Apart from dry skin being a common side effect of menopause, there are other more challenging skin conditions that you might be experiencing. Among my midlife friends, rosacea is a skin concern that crops up time and again and being that April is Rosacea Awareness Month, I figured it was the perfect time to get the low-down on it – and I knew exactly who to call upon for the most reliable information.

Perimenopausal herself, Kate Kerr is an award-winning facialist and skin expert who has suffered from acne in her teens and rosacea in her 30s, so she understands exactly what it can be like to lack skin confidence as we age. And as she now specialises in treating rosacea, I asked Kate whether she could shine a light on this common skin condition and give us some practical tips and advice on how best to manage it during menopause.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a common skin condition characterised by facial flushing, skin hyper-sensitivity, persistent redness, broken capillaries and pimples. In more advanced rosacea, symptoms can extend to tissue distortion and it can even affect the eyes. It predominantly affects the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin.

Is rosacea more common in perimenopause and menopause?

Kate explains that even though we may think that our rosacea has only developed since peri or menopause, we could have had it way before then but just not severely enough to cause us any concern.  She says, “Menopause is the second time in a woman’s life when hormones go awry. Problems might arise not just because our bodies are producing less oestrogen and progesterone, often it’s the imbalance between the hormones that can upset skin the most – particularly with rosacea.

Rosacea is an oily skin condition and when you have an imbalance of androgens (sex hormones) combined with hot flushes, the heat in the skin can exacerbate oil production, causing more inflammation, leading to breakouts. Add to this the fact that we have less collagen in menopause which makes the skin thinner and less able to camouflage the redness caused by broken capillaries, they will naturally appear more visible.

With the capillaries nearer the surface of the skin, they lack protection from the outside elements such as fluctuations of temperature and so are more susceptible to damage. Menopausal skin is also less hydrated which impairs the skin’s protective barrier and can lead to irritation and inflammation.”

Kate reassures me that it’s not all bad news for rosacea sufferers and there are simple lifestyle changes and skincare solutions which can help manage rosacea prone skin.

Common rosacea triggers

Anything that is consistently making the skin flush means you have a higher chance of capillary damage and the more the capillaries dilate and constrict, the more they will weaken, so try to avoid the following:

• Alcohol has the double whammy of dilating blood vessels and affecting the imbalance of hormones which can wreak havoc on the skin.
• Spicy food often contains the heat-producing compound capsaicin, which makes hot flushes worse.
• Caffeine can increase blood-flow to the skin and make you feel flushed so consider swapping your morning coffee for a healthy herbal tea.
• Steam rooms, saunas, and cold plunge pools promote extremes of temperature which is one of the most common ways to cause a rosacea flare-up.

Rosacea and wellbeing

It is understandable that a severe rosacea breakout might make you feel insecure about your looks, so the following feel-good, skin-loving tools are beneficial for a healthy mind and complexion:

• Exercise has been shown to increase collagen production for a plumper complexion, and can also improve sleep, which encourages the skin to self-repair. Avoid over exertion to prevent the face from reddening too much and try brisk walking, gentle weight-training, Pilates and yoga which are all great for menopause health.
• Mindful habits such as daily meditation, journaling and listening to calming music can help soothe an over-active nervous system which might trigger skin flare-ups.

Rosacea myths debunked

Myth: Rosacea needs to be treated like dry skin.

Truth: As Kate explained, rosacea stems from an overactive oily skin rather than dry skin, so getting a handle on it by choosing the right skincare regime will help.

Myth: White skins, particularly Celtic are more prone to rosacea.

Truth: While it’s true that rosacea can look more dramatic on paler skins, it doesn’t mean black or brown skin doesn’t also suffer, it’s just that it often goes undiagnosed. Kate says that black skins show rosacea with sebaceous hyperplasia (enlarged and clogged, bumpy pores). Lighter brown skin may look quite pretty and have what looks like a light flush across the cheeks, but it is actually capillary damage.

Myth: Having rosacea means you have sensitive skin.

Truth: Kate says, “People with rosacea have skin that has become sensitised – it is not in itself sensitive – and it can still be strengthened and improved back to its former health.”

Skincare tips to combat rosacea

Kate recommends:

• If you want to try a clinic facial, look for one that includes LED light therapy which I love for my clients. It is a safe, non-invasive, effective treatment for rosacea, using specific wavelengths of light to reduce inflammation and redness.
• Vitamin C should be added to your daily skincare regime – it’s good for strengthening capillaries.
• Invest in a sulphur-based mask which as well as being anti-inflammatory, also helps with oil flow. Sulphur supresses sebum production and has an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial effect as well.
• Go for water-based rather than oil-based serums as you want to avoid anything heavy and oily.
• Retinol will help to strengthen skin and thicken the collagen, providing cushioning and protection of the blood vessels underneath. Retinol also activates angiogenesis which produces new, healthy blood vessels and clears out old, damaged vessels. Start off with a 0.5% formulation and build up.
• Contrary to popular belief, not all acids in skincare are bad for rosacea. When cleansing, look for salicylic acid which helps to control oil. It’s anti-inflammatory and exfoliates the debris in the pores. Azelaic Acid boosts skin turnover to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. Glycolic Acid is one to avoid as it is more active and can be irritating on irritated skin.
• Never, ever go without sun protection. Wear it daily, even when the weather is rainy and cloudy.

