Icelandic Adventures

 

July 24, 2025 Regenerate Your World  Build the future you want to live in. I know these times aren't the easiest for all of us, but I am an optimist - I see the glass as refillable instead of half-full or half-empty. To brighten up your days, I publish the Regenerate Your World newsletter coming to your inbox on a bi-weekly basis. Let's Get Empowered!

Icelandic Adventures Celebrating Regeneration, Community, and the Unexpected Map of Iceland Dear Empowered Reader, My husband and I just returned from an unforgettable trip to Iceland, and I’ve been reflecting on how much this beautiful country has to offer, not just in its landscapes, but in the lessons it has to teach. I wanted to share a few highlights and reflections from our trip that I hope will resonate with you. 1. Iceland is for those who seek the road less traveled.  Every trail we ventured down led us to places few others had seen. Iceland has a way of inviting you deeper into its untouched beauty, encouraging you to keep going, to explore beyond the obvious, and to find something extraordinary in the quiet, hidden corners of the world. 2. Iceland tests you in ways you don’t expect. International travel is always a mix of excitement and challenge, but Iceland pushed us physically and mentally. From its unpredictable weather to the rugged terrain and remote roads without services, we quickly learned that flexibility is just as important as our gear. But just as the Icelandic saying goes, “Enginn verður óbarinn biskup”—you don’t become a bishop without a beating. The journey might be tough, but the rewards are always worth the effort. 3. Iceland fosters a unique sense of connection. When traveling abroad, we’re often the minority, observing local customs and culture. But Iceland felt different. Outside Reykjavik, many of the people we encountered were travelers too. With a population of just 372,000, tourists often outnumber locals, which makes for an interesting blend of cultures and languages. It reminded me that despite our differences, we are all united by a shared curiosity and love of exploration. Welcome sign at the International Airport outside of Reykjavik, Iceland  Now, for more about the trip. When we landed in Reykjavik, the raw beauty of Iceland immediately struck us, and as our jet lag set in, we were happy we decided to start with time at a spa. Our first day, in particular, set the tone. We were able to experience a local tradition, the Sky Lagoon's Skjól Bathing Ritual. First, we relaxed in the warm geothermal waters, then took a brief but refreshing plunge into the cold. We followed up with a sauna and a warm mist. The ritual, which ended with a local drink and meal, was a perfect introduction to Iceland’s healing energy. By the time we left, the landscape felt even more vibrant, and we were ready to enjoy the rest of the trip. What does this mean for you?  Even if Iceland isn’t in your near future, creating moments of restoration in your life is key. Whether it’s a long bath, a quiet walk in nature, or simply pausing to breathe deeply, small acts of self-care can help you reset and regenerate, no matter where you are. An unmarked trail we came across at an unmarked pull off along side the road. We were in amazement that stumbled upon such a beautiful sight. Though we had read travel books and planned a loose itinerary, Iceland had a hand in influencing our ideas. The weather was constantly shifting, one moment it was sunny, the next, rain and wind swept through without warning.  Packing for every scenario was essential: layers, waterproof rain gear, a good sense of humor, and we quickly learned to be adaptable.  One morning, we set out to explore the famous waterfalls along the south coast. At Seljalandsfoss, the rain was relentless. But instead of retreating, we embraced the conditions, donned our rain gear, We laughed as we navigated the slippery path behind the falls, soaked but exhilarated by the natural beauty around us.  In that moment, I was reminded that sometimes, the best memories aren’t made in perfect conditions but in the willingness to dive into life as it is, wet, cold, and full of joy, and in awe of what we were experiencing.  But after a particularly stormy morning, the sun broke through at Dyrhólaey, casting light on the cliffs and black sand beaches. It was one of those moments when the landscape was both wild and serene. I realized that the weather wasn’t an obstacle; it was a teacher, reminding us to be present, adaptable, and open to surprise.   Driving around Iceland is an adventure in itself. The roads wind through fjords, along black sand beaches, and often cross narrow, unpaved paths. On our way to Vik, fierce winds blew across the landscape, making every turn a bit of a mystery.  But we remembered the advice of the locals: slow down, trust the road, and respect nature. That mindset became our mantra throughout the trip. Even small moments, like noticing the small mountain flowers, watching the ponies play in the fields, and taking a mindful moment while gazing at the ocean. In a land where nature can be harsh and unpredictable, the community becomes a lifeline. We saw the power of community in every small town we visited.   Iceland left me with a renewed belief in the importance of welcoming others and creating spaces where everyone feels like they belong. Traveling in Iceland also heightened my awareness of my responsibility as a guest. The natural beauty here is fragile, and the people work hard to protect it. There are constant reminders to respect wildlife, stay on designated paths, and leave no trace. We took this seriously, packing out our trash, supporting local businesses, and learning about the challenges faced by Icelandic communities. View from our hotel in Borganes. Affirmation: I welcome adventure with an open heart, embrace the unexpected with courage, and honor the communities and lands that host me. Every journey offers an opportunity for connection, care, and regeneration. Reflection Questions: When have you faced unexpected challenges during an adventure, and how did you adapt or grow from the experience? How can you cultivate a spirit of welcome and community, both at home and when traveling? In what ways can you act as a caretaker of people, places, or resources when you are a guest in a new environment? Our time in Iceland was a powerful mix of adventure, challenge, and connection.  It reminded me that regeneration isn’t just about personal renewal, it’s about how we show up for others and the world around us. Whether navigating unpredictable weather or creating a memorable experience, I hope you find joy in your journey. And may we all continue to regenerate our world, one adventure, one act of kindness, and one mindful step at a time. Take Care, Dear Reader, Julie Founder, Empower Possible Puffins on the cliffs overlooking the black sand beaches. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription.

