Author: embracingspirit

Presence: What This Year Has Taught Me About Living in the Moment

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Presence: What This Year Has Taught Me About Being Here, Right Now

At the beginning of this year as I have for so many years, I chose a word to guide me through the months ahead. That word was Presence.

I didn’t want another word that simply sounded inspiring or something I would write in my journal and revisit occasionally. I wanted a word that would challenge me, ground me, and perhaps change the way I experienced my everyday life.

I had spent so much time looking ahead, planning, anticipating, working toward the next thing, and navigating the many moving pieces of life. I wanted to become more intentional about where I placed my attention. I wanted to experience more of the moments I was actually living rather than constantly thinking about the moments ahead.

What I didn’t realize was just how many different ways life would invite me to practice that word.

As I look back on this year so far, I realize that presence hasn’t necessarily come from doing more. In many ways, it has come from doing less, slowing down, making different choices, and learning to listen.

And perhaps that is where the greatest growth has happened.

Learning to Move at a Different Pace

One of the most unexpected teachers of presence has been pain.

For someone who has always been fairly active, independent, and accustomed to moving through a full day, slowing down hasn’t always come naturally.

Pain has changed the way I walk, the distance I can comfortably cover, and even how I approach the simplest daily activities. There are days when I need to stop, rest, change my plans, or acknowledge that something I intended to accomplish simply isn’t going to happen.

I’ve had to learn that stopping isn’t the same as giving up.

There is a difference between moving through life with intention and pushing through life out of habit. I am learning to recognize that difference.

Sometimes presence looks like noticing my body asking for a slower pace. Sometimes it means sitting down when I would rather keep going. Sometimes it means allowing myself to enjoy a beautiful afternoon without feeling compelled to fill every available hour with something productive.

I’ve always appreciated the idea of slowing down, but this year I’ve had to practice it in a much more tangible way.

And there is something freeing about no longer measuring a day by how much I accomplished, how far I walked, or how many things I checked off my list.

Some days, being present means honoring what is possible today rather than mourning what isn’t.

Finding My Voice and Being Present in the Moment

Another unexpected experience this year was speaking at a conference.

Standing in front of an audience and sharing my words, experiences, and knowledge required a different kind of presence.

There is something about speaking your thoughts aloud, rather than writing them down or quietly processing them, that asks you to be fully there. You cannot rush ahead to the next paragraph or edit your words as you go. You have to trust what you know, connect with the people in front of you, and allow the moment to unfold.

I had to be present in my voice, my thoughts, and my interactions.

It reminded me that presence isn’t always quiet or still. Sometimes it is standing in front of a room, sharing something meaningful, allowing yourself to be seen, and trusting that what you have to offer is enough.

It also reminded me how much I enjoy connecting with others through shared experiences and meaningful conversations.

Returning to Work, But on Different Terms

This year also brought the decision to return to work in Denver.

Work has always been an important part of my life. I enjoy connecting with people, sharing what I’ve learned, teaching, and being part of something that makes a difference.

But returning to work meant considering something I hadn’t always given enough attention to: what would this look like within the life I am living now?

The commute, the physical demands, my energy, and managing pain all needed to become part of the conversation.

Rather than simply returning to my old routines and expecting my body and life to accommodate them, I began establishing guidelines that would allow me to work while still protecting the things that have become increasingly important to me.

I wanted to work, but I also wanted to enjoy my life.

I wanted meaningful professional engagement without sacrificing the joy I had been cultivating in my personal life.

That distinction matters.

I am learning that I don’t have to choose between being productive and being present. But I do need to be intentional about the conditions under which I say yes.

Not every opportunity is worth the cost of my time, energy, or well-being. And not every invitation needs to be accepted simply because I am capable of accepting it.

This is a different kind of ambition. One that leaves room for a life outside of work.

Being Present With My Body: Movement and Nourishment

My relationship with exercise and food has also become more intentional.

For years, movement has been a significant part of my life. It has been a way to manage stress, maintain strength, find balance, and feel connected to my body.

But pain and physical limitations have required me to reconsider what movement means.

I have had to let go of certain expectations and become more attentive to what my body needs on any given day. Rather than exercising simply because it is what I have always done, I am learning to ask myself different questions.

What feels supportive today? What will help me maintain strength without depleting myself? Do I need movement, rest, or something in between?

The same awareness has extended to how I nourish myself.

I am paying more attention to what I eat, how much I eat, and how food supports my energy and overall well-being. Not from a place of restriction or chasing a particular number, but from a desire to make choices that support the life I want to live.

Presence has shifted my focus from controlling my body to listening to it.

There is a difference between doing something because you think you should and doing something because you recognize its value.

I want my choices to come from the latter.

Becoming More Intentional About Who Gets My Time

Perhaps one of the quieter changes this year has been becoming more aware of the people with whom I spend my time.

Our time and energy are limited resources. As life changes, so does our understanding of where we want to invest them.

I’ve become more mindful of the conversations I engage in, the relationships I nurture, and the environments in which I spend my time.

I find myself appreciating genuine connection, laughter, shared experiences, and conversations that leave me feeling more connected to life.

I am also becoming more comfortable recognizing when something doesn’t align with the life I am trying to create.

This isn’t about judging people or expecting every relationship to be easy. It is about understanding that the people we surround ourselves with influence how we experience our days.

I want to spend more time with people who allow me to be myself, who appreciate the little things, who can laugh, who are willing to grow, and who understand that meaningful connection doesn’t require constant activity or grand gestures.

Sometimes presence is simply putting down the phone, looking someone in the eyes, listening without planning your response, and appreciating the person sitting across from you.

And sometimes it means choosing to spend an afternoon alone, enjoying your own company, without feeling that you need to fill the space.

Presence Is Not Perfection

If there is one thing I have learned this year, it is that presence isn’t something we achieve and then maintain effortlessly.

There are still days when I get caught up in what needs to happen next. There are moments when frustration creeps in, when pain dictates more than I would like, or when I find myself wishing things were different.

Being present doesn’t mean pretending those feelings don’t exist.

It means acknowledging what is happening without allowing every difficult moment to take me away from the life that is still unfolding around me.

It means recognizing that I can experience discomfort and still appreciate beauty. I can have limitations and still find freedom. I can change my plans without losing my sense of purpose.

I am discovering that presence is less about controlling my circumstances and more about choosing how I meet them.

And that choice happens over and over again, in ordinary moments.

Returning to My Word

When I chose Presence as my word of the year, I thought about the courage it takes to stay, to soften, and to live awake to what is.

I still love that description because it has become even more meaningful as the year has unfolded.

The courage to stay means not always rushing toward the next chapter or trying to fix everything that feels uncomfortable.

