Meegan Cares About Midlife

"Simply telling people to love their bodies without addressing underlying psychological and external influences can be harmful." A woman's relationship to her body is incredibly complex, our body is appraised, viewed and judged from the day we are born. So it's no surprise that women find it challenging to cope with the physical changes that come with midlife on a psychological level. "Midlife, particularly menopause transition, is the second highest at-risk time for women to develop eating disorders." My guest today is Emma Wright. Emma is a Body Freedom Coach who shares her own journey with disordered eating. She talks about how she overcame this challenge and completely transformed her relationship with her physical body, appearance, and overall wellbeing. Emma addresses society's influence on women's perception of their bodies, the harm these perceptions cause as well as how these perceptions shift during menopause. She provides practical advice and valuable tools to help women feel comfortable in their bodies, irrespective of their stage in life. Emphasizing the importance of healthy boundaries and improved inner dialogue, the episode also shatters harmful societal perceptions of ‘brokenness'. The conversation further explores the link between midlife changes and eating disorders, reassuring women that positive change is possible and that well-being goes way beyond physical appearances. Join this thought-provoking session with Emma Wright, as she shares her journey from battling an eating disorder to embracing body neutrality. From her motherhood-inspired quest to dispel body and food myths, to her strategies for cultivating a healthy body image, Emma's story is a beacon of inspiration for women navigating through similar struggles. About Emma Wright: I help women, leaders, and parents find freedom from intrusive thoughts about their bodies. I also seek to make the world kinder, safer, more inclusive and accessible to all bodies, not just the ones that look like mine. Find out more about Emma here: https://www.emmawright.co.nz https://www.facebook.com/TalkingWithEmma https://www.instagram.com/talkingwithemma/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/raisingbodyconfidentkids/ Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

The Untold Power of Menopause and Reinvention In midlife, we often feel disempowered due to various factors such as symptoms of perimenopause, changing roles, and the burden of doing so much for others. Feeling lost during this phase is a common experience. However, this is actually the MOST empowered time of your life to redefine who you are and how you show up in the world. And we will dive into how to go about it today on the podcast. Let's challenge societal norms surrounding midlife and unveil the empowering process of self-discovery. This shift involves a transition from societal conditioning of appearance and value to a profound self-appreciation of our unique attributes and individual presentation to the world. We explore the societal pressures that persist but also highlight the genuine change that starts WITHIN, impacting not just personal development but societal perceptions as well. Midlife often comes with feelings of invisibility and diminished worth. Instead of succumbing to these cultural pressures, we're going to explore and redefine your value system from an external to an internal locus. Through this shift, we begin to center our value on who we genuinely are and what we uniquely offer the world. And we venture into the upgraded opportunities available to us during this stage of life. Hormonal changes not only contribute to significant physiological transformations but also set the stage for accelerated personal development. Midlife is not the winding down phase it is often perceived to be; instead, it's a powerful launch pad for a life of meaningful change and growth. Challenge societal expectations, embrace your wisdom, and liberate your genuine self because midlife is just the beginning of your most empowering journey yet! Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

In this episode, we look at the physiological changes that women undergo during perimenopause and early menopause and how these shifts can be a catalyst for a big awakening. Discover how discomfort can lead to growth, and how by embracing new behaviour and activities, you create a bigger life and prevent contraction and stagnation as you age. Tap into the power of the midlife shift, and start recreating yourself. Remember the thrilling question of adolescence - 'Who will I be in the world?' – and revive that quest in midlife. Replace your self-imposed labels, and commit to finding out what truly matters to you. Our task is to reevaluate and reshape our self-identity at this time, liberating ourselves from societal conditioning and labels. Merge with the ever-evolving journey at midlife, understand the beauty of the 'undone-ness' of life, and discover your authentic, joyful, and passionate self. Explore the notion of death and rebirth within relationships, redefine your roles in life, and dare to step into the 'slipstream of nature'. Prepare yourself for this powerful new beginning, where you are free to choose and stay true to your path. Join me in celebrating midlife as a phase full of potential for growth and transformation, not an ending, but a powerful beginning. This episode is not just a conversation, but an invitation to a more authentic and vibrant self in midlife and beyond. Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

