Innsaei – The Sea Within

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Intuition is seeing with the soul. –Dean Koontz

It was a few years ago, when I watched a documentary called Innsaei on Netflix.  It is no coincidence that I recently found this article on an old laptop.  It was a frigid winter’s day in 2018, and I was feeling under the weather.  A cold was brewing and my soul needed tending on every level.  During times when a cold emerges – it’s time to go inwards and be still.  On this particular day, I stumbled upon a Netflix documentary that spoke to the soul.  Innsaei, written by Hrund Gunnstiensdottir and Kristin Olafsdottir from Iceland.  At that precise moment, everything made sense – intuition is always working on your behalf.

Innsaei is an Icelandic term – translates to seeing from the inside out.  The sea within –  to perceive  yourself.  The documentary was about soul-searching and tuning into your intuition.  The narrator was sharing her own personal legend.  The questions I pose to you – how would life unfold if you let go of distractions, inner dialogue and most importantly stress?  This is exactly what inspired her to write this documentary.  

The film begins with Hrund, leaving a career indefinitely with the  United Nations.  She felt the UN was keeping her back from the life path she was intended for.  Hrund wanted to connect with people.  Share their stories, visions and perception on living a holistic life.  This brave soul was choosing to go against the grain, leaving the conventional.  The documentary intertwines the arts, spirituality, psychology, and education.   

The filmmaker’s compelling narrative was a masterpiece.  Something that I needed to hear on that particular day.  Her burnout, disconnect from her workplace created space for opportunities.  One could sense, she lost purpose with serving a system of bureaucracy and financial rewards.  Her heart was interested in serving humanity – Mother Earth.  

The Narrator left her lucrative job and dove into the unfamiliar.  I know for many of us, the unknown can be daunting or even terrifying.  You are in the uncomfortable and the only thing to do is surrender to divine grace.  The void of the unknown is where transformation begins.  There was a vision the filmmaker had which propelled her life forward.  At the age of 60, she would travel the entire globe.  Her desire was to meet people and inspire humanity.  She was going to be the writer she dreamt of being, collecting stories and uniting hearts.  The realization was the United Nations career no longer kept her motivated.  It was time to move onto something new.  

Practice listening to your intuition, your inner voice; ask questions; be curious; see what you see; hear what you hear; and then act upon what you know to be true. These intuitive powers were given to your soul at birth. —Clarissa Pinkola Estés

What is Intuition:

Intuition is your inner source of guidance.  When you are in a state of equanimity and flow your intuition begins to whisper.  It is that gut feeling you have about a particular situation, person or circumstance.  The quiet voice within, that you may disregard is spirit talking to you.  There are times when I have not listened to my intuition, however experiences became blessings in disguise.  

The narrator traveled around the world to find the true meaning of intuition, and why we should use this inner intelligence to govern our lives. Here are three enlightening stories you may connect to with regards to intuition.  

  1. Interview with Malidoma Patrice, West African Leader/Elder

Malidoma Patrice, believed that Mother Earth is a symbol of the wound that all which live in it.  Nature is a silent witness of intuition.  Nature speaks in all kinds of languages.  Our eyes, and ears are to hear and see, something that we often disregard.  The sense of the internal.  What is blocking us is the world noise of distractions.  Nature is how we ignite our intuition.  “Intuition binds us together” every human being. 

  1. Marina Abramovic – Grandmother of Performing Arts

Marina Abramovic, known as a Visual Arts Medium.  She is a performance artist, writer and filmmaker.  She uses her body to connect to emotions and the audience.  Her message is to confront pain by observation and focus.  Abramovic, teaches that ‘in order to create something new, human beings need to go into the unknown”.  Intuition is something not to be afraid of.  We all have inner gifts inside waiting to be expressed.  Whether you are an artist, chef, poet or composer, your talents impact the world.  Release your fears, honour your talents, you give others the courage to pursue their calling.    

  1.  British School – Mindfulness

The narrator went to a school in the United Kingdom.  Here she was shown how moments of mindfulness impact the behaviour and attitude of students.  It was a new way of learning, as facilitators incorporated breathing practices, meditation and yoga into education.  Children, even adults need time to breathe, connect with their hearts and have moments of stillness.  The element of mindfulness allows one to be fully present in a state of peace.       

