<p>For the last two months or so I have been really struggling with depression and my yoga routine has taken a hit. As my energy and motivation has drained, I’ve been showing up at the mat less and less. I am so grateful for Adriene and this community and would appreciate a few thoughts my way whilst I try and show up for myself a bit more.</p>

<p>Thank you for this Vlog every month. so amazing</p><p>And now I request a monthly dance party. I was singing and grooving with you across the board</p><p>Feeling all the positivity and light in this community!</p><p>Always excited for what arrives here.</p><p>All the best and love to everyone in this community and outside it as well.</p>

<p>I've never been to Sri Lanka myself, but in the 1970s, my father taught at the ITC in Enschede, the Netherlands, to international students from what were then called Third World countries. As a graphic artist at the ITC, my father also worked with a well-known Sri Lankan artist named Susiri. Susiri also ran a blind shelter and guidance center in Sri Lanka. I believe this institution still exists. (I've forgotten the name of the blind institute; I must still have it somewhere.) As a token of appreciation, my father received a batik from Susiri. It used to hang above the sofa in my parents' living room. I had it reframed, and it now hangs above the sofa in my home. My father's sister, my aunt, is also a yogi and has been practicing yoga since the 1960s. She has visited Sri Lanka regularly. The nature and culture are said to be very beautiful there. Please don't be tempted to sit on the back of an elephant. The elephants didn't ask for this. Elephants aren't a tourist attraction. 🙏</p>

<p>The theme of rhythm is really resonating with me this month. 15 days ago I had to take my partner to the emergency room in our local hospital. He was quite seriously unwell, and is gradually getting better with the right care, and hoping to get home soon. I have been at his bedside daily as well as working full time and caring for my 2 kids. I also have a lot going on at work and am involved in some really difficult HR situations which will be coming to a head next week. My 77 year old dad last week was diagnosed with kidney cancer. I am spinning so many plates right now. Adriene and FWFG calendar and community have truly kept me grounded, focused, centred and making space for my own rhythm in amongst the chaos. Thank you Adriene for your wisdom, compassion and uncanny way of knowing just exactly what we need at exactly the right moment. </p>

<p>Love your spontaneity match your braids...awesome! Curious about Sri Lanka, and I am very grateful for you and this space as well. This vlog is so heartwarming and something I really look forward to. </p><p></p><p>Ps your braids remind me of Patti Smith, just started reading her new memoir...maybe something for the book club:)</p>

<p>The rhythm of nature is what keeps coming up this month. </p><p></p><p>Autumn, the little death that brings winter's rest. The traditional bustle of harvesting, preserving, cooking, and crafting mirroring the squirrels' nut-driven frenzy to dig and bury and fatten. Building up our nests for the incoming chill in tandem with the songbirds, lighting our fires and gathering for the holidays.</p><p></p><p>The rhythms of autumn crafting- breathing and grounding and dropping my shoulders as deft fingers loop and knot and twist and gather gifts for loved ones. Such an interesting paradox and balance truly creating nothing short of a rhythm ✨ </p>

<p>Dr Gail Parker's story and words (so beautifully read by you) was another sign for me about letting go of beliefs and habits that don't resonate in my current situation. Respect the past, but be in the present. Thank you so much, and happy November!</p>

<p>Lip sync 🤌</p>

<p>"Awareness, not denial" is exactly what I needed to hear today.  Thank you for always bringing me what I need, on &amp; off the mat Adriene.  </p>

<p>✨💗✨</p>