A Gentle Pause

/


My Musings

Around mid-July, I always notice a subtle shift. The world gets quieter. Time slows down. It feels like a gentle pause — a chance to breathe and savor the peace before the buzz of August sets in. This shift in pace reminds me of a simple 4-step practice I use often to reset and recenter:

  • “Pause”

  • “Breathe”

  • “Connect to what really matters”

  • “Choose accordingly”

It’s amazing how something so simple can help ease stress and bring you back to yourself. Try it and see how it feels!

Simple Summer Favors

  • Dipping my toes in cool water – ocean, lake, or even a wading pool!

  • Sipping a fun cocktail (bonus points for a paper umbrella)

  • Barbecuing with friends

  • Falling asleep outside with a book in my hands

  • Simply slowing down

One of the joys of moving to a new climate is discovering things I never noticed before. I felt like a little kid the first time I saw dozens of tiny snails covering the sidewalk! Where did they all come from? How did they appear so quickly — and definitely not at a snail’s pace!

As you pause and savor summer, here are a few questions for you to reflect on:

Where in your life would you like to slow down?

What becomes possible for you when you do?

What are some of your simple summer savors?

I’d love to hear your thoughts – feel free to reply and share.

Tiny Self-Care Tip

Try a sunset sit. No phone, no agenda — just watch the light change for 10 minutes. It’s grounding, and it costs nothing! Just let yourself be.

What I’m Reading

There is so much in Hidden Potential that excites me. A recurring theme is that character, practice, and systems matter more than natural ability. Adam Grant blends research and story in a way that makes learning feel like a conversation. Let’s talk about it in Book Club – I’d love to hear your thoughts!

I’m also finishing up Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One by Dr. Joe Dispenza — and it’s INCREDIBLE. Honestly, I wouldn’t have picked it up on my own. The description mentioned “quantum physics, neuroscience, brain chemistry, biology, and genetics,” and I figured it would be way too techy for me. I only got it because it was a class assignment... and I’m so glad I didn’t miss this discovery!

The book is packed with insight on change and how to create the reality you choose. Dr. Dispenza writes in a way that makes complex ideas accessible. My copy is so highlighted, it looks like a rainbow. This will be our next Book Club pick — grab a copy and read along!

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes… including you.” – Anne Lamott

Here’s to slowing down, savoring what matters, and staying connected to joy.