20 Years Ago I Wanted Abs—This Time I Wanted Answers

Inside the luxe retreat that changed how I think about midlife.

Two decades ago, a bright-eyed health & nutrition editor arrived at Canyon Ranch, the integrative health destination in the Berkshires, for a press trip. She attended more fitness classes than lectures, ran many miles because she was training for her third marathon, and secretly lamented the missing wine glass at dinner. She was 26 years old.

Ahh, sweet little Liz.

Back at Canyon Ranch a month ago, for the wellness brand’s first-ever M/Power perimenopause/menopause wellness retreat, I realized how much I’ve changed grown in 20 years. I no longer drink alcohol. I’ve swapped cardio for heavy weights. I hung on to every word in the expert-led lectures.

My time at CR back in 2005 was wonderful, but this trip hit differently. I am so grateful to be exactly where I am. But let me back up for some context…