Episode 004: Join Carolyn Burke and Bija Repta and I on this fifth episode of the Love Who You Are Podcast. In this tender and compassionate episode, two DevaTree mamas share their early experiences with empty nesting.
We chat about the expected emotions, the surprises, and the importance of being gentle with yourself as you find your new rhythm. Leaning on Carolyn’s perspective as a therapist, we discuss the conflicts that can arise as couples venture into these uncharted waters, and how to navigate relationships when we’re having very different experiences.
Moving through the unknown is difficult, but Carolyn and Bija share what they’ve being doing to cope with the transition, reminding us of the tools we can use in times of stress, grief, and overwhelm.
Above all, this episode reminds listeners to acknowledge difficult emotions in order to move past them—because new beginnings are always on the horizon.
Key Takeaways:
- Why the term “empty nest” is lacking—but also accurate in many ways.
- How your adult kid still needs you, and the new challenges that come with parenting adults.
- The surprising emotions that can hit you when you’re least expecting it, like Bija’s grocery store experience.
- How the endless tasks leading up to the launch can be all-consuming, making it harder to fully process what’s happening until the house is empty.
- How transitions can produce a wide array of reactions and feelings, and how everything on the continuum is okay. And it’s okay if you feel relieved instead of heartbroken!
- The importance of giving yourself time and space to feel your emotions, honour and celebrate the work you’ve done, create a ritual to mark the milestone, and also to grieve.
- How everyone will experience their empty nest differently. Some people may find themselves harnessing the energy of new beginnings, in a parallel process with their kids.
- Acknowledging that kids have different communication styles—your friend’s daughter might call often, while your son is barely in touch. The struggle is real!
- How to recognize the origin of your difficult emotions at times when you’re filled with the desire to reach out. Is it for them, or is it really for you? (it’s okay if it’s a bit of both)
Key Links:
- Carolyn’s Website: https://carolynburke.ca
- Bija’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerri.bija/
About the Guest:
Carolyn Burke, MSW, RSW, E-RYT1000, is an experienced yoga teacher trainer, therapist, and past life regression specialist. Carolyn artfully guides students in the Yoga for Anxiety, Meditation in the Modern Age, and HeartRise® Children’s Yoga programs. She has designed and led numerous wellness and therapeutic groups for people of all ages, including a mindfulness and meditation program for adults in recovery from addiction.
Bija (Kerri) Repta, RYT, teaches Down Dogs & Doshas: An Integrated Approach to Ayurveda and Yoga, our Faculty-Mentored Self-Study program. Bija is a Certified Yoga Instructor, International Retreat Facilitator, Spa Therapist, and Spa Educator and trainer. Ayurveda’s richness and depth has called to Bija for many years. One of her life’s passions is sharing Ayurvedic concepts with others and witnessing the lightbulb moments they apply to their own personal lifestyles and relationships.
Intro Music by Brenda McMorrow – All One Song from the album “My Heart Bows Down to You”. brendamcmorrow.com
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