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Welcome to Making SENSE of Menopause , the podcast for women in perimenopause and beyond who feel stuck, dismissed, or just not like themselves anymore. I’m Roberta Bass, a Women’s Health Physiotherapist, Menopause Mentor and CONTROL Practitioner. Inspired by my own sister’s experience of feeling lost in the healthcare maze, I created this show to give you the real talk, practical tips, and mindset shifts you need. Here, we chat about everything from subconscious change and lifestyle tweaks to the SENSE method and the full spectrum of menopause support—from HRT to Hypnosis. It’s all about giving you a strong foundation and then exploring what truly works for you. No cookie-cutter advice here—just real conversations, personal stories, and small, doable steps to help you start feeling better. Let’s make sense of menopause together, one conversation at a time. 🎥 Start with our free masterclass: www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk/masterclass Or if you’d prefer one-to-one support, book a personal consultation at www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk.
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Have you ever continued doing something simply because you've always done it that way? In this episode, Roberta shares a surprising analogy inspired by the difference between imperial and metric measurements and explores how it relates to our health during perimenopause and menopause. Many of the habits and strategies that worked in our twenties and thirties may no longer be giving us the results we want. Whether it's exercise, weight management, sleep or stress management, menopause often requires a different approach. In this episode, you'll learn: Why old health habits may stop working during menopause The role of hormones in weight gain and weight management Why sleep affects hunger, cravings and body weight The importance of strength training during midlife How stress and cortisol influence fat storage Why sustainable habits work better than quick fixes Small changes you can make to support your health Sometimes the best results come from being willing to do things differently. If you'd like to learn more about managing menopause symptoms, check out the free masterclass linked below. Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
Do you leak urine when you cough, sneeze, exercise or rush to the toilet? Many women assume bladder leakage is a normal part of ageing, having children or going through menopause. While it is common, it is not something you simply have to put up with. In this episode, Women's Health Physiotherapist Roberta Bass explains: Why incontinence becomes more common during perimenopause and menopause The difference between stress incontinence and urge incontinence How hormones affect bladder and pelvic floor function Common bladder irritants that may be making symptoms worse Why pelvic floor exercises alone aren't always the answer The importance of getting an individual assessment Treatment options that may help If bladder leakage is affecting your confidence, exercise, social life or quality of life, support is available. Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
We talk more about menopause than we used to, but there are still symptoms that many women feel uncomfortable discussing. In this episode, Roberta explores some of the less talked about aspects of perimenopause and menopause, including: Incontinence and pelvic health issues Vaginal dryness and discomfort Loss of confidence and self-esteem Changes in libido Hair thinning and hair changes The impact of menopause on relationships Why talking openly can help women access support sooner Many women assume these symptoms are simply part of ageing and that nothing can be done. The reality is that support is available, and understanding what's happening is often the first step. If you've been wondering whether some of the changes you're experiencing could be related to menopause, this episode is for you. Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
Have you suddenly become more anxious during perimenopause — even about things that never used to bother you? In this episode of Making Sense of Menopause, Roberta explores why anxiety and fear can feel heightened during perimenopause and menopause, from driving anxiety and morning dread to feeling constantly “on edge.” She explains: How hormonal changes affect the nervous system Why cortisol and poor sleep worsen anxiety The connection between subconscious patterns and fear Why women often become anxious about the sensation of anxiety itself Practical ways to calm the nervous system naturally How subconscious work and CONTROL sessions can help retrain fear responses This episode also explores the link between stress, sleep, breathing, exercise, and emotional resilience during menopause. Topics Covered: Perimenopause anxiety Cortisol and stress hormones Morning anxiety Driving anxiety during menopause Nervous system dysregulation Sleep and anxiety Breathwork and calming techniques Subconscious patterns CONTROL remedial hypnosis Menopause mindset support Resources & Links: Thrive and Shine Women’s Wellness Mini Course: Subconscious & Mindset Support Online and in-person support available in Winscombe Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
