CHRISTINE NICHOLS GAUTREAUX·TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2019·READING TIME: 2 MINUTES
– originally published 9/24/19 on FB Notes

This morning I found myself seeking balance, that elusive moment when things are in perfect order and there is a moment of peace and pause.

I’ve just returned from a trip to Colorado where I took my 17 yr old on a college tour, helped nurture my new 6 week old nephews and sister and went to a weekend camping event in the Mountains with all of the above plus a host of new friends.
As I walked the labyrinth this morning it was not lost on me that I was so out of whack yesterday physically, mentally, and emotionally that I didn’t create time to honor Autumn Equinox.
A time of balance where the dark meets the light and we officially head into Fall and longer nights.
I am excited to welcome Fall, one of my favorite seasons but I am curious if I am ready for the longer nights and the darkness.
2019 has been a challenging year. A time of miracles and struggle.
I know I’m not alone in trying to balance the joy with the chaos that is within our selves and the world right now.
This morning I walked the labyrinth to start my day with nature, gratitude, and walking meditation.
When I tuned in I realized how much my body was hurting from a fall I took as I was loading the car for travel five days ago and then all that followed. I decided a morning check-in with Rodney Yee and his A.M. yoga was needed to gently bring my self back into alignment.
Next, a cup of tea and some time to write out my thoughts.
Years ago at a women’s retreat, I was leading a participant snapped a picture, in one second, of me doing swan pose on a tree stump perfectly balanced before I fell off. It makes me laugh when I think about it – the goal captured in a split second and the reality that that is usually how long balance lasts in my life.
What does my soul need today for balance?
I think about things that have brought me back into balance in the past:
Nature, A hot bath, smudging, cleaning my kitchen, a walk and talk with a friend, a well-timed nap, meditation, a retreat, alone time, creating art….all delicious self-care.
Wait! Didn’t somebody co-write a book about that?
I’m off to practice what I preach. Take care of yourselves today my friends.
In Peace & Play,
Christine