Ever since I learned about the magic of August and its seasonal purpose (special thanks to my old coaching mentor Joanna Lindenbaum) I’ve made it a point to take time out during this month for creative reflection.
Why August, you might ask?
Well…
In the seasonal wheel of the year, August is the ultimate month of transition and creative renewal.
In Italy, businesses are known to shut down for almost the entire month.
In ancient Chinese medicine, it’s the start of “late summer,” considered an entirely separate season than the other four we are typically familiar with.
In Judaism it’s the month of Elul, which is a time to take stock of one’s life.
In pagan traditions, August 1st is the festival of “lammas,” also called festival of first fruits, where people intentionally would celebrate the harvest and take stock of what is coming to fruition in their lives so that they can course correct their path to be better aligned.
In the U.S., not too much changes it seems - except for more people taking vacations and getting ready to start school - possibly earlier than what feels natural which is why it can be such a draaaaaag.
I’m sure there are other examples (and I’d love to hear about them from YOUR cultural perspective!).
Bottom line -
During August, life seems to want to slow down, we relish the last bits of summer, and it’s also the time when crops are harvested.
In nature and in our human lives, we have the opportunity to take a few steps back and recuperate, to take stock of what has been coming to fruition, and to get re-inspired and reacquainted with what really matters. If you’re able to do this, the chances of you having a flowing, aligned fall season are much higher.
Knowing this got me really pumped to create and lead the Dance Into Your Answers experience. For 10 days, we’ll dance, write, and reflect, so that you can feel more embodied, expressed, clear, and courageous in your body and in your life.
So consider this your invitation to create space for yourself during the month of August. Come home to yourself. Be with yourself. Dance and write and search your soul and allow the creative muses to dance their way through you.
with summery flow,
Jess
