October Newsletter

If you’ve been following us on social media, you may have noticed a quiet spell over the past month. That’s because I (Laurie — the voice behind the posts and website) made a last-minute trip to Ontario, Canada. Now that I’m back in Belize, I wanted to take a moment to reflect and share what this past month has taught me.

A Season of Reflection

Life lessons come in many forms — sometimes in moments of struggle, other times in quiet reflection. For me, this trip brought both. Being back in Belize, I find myself deep in reflection and full of gratitude.

Earlier today, I shared a personal post about just how thankful I am. I’m grateful for the people, the land, the ceremonies, and for my husband — who kept everything running while I was away. I’m still in awe of the generosity and love I received. So many beautiful souls opened their homes and hearts to me. I was even offered a vehicle to use, and shared countless nourishing meals with dear friends.

It’s hard to put into words how deeply grateful I feel. Leaving was bittersweet — but I carry those memories and that loving energy with me, no matter where I am in the world.

The Contrast: Canada & Belize

One of the most powerful insights from my trip was the stark difference between life in Canada and life in Belize — at least for me personally.

The first two weeks back in Canada were hard. I lost my appetite, my psoriasis flared up within days, I got a cold sore, and even my curly hair went flat and started to fall out. I returned to my gluten-free (celiac) diet, but something still felt off.

It wasn’t until I spent time at a friend’s farm — working in their greenhouse, getting my hands dirty — that I realized something profound: I had forgotten how to breathe.

Yes, I was breathing — but just going through the motions. It wasn’t conscious, connected breathing. Not the kind that grounds you in your body, connects you to the Earth, and brings you home to yourself.

Once I truly paused and allowed myself to breathe, everything shifted. My appetite came back — and I got to enjoy foods I hadn’t tasted in a year: sweet corn, peaches, berries, and (I’ll admit!) some long-missed indulgences like Boston Pizza’s Spicy Perogy Pizza and pulled pork poutine.

My psoriasis improved, the cold sore healed, and most importantly, I returned to my heart. I stopped living in my head and reconnected with my inner guidance.

A Teaching Moment

This trip reminded me how easy it is to lose touch with yourself — especially in the business of modern life. The moment I landed in Toronto, it was go, go, go. There was no time to check in with myself, no time to ask my heart what it needed. It was automatic — and I didn’t even realize it until I had the chance to slow down.

But once I did, I remembered what my soul truly craves. That pause, that breath, that connection to the Earth — that’s what brought me back to myself.

This reflection has given me clarity about the deeper vision for Medicine Tree. It’s about connection — to the land, to the plants, to nature spirits — all in service of connecting more deeply with ourselves.

When I sit with the Earth, when I breathe with intention, when I listen with my heart — I reconnect to the truest version of me. The version who wants to thrive, to carry love and presence wherever she goes, and to share her heart with the world.

This is what this land here in Belize teaches me daily. It’s what the plants and nature spirits remind me of every time I meet them in stillness.

And eventually, it’s what we hope to share with you.

Closing Thoughts

As this season unfolds, I invite you to pause, to breathe, and to listen — to your body, your heart, and the land beneath your feet. I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I know that healing and clarity often come in those quiet moments of connection.

Thank you for walking this journey with us. We’re so grateful you’re here — and there’s more to come from Medicine Tree soon.

With love,Laurie 🌿