Why Small-Group Yoga Retreats Are Essential for Women in Perimenopause

The Power of Intimate, Tailored Wellness Experiences

Last week, as I reviewed the registrations for my upcoming Goddess Retreat near Barcelona, Spain, a striking pattern emerged: 55% of the women joining me are navigating perimenopause. With October being Menopause Awareness Month, this timing feels particularly meaningful. This isn't coincidence—it's validation of something I've believed deeply for years. Women in this transformative life stage need yoga practices that truly understand and support their changing bodies, minds, and spirits.

Well Woman Yoga practices were my saving grace when I was navigating this tumultuous time of my own life. Now in post-menopause, these practices continue to be my anchor, supporting me daily. This personal journey is what drives my passion for sharing these transformative techniques with other women.

This is exactly why I've chosen to keep my Goddess Retreats intimate, with a maximum of 10 women per retreat. In our fast-paced world of large fitness classes and one-size-fits-all wellness approaches, there's something revolutionary about creating space for truly personalised care.

Understanding the Perimenopause Journey

Perimenopause—the transitional period before menopause—can span several years, typically beginning in a woman's 40s. During this time, hormonal fluctuations can bring challenges including:

  • Sleep disruption and fatigue

  • Increased stress and anxiety

  • Physical discomfort and tension

  • Mood fluctuations

  • Changes in energy levels

These symptoms aren't just physical—they represent a profound transformation that deserves acknowledgement, support, and practices specifically designed to ease the journey.

Why Well Woman Yoga Makes All the Difference

Traditional yoga classes, whilst beneficial, often don't address the specific needs of women experiencing hormonal changes. Well Woman yoga, however, is specifically designed to support the female body throughout all life stages.

In my retreats, I weave these specialised practices throughout each session:

Restorative Yoga for Deep Healing

Gentle, supported poses that allow the nervous system to truly rest and restore. These practices are particularly powerful for women experiencing the heightened stress response that often accompanies perimenopause.

Yoga Nidra for Essential Rest

This "yogic sleep" practice provides deep rest that goes beyond what regular sleep can offer. For women struggling with sleep disruption, yoga nidra can be transformative, offering the restoration their bodies are craving.

Breathwork for Nervous System Support

Specific breathing techniques that help regulate the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and support emotional balance during times of change.

Movement that Honours Your Body

Gentle, mindful movement that works with your body's natural rhythms rather than against them, supporting flexibility and strength without overwhelming an already stressed system.

Creating Space for Every Woman

Whilst perimenopause support is woven throughout my retreats, these experiences welcome ALL WOMEN, ALL AGES, ALL LEVELS. Every practice I offer contains something meaningful for every guest, whether you're navigating hormonal changes, seeking deeper self-connection, or simply craving supportive community with other women.

The beauty of small-group retreats lies in this ability to personalise. With only 10 guests, I can observe, adjust, and offer modifications that ensure every woman receives exactly what she needs.

The Transformation That Happens in Sacred Space

When women gather in intimate, supportive environments, magic happens. Away from the demands of daily life, surrounded by understanding peers in the beautiful setting near Barcelona, and guided by practices specifically designed for the female experience, guests often discover:

  • A deeper connection to their own wisdom

  • Tools for managing life transitions with grace

  • A sense of sisterhood and community

  • Renewed appreciation for their body's intelligence

  • Practical techniques they can integrate into daily life

Your Journey Deserves Sacred Attention

Your body is wise. Your journey—whether you're in perimenopause, menopause, or any other life stage—is sacred. You deserve practices that celebrate both.

If you're feeling called to experience yoga in a way that truly honours where you are in life, I invite you to join our community. My 2026 Goddess Retreat waitlist is now open, offering you the opportunity to secure your place in these transformative, intimate experiences.

Join the 2026 Goddess Retreat Waitlist →

Because every woman deserves to feel supported, seen, and celebrated—especially during life's most profound transitions.

Ready to experience yoga that meets you exactly where you are? Join the 2026 Goddess Retreat waitlist and discover practices designed specifically for the wisdom of the feminine journey.

Rebecca Dobson

Rebecca founded GetCalmer in 2001, with a vision to pass on her knowledge and passion of holistic therapies to others and ultimately to help people "get calmer".

Having a sales background, Rebecca knew only too well the stressful effects that working in a pressurised environment can have on the body, and how little people take care of themselves.

With this in mind, Rebecca followed her passion and spent a year re-training in various holistic therapies, including massage and Reiki, gaining experience working privately, in spa’s and practicing onsite massage in the workplace.

Since completing her Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training in 2006, Rebecca has been taught by many worldwide accredited yoga teachers over the years, including Claire Missingham, Kathryn Budig, Jason Crandell and the most influential Dr. Francoise Freedman, Director and Founder of Birthlight. All of which have shaped her in to the yoga teacher she is today. Rebecca would describe herself as a down to earth teacher and therapist who is personable, creative, patient and intuitive. She lightly weaves yoga philosophy and anatomy into her classes, making them well-rounded and accessible. In her opinion, yoga isn’t just about busting a pose, it’s so much more than that; yoga can help you understand yourself, others and the world we live in; all you need is an open mind.

Rebecca’s next mission is to spread the word to every Woman on the profound benefits of yoga to help improve and enhance Women’s health. Who knows at this point where it will lead her, but I bet you any money it’ll be something truly exciting!

https://www.getcalmer.com
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