I’ve been reflecting lately upon the beautiful dance of life. Life’s dance is an intriguing blending of energies coming together, an ebb and flow, and a balancing act. By surrendering and trusting in the dance, one can live in a more flowing way, which allows an appreciation for the beauty of the moment and the joyful gifts it holds. Here are some ways to let the dance unfold in its greatest majestic beauty.

Trust your partner –Know that the Universe is a wonderful loving partner, and trust that you are in good hands. Fears can enter, and you may find yourself questioning, “Excuse me, I believe I was falling?” And, the Universe will grin and say, “I thought it’d be fun to dip you, and show you that you will be caught,” reminding you that, “When things feel challenging, it is because you are worthy of it.”

Dance your passion -Life is a precious commodity, and far too short to be dancing another’s dream. Choose wisely, for all is energy and too much attention given to a dance you don’t enjoy leaves less time for the one you’re longing for in your heart.

Uniqueness –No two dances are ever alike, as each unique dancer brings his or her own beautiful energy    forth. Trust in your inner wisdom. Cherish your original dance contributions.

Know the dance –There is a rhythm to life’s dance. It’s important to know which dance you’ve chosen and why.  Do you know the ideal tempo and pace for yourself? What does it look and feel like? Visualize your ideal dance, then, practice, practice, practice, knowing that part of the fun is in attempting new techniques, and mastering new steps. Utilize your imagination to assist you with flowing into new terrain more quickly, and with greater ease.

Enjoy the delicious now -Don’t let thoughts of future dance steps trip you up. Your true power lies in the present. In our goal-oriented society, the quest to obtain certain goals can overshadow the preciousness of the moment. Happiness isn’t something to put off for the future. It is available and awaiting you here and now. Relish it!

Stay balanced –All dances require balance. Know what helps keep you in your center, and utilize those tools, so that you can bring the best of yourself to each beautiful dance. Don’t forget to stretch- you have far more potential than you realize.

Appreciate your partner –We get to dance with many other people in various ways throughout our lives. Whether you’re doing a cha-cha with a business partner or tangoing with a loved one, appreciate the important mirroring they bring forth –whether they reflect things you love about yourself, or feel you need to work on. Treasure the relationships, and nurture the ones which feel mutually uplifting, in gratitude for the gifts brought forth through your dances together.

Playfulness –Life is supposed to be fun! Allow yourself to enjoy child-like wonder, spontaneity, and play. It doesn’t all have to be so serious. Joy is a natural state, craving of expression. Laugh, play, allow your inner joy to shine through, and let yourself have a blissfully great time!

Love and dancing blessings,

Antonia

It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.

~Aristotle~

I like to believe that Aristotle was suggesting that we watch not only the external voices, but our own internal voices, as well. In a recent post I invited you to watch your thoughts and recognize the negative voices that may be holding you back from living your best life. Our thoughts make up our experience of the World, moment to moment, and being aware of our thoughts, and consciously rewriting the messages we are telling ourselves is important. This time I am going to recommend that we dig a little deeper, as I believe that there is another tool we can use to expedite the process of internal positive change which will then allow us to be even better creators of our lives.

Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.

~Rumi~

The above is a favorite Rumi quote of mine, and I whole-heartedly agree with him. I also believe that it is our job to look inside and find the barriers within that we have built against allowing ourselves to live our best life. To the best of my ability, I actively live what author Angeles Arrien coined, The Four Fold Path: show up, pay attention, tell the truth and don’t be attached to outcome. This wonderful methodology can be applied not only to our everyday lives, but also as a way to assist us in finding the barriers we carry within. After all, how can we ask ourselves to show up, pay attention, tell the truth and not be attached to outcome with others if we are not able to do so with ourselves?

There are no constraints on the human mind, no walls around the human spirit, no barriers to our progress except those we ourselves erect.

~Ronald Reagan~

Ack! I shall break through my own barrier and agree with Reagan! haha The man was right on this one, and hey, he was an Actor turned President, so he certainly knows about breaking through constraints, right? It’s time to Love ourselves enough to not only watch our negative thinking patterns, but to courageously face the underlying emotions holding us back.

For this exercise, set mental programming aside. First, show up for yourself by turning inward. Sit comfortably, close your eyes and turn your attention inside your body. Secondly, pay attention to what is going on within by naming it. What is the emotion behind the thought? Thirdly, tell the Truth. If the emotion is fear, embrace it. Our emotions are simply there doing a job, often to protect us. Be honest with yourself about what is behind the emotion. The fourth and final step is not being attached to outcome. The opposite of attachment is release, and it is through release that we can get to the other side. Know that the emotion served a purpose, thank it, hug it, and say something like, “You are no longer needed. Goodbye.” When this is done with intention, it works surprisingly well.