Rosacea-friendly skincare

Here are my top product choices designed for optimal performance on rosacea-prone skin:

• A high-quality sunscreen is essential! Alpha-H Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF50+ is good. This formula is super lightweight and is rich in vitamin E, known for its skin soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
• The delicate eye area needs hydrating and comforting. Bloom Effects Black Tulip Eye Cream contains azelaic acid, niacinamide, aloe and chamomile, all known to be beneficial for rosacea.
• To help control excessive oil, reduce inflammation and redness, add a little Sunday Riley B3 Nice 10% Niacinamide Serum every other day to help control excess oil and reduce inflammation and redness.

For more stories, advice and interviews, head to the Menopause Your Way Stories hub. To browse and shop a curated edit of menopause products, visit the Menopause Your Way page on QVC.

The content of the QVC website is for information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the QVC website.

We understand there’s a lot of information out there on the menopause. You can read through the NICE guidance on menopause management, as well as the NHS overview on the menopause.

The post Beauty journalist Lisa Barrett on rosacea in menopause appeared first on Stories.

Initially, I thought this was simply the result of stress. As part of the sandwich generation – with young children and ageing parents to look after – life was giving me a bit of a kicking: I lost my job, my husband lost his job, my mother got breast cancer and a close friend died suddenly within the space of six months.

I stumbled around clueless for a couple of years, surrounded by a deafening wall of silence, convinced I had an auto- immune disease. Then, my periods started to behave oddly. Now, this was a change I understood and some further research brought up the word “perimenopause”. Once I realised everything was down to my waxing and waning oestrogen, rather than anything sinister, I decided to try out every natural product and approach available out there. And some that were really out there!

I started detailing my experiments on Instagram as ‘The Menopause Guinea Pig’. The list of things I have tried is extremely long but here are a few examples: distance reflexology, hormone yoga, earthing, sound baths, cacao ceremonies, acupuncture, numerous supplements, hot flush magnets, liquid fibre, probiotics, alternate nostril breathing, flatulence filtering underwear, collagen, cranial osteopathy, tapping, mouth taping, turmeric and tabasco to name but a few.

I am sure you have neither the time, money, nor the inclination, to give all of these a try. I have, therefore, picked out my most successful ventures to date to help ease a myriad of symptoms.

Cold water swimming

First up is cold water swimming. Stressing the body with cold water boosts your immune system, calms feeling of stress and anxiety, improves circulation, reduces inflammation and gives you a natural high. Now, I have braved the North Sea, but I prefer to get the benefits of cold water in a more conducive manner, namely in the shower. I “simply” turn the shower bit by bit to cold, thereby activating my parasympathetic nervous system (tend and befriend) and calming my sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight). Give it a go. It’s fairly hard going initially. You should be aiming for anywhere between 30 seconds and 2 minutes. I count to myself as I go and can still only manage 60 seconds, despite doing it every morning for years.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is my second suggestion. Initially, I was a little skeptical to try this. I was encouraged to fully engage with a domestic task (I chose ironing) and not to let my mind wander. If it did, I was to bring it back to listening to the sounds of the iron, noticing the creases leaving the material, feeling the fabric, and my grip on the iron. I went for it and spent the first five minutes giggling, which never happens when I am ironing. When I stopped being silly, and concentrated on the task, I realised that every time my mind was distracted, I was tightening my jaw and frowning, my shoulders were up by my ears and I was also clenching my buttocks. No wonder I’d had so many mysterious aches and pains for years! So, check in with your body from time to time. See if you are actively holding yourself together without noticing. Try to let go and relax.

Nutrition

Next up, take a closer look at what you eat. Consider adopting a healthier diet in midlife. Think the Mediterranean diet, without the pizza and the pasta. Foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, fish, beans, nuts and olive oil. Such a diet can help to ease many symptoms including brain fog and hot flushes. On the flip side it also makes sense to avoid inflammatory foods, such as fried foods, processed foods, refined carbs and sugary drinks.

Start moving

Get active. Give Pilates or yoga a try. Both strengthen your core and aid flexibility, postural alignment, balance and flexibility. They also help to activate your parasympathetic nervous system and calm everything down. A less low impact workout, but just as important in midlife, is strength training. Now, I’m not suggesting you rush out and buy a unitard and bag of chalk and start dead lifting thrice your bodyweight. A few simple exercises with resistance bands and hand held weights (or a tin of beans) will help to build bone and increase muscle strength. Hugely important as lower levels of oestrogen can increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Sexual discovery

Last, and most certainly not least – orgasms. Yes, really! Orgasms positively impact all peri/menopause symptoms. They help you sleep, strengthen and tone your pelvic floor, increase blood flow to the brain, release natural painkillers, lower levels of cortisol (stress hormone), stimulate the production of collagen and aid the body’s natural detoxification process. So there’s some homework for you to do – on your own or with a partner.

Let’s end on a high. You may be feeling, as I did, like a galloping catastrophe at the moment but that is not the end of the story. Oestrogen is often referred to as the “caring hormone” and I suspect, whether you have children and ageing parents or not, you will be devoting much of your time caring for those around you. As oestrogen starts to exit stage left, you may well find that you start to care less. Not in a negative way. You may find that you start to put yourself first. You might start to wonder what you will do with your second act. Could it be your best yet?

For more stories, advice and interviews, head to the Menopause Your Way Stories hub. To browse and shop a curated edit of menopause products, visit the Menopause Your Way page on QVC.

The content of the QVC website is for information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the QVC website.

We understand there’s a lot of information out there on the menopause. You can read through the NICE guidance on menopause management, as well as the NHS overview on the menopause.

The post Meet Elizabeth Joseph, the menopause guinea pig appeared first on Stories.

What’s a chronotype?

