Last week, I caught myself holding my breath at the simplest of transitionsâwalking from the warmth of afternoon sun into the cool shadow of evening. My body tensed, as if bracing for something more than a shift in temperature. It reminded me that transitions, even small ones, awaken the same patterns we face in the bigger life changes.
The nervous system thrives on rhythm and predictability, yet life asks us to continually adapt. From a yogic perspective, this is Vata season stirringâwind and movement that can feel ungrounding. Neuroscience echoes this: when routines shift, the brainâs prediction system works harder, often spiking stress responses. Earth medicines like cannabis can soften the edges of these transitions, and yoga offers a way to re-pattern our responsesâteaching the body that change can be safe.
Guided Mini Practice
Stand on the earth. Take three grounding breaths. With each inhale, imagine extending roots from the soles of your feet deep into the soil. With each exhale, release any clinging or bracing.
Integration Pathway
Journal: Where am I resisting change right now, and how might I soften into it instead of gripping against it?
May your breath remind you that transitions are thresholds, not threats.
â Explore this weekâs full Earth Medicine Yoga class on grounding transitions.
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