You cannot be wimpy out there on the dream-seeking trail. Dare to break through barriers, to find your own path.

~Les Brown~

It is time to take your own Power back and courageously face your barriers head-on. Know that you are so worthy of having the best life you can live. I invite you to dig deeper to look at what you are letting stand in your way. By courageously facing that which is holding us back, embracing and releasing those blocks, we free ourselves to move through life harmoniously and successfully on our true soul journey.

Love and Blessings,
Antonia

Antonia, morning meditation at Sanur Beach

After many, many hours of flight (three days, to be exact), a friend and I finally arrived upon the beautiful Indonesian island of Bali. There is a magical wondrous underlying energy here, and I’ve felt immensely grateful to have an opportunity to realize my dream of visiting this spectacular and special land. While the journey’s beginning didn’t match my pictures, my quest to seek out the beauty of the land and incredible temples has exceeded my expectations. I share some of the gloriousness with you here, beloved reader. EnJoy!

Sanur Beach

Family Purification Ceremony

Ganung Batur, active volcanic caldera along Lake Batur

Bata Karu

Rice fields in Northern Bali

Near Tanah Lot Temple

Volcanic pools at Pura Thirta Empul

Christina Tobin and Antonia at the Pura Tirta Empul (Purification Holy Temple) 926 C.E.

Antonia at Pura Tirta Temple

Love and Blessings,

Antonia

The bright, festive leaves of fall are beginning to return to the earth, setting the stage for winter and many holiday festivities. The stark beauty and stillness found in our natural surroundings lie in sharp contrast to the sped up lifestyles we can find ourselves leading during this time of the year. While gathering with friends, family and loved ones is a wonderful way to share in the heart-centered traditions of year’s past, it can also lead to some feelings of overwhelm. There are ways in which we can make the upcoming holidays, and inevitable full schedules, easier on ourselves so we can flow through with ease, grace, and smiles on our faces.

1.)   Presence: It is so important to stay in the moment, which is where our true power resides. Getting caught up in what needs to be done in the future, or head tripping on the past diminishes our ability to utilize the now.

2.) Body Awareness: In the hustle and bustle of festive activities even the most conscientious of us can lose touch with the vessel carrying us through it all. Remembering to stop and check in with your body is very important, and will allow you to stay centered and nourished during the busy times. Breathe. Allow your breath to carry you inward, expanding and revitalizing you. What needs does your body have? Are you eating right, and drinking enough water? Pure, clean drinking water combats dehydration, which is the main reason for a great deal of fatigue, headaches, and even muscle spasms and back pain.

3.)   Attitude of Ease: It’s okay to let things be easy. I know this can seem contradictory to what we were told, so I think it bears repeating. It’s all right to let things be easy and flowing. While life requires that we put in hard work, that doesn’t mean that life is supposed to be a constant challenge. Reframing our inner attitudes and expectations has a profound influence on our everyday lives. Decide to let it be simple, and fun, so you can gracefully flow from one activity to the next, bringing your best (unhurried) self forward.

4.)   Release expectations: It’s natural to want things to be perfect, but there really is no such thing as ‘perfection’. Be gentle with yourself and cut yourself some slack. Set limits, simplify, and be willing to say ‘no’ when it’s appropriate. It’ll be better to arrive a glowing version of yourself than a frazzled one; you’ll all have more fun!

5.)   Stillness: I am a strong proponent of the nap. Even lying down for 10-15 minutes can reset the body, and assist you in moving from one task to the next far more efficiently. Unplug and give yourself a moment of calm centering.

6.)   Nature: When we spend too much time indoors under synthetic lighting, we can get out of sync with natural rhythms. Bundle up and step outdoors. Mother Earth’s energy is drawing down and inward for regeneration to ensure a plentiful springtime. Breathe in the beauty of nature’s stillness.

7.) Gratitude: Place your attention on that which is going right, and count those  Beautiful Blessings. Gratitude alters perception and makes it impossible to stay in lower vibrational energies like stress, worry and frustration. Let the simple practice of peaceful, surrendered, Loving Gratitude change the moment, and your life.

8.)   Pamper: What nourishes your body, mind and soul? Light candles and put on some soothing music. Take a bubble bath and sooth your whole being. Get a massage, or other favorite bodywork. Take a rejuvenating yoga class. Travel inward with meditation and have a conversation with your heart. Gift yourself with comforting activities which will assist you in being the best you, so you can enjoy the delicious gifts brought forth during this wonderful time of the year.

Wishing you a beautiful Holiday Season!

