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Menopause Unveiled: Thriving Through Change · Create The Best Me

• 0:02
  Carmen Hecox: Hello there and welcome to Create the Best Me.
• 0:04
  Carmen Hecox: Today we're diving into a topic that is as natural as it is misunderstood menopause.
• 0:11
  Carmen Hecox: Yes, the M word that often comes with its own set of myths and whispers.
• 0:16
  Carmen Hecox: But guess what?
• 0:17
  Carmen Hecox: We're not here to whisper.
• 0:19
  Carmen Hecox: We're here to shout about it from the rooftops! Menopause is not just a phase; it's a powerful transition and it's high time we start celebrating it.
• 0:29
  Carmen Hecox: So what exactly is menopause?
• 0:32
  Carmen Hecox: Well, it's not a one size fits all experience.
• 0:36
  Carmen Hecox: There's perimenopause, the warmup act, menopause is the main event, and post-menopause is the encore.
• 0:45
  Carmen Hecox: And each stage has its unique set of experiences and surprises.
• 0:51
  Carmen Hecox: But when does this all start?
• 0:53
  Carmen Hecox: And what can you expect?
• 0:55
  Carmen Hecox: From hot flashes to newfound freedoms, menopause is a journey of change and discovery.
• 1:02
  Carmen Hecox: And don't worry, we'll uncover all the nitty gritty details, debunk some common myths, and yes, even talk about the unexpected benefits that no one seems to mention! So, whether you're in the midst of this transition, approaching it, or just curious, this episode is for you.
• 1:23
  Carmen Hecox: We're about to embark on a journey to understand, embrace, and celebrate menopause as a fabulous chapter in our lives.
• 1:33
  Carmen Hecox: Let's dive in and discover why menopause is not an end, but a vibrant new beginning.
• 1:40
  Carmen Hecox: Are you ready?
• 1:40
  Carmen Hecox: Let's turn the page together! Alright, let's roll up our sleeves and jump right into the world of menopause.
• 1:49
  Carmen Hecox: Now the big question: When does this grand adventure begin?
• 1:53
  Carmen Hecox: Well, ladies, the journey into menopause is as unique as we are.
• 1:59
  Carmen Hecox: Typically, the perimenopause express chugs along in our late 40s or early 50s, but hey, some of us might hop on this train a bit early or later, and that's perfectly okay.
• 2:14
  Carmen Hecox: Perimenopause is like the pre party.
• 2:17
  Carmen Hecox: It's where the body starts tuning up for the main event.
• 2:21
  Carmen Hecox: You might notice some changes like your period getting unpredictable as a game of bingo.
• 2:27
  Carmen Hecox: Well, it be this month, next month, or hello, surprise visit.
• 2:34
  Carmen Hecox: It's all part of the fun.
• 2:35
  Carmen Hecox: And then there's the hot flashes nature's way of reminding us we all have an inner volcano waiting to erupt in the most unexpected moments.
• 2:48
  Carmen Hecox: Feeling warm?
• 2:49
  Carmen Hecox: more like suddenly thinking you're in the tropics when you're just sitting in your living room! But it's not just hot flashes.
• 2:57
  Carmen Hecox: Oh no, there's more to the story.
• 3:00
  Carmen Hecox: Mood swings that can make a rollercoaster seem tame.
• 3:04
  Carmen Hecox: Some nights where sleep plays hard to get and few other quirks that remind us that our bodies are embarking on a new chapter.
• 3:11
  Carmen Hecox: Remember, these symptoms are like secret messages from our bodies telling us about the changes happening within.
• 3:20
  Carmen Hecox: Some days, they're whispering.
• 3:22
  Carmen Hecox: Other days they're shouting, but they're always communicating.
• 3:27
  Carmen Hecox: And our job?
• 3:28
  Carmen Hecox: To listen and understand and embrace these messages with a sense of humor and grace.
• 3:35
  Carmen Hecox: So, whether you're already on this journey or just packing your bags, know each symptom, each change is a sign of a body that's lived, loved, and is boldly stepping into a new era.
• 3:50
  Carmen Hecox: And trust me, this new era is full of surprises, empowerment, and yes, even unexpected perks! Coming up next, let's talk about those unexpected benefits because believe it or not, menopause isn't just about challenges; it's about triumph too! Before we dive into the nitty gritty of body changes, let's take a moment to celebrate some unexpected benefits of menopause.
• 4:17
  Carmen Hecox: Yes, you heard me right benefits! First off, wave goodbye to monthly visits.
