Menopause is a hormonal transition affecting 47 million women worldwide each year. Monica Conn, 53, joined the Canyon Ranch Health Spa’s M/Power program to tackle the symptoms: hot flashes, anxiety, night sweats, and irritability.
Conn aims to shift the attitude towards menopause, focusing on finding relief through activities like yoga, weight training, and cold plunges. She wants women to feel empowered in their next chapter rather than mourning its end.
The CDC defines menopause as a 12-month pause of menstrual periods. Symptoms often include trouble sleeping, mood swings, and memory issues. M/Power’s retreats provide holistic support through education, counseling, and activities that alleviate symptoms.
For too long, women have suffered in silence about the impact of symptoms on their daily lives. Conn highlights the need for better medical training and mental health guidance. Another aspect of the program is medical diagnosis, including blood work, hormone panels, and body scans to assess bone density and fat composition.
Dr. Jennifer Baker-Porazinski explains that a lack of estrogen during menopause causes bone density loss, increasing the risk of broken bones. Hormone therapy (HRT) can effectively treat symptoms but has sparked debate due to preliminary research on breast cancer risks.
Dr. Sharon Malone recommends taking hormones before 60 or within 10 years of starting menopause for optimal results. Tamsen Fadal, a former TV journalist, wrote “How to Menopause,” a guide for women navigating the transition.
By speaking out and seeking support, Conn says, “We’re suffering silently, and that’s not OK.” The M/Power program aims to create a community of empowered women who can break free from the stigma surrounding menopause.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/menopause-retreat-helps-new-generation-of-women-relief-stigmas