Kay & Jenni - The Healing Power of Sewing and Creativity In Menopause

Jenni Smith and Kay Walsh are a bright, colourful breath of fresh air. In today's conversation, Jenni and Kay share how they got into sewing, what they have done with this connection, their experiences with perimenopause and menopause (of course!) and... wait for it... how their passion takes them to Hawaii. Yes, they are in fact globe trotting quilt makers and dress makers. We discuss how sewing is something of a therapeutic outlet, how we need to rekindle our creativity in midlife and how they actively empower other women through craft. The conversation highlights the importance of community, open dialogue about women's health issues, and the need to role model self care. There is a real joy that comes from creating something unique and they have given me real food for thought about alternative ways to combat stress. "Don't be scared, just get stuck in." Takeaways: Sewing can be a therapeutic outlet for mental health. Motherhood often leads to a loss of personal identity. Perimenopause symptoms can be subtle and varied. Community support is crucial during life transitions. Open conversations about menopause can reduce stigma. Sewing fosters creativity and provides a sense of accomplishment. Exercise and routine can help manage menopause symptoms. HRT can alleviate anxiety and other symptoms of menopause. Empowerment comes from sharing experiences with others. Creating a supportive environment encourages women to learn new skills. Creativity can be a powerful form of self-care. Sewing fosters community and connection among diverse individuals. Inspiring younger generations to embrace crafting is essential. Upcycling allows for personal expression and environmental awareness. Overcoming the fear of failure is key to unlocking creativity. Sharing projects can build joy and community spirit. The experience of menopause can be enriched by creative pursuits. Everyone has the potential to be creative, regardless of past experiences. Building confidence in sewing starts with small, manageable projects. Connecting with others through shared interests can lead to lasting friendships. 00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds 06:04 Navigating Motherhood and Identity 12:02 Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause 17:54 Sewing as a Therapeutic Outlet 19:54 The Power of Creativity and Community 21:59 Inspiring the Next Generation 25:02 Embracing Upcycling and Personal Expression 28:05 Overcoming Creative Fears 29:59 Building Joy Through Connection 32:09 Future Projects and Aspirations 35:01 Wisdom from the Journey of Menopause You can find Jenni and Kay on IG @jenniandkaycreate or on their website and their inspiringly creative book, Menopause Makes is out on March 14th 2025. You can always reach me by email hatty@realmenopausetalk.com or here https://realmenopausetalk.com