Frugal Buddha

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2012-01-31T11:15:00.000-08:00

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Dosage of Gratitude Pills in India

2011-11-18T07:37:00.001-08:00

The minute we pulled into the New Dehli Airport I took a picture from my window. This is what I came for…prayer, meditation…reconnecting with my spirituality and practicing my yoga.

I picked up my baggage and found my driver. We jumped into the car and headed out to the city. The first thing I heard while we drove off where the horns from the other drivers motioning for us to move along and then my driver chimed in with his car horn as if to tell them , yeah OK I hear you, but my horn works too , so you move along. This begins the sounds of India that does not stop.

We get on the highway that is shared with rickshaws, motorcycles, bicycles, dogs and cows. I was deflated within 5 minutes of arriving. This is it? My driver speed through the other cars, dust kicking the wind, not the other way around.

My driver pointed out the window for me to look at the cows eating garbage on the side of the road. He does not point out the children that are also picking through the same garbage. I’d like to think I didn’t really see that, but I did and it’s only been 15 minutes on the road.

Amidst the dust, spurts of colorful sari’s started to pop up here and there passing us by. Women on the backseats of motorcycles peacefully, balancing their bodies, both feet swung over to the left side, holding their driver’s waist.

The women don’t wear helmets only their sari’s flapping in the wind. Whole families on one bicycle…Mother, Father and baby sleeping in between them, while mom still manages to hold a grocery bag.

We make it to my hotel, Shanti Home. I settle in, the horns finally stop around 10pm, yet I wake up at 5am to the sounds of fireworks celebrating a Hindu holiday called Karwa Chauth. A holiday were women fast to celebrate their husbands. I decide to get up and watch the fireworks while eating breakfast on the outdoor patio of the hotel. The horns start again at 6am.

Today I take a day trip to one of the treasures of the world, the Taj Mahal: Memorial of Love. More honking, more dust, five hours later we reach the city of Agra. My driver tells me I will have a tour guide to take me into the Taj. We pull into a narrow alley way and my guide jumps in the car. He introduces himself as Navid.

Esther Friedman aka Frugal Buddha with Navid

Navid tells me once we hit the Taj grounds to stay close to him and don’t speak to anyone. Navid purchases my ticket and tells me to go on the line for women to enter; he will come back for me. The line wrapped around the building more than 3 times. Navid pulled me from the back of the line and told me to go under the fence, we walked along the side of the Taj till we get to the front entrance. The security guard lets me cut the line and I was in…by passing an hour await. Go Navid!

At the compound you can only take pictures of the outside grounds.

When inside the tomb, Navid tells me to listen for the echo of my name. He yells my name aloud and it echos through out the building, everyone looks up, including me, completely embarrassed. Navid tells me if I can hear the echo it means I’ll be back. I was like move it along Navid, move it along.

We jump back into the car. Navid tells me he wants to take me to the family whose ancestors made the marble that was used to build the Taj. The family has been making this marble for generations. He tells me I’ll like them. I said, OK. I jump out of the car and lead into a basement. Offered a seat on the gold velvet couch. Then I'm offered some chi tea. "That's OK," I say. "You are my guest this is what we do, I insist.", said the shop owner. So I sit, keeping my cool, hoping I will not be abducted into some harem. Velvet couches in a basement. No windows people.

I am given the presentation. I was not up for the sell but here I was taking a tour of marble in a dim lit basement. The marble man was wondering why I was not marveling over the marble with the detailed embroidered flowers that takes them one day to make and they pay a worker $4.50 a day which I betcha that was him inflating the rate that he paid the worker. The worker may actually get $4.50 a week or less. I didn’t know how to explain the whole thing was not my aesthetic back home. I'm a minimalist. I wasn’t feeling it. I purchased a marble magnet with an elephant for 100 rupees equivalent to $10. Frugal Buddha pays and sprints out of there.

Navid tells me he wants me to see the jewelry store. I tell him him I’m not feeling jewelry. He tells me to only look. We drive to another location down another alley way into a rickety old shack. Once we pass the first front doors a door man escorts me into a room of jewelry that looks like stuff out of JC Penny or Target. I’m bummed because now I’ve got to sit through another presentation. I am offered another drink. I figure hang out and get what I want, a diet coke up in this joint. They bring me a pepsi.

I go through the loose stones and shown the stone of Agra. This stone can only be found in Agra. When held to the light it has a six point star. I tell Agra stone man that I’m not feeling the stones anymore. He tells me he is just doing his job, that I don’t’ have to buy his stones. He is right but I let that go over my head. I seek out the smallest stone to wrap up, pay for and get the hell out of there.

Across the street Navid escorts me to a gift shop, I walk out with teas, saffron spices and key chains. Frugal Buddha was not being frugal. I told Navid lets stop this shopping. I didn’t come here to shop for all this stuff I don't want. I'm hungry.

At lunch I sat and realized I needed to pull myself together. Needed to reel it in over here in India. I was so overwhelmed with all the vendors, the people, my surroundings, my safety in a foreign land not knowing the language. I became very dependent on the two men I was traveling with. Purchasing items from their friends to make them happy. It didn’t make sense to be so co dependent.

I realized I had seen so many people in India yet did not talk to anyone until I met these vendors in private rooms behind closed doors. I made them the face and voice of India, giving them my money. I would have preferred to give all those people I was seeing in the streets my money. I’m purchasing marbles, stones? It was a semi expensive lesson to learn no means no in any language. So when they ask me if i want to buy anything for the rest of this trip, I'm going to say NO!

I don't have a whole lot of money yet up in these parts I'm a very rich woman. I give when I give, when I can. Somewhere along this part of the journey I also learned to have no shame or guilt for having money, as it seemed these people that were begging have no shame or guilt for asking. There seems to be major acceptance all around. "It is what it is", over here.
I encountered this one little boy that kept tapping my thigh, signaling me to feed him. From where he stands that is what he does day in and day out and he has to. I played with that kid who could have easily been 4 years old, for probably only 5 minutes. He seemed to enjoy the break up of the monotony of his day of asking for food and money all day long. This kid kept taping me so I turned it into a game of tag. Under the circumstances this young boy seemed to be happy and playful. He also had a sense of dignity that was so profoundly ingrained in him naturally, that it didn't matter that he did not have pants on. This 4 year old kid gave me more within that experience then I could ever give him in rupees.