What this documentary gave me was clarity.  That everyone has their own unique timeline.  Life unfolds the way it is supposed to.  Focus on your daily objectives, wins and things which touch your spirit.  It is never about anyone else but you.  Suffering brings you closer to the higher-power for a reason.  You need to create space for faith and your vision.  Intuition is connecting to your higher self, it will never lead you astray.  If you are at a crossroads in your life, may the next step elevate you towards your dream  Allow the forces of nature to guide you, remember to seek within.      

Come from the heart, the true heart, not the head. When in doubt, choose the heart. This does not mean to deny your own experiences and that which you have empirically learned through the years. It means to trust yourself to integrate intuition and experience. There is a balance, a harmony to be nurtured, between the head and the heart. When the intuition rings clear and true, loving impulses are favored. –Brian Weiss

An Inspiring Story About Breathe

Great Sayings of Wisdom | Spiritual quotes, Yoga quotes, Upanishads

There is an old Vedic story about prana that occurs in various Upanishads.  The five main faculties of our nature – the mind, breathe (prana), speech, ear and eye – were arguing with each other as to which was the best and most important.  This reflects the ordinary human condition in which our faculties are not integrated but fight with each other, competing for their rule of our attention.  To resolve this dispute they decided that each would leave the body and see whose absence was most missed.

First speech left the body, but the body continued though mute.  Next the eye left, but the body continued though blind.  Next the ear left, but the body continued though deaf.  Then the mind left, but the body continued though the unconscious.  Finally the prana began to leave and the body began to die and all the other faculties began to lose their energy.  So they all rushed to prana and told it to stay, lauding its supremacy.  Clearly prana won the argument.  Prana gives energy to all our faculties.  The moral of this story is that to control all our faculties the key is the control of prana/breathe.

The excerpt above is taken from “Yoga and Ayurveda” written by David Frawley pg. 120.  I opened this book recently, and landed on this specific page.  It was a gentle reminder to breathe.  The power of our breathe brings us back to the present moment.  Your breathe is home.  Remember calm is a “superpower “- stay well xo

Yoga Inspiration – Yogi Bhajan

Never try to impress others, try to impress yourself and find ...

Let the wind be behind you
Angels dance with you
And your consciousness
Guide you to victory.
Let the angels
The Great Souls, the Avatars,
And all incarnations of God
Pray for you.
Walk tall and bless all,
In your innocence with your love,
For each one’s peace
And prosperity.
Remember what time wants:
Serve the needs of the time and space.
You will be sacred, exalted,
Beautiful, bountiful and fulfilled.

An enlightening quote from Yogi Bhajan.  Due to Corona Virus, I have not been able to teach yoga since March.  However, I have been following a few individuals online that have helped develop my individual practice.  Yoga with Adriene, Yoga TX and Sarah Beth Yoga are great resources to enhance your yoga journey.  Yoga brings me home, as I feel more balance, peace and light.  This quote I often recited while teaching class to invigorate spirit and the soul!  Let your heart guide you, dance with the angels and remember to L O V E xo!

I Am Light – India Arie

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I am light, I am light
I am light, I am light
I am light, I am light
I am light, I am lightI am not the things my family did
I am not the voices in my head
I am not the pieces of the brokenness inside, I am light
I am light

I am light, I am light
I am light, I am light
I am light, I am light

I’m not the mistakes that I have made
Or any of the things that caused me pain
I am not the pieces of the dream I left behind, I am light
I am light, I am light
I, I am light

I am light, I am light
I am light, I am light

I am not the color of my eyes
I am not the skin on the outside
I am not my age, I am not my race
My soul inside is all light
All light, all light yeah
All light

I am light, I am light
I am light, I am light yeah

I am divinity defined
I am the God on the inside
I am a star, a piece of it all
I am light

 

This song by India Arie, I first heard while in a yoga class.  Instantly, I was brought to tears.  The lyrics are powerful and always resonated with my spirit.  We are all light, connected and here to assist one another during this time on Earth.  May we remember to be kind, gracious and loving to everyone we encounter.  Stay well and blessed xo

Signs & the Butterfly Effect

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I am a believer of butterfly effect. A small positive vibration can change the entire cosmos.
Amit Ray

The French call it Déjà vu – a sensation of familiarity, an experience that has already been known or perceived. I do believe that this happenstance occurs for many of us, via dreams or even with practicing meditation. Throughout the day, when I am in search of a sign or a nudge from the universe, an unexpected sign occurs. A butterfly or blue jay appears, quite commonly something with a hue of blue. It can be in a picture, artwork or a marvel from nature. It brings such comfort and peace knowing that this is truly a miracle being shown.

