Your value is an accrual of experiences! Embrace the good, the bad, the ugly and the downright complicated to awaken your joy!

EP107: Run Toward Vs. Away From

by Mary Tess Rooney | Oct 13, 2022 | Podcast

We cannot stride forward if we fixate on the past, fear, or anything we’re trying to run away from. Holding our gaze on what we are running towards gives us that extra push to face life boldly. This episode talks about running towards life instead of away from life.

Around this time, communities in Florida faced Hurricane Ian. This includes my own area, and I had to make many decisions before the storm even came. At first, it was unclear how significant the storm would be, so I contemplated how to prepare. The forecasts did not get better, which meant I had to figure out a crisis plan for myself and my dogs.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP107’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. I had a lot of questions the week leading up to Hurricane Ian. With a trip already planned, I had to reevaluate what would be right in this situation and adjust. It was not simple, but something I found myself adapting to while figuring it out.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about moving towards a supportive life rather than feeling stuck with what we want to avoid. We can do this by giving space and grace to ourselves before taking action. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in your life do you feel love and support, especially when you’re in a crisis?
- Do you take time to thank and honor people for their support as you figure out what you need to do?
- Are you mindfully running towards something that lights you up versus away from something that gives you anxiety?
- How do you manage your anxiety in a crisis or in unpredictable moments?

If you get tired while running towards life, you can find support. People showing love, care, and checking-in are a few examples of powerful support. It’s something that can come in many forms. When we exchange this support, we acknowledge each other’s struggle and stride towards better.

As you consider what you’re running towards or what you’re running away from, rethink your plans with these Wise Walk questions:

- Do you readily accept help and acknowledge the help given?
- Are you grateful for that support in your life?
- Do you ever find yourself shying away from help?
- Where in your life do you need to shift your mindset as running towards something instead of fixating on what you’re running away from?
- As you run forward, do you see your confidence growing and how does that make you feel?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[02:55] – Mary Tess shares how she prepared for Hurricane Ian as the storm approached her area.

[05:53] – Mary Tess describes the 14hr-straight drive she took to get to a better environment.

[07:37] – What are ways Mary Tess saw people show up for each other during these times?

[10:13] – What was the aftermath of Hurricane Ian?

[11:44] – The power of supporting someone can come in many forms.

[13:47] – How did Mary Tess find a place to stay while traveling with her two dogs?

[16:40] – Mary Tess recalls how her dogs accidentally locked her out when staying with a friend. PART 1

[19:14] – Mary Tess recalls how her dogs accidentally locked her out when staying with a friend. PART 2

[21:06] – What unexpected lesson did Mary Tess get out of Hurricane Ian?

[23:44] – What actually matters in times of crisis?

[25:33] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“I want to run towards something that’s good for me. I don’t want to just spend my life running away from something that scares me.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP106: Shift from Identity Pressure to Peace

by Mary Tess Rooney | Oct 6, 2022 | Podcast

If you want to learn how to release and start anew with ease, simply look at nature. Seasonal changes can inspire how we re-engage and refresh our identity in new life phases. This episode talks about shifting from identity pressure to peace.

Recently, I received messages from two Striders going through major transitions in their lives. One Strider is selling their long-standing, successful law practice. Another Strider is a stay-at-home mom preparing to go back into the workforce. Huge transitions can come with uncertainty and confusion. I could feel from their messages that they are exploring clarity and what path lies ahead of them. Both Striders expressed what I think of as identity pressure.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP106’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. Starting a new phase of life can be liberating. There’s benefits to being a beginner. From the phases of life to the gaps in between, we continuously add to our Value Vault as we share our Heart Value and grow through Expansion Experiences. We should aim to transition into our new identity gracefully without forcing it and give ourselves grace for the times we stumble into one.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about how to welcome your new transition of life. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- Whatever season of life you’re currently in, how can you shift your energy from identity pressure to identity peace?
- As you think about your current transition, how can you enjoy it more?
- As we consider what’s calling us, can we embrace our restart and release the outdated identity?
- Where can you get excited about starting as a beginner again and building new expertise?

I really appreciate the emails I got from our fellow Striders expressing their concerns about clarity and life phases. I’m very optimistic that I’ll hear back from you with news of how you embraced your next chapter.

