Learning to love every moment

I hope this message finds you thriving and embracing the beauty in every day. If you read my previous blog post, you know that I've recently returned from a trip to Ukraine to visit my mother, an experience that illuminated the themes of aging and mortality with a tender and enlightening light. This experience is what I still reflect on every day.

My mom is the kind of person who just lights up a room, and now she is fading away. Watching her, I became even more aware of life's delicate dance with time. Spending time with her was like a gentle nudge about what's really important. It made me extra thankful for every laugh line and the wisdom that comes with years.

There was a period when the woman looking back at me in the mirror seemed like a stranger. The lines, the changes – they felt like silent testimonies of time I wasn't ready to hear. That's when I turned to affirmations as lifelines that reconnected me with my essence. Time spent with Mom brought a new dimension to my practice of affirmations. Today, I want to share my ritual with you.

1. Stand before a mirror and truly look into your eyes. As you meet your reflection, let gratitude for every year you've lived and every lesson learned fill your heart.

2. Release the doubt and self-critique, and let go of all critical thoughts. Embrace the features you see and think about your unique story - it adds depth and richness to who you are.

3. Begin a gentle conversation with your reflection crafting sentences that embrace you with love and acceptance.

"I am more than my reflection; I am a tapestry of experience, strength, and grace."

"My thermostat is unpredictable, but I'm embracing every hot flash with a cool smile."

"I’m a living, breathing story of strength, love, and some pretty epic moments".

"My journey through the decades has shaped the incredible woman I am today."

I encourage you to begin this practice. Start simple, let sincerity be your guide, and watch as your affirmations bloom into a garden of self-compassion.