The next day my driver Raja picks me up and asks me where I want to go. I tell him I don’t want a pashmina, jewelry or any other touristy thing. I only want to see record stores. As we drive I tell Raja the story of how my family owned record stores and as a kid my dad would bring home children songs for me to listen too. I fell in love with an album of Indian children songs that was amongst the stack. I would dance for hours in total bliss. I'm only seeking Indian children songs today I tell Raja.

Through out the years I would look in record stores, go online, search YouTube but didn't know what I was looking for, I could barely remember the melody. I asked my Dad if he could get the album for me again and he said it was one I could only get in India. Well now I am actually here and I am on a mission to find that album. We picked up a friend of mine, drove to Lotus Garden Restaurant for lunch. I prepped my friend that I am on a mission to find this album, would she like to join me. I’ll go to one stop with all the boutiques but I’m only looking for music. All day we popped from place to place to no avail. Raja could see I was pouty. He said he was not taking me back to the hotel until I was happy.

Below cow standing outside music shop...

Raja takes me to Kahn Market. He told me he’ll wait for as long as it takes. I tell him “No” wait ten minutes. I run into the music shop and I am greeted by a young man who was naming tunes for customers. This reminded me of the days I use to work in my father’s store and someone would only need to hum a tune without words and ask me if I knew the song. "Who sings that song?", they would ask. I would walk to the the bin, pull out the album without saying who the artist was and go BAM! I would pride myself for knowing they wanted “La la I love you” by the Delfonics or the soundtrack to the TV Show Taxi by Bob James. I don’t have that skill set anymore but I saw myself in this Indian man. I told him what I was looking for and he said it was an old Bollywood song from the 60s. I looked at the list of songs on the CD. Something inside myself said this could be it. I have it in my hands then I dropped the CD and crack the plastic case. Without showing the man the crack I pay 195 rupees. You’d think I had found gold. All I wanted to do was get back to the hotel to play my songs.

Back at my hotel, I asked the staff to help me set up the CD player. They closed the door. The first song played. No!! The second song played. I sucked my breath and heard what I thought I would never hear again unless I went to India. I am in India, listening to this song with happy tears rolling down my face. Now that I know what it is, here it is for your listening pleasure. This song bought me so much joy growing up between 8 – 9 years old. I’d create my own saris and make up my own Indian dance moves.

Enough of New Dehli…a native would tell you that, I head out to Rishikesh, India, a spiritual community in the Himalayas mountains. I get to the train station an hour and a half early to realize I’m waiting on the wrong track.

I run along the side of the train like the scenes you see in old movies. I reach my car and pull my bag up, the train starts moving. The train I am on is equivalent to the NJ Transit, yet the train that the Other people are on looks like a slave ship going by. Not cute. Looking out the window I continued to see more disturbing sites along the way for the rest of the journey up North. All I could ask the universe was, "Why?"

I arrive in Hardiwar train station. I needed to find a taxi to take me up the mountain before 9pm before the road is closed. No one speaks English not even the information desk. I start praying, "God please help me find my way."
I find a man standing next to a car and I ask him if he can take me to Rishikesh. He says No. He asks his friends, they say No. In broken English and sign language I ask where an internet café is, a taxi and a phone. He said I could use his phone.

I call the Ashram Parmath Kiketan where I am staying and tell them I’m having trouble finding a taxi to bring me up the mountain. They tell me what street to start walking along. I ask how much is a fair price to pay to get there. They say 900 rupees. I thank the man that let me use his phone and started walking along the road. A man approached me and asked if I needed a taxi. I asked if he could take me to Rishikesh, he said 900 rupees I said you are on. Meet Itvar who lovingly said to me “Welcome to India!” as I got in the car.

I checked into the Ashram and was informed we would have 3 Ayurvedic meals per day. I made it a priority to figure out what time I had to be ready to be the first to get to the dining hall. There were over 600 people at this 11/11/11 celebration event. At the dining hall I meet like minded folks who like their food. We learned our names and what countries we came from.

At my first Kundalini yoga class at the retreat, I faced the waters of the famous Ganga River. Water from the Ganges is used to cleanse any place or object for ritual purposes. Bathing in the river is believed to wash away one's sins. To bathe in the Ganga is a lifelong ambition for Hindus. I am not a Hindu nor keep up with all the deities...

yet as I did my yoga practice my inner voice said to the Ganga, “I’m here. I made it. What do you have to say now?"

The Ganga said to me, “Thank you for coming.”

“Why am I here?", I asked

Mata Ganga said, “ I just wanted to see you.”

That Mata Ganga. I put my big toe in the water.

Every day for 8 days straight we did Kundalini yoga alongside the Ganga River while Snatam Kaur, Deva Premal and Mitan, plus Guru Singh amongst others played live for us. This is why I really came. Every day I got to listen to my favorite yogi music live while practicing my favorite yoga in India was heavenly and magical for me. I was so engrossed with practicing yoga, I got in 6 hours a day while my peers were putting in 8 - 12 hours.

It was really important for me to pace myself between classes so I had enough time to get to the dining hall at the designated eating times. Priorities people.

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

hahahahahahahahahaha

5:30pm before dinner everyday, thousands of devotees assemble at the Ganga for the famous Aarti performed daily by Swamiji.

After the ceremony Swamiji invites people to sit with him and ask questions in his home. I got to go. I got to listen to Sadhvi Bhagavati speak about forgiveness. The voice recorder would not upload. someday I'll figure it out.

Some days I would take a walk through town. It was really bizarre walking amongst the people. A very ancient land.

There was a manic chaos within the streets, while a reserved calm covered it all.

Where did this inner peace come from? I couldn't tell if it came from within the people or the people were within the bubble. Another observation was the lack of neurosis, obsession and compulsion within the society as a whole. I enjoyed myself without phones, emails, TV, movies, glossy magazines, refined sugar, alcohol nor any kind of branding so much so I too lost all my own neurosis, obsessions and compulsions. Something to revel in and enjoy to the fullest. When I left that was the thing I cried about. I didn't want to leave that feeling.

