Taking Care of Me: Midlife Self Care and Advocacy with Nikki Parkinson

Wild + (finally fcking) Free: Real, Raw Stories of Metamorphosis, Growth and Evolution

Nikki Parkinson, 56, is a former journalist-turned blogger, author and now fashion designer. At the core of all that she does is her love of helping and supporting women to find greater confidence through their everyday style and the life they lead.

In 2019, Nikki launched her own fashion label, Styling You TheLabel, offering Australian-made, non-boring wardrobe basics that take the stress out of the what-to-wear question. She has long advocated for a disruption in the way that fashion is marketed to women. Styling You The Label is the first label globally to invest in showcasing its designs on every size that it sells–size6-20. Not only does that increase customer confidence but it flips the idea that fashion should only be seen on one size, height, age, colour, belief or ability.

In this enlightening episode, we explore the intricate relationship between perimenopause and mental health. Nikki opens up about her tumultuous journey through perimenopause, likening it to the intense transition period of childbirth. She emphasises the importance of education and research in helping women understand these changes and ask the right questions, and shares her experiences with hormone treatments and the significant role they play in managing perimenopause symptoms.

We further venture into the significance of advocating for women's health and the future. As women, we often sideline our own needs, which can be detrimental to our health and well-being. We discuss the importance of breaking this cycle, for our own benefit and that of future generations. Nikki shares her thoughts on how we can approach the topic of menopause with our daughters and help normalise these conversations.

The conversation then shifts to Nikki's experiences running a business and the challenges she faced, particularly with the changing economic landscape. She offers valuable insights into maintaining mental health while adapting to these changes. Nikki also shares her unique perspective on the relationship between women's bodies and fashion, and her commitment to inclusivity through her fashion label.

Wrapping up the discussion, we talk about the power of sharing experiences and the importance of having a support network, especially during challenging times such as menopause. Listen in as we explore these issues and more.

You can find Nikki and Styling You online at www.stylingyou.com.au

And read one of Nikki's many vulnerable and so helpful posts here here: https://www.stylingyou.com.au/2021/03/soberish

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