We’re all familiar with our circadian rhythm, the inner clock which regulates functions like sleep and appetite. However, chronotypes are another significant driver governing our body’s personal patterns. While our circadian rhythm and chronotypes work in tandem, they are completely separate.

Circadian rhythms are influenced by external factors like sunlight, but can be re-trained if needed, whereas chronotypes are genetic and almost impossible to influence or retrain.

According to Dr Michael Breus, clinical psychologist and sleep expert, “A chronotype is a genetically predetermined schedule of body function.” This means that each of us is genetically inclined to perform certain types of activities at certain times of the day.  Dr Breus asserts that scheduling your daily activities according to your chronotype “can lead to better sleep quality and overall well-being.”

What are the chronotype categories?

There are four chronotype categories, each represented by an animal: Bear, Lion, Wolf and Dolphin. Dr Breus suggests that by leaning into the natural tendencies of our ‘sleep animal’, we can schedule our daily tasks to align with when we are most productive. “You get to take advantage of when your hormones are naturally on the rise or at their peak and when you need them for any particular activity like exercise, sex, or even talking to your kids.”

According to the Sleep Doctor quiz, I’m a Bear, the most common chronotype. Our sleeping patterns follow the sun’s cycle and our peak productivity hours are between 10am and 2pm, which explains my 3pm energy crash and my natural aptitude for napping!

Figuring out your chronotype

Learning that I was officially a morning person was no great surprise to me, but learning when to schedule in each type of exercise to best effect was transformative.  I love running but had been squeezing those vigorous workouts in at lunchtime or after work, when I struggled to find the motivation or energy.

According to Dr Breus “If Bears don’t do their vigorous workout before noon, it’s not gonna happen”. In fact, the best time to schedule a run is around 7.30am.

Not feeling enthused by the thought of a walk to the gym on dark mornings, I cancelled my gym membership and hired a treadmill.  This has been a gamechanger for me – I can work out when it suits me, there’s no judgement, and its mere physical presence is a psychological nudge to get some steps in.

Now I set my alarm half an hour early and jump out of bed with enthusiasm (ok, on most days I jump out of bed!). I always listen to my body; some days I plug in Sia and run like a Pitbull is chasing me. If I’m feeling jaded, I catch up on my favourite podcast while walking briskly at a steep incline.  That way I feel like my body and my brain get a workout. At the end of my session, I feel exhausted but invigorated.  It’s a good kind of tired, not a weary kind.

According to Dr Breus, 12pm is the other sweet spot for runs, but I generally find I’ve lost my va va voom by then, so I sometimes take an early lunch and go for a brisk stomp around the park.

Making it work for you 

If I’m practicing yoga, I’ll do that immediately after work.  Sunset is an ideal ‘bear time’ for yoga, and by leaning into that, I find it much easier to wind down and ease myself into the evening. It acts as a mental and physical reset after a challenging day at work.  With the lighter nights coming in, I might switch Yoga for Pilates, as between 4pm and 7pm is the ideal window for strength training.  For me, Pilates combines the benefits of strength training with the wind-down vibes of yoga.

Studies have suggested that the act of co-ordinating our physical activity with our chronotypes can be a significant ally in our wellness journey. A recent study on sports performance and chronotypes suggested that “Sports trainers and coaches should take into account the influence of both the time of day and chronotype effect when scheduling training sessions” and there is further research linking chronotypes, sleep quality, exercise and diet with the importance of “personalized interventions to effectively address specific health behaviors”.

In midlife, more than ever, we need to be kind to ourselves and listen to our bodies.  Like many women my age, I’m juggling the demands of a busy life with the physical and psychological impacts of perimenopause.  With that in mind, I’m open to any new ideas that help support my fitness and wellbeing.  If that means leaning into my Bear tendencies and body’s natural rhythms, then I’m all for it.

Source

Michael Breus, Ph.D is a Diplomate of the American Board of Sleep Medicine and a Fellow of The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and one of only 168 psychologists to pass the Sleep Medical Specialty Board without going to medical school. He holds a BA in Psychology from Skidmore College, and PhD in Clinical Psychology from The University of Georgia. Dr. Breus has been in private practice as a sleep doctor for nearly 25 years. Dr. Breus is a sought-after lecturer and his knowledge is shared daily in major national media worldwide including Today, Dr. Oz, Oprah, and for fourteen years as the sleep expert on WebMD. Dr. Breus is also the bestselling author of The Power of When, The Sleep Doctor’s Diet Plan, Good Night!, and Energize.

For more stories, advice and interviews, head to the Menopause Your Way Stories hub. To browse and shop a curated edit of menopause products, visit the Menopause Your Way page on QVC.

The content of the QVC website is for information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the QVC website.

We understand there’s a lot of information out there on the menopause. You can read through the NICE guidance on menopause management, as well as the NHS overview on the menopause.

The post Louise Slyth explores sleep chronotypes in midlife appeared first on Stories.

How did the brand get started and what inspired the name FEWE?

The last few years have seen a really positive increase in female wellness brands, tackling everything from incontinence to cycle care. It’s a really exciting space and we wanted to be a part of it as it aligned so strongly with our passions.

We saw a real opportunity for a range of products that supported women throughout their cycles, from puberty and menstruation through to menopause. The name FEWE literally stands for FEmale WEllness, and that’s what we are; a wellness brand for women, founded and led by women.

Tell us about FEWE formulas

Our products are formulated with our consumers in mind, and are enriched with botanical extracts like turmeric, lavender and rosemary. Additionally, products like Don’t Cramp My Style Oil are fortified with science-backed essential nutrients to help support your overall wellbeing.