Monkey butt

I remember one afternoon I was saying to myself I won’t find pennies on the ground in this village. Back home I always see pennies and I pick them up because the penny says "In God we trust" ,and I like to remember that. To me it is a symbol for me to pause and remember I have a higher power. I get to my room and notice a penny on my bed. “Come on!” That’s what I said. But I’m just telling it like it went down.

I also like to take photos of stars, smiley faces and hearts that I find throughout different cities I visit, and now countries. Another day on my way back to my room from an evening music concert I see a red shining star on the pathway to my room. No biggy, but nice for my little star fetish.

Many afternoons we danced at the Ganga River.

How long could I hold the camera when all I wanted to do is dance.

There was also a yoga aide were money was raised after each yoga class. $45,000 was raised for six orphanages in India. Group photo of all the folks that raised money.

Below children from the Ramana Gardens Orphanage perform.

In Rishikesh, it is the nice part of the river, where there is a green project and they clean the water as it goes down stream. Swamiji had a clean up team which I took part of .

Later after the clean up,I sat at the Ganga River with my roommate. She was taking my photo when I looked down and noticed the same red star that was on my pathway to my room was now underneath my foot.

I saw that star 2 days prior. . Come on! That’s what I said. There was no confetti or glitter of any kind throughout this town or anywhere near our tents. Only this one star that followed me down to the river. It was my star to pick up and make a wish upon...

that I did.

Wishing continuous peace and serenity, excellent health, and abundance for my family, friends and even enemies because my enemies are also great teachers as well.

Happy Thanksgiving
Sat Nam

Frugal Buddha Goes to India for 11/11/11

2011-10-30T16:23:00.000-07:00

OK this trip to India has been on my bucket list for awhile. It just so happens that Golden Bridge, the Kundalini yoga community I've been going to for over 10 years in Los Angeles and New York, will host a yoga/music festival in Rishikesh, India for 11/11/11. What is 11/11/11? Can I say it again?

11/11/11 is a bit of a phenomenon. It is the dawning of the Aquarian Age. I myself have been seeing the combination of the 11/11 numbers since 1999. I was a bit freaked out about it and kept it to myself for a long time. Then I noticed lots of other people see the 11/11 combination. In all honesty you can make it what ever you want it to mean. I did begin to notice when I came across seeing the 11/11 number combination I would feel a calmness inside me that said everything was going to be OK. I don't mind being a nut job about this 11/11/11 thingy, just wanted to share my upcoming journey to India to celebrate.

Below is a video about the 11/11 combination.

So with the combination of the 11/11/11 celebration and my love for the Kundalini practice I just knew I had to go to India. I did not necessarily enjoy Kundalini yoga at first until I was introduced to the gong. One day, Gurmukh, my first Kundalini teacher had us sit in easy pose, our hands held up high above our heads, waving in the air while a song played in the background. She said for all of us to sing Happy Happy Happy. I was like WTF? I'm a native New Yorker in Los Angeles waving my hands in the air, bitchin and moaning inside, singing happy happy happy. I was with my dear friend Haywood owner hair stylist extraordinaire of Trust Salon, West Hollywood, who kept looking at me from the corner of his eye without words screaming across my way, "Guuuurl. This is some crazy shit. Trust!" I whispered to Haywood, "Wait for the gong. It's all about the gong." It's actually not all about the gong, yet I am willing to do the work, the exercises and mantras to get to the gong. So worth it. A natural high. I always came home refreshed and willing to tackle life's challenges head on. It also helped me when I quit smoking. I did go to Nicotine Anonymous for support to quite smoking, yet in addition practiced Kundalini to help regulate my nervous system.

What is Kundalini?
"Kundalini is the creative energy within. The whole cosmos of energy in the individual and beyond the individual. It is the energy of consciousness. Without the constant flow of energy you could not live. With a large flow your mind begins to awaken. You stop living in imaginary realities and you become to feel the real joy of this life. According to yogis Kundalini is coiled up like a snake at the base of the spine. When Kundalini is awakened through the practice of yoga, it rises. This is called the Kundalini Rising."Happyyogi.net

I'm heading out to the plane now. I will share what happens along the way.
Below is a lovely song by my brother in law, Adam Cruz. He too was inspired by the 11/11 combination. Enjoy. Sat Nam!!

Adam Cruz - 11:11 by mixtapesessions

Curly Hair Salons in New York

2011-10-28T12:06:00.000-07:00

Curlisto or Devachan ???

I am a curly head that is always looking for the right place to take my precious curly locks. If I go to a place that does not know how to cut curly hair I will walk out looking like Rosanna Dana, which was a good look in the 70’s or if you are a model for American Apparel .

My first stop was Curlisto that has a monthly seminar at their 5^th Avenue location. Call 212-997-8800 for future dates and sign up for the upcoming seminars. Arrive 10 minutes early to get a good seat. You will be welcomed with a glass of champagne or wine…some grapes, a little cheese. The presentation will be about 1 ½ hour. The cool part is if you raise your hand you might be the hair model for the seminar and they will use all of their products for your hair right there on the spot. At the end of the seminar you will get discounts for hair product and your first hair appointment.

I did use the discount for my first hair appointment. The process was a simple wash and conditioner. Here they cut my hair wet. After the cut my stylist showed me how to finger comb my hair and how to put the curls up at the top of my head at night to help lengthen the curls in the morning. They have a great how to video on their website. Click on

http://shop.curlisto.com/ to learn about their products and how to use the product in your hair.

My curls are wider at Curlisto

Six months later I went for my second hair cut to Devachan in their Soho location. In the basement of an office building is a curly haven. Not a straight head in the house. I thought that was pretty cool and rare. My hair was cut and shaped dry. Much detail was placed on the ends. I definitely could see and feel the difference. I enjoyed my rasberry tea while sitting under the dryer, I read the book Curly Girl which was required reading.

Devachan also gives you a savings card to rack up points for Deva curl hair products that you purchase in the salon.

My curls are curly cues at Devachan

I am going to say that I only get my hair cut every six months. Today I pay between $100 - $130 for each hair cut. What you say?! Where is the frugality around that? Now for a curly hair person it is all about the right hair cut and style that lasts a long time , which makes all the difference. I use to pay $50 every other month totaling $300 + tips a year. I was sick of trying to find the right place to cut my curls and the stress of always finding a new stylist and not getting what I needed. Going to salons that specialize with curly hair only has taken off the emotional stress. That alone is worth it. I also save many trips and tips going to so many different salons.

