More Presence, Less Pace
Slow Down to Soak It In
Reflections from the road and why presence matters more than pace.
We picked the kids up from school a couple days early — which in parent world is a little rebellious — loaded up the van (lovingly named Boomer, short for Boomerang), and pointed ourselves north. The plan? No real plan. Just a loosely sketched route through Kamloops, Revelstoke, Banff, Radium Hot Springs, Fernie, and finally Glacier National Park.
What we were really chasing wasn’t a destination — it was a feeling. The kind that’s hard to come by when you’re stuck in the swirl of schedules, deadlines, and group chats about who forgot to pack the soccer cleats.
Something special happens when you slow down. And I don’t mean the kind of slow where you’re still mentally back home, checking your email in line for a gondola ride. I mean present-slow. Fully-there-slow. The kind of slow where you start noticing things again.
Like your kids' laughter bouncing down a trail as they make up ridiculous games, popping wheelies and high-fiving tree roots. Or spotting a weasel frolicking through the brush like it had somewhere important to be. There’s something magical about seeing your kids light up over something that simple.
In Fernie, we stumbled upon a bike jump park. All of us — yes, me included — started hitting the jumps. I’m 50. A physical therapist. I prefer my tires stay on the ground, thank you very much. But watching my kids push their boundaries sparked something in me. I couldn’t help but follow. We laughed, we crashed (safely), and we pushed past what felt comfortable — together. Something I am always asking my clients and team members to do.
Then there was Glacier. My 6-year-old had been watching his older sister train for cross country all trip. One morning, he turns to me and says, “Dad, I wanna go on a trail run.” So we did. Just the two of us, weaving through alpine forest. He led the way. And let me tell you, I’ll never forget that run. Not because of the pace, or the route, but because of the moment. We finished, he chugged his water like he just conquered Everest, and we snapped a photo that I’ll probably look at when he’s 18 and headed out into the world.
Why does this matter?
Because moments like these don’t just happen — they’re made. And in our go-go-go world, they’re easy to miss.
There’s actual science behind this. Research shows that slowing down and savoring small joys — whether it’s the taste of gelato, the view from a summit, or the warmth of your kid’s hand — reduces stress, enhances mood, and even improves memory formation. It’s called “savoring” — and it’s linked to greater well-being and lower rates of depression and anxiety.
Studies from the Journal of Positive Psychology confirm that when we’re present and intentionally aware of positive moments, our happiness increases. Not just in the moment, but cumulatively — like a happiness snowball.
We’re also teaching our kids something powerful. That joy isn’t just in the big stuff. It’s in setting up a tent, cooking a meal outside, jumping a bike just a few inches higher than last time. And that being active, connected, and fully engaged is what creates the kind of memories that shape who we are.
Because what we do today becomes the memory our kids hold tomorrow.
You don’t need a road trip to do this. You don’t need the Rockies or a jump park. You just need to pause. Go for a walk at a local park. Sit down for dinner without devices. Watch the way the sunlight hits your kid’s face when they’re telling you about their day.
Presence isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being there. Fully there. And I promise, the view from that place is better than anything you’ll find on a map.
And if I’m being honest — I’m still working on this. The slowing down. The noticing. The being present outside of vacation mode, in the ordinary rhythm of everyday life. It's easy to feel grounded in the mountains… harder in Monday morning traffic or during back-to-back meetings. But I’m trying. And maybe that’s the point.
We’ve still got a month of summer left. I hope you find a moment — or ten — to slow down, be present, and soak in the small joys. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a bike ride with your kids, or just a few deep breaths between the chaos, those moments matter.
I’d love to hear what fills your cup this season. And if you’re looking for more ways to reconnect with what really matters, check out our Redefine What’s Possible podcast — full of stories, insights, and reminders that the best version of life is the one you’re fully awake for. Hear more about my trip, and tips on how you can start living a happier life.
Here’s to presence, joy, and making memories — one moment at a time.
Redefine What’s Possible Podcast
Redefine your limits. Expand what’s possible.
Whether you’re navigating your own health journey, stepping into a season of personal growth, or embracing the unknowns of a new chapter, we hope this podcast serves as a gentle reminder: you’re not alone.
We all face moments when the path ahead feels uncertain or overwhelming. But even in the messiness, there is movement. There is progress. And most importantly, there is possibility.
Each episode invites real conversations rooted in purpose, care, and courage—because small, intentional actions have the power to spark lasting change. And wherever you are in your journey, know this: you are already part of something meaningful.
We’re so glad you’re here with us. Together, let’s keep showing up. Let’s keep growing. And let’s keep redefining what’s possible.
On this weeks episode: Shanon reflects on presence, connection, and what truly makes us happy—drawing from an 85-year Harvard study and a family road trip. Tune in for real talk on relationships, unplugging, and simple ways to be more present.