03/27/2026
What a truly wonderful night. Thank you to everyone who came out for the screening of The M Factor: Before the Pause and for contributing to such an honest, thoughtful conversation. My hope is that you left with new information, renewed hope, and a deeper sense that you are not alone. I loved seeing all of the conversations and connections before the movie started.
A heartfelt thank-you to our incredible panelists, and a special shout-out to Jenine Wright and FitLife for providing such a beautiful, welcoming space for us to come together.
A few key takeaways from the evening:
Relationships matter, and communication is key
This stage of life can put new pressure on relationships. The gray divorce is real. Invite your spouse or significant other into the conversation. Even in same-sex couples, experiences can be very different. Don’t assume they understand. Share openly. You may be surprised by the support you receive.
Advocate for your health
Many providers still lack training in perimenopause and menopause care. If you don’t feel heard or supported, find another caregiver. You deserve knowledgeable care, and don't be surprised if you know more than your doctor.
Here is the Patient Advocacy Guide that Magen mentioned to help in your conversation with your provider:
https://mysticvalley.podia.com/patient-guides
Start with the foundations
Before adding more supplements or treatments, look at the basics: hydration, sleep, nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, and community. Take inventory of what you’re doing now and make adjustments from there.
Libido and sexual wellness
There are many options you can explore with a certified provider, including simple at-home approaches such as vibratory therapy for a few minutes a day. Words like va**na, cl****is, and or**sm should be part of everyone's vocabulary.
Strength training is essential
It supports bone health, muscle mass, metabolism, and long-term independence. It is never too late to start, and the sooner you begin, the more your future self will benefit.
Community changes everything
For too long, many of us believed we just had to push through alone. “I just don’t feel like myself” is not something to ignore. It’s a signal worth exploring, and chances are, many women around you feel the same way. Let's not only start the conversation but also keep it going.
Advocacy at the state level
If you want to support menopause awareness efforts in Massachusetts, learn more about Bill H.4838: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4838. This bill will require more training for doctors, make services accessible for all women regardless of socioeconomic status, and provide workplace accommodations and policies.
Stay Connected
Join the local Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1035167851690084
Attend a monthly in-person meetup
New topics and speakers each month. All are welcome
Follow us on social
Our Speakers
Magen Price, FNP-BC, MSCP, CSC
https://www.mysticvalleysexualwellness.com
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Jenine Wright, NTP — FitLife
https://www.fitlifema.com
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Barbara Martin, LMHC
https://barbarasteelemartin.com
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Shannan Hanson — Cairos Strategies
https://www.cairosstrategies.com
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Thank you again for being part of this community. These conversations matter, and every time we gather, we help make this stage of life a little less confusing and a lot less lonely.
Stay tuned for more fun events in the works!
With gratitude,
Shannan
Clarity. Strategy. Impact Helping women define success in midlife and in business Coaching Your Midlife, Your MomentGuided support for women navigating midlife transitions—menopause, career shifts, and building the habits that matter. Explore Coaching Programs ConsultingDefining Success, Driving R...