You don’t have to figure everything out right now. Embrace your refresh identity with these Wise Walk questions:

- Have you taken time to celebrate how far you’ve come with all the experiences that make you YOU?
- How do you intend to carry all of the people that you impacted with you?
- How do you want to honor the previous parts of you?
- How are you going to thank and release the previous parts of yourself that are no longer serving you?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[02:09] – How do we relate our identity to the phases of our life?

[03:32] – Are you ready to be a beginner again?

[05:48] – Mary Tess shares the time she became a snowboard instructor.

[08:49] – Release the unrealistic expectations you put on yourself.

[11:10] – Every single season of life brings its own experience.

[14:11] – Mary Tess recalls this graduation gift her mother gave her that reminds her of the gaps between life phases.

[16:29] – Be kind with yourself as you refresh your identity.

[19:05] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“The reality is that anyone who loves you just wants you to be happy, feel fulfilled, and have that high energetic vibration and frequency that they know is possible for you.” – Mary Tess
“Trust that you don’t have to figure out all the answers before you transition.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP105: Reuniting & Remembering

by Mary Tess Rooney | Sep 29, 2022 | Podcast

As we go through life, there are moments we like to remember, or we occasionally circle back to situations. What happens when years or decades pass? This episode talks about the feelings of reuniting and remembering.

This weekend I have a high school reunion. It’s been several decades. I went to a catholic high school in Delaware that was small and intimate, graduating with a class of 90 individuals. Thinking back, I played volleyball, softball, and was on the bowling team. I enjoyed my time there, even the times I got in trouble. My high school years gave me space to expand and grow while around supportive people.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP105’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. The word “reunion” is tied to a meaning of strengthening a connection or remembering as we reunite. You can reconnect with people, places, hobbies, or anything that contributed to your life. Before my high school reunion, I wanted to explore what this word means to me and what it could mean to you, my fellow Striders.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about my upcoming high school reunion and other things I’m reconnecting with, such as college friends and hobbies. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in your life do you want to have a reunion?
- Is there an activity or group of people that you want to strengthen the connection with?
- Is there an area of your life that you want to remember or acknowledge how it helped you change or evolve?
- Are there people that you want to gather with who have been on your mind?

What makes reunions so special is that they are a chance to peek into our life archive. We get to appreciate the different outlook that we’ve taken on as a result of the different phases of our life. Reunions show an evolution from where we were to where we are to sharing dreams for our future.

Remember your roots and your transitions with these Wise Walk questions:

- Is there something in your life that you have had a reunion experience with that you cherish?
- Are there people you can celebrate these milestones with?
- Where in your life can you bring something together again?
- Can you take action to support your need for what lights you up?
- Is there someone in your life that you want to create that reunion-like quality with so you both show up in these phases of life?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[03:17] – What is the definition of reunion?

[05:34] – Who do you want to reconnect with?

[07:43] – Mary Tess talks about getting back to running with a runners club. How has it been so far?

[10:30] – Connecting with like-minded individuals is important to see what’s possible in ourselves.

[12:17] – Mary Tess plans to meet up with a friend from college. It’s one of the few times per year they reconnect.

[15:08] – Reunions are a chance to give gratitude to those who inspire us.

[17:39] – Mary Tess talks about growing and expanding as we move through life, even when things get awkward.

[18:46] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“I am going to show up, be open, and see what comes my way.” – Mary Tess
“Every phase of life, every individual, and every experience is just adding value to everything that we do.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP104: NO is Empowering

by Mary Tess Rooney | Sep 22, 2022 | Podcast

A simple “No” is all you need. It can feel awkward sometimes, but what people don’t realize is that “No” can be freeing and thoughtful. Sometimes you have to say “No” or you’ll be giving less than what you’re capable of being. That’s not good for you or anyone else. This episode talks about how saying “No” is empowering.

Empowerment is a feeling of being aligned with our intentions. In life, there are moments where you need to say “No” to stay in tune with your authentic self. You communicate a clear intention with “No” that tells people what you will or will not engage.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP104’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. The most powerful part of “No” is that it’s a complete statement. Saying “No” is a very healthy boundary that keeps you aligned and frees you up to receive better aligned opportunities. A “No” can save you from wasting time or draining your energy.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about why “No” is empowering and ways to communicate “No” if you feel hesitant. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- How often do you use “No” in your life?
- Do you find yourself explaining your “No” because you feel like you owe people a reason?
- What’s the feeling that arises in you when you know you have to say “No” to something?
- Are there times in your life where you feel a “No” is in your best interest?
- If you hesitate to say “No”, does that cause friction since the other person is not able to make their next choice?

