Expansion is one of, if not the biggest event we have of the year. It is a time when we come together in community, focus on what we are looking to create in our lives, and how we can embody moving in that direction.
When we were first pulling together the concept of the full day retreat we new we wanted to host at the beginning of the year. There is so much buzz and discussion of New Years Resolutions, New Year-New You talk, and the excitement of setting goals so you can 'smash' them throughout the year. These are all great and exciting to participate in and we wanted to take it a step further (or deeper rather) and dive into the motivations of the heart, the why behind it all. And so Expansion was born.
The word Expansion was inspired by the book The Big Leap, by Gay Hendricks where he says “I expand in abundance, success, and love every day, as I inspire those around me to do the same.” The reason this quote was so important and potent is because the reason for the quote in the book is to help one overcome their feelings of unworthiness and self-sabotage and move into a life of abundance, success, and love. The ability to move past these happiness limits we unconsciously put on ourselves.
This is the work we look to foster at Expansion. The ability to look within and question what our motives are, what it is that holds us back from fully embodying and moving in the direction of our hearts deepest and biggest desires. Expansion could not be the magical day that it is without the beautiful souls who join us and fully show up to do this work with vulnerability, authenticity, and an open mind.
One of my favorite moments from this year was when someone who had previously attended reacted to the announcement of our next exercise. The exercise is called The 9 Why's to which she replied, "You mean the why until you cry practice?" with a playful sarcasm in her voice. I loved this because it shows that even when we are diving deep and looking into some of the recesses of ourselves that aren't always pleasant, there is still room for levity.
Many times when we approach this inner work there is an air of mysticism and definitely undertones of sacred energy, and it's true there very much is sacredness in this work. That being said, I want to challenge the idea that the sacred work must be defined in any certain way. Does it need to be solemn, quiet, full of oms and peace? Or does it sometimes need to look like unbridled rage or over the top laughter and bliss? The beauty of it is that it gets to be all of these things. Just like beauty, it is in the eye of the beholder and on the hands and heart of the one on the journey.
This is what Expansion is about, showing up fully, discovering yourself, and creating what you want to embody in the year (and beyond) that is before you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who showed up, cried, laughed, and did the work to come closer to home. And a special heartfelt thank you to my dear friend and co-creator Patty. Your love of sharing, deep knowledge and reverence, and heart for lifting others is an inspiration and Expansion wouldn't be the magic it is without you.
With much love, Jessica
What other's are saying about the day:
"This event is life changing and every year I have attended, I learn a little bit more about who I really am and what goals and dreams I hold deep in my heart. It’s a gift to be able to attend, the environment is magic and the community is so pure and connected." -Lauren
"If you are one to start a resolution and stop a few weeks in you need to go to Expansion. It's a tangible way to make lasting, positive changes in your life and discover things about yourself you never knew." - Jennafer
"Expansion is such an amazing experience! It is a great mixture of physical activity, journaling, lecture, and discussion. It asks you to dive deep and really learn what your intention is. I love how accepted I felt walking in the door. Jessica and Patty are both incredible and I can’t wait for more of their events!" - Sammi
"This event has become a tradition for me every year. It’s a revealing safe space that exposes your authentic self in a way that is beautiful & empowering." - Monica
Photo Credits: JL Photography