What Do You Know About Love?  Kissing - Alex Grey I was recently asked to write about love. The thought of it made me cringe. Apart from the occasional blog post, I spend a great deal of time writing for an online poetry community. My writings range from magic and mystics to the dark lonely thoughts of suicide and anxiety. I've always been able to embrace emotions through writing, it comes with an intuitive young girl's fascination of Edgar Allen Poe and Shakespeare and years of experience performing in theater and on the stage. Love has always been one of those topics I found to be corny and sometimes annoying, believing that the audience I was after would rather hear about struggles and depressions versus the tale of the “White Knight on his fiery steed.” I have vivid memories of 19 to 22 year old me, heartbroken over the most recent break-up and coping with my feelings through blasting my usual sad girl mix-tape, with music ranging from Rilo Kiley's “Breaking Up” and A Fine Frenzy's “Almost Lover” to Sarah Bareilles' “Love Song,” where she refuses to sing about love when told she needed to in order to make it big in modern society's music scene. I remember standing in front of my full-length mirror, tears streaming like waterfalls from my tired, turquoise eyes as I reenact my high school moments of Sandra Dee's lamentation of being “Hopelessly Devoted” to the wrong you, followed by my own interpretation of Queen's “Somebody to Love” with red, swollen eyes of heartache quickly growing into an empowering anger; fed up with notions of story-book love I've been trying so hard to believe in as I belt into my reflection, microphone-hairbush in hand, screaming lyrics into the universe from the deepest pit of my heart “CAN ANYNODY FIND ME SOMEBODY TO LOVE?” When I first met my now husband, I wanted nothing to do with love. When we started dating, I wanted nothing to do with love. When I decided to leave him because my guarded heart was still hidden by the iron armor I fashioned for myself over my years as an independent woman to stay safe from the inflicting pain of brokenheartedness, I wanted nothing to do with love. However, when I literally cried on my best friends shoulder for an entire 24 hours after the break-up, only to agree to meet with him later to give him the much deserved reasoning of why I didn't want to be in a relationship with him, I realized that maybe, just maybe, deep in the dwellings of my iron-hidden heart, I might actually be, for once, on the right path to love. When I think of love, especially this time of year, I think of the ooey-gooey, romantic, over-the-top, commercialized version of love that our culture has instilled in our minds and hearts throughout the years. Candy hearts and boxes of chocolates, gaudy jewelry and a dozen roses to make up for each rose you forgot to give her for every month of the past year. Then of course, I am reminded of the story of St. Valentine, performing marriages when marriage was outlawed as well as Lupercalia, the historical pagan festival of fertility that falls around this time of year. This festival is known for its tradition of blood and gore through smearing the blood-drenched hides of sacrificial animals on women and crops alike, symbolizing fertility and purification. As messed up as that may sound to modern culture, women welcomed the touch of the hides, believing it would make them more fertile in the coming year and knowing that later the same day, they would be matched with their future groom. I like to think that the type of love I've experienced and can speak of from the heart falls somewhere in the midst of these extremes. I've learned that love is more than that percussive heart-beat felt between the lungs, vibrating through our ribs, sending butterflies through our solar plexus. It doesn't take true love to feel that kind of sensation. All the years of heartache and heartbreak have reminded me of that time and again. When I met my love, none of that happened. It was definitely one of those “eyes meet across a crowd of people” moments, but there were never butterflies. Butterflies mean you're nervous. True love should never make you nervous. Love isn't all smiles and dandelions either. In fact, love is more like the infinite interconnectedness of the feminine yin with the masculine yang. Love is about finding balance. It's about compromise. It's about learning from each other, understanding each other, knowing why this time he might be right, learning to bite your tongue and let it go before the dispute grows strong. Love is about giving each other space and respecting their need for “me-time.” We all need me time. Love is about over-coming challenges together. Love is finding the good in the bad. Yes, the greater portion of love is dedicated to peace and harmony, smooth-sailing while enjoying each others company and living the simple life; cuddles on the couch, grocery dates, dog walks, nature treks and day-after-day of holding each other in lovers embrace as the sun goes down, wishing on stars as we venture into the night. Yet at the same time, love is so much more. Love is realizing when the other doesn't have the inner-strength to communicate. When you need to put your compassion, patience and understanding on high-gear to sympathize, empathize, and comfort with both gentleness and respect. We are all human. We all feel things. We all get stuck in our heads. Love is about helping the other back to the present moment, even if all it means is sitting quietly next to her in silence, as she lets her fears and worries slip away, gazing into nothingness, until she can quiet her mind enough to grab your hand and hold it tight. Love is having faith that worry will subside and everything will work out in time. Love is knowing when you need to make a change. Change is continuous. We grow, we evolve and we adapt. Love is about accepting change when the time is right. It's about diving into the grand adventure of the abyss and willingly taking risks. Whether changing jobs, homes, or simply your way of life, adventures are always better when the one you love is by your side. Love is apologizing when you know that you were wrong. Acknowledging that the unkind and offensive remark, whether you meant it or not, still flew off your tongue as glass arrows, piercing and shattering the unintentionally targeted and much undeserving heart. Love is knowing when you have over-indulged, so the smallest argument doesn't result in a black-and-blue hand-print on the back of his forearm, red from inflammation from the lack of self-control and abundance of drunken and unknowing craze and disrespect. Love is about accepting sincere apologies. Love is about working out our problems together and knowing when it's time to change our ways or time to get help. Love is understanding, encouraging and being that help. Love is endless. When life ends, love continues on. Love is still sensing and feeling their guiding presence and energy even when they are gone, sending signs and clues on your life-path to keep you focused, healthy and heart-strong. Love is omnipotent. Love is omnipresent. Love is all around. Love is having someone there to support and encourage the rants, ravings and fantasies of the ever-intrigued and overly-creative dual-persona brought about through my ever-curious, usually chaotic and always thought-filled, Gemini-mind. We'd like to know... What do YOU know about love? 
