Empowering Women Through the Wise Woman Tradition

A Shift from Male-Centric Medicine

The conventional medicine I learned in school was rooted in a linear, scientific, male-dominated worldview that I never questioned. However, when this approach failed me as a woman and a mother, I sought alternatives. Herbs provided a simple and safe way to care for myself and my family, but I began to question the underlying assumptions of what I had been taught. It became evident that both orthodox and alternative health care systems often disempower women by assuming that the male body is the standard for health.

The Impact of Male-Centric Health Assumptions

Assuming that a healthy male is the definition of health can be problematic, especially for women. This core assumption has caused and continues to cause harm to women in various ways, from personal health issues to broader political implications. For instance:

• DES Hormone: Healthy pregnant women were given DES (diethylstilbestrol), a hormone, which led to their offspring being more prone to cancer.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Millions of menopausal women have been treated with hormones to replace what is "lost." However, HRT increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, and breast cancer (source).
• Menstruation and Mental Health: Menstruating women are often offered medications like pink Prozac to combat "depression" instead of being given the quiet time they need.
• Unnecessary Surgeries: Women are frequently advised to have their uterus and ovaries removed post-menopause, despite these organs' importance to sexual health and overall well-being.

Historical Context

A century ago, women who challenged male authority could be diagnosed as "hysterical" and have their uterus removed, often without anesthesia or disinfectants. This historical context highlights the long-standing issues with male-centric medical practices.

The Wise Woman Tradition: A Woman-Centered Approach

The Wise Woman Tradition offers a new way to think about and create health, empowering women to take charge of their health and lives. It emphasizes:

• Simple Remedies: Accessible and easy-to-use treatments.
• Information Sharing: Freely available knowledge.
• Compassionate Listening: Providing a supportive and understanding environment.
• Reframing Weaknesses as Strengths: Encouraging women to see their natural states as powerful.
• Connection to Nature: Reminding women that their bodies are sacred and connected to the Earth.

Empowering Women Through the Wise Woman Tradition

The Wise Woman Tradition empowers women to:

• View Themselves as Healthy: Even when facing health issues.
• Create Their Own Health Norms: Based on their unique needs.
• Honor Natural Cycles: Embracing puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.
• Define Themselves from a Woman-Centered Viewpoint: Rejecting male-centric definitions of health.
• Connect with Other Women: For personal and planetary healing.

The Simplicity and Accessibility of the Wise Woman Tradition

Modern medicine can often seem complicated and inaccessible. Many alternative remedies are also complex, expensive, or require special training. This complexity can disempower women. The Wise Woman Tradition, by focusing on simple, accessible remedies and freely sharing information, allows women to feel competent and powerful in managing their health.

Healing Through Nourishment

The Wise Woman Tradition heals by nourishing the wholeness of each individual. This nourishment includes:

• Simple Ceremony: Rituals that honor the individual.
• Nourishing Foods: Diets that support overall health.
• Compassionate Listening: Validating and empowering women through attentive listening.

Reframing Weaknesses as Strengths

One of the greatest gifts of the Wise Woman Tradition is the ability to reframe perceived weaknesses as strengths. By embracing all aspects of themselves, women can find and celebrate their wholeness, health, and holiness.

The Sacredness of Women's Bodies

The Wise Woman Tradition reminds women that their bodies are sacred. As women, we are the Earth, and each of us lives in the body of the Earth. This sacred connection empowers women to honor themselves and demand respect from others.

Conclusion

When women accept the orthodox view that they are constantly in need of help, they assume a powerless position. However, when they embrace the Wise Woman Tradition's belief that they are already perfect and vibrantly healthy, they assume a position of power. By creating their own health norms and honoring their natural cycles, women can find deep wisdom and great power flowing into their lives. The Wise Woman Tradition offers this empowerment, connecting women to the ancient wisdom of the Grandmothers.

For more information, visit Susun Weed's website and Ash Tree Publishing.

For permission to reprint this article, contact us at: susunweed@herbshealing.com