Mary Tess Rooney, Author at Mary Tess Rooney

EP221: Your Word for the Year

I was thrilled when a fellow Strider reached out and asked me what my word of the year is going to be.

If you’re new to this podcast, let me explain: since 2010, I’ve chosen a word each year that helps ground me, something that represents what I want to embody, what I want to challenge myself to be mindful of, or the intention I’m setting for that year.

For example, in 2010, my word was “ask.” I wasn’t speaking up or asking for the things I needed or wanted. I was caught up in doing for others while neglecting myself. So that year, I decided I was going to ask for help, ask for support, ask for more resources, and even ask someone out. It was all about pushing myself to take the action I’d been avoiding.

Last year, my word was “heal,” especially as I recovered from colon surgery. These words help me stay aligned with my goals, and whenever I feel off course, I can check in with my word to bring me back.

Today, on this Wise Walk, let’s slow down, check in with our reality, and set our intention for the year ahead.

- Do you have a practice that helps ground you in what you hope to feel, accomplish, or challenge yourself with in the coming year?
- Is there a word that helps reground you and take you into that mindset, or helps you reframe a perspective to move further in alignment?
- If you’re new to the “word of the year” concept or the idea of setting a practice to stay grounded, what do you think would make you feel more aligned?
- What is a mantra or something you can embody and hold space for, so that as your year progresses, you have it as a compass to recenter yourself when life shifts your energy?
- What is an adventure or experience you’re ready to take on?
- What have you learned about yourself this past year that feels meaningful and makes you want to go all in on it?
- What is something you feel super connected to, inspired by, or awakened to that feels new and exciting?
- How can you create space or a sacred presence for yourself to receive more goodness related to that intention?
- How can you actively set that intention and manifest it into the universe to attract more of it?

As we wrap up today’s wise walk, I encourage you to reflect on the adventure or experience you’re ready to take on, and the intention you want to set for the year ahead.

Think about what you’ve learned about yourself and what inspires you, and create the space to receive more of that goodness. Remember, actively manifesting your intentions is a powerful way to attract what you truly desire.

Thank you for walking with me today, and I look forward to reconnecting with you soon.

In this episode:

[04:34] The idea of “divine timing” has been surfacing for me lately. Everything happens when it’s meant to be.

[05:07] There is something greater than us that’s helping us become our higher self.

[07:25] The other word that came up for me was trust.

[08:17] With continued soul-searching, I kept looking for the word that resonated the most with me this year. Other qualities include being present, patience, not rushing, and being open to receiving.

[09:58] I have different concepts of how I want to show up. I love how the Strider who reached out, reminded me of how important the word of the year is in terms of staying grounded and present to receive and give.

[12:20] I have a dear friend who has gone all in on her passion for fashion. It’s fun to witness what she’s attracting.

[13:09] This past year, she is really elevated it in terms of her intention.

[14:03] Think about what you can create or attract out of this intention you set for yourself.

[15:24] Each one of us has the opportunity to reinvent ourselves.

[16:29] I love that we can be intentional to achieve or receive what we are asking of the universe. My word of the year is going to be co-create!

[17:11] I know that how I show up is going to be better if I co-create in partnership with the universe, God, and all of the different influences.

[18:47] I’m going to co-create my next adventure.

Memorable Quotes:

“We can only control or influence so much and then we have to release expectations
and trust that there is a plan” – Mary Tess
“I want to be present and open. This idea of being open to receiving that next adventure in life, because I do feel like I’m ready for that next adventure.” – Mary Tess
“The reality is each one of us, every year, has the opportunity to reinvent ourselves. And it doesn’t even have to be at the change of the year.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP220: Anniversary Appreciation

This weekend marks one year since my colon surgery, a major turning point in my life. What was supposed to be a straightforward procedure turned into a nine-hour surgery, where they had to remove 20 inches of my colon instead of the planned 12.

There were complications, and the recovery was far from easy, but the good news is, I’m here today, feeling amazing and so grateful for how far I’ve come.

2023 was a tough year, full of hospital visits, health struggles, and working hard to keep my body in balance while battling infections, medication side effects and digestive issues. But today, I’m filled with gratitude for the effort I’ve put into my healing, the physical therapy, the self-care, and the small victories along the way.

