The travel industry is tapping into the needs of women experiencing menopause, with various resorts and spas offering tailored retreats to help women cope with the physical and emotional changes that come with this stage of life. With an estimated 1.1 billion women worldwide expected to have experienced menopause by 2025, there is a growing demand for specialized programs that address the symptoms and challenges associated with this transition.
These menopause-centered offerings range from mindfulness techniques and herbal remedies to nutritional guidance and exercise. The goal is to provide women with the opportunity to bond with others going through similar experiences while receiving support and information. Melissa Biggs Bradley, the founder of Indagare, a membership-based travel company, recently announced the launch of their first midlife and menopause retreat to address this need.
One such retreat that I attended was at the Six Senses Hotel & Spa in Portugal’s Douro Valley. The three-day program was designed to address symptoms such as night sweats, migraines, joint pain, and mood swings, while also providing a greater understanding of the hormonal changes occurring during menopause. The retreat included personalized strength training sessions, collagen-boosting facials, cold plunges, infrared saunas, and bio-hacking treatments.
While these treatments provided temporary relief and relaxation, Dr. Lauren Streicher, a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology, is skeptical of claims made by spas about reducing menopausal symptoms. She warns women to be cautious of treatments that present themselves as scientific when they may not have substantial evidence to support their claims.
For women seeking medical advice, Dr. Streicher recommends consulting with a licensed physician, especially if considering long-term solutions such as hormone replacement therapy. Despite the limitations of spa treatments, women can still benefit from the self-care, community, and education provided by these menopause retreats.
Some upcoming retreats include the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health’s menopause-focused retreat, the Pause menopause retreat at Amilla Maldives Resort, the Wise Women retreat at Canyon Ranch Berkshires, the Menopause Program at The Raj Ayurveda Health Spa, the Feisty Menopause retreat at Lake Nona Wave Hotel, the Daisies retreat in southwestern France, and the Menoheaven retreat at the Florence House in London.
These retreats offer a range of activities, including discussions, yoga, meditation, spa treatments, and workshops to address the impact of hormonal changes on various aspects of women’s lives. The goal is to provide a supportive and educational environment where women can learn how to navigate this stage of life and find the best solutions for their individual needs.
As the number of women entering menopause continues to grow, it is clear that there is a demand for specialized travel experiences that cater to their unique needs. While the effectiveness of these treatments may vary, these retreats provide an opportunity for women to find support, gain knowledge, and explore potential solutions in a supportive and empowering environment.