Women take up new activities as part of 'embracing' menopause
Nine in ten women said they didn't want menopause to stop them from trying something new - here's the full list of activities they're having a go at.
A new study has shown that the vast majority of women over the age of 40 don't want menopause to stop them from doing the things they love or from getting involved in something new. As a result, many have taken up activities such as gardening, and mindfulness and practices, as well as exploring new places.
For a quarter of women prioritising their health and wellbeing was a key motivator for taking up a new activity during this time. Meanwhile, a fifth wanted a way to manage their stress or anxiety, and 11% said it gave them a confidence boost - some even switched up their careers.
Other benefits of starting a new activity in later life included a sense of achievement, maintaining independence, and having something to look forward to.
The survey was commissioned by Vitabiotics Menopace vitamins, which has developed an interactive 'Menopause Motivation Map' to show the new activities women across the country have got involved in during menopause.
It shows women in the East of England have been getting into gardening, while those in the East Midlands were hitting the gym. Similarly, Londoners have signed up for dance classes to keep themselves occupied, and South Easterners have been keen to learn more about healthy eating.
A spokesperson for the specialist supplement stated: 'When it comes to the menopause, the old misconception that it slows life down is well and truly outdated. It's great to see the research showing just this, and how so many women have taken up a new activity, volunteering or even a side hustle around the menopause life stage.'
Post-menopause one in five said they experience had empowered them to dedicate more time to activities they enjoy. However, before starting a new hobby, 14% said motivation was their biggest hurdle, followed by lack of time, and financial constraints.
If there were no limitations, 31% expressed a desire to travel around the world, 10% dreamt of writing a book, while 7% fancied a complete makeover.
Two thirds believe it's crucial to share their menopause experiences with others, with many having already done so, in order to inspire others who are also going through it.
The top piece of advice women would give to those contemplating a new activity during menopause was to 'just go for it'. As well as, not to worry about other people's opinions and remembering that it's never too late to start something new.
A spokesperson for Menopace commented: 'Women supporting other women is so important and empowering, at this time. The menopause life stage comes with plenty of myths and misconceptions, so debunking these and showing the positive real experiences of women is key.'
TOP 20 THINGS WOMEN ARE TAKING UP DURING MENOPAUSE
Gardening or outdoor activities
Cooking or baking new recipes
Finding out more about healthy eating for this life stage
Travel and exploring new places
Going to the gym
Meditation or mindfulness practices
Sewing, knitting, or crafting
Home renovations or DIY projects
Practicing yoga or Tai Chi
Volunteering or charity work
Learning a new language
Starting a side hustle
Dance or movement-based classes
Sewing
Writing
Painting
Birdwatching or nature photography
Joining social media
A new social club or group
A professional course or qualification
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