The historic Red Rose County has always been a walker's delight, but how does it boost the physical and mental health of perimenopausal and menopausal women?
Lancashire, with its picturesque landscapes, offers an idyllic setting for women seeking solace and rejuvenation during menopause. Walking, a simple yet powerful exercise, has emerged as a cornerstone in managing the physical and emotional challenges associated with this life stage.
From Pendle Hill to Rivington Pike or Beacon Fell Country Park to the Lancaster Canal there are no shortage of beautiful, interesting walks for the gentle rambler to the harden hiker.
With so many wonderful places to explore it comes as no surprise that 79% of women favour walking. It is great for our mental health, you can do it from your front door, and it can be done in your own time and at your own pace.
Walking outdoors is widely acknowledged for its mental health benefits, but it’s also proven to help alleviate the symptoms of the menopause, such as improved cardiovascular health and bone density. Physical symptoms like aching joints and fatigue, combined with psychological symptoms such as low mood and motivation are a deadly cocktail that can hinder even the most determined woman from living a fulfilling life.
Therapist and Clinic Manager Jess Hilliard, at True Physio in Lancaster explained.
“Many women worry how they will manage their symptoms and when their body feels like it’s betraying them it can bring on a whole range of physical and emotional challenges. Exercise, and particularly walking outside, can be a powerful tool for managing symptoms. It not only helps with weight management and bone health but also boosts mood and energy levels. We create personalised treatment plans to leverage those aspects combined with specific therapy techniques.”
Taking a holistic approach
Walking offers significant benefits for menopausal women by enhancing cardiovascular health, improving circulation, and lowering blood pressure, which is crucial as oestrogen levels decline. It also reduces the risk of heart disease, a common post-menopausal concern. Managing weight gain, reducing hot flushes, and alleviating night sweats are additional benefits of walking during menopause. The exercise also promotes better sleep by regulating the body's internal clock and reducing insomnia.
Taking a walk amongst the beautiful outdoors scenery in Lancaster can boost endorphins, lift mood and help counteract mood swings and depressive symptoms associated with menopause. Keith Johnstone, Clinical Director of True Physio, emphasises.
“Walking is a wonderful weight-bearing exercise for pre-menopausal women as it encourages the body to retain calcium in the bone rather than leach it, which reduces bone density and increases the likelihood of fractures. It’s important to take a holistic approach to women's health and encourage regular physical activity.”
Is a walk in the park going to solve menopausal symptoms alone? Of course not, but the combination of cardio, weight management, improved sleep, and mood enhancement does make walking an excellent activity for alleviating menopausal symptoms, promoting overall well-being and even getting a little ‘you time’.
Find out more at the website: truephysio.co.uk or get in touch by emailing: therapies@truephysio.co.uk.
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