In 1973, anthropologist Dana Raphae, coined the term Matrescence to explain the process of becoming a mother, including the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that occur during pregnancy, childbirth, and early motherhood. It is a term used to describe the developmental transition and transformation that women go through when becoming a mother. When we become mothers, we change. There is no escaping that change. This developmental stage of life is as powerful and irreversible as adolescence and yet few women have ever heard of it. For some women, that change brings a deep sense of purpose and joy but for others, that change resurfaces past trauma and creates a fog that separates them from others.
Women are often told by their family and communities that being a mother will complete or define them. However, the reality is that many mothers find themselves depleted and spiritually stagnant amid the everyday demands of being a nurturer and mom. Women long to experience a rich and thriving inner life but feel there is rarely enough time, energy, or stillness to connect with God in a meaningful way.
Each group member will be taking a self-assessment at the beginning of the group to determine which of the eight pillars of needs the most work.
The Eight Pillars of Thriving Matrescence
Spiritual – A deep, abiding, life-giving connection to God
Identity – A self-differentiated identity peaceful with your family of origin
Emotional – An understanding of your own emotional ecosystem
Physical – A sustainable & healing nutrition and movement plan that drives your health
Sexual – A redeemed sexual imagination and thriving libido that deeply connects you with your spouse
Mental – A strength that embraces adversity through antifragility
Parenting – A confident practice of shepherding your children and managing your home
Ministry – A fulfilling and clear sense of the calling you have to your broader community
Topics discussed will include:
Matrescence like adolescence - navigating the hormonal, social, emotional, spiritual, physical, and identity changes that motherhood brings
The birth of a mother - telling your story
Processing your own childhood - how becoming a mom causes you to look back and evaluate how you were nurtured
Mental health in motherhood - depression, anxiety, and well-being in motherhood
Marital Intimacy - how to nurture your sexual self while you walk in your role as a mother
The end of me - the death and resurrection that motherhood brings to the Christian mother
A rite of passage - how building a community can heal and transform
Discovering the new you - defining and walking in the new identity and calling as you create a vision for your future
You can learn more about the idea of matrescence through this podcast.
If any of these topics resonate with you, please reach out and consider joining us on this journey of growth and transformation. Each participant will experience six group sessions and a one-on-one coaching session.
COST & DETAILS
This group will meet for six weeks starting September 15. The dates will be Sept. 15, 22, 29, Oct 6, 13, 20. We will meet from 9-11am at the school and childcare will be provided. The normal cost will be $500 per person - the reduced rate will be $200 per person. Included in this price will be the six group coaching sessions and one 60 minute one-on-one session of coaching.
