Menopause Mornings

Dear Ones. Today’s draft was inspired by the reflections of a particularly stiff and creaky morning. We only age one way in our bodies, and while vibrancy is available at every age, its sheen is different. I am leaning into the exploration of that.

This hot flash slides down my body like a snail

leaves behind a fine sheen of sweat

(the back of my hands sparkle in the winter light.)

Pain in my hip begins dissolving as

I move my body through the chores of the morning.

The ache in my jaw,

like a breeze just touching the top of my hair,

yes, there it is.

The memory of an ache from when I was fast asleep.

If the experience of menopause speaks to you, and you are seeking companionship and understanding for your own transition, perhaps you would like to join me and Malik Turley in Crone School.

Crone School is a space for perimenopausal folks (or future perimenopausal, or full-on menopausal folks) where we explore all the weirdness of our second puberty. We will settle into the business of becoming badass Crones who don't give a f*ck for the conventional.

Starting January 12, we will meet each Sunday for four weeks, and each will focus on a common perimenopausal theme: Sensation, Smarts, Sex, and Sleep. Each meeting will feature study, support, and movement -- something for us to read and talk about, a space to share our needs/concerns/ideas, and a bit of moving our bodies with love and attention.