For example, we include Vitamin A which contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and a normal functioning immune system. Zinc contributes to normal cognitive function, the maintenance of normal bones, hair, skin and nails as well as contributing to the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood. Magnesium contributes to a reduction of tiredness, fatigue and maintain a normal energy-yielding metabolism. It’s important for us to use these kinds of ingredients to ensure our products are truly efficacious.

What are your hero products that put you on the map?

The Vulva Serum is definitely a hero product of ours. While there are many products to support the symptoms of menopause, there is perhaps still a bit of nervousness around launching products quite as intimate as this one. We haven’t shied away from it. While it may be a relatively novel kind of intimate care, it has such a clear use with such a tangible benefit that it’s one of the bestselling, most asked about and most reviewed products.

Calm Balm is another hero product because of its range of benefits and uses. We have women of all ages using this one throughout menstruation through to menopause. It’s a fantastic multi-purpose product and is purposely a very convenient size so you can carry it about with you discreetly.

The kits are just brilliant too. While each product individually has its own unique use and purpose, combining them together for targeted support is what we find our consumers really benefit from.

There are between 40-70 symptoms of menopause and every woman’s journey is different. Some may struggle particularly with sleep, while for others it may be mood fluctuations. Having a couple of products in your arsenal to target these things specifically, whenever they strike, can really make a difference. The kits also make great gifts; we often have women purchasing for their daughters as they reach puberty and similarly younger women purchasing for their mothers, another great indicator for the improvement in education around menopause.

Shop the full FEWE range.

For more stories, advice and interviews, head to the Menopause Your Way Stories hub. To browse and shop a curated edit of menopause products, visit the Menopause Your Way page on QVC.

The content of the QVC website is for information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the QVC website.

We understand there’s a lot of information out there on the menopause. You can read through the NICE guidance on menopause management, as well as the NHS overview on the menopause.

The post Explore cycle solutions with FEWE appeared first on Stories.

Gardening has long been associated with our mental and physical wellbeing. Many plants have been used for hundreds of years medicinally and are still used today. Chamomile is thought to help reduce anxiety and inflammation, it’s widely reported that rosemary can improve your memory and boost your immune system, and research shows that evening primrose is effective in the treatment of acute menopausal problems. Even plants such as vinca (periwinkle) are used to create chemotherapy drugs.

But you don’t have to drink a mug of chamomile tea to get the benefits of nature and gardening. A number of universities alongside the Royal Horticulture Society have done studies that prove that gardening keeps you fit and healthy, reduces anxiety and depression and prevents cognitive decline. The NHS have even made gardening, under the term ‘Green Social Prescribing’, part of its long-term plan with GPs prescribing ‘the practice of supporting people in engaging in nature-based interventions and activities to improve their mental health’.

When there’s so much evidence that gardening is beneficial to us in so many ways, it’s fair to say, we should all be gardening! Whether you have a large garden, a courtyard, a balcony, an allotment, a community garden, or just a houseplant, here are five different things to try if you want to give gardening a go and see how it has a positive impact on your everyday life.

1. Getting your hands in the soil
Whether you’re a glove wearer or not (an infinite gardening debate…) why not get your hands dirty and repot that plant? Plant out those plug plants that have just arrived! Have a mulching session?! It’s been proven that getting your hands in the soil indirectly releases a small amount of serotonin, making us feel better. You might need a nailbrush afterwards though…

2. Sowing some seeds
Gardening encourages us to have more patience and live more slowly, it’s impossible to speed up seed germination so that it happens in a number of minutes! Sowing a seed and watching it germinate over a number of days or weeks is a truly thrilling experience – we all remember the days of waiting for cress seeds to grow on damp kitchen roll! Sow some seeds in a propagator or a recycled plastic supermarket container and wait for the magic to happen. You’ll be amazed by the satisfaction of growing a huge plant from the tiniest seed.

3. Listening to the birds
Fill up your bird feeders, top up your bird bath and wait for your feathered friends to arrive. There’s nothing like waking up to the dawn chorus and watching numerous species of birds flit and peck at the feeders. The more you encourage the birds to your garden, the more you’ll enjoy their beautiful birdsong.

4. Forest bathing
If you don’t have a garden but you love getting out into nature and enjoying the benefits of our beautiful green spaces, why not try some forest bathing? (Don’t worry, you won’t be expected to strip down to your bikini!) Forest bathing is an ancient Japanese practice of relaxation where you’re encouraged to use all of your senses to connect with nature. It’s no different from having a walk in your local woods, but it might help to switch your phone off, focus on your breathing and take in the sight, sound, and feel of the trees around you.

5. Relaxing with a cup of tea
Once you’ve sown your seeds, planted your plug plants and done a spot of forest bathing, the most important thing you can do next is to enjoy your space. Try to switch off from the weeding, the patio cleaning and the repotting, and enjoy whatever garden space you have with a nice cup of tea! Us gardeners love gardening so much, it can be tricky to remember to switch off, sit back and appreciate what we’ve done, and this is just as important as doing the gardening itself. Why not invite some friends or neighbours over to sit in the garden with you? You can talk them through your garden, and you never know, they might even see the benefits of gardening and have a go themselves!

For more stories, advice and interviews, head to the Menopause Your Way Stories hub. To browse and shop a curated edit of menopause products, visit the Menopause Your Way page on QVC.

The content of the QVC website is for information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the QVC website.

We understand there’s a lot of information out there on the menopause. You can read through the NICE guidance on menopause management, as well as the NHS overview on the menopause.

