Half of women have taken up new activities during menopause, according to research.
A poll of 2,000 women over the age of 40 found 92 per cent don’t want to let this natural part of growing older stop them from doing the things they love.
Furthermore, 35 per cent of those who have been through this life stage felt anxious at the early signs, but after experiencing it, 20 per cent say it has empowered them to spend more time doing what they enjoy.
Gardening, mindfulness practices, and exploring new places were among the new activities women took up after entering menopause.
While one in 10 considered a career change, and 28 per cent switched up their sense of style – dressing more for comfort than before.
The survey was commissioned by Vitabiotics Menopace vitamins, which has created the interactive ‘Menopause Motivation Map’ to illustrate the new activities women are taking up across the country.
It shows women in the East of England are taking up gardening, while those in the East Midlands are hitting the gym.
Londoners are booking themselves into dance classes to keep themselves busy and South Easterners are wanting to learn more about healthy eating as they move into a new life stage.
A spokesperson for the specialist supplement said: “When it comes to the menopause, the old misconception that it slows life down is well and truly outdated.
“It’s great to see the research showing just this, and how so many women have taken up a new activity, volunteering or even a side hustle around the menopause life stage.”
The study revealed 23 per cent said prioritising their health and wellbeing has been the biggest motivation for taking up a new activity during the transition.
While 18 per cent were keen to manage their stress or anxiety, and 11 per cent say it gave them a boost in confidence – with 16 per cent saying this was the biggest benefit.
Other positives of taking up a new activity in later life include a sense of achievement (19 per cent), staying independent and active (13 per cent), and having something to look forward to (12 per cent).
However, before embarking on a new activity, 14 per cent cited finding motivation as the biggest challenge, as well as lack of time (12 per cent), and the financial cost (11 per cent).
If there were no limitations, 31 per cent say they would like to travel the world, one in 10 fancy writing a book, and seven per cent would have a total makeover.
Exactly six in 10 believe it’s important to share their menopause experiences with others, with 14 per cent already having done this.
It emerged that 39 per cent think making conversations about the transitional change normal is a good way to inspire others who are going through it.
And 22 per cent reckon sharing personal success stories really helps.
The OnePoll.com data also found the one piece of advice women would give to others who are considering a new activity during the menopause would be to ‘just go for it’ (21 per cent).
As well as not worrying about what others think (13 per cent) and remembering that it is never too late (nine per cent).
The Menopace spokesperson added: “Women supporting other women is so important and empowering, at this time.
“The menopause life stage comes with plenty of myths and misconceptions, so debunking these and showing the positive real experiences of women is key.”
TOP 20 THINGS WOMEN ARE TAKING UP DURING MENOPAUSE
1. Gardening or outdoor activities
2. Cooking or baking new recipes
3. Finding out more about healthy eating for this life stage
4. Travel and exploring new places
5. Going to the gym
6. Meditation or mindfulness practices
7. Sewing, knitting, or crafting
8. Home renovations or DIY projects
9. Practicing yoga or Tai Chi
10. Volunteering or charity work
11. Learning a new language
12. Starting a side hustle
13. Dance or movement-based classes
14. Sewing
15. Writing
16. Painting
17. Birdwatching or nature photography
18. Joining social media
19. A new social club or group
20. A professional course or qualification
ENDS
