Recently, I shared an amazing conversation with with a friend of mine who took time to mark her calendar and celebrate her 1 year since having her last period. She is officially in Menopause. This is a time to celebrate and not be dismissed. I absolutely loved to hear all about how she was feeling with such positivity, enthusiasm and there was a sense of relief. This is how I want more women to feel.
(Side note: Menopause - production of the hormones, estrogen and progesterone slow down and menstruation has ended for a year. Derived from the Greek word - Meno; for month and Pausis for stop.)
We as women in a New Age tradition have been put into this archetype of stages relating to our hormone and reproductive system and referred to Maiden, Mother and Crone - Triple Goddess. I have to admit, Goddess has a nice ring to it. With modern times and lifestyle changes, the headings between Mother and Crone need an adjustment as they no longer serve or necessarily resonate with who we are. Let me share with you the given definitions of each stage:
Maiden - before the onset of our period ( menses)
Mother - happens after puberty and during childbearing years ( even if one chooses not to have children)
Crone : no more Menses (Wise woman)
This is sad that there was a belief that women's useful years ended with childbearing. Thank goodness times have changed! Here are some interesting facts:
*Back in the 1900's the average women lived to around 47 years. Now if you live to 65, you can expect to live to at least 84. That is a big positive change.
*2.7 million Canadians will be in Menopause in the next decade.
*The world has over 470 million post menopausal women!
Old stereotypes do not apply anymore as life span is increasing. Women are back in school with continuing education later in life, having babies later in life, juggling family, work/careers, relationships, finance, home responsibilities and more. This modern day women really does not fit solely in the Mother or Crone category anymore. This is exciting for women!!!
There is a new 3rd stage added ( so now 4 stages for us modern women). A celebratory stage of womanhood in our insightful, majestic beautiful mature middle years - the Queen. (between Mother and Crone)
This stage ranges from around 40 to 65 years of age. What an exciting time to recognize and be honoured as a woman. The Queen is sexy, vibrant, active, still filled with enthusiasm of youth. There is earned experience, acceptance and celebration of physical. emotional and spiritual aspects of self.
The unfortunate part of all this is that most women during Peri Menopause (can start mid to late 40's - a time of great fluctuation in hormones) are not informed, ready for the impact of what symptoms may present and unprepared for this time period that can last on average 4 years. (Note- Everyone is unique with length of time leading into menopause.) When we understand this natural transition into peri menopause and menopause, we can take control back and cultivate a smooth transition. This can lead to more energy, better health, manage stress, maintain physical fitness, strength, balance hormones, reduce hot flashes, mood swings, sleep issues, cardiovascular health, and more way past our menopausal years. Having support to help with positive lifestyle changes can make a real impact of self esteem and self image.
Society still adds negative pressure on aging women yet idolizes youth. It is time for a change so that both women and men can embrace, respect and honour every stage of a woman's life. Knowledge is power! As women are educated and supported, they will feel confident to know how to take care of their bodies and mind through these amazing empowering life changes that happen to each of us.
I love this quote " .....the core of the women's lifecycle is renewal." Lal Ded, 14th century Hindu mystic, Yogi, Saint
The practices of Qigong, Yoga, Pilates, Meditation and Coaching can all be very helpful during times of transition as well as the post menopausal stage. These practices can help you stay grounded, centred, strong, calm, cultivate inner peace and happiness so that you can feel beautiful from the inside out.
If you are looking for some guidance and support through coaching and classes we are here to help you along your own unique path. See our online Membership that is made of 3 separate Tiers to suite you best . We have an ever growing Library of recordings to choose that you can access 24/7 to fit in with your schedule (Qigong, Yoga, Chair, Pilates, Meditations, Specialty Classes/ Workshops), Live Zoom classes, Email Support and 1-on-1 Coaching options to choose from. Please reach out if you have any questions.
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Every stage for women is time for celebration.
Love, Light & Qi
Jennifer Nocito RHC HCA
Certified HolisticWellness Coach, Certified Qigong/Yoga/Pilates/Meditation Teacher,
Thentix Distributor
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2vTiffoLV4JUSbEIIkXXRQ
Yoga First and Wellness