We
embark on an insightful journey with Andrea M. Slominski, PhD, a renowned
women's therapeutic midlife and menopause coach. This episode delves into the
transformative possibilities that midlife offers to women, reimagining this
period as a time of empowerment and renewed purpose. Andrea introduces the
concept of "Regency," a new life stage for women spanning ages 45 to
70 and beyond. This stage encapsulates perimenopause, midlife, menopause, and
postmenopause, emphasizing the profound changes women undergo and the potential
for growth and transformation.
Andrea's journey is a testament to the power of reinvention. Returning to
academia at 55, she earned her MA and PhD in women's psychology and mythology.
Her unique coaching methods are rooted in archetypal and depth psychology,
providing invaluable insights into the triple transformation that midlife women
navigate. This transformation impacts seven key realms: body, self-image,
needs, feelings, roles, priorities, and goals. Understanding these
interconnected changes is crucial for women to align with their true path and
lead a life enriched by love and compassion.
A significant portion of the episode addresses the fragmentation of
storytelling and myth in our modern culture. Drawing inspiration from Joseph
Campbell, Andrea and the hosts discuss the urgent need for a new unifying myth.
They emphasize the importance of incorporating Indigenous perspectives, which
often view the divine as imminent and intertwined with the natural world. This
perspective contrasts with the transcendent view of Judeo-Christian traditions
and highlights the role of storytelling as both a personal catharsis and a
unifying cultural force.
The conversation also explores the role of literature and theater in
maintaining the communal experience of storytelling. Early reading experiences
serve as a gateway to different worlds and adventures, while theater, with its
historical roots in ritual and myth, creates unique communal experiences with each
performance. The digital age presents challenges to this communal aspect, as
the fleeting thrill of effects-driven films often overshadows the profound
impact of intimate, minimalist performances. The hosts and Andrea reflect on
the importance of being present in the moment and the role of storytelling in
shaping our individual and collective narratives.
Andrea's journey through the challenges and redirections of life is another
focal point of the episode. From a reduced teaching load during the recession
to contemplating a career in TV and film, Andrea shares how a broken ankle led
her to discover Joseph Campbell's work. This discovery ultimately led her to
enroll in Pacifica Graduate Institute's mythological studies program, a
transformative experience that provided her with a profound sense of purpose
and alignment with her life's work.
The episode also delves into the significant shift in women's lifespans since
1900, introducing a new life stage that emphasizes the need for cultural value
and wisdom during this period. The challenges and transformations experienced
during menopause and midlife are compared to mythological rites of passage,
offering universal guidance. The conversation underscores the importance of
valuing the wisdom of elders across all cultures, advocating for a return to
appreciating experience and age as integral to societal growth.
The alignment between narrative therapy and mythology is explored, particularly
focusing on the reframing of personal narratives. The hosts discuss how the
instantaneous nature of modern culture might contribute to a lack of
understanding and appreciation for nuanced stories and metaphors. Exposure to
classical and philosophical education, the potential impact of technology on
imagination and creativity, and the significance of experiencing nature-based
spirituality for profound, numinous moments are all highlighted. The
introduction of James Hillman's acorn theory from his book "The Soul's
Code" posits that each person is born with a unique character or daemon, a
guiding force or calling that shapes one's life.
The journey of midlife transformation for women is further explored, focusing
on the essential role of love in overcoming fear and tapping into compassion.
Andrea sheds light on the unique challenges women face during midlife,
including the triple transformation encompassing physical, psychological, and
spiritual changes. These transformations are interconnected and impact seven
key realms of change: body, self-image, needs, feelings, roles, priorities, and
goals. Navigating these changes is crucial for women to align with their true
path and steer towards a life enriched by love and compassion.
Reclaiming identity in midlife is another critical topic. The psychological and
hormonal shifts women experience as they age lead them to question who they are
and what they want to achieve with the remaining decades of their lives. The
struggle to navigate societal expectations and cultural pressures while seeking
to rediscover their true selves and authentic gifts is a common theme. This
emerging life stage for women is seen as a pivotal development in the ongoing
evolution of gender dynamics and societal structures.
Download the episode at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2267353/episodes/15602440