Posts
New Look 6912 - One-shoulder Dress
1 hour ago
Tuesday, 9 February 2010
Monday, 8 February 2010
Sunday, 7 February 2010
Latin Reggae: Quique Neira
He lives on!
Film Rewind: Queen of the Damned
Jogging back time...
Who remembers this vampire movie?
Scene from movie "Queen of the Damned" of the vampire Akasha, played by Aaliyah...
Saturday, 6 February 2010
Friday, 5 February 2010
Thursday, 4 February 2010
Back To Basics: Greeting The Day With Sun Salutations
The Glorious Sun Salutation
What if you greeted every single day with a few of these?
How much better would you feel?
I often put pressure on my Self to find time to workout and then I get super mad when I don't... So on a simple note, getting back to basics and just spending a few minutes each morning to do these might just get me back in the mood to get a steady routine going once again...
"Breathe" lol.
London Flamenco Festival 2010: 13th-27th Feb.
London Flamenco Festival 2010: 13th-27th Feb.
Here are two of my favourite modern flamenco artists...
Since 1998 Pasión Gitana, JoaquÃn Cortés has been my eye candy lol...
I never thought in a million years when I was little that a Black woman would enter the world of flamenco until Concha Buika came along. She performed previously in this flamenco festival.
UK Natural Hair:Naturally Sexy
Yet again, another fantastic UK website celebrating natural hair - Yay lol!
@ www.naturallysexy.co.uk
Wednesday, 3 February 2010
Food Focus: Quinoa
Here's a quick and easy salad you can prepare with quinoa, great for lunch!
Or if you prefer a warming soup for these colder months, try this soup!
Tuesday, 2 February 2010
Cree Summer's Perfect Words
The lyrics in this song is such a beautiful reminder to live life everyday to the fullest!
"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing."
- Helen Keller
Monday, 1 February 2010
Feb Challenge: Paris, Here I Come!
Happy Feb 2010
Today I was reminded with snow that Spring/Summer 2010 is still a long-ish wait... Thank goodness the colder months will be drawing to a close and I'm planning on taking a trip to Paris to celebrate the next new season - feeling excited even though its a while away! So my Feb challenge is going to be to get back into learning French.
My teacher always said that all it takes to master a language is 10 minutes a day of dedicated self study. Hmmmmmmmm. OK, I'll test it and see where it takes me this month.
Saturday, 30 January 2010
Calling All Euro-Naturals!
Calling all natural women and men who live in UK and Europe. I'd love to hear from you and post up some entries about your natural journey and explorewhere you are living!
Interview = Inner-view
It'll be your space to share!
I look forward to hearing from you ;o)
Email: contact@holisticlocs.com
Thursday, 28 January 2010
If You Loved Avatar, Read This Book!
Blessings fam!
I took some time out to work on exams, start a few new (scary) projects, reflect and mourn one of my oldest school friend's loss of life in Haiti. I found out that her father died too from a heart attack soon after hearing the news. So sad! She was such a beautiful person and inspired me to follow my dream and holistic health path. Her family were so great too!
It's crazy how a disaster in one part of the world always throws out strong ripples to the rest of the world. And everyone feels it. My heart goes out to everyone who has been affected by this tragic event.
I decided to dial the clock backwards and reflect on things that made and inspired me to be who I am today...
So many forgotten gems came out!
One of them was this book...
I took some time out to work on exams, start a few new (scary) projects, reflect and mourn one of my oldest school friend's loss of life in Haiti. I found out that her father died too from a heart attack soon after hearing the news. So sad! She was such a beautiful person and inspired me to follow my dream and holistic health path. Her family were so great too!
It's crazy how a disaster in one part of the world always throws out strong ripples to the rest of the world. And everyone feels it. My heart goes out to everyone who has been affected by this tragic event.
I decided to dial the clock backwards and reflect on things that made and inspired me to be who I am today...
So many forgotten gems came out!
One of them was this book...
Earth: Pleiadian Keys to the Living Library
... A book I got in the 90's that blew my mind....then I left it at the back of the bookshelf at my mother's house. Forgot about it for years, until it came to mind with Avatar. Dug it out, dusted it off and sat my Self down with a a huge mug of cocoa for another re-run of beautiful words. My notes are still there, kinda faded as I wrote many in pencil but it made for a great find!
If you loved the messages in Avatar, you will love this book. It plays with different spiritual paths and takes you on a story where it explains everything on a metaphysical level... including information on our DNA, ancestors, energy, astrology, Goddess energy, Earth sciences, other beings and more. Yeah, some might say its a bit wacky lol, but it (kinda) makes sense to me (sometimes lol)!
Reading it this time around, I found this book did question my own spiritual thoughts (all over again), some things I agree on - others I don't, but the overall information was interesting/inspiring when I relaxed and opened my mind, without judgement.
... A book I got in the 90's that blew my mind....then I left it at the back of the bookshelf at my mother's house. Forgot about it for years, until it came to mind with Avatar. Dug it out, dusted it off and sat my Self down with a a huge mug of cocoa for another re-run of beautiful words. My notes are still there, kinda faded as I wrote many in pencil but it made for a great find!
