Connectedness is the mindfulness word for the week. And gardens are an easy place to begin to contemplate connectedness. There is a constant flowing of energy between plants, soil (earth), air, sun (fire), and rain (water). They all work in unison to support life on the planet. And as humans, we are intimately … Read more
Duality is my intentional focus word this week. Duality is that concept that polar opposites are part of the same whole. But more than that, they are intimately related and give rise to the other. In the yin-yang symbol of Chinese philosophy, the white part of the symbol has a dot of black … Read more
If you’ve encountered stinging nettles by accident while walking or gardening, the word gift is probably not the first thing that pops into your head. Tiny stinging hairs cover the plant and brushing against them releases the plant’s venom. The sting contains formic acid, the same chemical as a bee sting, and can … Read more
I returned to my garden yesterday after a rather challenging work trip. Last week’s focus on “fascinating” was extremely helpful while I was away. But returning home to my garden immediately improved my mood. It was like coming home to a surprise party of plants. In seven days, the espalier apple and miniature … Read more
Balance is the Mindfulness Focus this week. Spring arrives at 4:28 AM Mountain Time on Monday March 20th.(1) And although spring can represent newness to many people, it’s very much about balance. Consider this – As we circle around the sun, the two equinoxes (spring and fall) are the counterpoints to the winter and summer … Read more
Dandelion Resilience Resilience, the ability to bounce back from adversity, is the mindfulness practice word for the week. The goal is to intentionally notice resilience in ourselves, others, and the world. I can’t think of a better example of resilience in the plant world than dandelions. And with Denver’s recent 60 degree days, I’ve sighted … Read more
The Waxing Moon Noticing the waxing moon (1) in its journey toward wholeness… that is my mindfulness focus for the week. The moon was new on Friday evening, but already it has become a crescent in the sky. Paying attention to the increase is this week’s practice. I like weaving back and forth between … Read more
Invoking joy – My mindfulness focus this week is inspired by my Corgi, Luna and my grandson, Leo. This is Luna sitting by the tunnel which allowed her to run under the pumpkins to a formerly blocked part of the yard. See that smile on her face? It was delightful watching her run … Read more