• 4:25
  Carmen Hecox: Menopause is like your personal vacation from periods.
• 4:29
  Carmen Hecox: No more surprise guest appearances, and best of all, no more emergency runs for supplies.
• 4:36
  Carmen Hecox: It's freedom in a whole new sense! Then there's a newfound sense of confidence.
• 4:42
  Carmen Hecox: Many women report feeling more self-assured and grounded than ever before.
• 4:48
  Carmen Hecox: It's like menopause comes with a hidden gift and superpowers of caring less about the small stuff and focusing on what truly matters.
• 4:58
  Carmen Hecox: Also, let's talk about wisdom.
• 5:01
  Carmen Hecox: By the time menopause arrives, you've gathered a lifetime of experience, knowledge, and insights.
• 5:08
  Carmen Hecox: You're like a walking, talking encyclopedia of life and that's incredibly empowering.
• 5:15
  Carmen Hecox: And how about the community?
• 5:18
  Carmen Hecox: Menopause brings together a shared journey and the bonds you form during this time are both supportive and enriching.
• 5:28
  Carmen Hecox: It's like joining an exclusive club where everyone understands the secret language of hot flushes and mute swings! So yes, menopause comes with its fair share of perks.
• 5:40
  Carmen Hecox: It's not just a phase.
• 5:41
  Carmen Hecox: It's a transition to more liberating and wiser version of you.
• 5:47
  Carmen Hecox: Now, let's smoothly transition into the physical and emotional changes we experienced during this time.
• 5:55
  Carmen Hecox: Speaking of transitions, our bodies and feelings during menopause are like actors taking on a new role.
• 6:03
  Carmen Hecox: This next chapter in our lives brings a whole new set of experiences, some surprises, some challenges, but all part of the incredible journey.
• 6:14
  Carmen Hecox: Now let's talk about our bodies during this time.
• 6:17
  Carmen Hecox: Menopause is like your bodyguard renovation project.
• 6:22
  Carmen Hecox: It's changing, redecorating, and yes, sometimes that means a bit of internal chaos.
• 6:29
  Carmen Hecox: But remember, every renovation project is a step towards something new and wonderful.
• 6:36
  Carmen Hecox: You might start to notice your waistline playing a game of hide and seek with you.
• 6:42
  Carmen Hecox: One day it's there, the next day, well, playing hard to get, but that's just your body's way of reshaping itself into a new masterpiece.
• 6:53
  Carmen Hecox: And then there's the skin.
• 6:55
  Carmen Hecox: You might find it drier than a stand up comedian on a good night.
• 7:01
  Carmen Hecox: But this is your chance to pamper yourself.
• 7:04
  Carmen Hecox: Lotions, creams, hydration masks.
• 7:07
  Carmen Hecox: Think of it as a spa day every day! Your feelings.
• 7:11
  Carmen Hecox: Oh, they'll take you on a journey from nostalgia to excitement to an occasional stop at irritation and joy.
• 7:21
  Carmen Hecox: It's an emotional world tour and you've got front row tickets.
• 7:26
  Carmen Hecox: Embrace these feelings; they're part of the rich tapestry of experience.
• 7:30
  Carmen Hecox: And let's not forget sleep or as it might feel during menopause, the elusive nighttime game of, will I or won't I sleep tonight?
• 7:42
  Carmen Hecox: But fear not, a few tweaks in your routine and you'll be snoozing like a baby or at least very relaxed like a cat.
• 7:52
  Carmen Hecox: Through all these changes, one thing remains constant your amazing resilience and ability to adapt.
• 8:00
  Carmen Hecox: Menopause might be a time of change, but it's also a time of incredible growth and self discovery.
• 8:07
  Carmen Hecox: Your body isn't just changing, it's evolving and so are you.
• 8:13
  Carmen Hecox: So as we navigate these changes, let's do it with a smile, a dash of humor, and abundance of self-love.
• 8:21
  Carmen Hecox: Next up, let's uncover some of the surprising, wonderful benefits from menopause.
• 8:26
  Carmen Hecox: Yes, they exist and they're worth celebrating! Alright, now let's turn our focus to a bit of detective work recognizing and becoming aware of menopause.
• 8:38
  Carmen Hecox: Yes, it's time to put on your Sherlock home hat and understand the signs of menopause.
• 8:45
  Carmen Hecox: It's like solving a mystery and we're all master sleuths here.
