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Inside Happy V’s Mission to Replace Menopause Shame with Science-Backed Support

Women's Journal Staff on October 21, 2025

By: Mary Sahagun

There’s no syllabus for menopause, just symptoms, search bars, and a society that’s been collectively looking the other way. One day, your body starts writing a new story and forgets to send you the script. Sleep? Interrupted. Mood? Murky. Energy? Missing. And through it all, the world expects you to smile through meetings and hit your step count like nothing’s changed.

It’s not that menopause is new; it’s that talking about it is. And Happy V is making sure it’s not just talked about but finally understood. This is what the new age of menopause looks like: not quieter, cleaner, or more polite, but smarter, louder, and led by women who are done shrinking themselves to fit someone else’s comfort.

This Was Never Meant to Be a Solo Climb

Menopause has long been treated like a personal fault to be managed in isolation. No roadmap. No dialogue. Just a quiet unraveling behind closed doors while life expects you to carry on like nothing’s changed.

But that era of white-knuckling is over. Women are no longer settling for vague reassurances and one-size-fits-all fixes. They’re asking sharper questions. They’re pushing past the fluff and finding real answers; the kind rooted in biology, not platitudes.

That’s the space Happy V steps into, not with promises to “fix” you, but with the tools to help you decide what your body’s trying to say. Menopause doesn’t mean broken. It means shifting. And when you understand the ‘why’ behind the change, and realize you’re not the only one riding this wave, the whole experience starts to feel a little less like a burden, and a lot more like something you can move through with power.

Science with a Spine

Happy V’s supplements don’t promise magic. They pledge mechanisms. Built on real research, not recycled wellness buzzwords, the brand’s formulas are designed to support the full ecosystem of change: from hormonal balance and mood regulation to gut health, cognitive clarity, and sustainable energy.

Because menopause doesn’t show up in one place. It’s not just hot flashes; it’s feeling like a stranger in your own body. And real support means treating the body like what it is: connected, complicated, and capable of recalibration.

Happy V speaks to women like grown-ups. No fluff. No fear. Just formulas that respect your time, your biology, and your brain. They know you’ve read the articles, asked the doctors, and still ended up confused. This is science that meets you where you are and helps you move forward.

The Rise of Unfiltered Conversation

If you want to know how far we’ve come, spend five minutes on TikTok. Women are building empires of honesty: swapping symptom hacks, laughing through brain fog, and saying out loud what entire generations were told to swallow.

And that’s the real power shift; not just products on shelves, but women refusing to keep their stories in the dark. The moment women began naming what they were feeling: irritability, joint pain, sleep loss, mental fog, the shame started to evaporate.

Happy V matches that tone. Its community isn’t built around brand worship; it’s built around real talk. The kind that says: “You’re not imagining this.” The kind that asks: “What would support look like if we believed women the first time they asked for it?”

Representation You Can Feel

Not all menopause journeys look the same. 

Happy V was co-founded by Daniella Levy, a Latina woman who got tired of navigating her own health in a world that barely acknowledged her experience. That lived frustration became a mission: to create tools and stories that reflect all of us. Not just the ones who’ve always had access, but the women who’ve had to find workarounds in silence.

That’s why Happy V doesn’t just sell supplements. It partners with organizations like Vitamin Angels to make dignity and access part of the wellness equation. It’s wellness that thinks systemically, not just about individual care, but community care.

This Isn’t a Pause, It’s a Power Shift

Let’s get something straight: menopause isn’t the end of anything important. Not your strength. Not your relevance. Not your right to feel amazing in your body.

It’s a reset; a hormonal reshuffling that’s inconvenient, sure, but not some tragic decline. And the sooner we treat it like a biological shift instead of a cultural secret, the sooner women can stop bracing themselves and start backing themselves.

That’s what Happy V is here for. Not to talk over women, but to talk with them, and to offer tools that turn survival into strategy.

Because this time, women aren’t going to be quiet. They’re going to be equipped. 

