Menopause Beyond Hot Flashes: Finding Freedom in Midlife

Send us a text When Istra Bauza says, “This transition isn’t the end—it’s the moment you become more of you,” she captures the transformative potential of menopause. Beyond hot flashes and physical changes lies an invitation to profound self-discovery and authenticity. In our third conversation together, Istra—now a licensed professional counselor—shares how midlife transitions often spark more than symptoms. They can trigger a radical reassessment of identity, boundaries, and what it really means to live well. We talk openly about the physical realities—disrupted sleep, joint pain, weight shifts—while reframing menopause as a season of growth rather than loss. What if the changes you’re experiencing are actually guiding you back to your truest self? In this episode, you’ll discover:Why menopause is more than symptoms—it’s an identity shiftHow hormonal changes invite deeper emotional and mental workWhy self-acceptance and inner wisdom matter more than quick fixesThe surprising freedom many women find from external validation 🎧 Whether you’re moving through this transition yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers practical wisdom and a fresh perspective on midlife. "This transition isn’t the end—it’s the moment you become more of you." —Istra Bauza CONNECT WITH WELLNESS ISTRA BAUZE  ⬇️💚 Istra Bauza, Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate Supervised by JylScott Reagan, LPC-s Owner of Soul and Sun Counseling and Wellness www.soulandsun.com 281-673-6019 CONNECT WITH WELLNESS INSPIRED  ⬇️💚 Linktree: [@sheridavidson | Linktree](https://linktr.ee/sheridavidson) Join The Wellness Inspired community: https://www.wellnessinspiredpodcast.com/newsletter Facebook: [The Wellness Inspired Podcast - Home](https://www.facebook.com/wellnessinspiredpodcast) Instagram: [Sheri Davidson, L.Ac. (@wellness_inspired) • Instagram photos and videos](https://www.instagram.com/wellness_inspired/) LinkedIn: [Sheri Davidson - Chief Wellness Officer - Element 5 OM, Acupuncture + Wellness | LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheri-davidson/) Element 5, Acupuncture + Wellness www.element5om.com Facebook: [Element 5, Acupuncture + Wellness - Home](https://www.facebook.com/element5om/?ref=pages_you_manage) Instagram: [Sheri Davidson (@element5_acuwell) on Instagram • 145 photos and videos](https://www.instagram.com/element5_acuwell/) LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheri-davidson/