Mind Body Soul Food
  • Home
  • About
    • Work With Me
    • Partners & Collaborations
  • Blog
  • Books
    • Resources
  • Recipes
  • Videos
  • Sunspiration
  • Contact

A Journey into Thought & Spirit

Welcome to The Elizabethan Closet on Etsy!

3/24/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Hello Mind Body Soul Food Followers, 

Today I announce the grand opening of my Etsy shop, The Elizabethan Closet, a place to discover vintage clothes, antiques and funky finds. While living in Germany between 2014-2015, I created a self-published vegan cookbook. During this time, I needed props for my recipes and discovered a love and passion for pastime relics. That love grew when I moved back to the states.

During some years after Germany, I noticed I needed some outfits for a couple weddings and randomly chose vintage clothing from Goodwill.  It was a subconscious buy, as at that time I didn't know how to look for vintage clothing or did not realize the worker union tags. 

The year 2019 was rough, and during this time I found estate sales to be my sanctuary and my sadness was channeled into my photography for this blog. I became inspired by vintage dresses and antique glassware, which ignited many recipes that you see here today. 

Now I must part with my collection, and I hope that all the joy these dresses and plates brought me, it will light your home up with some joy too. 

It's a bit of an awkward time to post this considering the coronavirus is on the rise in the states. But with this being the season of rebirth, I too have to shed my skin and start a fresh. 

Here is just a preview of somethings you'll find on The Elizabethan Closet. I will be uploaded new items weekly. I have been a bit slow at uploading due to the stress of losing employment because of coronavirus and just figuring things out. 

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact me! Thanks for your support! 
0 Comments

Quick-n-Easy Yoga + Fitness + How To Videos

3/19/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Being sedentary and alone is not easy. We are social creatures, and the body was meant to be upright and moving. Back in 2018, I worked a startup app called, Snack, to provide quick, and easy to digest videos in under 3 minutes. 

Here are a series of short videos that I've done that mainly revolve around yoga, postural awareness and some exercise.

​I separated these by categories for bedtime yoga, seated/chair/office yoga, mat yoga, and general fitness / exercise. The app / site closed captions may not be accurate and that is a technical glitch of the program not being able to understand some words.

I hope this helps and there are more videos on Snack than shown below:

BEDTIME / IN BED YOGA + EXERCISES

How to do a restorative yoga sequence for bed
https://web.snackv.com/v/qRWOC962Pn?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
The best restorative yoga pose to do before bed
https://web.snackv.com/v/HNF7lglUZE?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to yoga poses using your bed and the wall
https://web.snackv.com/v/p6ByVDlzcU?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do a relaxing spinal mobility flow sequence before bed
https://web.snackv.com/v/SvTaNXuAQ4?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do two versions of tree pose in a restorative manner for bed
https://web.snackv.com/v/AR2tTmU3BE?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Three Easy Yoga Poses to Prep the Spine Before Bedtime
https://web.snackv.com/v/y1OMp1L8TU?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Best Restorative Chest Opener for Better Sleep
https://web.snackv.com/v/HWBPUGHbJl?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Chest opener poses to improve breathing before bed
https://web.snackv.com/v/0r0EHNEUGH?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do a dynamic chest opener using a yoga strap
https://web.snackv.com/v/QuJYlAEGDd?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Three arthritic knee stretches to do in bed
https://web.snackv.com/v/Clw2wJxbZK?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do three advanced hip openers from bed
https://web.snackv.com/v/6fHiXBjTiT?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do two dynamic leg stretches for your hamstrings that you can do in bed
https://web.snackv.com/v/lYAWLL0P8W?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
"How to" stretches to alleviate arthritic pain
https://web.snackv.com/v/cxE8vUpmQk?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
"How to" morning mobility routine to help with stiff hips
https://web.snackv.com/v/EyQV6Mz529?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)


CHAIR / IN OFFICE / AT HOME YOGA, POSTURE + EXERCISES


How to move your spin in 6 different directions in a chair?
https://web.snackv.com/v/oBED2GbCKV?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How open your hips in your desk chair?
https://web.snackv.com/v/5g9ugbFt3p?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
A Hip Mobility Routine You Can Do in Your Office
https://web.snackv.com/v/qlhhcKbln4?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do seated spinal twist in a desk chair?
https://web.snackv.com/v/TrE343l9NJ?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do sun salutation from a chair
https://web.snackv.com/v/f2tUqZPD2D?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to Alleviate Acute Back Pain Caused from Sitting All Day
https://web.snackv.com/v/ewnwuyDgdg?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
A Chair Yoga Routine You Can do in Your Office
https://web.snackv.com/v/6Q6HPLvwEB?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
3 easy stretches to do at your work desk
https://web.snackv.com/v/WpE2ZPXZK5?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How you should be seated while at your desk
https://web.snackv.com/v/yKnxMkASBk?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How your posture affects your muscular wellbeing 
https://web.snackv.com/v/ZZZqcg6DbW?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Three must do foot stretches if you wear high heels
https://web.snackv.com/v/csF60nRAdj?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to massage your feet to rid damage caused by wearing heels
https://web.snackv.com/v/fGx4wvl5Zf?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How gravity and posture can affect your physical wellbeing 
https://web.snackv.com/v/IxaBGkobGj?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Shape and Tone: A Full Body Desk Workout
https://web.snackv.com/v/VuCWQdUIV4?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Three ways to open up hands and wrists while at work
https://web.snackv.com/v/EzyY4wRmdM?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)