The willingness to soften means allowing life to look different than I imagined, being gentler with myself, and recognizing that strength doesn’t always look like pushing harder.

And living awake means noticing the things that are easy to overlook: the beauty outside my window, the conversations that matter, the satisfaction of meaningful work, the nourishment of movement, and the simple joy of an ordinary day.

I don’t know what the remaining months of this year will bring. There will undoubtedly be more adjustments, unexpected challenges, and opportunities to practice what I am learning.

But I do know that I don’t want to rush through them.

I want to continue making choices that support the life I am creating, rather than simply trying to return to the life I once had.

I want to keep finding joy in the middle of uncertainty, beauty in the imperfect, and gratitude in the everyday.

Because perhaps the greatest gift of presence is realizing that life isn’t waiting for us somewhere down the road.

It is happening right here.

In this body. In this moment. In this season of life.

And I want to be here for it.

A little reflection for you:

What would change if you stopped measuring your days by what you accomplished and started noticing how fully you experienced them?

Perhaps presence begins with something as simple as pausing long enough to ask yourself that question.


Enjoying this content? My book 52 Weeks of Wisdom & Wellness goes deeper — find it here.

Cozy Apple Cinnamon Oat Bake Recipe | Embracing Spirit Yoga

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Cozy Apple Cinnamon Oat Bake

There is something about the smell of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven that feels like fall.

As the weather cools and the days get shorter, I find myself naturally craving warmer, more grounding foods. This simple apple cinnamon oat bake is one of those recipes that feels like a little exhale at the end of the day.

It’s warm, lightly sweet, comforting, and made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 3 medium apples, diced
  • 1½ cups old-fashioned oats
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 cup milk of choice
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • Optional: raisins, dried cranberries, or a handful of pumpkin seeds

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Place the diced apples in a lightly greased 8×8 baking dish.

In a bowl, combine the oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Whisk together the milk, egg, vanilla, maple syrup, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the oats and stir to combine.

Pour the oat mixture over the apples and sprinkle with nuts.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the apples are tender and the top is lightly golden.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

It’s wonderful warm on its own, but a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of milk makes it even better.

A Little Fall Reminder

Fall invites us to slow down.

To notice the changing leaves. To gather in the kitchen. To make something warm. To appreciate the ordinary rituals that make us feel grounded.

Maybe that’s part of the beauty of seasonal food.

It gives us another reason to pause and be present.

Take a breath. Notice the cinnamon. Enjoy the moment.

The Power of Gratitude: How to Start a Daily Gratitude Practice

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The Power of Gratitude: How to Develop a Daily Gratitude Practice

What if gratitude is more than simply saying thank you?

What if practicing gratitude could actually change what you notice?

We naturally tend to pay attention to what needs fixing, what went wrong, what we’re worried about, or what might happen next. Our brains are very good at looking for problems. It’s part of how we stay safe and navigate the world.

But we can also practice looking for what is good.

That is where a gratitude practice comes in.

Gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring the hard things. It doesn’t require pretending that everything is wonderful when it isn’t. Instead, gratitude gives us another lens through which to experience our lives. With consistent practice, we begin to become more aware of the people, moments, experiences, comforts, and small joys that are already present.

And sometimes, that changes everything.

Why Practice Gratitude?

Think about what happens when you buy a new car.

Suddenly, you notice that same make and model everywhere.

Were there suddenly more of those cars on the road?

Probably not.

Your brain simply became more attuned to noticing them.

A gratitude practice works in a similar way.

When you intentionally spend time looking for things you appreciate, you begin teaching your attention where to look. Instead of automatically scanning your day for problems, disappointments, and what’s missing, you become more practiced at noticing what is supportive, meaningful, beautiful, comforting, or simply good.

You start seeing the little things.

The warm cup of coffee in your hands.

The person who checked in on you.

The sunlight coming through the window.

A good night’s sleep.

Your dog’s ridiculous personality.

A song that made you smile.

Five quiet minutes before the day got busy.

These things may have been there all along.

You are simply becoming better at noticing them.

Gratitude Doesn’t Have to Be Big

One of the biggest misconceptions about gratitude is that we have to find something profound to be grateful for.

We don’t.

In fact, I think some of the most powerful gratitude practices are built around ordinary things.

You can be grateful for your health, your family, your home, or your job.

But you can also be grateful for clean sheets.

A really good sandwich.

A text from a friend.

Your favorite sweater.

A patch of sunshine.

The fact that you remembered where you put your keys.

Gratitude isn’t about ranking what deserves appreciation.

It is about noticing.

Try This Simple Gratitude Practice

Here’s the practice I recommend:

Every day, write down 3–5 things you are grateful for each day.

There is one important rule:

Don’t repeat the same thing within the same week.

You can be grateful for your family, dog, friends, house, food on Monday.

But on Tuesday, you’ll have to look a little deeper.

Maybe it’s the way your daughter made you laugh.

Maybe it’s the quiet conversation you had with your partner.

Maybe it’s the cup of coffee someone made for you.

By the end of the week, you may find yourself looking for things you wouldn’t normally notice.

And that’s the point.

You’re giving your brain a reason to search.

Make Your Gratitude Specific

Instead of writing:

“I’m grateful for my family.”

Try:

“I’m grateful that my daughter called me today just to tell me about something that made her laugh.”

Instead of:

“I’m grateful for my home.”

Try:

“I’m grateful for the warm, quiet feeling of my home when I walked through the door tonight.”

Specific gratitude makes us slow down and actually experience the moment we’re appreciating.

It turns gratitude from a list into an experience.

Look for the Ordinary

For one week, challenge yourself to notice the things you normally take for granted.

Here are some places to look:

  • Something you saw
  • Something you heard
  • Something that made you laugh
  • Someone who helped you
  • Something your body allowed you to do
  • Something in nature
  • A moment of comfort
  • Something you learned
  • Something that made your day easier
  • Something you are looking forward to

You may be surprised at how quickly the list grows.

What Happens When We Practice?

Gratitude doesn’t magically eliminate stress, sadness, disappointment, or difficult circumstances.

Life is still life.

But a regular gratitude practice can help broaden our attention. Rather than allowing difficult experiences to become the only thing we see, we create space to notice what else is happening around us.

There can be grief and gratitude.

There can be uncertainty and appreciation.

There can be a difficult day and one beautiful moment.

Gratitude doesn’t ask us to deny what hurts.

It simply reminds us that what hurts is not necessarily all there is.

A Seven-Day Gratitude Challenge

Want to try it?

For the next seven days, grab a notebook or open a note on your phone.

Each day, write down 3–5 things you are grateful for.

