Many edible herbs and flowers can be used in tea and recipes. When it comes to tea, I find my favorite sources apart from lilac are chamomile and ros… - Paola Merrill

I love to see animals running free. It reminds me to be grateful that cool weather and a space to play is enough, and sometimes that's all we need to be joyful.

About a year and a half ago, I quit my job, moved to the countryside, and started a new life. Since then I've learned quite a few lessons on how to cultivate a feeling of abundance while living simply.

• Imagine you have a root system, much like a flower. Where are the roots? Are they in your mind, your heart, your entire body? Outside of your body? Where does your "strength" come from?
• What are your sources of nourishment? Apart from your basic needs, is there something else you need? Perhaps it is a few minutes alone each morning, reading a book, creating art, taking walks, etc. What is it, and how can you incorporate it into your life?
• What do need to flourish? What steps can you take to nourish your soul?
• What other types of cycles can you notice within your life? What can the trends you see within your relationships, friendships, body, and emotions tell you about yourself? What wisdom can you take from them?