Honoring the Divine Feminine: Shifting the Mindset Around the Monthly Cycle and Taming the Pain-Body
This morning, a young woman I work with walked into the office and casually said she had “received the woman’s curse.”
It was meant as a lighthearted comment, but it struck me how easily we’ve inherited that language — that being a woman, and experiencing our natural cycle, could be seen as a curse.
It was meant as a lighthearted comment, but it struck me how easily we’ve inherited that language — that being a woman, and experiencing our natural cycle, could be seen as a curse.
I smiled and gently offered a new perspective:
“What if, instead of feeling cursed, you celebrated this as a sacred time — a reminder of your connection to the Divine Feminine?”
“What if, instead of feeling cursed, you celebrated this as a sacred time — a reminder of your connection to the Divine Feminine?”
Her face softened.
And it reminded me of something Eckhart Tolle once said in The Power of Now:
And it reminded me of something Eckhart Tolle once said in The Power of Now:
“The pain-body in women tends to become activated particularly just prior to and during the menstrual flow… If you are able to stay present and alert at that time, every old emotion that arises in you will be transmuted into consciousness.”
That passage has always stayed with me — because it reframes the menstrual cycle not as something to dread, but as an opportunity for presence, purification, and power.
The Pain-Body and the Power of Presence
According to Tolle, the “pain-body” is the emotional residue of past pain that lives within us — a collection of old wounds, trauma, and suppressed emotions. For many women, this energy awakens cyclically, often around menstruation.
When we resist it — by labeling it as “bad,” “unfair,” or “a curse” — the pain-body grows stronger. But when we meet it with awareness and compassion, it begins to dissolve.
That’s where presence becomes medicine.
Instead of reacting, we breathe.
Instead of resenting, we listen.
Instead of numbing, we feel.
Instead of resenting, we listen.
Instead of numbing, we feel.
This is how we transmute pain into power. Each month offers an invitation to deepen our connection with our body, our emotions, and our inner wisdom.
Reclaiming the Sacred Feminine
Our cycles mirror the rhythm of nature itself — creation, release, renewal. The moon waxes and wanes; the tides rise and fall; the seasons bloom and rest. We, too, are cyclical beings.
The Divine Feminine invites us to honor that rhythm rather than resist it.
Menstruation isn’t a punishment — it’s a cleansing. A physical and energetic release of what’s no longer needed. A reminder that we are powerful creators capable of bringing life — not just biologically, but energetically and spiritually.
When we begin to see our cycles as sacred, our relationship with ourselves begins to heal.
From Curse to Ceremony
Imagine if every time your cycle began, you saw it as a time to slow down, journal, nurture your body, and reconnect with your intuition.
What if instead of saying, “I got my period,” you said,
“I’m entering my renewal phase,” or
“My body is asking for stillness,” or
“I’m shedding to make room for what’s next.”
“I’m entering my renewal phase,” or
“My body is asking for stillness,” or
“I’m shedding to make room for what’s next.”
This mindset shift transforms the experience from something we endure into something we honor.
Even a small act — like lighting a candle, wearing comfortable clothes, or placing a hand on your womb and saying “thank you” — can shift the energy from resistance to reverence.
Taming the Pain-Body Through Love and Awareness
Here’s how to begin working with your cycle as a spiritual practice:
- Be Present with Your Body.
Notice sensations without labeling them. Pain, fatigue, emotion — they are messengers, not enemies. - Release Judgment.
Stop calling it a curse. Stop apologizing for it. Instead, speak words of gratitude for your body’s intelligence. - Create Space.
Use this time to rest, reflect, and listen. The insights that come when we slow down are often the whispers of the soul. - Transmute Emotion into Consciousness.
When irritability or sadness arises, breathe deeply and remind yourself: This is energy moving through me. I am safe to feel. - Celebrate Your Divinity.
Whether through ritual, journaling, or self-care, use this phase as a reminder of your cyclical nature — and your power to renew.
The next time someone refers to their cycle as “the woman’s curse,” maybe you’ll smile and say —
“It’s not a curse. It’s a ceremony.”
“It’s not a curse. It’s a ceremony.”
