Navigating Life Transitions: The Power of Mindfulness, Stillness, and Intentional Movement

Transitions Are Powerful: Finding Stability in Change

Transitions are rarely smooth. Whether in nature, in our personal lives, or in the larger systems that shape our world, change often comes with turbulence. As winter gradually shifts to spring, the world outside is in flux—the days stretch longer, the air begins to warm, and yet, we are still in winter’s embrace. Beneath the surface, unseen growth is occurring, just as it is within us.

In yoga, qigong, and mindful eating, transitions are significant. They are not just the spaces between—they are moments of power, where we have the opportunity to pause, gather ourselves, and move forward with intention. But what happens when transitions feel chaotic, when they disrupt the very foundations we rely on?

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how these seasonal transitions mirror the larger shifts happening in our world. In the U.S., a recent transition of power has led to upheaval, affecting countless people’s lives. Jobs are disappearing, support systems are being dismantled, and uncertainty looms. Transition is intense. And when things feel unsteady, our first instinct may be to act—to push, resist, or try to fix. But what if, before rushing forward, we first took a moment to pause?

The Paradox of Stillness & Action: Mindfulness in Times of Change

In times of transition, there is power in stillness. This doesn’t mean inaction. It means observing, gathering strength, and moving forward with clarity rather than reacting out of urgency. This is the paradox—there is wisdom in pausing, just as there is wisdom in movement.

Padma Mudra

The hands come together, fingers gently opening like a blooming flower—a reminder that transformation is happening even when we cannot see it.

I’ve been practicing Padma Mudra, the lotus gesture, as a way to honor this balance. The hands come together, fingers gently opening like a blooming flower—a reminder that transformation is happening even when we cannot see it. Tulips are stirring beneath the soil, just as change is stirring within us. The transition from winter’s quiet yin energy to spring’s expansive yang energy is underway.

On March 9th, daylight savings time will push us forward an hour, disrupting our rhythms. Our routines—sleep, meals, movement—may feel off-kilter. This is another reminder of transition’s impact. Instead of resisting it, we can meet it with patience and self-compassion.

Moving with Intention: Finding Balance Between Stillness & Action

Just as I encourage honoring the body’s need for stillness, I also encourage movement—as in intentional, meaningful action. This is why, on Saturday, March 8th, I will be attending a Women’s March* in honor of International Women's Day—a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It is also a call to action to accelerate women's equality. Standing alongside others in the community, I will advocate for the fundamental right to bodily freedom. This, too, is movement. This, too, is mindful action.

As I teach in the Eat for Life Mindful Eating Course, honoring our body’s need for movement is as essential as honoring its need for nourishment. Some of us resist movement, others push too hard—but when we listen deeply, we find the balance between effort and ease.

Hermann Hesse wrote, "Some of us think holding on makes us strong, but sometimes it is letting go." As this season unfolds, what can you let go of? Where can you soften, pause, and listen? And where do you feel called to step forward with intention?

Change is here. Let’s meet it—not with haste, but with awareness, compassion, and the wisdom to know when to be still and when to move.

*Get more Women’s March Details