The life well-lived: regenopause

The Well-Lived Life: Dr. Gladys McGarey and the Power of Regenopause

/ Regenopause / By

The Well-Lived Life: Dr. Gladys McGarey and the Power of Regenopause

If you think ageing is just about getting older, think again. Dr. Gladys McGarey, at 103 years young, is living proof that life doesn’t wind down—it evolves. In her book, The Well-Lived Life: A 102-Year-Old Doctor’s Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Any Age, she shares the wisdom of a life dedicated to healing, growth, and, most importantly, joy.

Her story beautifully aligns with futurist Barbara Marx Hubbard’s concept of Regenopause, the post-menopausal stage of life—applicable to men and women—where we don’t just age; we become newer versions of ourselves.

Dr. Gladys McGarey: A Living Testament to Lifelong Growth

Dr. McGarey is a pioneering figure in holistic medicine, co-founding the American Holistic Medical Association long before “wellness” became a buzzword. Her book isn’t just a memoir; it’s a guide to unlocking vitality at any stage of life. She shares six key secrets to a well-lived life, including keeping purpose alive, embracing movement, and harnessing love as a healing force.

Her philosophy is that ageing isn’t about decline but deepening into who we are meant to be. She advocates for staying curious, maintaining community, and contributing to the world in meaningful ways, whether through work, creativity, or service. Her life is a testament to this: at over 100, she still writes, speaks, and inspires.

Regenopause: Becoming New, Not Just Older

Barbara Marx Hubbard introduced the term Regenopause to describe a profound shift that happens post-menopause—not just biologically, but spiritually and creatively. Rather than seeing this phase as an ending, it’s a time of regeneration, where both men and women can step into their full wisdom, purpose, and power.

Dr. McGarey perfectly embodies this concept. She didn’t stop evolving after raising her children or retiring from active medical practice. Instead, she leaned further into her passions, sharing her insights with the world. Her message? Keep moving, keep loving, and keep living with intention.

The Six Secrets to a Well-Lived Life

Dr McGarey’s book distills her wisdom into six principles:

  1. You Are as Young as Your Purpose – Having something to wake up for daily keeps the spirit alive.
  2. Love is the Most Powerful Medicine – A heart-centred life nourishes both the giver and the receiver.
  3. You Are What You Move – Staying physically active keeps energy flowing.
  4. Find Your Tribe – Meaningful relationships are essential for a thriving life.
  5. Listen to Your Inner Physician – Your body and intuition hold deep wisdom.
  6. Laugh, Learn, and Let Go – Humor and adaptability keep life fresh.

The Invitation to Embrace the New You

Dr McGarey and Barbara Marx Hubbard invite us to rethink ageing. Rather than seeing later life as a time to slow down and withdraw, it can be the most vibrant and impactful chapter yet. Whether you’re 50, 70, or 100, a newer version of you is always waiting to emerge.

So, what’s calling you forward? A creative project? A new career? A more profound commitment to community? Like Dr McGarey, we can all step into the fullness of our lives, not just growing older but into something new.

Here’s to Regenopause—the best is yet to come!

Want to read more about the regenopause? Try some of my other blogs 👇🏼