Navigating the Sister Wound and Witch Wound
Hey, it's Faye writing.
The energy of Spring Equinox is all around us in the natural world!
To mark the Equinox, I journeyed to Dartmoor's Nine Maidens, an ancient stone circle dating back 4,000 years.
It got its name from a folklore tale that the stones were once nine maidens who were turned to stone as punishment for dancing together on a religious day.
My visit filled me with frustration!
This sacred site, once a haven for prehistoric rituals, now stands as a cautionary tale. It serves as a reminder that gatherings of women and acts that challenge societal norms are supposed to be met with the fear of punishment.
Since the rise of the patriarchy, there has been a threat towards women who unite around the sacred.
Despite the increased freedoms in the UK, this fear continues to permeate our culture and can be deeply ingrained in women's conditioning.
Recognising this dynamic is crucial, with terms like the "sister wound" and the "witch wound" offering valuable insights into these complex issues.
Sister Wound
Often a result of a culture that foster comparison and competition amongst women, the beauty and fashion industry being a prime example.
It involves feelings of jealousy, betrayal, and insecurity that can undermine trust and solidarity.
Witch Wound
This persists in the form of discrimination against women, particularly those who embrace spirituality outside of mainstream norms.
It's evident in stereotypes portraying assertive women as threatening and in the marginalization of women in leadership roles. Women who assert their spiritual beliefs may face backlash and marginalization.
At True Nature, we believe that when we heal these wounds we create a more just, whole and equitable world.
Some practical ways to do this:
Education and Awareness: Learn about the historical and societal factors that contribute to the wounds. Continue to educate yourself and others about the impact of sexism, misogyny, and discrimination. (You could check out our event series When Women Were the Shamans)
Challenge Internalised Patriarchy: Examine beliefs about women that may contribute to competition or judgment. Celebrate the diverse strengths and qualities of women.
Spiritual Exploration: Explore and celebrate spirituality in ways that resonate with you. Embrace your spiritual beliefs and honour the diversity of spiritual experiences among women.
Build Sisterhood: Seek out supportive and empowering spaces where you can connect with other women, fostering authentic relationships based on trust and mutual support. Encourage and support women to step into leadership roles and pursue their passions and goals.
