Grief

Love grief in all its shades. Emotional intelligence resides in the body. Allowing the transition of menopause stems from grief. An exquisite sensation of powerlessness begins a journey towards recreation of self. Women have this unique opportunity to embrace a softer flow.

My body is changing before my eyes. Initial criticism stirs discomfort. The soft curves of my form mirror the ease I must embrace. Trust and faith replace striving. The support I yearn for grows from within. I reach to my inner knowing, All is working out for me. Identity shifts and the gift of this transition teaches patience.

Each day I practice less. Mindfulness fill the spaces where doing was prominent. All I need is to Be. This is enough. It has always been enough but I was too busy to see. The power of this transition completes a life cycle.

Transitioning into an undefined sense of self is uneasy no matter the change. The mind leans on the past but it is irrelevant in the present. Finding comfort in the gift of the void challenges the sense of purpose. Looking back is the source of grief. Lay it to rest and wait.

You know waiting. It can be excruciating in anticipation. Expectation of release once all the symptoms have dissipated gives false hope. Do not rush. It becomes richer the deeper you can go into LESS.

Chantal Joffe RA, nude in garden