In the Media

🌱When Life Shifts, Here’s How We Stay Grounded🌱 I sat down with Liz Amys this week for an inspiring conversation on the Whole Mom Podcast. We talked about… 🌿 Navigating change 🔥 Moving from burnout to alignment 💫 Reconnecting with your inner compass 🧘🏼‍♀️The rituals and tools to manage overwhelm 💜 What it really means to live from your values and connect with your inner wisdom. If you’ve ever felt like you’re in a season of transition, uncertainty, or stuck, this one’s for you.  Press play and come back home to yourself. Take a listen and share with a friend. Upcoming Events Mountain 10 Workshops What is Mountain 10?                                                                                                                                                         During this three-hour workshop, we will focus on accessing your inner wisdom to bring about the changes you deeply desire in your life. We will use the Mountain 10 process, a proven, new technology for deep reflection on human change. It is based on the conviction that every person has the most important answers about direction, purpose, and calling within them. This directed reflection process leads you through four terrains of exploration, stopping at points on the journey to consider key questions about awareness, letting go, vision, and realization. The terrains of your journey will take you into deeper observation of your feelings, thoughts, and images. You will explore what you need to let go of as you truly seek what you really want. We will open a space for a new vision and consider the practical steps to actualize that vision. We will deepen our insights in small circles of trust. Journaling and guided reflection will be used throughout the journey. Click HERE to sign up to be on the waitlist for the next workshop. I will reach out once a workshop is scheduled that meets your availability. Please reach out if you have any questions, info@empowerpossible.com

Connect with me on social media! Copyright © EMPOWER Possible  Northfield, United States EMPOWER Possible is dedicated to empowering individuals, organizations, and communities to organize and act together to regenerate our world through Self, Social, and Systems transformation.  info@empowerpossible.com \ Website \ Mission You are receiving this email because you expressed an interest in my work—thank you! You can change your email preferences or unsubscribe at any time.  Disclaimer: This newsletter contains content that has been modified and inspired by ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI. While we use ChatGPT to enhance our content, it should not be considered professional advice. For specific concerns or decisions, please consult with a qualified professional or trusted source. The newsletter authors are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided by or inspired by ChatGPT.

A Recap of My Costa Rican Adventure

 

March 2, 2025 Regenerate Your World  Build the future you want to live in. I know these times aren't the easiest for all of us, but I am an optimist - I see the glass as refillable instead of half-full or half-empty. To brighten up your days, I publish the Regenerate Your World newsletter coming to your inbox on a bi-weekly basis. Let's Get Empowered!