Warriess is Goddess, Warrior and Healer - sign up for upcoming workshop in Brooklyn, NY

2011-10-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

A warriess is goddess, warrior and healer. A warriess is aware of the connection between one's self and the cosmos and makes a conscious effort to heal the physical, emotional and spiritual body and cultivate physical and spiritual power for the benefit of family, community and humanity. A warriess heal-her is fit in body, radiant in spirit and integrated in mind. If your spiritual or physical power is suppressed or needs to be cultivated consider attending this intensive and informative workshop.

Space is limited to only 8 ladies.

In this 5 hour workshop, we will work on techniques to cultivate our power (physical, spiritual and emotional) as women and matriarchs. We will learn exercises to increase body strength to improve body image, learn techniques to heal our emotional and spiritual bodies and empower our selves by releasing our past and manifesting our future.

The modalities that will be explored in the workshop are:
• Pilates- learn core strengthening exercises and exercises to target problem areas of the body (upper and lowerabs, outer and inner thighs, butt and arms)
• Kundalini Yoga Set-Asanas (exercises) and Pranayam (breath work) to Transform and balance sexual energy and create muscular balance
• Kundalini Yoga Meditation for Prosperity, Fullfillment and Success • Martial Arts-Practical self-defense techniques in real life situations and spatial awareness for protection and empowerment
• Creative Arts Therapy-A group exploration of issues facing women today, a group exercise to release "that which binds you" and discuss concrete solutions to empower ourselves and create our reality Light beverages and snacks will be served.

Kundalini Yoga and Meditation as taught by Yogi Bhajan uses:
Asana (yoga postures)
Pranayam (breathing techniques)
Mantra (use of sound to alter thought patterns and brain chemistry)
Mudra (hand positions to channel energy flow)
Meditation (quieting the mind to promote mental clarity and self-awareness).

With this yoga, we break through the blockages in our charkas (energy vortices along the spine), alter our life condition and heal lifetimes of karma. This leads to a more fulfilled, integrated, and prosperous life.

Pilates is a series of conditioning, strengthening and stretching exercises that focus on core strength and the use of one’s own body weight. These exercises rehabilitate and prevent injuries. Creative Arts Therapy uses of creative expression (movement, music, drama, poetry, and art) to illicit suppressed thoughts, feelings and emotions which are then processed and integrated into consciousness.

Creative Arts Therapy uses of creative expression (movement, music, drama, poetry, and art) to illicit suppressed thoughts, feelings and emotions which are then processed and integrated into consciousness

Luz Emma Cañas M.A., Soma-Psychotherapist/Healer/Author, graduated with highest honors from the Chicano Studies Department at the University of California, Santa Barbara. She was a Graduate Fellow in the Department of World Arts and Cultures, U.C.L.A., while attaining her master's degree in Dance Movement Therapy and Rehabilitative Exercise. Extensively trained in classical ballet and modern dance, she has taught Pilates for over fourteen years. She was certified at Golden Bridge by the Kundalini Research Institute (KRI) in Kundalini Yoga and Meditation. She has studied Sufi Mysticism and Healing in the Shadhiliyya Sufi Path under the guidance of Sidi Shaykh Muhammad al-Jamal ar-Rifa’i as-Shadhuli. Most recently, Luz is researching the healing aspects of Capoeira Angola, a Brazilian martial art with African origins. Luz has worked with a wide variety of clientele ranging from pre-verbal children to recording artists and super models. She has led workshops on the mind-body interface at Columbia University, Harlem Hospital and for American Airlines. Currently, Luz is the founder and director of Rhythm and Breath, on-line donation based Kundalini Yoga & Meditation, and spiritual counseling. She is the author of two books, a parenting book, “Kinnecting: Healing the Difficult Child with the Creative Arts” and a book of Sufi Poetry, “Impregnated with Desire.” She is currently working on her third book, a collection of poems dedicated to her recently deceased beloved husband and Capoeira master Jorge Luiz de Souza Jesus (may his soul find a peace), “Divan of the Infidel.”

For more information: rhythmandbreath@gmail.com

5 Items for $5 Dollars

2011-10-14T14:08:00.000-07:00

Go to Lunch Box @ 257 W 34th Street between 7th & 8th Ave. You would not think to go in to this place, yet I am going to suggest you can go into this place when you are being frugal. During lunch hour, pay your $5 for 5 items. You can also pay $1 an item. You will need to get on the buffet line that moves very fast. I also like the bakery at this spot. If you are strapped you can get a hot dog or ham and cheese in a baked bun for $1.50. This is if you are strapped. In the same bakery they have inexpensive birthday cakes or give yourself a red velvet cupcake. http://www.yum34.com

...................................................................You can have your food to stay or to go. If you want to take your food out and weather permitting, walk south one block to the US Post Office on 33rd street and 7th Ave. The steps of this historical building is a nice spot to sit in easy pose, eat and people watch.

Ivan De Leon on the steps in front of the 34th Street Post Office Picture: JORDAN MATTER PHOTOGRAPHY www.jordanmatter.com

Broadway Rush, Lottery and Standing Room Only Policies - Playbill.com

2011-05-31T06:40:00.000-07:00

I love the NY theater scene. Playbill posted a listing of some of the major Broadway shows that have discount and rush tickets. Check out their link for more information.

Broadway Rush, Lottery and Standing Room Only Policies - Playbill.com

How to Soothe Indigestion While Sleeping

2011-05-06T08:39:00.000-07:00

I was tossing and turning late at night not knowing what was the matter until I considered taking into account my eating late at night. If you've had a late night meal it can trigger heartburn just before you are going to bed. What's the solution?

Difficulty:Moderately Easy
Instructions
things you'll need:
•red pepper powder
•teaspoon

1. The next time you go food shopping pick up some red pepper powder. Sprinkling red pepper on your plate can actually ward off indigestion. Use about ½ teaspoon of red pepper powder before your meals.

2. When you are ready for bed...lie on your left side. Because the esophagus is higher than the stomach it will make it difficult for your food and the digestive acid to reflux back into the throat.

