Full disclosure:

Until this week, I had never once questioned why pirates wore eye patches (have you?). I just assumed it was part of the job description. Lots of sword fights, probably. Maybe the occasional parrot-related incident.

Then a friend introduced me to the theory that pirates may have worn eye patches so that one eye remained adjusted to darkness, allowing them to move more easily below deck. There isn't enough evidence to know for sure, but many historians think it's a reasonable explanation.

What struck me wasn't whether it's true or not. It was how confidently I had carried around a story I'd never actually examined. I'm kind of embarassed to admit it, but I never thought to ask why pirates wear eye patches. I simply filed it under "things I know."

I suspect we all do this more often than we'd like to admit (like last week, when I discovered what TGIF actually meant🙄).

One of the things I appreciate most about yoga, reading, and conversations with others is that they invite us to remain curious. To consider that there may be another way of seeing something. To trade certainty for the possibility of discovery.

Which feels oddly relevant as we segue into the halfway point of 2026...

Six months ago, many of us charted a new course for the year: Better health. More peace. Less clutter. A stronger body. More meaningful relationships. To feel balanced. More joy.

The good news is that there are still six months left in the year, which feels like plenty of time to adjust the sails, revisit what matters, or even to notice that the treasure we thought we were seeking isn't the treasure we're after anymore.

This is one of the things yoga can teach us. It challenges the idea that fulfillment is waiting somewhere out on the horizon. It reminds us that the treasure isn't only in the finished project, the perfect pose, or the checked box.

The treasure is here, now. In paying attention. In engaging with the process. In being willing to question old stories and change direction when needed.

So perhaps the invitation for the second half of the year isn't to push harder toward the destination, but to pay closer attention to the journey. And if you'd like some company along the way, whether through movement, conversation, or creating more space, I'd love to help.

In the meantime...

Next week, we have a few opportunities to explore, connect, move, and maybe discover a little unexpected treasure:

Aqua Yoga | Tuesday, July 7

Plot twist: after visiting both pool locations, I have officially changed course🏴‍☠️.

While the saltwater pool was lovely, the pool off Borgfeld and Canyon Golf Road turned out to be unexpectedly perfect for Aqua Yoga. There's plenty of room to move, beautiful surroundings, comfortable water, and honestly, it feels a little like a resort vacation.

We'll spend an hour exploring movement, balance, breath, and relaxation in the water, followed by time to chat and enjoy some light refreshments.

Come as early as 10:05 am to swim and relax before class begins at 10:30 am. Sign up HERE.​

Happy Hour Yoga at Spring Creek | Wednesday, July 8

One of my favorite combinations remains: moving our bodies in a beautiful place, followed by food, drinks, and good company.

Join us Wednesday evening at Spring Creek Garden Center for an all-levels practice at 5:30 pm. We'll move, breathe, and then reward ourselves with snacks and beverages. That sounds like balance to me! Sign up HERE.​

X marks the spot

Whether you're looking for movement, connection, relaxation, or just an excuse to leave the house, here's a visual treasure map of what's coming up this month:

Happy half new year, y'all🎆 Here's to staying curious. I look forward to seeing you soon!

With love,

Monica

(reply to me HERE)