Understanding Perimenopause: How Pilates Can Help

The journey us women go through is filled with many stages, each presenting its unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Among these stages, perimenopause is often shrouded in mystery. It's a transitional period that many women find crushing; physically and mentally. Personally, I found the brain fog, the fatigue and the change in my body shape almost overnight, were the symptoms that flagged to me that I was entering this period. It has been tough and it continues to have its challenges and I have a number of ways in which I manage it. For all of us, with the right tools and understanding, it can also be a time of empowerment. One such tool that's gaining recognition for its benefits during perimenopause is Pilates.

A Closer Look at Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the phase leading up to menopause, marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. Typically, it can start in the late 40s, although some may experience it earlier. Symptoms include irregular periods, mood fluctuations, sleep disturbances, and hot flushes.

The body undergoes various hormonal changes during this phase, leading to these symptoms. While it's a natural process, it's essential to find ways to manage and alleviate these changes to maintain a balanced lifestyle. These tools could include hormone replacement, dietary adjustments or lifestyle changes, or a mixture of them all. But one thing that I have found to be a universal aid is Pilates.

Enter Pilates: A Wellness Companion Through Perimenopause

Pilates, a form of exercise that focuses on posture, core strength, and flexibility, offers multiple benefits to women navigating perimenopause. Here's how:

• Hormonal Balance: Regular exercise is known to regulate hormonal imbalances. Pilates, with its focus on controlled movements and breathing, can be particularly effective in promoting balance and reducing mood swings.

• Bone Health: One of the concerns during perimenopause is decreasing bone density. Pilates, being a weight-bearing exercise, helps improve bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

• Stress Reduction: The deep breathing techniques in Pilates can reduce anxiety and stress, common companions during perimenopause. It's a moment to connect with oneself, finding tranquility amidst the changes.

• Improved Sleep: With its relaxing effects on the mind and body, many women find that consistent Pilates practice enhances their sleep quality, combating insomnia that can sometimes accompany perimenopause.

• Community and Support: Joining Pilates classes offers an opportunity to connect with like-minded women. Sharing experiences and journeys can be therapeutic and reassuring.

Raise Pilates: Your Partner Through Perimenopause

At Raise Pilates, we understand the nuances of a woman's journey. Our sessions, rooted in expertise and delivered with a touch of warmth, aim to guide you through this stage with grace and confidence. With a focus on wellness and a holistic approach, we're here to provide insights, support, and, most importantly, a friendly environment where you can be yourself.

Perimenopause is a significant phase in a woman's life, and understanding it is the first step towards navigating it with poise. By integrating practices like Pilates into your routine, you not only equip yourself physically but also mentally and emotionally. Embrace this period, armed with knowledge and the power of Pilates, and step into the next chapter of your life with strength and calmness.

Raise Pilates, based in Kingston, Surrey, offers specialist Pilates one to one, online and face to face, designs bespoke Pilates programs for you to help you feel better in body AND mind as you navigate your perimenopause.