Follow these guidelines:

1. Be specific.
Instead of “my family,” describe the person, moment, or interaction you’re appreciating.

2. Don’t repeat yourself during the week.
This encourages your brain to keep searching for new things.

3. Include small things.
They count. In fact, they may be the things you notice most.

4. Don’t force positivity.
If you’re having a difficult day, you don’t have to pretend otherwise. Look for one small thing that offered comfort, support, beauty, humor, or connection.

5. Take a moment to feel it.
Don’t just write the words. Pause. Breathe. Let yourself experience the appreciation.

At the end of the week, read your list.

Notice how many things you might have missed if you hadn’t been intentionally looking for them.

Gratitude Is a Practice, Not a Performance

You don’t have to become a relentlessly positive person.

You don’t have to wake up every morning feeling grateful.

And you certainly don’t have to convince yourself that everything happens for a reason.

Gratitude is much simpler than that.

It is a practice of paying attention.

Of noticing.

Of remembering that even on difficult days, there may be small moments of goodness woven into the ordinary.

The more we practice looking for those moments, the easier they can become to recognize.

And maybe that is one of the quiet gifts of gratitude:

We don’t necessarily change our lives overnight.

We change what we learn to notice within them.

Sometimes the first step toward feeling differently isn’t changing everything around us.

Sometimes it’s simply learning to notice what is already here.

I have a special YouTube Gratitude Series coming in November so be sure to subscribe!

YouTube Channel

Maple Pecan Sourdough Scones with Maple Pecan Glaze

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Maple Pecan Sourdough Scones with Maple Pecan Glaze

There is something about a warm scone on a cool fall morning that makes the whole house feel a little more like home.

These Maple Pecan Sourdough Scones are tender and buttery with just the right amount of sourdough tang, sweet maple syrup, crunchy pecans, and warm cinnamon and nutmeg. And because apparently a maple scone wasn’t quite cozy enough on its own, they are finished with a simple maple pecan glaze.

These are the kind of scones I imagine alongside a steaming cup of coffee while the leaves are changing outside and the kitchen smells like butter, maple, and toasted pecans.

They are also a wonderful way to use sourdough discard or extra starter.

Maple Pecan Sourdough Scones

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • ½ cup sourdough discard or unfed sourdough starter
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup
  • ?–½ cup heavy cream or milk, as needed
  • ½ cup chopped pecans

For the tops:

  • A little heavy cream or milk for brushing
  • A sprinkle of coarse sugar, optional

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Add the cold butter and work it into the flour mixture with a pastry cutter, your fingers, or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some small pieces of butter still visible.

Stir in the chopped pecans.

Add the sourdough discard and maple syrup. Begin gently mixing, adding the cream a little at a time until the dough just comes together.

Don’t overwork it. A slightly shaggy dough is exactly what you want for tender scones.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently bring it together. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick.

Cut into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

For especially flaky scones, place the shaped scones in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes before baking. This gives the butter a chance to firm back up.

Brush the tops lightly with cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.

Bake for approximately 18–22 minutes, or until the scones are lightly golden around the edges and baked through.

Let them cool for a few minutes while you make the glaze.

Maple Pecan Glaze

Ingredients

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped pecans
  • Tiny pinch of salt

Instructions

Whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt.

Add the milk or cream a little at a time until you reach a thick but pourable glaze.

Drizzle generously over the slightly warm scones and sprinkle with the chopped pecans.

Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

A Little Fall Magic

These are best served warm, preferably with a cup of coffee or tea and absolutely no reason to rush.

The maple adds a soft sweetness without overpowering the scone, while the pecans bring that buttery crunch that makes fall baking so comforting. The cinnamon and nutmeg are subtle, but they give the whole kitchen that familiar autumn smell.

And if you happen to have one left the next morning?

Warm it for a few seconds and pour yourself another cup of coffee.

That’s not leftovers.

That’s breakfast.

Moving With Change: The Practice

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Moving With Change

October has a way of reminding us that change is not something we can stop.

The leaves change. The light changes. The temperature changes. What once felt rooted and steady begins to shift, slowly and sometimes all at once.

And yet, as human beings, we often resist the very thing nature does so naturally.

Change can feel uncomfortable. It can feel disruptive. Sometimes it feels downright unfair.

But what if the invitation isn’t to love every change that comes our way?

What if the invitation is simply to learn how to move with it?

Pause before you react

One of the most powerful things we can learn is how to pause.

Not every change requires an immediate response.

Sometimes we need a moment to notice what is happening before deciding what it means.

When something shifts, our first instinct might be to tighten, resist, fix, control, or go back to what was familiar.

The pause gives us another option.

We can breathe.

We can notice.

We can ask ourselves:

What is actually happening here?

What am I feeling?

What am I afraid might happen?

And perhaps most importantly:

Do I need to respond right now?

That small space between what happens and what we do next can change everything.

Pivot when the path changes

Sometimes the pause reveals that the direction we were headed simply isn’t working anymore.

That’s where the pivot comes in.

Pivoting doesn’t mean giving up.

It doesn’t mean that everything you have done before was wrong.

It means you are paying attention.

Maybe the plan needs to change.

Maybe your priorities have changed.

Maybe your body is asking for something different.

Maybe the version of your life that once fit you no longer does.

There is wisdom in being willing to turn.

We can remain rooted in who we are without remaining rigid about how we thought our lives were supposed to look.

That distinction matters.

Roots provide stability, but they don’t prevent a tree from moving.

Adapt with awareness

Adaptation isn’t about constantly changing ourselves to fit whatever is happening around us.

It’s about becoming aware enough to recognize when something needs to shift.

Sometimes the change is external.

Sometimes it’s internal.

And sometimes we don’t know yet whether the change in front of us is a problem, an opportunity, or simply something we need to move through.

That is where curiosity can become a powerful practice.

Instead of immediately asking,

“How do I stop this?”

we might ask,

“What might this be asking of me?”

Or even:

“Could there be something here that I haven’t considered yet?”

That doesn’t mean pretending difficult change is good.

It doesn’t mean forcing gratitude where there isn’t any.

And it certainly doesn’t mean that every unexpected turn is secretly a blessing.

It simply means staying open enough to discover what is possible.

What if some change is welcome?

This may be the part we overlook.

We talk so much about coping with change that we sometimes forget to notice when change is actually something we have been waiting for.

A new opportunity.

A different way of living.

A relationship that evolves.

A boundary that finally gets honored.

A habit that no longer serves us falling away.

A door opening that we didn’t even know we wanted.

Sometimes we are so attached to keeping things familiar that we don’t recognize welcome change when it arrives.

So this October, perhaps we can practice noticing.

Not just what is changing around us, but what is changing within us.

