Hagitude

1. Menopause: A transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment

Menopause hacks us open; it is the cleaving to end all cleavings.

Physical and emotional upheaval. Menopause marks a profound transition in a woman's life, characterized by intense physical changes and emotional turbulence. This period often brings:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Mood swings and increased irritability
• Changes in body composition and metabolism
• Shifts in libido and sexual function

Opportunity for growth. While challenging, menopause also presents a unique opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth. It often serves as a catalyst for:

• Reevaluating priorities and relationships
• Exploring new passions and interests
• Developing a deeper sense of self-awareness
• Embracing a more authentic version of oneself

Societal perceptions. The way menopause is viewed and discussed in society can significantly impact a woman's experience. There's a growing need to:

• Challenge negative stereotypes about aging women
• Promote open dialogue about menopausal experiences
• Advocate for better support and healthcare options
• Celebrate the wisdom and strength that come with this life stage

2. Embracing the archetype of the Wise Woman in elderhood

We are the Earth, and the Earth is us.

Ancient archetypes. Throughout history and across cultures, the archetype of the Wise Woman or Crone has been a powerful symbol of feminine wisdom and strength. This archetype embodies:

• Deep knowledge gained through life experience
• Connection to nature and the cycles of life
• The ability to see beyond surface appearances
• A fierce protectiveness of the natural world and community

Modern relevance. In today's world, embracing the Wise Woman archetype can be a source of empowerment for aging women. It offers:

• A positive alternative to societal narratives about aging
• A framework for understanding one's evolving role in society
• Inspiration for personal growth and self-discovery
• A sense of connection to a long lineage of powerful female elders

Practical application. Women can embody the Wise Woman archetype in various ways:

• Mentoring younger generations
• Engaging in environmental and social activism
• Cultivating and sharing traditional knowledge and skills
• Practicing and teaching rituals that honor the cycles of nature and life

3. Reconnecting with nature and ancient wisdom for personal growth

To be elder in my native traditions, then, following the Cailleach, is to fight for the integrity and health of the wild places and creatures of this world, and to be the fierce protector of the Earth, guardian of its balance.

Nature as teacher. Reconnecting with the natural world can provide profound insights and healing during the transition to elderhood. This connection offers:

• A sense of belonging to something larger than oneself
• Lessons in resilience, adaptation, and cycles of growth and decay
• A source of comfort and inspiration in times of change
• A deeper understanding of one's place in the ecosystem of life

Ancient wisdom. Drawing on the wisdom of ancestral traditions can provide valuable guidance for navigating the challenges of aging. This may involve:

• Studying indigenous practices and beliefs about elderhood
• Exploring traditional healing modalities and plant medicines
• Participating in rituals that mark life transitions
• Cultivating a sense of connection to one's cultural roots

Personal practices. Individuals can develop their own practices to strengthen their connection to nature and ancient wisdom:

• Regular time spent in natural settings
• Keeping a nature journal or engaging in nature-based art
• Learning about local flora, fauna, and ecosystems
• Studying and practicing traditional crafts or skills

4. The power of creativity and storytelling in shaping elder identity

Stories are spells; they change things. When they hook us and reel us into their magic, they change us.

Creative expression. Engaging in creative pursuits can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal growth in elderhood. Creative activities can:

• Provide an outlet for processing emotions and experiences
• Foster a sense of purpose and accomplishment
• Facilitate connections with others through shared creative endeavors
• Offer new ways of understanding and expressing one's identity

Storytelling traditions. The art of storytelling has long been associated with elders in many cultures. Embracing this role can:

• Preserve and pass on cultural knowledge and values
• Offer wisdom and guidance to younger generations
• Provide a sense of continuity and legacy
• Help make sense of one's own life journey

Personal narrative. Crafting and sharing one's personal story can be a transformative experience. This process may involve:

• Reflecting on key life events and lessons learned
• Identifying themes and patterns in one's life journey
• Reframing challenging experiences in a positive light
• Envisioning and articulating hopes for the future

5. Challenging societal norms and expectations for aging women

It would be difficult to find a more perfect expression of hagitude.

Ageism and sexism. Older women often face intersecting forms of discrimination based on both age and gender. Common stereotypes include:

• Assumptions of diminished capability or relevance
• Expectations of declining physical attractiveness
• Pressure to "age gracefully" or remain youthful
• Invisibility in media and public discourse

Reclaiming power. Challenging these norms involves actively redefining what it means to be an older woman. This can include:

• Embracing and celebrating physical changes
• Pursuing new interests and challenges regardless of age
• Speaking out against ageist and sexist attitudes
• Modeling confident and empowered aging for younger generations

Cultural shift. Broader societal changes are needed to support positive aging for women:

• Increased representation of diverse older women in media
• Policies that address age discrimination in employment and healthcare
• Educational initiatives to combat ageist attitudes
• Support for intergenerational connections and mentorship

6. Cultivating deep vision and spiritual awareness in later life

We need, rather, to learn how to add just enough fuel to keep it burning steadily and surely, and to preserve its beautiful, glowing flames through the rest of our lives.

Inner exploration. The later years of life can be a rich time for spiritual growth and inner exploration. This may involve:

• Deepening existing spiritual practices or exploring new ones
• Engaging in contemplative activities like meditation or journaling
• Seeking out experiences of awe and transcendence in nature or art
• Cultivating a sense of connection to something larger than oneself

Wisdom traditions. Many spiritual and philosophical traditions offer guidance for navigating the challenges and opportunities of aging:

• Buddhist teachings on impermanence and non-attachment
• Indigenous wisdom about the role of elders in community
• Mystical traditions that explore altered states of consciousness
• Philosophical approaches to finding meaning in life

Practical application. Individuals can cultivate deep vision and spiritual awareness through various practices:

• Regular time set aside for reflection and contemplation
• Engaging in rituals or ceremonies that mark life transitions
• Studying spiritual or philosophical texts
• Participating in spiritual communities or retreats

7. Confronting mortality and finding meaning in the face of death

Death is a midwife, birthing us into a new stage of being.

Facing mortality. Confronting the reality of one's own mortality can be a profound catalyst for personal growth and transformation. This process often involves:

• Acknowledging and working through fears about death
• Reflecting on one's values and what truly matters in life
• Making peace with regrets or unresolved issues
• Cultivating a sense of gratitude for the gift of life

Cultural attitudes. Western society often struggles to engage with death in healthy ways. Common issues include:

• Denial or avoidance of death-related topics
• Medicalization of the dying process
• Lack of community support for the grieving
• Loss of traditional death rituals and practices

Finding meaning. Engaging with mortality can lead to a deeper appreciation for life and a stronger sense of purpose. This may involve:

• Clarifying personal values and priorities
• Strengthening relationships and resolving conflicts
• Engaging in legacy work or creative projects
• Exploring spiritual or philosophical perspectives on death and the afterlife

Last updated: October 6, 2024