Hello Devine Friend,


​Today I'd like to talk about New Year's resolutions. I know this may sound a bit cliché but yes I'm going through with it and guess what? I've never made New Year's resolutions in my life!
I might have added 'things' to my 'wish list' for the year but nothing that I resolved to do.


Before I share my resolutions with you let me quickly say this:


There's a huge difference between wishing for things and resolving to do things.
A wish is something we make lightly to possibly protect ourselves from disappointment in case it doesn't happen or we fail to achieve it.
Whereas a resolution is something which, at the back of our minds we know that we need to make it happen no matter what.
This means, unlike a wish, we approach a resolution with a plan of action to help us achieve our goal.
Now I'm not saying the latter is guaranteed to happen but I'm saying when approached with a road map chances are no matter how many times we stray off the road we can still see where we're headed and therefore have the ability to refocus and get back on track towards our goal.


So my New Year's resolutions are:

1. Get my physical body healthy.
The reality is, I'm not getting any younger and this is the only temple I have so I need to look after it. My road map includes, going to the gym 3-4 times a week.
(I haven't had a gym membership for nearly 7 year!!!) so in preparations of this resolution I signed up with my local gym.


2. I'm going to write a book.
A little while ago I completed Masters degree in Writing. The course was really a vehicle that made it possible for me to emerge from a dark place of loss and grieving.


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I won't get into that topic today but through writing and exchanging ideas with writing peers I discovered so much about myself and the world around me. And although I produced a manuscript for my final thesis, I think it's only now that I feel ready to pen my story-our stories down.


And the road map for this one is going to be a bit gentle. Like many, I'm also time poor but I'm going to start small. I'll be lying if I said I will write everyday, however I will jot down ideas and thoughts as they come to me everyday and set aside time to write on Sunday mornings. During this time I will correlate my weekly ideas and write as little or as much as I can.


3. I want to earn a living doing what I love and making a difference along the path.
This one is a little challenging and I had to stop for a minute and really think about it. Will I quit my day job - I cannot deny nor can I confirm but what I know for sure is that my intention is sent out to the universe. And all I have to do is work on my inner self through mindful-mindset so that my energy can vibrate at the right frequency to attract the places I need to be and people I need to be with.


You see the road map for this one is not external because I'm not responsible for other people's actions but my own so if I'm going to improve anything in my life it has to begin with me.


And those are my New Year's resolutions which I believe are realistic and achievable.
Now I need to show up everyday ready for the challenge.

Thanks for stopping by and see you real soon!

Don't forget to comment below, I'd love to hear about your New Year's resolutions and how you're planning to achieve them. What are your goals and road maps to get you there.


Have a happy day!

•{Namaste}•

love and Light.

SS

Devine Friend, the other day I had one of the saddest day. I tried in many ways to divert my focus but my emotions kept beckoning me to be 'here now'.

In our daily persuit of happiness and joyous lifestyles it's equally important to acknowledge when the universe tells us to take a pause to be where we are fully.

​So I stopped and listened and I'm so glad I did. You see motherhood is an incredibly important part of who I am and the thought of my family brings up an instant lump in my throat. So while at my day job where I work as a Costumer on a TV drama, I happened to be on set to shoot a scene where a pregnant mother looses her baby to Placenta Abruptio, the very 'thing' that claimed our silent angel, Val Neo.
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After the scene the sadness settled heavily upon me and together with the Actor portraying the grieving mother we were twined in this incredible moment of knowing.

A lot lot of people at my day job don't know this part of my story because it's not an easy subject to 'chat' about. But that's okay because every now and then the right person comes along and the sharing channel opens up and with each conversation no matter how petite or major I'm reminded that the sadness is not mine alone, that so many mothers and their families live with this lonely pain.

From this moment onward I vow to open myself up to all sharing opportunities because my sadness is as necessary as my happiness.

​Today I encourage you spare a kind thought, a prayer or a quiet moment for the families who need to embrace the sadness of their grief.

Have a happy day!

•{Namaste}•

​SS

Spirituality is a personal topic that affects each of us at different times in our lives. In my opinion, I find some people that I come across are either skeptical or embarrassed to talk about spirituality. Sometimes at the mention of the word, people's thoughts may immediately venture into the realms of religion and customs. But here's what I'm learning, the ability to experience life beyond intellectual parameters is absolutely incredible. And FYI, spirituality has nothing to do with religion.

There are many principles, laws or whatever term you choose that govern our spiritual growth but for this post I chose to discuss only two: Intention and Humility. This is because I believe that whether you're at the beginning of your spiritual journey or well into it, these are some of the ones that you would always return to. To either get yourself underway or even just to boost your spiritual muscle.

