Body: Truth is, you and I have some work to do that is uncomfortable. Think of it this way—we have pulled off the expressway onto a scenic route. Not everything we pass is pretty. Anyway, you know what they call this very important time - “The Change of Life.”

Body: Staying young—that’s not an option. Gravity has its pull. Staying youthful—we can work on that. First I have to burn off years of disdain. Let me ask you this, was there ever a time when I was good enough for you? A little too plump or a little too thin. Breasts too small, then too big. Feet too wide. How many diets over the years?

Body: If I wanted to shed some weight, I would. What I’m trying to do is incinerate some negative thought patterns and redefine some memories. You’ll need replacement language. Why don’t you start here: “I love my body just the way it is.”

Body: Have you ever noticed that the harder you try to appear calm, cool and collected, the redder your face and neck get and the wetter your brow? I’m working on your vanity, your need to control, your denial. Acceptance would be the best antidote. I’m hot. You’re hot too. Some things have changed. Some things have stayed the same. And some things haven’t turned out as you hoped or expected. Either give up your

Body: That’s right. But don’t despair. I’m burning the brush, letting the ground lie fallow so that some new adventures, infininte choice-making and wonder at the beauty and mystery of life can cultivate.

Body: And what does it mean to “have heart?” Aren’t we talking about courage? The palpitations feel a bit like panic, right? Don’t be afraid. Your heart is trying to send you this message: Everything is going to be okay. You have everything you need now. Let go. Trust.

Molly: Sounds like I just need to relax and breathe.

Body: Yes, fire needs oxygen to burn. Paradoxically, you need your breath to cool down.

Molly: So this internal heat is about purification then.

Body: Yes and now that you see that you are ready to descend into the region of the fire like Persephone. We need to extinguish the victim mentality, get beyond blame, regret, remorse, guilt, fear, separation and any other self-limiting notions. But, you have to shelve your self-help books for now. This is a total inside job.

Molly: Isn’t there an easier way? Can we just have some hormones? What about an SSRI? or even a sleeping pill. Let me wake up on the other side of this passage.

Body: Why ask for that now? You’ve tried them all anyway - pills, creams, patches, accupuncture, herbs, tinctures, diet. You get an “A” for effort. Here’s the thing. I am unlike any other woman’s body. Each one is unique. I’m afraid we have to face this music and dance.

Molly: Maybe if I stop fighting this, you will find a way to chill. I think I’m getting the picture about your fire. My job is to contain the heat - to circle the wagons and bed down for the night. Right? And perhaps to direct this energy into positive pursuits.

Body: Yes. Remember, the blush of youth may be replaced. In your heart, there is a pink lotus blossom floating on a still blue lake. Be patient. Fall in love with your fire —my fire. You are about to ascend and blossom into a lush, new life. When you get there, just let your light shine. Oh, and by the way, when we’re cool, I would dig some chocolate, a caffeinated chai latte, and a very warm bubble bath.

Molly Walling, M.A. teaches gentle yoga and meditation. She is a consultant for the Faith In Action Program at Mountain Area Hospice. And, she actually does love her body.