Work That Feels Restorative

“It is with the soul that we grasp the essence of another person, not with the mind, not even with the heart.” —Henry Miller

I heard a phrase this week as I was preparing for a small group session at my spiritual community, “finally catching up to who [or what] I am. I had to sit with that idea and chew for a bit. I’d like to think that I’ve been living my truth and my core values for the majority of my life, but lately something feels different. Maybe I’m finally catching up with exactly who and what I am. I’ve ebbed and flowed with confidence in my professional work and noticed that when I’ve felt most sure of my path, it’s that I’m letting my essence shine through. I know people see and feel that.

I’ve been expanding my health coaching practice for the last few months and the more I meet with potential clients—especially women—for discovery sessions to see if we might be a good fit, I’ve realized the work feels effortless. I see them letting their walls down, I hear them sharing vulnerably, and I feel us connecting easily. I’m in my element. This feels like my deepest dharma. I’ve been grateful to have had fulfilling, meaningful work for many years teaching yoga, meditation, mindful eating, and various cooking classes. But this new work as a health coach feels restorative. Like the yoga practice of the same name that focuses on long and deep stretching to lower stress, this work helps me find stillness, listen, and take my energy down (in a good way!) I’ve closed many health histories or one-on-one coaching sessions feeling calm, thought-full, and ready to guide further.

I saw a dear yoga teacher friend at the local natural foods co-op today and after a deep left-side hug we shared a little about what’s new or bringing us joy. I remember meeting her at a weekend yoga workshop several years back when we were both in limbo, reaching for a sense of belonging, and asking ourselves what or who in our lives we needed to release. It was a time of uncertainty for us both. What a gift to see the smile on her whole body today, feel the energy of her zest for life, and sense authentic happiness. She beamed “some days I can’t believe this is my work!” I KNOW, I agreed. I definitely know. What a gift it is to feel that deep sense of purpose in my professional life. What a blessing from the Universe to know that I’m right where I’m supposed to be.

I look forward to sharing this gift with you as a coach, teacher, and community leader. I look forward to using my soul to grasp the essence of others and understanding the gifts they also have to offer the world. Let’s meet soon to discover how you can grow, expand, and catch up to your own self. Namaste.