If you loved the messages in Avatar, you will love this book. It plays with different spiritual paths and takes you on a story where it explains everything on a metaphysical level... including information on our DNA, ancestors, energy, astrology, Goddess energy, Earth sciences, other beings and more. Yeah, some might say its a bit wacky lol, but it (kinda) makes sense to me (sometimes lol)!
Reading it this time around, I found this book did question my own spiritual thoughts (all over again), some things I agree on - others I don't, but the overall information was interesting/inspiring when I relaxed and opened my mind, without judgement.
Natural London Girl: Rox
ROX - My Baby Left Me
ROX | MySpace Music Videos
Monday, 18 January 2010
The 7 Year Cycle Theory..... Hmmmm
Cycles of Seven
You enter the world as an energy, totally aware, totally open and totally knowledgeable. Everything you need to achieve the goals in your life is given to you. The seven-year cycles are a flow, a rhythm. It is not something cut and dried. You may feel it coming or going two years in advance or two years later as it builds, peaks, and wanes. The seven-year cycles are an evolutionary spiral. They belong to every being that has ever been created. There is no one who does not go through them.
There is a natural release of energy every seven years which encourages you to move forward and make changes.
Every seven years there is, within the system, a total change. It is a soul's demand to be seen as an individual, not as a collective. At the age of seven, the first realization of self begins to occur.
Read Article...
You enter the world as an energy, totally aware, totally open and totally knowledgeable. Everything you need to achieve the goals in your life is given to you. The seven-year cycles are a flow, a rhythm. It is not something cut and dried. You may feel it coming or going two years in advance or two years later as it builds, peaks, and wanes. The seven-year cycles are an evolutionary spiral. They belong to every being that has ever been created. There is no one who does not go through them.
There is a natural release of energy every seven years which encourages you to move forward and make changes.
Every seven years there is, within the system, a total change. It is a soul's demand to be seen as an individual, not as a collective. At the age of seven, the first realization of self begins to occur.
Read Article...
Saturday, 16 January 2010
Friday, 15 January 2010
Modern Women? Sex And The City
I'm seeing this trailer everywhere as the hype builds up towards the Summer. Yes, I do love watching it but I'm kind of having second thoughts about whether this is a healthy vision of modern women today...
When it all started, I think I was naturally open to it... After all, I hadn't seen anything like it - it was a refreshing show... (alhtough it did remind me of a revamped version of Waiting To Exhale - love that movie)... here were 4 women, living their dream, on their terms... what could possibly be wrong with that?!? Then I discovered other similar series like Girlfriends... more love to these shows! Modern women were starting to make their Self known as strong, independant, happy, self confident etc in the mainstream media....
So, whats *my* problem now?!?
Random recent observations...
Since Sex And The City came out, the increase in magazines that potray women in a negative light (pointing out how awful a celebrity looks, drawing circles on pictures to mark out cellulite, negative gossip etc) has grown - I am not saying that the two are related of course. It just feels like a general trend of mags and media (usually by women for women) who are turning the positive vision of modern women into a tired negative experience. When did it all start getting ugly? I love fashion and occasionally tune into celeb news but where's the positive experiene? (One of the many reasons I don't buy hair and fashion mags anymore). It just feels really uncomfortable to me.
I recently returned back to college in 2008, after being in college ten years previously also. Naturally, a great amount of students are a much younger age than me... I'm loving the college experience again but I am shocked at how much pressure from the media young women seem to be in (size zero, having to have label clothing, looking up to WAGS as role models etc.) ... did I face the same pressures back then?!? I don't think so and I'm glad too!
I also notice that there is a different movement growing... that of the Holistic creative modern woman. I saw this logo which kind of made a point of it in a strange way lol...
I feel much more connected to the modrn Goddess energy movement, where women are drawn to the old ways and using it in their everyday life, along side the positive aspects of being a woman today (more choices, women's libs, breaking out of the box etc) and having the freedom to explore Self with more creativity... it works for me!
All this leaves me asking...
So, what is a healthy positive image of modern women today?
Do you feel images of women (like in Sex And The Ciy) potray a positive image for modern women?
How do we find the balance between celebrating our past and present?
What do you think our generation/era of women will be remembered for?
It is a big topic I know lol!
Just sharing a few reflection Q's I'll be working on today.
When it all started, I think I was naturally open to it... After all, I hadn't seen anything like it - it was a refreshing show... (alhtough it did remind me of a revamped version of Waiting To Exhale - love that movie)... here were 4 women, living their dream, on their terms... what could possibly be wrong with that?!? Then I discovered other similar series like Girlfriends... more love to these shows! Modern women were starting to make their Self known as strong, independant, happy, self confident etc in the mainstream media....
So, whats *my* problem now?!?
Random recent observations...
