Keeping up with Apple

Past: Human Touch        Future: Human Crutch

In less than 8 months, my daughter Chloe will be starting school. Yikes! One day she's visiting Pretendville with her imaginary friends, and a week later she's visiting elementary schools for her future! Time really does fast-forward when we'd rather keep it on pause. So much has changed since my first day of school. Back when I was 5 years old, we went to whichever school was in our neighbourhood. Today, you can go private, public, bilingual, French immersion, international, and more.
As her name sits on a private school waiting list, I decide to explore other options and bring her along. Let me tell you, times are changing faster than ever and I'm not sure it's for the better. Some schools have replaced chalk boards with interactive screens, loose leaf paper with Ipads, and text books with the Kindle! We went from keeping up with the Joneses to keeping up with Apple. It seems as though a pen will become obsolete and our cheque books will be preauthorized with personal QR codes.
I'm definitely concerned about our future. All this technology is devoid of human character and begs me to wonder what will become of social skills. My daughter adores verbal communication. She gets excited talking to human beings of any age, race, or gender. I highly doubt she'll be as excited chatting with others via Skype. Without the human touch, we lose ethical values. And with religion out of most school's curriculum, how can we guide our children on a path of goodness?
Being raised a Catholic child, my faith deepened through regular religion classes. My 3rd grade teacher, Miss Rita, remains my religious guru. Through her teachings of God, she taught me the power of kindness and to trust in the process of life. Every meaningful lesson I was taught, was reinforced in my household. But as I researched schools online, I didn't catch these valuable principles on any of their websites.
'Balance' was such a key word ten years ago. 'Work-life balance' was all I heard. After having visited a few elementary schools, the right balance of sociological and technological needs is shifting. Technology is taking over our children's lives at full speed. I'm realizing that my decision in selecting the right school for Chloe, will be based mainly on balance. Perhaps a high-tech school is a better choice, since that's clearly where we're headed. However, I can't seem to accept this digital force on our children, at an age when their self-esteem needs developing instead. We're so busy hunting down apps to make life simpler, that we're failing to simply live wholly. What are we teaching our future?
We're teaching our kids to live in the future so they can keep up with the present; to talk less because we're too busy to listen; and that the human chip has been reformatted by Microsoft. C'mon human race! Swim out of contaminated water and come up for air. No digital device can ever replace the human touch. Write a thank you note, hug your kids, plant flowers, have a snowball fight. Keep it real while you still can. And for my part, I hope to find an educational environment that's founded on the fundamental principles of humanity. PS: The beauty of handwritten words on a 3-holed loose leaf can never be replaced - even by Apple!

Adam Levine: king of his mat

Adam Levine & Me

 

 

 

Ardha Chandrasana Rock Star Style

 



 

How I became a Starbucks Caramel Macchiato

From an Americano to a Caramel Macchiato

"I'm not happy," my friend exclaimed. On the outside, she looked like a Starbucks venti (loaded with sugar, spice and everything nice), but on the inside she felt like a caffé Americano. I guess we're all plain black coffee, but the difference is in whether we choose to stay bland or to spice up our spirit with whipped cream and caramel sauce.

