AWAKENINGWith the spring equinox we enter a time of awakening as winter turns into spring. Our natural rhythms are very much connected to the cycles of the earth even when we are unaware of it. The earth is in the process of rebirth, growth, awakening, and expansion. In obvious and subtle ways we feel and live that energy.
Jolie on Demand will focus the time following the spring equinox on the concept of awakening from an emotional standpoint. It is a opening to relate to ourselves deeper and use our emotions to connect with love for self and others. Jolie is living beautifully and eating beautifully. Below you will find several opportunities to expand, rebirth, grow and awaken using the modalities the characterize the jolie principles of biodynamic healing. Meditation of AwakeningAwakening Journal Prompt
After exercise, yoga, or meditation spend a few minutes on the following questions several times in the next few weeks. Simply list the answers in a stream of consciousness manner - no judgement, no justification, no self criticism. There may be many answers that come, just a few, or none at all. However, it unfolds is perfect.
After answering the questions, allow yourself to sit with the answers and say out loud, “I accept that (fill in the blank).” The practice is simply to accept. Acceptance is not condoning; it is opening up to what is happening at this moment. It is to stop pushing and through your acceptance shift into a space where you can relax and open. When we open, we accept the help of the universe. It is easier then to shift things to the positive. RitualSmudging is a great practice to do weekly, but particularly at seasonal change. Rituals are outward acts of internal intentions. Remember that because it is your intention that matters most, you are free to change and adapt rituals to your lifestyle, beliefs, and likes always. For smudging you may not like to burn herbs or wood, so simply light a candle with the intention that the energy of winter shift into the vibrant energy of spring.
Clear negativity from your space. Also, by smudging yourself you release any negativity which has attached to you; for example, the residue of a argument can hang on to us long after the incident. We release that.
MantraI love myself as I am.
I open and welcome light. Thought behind the mantra: To awaken, we must be aware of our thoughts and emotions without judgement. When we can simple open the door to how we feel without judgement we reach a state of neutrality which allow us to shift and move into a positive direction. Standing in judgement of yourself or your emotions keeps you stuck. Nourishment
A wonderful soup to bring you into spring is Osaka Soup. This is a simplified version of a soup that will be featured in the jolie Detox menu which will be offered periodically throughout the year. It is a light, nourishing soup which helps heal the gut and bring the body back into balance.
A healthy gut predisposes us to happier emotions and more calm. The microbes in our gut greatly effect our mood and energy level. Attention paid to keeping yourself healthy from within will greatly pay off in more resilience and joy. The Recipe
2 cups chicken bone broth 2 cups mushroom broth ¼ c. dried wakame soaked in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes 1 bunch asparagus, cut into 1 inch pieces Optional additions: A pinch of each: thyme, cinnamon, ground ginger, turmeric, mushroom powder, sea salt. Chopped parsley. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors. Server warm. Makes 4 servings. Note: A quick, less complex mushroom broth can be made by simmering dried shiitake mushrooms in water: 1 cup mushrooms to 2 cups water. Superfood for Your Emotions: ASHWAGANDHAAshwagandha is one of the roots in the jolie Medicinal Broth and is one of the most helpful adaptogens we can use on a daily basis.
An adaptogen works on many systems of the body with no negative side effects and can be used for prolonged periods with no loss in potency or adverse effect. As it regards emotions, Ashwagandha helps reduce stress and anxiety; it reduces the symptoms of depression; reduces cortisol in our bodies. In addition, it boost our immune system, increases insulin sensitivity, and improves brain function. Body Care Practice: Dry Brushing
Dry brush will gently shed dry winter skin. Gently brushing your skin helps to improve circulation, elasticity, and cell turnover. It will also help the skin detoxify your body by removing dead skin cells which hamper the release of toxins.
To dry brush:
Movement PracticeYoga began as a physical practice used to quiet the mind to reach higher states of self knowledge and awareness. Many of the poses are directly tied to emotional release. Then, just as now, the ancient yogis recognized that emotions get stored in the body if not released. When left in the body, stuck emotions create energy blocks which impact health, flexibility, and create pain. The hips are places where emotions of fear, anxiety, and sadness are stored. To release these emotions, practice hip opening poses prior to meditation or journaling. Recommended poses: Camel Child’s Pose Pigeon | ||