Since Sex And The City came out, the increase in magazines that potray women in a negative light (pointing out how awful a celebrity looks, drawing circles on pictures to mark out cellulite, negative gossip etc) has grown - I am not saying that the two are related of course. It just feels like a general trend of mags and media (usually by women for women) who are turning the positive vision of modern women into a tired negative experience. When did it all start getting ugly? I love fashion and occasionally tune into celeb news but where's the positive experiene? (One of the many reasons I don't buy hair and fashion mags anymore). It just feels really uncomfortable to me.
I recently returned back to college in 2008, after being in college ten years previously also. Naturally, a great amount of students are a much younger age than me... I'm loving the college experience again but I am shocked at how much pressure from the media young women seem to be in (size zero, having to have label clothing, looking up to WAGS as role models etc.) ... did I face the same pressures back then?!? I don't think so and I'm glad too!
I also notice that there is a different movement growing... that of the Holistic creative modern woman. I saw this logo which kind of made a point of it in a strange way lol...
I feel much more connected to the modrn Goddess energy movement, where women are drawn to the old ways and using it in their everyday life, along side the positive aspects of being a woman today (more choices, women's libs, breaking out of the box etc) and having the freedom to explore Self with more creativity... it works for me!
All this leaves me asking...
So, what is a healthy positive image of modern women today?
Do you feel images of women (like in Sex And The Ciy) potray a positive image for modern women?
How do we find the balance between celebrating our past and present?
What do you think our generation/era of women will be remembered for?
It is a big topic I know lol!
Just sharing a few reflection Q's I'll be working on today.
Wednesday, 13 January 2010
Afro Glitz Mag
Today's link came to me by accident just a few minutes ago, while searching for pics on locs. Check it out!
Afro Glitz Magazine
Tuesday, 12 January 2010
Rewind! 702 Performing You Don't Know
UK Hair Inspiration: Angela Griffin
A fantastic actress and has a regular daytime show called Angela And Friends which makes for a fun afternoon in catching up on gossip, beauty, fashion, etc...
Read her napptural interview
And check out these lovely pics...
Monday, 11 January 2010
Sade Video Release! She Looks AMAZING!
What's incredible is she will be 51 years old soon (born on January 16, 1959) - Doesn't she look AMAZING!
Sunday, 10 January 2010
Crystal Healing & Space Clearing
2010 has been so wonderful already!
I had a really good question from a client today. She recently went to a crystal shop and felt drawn to buy a crystal after speaking to the lady selling it.
She asked:
How do I use my crystal(s) to keep my chakras balanced?
Firstly, the best way to find a crystal to work with is to go to a shop that sells them - then you will have time to look around, touch, feel drawn to which crystal(s) feel right for you. Trust your instincts. When you hold each crystal, what feelings do you have? And when you feel drwn to one, take a few seconds to gaze at it... what do you like about it?
If you are not able to go to a shop near you, use meditation, visualisation and clear images to help you.
As a guide, have a look at which chakras and crystals work together.
When you have bought your crystal, one of the first things to do is cleanse its energy. Buy some sea salt and fill a large container with warm water. Add sea salt into the water, stir until dissolved. Then place your crystal(s) into it. Place near a window where it can absorb sunlight. And leave for 48 hours. This will remove negative energy that may have been absorbed by others and people from the shop/environment before you bought it.
You will need to do this 1-2 times a week to keep your crystal positive and healthy.
For full information on crystal cleansing, read this great website with so much information.
Space Clearing:
If you haven't already cleared your home of negative energy for 2010, here are some of my favourite tips to clear your space:
~ I love doing space clearing and meditating everytime I clear or move into a new place. And for New Year too!
~ I know plants have an amazing effect on the energy of a room - If I remember correctly, aloe vera and cactus plants are brilliant for clearing up negative energy. Generally, plants make me feel happy and add some life in a dull/stagnant place.
~ Outside (like in the garden or balcony), I'll use incense but indoors, I'll use an oil burner - favourite essential oils to clear are lemongrass (yum!), rosemary, juniper or peppermint. I light it up as soon as I wake up and keep it on while in the house.
~ I love those small indoor water fountains, so soothing and relaxing!
~ When moving around, a spray of water/essential oils comes in handy - spray in the space (like in the car or office) to give a quick boost to the energy.
~ Hanging up positive images and pictures, especially around mirrors - when reflecting Self in the mirror, to include your positive images/affirmations.
~ Negative energy is heavy and at feet/ground level, so apparently stamping your barefeet hard when romoving shoes at the door helps to disperse it so it doesn't enter and drag into your home.
~ Only allowing positive people into your home - don't bring bad company into your sacred space.
~ Use natural materials where posible to connect with nature.
~ Using colour to uplift in lighting and home decor.
~ Having a rose quartz in the room to bring and enhance love energy.
~ Having a shower when coming back from outside so you remove energy from other people/places.
~ Having fresh flowers or drying your own flowers (I hang my flowers upsaide down to make dry flowers) around the house.
~ Having a special sacred space at your home where you meditate, post up images and reflect.
~ Having as much natural lighting as possile in the day hours.
~ Cleaning with non-toxic natural products.
