Strengthen the Mother

Embracing the Healing Power of the Feminine

In Chinese Medicine, one principle of health states that 'In order to soothe the child, you must strengthen the mother.' This treatment principle guides the circulation of qi and reinforces balance among the elements of the body. It keeps the ecosystem of our bodies well. This principle also applies holistically to the meta layers of our relationships, families, and culture. One of the most fundamental places to apply this principle is during the first seven years of a child's life when the mother and child meridians are still largely merged. Strengthening the mother can keep the whole family well. It also nurtures our relationship with ourselves, fostering self-love, nurturing, and healthy boundaries.

The Wounded Feminine: Breaking Free from Old Patterns

Unfortunately, many women remain under the influence of wounded feminine beliefs. These beliefs are not choices but patterns passed down through the maternal lineage. They often revolve around martyrdom, self-sacrifice, overworking to the point of depletion, and codependency. This 'spell of service' creates a deep wound to the feminine. When a mother falls below survival mode, her giving becomes laced with suffering, affecting the entire family ecosystem.

I've worked in women's health for almost two decades, and I've seen awareness around this issue grow from virtually zero to about 30-40%. I feel fortunate to witness the rise of feminine power and the increasing attention it receives. Gen X women are quietly realizing that we were trained to build lives centered around everyone but ourselves. This tipping point is where we stand now.

Questions That Ignite Change

In my Women's Circles and treatment rooms, I often hear busy moms raise important questions:

• What do we truly desire?

• What do we model for our children?

• What are we no longer willing to tolerate?

• And, my personal favorite, how do we channel the incredible force of this midlife feminine rage?

  
  

Self-Authorship: Finding Meaning Within

Many of us are navigating the uncomfortable space of self-authorship. Fortunately, we are nearing a critical mass in realizing that the answer to many of our questions is Strengthen the Mother. Mother's Day serves as a perfect opportunity for both men and women to pause and reflect on how old patterns of self-abandonment may be affecting our vitality and those around us. We all have a relationship with Mother. In Chinese Medicine, this inherited and assimilated energy flows through our meridians, revealing where we need to evolve.

Embracing Our Dual Nature

It's perfectly okay to be both soft and stern. It's also acceptable not to give everything away. Inner vitality and potency are beautiful metrics of health and success.

The Path to Empowerment

Building connections with others who share similar experiences can be incredibly empowering. Supportive Women's Circles in Petaluma and Marin provide a safe space for sharing, learning, and healing. These circles allow us to explore our feelings, desires, and boundaries in a nurturing environment.

Acupuncture is another powerful tool for clearing inherited feminine wounding and upgrading feminine energy in the body. This ancient practice helps restore balance and harmony, allowing us to connect with our true selves. By addressing both physical and emotional aspects of our well-being, we can create a more vibrant and fulfilling life.