I think an 'unhappy' chip exists in all of us. Experiences, situations, circumstances are all capable of switching it on. Another person, however, can never be responsible for making you feel sad. When your unhappy chip is activated it's because a particular incident caused it to switch on. Like my friend, many of us are blessed with good health, ample material comfort, and a loving family. So how can she possibly be unhappy? She hasn't suffered any recent loss, she has a flexible schedule, full-time help, the luxury of travelling when she pleases, and a husband who makes this all possible. So WTF?!
As much as this is painfully difficult to admit, she reminds me of myself two years ago! I guess I lent a compassionate ear (as she shared her feelings) because her sadness was familiar to me. I was once the plain black coffee in a Starbucks venti cup. I have everything she has, yet I felt emotionally vacant. I used shopping to distract me from looking within and to further justify my unhappiness, I blamed others. So how did I go from being a black coffee to a Caramel Macchiato?
I strongly disliked who I had become and when I stopped working (losing glorification), I felt inadequate. I'm not asking for a pity party here, but let's face it, the second question you ask a stranger at a dinner party is what they do for a living. And you can't deny the fact that we live in a culture driven by performance, so when you tell them you're presently 'soul searching', you know your perceived value just dropped. My happiness was driven by ego, the need to perform, to please, to be admired by others. For years I was the compared child, but when I entered adulthood, I became the one comparing and judging myself.
When we look at Starbucks' tallest cup (the venti), we think there's more value in it. The value isn't in the size of the cup, but rather what we fill it up with. So I decided to start accepting who I really was and adjust my recipe to taste a little sweeter. I learned the most about myself through other human beings. The people who irritated me enough to create tension in my body, were the best mirrors. And by the way, this fact still applies in my daily life. After all, whatever we see in others is a projection of our own self. Furthermore, happiness is not just a state; it's a choice! Every single minute we choose how we want to feel. I recognized that being unhappy sucked, so I directed the flashlight towards my spirit and slowly began sincerely loving my Self.
They say a dog is 'a man's best friend', but I say YOU are your best friend. The day you don't like hanging out with your best friend, is the day you need to reconsider who you genuinely want to be. Some days I want to be a Venti Caramel Macchiato, some days I just feel like being a Grande Skinny Latte. The difference is, that now, I can feel equally satisfied being a grande with less toppings.

 

My Soul Intention

2013 = Team Soul

As I begin 2013, I feel as though I'm already behind. I've never been enthusiastic to list resolutions - mainly because of my track record. It's common for me to let a few slip through the cracks. The only resolution I've maintained is to stop making resolutions. This year though, I thought it's be nice to set an intention. An intention is sort of like a commitment you make with the help of the Universe. You state what you want and the Universe gives you what you need. The reason I feel off beat is because it's January 6th and I haven't quite settled on an intention!
Sorry but I seem to have missed the email regarding the new year. When did January 1st become the day most people like to think is the beginning to the rest of their lives? It seems like everyone I know has signed, sealed, and delivered their resolutions. As for me, I don't wait for a new year to roll around to create a wish list to be 10 lbs lighter, get promoted, or find the perfect partner (even when I was single). I'd rather set an intention that resonates with me at this time (even if it's a week late).
My year began wonderfully thanks to being in the sun, surrounded by family and friends. But when my vacation comes to an end, it's back to my (still) unsettled life. I'm in career transition mode, yet I struggle to accept that fact. I find it hard to build a career that doesn't include a corporate organizational chart with a bonus plan. I've been an employee for 16 years and now I'm in the driver's seat, without a GPS! One thing's for sure, as much as I got dumped on in my career, nothing beat the validation that came with my job title. My voice mattered. My opinion was important. My ideas were praised. Now I'm looking to fill that void.
Being self-employed is quite an adjustment for me. I absolutely love teaching yoga. In my classes, I have a voice that matters too. I just don't feel as though I'm enough. Maybe it's because I've chosen to teach a very limited number of classes. It could also be that my annual earnings went from shopping at Gucci to Canal street. And all these feelings of just not adding up to "enough" are being manifested by my Ego. It's crazy how the Ego can take up so much space in my small frame. It feeds off of every insecurity, every self-doubt, every negative thought. I swear it even seems like I water it daily because I think it has grown to take up 80% of my being!
As the first week of 2013 passes, I've come to realize that my intention for the next 12 months will be quite simple. I don't need a gym membership or unrealistic goals to top my list. I simply want to weaken my Ego so that I can live authentically from my Soul. I want less self-criticism, self-judgement, self-absorption. I plan to achieve this through a consistent, mindful, breathing practice and (my biggest challenge) meditation. The best way for me to sit for meditation is to tell myself I'm going on a date with my best friend who thinks I'm the best thing since sliced bread, Facebook, and YouTube. My best friend encourages me to live out every emotion and guides me to lead from my Soul. I think I can hang with her for 15 minutes a day!
For those of you that are confronted with feelings of inadequacy in a culture driven by performance, I invite you to add "deep breathing" to your 2013 list. Only when we're conscious of our breath, are we truly present in the moment. As every exhalation rids the body of toxins, each inhalation creates space in for our Soul to expand. Making more room for the Soul means you're loving, compassionate and kind to your Self. In my calendar, it's never too late to start loving your Self more each day.