1. Intention
"We create our reality with our Intention"
- Gary Zukav

The law of creation goes hand in hand with intention. In order to be able to create that which we desire, we need to understand the idea that is intention.

In my understanding, Intention is a non physical energy that we emanate. This energy or light (as some call it) is so powerful that it manifests into our reality, which could be love, anger, jealousy, happiness, feeling of lack, inferiority and so on. But the best thing about this is that, because this energy or intention is our own creation we have the power to alter it at anytime.
So you my Devine Friend have the ability to change that anger or feeling of lack into something positive because the energy that you send out is the one you will receive.

There are many ways to make your intentions work for you or help you reach some of your goals or purpose in life. So, if you wish to create success in your life, you need to focus your intention on success. If peace and harmony is what you desire, send that peaceful energy from within.

Begin small...

I'll give you an example:
When I decided to embark on my spiritual journey I started with the mother of all emotions, LOVE. My intention was and still is to create love along my path and to allow everything that I do to exist from a place of love.

I began to consciously seek love, give love and see love in everything I do. Because I spend so much time at work (a minimum of 10 hours a day) I thought, it would be wonderful to surround my area with symbols that would always remind me of my intension. So I placed little love hearts on the doors of my work area. This way, no matter what happens around me I know that my area is a safe zone that's surrounded by love and no matter how my day turns out, it is important to remember to align myself with my intention. It's almost like affirmations.

Try it, it works.

2. Humility

Humility means being humble or understanding your place in relation to people around you.

A Course In Miracles says, "To the ego, today's idea is the epitome of self-glorification. But the ego does not understand humility, mistaking it for self-debasement..."

Now be aware that the ego will come to play as soon as you embark on this spiritual journey towards your true self. So if someone walks into a room and starts lashing out at everyone, the ego would want to stand taller and engage in an argument to prove perhaps that you're not weak or that you're not in the wrong.

This is where you need to take a minute to realise 'the moment', once you've realised this moment make a conscious decision to call upon humility - not because you wish for self-debasement but because you know your place in relation to others. As Don Miguel Ruiz's second Agreement says, "Don't take anything personally" because what people say is a reflection of themselves. Thus the other person's lashing out is not about you.

So how will you begin to embrace your spirituality? By reading a book, going for a walk to connect with nature, by meditating or by simply being kind to yourself and other? Whichever you choose always remember you hold the power that shapes you and your world.

Have a wonderful day.

{Namaste}

SS

​How to detox your soul without loosing your cool

Every now and then we do a health detox because we want to get rid of the toxic substances that surround us, especially in our foods like air pollution, pesticides, chemicals and so on.
This is a great exercise that requires determination, patience and a significant amount of focus.
I did a three week detox recently and by the end of it, I felt lighter, my skin was glowing (still is haha) I even lost two kilos! You see where I'm going with this.

What about your soul though? You know that non-physical and immortal part of your being. Ever think about what it would be like to cleanse it? Just like our foods, our souls are surrounded by different energies. Some are very toxic and whether we are aware or not, these energies do affect us. Sometimes when you walk into certain places or come across some people you can feel your mood and emotions change. To help keep your soul intact and on the path that positively supports your inner being a detox sounds pretty awesome.

What to avoid:
1. Complaining
2. Bitching
3. Gossiping
4. Judging
5. Trashing people's dreams

What you need:
1. An open heart
2. A quiet space (this could be anywhere-and I mean it. Just make sure it's safe)
3. An Item of inspiration or Inspo-piece (music, book, quote, whatever you like)
4. 5 to 10 minutes (more time if you can afford)

Detox plan for the next 5 to 7 days

Gratitude:
Begin your day with gratitude.
Practice these words 'Thank you'. If you're not used to saying them, it will sound a bit silly at first but say it a few times and soon it will feel natural.
Make this your first thought when you wake up. Remember you don't need to be religious to be thankful.

Self Love:
I firmly believe that only when your cup is full, will you be able to share its contents. So if you don't love yourself enough, you will not be able to extend this mother of all emotions.
Start with your physical self. Look at yourself in the mirror and say 'I love you'. Again this might sound a bit weird but keep at it until you see past your ego.
After doing this exercise a few times, deep seated emotions may be evoked. Allow yourself to experience whatever comes to you. Cry, laugh, smile embrace it all.

Inspo Piece:
Read a passage from your chosen book, or a quote, or play your selected piece of music. Allow the message from your inspo item to sink in. Repeat if you need to.

Be still:

Carry your stillness with you and allow your stillness to carry you.