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Hello Healthy Feeling a little under the weather? Perhaps anxious, tired or blue? Start giving yourself some TLC... This is the easiest and hardest thing to do.  Our bodies were created to heal themselves, as long as we actively give ourselves proper nutrients and care. Just as the rise in the American “fast-paced lifestyle” has increased mental stress & anxiety levels over the last few decades, the rise in production of synthetic materials and ingredients (also known as the Industrial Revolution) have caused Americans to be accustomed to foods high in processed ingredients. These processed ingredients can be considered “toxic” when referring to a real food diet. Toxins inhibit the body's natural healing processes. While toxic ingredients can be found in a plethora of household ingredients including make-up, hair products, cleaning products & aerosol sprays, the best place to start ridding your environment of toxins is in your diet. It's true when they say, “You are what you eat.” Simple Real Food Cleanse ... This simple cleanse will introduce you to the basics of a Real Food diet so you may begin your journey of wellness and healing. …
*Example Smoothie Combinations: Here are a few examples of smoothies I enjoy regularly. Have fun and get creative with your ingredients!
*The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric are activated and absorbed into our system better when combined with black pepper. Anytime I use turmeric, I add a dash of black pepper as well. For some great nutrient-dense smoothie additives, check out our selection of Natural and Organic Wellness products at NYR Organics!  Words of Encouragement: Ideally, this Simple Real Food Cleanse should be done for a minimum of 3 days but feel free to stick with it for a lifetime. No matter how long or how little you participate in this Simple Real Food Cleanse, be sure to not be so hard on yourself. Any type of change takes time, especially when it comes to our health. Everyone is different. Believe in yourself and stay motivated with your goal. Remember, you are on your very own journey of health and happiness. This is a journey that only you alone can take total control over. Negative thoughts and judgments stem from your own mind. They are imaginings. They are not real. You have the ability to declare health over your body and soul. Get excited to make the change. Stay positive. You can do this.  If you have any questions, comments or concerns feel free comment below or to email me directly at adjean527@gmail.com, with "Hello Healthy" in the subject line.
Disclaimer: (Because legally I have to...) This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any ailments. As always, use common sense and contact your medical professional. One Thousand Miles To Simply Be As I look out into the bay; brisk ocean breeze stinging my cheeks and nostrils slightly dripping; I close my tear-glazed eyes and imagine life as it was a year ago. Slowly, my mind begins to tune out the busy sounds of traffic and fast-paced life; where the world never stops and everyone has some place to get to, some place they need to be. As I listen to the jingles of collars while the dogs play, I imagine standing in the middle of a field, with nothing but trees and farm-life surrounding me. I focus in on the sounds of the wind and the chirping from cold-weather birds making their winter homes among the brush along the trunks of our hibernating, colorless trees. As I shuffle my feet back and forth in the soft, cold sand, I allow my mind the nostalgia for red dirt, forever staining my hand-me-down boots, leaving a pleasant shade of rusty orange, similar to the weeds traveling up the shore from in-coming tides of the sea. All is still and quiet as I let my day-dreams simply be. One thousand miles have come and gone, 12 months of wisdom instilled in me. Returning now to the present moment, filled with peace from this tranquil memory.  Rock Hill Mill Farm, The Plains, VA Golden Banana Bread Latte [Immune Boosting and Anti-Inflammatory to Promote a Restful Sleep]  A delicious twist on the traditional Ayurvedic “Golden Milk” Enjoy in the evening before bed-time, especially when feeling under-the-weather. Ingredients
In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil. Leaving peel on, cut off and discard the top and bottom of banana then cut banana in half. Place the banana with the peel in the boiling water and simmer for 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and discard banana. (Or allow banana to cool and feed to your pup for a healthy snack.) Meanwhile, combine remaining ingredients into a blender and blend til smooth. Pour into a small saucepan and warm over medium-heat, without boiling, stirring occasionally. Once warm, remove from heat and with a ladle, spoon equal parts banana tea and golden milk into a mug. Finish with an additional dash of cinnamon.  2015: Our Year in Review 2015 was very in tune with this new age of enlightenment; of this Awakening, if you will. All over the world, people have been standing up and coming together as one, more this year than ever before. More and more are opening their eyes to the reality and goodness found within the Light (the Spirit and power of good vibrations) and turning away from this age old darkness of a “man vs. man” attitude. Tired of ignorantly being led astray by the media through political and corporate propaganda, they are awakening to the realization that less is more and are keeping their minds open to the limitless possibilities found within going beyond the matrix and shifting towards a simpler way of life.  