MAT YOGA + HOW TO  + INFORMATIONAL VIDEO

How to do the forward fold using Yoga blocks
https://web.snackv.com/v/N9OpHxYUiC?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to balance onto one foot?
https://web.snackv.com/v/yYHEWHADBU?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to breath into your belly?
https://web.snackv.com/v/hlzYEmnWW5?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to progress into puppy pose
https://web.snackv.com/v/2O6CtpkWKN?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Two ways to stretch your neck and jaw
https://web.snackv.com/v/IT0hp7qESh?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Three asanas to help increase posture awareness
https://web.snackv.com/v/Bq62KcRNVX?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to reduce low back pain?
https://web.snackv.com/v/VRooWlbsrG?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
3 posture variations for your meditation practice
https://web.snackv.com/v/ZAd9hzts1l?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
3 easy calf stretches while on a mat
https://web.snackv.com/v/1JQ8HEEZnL?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
3 best hip openers lying on your back while using a yoga strap
https://web.snackv.com/v/Xcenky25DU?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Alternative ways of doing Pigeon Pose if you have bad knees
https://web.snackv.com/v/ZG7kiQc7GO?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do 3 different levels of a lying down spinal twist
https://web.snackv.com/v/wVhfZlbHsk?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do 3 levels of cobra pose
https://web.snackv.com/v/WFHWdpK62S?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
3 levels of a seated spinal twist
https://web.snackv.com/v/A2wOhb60hi?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Easy yoga sequence for expecting mothers
https://web.snackv.com/v/DtRy5N2KiF?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Yoga poses that will help alleviate back pain during pregnancy
https://web.snackv.com/v/SPbKMaRMf0?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do happy baby pose using a yoga strap
https://web.snackv.com/v/aHxXsyOljX?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do the best sequence for all athletic pursuits
https://web.snackv.com/v/qXgZe8gTvT?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Three downward dog misconceptions
https://web.snackv.com/v/OyxVrH6wRT?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Downward Dog Modifications with people with weak wrists
https://web.snackv.com/v/emS40rJizm?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Alternative ways of doing Pigeon Pose if you have bad knees
https://web.snackv.com/v/ZG7kiQc7GO?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
3 types of yoga asanas for runners
https://web.snackv.com/v/7WWKO2mnkD?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Three inversions to reduce lower back pain
https://web.snackv.com/v/H3mt0swObt?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
What are the 3 steps to progress into a tree pose?
https://web.snackv.com/v/0ZZDWQ8Fhf?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
What is a standing warrior pose sequence for strengthen hips?
https://web.snackv.com/v/Qqsy6s3TiY?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Vinyasa flow modification for people with weak wrists
https://web.snackv.com/v/sOyfR8D1Sy?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to progress into Dolphin Pose
https://web.snackv.com/v/wW2BeyuvD7?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Can I do yoga if I'm not flexible?
https://web.snackv.com/v/JH3h1x9ajJ?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to transition from downward facing dog to runner's lunge
https://web.snackv.com/v/X5KwkGZYQc?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to do a chair pose with a twist
https://web.snackv.com/v/e9Bxw104tH?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Three creative ways to use yoga blocks
https://web.snackv.com/v/z7kU80unFN?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How men can use yoga blocks to help enhance their practice
https://web.snackv.com/v/7YSxwWZXWA?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)

GENERAL FITNESS  VIDEOS ​


Three exercises on how to gain a stronger back
https://web.snackv.com/v/34UdUrjKPb?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Four leg and glute exercises you can do right now
https://web.snackv.com/v/hQM3hemamw?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to get back into a better body
https://web.snackv.com/v/I1PyQI5a7E?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Exercises to do to get back into the gym
https://web.snackv.com/v/SqR1XZ6DKM?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Three moves to help strengthen your body if you work at a desk
https://web.snackv.com/v/xe52GWWx7T?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Workouts you can do from your hotel room
https://web.snackv.com/v/k1ZGuHNp5L?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
No Equipment? No problem! Exercises to do without equipment
https://web.snackv.com/v/6QcpTpnzyh?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
How to burn those holiday calories fast
https://web.snackv.com/v/VEX3Tx4N37?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Moves moms can do to get back into exercise
https://web.snackv.com/v/uE8M2ZIYlw?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R (Links to an external site.)
Exercises mothers can do with their babies
https://web.snackv.com/v/EtswRe590I?shared_by_user=YsDvUNq03R
LET'S CONNECT + SUBSCRIBE BELOW! 
0 Comments

Fantasy vs. Reality: Living in an Era of Mental Confusion

2/20/2020

1 Comment

 
Picture
Are you living in a fantasy? Or are you living in a reality? So many areas of life have become so confusing, I am not sure if people know what is real or not. 

