S.E.L.F. Reflection: How is your environment affecting the way you live your life?
- rejuvecise
- Jun 5
- 4 min read
The other morning, I woke up with a thought that stopped me in my tracks.
At exactly 5:58 AM on May 26, 2026, I realized there will never be another May 26, 2026 at 5:58 in the morning.
That moment existed once and only once.
By the time I finished the thought, it was already in the past.
Every moment becomes a memory. Every breath becomes the breath that came before. And with each passing day, we move one day closer to the end of our human life.
I don't mean that in a morbid way. In fact, I find it incredibly inspiring. What a miracle it is that we are here at all.
Think about it.
We live on a planet that perfectly sustains life. We wake up every morning and walk around without giving a second thought to gravity holding us safely to the earth. We can step outside, get in a car, take a walk, visit a friend, or simply sit and enjoy the sunshine.
That morning, after meditating and drinking my tea, I looked out the window and felt overwhelmed with gratitude.
Gratitude for my beautiful home.
Gratitude for my neighborhood.
Gratitude for the trees, the birds, the sky, and the simple gift of being alive.
As many of you know, Environment is the "E" in the S.E.L.F. Empowerment™ framework. It's about the spaces we live in, work in, and surround ourselves with every day. It includes our homes, our workplaces, our relationships, and even the thoughts we allow to take up residence in our minds.
And yet, I know many people whose environments are anything but serene.
Some spend fourteen hours a day sitting at a computer, forgetting to eat, constantly under pressure.
Others live with clutter that drains their energy every time they walk into a room.
Some share a home with a partner, family member, or situation that slowly chips away at their peace and joy.
Many people are suffering in environments that no longer serve them.
What saddens me most is that sometimes we stay there so long we forget we have a choice.
Now, I realize some circumstances aren't easily changed. Some situations require time, planning, courage, and resources.
But many of us have more power than we realize.
If your workplace feels unhealthy, perhaps it's time to speak up.
If you've spoken up and nothing changes, perhaps it's time to begin exploring other options.
If your home feels chaotic and overwhelming, ask yourself why.
Sometimes clutter isn't just clutter.
Sometimes it's a reflection of exhaustion.
Stress.
Overwhelm.
A mind that is carrying too much.
The first step isn't changing everything overnight.
The first step is noticing how your environment is affecting the way you live your life.
How do you feel when you wake up in the morning?
How do you feel at the end of the day?
Do you look forward to being in your environment?
Or do you feel drained by it?
These questions aren't meant to create judgment. They're meant to create awareness.
Because awareness is where change begins.
Recently, I've been thinking about the role environment plays in transformation.
One of the reasons I'm so excited about our Sedona retreat this November is that it offers people the opportunity to step outside their everyday surroundings and into an environment intentionally designed to nurture reflection, healing, connection, and growth.
Sometimes simply changing our surroundings for a few days allows us to see our lives differently.
We hear ourselves more clearly.
We reconnect with what matters.
We remember who we are beneath all the noise.
Whether that's Sedona, a weekend away, an afternoon in nature, or simply creating a peaceful corner in your home, changing your environment can change your perspective.
And perspective can change your life.
There will never be another you.
There will never be another version of this day.
And there will never be another moment exactly like the one you're living right now.
Your time here is precious.
So love yourself enough to create an environment that supports your well-being.
Love yourself enough to seek peace.
Love yourself enough to choose joy.
The world needs the unique gifts that only you can bring.
Give yourself a space worthy of the life you've been given.
Click the button below to learn more about the Sedona, AZ, retreat on November 5-8, 2026
Phyllis Smith is the Founder & CEO of Rejuvecise. She is a Yoga Instructor and S.E.L.F Leadership Guide in the Dallas, Texas area. She is also the creator of the S.E.L.F. Empowerment framework, which develops SELF Leadership through the principles of Stability (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual), Environment, Love (self-compassion), and Friendship. Her life's work is helping others discover a sense of inner steadiness, self-trust, and serenity. She believes serenity is not about having a perfect life. It is about learning how to meet life with grace, courage, and clarity—no matter what arises. Click HERE to learn more about the variety of services offered and/or contact Phyllis at Phyllis@Rejuvecise.com for a FREE 30-minute discovery call today. (Services offered both in-person and online)
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