Meegan Cares About Midlife
Kia ora, women navigating midlife, menopause, and beyond! I’m Meegan Care, your Midlife Mentor and Psychosynthesis counsellor & coach, and I’m thrilled to welcome you to a podcast dedicated entirely to your transformative journey in this incredible stage of life. Join me as we dive deep into the heart of midlife, unraveling the complexities of menopause, and exploring the uncharted territories beyond. Together, we’ll navigate through self-doubt, bid farewell to people-pleasing, conquer imposter syndrome, and tame those overwhelming feelings. It’s time to celebrate this vibrant second chapter of life, claiming your authentic confidence and courage along the way. Midlife isn’t a time to settle; it’s a time to unleash your purpose, make an impact uniquely your own, all while prioritizing your well-being. So, buckle up for conversations that resonate with the essence of your midlife journey, because here’s to embracing this stage with authenticity, empowerment, and a sprinkle of joy.
Episodes
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Transforming Irritability and Anger into a Force for Growth in Perimenopause and Midlife
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Waves of irritability and anger used to come out of nowhere.
I was in the beginning phases of perimenopause and these mood fluctuations were an unwelcome surprise, I'd had some experience of them as a teen but I had no idea irritation, anger and even rage are common symptoms of perimenopause.
We go into why this happens in perimenopause and midlife, how to tackle these surprising fluctuations in mood, and when it's time to seek professional help.
While anger is frequently regarded as negative, especially for women, I discuss how to harness the transformative nature of anger as an agent of change, promoting self-awareness and self-acceptance, and why it's so important at this time of life.
By unmasking anger as a signal of boundary violations, and a force for personal evolution, it supports women to express emotions transparently and directly.
"If we know we're in perimenopause and this is happening, and we know that this is a common symptom of perimenopause, then how we respond to that, how we react to that, and what we do to support ourselves when this is showing up, it's going to be very different."
Midlife can be a massive opportunity for growth and evolution and when you know how to work with anger to create change you create an empowered second stage of life.
Tune in to this empowering conversation and don't miss out on the wisdom and support you deserve!
Follow Meegan on Instagram here
Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course:https://meegancare.co.nz/course/
Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
Justine Jeddy Dishes The Dirt On Midlife Health, Nutrition & Weight Loss
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
"No need to cut out specific foods to lose weight; all foods can fit into a healthy diet." - Justine Jeddy
This week on the podcast I'm joined by Justine Jeddy, an evidence-based health and nutrition coach specializing in women's fitness and nutrition. And I wanted to get to the truth about diet culture, weight and nutrition in perimenopause, menopause and midlife.
We debunk myths and clear up misconceptions about metabolism and insulin resistance, discuss the (surprising) long term impact of diets on weight loss, and address the challenges of perimenopause and menopause. Justine also offers strategies for navigating hunger, cravings, and fatigue. It's a must-listen for women in midlife!
Discover Justine's "2 thirds method" for balanced meals and her insights on importance of structured, balanced meals for sustained energy.
I had a lot of questions and used my own experience of midlife weight gain to understand the truth behind some of the weight and health misconceptions that are currently doing the rounds!
Tune in to gain valuable insights and be inspired to prioritize your health and well-being in midlife and beyond. Let's navigate this midlife journey together, prioritizing our health and embracing the power of community and support.
About Justine Jeddy
Justine is a Peri+Post Menopausal Fat Loss, Nutrition & Fitness Coach with over 9 years experience helping peri+post menopausal women to lose weight for the last time, have a healthier relationship with food and get their mojo and confidence back.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/coachjustinejeddy
Instagram: @iamjustinejeddy
Website: www.coachjustinejeddy.com
Follow Meegan on Instagram here
Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course:https://meegancare.co.nz/course/
Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Lisa Pomare Unravels the Vital Role of Vitamin D in Midlife
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
The Importance of Vitamin D for Menopausal Women: "And about 90% of them were at the very, very low end of the blood serum range of vitamin D, and some were very, very low. And these women had a lot of symptoms, and some of those are quite similar symptoms."
This week, Lisa Pomare joins us to explore the powerful impact of Vitamin D on women's health during perimenopause and menopause.
Lisa is a naturopath, nutritionist, and a menopausal woman herself, she provides invaluable insights into the role of Vitamin D in our bodies and how to achieve optimal levels for health and wellbeing.
In this episode she guides us through the importance of Vitamin D for the body and mind, how to find out if it is sub-optimal and how to treat low Vitamin D levels. We cover its essential roles and impact on not just bone health but also cardiovascular conditions, insulin resistance, vaginal and urinary symptoms. We also touch upon the association with estrogen and sunlight exposure, highlighting the critical processes our bodies undergo to produce the necessary Vitamin D levels.