What are you ready to release?

Where are you being asked to pause?

Where might you need to pivot?

What have you been resisting simply because it is unfamiliar?

And is there a change coming into your life that, if you allowed yourself to be curious about it, might actually be welcome?

Moving with change

There is a difference between being swept away by change and learning to move with it.

Moving with change means staying connected to your foundation while remaining willing to adjust your direction.

It means pausing long enough to become aware.

Pivoting when something no longer fits.

Adapting without abandoning yourself.

And becoming curious about what might be possible on the other side of what you thought was supposed to happen.

This is part of alignment, too.

Alignment isn’t about finding one perfect position and staying there forever.

Life moves.

We move.

Our bodies change. Our relationships change. Our priorities change. Our dreams change.

And sometimes, the most aligned thing we can do is recognize that we need to change with them.

So as October unfolds, notice what is shifting.

You don’t have to figure it all out.

You don’t have to rush to make sense of it.

Pause.

Breathe.

Get curious.

Then, when you’re ready, take the next step.

You may discover that the change you were trying so hard to resist is actually inviting you into something new.

orange leaves about to fall
Photo by K on Pexels.com

Herb Roasted Acorn Squash

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My garden is bursting with some really good size acorn squash this year and one of my favorite ways to prepare it is simply roasted. This easy Roasted Acorn Squash recipe is a flavorful, colorful, and nutritious side that goes with everything! You’ll love how easy it is to make this! Acorn squash is not just super flavorful but it is also packed with nutrition. 

Health Benefits of Acorn Squash:

Acorn squash is high in antioxidants that help fight free radical damage. They contain carotenoids, beta-carotene, Vitamin C, potassium, manganese, thiamine, magnesium, Vitamin B6 and other key nutrients. Acorn squash is in usually available year-round, with peak season from early October to December. A ripe Acorn Squash will feel heavy for its size and has smooth, dull skin, and no soft spots. Look for one that has a good mix between green and orange coloring.

How to Prepare Acorn Squash:

My favorite way to cook this squash is to simply roast it. I cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, season it lightly with salt and pepper, add a tablespoon of butter and pop on a sheet pan with parchment for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.

The result is a fleshy, warm fall side dish that is packed with nutrients.

October Wisdom

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Change is one of our greatest teachers. It asks us everyday to prove our commitment to ourselves. It leads us into the dark places and allows us to fill them with light.It shows us things about ourselves that we never knew. And before we know it, it shows us how powerful and strong we are.

Dear Friends,

My favorite season is here! I was remarking the other day the reason I love fall is the constant changes that I see outside. I think I love the movement and transformation that fall brings. Most of you know I don’t sit still well so this ever changing season is perfect for my personality.

Often this time of year we hear about the concept of embracing the change and ‘letting go’. One of my greatest teachers ever once told me that not all change can be embraced and that sometimes change is very hard and not easily welcomed. So true, right?

Though we may not always fully embrace changes, we might be able to lean into the process and see just how strong we really are. We can come to know that as we move through what is showing up in our lives, we are often making space for something else.

The season for me is coming to a change as I feel and listen to the pull to welcome in something different. In fact, I have been feeling this nudge for a variety of reasons in the last few months. Part of it is the push to complete some big projects that I have been working on and the other part of me is listening to the interior landscape of my soul asking me to align my actions with its deepest truth. Add to that some reminders that the Universe is always putting in my path exactly what I need in order to pause, look and learn. And maybe even slow down a bit to refuel. I am hoping with a bit lighter load in my heart, I will find the space to shine even more. Isn’t that what we are here to do anyway?

Also, last year I accomplished a HUGE project of publishing my first book: 52 Weeks of Wisdom & Wellness: A Year of Mindful Living. You can grab a copy either in kindle or paperback! And thank you to those of you who have already enjoyed it!

Purchase 52 Weeks of Wisdom and Wellness

Many of us feel a bit of sadness as we watch summer come to an end and we pull out the snow shovels and warm sweaters for the coming months of cold. I ask you though to feel the disappointment, and then consider the curiosity that a new season can bring you. Sometimes the change is just what we need.

For the rest of the month, I encourage you to take in the glory of the changing leaves. Breathe in the fall air. Let go of something weighing on your heart. Shed an old belief. Release what doesn’t elevate you. And most importantly, know that all is well.

Finally, the holidays are just around the corner and this year I am opening up my Holiday Gift Giving Guide a little early because I am having my 7th hip surgery soon and want to be able to fulfill all the orders well in advance. As always, the jam is a top seller as well as the decadent, homemade all-natural body butter. This year, I infused calendula, geranium, lavender, and rose to offer a few varieties. Check out the details below, and if you have any questions, please reach out.

2026 Holiday Gift Giving Guide

Love, Stacie

LIFE LESSONS FROM AN PUMPKIN

Pumpkins are a staple of fall. We go to the pumpkin patch and scour of the field full of pumpkins, searching for the perfect one. We use them to make pies, cakes, breads, pasta, and virtually any food imaginable. We carve them, put a candle inside, and set them on our doorsteps. We spend a season obsessed with pumpkins, and then they’re gone on to something.

However, as the cold winds begin to blow, we know we must hold on tight to our branches until it’s our time to fall. It’s interesting because none of us want to drop. We just want to stay in our spot, high above the ground and admire the magnificent atmosphere fall brings.

1. Your size and shape don’t matter. You are magnificent just as you are. Embrace all of you!

2. Sometimes we need to remove the yuck from inside. Doing the inner work is so rewarding. Take time to get rid of the negative.

3. People may only like you for a season. We all know that people are seasonal sometimes. Enjoy the people while you have them, but also know that some may not stay.

4. You can be anything you want to be. Believing in yourself is the first step at creating the life you want and deserve. Go for it!

5. You may look great on the outside, but it is what is on the inside that makes you shine. That light inside of you is what people are attracted to and admire..just keep shining.

close up of pumpkins lying on a wooden construction at a pumpkin patch
Photo by Nelson Polanco on Pexels.com

Enjoying this content? My book 52 Weeks of Wisdom & Wellness goes deeper — find it here.

Stacie Wyatt, CBIS, E-RYT 500, is the Founder and Director of Embracing Spirit Yoga and Wellness in Colorado Springs, Colorado. With nearly two decades of experience at the intersection of mindfulness, movement, and behavioral health, Stacie is recognized for her work in making yoga and mindfulness accessible, therapeutic, and trauma-informed for individuals with neurological conditions, brain injury, and those living in assisted and supportive care environments.

