It’s only been a month since we last connected, but for me it feels longer, and I’m so grateful to be back. I missed you!
For me, September feels like the beginning of a new year, much more than January. As I write this, I am feeling a ‘first day of school’ kind of excitement.
Remember this time of year as a child? New outfit, pencils all sharpened, a new teacher, and a new classroom. A lot of newness and a fresh start on things.
What if we were to bring this ‘first day of school’ excitement into our spiritual practice and daily life?
Because as we know, there is always more to explore.
My summer had a lot of newness to it, maybe yours did, too?
It felt so freeing to be able do things I couldn’t do the last few years, including going to my favourite music festival in Guelph called Hillside. Surrounded by nature, celebrating live music with friends while we danced and enjoyed great food. It truly nourished my soul.
It made me realize how much I have missed being in-person in general. So, I’m excited to start doing in-person speaking engagements as well as in-person workshops. I’d love for you to join me!
When I was at Hillside, I saw this sign that said ‘What if….’ and it inspired me.
What if we brought more aliveness into each moment with our intention and awareness?
Whether I’m at a festival or doing daily mundane tasks, I can feel alive.
This is something I have been exploring with my morning smoothie making routine – creating a ritual rather than a task.
When I get up in the morning, I make myself a smoothie. It is something I have done for years. I may change up what I put in my smoothie, but it still my go-to. I recognized I was more on autopilot than present because I had made it so many times.
Now, as I make my smoothie, I am bringing awareness, gratitude and love into the mix. I am present when I choose the ingredients, I am focused on the healing benefits and how it will nourish my body, and I am grateful to have these healthy ingredients. I am present as I cut the fruits or vegetables and pour in a scoop of protein powder. I turn on the blender, I listen and watch. When I drink my smoothie, I am tasting the flavours and am saying with intention may it nourish my body.
It is a simple ritual that has brought more meaning and joy to the start of my day. And I feel that my body is feeling more nourished and appreciated as well.
Our daily life practice is a spiritual practice. We are awake, present and living an embodied life.
When we live from the inside out there is a richness. It doesn’t mean it’s always easy and comfortable,
but it means we are fully alive and experiencing the depth of our true nature.
This is the meaning our soul is longing for.
If we want to keep things alive it can be beneficial to take time to stop, reflect and check-in with ourselves.
How did my day feel today? Was I present? Was I on autopilot?
Is there something I might want to change?
Can I bring more awareness or gratitude to this?
Try this quick exercise to help you bring your awareness to this moment:
Take a breath.
Feel your feet on the ground.
Sense your arms and legs.
Sense your physicality.
I practice this throughout my day. Try it for yourself and see how it feels.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful! They’re meant to be simple and easy to implement, reminding us to approach life with curiosity, and as always, kindness.
Same time next week! Have a wonderful week ahead.
Diane