HELLO!
I am so glad that you are here. How are you doing? I hope all is well and that you managed to get a little break over the Easter long weekend and then another quick long weekend for ANZAC Day. It was a treat!
Melbourne weather has been quite mild and not as cold as expected, which means that my ocean swimming has been in full swing with unusually warm waters (about 18.5 degrees) to enjoy with my swimming community. My goal is to try and swim over winter without a wetsuit (I know crazy - but there is a protocol to staying safe and it is so good for you!). I am learning that this immersive experience of feeling connected to nature and the world around us through a plunge into the cold, salty water provides immediate benefits. You feel this kinetic energy seeping into the cells of your body, and when you get out of the water, you are tingling from head to toe as you soak up the euphoria and happy hormones that hang around for the rest of the day.
Florence Williams confirms my experience through her investigations at the confluence of environment, mood, health, creativity and belonging. Her research, published in her book, The Nature Fix, uncovers these powers of the natural world. I would also love for you to meet Keith who has been a lifesaver at the Brighton Lifesaving Club since 1977. He looks out for me on my morning ocean swims. Listen to why he is so committed to his work.
And on the topic of commitment, through my coaching practice I work closely with women who sometimes ponder what it would be like to take a leap of faith into the unknown and change gears. Redefining work and life by authentically combining leading and living in a way that is sustainable and fulfilling may not be easy and will take some time. But I assure you, it can be done with courage, deep reflection and the help of a supportive network. Read a little bit about my personal journey and reflections of “Taking a leap into the unknown” and then answering the question of “How much is enough?” through recently published articles.
