Fall’s Wisdom: Embracing Change with Grace and Gratitude

This season teaches us the power of release and renewal. Just as nature sheds the old to welcome the new without hesitation, we too are built to embrace change with trust and ease. Nature’s cycle is a reminder of our own ability to grow and transform. Below are 6 steps to welcome renewal, inspired by nature’s effortless flow through seasons. By mirroring its grace, we learn to seize new days with the ease and warmth of a fresh start.

1. Letting Go - shedding the old to make room for the new:

   Refresh your look with a new haircut or revamp your wardrobe. Consider a day of self-care and pick up a new read, unwind in a salt bath, exfoliate away old skin. Look around and notice what no longer serves you - either up-cycle, swap with a friend, or donate it. Soulfully, reflect on 3-4 habits or routines that are not benefiting you. Identify replacements that align with your growth and take the leap!

2. Practice Grounding - just as the roots of trees anchor them firmly in the earth, we too need to feel grounded amidst change:

   As you walk, pay attention to the sensation of your feet connecting with the ground. Feel the balance shift with every step, guiding your stride with grace and intention. This simple act can help you remain rooted in the present. If you're into yoga (or not!) practice a few sun salutations and enjoy minutes at a time in mountain pose. Walk through a park and listen to the sounds of nature.

3. Disrupt the Negative - when faced with inevitable change, our minds can spiral into negativity. It’s time to speak new truths:

   When negative self-talk arises, visualize a stop sign and replace those thoughts with affirming messages. Acknowledge moments of mindless scrolling and comparison; instead of judging yourself, accept these patterns and replace them with mindful actions that uplift your spirit.

   
   

   What’s your mantra of the month?

   
   

   While I was running the other day, I felt a heaviness creeping into my legs, heart, and head. Stress had been building up, and my body was reminding me of the weight I'd been carrying. But instead of letting it take over, I shifted my focus with a new thought: "Don't let the run control you, you master the run."

   
   

   It was a powerful reminder of how freeing it is to distinguish between what’s in our control and what isn’t. Why hold onto what we can’t change? Be the change you seek!

4. Save Grace - with every new beginning, we have the opportunity to cultivate refined habits that guide us toward our best selves:

   Seek out silver linings or “blessings in disguise” in your life. Recognize how these can propel you to new heights and enhance your way of living. Nothing ever bad happens that isn't for our good.

5. Count your Blessings - cultivating gratitude transforms our perspective and enriches our lives:

   Before drifting off to sleep, journal about the things you are grateful for, much like counting sheep. Share your appreciation with others—never underestimate the power of a heartfelt “thank you.” Acknowledging gratitude can bring warmth and comfort to both you and those around you.

6. Welcome New Experiences - break free from routine and embrace the thrill of new experiences that invigorate your spirit:

   Challenge yourself to learn a new language, walk a different route, or simply take a step out of your daily routine. These small shifts can ignite creativity and open doors to fresh perspectives. I highly recommend Alistair Humphrey's "Microadventures" whom I had the pleasure of working. Surround yourself with dreamers and those actively chasing their daily goals—the energy is contagious, and you never know, it might just spark something new in you too!

Your life does not get better by chance; it gets better by change. ~Jim Rohn

Oct 2016 en route to Montreal © Rebecca Shujman