3. Stay in this position for the rest of night. If you find yourself waking up on the other side of the bed turn back on your left side

4. This can help you sleep like a baby.

How to stop late Night Nibbling

2011-05-06T08:20:00.000-07:00

Sometimes wanting to eat at night is only a reaction to an emotional discomfort. Pause before eating giving yourself enough time to consider what may be bubbling up inside you. To hold off a midnight snack attack, try this move.

Difficulty:Moderately Easy
Instructions
things you'll need:
•comfortable place to lay down
•bed

1
Sit up in your bed and extend your left leg. Bend your right knee.

2
Place your right hand at your side to balance and touch your left elbow to the outside of your right knee.

3
Hold for three breaths and switch sides. Continue to do this for at least a couple of minutes.

4
The twisting motion of this yoga posture is called Marichyasana. The movement functions as an internal abdominal massage that triggers the release of appetite-suppressing brain chemicals. Check out my other articles on more techniques.

5
You can also modify the position by doing it standing up and putting you right knee on a bench or high standing stool.

Tips & Warnings
•You don't have to completely touch your elbow or knee. The point is to twist the body to get the massage effect.

How to make a lasting Impression

2011-05-06T08:08:00.000-07:00

Make a lasting Impression Going to a job interview, first date or a meeting. Make your first impression during introductions go your way. Try the following to help you make a win win situation every time.

Difficulty:Moderately Easy
Instructions
things you'll need:
•confidence or at least act as if

1
Stand up straight. I have even used a support device which is made for men and women to help maintain posture

2
If you are sitting down still be conscious to sit up straight

3
Clasp your hands loosely behind your back.

4
Make direct eye contact. This shows that you are not afraid of the other person and want to engage.

5
Tilt your head to one side while listening.

6
Maintain a pleasant happy Smile on your face. Nothing forced. Remember you are being of service just by listening to the other person. This could be a thought that makes you happy as well.

7
Body language experts say the combination of strength (puffed out chest) and a subtle (inclined head) conveys interest, making you appear calm and competent.

Tips & Warnings
•Some people may find this engaging and some people may be overwhelmed that you are really listening to them or at least seem to be.

How to set your rates as a Freelancer

2011-05-06T07:44:00.000-07:00

Sometimes as freelancer working freelance jobs, we get stuck at setting our rate and when we do we seem to question the rate we set for ourselves. It is necessary for me as a freelancer to set my rates for my home business. Here are some tips of how I came up with my rate as a Virtual Assistant, writer, accountant, etc..

Difficulty:Moderately Easy
Instructions
things you'll need:
•Index Cards
•Pencil/Pen

1
Whatever your business is, if you don't already know the going rate for your line of work, research the going rates for your home business. Check out your competitors pricing. You can also check out several websites that will give you the average rate. Try www.Salary.com or www.Payscale.com. Try out their salary calculator to help you get a sense of the going rates for your field.
2
Take into account the many overhead costs of not only the work that you are doing but the cost to keep your business running.
Examples
-Insurance (health, dental, life, property, disability, unemployment)
-Continuing Education
-Taxes ( Federal/State/FICA - both employer and employee. About 35% - 40%)
-Retirement savings
-Overhead costs (rent, equipment, etc.)

Remember that the company or individual that hires you to do freelance work does not have to pay for all of the above when they hire you on a freelance basis. It is a way to justify your rate
3
Take the total $ amount for your going hourly rate that you found during your internet research and add 5% - 15% to cover your overhead expenses. I'm advising that you add the overhead charge because if you start negotiating down it is my hope that you do not accept less then the industry rate because if you do, then you would be under earning.
4
Use index cards to create a cheat sheet of the various rates you have for the various things you do in your business. Having this near the phone or your computer helps you stick to your rates and have confidence when quoting over the phone. Remember though if there are many things involved, write down what the client needs then let them know you will get back to them so you can add up everything you will be doing for them. This way you can take time to think about how long it will really take for you to do the job and allot in enough time and how many hours to charge.
Tips & Warnings
•Evenutally I came up with $25 hour - $35 hour rate for my Assistant work. I also focused on finding my niche in the an industry that would pay at that rate. Usually at the top Executive level who does a lot of traveling and could use my services remotely.

•Use time management when taking on freelance jobs. You need to allot enough time to work for various employers, have some down time in between.

•Remember the rates may vary for each freelance job.

Resources
•Salary.com

The Art of Money - Personal Finance Resources for Artists

2011-05-05T05:59:00.000-07:00

New York City will always amaze me. Check out this upcoming event May 14, 2011.

Join the Department of Cultural Affairs, Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation, and Department of Consumer Affairs Office of Financial Empowerment for a day of FREE financial counseling sessions and workshops designed to help working artists, arts administrators, and independent workers reduce debt and manage credit.

SATURDAY, MAY 14, 2011
Information Fair, Workshops and Counseling Sessions 12 PM – 5 PM
Post Event Reception 5 PM – 7 PM
Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation | 1368 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY 11216

For more info click on link to website :
The Art of Money

For a FREE interesting Kindle read check out Art of Money Getting or Golden Rules for Making Money by PT Barnum. Yeah the guy that created the traveling circus. Phineas Taylor Barnum (July 5, 1810 - April 7, 1891), American showman who is best remembered for his entertaining hoaxes and for founding the circus that eventually became Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus.

How to Create a Spending Plan

2011-03-29T10:10:00.000-07:00

It's time to dream big, set goals and actually reach them.

A spending plan is not a budget. Why? Because a budget can be limiting where as a spending plan allows you to set a goal then adjust your plan as you more forward towards that goal.

Difficulty:Moderately Challenging
Instructions
things you'll need:
•Excel Spread Sheet (optional)
•Lined paper and pen

1. If you have no idea as to what you spend, start writing down what you spend on a small writing pad. Write the date and all the items you have purchased that day, even money you may have contributed. Whatever money came out, also write down whatever money came in. If you have an excel spreadsheet start in putting your information. You will want 3 months of numbers to work with. If you already have a system for yourself where you keep track of your money you will be able to take the money on your reports and place them into the upcoming categories in step 2.

Another way to tally up numbers is if you have kept your receipts; sort them by month and date. Prep them to use for Step # 2.