Before you tackle your busy life, begin with stillness. For 5 to 10 minutes sit in silence. This is very hard but you can do it.
Find a comfortable position on the floor, pillow or chair, try to keep your back as straight as possible. Close your eyes. Breathe through your nose slowly and deliberately until you can hear your breath. You might not feel anything at first and might get physical distractions like itchiness or drowsiness. Don't worry just keep trying and soon you'll get it.

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Inspo Piece:
Towards end of the day when you've been through meetings, exams, confronting situations that may rattle your soul, return to your inspo item. Read from your book, put your music on (where possible), read your quote or another related quote. This will remind you of your practice.

Have a wonderful day!

Love and Light.

​SS

​Nutrition is an event that most take for granted. But if we dig in a little deeper in an effort to enhance our wellbeing it becomes clear that our eating process and habits contribute immensely to our lifestyle.

In the video above with the beautiful @luckycozz, I share with you four elements of nutrition according to TheLivingCentre.com. Beyond that, Corrie shares how Lola Berry's book, 'The 20/20 Diet' encouraged and guided her towards a healthier lifestyle.

Here are the 4 parts of Nutrition:

1) Biological:
Eating well has the power to heal and keep our physical bodies healthy and well-balanced. I encourage you to think about the Five Major food groups when putting your meals together.

2) Psychological:
What we put inside our bodies has the ability to affect our feelings and moods. Have you noticed how you feel after eating certain foods? This could also dictate your food choices in return. You know yourself and what makes you feel good, so choose well.

3) Social:
Corrie told me that her ultimate dining table is filled with loved ones. This makes sense because sharing a good meal in great company would absolutely enhance your food experience. So whenever possible, share a meal with loved ones - friends, family, colleagues even if it's once a day. Because it's good for you.

4) Spiritual Nourishment:
In our eating experience, we need to acknowledge the mystery that's contained in the food. When you look into your plate, you could immediately see the basic elements of life: earth, water, air and fire. So before you dig in next time, take a moment to recognise what lies before you. Use all your senses to relish the food. This my Devine Friend, is the beginning of Mindful eating.

I would also like to briefly mention Mindful Eating (I will elaborate on this in a later post):

Mindful eating is not a diet, simply put; it is the ability to be present and aware of our eating process. Lola Berry says, "Mindfulness is nourishment".
​
I'm aware that most people are toying with the idea of eating too little and working out too much, in an effort to combat weight issues. Perhaps we could take a leaf out of Corrie's book, by choosing and growing (where possible) right foods and enjoying them in a fashion of gratitude.

Have a healthy day!

Love and Light.

SS

"Where focus goes, that's where energy flows"
-Antoinette Gomez

​The idea that we could alter our current stance by simply redirecting our focus is absolutely incredible.

If you wish to understand how the power of mindset in conjunction with yoga, meditation, crystals and essential oils can help you knock down some blocks that are holding you back in life get yourself Chakra Mindset pack, which consists of:
-Personal development book.
-Journal.
- Daily Positive Affirmations.
(The pack is also a great gift for any occasion).

In the personal development book, Gomez explains in straight forward terms the relationship between each of the 7 main chakras and their relationship with areas of our physical and non-physical body.

Each chapter explains physical health issues that are related to each chakra and more importantly how you could work your way towards alleviating your situation whether be it a limiting thought or physical ailment.

Here's a little bit about the chakras (info courtesy of chakramindset):
​

​The Root Chakra

The Root Chakra is located at the base of the spine; it is the energy centre that is our connection to the earth, stability and grounding. This chakra helps us feel connected to our roots. It is the centre of our survival, relationship with money, physical health and belonging; it represents our most primal survival instincts.

When the Root Chakra is balanced you have a sense of belonging, and you are safe in the knowledge that you are meant to be whom and where you are in your life.

​The Sacral Chakra

The Sacral Chakra is located just below your navel. It is the centre of sensuality, relationships and desires. It rules our instinct and gut feelings as well as our emotions. It is the centre of balance that regulates our ability to give and receive. As with the Root Chakra, the Sacral Chakra is also connected to our survival instincts but extends past ourselves to include the survival needs of others in our family.

​When the Sacral Chakra is balanced you express your feelings and emotions with ease, you experience a sense of pleasure and wellbeing, and are comfortable with your own sexuality and desires. You express your emotions easily.

​The Solar Plexus Chakra

The Solar Plexus Chakra is located in the area above your navel. It is your centre of personal power and self-esteem. The Solar Plexus Chakra is the midway point between our spiritual and earthly aspects. It is associated with the ego and value of self and it is ruled by the conscious mind.

