Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Volunteers needed for perimenopause workshop
The workshop, which will take place on June 6th at the Headingley Campus of Leeds Beckett University, will invite women, trans-men and non-binary people to share their perimenopause experiences and learn more about strength training exercises.
Perimenopause is the phase leading up to menopause and up to 85% of women will experience menopause symptoms and for 20% of women, symptoms are severe. During perimenopause, changes of hormones can lead to feelings of depression, and these feelings can contribute to more persistent physical symptoms including sweating and hot flushes.
Now, researchers at Leeds Beckett University are evaluating strength training as a tool for wellbeing.
Marie Luo, a Psychologist at Leeds Beckett, said: “Strength training is great for its physical and mental benefits. Firstly, it can help prevent osteoporosis and the loss of muscle mass and secondly, it may contribute to improved self-confidence and body image. We believe strength training could greatly benefit those struggling with low self-confidence, body image concerns and depression.
“The idea that strengthening our body nurtures our mind and can shape our perception is a concept I find intriguing. Despite the compelling evidence supporting the efficacy of strength training in preventing frailty and reducing all-cause mortality rates, adherence to the basic WHO recommendations for engaging in strengthening activities twice per week remains low.
“We believe that this indicates a need for change to make strength training more inviting and enjoyable. There are still many questions about how to integrate training into busy lives of individuals who might never consider engaging in such activities. These are the questions we aim to address in a workshop in June.”
Using haptic and creative exercises, such as clay work, to tap into the emotional space; the workshop hopes to create a safe and welcoming space for sharing, connecting and learning. For taking part, participants will receive a Love2Shop voucher, refreshments on the day and an optional free massage.
Marie added: “After the workshop, people will be invited to further collaborate with us to help shape the future of healthcare. They will also be invited to express interest in a four-month strength training program next year.
“This research is highly necessary, and by listening to real experiences, we hope to create something that matters and contribute to a future that can offer alternative treatments in a more effective, accessible and engaging way.”
To take part you need to be in perimenopause and not engaged in regular strength training.
If you’d like to attend the workshop please fill out the survey – https://leedsbeckettpsych.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1RZVX1yopEfKud8