~ Blessing the main doorway with good intention so when you enter or leave your house, the energy is carried with you.
Hope that helps ;o)
I had a really good question from a client today. She recently went to a crystal shop and felt drawn to buy a crystal after speaking to the lady selling it.
She asked:
How do I use my crystal(s) to keep my chakras balanced?
Firstly, the best way to find a crystal to work with is to go to a shop that sells them - then you will have time to look around, touch, feel drawn to which crystal(s) feel right for you. Trust your instincts. When you hold each crystal, what feelings do you have? And when you feel drwn to one, take a few seconds to gaze at it... what do you like about it?
If you are not able to go to a shop near you, use meditation, visualisation and clear images to help you.
As a guide, have a look at which chakras and crystals work together.
When you have bought your crystal, one of the first things to do is cleanse its energy. Buy some sea salt and fill a large container with warm water. Add sea salt into the water, stir until dissolved. Then place your crystal(s) into it. Place near a window where it can absorb sunlight. And leave for 48 hours. This will remove negative energy that may have been absorbed by others and people from the shop/environment before you bought it.
You will need to do this 1-2 times a week to keep your crystal positive and healthy.
For full information on crystal cleansing, read this great website with so much information.
Space Clearing:
If you haven't already cleared your home of negative energy for 2010, here are some of my favourite tips to clear your space:
~ I love doing space clearing and meditating everytime I clear or move into a new place. And for New Year too!
~ I know plants have an amazing effect on the energy of a room - If I remember correctly, aloe vera and cactus plants are brilliant for clearing up negative energy. Generally, plants make me feel happy and add some life in a dull/stagnant place.
~ Outside (like in the garden or balcony), I'll use incense but indoors, I'll use an oil burner - favourite essential oils to clear are lemongrass (yum!), rosemary, juniper or peppermint. I light it up as soon as I wake up and keep it on while in the house.
~ I love those small indoor water fountains, so soothing and relaxing!
~ When moving around, a spray of water/essential oils comes in handy - spray in the space (like in the car or office) to give a quick boost to the energy.
~ Hanging up positive images and pictures, especially around mirrors - when reflecting Self in the mirror, to include your positive images/affirmations.
~ Negative energy is heavy and at feet/ground level, so apparently stamping your barefeet hard when romoving shoes at the door helps to disperse it so it doesn't enter and drag into your home.
~ Only allowing positive people into your home - don't bring bad company into your sacred space.
~ Use natural materials where posible to connect with nature.
~ Using colour to uplift in lighting and home decor.
~ Having a rose quartz in the room to bring and enhance love energy.
~ Having a shower when coming back from outside so you remove energy from other people/places.
~ Having fresh flowers or drying your own flowers (I hang my flowers upsaide down to make dry flowers) around the house.
~ Having a special sacred space at your home where you meditate, post up images and reflect.
~ Having as much natural lighting as possile in the day hours.
~ Cleaning with non-toxic natural products.
~ Blessing the main doorway with good intention so when you enter or leave your house, the energy is carried with you.
Hope that helps ;o)
Australian Roots Reggae: Blue King Brown
This beautiful napptural always keeps her music super positive and light! I came across her a few years back and she reminded me so much of a friend of mine... you know how some people just seem to radiate a great aura! Yeah, it was nice finding her music in my computer files again!
More info on this band:
Tune in!
Food 4 Thought: Are Locs Another Just "Fix" or Cover Up For Nappy Hair?
Saturday, 9 January 2010
Vegie Food Focus: Lisa's Kitchen Blog
There's still a big snow panic over here in the UK and in this weather I go into hibernation mode lol... dusting off old books and mags, yoga, blogging, sleeping, dreaming...
And FOOD...oh yes, I love cooking food in this weather! I get lazy about it during the hotter months (the food tends to be a lot lighter for me too...more juicing etc.), but I always crave flavour-full (spicy even) food in these months. Yum ;o)
I had a look through my kitchen and found the humble azuki beans... perfect for keeping full for longer, packed with healthy goodness - and as I have been looking to tone up, lose a few kgs and start capoeira again, it's a perfect source of vegie protein.
A quick google search later and I found many recipes using azuki beans.
I have found many blogs in the past for vegie recipes but Lisa's Kitchen is GREAT ... I seriosluy can't find any recipe that I wouldn't like to try for myself and it promises to add some spice into vegie cooking - inspired!
And FOOD...oh yes, I love cooking food in this weather! I get lazy about it during the hotter months (the food tends to be a lot lighter for me too...more juicing etc.), but I always crave flavour-full (spicy even) food in these months. Yum ;o)
I had a look through my kitchen and found the humble azuki beans... perfect for keeping full for longer, packed with healthy goodness - and as I have been looking to tone up, lose a few kgs and start capoeira again, it's a perfect source of vegie protein.
A quick google search later and I found many recipes using azuki beans.
I have found many blogs in the past for vegie recipes but Lisa's Kitchen is GREAT ... I seriosluy can't find any recipe that I wouldn't like to try for myself and it promises to add some spice into vegie cooking - inspired!
