053: Matrescence: Motherhood as an Initiation with Amy Borskey Duffer

In my early postpartum days, I remember Googling things like "motherhood identity crisis" because I felt so lost. I thought I was prepared for motherhood, but I was not. Turns out, I should have been Googling the term "matrescence," but I'd never heard of it. Today, I'm joined by integrative therapist Amy Borskey Duffer to talk about this powerful concept, which helps mothers create meaning and peace amidst huge life changes.

We discuss:

• What is matrescence? The developmental journey of becoming a mother that affects us physically, emotionally, spiritually
• Both Amy and Holly's challenging experiences in early motherhood
• Acceptable cultural norms in motherhood vs. the raw reality of what actually goes on behind the scenes
• Why we should question common societal narratives about the motherhood journey
• Career vs. motherhood: can there really be a balance?
• The importance of forming secure attachment in the first 3 years of a child's life
• Understanding how personal and generational trauma can affect our mothering
• The top challenges new mothers face (and ways to address them)
• The support Amy offers through her private practice and program, The Mother Well

Where to Connect with Amy Borksey Duffer: 

Amy's Website: https://www.alliswellbeing.com/

Amy's Program, The Mother Well: https://www.alliswellbeing.com/themotherwell

Follow Amy on Instagram @all_is_well_being

Postpartum Support International Helpline: 

• www.postpartum.net — complimentary support phone numbers are listed on the homepage

Books Referenced: 

• Lisa Marchiano, Motherhood Facing and Finding Yourself
• Amy Taylor-Kabbaz, Mama Rising

Where to Connect with Holly: 

Follow Holly on Instagram @hollyfisherhiggins

Holly's website: https://www.hollyfisherhiggins.com/

Download my free "Clear the Crap" meditation here (this will put you on my email list!)

Music: Joseph McDade, "On the Verge"