Work is stressful enough without adding perimenopause and menopause symptoms into the mix. But for millions of women, that's exactly the reality — navigating brain fog, hot flushes, anxiety and exhaustion while trying to perform at work, often without any support or understanding from the people around them. In this episode, Roberta Bass explores the link between workplace stress and menopause symptoms, the new UK guidelines beginning to change how menopause is recognised at work, and — most importantly — practical things you can do right now to make your working day more manageable. What You'll Learn • Why stress and menopause symptoms create a difficult vicious cycle at work • Why so many women leave their jobs during the menopause transition — and why they shouldn't have to • What the new UK workplace menopause guidelines mean in practice • What reasonable adjustments you can ask for at work • Why taking breaks actually makes you more productive — not less • Simple, practical techniques to manage stress and symptoms during the working day • How to have the conversation with your manager if you're struggling Key Takeaways • Stress makes menopause symptoms worse — and menopause symptoms make work more stressful. Breaking that cycle matters. • A huge number of women leave their careers due to unmanaged menopause symptoms. This is unnecessary and increasingly, preventable. • The UK now has guidelines encouraging workplaces to recognise menopause and make reasonable adjustments — similar to disability and inclusion frameworks. • Practical adjustments include flexible working, working from home, regular breaks, temperature control and open conversations with HR or managers. • Taking your lunch break is not a sign of weakness — it improves focus, reduces stress hormones and makes you more productive. • Habit stacking (linking a new healthy habit to something you already do, like finishing a Teams call) is a simple and effective way to build stress-reducing practices into your day. • Even one small change to your working day can make a significant difference to how you feel. Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
Episode Overview Are you waking up stiff and achy every morning? Struggling with hip pain, shoulder pain, or back pain that doesn't seem to respond to treatment? If you're in perimenopause or postmenopause, your hormones could be at the root of it. Joint pain and stiffness is one of the most common — and most misunderstood — symptoms of menopause. In this episode, Roberta Bass explains exactly why it happens, which areas of the body are most commonly affected, and what you can do to feel better: from sleep and exercise to hydration, diet, and knowing when to get an assessment. What You'll Learn Why declining oestrogen is the key driver of joint pain and stiffness in perimenopause and menopause How oestrogen acts as a natural anti-inflammatory — and what happens when it drops How changes to collagen, tendons, ligaments and synovial fluid affect your joints Which joints and tendons are most commonly affected during menopause Why poor sleep makes joint pain significantly worse — and how to break the cycle The role of muscle strength in protecting your joints Practical steps: exercise, hydration, diet and load management How to find the right professional support for menopausal joint pain Key Takeaways Joint pain and stiffness in perimenopause and menopause is hormonal, not just a sign of ageing Oestrogen is a natural anti-inflammatory — as it declines, inflammation increases Tendons are particularly vulnerable: rotator cuff, hip (GTPS), Achilles, plantar fascia and tennis elbow are all common Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes — especially in multiple joints — is worth investigating with a blood test to rule out inflammatory arthritis Resistance exercise helps both joint pain and hot flushes — a double benefit Hydration directly affects joint lubrication — not just headaches and thirst An anti-inflammatory diet (reducing sugar, alcohol and simple carbohydrates) can make a meaningful difference See a physio or specialist who understands menopause, not just the individual joint Who This Episode Is For This episode is for women in perimenopause or postmenopause who: Wake up stiff or achy and aren't sure why Have been treated for joint pain without lasting results Want to understand the hormonal root cause of their symptoms Are looking for practical lifestyle changes to reduce pain and stiffness Want to know when to seek professional support — and what kind of support to look for Resources Mentioned Roberta's online and in-person appointments — link below Sleep episodes — search back through the podcast for Roberta's episodes on improving sleep quality Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
Episode Overview If you've been reaching for a glass of wine or a G&T at the end of a long day, you're not alone — and you're not being judged. But if you're navigating perimenopause or menopause, it's worth asking: is alcohol actually helping, or is it quietly making your symptoms worse? In this episode, Roberta Bass explores the connection between alcohol and menopause symptoms, why so many women use it as a coping strategy, and — most importantly — what to try instead. What You'll Learn How alcohol affects key menopause symptoms including hot flushes, anxiety, sleep and brain fog Why alcohol feels relaxing short-term — and what it's actually doing long-term The difference between social drinking and using alcohol as a coping strategy Practical, realistic ways to reduce your intake without feeling deprived Healthier alternatives that give you the same relaxation and me-time benefits Signs that alcohol use may need professional support Sleep strategies to replace the nightcap habit Key Takeaways