A woman's body goes through countless transformations throughout her life, and one of the most significant is menopause.
This stage, filled with physical and emotional changes, is often challenging. However, many women have found yoga to be a powerful tool for navigating it with greater balance and serenity.
Angela Sanabria, a yoga instructor, shares her personal experience: how yoga has been her greatest ally since age 36 and how it has prepared her to live through menopause with harmony and strength.
What we share below is Angela's testimony in her own words.
My life in yoga and menopause: a wellness journey from age 36 to 51
Practicing yoga has been one of the most transformative decisions of my life.
I began this journey at age 36, at a time when I was seeking balance and physical well-being, as I suffered from herniated discs, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic gastritis, and hiatal hernia, among other conditions.
What I didn't know was that this path of self-discovery would not only change my body, but would also prepare me to face menopause in a calm and peaceful way.
I clearly remember my teacher in my first yoga class. It was a challenge, as my mind was full of distractions. However, with each session I began to notice significant changes in my body and my mental state.
As the years have passed, the benefits of the practice have become more evident. Not only did my flexibility and strength improve, but I have also developed a greater awareness of my breathing and my emotions. I learned to listen to my body, to honor it, and to respect it.
Today, at 51 years old, I feel stronger and more at peace with myself. Yoga has taught me that every stage of life is valuable and that challenges will always be present with every change we experience.
Although menopause is often associated with hot flashes, insomnia, and mood swings, in my case, yoga has provided me with tools to cope with them. Through meditation and breathing techniques, I have learned to find calm in moments of discomfort, which has minimized the adverse effects that many women experience.
Recommended poses for menopause
Regular yoga practice is key in this process. I have discovered that certain poses can help relieve symptoms and improve overall well-being. Some of my favorites are:
- Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose)
- Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
- Janu Sirsasana (Head-to-Knee Pose)
- Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose)
These asanas help reduce stress, improve circulation, and balance emotions.
Teacher Angela Sanabria
Angela's testimony reminds us that menopause does not have to be a period of struggle and discomfort, but rather a stage of transformation and growth.
Yoga not only strengthens the body, but also provides emotional stability, helping to manage hormonal changes with greater serenity.
Every woman goes through this stage in her own unique way, but what matters is finding tools that allow us to live it more fully.
If you are going through menopause or preparing for it, yoga can be a great ally on your journey.
At EYO Yoga you will find a safe and harmonious space where, through practice, you can achieve the balance and well-being that does us so much good.
Thank you to Angela for her testimony.
See you on the mat!
With love,
Corina Diaz