What I’d Tell My Younger Self

“Remember, the entrance door to the sanctuary
 is inside you.”
 —Rumi

I’m sitting here watching the wind move through the palm trees, the window open, a cool ocean-desert breeze brushing my face. Sounds of cars passing, sawing in the distance, and music drifting through the air.

It’s the week of my 48th birthday. Even writing that feels very strange—and honestly, I don’t really want to admit it.

I’m in Baja, Mexico, visiting my mom and stepdad, here with my sister and her family. My daughter joined us for four days of this trip, which felt incredibly special. We used to come here often when she was little, and we hadn’t been back in nine years. Being here together has brought back so many memories—time folding in on itself.

I found myself asking:
 What advice would I give my younger self at this stage of my life?
 And maybe you’ll find some wisdom in it too.

 • It all works out, even when it feels like it won’t.

 • Love your body at every stage. It changes constantly.

 • Move your body—but don’t overdo it.

 • Eat well and nourish yourself deeply. (I was vegetarian until I was 31, and after the past two very challenging years with my health, eating quality, meat-based protein has been a key part of my recovery.)

 • Be kinder and gentler with yourself—you really are doing a great job.

 • The hard parenting moments pass. They grow up. Every moment you have with your child is precious.

 • Everything is always changing. That is life.

 • Your sensitivity is also your superpower. Guard it. Protect it. Use it wisely.  

 • One of the most important skills you’ll ever learn is knowing when to push and when to slow down and rest.

 • Your health is your top priority—and your body knows how to heal.

 • Trust yourself more than others.

For me, the feeling of getting “old” isn’t about age—it’s about how supported my body feels to move, recover, and meet daily demands. Energy shifts as we age, but when movement is efficient and the nervous system feels safe, vitality and ease are still very much available. That’s why my commitment now is to move in ways that support longevity—prioritizing mobility, nervous system regulation, and consistency over intensity.

I’m a firm believer in what I teach: less is more, especially in this season of life. Consistency matters. Working with my nervous system and brain—not against them—has become a key part of staying strong, resilient, and well.

With love,
 and seasons passing,
 Lila