise is revving up my sluggish metabolism. By adding strength training to my regimen, I've found it easier to maintain a healthy weight, which is always a bonus!

As with Pilates, strengthening the muscles around our joints helps lift the burden of discomfort that comes with arthritis and other age-related issues. I want to be able to move with ease and comfort and be free to engage in the activities I love as I get older!

3 Steps to Creating A Balanced Fitness Routine

To fully embrace the benefits of exercise, consider blending strength training with Pilates to create a dynamic and personalised routine like mine. I aim for:

Step 1

2-3 days of strength training per week, using body weight, resistance bands, or weights.

Step 2

2-3 days of Pilates to enhance flexibility, posture, and core strength, allowing you to feel aligned and balanced.

Step 3

Daily movement, such as leisurely walks, gentle stretching, or calming yoga, to keep your heart healthy and your spirit uplifted.

Final Thoughts

Perimenopause and menopause may feel like daunting transitions, but for me, they have also led to incredible opportunities for personal growth and renewal. By weaving strength training and Pilates into my life, I have embraced this chapter with open arms, finding vitality, confidence, and resilience along the way. 

Through all of this, I have begun to understand how important it is to recognise how all aspects of our lives play a vital role in our well-being. After completing a strength program or Pilates practice, it’s so crucial for me to take a moment to nourish my body and honour the effort I've put in at the gym or studio. I truly believe that embracing the healing power of herbs can be an incredibly supportive part of this journey. 

You're not alone in wanting to care for yourself in this way—it's a beautiful step toward maintaining balance in our lives.

Remember, it's all about starting where you are, listening to your body, and celebrating each moment of movement that nurtures your health and well-being. 

Here's to embracing every stage of life with strength, grace and a herbal infusion!