Love and Blessings,

Antonia

Since ancient times, people have used various forms of energetic space clearing to remove residual energies which build up where people live, work, or spend time. While our homes and offices can provide a wonderful respite in which we can live, play, create, and rest, it is important to occasionally take time to revitalize rooms by clearing out the stagnant energies that accumulate. In the interconnected web of life, our energies have frequencies, and the patterns of these energies remain in the areas we touch. Most religious traditions have a method for consecrating sacred space, removing negative energies so that visitors are more likely to connect with divinity, rather than the energies of other patrons. We can utilize these same practices to uplift our homes and workspaces, so that they are a continuing source of rejuvenation, upliftment and nourishing support to us.

Culturally and historically

The Native Americans have used drums, rattles, and the burning of herbs to clear negative energies. In the Middle East resins are used, such as the burning of frankincense and myrrh. The Balinese are known for using bells to clear and heighten energies. While in China, the use of gongs, chanting and incense are frequently used. Energetic space clearing has a long, ancient history.

When to energetically clear space:

• New home/new office: Make a fresh start in your new space by consciously removing stagnant energies lingering from past residents.

• Remodeling/Construction: Neutralize the energies which probably arrived with the new additions to the home or office, and which may have entered the space with the individuals who assisted with the changes being made.

• Challenges: If there has been illness, divorce, death, or other stressful situations, there is likely a need for conscious clearing and revitalizing.

• Seasons: It is wonderful to do this as the season’s change. I am particularly fond of doing clearing rituals in Spring and Fall.

• Deep cleaning: You went through and got rid of all of the extra stuff in your home and/or office. Good for you! Now you can complete the process by clearing out old energies, too!

• Celebrations: Welcome the new baby, new partnership or other celebratory moment by first completing your own energetic clearing of the home or office.

• Shifting things: Are you feeling creatively blocked? Does the space just not feel right? Then, the removal of residual energy patterns should help shift things.

How to energetically space clear:

• Intent: Firstly, set an intention to remove undesired energies, and to bring in more loving, nurturing and harmonious energies into the space.

• Sound: Use of sound is an excellent way to energetically space clear. You can use bells, gongs, drums, rattles, chimes, crystal bowls, tuning forks, or vocal toning. I prefer the use of bells for this stage of clearing, and find it to be the most effective method to quickly dispel undesired energies.

• Smudging: The burning of herbs as a space clearing technique is an ancient and widely used practice. The Native American practice of smudging with sage is a favorite of mine. You can also use various bundled herbs (sweet grass, rosemary, cedar, pine, and juniper are common), incense, or a favorite resin. Give extra attention to the corners of rooms, and under things, where stuck energies like to reside. Be sure to catch falling ash in a dish, and extinguish properly after use.

• Air: Open all of the windows in your house and allow the air to move through the building, revitalizing the energies.

• Salt: A small amount of salt can be spread around the perimeters of the space being cleared, but it is important to vacuum it up within twenty-four hours. Another method is to place a bowl of salt in the center of the room to absorb energies. Again, this should be removed within a day. Make certain to use salt which has been securely stored prior to use, and to properly dispose of your salt by pouring it in a local river, lake or toilet. Never reuse or eat this salt!

• Water: Sprinkling water as a purification technique is another old tradition. One may also wish to lightly sprinkle water infused with essential oils to sweeten the cleared space. Rosemary, lavender and citrus oils are lovely for this purpose.

Our spaces are there to nourish, protect, and provide respite for us along the journey. By consciously taking time to clear out the energies and imbibe the space with our own love, they can become an even more nurturing and supportive place.

Love and Blessings,

Antonia

While I’m certain that I fall in love with each of the seasons as they circle ‘round, I am finding this fall particularly inspiring. Nature’s festive autumn palette offers such an exquisite array of bright oranges, rich reds and warm golds, shimmering against the dark pine mountains and vibrant greens summer brought forth. The last of the sunny days shine across clear blue skies, giving way earlier and earlier to the longer, colder nights. As Mother Earth’s energy draws down into itself, we too can allow for the falling away of that which longer serves us, making room to welcome new unfoldings as the wheel of the year turns on.

The winds dance across mountaintops, sweeping down to share secrets with the valley floor. I’ve seen more fellow adventurers on the local hillside trails lately, as we journey out to admire the vibrant changes, festive Hallows decorations, and to drink in the last of the warmth offered prior to first frost’s bite. Scattered leaves stir around us, having served their purpose the plants return to Earth again, forces of death complete the endless cycle. Scattered on cool breezes, the seeds are sent forth for the next year. With clear intentions set, we can also sow new seeds to answer our heart’s calling.