For today’s Wise Walk, I thought we’d slow down and take a moment to check in with ourselves and reflect on our anniversaries and how far we’ve come on our journey.

- Is there an anniversary in your life that you want to acknowledge and appreciate?
- When you think back to any significant moment in your life, how do you celebrate it?
- How do you use it as an opportunity to reflect and see how far you’ve come?
- What energy, effort, and intention have you put into shaping and progressing that anniversary?
- Is there a relationship or moment where you’ve seen growth or strength built over time?
- What anniversary in your life do you want to honor and hold sacred space for?
- As you reflect on the anniversary that comes to mind, have you changed?
- In what ways do you feel accepted for the changes occurring in your life?
- Where do you feel supported?
- Where do you feel acknowledged for the good choices you’re trying to implement?
- Are the people supporting you in making those good choices the ones who will continue to support your path?
- Who are the people you can see moving forward with you, especially those who have been with you through rough patches?
- How do you feel accepted by the changes or intentions you’re implementing?
- How can you encourage more acceptance and support from those around you?
- As you reflect on the anniversary you’re commemorating, in what ways have you grown?
- What qualities do you want to honor and cherish in yourself right now?
- How have those qualities made you stronger, more whole, or helped you appreciate your progress?
- In what ways can you express gratitude for the progress you’ve made and acknowledge how far you’ve come?
- Is there an opportunity to look at the next year as a way to continue your evolution?
- As you feel appreciation for your anniversary, can you also set an intention for where you hope to be on that next anniversary?

As we wrap up today’s episode, I want to remind you that you don’t need a traditional anniversary to take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate who you are, all that you do, and how you show up in this world. Whatever you’re gaining on this Wise Walk, take some time to appreciate it in yourself.

I’d love to hear what you took away from today’s episode. Reach out and share your thoughts, and let me know where you’re headed in your next evolution. You are truly magical and beautiful, and together, we’ll continue to grow, evolve, and build momentum. Thanks for being here, and I can’t wait to hear from you!

In this episode:

[03:34] I want to acknowledge the idea of feeling accepted. I don’t want to be judged by my food choices.

[05:16] I had a wonderful time catching up with my friend Jeff, over a cup of tea, in his beautifully decorated house.

[07:11] There are so many things I can enjoy with my friends and family that don’t necessarily have to revolve around food.

[09:44] I’m also appreciative of my strength and resilience.

[11:07] It’s amazing to think about all that I’ve overcome and how I didn’t give up.

[13:06] This past year, I was part of a Shamanic Reiki apprenticeship program. It was all about energy healing and offering healing to others.

[14:15] I’ve learned that I can incorporate energetic healing gifts in everything that I do.

[15:14] We need to bring that light in to heal some of the pain, suffering, or trauma.

[16:17] I’ve come a long way in this one year of post-surgery. I’m going to go all in and see where I can take this energy work.

Memorable Quotes:

“I am a lot more aware of how I want to invite energy into my life, and how I want to share my energetic gifts with others.” – Mary Tess
“You are just magical and beautiful, and we’re going to keep growing and evolving and acknowledging what’s different just so we can build that momentum together.” – Mary Tess
“I feel grateful for the acceptance that I feel that I didn’t feel before.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP219: When Less is More

“Less is more.” It’s a simple phrase, but when we lean into it, it can transform how we live. Simplifying life, whether it’s clearing out distractions, reducing clutter, or focusing on what truly matters, can create deeper meaning, bigger impact, and a sense of harmony we all crave.

I was inspired to talk about this topic after watching a TV show, and one of the characters reflected on how the news used to feel richer and more meaningful before the 24-hour news cycle took over. I recalled that we grew up in a time when news came in short, focused bursts—at 5 o’clock, 10 o’clock, or 11 o’clock—but not constantly.

It got me thinking about how less can often feel like more in our lives. Simplicity and scarcity sometimes bring deeper meaning and impact because they allow us to savor moments instead of being overwhelmed by them. So for today’s Wise Walk, let’s slow down together. Let’s reflect on where in our lives we might benefit from this “less is more” approach.

- What awareness or epiphany did you have regarding how less is more when reflecting on the evolution of the news cycle?
- What other areas of your life come to mind when you think about where less might be more?
- How can we incorporate the idea of “less is more” into our lives if we’ve drifted away from simplicity?
- How can we create and share moments that are unique, individualized, and impactful because they are less frequent?
- What am I definitely committed to showing up for?
- What am I going to say NO to?
- Can we find the ebb and flow within us that works for us?
- When is less more?
- What are those areas in our life we want to be more intentional about?