The post Gardening for midlife wellbeing with Emma Real-Davies appeared first on Stories.

We sat down with Hannah Shore, Sleep Knowledge and Research Manager, to find out how sleep changes in menopause, along with top tips to support your sleep using some of these superb Silentnight products.

All about hormones

The menstrual cycle comes to an end due to a change in hormones. Throughout the menstrual cycle, there is a regulation of hormones defined by the changes in two particular hormones; Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH). These in turn effect the production of steroid hormones oestrogen and progesterone. The beginning of the menstrual cycle sees a slight rise in FSH which causes ovarian follicles to enlarge and produce oestrogen levels to rise through the first half of the cycle called the Follicular Phase.

When oestrogen levels come to a peak this prompts the second half of the 28 day cycle, called the Luteal Phase. The increase in oestrogen instigates a reduction of FSH and a sudden release of LH which prompts oestrogen to decline in production and sees progesterone as the dominant hormone throughout these days.

During the menopause we see significant changes in these hormones. The onset of menopause sees the ovaries become less responsive to FSH with a decrease in the stimulation of ovarian follicles. This in turn reduces the amount of oestrogen that is produced. As there is a lack of oestrogen it means the body continues to produce FSH so we see increased levels of FSH and decreased levels of oestrogen throughout the menopause.

Along with the reduction in oestrogen and FSH we also see progesterone gradually decreasing in production with age. It is suggested that these changes in hormones cannot just have physiological effects on the body, the menopause also sees an increase of psychological issues such as depression and sociocultural factors such as religion, financial anxiety and the future.

How these hormones affect sleep

Oestrogen

Oestrogen can directly affect sleep architecture, the amount of time we spend in each different stage of sleep. Oestrogen has a direct impact on REM sleep, lighter sleep which is responsible for learning, memory consolidation and emotional processing. A reduction of oestrogen can cause people to find it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Progesterone

Progesterone helps to regulate our core body temperature. Temperature is important when it comes to sleep, in order to get access to that good quality sleep we need, our core body temperature needs to drop by a couple of degrees. It has also been suggested that progesterone is related to NREM sleep, a deeper stage of sleep which is responsible for repairing the body and flushing out any build up of toxins from the previous day. Therefore dysregulation of progesterone can cause spikes in core body temperature and a lighter more fractured sleeping pattern.

Tips for a better night’s sleep

We are not going to stop menopause from happening, the dysregulation of hormones and their effect will still happen, however we may be able to deal with some of the side effects which reduce our sleep. The main area we should focus on is temperature control. Around 75% of menopausal women will suffer from vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats and there are lots of ways in which we can cool our bedroom down:

• Loose fitted PJ’s, preferably with something that helps to wick away moisture, natural fibres like bamboo.
• Keep a spare pair of PJs easily accessible in case we need to change in the middle of the night. This way we are not routing through draws which may wake us up further.
• Damp flannel on the bedside table.
• Fan with a remote so you can easily adjust the settings.
• Use separate duvets if you share a bed, you are then creating your own microclimate and your partner isn’t adding to the heat.
• Use a lower tog duvet.
• Avoid products with foam in them, foam holds on to heat and moisture and can therefore feel as though you are sleeping on a hot water bottle. Instead, opt for more breathable solutions such as polyester or natural fibres.
• If you cannot sleep, get up. The worst thing to do is to lay there still and stress and worry about not getting enough sleep. Stress and worry will cause your body to think it is in danger and start producing wake promoting hormones such as cortisol, which means you will find it more difficult to get back to sleep. Try to do something to take your mind off it, such as completing your winddown routine again, this might consist of reading a book or listening to a podcast.

Discover the Silentnight Lift Breathe range

If getting a peaceful sleep is high on your list of priorities, but you’ve been struggling with hot flushes and night sweats, then you’ll be pleased to hear that Silentnight have developed a mattress that is scientifically proven to help reduce symptoms of menopause.

Silentnight’s Lift Breathe Mattress works in four ways: the Intense sleep surface works to reduce cortisol levels and morning stress, while the platinum pad is a breathable alternative to foam (but just as comfortable). The breathable sleep system is ideal if you get hot in the night or struggle with night sweats, and the Mirapocket spring-zoned support helps to soothe aches and pains.

Night sweats and hot flushes are one of the most recognisable menopause symptoms (and you can find out more about them here). The mattress works to enhance breathability and transports heat and moisture away from your body, and it’s hypoallergenic too.

You can purchase the mattress on its own, in four size options – and we also have it available as a divan bed in a choice of stylish, contemporary shades to suit your home.

Find out more about the range here.

Explore the Restore by Silentnight range

Perfect for restless sleepers and over-heaters, the Restore range by Silentnight is designed by women, for women, to help reduce the effects of the menopause on sleep.

With 4 out of 5 women experiencing sleep issues as a key menopause symptom, the range of cooling and breathable products is designed to aid relaxation and reduce the effects of common menopause symptoms including hot flushes and night sweats that can contribute to over 2.5 hours of lost sleep a night.

Cooling Copper Pillow

Offers instant cooling relief as well as all the natural health benefits of copper. Made with innovative cool sensation fabrics, it’s the perfect solutions for menopausal night sweats.

Cooling Gel Pillow Pad

Provides instant cooling comfort, with no pillow flipping needed! Designed to cover your entire pillow. Simply pop it inside your pillowcase on top of your normal pillow, or just on the top.

Cooling Lightweight Blanket

Made with innovative cool sensation fabric and breathable jersey cotton. Perfect for use on the sofa or as a replacement for your standard duvet.

