7 Domains of Women's Health

Cultures and individuals alike often develop deep spiritual connections to certain items throughout their lives. Across various societies, these spiritual attachments to material objects reflect beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife. Yet, when we pass away, it is often said that none of the physical possessions we have accumulated can come with us.

Whether it’s a cherished family heirloom or items symbolizing a connection to the afterlife, these objects can carry significant meaning. Cultural anthropologist Polly Wiessner joins the spiritual domain of stuff to discuss what we leave behind versus what we take with us spiritually.

On average, people move over 11 times in their lives, accumulating possessions and leaving many behind with each move. The things we bring into our homes can shape the atmosphere and function of our living spaces, but too much "stuff" can lead to clutter, detracting from the comfort and meaning we seek in our home environments. The balance between what we keep and discard plays a key role in defining what makes a house feel like home.

In the environmental domain of stuff, Dr. Kirtly Jones and her brother, Steven Parker, reflect on their frequent moves—together as a family, and individually—and the items they've accumulated along the way. They explore how our possessions impact our home environment, from deciding what belongings create a sense of comfort to knowing when it’s time to let go of items that no longer serve a purpose.

The average American household contains over 300,000 items, many of which are unused or unnecessary. This accumulation of "stuff" not only leads to physical clutter but can also have financial consequences. From spending money on items we don't need to paying for storage, the cost of keeping excess belongings can quickly add up.

Julie Hegeman, a professional organizer and owner of A Cleaner Space in San Diego, joins Dr. Kirtly Jones to explore the financial domain of stuff. They discuss how clutter can keep you from fully living your life and how working with a professional organizer can be a valuable investment. Julie shares insights into the decluttering process and explains how letting go of unnecessary possessions can free up both physical space and mental energy, ultimately saving you money and adding value to your life.

The average person is exposed to an overwhelming amount of information daily—from news updates and social media feeds to work emails and personal texts. Research suggests we encounter roughly 34 gigabytes of data every day, far more than our brains can comfortably process. This constant influx can make it difficult to retain the information we want to remember while simultaneously struggling to forget what we’d rather not.

In the intellectual domain of stuff, Dr. Kirtly Jones talks about the impact of our information-rich environment on cognitive health and overall well-being. She explores how our brains filter and store knowledge, the psychological burden of information overload, and strategies for retaining what’s meaningful while letting go of the rest.

Humans began as nomadic wanderers, carrying only what was essential for survival. Over time, as societies developed, so did the accumulation of possessions, with “stuff” becoming a significant part of our social lives and identities. The objects we surround ourselves with often carry social and cultural meaning, reflecting our status, beliefs, and values.

In the social domain of stuff, Dr. Kirtly Jones speaks with cultural anthropologist Polly Wiessner to explore the social and anthropological perspectives on "stuff." They discuss how and when humans transitioned from being nomadic to collecting possessions, what this shift reveals about our human behavior, community, and culture, and the complex relationships we have with material goods and how they shape—and are shaped by—social dynamics.

Emotional attachments to possessions can be deeply ingrained, sometimes leading to behaviors like hoarding, which affects approximately 2-6% of the population and is recognized as a mental disorder. Hoarding can impact an individual's quality of life, resulting in cluttered living spaces, strained relationships, and increased stress and anxiety.

In a heartfelt conversation, Ivy Bauers, a self-identified hoarder, candidly shares her personal experiences and struggles with accumulating possessions. She offers insight into how her attachment to "stuff" has affected various aspects of her life, including relationships and daily functioning.

Dr. Kirtly Jones also speaks with Dr. Tyler Durns, a forensic and clinical psychiatrist, about the psychological underpinnings of hoarding. They explore how and why some people develop intense emotional connections to their belongings, what differentiates hoarding from ordinary collecting, and the mental and emotional challenges associated with the disorder.

Many of us are surrounded by more possessions than we truly need. Research shows the average household contains thousands of items, many of which go unused, contributing to our physical and mental clutter. This overabundance of "stuff" can complicate our lives and blur the line between our needs and wants.

In the physical domain of stuff, Dr. Kirtly Jones explores how the accumulation of material goods relates to Maslow's hierarchy of needs. The episode focuses on distinguishing between genuine needs and mere wants, and how simplifying our lives can often lead to greater fulfillment and well-being.

Spirituality can encompass a range of meanings, from religious practices to broader anthropological connections. For many women entering midlife, this phase is a time of reflection and forward-thinking, bridging the past and the future. Spiritual practices that connect us to ourselves and each other become particularly significant during this stage.

Midlife is a unique period where one can appreciate the journey of younger generations while also looking ahead. Dr. Kirtly Jones and Katie Ward explore what spirituality means for women in midlife, the different forms it can take, and its impact on well-being.

Eight out of ten menopausal women work outside the home, so it is important to create environments that support midlife transitions both at home and in the workplace. Additionally, poor air quality can accelerate cognitive decline, highlighting the need for healthier surroundings as we age.

Dr. Kirtly Jones and Katie Ward, discuss the necessary environmental changes and adaptations for creating menopause/midlife-friendly spaces. From optimizing home settings to designing supportive workspaces, these adjustments can significantly impact well-being during this phase of life. They share practical strategies for enhancing environmental conditions to support women through menopause and midlife.

Financial security becomes increasingly important as we approach midlife and beyond. Historically, the concept of retirement is relatively new, with previous generations of women transitioning from motherhood to grandmotherhood and relying on their children for care in later years. Today, many women work outside the home, making financial planning for the future a common concern.

Dr. Kirtly Jones and Katie Ward, DNP, WHNP, explore the financial domain of midlife, offering advice and resources for managing money in later years and preparing for retirement. They discuss the importance of planning for financial security and stability, whether single or with a life partner, to ensure a comfortable and secure future.