In recent years, menopause retreats have emerged as a valuable resource for women navigating the complexities of this life stage. A recent retreat in Todos Santos, Mexico, called Emergence, hosted by intimacy coach and somatic therapist Zoë Kors, provided a transformative experience for participants. Women gathered to connect, share their experiences, and explore the emotional and physical challenges associated with menopause.
Among the attendees was Aran Klingensmith, a 52-year-old who described feeling more at peace than she had in years. After a decade of grappling with symptoms of perimenopause—including anxiety, insomnia, and weight gain—Klingensmith found herself at a crossroads. With healthcare providers often dismissing her concerns, she sought solace and understanding at the retreat, which promised a chance to rediscover her identity amidst the changes.
The significance of menopause retreats is amplified by the growing number of women entering this stage of life. According to estimates, more than a billion women will be menopausal globally by 2030. This demographic has long been underserved, as noted by Melissa Biggs Bradley, founder of Indagare, a luxury travel planning company. In response to this need, Indagare launched its first Wise Women’s Health Retreat in 2023, which garnered such positive feedback it scheduled additional events in Italy and beyond.
Holistic Approaches to Menopause Support
Menopause retreats often take a holistic approach, addressing a variety of symptoms and personal needs. These events typically feature wellness activities such as yoga, meditation, and outdoor excursions, all of which can provide relief during the turbulent perimenopausal phase. Dr. Sameena Rahman, a Chicago-based ob-gyn and menopause specialist, emphasizes the restorative benefits of these practices.
For participants like Isabel van Zuilen, the allure of a relaxing escape amid nature played a significant role in their decision to attend retreats. For instance, van Zuilen attended the “Hot, Not Bothered” retreat in Scotts Valley, California, where functional medicine practitioners guided discussions and activities aimed at alleviating menopause symptoms.
Retreats located at wellness resorts often enhance the experience with luxurious amenities. Attendees can indulge in herbal steam rooms, thermal plunge pools, and other soothing treatments tailored to ease specific symptoms. For example, the Hormonal Rebalance retreat at Ananda in the Himalayas offers acupuncture and herbal remedies, while programs at Canyon Ranch include advanced diagnostic tools such as DEXA scans to assess bone density.
Education and Empowerment
Beyond relaxation and symptom management, menopause retreats also focus on providing participants with practical information they can apply in their daily lives. Workshops led by experts cover topics like dietary adjustments, sleep strategies, and mental health support. This educational component is particularly important for women like Klingensmith, whose symptoms were often overlooked by their healthcare providers.
Dr. Somi Javaid, a Cincinnati-based ob-gyn and founder of women’s health platform HerMD, highlights the ongoing struggle for women to receive comprehensive menopause care. Many ob-gyns lack the time or training to address the full spectrum of symptoms and treatments available. Retreats can fill this gap by offering personalized guidance and fostering open discussions about often-taboo subjects.
As Klingensmith reflected on her experience, she noted the profound sense of validation and empowerment that emerged from connecting with other women. Sharing vulnerabilities in a supportive environment not only fostered camaraderie but also allowed participants to embrace their identities beyond caregiving roles or professional titles.
The atmosphere of acceptance and understanding at menopause retreats encourages women to view this life stage as one of potential rather than decline. The narratives shared by speakers and fellow participants serve to reframe menopause as an opportunity for personal growth, rather than a period of loss.
Klingensmith’s experience underscores the transformative impact of dedicating time to explore the challenges and possibilities of menopause. The retreat provided her with the space to reconnect with her sense of self, free from the responsibilities of work and family. As she described, “To not be responsible for anything else—work emails, mom needs—was an extraordinary gift.”
In conclusion, menopause retreats are carving out a vital niche for women seeking support, education, and empowerment during a significant transition in their lives. By fostering connections and providing valuable resources, these retreats help participants navigate menopause with confidence and resilience.
