A Book I'm Returning To This Summer

The Body Keeps the Score
by Bessel van der Kolk

I've carried this book with me through many seasons, but this summer it feels especially relevant again.

Inspired by conversations with my cousin as she trains to become a yoga instructor, I've found myself revisiting its ideas around presence, healing, and the wisdom of the body. It's a reminder that growth doesn't always come from doing more. Sometimes it comes from listening more closely, holding space with compassion, and finding a balance between honoring what we carry and knowing when it's time to let go.

A takeaway

Your body is always communicating. Slow down and be present enough to hear it.

A Summer Practice

"The last thing I do before I fall asleep is acknowledge myself. As my head hits the pillow, I trace back through the day and place my attention on every good thing I did, thought, or said, big or small, seen or unseen.

Most of us end the day rehearsing what went wrong, what we forgot, or what we could have done better. This practice is the opposite. It's a small but radical act of turning that critical voice down and letting the good actually land before you drift off.

You don't need long. Just let your mind wander back through the day with a generous eye and see what's already there."

Maya Thakrar
Meditation Teacher
@maya_thakrar

A Mindset Shift That Changed the Way I Build Habits

One behavior change principle that has made a meaningful impact on both my personal life and professional work is designing your environment for success.

Behavior change becomes much easier when we stop relying solely on motivation and start creating environments that naturally support the habits we want to build.

If I want to commit to going to the gym, I pack my gym bag ahead of time. If I want to eat healthier, I make sure nourishing foods are easy to reach. If there's a habit I'd like to reduce, I create more friction by making it less convenient.

Even small changes matter. Something as simple as keeping skincare products visible on the counter instead of tucked away in a drawer can increase the likelihood that I'll stay consistent with my routine.

One mindset shift that changed my perspective is realizing that success doesn't always come from being more disciplined. Sometimes it comes from being more intentional about the systems and environments we create around ourselves.

Small adjustments, repeated consistently, can lead to powerful change over time.

Jenny Acevedo, M.S., BCBA, LBA
Founder, Rise Above Behavioral Group, LLC

A Summer Wellness Tip

The summer heat can increase fluid loss subtly and imperceptibly. Sweat, breath, prolonged sun exposure, and summer beverages can all contribute to dehydration, making it that much more important to drink before thirst becomes urgent.

Aim for half your body weight in ounces of water daily. Rotate in coconut water for gentle electrolyte replenishment or cooling herbal teas such as peppermint and hibiscus.

Also consider the vessel that holds your water. Summer heat can encourage plastics to leach unwanted chemicals into beverages. Choosing reusable glass or stainless steel bottles is a simple way to support your overall wellness.

Dr. Nicole Aviles
Naturopathic Doctor

A Recipe We're Making This Summer

Peruvian-Style Shrimp Ceviche

After a long week and an intense tennis session, this is our go-to. Quick, light, refreshing, and made with all the love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb wild shrimp, cleaned, deveined, and cut into thirds
• Juice of 4 limes
• Juice of 4 lemons
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp Peruvian aji amarillo paste
• 1 tbsp Peruvian aji panka paste
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup cucumber, small diced
• Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt, to taste

Method

Blend the lime juice, lemon juice, aji amarillo paste, and aji panka paste until smooth. Pour over the shrimp, ensuring it is fully submerged. Refrigerate until the shrimp becomes opaque and pink, about 15–30 minutes.

Fold in the onion, tomatoes, cucumber, and cilantro. Season with salt and finish with a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately.

If Sungold tomatoes are available, they add a beautiful sweetness that balances the acidity and heat exceptionally well.

Emily Muñoz
Private Chef & Co-Founder of MOMU

A Place That Inspired Me 

India

I recently traveled to India and fell in love. From the people and places to the culture, history, heritage, colors, and food, it was incredible to experience a place so rich in tradition and beauty.

A reminder that some destinations stay with you long after you've returned home.

Arianna Sartzetakis
Founder, Uncover More