on an ojai high

{Krotona Institute of Theosophy}

{Rose Valley Falls hike}

{Casa Baranca Tasting Room}

{Meditation Mount}

{Unpictured: Penne Valverde & Cuscinetti al Zuccone at Osteria Monte Grappa}

how to be mindful

Did I tell you I went to a psychic last month? I did, after enjoying plenty of wine and cheese with Catherine. We were on our way to Grom because we hadn't yet reached our dairy intake goal for the day. The psychic smiled and invited us in (as she probably does to to all passerbys). But, in our tipsy state of being, we decided to go along with it. Catherine teared up at the accuracy of her reading. Mine seemed less so. Yet the psychic did mention two inevitable occurrences-to-be: a big move and financial success. As a full-time student, the latter could very well represent a regular paycheck of more than zero dollars. Woot, woot. I have lots to look forward to.

In all seriousness though, she foresaw correctly. I will relocate to... somewhere, for a job. Knowing that fact has made being in Paris again all the more special. I've found myself living in every moment and interaction so much more; a night at Le Perchoir comes to mind: It began with a Pisco Sour and reminiscing about pisco-drenched memories. Lorelei and I continued to a casual fête après.

{via}

As much as that in and of itself is bittersweet, it also makes me appreciate my favoritest thing about being abroad: wonder, and the mindfulness it brings. I hope I'm able to hold onto it wherever I end up in my good fortune ;). Taking note of these zen habits now:

1. Do one thing at a time.
2. Be present, especially when talking with someone.
3. Eat slowly and savor your food.
4. Make cleaning become meditation.
5. Keep practicing.

on getting emotional

Since my Bon Voyage party--during which I took up a semi-permanent residence on cloud nine--I've cried seven times. Four of the seven took place in the midst of goodbyes, the other three at the thought of them... and trust me, I am hardly at the half-way point. This is the way I am. I feel a lot and I know it.

So I've tightly grasped onto a yoga teacher's words, "however you feel is okay." Another yogic memory has resurfaced as well; of that one time I cried in class. I was at a studio on the Upper West Side beside my Aunt Maryann and my cousin Bianca. We were in a seated twist to the right, and following one deep breath, the tears began. I was alarmed at how swiftly they continued. It was a quiet cry but an intense one. Although I'd known I needed it, I hadn't expected it then. (Sigh).

Last week I took a spontaneous visit to the Chuang Yen Monastery with a friend of mine. Two hours flew by as her and I explored the peaceful grounds. I felt a sense of uncomplicated calm come over me in addition to a deep sense of self. It was kind of amazing, and in a lot of ways, comforting. As I wrestle with the breadth of feeling weary, anxious, doubtful, enthusiastic, vulnerable, blessed, and lonely (a premonition of sorts) all at the same time, forgiving awareness is key.

I don't think there'll ever be a day when tears won't be an awkward guest at goodbyes between myself and the friends and family I adore, but this somewhat habitual process just might be necessary as my life unfolds. I know I'll be okay and I will see them again soon. After all, there are such things as happy tears, too.

a balancing stroll

May has certainly been a busy month thus far. I moved and settled into my new apartment, I'm slowly but surely surviving a marathon work week, and apparently my birthday is the weekend after next. It's been fantastically exhausting. So, for the next few days, I am going to take a long, hard look at the areas of my life that need balance and determine how it is I'm going to find it.

Sleep: I don't often sleep as much as I should. I intend to go to bed early and then stay up, lying in bed, as I ponder all the things I need to do the next day. Then I watch Hulu for a few hours. Unfortunately, lack of proper rest has physical effects as that of stress. You can imagine how pretty things often don't look as a result ;). I need to get myself on a regular schedule while also finding moments throughout the day to mentally rest. Meditation comes to mind, quite literally.

Nourishment: I cannot say that I haven't been eating healthfully, but recently, convenience has taken priority before nutrition. Now that I have my weekends again, I'd like to visit my local farmer's market more purposefully, seeking seasonal produce with an idea as to what dishes I'd like to whip up later in the week. I never though I'd be the one to plan my meals, but perhaps I will. Albeit loosely. It might be the only way I'll properly use my new Vitamix, and it'll certainly be a way to make sure my eats have variety.

Movement. Oh dear yoga, how I have neglected you. Exercise always seems to go to the wayside as I accumulate more and more into my schedule. I miss it. Believe it or not, I'd actually like to get into the habit of running at least once a week. I also must use of my Yoga PassBook, in addition to trying out local rooftop yoga at YoYoga! NYC and a few other studios I've acquired trials for. Thankfully, no matter what, I always have my walk to and from the subway. It keeps me centered.

And there ya go; My general plan for re-balance. Throughout these next few posts, I'm going to highlight a few of the tools that have and will help me in this ever-necessary process including a round-up of kitchen staples, new activewear, and general thoughts. I know I'm looking forward to writing and then practicing them more than anyone :) hope you'll enjoy too. Have a good night, lovelies.

mmm, perfect