​When the Solar Plexus Chakra is balanced you have a good level of confidence and are self-empowered. You are consciously creating your own reality and are good at manifesting what you desire. You have a good relationship with self and others and you trust your intuition and act upon your gut instincts.

​The Heart Chakra

The Heart Chakra is located in the centre of your chest. The Heart Chakra is the place that unconditional love and acceptance resides for both self and others. It is your centre of compassion, empathy and tolerance.

​When the Heart Chakra is balanced you have compassion and consideration for all life. You are not ruled by your ego and can give and receive love unconditionally. You are fulfilled and living an abundant life.

​The Throat Chakra

The Throat Chakra is located in the throat region. The Throat Chakra is your centre of communication and expression, allowing you to be creative and speak your truth; it is about listening as well as speaking.

When the Throat Chakra is balanced you are comfortable in expressing yourself through your words and communicating without fear of judgement or criticism.

​The Third Eye Chakra

The Third Eye Chakra is located in the centre of the forehead between the eyes. The Third Eye Chakra is your centre of intuition, insight and wisdom. It is the place of imagination, enlightenment and knowing, allowing us to see past limitations and gain an understanding and connection to the universe.

When the Third Eye Chakra is balanced you trust your insight and intuition and expand your awareness and consciousness to encompass all that is.

​The Crown Chakra

The Crown Chakra is located at the top of the head. The Crown Chakra is our connection to the infinite source, the divine. It is our gateway to pure consciousness, and the meaning of this chakra is unique to each individual.

When the Crown Chakra is balanced we are living in harmony and unity with the entire universe, we are connected and living in peace being at one with the divine.

​Visit Chakra Mindset to learn more about your energy centres.

Have a balanced day!

Love and Light,

SS

​​Seriously, even people who are unable to have chocolate for whatever reasons I doubt that they'd say the above words.

I am so blessed to be able to eat anything I like. In the time where allergies and intolerances send people's health askew, I'm really grateful for my health. 

When I went to Mind Body Spirit festival, I was only too excited to find so much goodness! Especially happy foods & treats. Who doesn't like yummy things, particularly when they are made with love and other stuff that's good for the soul.

So, to you my Devine friend I say eat happy chocolate. It is the ultimate sensual self indulgent tool. When we eat it we seek pleasure, even if it's for the shortest time. 

If you're a lover of this fabulous hedonistic product, why don't you include a healthier option in your next shopping basket? 
​
Here's why: 
...The Chocolate Yogi...
Go and eat these treats, they are simply amazing. Enjoy!

Love and Light
SS

Here are a few ways to help keep a Faith Garden for your dreams healthy:

1)  Know your dream  

Your dream is a precious seed that probably gets you out of bed every day. If people didn't dream, we wouldn't live in this wonderful and colourful world that we do. Do not be afraid to introduce yourself to your dream. Explore [it], know it's every corner. This simply means be pro active and research the avenue that you wish to delve into.

If your dream is to start a business, acquaint yourself with the tenants of the industry that you wish to enter. Make contact with those that you admire within your area of interest. Don't be afraid to cold call people and say, "Hello my name is ... I'm interested in what you do and I would like to learn more."

Plant your seed, nourish it and watch it bloom.

2)  See your dream  

We are a visual community. We're inundated with images all the time. So why not incorporate images into your Faith Garden? I am certain you've heard about the mighty 'vision board' before.

I'll be transparent here and say, I have tried for a long time to create one myself but I was never ready until I was ready. The reason for your vision board is to guide you back to the route towards many goals that lead to your ultimate dream and possibly your life purpose.

So go ahead, go crazy, dream big in pictures. And each time the dream killers attempt to distract, allow your vision board to fertilise the soil of the Faith Garden for your dreams.

3)  Communicate  

"Dreams are the language of God ... But if He speaks in the language of the soul, only you could understand." Paulo Coelho

Communication is a dual action. It consists of talking and listening. In this regard, talking is expressed through prayer. Don't be afraid to ask for what you want through prayer. You might have been told in the past that your dream is unrealistic and that you should forget about it. But now is the time to create a safe place where you can rekindle that little light.

However, you need to be prepared for the second part of the communication process: Listening. This is in fact the most important and challenging.

Meditate. Sit in silence and listen. Be prepared to hear the answers you seek. The Universe is ready to give you all that you desire, but you need to be ready to receive.

Therefore, each time you feel a trickle of doubt enter your being, each time you feel afraid, ask for guidance from your nonphysical guides. Ask with a prayer and be prepared to listen for ways that will help you to remove the weeds. Be prepared to hear solutions that will keep your flowers from wilting.

May all that you dream of my Devine Friend become a reality served on a golden platter.

Love and Light

SS