Case Study: MenoMove - The Body Hotel

Menomove

Introduction

MenoMove UK is a 12‑week dance/movement programme (Jun-Nov 2025), supported by two NHS health boards and with buy-in from Dr Michelle Olver, menopause specialist GP (ABUHB). It engaged 33 people experiencing perimenopause/menopause with additional trial subgroups explored of LGBTQ+ people and those experiencing menopause as a result of cancer treatment. Through weekly 90‑minute sessions of embodied movement, breathwork and creative tasks, the programme aimed to improve vitality, symptom management, emotional regulation and social connection. Participants described improved mood, greater agency in symptom management and stronger peer support networks. The project findings indicate an appetite for online sessions to engage people across the UK with potential international reach.

The Challenge

MenoMove UK was developed in response to the pressing need for supportive interventions that address menopausal symptoms through physical activity, while incorporating the expressive and reflective elements of movement. Many individuals, including women, trans men, and non-binary people, encounter significant barriers in accessing tailored support. There remains a gap between policy intentions and the availability of accessible, community focused programmes that incorporate movement and creativity. Consultation with health partners provided invaluable insights into the specific needs of underserved groups, such as those experiencing menopause due to cancer treatment. These discussions underscored the necessity for safe, inclusive spaces promoting both expression and support.

The Approach

The MenoMove project was a 12-week arts initiative designed to address the needs of individuals experiencing menopause through creative dance and movement. Delivered by The Body Hotel CIC, the program included 16 sessions: two series of six weekly workshops, alongside specialised sessions for LGBTQ+ participants and those affected by cancer care held Sept-Nov 2025. A total of 33 participants engaged, benefiting from a hybrid format combining in-person sessions at the University of South Wales (Newport) and online participation, which attracted international participants and wider reach across Wales. Evaluation used mixed methods (pre/post wellbeing measures, session check‑ins and qualitative interviews) and found sustained increases in self‑reported energy and body confidence, practical breathing strategies and reduced isolation. The budget for the project was 18K, supported by Arts Council Wales (15K), with costs covering facilitation, materials, and outreach. Match funding provided by ABUHB (7%) and Velindre (3%). Good practice was upheld through consultation with health partners, ensuring that sessions were tailored to participants' needs. An experienced dance/movement therapist facilitated the workshops, receiving ongoing supervision to maintain quality standards.

The Impact

MenoMove led to significant improvements in participants' vitality, symptom management, and psychological safety, evidenced through a mixed-methods evaluation. We employed the Neuroception of Psychological Safety Scale (NPSS) to quantitatively assess changes, alongside qualitative feedback gathered during ‘Spill the Tea’ sessions and reflective worksheets. Findings indicated an average increase of 0.7 points in social engagement and 0.9 points in bodily sensation. Participants reported feeling more energised, with one stating, “I feel more like myself,” while others noted movement helped manage symptoms like anxiety and joint pain. Other outcomes included the establishment of a supportive community, reducing feelings of isolation. The pilot also allowed the development of a evidence-based, evaluated design that could be scaled in future projects, and mapped out current needs and topics that could further support menopausal health. There is current interest from The Netherlands and Chile to implement the programme internationally. Overall, MenoMove successfully created a safe space for expression and connection, demonstrating its potential for scaling to meet broader needs. Additional statistics and participant quotes will be shared in attached evaluation report.

Lessons Learned

We learned the importance of dedicated outreach to underserved groups, particularly trans and non-binary participants, which will shape future recruitment strategies. We want to involve more GPs in our future projects and provide tasters to GP practices so that they fully understand the benefits of arts in health interventions through first hand experiences. Additionally, we identified that data collection for evaluation and community outreach will need to be dedicated roles in future projects separate from programme management.

The Legacy

The legacy is rooted in its successful partnerships, creating a trialled model that can be adapted to workplaces and scaled into a research project. Collaborations with health partners laid a strong foundation. As one participant stated: “MenoMove gave me the tools to embrace my body during this transition, helping me feel connected and supported.” This adaptable model is poised for growth with international interest and future facilitator training models, ultimately fostering wellbeing across diverse environments.

Website and Social Media Links

Project website: https://www.thebodyhotel.com/menomove2025

Links & Resources: https://linktr.ee/thebodyhotel

Website: www.thebodyhotel.com

Email: thebodyhotel@gmail.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebodyhotel/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thebodyhotel/

LinkedIn https://uk.linkedin.com/in/thebodyhotel

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@thebodyhotel6077

Contact Details

Dr Thania Acarón Founder, The Body Hotel CIC thebodyhotel@gmail.com

Tags: Dance, Menopause, Perimenopause, Dance for Health, Movement, Vitality, Women’s Health, LGBTQ+ Health

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