In this revealing episode join me as I unravel my journey through trauma, Crohn's disease, menopause and the lessons learnt in becoming resilient. This episode provides a deep dive into the crucial role of emotions in defining our life experiences, especially the turbulence that often arises in midlife, menopause, and beyond. I share my challenges with emotional dysregulation, dissociation from feelings and the aftermath of trauma. These narratives underline my connection with my own emotions and how changing HOW I relate to emotions was pivotal in my journey of resilience and healing. We're not here for toxic positivity, and I underline the importance of acknowledging our own range of emotions, both positive and negative. The episode underscores the necessity of self-understanding and maintaining a connection with our 'feeling selves'. I also discuss how to use a powerful tool for managing difficult emotions – the RAIN technique, from Tara Brach, a Buddhist teacher and psychotherapist, the episode provides practical tips for its use. Detailing each step from recognizing and allowing emotions, to investigating and nurturing them with self-compassion, the RAIN technique is an effective roadmap for psychological freedom. This discussion is not only insightful for those navigating midlife and menopause but also for anyone who wishes to embark on a self-discovery journey by initiating healthier relationships with their emotions. Grab your headphones and join me as we tame emotions in midlife! Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

Midlife women's strength is their superpower! In this episode, I chat with Fiona Ross, a great friend and colleague. We explore the importance of lifting heavy (for you) weights and finding the right exercise routine for strength, confidence, and ageing well. We share our personal experiences and address the complexities of midlife changes, resilience, and wellness among women. Fiona candidly discusses how menopause impacted her fitness and nutrition routine, and the proactive steps she took to ensure her wellbeing. This revealing talk explores not just physical changes, but the equally significant emotional and intellectual aspects of this stage in life. And of course, we debunk some ageing myths and risky quick-fix solutions surrounding menopause, emphasizing the need for self-awareness, patience, and careful experimentation. As the discussion deepens, we cover critical aspects of fatigue, its impact on women, and how to manage it effectively. The importance of staying active via the correct exercise for you, along with the need to pay attention to individual needs and capabilities. Also addressed are the psychological and emotional aspects involved in ageing and midlife transition. We talk inner peace, satisfaction levels, and the priceless wisdom gained over the years. "I would say it it felt like I was getting my power back in the sense of Yeah. Prior to that, I was like, well, what am I doing wrong? What's happened? And it did knock, you know, my self esteem, and I also was very conscious of working with my clients and thinking, if I can't, excuse my language, short sort my shit out, then how am I supposed to help these people that are looking for advice?" Fiona Ross is a Movement and Lifestyle Coach. "Together we uncover the best version of You" https://www.instagram.com/fit_fi17/ https://www.instagram.com/rampagefitnessnewplymouth/ https://www.facebook.com/rampagefitnessNP Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

Waves of irritability and anger used to come out of nowhere. I was in the beginning phases of perimenopause and these mood fluctuations were an unwelcome surprise, I'd had some experience of them as a teen but I had no idea irritation, anger and even rage are common symptoms of perimenopause. We go into why this happens in perimenopause and midlife, how to tackle these surprising fluctuations in mood, and when it's time to seek professional help. While anger is frequently regarded as negative, especially for women, I discuss how to harness the transformative nature of anger as an agent of change, promoting self-awareness and self-acceptance, and why it's so important at this time of life. By unmasking anger as a signal of boundary violations, and a force for personal evolution, it supports women to express emotions transparently and directly. "If we know we're in perimenopause and this is happening, and we know that this is a common symptom of perimenopause, then how we respond to that, how we react to that, and what we do to support ourselves when this is showing up, it's going to be very different." Midlife can be a massive opportunity for growth and evolution and when you know how to work with anger to create change you create an empowered second stage of life. Tune in to this empowering conversation and don't miss out on the wisdom and support you deserve! Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