A monthly return to your divine feminine essence.
A chance to tame the pain-body through love, awareness, and presence.
A sacred reminder that being a woman is — and always has been — a gift.
A chance to tame the pain-body through love, awareness, and presence.
A sacred reminder that being a woman is — and always has been — a gift.
Fifty. The Big 5-0. Holy Smokes! I can hardly believe I’m writing this—but here I am, staring down this monumental milestone with excitement, a little nostalgia, and a whole lot of anticipation for what’s ahead.
In 76 days, I’ll be stepping into my 50s—a new decade, a fresh chapter, the second half of my life. And rather than seeing it as something to dread, I’m choosing to see it as a doorway. A threshold. A moment where I can look back at everything I’ve experienced, learned, and accomplished—and then boldly declare that the best is yet to come.
Looking Back with Gratitude
As I reflect on the first 50 years of my life, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. Life hasn’t been perfect—far from it—but it’s been rich, colorful, messy, beautiful, and deeply meaningful.
I’ve loved, I’ve lost, I’ve grown, I’ve struggled, I’ve laughed until my sides hurt, and I’ve cried tears that reminded me just how much I care. I’ve reinvented myself more times than I can count, and each time, I’ve discovered more strength, more wisdom, and more resilience than I thought possible.
Every scar tells a story. Every triumph reminds me of my power. Every mistake shaped the person I’ve become.
And now, standing here at the edge of this new decade, I see it all with softer eyes. Not judgment. Not regret. Just appreciation for the journey.
The Best Is Yet to Come
Here’s the thing: I know in my bones that turning 50 isn’t an ending—it’s a beginning. It’s the start of the most powerful, purposeful, joy-filled chapter of my life.
There’s a freedom that comes with reaching this age. A freedom from worrying so much about what people think. A freedom to live life on my own terms. A freedom to put myself first, unapologetically, and to chase after the dreams that are still burning inside me.
The best is not behind me—it’s ahead of me.
76 Days of Preparation
That’s where this countdown comes in. I’ve got 76 days to prepare—not just for a party or a birthday candle blowout, but for a full mind-body-soul reset.
I want to step into my 50s with my physical, mental, spiritual, and financial health stronger than ever. That means:
- Physical: Moving my body in ways that bring me energy and joy. Nourishing myself with food that feels good. Prioritizing rest and recovery so I feel vibrant when the big day arrives.
- Mental: Reflecting on my journey so far, setting fresh goals, and nurturing my curiosity. I want my mind sharp, resilient, and open to new adventures.
- Spiritual: Deepening my connection to my inner self, my values, and the divine. Cultivating gratitude and presence as I step into this new era.
- Financial: Getting grounded, intentional, and abundant in how I manage my resources—because security and freedom go hand in hand.
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about intention. About stepping into my 50s with a strong foundation and a clear vision of the kind of woman I’m becoming.
A Celebration of Life
So yes, I’ll be celebrating BIG when the day arrives. But more than balloons and cake, this milestone is about celebrating life itself. It’s about honoring the path that brought me here and stepping boldly into the one that lies ahead.
Fifty is not something to fear—it’s something to embrace with open arms and a full heart.
76 days to go. Let’s do this.
In March 2020, the unthinkable happened. Practically overnight, the world shut down in response to COVID—and at the very same time, I made the life-altering decision to leave my husband and move out of my marital home.
It was the first time I had ever lived on my own, and the timing felt strangely perfect. While most people saw the shutdown as an obstacle, I felt it was a blessing. In fact, I sometimes wonder if the universe orchestrated it just for me. The stillness gave me the space I desperately needed to adjust, heal, and rediscover myself.
One of my greatest blessings during that season was my “Biddies”—three friends who became my lifeline. Four single women navigating life alone, we leaned on each other through the uncertainty. We laughed, cried, supported, and kept each other sane in the middle of a world that felt like it was unraveling. For about a year and a half, life felt surprisingly full and beautiful.
But as the world slowly reopened, my friends returned to their pre-COVID routines. Their lives picked up again—mine didn’t. That’s when the loneliness I had been spared finally caught up with me. The hurt, anger, and grief I had been able to push aside came rushing to the surface.
