Our earliest experiences of time shape how we understand and live within it.
Think back to your childhood—your family of origin or the environment in which you were raised. How was time experienced or talked about in your home? Was your family relaxed and leisurely, unconcerned with deadlines or punctuality? Or were you constantly rushing, trying to catch up?
Maybe you grew up in a highly structured setting—perhaps a boarding school or another institution where time was strictly regulated. Was your family methodical when it came to holidays, or were presents still being wrapped at 3:30 a.m. on Christmas morning?
What about your parents? Were they punctual or habitually late? Often, the unspoken messages we receive about time in our formative years stay with us. It’s worth reflecting on how time was spent in your early life—and how those rhythms may continue to shape your present.
When did you first become aware of time? Was there a moment—dramatic or ordinary—when time became present to your consciousness? And how has that experience influenced your relationship with time since?
While it’s true that our beginnings shape us, they don’t define us. We are not bound to repeat the patterns of our first families. Change often begins with awareness. When we pause to examine our assumptions, even about something as seemingly neutral as time, we open the door to transformation.
The Hebrew word menuha means “rest.” More loosely, it suggests the act of “catching our breath.” When we fail to pause—when we move through life without stopping to breathe—we risk burnout, exhaustion, and even physical or spiritual illness.
Summer offers a natural invitation to slow down. Its rhythms encourage rest, reflection, and renewal.
So take a moment now—pause with me—and take a deep breath. Receive the quiet gift of this moment. Let it be enough.
A Word of Gratitude
There’s a beautiful old French proverb that says, “Gratitude is the heart’s memory.”
By now, many of you know that Claire Walker Moffatt has moved to Michigan with her family. She will be deeply missed! We are so grateful for Claire’s vision in shaping the Wellness Center and building a vibrant Yoga team. Her leadership, creativity, and care have left a lasting mark—and our gratitude will remain in our heart’s memory.
A Word of Welcome
As we say goodbye, we also say hello.
This August, we are delighted to welcome Kate Loewengart as our new Wellness Resident. Kate brings a rich and varied background—from her work as a creative director to running an Early Childhood Development Center to teaching yoga in a variety of settings to both adults and children.
You can learn more about Kate by reading her bio here, and better yet, sign up for one of her classes here. We’re excited for you to meet her!