"No need to cut out specific foods to lose weight; all foods can fit into a healthy diet." - Justine Jeddy This week on the podcast I'm joined by Justine Jeddy, an evidence-based health and nutrition coach specializing in women's fitness and nutrition. And I wanted to get to the truth about diet culture, weight and nutrition in perimenopause, menopause and midlife. We debunk myths and clear up misconceptions about metabolism and insulin resistance, discuss the (surprising) long term impact of diets on weight loss, and address the challenges of perimenopause and menopause. Justine also offers strategies for navigating hunger, cravings, and fatigue. It's a must-listen for women in midlife! Discover Justine's "2 thirds method" for balanced meals and her insights on importance of structured, balanced meals for sustained energy. I had a lot of questions and used my own experience of midlife weight gain to understand the truth behind some of the weight and health misconceptions that are currently doing the rounds! Tune in to gain valuable insights and be inspired to prioritize your health and well-being in midlife and beyond. Let's navigate this midlife journey together, prioritizing our health and embracing the power of community and support. About Justine Jeddy Justine is a Peri+Post Menopausal Fat Loss, Nutrition & Fitness Coach with over 9 years experience helping peri+post menopausal women to lose weight for the last time, have a healthier relationship with food and get their mojo and confidence back. Facebook: www.facebook.com/coachjustinejeddy Instagram: @iamjustinejeddy Website: www.coachjustinejeddy.com Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

The Importance of Vitamin D for Menopausal Women: "And about 90% of them were at the very, very low end of the blood serum range of vitamin D, and some were very, very low. And these women had a lot of symptoms, and some of those are quite similar symptoms." This week, Lisa Pomare joins us to explore the powerful impact of Vitamin D on women's health during perimenopause and menopause. Lisa is a naturopath, nutritionist, and a menopausal woman herself, she provides invaluable insights into the role of Vitamin D in our bodies and how to achieve optimal levels for health and wellbeing. In this episode she guides us through the importance of Vitamin D for the body and mind, how to find out if it is sub-optimal and how to treat low Vitamin D levels. We cover its essential roles and impact on not just bone health but also cardiovascular conditions, insulin resistance, vaginal and urinary symptoms. We also touch upon the association with estrogen and sunlight exposure, highlighting the critical processes our bodies undergo to produce the necessary Vitamin D levels. Lisa also exposes shocking data on the prevalence of low to medium vitamin D levels among women and emphasises the significance of sun exposure and omega-rich food sources as alternatives for Vitamin D. Practical advice around suitable sun exposure times and Vitamin D absorption is provided. This episode is a treasure trove of information and guidance for any woman navigating through menopause and a call to action to prioritize their health and well-being. Lisa Pomare Next Phase Health Lisa Pomare is a Tauranga based Naturopath and Nutritionist who is passionate about all things Peri/Menopause and healthy, happy ageing. She decided to begin her degree at age 44, while in the wild throws of her own perimenopause. She has ticked off many of the symptoms on the list, from mild to life impacting during her journey. Lisa works in clinical practice both one on one (online and in person) and providing group education, she speaks from not only research but personal experience. In her spare time Lisa loves to grow veges, read trashy novels and hang out near a beach, lake or waterfall. https://www.nextphasehealth.co.nz https://www.instagram.com/nextphasehealth/ Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

In this week's episode I challenge and change beliefs that no longer serve us, and advocate for awareness and intentional imagination as we embrace the next stage of life, through understanding my 3 Step Empowerment Model. The 3 Step Empowerment Model in Menopause: The Opportunity The Problem The Solution My 3 Step Empowerment Model dismantles stereotypes and unravels the profound nature of the midlife journey, focusing on the distinct stages of perimenopause and menopause. We dive deep and explore the internal changes, societal misconceptions, and challenges that arise during this significant life phase and highlight the often overlooked opportunity it harbours for self-growth and transformation. Perimenopause and midlife are not just about managing challenging symptoms, it's also a gateway to a new life chapter, a period of belief reshaping, and enhanced self-awareness. Tune in to the episode, explore the 3 Step Empowerment Menopause Model, and join me on this transformative journey towards psychological freedom and empowerment in midlife. Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

