Hi Reader

As parents, it’s so easy to fall into constant motion. We’re always doing: errands, appointments, drop-offs, lessons, activities. We run from one moment to the next, barely stopping to catch our breath, let alone reflect on the beauty of life as it is right now.

But ancient wisdom reminds us to pause. Across cultures and traditions, there are rituals designed to pull us back into presence—especially through gratitude. In Judaism, for example, gratitude is woven into almost every ordinary moment: waking up, going to the bathroom, eating, drinking. These practices weren’t designed to be lofty—they’re reminders to notice what we already have.

Because our minds naturally drift toward what’s missing. Toward what’s hard. And that’s exactly why we need practices—small, intentional pauses—to bring us back to the fullness of now.

I’ll be honest with you: I don’t practice consistently. I wish I did. But even when I stop for a moment—just one moment—to express gratitude or say a short prayer, I feel the difference. My nervous system softens. My mind calms. And I come back to what matters most.

This week on the Parenting Wisdom podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with someone who understands this deeply.

I’m joined by Suzanne Andora Barron—yoga instructor, breathwork and meditation guide, and host of the Finding Joy in the Hard podcast. Sixteen years ago, Suzanne lost her nine-year-old son. She was left to care for her younger child, just seven at the time, and to navigate unimaginable grief.

In our conversation, Suzanne shares her story with openness and grace. She speaks to the complexities of grief, the beauty of presence, and how we can still find meaning and even joy in the hardest seasons of life.

It’s a powerful reminder to slow down, to be with our children, and to live each day with intention.

🎧 Listen now to hear:

• Suzanne’s story of love, loss, and survival
• How to hold joy and grief in the same breath
• What it means to really be present as a parent
• Daily practices to support your emotional and spiritual well-being
• How Suzanne helps others through her healing work and podcast

About Suzanne: Suzanne Andora Barron is a yoga instructor, meditation and breathwork guide, and Jin Shin Jyutsu practitioner. For over a decade, she’s helped women reconnect with themselves emotionally, spiritually, and physically. She’s the creator of Feel, Heal & Align and Process What You Feel to Heal, and hosts the beautiful and wise podcast Finding Joy in the Hard.

This is an episode I truly hope you’ll take time to listen to. I left our conversation feeling more grounded, more grateful, and more committed to presence.

👉

With presence and love,

Efrat