From To-Dos to Natural Rhythms

“Time is the substance I am made of.’  ~ Jorge Luis Borges 
I’ve been back from the mountains for six days—and in that time, I’ve gone from pure zen to level 10 on a treadmill.

When I stepped off the plane, I was almost knocked over by someone rushing to get ahead.

That energy carried through the whole journey back to my flat.The contrast between mountain living and city pace is huge—and honestly, it’s been quite an adjustment.

Truthfully, I could happily move my life to the mountains: living simply, slowly, and quietly amongst the birds and trees.

But what I’m learning is that the real sweetness of life is not to escape to the mountain, but to carry the mountain within.

No matter where we are.

If you’ve also felt like you’re running at an unmanageable pace lately, I hope these simple lessons from the mountain will help you steady yourself.

A reminder that we only have a finite amount of time each day—and that time doesn’t always need to be filled with to-dos. Instead, we can focus on the energy we do have, and try to move with our own rhythms.

3 lessons from the mountain

1. Letting go of schedules reconnects us with our natural rhythms
We can’t always do this, but once in a while—when you have free time—resist the urge to fill it with tasks.
Instead, ask: What do I need in this moment? Move from one moment to the next, following energy instead of time. Notice how that feels.

2. The signs are clearer when we slow down
On your next walk, look around intentionally. Notice the trees, the colours, the sounds of the birds.
Pay attention to subtle signs in your surroundings, and also within yourself.

3. Indulging curiosity creates fresh perspectives
What have you been curious to try lately? A group you’ve thought about joining? A language you’ve wanted to learn?
Give it a go—you never know where it might lead.

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