Reflecting inward, we can look at what the seasons past have delivered into our lives this year, honouring the gifts and lessons brought forth. Through challenges, we can move forward with greater knowledge about what works, and what doesn’t. We also give thanks for our community, for their support assists our successes. Furthermore, this season invites gratitude to those who have come before us, the treasured ancestors who paved the way. And, we have gatherings to look forward to, as we joyously come together in upcoming Holidays.

For what do you give thanks this Fall Season?

Love and Blessings,
Antonia

It all depends on whether you have things, or they have you.

~Robert A. Cook~

One of the interesting aspects in our journey as spirit incarnate in human form is the relationship we have with the physical things we choose to allow into our lives. While shelter may be a basic need, everything is energy, and when we are out of balance with our surroundings it can take a toll on us physically, mentally and emotionally. Disorganization and clutter is low vibrational stagnant energy, which decreases our ability to focus, is stressful and draining. This stuck energy is thus reflected in our personal, and professional lives, negatively affecting our psyche, creativity, and general flow in life. It’s time to simplify and let go for better flow. Be honest with yourself about what has true meaning and brings joy into your life. Ask yourself, “Would I buy this in a store today?” Assess what’s worth keeping and what could possibly serve other’s lives rather than cluttering your personal space. While I understand all too well the reservations one might have for not wanting to go through possessions, reassessing, getting rid of things and clearing the clutter, there are so many excellent reasons for pushing through any resistance you have and doing so anyway. I promise that once you begin getting through any clutter you’ve accumulated, you’ll quickly begin to feel happier and lighter, as you raise the vibration of your surroundings and, ultimately, yourself.

If Nothing Changes, Nothing Changes.

~Unknown~

The old adage ‘A place for everything and everything in its place’ is so simple and so true. If you have to spend a great deal of time looking for things, you’re wasting time and energy, which will end up in frustration and feelings of irritation. If things are organized and systematized, not only will you feel in a flow, but the results are in better alignment with the principle of prosperity and abundance. There is gratification in completing one’s processes, as you’re continuing to move in a positive forwardly and organic direction, rather than staying stuck in the past. By having a place for everything, you simplify and streamline your life in expansive ways. You’ll also feel better, expend less energy and experience greater harmony within yourself and environment.

One cannot collect all the beautiful shells on the beach. One can only collect a few, and they are more beautiful if they are few.

~Anne Morrow Lindberg~

If all of this hasn’t convinced you to tackle those piles of papers, boxes, or hodge-podgy drawers, then I’ll ask you to do so for the environment and your fellow Soul Siblings. As we’re all connected, your decreased clutter and ease of movement on a day-to-day level will reflect greater peace throughout. Giving to charities is fun, and is also very green! Load up your car with all of the stagnant energy in your environment and take it to worthy local organizations. It’ll make you feel great. Or, sell what you can and reinvest the money into something that makes you happy and adds value to your life. And, when you return to your simplified, organized, higher vibrational home, the serenity brought forth will be evident, rippling out beautifully from your life into the World at large! Happy clearings!

Love and Blessings,

Antonia

There are times in life when stress can make its way into our lives, and it is during these times that I like to refer to my bliss list.  I made a conscious choice years ago to do things which bring more joy into my life. I have found that the more I participate in the activities on my bliss list, the better I feel. By choosing to be happy and in a state of love and joy as often as possible, I find my life has a rhythm and flow to it which aligns me with my highest good and thus increases synchronicity in my life. After all, we are creators of our universe, in an interconnected web of life. The more we choose to be in a state of love, joy, and bliss, the more it comes into our lives in the form of uplifting experiences and like-minded people. The more you give, the more you get. So I shall share some of these blissful activities in hopes that you, my beloved reader, shall in turn share your ideas.

1.) Using your creativity/artistic endeavors: we are all creators and it is important to utilize this artistic nature in a playful way. Set your angsty/perfectionistic artist aside and let your inner child play and create. Paint, draw, sculpt… take out crayons or finger paints and just have fun!

2.) Music: listen to something inspiring and feel your spirits lift!

3.) Movies: hopefully by now you have a few all-time favourites that bring a smile to your face, or inspire you; watch them!

4.) Laughter: really is the best medicine! There is nothing like laughter to make you feel good! I highly recommend belly laughing to raise your vibration quickly and renew your sense of joy.

5.) Books: I have been a book lover since I was a young child. I love to immerse myself in a great story that inspires or transports me into a great fantasy. I have to believe this aids in visualization skills as well, and thus my ability to create.

