Written by Gabriela Barclay, Holistic Coach
Gabriela's story is one of perseverance, transformation, and hope. She started working in the casinos 25 years ago and quickly rose to a management position in Egypt, making her one of the first women to do so. Her unhappy marriage led her to leave with very few possessions and no money, which left her feeling depressed and unworthy.
Welcome to a powerful chapter in the journey of womanhood—menopause-a period of profound transformation that promises profound wisdom, spiritual awakening, renewed strength, and an ascension into a powerful new phase of life.
Menopause is often feared and misunderstood, but imagine if we saw it differently.
What if we embraced it as a profound transformation, a sacred passage into deeper wisdom, greater self-awareness, and a more authentic connection with our true selves?
Menopause is far more than the end of menstruation; it's the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities for spiritual growth and personal empowerment.
This time in a woman's life invites us to look inward, to honour the journey we've been on, and to step fully into our power.
This article aims to shift your perspective on menopause, revealing it not as an end but as an extraordinary beginning.
Awakening to the spiritual aspect of menopause: A personal journey
Reflecting on my journey into my 40s, I began noticing a shift in my body—a series of changes that initially seemed disorienting. Irregular periods, night sweats, and mood swings became my new normal.
I initially attributed these symptoms to stress or ageing, dismissing them as mere inconveniences. However, as these changes grew more intense, I began to see them as a call to deeper reflection.
I stumbled upon articles and stories framing menopause not just as a physical transition but as a profound spiritual journey.
My exploration into the spiritual dimensions of menopause revealed that this phase could be a journey of profound self-discovery.
Embracing this perspective allowed me to confront long-held fears and unresolved issues, leading to a newfound inner peace and clarity.
By honouring this transition, I connected with a more profound sense of self and embraced the wisdom of this transformative period.
Menopause as a divine gift
The word "menopause" often comes with a stigma, with many women dreading its arrival due to the associated physical and emotional challenges.
However, by viewing menopause through a spiritual lens, we can see it as a divine gift—a powerful transformation that brings new opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
Celebrating the body's wisdom
Menopause marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. It's a time to celebrate our bodies' incredible resilience and the wisdom accumulated through our experiences. These physical changes are not imperfections but symbols of strength and resilience.
Embracing freedom and Aautonomy
With menopause comes a release from many societal expectations that may have constrained us. This newfound freedom allows us to focus on our needs and desires and to live authentically and without apology.
A sacred passage into wisdom
Many cultures recognise menopause as a sacred passage when women transition into their "wisdom years." In Native American traditions, this phase is called "the moon pause," symbolising maturity and introspection.
In Chinese medicine, this phase is a period of personal transformation, where self-nurturing becomes central.
Menopause is not an end but a beginning—a divine gift that ushers in an era of wisdom and self-discovery. It is a time to honour your body, celebrate your journey, and embrace the inherent power within you.
Hot flashes and energy shifts: A deeper look into symptoms
Hot flashes and energy shifts are some of the most well-known symptoms of menopause.
While they can be physically uncomfortable, they also carry a more profound spiritual significance.
1. Hot flashes: A purification process
Hot flashes, those sudden waves of heat that sweep through the body, are often linked to hormonal changes.
Spiritually, these can be energetic releases or purifications—a way for the body to cleanse itself of old patterns and emotions that no longer serve us.
Just as physical sweat detoxifies the body, hot flashes might symbolise the shedding of old energies, making room for new beginnings.
2. Energy shifts: Embracing the flow of life
Energy shifts during menopause manifest as fluctuations in vitality, mood swings, and changes in emotional well-being.
These shifts are part of life's natural ebb and flow, reflecting our journey towards inner balance and wisdom.
Menopause is often called "the wisdom years," a time to reflect on what truly matters and to connect more deeply with our inner selves.
These energy shifts are opportunities for introspection, helping us embrace the flow of life and the wisdom it brings.
Tips for honouring the wisdom within during menopause
Navigating menopause is a profoundly personal journey, and it is essential to honour the wisdom within and embrace the spiritual awakening that accompanies this transition.
5 ways to connect with your inner wisdom and nurture your well-being
1. Connect with yourself
Menopause is a time of profound change, making it crucial to connect with yourself on a deeper level.
Journaling, meditation, and mindfulness practices can help you tune into your thoughts, feelings, and inner guidance.
By dedicating time to self-reflection, you can gain clarity on the lessons and insights menopause offers.
2. Embrace your emotions
The hormonal changes of menopause can bring intense emotions, from mood swings to anxiety and even depression.
Rather than suppressing these feelings, embrace them as part of your journey. Allow yourself to experience and explore your emotions fully.
This process can lead to healing, self-acceptance, and greater self-awareness.
3. Honor your body
Your body undergoes significant changes during menopause, and honouring and caring for it with love and compassion is essential.
Engage in self-care practices that nourish your body, such as gentle exercise, healthy eating, and restorative sleep.
