The Meaning of Truth by Nicole Sachs:
During our latest meeting, we briefly discussed The Meaning of Truth by Nicole Sachs. I found her Journalspeak technique particularly impactful. The magic, in my experience, lies in the freedom it offers—you can write without the need to be polite, using the most honest, raw, and even unpleasant language, knowing that what you write is meant for your eyes only and will be erased or destroyed afterward.
Having gone through therapy before, I’ve realized that when sharing your story with someone else, you often choose words to make the situation understandable, but your mind, heart, and soul might have a different narrative altogether. Journalspeak allows you to express yourself without limits or constraints, which is both healing and freeing. I found myself writing about things I've never discussed with anyone, using words I wouldn’t say to a therapist or friend—ugly and unpleasant truths that, once expressed, brought healing. It reveals how much pain, shame, or bitterness we carry inside without even realizing it.

EMDR Therapy for Trauma Processing:
We revisited the topic of EMDR Therapy. This structured approach involves focusing on a traumatic memory while simultaneously undergoing bilateral stimulation, often through eye movements. This technique aims to reduce the vividness and emotional impact of the trauma memory, potentially speeding up the therapeutic process.

Mindfulness and End-of-Life Fears:
We touched on these important topics during our discussion, recognizing their significance in our shared journey.

The Body Keeps the Score:
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk was brought into consideration as a potential guide for future meetings.

We Can Do Hard Things Podcast:
We also recommended the podcast We Can Do Hard Things for further exploration of these themes. [Link here]

Mel Robbins Podcast:
Mel Robbins frequently discusses menopause in many of her episodes. [Link here]

A Beautiful Question to Conclude: our meeting wrapped up with a touching question from one of the beautiful souls in our group: "Where do you find JOY?" I want to pass this question on to you as well. May it inspire you to laugh, cry, and recognize the importance of dedicating more time to activities that bring you joy—it’s an essential part of our journey in this second half of life.

Upcoming August 16, Morning SessionOur next regular Midlife Cafe gathering will take place on the morning of August 16. We hope you can join us for another session filled with meaningful conversation, connection, and support.

Next Meeting Details and Registration

• Date: August 16, Morning Session
• Registration: [Register here] (as of December 2024 registration is processed through my website https://danielalejtneker.offeringtree.com/)
• Time: 11 am
• Location: Be Well Collective - 225 E Market St, West Chester, PA 19382, USA

Join Our Community OnlineTo stay connected and continue our conversations between meetings, please join our online groups:

• Midlife Cafe Google Group
• Midlife Cafe Facebook Group (Private)

Group Insights and Future Directions

• Open Conversations: We emphasize the value of open conversations where no one is right or wrong.
• Listening Partnerships: We highlight the importance of holding space for one another.
• Flexible Agenda for Future Meetings:
• Community Building: Creating a supportive community where we can study, network, and uplift each other.
• Trusted Information: Building a repository of expertise and referrals for doctors specializing in menopause.
• Knowledge Sharing: Continuing to share knowledge, resources, and experiences to support each other.
• Discussion Topics: We invite your input on what topics you would like to explore in our next meeting.
• Book Club Possibility: Exploring the idea of creating a book club.
• Expert Talks: Scheduling 20-minute expert talks, starting with our members who want to share their knowledge and expertise.
• Meeting Schedule: Discussing the possibility of meeting once a month on a Friday or Thursday evening.

Meeting Structure (Flexible)

• Breathing Exercise, Movement, and Intention Setting
• Introductions and listening
• Expert Talks or Community Talks or Check-ins
• Reflection: Reflect on two things we learned or how we felt during our gathering.

Meeting Guidelines

• We may sit on yoga mats during the meeting. If you require a chair, kindly inform Daniela at [email protected].
• Please remember to remove your shoes upon arrival.
• As an environmentally conscious group, please bring your own.
• Don’t forget to bring your favorite tea for a cozy experience.
• The meeting will begin promptly and must wrap up by 12:15 pm.
• For those interested in continuing conversations, we can reconvene at a nearby coffee shop.

You can access information about previous meetings here on the Midlife Cafe blog.
Thank you for your continued participation. I’m looking forward to our next meeting and the enriching conversations it will bring.

Daniela Lejtneker 

Midlife Cafe Founder and Yoga Teacher

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https://danielalejtneker.offeringtree.com/