The Change

As a woman experiencing a very notable & recognizable era in my life - perimenopause - I began avidly researching how this takes shape across cultures and even species.

Besides humans, only four other species on the planet are confirmed to experience it: beluga whales, orcas, narwhals and short-finned grey whales. In good company, these other species along with humans have the benefit of experienced life givers to carry on the growth and longevity of the community. What a gift.

In some indigenous cultures, this transition is regarded as “Wise Blood.” Women are elevated to shamanic status and regarded as spiritual leaders and healers.

That said, oh boy. The changes are for many of us are really quite profound and often alien and uncomfortable. Sweat lodge ceremonies have often been used to manage physical and emotional discomfort across various tribes. For me, yoga and meditation have played crucial roles during my hormonal shifts.

It’s been an extraordinary journey inward; one that I wouldn’t trade even when the obstacles intense. With a little perspective and a lot of loving support, passing through these gates can be an energetically exciting time.

I would love to hear your story; if you’ve been experiencing your own changes as a woman, era to era, email namaste@yogalifecollective.com.