Every year in October, the world pauses to acknowledge a life stage that half of humanity will experience, yet most know little about: menopause. October is observed as menopause awareness month and this year’s theme, announced by the International Menopause Society, is ‘Lifestyle Medicine in Menopausal Health.’
It’s a call to action that couldn’t have come at a better time. For decades, menopause has been seen as something to treat, a hormonal problem, an inconvenience, or a silent struggle. But the truth is, menopause isn’t a disease; it’s a transition. And how we live, not just what we medicate, shapes how we experience it.
Why Lifestyle Is the New Medicine
As women move through perimenopause and menopause, estrogen levels drop, affecting everything from sleep and mood to metabolism, bones, and the brain. The old model focused on symptom management, hot flashes, night sweats, anxiety through medication or hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
But Lifestyle Medicine takes a deeper approach: it looks at the root causes. A PubMed Central study shows that nutrition, exercise, stress management, and restorative sleep have a measurable impact on how women navigate hormonal changes.
“Your lifestyle is your medicine,” says Tamanna Singh, Certified Menopause Coach and Co-Founder of Menoveda. “Ayurveda has always taught that the balance begins with how you eat, rest, move, and feel. Science is finally catching up.”
Also Read: Premenopause Vs Perimenopause Vs Menopause: What Every Woman Must Know
Lifestyle Medicine and Ayurveda: The Link and Similarity
What makes this year’s theme especially meaningful for India is that Lifestyle Medicine and Ayurveda share the same foundation, prevention, personalisation, and balance. Ayurveda’s Tridosha theory mirrors the modern understanding of homeostasis: when Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are aligned, the body self-regulates more effectively.
Globally, women are turning away from one-size-fits-all solutions. They’re seeking natural, evidence-backed, and culturally sensitive approaches, from herbal support to breathwork, gut health, and emotional therapy.
The Awareness Gap
A recent Menoveda survey among 20,000 Indian women aged 40-55 revealed that 63% could not name the three stages of menopause. This shows how urgently awareness and education are needed. Without understanding the process, women often normalize fatigue, anxiety, and weight gain as ‘just age’ when, in reality, they’re signs of hormonal imbalance.
What This Theme Means for Every Woman
The 2025 theme reminds women that their bodies are not betraying them; it’s communicating. The solution isn’t found in quick fixes, but in conscious living. Small daily habits, mindful eating, sleep hygiene, and emotional regulation can redefine this transition.
“Menopause isn’t an ending,” says Tamanna. “It’s the body’s way of asking for new attention, new rhythms, and a new kind of respect.”
Also Read: Perimenopause Supplements Women Should Start Adding To Their Diet
Lifestyle Tips for Managing Menopause Symptoms
According to the Society of Women’s Health Research, menopause and symptoms associated with it can have a serious impact on your overall health. However, there are several lifestyle approaches that can help reduce the impact and promote well-being.
- Healthy diet is helpful- Several studies have shown that diet has a strong influence on menopausal symptoms. Experts suggest consuming foods that are rich in calcium and low in fat. Besides, avoiding processed and spicy foods is also suggested.
- Take nutritional supplements- While a healthy & balanced diet is necessary, it may not be sufficient to provide all the essential nutrients. Consult a medical professional to get supplements that you may require.
- Be physically active- The transition to menopause can be made easier by being physically active. Do exercise daily and try to manage your weight to cut down the risk of potential health issues like heart diseases, diabetes, stroke and cancer.
Final Word
This World Menopause Day, the message is clear: medicine isn’t just in a capsule, it’s in the choices we make every day. Menopause is just a crucial phase in a woman’s life that needs to be celebrated. It is always suggested to take support from loved ones to ease the journey.
FAQ
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What is menopause?
Menopause is a natural phase that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. This usually happens between the age of 45 and 55, but varies from woman to woman.
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What are the first signs of menopause?
Irregular menstrual cycles are the first signs of menopause. If a women does not get periods for 12 consecutive months, she is believed to hit menopause.
How we keep this article up to date:
We work with experts and keep a close eye on the latest in health and wellness. Whenever there is a new research or helpful information, we update our articles with accurate and useful advice.
Current Version
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Oct 27, 2025 18:30 IST
Published By : Chanchal Sengar
