I’m all about adventure, but this one—this hormonal journey with no roadmap and no clear finish line—is unlike any expedition I’ve ever been on. Yep, you got it: the good ol’ perimenopausal adventure, for which I booked no ticket. I have A LOT of feelings about it. And while I do my best to lean into acceptance, there are days I want to throw that
whole notion right out the damn door.
As someone who likes to be well-prepared before stepping into new terrain, this one caught me completely off guard. Honestly… WTF?! (And I don’t throw that phrase around lightly, but if there were ever a time…)
When I prepare for a new adventure, I study the map, research the area, ask questions, and get ready. But this mid-life chapter? I never saw it coming. And when I talk to other women in the same boat, the response is almost always the same. Instead of navigating rough waters with a guide, a safety plan, and a support system, many of us are just thrown in with no life jacket, left to figure it out as we go. No risk-and-safety protocols, no one on the shoreline ready to throw us a lifeline, and certainly no universal support system where women can check in, ask for help, and receive guidance.
The reality? Self-advocacy and education are critical—but finding sound information, accessing professional support, and connecting with a community of women going through the same thing can feel overwhelming.
There’s a hilarious Baroness Von Sketch video that perfectly captures the mystery and frustration of perimenopause. Unlike a broken bone—where the cause is obvious—the physical and psychological symptoms of hormonal change can be harder to pinpoint. For example, I hurt my ankle trail running three years ago. No clear cause of injury—just overuse, I assumed. I did all the things: physio, orthotics, exercises, rest—but nothing really helped. Then I started hearing whispers about perimenopause and the wide range of ways hormonal changes can impact the body.
So, I did what I always do when I sense a challenge ahead—I started asking questions.
For me, the most valuable insights have come from conversations with other women and naturopathic doctors. I’m fortunate to have several naturopathic friends, and with their guidance—alongside my own research—I’ve started to make sense of what’s happening. I made the personal choice to try Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), and I’ve noticed positive changes. I’m back to trail running (slowly, but I’m out there), and for the first time in a long time, I feel hopeful.
I’ve also become more curious about how diet, movement, and lifestyle impact this transition—and about building a healthier relationship with my body. Instead of seeing my body as the enemy, I’m learning to listen more deeply. To trust its wisdom. To treat it as an ally rather than something to fight against.
I believe that the more we learn from trusted sources, normalize this conversation, and build strong, supportive communities, the more we can redefine midlife. Instead of viewing this transition as something to fear—hot flashes, brain fog, and unexpected rage—we can start seeing it as a journey into power, wisdom, and authenticity.
This is not the adventure I signed up for, but it’s one I’m learning to navigate. And I know this much: we are not meant to do it alone.
Bridging into The Great Escape & Wild Woman Awakening
And that’s exactly why I’ve created spaces where women can come together, learn, and support one another through this transition.
At The Great Escape Summer Camp (July 24-27, 2025), Dr. Lyndsey Nabata, a Naturopathic Doctor specializing in women’s health, burnout recovery, and digestive wellness, will be leading a powerful discussion on navigating (peri)menopause and reclaiming vitality. Through education, movement, and community, we’ll explore how to support our bodies, embrace change, and step into this next chapter with confidence.
For those craving a deeper, wilderness-based immersion, Wild Woman Awakening (Sept 3-10, 2025) in Desolation Sound, BC, offers a transformational sea kayaking retreat. Dr. Deidre Macdonald, a Naturopathic Physician with 28 years of experience, will lead evening discussions on hormone health, longevity, and thriving in midlife—all while we paddle through stunning coastal waters and reconnect with our wild, untamed selves.
If this resonates with you, I invite you to join us—to step into a community of women ready to redefine midlife, together.
✨ Early-Early Bird Pricing for The Great Escape: $947 + GST (Save $4250, Ends April 15th!)
✨ Early Bird Pricing for Wild Woman Awakening: $2,997 + GST (Save $400, Ends April 15th!)
🔗 Learn more & register: www.shiftadventureandwellness.com
Let’s turn this uncertain transition into an empowered adventure. You in?
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