My daughter just got her first period

My daughter just got her first period (or you can feel it’s coming)...what to do?

Congratulations! This is a moment of celebration to recognize and honor the girl, and her rising  fertility. 

And…it's daunting! Your little girl is growing, and it can be really scary to think about what she needs from you in this next phase of life.  It can literally take your breath away to think about her navigating our complex world. 

There is so much to say about this topic and there is no way to properly address this initiation in one email. I am working with a number of families to develop appropriate, personal initiations for their daughters. It’s a journey.  You are welcome to reach out if this interests you. 

I cannot say enough to encourage you to find good ways to celebrate her.  Honoring  your daughter in her coming of age gives her a sense of confidence and builds a web of support, both of which are very necessary for her and for you. 

How can you celebrate your daughter, and in so doing, honor your entire lineage? 

In the women’s collective we are continually exploring our own personal initiations, as well as those we offer to others. When we take the opportunity to recognize moments of transition in our lives and in the lives of our beloveds, we offer the opportunity to be witnessed. 

Witnessing is an essential reminder that we are not alone, we are part of a larger web of life which is always holding us. 

We are more able to see ourselves when we feel seen, even if it is challenging to be the center of attention. Furthermore, your ability to see yourself is an essential element of healthy relationships. 

If you want to create an initiatory experience for your daughter, start by simply recognizing her. Take a moment to write down one thing that you value about her, and that you hope she sees in herself. If you feel to, share this with her. 

And if you want to talk more about initiation for your child or yourself, please reach out.  

With honor and respect to the ones who have witnessed us.