- By Mabel Pais
THE CULTURE TREE is hosting a gathering of South Asian women in their 30s, 40s, 50s and their spouses to discuss unique health issues and challenges that are faced due to genetics and socio-cultural forces. This will take place on Thursday, September 11, 2025 (details below).
Transition to menopause can be disorienting, confusing, isolating and overwhelming. At the event we will focus on conversations around menopause and peri-menopause and slew of side effects and changes that follow. We will hear from experts about the unique health issues and challenges faced by South Asian women and discuss how we can manage our side effects and symptoms better, and lead a happy, healthy and fulfilling life.
Through this event, Culture Tree also wants to create a platform for women which is safe, supportive and informed.
SCHEDULE
Keynotes and Deep dive – 6-7 PM
Keynote: Dr Heather Hirsch, M.D. – Peri menopause/Menopause and HRT
Dr. Kanchan Koya, PhD. – Nutrition and Exercise
Dr. Poonam Desai, – Labs and Supplements
Megha Rao, holiCHIC – Redefining Style After 40
Q&A – 7-7:30 PM
Cocktail hour – 7:45-9 PM
After the discussion, attendees may mingle while enjoying food and drinks.
SPEAKERS/PRESENTERS
DR HEATHER HIRSCH, M.D. – Peri menopause/Menopause and HRT
Dr. Hirsch will provide a clear, evidence-based overview of menopause and hormone therapy, grounded in the latest research and clinical experience, with practical insights women can actually use to navigate their care with confidence.
KANCHAN KOYA, PhD. – Nutrition and Exercise
Dr. Koya will share how intentional movement can enhance energy and well-being during this natural transition. She will also highlight the role of nutrient-dense eating in supporting strength and vitality. These practices together can help women feel vibrant, strong, and empowered.
Dr. POONAM DESAI, D.O. – Labs and Supplements
Dr. Desai will focus on South Asian women, highlighting the unique middle age experience shaped by cultural factors, genetics, and statistical predispositions. She will also cover essential health screenings and recommended supplements for this phase of life.
MEGHA RAO, holiCHIC – Redefining Style After 40
Megha will share how women can redefine their personal style after 40, embracing fashion as a tool for self-expression and confidence. She will discuss practical tips on updating wardrobes, adapting trends, and celebrating individuality at every stage of life.
TICKETS
For tickets to the event, visit handstamp.com/e/hot-spotsouth-asian-womens-health-wellness-through-menopause-bkrzjcwg?g=theculturetree
The Culture Tree
The Culture Tree promotes cultural literacy about South Asia through language and educational & cultural programs. Its goal is to create empathy, respect and understanding towards all different cultures and further inclusivity, while still helping address questions about Identity with heritage cultures.
The Culture Tree partners with museums, galleries, schools and libraries to implement its classes and programming. Its programs include celebration of key festivals and events, puppet shows, bi-lingual storytime, mindful eating, mindfulness and language classes in key South Asian languages.
It is also a cultural & diversity consultant and advocates for cultural literacy and diversity & equity in children’s programming and education. Learn more at theculturetree.com.
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JCC WELCOMES YOU TO FALL WELLNESS OPEN HOUSE
- By Mabel Pais
Join the JCC Manhattan for a free day of fitness and wellness on Sunday, September 7, 2025 (schedule below). Sample classes and workshops to launch your healthiest Fall Season yet!
Sample fitness classes from yoga to dance, strength training, and Nia. Hear from top health experts on decluttering your life, healthy cooking, and more. Discover tips on cultivating balance in tai chi, fall prevention in Fall Stop…Move Strong, and improving your posture with Alexander Technique.
Stop by the lobby for an assessment with a personal trainer, learn about JCC membership, and check out vendors like StretchLab.
WHAT: FALL OPEN HOUSE
WHEN: Sunday, September 7, 2025, 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM
WHERE: JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Avenue at West 76th St, New York, NY 10023; (mmjccm,org) Phone: (646) 505-4444
ELIGIBILITY: Open to everyone
COST: Free
PRE-REGISTRATION
Pre-registration is strongly recommended. Walk-ins welcome. To register, email boxoffice@mmjccm.org or call 646.505.5708.
SCHEDULE
10-10:30 am
Doors Open, Mix and Mingle Coffee/Tea Hour
Say hello and sample nutritious snacks, and speak to the on-site nutritionist and personal trainer.
10:30–10:55 am
Strength Made Simple: A Circuit Workout with Nancy Burke (In-person + Virtual)
11–11:25 am
Tap into Well-Being Tap your troubles away with Linda Rose Iennaco (In-person + Virtual)
11:30–11:55 am
Walk Active Method Presented by Joanna Hall (Live-streamed from London)
Noon–12:25 pm
Fall Stop… Move Strong Presented by Celeste Carlucci (In-person + Virtual)
12:30–12:55 pm
Nia Dance Jam: Fitness and Fun Presented by Caroline Kohles (In-person + Virtual)
1–1:25 pm
Yoga for Back Health with Jessica Metz (In-person + Virtual)
1:30–1:55 pm
Cultivating Balance with Tai Chi with Fran Snyder (In-person + Virtual)
2–2:25 pm
Intro to the Alexander Technique with Melissa Brown
2:30–2:55 pm
Clutter Clearing: Declutter Your Clothes with Marilyn Mars (Live-Streamed from New Mexico)
3–3:30 pm
Plant-Powered Cooking Demo + Mocktails Mix and Mingle—Network with Others (In-person + Virtual)
MEMBERSHIP
Enjoy special promotions on personal training, massage, and membership. Don’t want to wait? Check out JCC’s current membership promotions (mmjccm.org/membership/promotions) now!
Fall registration for fitness and wellness classes is open. Sign up (mmjccm.org/fitness-wellness/see-all-fitness/fitness-classes) today.
The Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan (MMJCCM)
Since its inception, the JCC has been committed to serving the community by offering programs, classes, and events that extend beyond neighborhood boundaries, reaching people at all stages of their lives. Learn more at mmjccm.org.
(Mabel Pais writes on Health and Wellness, Education, Social Issues, The Arts and Entertainment, Spirituality, Business, and Cuisine)
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