Gentleness..

Gentleness is often underrated in a world that congratulates the loud, overstated and the dominant. Yet, softness and strength live side by side. When we communicate with gentleness we protect our nervous system and we express to others that we remain regulated, steadfast and at ease.

When handling aggressive personalities, our patience can be tested and we may feel tempted to meet situations with volume. Instead, choosing gentleness to assert oneself, to lay down boundaries or to pitch a creative solution - has far more power: as you state that you are not easily moved and you operate at a certain standard - never below.

Gentleness is an importnat gift to give to ourselves - particularly against a raging and racing world. When we soften and lean into play, we retain control over our bodies and act from kindness, respect and consideration. There is an innate power in choosing to react with gentleness over abrasiveness.

Entropy is a certainty in life, but you essentially protect your own energy resources when you move with softness. Much like buds to bloom, gently coaxed by the hot sun day by day to open their petals, you can use the same strategy to navigate, negotiate and communicate with others and with yourself.

Softness has every place in the present world - particularly as it serves as an antidote to more commonplace expressions of aggression, cruelty and inconsideration. Its effectiveness lies in withholding a standard and a way of being. Ultimately, gentleness holds you accountable and sets a score for the kind of life you wish to live, the pace you want to move and the conduct you hold. A loud response is rarely needed and when you maintain gentleness you protect your body, your playfulness, serenity and ease. You also indicate your own power.

Moving in the world with gentleness is a standard we can uphold - that subverts the norm and communicates to ourselves and to others that whatever comes our way - we will remain gentle, steady, respectful and kind. Simultaneously, we may uphold and bolster our conduct as firm, assertive and in control. The greatest leaders maintain respect through their gentleness. There is much to be drawn from softness and strength; and we can all extract much power from being gentle to ourselves and to others.