Finding Strength in Transition: 3 Practices to Fortify Your Foundation
As summer's vibrant green and blue hues transition to the warm, earthy tones of fall, the changing seasons offer us a lesson in the art of grounding through transition. Autumn has always been my favorite season. I loved running through giant piles of leaves that my parents raked up from the lawn. Apple picking was a fun family tradition that continued from my own childhood through the childhood of my kids. It meant new back-to-school shoes and outfits, new teachers, and sometimes new friends. Autumn means new beginnings. It also means lots of change and letting go.
Now that my children are off to college, this time of year feels bittersweet. I’m excited about their new adventures AND a little melancholy to have an empty house again. I am grateful my kids are not too far away, and I love hearing about their new experiences. There are a lot of growing pains that come with this new phase of life. It isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, but to see them soar…makes me truly happy. With three stepchildren also thriving, a wonderful husband, and two adorable pups, life is a whirlwind and a joy. Grounding into traditions, anchoring into what is foundational, and allowing oneself to learn and evolve make navigating change possible and even transformational. My family is my foundation. They are what keep me anchored through transitions.
However, a foundation isn’t complete without knowing oneself. Trusting and showing up for yourself are central to any personal foundation. This time of year is particularly enchanting, inviting us to slow down, reconnect with the present moment, and look inward. Fall teaches us that, like the leaves gently letting go of the trees, we can release what is no longer loving to us and find stability through life's transitions.
To cultivate a solid foundation during change, consider these three practices that emphasize self-awareness and self-nurturing:
1. Self-Reflective Journaling: Fall's introspective quality offers an ideal backdrop for self-reflection. Consider starting a journaling practice where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and desires. Write about your experiences, hopes, and dreams. This practice helps you gain clarity and serves as a record of your personal growth journey. Through journaling, you can identify patterns, discover your strengths, and uncover areas for self-improvement. It's a powerful tool for deepening your understanding of yourself and solidifying your foundation.
2. Mindful Self-Care: Just as the trees shed their leaves, this phase of life calls for shedding what is no longer loving to you. Embrace self-care as an essential element of your foundation. Make a commitment to nourishing your body, mind, and spirit. Engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it's yoga, meditation, long walks in nature, reading, or creative pursuits. Prioritize your well-being by setting boundaries and saying "yes" to what aligns with your authentic self. Self-care isn't a luxury but a necessity for maintaining your foundation during times of change.
3. Seek Support and Growth: As you embark on this phase, remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Surround yourself with a supportive community, whether it's close friends, family, or like-minded individuals who share your interests. Joining support groups or participating in workshops and classes can also be invaluable. These connections provide a sense of belonging and mutual growth as you navigate life's transitions together.
Remember that your foundation isn't static in the ever-changing seasons of life. It's a living, evolving part of who you are. You're actively nurturing and reinforcing your foundation by engaging in self-reflection, practicing mindful self-care, and seeking support and growth. Just like the trees stand firm through seasonal changes, you too can remain resilient, grounded, and open to the beauty and possibilities each new phase brings. Embrace the transformative power of autumn, and trust that your foundation will continue to support you on your journey.
Have a gentle and grounding transition into Autumn.
Peace, health, and happiness,
Paula Cleary
RYT, Certified Meditation Teacher and Coach.