Introduction
I recently came to understand that for a few years… actually almost 9 years… I’ve been waiting for the other shoe to drop. 9 years ago a very traumatic event happened that shook me to my core and broke my trust in life, myself and the benevolence of the Universe.
So I began waiting.
For the next catastrophe.
For the next time shit was going to hit the fan.
For the next bad thing to happen.
And guess what.
They did.
Repeatedly.
Month after month, year after year, in my little corner of the world, shit happened, people died, floods and fires and other disasters and tragedies hit me.
Hard.
So I was confirmed.
It was a good and healthy idea to stay alert and wait for it.
Until a few weeks back when I was gently reminded by a dear friend that, in that same time… a lot of amazing, joyful, crazy beautiful, incredibly successful things ALSO happened.
Lisa Jara (check her out, she’s awesome!) also mentioned PSD as a possible "cause" to my pessimistic attitude…
Now, I had no clear understanding of PSD or Patriarchy Stress Disorder.
And maybe you don’t either.
So I did my research and I intend to share my findings with you today, as well as some ideas for beginning our healing (which is not only crucial for ourselves, but for the collective!) of Patriarchy Stress Disorder.
Unpacking Patriarchy Stress Disorder
In our evolving world, the concept of Patriarchy Stress Disorder (PSD) has emerged as a profound lens through which we can better understand the impact of patriarchal systems on our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. PSD highlights the hidden wounds inflicted by oppressive structures and invites us to embark on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and liberation. In this blog post, we'll explore the concept of Patriarchy Stress Disorder, its effects, and strategies for healing and reclaiming our authentic selves.
Patriarchy Stress Disorder is a term coined by Dr. Valerie Rein, a psychologist and feminist who specializes in women's empowerment. It describes the cumulative and collective trauma experienced by individuals—particularly women—due to the effects of patriarchal systems. PSD is not limited to a specific gender; it affects anyone exposed to patriarchal conditioning.
The Impact of Patriarchy
Patriarchy, with its emphasis on power, control, competition, efficiency, and gender roles, has far-reaching consequences on our mental and emotional well-being. It fosters a culture of dominance, suppression of emotions, and disconnection from one's authentic self. PSD can manifest in symptoms such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and a sense of unworthiness.
Healing Patriarchy Stress Disorder
Healing PSD involves a transformative process of reclamation and self-empowerment. Here are some steps to begin the healing journey:
Awareness: Start by recognizing the influence of patriarchal conditioning in your life. Reflect on how it has impacted your beliefs, self-image, and relationships.
Self-Compassion: Cultivate self-compassion. Understand that any feelings of unworthiness or self-doubt are not your fault but the result of systemic conditioning.
Nervous system regulation: Find help on learning to regulate your nervous system. Sometimes our body is so screwed over that we need to tend to its needs before she can support a mindset transformation!
Breathe: Remember the importance of deep breathing daily. Learn to breathe with all your lungs and body, inhaling and exhaling to your fullest and emptiest. Practice often and repeatedly. Taht should help qith your nervous system as well!
Choose the NOW: Be present in the moment, steer clear of projections, expectations around the future or mulling over the past, whether in nostalgia or regret.
Embrace Authenticity: Reconnect with your authentic self. Explore your values, desires, and passions without judgment or external expectations.
Set Boundaries: Establish healthy boundaries in your relationships and life. Learn to say no and protect your well-being.
Seek Support: Consider seeking support from therapists, counselors, or support groups that specialize in trauma and PSD. Connecting with others who share your experiences can be profoundly healing.
Embrace Empowerment: Embrace your personal power. Challenge the limiting beliefs instilled by patriarchy and replace them with affirming and empowering thoughts.
Celebrate Diversity: Support diversity and inclusion. Advocate for gender equality and create spaces that honor the full spectrum of human expression.
Educate and Inform: Educate yourself about patriarchy and its effects. Maybe also read about the ULPING Effect, or Upper Limiting Effect, in Gay Hendrick’s book, the Big Leap. The Upper Limiting Effect refers to the self-sabotaging behavior or mindset that occurs when individuals unconsciously set limits on their own success and happiness, often as a response to feelings of unworthiness or fear of change, or, as we are uncovering now… as a response to PSD!!
Such an interesting and enlightening perspective in the discussion around success and failure, isn't it?
Conclusion
Healing PSD is really about encouraging open and honest conversations (maybe with yourself, through journaling for instance), uncovering how much you are affected personally and promoting awareness about the impact of oppressive systems.
Healing Patriarchy Stress Disorder is a profound journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and reclamation. It's a call to break free from the limitations of patriarchal conditioning and reclaim the fullness of our authentic selves. As we heal, we not only transform our own lives but contribute to the dismantling of oppressive systems and the creation of a more equitable and inclusive world.
May you embark on this healing journey with courage and compassion, knowing that you are worthy of liberation and authenticity.
I believe that is all for today.
I would be so happy to hear from you.
Thank you in advance for your comment.
See you soon, for my next online adventures!
Until then I send you love, light and gratitude.
Isaya
PS: 1. I’m coming to London, UK and on October 31st, I’ll be offering a Samhain Goddess Self-Care Circle Workshop to Honor the Ancestors and Embrace the Divine Feminine Within.
If you want in or want to know more, click here for early bird price and more info: https://app.eventsframe.com/app/event/6754351352643584/
PPS: If you feel you need assistance to transition to a full Goddess Life and feel both the joy and your connection to the Divine daily, I invite you to contact me and book a 15 minutes Flashlight Call where I help you light up the areas that need some love and we see how I can to support you on this sacred pilgrimage: https://bookme.name/isayabelle/lite/15-minutes-flashlight-call