Just take a look at the internet. How much of the world wide web has damaged or controlled us mentally? Prior to computers, humans have lived for thousands of years, surviving on the planet, using their heads and hands to live life. 

Today, people cannot decipher what is real versus fake news, and many people live this "picture perfect" life on social media, discarding the darker or weaker moments. The human mind is altered and flawed. Just take a look at Hollywood and the shows on Netflix. Much of today's programming is dark, gruesome, violent, negative and stuck in some dark fantasy. 

Behind this programming is a darker force trying to destroy and control our minds. Beauty is inspirational, death and destruction is not. Love is inspiring and is what heals people and the planet.

Living in a fantasy is either like a fairy-tale or a nightmare. Some people want to ignore the negative sides of life or a relationship because of being stuck in a fairytale where others want to destroy humans because of the demons that live inside their head. 

​I believe most people are not in reality, but living in a virtual reality, a fantasy or delusional fairy-tale, chasing something that doesn't exist. 

What is reality and what is fantasy?

Reality: the world or the state of things as they actually exist, as opposed to an idealistic or notional idea of them.

Fantasy: the faculty or activity of imagining things, especially things that are impossible or improbable

Biases, opinions and life experiences affect our realities and fantasies. Many people want to live in a fantasy of showing off how great their life is, or how it is better than most. Celebrities are a perfect example, but as seen through numerous Hollywood suicides, fame and fortune does not buy internal joy and happiness. 

One difficult part of existence today is that because people are so mentally confused, or indoctrinated by various systems, beliefs or ideas, that mental health has become unpredictable or too unstable. You don't know if you say one wrong thing to someone that they'll snap, or do something out of spite. 

Although fantasy is an excellent form of escapism like a good book, movie or a guided meditation, there is a tipping point when fantasy hinders our mental health. 

Whether deliberate or unintentional, many people seek a fantasy reality, or a real-life fantasy experience. ​

Fantasies affect reality and the way you see the world. The "grass is always greener" is a perfect example of living in a fantasy. Just because one moves onto the next relationship or relocates does not mean that perfect fantasy that lives inside our head will occur. 

This type of fantasy is different than the dark fantasy that many people live in. If people's minds are continuously consumed by hate, violence, death and morbidity, there comes a point when one may want to live out that fantasy in real life. 

​They may fantasize about deviant sex they saw in a porno, or may become attracted or empathize with serial killers who used their childhood trauma and lack of empathy to hurt other people. Their own mental anguish and pain and suffering continued to destroy and take away other people's lives. 

Many atheists believe spiritual people live in a delusional fantasy in where no creator exists and life is not interconnected. Although the spiritual community has its flaws, it is possible to be stuck in the ethers without being grounded on the earth plane. On the other hand, spiritual people think atheists are delusional and close minded to think that nothing greater than themselves exist. 

So what is the balance? Balance is needed in everything in life. We should appreciate the divine without getting lost in a fantasy, just like I explained in another post about the Parable of the Flood. 

There comes a point when a fantasy crosses the line. 

Many people break personal boundaries because of being stuck in a fantasy. If you think about this from a Biblical perspective, God doesn't tempt people. God tests people, but doesn't tempt them. 

God is love. God doesn't want you to cheat. God doesn't want you to steal or hurt or kill someone else. That is the work of darker forces to destroy humans on an individual and collective level. 

People who dwell or swim in a fantasy are often not able to be satisfied in real life. They constantly seek more of something. More money. Money stimulus. More possessions. More fantasies. As stated before they are mentally confused and this dissatisfaction will lead them to continuing down a negative path. 

What do you think about fantasy versus reality? In all honesty, who even knows what is real anymore?
Follow
1 Comment

5 Ways to Keep Your Ego in Check

1/28/2020

146 Comments

 
Picture
As humanity progresses into 2020, there are many people awakening to the fact that ego is what has ruined much of mankind. From war to violence, when an unchecked ego and uncontrolled emotions unite, abrasive, abrupt and unpredictbale behaviors occur. 

As stated in the video below, the ego can be seen as "Edging God Out." When not controlled, we become our own gods and defies the law of nature and spiritual creations and laws from God, the Creator. 

The true essence of our spirit on planet earth to grow, evolve and learn how to give and receive love.
 Here are some thoughts to ponder on how to keep the ego in check. 

You Are Just "One Grain of Sand" on the Planet

Humans are like grains of sands. There are billions of us scattered around the world, and each of us are here for a mission. That mission may be to advance humanity, or to discover how to be a good parent in this life. In today's modern "me" culture, we have forgotten that we are in fact are dust or walking beings of chemistry. This has made us forget who we are and our fellow man. The world, other people and the planet's problems often times are much bigger than our own issues. 

