Mindful Monday: Medicine for the Sou
September has arrived, and with it, a noticeable shift in energy. For many people I’ve spoken with, September feels more like the start of a new year than January.
I think that’s because, deep down, our bodies still remember that “back to school” rhythm—sharpened pencils, fresh notebooks, and the anticipation of something new. Even if we’re no longer in school, the energy of beginnings seems to linger in this month.
Looking back on the summer, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. It was a season rich with gatherings—some that I organized and many that I was blessed to attend. Each gathering carried its own magic, but the common thread was always connection.
When we come together in a safe, supportive space, something within us softens. Our souls can exhale. We breathe a little deeper and remember that we are not alone. That kind of authenticity is deeply healing—not only for ourselves but for everyone present.
Some of the most touching moments of my summer were gatherings led by Indigenous Elder Mary Lou Smoke. Being in her presence always stirs something profound in my soul. Her wisdom, reverence for all living beings, and grounded presence have been a real gift. They remind me of the sacredness of community and how much we can learn from one another.
The truth is, this summer wasn’t only filled with ease and joy. Like many of us, I experienced moments of intensity, challenges that stirred old patterns, and opportunities for growth that weren’t always comfortable. What supported me through those times was the simple, steady practice of presence. Again and again, I returned to this truth: all I have to do is be here now with compassion - and this experience is happening for me, not to me.
It’s easy for the mind to trick us into believing we’ll feel more connected, more worthy, or more complete once we’ve “fixed” something or achieved something. But that’s an illusion.
Connection to our true essence doesn’t happen in some future moment—it can only be felt now, in the small, ordinary moments of life.
The practice is simple, though not always easy. Yet in that simplicity, we rediscover ourselves.
I witnessed the power of this simplicity last week while leading a mindfulness session for employees at a local business.
At the start, many spoke openly about their challenges and stresses—several mentioned experiencing anxiety. Their honesty and vulnerability deeply touched me. And within just a few minutes of breathing and meditating together, the energy in the room shifted. Faces softened, shoulders dropped, and people shared a feeling of being calmer and more relaxed.
It was such a beautiful reminder that finding peace and connection doesn’t need to be complicated. Gathering with others—whether in a circle, at work, or in everyday conversations—can reconnect us to our shared humanity.
Every time we pause to breathe, every time we choose compassion over judgment, every time we allow ourselves to be real with one another, we contribute to healing—not only for ourselves, but for the collective.
As we step into September, I feel a renewed sense of hope and trust. Experiencing all of these beautiful connections this summer has inspired me to keep the momentum going. It is medicine for the soul, and it can be so simple.
As this new season unfolds, may we walk gently, with awareness, and remember that every time we pause to breathe, every time we choose compassion over judgment, every time we allow ourselves to be real with one another, it not only transforms us personally but also ripples outward, opens us to love, and reminds us of our Oneness.
With love,
Diane