National Geographic Magazine’s June 2024 lead article^* reports that the perceived level of psychological stress has risen dramatically across the globe due to a combination of factors: the COVID pandemic, climate change, environmental disasters, economic uncertainty, the escalation of political instability across nations, constant news about gun violence, terrorism, wars, and other threats. The article goes on to say, "the consequences of this broadscale increase in stress are only beginning to be appreciated, but the evidence suggests that we are facing a second pandemic of mood and anxiety disorders, including major depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)."

Out with the old / In with the new is a continuous journey of discovery and transformation. It’s how we can create a new and better life. Within the process of moving from old to new, many of us are experiencing old issues we thought were healed or cleared coming up again. This is natural, especially during times of accelerated change in society. Rather than feeling discouraged, there is a more hopeful view. We can see these as traces of old patterns we no longer need coming up for more complete clearing. And here’s the best news: As old issues get cleared, this creates room for new heart-based perspectives and guidance to come in, which we all need in today’s times of intensity and change.