Even on a more personal level, this marked our year of one: 2015 was our first full year as newlyweds; with our souls bound together as one. We started the year with the craving for a simple life. We donated our car, quit our jobs, packed our belongings (and all five pets) and moved 500 miles southwest to the farm. Farm-life was surreal. To be wholly surrounded by nature, learning her greatest secrets while working along-side her through all wind and weathers to sustain life not only for ourselves but for our family as well. Whether splitting wood; tending to livestock or caring for our garden; every day was spent helping nature take its course just as she helped nurture us right back through bountiful harvests, healthy cattle and an abundance of fresh eggs. We learned how to be one with nature; Living in the moment with a true glimpse into the ever-present “now.” Diving inward on this year of One, 2015 was a year for self-reflection and self-acceptance. For me, learning that "I am enough just as I am." Relearning the lessons I have been taught and retaught throughout the years; All reflections of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and above all, self-control. Through daily practices of yoga and meditation I learned how to let things be; to stop trying to be in control; to let go of perfectionism and take life as it comes. I learned how to be still enough to listen to the voice within, seeking clarity and inner guidance on this journey of life. From there, learning subtle clues to who I am and why I'm here, softening my heart and opening my mind to the interconnectedness of life and energies throughout the universe; where although we are many, and our journeys unique, deep within the self-centered heart of it all, we are truly one. On this final day of 2015, this beautiful last day of December, this New Year's Eve;
 The Moon and the Stars
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| This is where learning from your shadow-self comes in. Our “shadow” in regards to spiritual energy, is the darker forces that sometimes try to overtake our souls. Some religions will refer to these dark forces as evil or as demons trying to bring you down. I was raised in a very spiritual family. When I was in my late teens, my church offered a class called Spiritual Authority. At the time I had no idea how the information taught in this class would be necessary to my life as a young adult, but the more I grow and evolve, the more thankful I am that I took that class. It's part of the reason I have been so open to spiritual and energetic attunements. It's also part of the reason why I have, on the other hand, been so open to what some call “psychic attacks” and others, a “mental illness.” Anxiety is one of the many forms these dark forces can take. I spent way too much time beating myself up trying to find my place in life. A few years back, a life-changing book fell into my hands: The Shadows Gift: Finding Out Who You Really Are by Robin Robertson. (Read the summary here) This book opened my eyes to a whole new way of looking at my life. Another life-changing book on my journey is The Book of Secrets: Unlocking the Hidden Dimensions of Your Life by Deepak Chopra. While I was raised in the Christian church, I've also spent many years learning of other religions. I love that Buddhism teaches you to embrace and learn from your shadow. I've always been a sucker for mystic and magic, but there really is something so beautiful about learning from your dark past. One of my many motto's is “Always seek beauty in darkness.” While the world right now may seem dark and cold, we can actively make the choice to seek beauty. To seek goodness. To seek light and to encourage others to do the same. It's about changing our perspective from wanting to overcome “darkness” to wanting to learn from it. We need to find balance. The shadow in you right now, might be manifesting itself in ways that make you feel lost but I promise you, it's all part of the journey. These dark feelings are our inner-self trying to get our attention, screaming at us that something in our waking life needs to change if we intend on following and discovering our true life's purpose on our journey ... |  |
I've gotten so far off from what I originally meant to write but everything happens for a reason, right? If not for the bad going on in the world right now, there wouldn't be more and more people waking up to the truth of wanting to change for the better. The world is starting to recognize our need to come together in unity as one. We are finally realizing that we can't beat darkness with more darkness but instead need to bring it around full circle and use this darkness as a backdrop to shining the light within us even brighter than before.
| I want to share with you some of the sources for good news that I actively follow to keep my good-vibe game strong: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/m_eye_nd/ https://www.instagram.com/youcreateyourownreality/ https://www.instagram.com/myspiritualpath/ Interweb: http://thespiritscience.net/ http://themindunleashed.org/ http://www.mysticmamma.com/ http://www.kimmana.com/five-elements-of-ayurveda/ http://chakraenergy.com/ Some random stuff that has also helped me accept where I am on my journey to help ease the feelings of being “lost”: Astrology in regards to how being a Gemini effects my mood, personality, decisions I make and why. (Not those silly social media quizzes). As well as how the moon and planets influence whats going on in the world. Numerology was interesting to learn as well as finding out my Myer's Briggs Personality Type . Another big help was finding out my Ayurvedic Dosha. Learning your dosha helps bring awareness to when something in your body is off balance. This method dates back to ancient Chinese medicine. Our doshas are representative of any combination of the five elements; ether, air, earth, fire, and water. Depending on your dosha, when our body is off-balance it takes the form of our various shadow-attributes. For example, my dosha, Vata, represents air. The characteristics described in books are so ridiculously accurate to me. This has helped me learn WHY some emotions or symptoms happen in my mind and body and help me determine what I need to do to fix them. It could be as simple as doing a breathing exercise or taking a walk in nature but could also signify that something bigger needs attention, like my diet & lifestyle. |
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I'm almost two years into a pretty drastic diet and lifestyle change. I needed to address my physical self and heal my body before I was able to go on and heal my spiritual self. The diet and lifestyle change were far from easy and is pretty much an ongoing thing. Again, I would start with meditation, learning how to quiet the mind from all the stresses of the world. Not everyone is into yoga, but it DOES help to re-align your chakras and help you to become not only open and flexible on a physical level, but on a spiritual, mind and heart level as well.
