60th birthday — Blog — Athena Wellness

In the September 1st blog, The Birth of a Rite of Passage, I shared my desire to commemorate my 60th birthday in 2024 in an impactful way. I could feel a new adventure begin to form, a mindful quest to help me embody this new decade.

And without warning, I woke on a Sunday morning a few weeks back and just knew – I would be roadtripping to Alaska for 3 ½ months in 2024.

I ended the post by quoting podcast guest Sara Harris who said, “Making the decision to commit to the vision quest, when you say ‘Yes’ – it begins.” And that certainly feels true. I feel like I’m “in it,” like the experience has been launched. But there’s more…

The Birth of a Rite of Passage

There’s a big life milestone on my horizon – I turn 60 in 2024. I start thinking about occasions like this about two years out. It gives me time to plan how I’d like to quietly commemorate the event in a way that’s deeply meaningful for me.

I have to admit, it’s kinda mindboggling that I’m approaching a new decade. I feel younger in mind, body and spirit than I have at any other time in my adult life – just brimming with vitality. But 60?!

In Japan, the 60th birthday is special, as it’s believed that the celebrant begins a new circle of life. It’s traditionally commemorated by wearing red – kimonos for women, vests and hats for men. It’s believed to be a time of rebirth and the color red symbolizes protection. Red gifts are usually given to babies and expectant mothers, making this midlife rebirth all the more celebratory – a beautiful rite of passage.

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