Somatics: A Simple Path Through Perimenopause
- Katrina Potkins
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Why Your Body Needs Gentle Movement Now
Perimenopause brings hormonal shifts that affect nearly every part of your body and mind. Research shows that psychological and physical symptoms together better predict perimenopause challenges than medical history alone [3].
What Somatics Really Is
Somatics is simply learning to listen to your body—really listen. It's about noticing sensations and responding with care, not perfect poses or pushing limits.
Why It Works for Perimenopause
1. Reduces Multiple Symptoms
Studies prove mind-body exercise significantly improves bone mineral density, sleep quality, anxiety, depression, and fatigue in perimenopausal women [2]. These practices work because menopausal status plays a key role in how somatic symptoms connect to psychological distress [6].
2. Addresses the Stress-Symptom Cycle
When stress builds, your muscles hold tension without you realizing it. This hidden tension worsens fatigue and headaches. Research confirms that mind-body therapies like yoga and tai chi improve overall menopausal symptoms and reduce musculoskeletal pain [4].
One-Minute Somatic Reset
Try this when stress hits:
Pause wherever you are
Notice tension without judgment
Breathe slowly into tight areas
Release with a soft sigh as you exhale
Repeat 3 times
This simple practice works because the more frequently you practice mind-body techniques, the more obvious the improvements in anxiety, depression, and sleep quality become [3].
The Takeaway
Somatics isn't about fixing your body—it's about listening to what it needs. Research shows these gentle practices offer an excellent non-drug approach to managing perimenopause symptoms [2].
Start small, be kind to yourself, and remember: you're not alone on this journey. ❤️
-Katrina
A quick note: This post is meant to share information and helpful resources. Links and references are included for context and further reading, but this isn’t professional advice. Always double-check sources and reach out to a qualified professional if you need guidance specific to your situation.
This post was created with AI assistance. All opinions and guidance remain our own, while AI was used to help generate ideas and draft content.
References:
[1] Impact of Exercise on Perimenopausal Syndrome: A Systematic ...
[2] Effects of mind-body exercise on perimenopausal ... - PubMed Central
[3] Effects of aerobics training on anxiety, depression and sleep quality ...
[4] Mind-body Therapies for Menopausal Symptoms - PubMed Central
[5] Effectiveness of Yoga for Menopausal Symptoms: A Systematic ...
[6] PDF The Moderating Role of Menopausal Status Between Somatic ...
[7] Perceptions, Benefits, and Use of Complementary and Integrative ...
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