JUNE JUNE JUNE
EMBRACING THE SUMMER SHIFT
Written by Adri Haden
June. Warmth. Summer shift.
Softening into the now.
As the sun ascends higher in the sky and the days grow longer, we find ourselves on the cusp of another transition—the shift from spring to summer, school to vacation, fast-paced life to more freedom and choice.
For many of us, this change heralds not only warmer weather and outdoor adventures but also the winding down of another school year. As a second-grade teacher, as a yogi, and a constant seeker of mindfulness, this time has been a deep invitation to pause, reflect, and embrace the beauty of the present moment.
In the world of education, the end of the school term often brings with it a flurry of activity and emotion. Eagerly anticipating the freedom of summer break, while also reflecting on the progress made and the bonds formed over the past months. It's a bittersweet time, filled with both excitement for the future and nostalgia for the moments that have passed. I have noticed myself pushing away the emotions arising and rushing through the busy season, signing up for all the events, rushing to pack up my classroom.. My students have made me pause as they express their emotions fully and open up about just wanting the moment to last forever. This has made me dig deep and ask myself
why are you rushing?
are you are afraid of the depth you might feel if you just truly exist right now?
if this is your pattern when you are in a season of love and fulfillment, then how much of your life are you rushing through and pushing away?
would I want my students/children to push away their feelings or FEEL deeply and EXIST in this moment FULLY?
Navigating this transition, it's important to remember nothing lasts forever, and that the key to true happiness lies in treasuring each moment and embracing the present. In our practice at the space, we are constantly reminded to cultivate awareness and presence, to tune in to the rhythms of our breath and the sensations of our bodies. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be all too easy to lose sight of this fundamental truth.
So how can we remain present amidst the shifting seasons and the ever-changing tides of life?
How can we continue to cultivate mindfulness and gratitude, even as we bid farewell to different chapters in order to make room for new?
One powerful practice is that of mindfulness. True mindfulness as been calling to me so much in this season. By taking just a few moments each day to sit in stillness and observe the thoughts and sensations that arise, we can train our minds to be more present and aware. Through this practice, we learn to let go of attachments to the past and worries about the future, and instead, to fully embrace the richness of the present moment. Journaling, noticing my senses, laying in the sun; what mindfulness practices pull you to the here and now?
Incorporating mindfulness into our yoga practice can help us to deepen our connection to the present as well as to our bodies. By approaching each posture with mindful awareness, we can tune in to the subtle sensations of our bodies and the rhythm of our breath, allowing us to fully inhabit each moment with presence and intention.
Finally, I am working on remembering the importance of gratitude, even if that means I cry and laugh and dance and embrace all of the expressions. As we bid farewell to another school year and prepare to embark on the adventures of summer, let us take a moment to express gratitude for the experiences we have shared, the lessons we have learned, and the connections we have forged. In doing so, we can cultivate a sense of abundance and appreciation for the richness of life in all its myriad forms. How can you dive deep into whatever chapter of life you are in and practice gratitude? For this chapter and whatever it is teaching you, for being able to feel the feelings that arise, and being able to be this version of you in this very moment.
As we embrace the summer shift and bid farewell to another school year, let us commit ourselves to treasure each moment and embrace the beauty of the present. For in the end, it is not the destination that matters, but rather the journey itself—and the joy that we find along the way. Each little moment is important, so I invite you in this month through the craziness, through the transitions, to pause, however, that means for you, and to notice each sensation of the present moment. Feel it all deeply and embrace this you, right here.
ADD SOME MUSIC
A Summer Playlist built by Lindsay Stollenwerk
PUT IT INTO MOVEMENT
A flow for anytime created by Lauren Camilleri
The practice of Vinyasa connects the breath to the body.
One breath, one movement.
Inhale open, exhale close.
Inhale expand, exhale contract.
It’s a beautiful dance.
A self expression.
A creative outlet.
A moving meditation.
An activation of the solar plexus.
An honoring of your strength.
Enjoy this vinyasa flow with your at home practice.
Namaste, Lauren