A Recap of My Costa Rican Adventure My husband and I on our last day in Costa Rica. Dear Empowered Reader, Life's journey often takes many unexpected twists and turns that can challenge us. As the founder of Empower Possible, I've learned that true empowerment comes from embracing life's challenges and finding beauty in both the extraordinary and the ordinary.  Today, I invite you to read this newsletter inspired by the landscapes and spirit of Costa Rica. Stephen Levine's words from "One Year to Live" came to mind as I wrote this newsletter: "We become more present the more present we become."  This quote encapsulates the essence of mindfulness and its transformative power. Becoming more present has taught me the importance of noticing. Sometimes this comes easily—like during my recent trip to Costa Rica with my husband. Other times, it's more challenging—like when we returned home to subzero temperatures and spent three days mostly cooped up inside.  Both experiences, though vastly different, were extraordinary in their own way A Recap of My Costa Rican Adventure Please note: I am not an expert on Costa Rican culture, and the insights shared below are based solely on my personal experiences. Nature is F’N Awesome! In Costa Rica, the awesomeness of nature is undeniable. Everywhere you look, life is overflowing—moss, flowers, vines, birds, monkeys, sloths, frogs, and insects all coexist.  As our guide, George put it during one of our tours of the rain forest, "Nature is F'N AWESOME!"  I couldn't agree more. This vibrancy serves as a powerful reminder of the life force that surrounds us, even in less tropical environments.  It encourages us to look closer at our surroundings and to notice the subtle signs of life and growth in our backyards.  Life Upon Life Upon Life:  Co-Evolution. The interconnectedness of nature in Costa Rica is awe-inspiring. On a single tree, you can find moss, air plants, and vines thriving together. Ants inhabit hollow trees while birds perch atop cattle to eat ticks.  This beautiful display of symbiosis reminds us of the importance of community and mutual support in our own lives. For example, red new growth on plants signals vitality and resilience. The holes in monstera leaves are adaptations to survive in dense forests. Bioluminescent moss and butterfly wings mimicking a snake's head illustrate nature's creativity in survival. These adaptations in nature can inspire us to find creative solutions to our own challenges. Just as the monstera leaf adapts to thrive in its environment, we too can adapt and grow in the face of adversity. Tico Time: No Need to Rush The Costa Rican concept of Pura Vida is more than a phrase; it's a way of life. It translates to "pure life" but encompasses so much more: gratitude, simplicity, and contentment.  In Costa Rica, even honking isn't an act of anger but a way to say hello, goodbye, or take care. The people there embrace life with a contagious appreciation. This mindset encourages us to slow down and savor life's moments. In our fast-paced world, adopting a Pura Vida attitude can help reduce stress and increase overall well-being.  Applying Costa Rican Wisdom to Our Lives 1. Embrace Nature's Rhythms:  Take time each day to connect with nature, even if it's just observing a houseplant or watching birds from your window. 2. Practice Mindful Observation:  Notice the small details in your environment. How does the light change throughout the day? What sounds can you hear when you really listen? 3. Cultivate Gratitude: I have said it more than once and I will say it again 😊Start a gratitude journal, noting three things you're thankful for each day. 4. Slow Down:  Incorporate "Tico Time" into your routine by scheduling buffer time between activities or dedicating a day to move at a leisurely pace. Say goodbye to back-to-back meetings and packed schedules. I make it a point to schedule my meetings to start 5 minutes after the half-hour or end 5 minutes before the end of the hour, creating a buffer of time in between meetings. 5. Foster Connections:  Just as nature thrives on interconnectedness, nurture your relationships with friends, family, and community. Much like the way ecosystems rely on strong bonds, I focus on nurturing my relationships with loved ones, friends, and my community. Whether it's a quick check-in with family or a deep conversation with a friend, I believe these connections help me grow and thrive. 6. Embrace Adaptability:  When faced with challenges, ask yourself, "How can I adapt and thrive in this situation?" instead of facing the situation with a sense of rigidity.  7. Simplify:  Evaluate your possessions and commitments. What can you let go of to live more simply? Affirmation, "I embrace the beauty of the present moment, finding joy in life's simplicity and connection" "I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear." - Rosa Parks This quote reminds us of the power of determination and clarity of purpose. When we align our actions with our values, like the Costa Rican expression, "Pura Vida", we can overcome fear and live more authentically. My trip to Costa Rica served as a powerful reminder of the beauty that exists when we slow down, notice, and embrace the present moment.  Nature's resilience, ability to regenerate, the simplicity of Pura Vida, and the joy of coexisting with others are lessons that transcend geography. These thoughts aren't just about Costa Rica—they're about how we choose to live every day. Remember, we have the power to regenerate our world by applying these lessons to our daily lives. By embracing presence, cultivating gratitude, and finding joy in simplicity, we can transform our experience of life and inspire those around us. Thank you for joining me on this journey. I hope it inspires you to pause, notice, and celebrate the extraordinary in your own life. If this newsletter resonates with you, please share it with a friend or colleague.  Remember, at Empower Possible, we believe in your ability to create positive change in your life and the world around you.  Let's embrace the spirit of Pura Vida and regenerate our world, one mindful moment at a time Take Care, Dear Reader Julie A view along the Cano Negro River. Two spider monkeys. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. MOVING by Luis Chaves The world is turning so fast it appears to stand still. I thought about saying so but preferred, as your copilot, to watch you circle the parking lot. https://www.poetryinternational.com/en/poets-poems/poems/poem/103-27875_MOVING