 

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

When the World Told Her to Shrink, She Chose to Rise

Women's Journal Staff on October 21, 2025

Mairin Moore Cane’s Faith-Fueled Journey from Collapse to Clarity

There comes a moment in every woman’s life when the weight she has carried for too long can no longer be ignored. For Mairin Moore Cane, that moment arrived after years of striving to meet every demand until her body and spirit could no longer bear the pressure.

From that breaking point, a journey of healing and renewal was born. Through her illness, exhaustion, and rediscovered faith, Cane’s life was reshaped into something more grounded and whole. Her experiences were later shared through Rooted, Not Rushed: Healing, Reclaiming, and Rising in a World That Told You to Shrink, a bestselling book that became a guide for women seeking peace beyond performance. Through her company, Rooted & Rising, LLC., women have been helped to see that strength is not defined by control or constant motion; it is revealed in surrender, stillness, and grace.

The Courage to Tell the Truth

The heartbeat of Rooted, Not Rushed has been formed by truth-telling. The silent endurance of burnout, exhaustion, and emotional weight that many women carry has been brought into the light through Cane’s honesty. Rather than pretending to be “fine,” readers are invited to acknowledge their weariness and to believe that healing begins with honesty.

Through her words and example, Cane’s message has given permission for rest, to pause long enough to breathe, release, and remember that being burdened is not the same as being broken. The unseen load of perfectionism and pressure has been named, and in naming it, freedom has been made possible.

Wholeness Is Not a Requirement for Leadership

Cane’s teachings have redefined leadership for women, particularly those taught to equate worth with performance. Within a culture that glorifies relentless productivity, her work has challenged the idea that credibility requires perfection.

True leadership, she asserts, is often born from the very moments once viewed as disqualifying. Through the lens of faith, vulnerability has been reframed as evidence of courage, not weakness. What was once thought to be failure has been shown to be the foundation of calling.

In Rooted, Not Rushed, leadership is no longer seen as the reward for being unbreakable; it is understood as the practice of leading from grace, faith, and truth, even in imperfection.

From Collapse to Clarity

Transformation in Cane’s life began when stillness was finally allowed to replace striving. Space was made for listening to the body, faith, and divine guidance. Through this quiet process, burdens were lifted and clarity was restored.

The lessons that followed were simple but profound: resilience is not found in speed, but in depth; leadership is not about avoiding the fall, but about rising differently afterward. Her faith-based framework for rebuilding has guided women to trade self-reliance for spiritual trust, and to view surrender not as weakness, but as wisdom.

Rooted, Not Rushed

The phrase Rooted, Not Rushed has come to represent more than a book; it has become a way of living. To be rooted is to draw strength from one’s source rather than from one’s speed. Growth, Cane teaches, requires presence more than performance.

Each chapter of her work blends reflection, scripture, and action steps, inviting women to release what was never theirs to carry and return to their faith’s foundation. She reminds readers that healing is not a solitary act but a spiritual partnership between grace and courage.

A New Definition of Strength

For Mairin Moore Cane, strength has been redefined. It no longer resides in quiet endurance or unbroken appearance; it is expressed through honesty, compassion, and faith-filled leadership. Through Rooted, Not Rushed, women have been reminded that healing and leadership are not opposites; they reinforce one another.

Her story stands as living proof that grace can rebuild what fear once fractured, and that the presence of God is most often revealed in the very places once marked by collapse. Strength, in its truest form, has been shown to come not from striving, but from surrendering.

Connect with Mairin Moore Cane

Mindful Fitness: Yoga and Pilates for Women’s Well-Being

Womens Journal Staff 2 on October 21, 2025

Understanding the Foundations of Yoga and Pilates

Yoga and Pilates are often mentioned together, yet they come from different traditions. Yoga has roots in ancient India and combines physical postures with breathing and meditation. It is designed to connect the body and mind through movement and awareness. Pilates, developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates, focuses on controlled movements that strengthen the core muscles and improve posture.

Both practices share an emphasis on mindful movement and controlled breathing. According to Healthdirect, yoga uses postures and breathing to support physical and mental health, while Pilates emphasizes alignment and coordination through precise exercises. These differences mean that each practice offers unique benefits, but they also complement one another when combined.