Alcohol worsens hot flushes — there is evidence to show this Even if alcohol helps you fall asleep, it reduces sleep quality and increases night waking Poor sleep makes brain fog, anxiety and emotional wellbeing significantly worse Drinking every evening to relax is a pattern worth examining — not a personal failing Small reductions (choosing one drink instead of two, making a G&T weaker) can make a real difference 0% alternatives, mocktails and longer mixer drinks can preserve the social ritual without the hormonal impact Who This Episode Is For This episode is for women in perimenopause or menopause who: Find themselves drinking most evenings to wind down Wake up after drinking feeling unrefreshed or more anxious Use alcohol to manage stress or help get to sleep Want to reduce their intake but aren't sure how to replace the habit Are wondering whether alcohol could be making their symptoms worse Resources Mentioned Free Menopause Masterclass — understand your symptoms and start making lifestyle changes (link below) Previous sleep episodes — Setting the stage for sleep- A Menopause night time routine The Science of Sleep: How Hormones, Menopause & Lifestyle Affect Your Rest Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
If menopause has knocked your confidence, you're not alone. In this episode we look at why self-esteem takes such a hit during menopause — and what you can do about it at a deeper, subconscious level. Because you can wear all the right colours and still walk into a room feeling invisible. Why menopause affects confidence Weight gain, poor sleep, hot flushes, slowing metabolism — these symptoms don't just affect us physically. They quietly erode how we feel about ourselves too. What you'll learn Using my ESSE Framework (Explore, Evaluate, Shift, Embed), we work through how to identify the patterns holding you back and start changing them — with practical tools including journaling, visualisation, positive affirmations, posture and movement. The key takeaway Confidence comes from how you see yourself, not just what you wear. And that can be changed. Want more support? My Subconscious & Mindset Mini Course walks you through the ESSE Framework with a full workbook. I also offer one-to-one hypnosis sessions online. All details in the links below. 💛 Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
In this episode, I share my experience of going for a colour analysis and how it made me reflect on something much deeper than just clothes. We often think confidence comes from how we look—but actually, it’s about how we feel in ourselves. I talk about how many women, especially during perimenopause, lose confidence in their appearance, stop making the effort, and start putting themselves last. And why that isn’t about vanity—it’s about self-worth. In this episode, I cover: Why we often dress for practicality rather than how we feel The connection between clothing, confidence, and self-perception How body changes during perimenopause impact self-esteem Why waiting to “feel better” before making an effort keeps you stuck The importance of dressing for yourself—not for others Key takeaway: You don’t need to change your body to feel better—you need to change how you treat yourself now. A question to reflect on: Do you dress for comfort, for fashion, or for how you feel? And what could you tweak—even slightly—to feel a bit better in yourself? Support & next steps: If you’re struggling with confidence, motivation, or feeling like yourself again during perimenopause, support is available. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
In this episode, I share a personal story about the challenges of parenting a teenager—and how it surprisingly mirrors the experience of perimenopause. We explore how hormonal fluctuations affect behaviour, emotions, and reactions, and why this can create tension in the home—especially when both parent and child are struggling at the same time. More importantly, we look at what we can learn from this… including why prioritising yourself is not selfish, but essential. In this episode, we cover: Why teenage behaviour isn’t just “attitude” The hormonal similarities between teenagers and perimenopause The concept of the “sandwich generation” Why self-care becomes non-negotiable in midlife How your reactions influence others (especially your children) Simple ways to start prioritising yourself—even when life is busy Key takeaway: You don’t need more time—you need to give yourself permission to come first sometimes. Support & Resources: Explore support for menopause symptoms Listen to previous podcast episodes for practical strategies Get in touch for 1:1 support Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
Have you ever been told to “just get on with it” after surgery? In this episode, I share a real patient story that highlights a much bigger issue in women’s health: the lack of support, follow-up, and education after major gynaecological surgery. This patient had a full abdominal hysterectomy and was placed into surgical menopause—yet received little to no guidance on recovery, long-term health, or how to manage her symptoms. And sadly, this isn’t unusual. Across my career as a women’s health physiotherapist, I’ve seen the same pattern time and time again: Women undergoing major surgery, then being left to manage recovery alone. Why this is a problem Unlike orthopaedic surgery (such as hip or knee replacements), where patients receive: Structured rehabilitation Routine physiotherapy Clear recovery milestones Ongoing follow-up Women’s health surgery often comes