A Soulful International Women’s Day with Kaitlen

Coffee, conversation, and the kind of friendship that grounds the soul…

This year, International Women’s Day fell on a Sunday—a day meant for peace and reset before the week begins. It felt fitting, then, to spend it slowly and intentionally with my wonderful friend, Kaitlen.

We started our afternoon at Pastel Rita, where we sipped warm lattes and settled into easy conversation. We talked about everything—life lately, where we’ve been emotionally, and of course, the inevitable bits of drama woven in between. There’s something grounding about those kinds of conversations, the ones that remind you you’re not alone in anything you’re feeling.

Afterward, we headed to Studio Sage for a Candlelit Yin, Tarot, and Sonotherapy session. This was completely new to me, but Kaitlen—being one of my oldest and dearest friends—knew it would be something I’d love. And she was right.

As the class began, we were asked to choose numbers to pull from the deck. I picked 47, and Kaitlen chose 49. From there, the experience unfolded in a way that felt both personal and strangely universal.

Without going into too much detail, the instructor spoke about judgment—especially the kind we place on ourselves—and the importance of creating a sanctuary within. She talked about confidence, about leaning into discomfort, and about embracing the changes we know, deep down, need to happen.

At one point, she spoke directly to me, encouraging me to start working on my book—to finally share my story. It felt unexpected, but also deeply affirming.

Following the reading, we moved through a series of gentle, restorative poses. As we stretched and relaxed, the room filled with layered, soothing sounds. The vibrations seemed to settle into the body, leaving all of us in a deeply calm, almost trance-like state. By the end, I felt lighter—refreshed in a way that’s hard to put into words.

Before we left, the instructor pulled a final card for me: The Hermit.

It’s a card that has been quietly following me these past few months. I’ve been more withdrawn lately—seeing friends less, feeling drained, and overwhelmed with the ongoing construction at home. It’s been hard to find a sense of calm, of sanctuary. But this experience made something clear: while solitude has its place, connection is just as necessary.

Spending time with the women in my life—talking, laughing, simply being—is essential to feeling whole.

I’m so grateful for that reminder, and even more grateful for the incredible women who surround me: my mother, my sister, my friends.