Sophie Pither discovers unconventional menopause therapies in Spain
- Sophie Pither attended a five-day menopause retreat in Spain focused on helping women manage symptoms of midlife.
- The retreat included unusual therapies such as cryotherapy, where participants spent time in extreme cold to alleviate symptoms.
- The experience highlighted the importance of community support and varied approaches in addressing the challenges associated with menopause.
In Spain, Sophie Pither attended a unique five-day retreat designed specifically for women experiencing menopause and perimenopause. This retreat took place at Camiral Golf & Wellness near Girona and focused on addressing various symptoms associated with midlife, including anxiety and sleep disturbances. During her time there, Pither engaged in various therapies, including one particularly unusual activity: cryotherapy. In a walk-in freezer set to an extreme -110C, she spent four minutes undergoing cold therapy while wearing woollen mittens and a medical mask. The experience was intense, with her sense of connection and awareness temporarily altered by the cold shock. The retreat program combined both physical fitness and alternative therapies in an effort to provide relief from menopausal symptoms. Pither described her experience of cryotherapy as both bizarre and invigorating. Upon exiting the freezer, she felt a sense of survival, highlighting how the shock of the extreme cold impacted her perception. Alongside cryotherapy, participants had access to fitness classes led by professionals, including a coach associated with actress Anne Hathaway. Amidst the various activities, Pither noted a community atmosphere among the participants, who shared their personal experiences and challenges regarding menopause. This support system may have contributed to the overall effectiveness of the retreat, making it a key part of the experience. Women often face various physical and emotional challenges during menopause, and programs like this one aim to provide holistic approaches to alleviating these issues, whether through fitness, community, or unique therapies like cryotherapy. Ultimately, the retreat served as a space for women to explore treatments for their symptoms in a supportive environment. Pither's reflections on her time at the retreat indicate that experimentation with different approaches, such as cryotherapy and fitness training, can play a significant role in managing the challenges of menopause. The emphasis on community, shared experiences, and holistic health may inspire other women to seek similar avenues for relief during midlife.