For anxiety and chattering minds that are hard to turn off, I recommend yoga poses for grounding and re-aligning your root chakra. Here's a great video with some simple grounding techniques to calm the over-active mind:
For anxiety and chattering minds that are hard to turn off, I recommend yoga poses for grounding and re-aligning your root chakra. Here's a great video with some simple grounding techniques to calm the over-active mind:
If you've never tried meditating before, start changing your life for the better tonight with some quiet time. Turn off your electronics and bright lights. Light a candle, and simply sit and breathe. I'm always in my head so getting back into writing and journaling has totally helped me release some of the thoughts and voices that try to overtake my mind.
Keep a notebook and pen by your side while you meditate. As you're breathing, if you have thoughts that won't go away, write them down. When you write them down you're releasing your mind from their obsessive grasp. Know that when you write them down you are free to do with them as you will. If that same thought pops back into your head, take authority over it. Stop it in its tracks. Change your minds subject if that makes any sense. You can do this by listening to your breath. Every yoga teacher I have ever studied with whether online, in person, or through a dvd will tell you this same thing.
By listening to your breath as it flows in and out of your body, you are bringing yourself and your awareness to the absolute PRESENT moment. Listening to your breath gives no room for voices or annoying negative thoughts.
Finally, what do you know about sound frequencies and how they influence our well-being? As we work on awakening our third-eye and evolving our spiritual selves, we are actually changing are DNA. Sound frequencies also have the ability to enhance or inhibit the growth of our new DNA. Sound frequencies can tear us apart and bring us down OR they can influence us on a more positive level. This is a really great documentary on how we can change our own frequency to change our reality:
Keep a notebook and pen by your side while you meditate. As you're breathing, if you have thoughts that won't go away, write them down. When you write them down you're releasing your mind from their obsessive grasp. Know that when you write them down you are free to do with them as you will. If that same thought pops back into your head, take authority over it. Stop it in its tracks. Change your minds subject if that makes any sense. You can do this by listening to your breath. Every yoga teacher I have ever studied with whether online, in person, or through a dvd will tell you this same thing.
By listening to your breath as it flows in and out of your body, you are bringing yourself and your awareness to the absolute PRESENT moment. Listening to your breath gives no room for voices or annoying negative thoughts.
Finally, what do you know about sound frequencies and how they influence our well-being? As we work on awakening our third-eye and evolving our spiritual selves, we are actually changing are DNA. Sound frequencies also have the ability to enhance or inhibit the growth of our new DNA. Sound frequencies can tear us apart and bring us down OR they can influence us on a more positive level. This is a really great documentary on how we can change our own frequency to change our reality:
To anyone struggling with their identity, feeling lost and wandering the earth in hopes of finding themselves; may this help you on your journey.
All the good vibes and warm wishes to you!
All the good vibes and warm wishes to you!
Also remembering John Lennon, one of the most influential advocates for One Love and World Peace, who left this earth 35 years ago today.
While he may be gone, his spirit surely lives on. <3
While he may be gone, his spirit surely lives on. <3
This past year went by crazy fast with all of our adventures from Rhode Island to Virginia to New Hampshire and back! While we've been home for a full four months now (I can't believe it's been THAT long already), it seems like life is finally starting to slow back down as we get into the swing of a somewhat more normal (or at least what we consider a more normal) lifestyle than we've had in the past few years.
Happy December!
As I'm always working on balancing my life (always a work in progress); this move back to the island, I can say, has not been the easiest adjustment. The 8 months we spent on the farm were quiet and peaceful and taught us how to stop rushing through life, living as Thoreau set out to live during his excursion in the woods. We learned how to sit back, enjoy the ride, and be grateful for all we have in front of us, taking life and dealing with it as it comes, no matter the obstacle. I spent the greater portion of my time on the farm in solitude with nature. I learned how to appreciate the subtle nuances of being alone.
"I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived."
From Walden Chapter 2 “Where I Lived, and What I Lived For”
From Walden Chapter 2 “Where I Lived, and What I Lived For”
Most importantly, I learned how to stop being so anxious for the future.
With the passing of Thanksgiving, our New England holiday season is officially in full swing. For some people, this can be a really stressful time of year. While this is a season for giving and for making others smile, I want to send out a friendly reminder to take care of yourself this season.
Many of us get stressed out trying to balance between this side of the family and that side of the family, seeing friends, staying involved, sending cards and keeping up with the holiday spirit of baking, shopping and giving; that sometimes we end up causing our own stress. Maybe you've already let the stress take hold, or maybe you can foresee it squirming its way into your nervous system. Either way, only YOU have the power to decide on whether you want to spend your holiday season stressed out or care-free.
