karmachoden

Spontaneous expression of thoughts and emotions in words.

Archive for the month “February, 2024”

14 Feb 2024
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Navigating the Menopausal Transition: Understanding Hormonal Changes

Menopause embodies a remarkable phase in a woman’s life, representing the culmination of her menstrual cycles. Usually occurring in her mid 40s or early 50s, this transition brings about profound hormonal roller coaster rides, particularly a decrease in estrogen levels. These fluctuations have a profound impact on a woman’s overall well-being, especially her mental health.

Numerous studies have revealed a strong link between menopause and mental health issues. A study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry highlighted that women in perimenopause or early postmenopause are more susceptible to experiencing depressive symptoms. Similarly, research in the journal Menopause revealed a higher prevalence of anxiety symptoms in menopausal women compared to their premenopausal counterparts. These compelling findings underscore the significant influence of menopausal hormonal changes on mental well-being.

Research on this topic has shed light on the prevalence of these symptoms among women, with a significant 75% experiencing them. This staggering statistic underscores the widespread impact on various facets of women’s lives, including their careers, relationships, and even the well-being of their children. The implications of these numbers are vast and call for further understanding and support for those affected.

The emotional distress experienced by women between the ages of 45 and 55 due to menopause can be truly heartbreaking. Many women in this stage of life find themselves grappling with depression and a sense of overwhelming anguish, leading them to consider drastic measures. It’s important to recognize that these women do not wish to end their lives; rather, they long to escape the daily torment and find relief from the emotional and physical challenges brought on by menopause. This period can be incredibly difficult, and it’s essential for these women to receive support and understanding as they navigate this complex and often turbulent phase of life.

The complex and multifaceted nature of menopause requires a comprehensive understanding of its potential impacts on mental health. Menopausal women often face a myriad of challenges related to cognitive function, concentration, and memory, which can be attributed to the hormonal fluctuations and associated symptoms they experience. The occurrence of hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep disturbances can significantly disrupt daily life and exacerbate feelings of mental strain. It is crucial to acknowledge the intricate interplay between menopause and mental well-being, as this recognition forms the foundation for providing tailored support and effective interventions to women navigating this transformative phase of life.

Moreover, the profound impact of menopause on mental health underscores the pressing need for further research aimed at unraveling the underlying mechanisms of this relationship. By gaining a deeper understanding of the physiological and psychological processes at play, researchers and healthcare professionals can develop more targeted and comprehensive strategies for managing the mental health aspects of menopause. This research is essential for the advancement of evidence-based approaches that address the unique challenges faced by menopausal women, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being during this natural and significant life transition.

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12 Feb 2024

Exploring Tasmania-A zero carbon paradise

From 13th December to 24th December 2023, I found myself Down Under in Tasmania, mate! This place is not your average state in Australia – it’s a zero carbon paradise thanks to all those rainforests and the decreased logging. The air there is so fresh, you’d think they bottled it up and sold it! And the sights – from the bustling Hobart city to the historic Port Arthur, and let’s not forget the serene and beautiful Bruny Island. Oh, and the wilderness cruise from Port Arthur to Tasman Peninsula is wildly fun!

Rainforest in Huang Valley with Tahune River underneath

Historic Port Arthur

But the real highlight? The Saturday Salamanca Market, which has been running for a whopping fifty years. It’s so jam-packed, you can hardly find a spot to put your foot down! I swear, it’s a competitive sport just walking through there. And the people? Locals and tourists alike, all crammed in for a good time.

Oh, and let me tell you about this hilarious encounter I had with a Vietnamese Uber driver. When he found out I was from Bhutan, he got all excited and started rummaging through his music collection for Bhutanese tunes. He played this super calming “Om Mani Padme Hung” and I had to break it to him – it’s not just a song, it’s a mantra! Next thing you know, I’m giving him a crash course in reciting Buddhist teachings and we stumble upon a dead wild animal on the road. Cue me reciting “Om Mani Padme Hung” and explaining to him the whole deal about generating compassion for the poor departed soul. I never thought my Buddhist teachings would come in handy during an Uber ride!

Fast forward to my solo hike to Dodeydrak Buddhist Monastery in Thimphu, Bhutan. I’m there, seeking blessings from a young spiritual teacher as a beginner, feeling out of my element. But you know what he tells me? “Start with ‘Om Mani Padme Hung’, friend!” And just like that, I’m welcomed into the world of Buddhist practice. Who would’ve thought that a simple mantra could lead to such delightful adventures in Tasmania and beyond? Here’s to unexpected enlightenment!