Do you believe in signs? I trust there has to be a grander meaning to why things materialize in our daily lives. For example, a few weeks ago I had particular challenging morning. I missed my alarm and woke up later then anticipated. There was traffic on the drive to the office, all in which made the work day start later then anticipated. It literally felt like the day was spiraling. I walked into the lunchroom and was just about to make a cup of tea and saw a ladybug! Right away, I knew it was a sign from the universe. I was reminded of the beauty and grace of this little bug. It brought infinite joy and abundance to my day. A ladybug is symbolic for it is an embodiment of luck, good fortune and prosperity. This little insect influences your life in a positive way as unexpected happiness is unfolding for you.

Have you ever had one of those moments, when you are consumed with a particular task and a stranger comes along and delivers a significant message meant for you? This seems to occur on a frequent basis these days. A few weeks ago I was sitting in a coffee store and reading a book called Destiny of Souls by Michael Newton. (A novel about the “soul” that has impacted my life in many ways – I highly recommend this read). An older man approached me and asked if I liked the book and that it was translated into Egyptian”. He was actually a Fine Arts teacher and an artist. He encouraged me to write more and consider being an author. It was as if he was picking up on my vibration. Lately, I have neglected my personal writing and felt the pull to get back onto this path.

What is the Butterfly Effect?

This subject matter I have wanted to write about for awhile. It is now the right time to approach this topic of interest. The Butterfly Effect evolved from the Chaos Theory. This was discovered by meteorologist Edward Lorenz. The Chaos Theory suggested that a minor change in the environment can influence and alter the weather. It was believed that once a butterfly flaps or moves its wings, it creates an effect somewhere else in the world. Is it possible if a butterfly flutters in South Africa the action is felt in another part of the world? I am not sure but find this theory fascinating.

What does this mean Spiritually?

That for every decision we make there are multiple ways in which our story unravels. To every action there is a unique response. Your choices can shape or determine our destiny. We can not see everything in the physical world however things are constantly moving, shifting and evolving. We have free will to how we live and make decisions However, there are alternative paths in which life can unfold. Every living being impacts one another just as the artist did for me that that. By encountering the artist at the cafe, it gave me that push to write my heart out.

The goal of life is to make your heartbeat match the beat of the universe, to match your nature with Nature. –Joseph Campbell

What do Butterflies Symbolize:

Butterflies represent grace, freedom and expression. They are a reminder of internal metamorphosis, renewal, and many traditions equate the butterfly as the psyche or soul. Every time I see a butterfly it is a reminder to embody lightness and allow life to unravel. Is there something you always see or are drawn too? It may have a significant meaning.

Signs can arrive from unexpected instances and are orchestrated on your behalf. EVERY sign has significance from seeing 11:11 an angelic number pattern, hearing a song or a conversation with a stranger. Reflect on The Butterfly Effect, can you see synchronicity in your present life? Be thankful of all the blessings being presented to you. I often recite this to students in yoga class “stay open and connected, what is it that you need to hear”? Remain grounded, aware and allow yourself to see the vastness of the universe throughout your day. You are grand, and have a mission to fulfill. The next time you see a shooting star, remember to make a wish – a sign is being revealed to you!

Beyond the edge of the world there’s a space where emptiness and substance neatly overlap, where past and future form a continuous, endless loop. And, hovering about, there are signs no one has ever read, chords no one has ever heard. –Haruki Murakami

Eat, Pray, Love – Part II

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The path to our destination is not always a straight one. We go down the wrong road, we get lost, we turn back. Maybe it doesn’t matter which road we embark on. Maybe what matters is that we embark.”
― Barbara Hall

In the autumn of 2017, I had written an article titled Eat, Pray Love. A new path was unfolding – it was a journey of soul searching and to go inwards. To summarize, the article touched upon a one year sabbatical leave from the corporate world. I did not realize how much I needed this break and the influence it had upon my spirit. It truly was placing pause on everything and learning to trust.