Cooling Weighted Blanket

Pairs deep touch pressure with innovative cool treated fabric that helps combat overheating and reduce anxiety.

Natural Breathable Duvet Set

Made from a blend of naturally breathable bamboo and cotton fibres, perfect for a refreshing and comfortably cool night’s sleep.

Make sure to tune into QVC Live or shop via the app on Monday 11th March for our Big Deal featuring the Restore by Silentnight Cooling Lightweight Blanket (item number 831539), available at an unmissable price for a limited time.

For more stories, advice and interviews, head to the Menopause Your Way Stories hub. To browse and shop a curated edit of menopause products, visit the Menopause Your Way page on QVC.

The content of the QVC website is for information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the QVC website.

We understand there’s a lot of information out there on the menopause. You can read through the NICE guidance on menopause management, as well as the NHS overview on the menopause.

The post Sleep soundly with Silentnight appeared first on Stories.

The trouble is – when we are forced to confront our own financial landscape – it usually is at a critical time in our lives, a crisis has arisen, action has to be taken, and we reluctantly take our head out of the sand, look at ourselves in the mirror and generally freak out about what steps to take.

And why is this?

Surely in every other aspect of our lives, are we not in command and control? Do we not juggle umpteen balls in the air each day of the week? Were we not the central hub of keeping everything together during the pandemic? Are we not fierce lionesses when it comes to safeguarding our loved ones? Do we constantly do battle with all kinds of service suppliers and have mastered the art of holding the line for ages whilst multi-tasking at home, sorting out all kinds of problems in order to just get things done?

Then why oh why does the thought of sitting down with an advisor to talk about your own finances and savings seem so terrifying? It is after all, YOUR money and YOUR future – and no one is more passionate about that than YOU!

I think I know the answer.

We have been ignored. Constantly. When it comes to money and finances – it is always the MEN that have the answers – it is always the MEN that are targeted by the finance world when it comes to financial education.

I come from a generation where my only financial advice my parents gave to me was ‘never a borrower or lender be’. Marvellous – thanks Mum, that’s just brilliant.

Advertising financial products amounts to over £1 billion a year – but guess what? Less than 1% is specifically targeting women. I am not talking about mainstream banks with their lovely TV ads with beautiful black horses galloping across the country; I mean pension and investment products. When was the last time you stumbled across an ad for one of those that was specifically talking to women? Never, me thinks.

So, let me create a typical scenario and see if this rings true…

You have a meeting at home with your IFA – now if you don’t know what an IFA is, please don’t be embarrassed as so many women aren’t aware, and it’s not your fault. It is the industry that has shied away from focusing on educating us, so remember that.

An IFA (Independent Financial Advisor) comes to your house and sits down with you and your partner. And what happens? He will (and it is always a man, as 98% of all IFA’s are white men) talk only to the MAN sitting across the table – and completely ignore you. If you pluck up the courage to ask a question – what will happen? Will he answer you directly? Will he answer your question while looking directly at your partner? Or will he look at you with a condescending glance and say – ‘don’t you worry yourself about this – I’d love a coffee though, white with two please!’ and continue the conversation with your partner.

Sound familiar?

Indeed.

I know this is a cliché, however a recent survey carried out by Hearst Media (publisher of magazines including Good Housekeeping) found that when talking about finance, women use words like stressful, complicated and overwhelming.  Financial institutions should be ashamed that more is not done to change this mindset.

It is a fact that women are more risk averse than men – however, it is also proven that when we do decide to invest, we make better financial decisions. We don’t shoot from the hip, we take information on board, take our time, are inquisitive, and hey presto, we get better results – who would have thought?!

When times get tough

I bet you know someone who has gone through a gruelling divorce. It is often the case that the aggrieved party is the woman and is faced with the prospect of coming to terms with the notion that their wonderful husband of numerous years has run off with a younger version to have fun with for the rest of his life. So what do they do? When it comes to finance, it is typical that their focus is on keeping the family home, isn’t it?

They get fixated that this primary asset should be theirs, it is their home, it is their pride and joy, and they have invested so much time and money in creating this special place. When speaking to their lawyer – they make it very clear, I AM NOT GIVING UP MY HOME.

Well what the lawyer should do, is give them a reassuring look, and say to them – that is a given, but what we need to focus on is getting your share of his pension, as that is the financial asset that so many women miss out on, totalling a staggering £7 billion a year! So don’t fret about the house – get the pension!

I am passionate about getting more women to be in tune with their finances. I KNOW it can be scary, but we have been conditioned to feel that way. I am not suggesting that you should instantly start a subscription to Investment Weekly, or spend hours researching financial articles on various products and investment opportunities.

I don’t wish for you to become dull at dinner parties! BUT what you could do is take a deep breath, search for a female financial advisor, and book an appointment for a chat. It is free to talk to them, you are not obliged to commit to anything, but they will be willing and able to educate you. And, if they prove that they were worth investing your time with them, then it might be the start of your journey to financial confidence and hopefully empowering you to secure more financial independence.

And what would be really great is to share this financial confidence with your friends BEFORE they are in crisis mode.

For more stories, advice and interviews, head to the Menopause Your Way Stories hub. To browse and shop a curated edit of menopause products, visit the Menopause Your Way page on QVC.

The content of the QVC website is for information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the QVC website.

We understand there’s a lot of information out there on the menopause. You can read through the NICE guidance on menopause management, as well as the NHS overview on the menopause.

The post Jacquie Duckworth on financial empowerment in midlife appeared first on Stories.