I shouldn’t forget to mention the epic battle I had with the mighty wind at the peak of Mount Wellington Lookout. It was insanely windy and cold – I couldn’t even move forward! So, I thought, “If you can’t beat them, join them,” and just strolled with the wind like we were old pals.

And so, one fine day, I made the bold decision to embark on a grand adventure to explore the charming town of Glenorchy, setting out from my cozy cottage on foot. Little did I know that this whimsical journey would consume a staggering 6 hours of my time, encompassing a whopping 35,000 steps and spanning a distance of 25 kilometers. As if that wasn’t enough, it appears that I also managed to empty a remarkable 6 cans of refreshing beer to fuel my epic expedition. Oh, the things we do for adventure!

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01 Feb 2024
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Embracing Self-Love and Empathy: A Journey of Resilience and Compassion

On this glorious 1st of February 2023, I graced the magnificent Taj Mahal, the embodiment of love and one of the wonders of the world, in India. It was a journey of self-love and self-celebration as I marked the golden milestone of my fifty years on this wondrous planet. Today, as I turn fifty and 365 days young, I ponder on the significance of falling in love with myself once more.

For the past three years, I embraced a life of solitude, withdrawing from social media, family, and friends. In the depths of my being, I battled profound depression and severe anxiety, with thoughts of ending my own life haunting me relentlessly. Attempts to confide in loved ones only left me feeling misunderstood and judged, fueling my isolation. Medications such as sertraline, diazepam (Valium), and sleeping tablets became essential for my mental well-being.

Despite my disconnection from the world, I persisted in my work, masquerading behind a facade of happiness. I recall the words from a book that the person who laughs the loudest and smiles the biggest is often the saddest – that person was me three years ago. I waged a silent, solitary war, seeking solace in extensive travels between my professional commitments. A larger narrative on depression, anxiety, and mental health will follow in due course.

Today, as I celebrate my 51st birthday, I fervently urge myself to show kindness to my own being. I have done my bit for my  family, friends, relatives, siblings, and even strangers in need. I have made valuable contributions to both local and global communities. Having spent 18 productive years educating bright young minds of today, I have proudly served my country. My efforts have extended to assisting numerous NGOs and organizations in both Bhutan and Australia.

In essence, I’ve come to realize that for the last fifty one years, I’ve primarily lived my life for others. Why should I continue to burden myself with guilt for not doing enough? Like any regular person, I’ve made numerous mistakes, and I’ve found myself caught in a cycle of overthinking and, ultimately, depression as I dwell on these past errors. However, upon introspection and contemplation, I’ve come to recognize that my mistakes pale in comparison to the positive impact I’ve had on the world.

It’s crucial to acknowledge the journey that has brought me to where I am today. Recognizing the adversity I have faced and the resilience I have shown, I understand the importance of self-compassion. My experiences have shaped me into an empathetic and compassionate individual, and it’s high time I extend that empathy and compassion towards myself.

Taking this moment to reflect and celebrate, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities that have allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the lives of others. As I turn the page to this new chapter of my life, I embrace the idea of living authentically, without the weight of past expectations and perceived failures. There is strength in vulnerability, and I find solace in knowing that the battles I’ve fought have paved the way for greater self-discovery and profound understanding.

Today, I’m sharing my story not to seek empathy or sympathy, but to shatter the stereotypes and stigma surrounding depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. I share my story to shed light on all the courageous souls silently battling, to let them know that I survived and so can you. My story aims to initiate open dialogues and foster conversations about mental health, breaking the silence and bringing about awareness.

It is imperative that we create a supportive environment where individuals feel free to share their experiences without fear of judgment. By doing so, we can dismantle the misconceptions and misunderstandings that often surround mental health. Through openness and understanding, we can offer solace and strength to those struggling, and strive to build a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

I believe that each person’s journey with mental health is unique and deserves to be respected. Let us continue to stand together, embracing empathy and compassion, and encouraging one another to seek the help and support we need. Together, we can shift the narrative around mental health, replacing shame with acceptance, and isolation with connection. Remember, you are not alone, and your story has the power to inspire and uplift others.

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