Walking the Sacred Labyrinth of Menopause: Hagitude - by Sharon Blackie
Dear Perimenopausal and Menopausal Readers (and the men that love them!)
As someone who deeply values a natural and spiritual approach to aging, I was profoundly moved by Sharon Blackie's Hagitude. This book is a must-read for those of us navigating the transformative journey of perimenopause and menopause. I discovered Hagitude several months ago through discussions with many wise women, and it kept coming up. Soon after, I found that many women I love and deeply respect, like my sister-in-law Barbara and my mother-in-law Jean, were reading it too.
This is a book whose time has come. When I was navigating menopause, I was running a business, raising a son, and caring for my aging parents. I was exhausted, sweaty, and moody all the time. I felt unattractive and struggled with intimacy. I encountered our male-dominated societies narrow concept of an aging woman and knew that embracing it would harm me physically and emotionally. Thankfully, my amazing husband encouraged me to keep searching for what worked for me.
The traditional cocktail of HRT, vaginal estrogen, and anti-anxiety meds wasn't my first choice, though I understand how beneficial they can be for some women. In my work, I never hesitate to suggest these options when someone is suffering, and I would never advise anyone to stop taking them. If you ever meet an herbalist who does, run away quickly. Our role is to offer education and support, not to diagnose.
I knew I needed something else. I turned to herbs and yoga, which my neurodivergent brain initially resisted but eventually embraced for its benefits. I danced to Gabrielle Roth's Five Rhythms and began studying the eternal aspects of the divine feminine. This gave me a clear blueprint for my menopausal journey based on an ancient yet very modern spirituality that resonates today.
Transforming my attitude and diet was crucial. Embracing the ancient heat rather than resisting it, and accepting my new identity as a woman entering a different life stage, were key steps. I danced with the flames, and it worked. As I began to hold more of my energy for myself, I saw the power of the Crone archetype and knew I wouldn't go back to who I had been.
Hagitude celebrates the wisdom and power that come with age, reframing the often negative perceptions of this life stage. Blackie beautifully weaves together personal anecdotes, cultural stories, and spiritual insights, offering a rich tapestry that honors the natural rhythms of our bodies and spirits. She encourages us to see menopause not as an ending but as a powerful transition into a new phase of life, filled with potential for growth and self-discovery.
The spiritual elements of Hagitude resonate deeply with those of us seeking a profound connection with the natural world. Blackie draws on ancient wisdom and modern practices to help us align with nature's cycles, fostering a sense of peace and purpose. Her insights into rituals, remedies, and mindful practices are invaluable for nurturing our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being during this time.
A significant theme in Hagitude is the reverence for goddesses and crones, celebrating the wisdom and power of older women. Blackie explores how these archetypes have been revered in various cultures and how they can serve as role models for contemporary women. The book encourages readers to embrace their inner crone, honoring the deep feminine wisdom that comes with age. This perspective aligns well with those who follow goddess worship and seek a spiritual connection to the divine feminine during the transformative journey of menopause.
For those interested in a spiritual and natural approach to aging, Hagitude provides a refreshing perspective on menopause, celebrating it as a time of empowerment rather than decline. Blackie's insights into goddess worship and the archetype of the crone offer a profound and enriching way to view this life stage, making the book an inspiring read for anyone looking to cultivate a deeper connection with their inner wisdom and the natural world.
Hagitude is not just a book; it's a companion on the journey of aging gracefully and powerfully. Sharon Blackie speaks directly to our experiences, offering validation, inspiration, and practical advice. Whether you're just beginning your perimenopausal journey or well into menopause, this book will empower you to embrace your inner wisdom and live with intention and joy.
With love and reverence for wherever you find yourself on this fiery journey,
Beth