I can’t believe 2024 is almost over, and here we are in December. As part of my Wise Walk, I’m planning to journal on this idea of when less is more.

It’s my chance to reflect, go inward, and explore what shifts I want to make in 2025, where I want to focus my energy, and what I want to be more intentional about.

I invite you to do the same. Take some time to reflect on what stood out for you in today’s episode. Where in your life could less be more? Or where have you already seen the benefits of this mindset? I’d love to hear your thoughts and takeaways, so feel free to share them with me.

Until next time, take care, enjoy this season of reflection, and keep walking your True Stride.

In this episode:

[00:47] The news seemed more meaningful when there wasn’t a 24-hour news cycle.

[03:32] When I have less distractions, I have more energy. The quality of what I put my energy into is better.

[05:08] When I have less clutter, I have more space which means freedom, peace, and harmony.

[06:31] Another simple thing that came to mind was when we have less complaining, we have more gratitude.

[08:53] When we are able to notice what we’re investing our time in, we can create more balance.

[10:25] Each of us have things that we can work on and bring to light and be more aware of.

[11:51] Is there someone in your life that can help you with what you need to work on?

[12:14] Can you get curious about things in your life that are causing anxiety?

[13:48] It’s about finding what’s better for us in that “less is more” category.

[15:17] This also applies with gift giving.

Memorable Quotes:

“Any time or any energy that we put forward for complaining is less time that we have to be grateful.” – Mary Tess
“Space means freedom. It means peace. It means harmony. What a lovely idea for me to focus on less clutter in my life, so that I can have more space and freedom and peace and harmony.” – Mary Tess
“Sometimes one thoughtful gift means more than several that dilute its significance.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP218: Community Inspiration

I want to share something that’s been on my mind after visiting a few local gyms recently. What started as a simple search for a place to get in some strength training turned into a bigger reflection on how much community shapes and inspires us.

There was an older gentleman lifting more weight than I could, and a woman in sequins heading to Zumba, ready to hit the dance floor. Watching everyone show up in their own unique way reminded me how powerful it is to be part of something bigger and how community can inspire us, push us, support us, and help us grow.

Whether it’s a gym, a writing group, or even a bunch of fans rallying for the same team, the connections we make help define how we see ourselves and what’s possible.

In this episode, let’s take a Wise Walk together and reflect on the communities that inspire us, the lessons they bring, and how showing up matters—not just for us, but for the people around us.

- How is the support of community positively impacting you?
- What community are you consistently excited to engage with?
- How do they inspire you, and how do you inspire others?
- What about that community makes you say, “That was an amazing use of my time”?
- What are you gaining from being part of community?
- What groups or communities have helped you raise your vibration or lift yourself to a higher level?
- Which communities have inspired you or offered a safe path to explore a unique aspect of yourself?
- As you explore an interest, what has surprised you along the way?
- What have you learned that you might not have known if you hadn’t shown up?
- What awareness did you gain from those experiences?
- In the communities you engage with, where are you the student?
- How can you take the lessons you’ve learned and pay them forward to benefit others?
- How does learning and growing through these experiences become a part of you?
- How can you use what you’ve learned to help someone else in the future?
- When you show up in your community, can you embrace the mindset of being both a student and a teacher?
- How do you pay it forward in ways that feel authentic and aligned with you?

Thank you, for being part of this community, for showing up as your true self, and for bringing your curiosity and energy to push us all to see what’s possible.

I’d love to hear what resonated with you from today’s episode—what communities are inspiring you right now, and what you’ve learned by showing up for them.

I look forward to our Wise Walk together, next Thursday, so be sure to tune in. Until then, don’t forget to prioritize fun as you read the signs, direct your path, and get your stride on!

In this episode:

[04:40] I’m seeing people of all walks of life doing what lights them up and supports their interest and wellbeing.

[05:35] The other thing that community does is it brings us closer together in ways outside of our initial interest.

[06:13] The kickboxing class was also going for it. I remember how those classes helped me in that phase of my life.

[07:04] We gain a sense of belonging and feel seen for showing up.