2013...Waiting to Inhale

Best lesson of 2012

As 2012 comes to an end, I smile, breathe and slowly reflect on my universal wish for 2013. This year, I learned about polarities such as yin/yang, and how contrary forces are interconnected to actually be complementary - not opposing forces.
So, for 2013, my wish is for all of us to achieve yin/yang balance through these 13 intentions:

1. May you work hard, yet rest often.
2. May you succeed, after having failed.
3. May you appreciate light, after observing darkness.
4. May you be aggressive with your goals, yet passive with the small stuff.
5. May you be patient with your faults, yet intolerant of personal judgement.
6. May you credit courage, after facing a fear. 
7. May you make mistakes, but learn new lessons.
8. May you want less, and give more. 
9. May you have faith in your soul, yet be skeptic of your ego.
10. May you dance with joy, after minding your anger.
11. May you laugh out loud, after a heavy-hearted cry.
12. May your thoughts be light, and your breath be full.
13. May you DO less, and BE more.

Best intention for 2013

Have an epic 2013!

Namaste.

My Top 10 Memorable Moments in 2012

Dear Friends,

As 2012 nears the end, I couldn't help but review my year. Although it wasn't a smooth, easy year, I do have 10 amazing moments I lived through that are worth sharing. I encourage all of you to look back at your own 2012. Reflecting on an entire year actually allows you to become aware of moments you perhaps took for granted. There are not-so-good moments that we would rather forget, but we need to spend time in darkness to better appreciate the light.
My 2012 was very kind and giving. It was filled with change and challenges, risks and uncertainty, love and support. Writing this post made me realize how truly blessed I've been this year.
I wish you all love and light in 2013. Lead with love and find your light. Namaste.

#1. Starting a blog

Late one Friday night in March, out of complete boredom, I decided to start a blog about yoga and well-being. To date, I've published 105 posts and I've had over 7000 pageviews! Thank you for reading, commenting and sharing. This blog has given me a platform whereby I can be totally honest about what I'm living. I'm grateful for all the touching messages I receive when others connect with my experience. Sharing is caring!

#2. Hugging Seane Corn

During the Toronto Yoga Conference, I bumped into my yoga Guru, Seane Corn, in the washroom. As she just finished washing her hands, I grabbed her, hugged her like she was my long lost sister, and told her she was the most amazing human being and my inspiration. Unforgettably awesome! PS - even in adulthood, it's totally cool to tell someone they've inspired you.

#3. Teaching yoga...7 years later

After taking a seven year break from teaching yoga, not only did I get back together with my yoga mat, I decided to start teaching again. My Tuesday night classes have been an absolute blessing. I'm grateful for every 'AH-HA' moment my students have inspired. Note to all - it's never too late to get back on the saddle and ride into the unknown.

#4. Teaching yoga to KIDS

During my return to the mat, I discovered a deep interest in teaching yoga to children. I completed my Radiant Child training and immediately began teaching Sunday classes. I've also been blessed with the opportunity to be teaching in daycares as well. Aside from taking kids through a journey in the jungle, Australia, and even to the North Pole, I've converted these mini yogis into "bucket fillers". All kids really want is someone to listen to their daily experiences without judgement or criticism. They'll appreciate your feedback, especially if it comes with smiles, hugs and high fives.

#5. Road Trip - Take 2

After having experienced my worst family road trip in 2011, I faced my fear and made a second attempt. I absolutely wanted to attend my cousin Tina's wedding in Connecticut, so I made a deal with the Uni-verse that everything would go smoothly. My positive affirmations convinced me that this trip would be fantastic....and it was!
The mind is the most powerful organ in the human body. It dictates how your day will unravel, so make it work for you and not against you.