That’s when I chose therapy. My therapist taught me the importance of learning how to keep myself company—something I had never truly mastered. And not long after, I made another big decision: I was moving to Florida.
I figured if I was going to be lonely, I’d rather be lonely somewhere without winter. In June 2022, I packed up and gave myself a two-year window to see what Florida could offer. I joined a singles group (with a convenient two-year contract), made friends, and eventually met my wonderful boyfriend. When my contract ended and my roommate moved out, I found myself in a cozy one-bedroom apartment, surrounded by good memories, lasting friendships, and a relationship I cherish.
But even with those blessings, loneliness has crept back in over the past year. My boyfriend’s busy schedule means he’s not always around. My friends, no longer bound together by the singles group, have returned to their own lives. We still connect now and then, but my evenings are quieter these days. And truthfully—I don’t mind. I’m not much of a party person anyway. I prefer peaceful nights and productive days.
Still, I sometimes catch myself wondering why the phone doesn’t ring, or why I’m not included in more plans. And yet, I see the difference between who I was back then and who I am now. I’m no longer searching for distractions to fill the silence. Instead, I want to spend my time intentionally—protecting my energy, raising my vibration, and aligning with what truly matters.
So here I am, ready for the next chapter. Over the next twelve months, I plan to educate myself, challenge myself, grow in ways I’ve only dreamed of, and bring those dreams to life.
For Anyone Who Can Relate
If you’ve ever found yourself in a season of transition, heartbreak, or loneliness, know that you are not alone. These times can feel heavy, but they are also powerful opportunities to create something new. A few things that have helped me—and may help you too:
- Find your “Biddies.” Even one or two people who truly “get” you can make all the difference. Seek out friendships where love and support flow both ways.
- Give yourself permission to heal. Therapy, journaling, or simply allowing your feelings to surface without judgment can be transformative.
- Learn to keep yourself company. Take yourself on walks, start a new hobby, or dedicate time to something you’ve always wanted to learn. Your own presence can become comforting, not scary.
- Be intentional with your energy. Pay attention to who and what fills your cup—and who or what drains it. Choose accordingly.
- Create a vision for your next chapter. Even if it feels far away, setting goals or making a plan for the future can give you direction and hope.
Loneliness doesn’t mean you’re broken—it often means you’re being given space to rebuild yourself in a stronger, more aligned way.
So if you’re standing where I once stood, trust that this season won’t last forever. Growth is waiting for you, and you get to decide how the next chapter of your story unfolds.
We’ve all met two people who have gone through similar challenges but ended up on completely different paths. Maybe it’s two coworkers who both lost their jobs, two friends who both faced heartbreak, or two neighbors who both battled health setbacks. On the surface, their circumstances look nearly identical. But their outcomes? Night and day.
I was recently reflecting on how much our mindset shapes our experience of healing and growth. Take something like a physical injury. Two people could suffer the same issue — even at the same time. One might approach it with determination, focusing on health, fitness, and building resilience. The other might lean on quick fixes, give up activities that once brought them joy, or turn to substances just to get through the day.
Neither approach makes someone “good” or “bad” — it simply highlights how powerfully our beliefs and choices shape our journey. When we decide to double down on supporting our bodies and minds, even when it’s hard, we open ourselves to healing, possibility, and joy. But when we let pain dictate our choices, we risk shrinking our world until the things that once made us feel alive start to disappear.
Why Mindset Is a Healing Tool
- Belief creates momentum. When we believe healing is possible, we’re more likely to take steps that support recovery.
- Small choices add up. Choosing movement, proper nutrition, and self-care daily builds strength over time.
- Joy is medicine. Holding on to activities that light us up can be just as important for healing as the exercises we do.
- Quick fixes have trade-offs. While substances or distractions can ease the moment, they don’t address the root cause — and sometimes keep us stuck.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- Am I choosing habits that move me closer to healing, or ones that keep me comfortable but stagnant?
- What activities bring me joy that I refuse to give up, even if I need to modify how I do them?
- How can I support my body and my mind through this challenge?
