Happy Friday! My birthday was this month and every year for the last 8 years or so I read a beautiful passage for April 6th from the book Journey to the Heart by Melody Beattie.

It strikes a chord deep within me every time I read it and I feel like sharing it this year. I often read this on different days throughout the year and also share it in yoga classes.

The journey I have been on in the last year has really helped me dig deep and I feel like I am finally living this passage fully. I still have lots to learn but I truly love myself like I never I have before.

That is a feeling I hope you feel or are working towards feeling too.

So much of my work is about slowing down for yourself and tuning in.

That is where the real magic is.

Be Present For Yourself

Learn to be present for yourself, fully present in a way that’s new and delightful. Be present for your thoughts and emotions. Be present for the gentle way in which your heart and body lead you on. Learn to be fully present for each step of your growth, each step of your journey.

Value yourself, who you are, what you think and feel, and how you grow. For many years you neglected yourself. It was as though you were unconscious of who your were, how you felt, what you believed. You believed that kept you safe, protected you from feelings you didn’t want to feel. You believed it was how you should live. No w you re learning another way. Survival is no longer enough. It does not meet the needs of your heart and your soul. Now you want to live fully and joyfully. To do that, you must be present for yourself.

Be fully present for others, too. Be present for their spirits, their emotions, the words they have to say to you, but especially be present for their hearts. You no longer have to fear losing or neglecting yourself if you are present for others. You can do this safely now. You will not be consumed by their need; you will not become trapped in the workings of their lives. And if your present for yourself, you’ll know how much presence to give others.

Be present for life-for the starlit skies and the chirping birds that sing in the morning sun. Be present for the earth and grass under your feet, for the feel of a snowflake in your hand, Be present for all the magic and mysteries of the universe.

But most of all, be present for yourself. Then your presence for others and life will naturally flow.

Take a deep breath and go be present for yourself.

XO!