My ‘story’ used to be that I’ve been in transition for the last 10 years. I’ve now come to accept that being human means being in continuous transition on several levels at once. The only thing that is constant is change. Every decade, year, month, week, day, hour, minute and second, I am transitioning, evolving, changing and looking for solid footing for my next step, physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

I balance my desire to keep things familiar and stable with the need to adapt and change to the times and circumstances in and around my life. If I’m spurred by inner growth, I also balance my desire for security with the need to push the boundaries of my creativity, passion and vulnerability.

The trouble is that because I’m human, I like ‘familiar’ and ‘stable’. Adaptation and change were also easier when I was younger. With change comes natural uncertainty and fear. Moving forward in spite of fear takes discipline, commitment, trust and energy, and sometimes my energy level is depleted and I require nurturance and self-care.

I’m grateful because within our region I have access to a supportive network and community where I can renew, balance and strengthen my energy on all fronts, allowing me to replenish my confidence and vitality and transition into each new day in the most natural, healthy and loving way. You can find the same inspiring practitioners and loving professionals that comprise this community advertising in this magazine. Follow your intuition and listen to who calls to your heart and soul for your own nurturance and self-care as you turn these pages.

We might consider that the biggest transition we’ll ever face is our departure from this life. I recently experienced in a dream what I believe may have been my dad’s next transition, and his signal that it was time for me to move on, too. There he was, walking away from me in my dream; younger than he was on the day he passed away 16 months ago. He turned to look back at me, smiling and waving as he continued walking away. He turned forward again and kept walking. I’m grateful for his reminder and send him and all fathers a heartfelt Father’s Day blessing.

Pain is a messenger; a signal from the bodies (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) that something is out of balance. Consider looking within to explore the mind-body connection and do what you can to help the body heal itself. Always seek proper medical attention when necessary and consider the natural, organic, non-invasive, holistic approach as you strive to feel good, live simply and laugh more.