BY JACQUELINE FENTON-COLLINS

A Journey of Unexpected Lessons

My first lesson of 2026 came unexpectedly and quite dramatically. Recently, my husband and I spent a few days in southern Spain. Life felt good. The sea air was refreshing, the seafood was delightful, and the local red wine was a treat. We enjoyed long walks through steep, winding streets.

I was truly loving life.

After a couple of days, we decided to visit friends who live in the middle of nowhere, north of Málaga. There had been heavy rain for weeks, and we knew some of the roads had been damaged.

A Terrifying Experience

While driving along a narrow, eroded country road, the road literally disappeared beneath us. The car slid off the edge and down the mountain, finally stopping when shrubs and a boulder wedged us in place, tilted at a 45-degree angle.

Yes, it was terrifying. Yes, my life flashed before my eyes, which is slightly ironic as I am blind.

Thankfully, we were both unharmed. Seatbelts on. It was a lucky escape.

Later, once I was safely on a sofa with a glass of brandy, one thought kept returning: I had been complacent. I knew the roads were bad. I knew there had been landslides. And yet, I did not ask for guidance from someone who knew the terrain.

The Connection to Menopause

That moment stayed with me because I see the same thing happen so often during menopause. We are navigating unfamiliar territory. Our bodies are changing. The signs are there, but we are often told to just get on with it.

Asking for Guidance Isn’t a Failure

Here is what I believe deeply:

💛 It is not a failure to ask for support.

💛 You do not need to navigate this terrain alone.

💛 Having a guide can change everything.

Menopause wellbeing is not just about symptom management. It is about creating safety, knowledge, and connection. Guidance from experts, supportive peers, or practices like Menopause Yoga can help you navigate changes with confidence.

Learning From My Experience

Sometimes, life gives you a very literal roadblock. Sometimes, menopause does the same in a metaphorical way. Asking for help is not a weakness. It is wisdom.

If you need a guide or want to speak with someone who is familiar with this terrain, click here to book a discovery call with me and find out how I can support you on your menopause journey.

Creating a Culture of Support

Just as I could have avoided the landslide by seeking local advice, workplaces can support women through menopause by fostering open dialogue and offering guidance. Workshops, peer networks, and wellbeing initiatives create environments where asking for help is celebrated, not stigmatized.

Building a Supportive Community

Creating a supportive community is essential. We can share our experiences and learn from one another. By connecting with others who understand our journey, we can find strength and encouragement.

Support can come in many forms. Whether it’s through online forums, local meet-ups, or professional guidance, having a network can make a significant difference.

The Importance of Self-Care

Self-care plays a vital role during menopause. It’s essential to listen to our bodies and give ourselves the care we need. This might mean prioritising rest, engaging in gentle exercise, or exploring mindfulness practices.

Taking time for ourselves is not selfish; it’s necessary. We deserve to feel our best as we navigate this journey.

Conclusion

Menopause is a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. The lesson I learned on that Spanish mountain is the same lesson I carry into my wellbeing work: asking for guidance is not a failure. It is essential.

💛 If you are navigating menopause, reach out, seek support, and remember that you do not need to go through it alone. Together, we can find balance and confidence in this new chapter of life.