Here we are, back at the beginning.

At the beginning because something had to come to closure. Let me be straight. A return to reality that is tough, can be hard as it is incredibly talented at leaving us run down and exhausted.

What if though instead of pushing ourselves in status quo ways we instead pause and acknowledge the simpleness of being. Where we call in compassion and reminded ourselves of our need to belong. Then perhaps we can decided to recommit to this path we have invested in our entire lives and now embark, Where we restore and step forward with more conviction because we took the time to reflect and cultivate a level of calm or clarity.

We simply take the time to slow down, restore and reconsider.

Restoring the Rhythm

When we receive the rhythm of nature we can create space to settle into closure so that we can grow. The cold winter months the soil of the earth settles and sleeps in order to provide the promise of renewed vitality come spring. In this space when we are so far away from the warmth of the sun, we know we are not alone, we are just being given the space to pause and exhale our breath completely. In this space of reflection we can discover an ease to our breathe and being. When we get to the end of the breath, we release. In this release we can renew what it is we believe in. Then the life sustaining breath flows inward effortlessly refilling our being and giving us access to just what might come.

Belonging in our being and finding a connection to becoming.

When we look out into the darkness of life, of what’s to come, what’s yet to be, we can quickly get lost, devoured or just feel like it’s daunting to step forward. If we instead look to the moment here and now, we become more present to the ground we stand upon. When grounded we can open ourselves to gently receiving a renewed connection to life, In this moment of mindful presence we discover we are a part of an inner system that is hard wired to survive.

By cultivating more presence in our being, we get to then remember we are connected to an entire divinely sophisticated system known as the universe.

A system so beautiful, complicated and expansive while also offering cycles that reminds us of death and renewal continuously. Potentially recognizing that we are a part of something amazing and we all deserve to experience this benevolent connection to life through our bodies, minds, hearts and souls. Here it is that we rekindle our ability to rebuild and reconnect. Creating a structure that holds space for ourselves and one another. It is here that we accept and acknowledge that what we thought would be has ended. Rather we are at a point where we begin again.

Every year. Every month. Every week. Every day. Every breath. We find ourselves at the beginning – again.

When we are at the beginning we want to build anew and we can build into what we will become we just pause to honor what has already been. Nature’s rhythm offers this every year, every season, every lunar cycle, and every day.

Attune and Align

We all have moments where we were able to accomplish both big and little tasks. What is it like when you slow down long enough to acknowledge the’ monumentous’ undertakings of the past year? Maybe just honor that you are here pausing to acknowledge all that you were able to persevere because you are here. This is a practice of attuning through presence.

Our capacity to allow grows and we find we can appreciate the simpleness of being through the inhale and exhale anytime we pause to remember. Are you willing to be proud of just starting to trust that the mindful presence can be more than enough when you are navigating life’s challenges and transitions?

Foundation of Belonging

Now, with this simple pause, we are beginning to realize we are here to become because we belong. We can start to reestablish the foundation of our lives which we can consciously build upon. Building we the recognition that we can co-create with the contents and step forward more fully capable of staying the course as we carry a level of wisdom that feeds into our legacy. The wisdom to remember.

Nature knows how to return to a quiet pause, yielding to the stillness. Just as the inhale births an exhale, what waits on the horizon is the invitation to expand into the brilliant potential of you.

When the days are short and the nights are long the natural thing to do is slow down, rest and restore. With the winter months we reclaim the energy and begin to belong more and more in our own skin. January is that annual reminder where you can choose to change the direction because you consciously recall that you are in charge of the direction you want to go. Where you get to decide what it is you want to move forward toward.

Seasons and Cycles

This annual reminder gets weighted down with energy trying to direct us and tells us what we are supposed to be and do. Yet you are in charge of the system of you and there are guide posts all along the way to help you stay the course. It’s a divine time to look at what systems you have in operation and if the patterns, habits and choices of embodiment are taking you in the direction you truly are wanting to go.

When you get pushed off the path, hello curve ball, you can look to the sun moon and stars to help you along the way. You can also just look to nature, she guides us in a beautiful pattern day after day, cycle after cycle, season after season,

At the beginning of a new year, or start of a new season, we are all invited to cultivate clarity. To look at what has gone before, the experiences, knowledge and wisdom then decide and clarify what needs to change. Clarity is a super power we all contain and they way we access this potent and powerful resource is to give ourselves space. Space brings perspective and creativity.

Space allows for grace and gives us structure to work within the system of Self.

The Self that belongs and is carried by our own skin and bones fueled by the divine spark contained deep within our heart. You can call this soul, sacred essence, or whatever you prefer. Ultimately the system of you can only exist with this system of the universe. We are all little constellations contributing to the vibrancy and vitality of humanity and of life.

Seasonal Slowdown

The winter months gives us a chance to break down the details of just what we need. Connecting to the little and simple steps that can organize us and prepare us so the we don’t end up breaking down. (Though we are human and forget, so breakdowns are real and messages for our inner world that we need to utilize the resources, as limited as they may be, lean into good company and care for our selves). After winter comes spring where we will charge forward. Summer we get to socialize and stand in the warmth of the light. Then comes autumn where we harvest our efforts. But when we find winter, we find nature asking us to slow down, to be persitant with patience.

