We live as we breathe – contracting and expanding, contracting and expanding. Both states are neither good nor bad. Sometimes being contracted allows us to rest and recuperate; it can be in many different ways a form of self-protection. Problems arise, however, when we become contracted for prolonged periods without venturing to expand. When we expand, we open ourselves up and engage actively with the world around us. Expansion is a process of shining our light, connecting with others, wanting to be seen, having presence.