The Benefits of Adopting a Spiritual Practice as a Middle-Aged Woman
Jumping for Joy!
Two years ago, I didn’t have any kind of spiritual practice in my life at all. Then I went on a three day retreat run by Catherine Hartley and it changed everything for me.
I spent those three days wide eyed and in awe of everything that was going on around me. Our energy was cleared with sage before we entered a large tent where we sat in circle on sheepskin rugs and shared. We dipped naked in the white well in Glastonbury, climbed the Tor, drummed, sang, meditated, read oracle cards and held cacao cermonies and energy healing.
When I came home I was different. Not in a huge way but in a “Oooh, I didn’t know that type of thing existed” kind of way.
I wasn’t sure if, or how, I would incorporate any of these practices into my life but I knew there was no going back. And over the last two years that’s exactly what I’ve done. Little by little I’ve tried, tested and adopted things that I find work for me.
I realised that as we navigate life, demands (many of which we love) often take precedence over our well-being. As a wife and Mum, that’s fine - that’s what I’m here for. However, this can lead to stress, burnout, and a sense of disconnection.
Embracing spiritual or mindful practices has improved my mental, emotional, and physical health. Below I’ve explored different kind of spiritual practices (because not everything is for everyone) and I’ve looked at how incorporating these habits can enrich your life and create a sense of peace and fulfillment.
What Are Spiritual Practices?
Spiritual practices are activities that foster a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you. While some practices have ancient roots, many have become modern tools for wellness.
Benefits of Spritual Practices For Middle Aged Women
Reduces Stress: Many spiritual practices lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation - perfect for improved sleep!
Improves Mental Clarity: Mindful activities can enhance focus and decision-making - goodbye foggy brain!
Encourages Self-Reflection: Practices like journaling and meditation help you connect with your inner self - how many of us feel as though we have no idea who we are?
Promotes Physical Health: Activities like yoga and cold water dipping have physical benefits, such as improved circulation and flexibility - so important.
Fosters Emotional Resilience: Techniques like affirmations and visualization build positivity and confidence - which is great when they start to wane.
Dirty dancing meets yoga - maybe I’m not quite that brave!
Top Spiritual Practices To Transform Your Life
Meditation: Finding Inner Peace
Meditation is one of the most effective ways to quiet your mind and find balance. For middle-aged women, regular meditation can help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and provide a calm perspective in life’s challenges.
Start with guided meditations or apps if you're new to the practice. Insight Timer, Calm & Headspace are all good options. Or just put on some chill music and let your mind wander. Once it’s done that for a few minutes, try and breathe in and out 10 times and focus on your breath. Invite any thoughts to move to one side. They can have their say later!
Journaling: Discover Your True Self
Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be incredibly therapeutic. Journaling allows you to process emotions, set goals, and reflect on your growth. A gratitude journal, for instance, shifts your focus to the positive aspects of life. Structured journaling can also help you to create a blueprint for pretty much any situation and also for your day. I’ll write about this more in another post.
Visualization: Manifesting Your Dreams
Visualization involves creating a mental picture of your goals and aspirations. It’s a powerful tool for setting intentions and achieving them. Many people are sceptical of visualisation and manifestation techniques but it’s not just about imagining a mansion and a yacht and hoping that it appears. I see it more as a “where focus goes, energy flows” approach. Focus, trusting, believing and taking action are the way to make things happen.
Wellness Practices With A Spiritual Twist
Saunas and Cold Water Dipping: Reconnecting with Nature
As you probably know by now, I am a fan of both of these. These ancient practices improve circulation, boost immunity, and relieve stress. Cold water dipping, in particular, has been shown to reduce inflammation and elevate mood, making it a refreshing way to feel energized and alive. It’s one of the easiest, most cost effective activities to do at home - especially if like me you’re land locked!
Yoga: Harmony of Body and Mind
Yoga combines physical movement with breathwork and mindfulness, offering a full-body experience. Whether it’s a gentle yin practice or an invigorating flow, yoga enhances flexibility, strengthens muscles, and calms the mind. I go to a weekly outdoor yoga class every Sunday morning. Come rain, shine, snow or wind - we are there and it’s probably one of my favourite hours of the week. There’s something very special about being outside whilst doing yoga.
Affirmation Cards: Building Positivity
Using affirmation cards daily can help reframe your mindset. My favourite cards are the Healing Water cards by Rebecca Campbell. I’m always intrigued to see which cards I pull, what they mean and how I interpret them. I find it amazing how often I will pull the same card day after day and then off it goes, never to be seen again. After my hysterectomy, I took a course to learn how to read affirmation cards (also run by Catherine Hartley) which was brilliant.
Wearing my sauna/cold water dipping hat whilst in my pod. The hat is available HERE
Creative & Calming Pursuits
Sourdough Bread: A Meditative Art
Baking sourdough bread is both creative and therapeutic and it’s something I’ve fallen in love with over the last 8 months. I bake almost every day and have recently taught a sourdough workshop.
The process of feeding the starter and watching it bubble up, of stretching and folding the dough and the patience required for fermentation mirror life’s lessons in slowing down and appreciating the present. And when you take the lid off the Dutch oven to be greeted by a light and springy loaf that smells divine - little can beat it!
A loaf of home made sourdough bread!
Reading Informative, Calming Books
Choosing books that inspire and educate can provide a sense of calm and wisdom. Look for topics that resonate with your journey, whether it’s mindfulness, spirituality, or personal growth. I personally like “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert, as well as “How To Winter” by Kari Leibowitz and Lunar Living by Kirsty Gallagher. I’m currently listening to the new Mel Robbins book “Let Them” which I’m also loving.
In a nutshell: Embrace the Journey
Adopting spiritual and mindful practices can be life-changing, particularly for middle-aged women seeking balance and purpose. Start with small steps—find a space in the day and try a meditation app, journal for five minutes, or work on visualisation. At the weekend maybe bake your first loaf of sourdough (you will need to prep for this but I can help you with that) or think about booking a sauna or cold water dip.
Whatever you choose, it will take time and patience. Do it because you love the experience and in time, I hope it will bring you closer to a healthier, happier you.
Which practice will you try first?
Have a great week!
Much love,
Beth x
PS if you would like to listen to a podcast episode all about the retreat I went on (including ALL my faux pas!) you can listen HERE and to get a copy of my book “You Are Not Bonkers” (it’s designed to make you feel less alone if you feel like you’re going crazy) you can do that HERE