Appreciate Those Who Helped You

Bees are fascinating creatures because they all work together to create the honey comb. Human life is no different where many people who have entered our lives have helped us get where we are today. Maybe it was a teacher, or a friend, or a colleague, somewhere in life, (a) human(s) has navigated us to our own success. Even the negative experiences in life are somehow blessings in disguise because they've guided you to heal, mend, triggered or forced you to grow in some way. 

No One is Better Than You

We live in a material world where people think that the rich and famous are "better" than the normal folk. Some people maybe more intelligent, be famous or have more money, but that by no means that anyone is better. The only way someone is "better" is in fact those who are blatantly evil, cruel, violent or abusive to other people. Those individuals are operating out of fear and in the insecurities of their ego. They require tons of soul development. 

Understand the Underlying Lesson

Abrupt changes are difficult in life. Whether you get fired from a job or dumped by your partner, it is common for people to want to fulfill their ego in many ways. Some of the most drastic and unexpected endings are some of the biggest and greatest lessons of the soul. Maybe there is a lesson to learn. Maybe life is making space for something better. Maybe God has a better plan for you, or pushing you out of your comfort zone. The ego wants all the answers. It wants to cry, "Why me?" The ego gets irritated, angry, frustrated and sometimes violent. 

Don't let your ego get the best of you. Self actualization during times of hardship is necessary to see the silver lining or the underlying message. 

Empathizing with Perceptions and Perspectives

The ego believes it is always right. This mindset lacks empathy and the ability to see, or perceive life from another person's shoes. We all have life experiences that shape our perceptions and perspectives. Just because you've never been through something doesn't give a person the ability to discredit another person's emotions, thoughts, feelings or experiences. You may not understand, but you can at least empathize with the person's life experiences. 

​Your way of doing things, or thinking, is not the only way. People don't know what they don't know. 

How do you keep your ego in check?

Follow
146 Comments

5 Spiritual New Year Intentions

1/9/2020

1 Comment

 
Picture
The New Year is here. In fact, this new decade welcomes the opportunity to start fresh on a good note. It is the perfect time to set an intention for the year. In the past, people have had good intentions of setting a resolution, but failed to achieve these goals. Many of the goals were superficial in nature. Lose weight. Look better. Get fit. 

That sounds great, but what about the inner work? What if we aimed to change or enhance our character, personality, ego and spirit?

Instead of setting a resolution, why not set an intention? Intentions are more achievable and do not cling onto specific results.

​Here are five intentions to set for the new year.  
AIM FOR PROGRESS NOT PERFECTION
As mentioned in former Youtube Videos, it is important, when making changes, to focus on the small one-percent changes. We live in a world of perfection. People want the perfect body, the perfect photo, the perfect set of teeth. Our materialistic desires do not match we reality of life. Instead of making something, or finding someone perfect, focus on the small, one-percent improvements. Every step or effort you take leads to big results. 
CHANGE PERSPECTIVES AND PERCEPTIONS
In a world where empathy is on the decline, trying to see things from another person's shoes not only increases empathy, but allows you to see situations and scenarios from other lenses. One way to personally grow is to "see" things from a holistic or spiritual lens. For example, instead of looking at food from a caloric perspective, look at food from a medicinal lens that food is medicine and is healing. 

​Changing perspectives and understanding how other people perceive things improves conflict management and can resolve issues in a diplomatic manner. 
CLEANSE YOUR PHYSICAL, MENTAL + EMOTIONAL BODY
The human body is an ecosystem. In today's marketing world, America has become obsessed with juice detoxes. Detoxes are healthy, when done properly. In some sense, this is also a form of a spiritual cleanse to rid of the toxins, emotions or things that no longer serve you. 

​One doesn't have to do a juice detox in order to cleanse. Eating more raw foods and powerful herbs and spices contribute to the detoxification process without starving oneself. Meditation and yoga are additional tools to aide the cleansing process. 
FINDING CONTENTMENT + GRATITUDE IN LIFE
Life is not easy. We all go through hardships and trials and tribulations. If you find that your basic needs are met, and are broke because of consumerism, this is a good time to reprioritize your budget and gratitude list. While some people worry about the perfect set of snow shoes, somewhere else in the world a person doesn't even own a pair of shoes. 

It is so easy to take our things, people and our very own life for granted in the western world. We are never satisfied. We always want more. We want more money. We want a better job title. We want a bigger car. We want so many things that most of us don't know how to appreciate what we already own. Gratitude lists, along with meditation, is a great way to enhance our appreciation in life. 

BE OF SERVICE
We live in a selfish, egocentric society. One way to break the pattern or mold of "thyself" is through the act of giving and being of service. Science has shown that people who give or are of service are generally happier. Giving is part of our human nature and most people feel good about giving. Christmas is the season of giving, and that spirit should last throughout the entire year.

What is your New Years intention? Good luck and don't beat yourself up if you get off track. That happens in life! 

Let's Connect!

Follow
1 Comment

Empowerment vs. Dis-empowerment: Where are you?

