You recently mentioned using phyto-oestrogenic herbs to relieve the symptoms of menopause. Which herbs you were referring to?

There are many natural things you can do to relieve the symptoms of menopause. Japanese women, whose diets are high in plant oestrogens known as phyto-oestrogens, have far fewer menopausal problems than western women. Phyto-oestrogens have a hormone-regulating effect and moderate our own much stronger acting oestrogens (responsible for many symptoms of the menopause). Alfalfa, linseeds, rhubarb, celery, fennel and other green and yellow vegetables have this effect.

Also beneficial are chickpeas, lentils, soya beans and fermented soya products such as miso, natto and tempeh (available in healthfood shops). Phyto-oestrogenic herbs taken systematically for at least three months have an adaptogenic effect on oestrogen levels, raising or lowering activity as needed. Mexican yam, dong quai, black cohosh and vitex agnus castus, ginseng, sarsaparilla, liquorice root, sage and yarrow all help, different combinations reducing different symptoms. A fact-sheet, Enjoying The Menopause, and herbal creams and formulas are available from Higher Nature on 0870 066 0808.

I gave birth to my first baby six weeks ago and had a straightforward labour. At my postnatal check a few days ago, my GP assured me that all is well, but I don't feel that my body has recovered from pregnancy and the birth. I would like to exercise, especially to help my pelvic floor and tummy muscles. I am not really an aerobics person and would prefer something that also helps me to relax. What would you suggest?

I have just had my fourth baby, and regained my strength and shape after previous births with yoga. Postnatal yoga is gentle, and safe to do from six weeks after the birth - it will stretch, strengthen and tone muscles without unnecessary strain or exhaustion. There are specific exercises for the pelvic floor and tummy muscles. Focusing on breathing through the exercises is amazingly relaxing and has many benefits: it enables you to think more clearly, sleep well and to relax easily - which is important when you are looking after a baby and may be able to grab only the occasional 10 minutes to re-energise. Simple Postnatal Yoga, from littlegemsyoga.co.uk, is an excellent new video by very experienced teachers; or contact birthlight.com to find postnatal classes in your area.

I get sharp pains in my neck glands, especially the day after drinking alcohol, and sometimes after yoga. Is this normal? And is there anything I can do to prevent it?

No, this is not normal and my advice would be to ask your GP for a diagnosis. This symptom could be due to exhaustion. Usually, painful lymph nodes indicate an infection - in your arms, head or neck, for instance - and well may be hidden from obvious view, but if this were the case the pain would probably be more constant. Are you sure that the pain is from the glands? Muscular pain in the neck after yoga could be the result of incorrect positioning during exercises such as the shoulder stand. Make sure that your teacher is fully qualified. If so, it would be wise to ask him/her to check your technique. Drink plenty of water after drinking alcohol.

· Emma Mitchell is a natural health therapist. Her recommendations are to be followed in conjunction with advice from your own healthcare provider. Send your questions to Wellbeing, Guardian Weekend, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER. Email: ask.emma@theguardian.com.