When something is presented to you and it doesn’t feel right, you can say “No”. What you say “Yes” or “No” to will create ripples in your life. You should want those ripples to reflect your true self.

Confidently say “No” without over-explaining. A few clear and kind responses include:

- No, but thank you for including me (or thinking of me).
- No, but I’m sure you can work through that or get additional resources you need.
- No, but I appreciate your offer.

Create personal boundaries with these Wise Walk questions:

- Can you exercise your ability to say “No” so that it becomes easier for you?
- Why are you triggered by saying “No”?
- What feelings or explanations surface when this happens?
- How can you shift your energy to express your feelings in an empowering and confident way?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[02:21] – Saying “No” can be energizing.

[04:17] – Mary Tess points out how we never explain a “Yes” the way we do a “No.”

[05:47] – Mary Tess shares how you can intentionally express your support without feeling guilt or obligation.

[07:30] – Saying ‘No’ can free you up and free others up as well.

[09:36] – We can all move on from a “No.”

[11:02] – Are you doing what’s best for you?

[13:52] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“Every time we create those personal boundaries without explanation, or clearly and lovingly expressing what our hearts are saying, then people can respond in-kind. They can receive it, take that information, and make the best decisions for their life too.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP103: Space to Feel the Feels

by Mary Tess Rooney | Sep 15, 2022 | Podcast

Some sensations and emotions remain with us long after the moment passes. Are you allowing yourself to release whatever is stored in your body, heart, and mind? This episode talks about giving yourself space to feel the feels.

The 21st Anniversary of September 11th recently happened. I’m actually recording this episode on 9/11/22 after commemorating this significant day at the race hosted by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. It’s my first time participating at the St. Augustine, FL location around new people. During the event I shared laughter and tears among the community of people gathered for the race. Being together reminded me of how we as a community, and humanity, can unite in kindness.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP103’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. With a day like this, I knew it’d be important to allow myself to feel the feels. While giving myself space and grace, you also came to my mind. How can people engage past trauma and past emotions in a healthy way? We can explore this question together in the safe space of our Wise Walk.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about showing up for yourself and holding space for your wide range of emotions. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- When you honor September 11th, or any significant date in your past, do you give space and grace to really allow those emotions to surface?
- Whether your emotions are highs or lows, do you allow yourself to feel the feels in that moment?
- What can you do to honor that awareness?
- In what ways are you expressing the emotion?
- If you feel called to cry, do you know why you’re crying?

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation continues to spread their impact and honor the heroism of September 11th, 2001. The wonderful community takes time to be present for the emotions and lessons we carried from that day forward.

Each of us has a unique experience of these events. Feel and honor your emotions with these Wise Walk questions:

- Can you also zoom out to the big picture and notice everyone around you?
- Do you see an opportunity to connect with them if you’re willing to open up to each other?
- As you do hard things in life, in what ways can you call upon your inner strength?
- Do you hold space to feel the feels?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[00:47] – Mary Tess talks about the Tunnel to Towers Foundation race she takes part in to honor September 11th.

[02:42] – Honor your emotions. Each of us has a unique experience of these events.

[04:25] – Mary Tess expresses how she feels running a race to honor the heroism shown during September 11th.

[07:01] – Mary Tess explains the emotions she connects with the sound of bagpipes. She shares its significance.

[09:16] – How can people engage past trauma and past emotions in a healthy way?

[11:07] – We have freedom because of the heroic service of everyday people.

[13:35] – How can you honor the emotions of significant past events?

[15:28] – “This is a day I know I need to hold space for.”

[17:11] – Mary Tess reflects on the impact the charitable event may have on the kids who attend with their parents.

[18:54] – There is beauty in these moments of remembrance.

[20:47] – “I am stronger than I sometimes give myself credit for.”

[23:12] – Everyday is a blessing.

[24:58] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“We get to live because so many people step up and do brave acts. And they sacrifice because of their service.” – Mary Tess
“I am stronger than I sometimes give myself credit for.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

Tunnel to Towers Foundation

EP102: Unite in Kindness & Never Forget

by Mary Tess Rooney | Sep 8, 2022 | Podcast

Kindness wins overall. It’s the feeling that brings us together and the feeling that helps us connect with each other. This episode talks about coming together to unite in kindness and never forgetting the power of community.