• 8:50
  Carmen Hecox: Firstly, how do you know if you're beginning this journey?
• 8:54
  Carmen Hecox: It's not like there's a big neon sign that says,"Welcome to Menopause!" But our bodies do send signals some subtle, some not so much.
• 9:04
  Carmen Hecox: It starts with those irregular periods they're the first clues on our menopause treasure map.
• 9:12
  Carmen Hecox: Next, tune into your body's messages.
• 9:15
  Carmen Hecox: Hot flashes are like your body's way of saying,"Hey, something's changing here!" Then there's the sleep patterns.
• 9:22
  Carmen Hecox: If you find yourself counting more sheep than usual, that might be another sign.
• 9:28
  Carmen Hecox: But it's not just about physical cues.
• 9:31
  Carmen Hecox: There's also an emotional dimension feeling like you're on an emotional rollercoaster sometimes.
• 9:37
  Carmen Hecox: That's part of the package.
• 9:38
  Carmen Hecox: It's about embracing this emotional kaleidoscope and learning to navigate it with grace.
• 9:45
  Carmen Hecox: Remember, becoming aware of these changes isn't about finding problems; it's about gaining insights into your own body.
• 9:54
  Carmen Hecox: It's empowering to know what's happening and why.
• 9:58
  Carmen Hecox: Knowledge is power, and in this case, it's also comfort and reassurance.
• 10:04
  Carmen Hecox: So keep an open dialogue with yourself.
• 10:07
  Carmen Hecox: Journal your experiences, talk to friends who are on the same journey, and most importantly, have a candid discussion with your health care provider.
• 10:16
  Carmen Hecox: It's all about building a support system that helps you navigate this transition smoothly.
• 10:23
  Carmen Hecox: And remember, each sign, each symptom is like a postcard from your body telling you about the changes it's going through.
• 10:33
  Carmen Hecox: Cherish these postcards; they're part of the journey to a new and exciting destination in your life.
• 10:41
  Carmen Hecox: Next up, we'll explore how menopause affects us holistically because it's not just a physical journey, it's an emotional and mental one too.
• 10:51
  Carmen Hecox: And guess what?
• 10:52
  Carmen Hecox: We're ready for it.
• 10:54
  Carmen Hecox: Now, let's take a closer look at the multifaceted impact of menopause.
• 10:59
  Carmen Hecox: It's like opening a new book in your personal library every page brings a different story.
• 11:06
  Carmen Hecox: Each chapter reveals a new aspect of you.
• 11:10
  Carmen Hecox: First, the physical side of things.
• 11:12
  Carmen Hecox: Yes, our bodies are changing they're remixing the classic hits from our youth! We might notice changes in our metabolism, a new pattern in our weight distribution, or even shifts in our hair and skin.
• 11:26
  Carmen Hecox: It's nature's way of giving us a makeover and who doesn't love a good makeover?
• 11:33
  Carmen Hecox: Mentally, menopause can be like a mind gym exercising our patience, humor, and adaptability.
• 11:42
  Carmen Hecox: You might find your focus shifting or even a new clarity emerging.
• 11:47
  Carmen Hecox: It's as if though your brain decided to shuffle its playlist and suddenly you're dancing a new rhythm.
• 11:54
  Carmen Hecox: Emotionally, oh, it's a rich tapestry! The emotional landscape of menopause is vibrant and varied.
• 12:02
  Carmen Hecox: You might find yourself reflecting more, feeling more deeper, or even discovering new joys in life.
• 12:09
  Carmen Hecox: It's an emotional adventure and you're the hero in the story.
• 12:13
  Carmen Hecox: But let's not forget the social impact.
• 12:17
  Carmen Hecox: Menopause can be a time of deepening relationships, forging new connections, and sometimes re-evaluating existing ones.
• 12:26
  Carmen Hecox: It's a period where your social circle can evolve to reflect the changing you.
• 12:33
  Carmen Hecox: And here's the thing menopause isn't just about managing symptoms, it's about embracing a whole new phase of life.
• 12:42
  Carmen Hecox: It's your time to rediscover yourself, to experiment, to grow.
• 12:48
  Carmen Hecox: It's a period of transformation where you get to author your own narrative with wisdom and experience as your guides.
• 12:57
  Carmen Hecox: So as we navigate the impacts of menopause, let's do it with a spirit of exploration and excitement.
• 13:04
  Carmen Hecox: It's not just a change; it's a chance, a chance to redefine what it means to be you.