I had a million expectations on how the year would unravel, which in all honestly taught me a valuable life lesson. What came forward was to expect nothing, and allow each day to progress naturally. In my mind, I anticipated to be working in a new high paying job, living in a big city and to be in a new relationship. Having all answers to come instantantly and everything to be perfect harmony. Traveling to India was high on my bucket list as well as “finding myself”.

Did I ever get a dose of reality! My perceived expectations on how the year was to unfold was completely unrealistic. I wanted to be in control and had to surrender, progression happens on its own terms. I wanted all the answers however, had to be patient. Teaching yoga, meditating, writing along with self-care is what my heart truly desired. I began to understand what I was really seeking was balance, serenity and connecting with the higher-self.

To find the balance you want, this is what you must become. You must keep your feet grounded so firmly on the earth that it’s like you have 4 legs instead of 2. That way, you can stay in the world. But you must stop looking at the world through your head. You must look through your heart, instead. That way, you will know God.”
― Elizabeth Gilbert

On my year off, I began to pay closer attention to nature, and its cyclic rhythms. The sun shines without any hesitation and provides light to the world. This light changes with each season, as we now are into winter it offers retreat. It’s time to reflect and nourish yourself during the darker days. Each season offers a gift, this miracle I never would have recognized if I had not taken a year leave. Falling snow reminds of me of patience and to be in sheer appreciation of what life is. “Every blade of grass has its angel that bends over and it whispers grow” . The beautiful quote from the Talmud was so humbling to reflect upon as there truly are unforeseen forces that guide us along our path.

Life led me to the United Kingdom instead of India. My grandma fell ill at the end of 2017 and familial energy pulled me to England. I knew traveling would happen at some point. In summer/ autumn of 2018 I flew to Paris, France as my first destination. Then ventured to Austria, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Spain and Italy. Traveling to India was not in the stars during my year off. I realize that I was trying to force this trip. Instead I was brought to a new energy and love – Paris. The city has such a bright light as there is much is to be seen & discovered. It is a soul calling just as much as Italy was.

In hindsight your own unique experience of Eat, Pray Love can happen anywhere. Cities or countries call on your spirit for a reason. It is so enriching to travel but ultimately, we are what we believe. Sometimes I wonder if traveling has all the answers or do we need to just silence the mind and meditate? I believe we must do what feeds our soul. Will I ever stop traveling – NEVER!

Throughout our life, there are unpredictable circumstances in which we are never ready for. In November of 2018, my Grandmother from the United Kingdom passed away. We truly never know what each day has to offer or which direction we will pursue. My new perspective on Eat, Pray, Love in remembrance of my Grandmother.

My Grandmother was 92 and lived an abundant peaceful life. She personified Eat, Pray, Love for many reasons.

Eat: From the moment I would arrive home Grandma would always ask me if I had each meal throughout the day. She was simple and really just wanted everyone to be together especially at tea time.

Pray: My Grandma whom we also called Beji prayed profusely and this is one thing I take from her legacy. To always know you will be taken care of, believe in the unknown.

Love: Grandma had 5 children, 18 Grandchildren & 17 Great Grandchildren, for me this embodies love. Family always came first, along with service, prayer and laughter. She remains in my heart and soul and I dedicate this article to her light. I do feel when one leaves the earth plane, the memories are never forgotten, if anything there are etched into our being forever.

What does Eat, Pray, Love mean to you? Your path with unfold, allow the signs to come and know that there are no mistakes but lessons. Travel, learn about yourself and never forget to leave a bit of sunshine wherever you go. Take time to understand yourself, and take those moments to appreciate where you are and how far you have come. There is a purpose to everything in your life story. One day you will look back and connect the dots as Steve Jobs said in his famous dialogue.

Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy. — Eskimo Proverb

 

Broken Open

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You have the power to heal your life, and you need to know that. We think so often that we are helpless, but we’re not. We always have the power of our minds…Claim and consciously use your power.
Louise L. Hay

It was at the age of 21 when the foundations beneath her started shaking. Nothing like this ever happened before. Within the last year of University is when life got very real. The month was December; her grandmother had just passed away. She was in the midst of writing mid-terms, and on her way to a family wedding In Europe. She did not understand the implications of everything that was happening to her internally, until her body began to send her signs. All those events caused this soul to evaluate her life as she became broken open.

