Anapausis, a term derived from Greek philosophy, refers to a pause or interval in the activities of life—a moment of rest, reflection, and rejuvenation. This is the hardest part of wellness for me as a driven, type A personality. Slow down! Never! Well, I am learning and my body's wisdom is helping with that.
This term reminds us that in order to regain strength, vitality and creative productivity we must rest, reflect and renew.
It is REST for SUCCESS.
Anapausis. How can this term apply to your life?
For me, this is all about not only giving ourselves permission to rest, but realizing that it is a priority! Not a weakness, as I have always perceived it, but as a quiet strength of the spirit.
My wish for you, dear sister:
"Do not surrender to the challenges, but rather, dedicate your entire heart to disengaging from them. Allow yourself the much-needed respite. You are undergoing a period of restoration. If you have veered off your path, you will return with renewed vigor. Your enthusiasm, inspiration, and dedication will be rekindled. Certain steps must be taken for your soul's journey to materialize. Pledge yourself to your sacred voyage, trusting that the right things will happen at the right time." Shauna Laubman
Sisters, as you venture through your midlife journey, anapausis can represent a profound shift in perspective, a time to embrace new possibilities, and a chance to redefine what it means to thrive in this stage of life. Can you switch off and turn down productivity without guilt or remorse?
Embracing Change:
As we enter our 40s and beyond, our bodies and minds undergo a multitude of changes. Our hormones fluctuate, our metabolism slows down, and we may start to experience symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. While these changes can be challenging, they also present an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.
Self-Care and Wellness:
Anapausis is a time to prioritize self-care and wellness. This means nourishing our bodies with nutritious foods, engaging in regular exercise, and finding ways to manage stress. It also means taking time for ourselves, whether that's through meditation, yoga, or simply indulging in activities that bring us joy. How can we find spiritual rest, even if you are still working hard? Is it possible to give up trying to become something or someone?
Embracing Our Authentic Selves:
Anapausis is a time to embrace our authentic selves, free from societal expectations and pressures. It's a time to let go of the need to conform to certain standards of beauty or success and instead focus on what truly matters to us. It's about living life on our own terms and being unapologetically ourselves. Is it possible to release the desire for outward appearances or external validation?
Building a Supportive Community:
Anapausis is also a time to build a supportive community of like-minded women who understand and support us. This can be through joining a women's group, attending workshops or retreats, or simply reaching out to friends who are going through similar experiences.
My prayer for you:
Anapausis brings special guidance for those who have going through deeply challenging struggles of mind, body and soul. Perhaps you feel exhausted, confused and afraid. I encourage you to allow yourself adequate rest and engage in activities geared towards healing. What would happen if you didn't push yourself so hard?
Settle into a comfortable position and take some deep, cleansing breaths. Allow the breath to come out through your mouth with an audible sigh. Become grounded. Where does your body touch the earth. You are supported and loved. Breathing in, imagine, feel or intend that you are being bathed in a brilliant, healing white light. Feel this light coming out through your crown chakra, and radiating through your whole body - filling all of your cells, tissues and body with this radiant healing light. Sit with this peaceful white light and continue to breath deeply. Feeling your body relax.
As this light continues to nourish you, feel it removing tentacles of attachment to your ego. Allow this light to release false viewpoints and attachments to productivity that are not serving you. What does your true self yearn for? Relax into your body. There is so much for you to receive. You need not chase after anything or anyone, nor is there a need to fret or worry. Rest in a place of love, trust and support. Rest for as long as you need. When you feel you are ready, ground yourself with a deep breath in and out. Come back to your body.
Anapausis is a journey of renewal—a time to pause, reflect, and embrace the changes that come with this stage of life. It's an opportunity to prioritize self-care and wellness, to embrace our authentic selves, and to build a supportive community of like-minded women. By embracing anapausis, we can navigate this stage of life with grace, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose.
With love, light and heartfelt connection,
Shauna
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