Jackie Kauffman Jackie Kauffman

The Kindling The Light Within

Kindling the Light Within

Winter Solstice brings us face-to-face with darkness, both in the natural world and within ourselves. It’s the longest night, the deepest pause, a moment to reflect on what we’ve been carrying. In this stillness, we’re reminded that processing our emotions—no matter how heavy or uncomfortable—is like tending a fire. Each feeling, each acknowledgment, becomes kindling for the light within us.

Emotions can feel overwhelming, like shadows we’d rather avoid. But when we allow ourselves to sit with them, to name them, they transform. Grief, anger, fear, even joy—all of these are fuel. By giving them space, by processing rather than suppressing, we feed the flame that sustains us.

The Solstice reminds us that the light we seek isn’t something we have to chase; it’s something we kindle. It grows when we face what feels dark and unfamiliar, not by overpowering it but by letting it teach us. The act of turning toward our emotions—of truly feeling them—becomes the alchemy that turns pain into resilience, uncertainty into clarity, and fear into trust.

As we honor this day of pause, let yourself tend your fire. What emotions are asking to be seen? What truths are surfacing in the stillness? Bring them to your inner flame, one by one. Let the process of feeling be the spark that keeps your light alive.

From the darkness comes clarity, and from the kindling of our emotions, the light within burns brighter.

With warmth and reflection,

Here’s to tending the fire of your inner light.

Jackie  


 Kindling the Light Within

Winter Solstice brings us face-to-face with darkness, both in the natural world and within ourselves. It’s the longest night, the deepest pause, a moment to reflect on what we’ve been carrying. In this stillness, we’re reminded that processing our emotions—no matter how heavy or uncomfortable—is like tending a fire. Each feeling, each acknowledgment, becomes kindling for the light within us.

Emotions can feel overwhelming, like shadows we’d rather avoid. But when we allow ourselves to sit with them, to name them, they transform. Grief, anger, fear, even joy—all of these are fuel. By giving them space, by processing rather than suppressing, we feed the flame that sustains us.

The Solstice reminds us that the light we seek isn’t something we have to chase; it’s something we kindle. It grows when we face what feels dark and unfamiliar, not by overpowering it but by letting it teach us. The act of turning toward our emotions—of truly feeling them—becomes the alchemy that turns pain into resilience, uncertainty into clarity, and fear into trust.

As we honor this day of pause, let yourself tend your fire. What emotions are asking to be seen? What truths are surfacing in the stillness? Bring them to your inner flame, one by one. Let the process of feeling be the spark that keeps your light alive.

From the darkness comes clarity, and from the kindling of our emotions, the light within burns brighter.

With warmth and reflection,

Here’s to tending the fire of your inner light.

Jackie  


Read More
Jackie Kauffman Jackie Kauffman

Echoes of avalon

As September begins

Avalon Healing & Wellness September Blog

Hello, beautiful community!

As September begins to show hints of fall, I find myself reflecting on the bittersweet moments of August as I shift into a new month.  It’s a time when nature begins its transformation, preparing for the stillness of winter. The leaves shift from lush greens to the  warm yellows, oranges, and deep reds, mirroring the changes in our own lives. This year, I experienced this transition more profoundly than ever.

Just two weeks ago, I dropped my daughter off at college—a milestone filled with excitement and pride. Watching her embark on this new journey brought me joy, but it also stirred a deep sense of loss. The day was filled with hugs, laughter, and hopeful anticipation for her future. All the while processing that my daughter was now on her own adventure away from home. Yet, in the midst of this happy chaos, we faced an unexpected heartache: we were losing our beloved family pet back home. Our son was staying home with our sweet dog Annbelle.  We are capable of feeling all of these things at the same time, but it can be overwhelming for those of us who feel BIG.  Loss and love.  Letting go.  The super moon was felt for sure. 

A pet is not just an animal; they’re an individual that are family. Our furry friend shared in our everyday joys and challenges and provided unconditional love and comfort.  She was the first puppy my kids got to share in growing along side. It’s almost as if Annabelle stayed until it was time for our daughter to go to college. Ouch! Saying goodbye was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do, especially on a day that was supposed to be filled with new beginnings. As I left the college campus, I couldn't help but feel the heaviness of that duality—the joy of new adventures with the sorrow of a departure.  

As we transition into this fall season, I’m reminded that life is a constant cycle of hellos and goodbyes. Autumn teaches us about letting go and embracing change. Just as the trees shed their leaves, we too must release what no longer serves us—whether that’s the comfort of a familiar routine or the companionship of a loved one who has crossed over.  

Finding Healing in Change

I want to share some gentle reminders for anyone grappling with similar feelings of joy and sorrow as they navigate their own transitions this season:

Acknowledge Your Emotions: It’s normal to feel a mix of happiness and sadness. Allow yourself to fully experience your emotions without judgment. Whether you’re celebrating a family milestone or mourning a loss, give yourself the grace to feel it all. BOTH AND…

Intentional Movement:  Go for a walk, do some yoga, DANCE. Elevate your mood and reconnect to your body.  Our emotions often get lodged in our bodies. Movement is medicine and can help us move through and process our emotions. 

Seek Refuge and Connect with Nature: As the leaves change, take time to be outdoors. Nature has a wonderful way of helping us process our feelings. Whether it’s a walk in the park or simply sitting under a tree, let the beauty around you serve as a reminder of resilience and renewal. 

Create: Tap into your creativity. Find new ways to express yourself, or return to an old creative outlet you might have abandoned that you loved. Art, Music, Crafts, Blogs, Writing, Gardening, you name it. 

Create Rituals of Remembrance: Honor your loved ones, whether human or animal, by creating rituals to celebrate their lives. Light a candle, make a scrapbook, or plant a tree in their memory. These acts can provide solace while anchoring your fondest memories in the present. This also gives you a time and some space to honor your grieving process. 

Reach Out for Support: None of us navigate these changes alone. Talk to friends, family, healer, spiritual advisor, or a mental health professional who can provide emotional support during such challenging times. Remember, you are never truly alone in your experiences.

Embrace New Beginnings: Just as we bid farewell to summer, September invites us to embrace new beginnings. Take a moment to set intentions for the upcoming months. What do you want to nurture? What dreams do you want to grow? Write them down, visualize them, and take little steps each day towards manifestation.

As we welcome the fall season, let’s remember that life’s changes, while sometimes painful, also offer us opportunities to grow, evolve, and strengthen our resilience. I encourage all of you to honor both the joy of new beginnings and the love we carry for those we’ve said goodbye to. 

Sending you love and light as we navigate this season of changes together,

Jackie
Avalon Healing & Wellness 

September Events

  • September 6th-8th Wellness in the Woods

  • September 26th East View Elementary Staff Wellness Series Self-Care ( Private Event)

  • Private healing sessions are available

  • Inquire about private group sound sessions by emailing me jackie@avalonhealings.com

  • Group Sound Bath Returns October 5th @ Spiritual Experiences( see scheduling link below)

Read More