I’m writing with a heart full of gratitude — and a few things to celebrate.

Last month, a group of glorious, courageous, stunning women and I gathered in Southern France for Together, right in the middle of a genuine heat wave. The sun blazed, and at moments we truly roasting like chickens, but the Crémant was cold, and somehow the heat only seemed to deepen everything — the connection, the presence, the joy, the willingness to be seen. We spent the week drenched in sweat, immersed in the 8-limbs of yoga (though a little less asana than typical due to the heat), culturally rich experiences, and extraordinary chef-prepared meals by Mhairi Elizabeth @rooted.bynature at the beautiful Villa La Tosca, all co-created with the wonderful Nikki Estrada of Curated Yoga Retreats.

But what stays with me most isn’t the scenery — it’s what happens when people feel safe enough to remember and rise together. Together was born out of my own need to grieve and process so much of what these last years have held: pandemic loss, the noise of social media, relationships transitioning, the socially and politically fraught state of the world, an ailing planet. I created this retreat because I couldn’t do that healing alone — and it turns out, none of us really can. Witnessing this group’s openness, sweetness, silliness and authenticity didn’t just serve them; it rewired something in me, too.

This retreat feels especially meaningful this year, as I celebrate turning50 — a milestone I’m embracing as an entryway into a new chapter rather than an ending. This year has also brought a milestone I’ve worked toward for a long time: my graduation from my clinical Masters program! I’m stepping into this next season with more of myself than ever — more wisdom, more discernment, more skill, and a deepening commitment to holding space for others to heal.

To everyone who joined me this year, and especially those who returned again — thank you. I am honored by your trust and belief in me and the experiences I’ve been sharing for nearly two decades now! Our bond grows stronger with each gathering, and I’m already looking forward to the next Together retreat in Greece — my 17th retreat! For now, I’m savoring the hot and steamy afterglow.