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Women in any kind of life transition may find themselves suddenly separated from communities they have been a part of and supported by for many years. Young women relocating to a new city can feel lonely and isolated for a year or more before making friends and establishing an active life. They may feel bereft after a breakup.
Single women later in life are left alone to deal with the aftermath of death, legal and parenting issues related to divorce, physical illness, and every kind of life crisis. The result is often depression, anxiety, stress related illness, and a lowered creative contribution to society.
What women need and have had up until modern times is community.
In order to be happy and productive, women need to feel they belong to a safe, nurturing, and respectful group of other women who they can turn to for support. Anita Diamant’s historical novel, The Red Tent, describes an ancient Biblical culture where women had a separate space from the men to practice the domestic arts and to provide guidance during childbirth and other stressful times. The Red Tent was the women’s sacred gathering place.
Recent research confirms women’s need for connection and community.
UCLA scientists discovered that unlike men, women under stress “tend and befriend” rather than fight or flee. Other research shows that the more friends a woman has, the healthier and happier she is as she ages. Women’s natural nurturing instincts may also explain why they consistently outlive men.
Mighty Women Unite! is an idea for community, inspired by a leadership course in Landmark Education. Small groups meet monthly drawn from different social areas such as neighborhood, work, spiritual interest, similar challenges, and old or new friends. During the “sharing circle,” the practice of silent listening honors each participant. After the sharing circle, other activities might be planned.
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