Menopause, Perimenopause, and Flourishing – Empowering Women Through the Transition | Community Matters

In this episode of Community Matters on Radio Cape Pulpit, host Jean Morris speaks with Pastor Michelle Grace Links – a certified menopause practitioner, health fitness coach, author, speaker, and co-founder of the Love Church – about the often misunderstood and unspoken journey of perimenopause and menopause. Pastor Michelle shares her personal story of entering this season unprepared – experiencing symptoms like hair loss, weight gain (including "fat repositioning"), disrupted sleep, brain fog, night sweats, back pain, and brittle nails. She explains that menopause is not a disease or disorder, but a natural biological transition that marks the end of reproductive years, officially reached after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. Perimenopause, which can begin as early as age 35, is the transitional phase when estrogen levels begin to decline. She emphasizes that women suffer in silence because they lack knowledge – and that people perish for lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6). Her mission is to equip women with lifestyle advice (not medical advice) to help them adjust their daily rhythms, eat differently, exercise appropriately (including strength training), and embrace this season as one of flourishing, not suffering. Pastor Michelle also speaks about the spiritual and emotional aspects of this transition – addressing feelings of loss, grief, anxiety, and purposelessness. She encourages women to put on the garment of praise, call on the name of Jesus, and choose joy daily. She reminds listeners that the best is not just yet to come – it is here now, and that faith and practical lifestyle changes work hand in hand. She invites listeners to her free workshop "Flourish – Let Your Hair Down" on 29 August, and a ticketed women's event called "Bloom" on 19 September. She shares her contact details for further questions and support.