Stacie is a Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS), an Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT 500), a Behavioral Health and Wellness Coach, and a Qualified Behavioral Health Assistant (QBHA). Her professional background uniquely bridges clinical understanding with compassionate, body-based practices, allowing her to translate complex neurophysiological concepts into practical tools that support self-regulation, resilience, and emotional well-being. She has spent many years working directly with individuals affected by brain injury, neurological disorders, chronic illness, and aging-related challenges, as well as training and mentoring caregivers, healthcare professionals, and yoga teachers.

Through Embracing Spirit Yoga and Wellness, Stacie develops and delivers workshops, trainings, and educational programs that integrate adaptive yoga, mindful movement, breathwork, and meditation into rehabilitation, behavioral health, and assisted living settings. Her approach emphasizes safety, choice, and accessibility, ensuring practices can be adapted for a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. She is particularly passionate about mindful self-regulation strategies that support both clients and care providers, recognizing the importance of preventing burnout and fostering sustainable, compassionate care.

In addition to her teaching and training work, Stacie is a writer, speaker, and mentor who shares insights on mindfulness, healing, and embodied presence. Her work is grounded in lived experience, professional expertise, and a deep respect for the wisdom of the nervous system. Stacie’s mission is to empower individuals and professionals alike with practical, evidence-informed tools that cultivate resilience, connection, and a greater sense of ease in both personal and professional life.

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Apple Cider Loaf with Cinnamon Swirl: A Cozy Fall Recipe + A Mindset Reset

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There is something about fall that makes me want to slow down.

The mornings are cooler. The leaves begin to change. The garden starts to wind down. And suddenly I want my kitchen to smell like cinnamon, apples and something warm coming out of the oven.

Fall has always felt like an invitation to pause and take stock.

And this year, I’ve been thinking a lot about mindset.

Not the kind of mindset that tells us to slap a positive affirmation over something difficult and pretend everything is wonderful.

I’m talking about something much more practical:

How are we thinking about the life we’re actually living?

Because sometimes we can’t change the circumstances.

But we can become more aware of the thoughts we’re bringing to them.

Changing Your Thoughts Doesn’t Mean Pretending

I’ve had plenty of opportunities to practice this.

My life hasn’t gone exactly according to plan. There have been surgeries, pain, changes in my work, limitations I didn’t ask for and seasons when I’ve had to let go of things I once took for granted.

I could focus entirely on what I can’t do anymore.

And sometimes I do.

I’m human.

But I’ve learned that I can acknowledge something difficult without allowing it to become the entire story.

That’s an important distinction.

Changing your mindset doesn’t mean saying:

“Everything is fine!”

when it isn’t.

It might simply mean asking:

What else is true?

Maybe my body hurts.

And I can still experience joy.

Maybe my plans changed.

And I can still create something meaningful.

Maybe I can’t do something the way I used to.

And I can find another way.

Maybe this season is not what I expected.

And there are still beautiful moments inside of it.

That is the kind of mindset work I believe in.

Catch. Question. Choose.

One of the simplest ways I’ve learned to work with my thoughts is:

Catch.
Question.
Choose.

First, catch the thought.

Notice what you’re actually telling yourself.

“I can’t do this.”

“I’m so far behind.”

“My body is failing me.”

“I’ll never get back to where I was.”

Then question it.

Is it completely true?

Is it helpful?

Is there another perspective that is also true?

And finally, choose.

Not necessarily a wildly positive thought.

Just a thought that gives you somewhere to go.

Instead of:

“I can’t do what I used to do.”

Maybe:

“I can find new ways to move and experience my life.”

Instead of:

“Everything is falling apart.”

Maybe:

“A lot is changing, and I can decide what matters most in this season.”

That small shift can change what we notice.

And what we notice often influences what we do next.

Wellness Isn’t About Doing Everything Perfectly

This is one of the reasons I’m putting more attention on mindset coaching in my work.

We often want to jump straight into the action plan.

What should I eat?

How many times should I exercise?

What workout should I do?

How do I lose weight?

How do I create better habits?

Those questions can absolutely matter.

But before we change our behaviors, it can be helpful to look at the thoughts underneath them.

If I believe I have to be perfect, one missed workout can become a reason to quit.

If I believe I have to completely change my diet on Monday, I may end up feeling defeated by Tuesday.

If I believe wellness means never eating something simply because it tastes good, I’ve created a pretty exhausting definition of wellness.

I believe wellness has room for both nourishment and enjoyment.

Which brings me to baking.

Sometimes Mindfulness Looks Like Baking

During one of my hip recoveries, I became a cottage baker.

It wasn’t part of some carefully designed business strategy.

I needed something that brought me joy.

So I baked.

Bread. Sweets. Things that made my kitchen smell amazing.

There was something incredibly grounding about measuring flour, mixing ingredients, waiting for something to bake and then sharing it with someone else.

For a little while, my attention wasn’t on everything my body couldn’t do.

It was on what my hands could do.

That’s mindfulness, too.

We sometimes make wellness so complicated.

Sometimes mindfulness is sitting quietly for ten minutes.

Sometimes it’s taking a walk through the trees.

Sometimes it’s watering your garden.

Sometimes it’s having coffee with someone you love.

And sometimes it’s baking an apple cider loaf and actually sitting down to enjoy a slice.

Not rushing through it.

Not feeling guilty about it.

Just being there.

So that’s what we’re making today.

Apple Cider Cinnamon Swirl Loaf

This apple cider loaf is soft, warmly spiced and filled with a simple cinnamon-brown sugar swirl.

It’s an easy apple cider quick bread that makes your kitchen smell like fall.

It’s lovely with coffee in the morning, as an afternoon treat or wrapped up to share with someone.

Ingredients

For the loaf

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce

For the cinnamon swirl

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

Optional apple cider glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons apple cider
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and creamy.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
  5. Mix in the applesauce.
  6. Add the dry ingredients alternately with the apple cider, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined. Don’t overmix.
  7. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, flour and melted butter to make the cinnamon swirl mixture.
  8. Pour approximately half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  9. Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly over the batter.
  10. Add the remaining batter and gently spread it over the cinnamon layer.
  11. Using a butter knife, gently swirl through the batter a few times. Don’t over-swirl—you want distinct ribbons of cinnamon throughout the loaf.
  12. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  13. Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes, then use the parchment to carefully lift it out and transfer it to a cooling rack.
  14. If using the glaze, whisk the powdered sugar, apple cider and cinnamon together until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
  15. Slice, pour yourself something warm to drink and enjoy it without rushing.

Yes, that last step is part of the recipe.

A Fall Mindset Practice

While your loaf is baking, try this little exercise.

Think about one thought you’ve been carrying lately that isn’t serving you very well.

Maybe it’s about your body.

Your work.

Your age.

Your relationships.

Your health.

Your progress.

Your future.

