Our Chief Health Officer Shares Top Health Tips for Women in Midlife

A woman's health encompasses not just her body, but her whole being, according to Dr. Jennifer Wagner, Canyon Ranch’s chief health officer. As our bodies age, it’s more important than ever to view health as an empowering, holistic journey — but doing so requires preparation and education.  

At our recent expert panel in Lenox, several women's health experts, including Dr. Wagner, discussed the latest breakthroughs in wellness and longevity. After the main event, we spoke with each physician one-on-one for a series of exclusive interviews. 

During her interview, Dr. Wagner expanded on her health philosophy and offered simple but effective ways women can begin practicing now to enter midlife feeling empowered and at their best. 

Brain Health Matters 

Cognitive decline is an often overlooked, yet preventable, health issue. As we nurture our aging bodies, it’s also important to prioritize brain health in midlife and beyond. 

Maintaining the five pillars of cognitive health — creativity, curiosity, movement, connection, and exposure to nature — is essential to brain function and longevity, according to Dr. Wagner. Luckily, integrating simple brain-stimulating practices can keep our minds in top shape. 

Try this: 

• Use your brain in a new way by learning a skill like speaking a different language or picking up an instrument. 

• Access your brain's sense of awe by stepping outside for a daily morning walk. 

• Challenge your brain and build neuroplasticity through creative projects like painting or drawing. 

Preventative Screening Promotes Healthy Aging 

For lasting, measurable change, a health screening is crucial for pinpointing your specific needs. A DEXA, or dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan, which measures bone density and body composition, is a good place to start, according to Dr. Wagner. 

Bone loss and osteoporosis become greater risks as we age, especially for women in the perimenopause and menopause stages. In fact, women can lose up to 20% of their bone density during menopause. Aging bodies also undergo muscle loss. After the age of 30, we lose 3–8% of our body's muscle mass each year. At the same time, weight gain is also a common side effect of menopause and aging. 

DEXA scans measure bone density, muscle mass, and visceral fat around our vital organs. One test can reveal tremendous health insights about your risk of developing disease and point you in the right direction to make lifestyle changes that promote healthy aging. Canyon Ranch's team of physicians performs each DEXA screening and helps you understand your results with a personalized plan for next steps to address all your health concerns.  

Longevity is a Lifestyle 

Longevity comes down to consistent action; living better longer is a daily practice that transforms us over time, according to Dr. Wagner. Aging is a natural and empowering part of that transformative journey.  

Everyday habits can make all the difference. To fully embrace your healthy aging journey, ditch the one-off workout class and consider incorporating smaller improvements into your routine. 

Try this: 

• Create a consistent sleep schedule by choosing a bedtime and nightly wind-down ritual. 

• Take 10 minutes each morning to meditate and start the day with intention. 

• Work with a performance expert to create a personalized exercise program to hit your goals. 

Kickstart Your Journey at Canyon Ranch  

Inspired to learn more? At Canyon Ranch, physicians like Dr. Wagner offer one-on-one consultations for direct feedback and answers to all your health questions.  

For an even more comprehensive experience, you can also sign up for one of our events and retreats focused on aging, menopause, women's health, and much more.  

You can also explore our Designed Experience packages or build your own experience with a Stay Your Way package at our award-winning Lenox and Tucson resorts.