"Do not live someone else's life and someone else's idea of what womanhood is. Womanhood is you." - Viola Davis

Today, Wednesday 8th March 2023, marks International Women's Day - an event celebrating the achievements of women and continuing campaign for the rights and progress of women all over the world.

I decided that it was only fitting to release this week's newsletter on this very day, and embrace this important, ever more needed, special day for women.

International Women's Day is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 as a focal point in the women's rights movement, bringing attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.

Why is there this special day for women? Because historically and up to this very day, women have been persecuted, abused, treated unfairly, under paid, denied rights, and more. Since it's inception, possibly dating as far back as 1911 with the fight for better working conditions and right to vote, women have campaigned tirelessly for a world of equality, where we can all be treated with respect and equally.

"Know the masculine. Keep to the feminine." - Lao Tzu

Embracing Femininity

What is it to be a woman? What is it to be feminine? What does it mean to channel our feminine energy?

In a world that seems to lord men, their masculinity, alpha male approach to the workplace, and place men in positions of authority, it is evermore apparent that a more feminine approach and presence, (and proven in research) is much needed and creates a better working and living environment.

I recall as a younger woman, on my own career journey, not to be too 'nice', not to be too 'woman', not to be 'emotional' or too 'concerned' for others. As women, we are encouraged to channel male energy, in order to climb the ladder of success. This always seemed so counterintuitive to me. Surely, if you were caring, showed empathy, took time to get to know employees and their dreams for the future, you could create a more empowered and holistic workforce that would welcome teamwork and be more committed to your organisation?

Channeling our feminine energy is available to all of us, no matter what your gender or non-gender identification.

"Feminine energy embodies the natural rhythm of life and nature. It’s about moving in a state of flow rather than pushing and pulling. Sometimes she must be still and patient, and other times she must move quickly with grace and passion." (Revoloon - Shani Jay)

Feminine energy has a softness to it and groundedness but this does not mean you are an over-giver, people pleaser or push-over. Feminine has inner strength, harnessing her creative powers and leaning into her intuition.

Feminine energy is in touch with her higher self, allowing her soul to direct her in a state of flow. She respects and exercises her boundaries and isn't afraid to rise up and have her voice heard.

Feminine energy is the embodiment of COURAGE - living in the presence of fear yet knowing that there is strength and bravery within to step forward and create change.

"The most important journey of our lives doesn't necessarily involve climbing the highest peak or trekking around the world. The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams." - Oprah Winfrey

Embracing Wholeness

I have always felt that as you progress through wellness, your growth is truly embodied in your wholeness. It is important to acknowledge your many journey of wellness from emotional, to mental, physical and spirtual but in order to truly allow yourself to be, you are invited to embrace your wholeness.

Wholeness is about looking within, accepting and loving all of your flaws as well as your strengths. It is about being true to your inner spirit, your beliefs and your power. Being in wholeness gives you peace. Wholeness means you don't have to wait to feel happy, respected or loved. You can be that now, irrelevant of what is happening in your life. Wholeness is living on purpose, aligning yourself with your values, being your authentic self. It is living with intention, trusting your mind, heart and gut and living in a state of playful curiosity.

Wholeness is YOU.

"There's power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice." - Michelle Obama

Embracing Your Highest Self

As you live in wholeness you also live as your highest self. You might have heard this term before, and wondered, what does it mean to be in 'your highest self'? It is unique to you but some key elements are embracing your intutive energy, living with intention, listening to your inner voice and giving yourself space to just be.

Tap into your highest self by sitting in silence, meditating, enjoying a day of ease and flow, spending time in nature, laughing, enjoying special family time, having a digital free day. Spend time with yourself, allowing thoughts to flow through you, without placing energy or importance to any that do not serve your highest, fullest potential.

Final Thoughts

We all need a balance of feminine and masculine energy, in order to live a life of wholeness and to thrive in the world.

This does not mean dominance in either form or being dominated, this is simply about understanding the landscape we are in and being able to balance between times when softness and nurturing are required and when logic and doing are needed.

I believe in a world of equity, diversity and inclusion. A world that respects and embraces all humans. A world where we can live as one, without fear of violence, abuse or racism. A world where we live in peace, harmony and love.

Much peace and love to you all on this very special day.

Please leave a comment and share with anyone that needs to hear this today.

About Hulya

My mission is to see a world where women and girls are empowered in their own state of being, as their highest self, embracing their fullest potential and knowing that they are whole.

I coach women globally, and speak on topics related to living a life of courage, of strength, of loving yourself and harnessing your inner power in self-belief, self-worth, and self-esteem.

If you'd like to know more, work with me, or to speak at your event then get in touch, I'd love to hear your story and share my own lived experiences so we can work together to create a live you love, a life you believe in and want.

Get in touch here

#iwd2023 #internationalwomensday2023 #femininity #wholeness