The Practice of Friendship

This weekend, my dear friend and fellow yogini, Tiffanny, and I escaped to a yoga retreat near Starved Rock. It was a weekend filled with fresh air, deep belly laughs, and the kind of connection that fills you from the inside out. We hiked under the canopy of trees, shared Midwestern moments on the porch watching storms roll in, and cared for each other in small but silly ways—like when Tiffanny tied my shoes with a square knot so they wouldn’t come undone AGAIN.

Friendship, like yoga, is a practice. It’s found in presence, in listening, in meeting each other where we are. It grows through laughter, silence, and small moments that turn into memories. Take some time this week to nourish your friendships by offering your full presence. Put your phone down, make eye contact, and simply be in the presence of those you care for. Enjoy one another and fill your heart and soul.

Inspire | “What you focus on grows, what you think about expands, and what you dwell upon determines your destiny.” Robin S. Sharma

Eat | Kitchari is a traditional Ayurvedic dish made from a soothing blend of split mung dal and basmati rice, gently spiced and often cooked with vegetables. It’s considered a complete protein and is deeply nourishing, yet light and easy to digest. I like to make it when I need a digestive reset—especially after traveling, illness, or times when my system feels off balance. In fact, I am making a batch today. It’s grounding, comforting, and gives my body a chance to rest and restore. If you would like to try your hand a kitchari, you can learn more, read the recipe and even order your complete kit here.

Try This | The next time you feel anxious, stressed, or overheated, try splashing cold water on your face or holding a few ice cubes in your palms. This simple act activates a physiological response that helps lower your heart rate, essentially pressing the reset button on your nervous system.