In this episode, Michelle welcomes Dina Shale to the podcast, a pioneer in equine facilitated learning, to discuss the transformative power of horses in managing menopause and perimenopause. Dina shares her personal journey through menopause, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges she faced and how her innovative retreats have helped women reconnect with nature and themselves. Dina also provides insights into grounding techniques, the importance of understanding the nervous system, and how to overcome fears associated with horses.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
-
Horses serve as emotional regulators and can help individuals reconnect with their emotions, instincts, and sense of self, which is particularly beneficial for women navigating menopause.
-
Engaging with horses in a round pen setting allows participants to practice grounding techniques, helping them to stay present and manage their nervous system, which is crucial for emotional well-being during menopause.
-
Integrating equine therapy with other menopause management strategies, such as lifestyle changes and hormone therapy, can provide a comprehensive approach to managing symptoms and improving overall well-being.
-
The approach and retreat method is used to help individuals who may be fearful of horses, allowing them to gradually build confidence and comfort without overwhelming their nervous system.
-
Continuous learning and self-education are emphasised as essential tools for overcoming challenges during menopause, enabling individuals to make informed choices and improve their quality of life.
BEST MOMENTS
"Horses are what we call emotional regulators. They listen to their instincts, their emotions, and they are their guiding light of how to survive."
"When you start to connect with your feelings, your emotions, and feel it in the same way that horses do, then you have a tool that will serve you for the rest of your life."
"The body keeps the score. It remembers everything that's happened from the past. If you listen to it, you can heal it and move on."
"I think one thing I've definitely found during this journey is the common denominator is listen to our body, listen to ourselves, learn about ourselves."
"Bringing that into the moment and actually being able to feel that emotion is essential because you can't heal or why you don't know anything about your body."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
https://www.thewayofthehorse.co.uk/
HOST BIO
Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/
Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson
Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a
Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal
My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag
Website www.panaceapause.co.uk