The Positives of Menopause

Empty Nest Quest

The journey through menopause and the empty nest phase isn't just about navigating physical changes—it's an invitation to reconnect with your emotional landscape after decades of putting others first.
Many of us have spent years running on fumes, managing our families and responsibilities while neglecting our own emotional wellbeing. When this season of life arrives with its whirlwind of changes, it often feels overwhelming—like being suddenly thrust from a peaceful stream into rushing rapids. But what if we viewed this transition differently? What if, instead of resisting the current, we learned to float downstream and discover what the river of life wants to show us next?
During this vulnerable exploration, I share the difference between activities that genuinely nurture us versus those that merely numb our discomfort. Whether it's compulsive reading (my personal escape), endless Netflix scrolling, or even excessive cleaning, we all have ways we avoid emotional discomfort. The alternative is finding practices that gently open our emotional doorways—like the Pilates, breathwork, and pelvic floor work that helps center me when anxiety strikes. These practices allow emotions to surface naturally, without forcing or judging what emerges.
Drawing wisdom from Christiane Northrup's pioneering work connecting our body's physical sensations to our emotional patterns, I offer a simple yet profound practice: becoming the compassionate witness to yourself. By placing a hand where tension lives in your body and observing without the pressure to fix anything, you activate your body's innate healing wisdom. This isn't about being your own isolated healer—it's about recognizing you're part of something larger, connected to divine support that flows through your perfectly designed physical form.
What if you're 50 and have 30-40 more vibrant years ahead? That's not just possible—it's probable. While it's natural to grieve what's changing, can you also be present with who you are becoming? The river hasn't ended—it's simply changed course. Float with it awhile and see where it takes you.

Chapters

1. Intro: Honoring Our Emotional Health (00:00:00)

2. Finding Nurturing Activities vs. Numbing Out (00:02:10)

3. Identifying Emotions in Your Body (00:05:15)

4. Becoming Your Own Witness (00:08:45)

5. Embracing Your Future: The River Ahead (00:12:31)