Thursday, 7 January 2010
The Coil Review Advert 2010
The Coil Review 2010 New Year's Web Commercial from The Coil Review on Vimeo.
Wednesday, 6 January 2010
Shuanise - Baggage For Sale
Travel light!
Check out this UK talent: Shuanise
Avatar: Spiritual Lessons From The Na'vi
My mother begged me to go and watch it - I wasn't sure as I usually get bored with Sci-Fi type movies but she managed to persued me in the end. So we were across the road from the mall with the big Avatar sign staring at us, waiting to cross and my mother asked if I wanted to watch it in 3D or 2D - somewhere next to me, a guy turned around and said "You should definately watch it in 3D - its AMAZING!" , smiled and ran across the road. Hmmmmmmmmm... decided then lol!
Unfortunately, it turned out all the 3D shows were fully booked so I watched it in 2D which still looked great. Although I didn't find the general story to be original at all (there are so many versions of this type of story!), the graphics and emphasis on Goddess energy was so strong. I couldn't help but fall in love with the characters (especially Neytiri)! It was packed full of spiritual lessons... After the film, there was even a few claps from the back lol! That kind of surprised me but given that it brings up many inspirational subconscious elements that everyone can relate to at this time, it's refreshing to see a film out right now on it. A good reminder!
Personally, I loved the messages related to "I see you", using instinct and feeling in a two way expression that guides us through daily life and when nature decides to teach us arrogant humans a lesson and takes care of its own.
I found this on a forum discussing it and wanted to re-post it here...
Spiritual Lessons from the Na'vi
1. Seeds, trees, animals, insects, water, leaves are all part of the web of life. Everything is alive and conscious and interconnected.
2. It may be necessary to kill for food. A clean kill involves a respect and a ritual for any animal that gives itself to you for food and other uses.
3. Even vicious and seemingly violent animals have the right to protect their turf and participate in the dance of life.
4. Having a good heart and being fearless are part of being a warrior.
5. Signs are all around us in nature and in our own experiences: they are meant to be read and interpreted.
6. Using the power within us is the way of the sacred feminine.
7. A greeting is an act of engagement with another. Open and active presence is conveyed by the words "I see you."
8. It is important to listen to the voices of the ancestors.
9. Everyone is born twice: once at birth and once again when he or she earns a place within the community.
10. Energy is pulsating in and through all forms of life.
11. Mother Earth doesn't take sides; she protects only the balance of life.
12. Healing is an act of the community calling upon the divine.
13. Everyone needs to train in attunement to the spirit in nature.
14. The magical flights of the shaman invoke spirit helpers.
15. The world is a collaborative work in progress in which each individual in the tribe has something to contribute to the whole.
What did you learn?
Unfortunately, it turned out all the 3D shows were fully booked so I watched it in 2D which still looked great. Although I didn't find the general story to be original at all (there are so many versions of this type of story!), the graphics and emphasis on Goddess energy was so strong. I couldn't help but fall in love with the characters (especially Neytiri)! It was packed full of spiritual lessons... After the film, there was even a few claps from the back lol! That kind of surprised me but given that it brings up many inspirational subconscious elements that everyone can relate to at this time, it's refreshing to see a film out right now on it. A good reminder!
Personally, I loved the messages related to "I see you", using instinct and feeling in a two way expression that guides us through daily life and when nature decides to teach us arrogant humans a lesson and takes care of its own.
I found this on a forum discussing it and wanted to re-post it here...
Spiritual Lessons from the Na'vi
1. Seeds, trees, animals, insects, water, leaves are all part of the web of life. Everything is alive and conscious and interconnected.
2. It may be necessary to kill for food. A clean kill involves a respect and a ritual for any animal that gives itself to you for food and other uses.
3. Even vicious and seemingly violent animals have the right to protect their turf and participate in the dance of life.
4. Having a good heart and being fearless are part of being a warrior.
5. Signs are all around us in nature and in our own experiences: they are meant to be read and interpreted.
6. Using the power within us is the way of the sacred feminine.
7. A greeting is an act of engagement with another. Open and active presence is conveyed by the words "I see you."
8. It is important to listen to the voices of the ancestors.
9. Everyone is born twice: once at birth and once again when he or she earns a place within the community.
10. Energy is pulsating in and through all forms of life.
11. Mother Earth doesn't take sides; she protects only the balance of life.
12. Healing is an act of the community calling upon the divine.
13. Everyone needs to train in attunement to the spirit in nature.
14. The magical flights of the shaman invoke spirit helpers.
15. The world is a collaborative work in progress in which each individual in the tribe has something to contribute to the whole.
What did you learn?
Sunday, 3 January 2010
Animal Totems Lurk...
I had a great Sunday, early Reiki session with a client, followed by a 1 minute stroll to the nearby central London indoor market that sells so many creative items on a Sunday in Liverpool Street (Spitalfields market). There are SO many lovely jewellry stalls on this day, but this one necklace caught my eye... a vintage dragomfly piece - I'm not keen on them at all, in fact they give me the creeps lol- but I still felt really drawn to it. So I bought it in the end, even though I know I wanted to save this month and de-clutter...