From the experiences in December, it caused upheavals to her mind, body and spirit. Things fell apart and needed to at that point in life. She was shattered into a million pieces. Fear and anxiety got a hold of her, and it felt like a lifelong sentence. This soul had to confront her past and make peace with it. She was quite good at pretending everything was fine and that nothing bothered her internally. It was now time to confront everything that she had avoided. It was essentially time to let go and walk forward.

What is anxiety? It is living in the past and not being centred in the totality of the present moment. Everything that happened to you is over now. I will not go into medical terms, physiological effects, or statistics; however there are many of us who have experienced these symptoms. You will rise from this and see the light, this I promise you. She had to stop carrying things inside her that were weighing her spirit down. Looking back she was holding onto experiences that were not serving her anymore. She had to set herself free like a bird, spread your wings and fly.

It is our birthright to uncover the soul—to remove the layers of fear or shame or apathy or cynicism that conceal it. —Elizabeth Lesser, Broken Open

She labelled herself and within the mid-twenties decided to go on medication. It worked for a bit but that even took a toll on her body as she felt the side effects internally. It affected her stomach, sleeping patterns and things just didn’t feel right. By her thirties she went down in dosages, exercised regularly, began to mediate and take control. She began to rise after the storm and shine like the exuberant sun. Coming off medication was the best thing she did for her soul. She was wide awake, and felt every emotion that she needed to feel.

How did I stay grounded and centered during this shift? I dedicated my time to spiritual growth – this encompassed prayer, reading material on inspiration which directed me towards yoga. I became a certified yoga teacher in 2014 and knew that my purpose was to help others heal. Yoga elevated my spirit and I wanted to share this gift. I had to confront parts of myself that I did not want to. It was terrifying , however I felt the veil had been lifted. This was my life and I needed to find peace and surrender to the circumstances. Faith, family, friends and having a clean diet are elements that assisted to healing.

This is my personal story, and what I want to reiterate is that you will rise. You are not alone; everyone faces challenges at some point in their life. Understand your emotions, they are here to guide you and help you foster internal growth. Uncover the layers of yourself, reclaim your soul and never lose faith. Do not see any setback as a limitation, you are braver then you know and stronger for everything that has happen to you, bless you.

I can see clearly now the rain is gone
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It’s gonna be a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day
It’s gonna be a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day

Oh, yes I can make it now the pain is gone
All of the bad feelings have disappeared
Here is that rainbow I’ve been praying for
It’s gonna be a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day

–Jimmy Cliff

The Spiritual Path

"The further down my spiritual path I go, the less I am able to define.  When I turn inward, I find no words.  Only Light; only Love." ~Laura Jaworski

One thing: you have to walk, and create the way by your walking; you will not find a ready-made path. It is not so cheap, to reach to the ultimate realization of truth. You will have to create the path by walking yourself; the path is not ready-made, lying there and waiting for you. It is just like the sky: the birds fly, but they don’t leave any footprints. You cannot follow them; there are no footprints left behind. —Osho

Walking the spiritual path is within each soul if they chose to follow. It is a deep understanding and appreciation of all religious faiths and ideologies. The emphasis is on love, peace and non-judgment. You begin to realize that there is something greater then yourself. An inner awakening occurs; you are being led by your soul. Spirituality is a calling; once you are aligned to living this way you become awake. Your faith will be tested, challenges will come and you may face adversities. This is all happening to show you how incredibly resilient you are. The trials and turbulent time are there to facilitate your ultimate growth and healing.

I once read that the first 40 years of our life, we are trying to get over the first five years. What does this mean? We all have baggage, past grief, or had a childhood that may have not been the most encouraging. Always remember with each experience you have had in life it shapes your destiny. Observe each experience whether being positive or negative as valuable lesson. Try to always see everything as a blessing as everything is happening for your highest good. You always have a choice and each chapter of your life has significance. You are creating your story each day you are here.

Spirituality is like climbing a steep mountain. You start at the bottom of the hill, as you grow through each lesson and experience you get closer and closer to reaching your potential or even enlightenment. The goal is not to reach the mountain top but to bring awareness of everything that you have learned along the climb. You will learn every day of your life and continue to for as long as you are on the earth realm.

