Where do you find yourself on the cusp of a new season? Maybe you are in a chapter of sending young children back to school or sending young adult children out into the world. Or, maybe those chapters are in the rearview mirror while you’re considering the next horizon.

In whatever chapter this finds you, the space where one season closes and the next one opens is an opportunity for reflection. I like to pause in these moments and take an ‘energetic inventory,’ if you will. I ask myself: What is giving me energy in this now moment, and what is draining it?

While it’s easy to talk about, it’s difficult to do. The allure of busying ourselves with endless to-do lists and schedules might seem productive and prevalent in every season, but it distracts us from our inherent wisdom. That’s why pausing together and taking stock of what’s energetically fueling the various domains in our lives is a meaningful practice.

Allow yourself a moment to reflect: What in this now moment is giving you energy, and what is draining it? As you consider this question, you may notice the energy in your body rise and fall. Remember your breath—your literal oxygen mask. Inhale, exhale slowly, repeat. As you breathe deeply and tune inward, think about the various roles you play, relationships you have, and notice any physical sensations that may arise. Notice any judgements you may have about those sensations—no judgment for judging! Just the practice of noticing brings more awareness and therefore more wisdom. After a brief one to two minute reflection, make a note (even a mental one) to further consider and become more curious about what came up during this time.

My own ‘energetic inventories’ offer guidance on navigating shifting times in life, and these insights feel more significant when shared with others. Remember, self-growth rarely happens in isolation. Instead, we need one another to evolve.

On the brink of a new season, I encourage you to tune inward and mindfully connect with others. Call a friend and share (or force ;) a laugh, or invite your family on a meditative walk. Even better, join us at Modern Revival where we practice mindfulness within groups of people committed to fully embracing each season.