The Feel-Good Power of Exercise and Holistic Health with Lavina Mehta MBE
Navigating through menopause and perimenopause can be quite the rollercoaster, with its fair share of ups and downs. It's a time when many women might feel like they're losing a bit of themselves, but fear not—there's a whole lot we can do to feel more like our vibrant selves again. Lavina Mehta MBE, award winning personal trainer and wellness coach, sheds light on how staying active and adopting a holistic approach to wellness can be game-changers during this phase.
Why Exercise is a Must During Menopause
If there's one thing that's clear, it's that keeping active during menopause isn't just good—it's essential. Exercise does wonders, from keeping your bones sturdy to boosting your mood and keeping those pesky menopausal symptoms in check. Whether it's joint pain, mood swings, or brain fog, a good workout can help manage these like a boss.
Top Perks of Staying Active:
Stronger Bones: Wave goodbye to osteoporosis worries.
Muscle Maintenance: Keep those muscles strong and functional.
Heart Health: Your heart will thank you for every bit of cardio.
Mental Boost: Say hello to endorphins and goodbye to the blues.
"Our midlife investing in our health right now is probably the most important predictor for our long-term health."
Whole-Person Wellness
Lavina is all about that holistic life, and her book "The Feel-Good Fix" is your go-to guide for tackling menopause head-on. It's not just about sweating it out; it's about feeling great mentally and setting yourself up for a healthy future.
A Full-Body Fitness Plan:
Get Flexible: Mobility exercises to keep you limber.
Quick Cardio Fixes: Short bursts of heart-pumping fun.
Strength Sessions: Build strength to power through life.
Balancing Acts: Stay steady and prevent falls.
Stretch it Out: Keep those muscles happy and relaxed.
"Strength training is going to be one of the best tools to help you maintain a healthy weight."
Snack on Exercise
"Every minute counts... it's going to really help you decrease your risk of so many chronic illnesses."
One of the coolest ideas from Lavina is "exercise snacking." Forget about sweating for hours; this approach lets you sprinkle little bits of exercise throughout your day. It's perfect for those super busy days or when you're just not feeling up for a full session. These bite-sized workouts can fit into any schedule and still pack a punch for your health.
Kicking Off Your Menopause Fitness Journey
Starting an exercise routine during menopause might seem daunting, especially if you're dealing with aches and pains. The key? Start small. Exercise snacks are perfect for easing into it without feeling overwhelmed. Focus on gentle, strengthening movements that target areas of discomfort, gradually increasing intensity as you feel more comfortable.
"Exercise is one of the best tools to help us release those feel-good endorphins."
Wrapping It Up
"The best exercise is the one that you enjoy."
Menopause is definitely not about slowing down. It's the perfect time to embrace new health habits that keep you feeling energetic and joyful. By integrating regular exercise and a holistic approach to health, you can tackle menopause with confidence and keep feeling fabulous for years to come.
Lavina Mehta's advice is a reminder that every little bit counts and that these years can be some of your best yet with the right approach to wellness. So, why not start today? Your future self will thank you!