• 13:13
  Carmen Hecox: Coming up, we'll talk about how you can control and even relish these changes.
• 13:17
  Carmen Hecox: Yes, menopause is a journey, but you're in the driver's seat, and the road ahead is full of possibilities! Let's shift gears to the topic that is as practical as it is empowering managing symptoms of menopause.
• 13:34
  Carmen Hecox: Think of it as your own personal toolkit, filled with strategies, and tips to not just cope, but to thrive during this time.
• 13:43
  Carmen Hecox: First up, hot flashes those unexpected tropical moments.
• 13:48
  Carmen Hecox: While we can't always stop them, we sure can outsmart them.
• 13:53
  Carmen Hecox: Dress in layers, keep a portable fan handy and maybe even turn it into a game"Guess when the flash will pass!" It's all about staying cool, literally and figuratively.
• 14:07
  Carmen Hecox: Sleep can be a bit elusive during menopause, playing hide and seek with us.
• 14:12
  Carmen Hecox: But there are ways to win this game.
• 14:15
  Carmen Hecox: Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, maybe add some soothing music or a good book to the mix.
• 14:22
  Carmen Hecox: Think of your bedroom as a sleep sanctuary calm, cool, and inviting.
• 14:29
  Carmen Hecox: Now mood swings.
• 14:30
  Carmen Hecox: They can be like an emotional rollercoaster, but who said rollercoasters can't be fun?
• 14:36
  Carmen Hecox: Embrace these feelings, talk about them and when needed, laugh them off.
• 14:42
  Carmen Hecox: And remember, it's okay to seek support, friends, family, even a counselor can be a great co-rider in this ride.
• 14:52
  Carmen Hecox: Physical changes like weight fluctuation or muscle tone shifts call for blends of nutrition and exercise.
• 15:01
  Carmen Hecox: No need for drastic diets or intense workouts.
• 15:05
  Carmen Hecox: Just balance eating and regular enjoyable physical activities.
• 15:09
  Carmen Hecox: Dance, walk, swim, find what makes your body feel good and do more of it.
• 15:15
  Carmen Hecox: And let's talk about skin and hair.
• 15:19
  Carmen Hecox: This is the perfect time to pamper yourself.
• 15:22
  Carmen Hecox: Explore gentle hydrating products, and maybe even discover some new self-care rituals.
• 15:29
  Carmen Hecox: It's not just skincare, it's self-love in a bottle.
• 15:33
  Carmen Hecox: Lastly, keep an open dialogue with your healthcare provider.
• 15:38
  Carmen Hecox: Menopause management is a team sport and your doctor is a key player.
• 15:44
  Carmen Hecox: Together, you can explore various options from lifestyle adjustments to potential treatments, ensuring you have a plan that is as unique as you are.
• 15:55
  Carmen Hecox: So there you have it, a treasure trove of tips and tricks to manage menopause symptoms.
• 16:02
  Carmen Hecox: It's about taking control, finding joy in the journey.
• 16:06
  Carmen Hecox: And remember that every symptom is a sign of a body that's lived and is boldly moving forward.
• 16:15
  Carmen Hecox: Up next, let's wrap this amazing journey and talk about why menopause is not just an end, but a vibrant new beginning.
• 16:25
  Carmen Hecox: And now let's talk about something truly magical embracing the change that menopause brings.
• 16:32
  Carmen Hecox: This isn't just about adjusting; it's about thriving, growing, and rediscovering the amazing woman you are.
• 16:41
  Carmen Hecox: First and foremost, embracing this change means changing our mindsets.
• 16:47
  Carmen Hecox: Let's view menopause not as a loss, but as a gain a gain in experience, wisdom, and perhaps even a little sass! It's an invitation to redefine ourselves, to step into a phase of life that's riped with possibilities.
• 17:06
  Carmen Hecox: Remember, self-care is your superpower.
• 17:10
  Carmen Hecox: Whether it's a daily walk in nature, a new hobby that sparks joy, or simply taking time to reflect and meditate, these acts of self-care are acts of self-love.
• 17:22
  Carmen Hecox: They're your way of saying, I value myself every stage of life.
• 17:29
  Carmen Hecox: Connect with your tribe.
• 17:30
  Carmen Hecox: Surround yourself with friends, family, or groups who understand and support your journey.
• 17:37
  Carmen Hecox: There's immense power in shared experiences they turn stories into wisdom and challenges into shared victories.
• 17:45
  Carmen Hecox: Educate yourself about menopause.