[08:14] New York JETS fans are diehard because of a sense of belonging and rooting for the underdog.

[09:20] Writing groups are also a great source of sharing and caring. Joining communities helps us tap into different aspects of ourselves.

[12:12] I love it when we slow down, check our reality, and take time to reflect on these questions.

[13:26] Being a substitute yoga teacher is also a gift of community where I can show up and be present.

[15:54] Community empowers you and makes you more fearless when you know you have support.

[16:32] We are not alone, and we belong when we join a group and put ourselves out there.

Memorable Quotes:

“Community isn’t always about winning or accomplishments. It can also be about just showing up and having that sense of belonging, that sense of understanding.” – Mary Tess
“Every time you’re learning, growing, and expanding your knowledge and experiences, that becomes a part of you that you might be able to share to help someone else in the future.” – Mary Tess
“The connections we make help define how we see ourselves and what we believe is possible” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP217: What Energy Are You Assigning?

I’d like to take you on an introspective journey inspired by a recent eye doctor appointment with my mother. When we came across a humorous sequence of letters on the vision chart, what began as a normal exam became a source of pure joy. My mom’s laughter was contagious, and it reminded me of the energy we assign to the little things in life.

Some moments trigger humor, while others may bring stress—but the choice of how we perceive them is always ours.

In this episode, we’ll slow down for a wise walk and ask ourselves important questions to explore how we can turn triggers into opportunities for growth, laughter, and connection.

- Are there situations in your life, or words or phrases, that trigger you positively or negatively?
- What energy are you assigning to those things?
- Do you have the opportunity to reevaluate and ask why they trigger you?
- Can you shift that energy and see them from a different perspective?
- Are there qualities or characteristics people call out about you?
- Have those comments ever triggered you negatively because they challenged your sense of normalcy?
- Are you still allowing their energy to define how you see those qualities?
- Can you thank someone for acknowledging a unique part of you and embrace it as a strength?
- Is there an opportunity to make peace with those qualities, assign them positive energy, and appreciate your uniqueness?
- Are there things, words, people, or places that once held a negative connotation for you?
- Is there an opportunity to see them from a different, unique perspective?
- Can you free yourself from past associations so they no longer hold power over you?
- Where can you find the positive light and assign a radiant new perspective to those things or situations?

Thank you for joining me today. My wish for you as you stride forward is to hold good intentions in your heart, assign energies that uplift you, and embrace the clarity and awareness that supports your journey. I’d love to hear what resonated with you from today’s episode.

I’ll see you next Thursday for another Wise Walk, so be sure to tune in. Until then, prioritize fun, read the signs, direct your path, and get your stride on!

In this episode:

[04:06] The different meanings or energetic values we place on things. When I was young I would get triggered when people said certain things about me, but now I embrace my differences.

[05:36] We don’t have to assign that energy if we don’t want to. We can reframe how we think about things.

[06:10] We don’t have to accept other people’s negative vibes as our own. I love the idea of being intentional about the energy we assign things.

[09:07] We don’t have to assign negative energy to things from our past. For instance, some people are triggered by flowers because of the negative connotation of receiving them when someone’s apologizing.

[11:25] Our state of mind can also affect how we assign energy.

[12:21] Show up with a high vibration in order to receive positive messages.

[13:40] Be aware of the energy that you are projecting.

[16:16] Think about where we can reassign energy and meaning to things that might not be said with the right intention.

Memorable Quotes:

“I love this idea of releasing energy on things or words that once triggered us and kind of seeing what else is possible.” – Mary Tess
“Hold good intentions in your heart and assign energies that lift you up and help you evolve on your path.” – Mary Tess
“Life is about constantly evolving and changing—embrace that and let go of what no longer serves you.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP216: Puppy Love Lessons

In our last episode, I shared a special experience of transporting a nine-week-old German Shepherd puppy from Austin, Texas, to her new home with my aunt in Palm Springs, California. Everything just aligned perfectly—it felt like divine timing, and everything came together in such a beautifully kismet way.

This little puppy, named Bear because she looks like a tiny black bear, was joining my aunt’s family to be a buddy for her other dog, Madra. The journey was truly magical. Traveling with Bear was a bit of an adventure—meeting her for the first time, helping her through the excitement and anxiety of leaving her family, and carrying her energy and spirit through the trip.

