It’s the question toddlers ask over and over while exploring their world: “Why?”. By nature, humans are inquisitive beings. We want to understand the world around us, to explore it with our senses and to delve deeper. But as we grow from those curious babies into teens and adults, our focus shifts from an internal understanding of ourselves to the relationship between our bodies and the external world. Instead of asking “Why?” we instead ask “How?”: How will I graduate on time?; How will I become successful?; How will I achieve my goals? and “When?”: When will I meet my soul mate?; When will I be able to afford a home?; When will my to-do list ever feel complete?.

However, as we walk, leap, and run through life, “Why?” remains an important question: Why am I rushing?, Why am I working so hard? Why don’t I carve out more time for myself? Because regardless of your relationships, degrees, jobs and accomplishments, the most important part of your story is you! In this very moment, you are right where you are meant to be. Everything else will come with time. For right now, spend time thanking your body for carrying you, your spirit for sustaining you, and Nature for nourishing you. Remember to put yourself at the top of your priority list at every step. Enjoy every moment. And in each one, find time to slow down, share your smile and let your personality shine through.