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This list has absolutely helped me in the past, especially last Christmas.
Here's a recap on what went on this time last year:
Our first married Christmas was spent packing and cleaning, in just over a week we would be on our way, 8 hours south and 3 hours inland from the only place either of us had ever had the privilege of calling home. Instead of a Christmas tree with presents stacked underneath, I fashioned my very own tree out of recycled card-board and acrylic paints, tacked up on the wall with lights and various hand-made ornaments made from corks, buttons, acorn tops and beads. Our wall-tree made cleaning and packing our 120 sq ft tiny apartment much more of a breeze while still allowing for joyous festivity. We opted out of gifts for each other, giving hand-made gifts to our family and friends. We just quit our jobs, oh and did I mention were car-less? The previous summer I convinced my husband to donate our only car while we were living in downtown Newport. With everything being within walking distance and the bus station only a block away, our car sat vacant for months so I thought it would be a good idea to donate our car, figuring it would be better off going to a cause that helps others in need. So not only were we newly married, but we were also jobless, car-less, and soon to be homeless; yet still following our hearts on this crazy life-changing adventure of chasing our dreams.
Our first married Christmas was spent packing and cleaning, in just over a week we would be on our way, 8 hours south and 3 hours inland from the only place either of us had ever had the privilege of calling home. Instead of a Christmas tree with presents stacked underneath, I fashioned my very own tree out of recycled card-board and acrylic paints, tacked up on the wall with lights and various hand-made ornaments made from corks, buttons, acorn tops and beads. Our wall-tree made cleaning and packing our 120 sq ft tiny apartment much more of a breeze while still allowing for joyous festivity. We opted out of gifts for each other, giving hand-made gifts to our family and friends. We just quit our jobs, oh and did I mention were car-less? The previous summer I convinced my husband to donate our only car while we were living in downtown Newport. With everything being within walking distance and the bus station only a block away, our car sat vacant for months so I thought it would be a good idea to donate our car, figuring it would be better off going to a cause that helps others in need. So not only were we newly married, but we were also jobless, car-less, and soon to be homeless; yet still following our hearts on this crazy life-changing adventure of chasing our dreams.
Had I not taken full advantage of these simple de-stress methods, I don't know how I would have remained sane last year (although sanity is totally over-rated).
Here it is:
Here it is:
Simple Steps to Sanity for the Holiday Season:
1. Breathe
For serious. This is the number one most important thing you can do to keep your stress levels and anxiety low. It even helps take care of the holiday blues that sometimes creep their way in. It's a silly thought, but as fast-paced as our lives have become, many of us have forgotten how to properly breathe!
"If I was to have one prescription for relaxation, it would be a breathing exercise," says Janet Messer, Ph.D., a psychologist in Eugene, Oregon. "When you slow down your breathing and focus your attention in your lower belly, it has really profound physiological and psychological effects."
Deep abdominal breathing relaxes tight chest muscles and opens up blood vessels so your heart can pump more efficiently... It also helps you think clearly, so you can stay calmer in a stressful situation. [excerpt from New Choices in Natural Healing].
Check out this Three Part Breath Breakdown video by Emma Nahod Yoga, a RI local yoga instructor. Be sure to subscribe to her YouTube channel for instant access to her most recent uploads!
"If I was to have one prescription for relaxation, it would be a breathing exercise," says Janet Messer, Ph.D., a psychologist in Eugene, Oregon. "When you slow down your breathing and focus your attention in your lower belly, it has really profound physiological and psychological effects."
Deep abdominal breathing relaxes tight chest muscles and opens up blood vessels so your heart can pump more efficiently... It also helps you think clearly, so you can stay calmer in a stressful situation. [excerpt from New Choices in Natural Healing].
Check out this Three Part Breath Breakdown video by Emma Nahod Yoga, a RI local yoga instructor. Be sure to subscribe to her YouTube channel for instant access to her most recent uploads!
2. Stay Hydrated
With all of the sweets, sugars and caffeine from baked goods to coffee and "holiday lattes," (not to mention your celebratory cocktails and other booze) we tend to throw our body's natural hydration levels off balance. Caffeine, alcohol and sugar are the top three contenders for depleting the water levels in our body.
All of our organs, including our heart and brain, require water in order to function properly. Dehydration symptoms can take the form of headaches, tight muscles, cramps, and yes; stress & anxiety.
The easiest way to continually stay hydrated is to keep a water bottle by your side at all times. As soon as its emptied, fill it back up to keep a continuous cycle of hydration readily available throughout the day.
All of our organs, including our heart and brain, require water in order to function properly. Dehydration symptoms can take the form of headaches, tight muscles, cramps, and yes; stress & anxiety.
The easiest way to continually stay hydrated is to keep a water bottle by your side at all times. As soon as its emptied, fill it back up to keep a continuous cycle of hydration readily available throughout the day.