The breeder, a lovely person, met me at the airport with a little care package for Bear filled with treats and comforts, which made everything feel a bit easier and more connected.

Bear and I bonded in ways I didn’t expect. She reminded me of the pure joy in new adventures and that “puppy love” feeling when you’re just completely taken by the moment.

So today, in our Wise Walk, let’s slow down, check in with ourselves, and explore that sense of joy and appreciation for the new experiences in our lives.

- How often in your life do you experience that gaga, puppy-love feeling?
- When was the last time you felt that pure surge of love without any particular reason or foundation?
- Did you cherish and hold onto that feeling?
- Do you carried that beautiful, innocent energy into other areas of your life?
- How have you used that energy in your everyday life to elevate your vibration?
- What do you find magical about interacting with babies or puppies and their pure, joyful energy?
- Are there situations where you can hold onto that gaga puppy essence?
- When negative energy approaches, can you deflect it and maintain your high vibration without getting involved?
- Are there times in your life when you need help and support, and are you willing to ask for it?
- Can you appreciate the kindness of strangers when you have a real need?
- Who or what can you turn to for comfort and support when you feel anxious, tense, or scared, to help you feel safe and loved?
- Where in your life can you hold onto that “new puppy” or “new relationship” energy and infuse it into long-standing relationships?
- Where can you release expectations of mature relationships and embrace acceptance for everyone’s inner child?
- How can you reconnect with your inner childlike essence?

Thank you so much for joining me on this journey and allowing me to share these lessons with you. It’s been incredibly invigorating, in ways I never anticipated.

Each time I share my experiences, it solidifies these insights even more, reminding me of the beauty in simple things, like Bear’s puppy love.

It’s funny how these moments teach us what we already know, but sometimes forget. I’m grateful to walk this path with you, rediscovering those simple, powerful truths together.

In this episode:

[01:58] Bear and I bonded in ways I couldn’t expect, and she was an amazing reminder of how important it is for us to appreciate new adventures and that puppy love feeling.

[03:19] When interacting with babies and puppies the energy is pure.

[04:36] How often in real life do we interact with people who are having a bad day and putting negative energy on us? We don’t have to let it affect us, we can chuckle and step away.

[05:17] The puppy also reminded me of the kindness of strangers.

[07:23] I share an awesome story about burly men holding sweet little Bear at the airport.

[08:07] I love that she reminded me of the kindness of strangers and how it’s okay to ask for help.

[10:24] Another gift I was inspired to remember is the idea of protecting our inner child.

[12:59] Another gift was that I felt seen by Bear.

[13:33] Sitting in silence and looking at each other was beautiful.

[14:52] She also brought me a lot of joy and I love the experience.

[15:57] Can we infuse more puppy energy into our dynamic?

[18:06] The puppy also reminded me of the feelings of forgiveness and understanding.

Memorable Quotes:

“When I looked into her eyes, it was like she was looking into my eyes and could see my soul.” – Mary Tess
“Sometimes, in our mature relationships, we lose touch with the pure essence of childlike curiosity. Yet, there are always ways for us to find our way back to it” – Mary Tess
“Sometimes, the kindness of strangers surprises us and reminds us that it’s okay to ask for help and embrace our vulnerabilities.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP215: Wonders of Divine Timing

Have you ever had a moment in life when everything just seemed to fall into place at exactly the right time? Growing up, I was raised with the belief that while hard work and putting yourself out there are essential, there’s also this beautiful necessity to stay open and receptive to the right timing from the Universe.

Divine timing is about alignment, that perfect synergy of purpose, path, and timing, a belief that things unfold just as they should, exactly when they’re meant to.

In this episode, we’re slowing down for a Wise Walk, taking a moment to pause, check our realities, and explore the magic that unfolds when we stay open to the idea that there’s a time for everything. Together, we’ll ask ourselves questions to help us recognize and honor the moments when life aligns beautifully and unexpectedly in our favor.

- Do you believe in divine timing?
- Do you trust that everything happens at the perfect time?
- Can you hold space for this idea in your life?
- Are you able to stay present while taking steps toward what you hold in your heart?
- Can you release the expectation of when things will happen?
- And can you allow the stars to align, trusting divine timing to bring the right things, people, and opportunities at the perfect moment?

