WOTY Link Party: Connected in February
We’ve come to the end of another month, which means it’s time to check in with our Words of the Year…if you’re into that kind of thing. And hey, if you haven’t chosen a word yet, and you’d like to, it’s never too late! Choose one today!
You may recall my word for 2022 is Connected.
As in…
Connected to this moment.
Connected to my authentic self.
Connected to my amazing body.
Connected to my loved ones.
Connected to all beings and Mother Earth.
Connected to this moment
My focus this month has been on mindfulness, being connected with the present moment. I’ve done this through a recommitment to my morning meditation, not just making sure to sit each day…I’ve been consistent about that for some time now…but making the most of that time. Thoughtfully preparing the space, being mindful of how I move my body to settle in, and slowly transitioning from my cushion to the rest of my day instead of jumping up when it’s over, because I have things to do and people to see! I also tried a walking meditation, which I would like to do again outdoors when the weather warms.
Connected to my authentic self
This area was at the core of my focus in January, when I spent a couple of days on each of the questions from Chapter 1 of Divine Sparks. I finished that project, but that doesn’t mean I forgot about connecting with my authentic self in February. In fact, I have been brainstorming things that I would like to explore when I retire…thinking about what makes me tick. More to come on this subject, I am sure.
Connected to my amazing body
I finally got back to the Orangetheory Fitness studio. Yeah! I didn’t realize how much I have missed it. I took a break during the COVID peak. They do a good job of cleaning the equipment and filtering the air, but I still get a little freaked out about so many people breathing so heavy in one room. Anyway, I went back. I was a little nervous the first session, but soon forgot all about the germs in the air. I connected with my own body…what it was doing, how it felt to move in that way. And believe me, I was connected to my body afterwards as my muscles recovered and reminded me “You worked out!” I have a massage on the calendar for March, so I’m definitely looking forward to that.
Connected to my loved ones
February was another month of family connections…large and small. As I mentioned on Thank You Notes, we had two milestone birthdays in the family. I also met one of our daughters and a grandchild for lunch. And to top things off, we had several drop-by visits from children and grandchildren these last two weeks. There was a time that I struggled with unannounced visits…introvert and planner that I am…but I am pleased to announce that I have embraced the joy of those surprise visits and am learning to set the planned tasks aside, not worry about how I look or what’s happening around the house, and just enjoy the beautiful connection with those I love.
Connected to all beings and Mother Earth
I started a new practice this month of saying a lovingkindness prayer for someone each morning at the end of my meditation and each evening right before I go to bed. Some days, I choose someone I know could use the support. Other days, I choose whoever pops into my head…whether I know them personally or not. That lovingkindness practice goes something like this: I bring an image of the person to my mind, say their name if I know it, and then repeat, “May you be safe. May you be happy. May you be healthy. May you feel at ease.”
Your turn
This linkup is open to everyone. Share in the comments what you are doing to keep your focus on your WOTY, goals, or intentions for 2022. If you have a blog, link up through And Anyways…, Debs World, Retirement Reflections, or Women Living Well After 50.
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Image by Sasja Bork from Pixabay
I know I said it last month, but connected is such a great word. I laughed to myself when you wrote about unscheduled drop-ins – something which after the last couple of years I don’t think any of us will take for granted again.
Thank you Joanne. You make a good point about no longer taking drop-in visits for granted. I remember the intensive planning that went into outdoor visits with our children and grandchildren, or those visits through the window with my mother-in-law who was in a care center. What I would have given for an unplanned in-person visit at that time.
I’m glad to read that you’re doing great with your word of the year. It’s encouraging to know it’s making you a healthier and happier person. My WOTY is enjoy. I’m working on it, but it takes effort when the world seems to be falling apart.
Thanks Ally. They are small steps, but effective. Even just the added awareness of being “connected” increases the feeling of connection. It is a challenging time for enjoyment. Perhaps all the more reason to focus on finding and spreading joy.
Connected is such a great word especially at the moment. Great post.
Thank you. Now is an important time to remember that we are all connected. May we all find peace within ourselves and spread it to all those we come in contact with.
