In Eastern cultures, including Japan, aging and menopause are often regarded with respect and acceptance, viewing them as natural transitions into wisdom and maturity. Aging is seen as a cycle, where each life stage has value, and elders are respected for their experience. Menopause, particularly, is seen as a "second rebirth," a time when women can focus on self-growth and are honoured for entering a wise-woman phase. Practices like meditation, herbal medicine, and self-reflection are common, emphasizing inner balance and harmony with nature.

In contrast, many Western societies tend to view aging more negatively, often associating it with decline and loss of vitality. Menopause is frequently medicalised, with a strong focus on managing symptoms rather than celebrating this transition. Western culture’s emphasis on youth can sometimes lead to age-related stigma, where older individuals - especially women - may feel pressure to maintain a youthful appearance. However, recent shifts are challenging these views, with a growing movement encouraging Western women to embrace menopause and aging as a period of liberation and personal power, echoing some traditional Eastern perspectives.

Here's how this "second rebirth" is often viewed:

It is viewed as a Reconnection with Inner Self: In Japanese and East Asian spiritual traditions, menopause is seen as a time to let go of the roles and expectations tied to reproduction and caregiving, allowing for a return to one’s core self. This inward focus aligns with Buddhist and Shinto philosophies, which value introspection, self-awareness, and the pursuit of inner harmony.

It is seen as Empowerment and Wisdom: In Japanese culture, there’s a deep respect for aging and the wisdom it brings. Menopause is embraced as a natural progression into the "wise woman" phase of life. Women are viewed as transitioning into elderhood, a revered stage where they can serve as mentors and guides, holding invaluable life experience and wisdom.

One should embrace the Cycle of Renewal: Just as the natural world cycles through seasons, this period is seen as a transition rather than an end. The body and mind are thought to realign in new ways, like the Japanese notion of mono no aware — an appreciation for the impermanence of things. Menopause marks the closing of one chapter and the opening of another, akin to the shedding of old leaves to make way for new growth.

Try to focus on Healing and Harmony: Many Japanese wellness practices, like kanpo (Japanese herbal medicine) and naikan (a type of introspective therapy), support women in this life stage. These traditions encourage gentle self-care, inner reflection, and maintaining harmony within the body, reflecting the belief that this “rebirth” period requires nourishment and compassion for oneself.

Create the opportunity for New Purpose: This period offers space to redefine one’s life goals and rediscover forgotten passions. With fewer societal expectations, many women are encouraged to invest in themselves, whether that means exploring creative pursuits, community involvement, or personal spiritual development.

Through these perspectives, menopause is celebrated as a natural, respected stage of life - a second chance to live with freedom, wisdom, and renewed purpose. The Japanese cultural approach to menopause thus fosters resilience and self-empowerment, helping women embrace this phase as a time of transformation.