- When was the last time you truly wanted something?
- Even if it didn’t happen as quickly as you hoped, did it eventually come to be?
- When it did, was the timing better than you could have planned?
- As you reflect on that experience, how amazing did it feel to finally receive it?
- Did you love it even more because you realized how precious it was?
- How is your energy lately?
- Are you able to honor this idea of divine timing to put your energy and intentions out there?

This Wise Walk reminds me of the importance of releasing control and allowing things to unfold naturally. Thank you for holding space for us to reflect and gain awareness on each and every episode.

I’d love to hear your stories of how divine timing brought something magical into your life—something you’ve been holding in your heart. As we move through the holidays and into next year, let’s continue to honor our energy, hold space for divine timing, and see what’s truly possible.

In this episode:

[02:42] I share a story about my aunt and her beautiful German Shepherd puppy.

[03:41] My aunt was trying to get a companion for her puppy and ended up getting kicked off her plane.

[05:03] She was extremely brave and acknowledged that this new puppy wasn’t the right fit. The Universe literally got her kicked off the plane with this puppy.

[06:14] She ended up getting offered a puppy that was actually the perfect fit.

[07:52] It just so happened that I had travel booked to where the puppy was.

[08:50] When the stars align, and you create space in your calendar, the Universe has the opportunity to bring in what truly matters to you.

[10:36] This whole experience has been a great reminder for me about how the Universe has our back.

[13:11] I’m super excited about flying to Austin tomorrow, and the breeder is going to meet me at the airport.

[14:10] I love that I get to see my aunt and pick up her baby girl. Then the weekend is all about me and my dear friend.

[14:35] This has been a beautiful reminder that the most important thing we carry is our energy.

Memorable Quotes:

“When the stars align, and we open ourselves to receive, the Universe brings things into our lives at the perfect time.” – Mary Tess
“The Universe has our back, and when we hold space for something we want, it often arrives in ways we couldn’t have orchestrated ourselves.” – Mary Tess
“How amazing is it when things manifest without force, like the sky clears and everything clicks into place?” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP214: Aligned Stride: In Step with Your Heart

I received a message from a new listener—a new Strider—who was asking about the origins of the True Stride podcast. How it came to be, and the connection between Wise Walks and this community. They wanted to understand how they could be a part of it and feel connected on a deeper level.

I love that kind of feedback, so thank you for reaching out and asking these questions! For anyone listening, you’re always welcome to share your ideas, thoughts, feedback, or reflections based on our Wise Walks.

The timing of this message was also special because two weeks ago marked our four-year anniversary. I can hardly believe that our community has been coming together for weekly Wise Walks for over four years now.

So, here we are in episode 214, and I thought this would be a perfect time to slow down, check our reality, and ask ourselves some meaningful questions.

- How has the True Stride podcast supported you in connecting with your inner knowing?
- How has it helped you drop into your heart and ask meaningful questions that align you with your True Stride?
- How do you apply what you’ve learned? Or reflect on the insights gained from simply slowing down and tuning into your heart?
- What are some ways you slow down, check in with reality, and take yourself on a Wise Walk to gain insight into where you are now and where you want to go?
- How do you balance logic and heart, releasing the need to control and letting your feelings guide you forward?
- Do you feel aligned in moving with both head and heart, or is there space to be more intentional about leading from the heart?
- How have you incorporated Wise Walks into your everyday life?
- Where do you create a safe, sacred space to go inward, clear distractions, and connect with your inner compass?
- What insights guide you to stand confidently and declare who you choose to be and what you’re excited to pursue in this lifetime?

Thank you for joining me on this journey and for the support that has made sharing so fulfilling each week. These Wise Walks help us grow, gain wisdom, and step into new versions of ourselves. I’m grateful for this evolving community and the space we’ve created to change unapologetically.

I’d love to hear how today’s episode resonated with you and how you’re bringing Wise Walks into your life. Until next Thursday, keep prioritizing fun, direct your path, and get your stride on!

In this episode:

[02:27] True Stride began as a running metaphor. I could feel when I was–and wasn’t–in my True Stride.

[03:24] I would find my flow after about 10 minutes of running.

[04:06] It wouldn’t work if I tried to create that feeling with my mind. I had to allow myself just to be.

[04:35] When I started my podcast, I wanted to share how important it is for each of us to find our True Stride.

[05:08] How can we feel our way forward and find that True Stride in everything that we’re doing.

