Navigating Menopause: Insights and Strategies from Holistic Health Pioneer Dr. Debs Eastwood

In this episode, Michelle speaks with Dr. Debs Eastwood, a pioneering medical doctor and co-founder of Elixir Holistic Health. With a rich background in traditional medicine, including anaesthesia and stem cell research, Dr. Eastwood shares her transformative journey into holistic health, driven by personal experiences and a desire to revolutionise wellness. They delve into the complexities of menopause, exploring how holistic therapies can complement conventional treatments and improve women's health. Dr. Eastwood emphasises the importance of self-awareness, movement, and sleep, while also discussing the creation of a groundbreaking database of holistic practitioners.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Traditional medicine has its place, especially in acute situations, but a holistic approach can provide additional benefits for managing symptoms, particularly during menopause. This includes exploring natural remedies and lifestyle changes alongside conventional treatments. Women should develop a strong self-awareness of their bodies and listen to their needs, especially regarding sleep, movement, and nutrition. Recognising when to rest and when to be active can significantly improve overall well-being during menopause. Open conversations about menopause among colleagues, friends, and family can foster understanding and support. Sharing experiences and remedies can create a sense of camaraderie and help women feel less isolated in their struggles. Diet and lifestyle choices play a crucial role in managing menopause symptoms. Regular movement, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are fundamental to maintaining hormonal balance and overall health. There is a significant gap in menopause education among healthcare professionals. Increased training and awareness about menopause can lead to better support for women experiencing symptoms, ultimately improving their quality of life. BEST MOMENTS "I think traditional medicine has a place, but for managing pain symptoms, I want something more natural and in tune with my body's rhythms." "I now feel that there are so many other ways to address problems with regard to the way your wretched hormones make you feel." "It's nice to sort of get a variety of ideas so that you can try new things and see if it works for you." "A red flag is people that have no lived experience of it and obviously no training." "If you feel exhausted by nine o'clock at night, listen to your body. Go to bed at nine o'clock." GUEST RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/debs-eastwood-31309b112 https://www.facebook.com/debby.eastwood HOST BIO Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space. Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/ Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal  My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag  Website www.panaceapause.co.uk