As we traverse through the various stages of life, certain transformations can catch us off guard. For many women, menopause—specifically, its precursor, perimenopause—can feel like an unexpected storm. I vividly remember the night I found myself awake at 2 AM, frantically typing “natural menopause treatments” into Google. On one hand, I was desperately fanning away an onslaught of hot flashes, and on the other, my mind raced with frustration and confusion. Having lived a life dedicated to nutrition and health, the sudden impact of hormonal changes left me grappling with mood swings, sleepless nights, and an energy depletion that felt all-encompassing.
Despite my knowledge and experience as a nutritionist, I was surprised to discover that traditional approaches—clean eating and regular exercise—often weren’t enough to confront the multifaceted challenges of menopause. I wasn’t ready to embrace Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) just yet, but I knew I needed something more profound than a surface-level solution. This longing led me to a wellness retreat renowned for holistic healing—the Farm at San Benito, where I hoped to dive deeper into my health.
Gut Health: The Unexpected Foundation
Upon arrival, I was struck by the retreat’s tranquil atmosphere and its commitment to holistic healing. Surprisingly, the path to resilience began not with hormone therapy but with a focus on gut health. Dr. Mariam, my guide throughout this journey, emphasized that genuine healing originates in the gut. With this in mind, I was introduced to a series of colon cleansing treatments, starting with something I had only vaguely heard of: coffee enemas. The experience was peculiar, but the invigorating results left me pleasantly surprised.
Under Dr. Mariam’s guidance, I learned about the significance of detoxifying the colon—an essential step for preparing my body to heal from the inside out. The treatment focused on eliminating accumulated toxins that may have been quietly disrupting my hormonal balance. Afterward, I received a soothing rectal infusion of aloe vera juice, which was intended to nourish the colon post-cleanse, ensuring it received vital nutrients for optimal functioning. This new realm of deep detoxing was enlightening, making me realize just how interconnected our physical health truly is.
Releasing Stored Stress: The Power of Neurogenic Release
Transitioning into treatments I had never encountered before, I found myself participating in a neurogenic release session—a method stemming from Dr. David Berceli’s work. Its focus was on liberating the stored traumas stored within us, particularly in the psoas muscle. Dr. Mariam explained how animals instinctively shake off trauma, while humans often suppress their experiences. This disconnection can lead to long-lasting tensions and hormone disruptions.
With a series of gentle movements, I began to tremble involuntarily. What initially felt uncomfortable soon transformed into a cathartic release. It was as though years of pent-up stress were being flushed from my system. Post-treatment, I felt an emotional lightness that had long eluded me—a testament to the potent healing we can achieve when we allow ourselves to feel and let go.
The Emotional Dimensions of Wellness
Building on this emotional work, Dr. Mariam and I ventured into psycho-emotional clearing—a profoundly personal experience. Employing breathing techniques, somatic movements, and visualization, I was guided in accessing and addressing emotional blocks disrupting my vitality and mood. It became crystal clear that healing transcends mere physical wellness. When stress and trauma reside within our bodies, they disrupt our hormonal balance. Releasing this emotional burden was as vital as cleansing my physical health.
Through these various treatments, I was reminded that revitalization is not solely about physical nutrition or quick fixes. The journey is about embracing the multifaceted aspects of ourselves—emotionally, mentally, and physically—and striving for a harmonious balance.
Oxygen and Vitamins: Reviving Mind and Body
Post-therapy, I gravitated towards the oxygen bar, a setting designed to rejuvenate the mind and body. The combination of calming essential oils with a concentrated stream of oxygen was nothing short of invigorating. As I inhaled deeply, a sense of mental clarity washed over me, dissipating the fog that had clouded my thoughts for so long. Dr. Mariam’s wisdom echoed in my mind: “Oxygen gives life”—and I felt that truth resonate within me.
Another treatment that caught my attention was the Vitamin C IV infusion. Traditionally, I have always championed a food-first approach, but this experience opened my eyes to the vitality of this essential nutrient, particularly during periods of change like perimenopause. The revitalization I felt afterward—a genuine renewal of energy and even a youthful glow—was remarkable.
Throughout my time at The Farm, I didn’t merely seek relaxation; I craved deeper answers to my health concerns. What resonated with me was the alignment of science, nature, and mind-body principles that fostered genuine restoration.
The treatments were thoughtfully tailored to empower women experiencing similar transformations. I emerged with newfound respect for my body’s abilities and an understanding that healing manifests in numerous beautiful ways. The journey toward reclaiming vitality is intricate but profoundly rewarding; living this experience in such an enlightening environment assured me that this is only the beginning of my newfound path.