Faith does not need to push the river because faith is able to trust that there is a river. The river is flowing. We are in it.– Richard Rohr

How did I embark on the path to spirituality? I was born into the Sikh religion, and as a family unit we would attend church each Sunday. Prayers, mantras and religious hymns were always played throughout our home. The virtues of faith, compassion, charity and love are aspects of our culture that my parents have passed along. Spirituality has been within me since I was a child not until I was in my teenage years did I really start to question life and its meaning.

It was the summer just before high school was to begin; we had family visiting from Montreal. After having a family brunch each of my siblings and I were presented a narrative from my uncle. It was called Unlimited Power, by Anthony Robbins. I remember reading it and felt so inspired. It was at the pivotal moment of my life I understood that the universe was working for me. I felt protected by angels, assisted by the higher power and a deep connection to my soul.

By my twenties I started to question more about life and its meaning. A dear friend of mine gifted me with the Holy Bible and another part of my soul awakened. Teachings of Master Christ resonated with my soul deeply and I had a deep appreciation for his teachings. I read anything spiritual I could get my hands on from past-lives, angels, and self-development. I wanted to absorb all the material I could and now realize it was all here to foster my growth. Yoga came into my life and changed my spirit in so many ways. It allowed me to feel so alive and fostered inner healing.

The Spiritual path has many twists and turns and bends in the road. There are many times when I question the higher power to why I face challenges. When the obstacles arise, I have learned to become silent and sit with meditation. I listen to the divine messages that come within. I chose this path for a reason, not only for myself but to guide others along the way. We all hold the miracle of the holy greatness within us. The path was chosen for all of us, cherish it and always know that you are a blessing to everyone you meet.

Spirituality is recognizing and celebrating that we are all inextricably connected to each other by a power greater than all of us, and that our connection to that power and to one another is grounded in love and compassion. Practicing spirituality brings a sense of perspective, meaning and purpose to our lives. —Brené Brown

 

 

Sacredness of the Root Chakra

dsc02230Enjoy your body, use it every way you can. Don’t be afraid of it, or what other people think of it. It’s the greatest instrument you’ll ever own. – Kurt Vonnegut

The Root Chakra is the first chakra of the Vedic Chakra energy system. This is known as the as the Manipura Chakra energy centre in Sanskirt (ancient Indian language). This energy centre represents your connection to your ancestors, tribe, family and the beloved Mother Earth. For many, I included 2016 was a year of trials, tribulations and a great deal of inner transformation. It appears that there were lessons to be learned, understood, and to keep self-love in the forefront. I kept hearing of unexpected illnesses, unpleasant news and misfortunes. With realizing all of this chaos happening around me, I decided to delve into learning more about the Chakra system and what they really mean. I would like to invite all readers into an introduction to learn about chakras.

What are Chakras?

Chakras are seven energy centres in your body that draw energy from the earth and circulate through are physical body. They circulate from the base of our spine to the top of your head. When one chakra is out of balance we feel it internally and our health can be affected. For example, my root chakra has become weak since May 2016. I had felt pain in my lower back and developed a form of sciatica. This tells me that I need to support myself and practice ways to enhance self-love and deepen my connection with nature. They beauty of chakras is that there are various ways to enhance our energy centres and begin to restore them. This can be done with aromatherapy, mediation, yoga, reiki and more.

Root Chakra:

The Root chakra anchors itself to the earth. It is located in your back moving down towards your legs as well. Qualities related to this chakra are patience, structure and the ability to make your dreams come true. Questions to ask yourself with regards to your root chakra are: Do you feel supported in life? Are you living your passions? It is known as the mother archetype and associated with Archangel Michael. When one is feeling off balance it is important to nurture thyself just like a mother would to their child. It is essential to adhere to your intuition, follow your gut. Be your individual support system and love yourself immensely through any upheavals you face. We all may encounter additional tests during the the course of 2017, please remember to stay positive. Your dreams are manifesting and time has come for you to take the leap of faith and fly, don’t look back and ascend above it all. Keep focused on your desires, the universe will provide the rest

To be rooted is perhaps the most important and least recognized need of the human soul.–Simone Weil

Health associations with Root Chakra:

My root chakra has been stagnant, run down and fragile over the last few months. Aliments that can happen when we are not grounded are with the kidneys and skeletal system. You may feel pain in your legs or hips as well. It is so very important to connect with your inner child and write down how you feel on a daily basis. Where this is pain coming from and is there an emotional feeling behind it? Question your present circumstances in life, learn to let go. Try to find answers on your own, go internally and listen to the authentic voice inside. After months of going to health care professionals I finally have decided to just sit with the pain and realize that my body is actually talking to me. The questioning has intuitively brought forward things that I need to work on. These areas of insight are to do with; healthy boundaries, self-worth, speaking up for myself and releasing fear.

