The Deep Power of Feminine Energy

In my last newsletter, I introduced the idea of feminine energy in leadership and how it can be a transformative force in healthcare and beyond. Today, I want to dive deeper into the profound impact of feminine energy, using an analogy that many of might be familiar with—the game of chess.

In chess, the objective is to protect the King, who represents masculine energy. If the King is captured, the game is over. The King has power, yes, but he is restricted—able to move in any direction, but only one square at a time. This limitation leaves him vulnerable and dependent on others for protection and execution.

The Queen, representing feminine energy, holds a different kind of power. She moves freely, in any direction, across the entire board. Her ability to control and influence the game gives her an advantage. If she is captured, the game continues, but her absence dramatically reduces the player’s ability to succeed.

This analogy mirrors our systems today.

Many masculine systems—those rooted in rigid structures, policies, and power—are restricted in their effectiveness.

For example, in healthcare, vast amounts of money flow through organizations, yet the quality of care doesn’t always reflect that investment. Resources get bogged down in rules, regulations, and administrative limitations—much like the King’s restricted movements.

On the other hand, I’ve witnessed the immense impact of feminine energy at work in the community. With just a few dollars, people have mobilized through simple acts like a barbecue, a GoFundMe campaign, or a meal train. These grassroots efforts, led by collaboration, empathy, and purpose, often achieve more lasting, life-sustaining impacts than well-funded programs burdened by bureaucracy.

One powerful example comes to mind. A year ago, a beautiful hearted lady organized a gala for the homeless in our community. She decorated the venue beautifully, had food and gifts prepared, and intended to give these individuals a night of dignity, hope, and inspiration. However, the forecast called for heavy rain on the day of the event, and many of the homeless, disabled, or vulnerable people she aimed to serve would struggle to make the trip just a few blocks from their shelter.

Despite her calls for volunteers to help shuttle people to the event, the response was limited. I didn’t know this lady, but I strongly believe that nurses should be among the most powerful people in any community, whether we acknowledge it or not, we are about the most well connected people or at least have the ability to be. Our work puts us in constant contact with interdisciplinary teams, making us well-connected in ways that often go unrecognized, we also care for vast amounts of diverse people on a daily basis.

Back to my story, I was new to this area, but as a floating manager for a hospice team, I had access to a group of chaplains throughout the county. Out of all I contacted, one responded—but he had a church van and a few congregants willing to help. Together, they made the event a success.

This story illustrates the deep power of feminine energy. It’s not a force that demands or exerts control through authority or fear. Instead, it inspires, collaborates, and operates from a place of compassion and heart-centered love. It taps into people’s inherent desire to be part of something meaningful, channeling their purpose into action that creates tangible, impactful results.

Masculine energy often craves recognition, fame, and respect, sometimes even fear. But feminine energy tends to be the quiet force of influence—refreshing, inspiring, and powerful enough to bring out the best in individuals and groups.

It doesn’t exist to dominate or replace masculine energy, but rather to amplify, balance, and enhance the masculine elements.

In healthcare, a balanced approach that embraces both masculine and feminine energies could have a profound impact on communities. The disconnect between resources and needs would diminish. What is needed would be more fluidly and effectively delivered.

In my next newsletter, I’ll explore how feminine energy has the power to unite those who serve with those being served, creating systems that are more compassionate, effective, and human-centered.

Warmly, Kasey Pacheco