8 weird & wonderful things I learned from OD for Life's gathering

Exactly two weeks ago I left to attend OD for Life's North American Gathering at the Ecology Retreat Centre outside of Toronto.

I found myself there out of curiosity to learn more about Michelle Holliday, Janet Frood and Din van Helden's work. As usual, I learned a lot about myself. Here are a few gems from my time away:

💝 There is a thread that connects the random jobs, travels, interests, and stories of your life. They are repeating and iterations of the same gift ~ 🙏🏼 Bruce Anderson

☄️ Anxiety and dark thoughts can be shared safely, fully heard, and alchemized by laughter ~ 🙏🏼 Alice Hahn & Amy Wilson

🌊 If you want more flow in your life, add a bowl of water to your altar. Change the water daily ~ 🙏🏼 Christy Pettit

👯‍♀️ People show up when you ask for help and it’s much easier to ask for help with a friend ~ 🙏🏼 Alice Hahn, Lisa Cashmore, Cindy Jensen, Bruce Anderson & Sean E. Mahar

🐍 Snakes don’t carry anything because they don’t have shoulders. And, they always find a way. Be more like a snake ~ 🙏🏼 Cat Criger

☃️ My aversion to outer winter mirrors my frustration towards my inner winter and impatience for spring to arrive. Sometimes there is nothing to do in winter but enjoy the blanket of rest ~ 🙏🏼 Michelle Holliday & Cat Criger

🥋 Cultivate inner authority so your karate stance is wide rather than narrow. Find the source of your authority and become so trusting in it that nothing can knock you off kilter ~ 🙏🏼 Sean E. Mahar

🎭 When I speak the room is captive and I have a unique ability to weave vulnerability with laughter. I am heard, seen, and my pain is not as well hidden as I had thought ~ 🙏🏼 Sean E. Mahar

Bonus gem: 🔥 If you are often cold, take up running and within a year your internal body temperature will regulate or “normalize” ~ 🙏🏼 Alice Hahn

Whatever season you are in, may you find peace, community, and nature to nourish you.

Article FAQs
1. How can the concept of finding a thread that connects different aspects of life be applied practically to personal growth and self-discovery?
The concept of finding a thread that connects different aspects of life can be applied practically by reflecting on recurring patterns, interests, and experiences. By recognizing these repetitions, individuals can gain insights into their passions, values, and purpose, guiding them toward more intentional decision-making and personal fulfillment. Do yourself a favor and look up Bruce Anderson’s work, as linked in the post above.

2. How does one alchemize anxiety and dark thoughts into laughter?
One can alchemize anxious and dark thoughts into laughter by creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment where these thoughts can be openly shared and acknowledged. Through humor, individuals can find relief from the intensity of their emotions and gain perspective on their challenges. Sharing experiences and finding common ground with others can also help lighten the mood and foster a sense of connection, turning moments of anxiety into opportunities for laughter and resilience.

3. Can you elaborate on the significance of incorporating symbolic rituals, such as adding water to an altar, in cultivating a sense of flow and connection in life?
Incorporating symbolic rituals, such as adding water to an altar, can cultivate a sense of flow and connection in life by symbolizing renewal, purification, and abundance. Changing the water daily represents the act of mindfulness and intentionality, reminding individuals to nurture their spiritual and emotional well-being regularly. This practice can foster a deeper connection to oneself, nature, and the cycles of life, promoting a sense of harmony and balance.