My boyfriend and I recently returned from our summer vacation, the first either of us has taken in many years. We visited Seattle, Portland, and several cities in-between. We came home with countless bug bites, a few souvenirs, and lots of special memories. Though the entire trip was spent on-the-go, I had just enough time... Continue Reading →
Subcutaneous Shifting
Lately, I've been experiencing a subtle shift. It's as if, slowly and inexplicably, my body is making it's way back home. My bones are weary but my spirits are high, like a lost dog returning from an extended jaunt. Magma is quietly rumbling through my veins as tectonic plates scrape along, making space for something... Continue Reading →
Minuscule Moments of Joy
How are you doing today? Honestly. Have you taken any time to check in with yourself, to ask exactly what it is your mind, body and soul are craving? In the modern world, we're often in such a rush and bombarded by so many distractions that we fail to check in with ourselves. I hope... Continue Reading →
Homework For Life
Every day is composed of moments. Even during those phases of life in which we feel like we're reliving the same day over and over again, drowning in the monotony. Whether stuck in bed suffering chronic illness, home all day caring for an infant or glued to an office chair for forty hours a week,... Continue Reading →
Whatever The Time, It Is Always Now
The present moment, if you think about it, is the only time there is. No matter what time it is, it is always now. -- Marianne Williamson I think that a part of us knows that we are just a doctor's visit or a phone call away from being starkly reminded of our own mortality.... Continue Reading →
The Existential Tension Between Presence and Productivity
In recent weeks, the topic of tension has been repeatedly showing up in my life; specifically, the idea of intentionally creating tension. Life is already filled with some much chaos and uncertainty, so why would we want to add more into the mix? The idea is that modern life has become cushy, with easy access... Continue Reading →
Sonderlust
thighs branded by diamonds torso tilted forward, ever so slightly chin perched upon chilled palm engaged in a theatrical viewing of homo sapien jest and despair passersby transfixed by amorous affairs strategic advances and endless upward swiping the realization arises slowly as the glowing orb ascends the ass-slapping lovers bespectacled checkmate men and teenagers in search... Continue Reading →
Lay Low and Go Slow
Over the last several months, my emotional state has been cycling through periods of relief, anticipation, dread, and hope. In the last nine months, doctors have presented me with the good, the bad, and the uncertain. However, it's only in the last week or so that I've been able to apply the wisdom I have... Continue Reading →
Too Much To Do, Not Enough Time
"Those who make the worst use of their time are the first to complain of its brevity." ― Jean de La Bruyère One of the biggest frustrations plaguing the modern world is the feeling that we have too many tasks on our to-do lists and not enough time to accomplish everything. Adults and children alike... Continue Reading →
On Seeking Light
My favorite flower is the tulip. I love the full leaves, delicate petals, and sharing the story of the 17th century tulip mania. While a rose is the overpriced go-to, the peony signifies structured elegance, and succulents are the latest trend, the tulip flops around imperfectly in search of the light. The tulip opens and... Continue Reading →
True Security is Peace
In yoga, teachers often speak of non-attachment, encouraging students to embrace a mindset of contentment. When things go wrong--as they always do--we are told to sit back and observe our feelings, watching them float past without judgement. The same practice is advised for celebratory occasions to which we may cling: observe any thoughts and allow... Continue Reading →
Practicing Non-Attachment
The last month has been a whirlwind of events beyond my control. I've faced challenges in my environment, my career, and my heath. Ten years ago, I would have collapsed under the weight of it all, surely assigning blame to external factors and wallowing in self-pity. Thankfully, over the last decade I've discovered Buddhism and... Continue Reading →
Learning to Laugh in the Face of Calamity
Right now, I'm sick, broke, and homeless. As the old adage goes, "when it rains, it pours." As much as I want to curse the sky for soaking me to the core, I need to remember that I can pull out an umbrella or step inside whenever I'd like. “Emotionally we have many problems, but these... Continue Reading →