This past month, I had the joy of gathering with two of my dearest high school friends for a weekend at my home. Over the years, our lives have taken different paths, yet when we gather it feels like no time has passed at all. We walked in nature, sharing both quiet moments and lively conversation. We spoke of the tender realities of our present lives.  The caring for aging parents, the shifting roles as women, and discovering who we are in this season of change. We laughed as we reminisced about our youthful, carefree days of no cell phones or GPS. And as night fell, we wrapped ourselves in blankets, stretched out beneath the stars, and let silence weave between us. Each of us, in our own way wondering what the future might hold. Perhaps in this star studded connection we’re looking for answers and making wishes.

Gathering like this reminds me of how vital connection is to our well-being. Time with friends, family, or even the loyal presence of a beloved pet nourishes us in ways that are both profound and measurable. Science shows that laughter, heartfelt conversation, and even simple companionship can increase oxytocin in our bodies. This ‘bonding hormone’ has a direct inverse relation with cortisol, the stress hormone in the body.   Even with a simple hug, our oxytocin increases and as the stress hormone decreases .   

The Seasoned Life Yoga Book Club, recently read Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s book Gift from the Sea.  In the book, a reoccurring theme is connection. Connection may occur with nature, with others, with spirituality and, by yourself with solitude. Connection is one way of filling your cup. This month’s yoga theme, ‘Gather & Ground’ is rooted in that same truth. When we come together, whether on the mat, in community, or under a blanket of stars, we find steadiness. We gather our scattered energy and ground into what matters most.  It’s in that grounding, we feel both supported and uplifted.

Reflecting for a moment, I’m reminded how much these connections really do ground us. Maybe for you it’s family dinners, coffee with a friend, or simply curling up with your dog. And with my family, sometimes it’s just needing a hug or a good belly laugh.  Whatever it looks like, those little gatherings restore us in ways we often don’t realize. And when we step onto the mat, we get to create that same sense of grounding through movement, breath, and stillness. I invite you to  join me this month in carrying Gather & Ground into your everyday moments and your yoga practice too. Here’s a few ways to connect with the Seasoned Life Yoga community.

🌟  Live Yoga.  In person on the Beach in Ocean City,  at Ladew Topiary Gardens and on Zoom.  Check out the website for Chair Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Gentle Yoga and Rise & Shine class schedule on the website.

🌟  Yoga Nidra. Seasonal Series available for you to enjoy in the comfort of your home, hammock or bed. Perfect for all levels, every body, & no experience needed.  A new Autumn Series will be launched this month on the app Insight Timer and on the Seasoned Life Yoga YouTube Channel. Please review and follow & subscribe. Donations are not necessary, just trying to provide an ad free moment of peace for our community.

🌟  Book Club. The Autumn Book selection is A Year of Living Kindly: Choices That Will Change your Life and the World Around You. By Donna Cameron.   The hybrid discussion will take place in November TBA…so there’s plenty of time to read. It only takes read 3-4 pages a day. Don’t have time? Multi-task and place the book in your bathroom.

🌟  Yoga Hikes AdZENtures. Watch nature change before your eyes and enjoy the benefits of the fresh air.  Bring a friend and enjoy catching up on the trail. We’ll be hitting the trails at Oregon Ridge Park mid month.

I encourage you this month to gather and ground. Whatever that may mean to you…I look forward to see you on the mat. If you feel the need to ground with a Yoga Nidra, drop a hello in the comment. It will be our way of gathering across the skies, consider it a star studded connection.

May you be safe, may you be healthy, and may your heart be filled with love and peace. Until next time, Sweet Friend…just breathe. 💕