Finding a NuMe during midlife: Cork woman sets-up wellness platform

Life is challenging, especially midlife, but with the right resources and a caring community, it can be a time for personal growth and empowerment.

That’s the viewpoint of Cork woman Lucy Kenefick, 42, who has set up NuMe Collective, a wellness platform created for busy women ‘who might be feeling a little lost’.

A hectic life as a wife and mum of a five- and three-year-old, running a successful gym, and going through her own journey into midlife gave Lucy a first-hand taste of how intense and overwhelming these years can be for all women, and was her motivation for setting up the business.

“My own experience with perimenopause made me realise just how confusing and isolating, and often scary these changes can feel, especially mentally. I thought I was going mad at one stage, not a nice feeling at all.

“When I wanted and needed answers, I found myself going down deep rabbit holes on Google and Instagram, sifting through an overwhelming amount of conflicting information, most of which didn’t actually help me and left me feeling despondent.

“It was then I knew that so many other women must feel the same way too.

“NuMe Collective came from a desire to change that, to build a platform that provides not just factual information but also empathy, encouragement, and practical help from trusted experts who truly understand women’s health,” she said.

Lucy has spent more than 15 years working in fitness, wellness, and women’s health, and is a qualified fitness trainer, nutrition coach, and also a certified menopause coach, specialising in nutrition and exercise.

She’s been the powerhouse behind Obodo gym, located on the South Douglas Road, for the past 12 years ago, and more recently launched the NuMe Collective.

“My passion is helping women understand their bodies and their options, and giving them tools and insights to feel healthier and more in control,” said Lucy.

“NuMe Collective is for women who might be navigating perimenopause, post menopause, or just struggling with balancing life with hectic demands and lack of energy. My platform is a safe, private space where you can find trusted information, evidence-based guidance and connect with others on the same journey—without the constant, overwhelming and misleading noise of social media.”

Her focus is on practical, real-life solutions in areas like nutrition, movement, wellness, and to help women understand their hormone health.

To help with that, there’s an invaluable wellness directory on the platform that connects members with Cork-based female experts in women’s health and more, designed to offer diverse support and empower women with real, reliable advice to feel their best.

“My goal with NuMe is simple.,” said Lucy. “I want to provide a place where women feel seen, supported, and guided as they navigate midlife and its personal challenges.”

Lucy’s tips to anyone who may be feeling overwhelmed by midlife

1. Take it slow. Making even small changes can bring meaningful, lasting results. Focus on one thing at a time, like moving more, improving your sleep, or adding more whole foods to your diet.

2. Find trusted resources. Good information is out there. Seek experts who specialise in menopause and women’s health to avoid relying on and feeling overwhelmed by social media noise.

3. Move daily, with purpose. Movement, even just a short walk every day, can reduce stress and improve mood, helping with both physical and mental wellbeing. Adding resistance when your body is ready adds longevity and confidence.

4. Lean on community. Connecting with others who understand can provide both strength and comfort. There is power in sharing experiences and learning from one another.

5. Give yourself a break. We can’t stop the ageing process but we can certainly understand it better it. This is a time of change, not a final destination. Give yourself some compassion and take things at your own pace.