3. Balance good-for-you foods with delicious holiday sweets.
Yep, I am totally guilty of binge-sweet-eating during the holidays. I love to bake and don't usually do it too much during the warmers seasons. However, during the colder months I can convince myself that baking more will help save on my heating bill. Of course this is no excuse for me to eat an entire loaf of banana bread or as much cookie dough as I have totally consumed over the past few weeks, but sweets are totally my weakness and it's really only this time of year I get carried away with my sweet tooth.
When our stress levels rise, our immune system is also thrown off balance. To even out all the sweets, be sure to add more anti-inflammatory foods into your diet. This includes garlic, ginger, lemon and turmeric, to name a few. Check out the recipe for My Favorite Feel Good Immunity Concoction. This can be taken straight up or mixed in soup!
When our stress levels rise, our immune system is also thrown off balance. To even out all the sweets, be sure to add more anti-inflammatory foods into your diet. This includes garlic, ginger, lemon and turmeric, to name a few. Check out the recipe for My Favorite Feel Good Immunity Concoction. This can be taken straight up or mixed in soup!
4. Take Time For Yourself
Take time to disconnect from electronics, social media, from television and loud music and allow your mind some much-deserved time to unwind. Many of us have a hard time falling asleep at night because we can't seem to turn our minds off. Mix in the holiday to-do's and we might catch a wink before the new year.
If you can't seem to find time during the day, spend the last hour before bed taking care of yourself. Some options are to light a candle and draw a bath or hot shower or make use of some aromatherapy oils and a cup of organic herbal tea to help calm your mind.
You can also try this video for bed-time yoga and if you're really into the idea of totally pampering yourself, why not a pedicure? If you want to tie in the theme of "holiday giving," you can give your partner a foot massage and if you're even luckier, they may agree to giving one to you. (I am totally spoiled).
We actually hold a great amount of stress and toxins in our feet. This is why giving yourself a pedicure is great! I like to fill a bin with hot water and healing Epsom salts and follow it up with a soothing foot massage with whatever blend of vitamin E and essential oils I create that night. Click here for a Reflexology Chart of Feet and Hands to refer to during your pedicure.
Don't forget to drink a glass of water before and after your massage to flush the toxins out of your system as they are released through massage!
If you can't seem to find time during the day, spend the last hour before bed taking care of yourself. Some options are to light a candle and draw a bath or hot shower or make use of some aromatherapy oils and a cup of organic herbal tea to help calm your mind.
You can also try this video for bed-time yoga and if you're really into the idea of totally pampering yourself, why not a pedicure? If you want to tie in the theme of "holiday giving," you can give your partner a foot massage and if you're even luckier, they may agree to giving one to you. (I am totally spoiled).
We actually hold a great amount of stress and toxins in our feet. This is why giving yourself a pedicure is great! I like to fill a bin with hot water and healing Epsom salts and follow it up with a soothing foot massage with whatever blend of vitamin E and essential oils I create that night. Click here for a Reflexology Chart of Feet and Hands to refer to during your pedicure.
Don't forget to drink a glass of water before and after your massage to flush the toxins out of your system as they are released through massage!
5. Enjoy the Simple Gifts
Modern society has brought us to a state of over-the-top materialistic possession. It's easy to get carried away with the latest and greatest in technology and all of it's expensive new toys and inventions but remember, the reason for this season is above all, to express the simplest and most important gift of all; the gift of Love.
Forget the hectic shopping days and late nights of gift-wrapping. Stop worrying if you bought the right gift for the right person or wondering if there's anyone you may offend for not being able to give more. When it comes down to it, to the raw truth of what this season means, none of that matters.
A simple life filled with love is truly all we ever need.
Forget the hectic shopping days and late nights of gift-wrapping. Stop worrying if you bought the right gift for the right person or wondering if there's anyone you may offend for not being able to give more. When it comes down to it, to the raw truth of what this season means, none of that matters.
A simple life filled with love is truly all we ever need.
All the warm wishes to you this holiday season.
Gus the Brave
My life was saved the other day
A golden retriever, both dumb and brave.
Country winds howling in their greatest defense
As I waltzed 'tween electric and barbed-wire fence.
He let out a bark, “It's time to turn back!”
Soon followed a powerful THUD and a CRA-A-A-CK.
If not for that old dog running after me,
I would have been stuck under a fallen oak tree
One windy day in The Plains, I was alone on the ranch and wanting to venture into the woods.
I had no phone, no one due back for hours and no one within miles around.
When strong wings blow through the surrounding woods; when the soil is just the right amount of moist; conditions are perfect for entire trees to uproot.
Yet onward I went, not listening to my own inner voice.
Just as I sneak past both boundary fences, I look back and see Gus running after me. Barking and galloping, trying to get my attention, I turned back just in time. Whether he knew it or not, that dog risked his life for me.
Right where I was standing only a mere few seconds before, a tree fell before my eyes, crushing the earth and plants beneath it...
Thanks to him I can say I'm alive.
I had no phone, no one due back for hours and no one within miles around.
When strong wings blow through the surrounding woods; when the soil is just the right amount of moist; conditions are perfect for entire trees to uproot.
Yet onward I went, not listening to my own inner voice.