I am reminded that sometimes we are drawn to certain animals totems that symbolise where we are at present and what we need to look at within...
The Dragonfly:
The animal symbolism of the dragonfly deals with:
prosperity
good luck
strength
peace
harmony
purity
These symbolic meanings of dragonfly are particularly associated in Asian (Japan) and Native American (Plains region) circles.
As a creature of the wind, the dragonlfy totem represents change. It's iridescent wings are incredibly sensitive to the slightest breeze, and so we are reminded to heed where the proverbial wind blows - lest we run into stormy weather.
Dragonflies are also creatures of the water, and any creature whose habitat is in, or around water carries symbolism relative the the subconscious, or "dreaming" mind and thoughts.
This is because in the animal world, water is symbolic of the subconscious mind ("deeper mind," "dreaming mind") and relates to the thoughts we have in relaxed/meditative/sleeping/subconscious states.
Dragonflies carry messages that deal with deeper thought - and they ask that we pay attention to our deeper thoughts and desires.
Further symbolic insect meaning of dragonfly comes into play when we observe the dragonfly's mode of transportation as it skitters across the top of water surfaces. This implies that our deeper thoughts are surfacing and we must be mindful of the outcome we wish to have.
The dragonfly is a reminder that when our deeper thoughts rise to the surface we must pay attention - there are lessons to be learned, and we are also reminded that what we think is directly proportionate to what we "see on the surface." ...In short, our thoughts (even the deeper ones that we might not be as in-touch with as we are with our conscious thoughts) are responsible for what we see in our lives - in our physical surroundings.
The dragonfly gives us a very powerful meditation tool. Close your eyes, and focus on a thought - let it rise to the surface of your mind's ocean - see that thought float lightly up to the water's surface. Now upon the top of a smooth, calm glass-like surface - visualize that thought moving across that water - sliding across - smooth and fast.
This exercise is useful when we want to visualize positive outcomes in a situation. We see the thought of hope happily moving across an ocean of peace (peaceful mind) and skitting to a perfect outcome.
Lastly it should be noted that the Dragonfly lives a short life, and it knows it must live to the fullest with what it has. This lesson is huge for each of us. When you see a dragonfly, be aware of the gifts it has to offer by keeping its animal totem meanings in mind.
I hope you have enjoyed these observations on the animal symbolism of the dragonfly.
...Yup, I'm feeling that right now. Perfect ;o)
So... What's your sign?
I am reminded that sometimes we are drawn to certain animals totems that symbolise where we are at present and what we need to look at within...
The Dragonfly:
The animal symbolism of the dragonfly deals with:
prosperity
good luck
strength
peace
harmony
purity
These symbolic meanings of dragonfly are particularly associated in Asian (Japan) and Native American (Plains region) circles.
As a creature of the wind, the dragonlfy totem represents change. It's iridescent wings are incredibly sensitive to the slightest breeze, and so we are reminded to heed where the proverbial wind blows - lest we run into stormy weather.
Dragonflies are also creatures of the water, and any creature whose habitat is in, or around water carries symbolism relative the the subconscious, or "dreaming" mind and thoughts.
This is because in the animal world, water is symbolic of the subconscious mind ("deeper mind," "dreaming mind") and relates to the thoughts we have in relaxed/meditative/sleeping/subconscious states.
Dragonflies carry messages that deal with deeper thought - and they ask that we pay attention to our deeper thoughts and desires.
Further symbolic insect meaning of dragonfly comes into play when we observe the dragonfly's mode of transportation as it skitters across the top of water surfaces. This implies that our deeper thoughts are surfacing and we must be mindful of the outcome we wish to have.
The dragonfly is a reminder that when our deeper thoughts rise to the surface we must pay attention - there are lessons to be learned, and we are also reminded that what we think is directly proportionate to what we "see on the surface." ...In short, our thoughts (even the deeper ones that we might not be as in-touch with as we are with our conscious thoughts) are responsible for what we see in our lives - in our physical surroundings.
The dragonfly gives us a very powerful meditation tool. Close your eyes, and focus on a thought - let it rise to the surface of your mind's ocean - see that thought float lightly up to the water's surface. Now upon the top of a smooth, calm glass-like surface - visualize that thought moving across that water - sliding across - smooth and fast.
This exercise is useful when we want to visualize positive outcomes in a situation. We see the thought of hope happily moving across an ocean of peace (peaceful mind) and skitting to a perfect outcome.
Lastly it should be noted that the Dragonfly lives a short life, and it knows it must live to the fullest with what it has. This lesson is huge for each of us. When you see a dragonfly, be aware of the gifts it has to offer by keeping its animal totem meanings in mind.
I hope you have enjoyed these observations on the animal symbolism of the dragonfly.
...Yup, I'm feeling that right now. Perfect ;o)
So... What's your sign?
