Ageing affects women differently than men, both physically and psychologically. The fear of menopause is common among women due to the monumental changes that come with it. However, new studies suggest that with proper care and preparation, the experience of menopause can be improved. Menopause coach Sharon James based in Dubai, who specializes in helping women navigate this phase of their lives and preparing them for it, discusses the importance of removing stigma around menopause and addressing it with the help of nutrition.
Sharon James, originally from Yorkshire, England, has a background in personal training and education. She has spent three decades coaching clients on weight management, menopause, and fitness challenges. Her passion lies in empowering clients to take control of their health and well-being by understanding their needs and making informed choices. Sharon’s diverse career and education in sports science, life coaching, personal training, and hormonal health have equipped her to support others in enhancing their health and well-being.
Having faced unexpected health shifts in her mid-40s, Sharon delved into the complexities of menopause and focused on facts rather than fads. This experience inspired her to specialize in working with women, focusing on their well-being and educating them on navigating the journey from periods to post-menopause. Through engaging workshops and educational initiatives, Sharon aims to break the stigma around women’s health and empower women to take control of their midlife well-being.
Through online courses and personalized coaching, Sharon helps women above 40 understand and manage the transition through evidence-based lifestyle solutions, strategies, and habits. By focusing on nutrition, exercise, stress management, relationships, and sleep, women can navigate the symptoms of menopause more effectively. Preparation and empowerment are key in helping women feel confident and in control of their physical and mental well-being during this phase of life.
While a fast-paced lifestyle in the UAE can pose challenges for women as they age, menopausal women can thrive with the right mindset and resilience. Menopause is more about mindset than age, and women’s adaptability and resilience can help them overcome the challenges it brings. By taking a holistic approach to health and well-being, women can effectively manage the physical and emotional changes that come with menopause.
Communication and education are essential in helping men understand and support their partners through menopause. Men also experience hormonal changes as they age, known as andropause, which can impact their well-being. By fostering open communication and empathy, couples can navigate this phase of life together, strengthening their relationships and overall well-being.
Historical misconceptions and fear surrounding menopause have contributed to women’s anxiety about this natural phase of life. Education, communication, and creating support networks are crucial in dispelling myths and empowering women to manage menopause confidently. By addressing the root causes of fear and providing accurate information, women can approach menopause with a sense of empowerment and understanding.
Sharon’s initiative, Mindful Meals, aims to provide personalized meal plans tailored to individual health needs, especially during the menopause transition. Nutrition is a key component of menopause health, along with stress management, exercise, and sleep. By offering customized meal plans, Sharon helps clients enhance their health and well-being while navigating the challenges of hormonal imbalances and gut health during menopause.
