Leave of absence

There are times in life when one just shuts down, physically, mentally and emotionally.  Whatever the reason, those close to your spirit seem to understand since they too have gone through cycles that are reflective, intuitive, healing, empowering and essential. During these times it is best to just be mindful and take one day at a time and not make numerous pending decisions that you think will create instantaneous relief.

Hangover honey…

My beehive has been fully pollinating as of late and the honeycomb was in full effect recently; transitions of all sorts, adjustments and the hustle of life for this analog girl in a digital world pushed me to my outer limits.  Yes, spring has sprung and the busyness factor can be overwhelming to say the least, but let’s put it in perspective.  We go against our natural energy to complete these tasks, responsibilities, some of which may be a vision or goal. So rock on, take it to the limit!  By now, if you have read along, you must realize my idea of slowing us down some lives, because many times, certainly, you might ask yourself, what is the purpose of this rush, is it the hangover part we are striving for?  Hmmmm … or shall I just buzz around.

Blossoming moments…

As the sun shone upon me today with vibrant rays of energy, I took the opportunity to indulge with Mother Nature, one of my favorite relationships on earth.  Days like today allow for me to give gratitude for all of my blessings.  In the midst of this crazy life we lead, or so it appears, making time for gratitude is essential, for me or anyone else that understands the power of receiving.  While walking I discover a leaf, which leads me to moments in which my children were drawn to pick up every twig, rock, shell or any particle in our path.  I will frequently share with them how magical these moments were for me, watching them discover and hold on to stones or branches for days.  It is essential to experience wonder and my heart goes out for those who have lost their sense of wonderment, either through lack of self expression, or because it was robbed from their core.

Receive, restore

One of the greatest gifts we have is receiving, why is it at times difficult to receive compliments, gestures or kindness from others?  When you arrive at the place where you are able to accept words that make your day, acknowledge acts that open your heart and experience once in lifetime moments, an untouchable force will allow you to live each day fuller, to heal, to love and to remember self.

Non-Verbal Communication

The age of technology makes non-verbal communication a breeze; after all, what will replace texting?  but I am talking about the feeling of connection without words.  This past summer I was on voice rest for what seemed like forever. The eventual use of my vocal cords after having a minor procedure brought me some resolution when I actually did speak once more but also made me appreciate non-verbal communication.

Play that Record

Do you have a song in your life that, no matter how many times you play it, you never get tired of listening to it? It is such a gift to be stimulated by the chemistry of music. Music is forever powerful in our lives if we allow it. As an endless lover of Motown artists, I am often listening to old records, which I might add, were a part of my collection since my record player was well used most days. Nowadays, they can be found on my iPod, because the only thing we can count on is change.

I was unquestionably drawn to the songs expressing emotions, thought, connection, and love.  Some of my favorite songs were written by the lead member of the Commodores – Lionel Richie, an amazing and gifted composer, singer, songwriter, musician.

Cubanismo: Circular or Linear

My dear friend and I were having breakfast a few years ago and, as I was sharing some of my personal reflections, she identified herself as a linear person. I felt honored to be in her presence because I am completely circular … which is why the inspirational moment of being in a room full of Cubans drives my blog post this week. (I promise to continue additional reflections on last week’s post in the coming weeks.)

This past week, I was fortunate enough to visit Galeria Cubana, an art gallery that exhibits work of current day artists from La Perla de las Antillas. The artists were visiting Boston and were at the gallery, and from the minute I arrived, our culture became our connection. Amongst the mingle and the camaraderie were moments of joy and laughter. The room filled with exuberance, as though we had all known each other for a lifetime. In essence, that is what it feels like when people come together in a community with like-mindedness about a specific love of life, whether it is a goal or passion. The vivacity of the unity outweighs whatever else is happening at the time.

Effortless Inspiration

It is amazing to me how we tend to miss a moment of inspiration.  One of the beauties of practicing yoga is the power of presence.  Practicing present day action is a gift for yogis of all traditions.  Nonetheless, in a moment of despair, anguish or disappointment we tend to sink.  If we are fortunate, someone who may mention a simple phrase surrounds us.  That person may be someone we see everyday, but more than likely it could be an acquaintance you see while running errands, taking care of your business or on the spur:  your librarian, your barista, your mechanic, the bus driver, an elderly person sitting on a bench or the musician playing in the square.

Espresso Love

So yes, I must admit, my love of yoga is supplemented by my love of espresso.  There is no question that I could ever live without either.  I tried for a while not to drink mi cortadito (espresso with raw sugar, micro foam) or mi cafe con leche, (espresso with milk) but it just was not me.  So I chose to live authentically.  This is what I love, so why resist? Besides, Cuban girl does yoga, and the stereotype of this is hysterical within the confines of my own family.  Ommming all the way home.