For women seeking accessible forms of exercise, both yoga and Pilates can be adapted to different fitness levels. Instructors often modify movements to suit beginners or those with physical limitations, making these practices approachable for a wide range of participants.

Physical Benefits for Women

Yoga and Pilates both strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and support balance. These physical benefits are particularly valuable for women, as they can help reduce the risk of falls, support bone health, and ease muscle tension. The Cleveland Clinic notes that yoga often emphasizes flexibility and balance, while Pilates focuses more on core strength and stability (Cleveland Clinic).

For women who spend long hours sitting at a desk, Pilates exercises that target the spine and abdominal muscles can help improve posture and reduce discomfort. Yoga postures, such as gentle twists or stretches, can release tension in the shoulders and back. Together, these practices provide a balanced approach to physical well-being.

Regular practice may also support cardiovascular health and weight management. While neither yoga nor Pilates is considered high-intensity exercise, both encourage consistent movement and body awareness, which can contribute to overall fitness.

Mental and Emotional Support

Beyond physical health, yoga and Pilates can support emotional well-being. Yoga often incorporates meditation and mindfulness, which can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. A review published by Calm highlights that yoga supports hormonal balance and mental health, making it especially relevant for women experiencing stress or life transitions (Calm Blog).

Pilates, while less focused on meditation, also encourages concentration and controlled breathing. This mindful approach can create a sense of calm and focus during practice. For women balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities, these moments of focus can provide a valuable pause in the day.

Both practices encourage awareness of the body’s signals. This awareness can help women recognize when they need rest, movement, or stress relief, supporting long-term mental resilience.

Supporting Women Through Life Stages

Yoga and Pilates can be adapted to different stages of life, making them suitable for women across adulthood. During pregnancy, modified yoga postures can support flexibility and reduce discomfort, while Pilates can strengthen the core muscles that support the spine. After childbirth, gentle Pilates exercises may help restore abdominal strength.

For women approaching menopause, yoga’s focus on relaxation and breathing may ease stress and improve sleep. Pilates can help maintain bone density and muscle strength, which are important during this stage of life. Both practices can also support balance, reducing the risk of falls as women age.

Because these practices are adaptable, they can be continued well into later life. This continuity provides not only physical benefits but also a sense of routine and stability.

Building a Sustainable Practice

Starting a new fitness routine can feel overwhelming, but yoga and Pilates are designed to be accessible. Beginners are encouraged to start with guided classes, either in person or online, to learn safe techniques. Certified instructors can adjust movements to individual needs, ensuring that participants feel supported.

Consistency is more important than intensity. Short sessions practiced regularly can provide meaningful benefits over time. For example, a 20-minute yoga session in the morning may improve flexibility and focus for the day, while a Pilates session in the evening may help release tension from sitting or standing.

The adaptability of these practices makes them sustainable. Women can adjust the frequency and intensity of sessions to match their energy levels, health needs, and schedules. This flexibility helps ensure that yoga and Pilates remain supportive rather than stressful.

A Balanced Approach to Well-Being

Yoga and Pilates are not about competition or performance. They are practices that encourage awareness, balance, and gradual progress. For women seeking ways to support both body and mind, these approaches offer gentle yet effective tools.

The research and expert insights suggest that combining yoga and Pilates can provide a well-rounded approach to health. Yoga’s emphasis on mindfulness and flexibility complements Pilates’ focus on strength and alignment. Together, they create a balanced routine that supports physical, emotional, and long-term well-being.

By understanding the unique benefits of each practice and adapting them to personal needs, women can build a fitness routine that supports them through different stages of life. The calm, steady nature of these practices makes them a reassuring choice for those seeking sustainable health habits.

Menopause Symptoms and Workplace Retention: What New Research Reveals

Womens Journal Staff 2 on October 21, 2025

Why Menopause Matters in the Workplace

Menopause is a natural stage of life that typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. It marks the end of menstrual cycles and is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a period. While it is a biological transition, the symptoms can affect daily life in ways that extend beyond personal health. Hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood changes are among the most common experiences.

