It may sound counterintuitive, but movement is one of the best ways to manage pain, especially during menopause. While it’s tempting to rest when you’re in pain, especially joint or muscle pain, staying inactive can actually make things worse over time. When you don’t move, your muscles become weaker, your joints become stiffer, and inflammation can build up in the body—all of which lead to more pain.
The key is to engage in gentle, regular movement that keeps your muscles strong and your joints flexible. Activities like walking, swimming, or practicing gentle yoga can all help alleviate pain by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and releasing endorphins—your body’s natural painkillers.
These exercises are also low mpact, meaning they don’t place unnecessary strain on your joints, which is especially important for women dealing with arthritis or other joint-related pain.
Strength training is another incredibly effective tool for managing pain. Building muscle around your joints helps to stabilize and protect them, reducing the risk of injury and improving your overall mobility. You don’t need to lift heavy weights—even bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups can make a big difference. Just be sure to start slowly and focus on proper form to avoid strain or injury.
Finally, stretching is crucial. Incorporating a daily stretching routine—whether through yoga or a simple set of stretches—can help keep your muscles and fascia flexible, reducing stiffness and pain. Remember, the goal isn’t to push through intense pain, but to gently move your body in ways that support healing and prevent further discomfort.
In my own life, yoga has been an essential weekly practice, which is supportive of both my body and my mind. I’d recommend that highly to help with your menopause transition, too!
