A Fall Hello…

I hope you are well and finding purpose and joy through these uncertain times.  The leaves have begun to change and fall; letting go of what is done.  I can only imagine all the ways you have changed and let go of what is no longer serving you in this season.  

I am writing to share an invitation as well as care practices that I have found myself coming back to; in hopes they may feel supportive to you as well.

I have spent a lot of time tending the garden the past few months–seeding and planting, watering, watching growth and death, pulling weeds, picking what’s ripe, and learning lots.  Here’s some wisdom from the garden as we enter this new season…

Sometimes things don’t work out the way you thought they would…and often they do.  

Trim the branches without fruit to make those with fruit flourish.

Find ways to preserve the joy–share with others, take the photo, and can/freeze for what’s ahead.

Collect seeds to bring promise of the future.

Nature knows the way; trust the cycle.

I would love to know the wisdom coming to you in this season.  

Invitation | Strategy Intensive

This time of year is my favorite for reflection and planning.  A time to prepare for the end of year.  A time to set intentions and make practical plans for the new year.  A time to feel rooted and ready for the seasons ahead.  

My wise friend, Ebony Ross, and I (pictured above) would like to invite you to a Strategy Intensive with us–a customized three hours with you getting to the heart of the issue you want to focus on and leaving with clarity about the direction(s) or strategy(ies) you or your team want to make happen.  

We would be honored to hold space and be caring confidantes for you.  We have just a few spots left in October and November…. To learn more and request a strategy intensive, click here.

Care Practice | Self Hug

A self hug can be a simple yet supportive, somatic practice when you feel your stress or anxiety rise.  It has helped me and I hope it can help you connect with your body and feel more supported quickly.  And can be done wherever you might find yourself.  

Try tucking your right hand under your left armpit.  Then wrap your left arm around to your right upper arm.  

Give yourself a hug with as little or as much pressure as feels comfortable.  Take a deep breath in and out.  Repeat as many times as needed.

Hold the self hug for 30 seconds, 2 minutes, or as long as feels supportive.

You can try switching sides–left hand under right armpit and wrapping your right arm around to your left upper arm.  Many people prefer the right hand under your left armpit as it is closest to your heart.  

This practice is from Dr. Peter Levine, developer of Somatic Experiencing® Therapy, who borrowed it from a system of self-soothing called Jin Shin Jyutsu.

Care Practice | Pistachio Chia Pudding

Prepping a no cook breakfast or snack option with protein and fiber has been an important self care practice for me.  I want to share one of my current weekly favorites…pistachio chia pudding!  

Soak one cup of raw pistachios (unsalted) in warm water for 2 hours.  

Drain them, add three cups of cool water, 3 teaspoons vanilla, and 4 tablespoons of maple syrup to a blender.  Blend until liquefied.  

Pour equally into 6 containers (8 oz work great!).  Add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds to each container and mix thoroughly.  

Cover and place in your refrigerator.  Let it sit for 4 hours or overnight and they are ready to eat!  

Top with whatever you would like.  I enjoy granola, sweetened coconut flakes, walnuts, fresh fruit, honey, and some almond milk.  Others enjoy topping with yogurt or whipped cream!

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I wish the very best for you and those you love.  

Please reach out if what I have shared has resonated with you or if you would like to talk.  

May you let go of what is done and notice the joy that is seeking you.

Please know you are not alone on this journey.

With gratitude and love,

Andrea