Beauty is holistic: it’s the energy that glows within us, and the energy we put out into the world. It’s what we put in our body and on it.
To enhance our beauty energy, we need to release what no longer serves us. We habitually additems, activities, beliefs, and routines to our lives until they’re overflowing. Releasing something brings us more space, more freedom, and more energy. We’ve spoken with our Spoon Crew — our team, our friends, and some of our favorite wellness gurus — to discover what they’re releasing.
This week, wellness coach, yoga teacher, and mom, Beth Graham, shares what she’s letting go, and why.
The Physical
What physical item are you throwing away?
The weather has just changed dramatically in Baltimore and I’m wondering whose clothes are in my closet as I shift to warmer layers! There are sweaters, shirts, and jeans that I haven’t worn in years, and clothes I hold on to even though I don’t feel good in them, so I’m letting them go. [If you’re into this, check out Marie Kondo’s work for more tidying up inspo! — Ed.]
I have a tendency to hold onto things even if I don’t love them because what if I need them in the future? I must have a fear that I won’t have enough of anything in the future! But today, I have more than I need, so it’s time to purge.
The Expectation
What expectation that you put on yourself are you letting go?
Ever since this TV perfume commercial where the woman was “bringing home the bacon and frying it up in the pan” we have been told that as women, we can do it all. What?! Men have never “done it all” so why should we hold that standard or expectation for ourselves?
I did for years. As I’ve gotten older (I’m almost 55) I’ve learned to focus on dedicating my time and energy to what’s important — my health and fitness, preparing whole food, plant-based meals for my family, spending quality time with family and friends, and having a job that’s fueled by my desire to teach others how to feel good again. The rest (like the house always looking perfect) can go. It’s better to live life than have it live you!
The Habit
What long-lasting habit or movement are you stopping?
I’m not really putting an end to anything, but I am working towards developing more patience. As a yoga teacher, my clients remark on how patient I am, but in my personal life I get easily frustrated. I had a great conversation with my 27-year-old son last week. He reminded me to embrace patience joyfully rather than something I “gotta work on”.
The Visual
What image or picture makes you feel beautiful, and why?
My husband and I just celebrated our 30th anniversary. I posted this photo because at 55 I have more confidence in my body then I did at 25. Beauty shines through when you feel good in your own skin.