This humble, human vessel I call my own always seems to be brimming over with an abundance of gratitude this time of year. As a December baby, the first day of New Year on the Gregorian calendar shortly follows my own completed rotation around the sun. As a result, the final month of the year becomes an extended period of personal reflection, retrospection and appreciation for the experiences and … [Read more...]
For most of my adulthood, it’s felt as if I’ve been waltzing between an addictive race to accomplishment and the exhausted paralysis of perfectionism. It’s not surprising, really, that there are so many of us stuck in this precarious pas de deux. The frantic rhythm of modern society seems to thrive off this fear of not measuring up and its most reliable partner–an addiction to busyness. In a … [Read more...]
Every January, I share a piece of writing meant to imbue myself and others with curiosity, hope, enthusiasm and wonder for the great potential that lies in the days, weeks and months of the new year ahead. I've found inspiration for the upcoming year by reflecting on my accomplishments for the meaningful changes I made the previous year; the focus on gratitude has been key. I've written about … [Read more...]
Like so many of us, I remember where I was when the horrific events of 9/11 unfolded in my consciousness. It’s not a particularly salient story, but is is mine. It began with a phone call from Sheri, my best friend at the time. “Are you awake yet,” her muffled voice asked. It was just barely 9. Used to my friends ragging me about being a night owl notoriously late to rise, I answered … [Read more...]
On Monday, August 21, a solar eclipse will fully cross the United States, from coast to coast, for the first time in almost a century. Qigong master Mingtong Gu writes that a total solar eclipse has alchemical–or transformative–energy and symbolizes "the direct earthly experience of cosmic and celestial energy -- pure potential and power -- for good or bad." As whatever we hold in our … [Read more...]
When dystonia dares to once again rear its twisted head after an extended remission of all but the most benign symptoms, it can sometimes feel like a personal failing on my healing journey. I chastise myself for the lapses in judgment that led to making unwise choices. I berate myself for knowing better than to behave in such foolish ways: I shouldn’t have had a cheat day (or three) of so many … [Read more...]
Through much of my adult years (and much of life, in truth), I've spent far more time than I'd like looking back on the past and wondering 'what if'? That really didn't change until the last few years when I finally learned how to breathe and stay in the moment with meditation–and when my romantic relationship solidified, gaining permanence. In retrospect, it truly is sad how much of the present I … [Read more...]
In a world where technology is advancing so rapidly that computing power doubles every two years and a new, more powerful iPhone is released every autumn, we have grown to expect our own personal transformation will occur just as swiftly. Wanna-be wellness entrepreneurs are promised that, with this or that expensive program, we can build a highly profitable health or life coaching business in just … [Read more...]