The Art of Pause

Hey mama,

We're coming into the homestretch of school which feels both good and bad. The weather in the Northeast is finally warming up and the spring flowers are in full bloom. Neighbors are out in their driveways, riding bikes, jogging, walking and skateboarding. Some people are actually smiling and waving to us which feels like a huge improvement for the typically cold New Englanders. 

I like this extra time we have on the streets getting to know our neighborhood and appreciating the gorgeous Spring colors and smells. I've found myself stopping to take pictures of flowers and notice neighbors doing the same. When was the last time you actually felt like you could "stop and smell the roses"? 

Being able to stop (maybe not during the week which is a solid repeat of school, cooking, zooming, and cleaning) is a gift. While I don't underestimate that this is an extremely difficult time for many, I do want to recognize what is good. This unwelcome pause on life has given us back one of our most precious resources....time. With this time, we can pause, observe and grow. 

I'm so used to filling up every second of my time. Between drop offs, picks ups, classes, games, practices and housework, I had little time to stop. On the weekends, this pause has been great for our family. The kids play together, they actually play with their toys, they play outside, and they complain about being bored. In this pause and boredom is where creativity is born, where we all find out what we actually like and don't like, and we can hear our own selves. 

Maybe you've observed that you're hearing yourself a little more intensely right now. You're right. Things that used to be just a whisper now feel loud and unavoidable. That relationship you've been meaning to end, that career change, that idea to keep growing your family, that desire to give back in a meaningful way are all right there staring you in the face. There's no rushing here or there to soften or avoid this voice. The jig is up on being able to bury what's in your heart and on your mind.  

This week, I invite you to find a pause, whether it's 5 minutes or 30 minutes. What are you missing that was right under your feet? What or who do you miss (hugs and community)? What don't you miss (goodbye piano and piano lessons)? What do you dream about doing? Your pause might feel both good and bad and that's ok. Being able to be present when you pause and sit with what's there teaches you how to stay with and in your body as opposed to running away. This skill of pausing and noticing is crucial to self acceptance which is key in any dieter's recovery. 

 The pause button has been pressed for you. 

Breathe. 
Notice.
Let yourself bloom.