November 25, 2014

Be the Best Version of Yourself || 11.25.14

November 25, 2014/ ekfriend

'Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.' ~Dr. Seuss

Especially during the holidays, we just need to be ourselves. Be it single or in a relationship, slender or overweight, sad or happy, rejuvenated or exhausted, we just need to be ourselves. Let all the weight of others' expectations fall away and breathe in your own skin. Allow yourself to breathe and be breathed by the joy of the season. There is no need to stress. Just be the best versions of yourselves in this crazy maze of life. Let Aunt Whatsis and Uncle Whosis have their peace -- answer their questions with honor and integrity, being proud of who you are, what you do, and how you live your life. And remember to always love. Love yourself and love others for all that they are and all they have become. We strive so much to project the perfect persona onto others -- unnecessary as all that we must do is find comfort within ourselves. A hard task but incredibly worthwhile.

Will you own exactly who you are this holiday season?

xxoo

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November 23, 2014

Slow Down & Give Thanks || 11.24.14

November 23, 2014/ ekfriend

|| Time for Thanks & Giving ||

Down to the hours before I board a plane and begin a 4 day break much needed during this hectic holiday time. I can't believe last week happened so quickly, though time did offer me space to get the things I needed done. Thank goodness! Tomorrow, I'm looking forward to grabbing my borrowed carry-on, zipping up my ankle boots, and taking my time walking in the airport before parking my bottom next to a stranger on a packed plane and starting conversation -- I meet the nicest people on airplanes. With tests done, projects created, and artwork mastered (for the most part), I feel like my mind and body are begging for some relaxation. Headed your way is a holiday survival guide fit for Thanksgiving that I plan on putting to good use this week. I spent the weekend getting caught up, a mix between stress and ease, so it really is time for a slow down.

What is everyone up to this season? Any fun Thanksgiving traditions? Each one of my holidays have been so different from the last that I couldn't pin point a tradition if I tried. I'd love to hear all about your rituals.

Anyone staying mindful lately? Especially now, we need to remember all that we can give thanks for in our lives. ||Challenge|| Now more than ever is our time to be grateful, so write down, think aloud, or imagine the beautiful facets of our lives for which we can give thanks. I'd love it if you would share with me some of your thoughts.
I'd love to hear how you all are doing. How was everyone's weekend?

|| GRATITUDE ||

I am grateful for having a body that moves and a brain that works.

I am grateful for accomplishing tasks on my to-do list.

I am grateful for upcoming family time.

I am grateful for yoga.

I am grateful for meditation and a gentle reminder to be quiet and listen.

I am grateful for being a constant student in this class called life.

I am grateful for everyone in my life, good and bad, who teach me the lessons I most need to learn.

I am grateful for love and passion, hope and expectation, breath and laughter.

What are you grateful for?

xxoo

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November 21, 2014

Busy Weekend to Come ||Friday Finds|| 11.21.14

November 21, 2014/ ekfriend

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WEEKEND ||

This week has been utterly exhausting in a really empowering way, however. I've been working tirelessly until my eyes close on their own will, then finally drifting off listening to Oprah and Deepak's 21-day meditation challenge. It's been glorious. I've been trying not to say words like stressed and rushed and unable to get anything done, because I truly believe that if I repeat those words enough that is all I will feel. Instead, I've been replacing my tired phrases with 'it will all get done' and 'a lot on my to-do list, but time to get it all done'. I just have to keep plugging away. My mind is ready for rest, and I sure will get that starting on Tuesday. Meanwhile I have many more things to cross off my list, but don't we all. I wish we could all value our time on Earth in kindness and gratitude rather than how much stress and frustration we have towards someone or something. It would make for a different planet, wouldn't it? Anyway, this is all I have time to write... plus we all know you secretly skip to the links (it's okay, I do that first anyway). Have a lovely, loving weekend. Stay warm, curl up, grab some zzz's, watch some Netflix, and let me know how everything is going.