4. Trust your intuition
Menopause is a time when your intuition may become more potent and accessible. Trust your inner knowing and listen to the guidance it offers.
Whether it's making decisions about your health, relationships, or life direction, your intuition can be a powerful ally in navigating this transition.
5. Reconnect with your passions
During menopause, many women may find themselves questioning their purpose or feeling unfulfilled in their lives.
This transition is an excellent opportunity to reconnect with your passions and hobbies, which may have been put on hold due to other responsibilities, such as work or family.
Take the time to reflect on what truly brings you joy and makes you feel alive.
Could it be painting? Dancing? Writing? Gardening?
Whatever it may be, make time for it regularly. Engaging in activities that ignite your soul will help boost your self-worth by reminding you of your unique talents and passions.
Reflection questions to nurture your well-being
As you navigate the spiritual journey of menopause, it is helpful to reflect on your experiences and the changes occurring within you.
4 questions to guide your self-reflection and nurture your well-being
1. What emotions have surfaced during menopause, and what are they teaching me about myself?
Reflecting on your emotional experiences can reveal hidden fears, desires, and needs.
What can you learn from these emotions, and how can they guide you toward greater self-awareness and healing?
2. How can I honour and care for my body's wisdom during this transition?
Consider how you can support your body through self-care, nourishment, and rest.
How can you appreciate your body's strength and resilience during menopause?
3. What beliefs or patterns no longer serve me, and how can I release them?
Menopause is a time of letting go and transformation.
Reflect on any beliefs, habits, or relationships holding you back.
How can you release these and create space for new growth?
4. What is my intuition guiding me, and how can I fully trust it?
Take time to connect with your inner guidance.
What messages is your intuition offering, and how can you trust and follow this wisdom as you navigate the changes of menopause?
Reclaiming your worth and identity during the menopausal phase
Menopause is a powerful beginning—a sacred invitation to pause, reflect, and heal. It is time to honour the woman you've been and the woman you are becoming.
Reclaiming your worth and identity during this phase is an act of profound courage and self-love. It's about shedding the old narratives that no longer serve you and stepping into a new chapter with confidence and grace.
Use this time to reconnect with your true self, listen to your soul's whispers, and embrace the transformation with an open heart.
Navigating relationships during menopause
Navigating relationships during menopause is like learning to dance in a new rhythm—one where the steps are unfamiliar but offers a chance to create deeper, more meaningful connections.
This life stage involves physical changes and an emotional evolution that can redefine how women relate to their partners, family, and friends.
The key to gracefully moving through this time lies in communication—open, honest, and vulnerable conversations that break the silence surrounding menopause. Educating loved ones is equally vital, turning what could be a time of distance into an opportunity for closeness and understanding.
Whether rekindling intimacy with a partner or setting boundaries with friends, the journey through menopause can be a profound growth, deepening the bonds that truly matter.
Honouring and celebrating the divine feminine during menopause
Menopause is a sacred passage that honours the divine feminine within us.
It is a time to celebrate the wisdom, strength, and creativity that come with this phase of life.
By embracing the spiritual aspects of menopause, we can reconnect with our inner goddess and celebrate the power and beauty of our feminine essence.
Celebrating your wisdom
Menopause marks the culmination of decades of life experience.
It is a time to celebrate the wisdom you have gained and to share it with others.
Whether through mentoring, teaching, or simply living authentically, your wisdom is a gift that can inspire and uplift those around you.
Embracing the sacredness of menopause
Menopause is a sacred journey, a rite of passage that connects us with the cycles of nature and the rhythms of the universe.
By honouring this transition, we can deepen our spiritual practice and reconnect with the divine feminine.
Living authentically and joyfully
As you embrace the spiritual side of menopause, allow yourself to live authentically and joyfully.
Celebrate your uniqueness and magnificence, honour your intuition, and trust in the wisdom that guides you.
Menopause is not an ending but a new beginning—a time to fully step into your power and live the life you were meant to live.
Embracing the beauty and power of menopause
Menopause is a profound transformation journey that blends mind, body, and spirit into a new era of empowerment.
It is a time to honour your journey, celebrate the wisdom within, and embrace the divine feminine power that defines you.
This chapter is not merely an end but a vibrant new beginning, rich with opportunities for growth and self-discovery. It is your moment to shine, heal, and thrive.
Menopause is your invitation to live deeply, authentically, and joyously—a true celebration of the divine feminine within.
Gabriela Barclay, Holistic Coach
Gabriela's story is one of perseverance, transformation, and hope. She started working in the casinos 25 years ago and quickly rose to a management position in Egypt, making her one of the first women to do so. Her unhappy marriage led her to leave with very few possessions and no money, which left her feeling depressed and unworthy. She survived her story, learned to transform herself and be in her power. Now, as a mother, holistic coach, and casino manager, Gabriela is passionate about empowering women to heal, thrive, stand in their power, see their awesomeness, embrace their authenticity and reclaim their magnificence, embodying her values of kindness, integrity, respect, love, trust, and spirituality.