This coming Sunday marks the 21st Anniversary of September 11th. If you’re anything like me, you remember exactly where you were and what was happening. Not just that day, but the weeks, months, and years that followed. That day changed our country and the world. There was heartache, suffering, and loss, but we also connected as humans.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP102’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. I recall how I lived life in NYC before and after September 11th. As I reflect on that time, I recall how our energy and attention shifted from the hustle and bustle to a more intentional slow down to look each other in the eyes and connect with our neighbors on a more emotional level. Also, we began to think about how to take full advantage of the life we’ve been given or to support others in their pursuit of peace and possibilities.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about slowing down so we can honor the presence of each other. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in your life can you notice emotions that are surfacing in you?
- Is there someone in your surroundings that you can share that emotion with?
- Can you pick up on the energy of the people around you and see what support you can offer them?

We don’t have to be alone. We can give each other strength. Let’s appreciate what’s going on in ourselves and the community around us.

The world changed forever on that day, but we learned how to support each other. Elevate humanity with these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in your life do you need to notice your own emotions or those around you?
- When you see an opportunity to give support, will you show up?
- Are you sharing your value to help increase humanity?
- Where can you show your kindness and inspire yourself or others to be more empathetic?
- Can you release the limiting expectations?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[01:16] – Mary Tess says she learned to slow down more after the moments of September 11th while living in New York.

[02:48] – We don’t have to be alone.

[05:35] – An outpouring of love and support.

[07:55] – How can we support each other?

[10:40] – Crisis calls us to be present.

[12:53] – Mary Tess shares what she is doing to commemorate September 11th.

[14:08] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“It’s amazing what we can accomplish together when we are awakened to a need and shown an opportunity to help someone in need.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP101: Celebrate the Surprises of Life

by Amelia Driscoll | Sep 1, 2022 | Podcast

Sometimes things don’t go as expected. Yet, there are unexpected surprises that give us more than we imagine. This episode talks about celebrating the surprises of life.

I’m feeling extremely energized and happy this week. Why? It’s my birthday week! Yes, I completed another trip around the sun. I find myself in this new year where I get to carve out another chapter of my story. It makes me reflect on how far I came and how far I can go.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP101’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. I am literally the definition of a surprise. In this episode, I share my birth story with you and how I completely surprised my parents. It’s a story my mom tells me every year during my birthday. It already holds a special meaning for me, and I felt it’s a lesson on embracing change (outside of being hilarious).

On our Wise Walk, I talk about dreams, intentions, and the chance to craft a new narrative. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in your life are you allowing for surprises to come in?
- Are you taking the time to celebrate them?
- When you think of your past, where has your life taken a detour and that detour worked out better than expected?
- As you think about your future, where can you release the expectation around how it comes to life?

There is this cosmic unknown that is influencing our paths in life. We can embrace changes as they come our way, making the most out of each moment. Embracing the moment puts us back in our power.

You have to be willing to open up to the possibilities. Don’t get too attached to the “how.” Let the universe support you. Allow the future to fluidly unfold with these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in your life are you allowing growth and expansion to occur?
- Where are you releasing expectations and openly inviting love and new experiences into your life?
- Where have you honed in on some expectations that are potentially limiting?
- Can you release the limiting expectations?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[01:33] – Mary Tess shares why her birth was a surprise for her parents.

[03:38] – Celebrate the surprises in life.

[05:54] – You never know where life will take you.

[08:34] – Mary Tess shares a love story that surprises her. What shocked her?

[11:20] – Be open to receive good in your life.

[13:17] – Allow the future to fluidly unfold.

[15:36] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“I am taking my life chapter by chapter. And each year I’m gifted is another year I get to write the story of my dreams.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP100: Top Lessons from 100 Episodes

by Mary Tess Rooney | Aug 25, 2022 | Podcast

Can you believe True Stride is celebrating 100 episodes? Striders, together, we came far in this journey of joy, reflection, and self-awareness. It’s amazing to think we spent 100 Wise Walks expanding and growing together.

In this episode, I’m excited to reflect on our experiences over the 100 episodes and talk about lessons learned.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP100’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. Looking back at the conversations from different episodes felt like an archeological experiment. Let’s take time to slow down and celebrate.

