After the surge of spring’s bloom and the bustle of early-year momentum, here we are approaching the midway point of the year. View this not as a halt, but a moment to regroup, re-center, and reconnect.
This new moon, what if you granted yourself permission?
Not the reluctant kind that comes with guilt or second-guessing. But full-hearted, grace-filled permission to slow down, take stock, and tend to your inner rhythm.
Think back to the intentions you set earlier this year. Maybe you are nurturing a creative dream, revamping your relationship with sleep, or learning how to better advocate for yourself. Maybe you are still unsure of what is shifting, only that something is.
Wherever you are, May is a natural time to check in—not with judgment, but with curiosity. Let this be your green light to listen to what you need.
There is power in permission. It is not passive—it is intentional. It is a sacred “yes” to your inner intelligence.
So, give yourself permission to rest without apologizing. To say no without explaining. To shift course without proving. To simply be—without the need to fix, finish, or perform.
Recharging is not avoidance. Regrouping is not weakness. Reassessing is not failure.
These are acts of radical clarity—
and essential steps on any path
that is rooted in soul truth.
For your consideration:
You do not need to justify realignment. You only need to remember that you are allowed—always—to care for yourself with kindness and clarity.
Let this be your consent form. Not to do more, but to be more present with what feels best in this moment.
And if you are only able to tend to one area right now, let that be enough. If your progress is quiet or nonlinear, let that be enough. If your biggest act of courage this month is relaxing and listening to hear what you need, let that be enough.
This is your month of permission.
Honor it. Embrace it. And above all, trust it.
Okay, your turn:
When is the last time you cut yourself some slack? Can you do so now, in this very moment? Ease into the day or evening?
I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!
https://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.png00Lori A. Noonanhttps://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.pngLori A. Noonan2025-05-26 13:07:102025-05-26 13:09:15Permission granted
As January draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and recalibrate. For many, January begins with a rush of ambition—fresh resolutions, bold plans, and the determination to tackle the year ahead. The initial burst of motivation can start to wane, however, as we juggle life’s demands. And that’s okay.
The end of January marks a natural shift. It’s a gateway into February, a month that invites us to find balance, embrace gentler rhythms, and focus on sustainable growth. If January is about setting the stage, February is about settling into the performance—with grace and ease.
Here’s how to transition smoothly and make the most of this fresh chapter:
Celebrate Your Wins—Big and Small
Before you dive into February, take a moment to recognize everything you’ve accomplished so far. Maybe you started a new habit, learned something new, or simply made it through a challenging day. Each of these is a victory worth celebrating. Write them down, savor them, and remind yourself that progress—no matter how small—is still progress.
Refresh Your Intentions
February is an excellent time to revisit and refine your goals. Instead of sticking rigidly to a resolution, think of it as evolving. Maybe you have discovered better ways to approach your objectives or uncovered new interests that excite you. Adaptation is key to long-term success and satisfaction.
Embrace the Power of Small Steps
In February, shift your focus from grand gestures to small, meaningful actions. Tiny, consistent efforts compound over time and are much easier to sustain. Whether it’s five minutes of meditation, a short walk, or sending a thoughtful text to a loved one, these micro-moments of intention can make a big difference.
Find Joy in the Everyday
February might be the shortest month, but it’s packed with potential for everyday joy. Lean into the little things that bring you happiness: a cozy cup of tea, a good book, a favorite playlist, or even just a moment of quiet. These simple pleasures can help you stay grounded and energized.
Connect and Recharge
Winter can sometimes feel isolating, but February is a great time to reconnect with your community or loved ones. A meaningful conversation or shared laughter can be deeply restorative. At the same time, honor your need for rest and recalibration.
Declutter Your Space
A clear space often leads to a clear mind. Use February to tackle small decluttering projects around your home or workspace. Even organizing one drawer or clearing off your desk can create a sense of accomplishment and make your environment more inviting. Is there something you can discard, or donate?
For your consideration:
February is your opportunity to ease into the year with intention, balance, and joy. It’s a time to honor both your aspirations and your need for rest, to celebrate progress and to embrace change. As the days grow a little longer and the promise of spring approaches, take heart in knowing you’re exactly where you need to be.
Here’s to a fulfilling February filled with small wins, meaningful connections, and a rhythm that feels just right for you.
Okay, your turn:
I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!
https://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.png00Lori A. Noonanhttps://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.pngLori A. Noonan2025-01-28 19:18:182025-01-28 19:18:20Welcoming February: Easing Into New Rhythms
As October fades into November, there is a noticeable shift in the world around us. The days shorten and the nights stretch longer, casting a twilight hue over our daily routines. Shadows lengthen, and the sun’s journey across the sky seems fleeting. For many, this seasonal change is more than just a visual phenomenon—it is a time of transition that carries with it layers of symbolism, mystery, and a touch of the mystical.
The Long Shadows of Autumn
October is a month of vibrant colors and golden light, but it is also the beginning of a journey toward darkness. As the Earth tilts, the sun’s path across the sky lowers, casting longer shadows and giving everything a softer, almost ethereal glow. It is a time to slow down and take notice of the details that might go unseen in the full glare of summer sunlight.
