The brain-body connection in perimenopause | Paula Rastrick | #041 Mastering Change

Perimenopause is often described as a hormonal shift – but what if it’s also a neurological and emotional one? 

In this episode of Mastering Change, Paula Rastrick, founder of The Brain-Body Method, explores how trauma, stress sensitivity and hormonal health are intricately linked. 

Paula explains how our stress profiles begin developing in the womb, shaped by our mother’s nervous system and early attachment experiences. Through her neuro-bio-psycho-social lens, she shows how unresolved trauma can re-emerge during perimenopause, when fluctuations in cortisol and GABA bring stress patterns to the surface. 

“There's a lot of talk within the trauma world of nervous system dysregulation – but I think we're not understanding the biochemical neurological aspect of that.” 

We explore: 

• The brain-body connection in perimenopause 
• How early adversity shapes stress sensitivity and hormonal response 
• Why perimenopause can re-trigger unresolved trauma 
• The role of cortisol and GABA in emotional regulation 
• How nervous system awareness supports hormonal balance 

Moment of Care: This episode discusses sensitive episodes related to trauma, mental health and potential distressing experiences. If you feel triggered at any point, please take a moment to check in with yourself and seek support. 

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/masteringchangepodcast

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