Perimenopause & The Feminine Crone Archetype
Menopause and the Feminine Archetype: Connecting with the Wise Woman Crone
INTRODUCTION
Menopause is more than just a biological transition - it's a profound spiritual and psychological shift that connects women with the ancient feminine archetype of the Crone (also more fondly known as the Wise Woman).
In mythology and various cultural traditions, the Crone is a symbol of wisdom, strength, and deep inner knowing. This stage of life, often overlooked or misunderstood, offers women the opportunity to fully embrace their power and wisdom. By connecting with the Crone archetype during menopause, women can reclaim their identity, honor their life experiences, and step into a role of leadership and guidance in their communities.
THE CRONE ARCHETYPE - A SYMBOL OF WISDOM & POWER
The Crone represents the final stage of the Triple Goddess archetype—Maiden, Mother and Crone - each represent a different phase of a woman’s life:
The Maiden embodies youth and potential
The Mother represents fertility and nurturing
The Crone is a symbol of wisdom, closure, and transformation
The Crone is often depicted as an elderly woman, a wise elder who has lived through the challenges of life and emerged with profound insight and knowledge - in todays world, this phase represents women who are moving into Perimenopause and beyond.
In many cultures, the Crone is revered, and her wisdom is sought after by those around her and is not is not seen as irrelevant or 'past her prime' but is considered to be a powerful figure who carries the deep understanding of life’s cycles and a lot of gathered wisdom.
For women going through menopause, connecting with the Crone archetype can be a transformative experience, offering a sense of purpose and a renewed sense of identity rather than feeling like life is over and not feeling respected in todays society which sadly is a common belief.
EMBRACING THE CRONE DURING MENOPAUSE
As women enter menopause, they leave behind the reproductive years associated with the Mother archetype and transition into the Crone phase. It can be a very challenging time as society often places value on youth and fertility which causes many of us women women to feel invisible or less valued - it is vital that we play our part collectively to help shift this unfortunate narrative and recognise the power and potential that this beautiful stage of life has to offer.
Embracing the Crone involves embracing the wisdom that comes with age and experience and reflecting on the lessons learned up to this point and using this knowledge & wisdom to guide others. This stage can also be an opportunity to focus on personal growth, creativity, and spiritual development - the Crone is often associated with a deeper connection to the spiritual realm.
Women can connect with the Crone archetype through various practices such as meditation, journaling, or engaging in rituals that respect this stage of life. Surrounding oneself with other women who are also experiencing this transition can provide support and a sense of community and collectively enable us to treat our upcoming Menopause as a beginning, rather than an end. A time to step into our power and embrace the role of the wise woman.
THE CRONE IN DIFFERENT CULTURES
Different cultures have their own interpretations of the Crone archetype, offering valuable insights into how this stage of life can be honored:
Celtic Tradition: In Celtic mythology, the Crone is associated with the goddess Cailleach, a powerful figure who represents both creation and destruction. She is a guardian of the land and a symbol of the cyclical nature of life and death. The Cailleach is revered as a wise woman who holds the knowledge of the earth and the seasons.
Greek Mythology: In Greek mythology, the Crone is often represented by the figure of Hecate, the goddess of magic, witchcraft, and the crossroads. Hecate is a protector of women and is often depicted as holding the keys to the mysteries of life and death. She is a guide through transitions and a symbol of the wisdom that comes from embracing the unknown.
Native American Tradition: In many Native American cultures, the Crone is seen as a wise elder who plays a crucial role in the community. She is respected for her knowledge and experience, and her guidance is sought in times of need. The Crone is often associated with the earth and the cycles of nature, embodying the deep connection between women and the natural world.
RECLAIMING THE CRONE WITHIN
Menopause is a powerful time in a woman’s life—a time to embrace the Crone within and connect with the wisdom and strength that comes from this stage of life. By honoring the Crone archetype, women can transform their experience of menopause from one of loss to one of empowerment. This is a time to step into the role of the wise woman, to share knowledge, and to guide others with the insight gained from a lifetime of experience. A time for profound connection to the cycles of life, death & rebirth and to recalim this ancient feminine power and embrace the next chapter of life with grace, wisdom & strength.
If any of this resonates, I hope you will come & join us on our Perimeno Journey - lets reclaim our wise woman status together.
Lots of love,
Kerry
Ps: Get our FREE Calm & Connected In Perimenopause toolkit - our 10 day short video course of Somatic & breath practices to help you self regulate & connect with your inner self