Is it Hot or Just Me? – Discussing (Peri)Menopause with Carin Luna-Ostaseski

The hormonal changes men and women undergo in middle age is one of the defining aspects of middlescence. Similar to what teenagers/adolescents undergo entering puberty, the hormonal changes of (peri)menopause, particularly for women, are dramatic, significant and unique to each person. Western culture and medicine have until quite recently, largely ignored these changes and the symptoms that go along with (peri)menopause and andropause. In regard to (peri)menopause, it has been reported that most doctors receive only 1-2 hours total in their training. And while menopause is a natural process, there are at least 24 possible symptoms that can range in intensity from mere nuisance to life-altering. It is an extremely important quality of life issue for middle-aged women and those that love them. For those of us currently in mid-life, we are fortunate to live in a time when research, knowledge and attitudes about (peri)menopause are changing. We are absolutely thrilled to discuss all this with one of the trailblazers leading the charge for this change. Carin Luna-Ostaseski is on a mission to transform how women experience (peri)menopause. She is the creator of “Hot or Just Me,” a website that offers a comprehensive platform integrating informational resources, products and compassionate community support around (peri)menopause. Carin’s own experiences prompted the creation of her website. Carin’s approach to managing (peri)menopause symptoms is rooted in self-care: women need to give themselves the time and energy to acknowledge and treat their symptoms. We hope this episode provides invaluable advice and support to women and their loved ones. Our show notes are full of helpful links and additional information. In this episode we discuss the following:Carin’s incredible story of being a trailblazer in the truest sense; the many lives she has led up to this point and her willingness to embrace change.The importance of finding a good doctor along with tips on how to do so.Being aware of our mental and emotional state during (peri)menopause and the need to “clean up our messes” and find either traditional or non-traditional support.The lack of awareness in the workplace of the effect of (peri)menopause symptoms on women and ways to change this.The importance of teaching young people a more complete picture of sex hormones and how they change throughout life instead of concentrating on one phase.The need for more information and awareness of andropause and the ways this can be a source of connection for partners during this time of life.The amazing products available to help treat and manage symptoms.The importance of self-care.The joy of having something that is just “yours”.