Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 9: A groundbreaking step toward open dialogue on women’s health unfolded today at Ocean Pearl, as ‘Own Your Pause’ — Mangaluru’s first interactive menopause-focused workshop brought together women, aged over 40, for a transformative day of learning, connection, and empowerment.
Conceptualised and organised by Gloria Viegas of Glowing Corner, together with Dr Joylene D'Almeida, Malini Moras and Annika Albuquerque, the workshop has moved beyond the format of a conventional health seminar. Instead, it created a vibrant, participatory platform where women could access expert guidance, share lived experiences, and build meaningful community support around menopause and midlife wellness.
Designed as an engaging and immersive experience, backed by KMC hospital , Mangaluru - the workshop combined medical insight with movement sessions, interactive discussions, and ice-breaker activities, encouraging participants to speak openly about a phase of life that is often misunderstood or overlooked.
Expert perspectives across five core sessions
The workshop featured a diverse panel of specialists who addressed menopause from multiple dimensions
- Menopause Unmasked: Dr Joylene D'Almeida, obstetrician and gynaecologist, delivered an in-depth overview of the biological and hormonal changes associated with menopause.
- The Power Plate: Consultant dietician Sanjana Shenoy shared practical dietary strategies to support metabolic and hormonal health during midlife.
- Thriving Through the Menopausal Transition: Dr Krithishree S, consultant psychiatrist, highlighted the psychological impact of menopause and offered tools for maintaining emotional resilience.
- Muscle Mobility & Menopause: Physiotherapist Dr Haripriya S and fitness trainer Deepa Santosh conducted a dynamic session emphasising mobility, muscle strength, and the importance of consistent physical activity.
- The Strength Within: Orthopaedic surgeon Dr Vivian D'Almeida underscored the significance of bone density awareness and long-term skeletal care.
A holistic and creative approach
Adding a refreshing dimension to the day, participants engaged in a relaxed ‘Sip and Paint’ experience conducted by Suneera of Artiliciously Yours, blending creativity with conversation. In a strong commitment to preventive healthcare, attendees were also offered complimentary DEXA scans providing valuable insights into their bone health and empowering them with data-driven awareness. Participants also received thoughtfully curated wellness hampers
Speaking about the inspiration behind the initiative, organiser Gloria Viegas said, "Menopause should never be a silent struggle. Through ‘Own Your Pause’, we aim to create a safe, informed, and supportive space where women feel confident, prepared, and empowered to embrace this new chapter."
Following the overwhelming response to its debut edition, ‘Own Your Pause’ is set to expand its outreach, with future sessions planned to engage more women across the region.