Write the thought down.

Then ask yourself:

Is this completely true?

Is this thought helping me move forward?

What else is true?

You don’t need to replace it with an overly positive statement.

Just find a little more space.

A little more compassion.

A little more possibility.

This fall, I’m choosing…

I’m choosing to pay attention to what is still possible.

I’m choosing to find joy in ordinary moments.

I’m choosing to take care of my body without making my limitations my identity.

I’m choosing to let wellness be something I practice—not something I have to perfect.

And I’m choosing to notice the beautiful things that are right in front of me.

Sometimes those things are big.

Sometimes they’re tiny.

And sometimes they smell like cinnamon and apple cider.

A Final Thought

The trees don’t apologize for changing.

They don’t try to hold onto every leaf.

They don’t decide that because one season is ending, something has gone wrong.

They simply move into the next season.

Maybe we can do some of that, too.

Maybe changing our mindset isn’t about becoming someone new.

Maybe it’s about becoming more intentional about the thoughts we carry into the life we already have.

So as you move into fall, I hope you give yourself permission to pause.

Notice your thoughts.

Question the ones that keep you stuck.

Choose the ones that help you move forward.

And make room for a little sweetness along the way.

Even if that sweetness happens to come in the form of a warm slice of apple cider loaf.

What thought are you ready to see differently this fall?

Enjoying this content? My book 52 Weeks of Wisdom & Wellness goes deeper — find it here.

A Fall Mindset: Changing Your Thoughts and Making Room for What Matters

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There is something about fall that makes me want to slow down.

Maybe it’s the cooler mornings. The changing leaves. The smell of something baking in the oven. The first cup of coffee that actually feels cozy instead of simply necessary.

Or maybe it’s the reminder that change is part of life.

The trees don’t fight it.

They simply let go.

And lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about mindset.

Not the kind of mindset that tells us to think positive and pretend everything is fine.

The kind that asks:

What am I thinking?

Is that thought helping me?

And what happens if I choose a different way of looking at this?

That distinction has become incredibly important to me.

Mindset Isn’t Pretending Everything Is Okay

I’ve had plenty of opportunities to practice this.

My life doesn’t look the way I once imagined it would. My body doesn’t always cooperate with the plans I make. There have been surgeries, pain, disappointments, changes in my work, and moments when I’ve had to grieve the life I thought I would be living.

I could spend a lot of time thinking about everything I’ve lost.

And sometimes, honestly, I do.

I’m human.

But I’ve also learned that a difficult reality and a hopeful mindset can exist at the same time.

I don’t have to convince myself that something is good when it isn’t.

I don’t have to put a positive spin on pain.

And I certainly don’t believe that changing your thoughts magically changes your circumstances.

But I do believe our thoughts influence what we notice, what we do next, and how we move through the circumstances we’re given.

That’s where mindset becomes powerful.

The Thoughts We Practice Become Familiar

Think about how easy it is to repeat the same thought.

I can’t.

This is never going to change.

I’m too far behind.

I should be doing more.

Everyone else seems to have it figured out.

The more we repeat a thought, the more familiar it becomes.

And familiar doesn’t necessarily mean true.

That’s something I have had to remind myself of over and over.

Instead of asking:

“How do I make myself think positively?”

I’ve started asking:

“Is there another thought that is also true?”

For example:

Instead of:

My body is failing me.

I might choose:

My body is asking me to live differently right now.

Instead of:

I can’t do what I used to do.

I might choose:

I can find new ways to experience movement, connection and joy.

Instead of:

Everything is changing.

I might choose:

Everything is changing—and I get to decide what I carry forward.

Those aren’t affirmations designed to erase reality.

They’re invitations to see the whole picture.

Wellness Begins With the Mindset

This is also why I’ve been talking more about mindset coaching lately.

Before we change our exercise routine, overhaul our nutrition, change our relationship with food, or create a new wellness habit, there is often something underneath it all.

Our thinking.

If you believe you have to completely change your life overnight, you’re probably going to burn out.

If you believe you have already failed because you missed a workout, you’re less likely to get back up tomorrow.

If you believe wellness means doing everything perfectly, you may never actually experience the peace you’re looking for.

But what if wellness could begin with something much smaller?

A different thought.

A different choice.

A little more curiosity.

A little less judgment.

A willingness to begin again.

That’s mindset work.

My Favorite Mindset Practice: Catch, Question, Choose

One of the simplest practices I use is:

Catch.
Question.
Choose.

1. Catch the thought.

Notice what you’re telling yourself.

Not what you wish you were thinking.

What are you actually thinking?

2. Question the thought.

Ask:

Is this completely true?

Is this thought helping me?

Would I speak this way to someone I love?

3. Choose a different thought.

Not necessarily a ridiculously positive thought.

Just a more helpful and believable one.

You don’t have to go from:

“Everything is terrible.”

to

“Everything is amazing!”

Maybe you simply move to:

“This is hard, and I can take the next step.”

That’s enough.

Sometimes the next thought is the next step.

And Sometimes Mindset Looks Like Baking

This is where my cottage-baking adventures come in.

During one of my hip recoveries, I found myself baking bread and sweets.

It wasn’t part of some grand wellness plan.

I simply needed something that brought me joy.

There was something incredibly grounding about measuring ingredients, mixing dough, watching something rise, and eventually pulling a warm loaf or baked treat from the oven.

For a little while, my attention wasn’t on what my body couldn’t do.

It was on what my hands could do.

That’s mindfulness, too.

We sometimes make wellness far more complicated than it needs to be.

Sometimes it’s meditation.

Sometimes it’s a walk.

Sometimes it’s sitting in the garden.

Sometimes it’s calling a friend.

And sometimes it’s making your kitchen smell like apples, cinnamon and fall.

So today, I’m sharing one of my favorite kinds of fall recipes: an easy apple cider baked treat.

Because wellness isn’t just about what we take away.

It’s also about making room for joy.

Enjoying this content? My book 52 Weeks of Wisdom & Wellness goes deeper — find it here.

Rooted Aromatherapy Blend | A Grounding Essential Oil Blend for September

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Rooted: An Aromatherapy Blend for Foundation, Grounding & Coming Home to Yourself

There are seasons in life when we are called to grow.

And there are seasons when we are called to root.

September feels like a little of both.

The leaves are beginning to change. The mornings feel different. Summer slowly gives way to autumn, and there is an invitation to pause and ask:

What is holding me steady?

What are the values, practices, people, rituals, and simple moments that make up my foundation?

This month, my theme is Rooted in Foundation.

And I created this aromatherapy blend to accompany that theme.

It is earthy, resinous, warm, herbaceous, and deeply grounding—a blend created not to help us escape where we are, but to invite us to come home to ourselves.

