The retreats helping women to make sense of menopause

For years it was a word that was only whispered: “menopause”. As millions of women a year reach this stage of their lives, they’re increasingly becoming more comfortable talking about its symptoms. 

However, adjusting to change is easier when you feel supported, and many luxury retreats around the world are now offering programmes tailored to menopausal or perimenopausal women.  

“It’s a very isolating and confusing time of life,” says Janine Cottle of Escape Haven in Bali, one such retreat provider. “Women want to know what they can do about hot flushes, joint pain and water retention.” 

These menopause retreats may focus on traditional medicine, cutting-edge science or a combination of both, but among the most important things they offer is a sense of community. As Cottle says, “There’s a real beauty in bringing women together to get support from each other.”  

Six Senses Vana, Dehradun, India 

You can pack light when you head to Six Senses Vana in the northeastern Indian city of Dehradun, a one-hour flight away from Delhi. At this retreat in the Himalayan foothills, guests are given flowing white kurtas to wear around the property – part of the resort’s philosophy of leaving the outside world behind. 

The property operates on Ayurvedic principles, and its 10-day Mindful Menopause package includes treatments to help manage symptoms such as hot flushes, mood swings and disrupted sleep. Personalised yoga and meditation sessions also help create a sense of inner calm. 

Kamalaya Koh Samui, Koh Samui, Thailand

At Kamalaya , there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.The resort’s health package for women, Radiant Bliss, is tailored to suit whichever life stage you’re at, including perimenopause and menopause. Treatments draw on the concepts of traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, as well as incorporating functional medicine and IV therapy.  

Also included are enlightening sessions with Kamalaya’s Life Enhancement Mentors, who can help you identify negative patterns and embrace more positive approaches. 

Lanserhof Sylt, Sylt, Germany 

Situated on a German island in the North Sea, wellness retreat Lanserhof Sylt is best known for its highly experienced medical personnel and rigorous programmes, which span a minimum of seven nights. 

The Hormone Balancing package takes a 360-degree approach, with comprehensive diagnostics including tests to identify the causes of hormonal imbalances and pinpoint the path to wellbeing. As with all Lanserhof programmes, you’ll follow a fasting regime to detox and reset your body.  

Escape Haven, Bali, Indonesia 

After signing up for Escape Haven ’s six-night Thrive Menopause package, you'll begin the experience with a top-to-toe survey, analysing everything from muscle mass to sleep patterns. The team uses the data to tailor a programme that includes both science-backed therapies and traditional healing. 

That could include Ayurvedic treatments and biohacking techniques like red-light therapy, touted for its benefits to skin repair and boosting new cell growth. The emphasis is on making lasting changes, such as with weight-based training you can incorporate into your daily routine. 

SHA Wellness, Alicante, Spain 

At SHA Wellness , on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, each programme harnesses a trio of disciplines: nutrition, natural therapies and scientific knowledge. Whichever package you sign up for can be embedded with a consultation with hormonal health expert Dr Rafael Navas, who uses specialised tests to determine your hormonal profile. 

Meanwhile, a team of nutritionists and physical trainers can design a diet and exercise routine that will help to counteract symptoms of ageing, such as loss of bone density. A hormone replacement treatment using plant-based bioidentical hormones is also available.  

The Farm at San Benito, Lipa, Philippines 

Sign up for the four-night Menopause Retreat at The Farm at San Benito in the Philippines, and you’ll have everyone from nutritionists and nurses to yoga teachers and spa therapists on hand to help you with your physical and mental challenges.   

Starting with a holistic health diagnosis and cellular screening, the programme includes activities such as acupuncture and detoxing liver compresses. Yoga, nature walks and nourishing vegan meals are also part of the package, and you’ll depart feeling rejuvenated and ready for anything life throws your way.