Spring is here! I welcome it with love and joy - it makes my heart sing.  The flowers bracing the cold and grey - in all their unabashed splendour.

This poem from Angelina Weld Grimke captures it so beautifully

At the Spring Dawn

I watched the dawn come,

watched the spring dawn come.

And the red sun should his way up

Through the grey, through the blue

Through the lilac mists.

The quiet of it! The goodness of it!

And one bird awoke, sang whirred

A blur of moving black against the sun, 

Sang again-afar off.

And I stretched my arms to the redness of the sun, 

Stretched to my finger tips, and I laughed

Ah! It is good to be alive, good to love, At dawn, at the spring dawn.

Can you believe it is already April ?

Time to press pause - take a compassionate enquiry on the first quarter of the year.  How’s it been?

Following last weeks new moon we are at the start of the a new year astrologically & energetically.  Ideal for setting intentions and making plans - thinking about what makes your heart sing and going for it.  

At the start of the year, I discovered that the number 2 represents choice and it made me realise I had a choice.  For that I am so very grateful.  I have found this realisation liberating.  Every time I get caught in the should’s and have too’s I check myself and remind myself I have a choice and take responsibility for those choices.   As a result I feel better about being me, I am kinder to myself and accepting of myself.  

All we have is now and when I remind myself of this a level of anxiety melts away giving myself permission to let go. 

When I compare the me to the same time in 2021 I feel more energetic, I have more hope I fell lighter if that makes sense.   

Like exercise or learning to play an instrument it takes practice.  

Here are a couple of things I do daily that help.

Dancing 

It started as a bit of a laugh.  Pick a favourite tune generally retro and dance

Meditation  

I am not talking hours but minutes.  Give this a try.

So how has the first quarter of the year been for you and what can you do to make your heart sing?

Springing Forward with Joy and Intention: 

I celebrate the arrival of spring and uses the season's energy as a metaphor for personal growth. It delves into the power of self-compassion, setting intentions, and embracing the present moment.

1. Why does spring inspire such joy?

Spring represents new beginnings, growth, and the beauty of nature's resilience. It's a time to shed the winter blues and embrace a sense of possibility.

2. How does the poem "At the Spring Dawn" capture the essence of spring?

The poem highlights the beauty of nature's awakening, the speaker's connection to the natural world, and the simple joy of being alive.

3. With the astrological new year approaching, how can I set intentions?

Take time to reflect on the first quarter of the year. What has been working well? What areas do you want to cultivate more? Set clear intentions for the coming months, focusing on what brings you joy and fulfillment.

4. How has the concept of "choice" been liberating for the me?

Realizing that we have choices, even in seemingly predetermined situations, empowers us to take responsibility for our lives and make decisions that align with our values.

5. How can I live more in the present moment?

Mindfulness practices like meditation or simply focusing on your breath can help reduce anxiety and allow you to appreciate the beauty of the present moment.

6. How does the I compare myself to last year?

I feel more energetic, hopeful, and lighter compared to the previous year. This highlights the power of personal growth and self-compassion.

7. What are some simple practices to cultivate joy and well-being?

I  find daily dancing to be a joyful and mood-boosting activity. Explore activities that bring you pleasure and make you feel alive.

Bonus Tip: Be kind to yourself! Growth takes time and effort. Celebrate your progress and embrace the journey of becoming the best version of