Lisa also exposes shocking data on the prevalence of low to medium vitamin D levels among women and emphasises the significance of sun exposure and omega-rich food sources as alternatives for Vitamin D. Practical advice around suitable sun exposure times and Vitamin D absorption is provided.
This episode is a treasure trove of information and guidance for any woman navigating through menopause and a call to action to prioritize their health and well-being.
Lisa Pomare Next Phase Health
Lisa Pomare is a Tauranga based Naturopath and Nutritionist who is passionate about all things Peri/Menopause and healthy, happy ageing. She decided to begin her degree at age 44, while in the wild throws of her own perimenopause. She has ticked off many of the symptoms on the list, from mild to life impacting during her journey. Lisa works in clinical practice both one on one (online and in person) and providing group education, she speaks from not only research but personal experience. In her spare time Lisa loves to grow veges, read trashy novels and hang out near a beach, lake or waterfall.
https://www.nextphasehealth.co.nz
https://www.instagram.com/nextphasehealth/
Follow Meegan on Instagram here
Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course:https://meegancare.co.nz/course/
Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
My Three Step Empowerment Model in Midlife & Menopause
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
In this week's episode I challenge and change beliefs that no longer serve us, and advocate for awareness and intentional imagination as we embrace the next stage of life, through understanding my 3 Step Empowerment Model.
The 3 Step Empowerment Model in Menopause:
The OpportunityThe ProblemThe Solution
My 3 Step Empowerment Model dismantles stereotypes and unravels the profound nature of the midlife journey, focusing on the distinct stages of perimenopause and menopause. We dive deep and explore the internal changes, societal misconceptions, and challenges that arise during this significant life phase and highlight the often overlooked opportunity it harbours for self-growth and transformation.
Perimenopause and midlife are not just about managing challenging symptoms, it's also a gateway to a new life chapter, a period of belief reshaping, and enhanced self-awareness.
Tune in to the episode, explore the 3 Step Empowerment Menopause Model, and join me on this transformative journey towards psychological freedom and empowerment in midlife.
Follow Meegan on Instagram here
Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course:https://meegancare.co.nz/course/
Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
The Top 5 Mindset Mistakes Women Make In Midlife
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
"The faster we can get on board with the change, the faster we can work with our system to support it, then we can come into, once again, this collaborative relationship with our body."
This week, I delved deep into the top 5 mindset mistakes that women make in midlife and how they affect our overall well-being.
From denying or resisting the natural changes that come with perimenopause to isolating emotionally and comparing ourselves to our younger selves, these mindset patterns impact our confidence, mental health, and ability to adapt.
I shared valuable insights on how to overcome these mindset obstacles and embrace the present moment with self-compassion and acceptance.
The episode confronts the peril of perfectionism and binary thinking, promoting a shift towards embracing life's joys and nurturing organic growth. This pivot is seen as a powerful tool for boosting resilience and personal empowerment. The importance of self-validating and radical self-acceptance also receives a noteworthy mention.
I’m excited to share the transformative journey of embracing imperfection and finding strength in navigating midlife with authenticity and courage.
Timestamp:
00:00 Perimenopause symptoms subside in postmenopause journey.
04:18 Embrace hope, self-compassion, and adaptability.
09:23 Rapid adaptation crucial for perimenopause and menopause.
12:44 Healthy relationships fostered by self-acceptance, not comparison.
14:06 Valuing aging beyond patriarchy's lens reveals beauty.
19:48 Embrace imperfection, find personal empowerment, and acceptance.
22:38 Adult brain, societal conditioning, perimenopause, mindset change.
Follow Meegan on Instagram here
Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course:https://meegancare.co.nz/course/
Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Lisa Pomare Has Sleep Solutions for Midlife Women
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Sleep is a big issue for many perimenopausal women - me included! 3 am would come around and I'd be wide awake for hours. Although I sleep pretty well now (unless caffeine has been to the party) I know this is a massive issue for so many of us - so I was thrilled to talk with Lisa Pomare, a medical herbalist, nutritionist, and naturopath at Next Phase Health.
In this week's episode dedicated to providing sleep solutions, we delve into the hormonal shifts of perimenopause and menopause and understand how they can affect your sleep, as well as the consequences of sleep deprivation such as high blood pressure, anxiety, weight gain, and more.
Lisa highlights strategies for rescuing sleep during menopause. Brewed into our discussion is an understanding of night sweats and sleep apnea, troublesome menopausal symptoms, and practical tips for handling them. Our episode offers a holistic guide for women navigating menopause, with a focus on maintaining and recovering sleep quality.