Hi, Christie – Thank you so much for connecting and contributing to this monthly WOTY linkup. I love the multitude of ways that you are connecting to all around you. Your quote about the miracle of connecting to the present moment is spot on!
Thank you Donna. I appreciate the opportunity to participate in the linkup. I’m enjoying connecting with some new bloggers and some I hadn’t spoken with in a while.
That’s awesome, Christie. Connecting and reconnecting with others is my absolute favourite thing about blogging!
Me, too Donna!
I love being able to connect here Christie. I think you word and the way you’re approaching it is really great. Can imagine how fantastic you must feel as you get back to Orange Theory. I love your attitude towards unannounced visits. I don’t handle them as well as you. They stress me out. I probably need to work on that.
Hello Jennifer. I’m loving the connection I’m finding on this linkup as well. Unannounced visits have not always come easy for me either, so I can relate to the stress you feel. But once I accept the disruption to plans, I find I am able to relax and enjoy. And once I do, I never regret the opportunity to connect with the people in my life.
You certainly are living your WOTY, Christy and staying connected in so many ways. I’ve not tried Orange Theory but I know you have mentioned it before so I’m sure you felt great getting back into it. Take care, stay connected and I look forward to your connecting with us next month for the WOTY Link Party. xx
Thank you, Sue. I’m glad you ladies came up with the idea for the WOTY linkup. I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to connect with other bloggers and that it gives me an added incentive to stay focused on my word and what I would like to experience this year.
Hi Christie, I love the quote you finished your post with, it’s perfect! Your word of the year is also going well and blogging allows us to stay connected with you as well, so it’s all win/win. Thanks for joining us for our monthly linkup.
Isn’t that quote wonderful, Deb. It was spot on for what I’m working towards this year. And thanks again for hosting the WOTY link party. It has given me another enjoyable avenue for connecting.
Hi Christie – I love how you’ve integrated your #WOTY into your daily life and made it so “connected” into so many areas. I also really like that last loving kindness blessing that you give to others – such a thoughtful and positive way to start the day.
Hello, Leanne. If nothing else, the focus on being connected has made me more aware and appreciative of all the beautiful connections in my life. And in some strange way, the lovingkindness blessings make me feel closer to those people and deepens my love for them, even though the recipients don’t know I’ve sent them.
Hi Christie, Connected is a great word especially with what’s been happening in the world. You’ve been doing so well with your WOTY. Thank you for sharing your updates. Have a wonderful March!
Thank you, Natalie. I couldn’t agree more about the need to acknowledge the connection between all people everywhere. I hope March is good to you.
Hi Christie, you’ve chosen a lovely and important word of the year. I think we all would benefit from focusing on being connected, to authenticity, the present moment, and lots more. I thought when I read about the unplanned visit that it sounded so nice to have family drop in now and then!
Hello Susanne. You are correct. I am so lucky…blessed…whatever you want to call it…to be so close geographically and emotionally to my family that drop-in visits are even a possibility. I love it and am deeply grateful!
Christie, in truth, I’ve faffed around with my WOTY, and still don’t feel I’d found the right one. I’m in a(nother) period of change which is always uncomfortable, if a bit exciting. Unfortunately I think the fear is bigger than the excitement still. I believe my word needs to be something along the lines of courage or bravery – but with such genuine examples of this being seen in Ukraine, I don’t feel quite right using it myself.
I need some of that connection you speak of so eloquently to tap into what’s right for me. Time to sit in the park and meditate methinks.
Listen to your heart…your gut…on this one, Debs. I love the idea of you taking some quiet time to tap into what is right for you. And if the word is courage, embrace it. Courage comes in all different shapes and sizes. You claiming courage for your life circumstances certainly doesn’t take anything away from the courage or bravery of our fellow human beings in Ukraine. Life requires courage of all of us. Go and meditate…I hope you will share the results. Sending a virtual hug!
Thank you Christie, that’s much appreciated.
I will try to remember to return & share the results.
I would love that, Debs. If not before, hopefully I will see you back for the March WOTY link party.