Space for Renascence with Jeanette Wardle: Understanding the Physical and Emotional Shifts of Menopause

 In this episode of Space for Renascence, host Felicity Williams is joined by Jeanette Wardell, a positive psychology and menopause coach. Jeanette shares her personal experience of navigating the menopause, discussing the significant impact it had on her mental health, career, and marriage.Jeanette describes the challenges she faced before menopause awareness was widespread, including severe brain fog, sleep deprivation, and making irrational life decisions. She explains how researching the work of specialists like Dr Louise Newson led her to seek hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which helped her feel like herself again. Now 60, Jeanette uses her expertise to support other women through coaching and community surveys.The conversation also covers the importance of open communication between partners, the role of nutrition and exercise in managing symptoms, and how workplaces are beginning to implement better support for women in this season of life.Key Topics Discussed:Personal Impact: How hormonal changes can affect memory, sleep, and personal relationships.Seeking Medical Support: The process of speaking to a GP and the benefits of being informed about HRT and bioidentical hormones.Health and Longevity: Why monitoring heart health, cholesterol, and stress levels is vital during and after menopause.The Power of Conversation: Moving past the historical "taboo" of menopause to support friends, family, and colleagues.Workplace Support: The introduction of menopause policies and "passports" to assist women in professional environments.