On our Wise Walk, I give you the top 10 lessons that contribute to finding your True Stride. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- Where have you asked for help on something because you don’t yet have the self-belief to pursue your goal?
- Can you celebrate milestones with the people who help you?
- What’s been fulfilling and what’s been difficult on your journey?
- What are you ready to let go of to make more space for things that light you up?
- Are you slowing down and checking in with your feelings to make sure that you’re living your best life according to your Heart Value rules?
- What do you really want, and how are you getting clear on the steps to get there?
- When fear starts to arise, do you know that means you have an opportunity to grow?

It’s okay to use this time to restart or reset. Reflecting on these top 10 lessons can help you reevaluate what you’re doing to show up as your authentic self.

Your Heart Value is meant to be shared with the world. Drop into your heart and pay attention to your inner compass with these Wise Walk questions:

- What is one thing you’re going to do today to support your vital life force energy and your breath?
- What talent do you want to exercise, make stronger, or bring to light in a new way?
- What are you doing to cultivate your authentic presence?
- How can you follow your heart and create abundance in your life?
- What’s one action you can take to build financial stability?
- What does success on your terms look like?
- What did you learn from your toughest storm?
- Who stood by you during the storm?
- What “failures” in your life have become investments in your Value Vault?

I am grateful for this Striders’ community and all who contributed to the True Stride podcast. During this milestone 100th episode, I reference and give gratitude to the following individuals within these lessons learned:

Reflect, reflect, reflect!
1. JT Mulvihill, Host Cancer and Chill podcast and Radio Consultant
2. Susie Perkowitz, Sheep Jam Productions
3. Jeffrey Shaw, The Self-Employed Life (EP51)
4. Leigh Farrow, speaker and author of Leadership Nuts (EPs 69, 56, 18)
5. Katie Delnero, Fashion Consultant, Realtor and Home Stylist
Drop into your heart
1. Joe Hawley, Founder Härt Collective and host of the Quantum Coffee Podcast (EP57)
2. Kristin Kaufman, executive coach, founder of Alignment, author of “Is This Seat Taken?” book trilogy (EP48)
Fearlessly go for it!
1. Emily Adams, Surviving to Thriving coach, speaker, and writer (EP50)
2. William Branum, retired Navy SEAL and former SEAL Sniper Instructor, is the founder and CEO of Naked Warrior Recovery (EP68)
Breathe to expand
1. Anna Tansley is a kundalini yoga teacher and entrepreneur of Choices + Outcomes (EP76)
2. Dr. Melissa Jordan, Doctorate in Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine and practitioner for life force in different modalities (EP52)
Create space
Shine your bright, radiant light!
1. Shelley Brown, speaker, author, mindfulness edutainer of the W.E.I.R.D. process (EP77)
You are your best investment
1. Susanne Mariga, Author of Profit First For Minority Business Enterprises, host of The Profit Talk and owner of Mariga CPA PLLC (EP54)
2. Tara E. Nolan, money strategist and author of Money Moves: Change Where Your Money Lives and Change How Your Financial World Grows (EP74)
Play and prioritize fun!
1. Ryan Cwick, Sun/solar consultant, industrial engineer, and travel coach (EP58)
2. Dawn Calvinisti, DoTerra Wellness Coach and As Good As It Gets Summit host (EP73)
Make-up your own rules for your EPIC adventure
1. Susan M. Barber, executive coach, author and host of The Visibility Factor (EP29)
2. AJ Harper editor, publishing strategist and author of Write a Must-Read: Craft a Book That Changes Lives–Including Your Own. (EP97)
Surround yourself with love and appreciation for your highs and lows
1. Michelle J. Lamont, Manifestation guru, PR professional, Manifesting Miracles host (EP53)
2. Tim Douglas, coach, speaker and host of The Inspired Way (EP55)
3. Dr. Chelsea Wakefield (EP63), Don Khouri (EP46), Gena Cox (EP44), Kasey Compton (EP47), Dana Knox Wright (EP49), JJ Thomas (EP20), Ron Rothberg (EP71)

Remember to play and prioritize fun, always!!

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[01:00] – Reflect. Reflect. Reflect.

[03:20] – Mary Tess gives a shout out to the key people who helped her early on in this podcast journey.

[05:39] – Drop into your heart to listen to what’s calling you, what feels right, and what feels off.

[07:51] – Getting in touch with your heart will give you the freedom to choose again.

