DIVERSIFY. EDUCATE

SELF diversify.educate.connect.

A NEW COLUMN BY JAEDA LAHNEE

ach ieving PROPER BALANCE

OUR CURRENT CLIMATE HAS US CRAVING CONNECTION WITH SELF,

SOURCE, AND COMMUNITY. is amazing group of Lake Norman ladies is marching together to achieve proper balance. Despite being di erent across several dimensions—age, race, culture, and abilities—Karen Smith (31), Melissa Mizrahi (42), Beth Preston (50), and Sarah Allen (53) came together to share their authentic experiences. “What’s most personal is most universal,” the ladies espouse, and their mission is to help readers like you discover practical ways to cultivate a connection with self, source, and community to bring balance into your life. We are stronger together. Authentic connections enable us to counter stress, struggle, and isolation with love and compassion for ourselves and others.

SELF: Maintaining self-identity and sanity requires a commitment to self. If you fi nd yourself “losing me” or in need of recharging, it’s time to retreat inward and connect with yourself. Make room for YOU somewhere during your day of wife-work, mommy-work, homeschool, volunteer work, and/or work-work. Incorporate exercise and yoga into your routine. Heart-opening asana (poses) paired with pranayama (breath work) results in a boost of energy, positivity, love, compassion, and a sense of connectedness to life. Practice mindfulness during the day. And relax the mind and the body in the evening with a warm bath or shower with baking soda and your favorite essential oil(s).

SOURCE: Source provides what is needed and supplies us all with strength, regardless of one’s beliefs or religious affi liation. When we fi nd ourselves uncertain, worried, or in need of healing it’s time to connect with Source. Incorporate meditation and/or prayer into your daily routines; it is helpful in Svadhyaya (the process of getting to know your psychic, emotional, and soul interior) as is journaling, studying the wisdom/spiritual teachings, and spending solitary time in nature. Connection with Earth neutralizes free radicals and supports better mood, sleep, and overall health.

COMMUNITY: COVID-19 has left some of us craving social interaction as a result of isolation or disconnection from family and/or social circles. It’s time to try non-traditional means of engagement within the community. Join a local Facebook group, schedule regular virtual gatherings with friends and family, and register for volunteer opportunities that support safe social interaction. w

Business Owner | Global IT Executive

Flight Attendant | Professional Organizer

Broker | Realtor | Volunteer

Occupational Therapist | Executive Director | Veteran

is a well-respected millennial entrepreneur, business professional, creative director, healer, and yogi. Follow her on Instagram @ JaedaLahnee.