closing out the fall mindfully
This fall, I had the pleasure of speaking with Travis and Kamilah from the Institute for African American Mindfulness (IAAM) about balance and how we can use the season as inspiration. I even pulled out a singing bowl. We took a moment to get centered, and it was a really good time. We had a discussion about healing. Then, I shared reflections on balance and lessons we can take from fall and seasonal activities.
We talked about how finding balance between the mind, body, and spirit is another way of thinking about alignment. Perfect, continuous balance isn’t a destination, nor is it sustainable. After a good laugh, we rejected that idea and embraced something more realistic.
Balance is a range of well-being supported by multiple systems. One way to stay within that range is through simple, regular, honest check-ins:
How is my body?
What going on with my thoughts and emotions?
Am I aware of—and living out—my values?
Why is this a value for me at this time?
From that short assessment, we can see what we need. If we can take immediate action, great. If not, we can note it and follow up when we’re able.
I also spent time reflecting on what we can learn from the fall season itself, especially its natural energy of slowing down. Of course, this time of year brings harvest to mind—gathering what we’ve grown and practicing gratitude. But I also introduced a less-discussed aspect of fall: sorting.
After the harvest, farmers sort their crops and decide what stays and what goes. Animals do the same as they prepare for winter—just look at the squirrels. Sorting is its own kind of mindfulness practice, one rooted in discernment.
What we keep after the harvest must be eaten or prepped for storage. Sorting creates inner spaciousness, which supports rest. It’s also a way to honor ourselves by embracing our power to choose: what to keep, what to let go of, and what to compost. Sometimes that means thoughts, emotions, or behaviors. Sometimes it’s relationships. Some lessons we can apply now; others need more time to mature. And what we release might even benefit our community—because if it no longer serves us (or never did), it’s not letting us be our best for ourselves or our community.
As we close out this fall, I invite you to join me in revisiting our harvest with gratitude. Let’s take stock of what’s been working and what’s ready to be released. Once we’re clear on what we’re keeping, notice which lessons are ripe for action and which ones need to sit with us over the winter—or longer.
If you’re interested in watching, you can do that here.
Take care with love,
Dr. Joey D. Brown
