From People Pleasing to Presence: What Bali Is Teaching Me About Slowing Down
Sometimes the shift you need isn’t hustle or healing—it’s simply a quieter rhythm.
📝 Quick favor before you read:
I'm starting to plan my return and would love your input.
If you've taken one of my classes or are curious about joining me for yoga, wellness events, or private sessions — click here:
It only takes a minute and means a lot!
Now onto the real talk…
Before I came to Bali, I didn’t realize how often I was moving in response to the rhythms around me—whether it was staying up later because the house was still awake, eating when others were eating, or saying yes to plans because it felt easier than tuning in.
No one was asking me to ignore myself. I just didn’t realize how much I’d stopped checking in.
But something shifts when you take space. I’ve started to hear my own rhythm again.
I’ve been going to bed early. Waking up early. Skipping meals when I’m not hungry. Letting go of plans when rest or stillness feels more right. There’s nothing dramatic about it—but it’s felt completely different.
And here’s what’s surprised me: I feel more harmonious than I have in a long time. My Oura Ring sleep scores have been through the roof. My resilience levels? Higher than ever. It’s like my body was just waiting for me to listen.
I don’t feel lazy or antisocial. I feel aligned.
Back home, I would’ve pushed through. Gone with the flow. Kept pace with whoever or whatever needed me. But this version of me? She checks in. She pauses. She trusts her own yes and no.
That’s the version I want to bring home with me.
I want to keep being an early riser. I want to anchor my days in my energy, not someone else’s. I want to keep choosing moments that feel good instead of defaulting to what’s expected.
If you’ve been stuck in people-pleasing or just feel like you’ve lost track of your own needs, here’s what I’d say from where I’m sitting:
Take some time alone to find your rhythm again.
It doesn’t have to be halfway around the world. But I’ll be honest — doing it somewhere where services are accessible (think: easy food, laundry, help when you need it) does make it easier to give your energy to you.
Let the noise quiet down for a bit. Tune in. Ask yourself:
What do I want right now? What would feel good?
Then actually listen.
I hope this post reminds you that it’s possible to feel good in your body. To feel calm in your mind. To move at your own pace. And when the time is right, I really do believe it all starts to align.
💌 Over to you:
I’d love to hear:
What does your rhythm feel like when you’re not trying to keep up?
What’s one thing you’d do differently if you were truly listening to yourself?
Or just let me know how you’re doing lately — I always love reading your notes.
✨ What’s Coming Up?
🍁 Yoga and Wellness Retreat
I’m strongly considering hosting a yoga & wellness retreat in Upstate New York, October 10–13 — think cozy fall vibes, yoga, deep rest, movement, journaling, and reconnection and more self-care/wellness fun!
If that sparks something in you, let me know — I’d love to gauge interest as I start planning.
🌿 Coming Soon: Private Yoga Sessions
When I return home later this summer, I’ll be offering a limited number of private yoga sessions — tailored to your goals, your energy, and your body. Whether you’re brand new to yoga or looking to deepen your practice, I’d love to work together.
Interested?
Let’s talk about what you’re looking for. Spots will be limited!
📚 The Downtown New Rochelle Book Club
Still going strong while I’m gone — join the club here:
I’ll be back just in time for our June meeting!
With love from the island,
Cassie