[06:18] The amazing thing about this community is that we support each other and cheer each other on.

[07:34] It doesn’t matter what the title of the episode is, what matters is whatever surfaces for you.

[08:09] This community is a safe environment and we can be open without judgment.

[09:29] We are becoming more of the person that we’re meant to be as we travel during our time on this Earth.

[12:18] It’s important for us to realize that everything in life ebbs and flows, and we can’t always be in our true stride.

[13:30] Wise Walks because walking helps me ground and catch my breath.

[14:28] The answers are inside of us. We need to take time to ask ourselves questions.

[16:57] We get to design our own lives, and there are no rules.

Memorable Quotes:

“Life is a journey we design ourselves, and there are no rules but the ones we choose to honor. – Mary Tess
“The True Stride community supports each other in our highs, lows, and everything in between, creating a safe, judgment-free space.” – Mary Tess
“True Stride isn’t just about movement—it’s about feeling our way forward, not forcing or controlling, but letting our heart lead.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP213: Upcycle Love

Life has a way of surrounding us with things we once loved—whether it’s treasured belongings, relationships, or even past versions of ourselves. But as we grow and change, so do our needs and priorities. In this episode, I’m reflecting on what it means to Upcycle Love. It’s not just about letting go of items that no longer serve us, but about giving them new life and purpose in someone else’s hands.

As I prepared to evacuate for Hurricane Milton, I found myself going through my home and reevaluating what really mattered. It was eye-opening to realize how much I was holding on to things that no longer carried the same emotional weight. This process felt like more than just preparing for a storm—it became a lesson in releasing the old to make space for something new.

On this Wise Walk, we’ll slow down and reflect on how this idea of upcycling applies to all areas of life—our relationships, our emotional well-being, and the way we move forward. Let’s explore how letting go can open the door to fresh energy and allow love, in all its forms, to flow back into our lives in unexpected and beautiful ways.

- Are there things in your life that you are ready to let go of that perhaps in your past held this strong love or energetic and emotional connection?
- Are there things that don’t feel that high vibrational factor anymore?
- What areas in your life are overshadowed by excess?
- Have you lost sight of what truly brings you joy because items have multiplied?
- Does life feel heavier because you’re holding on to too much?
- Can you envision feeling lighter by releasing and upcycling those items with love?
- What in your life are you ready to release so someone else can see its value increase with fresh new eyes?
- What are you willing to let go of and trust that something new will be born in its place?
- Can you let go of something and allow someone else to appreciate and cherish it as you once did?
- Where can you let go of the old version of a relationship to allow it to transform or make space for someone new?
- Where can you upcycle your relationships to stay fueled by high vibrational people?

I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my community and the way we’ve come together during this time. As we head into the holiday season, I’m excited to release items and relationships that no longer serve me, trusting they will bring new energy and transformation into my life.

I hope you, too, embrace this mindset of letting go and making space for surprises and new connections. As always, thank you for your support. I look forward to our next Wise Walk together. Until then, prioritize fun as you read the signs, direct your path and get your stride on.

In this episode:

[05:19] I was sharing with a friend who was also a grandmother, and she said the same thing. She had 50 plants that she once loved but now she was going to choose 10.

[06:11] We had to take everything that was outside and secure it.

[07:44] What a gift to upcycle items that someone else can now love.

[08:36] It feels good to release things that no longer bring us joy. Now is the time to donate and give things an opportunity to find a new loving home.

[09:36] It’s the season when people may be looking for donated toys or other items to help with the holidays.

[10:34] Give love to the idea of new people being able to appreciate what you once loved.

[11:52] The quality of older items is often better.

[12:44] It’s important for us to be able to release and upcycle whatever is coming into our life.

[13:53] There are a million ways to upcycle things in our lives.

[15:04] When we let go of what something was, we can trust the opportunity that something new is born. This holds true for relationships also.

Memorable Quotes:

“Upcycling isn’t just about physical things—it’s about relationships and emotional connections. Letting go creates space for new energy to flow into our lives.” – Mary Tess
“In moments where you’re making quick decisions, you get clarity on what truly matters. The things I thought I would hold on to no longer had that high vibrational factor.” – Mary Tess
“As we approach the holiday season, what a gift it is to release things and let them find a new home where they will bring joy to someone else.” – Mary Tess

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