Mid-life often brings profound changes and challenges and has long been associated with crisis. We encounter stories of people behaving in ways that differ from their habitual life, tinged with a desire to recapture a lost youth and fulfill long-held dreams.

It’s no coincidence that mid-life comes as a wakeup call when our younger years begin to fade away and the reality of ageing is creeping upon us.

Astrology stirring the pot

Interestingly, for each of us, mid-life is marked by significant astrological alignments that stir the pot of life. This can be a time of reckoning where the planets act to shake up life as we know it, profoundly influencing personal growth, and opening the way for us to choose a soul-directed life. For some, it may be that some course correction is required, whilst for others it’s a tumultuous time requiring a bit of a restructuring.

How we go about it is unique to each person. Everyone probably numbs out at some point, hoping it all sorts itself out. Some might take the rebellious route, throwing caution to wind, buying that sports car, having affairs, you get the picture.  At some stage most will hopefully hear the call of the soul and take a path toward healing and self-awakening.

Women’s experience of mid-life

A key interest in my work is supporting women who are navigating mid-life. Their mid-life experience includes unique challenges that are often multi-layered.

Women tend to be the main caregivers for their families and ageing parents, whilst juggling careers and encountering those pesky astrological alignments along the way.  This is the time when hormonal changes are brought on by peri-menopause, and where, along with all those hot flushes, life can be more demanding than ever.

Peri-menopause

Peri-menopause marks a time of transition that can start as early as 35 and continue into early 50’s. Peri’s impact can include lots of fun stuff like brain fog, lowered libido, urino-genital changes, muscle loss, belly bloating, reduced sleep, increased anxiety, and self-worth can take a beating.  

Women often speak of feelings of rage, invisibility, and exhaustion from the demands placed on them. They may feel the need to finally carve out time for themselves.

Trust me here when I say there is a way through this and ample support is available. It’s not meant to be a solo journey. Embracing mid-life can be a revolution, a portal to empowerment. Imagine looking forward to your later years rather than fearing what’s ahead. 

For many women mid-life becomes a time to re-evaluate their life, of letting go of pleasing others in order to feel valued, and of letting go of stories that no longer serve. It can become a season of owning their voice, following their hearts and carving a new path and purpose in life.

My interest in mid-life transitions stems from a desire to support women in navigating this phase effectively - making sense of the changes, managing stress, harnessing strengths and nurturing self-worth.  

I’ve heard it referred to as second puberty, as its significance is just as life-changing. It signifies the end of a woman’s fertile years and the beginning of a new phase leading to elder years.

Peri-menopause as a season

In the arc of a woman’s life, the archetypal framework of the Triple Goddess—Maiden, Mother, Crone—provides a useful perspective. This framework aligns with the seasons of nature:

• Spring represents the Maiden, a time of renewal, growth, and blossoming into maturity.

• Summer is the Mother, a period of full bloom during the most fertile and creative years.

• Winter is the Crone, the post-menopausal phase, a time of eldering and wisdom.

A fourth archetype aligns with this model: the Maga—peri-menopause being the autumn season. This phase signifies maturity, a time of harvest, transition, and preparation for the elder years. It’s a period of letting go of youth and fertility and embracing inner strengths for the next season of life.

A personal story

My own experience of mid-life began with heartbreak. Until then, I didn’t know how to speak up for myself. I avoided drawing attention and kept myself safe by being compliant and agreeable.  I was unhappy with who I was and carried lots of resentment. When I was facing the end of a marriage, my world shattered. How could this happen to me?

In truth this was a great big wake up call to be true to myself and find my voice. Since then, my life has been about healing and growing into the version of me my soul intended. It has been tough, painful and truly incredible. I am grateful for where I am now.

Entering this phase as a journey is well worth it. Each person’s life is unique, with opportunities to create a renewed vision for life through inner exploration. By learning to live from an inner sense of rightness, we can create a reality where self-worth is an inside job, independent of societal expectations.

Celebrating the journey of becoming strong

This a powerful time for women to celebrate on their journey. There is ample opportunity to heal self-limiting beliefs, harness strengths, and redefine identities - Identities that are soul-led rather than dictated by society. Imagine the strength of an elder woman who is celebrated by her community, empowered with self-love, fully self-expressed, and possibly even in a leadership role that makes a difference in her community.

Throughout this journey and all its seasons, lovingly taking care of ourselves is essential. As is welcoming moments of joy, fun, and a community of like-minded people who celebrate you and remind you of your worth. Women’s Circles are great for this.

Yes, even in these dark times, our moments of joy are an expression of our soul and the world needs this more than ever. 

Some ideas for calming the nervous system

Practices like Reiki, meditation, yoga and exercise offer vital support during these transitions, helping to regulate the nervous system, process emotions, and foster mind-body healing.

Connecting with nature, engaging in creative activities, and practicing self-care routines restore calm amidst the pressures of modern life.

A little goes a long way. Explore the benefits of a quick Reiki break (if you’re attuned), some mindful breathing, a moment to enjoy the sun on your face, and even a burst of your favourite dance music to jiggle your body to. The best time to do it is when you least feel like it. My guess is that’s when you may need it most.

 

Katia Krassas

About me:

At mid-life I commenced a journey that resulted in healing trauma, letting go of pleasing people, and finding my voice. I changed my career to become a Holistic Counsellor, Healer and Nature Connection Facilitator. I now help women connect to their inner power and be comfortable in their own skin.

See my bio here: natureconnectionempowerment

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