The Sunday Pause: Embracing Change & Finding Stillness
"The trees are about to show us how lovely it is to let things go."— Anonymous
As this year unfolded, our family found ourselves in a whirlwind of transitions.
Over the summer, life threw us some unexpected changes, and we’re still navigating the ripple effects.
On top of that, my youngest son started Pre-K this fall, and I find myself feeling a mix of bittersweetness and excitement about this next chapter with all our kids now in elementary school.
We’re also facing big decisions about where to move the Slow North studio & shop as our leases come due next year—a change that feels both exciting and uncertain.
In the midst of all this, I’ve been reminded of the importance of stillness. 🌿
It’s easy to get swept up in the swirl of change and everything going on in the world, but I’m remembering to slow down and take moments to be still and turn inward.
Even when life feels unpredictable.
I know there’s peace to be found in creating intentional pauses.
I’ve learned that we can’t control what happens around us.
But we can create small, calming spaces within our day to help navigate it all and let the next best move unfold before us.
What about you?
As you navigate your own seasons of change, how can you carve out moments of stillness to help guide you through?
What does your next small step look like?
🌿 What’s Supporting Me This Week 🌿
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📖 Re-reading The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer
I'm diving back into this transformative book, which always helps me reconnect with my inner self and find clarity amidst the chaos. It's a wonderful reminder to let go and embrace the present.
📅 Intentionally Scheduling Time with Friends
I’ve made it a priority to carve out time for friends I don’t see as often (even if it's a few weeks out on the calendar before we can align our schedules). These meaningful connections renew my energy and bring so much joy and fresh perspective.
💪 Moving My Body Every Day
I’m committing to daily movement of some sort, whether it’s a short ride on the spin bike in our garage, a hot yoga class, or a few rounds of pickleball. It’s so true how just a little bit of activity can lift my mood, bring me back into my body and help me feel more centered if I'm feeling unsettled.
☕ Drinking a Calming Drink in the Evening
I've been enjoying this warm drink in the evenings for over a year now. Its blend of adaptogens supports my body and mind, making it a perfect way to wind down after a busy day. 
🗣️ Turning Off the Noise
I’ve been consciously choosing to drive without the radio or podcasts playing when I'm riding solo. Giving my mind a moment of peace instead of constant consumption has brought a surprising sense of calm and clarity to my thoughts. If I want a little background ambient music, I will play this song or this song.
🌎 Sleeping on a Grounding Mat
After learning about the benefits of Earthing, I've started sleeping a grounding mat. It helps me feel more balanced and connected to the earth. I've always been a fan of being barefoot outside, and now I know the science behind why! (Spritzing this linen spray on my sheets before bedtime is also one of my favorite tips).
📝 Take some time this week to reflect using these prompts. 📝
What transitions are happening in your life right now—big or small?How can you navigate these changes with stillness?
How do you find peace in the unknown?
What is it time to release?
Take a moment to write down your thoughts and see what comes up.
As we move through this season of change together, remember to carve out a little time each day to pause, breathe, and reflect. I hope this first edition of The Sunday Pause has inspired you to seek the quieter moments as we go about our week ahead.
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Michelle Simmons is the founder of Slow North and the writer behind the Sunday Pause blog series. Passionate about mindful living, she shares insights on slowing down, embracing nature, and creating intentional moments in everyday life. Michelle brings her expertise in wellness and natural products to inspire readers to find peace and purpose, one small pause at a time.