There is a certain magic in those long shadows. They have a way of stretching out the day, as if trying to hold on to the light just a little bit longer. Inevitably, we edge closer to the darker, colder months, and this transition feels like the world is preparing to rest, to conserve its energy and hibernate.
The Thinning of the Veils
This moment between October and November has long been associated with the “thinning of the veils”—a poetic way of describing the idea that the boundary between the physical world and the spiritual realm becomes less distinct. Cultures around the world have their own ways of acknowledging this thinning. From Halloween and Samhain to Día de los Muertos, there is a shared sense that this is a time when the unseen lures closer, and the world is a little more open to mystery.
It is no coincidence that these traditions focus on honoring the dead and self-reflection on the past. As the natural world prepares for dormancy, we are also prompted to look inward. The longer nights encourage us to slow down, to be still, and to listen to things that might otherwise go unnoticed. It is a time to reconnect—with ourselves, with others, and perhaps with something greater than what we can see and touch.
Light Into Darkness: Embracing the Transition
The transition from October into November is a passage from light into darkness. While this might sound ominous, there’s beauty in it. Darkness has its own kind of clarity; it helps us focus, be more mindful, and appreciate the warmth and light when it does appear. This shift is a gentle reminder to conserve energy and reduce undue labor, not just for nature but for us, too.
Practical Tips for Embracing the Thinning of the Veils
Create a reflection Ritual: Take some time each evening to reflect on the day. Light a candle, write in a journal, or simply sit quietly and observe the shift from light to darkness.
Connect with the Natural World: Go for a walk during sunset and notice the changing light, the lengthening shadows, and the chill in the air. Allow yourself to feel a part of this larger transition.
Celebrate the Darkness: Embrace the longer nights by creating cozy, warm spaces. Light a fire, wrap up in a blanket, and enjoy a hot drink. This is a time to rest and restore.
Honor Your Ancestors: Consider adopting a small ritual to remember those who have passed. It could be as simple as lighting a candle in their memory or sharing stories about them with loved ones.
For Your Consideration:
The period from October into November is not only about losing light; it is about finding beauty in the dark. The thinning veils remind us that there is more to life than what is visible, and the lengthening shadows teach us to appreciate the subtle, silent moments. So, as we move deeper into autumn, let us allow ourselves to slow down, to see what the shadows reveal, and to find comfort in this gentle, quiet space between the worlds.
Okay, your turn:
What does this time as October slides into November mean to you? Do you observe any particular traditions? If so, which ones?
I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!
https://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.png00Lori A. Noonanhttps://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.pngLori A. Noonan2024-10-31 16:47:022024-10-31 17:14:41From Light to Darkness: Embracing the Longer Shadows and the Thinning Veils of Autumn
In today’s fast-paced world, we often find ourselves juggling multiple responsibilities, leaving little room for rest and reflection. Let’s explore how you can stay grounded, conserve your energy, and reduce unnecessary labor, all while having a bit of fun along the way.
1. The Art of Prioritization: Focus on What Truly Matters
Your energy can wane, so choose wisely what you focus on.
Practical Tip: Make a list of your daily tasks and categorize them into three buckets: Must-Do, Should-Do, and Could-Do. Focus on the Must-Do items first, and if you have time and energy left, tackle the Should-Do’s. The Could-Do’s? Save them for a rainy day—or better yet, delegate or delete them!
Fun Twist: Turn prioritizing into a game! Challenge yourself to finish your Must-Do list by noon, so you can spend the afternoon indulging in something fun, like a hobby or a mini-adventure.
2. Delegate Like a Pro: Share the Load
Ever tried to carry all the groceries in one trip? Sure, it feels like an Olympic feat, but it is not the smartest way to conserve energy. The same goes for tasks—carrying the weight of every responsibility is a surefire way to burn out.
Practical Tip: Identify tasks that others can do just as well (or even better) than you. Whether it is at work or home, do not hesitate to delegate. Trust in others’ abilities and let them take some of the load off your shoulders.
Fun Twist: Make delegation a family affair. Turn chores into a family competition with rewards for the best-completed task. Who said doing the dishes couldn’t be fun?
3. The Power of No: Protect Your Energy
Saying “yes” to every request is like hitting the snooze button on your energy reserves—it feels good in the moment, but it drains you over time. Learning to say “no” is one of the most powerful tools in conserving your energy.
Practical Tip: The next time someone asks you to take on an extra task, pause and consider if it aligns with your priorities. If it doesn’t, politely decline or suggest an alternative. Remember, every “yes” to something is a “no” to something else, often your well-being.
Fun Twist: Practice saying “no” with style! Create a list of creative, yet polite, ways to say no. For example, “I’d love to help, but my superhero cape is at the dry cleaners,” or “I’m currently booked with some self-care.”
4. Embrace the Power of Rest: Recharge Regularly
Just like your phone needs to be recharged, so do you. Skimping on rest leads to diminished productivity, and that is the opposite of conserving energy.
Practical Tip: Schedule regular breaks throughout your day, and do not skimp on sleep. Even a 10-minute walk or a 5-minute breathing exercise can work wonders in recharging your mental and physical energy.
