Imaginal-cell-rich

What’s the technical name for the goo that a caterpillar becomes inside the chrysalis?

This question popped into my head the other day while reflecting on the state many of my clients find themselves in—and a state I’ve cycled through many times myself. The butterfly metaphor is often used in coaching, but I realized I’d never stopped to consider what to call the in-between phase, the messy, formless part of transformation.

Here’s what I learned:

**The technical name for the "goo" that a caterpillar becomes inside the chrysalis is "pupal soup" or "imaginal cell-rich hemolymph."
During metamorphosis, the caterpillar’s body breaks down into a semi-liquid state using enzymes that digest its tissues. However, specialized groups of cells called imaginal discs survive this breakdown and reorganize into the adult butterfly or moth. These discs contain the blueprint for wings, legs, eyes, and other adult structures.**

Amazing.

“Imaginal cell” is now my new favorite phrase. And I believe we’re all imaginal-cell rich—holding unique, unrealized potential within us. The key is locating, activating, and nurturing those parts of ourselves, and being in spaces that support their growth.

I wonder… what might your imaginal cells become? How would things change if you brought more of yourself out of the chrysalis and into your work, your relationships, and your community?