Just as I sneak past both boundary fences, I look back and see Gus running after me. Barking and galloping, trying to get my attention, I turned back just in time. Whether he knew it or not, that dog risked his life for me.
Right where I was standing only a mere few seconds before, a tree fell before my eyes, crushing the earth and plants beneath it...
Thanks to him I can say I'm alive.
Waltzing with Gus-Gus, my Golden Retriever! <3
The past couple of days have been tough on the heart. Just a day after we found out Dexter's best friend, Mastodon the Bull Mastiff, had to be put to rest, I learn my old pup, Gus, back on the farm, may be nearing the end of his own life. As much as I will always love my pets, this will never get easier with time.
When we grow old with our pets, they become our constant companions, and often times our "thunder buddy" and best friend. There's something about our pets that make us better people.
They teach us how to care and nurture for another being, how to develop trust and understanding, and most importantly how to love and be loved by someone and something entirely different from who we are.
When we grow old with our pets, they become our constant companions, and often times our "thunder buddy" and best friend. There's something about our pets that make us better people.
They teach us how to care and nurture for another being, how to develop trust and understanding, and most importantly how to love and be loved by someone and something entirely different from who we are.
Here's to remembering all the four-legged friends we've loved and lost along the way.
May they always guide us and remind us to be better human beings;
To show each other love, with the gentleness and excitement
That only our fur-family knows how to give best.
Happy Friday, everyone!!!
I'm most excited for this weekend in particular because we will be celebrating our very first anniversary as a married couple! Woo!!! We've already had some crazy awesome adventures together and I'm so excited for the many more to come!
Surprise wedding cake number 2!
(Yes, two).
We had every intention on having a simple minimalist wedding.
However, to our surprise, friends and family had other plans for us and we are so absolutely grateful for this.
It's true when they say, "I get by with a little help from my friends!"
(Yes, two).
We had every intention on having a simple minimalist wedding.
However, to our surprise, friends and family had other plans for us and we are so absolutely grateful for this.
It's true when they say, "I get by with a little help from my friends!"
I really do love our little wedding story. Our relationship in general has been pretty magical since we first met, combining our love for nature, animals, good friends, good food and of course, our similar-views on worlds-end-post-apocalyptic survival tactics. (The threat of zombies is of course, one of the many reasons I've turned to nature and holistic healing as not just an art and hobby but as a way of life. I want to be prepared to care for my husband and family no matter what obstacles may come crawling our way). It's true. Our individual nerdiness found it's match within each other and that, right there, is why we fell in love. Definition of a soul mate? I think so.
He's the salt to my pepper.
We held our ceremony at Midtown Oyster Bar in Newport, RI then made our way over to Pour Judgement for some celebratory live music and drinks with friends.
We kept it as small and simple as we could. Not only were we celebrating our marriage but
it was also the very first time our parents would actually meet.
No pressure at all, mom and dad!
We held our ceremony at Midtown Oyster Bar in Newport, RI then made our way over to Pour Judgement for some celebratory live music and drinks with friends.
We kept it as small and simple as we could. Not only were we celebrating our marriage but
it was also the very first time our parents would actually meet.
No pressure at all, mom and dad!
Our story starts as most fairy-tales seem to do... two lost souls wandering the streets of Providence in search of hope and a good time between the long days and late nights of the local food and service scene...
Long story short, we met at a bar. But not just any bar, we met at The Wild Colonial Tavern, a place we both frequented with friends each week. It was our home away from home. He would spend his nights sipping White Russians around the pool table, unknowing to the possibility of destiny standing before his eyes as his future wife; covered in coffee stains and not at all trying to hide the lurking sour-milk stench that comes along with working in a coffee shop, got her frustrations of the workday out through a habitual game of darts while chugging away at a 22oz bottle of Oaked Arrogant Bastard. Yes, those were the days. (No wonder I ended up with a gluten intolerance).
I remember turning around after a horrible throw, those bright spotlights over the dartboards beaming into my eyes as I look down and exchange a glance with this handsome lad in a Gear's of War beanie from across the room. Totally one of those "love at first sight" hold-eye-contact-for-awkwardly-too-long moments that happened in the blink of an eye and then shook off with another quick sip of the beverage and continuing conversation amongst coworkers who were of course, hanging around the bar for the very same reasons. It wasn't until months later, after both realizing we had some mutual friends to prod info about ("Hey do you know that girl?" "What's that kids story, do you know his name?") that we finally exchanged a few words of conversation.
Nuptials. What's really going on in this picture?
I'm trying my hardest to hold in my giggles as he is actually the one getting teary-eyed, absolutely making my heart melt even more! But shhh that's supposed to be a secret.
I'm trying my hardest to hold in my giggles as he is actually the one getting teary-eyed, absolutely making my heart melt even more! But shhh that's supposed to be a secret.
"Ever been to Alaska?"
Those were his famous first words ever spoken to me. He was, of course, referring to my playing cards that had pretty purple and blue flowers and the word ALASKA written across the backs of them, given to me by my very own Eskimo of a friend before returning back to her native winter-wonderland of a state in the northwest, a state which I recently found out can fit 425 Rhode Islands within it. Anyway....
