We’ve all become incredibly skilled at ignoring or suppressing symptoms of imbalance. Whether those symptoms are physical like indigestion or mental like anxiety, it seems as if we’ve forgotten what they truly are—clear data that something is out of alignment.

When we allow imbalances to persist, we open ourselves up to a greater potential for chronic issues that can then turn into chronic disease. Trust me, I know a thing or two about chronic illness.

Imbalances are warning signs to stop and retrace our steps—return to the trail, check the map, check the compass, and venture out again. Our ability to simply tolerate something should not be the measure of its place in our lives or in our world.

I’ve been there before. I spent eight years at a major tech company climbing to high performer status before I hit burnout and realized I needed a change. In those eight years, there were moments where I ignored my gut until I had panic attacks that forced me to pay attention. There were also times where I followed my joy, passion, and ease and found myself in (and on) the most successful stages of my career.

But during the pandemic, I just couldn’t find the energy anymore. My physical and mental realities had become so disparate that the only solution was to take some time away to come back to center. It was in that moment of reconnecting with Nature and pursuing vitality—where my body was awake, my mind was at ease, and my soul was at play—that a whole new life unfolded before me. I started leading a life aligned with my values, my natural talents and curiosities, and my sense of purpose.

I want to help others find that alignment. I want to help others realign with their well-being to find self-sustaining joy, purpose, and vitality.