Menopause - This Stage, This Strength

As many of you know, my passion lies in growing, learning, and finding new ways to support others. This fall, I have chosen to immerse myself in a subject that is significant to many: menopause.

Why menopause? I silently struggled for years until, finally, I found a doctor who explained what was happening to my body, especially given the added complexity of living without a thyroid (thank you, cancer 🙄).

I truly thought that, as a longtime yoga student, I could “breathe, stretch, and meditate” my way through it. Spoiler alert: ask my family… that was definitely not the case 😂. While yoga practice helped me immensely, I realized there was more to learn.

During COVID, so much changed for all of us. As a family, we faced a frightening health scare; we said goodbye to our faithful fur baby; and I deeply missed my daily morning routine within our community after so many years of showing up, breathing, and sharing.

I did my best to support my family and keep our yoga community strong, but I didn’t even realize I was deep in it, or the toll it was taking on me. I had lost my own personal practice, and it wasn’t until my family became healthy and thriving that I finally confronted the truth: I wasn’t.

For too long, I brushed it off and told myself “I’m not that woman,” trying to push through. But eventually, I couldn’t anymore. My family didn’t deserve an unhappy, silent version of me, too embarrassed to share what I was experiencing.

Opening up and seeking help was a true turning point. Step by step, I began to understand what was happening. And, as many of you know, when I learn something new, I can’t help but dive deeper so I can share and support others.

I have now completed my Menopause Coaching course and am fascinated by the physical, mental, and emotional sides of this life stage.  And you know what? Yes, it’s tough. Yes, it’s messy. But wow, our bodies are truly amazing!

Let’s not forget: this season of life impacts more than just women. It is hard for partners, family members, and friends, too. They walk alongside us, often unsure how to help or what is really happening.

So, ladies (and men), if you have questions, stories, or even just need a safe place to talk, I am here. Because one thing is for sure: menopause is a ‘stage’, but post-menopause? That’s for life.

Interested in classes with Jan:

·  Yoga & Strength Classes

·  Gentle Movement Classes

·  Breathing & Meditation

·  Raindrop Therapy Sessions

·  Wellness Retreats

www.jangoranson.com