Meet the Rooted Blend

This blend brings together:

 Black Spruce
 Frankincense
 Blue Tansy
 Blue Chamomile
 Cassia

Each oil contributes something different to the overall aroma.

Together, they create a blend that feels like stepping into a quiet evergreen forest, breathing deeply, and remembering where your roots are.

Black Spruce — The Roots

Black Spruce brings a fresh, green, woodsy character to the blend.

Its aroma immediately brings me to the forest—quiet trees, cool air, and that feeling of being surrounded by something much older and steadier than ourselves.

For me, Black Spruce represents connection to nature and the reminder that trees don’t have to hurry.

They simply grow.

Rooted.

Steady.

Present.

Frankincense — The Sacred

Frankincense adds a warm, resinous depth.

It has such a beautiful connection to meditation, reflection, and spiritual practices, making it a natural part of this foundation-inspired blend.

I think of Frankincense as the center of the foundation.

The invitation to pause.

To breathe.

To become quiet enough to hear yourself again.

Blue Tansy — The Calm

Blue Tansy brings a complex herbal, sweet, slightly fruity note to the blend.

It adds softness while still maintaining the grounded character of the woods and resins.

For me, it represents calm within the foundation.

Because being grounded doesn’t mean being rigid.

A strong foundation can still be soft.

It can bend.

It can breathe.

Blue Chamomile — The Gentle Heart

Blue Chamomile brings a deeply herbal, sweet, calming aroma to the blend.

It softens the stronger forest and spice notes and creates a sense of quiet warmth.

I think of it as the gentle heart of the blend.

A reminder that we don’t have to be strong every moment.

Sometimes our foundation is simply the ability to pause, breathe, and offer ourselves a little grace.

Cassia — The Warmth

Cassia brings warmth, spice, and an unmistakable autumn feeling.

It is a powerful oil, so just a little goes a long way.

And perhaps that is another beautiful lesson about foundation:

We don’t need more of everything.

We need the right things in the right proportions.

One small drop can change an entire blend.

Just like one small daily practice can sometimes change the way we move through our lives.

My Rooted Blend

For a personal diffuser blend, try:

  • 3 drops Black Spruce
  • 3 drops Frankincense
  • 2 drops Blue Chamomile
  • 1 drop Blue Tansy
  • 1 drop Cassia

The result is earthy, resinous, woodsy, herbal, warm, and gently spicy.

It smells like autumn roots.

Like coming back to yourself.

A Simple Rooting Ritual

You don’t need a complicated ritual.

Place your diffuser somewhere you will spend a little quiet time.

Add your Rooted blend according to your diffuser’s recommended amount of water and essential oil.

Then sit comfortably.

Place your feet on the floor.

Take a slow breath in.

And as you exhale, imagine roots extending from the soles of your feet into the earth.

You don’t have to force yourself to feel grounded.

Simply notice what is already holding you.

Then ask yourself:

What makes up my foundation?

Maybe it is gratitude.

Maybe it is family.

Maybe it is nature.

Maybe it is creativity, movement, community, spirituality, or simply the commitment to keep showing up for yourself.

There is no wrong answer.

A Foundation Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect

I think we sometimes imagine that being grounded means having everything figured out.

It doesn’t.

Trees lose branches.

Leaves fall.

Seasons change.

Storms come.

And yet the roots remain.

Our lives can be much the same.

Our foundation isn’t about creating a life where nothing ever shakes us.

It is about knowing what we can return to when life does.

That is what Rooted in Foundation means to me.

Not perfection.

Not certainty.

Presence.

September Intention

This month, instead of asking:

“What else do I need to add?”

Perhaps we can ask:

“What already holds me?”

What practices keep you connected?

What values guide you?

Where do you feel most like yourself?

What helps you return to center?

Those are your roots.

And when we know our roots, we can grow in almost any direction.

Stay rooted. Stay soft. Stay connected to what matters.

Essential Oil Safety

Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used thoughtfully.

Cassia is particularly potent and can be irritating or sensitizing to the skin, so I recommend keeping this particular blend primarily as an aromatic/diffuser blend unless you are experienced with appropriate essential-oil dilution and safety practices.

If using essential oils topically, use a properly diluted preparation appropriate for each individual oil. Avoid using essential oils internally.

When diffusing, follow your diffuser manufacturer’s recommendations and provide appropriate ventilation.

If you are pregnant, caring for a young child, have a medical condition, take medications, or have concerns about essential-oil safety, consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before use.

Enjoying this content? My book 52 Weeks of Wisdom & Wellness goes deeper — find it here.

Sourdough Crunchy Granola Recipe | Easy Sourdough Discard Granola

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Sourdough Crunchy Granola: A Simple, Nourishing Way to Use Your Discard

There is something about homemade granola that feels like coming home.

Maybe it is the smell of oats, cinnamon, and maple slowly toasting in the oven. Maybe it is knowing exactly what went into the bowl. Or maybe it is the simple pleasure of turning something that might have been discarded into something nourishing and delicious.

For September, I am exploring what it means to be Rooted in Foundation—the simple things that help us feel steady, nourished, and connected to ourselves.

And honestly? Baking is one of those things for me.

This sourdough crunchy granola is one of my favorite ways to use extra sourdough discard. The discard adds a subtle tang and helps create those wonderful crunchy clusters that make homemade granola so satisfying.

It is wonderful over yogurt, with fresh fruit, sprinkled over a smoothie bowl, or simply eaten by the handful straight from the jar.

Why I Love This Granola

This recipe is:

  • Crunchy and full of clusters
  • Not overly sweet
  • A delicious way to use sourdough discard
  • Easy to customize
  • Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack
  • Made with simple pantry ingredients

And perhaps best of all, it turns something that might otherwise go to waste into something wonderful.

That feels pretty rooted to me.

Sourdough Crunchy Granola

Ingredients

Dry ingredients

  • 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • ½ cup pumpkin seeds
  • ¼ cup unsweetened coconut
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt

Wet ingredients

  • ½ cup sourdough discard
  • ? cup pure maple syrup
  • ¼ cup melted coconut oil or butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional additions after baking

  • Dried cranberries
  • Raisins
  • Dried cherries
  • Chopped dark chocolate
  • Additional coconut
  • Pumpkin seeds or other nuts

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F.

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the oats, nuts, pumpkin seeds, coconut, flaxseed, cinnamon, and salt.

Give everything a good stir so the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Mix the wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, maple syrup, melted coconut oil or butter, and vanilla.

The sourdough discard helps bind the mixture together, which is part of what gives this granola its wonderful cluster texture.

4. Bring it all together

Pour the wet ingredients over the oat mixture.

Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.

5. Press it down

Spread the granola onto your prepared baking sheet.

This is important: don’t just spread it loosely.

Use the back of a spatula or spoon to gently press the mixture into a fairly even layer.

This helps encourage those beautiful clusters.

6. Bake

Bake for approximately 30–40 minutes, checking around the 20-minute mark.

If your oven has hot spots, rotate the pan halfway through.

You are looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and a dry, toasted appearance.

7. Don’t touch it!

This may be the hardest part.

Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it apart.

As it cools, it becomes crisp and the clusters firm up. This cooling period is one of the keys to getting that crunchy texture.

Once completely cool, break it into whatever size clusters you like.

Then add any dried fruit or chocolate you want.

My Favorite Ways to Enjoy It

I love this granola:

Over Greek yogurt with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey.

With milk as a simple homemade breakfast cereal.

On a smoothie bowl for a little extra crunch.

By the handful when I need a quick snack.

And it makes a beautiful homemade gift tucked into a jar with a simple ribbon.

Make It Your Own

One of the best things about granola is that you really don’t have to follow the rules.

Try:

  • Pecans + dried cranberries
  • Almonds + coconut
  • Pumpkin seeds + dried cherries
  • Walnuts + dark chocolate
  • Pumpkin spice + pecans for an autumn version

Just remember that delicate ingredients like chocolate and many dried fruits are best stirred in after the granola has cooled.

The Foundation of Homemade

There is something deeply grounding about making food from scratch.

It slows us down.

We measure. We stir. We wait.

And then we get to enjoy the result.

Maybe being rooted isn’t always about doing something profound.

Maybe sometimes it is simply standing in your kitchen, stirring a bowl of oats, listening to the oven hum, and remembering that nourishment can be simple.

What are the little things that help you feel rooted?

For me, baking is definitely one of them.

Storage

Once completely cool, store your granola in an airtight container at room temperature.

For the best texture, make sure the granola is completely cool before sealing the container.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep: 10 minutes
Bake: 30–40 minutes
Yield: Approximately 5–6 cups
Difficulty: Easy

Enjoying this content? My book 52 Weeks of Wisdom & Wellness goes deeper — find it here.

Rooted in Foundation: The Four Things That Keep Me Grounded

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Rooted in Foundation: The Four Things That Keep Me Grounded

What keeps me rooted?

It’s a question I’ve been sitting with as we move into September.

Life has a way of changing. Sometimes gradually, sometimes without warning. There are seasons when everything feels steady and seasons when we are asked to bend, adapt, begin again, or simply keep going.

I’ve learned that being grounded doesn’t mean life stays still.

It means having something within us to return to.

For me, that foundation is built around four things:

Gratitude. Connection. Mindfulness. Resilience.

These are the roots that help me navigate the changing seasons of my life.

What Does It Mean to Be Rooted?

Think about a tree.

What we see above the ground—the branches, leaves, flowers, and fruit—is only part of the story.

Beneath the surface is an entire system of roots.

We don’t always see them, but they are doing some of the most important work.

They anchor the tree. They help it find nourishment. They allow it to withstand wind and changing weather. And they give it the stability it needs to continue growing.

I think we are much the same.

The parts of our lives that others see—our work, relationships, accomplishments, routines, and responsibilities—are only the visible portion.

Our foundation is underneath it all.

And when that foundation is tended, we have something to draw from when life becomes difficult.

My Four Roots

1. Gratitude

Gratitude is one of the simplest ways I know to return to the present moment.

It doesn’t mean pretending everything is wonderful.

It means noticing what is.

A warm cup of coffee. A beautiful morning. A conversation that makes me smile. Time in the garden. A dog curled up beside me. A body that carries me through another day.

Gratitude shifts my attention from everything that is missing toward what is still here.

It helps me remember that even difficult seasons can contain moments of beauty.

2. Connection

We aren’t meant to navigate life completely on our own.

Connection can look like family and friendship, but it can also be community, conversation, nature, animals, creativity, or simply feeling connected to something larger than ourselves.

For me, connection is about belonging.

It’s the reminder that I don’t have to have everything figured out by myself.

Sometimes being rooted means allowing ourselves to be held by the people, places, and experiences that nourish us.

3. Mindfulness

Mindfulness gives me a way to come back to what is happening right now.

Not yesterday.

Not the next appointment, next responsibility, or next thing on the list.

Here.

This breath.

This moment.

This body.

This place.

Mindfulness doesn’t make challenges disappear. But it can change the way we meet them.

It creates a little space between what is happening and how we respond.

And sometimes that little bit of space is exactly what we need.

4. Resilience

Resilience is not about being strong all the time.

I think we sometimes misunderstand resilience as pushing through, never struggling, or refusing to bend.

But look at a tree in the wind.

It bends.

It moves.

It responds to the conditions around it.

And then it keeps growing.

To me, resilience is much more about returning than resisting.

It’s falling apart and finding your way back.

It’s adapting when the path changes.

It’s beginning again.

It’s remembering that one difficult season does not define the entire story.

Strong Roots Don’t Mean We Never Bend

This may be the most important part of what I’m exploring this September.

Being rooted doesn’t mean becoming rigid.

It doesn’t mean we never struggle, never change our minds, never feel overwhelmed, or never lose our way.

It means we have somewhere to return to.

Our roots can remind us who we are when circumstances make us question everything else.

They can give us a place to pause.

To breathe.

To listen.

To begin again.

Rooted in Foundation: September

This month, I’m inviting you to explore your own foundation.

Not the foundation you think you should have.

Your foundation.

What grounds you?

What nourishes you?

What helps you feel connected?

What reminds you to slow down?

What helps you get back up when life knocks you sideways?

And perhaps most importantly:

What are you rooted in?

Throughout September, I’ll be exploring these four roots—gratitude, connection, mindfulness, and resilience—through yoga, nature, reflection, movement, and the everyday practices that help us create a more peaceful and grounded life.

Because our foundation isn’t something we build once and finish.

It’s something we return to.

Something we tend.

Something we strengthen.

Something we grow.

And just like the roots of a tree, much of its power may never be visible.

But that doesn’t mean it isn’t there.

These are the roots of my foundation.

What are yours?

A Simple September Reflection

Take a few quiet moments today and consider these four questions:

Gratitude: What is something I can appreciate today?

Connection: What or who helps me feel that I belong?

Mindfulness: What helps me return to the present moment?

Resilience: What helps me find my footing when life becomes difficult?

You don’t need perfect answers.

Just begin noticing.

Sometimes that’s where becoming rooted begins.

Enjoying this content? My book 52 Weeks of Wisdom & Wellness goes deeper — find it here.