“Our bodies will express physically what we emotionally repress” Frances Edmonds
Nearly 3-years ago I packed up 3 humans, 16 years of life-ing, and a puppy. We moved from Chicago to Ohio not only repotting our lives but most importantly desiring the warmth of other suns (Isabelle Wilkerson nod ;).
Annually I ponder those decisions, that period, and if we are obtaining the desired outcomes. For those that have moved as an adult with a family you realize the “big decision” at least annually creates a sort of reverberation when it nears its anniversary. The memories demand reflection and introspection in order to properly check it’s health. With pen, journal, and cup of java I began with asking myself this question “are you plant-bound or Repotting?”
Plant-Bound
Taking stock is incredibly important when we observe all aspects of repotting. Ignoring your desires, needs, or not listening to your internal whispers can cause you to become root-bound. Root-bound plants are plants with roots that have grown too large for their containers.
The roots of these potted plants will coil around the root ball, becoming so entangled that they cannot absorb nutrients from the soil, which can lead to starvation. I realized those years ago it was time to extend my roots.
Repotting does not need to be drastic either. It can be on a continuum from changing the entire pot to, simply refreshing the way you nourish the pot. Adjusting the direct sunlight, or most importantly giving your pot additional time and attention.
Repotting
There’s another layer to this as well. When you are nourished, self-investing, and continually pouring into your needs you can be just like this plant in the pic below. I found so much inspiration watching this flower surrounded by weeds, withstand a powerful storm and still thrive!!!
Before diving into repotting, spending time with yourself is important. I inherently love guided prompts, so here are a few to use:
Plant Bound or Repotting Q&A
Do I have any regrets?
Am I still passionate about this season in my life?
Is my family grounded and thriving?
Would I make the today’s choices tomorrow if asked?
Are there any physical expressions of emotional repression?
5 Tenants of Repotting
Finally after reflection, whether you are actively repotting or wanting to become unbound, taking the next step can be even more daunting. I recall the days I knew change was needed, but could espouse 101 reasons why timing was always wrong. What I realize now is if you are reflecting, growing and nourishing Repotting should be contiguous, always cycling. In reading the book Repotting Your Life by Frances Edmonds, I found her writing hilarious but connecting in the way she weaves our individual journeys to that of a plant. Although I found much inspiration to this book, there were some areas where we differ. I believe Repotting shouldn’t be this triennial cycle of disruption, you should continually apply the cycle in support of individual fortitude. Just like that plant, the cycle helps to brace you in the good times and bad. Below are the 5 tenants I feel should be a part of a Repotting cycle:
1. Find Your Lane and Run 🏃🏾♀️
2. Proximity Matters ⭕️
3. Check-In with yourself at least Annually 🤔
4. It’s ok to Let Go of Old Dreams 🌙
5. Anchor ⚓️ to Authenticity
I hope you found inspiration in this post. If you are interested in walking through a guided journaling session, join us here.