11/12/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Life is one long, crazy journey. Some of us work to live, where others live to evolve their soul and spirit on this planet. As we go, and grow, through life we encounter moments of highs, lows, loneliness, fulfillment and (dis)satisfaction. 

It is common to fluctuate through moments of empowerment and dis-empowerment. Through my work, I've encountered many people from all walks of life who have various mindsets, life experiences and traumas. And as I've reflected events in my life, and pinged ideas off like-minds, personal empowerment is so important in the modern world.  Everyone has the capability of gaining power, and what we've seen for thousands of years is the abuse of power and corruption of the heart. 


Something is not working in the modern world. With the increase of infidelity, lust, drug use and open relationships, many people are craving depth, solidarity, monogamy, giving back and a healthy life. 

The body, nature and society operates best in balance. The more unbalanced we become, the more-tsunami like our ripple effect will be to the world and the more we leave a trace of our carbon footprint on human emotions. 

Personal empowerment breaks the chains of abusive power, constraint and compromising standards. 

em·pow·er·ment - the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one's life and claiming one's rights.

Empowerment is walking away from what no longer serves you. 

Empowerment is being true to your life mission and walking away from the things that hold you  back or put you done. 

Empowerment is knowing yourself in and out and what works, what doesn't and what brings out the best in you.  It is being the investigator in your life, and understanding the depths of your mind, body and soul. To some extent, I believe personal empowerment comes from God and doing the inner work. It is to know your worth and value, but you cannot be a hypocrite in the process. 

Dis-empowerment is the low-ego or low confidence mindset that believes you are NOT worthy, capable of receiving healthy love, or continuously compromising your standards. This is the ungrounded energy that is grasping or grappling for any sort of confidence booster, which usually comes from external substances. Dis-empowerment is NOT respecting yourself. To some extent, darkness or demonic energy wants you to feel HORRIBLE about yourself. 

​What is empowerment vs. dis-empowerment?

Empowerment

  • Loving yourself enough to know you will not accept abuse, neglect or being mistreated, and loving yourself enough to have the strength to walk away. 
  • Understanding your intuitive or God-given gifts and embracing them 
  • Sticking to your convictions and/or uplifting people and their emotional state.
  • You strategize how to lessen emotional disappointment in all relationships with clear / concise communication and intentionally addressing issues in a diplomatic method. 
  • Empower people to live to the best version of themselves. 
  • Having and expressing gratitude and not being entitled.
  • Taking personal responsibility for your actions, behaviors and commitments. 
  • You give back or feel you want to help others (stewardship) as others helped you along the way. 
  • Reasonable with the stages and development of relationships: excitement, development, disappointment, growth.
  • Understand the silver lining regardless of outcomes. 
  • ​Having clarity of purpose. 

Dis-empowerment

  • Not respecting your boundaries or overcompensating just to be nice. 
  • Comparing yourself to others and not being content in your life's path/progression.
  • Being too passive, putting off important conversations because of a fear of confrontation. 
  • Letting people walk all over you.
  • Chronic worry about what other people think of you instead of embracing your gifts. 
  • Victim mentality
  • Letting other people / society / systems control you or take away your autonomy / power. 
  • ​Negative mindset - "I'm not good enough."
  • ​Not believing in yourself or your capabilities / life path. 
It takes time and life experience to feel or to get empowered, and sometimes we need to experience moments of being dis-empowered to become empowered. It is important to not be stuck in the mud, but continue to heal and move through the inner fear to become an empowered lotus flower. Lotus flowers, in order to bloom, must grow through mud and dirty water. 

​Everyone has the ability to gain power, but it depends on how we utilize that power. For good or not. Life is like the ocean, it ebbs and flows. We may bounce in and out stages of (dis)empowerment, but once empowered, it is difficult to walk backwards. 

“The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all.” – Mulan

What are ways you empower yourself? 
Follow
0 Comments

The Human Heart: The Body's Most Vital & Delicate Organ Spiritually

11/5/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
In the world of anatomy, the brain is considered the body's most vital organ. Some professors claim that it is also the body's most delicate organ because the brain is about 75% water and has about 60% fat. It has the consistency of butter. 

The brain indeed is soft and fragile and gives the body commands. Genius minds have advanced human life to the world that we know today. 

However, on energetic and emotional level, the heart is what drives humans to do the most amazing and the most atrocious things. Some people have a heart that is white as snow where others have a heart that is black as coal, and linking that emotion to their mind and ego makes or breaks people, communities and the planet. 
So yes, maybe the brain is the most vital organ; however, there are people who still live and are "brain dead" or in a coma. They are still a living and breathing organism although unable to perform cognitive  and motor function. Life support is necessary. 

Is it possible that the human heart is the most vital
​organ in the body in a spiritual sense?

I noticed how powerful the human heart is at the age of sixteen. My grandmother had a second stroke that left her as a "vegetable." The decision had to be made to unplug her. This to some extent traumatized me, but more so for my mother who was in tears, screaming, "Mom I love you." 

On some level, we were able to recognize that her brain understood the words we communicated to her. At the point of unplugging, we noticed her will to live. The breathing got deeper and the heart continued to pump electricity; although over time decreased, which eventually flatlined. The brain stopped its communication line to breath and once the heart flat-lined, that was the moment of death. 
On this earth plane, the mind is riddled with fear, doubt, guilt and shame. 

However, it is the human heart that drives us to the light or the dark.  The heart is the gateway for many artists. By analyzing art one can sense the emotion, or pain, that lays in that person's heart. The heart is the doorway to what goes on in one's mind. And for those who believe in God, only God knows what goes on inside people's heads and hearts. He is our ultimate surveillance camera. 

Some research states that it takes a man 8.2 seconds to fall in love at first sight. 

​Physiologically, if the heart is not functioning at an optimal level, the other organs including the brain will die from a lack of oxygen. The heart is a complex organ that completes many tasks while under pressure. The heart's pumping action moves many substances throughout the body including nutrients, waste products, hormones, oxygen and our chemical messengers. 
The heart has four chambers, each one that pumps blood into a specific part of the body, and it also has four valves. In the world of spirituality, we have four directions, four seasons and four elements.

In the Bible, Genesis is the book of creation and God is the Creator. And the fourth day is very significant to our creation on earth. 

Genesis 1 verses 14-19: And God said, “Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years, 15 and let them be lights in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth.” And it was so. 16 God made two great lights—the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars. 17 God set them in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth, 18 to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness. And God saw that it was good. 19 And there was evening, and there was morning—the fourth day. 

This is symbolic to the light and the dark features of many human hearts. The outer world is symbolic to our inner world. But God also created the seasons, elements and directions on this fourth day. The energy of our heart can move in various directions. 

​Humans have four limbs. Two arms and two legs that drive or direct us though life. The irony of Jesus being crucified on a cross dictates the power of the human heart. 

YOU ARE THE CROSS!

View this post on Instagram

You are the cross. Something I realized while hiking the #caminodesantiago in Barcelos #portugal and staring at the cross. Right in the center or the crossing point of our body lays the human heart, and on an energetic sense is the most vital organ in the body. More thoughts on today’s #blogpost at mindbodysoul-food.com ❤️ #heart #heartbroken #camino #caminoportugues #cross #jesus #jesuschrist #church #travel #spirit #spirituality #love #europe #europetravel #jacobsweg #wanderlust #blogger

A post shared by Elizabeth Kovar (@erkovar) on Nov 5, 2019 at 10:27am PST

Stand in front of a mirror, with your feet hip distance and reach your arms to shoulder height. These four limbs shape a cross and at the very center of the cross in the human heart. 

In my life experience, I've endured much physical pain through pursuits like studying yoga in India, hiking the camino, playing rugby etc. and the irony is that the human body recovers from pain. The mind has the ability to numb pain. 

The human heart, if not worked through, sometimes will never recover from pain. Energy work, therapy, meditation, yoga, support groups etc. can heal the human heart. 
The human heart also has three layers of tissue that make up the heart wall. â€‹According tobiology dictionary.net the human heart consists of: 
  • The Epicardium. The epicardium is also sometimes considered a part of the protective pericardial membrane around the heart. It helps to keep the heart lubricated and protected.
  • The Myocardium. The myocardium is the muscle of the heart. You can remember this because the root word “myo” comes from “muscle,” while “cardium” comes from “heart.”
    The myocardium is an incredibly strong muscle that makes up most of the heart. It is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body.
  • The Endocardium. The endocardium is a thin, protective layer on the inside of the heart. It is made of smooth, slippery endothelial cells, which prevent blood from sticking to the inside of the heart and forming deadly blood clots.
Why is this important? 

Symbolically, we humans guard our hearts and have protective layers and barriers that we hold because of our past and former pain. Getting to the root of many issues or gaining access to someone's heart is like peeling back the layers of the onion. The more layers you peel the stinkier it is, but also notice the balance between toughness of the core and the delicacy of the protective petals that is removed.

Deep down, our walls are "thin" like the endocardium, which is the seat of our emotions and love. Being vulnerable is not easy, and those who lack moral convictions often take advantage of the vulnerable. They are perceived as weak or prey to the predator.

And that is where the mind comes in. One must use the mind and analytics and guard the heart to know if the other party is genuine. Playing with people's hearts and emotions in my eyes is demonic, and continuing to destroy people's hearts and emotions will continue this negative cycle of violence and pain in society. 

​We all have a choice in this life. We can continue to follow the sheep of mind games, and toying with people's hearts, or we can walk against the grain and live a life with morality and convictions. This life is not easy as one can take many "spiritual bullets" for being different, but that is part of the process and the change one must see in the world.

Love is the most powerful energy on this planet. Love is what makes people thrive. Love saves lives. And love also takes lives. Wars have been started or created in the name of love. Musicians create songs in light of love. And wives have been murdered as the result of pain in love. 

What do you think? Is the heart the most powerful and delicate organ in an energetic sense? 
Follow
0 Comments

Love is a Basic Human Need

9/26/2019

3 Comments

 
Picture
Love and feeling like one belongs in a community or their family is part of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. It is simple to say that love is a basic human need. 

If analyzing modern society, it seems that we are not doing a good job at this notion. A lack of respect and acceptance along with the rise in Artificial Intelligence, has caused people to isolate themselves, igniting loneliness and anti-social behavior. Those who lack love either feel lonely, worthless or end up on the wrong path in life.

​I believe humans are not meant to wander alone in life. We are social creatures, and love is the glue that binds us all. 
Picture
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Maslow%27s_hierarchy_of_needs.svg
Love is physical, but it also fulfills humans on an emotional level. Many equate to love as a romantic partnership or gesture (like procreation), but love extends to various different aspects of life. Humans have an innate nurturing aspect within themselves. Even those who are childless often find a passion for taking care of something whether it'd be a pet or a garden. 

​​Love is a part of the Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Once basic earth-plane needs are met, love is an important aspect of human life. There is a reason why "Find Your Tribe" has become a popular term. It is because we yearn for a sense of belonging within a community, or from other people. 

It is natural for humans to want to be with a significant other, or to have a family. In fact, research shows that falling in love was one of the only emotional highs that humans once suffered.

But love goes beyond romance. Giving and receiving love is equally important. Those who are "pent" up with love need to channel it somewhere. And humans also crave receiving love and affection from one another. In the world of single parents, it is often the unconditional love that a child has for his or her parents keeps that single parent going. An act of kindness is what keeps hope alive in a person who feels lonely or suicidal. 

The ancient Greeks believed in five forms of love: familial love, friendly / platonic love, romantic love, guest love and divine love. Love is considered a virtue comprised of kindness, compassion and affection. Healthy forms of selfless love is what nourishes humans. 
But like everything in life, there is a dark or selfish side of love that drives humans away. Modern authors have identified forms of love such as unrequited love, empty love, infatuated love, companionate love, self-love and courtly love. These forms of love can isolate people, ignite mistrust or lead people to suicide or to kill. Many serial killers have a history of family dysfunction and not receiving love from the biological parents. Those who go too deep in self-love become narcissists. 

Love is no joke. Love can save someone or destroy someone.  But love is a basic human need. Our hearts are organs that keep us alive physically and spiritually.  In order to avoid depression, anxiety and loneliness humans need a balance between giving and receiving love. And some of the love might  be channeling that energy towards a passion like painting or rock climbing.

An equal balance is ideal but having some form of love keeps us motivated and going in life. 

What do you think? Is love a basic need?
Let's Connect!

3 Comments

Life is a Series of Patterns

8/29/2019

1 Comment

 
Picture
Have you ever heard that history repeats itself? Have you ever noticed patterns in nature? Or ever noticed the same patterns pop up in your life? 

If so, you are not alone. It happens to everyone because life is a series of patterns. 

“Mathematics is the beautiful language of the universe.”

Whether you are looking at the stars, or the patterns on a leopard, everything in nature has a pattern. The season itself follows the same pattern, year after year. The Fibonacci sequence appears in many places in nature from flowers to shells to the vegetables we eat. 

Everything in life has patterns, which roots to mathematics. Even astrologers say that there are patterns in the sky that repeat itself. 

Ironically, some astrologers found that around 2016 we were entering the same star alignment as World War II. Although history did not repeat itself entirely, similar themes were present. This is part of the reason why history repeats itself. 

It's not necessarily a literal interpretation, but more of metaphors. Throughout history wars, class-ism, colonialism, poverty cycles, population-sweeping plagues and social movements are seen continuously through history. Some claim history doesn't repeat, but rhymes. Regardless, similar situations surface from the past. 

It's like a Hollywood movie, same story different actors. When understanding this from a metaphorical standpoint, one begins to see history repeat itself. 
Picture
Picture
Picture

“When you are paying attention to your thoughts, words, actions, feelings, food habits, reactions, decisions, secrets, patterns, and physique, you start tuning in consciously.” 
― Dr Prem Jagyasi

Patterns even exist within us. Our behaviors have a pattern. How you think, react, behave, respond etc. all has patterns. The negative patterns need to be analyzed and changed for improvements. 

Ever wonder why you attract the same situation or type of people in your life? It is probably because life will send you the same patterns until you learn your lesson and change the pattern. An example are emotional eaters. They get triggered by an external issue and then find themselves coping their emotions with food. The feel good hormones will only let you feel good for so long. 

“Pay attention to the intricate patterns of your existence that you take for granted.” 
― Doug Dillon

In matters of the heart, i believe our souls are here to graduate from various experiences. We are often sent the same types of people or situations to force us to change and break the pattern. The ones who refuse to change (or say learn a lesson like standing up for themselves).

Regardless if your patterns show up in work or your personal life, each person must be accountable for their own actions and behaviors to understand why these patterns keep taking place. 

If you notice the same pattern starting, consult your intuition and take its message seriously. I used to think that my past experiences prepped me for that current experience, but what I realized was that the current experience was merely a pattern repeating itself, and it was up to me to repeat the pattern, or walk away and graduate. Many of these patterns forced me to do something I didn't do in the past like communicate about my feelings, stick up for myself or progress my self worth by not dealing with the same situation anymore. 

You shouldn't ignore patterns. Patterns are telling you to either try something, fix something or remove something from your life. 

Most of what we attract occurs on a subconscious level. Many people may be happy externally and think positively, but still attract the same negative patterns. 

Why is this?

-Many patterns are learned behaviors from childhood and passed down from our parents. Example: If  one parent brings up an issue, the other parent who is emotionally defensive may react impulsively and begin screaming. The child, in adult years, may learn that when fighting with a spouse, aruging and yelling is the automatic response to work through the issue. 

-Personal Vibration - Many people are not aware that they attract many negative people or situations because they themselves are operating on a lower vibration (guilt, shame, lack of self-worth), which attracts people on the same wave length.

-Patterns force us to grow. Sometimes reemerging situations come about for us to analyze the past and heal the wounds and trauma. 

-The DNA remembers trauma, wounds, heartaches and broken time periods. Some situations may feel comfortable or normal to us. Example: Drama / chaos addicts can't live in peace as much as they want to, and unbeknownst to them may stir up drama and chaos subconsciously because this is normal. Or what is in our DNA is constantly thought about stirring in our mental and emotional bodies. What we think, sometimes we attract. 


Patterns are around us, and within us. It is up to us to consciously analyze our life and take control of what we can control - ourselves. 
What do you think about patterns?
Follow
1 Comment

Do People Really Change?

8/20/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
This is one of those million dollar questions. Do you think people change?

I think yes and no. People can change, but it has to come from within. Like a budding flower, that burning desire has to come from within to want that seed to germinate.

Some people change. And some people will never change. To some degree, everyone has a baseline. It takes attitude, character and a non-judgmental analysis on your life in order to change. That is what self-actualization is all about. 

You have to want to change. So many people in today's world are open to changing jobs, careers and changing their material status, but they are not open to changing their attitude, belief systems, character or developing themselves spiritually. 
Picture
I think change requires a mix of spiritual and psychological analysis. If people took the amount of time they spend watching the television, playing video games or "flipping" through Facebook, on improving themselves, the world would be a different place. Some souls are here to change the world, but most of us are the regular Joes that keep society afloat. 

Change is not a quick fix. It is a journey that is a process of highs and lows. It is self accountability. 

The first step to change is to become aware. As you analyze your life, you will need self-awareness without judgement. Most people sabotage themselves because they are stuck in this mindset. Blaming other people for your problems  or  believing t hat change can't happen is a negative mindset. We are what we  believe. 

Some people are aware of their issues, demons, or problems but still don't change. Why is this? 

Most people desire a quick fix. I see this in the diet industry all the time. Try this 30-day detox to lose 30  lbs. in weight." It's a hack, but not a permanent change. Humans need a no nonsense commitment to change. Most people today want hacks, not commitments. 

it's the moment in quiet self-reflection that the higher and lower mind unite to make this commitment. It is the unity of the physical, mental and emotional body to realize that work  must be done. 

Change is not easy nor is it comfortable. It forces you to get out of the comfort zone. I am an advocate for balance, but depending on the change, some people have to go cold turkey. With the hardest addictions like drugs, sex, alcohol or cigarettes, most people can't live in moderation. They are not wired that way. A heroin addict can't just shoot up once per week. They have to go cold turkey and focus on the therapy that gets them healthy again. 

Fear, rigidity and self-sabotage hinder one's growth process. Discipline and commitment is the hardest for most, which is why they slip back into old behaviors. And this very thought makes people wonder if change is even possible?

Genetics and environment plays a role on how adaptable one is to change. The older people get, the harder it is to change. It is still possible. 

Spiritually, I've met people who had near death experiences come out of those experiences completely different and remove and walk away from the negativity in their life.  It took nearly dying for them to "wake up" and change. Sometimes it takes a murderer in prison to read the bible, repent and realize how their life was changed because of spiritual teachings and finding God. 

There is no one path to change, but it is possible. In this world. anything is possible. 

What do you think? Do people change? 

0 Comments
<<Previous
Forward>>

    Author

    Elizabeth Rae Kovar M.A. is  Author of her memoir, Finding Om and is a Fitness Trainer, Yogi, Reiki Master, Presenter and Lover of Life. To view her portfolio please visit www.elizabethkovar.com
    Follow her travels at: lemontreetravel.com

    Picture
    Follow
    View my profile on LinkedIn

    Categories

    All
    Body
    Food
    Metaphysics
    Mind
    Soul
    Sunspiration
    Vegan Recipes
    Wellness Travel
    YouTube

    Archives

    October 2022
    April 2022
    February 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015

    RSS Feed

Proudly powered by Weebly
  • Home
  • About
    • Work With Me
    • Partners & Collaborations
  • Blog
  • Books
    • Resources
  • Recipes
  • Videos
  • Sunspiration
  • Contact