If you're struggling with sleep problems or interested in improving your sleep hygiene, this episode serves as a thorough guide. Tune in to comprehend the importance of sleep during midlife and learn practical solutions to achieve more restorative sleep.
Lisa Pomare Next Phase Health
Lisa Pomare is a Tauranga based Naturopath and Nutritionist who is passionate about all things Peri/Menopause and healthy, happy ageing. She decided to begin her degree at age 44, while in the wild throws of her own perimenopause. She has ticked off many of the symptoms on the list, from mild to life impacting during her journey. Lisa works in clinical practice both one on one (online and in person) and providing group education, she speaks from not only research but personal experience. In her spare time Lisa loves to grow veges, read trashy novels and hang out near a beach, lake or waterfall.
https://www.nextphasehealth.co.nz
https://www.instagram.com/nextphasehealth/
Follow Meegan on Instagram here
Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course:https://meegancare.co.nz/course/
Please note: Nothing within this podcast constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Amy Luttrell On Burnout, Reinvention & Exposing Expectations
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
I sit down with Amy Luttrell Business & Life Coach, to explore the theme of reinvention and its profound impact on our lives, especially in midlife and beyond.
Amy's a deep thinker, and our candid conversations often open my eyes to a fresh perspective.
In this episode we open up about the challenges of shedding inherited expectations and the liberating process of intentional living, emphasizing the significance of nurturing oneself through various life stages.
We navigate the complexities of navigating perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms, career shifts, and the courage to slow down and listen to our inner wisdom.
Amy and I candidly discuss the resistance, fear, and vulnerability inherent in the reinvention process, all while recognizing the transformative power of accessing desires, cultivating self-compassion, and embracing imperfection.
We delve into the nurturing and re-parenting of oneself, recognizing the importance of internal resourcing and the role of vulnerability in fostering profound change and creativity.
Our engaging exchange also touches on the value of demystifying well-being and tapping into our origin to guide our journey forward.
Join us in this venture into midlife transitions, where we celebrate personal growth, self-kindness, creativity and the embracing of life's many transitions.
Listen on for a fresh perspective, a restored sense of self and the stimulation to live intentionally one day at a time.
About Amy
Amy Luttrell a Business and Life Coach, Speaker, and Co-Founder of Be Well + Good - advocating for a shift in the business landscape. Challenging the dominance of the masculine side in business, Amy embraces the rise of human-centred and sustainable models, marking the end of 'hustle culture'. Despite facing challenges, navigating burn-out and PTSD she believes in the power of trust and creativity to overcome obstacles. She invites others to nurture inner confidence, by designing a life that stimulates joy, connection and fulfilment.
https://www.instagram.com/be_well_good_creativegroup/
https://www.bewellgood.co.nz/
Follow Meegan on Instagram here
Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course:https://meegancare.co.nz/course/
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
How To Resolve Stress Cycles In Midlife
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Welcome to a transformative conversation about breaking free from the grip of stress cycles, particularly for women navigating midlife and menopause.
Join me as we discuss how our bodies react differently to stress during perimenopause and menopause, and how the resulting decrease in resilience to stress can make even minor challenges seem insurmountable.
In an enlightening deep dive, I reference Emily Nagoski’s “Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle”. And we discuss the difference between stressors and stress response, explain stress cycles, and emphasize the integral role physical activity has in releasing stress.
Explore the stark reality of modern life—incomplete stress cycles and learn how to regulate your nervous system through stimulating physical activities.
Discover how feelings emerging from stress can be managed, regardless if external stressors persist or not. Arm yourself with practical methods to deactivate stress, allowing you to navigate midlife and menopause with vitality and confidence.
This episode also addresses the common fear we have towards our feelings due to our upbringing and how this fear amplifies stress. By focusing on our bodily sensations and meeting these feelings with kindness and compassion, we can dissolve stress.
Whether dealing with stress at any life stage, this episode encourages listeners to confront their feelings with kindness and awareness, engage in physical activity, and consider shifting from solo self-care to connected care for achieving psychological freedom.
Follow Meegan on Instagram here
Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course:https://meegancare.co.nz/course/
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Transforming Negative Self-Talk into Self-Compassion
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
In this enlightening episode, Meegan Care, an experienced midlife mentor, and psychosynthesis counsellor unlocks the intricate aspects of midlife, specifically for women transitioning through menopause. Gain a deep understanding of your inner journey during this crucial life-stage as Meegan candidly addresses common issues like self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the swings of emotional overwhelm.
This podcast addresses the often overlooked issue of negative self-talk experienced by many women during their midlife years, and provides practical tips to convert it into self-compassion. Discover insightful discussions on the bodily changes during perimenopause and its implications on a woman’s self-conception, including hormonal fluctuations and changes in brain chemistry which impact their mood and self-view.
