If you are experiencing menopause symptoms you may be wondering what you can do about it, what action can you take? Is HRT the only option?

When I started to experience hot flushes in my early 50s I was working in an open plan office in a poorly ventilated building without opening windows. I was commuting every day in crowded trains. I was often attending stressful meetings with mainly male colleagues. Those were all the right ingredients to trigger hot flushes and to feel embarrassed by them.

I had already decided not to go down the hormone replacement therapy route, partly because of family medical history and partly because I favour complementary approaches. I started by looking at food supplements and herbal remedies. I love essential oils so that was my next approach. I am fortunate to know some wonderful nutritionists and personal trainers and they helped me make changes to my diet and exercise.

At the same time I was moving away from my office job and establishing myself as a therapist. I learned a whole toolbox of techniques to help me to control the physical, mental and emotional symptoms. And I didn’t have to travel in the hot trains any more or work in the stuffy office. Result!

What I learned from my experience and what I share now with my clients is that knowledge is the foundation of a healthy menopause experience. Taking action on that knowledge is the key to taking control.

There are simple changes you can make to your nutrition, your exercise and your lifestyle that have a significant positive effect on reducing the frequency and intensity of your symptoms. And then there’s the influence of your mindset. This is not just about creating a positive attitude – although that has been shown to be a contributor to your menopause experience – it is also about learning techniques that help you to take back control.

Now, if you’re one of those women who commits to a course of action and stays motivated to keep doing what you need to do, that’s great. However most of us need a bit of encouragement. We find it helpful to have like-minded women around us that we can chat with, and share experiences, ask questions and feel supported. That’s why it is good to join face-to-face or online support groups and to have coaching.

It’s one thing to know what you could do or should do and it’s another thing completely to take action and start enjoying the results. Don’t suffer needlessly, start making changes now. Take the first step to a better menopause experience.

Find out more by signing up for the Smarter Menopause Free Guide.