A tucan resting in a tree outside our hotel in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. In The Media Where can you find EMPOWER Possible? Besides posting on my own social media I also collaborate with other entrepreneurs. This week I am going to throw back to the Empowered Heart to Heart Podcast as it is relevant to this topic I chatted with Rhonda Simmons about personal mission statements, listening to your true voice, and claiming your power. To listen HERE  Interested in catching up on our previous podcast episodes? I invite you to explore our library of past recordings, where we delve into a diverse range of topics related to happiness and well-being. https://empowerpossible.com/podcasts/

Upcoming Events Empathy Workshop Saturday, March 22  9:00 AM - 10:30 AM CST Who: People interested in fostering connection, creativity, and kindness. What: A free, 90-minute virtual experience designed to address the need for more empathy in the modern world. Why: Shift from Indifference to Kindness Connect with Like-Minded Leaders Join us for an interactive, thought-provoking workshop filled with experiential learning, breakout discussions, and exercises to help you lead with more empathy and impact. To Register click on the link, SIGN ME UP! Julie Zaruba Fountaine and Linda Brandt appreciate Late Nite Art’s People Leader Series for teaching us this format. Mountain 10 Workshops What is Mountain 10?                                                                                                                                              During this three-hour workshop, we will focus on accessing your inner wisdom to bring about the changes you deeply desire in your life. We will use the Mountain 10 process, a proven, new technology for deep reflection on human change. It is based on the conviction that every person has the most important answers about direction, purpose, and calling within them. This directed reflection process leads you through four terrains of exploration, stopping at points on the journey to consider key questions about awareness, letting go, vision, and realization. The terrains of your journey will take you into deeper observation of your feelings, thoughts, and images. You will explore what you need to let go of as you truly seek what you really want. We will open a space for a new vision and consider the practical steps to actualize that vision. We will deepen our insights in small circles of trust. Journaling and guided reflection will be used throughout the journey. Click HERE to sign up to be on the waitlist for the next workshop. I will reach out once a workshop is scheduled that meets your availability. Please reach out if you have any questions, info@empowerpossible.com

Connect with me on social media! Copyright © Empower Possible  Northfield, Minnesota EMPOWER Possible is dedicated to empowering individuals, organizations, and communities to organize and act together to regenerate our world through Self, Social, and Systems transformation.  info@empowerpossible.com \ Website \ Mission You are receiving this email because you expressed an interest in my work—thank you! You can change your email preferences or unsubscribe at any time.  Disclaimer: This newsletter contains content that has been modified and inspired by ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI. While we use ChatGPT to enhance our content, it should not be considered professional advice. For specific concerns or decisions, please consult with a qualified professional or trusted source. The newsletter authors are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided by or inspired by ChatGPT.