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Navigating the Waves of Perimenopause and Menopause with the Healing Power of Nature and Sanctuary



Are you a woman in your 40s or beyond, navigating the rollercoaster of perimenopause or menopause? If so, you're not alone.

In the latest episode of the Miyako Hazama podcast, we delve deep into the healing power of nature and the importance of creating sanctuary spaces, especially for women at this significant stage of life.

Guest speaker P. Annie Kirk, a renowned landscaper and outdoor living designer, shares her personal journey of finding solace and healing through nature during her perimenopause, illuminating the profound impact of nature and intentional design in enhancing mental and physical well-being.


The Healing Power of Nature

"Personally, I have had the opportunity and the pleasure to find landscape during the deep loss of my father... I created with my mom a healing garden," Annie reflects, emphasizing nature's extraordinary ability to heal, inspire, and rejuvenate.

Research supports the benefits of connecting with nature, demonstrating how even simple views can expedite recovery from surgery and alleviate stress.

Annie adds, "There's beautiful research about how quickly people recover from surgery when they have a view of nature."

Echoing this sentiment, Miyako shares her spiritual journey with nature, "Nature has been my spiritual guide... not just reinventing but finding my true power to serve myself, be kinder to myself, and developing more."


Sanctuary and Self-Care

Creating a sacred, safe space for oneself is essential during this transition.

Annie asks, "If I am sanctuary, which I believe I am now, by the way... how shall I care for me?"

This invites us into a deeper exploration of self-care and personal sanctuary, suggesting a journey of coming home to oneself.

As we navigate these changes, remember that transforming fear and resistance into a journey of self-love and care is not just possible—it's empowering.


From Feeling “Scared” to “Sacred”: A Path to Self-Care

For busy professional women over 40, embracing change and growth requires a shift towards self-love and intentional self-care practices.

Annie's transition from feeling scared to sacred unveils a profound truth about transformation from within, serving as a beacon of hope.


Inner Growth and the Fountain of Inner Youth

Miyako introduces the concept of the "fountain of inner youth," drawing a parallel between nurturing one's inner garden and our external environment.

"It's coming because you nurtured your soil, your garden, or your inner sanctuary," she explains, highlighting the journey of inner discovery and growth during menopause as an opportunity for exponential growth and self-realization.


Empowering Women

Annie's commitment to empowering women is evident through her work with the Sanctuary Design School, imparting transformative insights on creating inner sanctuaries.

This fosters an environment that nurtures well-being, empowering women to design their sanctuary spaces.


Closing Thoughts: Embracing Life's Renewed Energy

"The beautiful truth about this very menopause journey... is the opportunity to weave with our own to exponential growth," Miyako states, encouraging women to embrace this time as a chance to flourish and thrive.

By embracing the healing power of nature and creating personal sanctuaries, we unlock new possibilities for healing, rejuvenation, and profound personal growth.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your stories or thoughts on how nature and sanctuary spaces have influenced your journey. Let's foster a community of support and empowerment.

Much love!

Miyako

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Connect with P. Annie Kirk:

➡️ Webpage https://redbirdrestorativegardens.com/

➡️ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/annieredbird/

➡️ Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/p-annie-kirk-mla-bsw/

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