Freedom

I love this so much:

"There is a huge amount of freedom that comes to you when you take nothing personally."  [Don Miguel Ruiz]

This has always been a struggle for me because I find it natural to absorb how people treat me and how it makes me feel (good or bad) and it can be both so damaging and fulfilling.  I don't believe either is very healthy - ideally I'd like to be able to filter people's unpleasantness and separate it from myself.  Rationally, this makes sense to me, but emotionally it is a different story.  I find myself getting (and staying) so upset over the way I am sometimes treated because in my mind I cannot reconcile the person's behavior towards me.  It is a vicious cycle - why do I waste my time worrying?  I am my own being, independent of how others are feeling or acting, and I can go on with my day without being altered by comments.  Easier said than done and an article awhile ago on Tiny Buddha really hit home for me and validated my concerns.

The article, When We Hurt People Because We're Hurting, touched my heart with these words:  

"...Most of us have felt pain burning like a hot coal in our hands, and felt desperate to unload it, somehow, somewhere... None of us deserve misdirected rage from a family member, coworker, or stranger... We all have a responsibility to learn healthy ways to cope..."

 Most of the time I am emotionally stable (it didn't happen overnight) but I realize my self worth and value in a way that helps me deal with the everyday - sometimes things can wear on us and it is then that I find myself slipping away a little from the place I know I belong.  I appreciated this article so much in a time when I needed to hear those words.  Thank you, Tiny Buddha!

Friends, do you ever feel this way?  How do you stop internalizing things you know you shouldn't? 

Photos taken by me, November 2011, in Ranakpur, India.

Happy Birthday, Blog!

I can't believe another year has gone by but yesterday was my blog's second  birthday!  The reason why I started this blog in the first place was to have an outlet for myself... and it's been one of the best ways to relieve stress, express myself, and cultivate inspiration.  Not to mention, I've met some sweet fellow bloggers!  Happy Birthday, blog!

Yesterday morning J and I ran in a 10k run to benefit our city's zoo.  I love our zoo and we were so happy to be able to support them (and stay healthy)!  Race participants had free zoo admission post race so I snapped this picture of one of our favorites, the flamingos!  And I also saw the new otter exhibit - they are too cute.

In other news, tax deadline is tomorrow and it definitely can't come soon enough as my anxiety and sensitivity is at an all time high and my hair is literally frazzled!  I've tried not to rant but I can't wait to take a break from the office... and it's inhabitants...!

Tuesday Tune

I need some positive music when I'm working out - especially when I'm doing my cardio!  Something that keeps up with my pace and keeps me positive.  This song has been on my repeat list and it doesn't hurt that it reminds me of good times dancing with friends!

See You Soon

Dear Readers (all two of you!),

I'm taking a short break from this space.  I feel I've been running dry on inspiration and I need to regroup!  There are a few areas in my life that need some attention at the moment but I'll be back soon - I can't leave this space for long!

Love,
D

Be Back Soon

Ahh, I've been missing my blog.  I've been sick AND our internet has been down since the beginning of the week.  I awoke Monday morning with a horribly sore throat and yesterday I forced myself to stay in bed all day.  Needless to say I slept most of the day... Fox kept me company.  It's amazing how dogs can sense when you're unwell.  He stayed with me all day!

I'm beginning to feel better and hopefully our network issues are resolved.

Yoga!

(Re)Practicing yoga turned out to be a sweet surprise.  I'm so glad I gave it a second chance!  Goodbye stress and anxiety and hello peace and quiet. 

My number one requirement:  comfortable clothing that is not too loose fitting.  You want to be able to move around without restrictions but without having to constantly adjust either.  Flip flops are a must as most studios require you to remove your shoes upon entering.  Also, I always wear/bring a comfortable wrap sweater to cover up before, after, or during my practice.  (This is especially wonderful for the Restorative sessions).

Finally, the MAT!  I'm in the market for a Manduka mat and I love the green one shown above. 

Even with all the wonderful clothing and accessories, what is most important in one's practice is an open heart and mind. 

Namaste!

Bring on the Wonder

Last night's yoga class marked two months of continuous practice!  In early December I decided to give yoga another try.  I'd tried it only once before and I felt I needed to give it another go and to devote myself more fully.  Even though it's only been a short two months, I'm already feeling such a connection and devotion to my practice.  


My yoga practice gives me the time my soul needs to rejuvenate and RELAX!  It's tough for me (and everyone else, right?) to take time away from my often-times hectic, overstimulated, noisy, frustrating, days to be still, quiet, mindful, and introspective.


Tonight I left class with a smile on my face!


"...bring on the wonder, bring on the song, I pushed you down deep in my soul for too long..."  
-Performed by Sarah McLachlan (Bring on the Wonder, from Laws of Illusion), written by Susan Enan

[These photos are of our Amaryllis bulbs that have finally bloomed!  They're commonly referred to as "the Christmas flower".  It may not be Christmas but they're still gorgeous!]

A Challenge Accepted!

Another new year!  And new beginnings.  I don't care how cliched it is but there is no bigger beginning than the start of a new year.  I'm all about schedules and timing and the OCD girl inside of me loves starting things at the "beginning".


So, here goes.

I am promising myself to take part in Whole Living's 28-Day Action Plan Challenge!  I've already signed up for the daily challenges that will be emailed to me every morning throughout the month.  This journey is all about becoming healthier and cleansing toxins that have crept in throughout the year!

Having a community support system (albeit online) is so comforting to me as I embark on this journey.  This is a challenge and something I haven't tried before - a cleanse diet!  I realize there is always room to becoming a healthier, happier person and I'd like to take a more active approach to achieving my health and wellness goals.

My dear blog will be the perfect ear for when my frustrations and temptations creep back!

Tomorrow is Day One!

Here's to Health

Here's to your good health this Friday (and everyday).  Sending my love and positive thoughts to my sister.  Get well SOON, Jill!