In this new year, more than ever, I am mindful of the many changes, growth, and new awareness of the year gone by.

2023 presented new and unexpected challenges along with profound opportunities for continued growth and deepened learning.

I want to share my journey with you, not just as a narrative but as an embodiment of the transformational principles encouraged and practiced, trusting it will resonate with many as we navigate the future ahead.

This past year tested my walk and practices that I believed I had a handle on, particularly as I navigated the complexities of chronic illnesses within my family. While heartbreaking and challenging, this experience became a powerful space for deepening and expanding my calming practice of emotional regulation, which inspired this simple, in-the-moment practice called C.A.L.M (Catch, Acknowledge, Listen, Move) that I wanted to pass on to you.

• C - Catch: Recognize the emotional shift and the level of intensity. Pause and acknowledge what you are feeling at this very moment. It's about becoming aware of the change, almost like catching a leaf falling from a tree.
  

• A - Acknowledge: Accept the emotion without judgment. Understand that it's okay to feel this way. Acknowledging is not about agreement but about recognition of what is present.
  

• L - Listen: Listen to what your emotions are telling you. They are indicators and share valuable information about our thoughts and what we care most about. What is the underlying need or message? This step involves tuning in to your inner voice, heart, and intuition.
  

• M - Move: Once you are present, choose with intention, an action or response. Moving can be literal physical movements, like deep breathing, a short walk, a glance at the ocean, or a realization or inner shift in perspective or focus.

In moments of chaos and overwhelm,

pausing and observing was crucial – it provided a much-needed space to 'Acknowledge' my feelings without succumbing to judgment or taking on what wasn't mine. This simple yet profound realization of moving through darker days while infusing micro-moments of C.A.L.M was the first step in gracefully navigating the emotional whirlwinds to come while deepening my appreciation moments of peace, and appreciation for all that remains beautiful within and around me.

The act of 'Listening' to these emotions deepened my self-awareness and empathy, both for myself and for those around me. It allowed me to connect more authentically with my own needs and those of my Mom and son, fostering a space for compassionate, empathic, and intentional decision-making.

Finally, Moving forward – whether through physical activities like walking and deep breathing or mental shifts in perspective – became a testament to the power of proactive and purposeful action. It reminds us that we have the means to choose our path forward, even amid pain, sadness, and uncertainty.

As we journey ahead in life, let’s commit to embrace our meaningful experiences to strengthen with grace, our resilience with hope and excitement about what the future has in store for all of us.

I am excited and committed to collaborating, partnering, and supporting your continued growth and fulfillment ahead!

With love and gratitude,
Marilyn ox

A gift for you…

I created C.A.L.M as a simple practice and reminder designed to guide you through the process of managing your emotions in a healthy and constructive way.

The CALM approach is a simple yet effective method to recognize, accept, listen to, and move through your emotions without being overwhelmed by them.

When life is hard, may you experience C.A.L.M. 💞

I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below or better yet, schedule a time to chat here.

Marilyn ox