• 17:47
  Carmen Hecox: Knowledge is not just power; it's empowerment.
• 17:50
  Carmen Hecox: Read books, attend workshops, or listen to podcasts about menopause like this one.
• 17:57
  Carmen Hecox: The more you know, the more equipped you are to navigate this transition with confidence.
• 18:04
  Carmen Hecox: Embrace the emotional richness.
• 18:06
  Carmen Hecox: Yes, menopause can be an emotional roller coaster, but it's also a chance to get in touch with your feelings more deeply than ever before.
• 18:17
  Carmen Hecox: It's about learning, growing, and becoming more empathetic to yourself and others.
• 18:23
  Carmen Hecox: Don't shy away from seeking help.
• 18:25
  Carmen Hecox: Whether it's consulting with the health care professional, talking to a counselor, or just having a heart to heart with a friend.
• 18:32
  Carmen Hecox: Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• 18:36
  Carmen Hecox: It's about building a support system that uplifts you.
• 18:41
  Carmen Hecox: And finally, celebrate each moment.
• 18:44
  Carmen Hecox: Menopause is not an end; it's a new chapter, a new adventure.
• 18:50
  Carmen Hecox: Throw a menopause party, start a new tradition, or simply give yourself a pat on the back.
• 18:56
  Carmen Hecox: You're not just surviving menopause, you're mastering it.
• 19:00
  Carmen Hecox: As we wrap up this conversation, remember that embracing menopause is about embracing yourself all of you, in all your glory.
• 19:10
  Carmen Hecox: It's time to celebrate your journey, your experience, and the exciting path ahead.
• 19:17
  Carmen Hecox: So here's to you, magnificent woman, as you navigate and embrace this beautiful change.
• 19:25
  Carmen Hecox: Cheers to new beginnings! As we draw this enlightening journey to a close, I want to leave you with a thought menopause is not just a phase; it's a dawn of a thrilling new era.
• 19:40
  Carmen Hecox: It's a new beginning filled with opportunities, adventure, and uncharted territories waiting to be explored.
• 19:49
  Carmen Hecox: Throughout our chat today, we uncovered the mysteries of menopause, laughed at its quirks, and learned to embrace it's challenges.
• 19:59
  Carmen Hecox: We talked about the physical changes, the emotional rollercoaster, and the incredible way we can manage and thrive through it all.
• 20:08
  Carmen Hecox: But most importantly, we celebrated the strength, resilience, and grace that comes with this stage of life.
• 20:16
  Carmen Hecox: Menopause is more than a biological transition' it's a testament to a journey we've traveled and the exciting path that lies ahead.
• 20:28
  Carmen Hecox: It's a time to reflect, to grow, to shine brighter than ever before.
• 20:33
  Carmen Hecox: So my fabulous listeners and viewers, as you step forward into this new chapter, remember that you are not alone.
• 20:42
  Carmen Hecox: You are part of a vibrant community of women who are turning the page together, ready to write new stories filled with wisdom, joy, and empowerment.
• 20:55
  Carmen Hecox: Embrace this new beginning with open arms and an open heart.
• 21:00
  Carmen Hecox: Seek joy in the small things, and find strength in your experiences, and most of all, celebrate yourself, the incredible woman you are becoming every day.
• 21:14
  Carmen Hecox: Thank you for joining me on this episode of Create The Best Me.
• 21:17
  Carmen Hecox: I hope you feel inspired, informed, and invigorated as you embrace your own menopause journey.
• 21:24
  Carmen Hecox: Additional information in today's transcripts can be found at createthebestme.com/ep047.
• 21:34
  Carmen Hecox: Remember to tune in next week because our special guest will be Kylie Hayes.
• 21:39
  Carmen Hecox: She is a mom, wife, small business owner who in midlife is living her dream.
• 21:47
  Carmen Hecox: Kylie is a master at designing business workflows and a business coach who helps food and beverage business owners effortlessly run a successful business without all the headaches.
• 22:01
  Carmen Hecox: Kylie's truly an inspiring midlifer who's living the life of her dreams.
• 22:07
  Carmen Hecox: So you'll need to tune in next week.
• 22:10
  Carmen Hecox: Until then, keep dreaming big, take care of yourself, and remember you are beautiful, strong, and capable of creating the best version of yourself.
• 22:22
  Carmen Hecox: Thank you for watching.
• 22:23
  Carmen Hecox: Catch you next week.
• 22:25
  Carmen Hecox: Bye for now.