As my long-time best friend stepped away for the longest minute of my life from our not-so-intense game of rummy, the dude himself took the opportunity to set down his drink, take a deep breath and conquer his fears with 30 seconds of courage and bravery, to approach the unapproachable with these life-changing four words:
"Ever been to Alaska?"
Yes. these were his heart-winning words to "break the ice."
Well played, my love.
We decided on handmade wedding bands from Hawaii. We chose titanium rings with a koa and black wood inlay, perfect for all the heavy-duty woodworking and gardening we did while on the farm.
Durability: check.
One With Ourselves and Nature: check check.
Durability: check.
One With Ourselves and Nature: check check.
Toasting to our love and top raw bar picks of the evening from Midtown Oyster Bar,
because weddings and aphrodisiacs go hand-in-hand.
because weddings and aphrodisiacs go hand-in-hand.
Our friends played such an important role to our big day:
The night following our wedding, we headed over to The Wild Colonial in honor of our first meeting place where we were yet again showered with surprises. From more cake to a performance by The Rhode Island Ukulele Armada, as well as a lovely rendition of Eric Clapton's Wonderful Tonight from my oldest friend, which ended up being our first dance as a married couple, this was quickly turning into an epic weekend-long wedding celebration.
The biggest surprise of them all during this weekend was from an unexpected stranger. A young, engaged couple from out of town (around the same age as us) had been visiting Providence and observed our festivities from a few tables away. Between all the hugs and laughter and catching up with old friends, I received a quick tap on the shoulder from an unfamiliar face.
This woman was blown away by the amount of love she saw between us and our friends that night and wanted to do something special for us as well. She handed me an envelope with a hand written note inside saying, "Hi, you don't know us but..." and went on to wish us kind words of love and happiness, along with a few dollars to start our married-life savings fund. She was able to snap a few pictures of us as well as a video of our first dance which she later sent in an e-mail with again, more kind words.
This seriously made my night. Well, a lot of things made my night that night, but this was definitely the cherry on top. I love when love inspires other people to love. It's a wonderful feeling.
- Headband and his boutonniere were handmade for us using some of our favorite herbs in honor of our love for food and nature.
- Dress was beautifully altered with lace detail by another very patient friend with the sweetest sewing machine skills on the block!
- Hair and make-up were done by the beautiful and talented Mariska (my sister-in-law) of Flipp Salon & Apothecary in Providence, RI. (Which, by the way, if you're looking for an amazing stylist in the area, book with her!)
The night following our wedding, we headed over to The Wild Colonial in honor of our first meeting place where we were yet again showered with surprises. From more cake to a performance by The Rhode Island Ukulele Armada, as well as a lovely rendition of Eric Clapton's Wonderful Tonight from my oldest friend, which ended up being our first dance as a married couple, this was quickly turning into an epic weekend-long wedding celebration.
The biggest surprise of them all during this weekend was from an unexpected stranger. A young, engaged couple from out of town (around the same age as us) had been visiting Providence and observed our festivities from a few tables away. Between all the hugs and laughter and catching up with old friends, I received a quick tap on the shoulder from an unfamiliar face.
This woman was blown away by the amount of love she saw between us and our friends that night and wanted to do something special for us as well. She handed me an envelope with a hand written note inside saying, "Hi, you don't know us but..." and went on to wish us kind words of love and happiness, along with a few dollars to start our married-life savings fund. She was able to snap a few pictures of us as well as a video of our first dance which she later sent in an e-mail with again, more kind words.
This seriously made my night. Well, a lot of things made my night that night, but this was definitely the cherry on top. I love when love inspires other people to love. It's a wonderful feeling.
Our first surprise wedding cake.
We didn't think we needed a wedding cake.
Between his mom and our friends, we were surprised with two!
We didn't think we needed a wedding cake.
Between his mom and our friends, we were surprised with two!
Our entire relationship has revolved around nature:
- Our first date? A hike along Long and Ell Pond Woods.
- Our first potential “in-love” feeling? Stargazing along the Jamestown coast, holding hands and listening to the waves crash upon the rocky cliffs (the perks of catering fancy weddings).
We've done some pretty amazing nature-inspired things together, including a true “get-to-know-each-other” 8-hour road trip to Bar Harbor, ME where we would climb our first of many mountains together, looking down at the view with the ultimate realization of what it means to truly be “on top of the world” together.
 | My father-in-law, sealing the deal for us as our wedding officiant. When we talked about who to choose as an officiant, we wanted someone that knew us and knew who we were as a couple. We wanted someone that could speak intimately from his heart when addressing our hearts. The man did good. |
On top of one of the many peaks of Acadia and St. Sauveur Mountains.
"Walk with me My Love |  |
...
Minimalist.
Spiritualist.
Hippie.
Loved.
Nature Obsessed.
...
Minimalist.
Spiritualist.
Hippie.
Loved.
Nature Obsessed.
...
Ideology:
...
We were put here to take care of our earth;
To make use of the treasures and gifts hidden within.
To be one with nature.
To be nurtured by nature.
...
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