Menopause retreats offer shared experiences and a sense of control | members only access

Menopause retreats are trending in the travel space as resorts rush to add wellness programming designed to help women navigate this tricky midlife terrain. Melissa Biggs Bradley, CEO of

Indagare, a membership-based luxury travel agency that offered its inaugural four-night menopause retreat last fall at Canyon Ranch Lenox in the Berkshires in Massachusetts, calls them “the

ultimate intentional reset” for women who want to age gracefully through what can be a challenging transition. “These retreats are opportunities for women to focus on themselves — to learn

about their bodies, concentrate on fitness, spirituality, healthy eating and community, and leave feeling relaxed and inspired as we do from any great vacation,” she says. At most menopause

retreats, typically restricted to small groups, health care and wellness, professionals talk about a bevy of topics, including sexual function, hormone changes and moodiness. The self-care

packages often include spa treatments, hiking, yoga, guided meditation, nutritional guidance, sharing circles and a chance to bond with other women. A RETREAT AIMED AT WOMEN IN THEIR 40S AND

50S Harmony Through Menopause, designed for women going through perimenopause or menopause, will offer seven educational sessions from nine wellness practitioners on topics such as

pelvic-floor strengthening, hormone replacement therapy, acupuncture, hot flashes and breath work. Harmony Through Menopause is held at the Opal Grand Resort in Delray Beach, Florida.

Courtesy Jess Pfeffer “For years, women were taught that aging is bad, menopause is bad,” says Jess Pfeffer, whose Jess Pfeffer Holistic Event Planning is hosting a May weekend retreat at

the tony Opal Grand Resort in Delray Beach, Florida. “We’re creating a sacred space that removes that mask, a space where women can be seen and heard. Menopause is going to happen. Let’s be

prepared. We can’t prevent it, but we sure can feel empowered when it happens.” Among the highlights: a panel discussion with a menopause coach and a physician who will talk about the

importance of being your own advocate and answer any questions from the attendees. The retreat, May 3-5, costs $1,650, based on double occupancy,  and includes lodging and meals.