Learning from nature: leading through menopause.
Most of us grow up hearing the same tired story: that menopause marks the beginning of decline. But nature tells a different story — a wiser one. One that’s been unfolding in oceans and communities for generations.
Only a small handful of species experience menopause: humans, orcas, narwhals, and belugas. And in all of them, something incredible happens…
The elder females become the leaders.
In orca pods, postmenopausal females are the ones who remember where to find food during tough seasons. They guide younger whales through danger. They hold the wisdom of the group — and they pass it on.
Sound familiar?
This is known as the Grandmother Hypothesis — a theory that suggests evolution favored menopause in species where the elder females played a vital role in helping their communities survive and thrive.
You’re not done — you’re essential.
You’re not invisible — you’re invaluable.
Menopause isn’t a medical problem.
It’s a biological upgrade.
It’s your body saying:
- “You’ve carried others. Now it’s time to carry truth.”
Understanding Menopause: A Natural Transition
Menopause is a completely natural biological process marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, though every woman’s experience is unique. Menopause is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period and is often accompanied by changes in hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone.
Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Mood changes or irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Weight changes
- Changes in libido
- Vaginal dryness
While many of these changes can feel uncomfortable or confusing, it’s important to remember that menopause is not a disease — it’s a life phase, much like adolescence or pregnancy. Your body is recalibrating, not breaking down.
There are natural and holistic approaches that can support this transition, from strengthening your circadian rhythm, increasing animal-based protein, and engaging in strength training, to incorporating daily movement, grounding, sauna sessions, and seasonal eating.
The Aging Games Perspective
In a world obsessed with youth, we’ve forgotten how sacred aging really is. But the body hasn’t forgotten. And neither has nature.
The Grandmother Hypothesis is a reminder that this chapter of life was designed for purpose, clarity, and leadership. Just like the orcas, belugas, and narwhals, human females are biologically wired to step into a guiding role within their families and communities. This isn’t the end — it’s the rise of the matriarch.
Whether you’re navigating hot flashes, emotional shifts, or just feeling like the world doesn’t see you the same way — I want you to know: you are not broken.
You are becoming.
Final Thoughts
If you’d like to explore this topic more deeply, I’ve shared some helpful resources on my YouTube channel.
In this video, I cover my top 5 menopause tips — the real, practical strategies that have made a huge difference in my own journey and in the lives of the women I support.
And in this powerful conversation with Dr. Stillman, we dive into what truly supports graceful aging in women. Spoiler: it’s not what the beauty industry is selling. We explore how nature, minimal toxin exposure, and choosing natural products can radically change how we age — from the inside out.
So if you’re in this season of life, know this: You are not alone. You are not past your prime. You are perfectly placed.
✨ Welcome to The Aging Games — where wisdom rises, strength deepens, and you step fully into the role you were always meant to play.
