In today's episode, we're delving into a topic that strikes a chord with many women—navigating the complexities of the festive season. Beyond the glittering lights and holiday cheer, this time of year can bring unique challenges, stress, and heightened expectations. Joining us for this insightful discussion is Kirstin Bouse, a clinical and forensic psychologist with nearly three decades of experience. She is the owner of Perth Psychology Collective, who offer a wide range of psychological assessment and therapy services to the local community. When her own perimenopause journey began 6-years ago, Kirstin looked to psychology and other health disciplines to make sense of and address what she was experiencing. It was like looking for a needle in a haystack. Since then, with considerable perseverance Kirstin found many colleagues across health disciplines ‘hiding in the shadows’ who are experienced in, and passionate about, working with women during this significant life stage. Listen in as we discuss:
Women bearing the brunt of a lot of the pressures which come with Christmas and planning, organisation, responsibilities and more surrounding the festive season.
Increased stress and anxiety at the end of the year, especially with different family structures which are now surrounding us in society.
Expectations we put on ourselves that can elevate stress, anxiety, and anticipatory anxiety.
How Christmas can be a perfect storm of variables.
Challenging relationships and carrying unconscious load. How we often try to smooth the edges.
Loneliness and grief at Christmas.
Practical ways we can continue building our resilience muscles (even when it’s not Christmas time).
Setting boundaries and practicing how it feels, what it looks like and what it means in midlife.
Dividing up our own 100% and conversations about planning, dividing up and different family dynamics.
As you can see there are many topics covered and this episode is packed with practical advice and information around this time. I encourage you to follow Kirstin via her website www.allabouthercentre.com.au and Instagram @the_midlife_psychologist and @allabouthercentre
Happy Christmas and New Year. I look forward to many more discussions in 2024 and hope you have a wonderful midlife, whatever that looks like for you.
You can also find me on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/ and Private Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenswellnesscollective1.
Here’s to redefining midlife and making our next half of life even better than the first.