[09:49] – Follow your intuition to stay in alignment.

[11:27] – Fearlessly go for it!

[13:49] – Take the opportunity when you see it.

[15:51] – Breathe to expand.

[18:46] – Create space and a nurturing environment.

[20:33] – Get brave, and share your Heart Value with the world.

[22:52] – You are your best investment.

[25:23] – Tell yourself more empowering narratives.

[28:00] – Prioritize fun along the way.

[30:31] – When it comes to your life, you make the rules.

[31:57] – Explore what your Heart Value rules look like.

[33:51] – Surround yourself with love and appreciation for your highs and lows.

[35:26] – You can turn life lessons into leverage.

[37:01] – Mary Tess expresses deep gratitude for Striders and everyone who is on this EPIC adventure alongside her.

[38:59] – Continue to grow in a way authentic to you.

[41:18] – Shout out to Mary Tess’ Mom!

[42:32] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“Pay attention to your inner compass. Because this is your life.” – Mary Tess
“Believe in yourself. Support yourself. And don’t hesitate. Just put one foot in front of the other. Take one small step after the other to find your True Stride.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

Full Episodes of Guest Highlights Mentioned:

EP99: Messages to Slow Down

by Mary Tess Rooney | Aug 18, 2022 | Podcast

Have you ever noticed how clumsy you seem when you’re in a rush? You’re bumping into things. You’re dropping things. Everything feels off, and it’s not the best timing. This episode talks about messages to slow down.

I was moving a bin to the garage and tweaked my back. The irony is that I know how to safely lift large items (tip: bend your knees!), but I was in a rush. Of course, that’s when accidents happen. We get ourselves into trouble when we’re not really present or paying attention to the moment. While I’m nursing back pain, it’s a chance and reminder to slow down.

I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP99’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. Before I tweaked my back, I had big plans for the weekend, including a training plan for a 5K race (3.1 miles). That plan needs to pivot for it to still be in motion and not cause more damage to my physical health. In life, you need to listen to your body and figure out how to support it.

On our Wise Walk, I talk about noticing whatever your body is communicating to you. Come with me as we reflect on these Wise Walk questions:

- When your body communicates misalignment, pain, or struggle are you paying attention to it?
- Are you slowing down and seeing how you can bring yourself back into alignment?
- What ways are you incorporating better choices for yourself?
- As you figure out what your body needs, can you review your calendar to shift your priorities?
- Is there anything to let go of?
- Is there anything going on with your body right now that you feel that you need to be more present for?
- Are you paying attention to what your body is communicating to you?
- Are you slowing down enough, and checking your reality, to reflect on what you can do to support the healing and nourishment your body needs so you can be your best self?
- Are you aware of the grounding forces in your life?

You can rebalance yourself with habits or interests that bring you peace. For me, nutrition, exercise, and meditation support my alignment and well being. What are your grounding components so you can show up as your best?

Whatever set back or struggle you experience, move at the pace that feels right to you to get back on track. Be present without rushing with these Wise Walk questions:

- Where in life are you getting derailed?
- Where in your life have you noticed stress affecting how you show up?
- How do you want to show up for yourself when you notice your stress?
- Can you give yourself grace and space to heal from whatever is taking you off course?
- Can you go back to your grounding modalities that make you feel aligned?
- What are the things that are going to rebuild you, so you can reset and come back even stronger?
- How can you set realistic expectations to achieve supportive goals?

Join this inspiring community to uncover a new sense of freedom, and be sure to follow and review the True Stride podcast as we continue to exchange our light and Heart Value with each other.

In this episode:

[00:23] – Welcome to the show!

[01:54] – Are you paying attention to what your body needs?

[03:39] – Mary Tess is prepping to run a 5K. What’s her plan?

[06:28] – Your body communicates with you. Are you noticing the signs?

[07:50] – Mary Tess talks about how nourishment plays a role in supporting her body.

[10:24] – Get in touch with your grounding components that align you.

[12:19] – Stress is a major contributor to misalignment. How can we manage it?

[14:38] – Rebalance yourself after stressful moments.

[16:44] – Reset so you can come back stronger.

[19:32] – Thank you for listening!

Memorable Quotes:

“I need to be patient with myself.” – Mary Tess
“We’re not going to be our best selves for what we want, and we’re not going to be our best selves for others, if we don’t feel aligned.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources: