Monday 20 August 2012

Manifesto Monday

If you're anything like me, you could use a little inspiration on a Monday. Okay, a lot of inspiration. I was prompted to write my own manifesto for a contest (which I did not win, btw), but I'm glad I jumped on the opportunity. It was inspired by the good folks at Lululemon and Tiny Devotions. Both companies have very cool, very motivating manifestos which you can read here and here.

I thought I'd share mine with you. I posted it inside my closet door where I can see it everyday, for a little dose of encouragement and positivity in the morning. Try writing your own, with things that really mean something to you, so that it gives you a sense of purpose everytime you lay eyes on it.

Here goes:

There is no fear. There is only love.  Open mind, open heart.  Being grateful is the answer to all of your problems. Tea will make you feel better too. Dress like yourself. Choose clothes and jewels that make you feel uniquely you.  Do yoga and breathe deeply. Savour the sensations that your body feels while it is finding strength, openness and space.  Feel the peace flowing through you.  Walk in the fresh air. Look around you. Marvel in the amazing-ness that nature possesses. Marvel in your own amazing-ness.  Smile. Know that your smile is infectious. Know that it will spread to others – guaranteed.  Laugh. Feel that positive energy swirling around you. Feel that you are on the verge of something fantastic.  Grab on tight to life and never let it go.  You won’t regret this for a moment.

Happy Monday friends :)
Namaste,
ERIN



Saturday 11 August 2012

Wanderlust

Lucky me, I've just returned from an amazing trip to California. The hubby and I went to Los Angeles for 5 days and I've spent every day since my return plotting how to get back there! We've been very fortunate this year, as this is our 2nd vacation. We went to Myrtle Beach in March on a family vacation, but this one was just for us.

This has already been a huge year for me, with graduating my RYT and beginning to teach a few nights a week, in addition to my regular job. I've been very lucky to have some extra free time this summer to enjoy the amazing weather and do some soul-searching about my future plans. I had dreams of our trip to LA being a time of connection and bonding for Adam and I. A time of reflection, but also a time to carve out a new path for our future. It turned out to be exactly what I needed it to be. Not only were we lucky enough to spend five busy and adventurous days in our favourite city, but we had an amazing time just being together and exploring. That's my favourite thing to do on vacation - get a little bit lost, and then see where life leads you. (Provided you have a GPS handy, just in case!) We hiked, did yoga, shopped, enjoyed a number of cold brews on a number of beautiful patios, experienced the oceans and the mountains, ate great food, people-watched, even checked out a couple of Open Houses (just in case)! And most importantly, we did it together and have so many beautiful memories that will get me through this long, cold Canadian winter! (Well, that, and my new Free People sweater! lol)

I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience this fantastic city a second time. I feel a bit greedy as we were just there last spring for our 5th Anniversary... but when opportunity knocks, you are wise to answer. So that's what we did. And I don't regret it for a second.

That's the best part of life, I think. When you can say you really took it by the horns, and didn't waste a second. Nothing feels as good as that.

I hope you're lucky enough to have some memories from this summer that make you smile a giant, genuine, uncontrollable smile :)

Namaste,
ERIN