How to enhance the Root Chakra:

The colour red is associated with the root chakra. Wear this colour when you feel like you need to get centered. Yoga postures, mediation, being in nature, will all help this chakra become balanced. Nature is free medicine and available to everyone. Always know you are in charge of your life and can change anything at any given time. Reflect on this year and make the changes you need to move forward. Adhere to your inner spirit, recite affirmations and keep yourself happy! Nothing is permanent and you can move mountains.

When you touch the celestial in your heart, you will realize that the beauty of your soul is so pure, so vast and so devastating that you have no option but to merge with it. You have no option but to feel the rhythm of the universe in the rhythm of your heart.
― Amit Ray

The Not SO Conventional Yogi

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Yoga means addition – addition of energy, strength and beauty to body, mind and soul.
Amit Ray

Who and what makes a Yogi? I contemplate over this question frequently and feel I stand in the middle. Google search defines a Yogi as someone who is proficient in yoga. I have been a yoga instructor for about two years now. In the beginning of December 2016,  I participated in a Restorative Yoga Training in Toronto, Canada. It was absolutely enlightening to be around other yogi’s, to learn from one another and share stories. One thing was evident; there are many of us who may not fit the conventional definition of a yoga teacher. I believe this translates to honoring thy authentic self. Not every spirit is the same, we are all unique individually. This was an ongoing topic of discussion while on training, one that held my attention.

My path to yoga started in 2014 when I pursued a dream on becoming a yoga instructor. The message was clear to my soul; I’m at service to others while teaching. It is an electric surge of energy which happens internally when I teach yoga.

Now here is my truth, I thought for the longest time that I needed to be a vegetarian, only be positive, wear less makeup, purchase particular yoga brands and resist my passion for fashion. I was in utter denial of who I actually am. I thought that in order to be a part of the yoga community I had to be all of those things listed. Truth is I’m not the most serious person and think I’m a comedian with my jokes.! I sometimes say “bad words”, consume poultry, and love clothing. Dressing up in a little black dress along with a pair of high heels is exhilarating! I have layers to my soul and I think we all do as humans. Comparison happens from time to time and it’s perfectly normal. We often label ourselves on who we should be or not be. When I started owning who I’m is when I felt liberated.

Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It’s about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen. — Brené Brown

Years ago, I remember watching a film called Shrek, — the two main characters Shrek and Donkey were having a conversation on life. (And yes I’m reflecting on a children’s movie for they really offer insight about life!). To recap Shrek and Donkey were having a conversation how Shrek is like an onion; he has layers to his personality. In hindsight we all have layers, I can honestly tell you that there are times when all I want to do is meditate, practice yoga and be in complete solitude. On the contrary there are occasions when I want to have a glass of wine, surf the internet for fashion trends and get out for a night of dancing. Our personal layers are a gift and by owning who you are, you come into alignment in body, mind and spirit.

I read an excellent book that has always resonated with me. It is called Spiritual Junkie, by Gabrielle Bernstein. What made so much sense is that I’m a spiritual being in the modern day world. The author was real, emphasized how she mixed and lived in the spiritual vs. not spiritual worlds. To me that is sheer brilliance and I admire her for being so true to her core. I have so much comfort knowing that when practicing yoga it comes from my heart and that all which matters. I have not been to an ashram, and have only been to India as a baby, however I love yoga. It’s really about finding the fine balance within yourself and doing what works for you.

Being a yoga practitioner is an inward journey. It is accepting who you are wholeheartedly. I learn something new each time I teach about myself and others. It has nothing to do with the material world or anyone else. Love yourself for what you have to offer and share your gift of this beautiful practice. You can be a fashionista, love Mc Donald’s but be the best darn teacher in your city. What ultimately defines who you are—is your soul, the light within.

You are like a seed; your greater beauty lies not on the outside, but within.
Matshona Dhliwayo