Today marks World Menopause Day, designed to promote awareness and support of the menopause.
Managing the effects of Menopause, both physical and mental, can be extremely difficult. We’re here to support you in body and mind, and help you help yourself to navigate the next stage of your life.
As your estrogen and progesterone begin to decrease, you may experience a lack a of regulation in your mood and cognitive functions, as well as a range of symptoms that might include night sweats, poor sleep quality, and mood swings. For further information from the NHS, click here. This article does not serve as medical or fitness advice, nor does it suggest to cover all symptoms as every one is individual; always seek advice from professionals.
Whilst medical support can alleviate some symptoms, it’s important to take a holistic approach to the menopause. Research shows the importance of lowering your cortisol - stress - levels, so if you haven’t prioritised yourself before; now is the time.
Our supportive, non-judgmental environment, will help you feel at ease from the moment you step through the door. If anxiety is holding you back from taking the first step, you could take a look at our Accessibility page, to familiarise yourself with the building and lay out. Parking is available right outside the health club. You can book a tour, or just pop in if that feels like too much pressure. As a Member, you unlock a host of benefits, including Treatment discounts and the option to bring someone with you on a Guest Pass.
Our Membership is varied across all ages, and there’s no competitive atmosphere. Use what you fancy, when you like. Or, just come by for a chat with people, to relax in the gardens with a cuppa, and to be with others, in a supportive space.
Little things matter:
Our changing rooms are available for you to use, with showers and individual bathrooms. We also have a larger accessible changing room.
Don’t worry if you forget your towel, you can hire one from us, and we sell a range of swim accessories too.
If you can’t find your Membership card, we can sign you in and give you a spare to use; no stress.
Water fountains are available throughout, and we sell a range of soft drinks and snacks.
Using our facilities to help manage the Menopause
If you’re interested in using the Gym, you can be as open as you’d like to with our Fitness Instructors, who can advise on safe and effective exercises on your Complimentary Induction. Your support doesn’t stop there; you can book in for Complimentary Refresher sessions as your needs change. Most people train alone, or with a friend/partner - rest assured this won’t feel like an intimidating space to walk in to when you get here. Any change in routine should be discussed prior with your GP, and we have a health disclaimer that you’ll need to complete prior to joining - this is just to make sure that you’ll be safe, and is confidential.
You’ll feel the benefits from our Indoor Swimming Pool, which as well as helping to cool you down (the indoor pool is held at 30°C), is a great way to exercise your whole body, with low impact on your joints.
Treatments are one of the most effective ways you can reduce your stress levels, from an ultra relaxing Indian Head Massage, a body massage to release tension, a facial to help your changing skin, or a pedicure to perk yourself up. You’ll receive a £25 voucher on joining, and ongoing discounts. Our friendly and thoughtful Therapists are trained in making adaptations to suit you, with temperature controlled Treatment Rooms, and insight in to how to make you feel the most comfortable.
‘Sports Massage’ might sound daunting, but is actually just the process of helping your body move better, through massage and gentle exercises. Chat to Fredericka, who has a specific interest in Menopause and identifying how your body might need more support. Research shows that bone density decreases during this phase, so it’s really important to support yourself from the inside out, to prevent injury and improve mobility.
Whilst the thought of sitting in a Sauna might immediately fill you with dread, managing the heat and actually relaxing can reduce our primary stress hormone, cortisol, which is linked to hot flushes, mood swings and sleep problems. Cool down with our Arctic Monsoon Shower, and switch off on a sun lounger in our countryside gardens. Find out more about our Spa here. Our Outdoor Heated Vitality Pool (36°C) has bubble jets to soothe muscle and joint pain, with views of Norfolk’s beautiful big skies. Remember to stay hydrated whilst you’re here.
We’re proud to support Norfolk & Waveney Mind, the mental health charity that believes no one should have to face a mental health problem alone. Mind works to reduce the stigma associated with mental health, support people in their recovery and champion better services for all.