A study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that untreated menopause symptoms are linked to higher rates of job turnover among mid-career women. The research suggests that these symptoms can interfere with work performance and lead to decisions about leaving a job earlier than planned. This connection highlights the importance of understanding menopause not only as a health issue but also as a workplace concern.

For many women, mid-career years are a time of professional growth and stability. When symptoms interfere with concentration, energy, or confidence, the impact can ripple into career decisions. This makes menopause a factor in long-term workforce participation, which has implications for both employees and employers.

The Study and Its Findings

The Mayo Clinic study surveyed women between the ages of 45 and 60 who were receiving primary care at Mayo Clinic sites. Researchers found that women experiencing moderate to severe symptoms were more likely to report missed workdays, reduced productivity, or decisions to leave their jobs.

The study also estimated the economic impact of untreated symptoms. Lost work productivity and turnover were linked to significant costs for employers. While the numbers vary depending on the severity of symptoms, the findings suggest that addressing menopause in workplace wellness programs could reduce both personal and organizational strain.

Importantly, the research doesn’t suggest that menopause itself forces women out of the workforce. Instead, it shows that untreated or unmanaged symptoms can create barriers. This distinction matters because it points to solutions that are within reach, such as better access to healthcare and supportive workplace policies.

How Symptoms Affect Work Performance

Menopause symptoms can affect work in different ways. Hot flashes may disrupt meetings or presentations, while sleep problems can reduce focus during the day. Mood changes, often linked to hormonal shifts, may affect confidence or communication. These challenges are not universal, but for those who experience them, the effects can be significant.

The study found that women with more severe symptoms were more likely to report absenteeism or lower productivity. This pattern suggests that the intensity of symptoms plays a role in workplace outcomes. For example, a woman who experiences frequent night sweats may arrive at work feeling exhausted, which can affect her ability to concentrate or complete tasks efficiently.

These experiences are not signs of weakness or lack of ability. They are medical symptoms that can be managed with the right support. Recognizing them as such helps reduce stigma and opens the door to practical solutions.

The Role of Workplace Policies

Workplace wellness programs often focus on general health, such as exercise, nutrition, or stress management. The Mayo Clinic study suggests that including menopause in these programs could make a difference. Simple measures, such as flexible scheduling, access to healthcare providers, or awareness training for managers, may help women manage symptoms without feeling pressured to leave their jobs.

Employers who acknowledge menopause as a workplace issue may also benefit from improved retention. Supporting employees through this stage of life can reduce turnover and maintain valuable experience within the organization. For women, it can mean the ability to continue building their careers without interruption.

Policies don’t need to be complex to be effective. Even small adjustments, such as providing quiet spaces for breaks or ensuring that health insurance covers menopause-related care, can ease the burden. These steps signal that women’s health is valued and supported.

Addressing Concerns and Reducing Stigma

Talking about menopause at work can feel uncomfortable. Many women may hesitate to share their experiences for fear of being judged or misunderstood. This silence can make symptoms harder to manage, as employees may feel isolated or unsupported.

The Mayo Clinic study highlights the importance of breaking this silence. By framing menopause as a health issue with workplace implications, the conversation shifts from personal struggle to shared responsibility. This approach reassures employees that they are not alone and that their concerns are valid.

Reducing stigma also benefits employers. When employees feel comfortable discussing health needs, they are more likely to seek solutions that allow them to remain productive. This creates a healthier, more inclusive workplace culture.

Practical Steps for Employees and Employers

For employees, understanding that menopause symptoms are manageable is an important first step. Medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and stress management techniques can all help reduce the impact of symptoms. Seeking medical advice can provide clarity and options tailored to individual needs.

For employers, the study suggests that awareness and flexibility are key. Training managers to recognize the impact of menopause, offering flexible work arrangements, and ensuring access to healthcare resources are practical ways to support employees. These measures don’t just benefit women experiencing menopause; they contribute to a workplace culture that values health and well-being for all.

The findings from Mayo Clinic Proceedings provide reassurance that solutions exist. Menopause does not have to mean the end of a career. With the right support, women can continue to thrive in their professional lives while managing this natural stage of health.

