Metamorphosis and a Period of Transition

As we amble into summer and slowly out of isolation, it feels as if we are eager butterflies springing from our cocoons, a powerful metamorphosis having taken place. For many, this chrysalis inspired a re-examination of what is important in life and vital to our existence, as well as our planet. It was also a time that compelled us to adapt how we do things and challenge ourselves on a personal and societal level. In light of the many changes that have taken place, it is important we recognise that this next phase will certainly feel transitional in a variety of ways, and it is how we handle these periods of transition that is tantamount.

Our ethos at RW – as our dedicated followers know – has always been a thirst for curiosity and consciousness in all aspects of our lives. In light of this transitional phase, we can’t help but question how we have changed. For some, the changes may in fact have been small – changes to your home environment, how you communicate with others, finding nurturing ways to relieve stress. For others, this period of isolation was a catalyst for bigger, long needed change – a re-examination of priorities in life, unhealthy relationships, or a time to fulfil dreams that have been sedentary for years. With the new normal forcing changes in travel, shopping, how we socialise, and the workplace, it is important to look at how all these changes are being mitigated and what affect that has on our life, our psyche and the planet at large.

Transitional periods in life are also key for self-examination and reflection, allowing us to look at the future, whilst accepting that this doesn’t always make one feel secure. Psychotherapist and author Richard B. Joelson, suggests that any transitional period in life is about allowing oneself to feel the emotions that arise in the face of change, accepting those feelings – whatever they may be - and building a support system that is positive and reassuring. He emphasizes, “It’s understandable to feel like your life has become unmanageable. To regain a sense of power, find one small thing you can control right now. Then break it down into small, specific, concrete steps.” It is also important to understand that within any period of profound change, all emotions are valid and expected. Be it fear, excitement, frustration or even anger; change is about allowing those emotions to happen and learning how to deal with them.

With all these changes at hand, managing any stress that arises has never been more vital. Hopefully over the last few months we’ve given you a host of nurturing ideas on how to mitigate your stress levels. Be it communing with nature, taking a long-needed walk, reaching out to loved ones or creating a mediational corner in your home to embrace the “now”, there are many ways to work through the feelings that arise within transitional periods of life. It is also essential to try as best as one can to always seek out the positive; assuredly there is always light within any storm. So whether our new normal means a slower pace, new opportunities or even a new relationship (with ourselves, others and the planet), it is how we approach these changes that makes the world of difference.