2. Make three (3) columns on paper and label them by month. In the first column , list on the left hand side all the way down the page the following categories:
- Spiritual (includes donations, self nurturing, self improvement, etc.)
- Rent
- Utilities (includes: electric, gas. Etc.)
- Auto ( includes: car payment, insurance , gas, repairs, permits, etc.)
- Food ( includes: eating in, eating out, snacks)
- Clothing (includes doing laundry, cleaners)
- Personal care
- Independent care (if you have kids or pets, et c.)
- Education
- Entertainment
- Personal Business ( includes postage to pay bills, computer supplies, etc.)
- Vacation
- Savings
- Debt repayment

3. Tally up your #'s or receipts to fit into the categories above for each month. You can use your bank statements as well, yet keep in mind you want to create a simple system for yourself that you enter your numbers consistently in some kind of format so you are not overwhelmed when working with your spending plan.

4. The numbers of what you have really been spending will be what you entered into each column. When you total up all the numbers of every row, you will get a total. Subtract that total from your salary after taxes. If you have some money left over great, if not you will need to look at where you can trim.

For some people, they may be spending in one area too much, such as food out or too many coffees. Sometimes even in personal care. One might be obsessed with buying hair products. Where ever there seems to be some over spending look into that area to make sure it is not escapism. If it is it may be a great idea to stop buying so many hair products and put that into vacation.

Tips & Warnings
•If you would like to know the average amount you spend either by category or on a monthly basis you divide all your totals by the number 3. For the average monthly expenses it would go like this: Jan - $1,313 Feb - $1,207 March - $1,345 Total all 3 months = $3,865 Divide $3865 / 3 = $1,288 $1,288 would be your average monthly expenses If you would like to break it down by category it would go as follows Personal Care Jan - $3.45 Feb - $43 March - $35 Total up all three months for the category of Personal Care Your total would be $81.45 Divide $81.45 / 3 = $27.15 $27.15 is the average amount you spend on personal care. What do you do with that information? You take $27 as the amount you will spend monthly on personal care. It is best to use $27 and not pinch, not deprive yourself. That is the average of what you spend so don't try to do less and to live within your means try not to go above. Yes you could pinch and do without, yet it is best to take care of yourself and not deprive yourself, and it has been my experience if you want spend more than you have to earn more. There is no real way of getting around it.

How to Find a Higher Power

2011-03-25T11:50:00.000-07:00

How to Find a Higher Power | eHow.com

Moderately Challenging in the begining if you don't have a sense of a higher power. Some call God, Source, Spirit, Monkey.
What ever it may be for you it does not have to have a book written about it.

Difficulty:Challenging
Instructions
things you'll need:
•Quiet time
•Pen and paper

1. The first time I tried looking for a higher power I tested a great big old oak tree. I just wanted to place my fear and ambitions on to something that would not talk back to me. I would think of things I needed and wanted in my life and then leave them with the tree. I like to believe because I let my thoughts go somewhere and not occupy my mind it allowed movement in my life to allow what I needed to come in.

One day I found a piece of bark while I was thinking about my mother and how she was no longer alive. I looked at the bark and it had a smiling face with the rings of the bark. That happy face took away all the sadness when I remember my mom is not alive. I thought that was something greater than myself.

2. I started looking at people being messengers and angels. They probably don't even know it. Not to make people, places and things my higher power to speak through people, places and things . Example. I needed to earn a set amount of money consistently, my thoughts stayed on that concept most of my days. I would met people that eventually lead me to the person that understood and could offer me the salary I needed.

3. Another way I found a higher power was when I stopped trying to play God. I had so many different areas in my life that needed improvement, definitely serenity yet my controlled plans kept getting in the way. When I had a problem, a difficult personality... I forgave that person . I told myself that I am powerless over the situation with this person. I believed something greater than myself could restore me to sanity and I was willing to give what ever that was over to something greater than myself, not knowing what that might even look like.

I let it go. I let go of thoughts that the person was trying to hurt me. I let go of thoughts that that person wanted to attack me. I dropped all fear and negativity and let the air take it. Within days I felt a relief and freedom from thinking about this person. I don't know how it got removed. I don't' even need to know yet I do know because I was willing to let something else take over. I was freed up to let something good come in.

4. It seems to me to be a calming essence that graces me during difficult situations and during serene times it is my commitment to pause and turn over anything I think is good or bad to something greater than me and then watch to see what that something greater than me comes up with. It's always something bigger and better than what I could have ever imagined.

Kundalini Class by donation with Jamila Ram Rattan

2011-03-18T12:19:00.000-07:00

I orginally found out about Jamila Ram Rattan's Kundalini class on a flier at Cafe Orwell coffee shop in Bushwick, Brooklyn. I was so excited to find a place to practice within my hood. Jamila has been creating a community of like minded folks that want to heal within themselves. Her loving guidance of Kundalini Yoga and Meditation as taught by Yogi Bhajan is a blessing to all who participate.

Kundalini yoga is a highly developed spiritual science using meditation, mantra, physical exercise, and often greatly focused on breathing techniques to enable us to unify with our Universal self. This practice is an affective way to create immense self awareness and to get in touch with your Higher self. With strong intention and regular practice, we can awaken our full potential of human awareness and create transformation.

Jamila has created Rhythm & Breath where she provides donation based Kundalini Yoga, Meditation, spiritual and therapeutic counseling. This week will be her first live virtual class where you have the opportunity to create your own scared space within your home or where ever you may be in the world.

A heart donation of $5 minimum will be greatly appreciated and can be made through the BEGGARS BOWL at the bottom of their blog page

For more information:
http://www.rhythmandbreath.org/

That's me on the far right getting my meditation on

Jamila's first virtual class will be in celebration of the Spring Equinox. As posted on the website it states....

We will be doing a set WORKING ON THE METABOLISM. For this, you will need a "P" fruit (pear, peach, papaya, pineapple, plum). P fruits have special healing enzymes and store pranic energy. In this set we will be blessing our fruit and healing our physical and pranic bodies.

The meditation we will be doing is for healing. You will be able to send healing energy to a loved one, or you can send healing to the people of Japan. Your energy and love count!

To close, I will be taking you through a guided imagery, very similar to hypnosis. This will leave you rejuvenated and prepared to bloom into Spring!