Female Entrepreneurs Break Records in U.S. Health Tech Funding

Womens Journal Staff 2 on October 21, 2025

Record Growth in Women-Led Health Tech

Female-founded health technology companies in the United States secured record levels of venture capital funding this quarter, marking a significant milestone for women entrepreneurs. According to Silicon Valley Bank, investment in women’s health startups reached $2.6 billion in 2024, with momentum continuing into 2025. This growth reflects a broader recognition of the value women bring to innovation in healthcare, particularly in areas that have historically been underfunded.

The surge in funding is concentrated in sectors such as fertility technology, maternal health solutions, and digital wellness platforms. These areas address critical needs for women and families, making them attractive to investors who see both social impact and financial opportunity. The increased flow of capital also signals a shift in investor priorities, with greater attention being paid to inclusive innovation.

While women-led startups still represent a small share of overall venture-backed companies, the record-breaking quarter demonstrates progress. It also highlights the importance of continued support for female founders, who often face systemic barriers in accessing capital compared to their male counterparts.

Fertility and Maternal Health Innovation

Fertility and maternal health have emerged as leading categories for women-led health tech startups. Companies are developing tools that range from advanced fertility tracking applications to AI-powered diagnostics for maternal care. These innovations are designed to improve outcomes for women while reducing costs for healthcare systems.

Investors are increasingly drawn to these solutions because they address widespread challenges. Fertility treatments remain expensive and emotionally taxing, while maternal health outcomes in the United States continue to lag behind other developed nations. By funding startups that tackle these issues, investors are supporting both improved healthcare delivery and long-term market growth.

The success of these startups also reflects the lived experiences of their founders. Many female entrepreneurs in health tech are motivated by personal or community challenges, giving them unique insights into unmet needs. This perspective allows them to design products and services that resonate with patients and providers alike.

Digital Wellness and Preventive Care

Digital wellness platforms are another area where women-led startups are gaining traction. These companies focus on preventive care, mental health support, and lifestyle management, offering accessible solutions through mobile applications and online platforms. According to PitchBook, female-founded companies in digital health have seen rising valuations, reflecting strong demand for consumer-focused wellness tools.

Preventive care is increasingly recognized as a cost-effective way to improve health outcomes. By helping users track nutrition, exercise, and stress levels, digital wellness platforms can reduce the need for more expensive interventions later. Women-led startups are at the forefront of this trend, often designing products that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility.

The growth of digital wellness also reflects broader cultural shifts. Consumers are more engaged with their health than ever before, and technology provides a convenient way to monitor progress. Female entrepreneurs are leveraging this demand to create businesses that combine profitability with positive social impact.

Barriers and Opportunities for Female Founders

Despite the record funding, challenges remain for women entrepreneurs. According to PitchBook, companies founded solely by women still receive a disproportionately small share of total venture capital. Structural barriers, including limited access to investor networks and unconscious bias, continue to affect funding outcomes.

However, the success of health tech startups led by women demonstrates that these barriers can be overcome. As more female founders achieve visibility and success, they create pathways for others to follow. Investor interest in women’s health also suggests that the market is beginning to recognize the value of diverse leadership.

Policy initiatives and advocacy groups are working to expand access to capital for women entrepreneurs. Programs that connect female founders with mentors, investors, and accelerators are helping to close the funding gap. These efforts, combined with the momentum of record-breaking quarters, point to a more inclusive future for venture capital.

The growth of women-led health tech startups has implications beyond venture capital. By addressing issues such as fertility, maternal health, and preventive care, these companies are contributing to systemic improvements in healthcare. Their innovations have the potential to reduce disparities, improve patient outcomes, and lower costs across the system.

The success of female entrepreneurs also reinforces the importance of diversity in innovation. Different perspectives lead to different solutions, and women-led startups are demonstrating how inclusive leadership can drive meaningful change. As investors continue to support these companies, the benefits will extend to patients, providers, and the broader economy.

Looking ahead, the challenge will be sustaining this momentum. Continued investment, supportive policies, and cultural recognition of women’s contributions will be essential. If these conditions are met, women-led health tech startups are well positioned to remain a driving force in healthcare innovation.