You are a strong, independent woman. Have been for years—decades, even. But is that the healthiest thing to do? I mean, all the time? Instinctively, we know that the answer to this is no.
As we age, our networks and communities shift, sometimes drastically, sometimes more subtly. A few lucky women have friends who have been with them since college, or even high school. Treasure each other! For those of us who don’t have that crew, where can we look for supportive spaces?
Depending on our preferences—big or small groups, active or more contemplative activities, cozy or adventurous spaces, short-term or longer engagements—there’s an option (or more!) right for you.
How about just getting out your door and heading to a public space? Consider a park or a library. Enjoy the space, start up a conversation, or just people-watch, and wonder about lives and serendipity. Want to express yourself? What about an art class? In these spaces you can explore your talents while connecting with others who share similar interests, fostering a sense of accomplishment and community.
Need a little more structured connection? Consider joining a women’s circle or a women-only workshop or retreat. These can be ongoing engagements or something time-bounded. These spaces focus on personal growth, empowerment, and healing, allowing us to express ourselves freely without judgment.
Do you love to learn? (Me too!) Consider taking advantage of educational programs specifically tailored for elders. Selected online programs with free or discounted programs include edX, Coursera, Senior Planet, Khan Academy, and Alison. If you live close to an academic institution, contact the student services and see what they offer seniors. You might find yourself headed back to school!
Being interconnected isn’t just a way to pass the time. Research highlights many benefits that supportive spaces offer women (and men). Exchanges foster resilience and self-efficacy, crucial for overcoming societal pressures and internal barriers that women often face. These environments can promote emotional resilience and encourage women to embrace their strengths and assert their needs.
Supportive spaces often incorporate trauma-informed care, which acknowledges and addresses the unique challenges women face. This not only aids in emotional healing but also empowers women to reclaim our narratives and foster self-love and compassion. Engaging in community support and workshops enriches the empowerment process by leveraging collective wisdom. By fostering an environment where women's voices are amplified, these spaces contribute to broader societal change and promote gender equality.
Spaces dedicated to holistic health, including yoga studios, meditation centers, and wellness retreats, can provide us with tools for physical and mental well-being. These environments often emphasize self-care and personal development, allowing us to nurture our bodies and minds holistically.
At WonderCrone, we are creating community through virtual and in-person retreats and conversations. We bring the experiences of our lives, our insights, and wisdom, and share these. We laugh, we cry, we dance a little crazy in the aisle. Come contribute to this supportive space at WonderCrone.com
This post is worth a few rereads — thank you for writing it. And thanks for listing those learning opportunities… I need to look them up. Most of them are new to me!