A Fireside Chat

As the founder and formulator of The Way Apothecary, I want to share why I have decided to take the natural route with my journey through perimenopause.

As women, we all approach menopause in our own unique way. For some, it’s a stage of life to dread; for others, it’s a transition to embrace. When I reached this pivotal moment, I chose to navigate menopause naturally, a decision that aligns with my philosophy of honoring the body’s innate wisdom and resilience. Here, I’d like to share the reasons behind this deeply personal choice, rooted in my love of nature, holistic healing, and my spiritual beliefs and practices, and how it has transformed my perspective on health and aging.

Trusting the Body’s Natural Process

Menopause is not a medical condition—it’s a natural phase of life. For me, embracing this truth was the first step in making the decision to support my body through this transition without interventions. I have always believed in the body’s ability to adapt and heal, and menopause is no exception. By trusting the natural process, I’ve been able to focus on listening to my body and supporting it in ways that feel authentic and nurturing.

The Power of Holistic Wellness

My journey through menopause has been guided by a holistic approach to wellness. This includes nourishing my body with wholesome, nutrient-dense foods, staying physically active, and prioritizing mental and emotional health. I’ve turned to nature’s pharmacy and have chosen to work with essential oils such as clary sage, rose geranium, vitex and fennel for effective yet gentle balance. When I need more support, I turn to herbs such as motherwort, shatavari, and red clover.

Learning to Calm Down

Reducing stress has been a cornerstone of my natural approach to menopause. Stress can exacerbate symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue, so prioritizing stress management has been essential for maintaining balance. I’ve embraced practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and gentle yoga to calm my mind and support my body through this transition. Spending time in nature has also been a powerful antidote to stress, offering a sense of peace and connection that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. By making stress reduction a daily priority, I’ve been able to create a more harmonious experience, allowing my body and mind to navigate menopause with greater ease.

Aligning with My Values

Choosing a natural approach to menopause felt deeply aligned with my values of simplicity, mindfulness, and sustainability. Nature has always been a source of inspiration and healing for me, and I wanted this transition to reflect those principles. Instead of seeing menopause as something to “fix,” I’ve embraced it as an opportunity to grow, adapt, and learn more about myself. This choice has reinforced my belief in working with my body, not against it.

Redefining Aging

Choosing to go through menopause naturally has also been a way to challenge societal narratives about aging. Too often, women are taught to fear the signs of aging or to view menopause as a loss of vitality. For me, this journey has been about embracing the wisdom, strength, and confidence that come with age. It’s a time to celebrate the incredible power of the female body and to honor the experiences that have brought me to this point.

Building a Community of Support

Menopause can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been connecting with other women who share similar values and experiences. Whether through conversations, support groups, or online communities, these connections have reinforced my belief that we are stronger when we share our stories and support one another.

Final Thoughts

Going through menopause naturally has been a transformative experience, one that has deepened my connection to my body and my overall sense of well-being. It’s a path that’s not without challenges, but it has been deeply rewarding to embrace this phase of life with grace and authenticity.

For those who are curious about navigating menopause naturally, I encourage you to explore the options that resonate most with you. Trust your body, seek out holistic remedies, and surround yourself with a supportive community. Every journey is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. By honoring your own path, you’ll discover the strength and beauty that lie within this remarkable transition.