CLASS IS SUNDAY March 20th @ 6pm Eastern Standard Time
Here is the link to LIVE STREAM channel:
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/rhythm-breath

A heart donation of $5 minimum will be greatly appreciated and can be made through the BEGGARS BOWL or at the bottom of their blog page
SAT NAM!

How to be happy no matter what

2011-03-18T06:38:00.000-07:00

Try it on for size.
You will learn to take these simple step by step instructions to start on your journey of being happy no matter what.

Difficulty:Moderately Challenging
Instructions
things you'll need:
•quiet time to reflect
•favorite music
•pen and paper
Suggest Edits

1
Block out at least 15 minutes of uninterupted time for yourself
2
Play your favorite music cd at low volume.
3
Find a comfortable chair, lounge to sit down with your pen and paper.
4
Write down the top 5 things or essences that you feel would make you happy. Example: Car,house, dog, serenity, financial clairity.
5
Say the 5 things you wrote outloud to yourself. Say them very very slowly, like an inch worm, until you can really feel the impact of every word. You have enough time to say them all.
6
Continue to sit breathing in and visualizing the thoughts of those 5 things or essences you wrote down until your 15 minutes are up. Imagine what it would feel like having the 5 things and essences your wrote down for yourself. You should be smiling by now.

Tips & Warnings
•Practice visualizing and feeling the things and essences that you wrote down for yourself for the next 30 days. It takes 30 days for something to become habit. If you can practice your visualizing and happy feelings, you will attract them towards you.

•You can be antsy if you have never done something like this before. You may be overwhelmed not knowing what 5 things or essenses you want for yourself. Doesn't matter, continue to sit and practice your 15 minutes a day. You will eventualy come up with your personal 5 and you will attract them to you.

Resources
•Spiritsite.com

Gluten Free Heaven

2011-03-08T11:30:00.000-08:00

Now I could tell you about my experience going to Buffalo Exchange resale store and finding a brand new dress with the original price tag at $158. In the resale shop it was selling for $8. Sold!!!...To me!! That's not what was so exciting. What was sooo exciting was what was next door... Gluten Free Bakery, Tu-Lu Bakery.

Finally!!! Something I can eat. Tully the owner is also Gluten Intolerant and after graduating culinary school came to New York and opened this shop in the East Village. I've been here twice in one week. The first time I went she had red velvet mini cup cakes for $1. A regular gluten free cup cake is $2.50. It is such a breath of fresh air to come into this place and finally be able to eat what's in here.

Another favorite of mine are the homemade breads. Honey Oat Bread $10.00 ($5 /half loaf) and the Wholegrain Sunflower bread $10.00 ($5 for half). Now I get the half loaf which lasts all week. The rest you can freeze and use when you want it. I can have a sandwich again!

They make birthday cakes which I have already starting planting the seeds so I can get one for my birthday. I also love that it is open late for a bakery. Enjoy...it is something to sing about for fellow Gluten Intolerant peeps. :))

Tu-Lu's Gluten-Free Bakery
338 East 11th Street
between 1st and 2nd Avenue
New York, NY 10003

Hours
Monday - Thursday 10:30AM - 10:00PM
Friday & Saturday 10:30AM - 10:30PM
Sunday: 10:30AM - 9:00PM

Oh Cantu ...I love you!

2011-03-02T12:22:00.001-08:00

When you have curly hair you have to struggle with trying out different products that will work with your hair. A great place to check out what kind of curl you have is at Naturallycurly.com

I have a major curly head. My hair type is 4a - Kinky. I have been to the salons that specialize only with curly hair. I have tried their products and I can tell you that some of them cost $30 for a 16 oz bottle yet my tried and true life saver is Cantu Shea Butter Leave in conditioner. Um $4.99. Oh yeah!

Good Will now has a rewards points card. What's the world coming too? :)

2011-03-02T12:17:00.000-08:00

OK this one blew me away. The Good Will thrift shops in New York/ New Jersey now have a rewards points card. One of the places I get my chotskies :)

CUSTOMER REWARDS CARD: Goodwill’s customer rewards card program launched. Get $10 off your next purchase when you spend $100. To enroll, fill out the form at HERE http://www.goodwillny.org/downloads/Goodwill_Rewards_Fillable_Form.pdf

Use the zip code locator on the “Find Goodwill” page of their website to discover the store nearest you.

They seem to be cleaning up their act. Some folks didn't like it too much because of their outrageous pricing and it seems they took note. Recently they have had roll backs.

PRICE ROLLBACKS: We’ve heard your concerns and have rolled back unit prices on clothing you need:

o Jogging pants & jackets - $5.99 each

o Women’s blouses, skirts, sweaters & pants - $4.99

o Men’s shorts, pants & sweaters - $4.99

o Men’s tee-shirts - $1.99

o Children’s suits - $7.99

o Children’s coats - $5.99

o Children’s dresses $4.99

o Children’s tops & bottoms - $2.99 each

o Infant’s clothing - $1.99

I'll go to Mooncakes by myself or with others. Either way it's always fun.

2011-03-02T12:16:00.000-08:00

Mooncakes is home-cooked Asian comfort food...one of my favorite spots for lunch and dinner in the Chelsea and Soho area. I think they are extremely reasonable. Most items on the menu are under $10. The Chelsea space itself is the most utilititarian I've seen in the area. I like a clean and crisp kind of place. Talking about clean and crisp let me share their menu.

My favorite is the seared Tuna and Arugla salad. I don't like to be overloaded with ingredients and I definitely don't do processed food. They let you know that they use "no woks, no unhealthy fryers, no processed meat entrees, and no heavy heart-clogging sauces. What you’ll find on our menu is innovatively grilled, steamed, or roasted plates, salads, and sandwiches."

It's exciting to go somewhere that serves fresh organic food that also gives you a lot for your money...there is some presentation involved...and the music is snappy. You won't fall asleep in here. Get there about 5 minutes to 12 noon for a spot anywhere in the joint because after 12:10pm you may have to wait. Not long though...it's fun people watching until you get seated.

http://www.mooncakefoods.com/

SOHO
28 Watts St, New York, NY 10013
212.219.8888
Subway: Take C, E to Spring St
or 1 train to Canal St

CHELSEA
263 West 30th St, New York, NY 10001
212.268.2888
Subway: Take A, C, E to 34 St Penn Station or 1 train to 28 St

Mystic Corner Inc.