At the end of the day, our bodies are resilient — but our minds often set the pace for our healing. The story we tell ourselves matters. If we choose to believe in our own strength, we can often find ways to keep joy and movement alive, even in the middle of challenges.
Have you ever had one of those days—maybe weeks—where your mind feels fuzzy, your thoughts are scattered, and you're just… not all there? You might chalk it up to lack of sleep, hormones, or too much screen time. And while those are valid contributors, there’s another deeper, often overlooked reason for brain fog: spiritual growth.
In this blog post, we'll explore what brain fog really is, why it may arise during periods of spiritual transformation, and what to do when the fog rolls in.
What Is Brain Fog?
Brain fog isn't a medical diagnosis, but it’s a very real experience. It's characterized by:
- Mental fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Forgetfulness
- Confusion or disorientation
- A general feeling of being “off”
It’s as though your brain is trying to boot up, but someone spilled molasses on the hard drive. You’re trying to access clarity, creativity, and drive—but everything feels distant, like it's behind a thick veil.
The Spiritual Connection: Why Fog Often Follows Growth
Brain fog is often a symptom of energetic integration. When you're moving through a spiritual awakening, expanding your consciousness, or letting go of old identities and limiting beliefs, your energetic system goes through a sort of “upgrade.” And just like any software update, your system might slow down while it's installing.
Here’s how brain fog ties into spiritual growth:
1. Energetic Detox
Letting go of outdated beliefs and emotional patterns releases stagnant energy. But just like a physical detox, this can cause temporary discomfort, confusion, or fogginess as your system recalibrates.
2. Third Eye Recalibration
The third eye chakra governs intuition and mental clarity. As this center awakens, your usual ways of thinking may shut down to make room for new intuitive pathways. What feels like mental fog may actually be your brain stepping aside to let your intuition lead.
3. Liminal Space = Confusion
Growth doesn’t happen in neat, clean steps. There's a middle zone between who you were and who you are becoming. Brain fog often shows up in this in-between space—where you’ve outgrown the old but haven’t yet anchored into the new.
What to Do When the Fog Rolls In
Instead of resisting brain fog, treat it as sacred pause. Here are some ways to work with it:
✦ 1. Slow Down and Listen
Brain fog can be your soul’s way of saying “rest.” Stop pushing. Get quiet. Journal. Nap. Stretch. Let your body and energy system catch up.
✨ Journal Prompt:
“What am I letting go of right now, and what might be coming into my life in its place?”
“What am I letting go of right now, and what might be coming into my life in its place?”
✦ 2. Ground Your Energy
Spiritual growth often lifts us into high-frequency states, which can make us feel ungrounded. Counter this by:
- Walking barefoot in grass
- Eating warm, earthy foods
- Practicing gentle yoga or breathwork
- Using grounding crystals like hematite or black tourmaline
✦ 3. Hydrate and Nourish Your Brain
Brain fog isn’t just spiritual—it’s also physical. Support your body with hydration, Omega-3s, leafy greens, and B-vitamins. Your soul's evolution still needs a well-fed brain to function.
✦ 4. Set Spiritual Boundaries
Sometimes brain fog is the result of energetic overload. If you’re empathic or sensitive, check in: Are you carrying someone else’s energy? Cleanse your field with sage, sound bowls, or an energetic cord-cutting ritual.
✦ 5. Trust the Reboot
Fog is often followed by deep clarity. Your higher self knows what it’s doing. Let the mind rest while the spirit upgrades.
A Final Word: Brain Fog Is Not a Failure
It’s easy to feel frustrated, especially if you're used to being productive and clear. But what if this fog isn't a failure—what if it’s a feminine invitation to stop doing and start being? To receive? To allow?
Spiritual growth isn’t linear, and your body-mind-spirit system is incredibly wise. Trust that what looks like confusion is part of your transformation.
Ready to Clear the Fog?
✨ If you're in a foggy spiritual growth phase and want support, book a session with me or check out my CBAR Manifestation Workbook designed specifically for people with aphantasia and unique processing styles. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
🌀 And if this blog resonated, share it with a soul sister (or brother) who might need to hear that their fog is sacred too.
With love and clarity (even in the fog),
Colleen