#6. Becoming an Entrepreneur

In September, I launched a product for those who are spiritual minded or simply looking for mental peace. I created 'Positive Pillowcases' under my enterprise, Decor OMantra. They are available on Etsy.com or can be purchased directly through me. My plan for 2013 is to expand my distribution to yoga studios and spiritual wellness centres.

Leaving the fashion industry after 15 years certainly wasn't easy. I took a risk to venture back into the yoga/spiritual world. I felt energetically drawn to the spiritual world with a need to express my hardships with anxiety. I'm blessed to have the support to start a new career. I hope you're doing what you love and if you're not, may 2013 be your year of movement.

#7. Being on The Ellen Show

When my husband surprised me with a trip back to LA for our 5 year wedding anniversary, I was thrilled. But when he told me I'd be going to The Ellen Show, I was ecstatic! Being on the show was definitely a bucket list experience. Ellen DeGeneres is an incredible human being, so I was honored to have the opportunity to meet her.

#8. Watching a LIVE LAKERS basketball game at Staples Center

My love for the LA LAKERS dates back to high school. Magic Johnson (#32) will forever be the most amazing athlete to me. There isn't a high school memory that doesn't include a Lakers sweat shirt, tee or baseball cap! My claim to fame was to be a Laker girl, so attending a live game in November was simply, magic!

#9. Sharing laughs with Pascale Des Landes before she passed

When I found out my former co-worker, Pascale, was in the hospital, I debated over going to visit her. I heard her cancer had caused her to lose a lot of weight and create such discomfort that she could barely hold a conversation. I wasn't sure I'd be able to face her and talk as though life was great. One morning, I woke up thinking she could use some company, but I also wanted to reconnect with her on a deeper level. I gathered my courage, went to visit her and was surprised to see how incredibly energetic she was. We talked, we complained, we laughed. I left telling her I'd be back with a Christmas tree, in case she'd still be in the hospital. I never made it back before she was released, but I'm happy to announce that she made it home to her dogs and her own Christmas tree. Sadly, she left us this month. Her battle with cancer was long and abusive, but rather than focusing on the negative, I choose to remember the last time I saw her.

Thich Nhat Hanh said, "When you love someone, the best thing you can offer is your presence." Those words encouraged me to go visit her and I hope they encourage others to visit someone that's ill or lonely.

She will forever remain a warrior in my heart. xo

#10. Finally.....getting my Yoga Alliance certification!!

It took 200 hours of yoga practice and theory, plus hours of homework, intense exams and practice teaching to finally get here. In this scenario, I was definitely the turtle in the class as it took me almost 8 years to finally get my printed certification! Back when I started my teacher training program, I opted for the distractions around me rather than guiding people through a vinyasa flow. I wasn't passionate about teaching, so I let it go. My return to teaching was manifested by a series of anxiety attacks that not only brought me back onto my mat, but allowed my personal practice to reconnect to my Self. Today I believe that my calling is to help and serve others through yoga and spiritual guidance. Each day I discover new actions and reflect on my reactions. My motto is 'Practice makes Better', so 2013 get ready for a better me!

How will you make 2013 rock for you?





Just Be

When your monkey mind is on the go,

Just breathe, be, and let the thoughts flow.

 

When you believe your negative thoughts to be real,

Just breathe, be, and change how you feel.

 

When all your excuses have run dry,

Just breathe, be, and kiss them good-bye.

 

When you feel like you want to give up and quit,

Just breathe, be, and face your shit.

 

When your anger and sadness awaken after years,

Just breathe, be, and welcome the tears.

 

When the messages are loud, but you choose not to hear,

Just breathe, be, and let go of the fear.

 

When your body is telling you something is sore,

Just breathe, be, but don't ignore.

 

When your chronic pain is too much to bare,

Just breathe, be; the reasons are there.

 

When you cling to anger you don't fully live,

Just breathe, be, let go and forgive.

When you look in the mirror and don't like who you see,

Just breathe, be, and repeat, 'I love me!'

 

Every day is a game that you can win or lose,

Just breathe, be, and remember YOU choose.