Finding Healing Through Love and Femifesting: A Journey
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Chapter 1: Embracing the Wisdom of Centenarian Healers
In my thirties, I often feel like an old soul, drawn to the vibrant lives of seniors who exemplify their dreams. Figures like Fauja Singh, the 113-year-old marathon runner, and Colette Maze, the world’s oldest recording pianist who lived to 109, inspire deep admiration in me.
When I stumbled upon Dr. Gladys McGarey’s book, The Well-Lived Life: A 102-Year-Old Doctor’s Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Every Age, it captivated my spirit with each line, quickly becoming my favorite read. At 104, Dr. Gladys embodies the holistic principles she advocates, demonstrating resilience despite facing sexism, a divorce at 70, and two cancer battles. Her approach to healing revolves around love and life, which deeply resonates with me.
Her journey to self-expression, which began at 93, is a testament to her belief in lifelong growth and self-love. As someone invested in living authentically and guiding others on their paths, this book is especially meaningful for me amid my professional uncertainties.
While this book is rich with wisdom for both mental and physical challenges, I will delve into two themes that have influenced my struggles with self-doubt and impatience.
Section 1.1: The Importance of Femifesting
Dr. Gladys emphasizes that “femifesting” is essential for discovering our true passions. She explains, “You are here for a reason. Each of us connects with unique gifts that fuel our desire to live.” This quest is more significant than the end results; it is the journey that truly matters (McGarey 18).
Growing up in a hurried environment, I’ve found it challenging to shake off impatience, which has often been detrimental. Now, eight months into a professional shift, I still grapple with whether I've truly “found my juice.”
Dr. Gladys argues that prioritizing “femifesting”—the process of preparation and growth—is crucial. In a world obsessed with immediate results, she believes we often overlook the vital stages of learning and growth that precede success.
She beautifully articulates that in the universe's depths, our aspirations are in a state of gestation, gathering experiences and preparing for manifestation. “Femifesting is akin to the nurturing process in the womb,” she asserts (McGarey 225).
This concept struck a chord with me. My own birth experience reflects a lack of readiness, as I arrived prematurely due to a scheduled cesarean, leading to early challenges. However, through the loving act of flipping through a magazine, my mother discovered my affinity for reading, a passion that continues to soothe me.
Dr. Gladys aptly states, “When life is flowing, what nourishes us evolves alongside us” (McGarey 38). Recognizing what gives us energy is pivotal to true health. Writing and reading liberate me from the pressure of outcomes, reminding me of my purpose.
Section 1.2: Love as a Healer
Dr. Gladys presents a profound insight: fear and love cannot coexist. “When fear steps in, love steps out — and vice versa,” she explains, highlighting that love dispels fear (McGarey 92).
In today’s world, where stress is rampant, this understanding is transformative. She emphasizes that love activates our life force, a critical factor in healing.
Recently, a series of rejections triggered my self-doubt, prompting me to question my self-worth. Dr. Gladys invites us to reflect on our self-respect and honor our feelings, fostering self-love through practice (McGarey 100).
Moreover, self-love is not just a soft concept; it plays an integral role in our physical health. Dr. Gladys shares her own healing journey, using loving thoughts during medical challenges, which contributed to her quick recoveries.
Her stories illustrate the immense power of love and belief, resonating with research that shows how our thoughts can impact our bodies at a cellular level (McGarey 103).
However, if past experiences hinder our ability to embrace love, Dr. Gladys suggests starting small—allowing ourselves to accept love from others before extending that kindness to ourselves.
Through this practice, I have found my path back to love and connection, including nurturing self-love.
Chapter 2: The Journey is Ongoing
Dr. Gladys’ teachings have illuminated my struggles with fear during recent setbacks. By interpreting my experiences as “femifesting,” I have fostered greater love within myself, quieting self-doubt and impatience.
If you, too, are navigating a transition—whether personal or professional—remember that “you are right on time,” as Dr. Gladys beautifully states (McGarey 222).
Fear often tells us we are behind or lacking, but love operates on its own timeline, deserving of our respect.
The first video, Mind Over Medicine: Scientific Proof You Can Heal Yourself by Dr. Lissa Rankin, explores the significant impact of mindset and self-belief on healing.
The second video, The Shocking Truth About Your Health by Lissa Rankin, reveals insights on the connection between our thoughts, emotions, and overall health.
If this journey resonates with you, I invite you to join my newsletter, Centered Choices, for more insights on living grounded and centered, along with a FREE journaling companion.