july connection // squeezing it all in
softening expectations, in the studio and a few summer things
This past month, I’ve been caught up in the rush — trying to squeeze everything in before the boys get home from camp. Camp days are shorter than school days, and I’ve definitely felt the pressure to make every minute count.
That pressure usually shows up as skipping my walk, canceling plans with a friend, or grabbing a snack lunch in the car. And the irony? I don’t end up feeling more productive — just more disconnected.
So I’m working on it.
I’m doing my best to step outside before I open my laptop or check my phone. I’m letting “done for now” be enough, instead of chasing the never-ending list. And I’m choosing one small thing each day that fills me up — even if it means something else doesn’t get done — and really letting myself enjoy it.
It’s not perfect, but it’s a shift. And, of course, it’s always a practice.
From pushing through to pacing myself.
From urgency to presence.
And the more I soften my expectations about what I should be getting done, the less judgment I carry. That part feels really good and a lot lighter.
How I Am Practicing Pelvic Wellness
I’m six years postpartum, but I created my postpartum program to be supportive anytime after baby — whether it’s been six weeks or six years. So I took my own advice and restarted the 6-phase movement series.
There’s something so valuable about returning to the basics and rebuilding the foundation of pelvic wellness. The practices are just 10–15 minutes long, and I’ve been doing them a couple of times a week.
I’m only on phase 3, and already I feel more grounded, more connected, and more able to coordinate my pelvic floor with the other movement practices I do.
From the Studio: What’s Helping Women Right Now
Here’s what one woman shared in a DM this month:
“I didn’t realize how much I was pushing when I peed until I saw your video. Now that I’m relaxing, I go less often during the day—and with way less urgency. I always just thought I had a small bladder.”
That kind of awareness is the beginning of real pelvic wellness. Once you notice it, you can’t un-notice it—and that’s where change begins.
Most Clicked This Month
This month’s most visited digital studio practice?
“What is the pelvic floor?” — Free Video
It makes me so happy to see so many people starting here. Curiosity is the first step toward connection — and I love that so many of you are taking the time to learn about this part of your body.
Summer Things
A few things I’m loving this summer:
Book: The God of the Woods — such a great read, didn’t want it to end
Products: Koala Eco cleaning products — these smell wonderful and work really well too. I use the kitchen cleaner everyday. And I just tried the dog soap and loved it too!
Podcast: 33voices with Thema Bryant — soulful and wise, a beautiful listen
Summer Ritual: Iced coffee (always Joshua Tree) with coconut water by the pool while the kids swim. It’s my moment of stillness and joy in the chaos — and it’s magic.
Summer Outfit: This striped Madewell short/shirt set is a bit out of my “neutral” comfort zone, but it really makes me smile when I wear it.
Reading Glasses: I have had them for a bit and wear them when I’m doing computer work, but recently was at dinner and actually NEEDED them to clearly read the menu…thank you perimenopause:) So I immediately ordered a second pair of these in tortoise…I’m a 1.5 in readers, anybody else in the same boat?
xx, Allison
Other ways to connect with me:
Check out my Digital Studio, a place to pause, learn, connect and heal
Listen to my “Gather with Ali” podcast where I connect with all sorts of guests about women’s health, motherhood, business and more.
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