"The faster we can get on board with the change, the faster we can work with our system to support it, then we can come into, once again, this collaborative relationship with our body." This week, I delved deep into the top 5 mindset mistakes that women make in midlife and how they affect our overall well-being. From denying or resisting the natural changes that come with perimenopause to isolating emotionally and comparing ourselves to our younger selves, these mindset patterns impact our confidence, mental health, and ability to adapt. I shared valuable insights on how to overcome these mindset obstacles and embrace the present moment with self-compassion and acceptance. The episode confronts the peril of perfectionism and binary thinking, promoting a shift towards embracing life's joys and nurturing organic growth. This pivot is seen as a powerful tool for boosting resilience and personal empowerment. The importance of self-validating and radical self-acceptance also receives a noteworthy mention. I’m excited to share the transformative journey of embracing imperfection and finding strength in navigating midlife with authenticity and courage. Timestamp: 00:00 Perimenopause symptoms subside in postmenopause journey. 04:18 Embrace hope, self-compassion, and adaptability. 09:23 Rapid adaptation crucial for perimenopause and menopause. 12:44 Healthy relationships fostered by self-acceptance, not comparison. 14:06 Valuing aging beyond patriarchy's lens reveals beauty. 19:48 Embrace imperfection, find personal empowerment, and acceptance. 22:38 Adult brain, societal conditioning, perimenopause, mindset change. Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

Sleep is a big issue for many perimenopausal women - me included! 3 am would come around and I'd be wide awake for hours. Although I sleep pretty well now (unless caffeine has been to the party) I know this is a massive issue for so many of us - so I was thrilled to talk with Lisa Pomare, a medical herbalist, nutritionist, and naturopath at Next Phase Health. In this week's episode dedicated to providing sleep solutions, we delve into the hormonal shifts of perimenopause and menopause and understand how they can affect your sleep, as well as the consequences of sleep deprivation such as high blood pressure, anxiety, weight gain, and more. Lisa highlights strategies for rescuing sleep during menopause. Brewed into our discussion is an understanding of night sweats and sleep apnea, troublesome menopausal symptoms, and practical tips for handling them. Our episode offers a holistic guide for women navigating menopause, with a focus on maintaining and recovering sleep quality. If you're struggling with sleep problems or interested in improving your sleep hygiene, this episode serves as a thorough guide. Tune in to comprehend the importance of sleep during midlife and learn practical solutions to achieve more restorative sleep. Lisa Pomare Next Phase Health Lisa Pomare is a Tauranga based Naturopath and Nutritionist who is passionate about all things Peri/Menopause and healthy, happy ageing. She decided to begin her degree at age 44, while in the wild throws of her own perimenopause. She has ticked off many of the symptoms on the list, from mild to life impacting during her journey. Lisa works in clinical practice both one on one (online and in person) and providing group education, she speaks from not only research but personal experience. In her spare time Lisa loves to grow veges, read trashy novels and hang out near a beach, lake or waterfall. https://www.nextphasehealth.co.nz https://www.instagram.com/nextphasehealth/ Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

I sit down with Amy Luttrell Business & Life Coach, to explore the theme of reinvention and its profound impact on our lives, especially in midlife and beyond. Amy's a deep thinker, and our candid conversations often open my eyes to a fresh perspective. In this episode we open up about the challenges of shedding inherited expectations and the liberating process of intentional living, emphasizing the significance of nurturing oneself through various life stages. We navigate the complexities of navigating perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms, career shifts, and the courage to slow down and listen to our inner wisdom. Amy and I candidly discuss the resistance, fear, and vulnerability inherent in the reinvention process, all while recognizing the transformative power of accessing desires, cultivating self-compassion, and embracing imperfection. We delve into the nurturing and re-parenting of oneself, recognizing the importance of internal resourcing and the role of vulnerability in fostering profound change and creativity. Our engaging exchange also touches on the value of demystifying well-being and tapping into our origin to guide our journey forward. Join us in this venture into midlife transitions, where we celebrate personal growth, self-kindness, creativity and the embracing of life's many transitions. Listen on for a fresh perspective, a restored sense of self and the stimulation to live intentionally one day at a time. About Amy Amy Luttrell a Business and Life Coach, Speaker, and Co-Founder of Be Well + Good - advocating for a shift in the business landscape. Challenging the dominance of the masculine side in business, Amy embraces the rise of human-centred and sustainable models, marking the end of 'hustle culture'. Despite facing challenges, navigating burn-out and PTSD she believes in the power of trust and creativity to overcome obstacles. She invites others to nurture inner confidence, by designing a life that stimulates joy, connection and fulfilment. https://www.instagram.com/be_well_good_creativegroup/ https://www.bewellgood.co.nz/ Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/