with: Minimal or no follow-up No routine physiotherapy Little education on recovery No clear guidance on what’s normal This includes: Hysterectomy C-section recovery Other gynaecological procedures The long-term impact Recovery isn’t just about the first few weeks. For many women, especially those entering surgical menopause, there are longer-term considerations, including: Pelvic health issues (incontinence, prolapse) Pain and function Bone health Heart health Brain health Managing menopause symptoms Without support, many women are left feeling: Confused Frustrated Unsupported Unsure where to turn Why this matters Every woman will experience menopause, and many will undergo some form of gynaecological treatment or surgery. Yet the level of support does not match the scale of the need. While the NHS provides incredible care under pressure, there remains a significant gap in: Education Follow-up Long-term support What you can do If you’ve had surgery or are struggling with menopause symptoms: Don’t be fobbed off Ask questions Write things down before appointments Ask for referrals to specialists Seek support if you’re unsure You deserve proper guidance and support. 💬 Need support? If you feel like you’ve been left to get on with it, you don’t have to manage this alone. You can reach out to me for support, either: In person Online Or I can help guide you to the right support locally. 🔗 Connect with me 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveandshinewomenswellness/ 👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thriveandshinewomenswellness Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
Do you struggle to switch off at the end of the day? Feel like your mind is constantly racing, even when you’re trying to relax? In this episode, I share how something simple—doing a jigsaw—has become a powerful way for me to switch off, reduce stress, and bring myself back into the moment. After years of not doing them, I recently found myself drawn back to jigsaws. What started as a bit of nostalgia quickly became something I now genuinely look forward to each day. But more importantly, it’s highlighted something we’re often missing in modern life: true mental rest . We spend so much time: On our phones Thinking, planning, and problem-solving Moving from one task to the next But we rarely give ourselves time to slow down and let our nervous system settle. Why switching off matters (especially in menopause) Chronic stress doesn’t just affect how we feel mentally—it has a real physical impact on the body. When stress levels remain high: Cortisol (our stress hormone) increases Sleep can be disrupted Energy levels fluctuate Brain fog can worsen Blood sugar can become less stable During perimenopause and menopause, this becomes even more important. As hormone levels change, the body relies more on other systems (like the adrenal glands), which are also responsible for managing stress. This means that ongoing stress can make menopause symptoms feel worse. The role of mindfulness (and why simple things work) What I’ve found with doing a jigsaw is that it forces you to: Focus on one thing Block out distractions Be fully present That’s essentially mindfulness—but without needing to sit still or “try to meditate”. It’s simple, practical, and actually enjoyable. And it doesn’t have to be a jigsaw. Other options could include: Colouring Drawing or painting Knitting or crochet Any creative activity that brings you into the moment The key is finding something that: Feels easy Requires focus Helps calm your nervous system Why this matters for your health Taking even a few minutes each day to slow down and switch off can: Reduce stress levels Support better sleep Improve focus and clarity Help manage menopause symptoms more effectively It’s not about doing more—it’s about creating space to reset. Let’s make it practical What could you do this week to give yourself a few mindful minutes? It doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to be something you’ll actually do. 💬 Let me know I’d love to hear from you—what are you going to try this week? 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveandshinewomenswellness/ 👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thriveandshinewomenswellness Come and share what helps you switch off—or whether you’re a jigsaw person! Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
What if you stopped comparing yourself to everyone else and simply allowed yourself to be ? In this episode, Roberta explores a clip featuring Stephen Fry and Robin Williams, where Fry makes a striking observation: animals don’t try to be other animals — but humans try to be someone else every single day . During perimenopause and postmenopause, when identity shifts are already happening — physically, emotionally, and socially — comparison becomes even more damaging. Hormonal changes lower resilience, increase cortisol, and intensify symptoms such as anxiety, overwhelm, fatigue, hot flushes, and disrupted sleep. Trying to be your younger self, or trying to match the filtered lives you see online, only ramps up stress. In this episode, Roberta breaks down why comparison is so corrosive at this stage of life, how it feeds perfectionism and low self-esteem, and why this matters biologically — not just psychologically. More importantly, she explains how to step out of the comparison trap using her EESE Framework™ , a practical process for exploring, evaluating, shifting, and embedding new subconscious patterns. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why comparison is heightened during perimenopause How cortisol, stress, and hormonal changes worsen symptoms Why perfectionism and “keeping up” make midlife feel harder How social media distorts reality and fuels low self-worth The danger of comparing your “outtakes” to someone else’s “showreel” How to shift unhelpful patterns using the EESE Framework™ Practical tools such as journaling, reframing, visualisation, and affirmations Why becoming “more yourself” — not more like others — is key to wellbeing in midlife This conversation is ideal for women who feel lost, pressured, or not “good enough” as their identity evolves in menopause. It offers both insight and practical, evidence-informed strategies to help you reconnect with who you truly are. Support Mentioned in This Episode If you’re ready to change long-standing patterns and let go of comparison: Subconscious & Mindset Mini Course — learn the EESE Framework™ step by step https://www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk/sc-minicourse CONTROL Sessions — 1:1 subconscious work to shift unhelpful patterns Menopause MOT — personalised support for your symptoms, mindset, and overall wellbeing Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
When was the last time you laughed so hard you cried? In this episode, Roberta explores why laughter isn’t just something that “feels nice” — it has measurable effects on your stress hormones, nervous system, and emotional wellbeing. And during perimenopause, when life often feels heavier and your resilience drops, laughter becomes even more powerful. Drawing on real moments from her Pilates classes (including giggle fits, seal noises, and the one client who can’t stop laughing during relaxation), Roberta explains how humour plays a vital role in helping women reconnect, release tension, and feel lighter — even when symptoms like low mood, fatigue, anxiety, or overwhelm are at play. You’ll also hear how hormonal changes during perimenopause affect cortisol, inflammation, sleep, brain fog, and emotional regulation — and why laughter literally counteracts many of these changes. In this episode, you’ll learn: How laughter lowers cortisol and reduces the stress response Why perimenopause makes everything feel heavier — and how laughter cuts through it The link between humour, connection, oxytocin, and emotional safety How shared laughter improves mood, cognition, and tension in the body Practical ways to bring more fun and silliness back into midlife Why adults laugh far less than children, and why that needs to change Real examples from Pilates classes that show how movement + humour support mental wellbeing This episode is perfect for anyone who feels overstretched, disconnected, or stuck in a cycle of stress and seriousness. A few moments of laughter won’t fix everything — but it gives your nervous system a break, tips a little water out of your stress bucket, and helps you feel more like yourself again. Support Mentioned in This Episode If your stress feels constant or you’re struggling to lift your mood: Local Pilates classes for movement, connection, and a good giggle Menopause MOT for personalised support CONTROL sessions for subconscious patterns that feed stress and overwhelm Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
In this episode, Roberta explores how the small, unnecessary pressures we carry every day—matching socks, tidy houses, perfect routines—quietly overload our stress bucket, especially during perimenopause when hormonal changes reduce resilience. Through a personal story involving her now-famous odd socks, Roberta illustrates how letting go of perfectionism and unnecessary decisions can create vital space for energy, health, joy, and the things that truly matter. You’ll learn: Why your “stress bucket” overflows more easily during perimenopause How invisible loads—like comparisons, guilt, and micro-decisions—erode resilience Practical ways to remove unnecessary stressors from your day Simple changes that make room for movement, rest, and the things that support your health Why reducing small stresses makes it easier to manage symptoms and feel more yourself again If your stress bucket feels permanently full, there is another way. Support Mentioned in This Episode: Menopause MOT – personalised assessment and support CONTROL Sessions – to address subconscious patterns contributing to overwhelm Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
Most of us would never ignore a flashing light on the dashboard — yet many women ignore the early signs of perimenopause for months or even years. In this episode, Women’s Health Physiotherapist and Menopause Mentor Roberta Bass uses a simple but powerful analogy: if your body were a car, would it pass its MOT? Roberta explains why women often push through symptoms, how hormone changes can affect everything from sleep to mood to joint health, and why taking action early can make the transition far easier. She also talks through five simple “self-checks” to help you understand what your body needs right now, and what can happen if you leave symptoms until everything feels like it’s falling apart. If you’ve been feeling tired, achy, overwhelmed, or “not quite yourself,” this episode will help you recognise the early warning signs and understand why your body may need a different kind of care during perimenopause. Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
