Under the baking sun in an Arizona metropolitan suburb, we packed away the last of our surplus storage. After a year’s journey, it became apparent we didn’t need nor use as much as we thought we would. Immediately we felt relief–gone were the days of painfully tetrising everything into a jam-packed car and having to unpack and repack several bins each month. We experienced more comfort and space in the car, and had the reassurance that we’d be able to settle into our new place more quickly. We freed ourselves to focus on what matters to us the most–the ability to experience the places around us, with a sense of tranquility and excitement. This brings us the beautiful lesson offered by July–a chance to shed layers, step away from the noise, and just be. We learn what parts of our inner narratives are helpful to the self, and what stories need to be peeled away. If we can let go of some of the load, our steps will be a little lighter, and we can take the space we need to shine in our fullest light.