Slower seasons have less daylight to get all the things done, be sure to resist getting to bogged down in all the commitments, noise and commotion. Unrealistic expectations cause a level of harm to our nervous system and disappointment that hits our core leading to defeated inspired action. Inspiration to be in a renewed commitment with a healthier relationship in the way you choose to show up for your life.

Make space in case you are thrown a curve ball.

Spontaneity can be fun if we aren’t too rigid. Embodiment asks us to be ready for a plot twist as this is how we strengthen our sense of self and evolve into a more refined sentient being. Then when things do unfold smoothly you also have established space to gain more insights and be available to enjoy the good times of life.

How can you also give yourself space to welcome your creative energy to the conversation as well. Can you add to your action steps a list of things that help you feel care free? A list of ways you can relax, have fun, exploring ways to bring a little magic to your everyday life? Then you have a list of joy that can be used in those surprising moments where a memory or story line surfaces and you need to release the old patterns in a way that free up space for your soul to feel strong and seen.

This is a time to stabilize what you need to live a life that you want to be present for through space and reflection.

A life where you feel you are on solid ground with a tool kit that can help you climb mountains and create a legacy that future generations would love to inherit. One that has a bit of sparkle and shine. Remember, at the new year and new moon, we are at the beginning of this journey, not the finish line!

Sure all of our actions have consequences. When you change the way you relate to your life, your relationships in life and with life change as well. It does take time and effort though. so we begin with being aware. Looking to the cycles of the seasons is a framework to help manage the energy and direction of your life.

Preparing For What Is To Come

Being prepared requires work. A life skill that can become taxing, so we want small achievable steps. The parts that can feel tedious and time consuming is also connected to the energy that is going to help you go in the direction you are ready to move and live with in-JOYment. At the beginning, find a way to remind yourself that you belong on this journey and are capable of keeping it simple.

A way to remain focused is to bring your attention to something that matters like your health and wellbeing. This includes your physical health, mental health, spiritual health and emotional (soulful) health. Look at what habits are helpful. Are there any ones you can let go of that bind you and keep you ‘ill’. Once identified you can then can begin to welcome habits that will support your health, happiness and satisfaction.

Initiating the New – Beginning Again

Since we are back at the beginning, self awareness is going to give you access to your own ability to initiate new habits that support the lifestyle you crave. It’s going to take time and effort where at times it might feel like it’s a breakdown. But really you are building endurance and refining your relationship with your soul’s embodiment. No need to get everything just right. Cycles and seasons repeat themselves, we just need to show up.

While practical tools can help us create change in order to live life healthy and happy, you can be creative, innovative and are encouraged to connect with your intuition, your essence, to guide you. Have a little fun!

You are you and only you know what will help you get through.

At any beginning, start with the simplest item on the list that can gently inspire you to consciously co-create a life that is satisfying to you. We do have to begin in order to become that individual that can close their eyes and feel comfortable in your skin and bones. What is within reach that will help you right now shine more brightly in your life, to live with more satisfaction? Right now you can breathe and know you belong and know you deserve to belong to a life worth celebrating. You can look at the window and be reminded of natures persistence in patience. You can look to the sky and remember you are part of something amazing.

Believe in yourself. Believe in your ability. Believe in what you can become.

Steady progress gives you the chance to acknowledge your accomplishments. You are creating a foundation to increase your confidence and discipline. The more you focus on where you are headed and consciously choosing to move forward the path will slowly clear up and crystalize. Anytime you get knocked down or loose your way, come back to the beginning and break it down into baby steps like pausing, breathing and remember you belong and deserve to become.

Moving in the direction of what makes you whole, mind-body-heart and soul, will be enough to carry you into a life worth living.

For anyone wanting to dive into a deeper connection with their soul, there is a lovely Soul Care Planner that has been created for 2024. I happened to catch a glimpse of someone carrying it at Trader Joes and because soul care is a number one priority she told me where to find my own. You might miss out on this first months direction and reflection, but you can find the details HERE. Not to mention, she will support you with your love of astrology as I focus on my skills as a clinician!

Yes, it is true. I am putting my energy into being a Clinician this year. Being a counselor has been a vision of mine for over a decade. Life threw me a number of curve balls and when I received a Cancer diagnosis, returning to school to finish something I had invested so much time and money into being, just had to be a priority for me.

My intention is to return to mindful posts that can guide us all through the year. Though I will only be acting as a coach if you live outside of the state of Kentucky. If you live here in the beautiful bluegrass state and you want the support of a therapist. Where you have regular space held for you to cultivate clarity, receive support and be reminded of the brilliant being you deserve to become there are two ways to work with me: Commercial Insurance, (Anthem), Medicaid or Private/Self Pay.

Individual therapy helps us to slow down, remember our inner selves and uncover our own personal rhythm. Revealing the parts of our being that are hungry to be uncovered and gives us the space to heal and grow with conviction into more of who you are.

Right now I have limited openings at the moment for new clients. I encourage you though, if you are curious, to learn more about the process and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION. Regardless, make yourself a priority and know that being with your breath, moving you body, and connecting with nature all hold immense evidence for being good for your body, mind, heart and soul!

Big love from my heart to yours!