Perimenopause and Mid-Life Crisis: A Powerful Astrological Decade

At the time of writing, I’ve just turned 45 years old and find myself emerging from a haze of complex emotions and bewildering experiences. Two years ago, in 2022, I jokingly mentioned to my partner that some intense astrological transits were due to impact my natal chart in the coming years. “I wonder how that’ll pan out!” I said casually. Little did I know how significant those words would become.

A few months later, a strange sense of confusion began to stir within me. I felt an unshakable need to break away from certain structures in my life, accompanied by a deep exhaustion from juggling too many responsibilities. Despite being engaged in work I loved and valued, I felt stagnant and directionless. It was a perplexing contradiction, I was doing what I’d always dreamt of, yet I felt an undeniable urge for change.

By June 2023, during a much-needed self-imposed break, the fog began to clear. In a moment of tearful reflection with my partner, it hit me like a bolt of lightning: I was in the midst of the astrological storm I’d joked about the year before. As an astrologer, I found it ironic that I’d been unprepared for the events unfolding in my own life, proof, perhaps, that even with cosmic insights, we can’t fully predict our own journeys.

Over the following year, I channelled my energy into creating. A torrent of inspiration surged through me, leading to a prolific output of courses, written materials, and recorded content. It was as though a creative dam had burst. Yet alongside this came subtle, unsettling changes in my body: fluctuating emotions, hot flushes, brain fog, and persistent aches. Gradually, I realised I might be entering perimenopause. My cycles had remained regular, so I’d dismissed the idea, but I was mistaken.

This period of life, between our forties and fifties, is in my opinion profoundly underestimated. It’s a transformative time, often accompanied by significant astrological transits, yet it receives little attention. As I navigate these changes, it has become clear to me how important it is to share these experiences, raising awareness for others embarking on this mid-life journey.

Life-Changing Planetary Transits

The phrase “as above, so below” encapsulates the cosmic interplay between universal events and our individual lives. In our early forties, we all encounter the Uranus opposite Uranus transit, often linked to the classic “mid-life crisis.” This transit manifests differently for everyone, depending on the placement of Uranus in their natal chart. Common themes include career shifts, relationship changes, and a reevaluation of identity and purpose.

For some, this transit may bring a sense of liberation and an urge to break free from outdated patterns. For others, especially those resistant to change, it can feel like chaos. Personally, despite years of inner work, I found the experience far more disruptive than anticipated.

The Uranus opposition typically occurs between the ages of 40 and 45, unfolding over one to two years and leaving ripples that last even longer. It’s a period of profound transition, urging us to confront uncomfortable truths and embrace personal growth. While it may feel unsettling, it ultimately serves as a catalyst for evolution.

Key Themes of Uranus Opposite Uranus:

• Identity Crisis: A reassessment of values and direction, often leading to confusion and a longing for greater authenticity.
• Individuality: A drive to rebel against societal norms and embrace one’s unique self-expression.
• Freedom and Independence: A deep desire to break free from constraints, whether personal or professional.
• Unpredictable Changes: Unexpected shifts in relationships, careers, or living situations can feel destabilising but often lead to better alignment with our true selves.
• Awakening: A period of enlightenment and innovation, opening doors to new philosophies, careers, or creative pursuits.

For me, this time brought an outpouring of creative energy. Ideas and insights came thick and fast, as if channelled from a higher source. I embraced the flow, creating and innovating in ways I hadn’t anticipated.

Perimenopause: The Prelude to Major Biological Changes

Menopause is widely recognised as a significant milestone, typically occurring in our late forties to early fifties. Yet the lead-up to the phase of perimenopause is less discussed, despite its profound impact on mental and physical wellbeing. It’s a time of hormonal fluctuation, emotional turbulence, and physical changes.

Symptoms can vary greatly, but common experiences include:

• Hot flushes
• Mood swings
• Sleep disturbances
• Increased belly fat
• Aches and pains/Frozen shoulder
• Heart palpitations
• Heavier periods
• Anxiety and depression
• ADHD mind

For me, the realisation of perimenopause came later than typically expected because my cycles remained regular. However, the changes in my body and emotions were undeniable.

This phase, coinciding with significant astrological transits can feel overwhelming. Yet, like the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly, it represents a profound transformation, preparing us for the next chapter of life.

The Silver Lining

Amidst these challenges lies a profound opportunity for growth and self-discovery. These mid-life junctures can invite us to listen to our inner callings, release us from unhealthy situations and allow us to honour our bodies more than ever. We can fill our cup with wisdom and embrace the changes unfolding within us if we can surrender to what is. It’s a precious time to redefine our relationship with ourselves and our bodies, to embrace self-compassion and acceptance in the face of transformation.

On the other side of every wobbly life-change lies a wise person who can lead the way to empower the many who follow.

As we move through our graceful fifty’s, there’s a couple more impactful transits worthy of a mention. Chiron Return at 50 – 51 and Saturn Return around 57 – 59. I will do a separate article on Saturn Return because it’s such a poignant time, it deserves it’s own feature.

Summary

This time in our life between 40 – 50 years old is a convergence of both powerful external and internal transformations that can cause so much unrest, worry and fear. By shedding light on this significant phase, my intention is to extend compassion and support, providing solace and guidance to those navigating this transformative path.

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