I hope that your yearly planner is now in action and is making your more aware and accountable to your self in your approach to a healthy new you! Spring news message is going to be looking at us on the out side, what we may encounter and how we can keep ourselves well and look good as we progress through the menopause.

HAIR growth patterns change as we enter the menopause because oestrogen receptors are in the hair follicle that maintain growth and rest cycles. Many women notice a change in body with thinning, becoming less manageable as well as colour pigment change as hair becomes lighter to silver or grey. Thinning of hair may be caused by anaemia, whilst brittle and very dry hair may be the sign of thyroid dysfunction (see endocrine system) Hair growth is quicker in the summer, in winter hair matures and falls out.

Scalp massage can help stimulate circulation and increase blood flow to the root area, encouraging nutrition into the follicle for better growth and healthy hair; it may also relieve tension and aid relaxation. Start at the top of the scalp working backwards to the nap of the neck. Regular trims will help maintain good style, but avoid too many styling products, to keep hair shinning and healthy.

SKIN- has three layers and is the biggest organ in the body, playing a vital role in protection, support and elimination of toxins and waste products. The major component of connective tissue is collagen; this is affected by oestrogen receptors that make collagen. During the menopause these levels may drop giving rise to various conditions, the skin thins and is less able to hold moisture. Exposure to the sun rays wind and extreme temperature take their toll as do medication, smoking and alcohol along with hormonal changes. The hands are the most noticeable as the skin is thin and develops age spots that appear as brown marks, the neck, sometimes neglected requires cleansing and moisturising as much as the face. Moisturise the whole of the body often and protect hands with gloves. Examine your skin regularly for any change’s especially moles and log standing blemishes, look at and note the size shape and colour, if there are changes, itching or bleeding seek medical advice. Skin melanomas (cancer) are twice as common in women than men, usually found on the face and legs (make a note on the reverse of your yearly planner to location and size for reference, check monthly) always use a moisture cream that contains a high sun factor protection (SF15-25)

Skin brushing and exfoliation draw out waste products as well as removing deed skin cells this boosts lymphatic drainage and tones the skin. Use a natural bristle brush gently brush in upward stokes towards the heart on a regular basis, creams containing natural plant extracts boost cell renewal and retention of moisture.

NAILS Inspection of the fingernails can give valuable information on your general health and well-being. Nails are made of a protein called Keratin growing about 5 cms a year; women’s grow slower than men’s except in pregnancy. Healthy nails should be smooth curved and pink. There are many reasons for abnormalities in nails and nail bed, from fungal to systemic disease including heart, lung and kidney disease. White nails, flat and concave may suggest anaemia & poor circulation, red or purple may be a excess of sugar, and drugs whilst very dark nails may suggest high levels of fatty acid and cholesterol which may be a cause of coronary heart disease

General healthy and well-being will be given a boost as the start of British summer time this month 30th March 2002 will mean longer days of natural sunshine, warmer air and more relaxation. For those who suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) they can look forward to an increase in energy levels, inducing better sleep and eating patterns Regular daily exercise aids circulation and aids bone density (see osteoporosis) don’t forget that the body needs fat to function, ensure you have a supply of good fats and oils. Diet is very important especially at the time of the menopause the lack of one vital element will deplete other sources. The intake of fluids is essential 2-4 litres a day; even more when exercising Herbal teas are refreshing with no added caffeine, along with a healthy balanced diet will all contribute to a balanced and healthy body.

Remember that a POSITIVE MIND and ATTITUDE go a long way.