Welcome to a transformative conversation about breaking free from the grip of stress cycles, particularly for women navigating midlife and menopause. Join me as we discuss how our bodies react differently to stress during perimenopause and menopause, and how the resulting decrease in resilience to stress can make even minor challenges seem insurmountable. In an enlightening deep dive, I reference Emily Nagoski’s “Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle”. And we discuss the difference between stressors and stress response, explain stress cycles, and emphasize the integral role physical activity has in releasing stress. Explore the stark reality of modern life—incomplete stress cycles and learn how to regulate your nervous system through stimulating physical activities. Discover how feelings emerging from stress can be managed, regardless if external stressors persist or not. Arm yourself with practical methods to deactivate stress, allowing you to navigate midlife and menopause with vitality and confidence. This episode also addresses the common fear we have towards our feelings due to our upbringing and how this fear amplifies stress. By focusing on our bodily sensations and meeting these feelings with kindness and compassion, we can dissolve stress. Whether dealing with stress at any life stage, this episode encourages listeners to confront their feelings with kindness and awareness, engage in physical activity, and consider shifting from solo self-care to connected care for achieving psychological freedom. Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/

In this enlightening episode, Meegan Care, an experienced midlife mentor, and psychosynthesis counsellor unlocks the intricate aspects of midlife, specifically for women transitioning through menopause. Gain a deep understanding of your inner journey during this crucial life-stage as Meegan candidly addresses common issues like self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the swings of emotional overwhelm. This podcast addresses the often overlooked issue of negative self-talk experienced by many women during their midlife years, and provides practical tips to convert it into self-compassion. Discover insightful discussions on the bodily changes during perimenopause and its implications on a woman’s self-conception, including hormonal fluctuations and changes in brain chemistry which impact their mood and self-view. I emphasize the importance of evaluating mental health in relation to hormonal states for women above 40. We shed light on the inadequacy of knowledge many practitioners possess about menopause and its impact on mental health. Through this conversation, you will be able to separate your thoughts from your identity and avert the compounding of negative self-beliefs. As the episode continues, take away valuable strategies to break free from the loop of negative self-talk, particularly during the challenging perimenopause phase. Learn to establish and manage triggers that catalyse negativity, and find out how journaling can help in detangling the mess of negative thoughts clouding our minds. By fostering a more positive outlook on life and practising the art of self-compassion, face life’s adversities with patience, strength, and a gentle acceptance of yourself, just as you are. Join me in this enlightening journey of unraveling an important narrative and make a significant step towards your mental health and wellbeing in perimenopause. This podcast aims to inspire listeners to integrate more self-compassion into their lives, a practice that nourishes mental well-being and extends to all life aspects. Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/

