Michelle, Age 55

When I look back I was peri-menopausal before I gave birth to my daughter at age 38. It was so interesting - I literally had three full periods in a row, then got pregnant immediately! My body was obviously preparing itself to conceive.

After the birth, I had no periods except a little spotting, and then at age 41, it was 'officially' diagnosed that I had gone through menopause. It was such a tough time, as I was trying to juggle a newborn and at the same time dealing with menopause.

I didn't recognise myself anymore, and I partly put it down to being a mum (our life changes anyway). But I had also some very, very deep anger and rage coming to the surface. I absolutely loved being a first (and only) time mum, but I was also finding deeper stuff from my past, re-surfacing. There was little or no support for me at the time - I remember scouring the internet to try to 'make sense' of it all, or guidance, and there was no one around me who can understand or help. My mum had passed away many years ago, and all I wanted was to be able to talk wit her as I knew she'd understand.

However, I was also lucky to have had a great hubby who did his research to know what to expect and help; and also a bank to tools and healing methods to help me (as thats my work/business). I certainly didn't anticipate the depth of what was coming up, along with all the 'usual' physical symptoms. I also had the grief of not being able to have another child, along with the sense of loss of a part of myself that was going. However, I went within myself to heal and started to see menopause from a different perspective. Rather than seeing it as the 'curse' that we have been conditioned to believe, I started to see it as an opportunity - to open up a new level of self. So I created a sacred space to allow the unfolding wisdom that this new phase was offering; and as a result it became a period of rapid growth for my business and unfolding creativity, and a deeper healing of myself. Menopause then became a blessing in disguise, and I now share my journey with other women, to help support them and offer healing. As a post menopausal women of many years, my message to share is that even though it can be hugely challenging and difficult, menopause can also be a rich and meaningful time for you. Seek the support of those who understand, and allow yourself the journey of what this is unravelling for you. <3