2010-11-18T09:41:00.000-08:00

Mystic Corner is a tiny little shop that exudes peace and serenity... I was drawn in to get some.

They specialize in handmade items of silver jewelry, bags, scarfs, candles, singing bowl, incense, essential oils, gift items, and Frugal Buddha's reason to always stop in for pendants, statues and Thanka-paintings at reasonable prices.

I picked up a mini statue of Ganesha for $5. Hello!

Ganesha is one of the deities best-known and most widely worshipped in the Hindu pantheon. His image is found throughout India and Nepal. Hindu sects worship him regardless of affiliations. Devotion to Ganesha is widely diffused and extends to Jains, Buddhists, and beyond India.

When I take my afternoon walks in the neighborhood I always like stopping in to Mystic Corner. Keep this shop in your index file or take note on your iPhone, blackberry, etc.

Please Join them for their 1st year anniversary on November 27th, 2010 (Saturday)
from 10am to 9pm

There will be Refreshments
All items 20% off
Selected Items 50% off

Mystic Corner
225 W 23 ST.
NEW YORK, NY, 10011
646-360-4810

(1,C,E Train) Between 7th & 8th Ave.
Check "Mystic Corner" on Facebook

Ganesha Mantra - Destroyer of Obstacles

Organic Avocados ....3 for $2

2010-11-18T07:20:00.000-08:00

The King of Plants and Foliage, the original exotic plant grower serving NYC since 1969

Chris King of Foliage
151 West 28th Street
New York, NY 10001
212-564-8316

Has barrels of organic avocados for sale outside the store weekdays. Closed on weekends. Most of them are from the Big Island in Hawaii, the avocados are named R2 or T26.

I found some food recipes and skin care recipes to make with all those avocados you manage to get home;)

How to Use Avocado | eHow.com

The website What's Cooking America also has really great ideas for your avocados.

Sabon & The Rubin Museum of Art

2010-11-11T13:07:00.001-08:00

After a long work week I’m usually looking for the right balance of chill lounge and buzz.

SABON
To start it off I listen to my body and walk over to Sabon for a free three minute hand scrub. The staff are genuinely friendly lovely people. They will suggest some samples to try at the huge communal sink made out of beautiful stone. Get the hand scrub and then the lotion. Heavenly!

Take note this is a great place to get a quick gift for the sensual people in your life. You know those people that like to smell everything, even the books in book stores.

This place has a huge selection of organic products. Liquid soaps, lotions, essential oils, scented candles, handmade soap, men’s grooming and bath products…everything to make you smell good naturally.
http://sabonnyc.com/

• 78 Seventh Ave (corner of West 15th street)• NY, NY 10011

Jan-April: Mon-Sat 10-9 & Sun 11-8
May-Dec: Mon-Sat 10-10 & Sun 11-8:30

Their Mission as stated on their website...
“Our mission is to consistently create and offer an unparalleled range of exceptional bath and body products, using time-honored remedies based on the finest natural ingredients. We strive to encourage an appreciation of the daily ritual of bath by creating an environment that inspires and captures the imagination, through the visual and sensory experience. We intend to consistently exceed customer expectations by anticipating their needs, desires and dreams, and by offering unrivalled levels of service. Our mission is to bring luxury to the everyday, for everyone.”

After washing my hands clean, I walk up a couple of blocks to

RUBIN MUSEUM OF ART
150 West 17th Street (between 7th and 6th Ave)
New York, NY 10011
http://www.rmanyc.org/

I love this place on Fridays!!!
Gallery admission is free to all every Friday from 6 – 10 p.m.

RMA's website sums up what they are about…
“The Rubin Museum of Art (RMA) is home to a comprehensive collection of art from the Himalayas and surrounding regions. The artistic heritage of this vast and culturally varied area of the world remains relatively obscure. Through changing exhibitions and an array of engaging public programs, RMA offers opportunities to explore the artistic legacy of the Himalayan region and to appreciate its place in the context of world cultures.”

I like to walk through the exhibit to relax my nerves…then find my way to the K2 lounge. Every Friday night the café becomes the K2 Lounge, offering a special Pan Asian Tapas menu along with a Martini and Wine Bar to accompany the evenings DJ and unique thematic gallery tours and programs

At 9:30pm (unless otherwise noted) you can continue on to Cabaret Cinema
These screenings of classic films from around the world explore themes featured in the museum's galleries. Each film is introduced by a notable guest to provide context. Past presenters have included Liv Ullmann, Brian Cox, Vito Acconci, and Alan Cumming.

Free with a $7 bar minimum

11/11

2010-11-11T12:47:00.000-08:00

Today is 11/11/10...one of my favorite number combinations. 11/11...What does it mean? Only what you make it. I've made it to mean for me awareness. When ever I see the number combination, I do view it as an alarm, a wake up call for something. I am aware of my reality. I am aware of my truth. I am aware of my purpose in the moment. I might catch it on the clock several times a day and night, because not all clocks are set precise so that's fun for me to have pockets of moments of awareness. I'm not aware every single second which is the goal...yet I am when I see 11/11. Here is some diddly to check out.

First Frugal Buddha Post

2010-10-15T07:57:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share a typical Frugal Buddha day. It's not orthodox in any way.
If you happen to have the day off or on a Sunday is the best time to be on the corner of East 23rd street and 3rd Avenue in Manhattan. Here is an array of thrift shops to pour through. 5 to be exact in a 2 block radius. Housing Works, Good Will, Salvation Army, Opera Thrift Shop and Vintage Thift Shop.

Click on this google map route

If you are driving it is easy to park in the area on Sundays.
You can try on clothes in all of the shops except the Salvation Army
You can find furniture in all of the shops except the Good Will.
My favorite store to find buddhas and jewelry would be at the Good Will location.

So what I thought I'd do was tell you also about the Buddha Lounge Pizza Shop at 284East 3rd Ave, where they have a Slice of pizza and pint of beer for $5. Cool music. Bar and bathroom. Come here after doing your thift shop jaunt to relax.

While I was having a very nice time hanging out here resting my feet and chillin to the buddha lounge music...I pulled out my finds to share with you. I found the statue for $10 and the elephant necklace for $7. It was a good time. :)