Friday, 1 January 2010
The Perfect Day: Morning Yearning [Ben Harper]
January Challenge: A Click A Day...
HAPPY 2010!!!
One thing I have been wanting to get into is my photography. I broke my ancient digi cam and somehow forgot about my love for photography for a loooooooong time! So, that was one of the things I decided to present to my Self this festive season. I needed it!
The challenge:
Take a creative pic every day of January 2010. It can be of absolutely anything at all that inspires me each day! I know for a fact this is going to be one of my most stressful months of this year so this should be interesting! Stay tuned ;o)
One thing I have been wanting to get into is my photography. I broke my ancient digi cam and somehow forgot about my love for photography for a loooooooong time! So, that was one of the things I decided to present to my Self this festive season. I needed it!
The challenge:
Take a creative pic every day of January 2010. It can be of absolutely anything at all that inspires me each day! I know for a fact this is going to be one of my most stressful months of this year so this should be interesting! Stay tuned ;o)
Wednesday, 30 December 2009
Blue Moon Musings For The Last Day Of 2009
Inspirational reading:
"This year's Cancer Full Moon is on December 31st. For U.S. West Coasters, it's at 11:13 am Pacific time. The Eastern time zone exactness is at 2:13 pm. It comes with a partial lunar eclipse, and is followed by a New Moon in Capricorn/solar eclipse on January 14th.
Other names for the December Full Moon: There are two Full Moons in December this year, so the second (on December 31st) will be a "Blue Moon." The December Moon is known as the Full Cold Moon or the Full Long Nights Moon.
When the Moon is full in Cancer, the Sun is in the opposite sign of Capricorn.
Cancer is a cardinal sign, known for initiating, pushing the envelope, provoking, forging ahead. Cancer is an water sign that moves through emotional waves and the imagination.
Full Moon in Cancer: pre-verbal childhood memories; family history; returning to the watery Source; home security; family loyalties and dependencies; a sense of belonging; being nurtured and comforted; the longing for Mother (or the Sacred Feminine); creating safety in which to grow; finding emotional trust in relationships; daring to be vulnerable; having the courage to be true to your feelings.
This Full Moon illuminates: deep emotional needs; unconscious behaviors; homesickness; longing for a family and children; the protected home sanctuary; national identity (tribe, kinship, ancestry); family legacies."
It's a Good Time to:
- Be with the muse, and receive impressions from the imagination.
- Acknowledge your vulnerabilities.
- Nurture and allow yourself to be nurtured.
- Protect the frail, young or helpless.
- Give shelter to an animal or neighbor from the storm.
- Tune in to your ancestors.
- Make something artful from your memories.
- Indulge your sentimental side.
- Reach out to an old friend.
- Be near the ocean.
Saturday, 26 December 2009
British Curlies Website/Shop
There used to be a huge problem of finding products in the UK/Europe that are normally widely talked about on hair forums. In fact, it drove me nuts lol - especially in the days when I was a serious PJ (Product junkie) and got excited about every product review out there for curly/kinky hair. Along with previous posts of UK/Europe based online shops, there is this website that I recently came across by accident...
Great products, natural hair articles and information!
Great products, natural hair articles and information!
Friday, 25 December 2009
Fashion Inspired: Afrodesiac Worldwide
Greetings Holistic Locs fam!
A few years ago, I was blessed to have come across a lady on myspace who was starting out with her own line of African inspired clothing... fast forward ------> And I'm so pleased to see how her work has grown and grown!
Check out her Myspace and facebook pages to see more lovely pics! You might spot mine too ;o)
Check out her Myspace and facebook pages to see more lovely pics! You might spot mine too ;o)
Thursday, 24 December 2009
Meditations: Ancestral Healing
For some reason, this season has felt like a true beginning to me. I usually spend this time of year just being thankful and taking advantage of all the great food offers out there, but this year feels different. Dunno. So I went back to a few things that I used to do a lot of...
Re-posting an old article I wrote a while back for a magazine...
Re-posting an old article I wrote a while back for a magazine...
You are unique. Reflect on that sentence - Isn't that such a wonderful thought?
As unique individuals, we have the power to contribute to the world and Universe/You-In-Verse in a special way - with our own experiences and inner influences. As unique individuals, we are a product of a long line of beautiful people who brought us into this moment in time – living, breathing, exploring and enjoying life, with all it has to offer. Encoded in our DNA and body, we are each a walking manifestation of our ancestors and who they were. They are alive (in energy and within you).
There are many ways to tap into our ancestral spiritual energy and bring it into our daily lives. Please remember that each meditation is about inner trust. In order to make the most of each meditation, trust that what your soul and mind brings forth is for a good reason and with good intention, even when it might not reveal an instant seemingly positive effect. There are always reasons for negative images and inner negative emotions that arise – the positive message is always hidden within them. There is no time limit to each step - just go with the flow until you are ready to move forward to the next stage.
If you are new to experimenting with ancestral energy, you may find it easier to start focusing on a relative that has inspired you and use their energy - This person could be anyone who is alive or not within this lifetime, example: your grandparents, uncles etc. All these meditations can be achieved with your eyes closed or open – in whichever method you feel comfortable with.
