ARRIVAL: You’re Not Becoming, You’re Claiming

There is a MO’ment in life when you realize you are no longer preparing, pushing, or proving. You’re no longer chasing a future version of yourself. You’ve arrived.

Arrival isn’t loud. It doesn’t show up with fireworks or finish lines. It’s quieter than that — the deep exhale after years of effort. It’s the grounded knowing that you’re standing in a version of yourself you once imagined, not because everything is finished, but because something essential has settled.

As we step into 2026 — the Year of the Horse — the energy is one of momentum, courage, and forward movement. The Horse moves with instinct and trust. Once it commits, it doesn’t hesitate. It runs because it knows where it’s going. This isn’t frantic motion; it’s aligned momentum, driven by clarity rather than chaos.

Arrival is often misunderstood as an ending — a destination or a pause from striving. But true arrival is different. Arrival is when your internal world begins to match your external life. When your values, choices, body, and work move in the same direction. It’s when you stop trying to outrun fear and learn how to MO’ve with it.

In 2025, I learned this through my body. Training for and competing in HYROX Women’s Open wasn’t just a physical goal; it was a conversation with fear — fear of not being ready, not being enough, or being fully seen in the effort. Stepping into the tunnel at the start line wasn’t about proving anything to anyone else. It was about arriving in my own strength and confidence.

Before arrival shows up in our careers, leadership, or relationships, it shows up in the body. It feels like strength without rigidity, confidence without bravado, calm without complacency. Physiologically, arrival is nervous system safety — when the body stops bracing for what’s next and begins to trust what’s now. This is why movement has always been my compass. In 2025, I realized that training became less about chasing outcomes and more about presence. Breath became grounding. Recovery became an act of respect and reward.

Arrival doesn’t mean you stop striving. It means you stop abandoning yourself in the process and start being MO’re in the moment, especially when you face fear. Arrival happens the MO’ment you stop negotiating with fear, you welcome fear and start moving forward.

The Horse doesn’t wait for permission. And neither should you. You don’t need to become ready in 2026. You need to arrive in the readiness you’ve already built — through your experiences, lessons, resilience, and body of work.

This season isn’t about reinvention. It’s refinement. Arrival isn’t a transformation. It’s a homecoming.

Reflection: Where Have You Already Arrived?

Before setting new goals or mapping the year ahead, pause and reflect. Ask yourself:

  1. Where have I already arrived — even if I haven’t acknowledged it yet?
  2. What strength do I now carry that I didn’t have a year ago?
  3. What am I ready to claim instead of chase?

Momentum without arrival leads to burnout. Arrival becomes the foundation for powerful, sustainable movement forward. You’re not behind. You’re not late. You’ve arrived.

Next MO’ment: Alignment

Arrival creates the space for clarity. When you’ve landed in your strength and claimed your readiness, the next step is Alignment — noticing what’s possible, tuning into your potential, and stepping forward with intention. In Blog 2, we’ll explore how awareness unlocks alignment, purpose, and forward momentum for 2026.

Embracing Summertime: A Holistic Approach to Physical and Mental Wellness

As the sun climbs higher and the days grow longer, summertime MO’tions us to embrace its warmth and vitality. However, amidst the sweltering heat and occasional lethargy, staying physically, mentally, and emotionally balanced becomes essential. Here’s how you can make the MO’st of the summer months while keeping your well-being in check.

Physical Well-being: Keep Moving, Stay Hydrated

Even when the temperature soars, it’s crucial to keep your body moving. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, whether it’s early morning yoga, a refreshing evening walk, or a swim in the cool waters of a nearby pool or lake. Exercise not only boosts your energy levels but also enhances mood and promotes better sleep—crucial for overall well-being during the summer.  I personally know that when I set a goal for either number of minutes and/or steps I aim to achieve each week I’m 90% more likely to achieve it—that’s a great return on my investment of the time it takes to think about and declare the goal.  

Hydration is another key factor in maintaining physical health. As temperatures rise, our bodies lose more water through sweat, making it essential to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Opt for water-rich fruits like watermelon and cucumbers and carry a reusable water bottle wherever you go to ensure you stay hydrated and refreshed.  I start my day with a watermelon pre-biotic dissolved in a large cup of cold water that alone sets me up for feeling my best all day long.  

Mental and Emotional Wellness: Relaxation and Connection

Summer offers ample opportunities for mental rejuvenation. Take time to relax and unwind—whether it’s lounging in a hammock with a good book, meditating in a shaded garden, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature around you. These MO’ments of calm can help reduce stress levels and improve overall mental clarity.   Just recently I participated in a ‘walkie-talkie’ challenge at my workplace and learned that taking one meeting a week on the phone while walking is MO’s doable and definitely therapeutic.  Even though the challenge is over I plan to schedule a walkie-talkie every week going forward. Perhaps you will join me. 

Social connections also play a significant role in emotional well-being. Plan picnics, outdoor gatherings, or even virtual meetups with friends and loved ones to foster a sense of belonging and joy. Sharing experiences and laughter with others can uplift spirits and create lasting memories.