In this MVP episode, I speak with Emma Perks, a pelvic health physiotherapist, about sexual and pelvic health during midlife. Navigating sexual health during menopause and midlife can be challenging, particularly since it coincides with other major changes in life and there remains so much that isn’t openly discussed. Tune in this week to one of our Most Valuable Podcasts where we talk about everything from decreased sexual desire and what to do about it, vaginal dryness, and urinary incontinence, to the benefits of vaginal moisturiser – just like facial moisturiser but not, of course, for your face! Emma debunks myths about sex and explores societal pressures that hinder sexual experiences. We also touch on the significance of challenging societal and gender constructs and important ways to communicate when dealing with decreased sexual desire. Join us as we tackle these important and often taboo topics and provide valuable advice and insights to enhance your sexual health and well-being. This is the conversation I wish someone had with me 10 years ago! Timestamp: 00:00:55 Public health physiotherapist specializing in pelvic health. 00:04:10 Summarized: Natural changes during a woman’s menstrual cycle can affect sexual interest and physical changes. Perimenopause is similar to puberty in terms of hormonal fluctuations and physical symptoms. Symptoms during perimenopause include vaginal dryness and urinary incontinence. These symptoms may vary but can be managed. 00:13:47 Simple solutions for addressing sexual health. 00:19:37 Using lubricants can prevent dryness during sex and reduce the need for more lube. 00:24:51 Juggling multiple responsibilities creates stress and expectations. Women’s arousal differs from men’s. 00:32:29 Understand sexual equality and explore other methods. 00:36:13 Communication, variety, and sexual aids are normal. 00:40:11 Invest in exchange for fruitful intimacy and satisfaction. 00:43:30 The Less you have, the less you want. Links & Products mentioned: Emma Perks Full Circle Physiotherapy https://fcphysio.co.nz/ Dipsea app – Short & Sexy Audio Stories Yes VM Vaginal Moisturiser Olive & Bee Intimate Cream Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/

In this MVP episode, we dive into a topic that effects every woman at some point in her life: menopause. Tune in this week to one of our Most Valuable Podcasts where I speak with Nicola Douglas, a Women's Health Acupuncturist who shares her expertise on natural approaches to managing menopause and supporting women's health. We explore how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views menopause, and how acupuncture can be used to support women during this transition. We chat about the most common symptoms and imbalances that women experience during perimenopause, including the ones that sneak up on you before you are ready! Nic is an expert in TCM and all things Women's Health, and is one of my go-to people for supporting my own health during menopause and beyond! Plus, we'll discuss dietary and lifestyle recommendations, Chinese herbs, and how to work with a TCM practitioner to create a personalized treatment plan. Join us for this empowering conversation! Links & guest bio: https://nicdouglasacupuncture.com/ Nicola is not your average acupuncturist. With years of experience, she's not just passionate about women's health and wellness, she is completely obsessed. Nicola has been an established part of the health and wellness community for years, offering individualised treatments and expert advice to women dealing with a wide range of health concerns. When it comes to fertility, pregnancy, and women's hormonal health, Nicola is an expert. Her mission is simple: to help women achieve their best state of well-being, health, and happiness. She combines the best of both worlds by combining her knowledge in both traditional Chinese medicine and western medicine, creating a personalised treatment plan that addresses all components of health. As a 48-year-old mother of four, Nicola knows first-hand the physical and emotional demands women face, especially during perimenopause. And she harnesses that knowledge to fuel her practice. Nicola creates a supportive and nurturing environment that makes her clients feel heard, seen, and understood. Nicola is a registered acupuncturist with the New Zealand Register of Acupuncturists and holds an Advanced Diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine, as well as a Diploma in Nursing. She is constantly expanding her knowledge and skills to offer her patients the very best care, recently completing a Diploma in Fertility Acupuncture With her compassionate approach and expertise in women's health, Nicola is the ultimate partner on your health journey. Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/

