Release is required [Curiously Connected #15]


Join me LIVE for this month's body weight workout!
May 7 8:30 AM MT / 10:30 AM ET

A Story of Separation
As my kids and I watched the launch of Artemis II, we marveled at the giant rocket moving at unimaginable speeds carrying 4 human souls to the moon. The combustion, the steam, the silent onlookers erupting into cheers, the trail across the blue sky - it was all mesmerizing.

About two minutes into the launch, the kids gasped, “What’s happening? Why is it falling apart?” We all learned from the broadcast the rocket boosters were separating. These boosters provided over 75% of the initial thrust supporting the launch, and were no longer needed.

Only a minute later, it happened again. “Oh no, why is that piece falling off?” The reassuring voice of the broadcaster shared that the launch abort system (LAS) was separating. The LAS is the astronauts “emergency exit” should something go wrong during launch. Thankfully, its vital protections weren’t needed.

At roughly 8 minutes post launch, we were still surprised - but also more curious - about the Core Stage separation. This piece is considered the “backbone of the rocket” bearing the load of all components through the stresses of the launch. Its 4 engines provide thrust and avionics manage trajectory. It will burn up as it reenters our atmosphere.

Each of these components were essential for the launch, the safety, the mission.
And each of these items required separation for the next phase.

I’m not a rocket scientist. And I don’t intend to reduce this launch to science.
But I do love when life plops lessons into my lap.

Life transitions aren’t always as clear to us as physics is to a rocket scientist.
The phases we move through aren’t carefully timed or monitored.
But sometimes we cling tightly to an obstacle of who we’re becoming.

The lesson I’m living at the moment - release what no longer serves.

This life I’ve enjoyed has included many reinventions, and those are all a part of me. They offer me glimpses into versions of myself that got me here.

Some burned fast and furious.
Some served as protection and kept me safe.
Some are deeply rooted and feel stabilizing.

They informed my trajectory.
The protections layered.
Unspoken beliefs rooted.
These versions of me constructed an identity.

Sometimes we have to release what feels stabilizing to become.
Becoming is a continual aligning with who you are - not who you think you have to be. It includes your whole self. It may look and feel a lot like falling apart.

My learning journey is leading me to identify what I can release.
A story of injury, a former professional identity, and likely more...

What may be possible if you release a version of you that no longer aligns with who you are becoming?

Nourishment
This one “recipe” surprised me. It’s flexible, and something my kids LOVED! They’ve been excited about every iteration.

Lettuce Boats!

We bought the Costco Romaine Lettuce Heads with the intention of making caesar salads. One busy night with zero desire for an effortful dinner to be rejected, I did a charcuterie style board and threw these out there. They devoured them!

We had apples, humus, peppers, cucumbers, roasted chicken, cheese, and ranch dressing. They even suggested some other fillings like peanut butter, olives, and tomatoes.

It was a wild mix, but all 5 members of my family sat and ate - mostly civilized. It was joy to my soul! I will be using this “recipe” weekly!

What is nourishing you and your family this season?

Movement
I’m feeling stronger and enjoying more control and connection in my left arm and hand! For your mind-muscle connection and enjoyment, I’m offering two opportunities for movement.

This month I’m sharing a 45-workout from March 2024 including balance work!

Also, I want to connect LIVE via zoom for a quick ~20 minute energy boosting workout in celebration of Mother’s Day! Join me May 7th at 8:30 MT/10:30 ET for a fun and energetic mind-muscle-movement together!

It's April, and 2026 is in bloom!
What will you allow to release so you can fully
become?

Tomorrow is a new day to choose growth.
What curiosities and connections will you explore?


Cheers to releasing and becoming together,​​

How I can support your becoming:

  1. Personal training: Virtual or in person (Colorado Springs) with plans tailored to your specific health and fitness goals.
  2. Coaching: Virtual or in person (Colorado Springs) coaching to facilitate alignment with who you're becoming.

Book a consultation and let's explore opportunities!

Colorado Springs, CO
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Danielle Smith

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