24. Menopause Emotional Health Truths: Building Self-Compassion, Strength, and Confidence After 40

Welcome to Episode 24 of the Emotional Eats Podcast! I was so excited to interview Amanda Thebe.  Yes, she is a fitness and nutrition expert, but she is also extremely caring and compassionate for menopausal women and for the doctors who are trying to help them through the menopause transition.  I read Amanda's  book,  "Menopocalypse: How I Learned to Thrive During Menopause and How You Can Too!",  and I couldn't wait to share her with you.   Amanda Thebe is a Fitness and Women's Health Expert with nearly thirty years of experience in the fitness industry.  She is the co-founder and Chief Wellness and Branding Officer at Nyah  Health, a complete healthcare solution for menopausal women in Canada. As Canada's first  menopause workplace educator, Amanda provides on-site or virtual educational presentations in  the workplace to improve productivity, retention and attendance for female employees through  menopause.    When Amanda was a personal trainer, she started hearing women talk about the challenges of menopause and realized there was a significant gap in knowledge and support for women going through this life transition. Even with her background and education, she had not been fully informed about menopause in her industry.  She also realized even doctors and many gynecologists didn't have much training in menopause. I can certainly relate when Amanda shares her personal story with menopause and how long it took for her to know that she was in perimenopause.  This was the beginning of her journey as a passionate advocate for menopause awareness and support.  Amanda now hosts a community group, has a substantial social media following, and has authored a book (Menopocalypse), all centered around empowering women through the menopausal transition. She emphasizes the importance of education and support for women, regardless of whether they choose to address menopause with hormones or not. We spend a bit of time around the important topic of fitness during menopause. Amanda encourages women to find an exercise they enjoy and build it into their routine. She highlights strength training for maintaining muscle mass and managing symptoms. Amanda emphasizes the need to shift the focus from aesthetics to what our bodies are capable of. She believes that by redefining our self-worth based on strengths and values, women can navigate menopause with greater resilience. Finally, she encourages positive interactions, like giving compliments, to foster a more supportive and uplifting community. Amanda is such a kind and compassionate advocate really helping women to embrace this life stage with confidence and vitality.  I am grateful for this episode and my time with her. Follow Amanda on IG : https://www.instagram.com/amanda.thebe Amanda's book and website: Amanda Thebe – by Amanda Thebe  Connect with Kim on TT and IG: @kimhynesmidlife Note:  The information in this podcast is not to replace working with your doctor, other medical practitioner or mental health practitioner.  This podcast is to provide conversation, information and entertainment.  Nourish your entire life today and give yourself grace. XOXO Kim