Be Still

"Stillness is not simply the absence of movement or noise.
It is a space we create within ourselves where we are able to reflect, gain clarity and reconnect with our inner values."

-Brené Brown

A Productive Growing Season Has Ended

Give me a moment.
...

Over many of these seasons, this herbal tea farmer has learned the deep value of practicing stillness.

...

Yes.
Even in the midst of movement. 
Especially in the midst movement.

I am learning
Creating moments of stillness is...
The simplest pathway to my best. 

And a cup of tea is...
A beautiful catalyst for such moments.

As Brené Brown explains:

"Embracing stillness means:  intentionally choosing to pause

despite the endless demands and distractions around us.

This act of slowing down: can be transformative. 

It allows us to: listen more deeply

not only to our surroundings but, more importantly,

to ourselves." 

-Brené Brown

This month, may I share with you my experience of
The transformative power of:
Stillness.

Patience
"Patience is more than just waiting for something to happen.
It is a deep, inner strength that allows us to navigate challenges with grace.
Patience, though quiet and subtle, is one of the most formidable strengths we can cultivate." 

-Brené Brown

In moments of stillness, I have learned:
It simply takes time for things to grow.

     A Child - A Business - A Skill

And, there are many occupations that offer opportunity to cultivate patience. For me: 

Parent - Farmer - Entrepreneur 

And yet, "instant gratification" is offered all around us, no?

So, I have found that cultivating patience must come from the inside out.

It begins with: Stillness. Pause.

It ends with: (for me) A deep feeling of strength and power. 

Do you feel that too?

So I often ask myself:
"Is this feeling of urgency necessary?"

When the answer is "No"
A pause. A deep breath. A recalibration.

And I say:
"Thank you, Stillness."

Clarity + Creativity + Inspiration
"In stillness, our minds become more receptive to new ideas and creative insights.
Stillness creates mental space, allowing thoughts to settle and new ideas to surface." 

-Brené Brown

Have you ever heard of "In-field tea tastings"?

Me neither.

Have you ever heard of an herbal tea farm?

Me neither.

Have you ever tasted an herbal tea made from home-grown strawberries, lavender and lemon balm?

Me neither.

It has become my Tried-and-True practice
When innovation, creativity or a unique approach is being asked of me...

to go to stillness.
Stillness always holds the answers for me.

When mental chatter is offered a moment to be at peace, (I have found) it is happy to do so.

And then arises...
Inspiration! 

Presence
"Presence is a powerful, often overlooked force that enables us to connect more deeply with ourselves our work and those around us."
Being truly present means engaging fully in the moment, setting aside distractions and giving our undivided attention to the task or person before us." 

-Brené Brown

I used to be a proud multi-tasker.
(as most mamas must be)

Through stillness, however, I am learning the value of focus.

"When we cultivate presence, we bring our full selves to each moment, creating opportunities for deeper understanding and a more authentic sense of connection and fulfillment." 

-Brené Brown

People who come to my farm are wide-eyed.
   They are filled with awe and wonder.
      Their presence is infectious. 
         Their experience is valuable to me.
(photo credit: David Hauze)

      It is my deepest honor to offer them my undivided attention when I can.

Whether our attention belongs to a guest, a child, a plant or a task, I am learning:
Our presence is a gift.
We are both the giver and the receiver of this gift.

Dear Tea-Drinker,

My blessing to you and myself this month: 

May we give ourselves the gift of stillness, catalyzed, perhaps, by a cup of tea and a quiet space. As we do so...
May we cultivate patience. And in so doing, offer ourselves the strength and power that comes with this quiet but formidable quality.

May we find creativity and inspiration. Seeking unique answers to challenges by quieting our mental chatter and allowing inspiration to surface.

May we offer our presence. Understanding that our focus and attention is a gift. And that we are both the giver and receiver of our presence.

As always: 

Thank you 

I'm honored to be your herbal tea farmer. 

Be well,
Shannon
(This month's e love letter was inspired by Brene Brown's research and speeches compiled in this video.)