Acknowledge
anxiety, acknowledgement, words of gratitude, eclipse season "emergency naps are recommended"
I have been feeling very fragile and anxious this month. It can be challenging as a health care provider to allow myself to be human and keep realistic health expectations. To apply the same compassion and understanding that I give others.
So amongst routine blood tests, and conversations with my GP and psychologist, I’ve made myself a list of all the people in my life that make me feel safe and supported. And I’m drawing it around me like a blanket of comforting, warm hugs.
Acknowledgment is a meaningful process to me. Acknowledgement and truth telling. Acknowledging our real feelings and shared humanity. Reading an author’s acknowledgement section in a book. Hearing an Acknowledgment of Country.
The root of the word aknow is from Old English oncnawan which means "understand, come to recognise". And making this list of important people in my life has helped me understand their incredible value and how grateful I am.
These words hold power and magic…
To my mentors, wise elders, dear teachers - Debrah, Elissa, Julianna, Julie, Narelle, Natalie, Rachel, Sally, Skye, Sunderai - thank you for sharing your legacy, for leading the way and guiding me to grow into my authentic self. Your work, your life, your stories are part of me forever.
To my true friends, peer support, kindred spirits - Cathy, Cecile, Davina, Kathy, Lauren B, Leona, Nette, Sarah O, Sarah S, Sophie - thank you for being in the thick of life with me, for listening with an open heart and staying true to yourself. Your unique way of navigating the balance of self/family/work/life inspires me every day.
To my mentees, wise youth, future inspiration - Anaya, Becky, Con, Erica, Freya, Maddie, Marielle, Mel, Nicole, Ria - thank you for trusting me with your journey and for showing me new ways of being in the world. Your growth gives me hope for the future, reminds me to hold compassion for my younger self and my choices, and inspires me to continue to grow myself.
To my family constellation - Shirley, Angela, Jessie, Hugo, Charlie, Ivan, Deb, Loes, Laurie, Monique, Glen, Case and Astrid - thank you for being the constant guiding stars and grounding gravity in my life. Your evolution literally shapes and pulls mine; I am grateful for your willingness to keep learning, adapting, and expanding.
Inspiration
- Frontline Folklore - documentary about twenty folk customs and rituals of the British Isles
- My Perfect Movement Plan - a workbook to track how you are moving (and not moving) and how to fit in the movement nutrients you need everyday
- Astro guide for April - “rest, reflection, and emergency naps are recommended”
Much love,
Emily