Embrace the Season with Intention 

Embracing summertime isn’t just about enduring the heat—it’s about thriving in it. Explore outdoor activities that excite you, such as hiking trails with breathtaking views, trying your hand at golfing or pickleball, or even joining a local dance or fitness class under the open sky. These activities not only keep you active but also enhance your appreciation for the season’s vibrancy.  I continue to teach a outdoor fitness class on Sunday on my street for my family and neighbours and it’s one of the MO’st enjoyable ways to embrace the season and experience social fitness.  

Remember, balance is key. Listen to your body’s cues and adjust your activities accordingly. Summer offers boundless opportunities for enhancing your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By nurturing yourself holistically, you can make this season truly unforgettable. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

Stay Hydrated: Make it a habit to sip water throughout the day. Try this trick: place 8 elastic bands on your water bottle and move one up each time you refill – sip and repeat!

Protect Your Skin: Prioritize skincare with SPF. Start with daily dry brushing and gentle exfoliation, then layer on products with sun protection. For that extra glow, try a natural self-tanning gel – no grease, stains, or odors.

Dress Wisely: Opt for caps, hats, and light fabrics to shield yourself from the sun’s heat. Explore new fabrics and styles designed to keep you cool this season.

Celebrate Achievements: Smile more and reflect on your accomplishments from the first half of 2024. Express gratitude for both small victories and major milestones.

Set New Goals: Begin the second half of 2024 with determination. Re-evaluate and reset your goals as needed. Consider signing up for events, courses, or training to keep yourself motivated and focused on your aspirations.

Embrace these tips to maximize your well-being this summer and set the stage for a fulfilling year ahead. If you are looking for some MO’tivation join me at canfitpro Global this August at canfitpro Global (conference) or come out to the tradeshow and workout with the best Fit Pro’s in the world!  Learn more at www.canfitpro.com/events2024/global

Take Five: MO’ve with MO at Your Desk for Your Mental and Physical Health

In today’s hustle and bustle, it’s easy to find ourselves glued to our desks for hours on end, overlooking the importance of staying active during the workday. Yet, the repercussions of prolonged sitting extend far beyond physical discomfort—they can deeply impact both our bodies and minds.

“Sitting is the new smoking” is a well-known phrase that highlights growing concerns over the negative health effects of prolonged sitting for everyone – even those who engage in regular exercise. Research shows that sitting for prolonged periods is associated with a higher risk of chronic health issues such as obesity, heart disease, and even premature death. One study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggests prolonged sitting can counteract the benefits of regular exercise. The study found that prolonged sitting, defined as sitting for over 3 hours per day, was associated with an increased risk of death, regardless of physical activity level. In other words, even if someone exercises regularly, spending long periods of time sitting at a desk or in front of a screen could negate the positive effects of working out. This statistic underscores the importance of reducing sedentary behavior throughout the day, not just during structured exercise sessions.

Carving out MO’ments for MO’vement throughout the day is not just a luxury but a necessity. Reflecting on one of my power words for 2024, which is self-CARE, I say MO’vement is medicine, and it is why it is a crucial component of self-care. In as little as five minutes in the morning and afternoon, and with just five simple stretches, you can revitalize your body, enhance your posture (easing back discomfort and pain), kick-start circulation and joint flexibility, uplift your spirits, and sharpen your focus for heightened productivity. It’s time to break free from the desk-bound monotony and embrace the transformative power of MO’vement—let’s embark on this journey to a healthier, more vibrant you, right from your very own desk.

Incorporating movement breaks into your daily routine, such as standing up and stretching every hour or taking short walks, can help counteract the negative effects of prolonged sitting and contribute to improved mental health and overall better health. Start with a seated stretch routine such as the one I share here and MO’ve on from there. Once you experience the benefits of stretching in your chair at your desk, you will wonder why you didn’t think about doing this before. 

I have prepared and filmed this quick 5-minute routine which you can watch and follow along here. Move your chair back from your desk, move yourself to the front edge of your seat and plant your feet on the ground just wider than hip-width, arms at your side. 

Exercise Sequence:
5 Shoulder Rolls

4 Alternating Overhead Reaches

3 Side to Side Torso Twists

2 Chest & Back Openers

1 Slow Deep Breaths (inhale through your nose, pause. Exhale through your nose or mouth, pause). Repeat 10 times. 

So, whether it’s a few quick stretches at your desk (as outlined and demonstrated here), a quick walk around the office, or even a midday workout, make it a priority to MO’ve MO’re during your workday. Your body and mind will thank you for it!Want MO’re ways to get MO’tivated to MO’ve? Check out this 28-day MO’ve with Mo Challenge for Mental Health downloadable calendar. Mental Health Week in Canada is May 6 to 12, 2024 – the theme of which is #CompassionConnects – which is another reminder about why it is so important to take CARE of ourselves and get MO’ving for mind and body.

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