I’m now 30 weeks pregnant! Experts say that means our baby boy is about 15.7 inches and the approximate size of a bike helmet. Wow. It’s so wild to be carrying a semi-autonomous being in my own belly that is so big! I feel his soul in a significant way already and occasionally have intuitive visions of the journey ahead of him. My moments of intense awe and love are sprinkled in between intense fatigue and raging hormones. Lol. It’s a little bit of everything!
I can tell you that what has been helping me a lot is the onset of Spring. We had a long winter here in Colorado, as did most of the country. However, going on a walk this morning in the sunshine with only a long sleeve shirt on was rejuvenating for my body and soul! I decided we might all need a gentle reminder of the ways that we can embrace the change of season and connect with the rhythms of Mother Nature…
Grounding: Being barefoot on the Earth is one of the best activities we can do for our health. Research shows that it naturally discharges and prevents chronic inflammation in the body. From a subtle energy standpoint, it facilitates an energetic bond with the earth below you. We feel more safety, belonging, and ease when we are deeply rooted into the ground and know that we are always home as long as we are connected to Mother Earth.
Soaking in Sunshine: Exposing bare skin to the sun (for short periods of time if you’re fair skinned like me!) is wonderful for Vitamin D production and uplifting the soul. Take your shirt off if you can and let the sun soak into your belly and back. The natural relaxation you feel is your body telling you— “yes… I like this.”
Listen to the Birds: I’ve really noticed the birdsongs picking up on my morning dog walks. It’s so lovely and heartwarming to listen to them! Birds are an extremely important part of a healthy ecosystem, and they remind us to greet each sunrise with joy.
Pause and Notice the Spring Growth: I know our lives are busy in the modern world. The beauty of Spring, however, can be used as a reminder to slow down and breathe. The new green leaves and flowers are so special! Taking the time to notice them and send gratitude opens our positivity and appreciation of the magical life force that always surrounds us.
Plant Seeds for Your Own Growth: Mother Nature teaches us about our spiritual self. She moves through a season of rest and stillness, while always returning to a season of growth and rebirth. It’s the perfect time of year for you to ponder what new growth you’d like in your own life. Is it time to cultivate a new relationship? Take the first steps on a purpose project? Start walking down a new spiritual path?
I encourage you to find some time to even try these all at once! Go for a meditative walk on a sunny morning and deeply listen. Notice your inner and outer world. Appreciate the beauty around you that is always reflected in the miracle of your own nature. Know that you are a deeply important part of an interconnected environment that is here to support you. And remember— the animals and plants around you can feel the gratitude you give them! Let the reciprocal exchange nourish your open heart.
On May 20, I’ll start a 4-6 month break for my maternity leave. When I return, I’ll have a modified schedule that I’ll announce via this newsletter and my website. I can guarantee that I will rely on Mother Earth a lot in the coming weeks, as I know that she is the ultimate teacher for me as I walk this rite of passage towards motherhood. I wish you all a deep inhale of the unconditional love She offers.
Blessings,
Kelley