Meditation 1: Ancestral Soul Blossom
This first meditation is a beautiful way to begin any meditation. It can be used as a grounding mechanism or as a start to any other meditations that will follow.
Begin by sitting upright – either cross legged or in a chair with your feet squarely touching the ground. Your spine should be upright and straight in either position.
Begin to focus on your breathing – follow its pattern as it enters and releases the breath of life into your body and the room. Stay in this stage until you are focused on your natural rhythm. Begin to visualise that each breath entering will release its Self into the Universe – reaching further and further outwards. Start off by seeing your breath released into the immediate room that you are in, filling it with your energy.
Slowly work your visualisation so that it now spreads to unknown infinite time and universe. You may use images of the world and moon to help you with this visualisation.
Now feel your energy and power for what it is – how your emotions and energy is flowing through your body, through your veins, in your blood and in your mind. Imagine this energy being circulated in a steady flow around your body and always passing through your heart. Let any negativity or stress be dissolved in this flow as your heart centre slowly cleanses the flow further. Remain in this stage until you start to feel that any negativity has now been dissolved and you are feeling divine and relaxed.
Now imagine that this flow begins to charge you with ancestral energy. Our ancestors are encoded deep within our structure and flow through our veins, so imagine that this flow is now focused into ancestral energy – getting stronger and stronger as it flows around you. Enjoy the sensations of this stage and you may use it to reflect further.
Begin to see a beautiful flower being born from your heart as a bud – while still focusing on the ancestral flow around your body, begin to see this flower opening and growing further with the flow that centres through your heart. This flower grows further until its petals are in full blossom and you find that you are now in the middle of the ancestral energy flower, surrounded by huge petals of love energy.
These petals are made of images and emotions. Take the time to visualise each petal around you and feel its unique pre-Essence. This stage is often a very revealing moment, when images become clear and emotions awaken with ancestral energy. When you are ready to end this meditation, thank your ancestors and begin to imagine this flower being stored within you, safe and powerful.
Meditation 2: The Guidance Path
This meditation is ideal in times when you are deciding on what path or journey you would like to embark on. There will be times in everyone's life when there are many options that may all seem appealing to us at first. This meditation will use ancestral energy to fine tune which journey path is right for you.
Begin by sitting with your spine straight.
Begin to focus on the base of your spine where your root charka lies. . With each breath, imagine that the energy from the breath of life is being directed towards this charka and building its strength.
As the root charka becomes stronger, visualise a red platform form underneath you, growing as a solid foundation of energy and foundation. When the brightly illuminating red foundation is strong enough, ask the ancestors to bless this foundation platform to which you will begin your journey in choosing your new path.
Feel the base of your spine being energised by this ancestral energy that now floods through it and the foundation beneath you.
Watch as the new paths of your choices start to form from this platform - each decision is an individual branch, growing forward in front of you in different directions.
Take a moment with each branch and feel how this choice will affect you emotionally and spiritually. Ask your ancestors to reveal thoughts and images on each branch. Trust your feelings and what comes up. After you have spent some time with each branch, ground your focus back to your root charka at the base of your spine. Ask your ancestors to direct you to which branch felt the most attractive.
This might take a few sessions to do before the choice is made so don't rush the process. Just trust your ancestors to guide you. After the meditation, thank your ancestors.
Meditation 3: Release
It is important to be aware of spiritual and energy baggage that we carry. We need to release it before we can continue to grow into full blossom. Over our lifetime, we might find our Self accumulating baggage. There is also a possibility that emotional and negative baggage may come from our ancestor's pain and past negativities. It is time to be free from it and reveal the positive outcome/purpose to the negativity.
Begin in a seated position, with your spine straight. Start to focus on your aura. Ask your ancestors to step in when you are in need of guidance. Watch how your energy is being spread around you – like a moving bubble. Ask your ancestors to reveal any attachments that your aura holds. This may show up in the form of images, memories or past life manifestations. Strong influences may come from something that you consciously know from past pain in your family or hurt within situations that involve your family and you.
Watch how your aura reacts to each attachment – from past and present lifetimes. Ask the ancestors to reveal the positive lessons.
Watch as each attachment becomes a bubble outside your aura and attached to you by an energy cord.
When you are ready, slowly begin to visualise your energy cords from your aura into this negativity bubble being dissolved. The cord between your aura and the negativity is slowly being released from you. Cut the ties gently and slowly and watch how your energy aura changes. This is a good time to subconsciously talk with your ancestors and ask that they too release the pain and negativities that held them. Do you start to feel less drained?
When you are ready to end your meditation, give thanks to your ancestors for being spiritual guides. The process of working with ancestral healing is a lifetime lesson. These are 3 meditations that can be used regularly to help you work through your own journey. Celebrate your ancestors!
UK Music: Andreya Triana
Napptural Beauty Inspiration from the UK...
If you are in London town, be sure to check her upcoming dates for shows, she is GREAT live!
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