One thing a spa experience can teach is how much the nervous system is calibrated to a busy life. Even when there is time to breathe, walk slowly and quiet the buzz in the mind, the habit of a normal quickened pace continues. I’m in Mexico, and culturally a slower pace of life is more natural here. Between that influence, and having a spa week, the reminders of slowing and quieting are starting to seep into my cells and psyche. These are practices that can and should be integrated into every day of life. Heart rate, mind rate, blood pressure, everything will benefit.

“Listen to the space between heartbeats.” Those words came to me in a dream once, and their message continues to unfold for me.