I emphasize the importance of evaluating mental health in relation to hormonal states for women above 40. We shed light on the inadequacy of knowledge many practitioners possess about menopause and its impact on mental health. Through this conversation, you will be able to separate your thoughts from your identity and avert the compounding of negative self-beliefs.
As the episode continues, take away valuable strategies to break free from the loop of negative self-talk, particularly during the challenging perimenopause phase.
Learn to establish and manage triggers that catalyse negativity, and find out how journaling can help in detangling the mess of negative thoughts clouding our minds. By fostering a more positive outlook on life and practising the art of self-compassion, face life’s adversities with patience, strength, and a gentle acceptance of yourself, just as you are.
Join me in this enlightening journey of unraveling an important narrative and make a significant step towards your mental health and wellbeing in perimenopause. This podcast aims to inspire listeners to integrate more self-compassion into their lives, a practice that nourishes mental well-being and extends to all life aspects.
Follow Meegan on Instagram here
Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course:https://meegancare.co.nz/course/
Wednesday Jan 03, 2024
MVP: Emma Perks Physio Helps Women Navigate Sexual Wellness In Menopause & Midlife
Wednesday Jan 03, 2024
Wednesday Jan 03, 2024
In this MVP episode, I speak with Emma Perks, a pelvic health physiotherapist, about sexual and pelvic health during midlife.
Navigating sexual health during menopause and midlife can be challenging, particularly since it coincides with other major changes in life and there remains so much that isn’t openly discussed.
Tune in this week to one of our Most Valuable Podcasts where we talk about everything from decreased sexual desire and what to do about it, vaginal dryness, and urinary incontinence, to the benefits of vaginal moisturiser – just like facial moisturiser but not, of course, for your face!
Emma debunks myths about sex and explores societal pressures that hinder sexual experiences.
We also touch on the significance of challenging societal and gender constructs and important ways to communicate when dealing with decreased sexual desire.
Join us as we tackle these important and often taboo topics and provide valuable advice and insights to enhance your sexual health and well-being.
This is the conversation I wish someone had with me 10 years ago!
Timestamp:
00:00:55 Public health physiotherapist specializing in pelvic health.00:04:10 Summarized: Natural changes during a woman’s menstrual cycle can affect sexual interest and physical changes. Perimenopause is similar to puberty in terms of hormonal fluctuations and physical symptoms. Symptoms during perimenopause include vaginal dryness and urinary incontinence. These symptoms may vary but can be managed.00:13:47 Simple solutions for addressing sexual health.00:19:37 Using lubricants can prevent dryness during sex and reduce the need for more lube.00:24:51 Juggling multiple responsibilities creates stress and expectations. Women’s arousal differs from men’s.00:32:29 Understand sexual equality and explore other methods.00:36:13 Communication, variety, and sexual aids are normal.00:40:11 Invest in exchange for fruitful intimacy and satisfaction.00:43:30 The Less you have, the less you want.
Links & Products mentioned:
Emma Perks Full Circle Physiotherapy https://fcphysio.co.nz/
Dipsea app – Short & Sexy Audio Stories
Yes VM Vaginal Moisturiser
Olive & Bee Intimate Cream
Follow Meegan on Instagram here
Join the waitlist for The Midlife Upgrade Course:https://meegancare.co.nz/course/
Meegan Care Midlife Mentor
I am a Certified Counsellor and Midlife Mentor with a holistic approach, dedicated to bringing clarity and life-changing breakthroughs to my clients.
I’m a Kiwi, I’m 53, and I’m now on the other side of menopause and I’ve been where you are now.
During peri-menopause I got to a stage where I was struggling to get through the week in my busy clinical practice.
Sometimes I had to postpone clients because there were mornings I was so exhausted I just couldn’t face a full client load and that broke my heart.
I was irritable, overwhelmed, and just plain over it!
Until I realised that my brain was undergoing a sort of transformation, sometimes referred to as an ‘Upgrade,’ and once I figured out how to collaborate with this Upgrade, life got so much better.
As a midlife mentor I draw on my extensive therapeutic training, over two decades of clinical and group work, and of course my own life experience.
I’ve helped clients for the past 25 years as a qualified Psychosynthesis Counsellor, Craniosacral Therapist (BCST), and experienced teacher of mindfulness and meditation.
Recovery from Crohn’s disease over 25 years ago, lead me to train extensively in various forms of therapy, mindfulness and healing with master teachers and coaches. I am the sole New Plymouth trainer for Mindfulness Works – New Zealand’s largest mindfulness training organisation. I also facilitate mindfulness education for individuals, groups and workplaces.