Is Hormone Replacement Therapy Right For You? with Catherine Keenan Pharmacist When I first went through menopause I didn’t think HRT was for me. Two years ago, after further research, and hearing of another woman’s experience with it, I began body-identical HRT, it changed my quality of life significantly and now I regret waiting so long to get started! Tune in this week to one of our Most Valuable Podcasts where I speak Catherine Keenan a pharmacist, pharmacy owner, and advocate for women’s health. I sat down with Catherine and asked her all the questions I’ve wanted to know the answers to related to HRT/MHT and menopause. From the difference between body identical, bio, and just plain generic HRT, the importance of starting hormone replacement therapy early to managing symptoms through exercise and diet, Catherine shares her own experiences and research on the topic. She highlights the need for more conversations and information around menopause and urges women to find knowledgeable GPs who are up-to-date on perimenopause and hormone replacement therapy. I’m grateful for Catherine’s expertise on this episode, tune in to learn more about managing menopausal symptoms and advocating for your own health. About our guest: Catherine Keenan Vivian Pharmacy Ltd Pharmacist and Owner/Founder of Vivian Pharmacy since 1994. Manage a team of 20 staff in a busy 7 day pharmacy in a medical centre in Vivian Street. Board member of Pharmacy Guild of New Zealand (2016-2021), Vice President (2019-2021) “I noticed my perimenopause symptoms affecting my quality of life at the beginning of 2019 and with the help of my GP began HRT. This is a special interest of mine now and I read a lot of information to assist as many women as possible navigate this time of their lives. I also feel a holistic approach tailored to the woman themselves is important and this can include many practitioners. Personally, I have found talk therapy, meditation, mindfulness, acupuncture, along with regular exercise and dietary modifications have assisted me with symptoms and creating a positive approach to menopause and ageing.” www.vivianpharmacy.co.nz Facebook: @vivianpharmacy Instagram: vivianpharmacy Links shared: Dr. Louise Newsom https://www.balance-menopause.com/ Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/product/B099JC5HQK/ Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Get full show notes and more info here: https://meegancare.co.nz/meegan-cares-the-podcast/56/

Rethinking Life Purpose: Unmasking Misconceptions In Your Midlife Evolution Let's jump into the concept of life purpose. I reckon we've been led up the garden path a bit when it comes to Life Purpose. In this episode I challenge common misconceptions around life purpose, emphasizing that it's not solely about achieving specific outcomes but rather about finding meaning, value, and connection in our daily lives. I also give examples of outcome and achievement-focused purpose and why it's a problem. The role of your ego when it comes to purpose and how taking a 1,000-foot view can offer a life changing reframe around finding and living our life's purpose! As we navigate midlife and its hormonal changes, I explain why this is a valuable time for self-reflection and embracing a deeper sense of purpose that aligns with our authentic selves, as well as how nature helps us with this task. Join me on this inspiring episode as we bust some myths, and explore, recontextualise and reframe the concept of life purpose! Journalling Prompts: Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Get full show notes and more info here: https://meegancare.co.nz/meegan-cares-the-podcast/55/

Ditching Shame & Challenging Stigma in Menopause In this episode, I dive deep into the whole issue of shame, specifically how it affects women during the menopause phase of life. I talk about the stigma attached to menopause and how it impacts us, both emotionally and psychologically. Through the conversation, I emphasize the need to break down these barriers, embrace the changes and challenges, and reach out for the right support, like from medical professionals and menopause support groups. I stress the importance of understanding that it's okay to seek help and that we shouldn't blame ourselves for the physical and emotional changes we experience during this transition. Also, I talk about letting go of societal expectations and radical acceptance, and the need to reach out to others and seek professional support during this transformative phase. Many women find midlife difficult, and I'm not here to deny our challenges. But I also know in the bones of my being that midlife is just the beginning and that you're about to embark on the next and possibly most empowered stage of your life. Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Get full show notes and more info here: https://meegancare.co.nz/meegan-cares-the-podcast/54/

Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, or overwhelm during midlife? In this episode, we explore the physiological and emotional impact of perimenopause and menopause on our mental health. We are going to understand the role of the nervous system in stress response, and how to work with it rather than against it. I discuss the importance of completing stress cycles, why this is more difficult in midlife, and provide practical techniques for managing stress in a way that serves us. Midlife can be a time of great change and growth, but it is also accompanied by unique challenges. In this episode, I discuss the concept of stress cycles and how they impact our mental health during perimenopause and menopause. Additionally, I address the societal stigma surrounding mental health in midlife and advocate for accessible support and treatment options. If you're a woman navigating this transformative stage of life, join me as we uncover the secrets to reclaiming our authentic confidence and courage. Resources mentioned: Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle. Dr Emily Nagoski Follow Meegan on Instagram here Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course: https://meegancare.co.nz/course/ Get full show notes and more info here: https://meegancare.co.nz/meegan-cares-the-podcast/53/