Day 1: Initial Pain and Shock

Bobbi Chegwyn: 0:34

Hi, everyone, welcome to day one of 21 Days Together, a three week podcast series dedicated to supporting mums as they navigate the pain and profound sense of loss when their children leave the nest. Together, we will be embarking on a transformative journey of understanding, healing and growth. I'm your host, Bobbi Chegwyn, and I'm an author, podcaster and advocate for the Empty Nest Mom. I've been working with women in transition for the last 15 years and since November 2021, when our youngest left the US to return to our home country of Australia, I've been solely assisting Empty Nesters. Just like you, I'm going to be here with you every step of the way over the next few weeks and beyond, if you wish. Remember we're stronger when we support each other through this shared experience. By savouring the podcast series over the course of three weeks, you give yourself the invaluable gift of time for reflection, absorption and implementation. As the adage goes, it takes approximately 21 days to change habits, and by allowing each episode to settle within you, you create the ideal environment for gradual, meaningful transformation. Don't rush the process. Instead, let the knowledge and insights from each episode integrate into your life, empowering you to make lasting, positive changes at a pace that aligns with your personal journey. The Empty Nest stage can be an overwhelming and deeply emotional time. As we begin this series, it's important to acknowledge the weight of your emotions and validate the depth of your pain. It's perfectly natural to feel an ache within your heart, as if a vital part of your identity is shifting. Your feelings of loss are valid and it's essential to honour and express them. You are not alone on this journey. Countless mums have walked this path before you, experiencing similar waves of sadness, uncertainty and a mix of conflicting emotions. The range of feelings you're experiencing is a testament to the deep love and connection you have with your children. Your pain is undisturbed and you deserve compassion and support. Now I'd like you to take a moment to breathe deeply and allow yourself to fully feel the weight of your current emotions. It's okay to shed tears, to mourn the days gone by and to yearn for the familiar connections that defined your daily life. Remember that it's through acknowledging and processing these emotions that true healing and growth can begin. Today, on day one, I want to emphasise that your pain is a part of your unique journey. It's a reflection of the love you have for your children and the significant role you played in their lives. Give yourself grace as you navigate this period of transition, allowing yourself time to heal and adjust to the changes that come with an empty nest. Throughout the next 20 days, we will explore various aspects of the emptiness journey. Together, we'll delve into different topics, offering guidance, insights and practical tools to help you navigate this transformative period. It's important to remember that everyone's experience is unique and you are free to embrace this new chapter in your own way and at your own pace. As we go through this 21-day podcast series, let's remember that we are better together. Lean on the support of fellow empty-nest mums who understand your experience, share your triumphs, your challenges and your wisdom In our community on Facebook, the Inspired Empty-Nest Mums Group, you'll find understanding, compassion and encouragement, creating a safe space to share, learn and grow. It is crucial for those around you to meet you where you currently are emotionally. Many well-meaning individuals may offer advice like let your children live their lives you knew this was going to happen or suck it up and go find a hobby. However, in the midst of your shock, you're not where others are. You are where you are. Others are more capable of coming down to your emotional level than you climbing up to theirs. Your emotions are valid and important. Allow yourself to experience them fully and express them in a way that feels right for you. Remember that healing and growth take time, and it's okay to ask for understanding and support from those around you. Together, we can create an environment of empathy and respect where you can be heard, seen and supported on your unique journey through the Empty-Nest transition. Now I ask you to take a moment to breathe deeply and allow yourself to fully feel the weight of your emotions With each breath. Invite a sense of calm and peace into your being. Slow, steady, calming breaths can help ground you in the present moment. Today, on day one, all I ask of you is to keep breathing. Let each breath be a reminder that you are heard and supported. Inhale the belief that your feelings matter and that your pain is valid. Exhale any self-judgments or doubts With every breath, repeat the affirming words I am heard and I am supported. Thank you for joining me on day one of our 21 Days Together. As we continue this transformative journey together, always remember that your pain is valid, your feelings are understood and you are supported every step of the way. Stay tuned for day two and remember you are not alone on this journey and we are here for you. I'll check in with you tomorrow. Okay, together we've got this. Thank you.