He was right… that day I put my very new and very screamy son in his pram, and I walked and walked and walked. So, fast-forward eleven years and one perimenopausal meltdown later, I started walking again to manage my own internal screaming, and I soon realised that walking for wellbeing might have been my goal, but it wasn’t the purpose of every walk.

There are fundamental whys behind a walk/wheel, such as getting from A to B or as a form of exercise, but during my menopause season I have been walking to feel connected to the environment and more importantly connecting with myself. However, there have been times when I’ve walked to switch off, step out of the world or make sense of my situation.

Sometimes I walk to find inspiration, mull over a problem, or engage in my surroundings. At other times I walk because I don’t know what else to do. I don’t always know how to manage my mood or quiet the mindless chatter in my mind. Yet, through my myriad of walks, I’ve learnt that a stroll is good for the menopausal soul.

Here are my ten favourite walks for mood and menopause:

• An awe walk – When I’m overwhelmed with menopausal symptoms, it can be hard to focus on anything else. However, during an “awe walk”, Bryan E. Robinson explains, you can consciously move your attention outward instead of inward creating ’an overwhelming, self-transcendent sense of wonder and reverence in which you feel a part of something that is vast, larger than you,’ and this helps me find some perspective. So, why not head outside, engage your senses, and find joy in nature and landscapes, such as a magnificent sunset?
• A meditative meander – Saying affirmations, such as ‘I am present… I am calm… All is well in my world,’ or walking in time with your breath helps create mindfulness, which can help settle a menopausal mind and find some calm in the chaos.
• A wonder wander – In menopause, my mind sometimes feels muddled, and answers/solutions to problems or creative inspiration can be hard to find. According to a Stanford Study by May Wong walking improves creativity by 60%. So, if you are feeling stuck, why not try setting an intention and off you go?
• A walk break-breather – Walks don’t need to be long (certainly not Camino de Santiago long) and are perfect for taking some time out when you’re feeling overwhelmed with life, and shorter walks can fit into the busiest of schedules.
• A moon walk – If you’re struggling to sleep during menopause, late evening walks can offer a different perspective on familiar settings. You can track different moon phases and their specific benefits using moon apps and Julia Clarke explains why you should give full moon hiking a go, offering tips to help enjoy a walk in the moonlight safely.
• A whimsy walk – Sometimes brain fog in menopause can mean it’s hard to think and focus, so without too much thought, I often put one foot in front of the other and go where my feet take me. You never know what you might discover about yourself and the world when your feet take you where they want to go.
• A barefoot walk – Walking barefoot for 20 minutes in your garden, local park, beach or a canal tow path (my personal favourite!) is the ultimate grounding experience and can help ease menopause symptoms. According to Emily Kanter, grounding can also improve sleep, increase energy levels, and lead to better mental health. If you’d like to give it a go Laura Koniver explores further practical applications of grounding to support health.
• An energy-burn walk– This might just be me, but if I’m having a hot-flash it doesn’t matter if I get hotter and sweatier, so I use them to power my walks – sometimes brisk, sometimes slow, but the fresh air and exercise always helps them pass.
• A lethargy-lift walk – In contrast, when I’m fatigued or feeling sluggish it’s hard to find the energy to do much, but I can always find the energy for a single step… then another and then one more. I never regret hauling myself off the sofa and always feel re-energised after getting out and about. The first step is all you need to start with.
• A socially connected walk – Social bonding raises oxytocin levels, which can help minimise menopause symptoms, such as mood swings and depression. It has also been shown to help alleviate chronic joint and muscle pain. What better excuse do you need for a ‘walk and talk’ with a friend?
• A walking book club – I know I said ten walks, but I’ve added this extra one as it unites my favourite hobbies- walking and reading. What’s not to love? If there aren’t any walking book clubs near you, why not start your own?

For me, understanding the reason why I walk… why I need to walk, has given me a renewed sense of purpose, and the option to pick and mix my walks to suit my perimenopause symptoms helps me feel more in control. More importantly, I’m managing  my mid-life metamorphosis in an accessible, inexpensive and enjoyable way. Win-Win!

If you need a little encouragement to start your own walking/wheeling adventures, Living Streets organise  National Walking Month  to ‘celebrate the health and happiness of walking/wheeling more,’ and provide a helpful, printable tip sheet to help you find time in your day.

Alternatively, if you start every journey with an open heart, a curious mind, you can always create your own wonderful whys of a walk/wheel.

For more stories, advice and interviews, head to the Menopause Your Way Stories hub. To browse and shop a curated edit of menopause products, visit the Menopause Your Way page on QVC.

The content of the QVC website is for information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the QVC website.

We understand there’s a lot of information out there on the menopause. You can read through the NICE guidance on menopause management, as well as the NHS overview on the menopause.

The post Tizzie Frankish on 10 menopause walks to try appeared first on Stories.

Founder Jasmine Wicks-Stephens shares everything you need to know about her soon-to-be iconic brand…

What inspired you to create the Faace range?

I’ve worked in beauty for almost 20 years, helping brands launch internationally and have always wanted to create something for myself. Doing the job, I’ve been surrounded by amazing beauty experts – journalists, skin experts, aromatherapists – and we all joined forces on Faace, including my husband Dan who is an excellent designer.

The idea came when I’d just become a new mum and when brushing my teeth even got bumped off the list some nights due to sheer exhaustion, I realised that what was out there (multi-step routines that require you to be your own skin chemist), and what I was doing previously in my beauty routine wasn’t realistic for a time poor, tired mum.