Fun Twist: Treat your breaks like mini-vacations. Grab a fancy drink, put on some music, and escape to a “vacation spot” in your mind. It could be a sunny beach or a cozy cabin in the mountains—your imagination takes you there in an instant!
5. Simplify, Simplify, Simplify: Streamline Your Life
Ever notice how clutter can drain your energy? The more things you must manage, the more mental load you carry. Simplifying your life can dramatically reduce undue labor.
Practical Tip: Start by decluttering one area of your life—whether it is your workspace, your closet, or your calendar. Keep only what adds value and joy to your life. Everything else is just noise.
Fun Twist: Make it a challenge! Pick one area to declutter and set a timer. See how much you can simplify in 15 minutes. Reward yourself with something fun afterward—you choose what delights you in that moment.
6. The Magic of Routine: Automate Your Success
Routines might sound boring, but they are your secret weapon for conserving energy. When you create a routine, you reduce the mental energy spent on decision-making.
Practical Tip: Establish a morning and evening routine that sets you up for success. In the morning, focus on activities that energize you. In the evening, wind down with rituals that help you relax and prepare for restful sleep.
Fun Twist: Personalize your routines with elements that make you smile—a favorite song, a comforting cup of tea, or even a few minutes of dance. Routines do not have to be rigid—they can be fun and flexible!
For Your Consideration:
Balancing your life and conserving energy does not mean doing nothing per se—it means doing what matters more efficiently and with more joy. By prioritizing, delegating, saying no, resting, simplifying, and establishing routines, you can create a life that is not only balanced but also fulfilling and fun.
Remember, the key to a happier, more balanced life is to preserve your energy for the things that truly matter—and to enjoy the moments along the way.
Okay, your turn:
When have you noticed yourself overly “efforting” recently, leaving yourself feeling drained and unfulfilled? What did you do to change it up?
I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!
https://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.png00Lori A. Noonanhttps://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.pngLori A. Noonan2024-09-02 14:03:532024-09-02 14:03:55Finding Balance: A Practical Guide to Conserving Energy and Reducing Undue Labor (with a Fun Twist!)
https://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.png00Lori A. Noonanhttps://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.pngLori A. Noonan2023-07-17 21:08:332023-07-17 21:11:21A bonfire blazes
https://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.png00Lori A. Noonanhttps://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.pngLori A. Noonan2023-05-19 21:50:002023-05-20 21:51:39The merry month of May
https://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.png00Lori A. Noonanhttps://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.pngLori A. Noonan2022-07-29 22:57:132022-07-29 23:04:49I observe, I experience
Having spent the weekend in the Sierras with a supportive, wonderfully playful, and wildly creative group of co-adventurers who like to hike, I couldn’t help but share with you a poem that I was inspired to write as part of that experience. What in nature speaks to you?
I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!
https://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.png00Lori A. Noonanhttps://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.pngLori A. Noonan2022-06-28 15:25:222022-06-28 18:29:16The trees provide
When I was the Features editor for my school newspaper, I took great care in selecting from among the many photographs submitted by the photographers, paring down to the very few that most captured the emotions of the moment. The Sports editor, not surprisingly, focused on selecting the most dynamic action shots. It was with intention and a devotion to the story.
The same process can be applied to the new year. As you review all that was (and wasn’t) 2021, what are you bringing with you into 2022, and what are you leaving behind?
I encourage you to give yourself the opportunity to put a frame around the new year. As you would with a painting or a photograph, what are you choosing to put within the frame? What are you bringing into clear focus by framing it as such? And, by design, what are you thereby leaving outside the frame?
Put another way, we speak of the “framers of the Constitution.” The founding fathers — alas no founding mothers at least not officially — deliberately and with intention decided what would be included in, and excluded from, the nation’s foundational charter. (For more on that, follow this link to a previous edition of Soul Notes here.)
It makes a difference where you place the frame.
Okay, your turn:
What is it about the turning of the calendar from one year to the next that excites you? Anything about it that actually instead drives you a bit batty?
Do you approach each year with intention? If not, will you do so this year? Are you willing to give it a try?
I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!
https://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.png00Lori A. Noonanhttps://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.pngLori A. Noonan2022-01-02 04:24:472022-01-02 04:30:25Give it a frame
Among the hustle of the holiday season, may you set aside a quiet moment of reflection and repose? Heck, set a timer for 22 minutes, if you must. Yeah, okay, that may not sound particularly spiritual, but it works!
For me, this holiday season so far has been one of deep study and stillness amongst the storm of society, external influences, and seemingly endless unrest. I go within, where all is well. I invite you to do the same. Let your soul be your guide.
Okay, your turn:
Would you rather plow through the holidays, making lists, and checking things off the list, going back to the list, checking the list again, and on and on? Or, would you rather smile at the joys of the season, the light, the shimmer and the glimmers of hope? What you see is what you get. The light is what you are.
I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!
https://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.png00Lori A. Noonanhttps://lanoonan.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Logo-transparent-300x72.pngLori A. Noonan2021-12-04 18:21:062021-12-04 20:39:53A moment of repose