6.) Dance: You know that expression, “dance like nobody’s watching”? Yes! Do! I dance daily and it makes me so happy! I dance around the house, and even dance in my car! You know? At stoplights and such! ::wink::

7.) Exercise/yoga: I believe that there is a form of exercise out there for everybody. There are so many ways to move the body. Find something you enjoy, and do it today. Your body will thank you by pumping out endorphins, which will make you feel really good! Besides, when you look good, you feel good!

8.) Meditation: are you meditating yet? You’ll be really glad that you did! It will ground and center you, make you feel peaceful and will get you in tune with your inner guidance system so that you can follow your intuition.

9.) Sing: in the shower, in the car, wherever! Sing loud and proud and tell me it doesn’t make you happy!

10.) Breath work: sit with a straight spine and just breathe into your core. Even just stopping during the day to take three deep, thoughtful breathes, will help to center you and make you feel peaceful and at ease.

11.) Affirmations/mindful thinking: it is very important to be aware of your thinking because what you think and put out there in word and thought, is what you in turn create in your life. Purposefully begin monitoring your thinking and replace negative thoughts, ie “Bad things always happen to me,” with positive thoughts such as “My life is blessed beyond measure.”
This takes some work, but reprogramming your subconscious mind will change your life.

12.) Gratitude/being thankful: spend some time everyday to appreciate what you do have in your life. Call or write a friend and thank them for their loving presence in your life. This will bring about a sense of joy in you and them! Being in gratitude is an important and powerful practice that will bring about even more things for which to be grateful.

13.) Hot bath/spa/jacuzzi/hot tub: soaking in hot water is bliss! ::grin::

14.) Massage/Acupuncture: getting a massage or acupuncture is such a gift to yourself. It’ll relax your body, de-stress you and bring about wellness. Besides, it feels amazing!

15.) Aromatherapy: there are many scents out there, so find the ones that you enjoy. Use high quality, essential oils to perk you up or relax you. Place a couple of drops in a hot bath, or to scent your linens (lavender is great for relaxation).

16.) Turn off the television more often: so much in the media tends to be fear-based, and out of this fear, one feels the need to watch even more, bringing one into a negative spiral. Turn it off! I’m not saying to tune out what is happening in the world, but do not be driven by the negativity put out by the media at large.

17.) Reconnect with nature/gardening: go outside! Take off your shoes and feel the Earth beneath your feet. Dig down and get your hands dirty! Go to the mountains, beach, or a local park. Love and admire the trees, plants, flowers, and birds chirping and feel that interconnectedness with all that is and ever will be, allowing that love to be returned. It will remind you of who you are and of what you are capable.

18.) Watch a sunrise/sunset/moon and star gaze: go outside and look up! Watching the sunrise, or sunset brings such a powerful sense of bliss for me. I also love to honour the moon, stars and heavens above. It’s a wondrous place, this planet we call our home, and I feel that by appreciating it I am reconnecting.

19.) Cooking/baking: creating beautifully prepared meals and baking with love is a fantastic way to bring more joy into your life. There’s something so centering and loving about these activities and it makes me happy!

20.) Eating: I love a great meal! Especially when it involves fresh fruits, vegetables and other such ingredients that have been specially prepared with love (yes, I really believe the ‘love factor’ is key).

21.) Chocolate: Mmmmmmmmmmmmm chocolate!

22.) Smiling at strangers/random acts of kindness: it makes my heart sing to share smiles with strangers. And random acts of kindness! Have you tried it lately? One of my favourites has always been to pay for the car behind me when I cross the Golden Gate Bridge. I try to take off before they can thank me! Although, I secretly (in a lovingly detached way) hope they pass it on to the car behind them! Find a way to be a blessing in another’s life.

23.) Being around loved ones: share quality time with your favourite people!

24.) Sharing ideas/thoughts/beliefs: in a loving way, will lift spirits and inspire!

25.) Pets: spending time with furry family members is such a blessed gift!

26.) Donate: time, money, things to your community and feel a sense of purpose and meaning, because giving back is a blessed experience.

27.) Social Media: haha! what?! Our interconnectedness has evolved on the myriad of social media platforms, which bridge the global gap. I highly recommend it as a way to connect and share with like-minded individuals from around the world.

28.) Take a drive: roadtrips are such fun! Rediscover a neighboring town, take a drive up the coast, or up into the mountains. Roll your windows down, put on your favourite music and enjoy!

29.) Traveling: I am passionate about traveling to new places and learning about the food, language and customs of the culture. Learning from other societies is a treasured gift!

30.) Make Love: need I say more?

I hope that you use these methods, or your own, to let your heart spirit blissfully soar!
Please share your favourite blissful activities with me, BeLoved Readers.

Love and Blessings,

Antonia