Perimenopause can place enormous pressure on relationships, even those that have always felt strong. In this episode, Women’s Health Physiotherapist and Menopause Mentor Roberta Bass explores how fluctuating hormones influence mood, patience, libido, confidence, communication, and emotional regulation — and why so many midlife couples find this stage unexpectedly challenging. Roberta explains how hormonal shifts can change the way women react to everyday situations, why irritability can seem to appear from nowhere, and how sleep disturbance, anxiety, and fatigue can amplify tension at home. She also discusses how partners may misinterpret symptoms, why intimacy can change during perimenopause, and how to recognise when your reactions are hormonal rather than relationship-based. This episode offers reassurance, clarity, and practical strategies to help couples stay connected through a turbulent phase. Whether you're feeling more sensitive, disconnected, or overwhelmed — or whether your partner doesn’t fully understand what you’re going through — this conversation will help you make sense of it. Find support: Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
Most women reach perimenopause without ever having been taught what menopause actually is, what symptoms to expect, or how to recognise the early signs. In this episode, Women’s Health Physiotherapist and Menopause Mentor Roberta Bass explores why menopause education has been missing for so long — in schools, in healthcare training, and in society — and how this gap leaves many women feeling unprepared and worried when symptoms begin. Roberta reflects on her own experience through school, university, and professional training, where menopause was barely mentioned despite affecting every woman. She explains how this lack of education contributes to confusion, anxiety, and delayed support, and why understanding the changes happening in your body can make the transition far easier to manage. You’ll also hear why previous generations may have experienced menopause differently, how modern stress and lifestyle can intensify symptoms, and why open conversations with younger women are essential so they don’t face the same silence. If you’ve ever thought “Why did no one tell me this?”, this episode will help you understand the bigger picture — and what you can do next to feel more informed and supported. Find support: Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
In this heartfelt and empowering episode of Making Sense of Menopause , women’s health physiotherapist and wellness mentor Roberta Bass reflects on the importance of mindset and community in creating lasting change. Roberta shares honestly about her own journey — from leaving the NHS and starting her clinic to rebuilding her confidence and finding support through community. She explains why mindset underpins every part of the SENSSE® Method and how surrounding yourself with supportive people can transform how you feel, think, and grow. You’ll hear real-life reflections on overcoming fear, building confidence, and the value of not doing everything alone — whether that’s in business, health, or life in general. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why mindset is the foundation of all meaningful change How community connection boosts motivation and confidence Why asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness How Roberta’s own mindset shift transformed her wellbeing and business How the SENSSE® Method ties mindset to overall women’s health Resources & Links: Learn more at Thrive and Shine Women’s Wellness Follow Roberta on Instagram: @thriveandshinewomenswellness Discover the SENSSE® Method for whole-person health and empowerment Episode takeaway: You don’t have to do it all alone. Support, connection, and the right mindset can move you further than willpower ever could. Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
In this honest and inspiring episode of Making Sense of Menopause , women’s health physiotherapist and wellness mentor Roberta Bass shares her personal experience of living with chronic fatigue and hypermobility — and how committing to gentle, consistent morning movement transformed her energy, pain, and mindset. Roberta reveals what finally made the difference after years of discomfort, frustration, and trial and error, and how simple movement — not perfection — became the key to managing her health. You’ll learn how exercise supports not just physical strength but also mental wellbeing, better sleep, and emotional balance. Whether you’re dealing with fatigue, joint pain, or simply struggling to find motivation, this episode will encourage you to start small, stay consistent, and rediscover what your body can do. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why gentle, consistent exercise can reduce fatigue and pain How to find a routine that fits your energy levels and lifestyle The surprising benefits of Pilates for chronic fatigue and joint health Why perfection isn’t the goal — consistency is Simple ways to bring movement into your mornings Resources & Links: Learn more at Thrive and Shine Women’s Wellness Follow Roberta on Instagram: @thriveandshinewomenswellness Discover the SENSSE® Method for whole-person wellbeing Episode takeaway: You don’t need to overhaul your life to feel better — start with one small movement. A few consistent minutes each morning can improve pain, boost energy, and change how you feel throughout the day. Send us Fan Mail www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk Free Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watch Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools. Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.
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