The unexpected upsides of menopause

There is much wisdom in reframing this life transition as a time for personal growth. Katie Brindle, a Chinese medicine expert tells HELLO!: “Chinese wisdom says the transition into menopause is not a time of loss, of fading looks and failing body, as we might commonly believe in the West. Rather, it is a wonderful time of renewal and growth – mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually.”

From ditching the monthly grind to discovering newfound confidence, countless women are turning what’s often seen as a challenge into a chance to thrive. We spoke to women who are embracing this new chapter, and their stories just might change how you see menopause forever.

1. Freedom from periods

 No more periods is of course the most obvious benefit. Not having to endure the waves of achy pains and mood swings every month and the hassle of keeping my tampon stock filled is one less thing to worry about.

2. The menopause mind shift

Aside from that, it’s the mind shift that happens when your period stops that is the biggest bonus. Something clicks and you wake up one day and realise that you actually don’t care what people think. And for a people pleaser like me, that’s a huge thing. Menopause has taught me to look inwards, put myself first and set boundaries because I finally understand my own worth. I say ‘no’ more often, to keep myself happy rather than other people. Reaching this life milestone makes you realise that you have lived experience which means you can confidently share your opinions and not worry about what other people think. It is so empowering!

3. Self kindness

4. Reframing self-care

Menopause has made me realise that self-care is not about soaking in a bubble bath or lighting a candle while watching Netflix. Self-care is being disciplined about doing what makes you, your mind and body, happy and fulfilled every day. Rather than running around after everyone else, menopause makes you listen to your body and treat it better.

Despite an initial wobble, as I progressed through perimenopause, I actually found I became more confident and have more of a ‘I don’t give a bleep’ attitude. There’s an inner confidence and freedom when you come out the other side and an increased awareness of what’s important to me and how I need to look after myself. Not enough is said about the positives of menopause, I think it’s important to highlight them.

As a woman who went through premature menopause due to cancer treatment, I would say that the most positive thing I have found is the understanding that even if you need help and treatment, it genuinely will be okay.

Women aren’t broken in menopause, it isn’t over, and for many, freedom from the tyranny of painful periods or debilitating PMS is life-changing! Get informed, get empowered and if you need help and support, ask for it.

Everything is clearer and with that clarity, you might get a second wind, whether it’s leaving your job, splitting with a partner or taking on new challenges. You realise that life is too short and you do a life declutter, making space for only good things.

The most positive thing I’ve found in menopause is the power to embrace change and own who I am. It’s like one day, a switch flips and you start looking at your life through a different lens.

Menopause has served as a powerful reminder to slow down and embrace self-care. With this phase of life comes a certain wisdom—along with the liberating feeling of caring less about what others think.

One of the most positive things I’ve discovered about perimenopause is the sense of empowerment and self-acceptance it brings. It’s given me the opportunity to reflect on what truly matters – my
health, my happiness, my relationships and my purpose.

I’ve learned to prioritise my well-being, embrace who I am at this stage of life, and feel more confident and liberated in my own skin. It’s not just a time of change; it’s a time of personal growth and self-discovery.

We need to reaffirm the belief that there is life beyond menopause and focus on the fact the best is yet to come. It’s a time to take stock of how we wish to embrace the next stage of our life, be that through career changes or new adventures. It’s fabulous to see so many women post-50 embracing their newfound confidence and taking on greater challenges, roles and interests.

By doing so, they highlight a sense of freedom for us all, that women can be more empowered to enjoy opportunities, allowing us to all be more present in our world.

Age is becoming less of a factor in what we can achieve. I have a far better understanding of health and wellness and I certainly don’t need to be defined by my age but rather my experience and
achievements.

Menopause is not a time to stop enjoying my life to the full, instead it has been that is a natural journey that we travel through but don’t stop at.”