For years, I've been the steadfast cheerleader on the frosty banks of Lake Ontario, rooting for my husband as he and the Defy Crossfit crew took their annual polar bear plunge. And there I stood, snug in my parka, secretly envying their icy escapades. 🧊
But this year, my 17-year-old daughter, Sophie, geared up to join the frosty tradition. The thought of me on the sidelines didn't sit right—what a missed opportunity for connection, for a shared story etched in ice crystals and community spirit ❄️
Fueled by a sudden spark of bravery and a dash of motherly pride (I mean, who doesn't want to be their teenager's cool mom?), I decided it was time to stop merely narrating and start participating. It was time to embody my values of curiosity and connection and wade into a new experience.
With laughter in our hearts and a little trepidation in our steps, Sophie and I, along with the spirited Crossfit community, shed our layers (yes, even with those Crossfit sculpted physiques around—humor me, will you?) and plunged into the embrace of the icy lake.
I won't sugarcoat it—the water was a shock to the system, but so was the realization that I could do this. That we could do this. Sophie's beaming face and our shared shivers were worth every frosty second. We stayed in that water for two whole minutes, emerging as polar bear pals.
You can view a REEL of our experience on Instagram HERE.
So here's the splash—I mean, the scoop: If there's an experience or goal you've been sidelining because of a choir of 'what ifs' and 'not yets', let this be your sign to take a step forward. Your values are the springboard to brave action. And the best part? You don't have to do it alone.
Our Winter Visioning event on January 18th will support you in channelling your desires into tangible, life-affirming actions.
📅 Let's shift from the sidelines to the heart of the story—*your* story - and be surrounded by incredible women who also say "yes" to living fully, deeply, and couraegously.
Let's make this winter the season where you step into the waters of change and emerge rejuvenated, restored, and ready to live life fully. The Empowered Women's Circle is your sanctuary. Let's do this together. ❄️
Warm regards, Lisa Burchartz