Welcoming Fall with Flow + Grow

This fall started in the most beautiful, inspiring way — together in community with ten warm-hearted women at Kate Hayes and my’s first-ever Flow + Grow experience in Holden, MA.

For the past few months, we’ve been getting all the little details together for this fall equinox event, and blending our favorite passions into a gathering that would join locals for a 2.5-hour morning full of movement, mindfulness and self-growth.

Our morning consisted of introductions, an opening circle where we shared how we were feeling going into the day, and then break-offs to get to know new friends by asking each other interesting questions (and listening fully to their full answers in return).

Then, it was time for yoga, my FLOW part of the experience. I led an hour-long, all-levels flow centered with the theme of letting going and keeping an open heart going into the new season. “What would you like to open your heart up to this fall?” Just as we were flowing on our mats, I noticed yellow leaves falling from a tree outside. Fall was officially here - in that very moment.

The space felt open and full during yoga. I could sense the energy of the room shifting as everyone moved and breathed together.

After shavasana, we enjoyed some yummy local apple cider donuts, apple cider, cookies and great conversation. By this point, we were really getting each other and feeling more comfortable. As the convos flowed, we then moved over to Kate’s GROW portion of the morning.

We took time to work on our “prayer” or “hope or wish” for fall. Then, we identified ways to make it come to fruition with actionable, personalized goals. Kate led us the whole way, explaining everything so well and with such poise and compassion. Then, small groups got together to share their written notes and thoughts, while others listened. We ended the morning with one more activity that involved writing a “love letter” (but not the romantic kind, as Kate put it ☺️ ), and then a finally, back to our circle to share closing thoughts and powerful “I am” statements.

What a special morning with such kind women, all welcoming in the new season with open hearts, minds and souls.

Kate and I want to thank each of you for being a part of this with us and trusting our vision for Flow + Grow!

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I’d love to take a moment to mention the lovely ladies who made our goodie bags so special.

Here are the deets:

- Bri from The Mac Maker in Holden made two delicious macarons for each attendee (raspberry almond and salted caramel). Not only are these treats stunning to look at… they’re incredibly tasty and there’s something so gooooood about the texture. Everyone I know who’s tried them, has LOVED them. Go Bri!
- Rachel from Spice by Rachel Sweet in Rutland put together lovely seasonal mulling spices perfect for fall, with recipe cards included! She is the sweetest human and pours her love into her blends.
- Debby from Hodge Podge in Holden had the most adorable fall-themed magnets placed is little bags for everyone. Debby is a kind soul who has the most fun shop around!

Thank you, ladies, for making our goodie bags extra meaningful. Kate and I love supporting local small businesses, and letting others know more about the women we admire and will continue showing up for.

Okay, now it’s time for the photo recap. Enjoy!

Talk soon,

Ari