Also at that time, I worked in an all female office and we were period obsessed. Obsessed with how our cycles would sync and how it impacted our skin. I was a big Period Faace candidate. But when I went to try and find something to pacify the skin problems, I couldn’t find anything. And so, Tired Faace and Period Faace (and Sweaty Faace) were born.

How do hormones affect our skin’s balance?

Whether it’s stress, periods or menopause related hormones, they can play havoc with our skin. From dryness to spots, fine lines and wrinkles to redness, hormones can show up in our skin. Traditionally skincare has looked at skin type – dry/ageing etc. But that’s problematic in that firstly, you have to know exactly what your skin type is and also, it’s targeting concerns only for that type. But what if skin has contradictory concerns like dry skin and spots at the same time? This is what we’re looking to provide – easy solutions, so you can grab for just a couple of items but know they are going to be super effective.

Which products help to solve a midlife/menopause problem?

Perimenopausal and menopausal skin concerns can include dryness, blemishes, redness, hyperpigmentation, lack of elasticity, dullness. Menopause Faace is our bestseller. It’s a cream and mask combo that also works to prime the skin. Not only is the creamy texture great for moisturising a dry complexion, it also mattifies on the skin so works as a great base for make-up. You can slather on a thick layer overnight and wake up feeling plumper and more hydrated. Knowing that menopausal skin can have multiple concerns, we’ve included lots of different ingredients to help. For example, you could be getting spots again for the first time in 20 years.

For dry skin, we’ve included ingredients like hyaluronic acid/glycerin that can work well to keep skin moisturised, ingredients to calm the skin and help reduce blemishes like rose water and zinc, and something with skin regenerating properties like rosehip or vitamin A to help keep skin springy. You can also find that sometimes traditional anti-ageing creams are very heavy on the skin, which is the last thing you need if skin is hot or greasy. Plus, it comes in a hefty 100ml tube, which is better value than skin creams that come in 30ml or 50ml sizes.

Menopause Faace is complemented really well with the Dull Faace Cleanser, which we have in an exclusive bundle for QVC. This creamy/clay formula is packed full of lots of active ingredients to not only thoroughly cleanse but also treat the skin with its brightening, nourishing formula.

The ingredients list for Dull Faace is extensive, but it contains a trio of acids for brightening as well as vitamin C and avocado to name a few.

We’ve also worked with an aromatherapist on the blends, so if you enjoy a spa-like product, then Faace is for you. All of our products are vegan and ethically sourced and we also donate to two organisations with purchases – The Menopause Charity, set up by menopause doctor Dr. Louise Newson and also Hey Girls, where we operate on a buy one, give one initiative, providing sanitary products to those experiencing period poverty.

I love the fact that our products are branded for your ‘Menopause’, ‘Period’ or ‘Sweaty’ Faace too, as it feels feministic to be like, so what, I am experiencing that, and owning it! Conversations around these topics have been taboo for women in the past, and we are passionate about changing that.

For more stories, advice and interviews, head to the Menopause Your Way Stories hub. To browse and shop a curated edit of menopause products, visit the Menopause Your Way page on QVC.

The content of the QVC website is for information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the QVC website.

We understand there’s a lot of information out there on the menopause. You can read through the NICE guidance on menopause management, as well as the NHS overview on the menopause.

The post Get to know Faace with founder Jasmine Wicks-Stephens appeared first on Stories.

Their industry-leading innovations and patented technologies continue to redefine the industry standards of comfort, performance and versatility within compression wear. The business is built on proprietary science, but at their core they are simply about empowering people to feel better in themselves.

How it started

SVP of Business Development Julia Graham has more to share about this game-changing brand:

The founder Tom was in a bad waterskiing accident and after breaking bones and going to the doctor, the doctor said he needed to wear compression garments. Everything he wore was too tight and constrictive and he thought, what is the point of compression if you can’t wear it? At that point, compression was really medical grade or athletic and there was nothing for the everyday customer. So, he developed a line of comfortable compression for all-day wear.

The role of copper

Tommie Copper’s patented Copper Znergy technology is a premium, anti-odour technology that fuses together the natural benefits of copper and zinc to enhance the performance of fabrics. Our Copper Znergy fabric is permanently infused into our fabrics and won’t wash out. The combination of copper and zinc creates a superior anti-odour quality that eliminates the growth of odour-causing microbes on the fabric.

How can compression wear help women in midlife?

Feeling better should be as simple as getting dressed in the morning. Our comfortable compression products can be worn all day and provide all day comfort, relief from aches and muscle soreness and help with muscle recovery. We all have aches at some point in our lives, especially as we get older, so why not help yourself feel better and make it as easy as getting dressed every day.

Also, our proprietary fabric has wicking benefits to keep you cool and dry and premium anti-odour benefits.

Shop the range below:

• Tommie Copper Lower Back Support Compression Leggings
• Tommie Copper Over-the-Calf Compression Socks
• Tommie Copper Set of 4 Regular Fit Over-the-Calf Compression Socks
• Tommie Copper Adjustable Back Brace
• Tommie Copper Half Finger Compression Gloves
• Tommie Copper Set of 2 Compression Knee Sleeves

For more stories, advice and interviews, head to the Menopause Your Way Stories hub. To browse and shop a curated edit of menopause products, visit the Menopause Your Way page on QVC.

The content of the QVC website is for information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the QVC website.

We understand there’s a lot of information out there on the menopause. You can read through the NICE guidance on menopause management, as well as the NHS overview on the menopause.

The post Discover compression clothing with Tommie Copper appeared first on Stories.