Myriad uncomfortable and difficult changes happen during the menopause transition. Sometimes negative aspects can overshadow the fact that positive changes occur too. Our menopause goddess group was delightfully surprised to discover that while we may have lost the ability to procreate, our energies morphed into newfound desires to create.

Creativity blossoms during menopause and post-menopause. The desire to ‘make’ something, to create, to collage, or to cultivate an artistic endeavor feels like an itch we just have to scratch. We take up beading, musical instruments, knitting, photography, painting, calligraphy, pottery, gourmet cooking, poetry, handmade books, gardening, fabric arts, dance, stamping, and scrapbooking.

Once we tap into our creative urges, we wonder what took us so long. We overflow with inspiration and we aren’t afraid to fail. The “not afraid to fail” may be the most important piece. After all, the creativity police won’t come and take us away if we suck at something. And I can attest that if you find something you enjoy and stick with it, eventually you won’t suck. I danced hula for two years with a pair of left feet before it all clicked.

But it really matters not if we are “good” at what we choose as our creative outlet. It’s important that we jump in with both feet, both arms, and a whole heart. We need it because it nourishes us. We are fertile in a whole new way. We are growing into the women we wish to be.

So dance, draw, paint, photograph, knit, write. Don’t wait—the house doesn’t need to be cleaner, dinner can be eggs, and the laundry will rest in the hamper another day. As poet Mary Oliver asks, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

Giving in to our creative urges, in whatever modality or art we choose, is a nurturing, fulfilling process. Schedule an “art day” soon, alone or with a best girlfriend. Usher in your “second adulthood.” If not now, when?

Lynette Sheppard, RN is the author of Becoming A Menopause Goddess and moderates the popular Menopause Goddess Blog.

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