Author: Nicole Ciccarelli

I speak my truth through means of this artistic expression. I write with the intention of bringing thought-provoking musings through profound soul-searching and questions. A lifestyle site with topics ranging from travel, anecdotal thoughts, health, meditation, yoga, economics, environment and esoteric teachings.

The Flow, yo

Posted in Collective Consciousness, Creative Musings, Spirituality, WellnessTagged , , , , , , 4 Comments

You know you are in the flow when everything falls into place as it should, perfectly and spontaneously.
It is effortless and easy, you are guided without having to think about what “it” is,
it just is.
Without even planning the first step,
everything occurs around it.
There is an acceptance that what is occurring is meant to be.
You know, because you just know,
when you know, you are in the flow.

When these little bursts of knowing take place in the fabric of our reality, there can be signs guiding you to your path more easily.

If we as humans use only a portion of our brain, I believe there must be a pattern that we can’t yet comprehend within these “flows”. Our senses are constantly taking in much more than we are able to understand.

A leaf, can only ever be a leaf, in the leaf is the pattern of its blueprint. Whether it comes to the full potential of that blueprint is up to the tree, ground, sun and water surrounding it.

So it is for a human, we can only ever be a human in this form and lifetime. Within a human, there is a pattern a life can ultimately take. It is up to the conditions surrounding one to nurture into that potential.

Once one starts opening up to this higher potential, life will start to come more into the pattern or flow. Once in the flow, synchronicities become more apparent.

Synchronicity

A Synchronicity happens when you think about, hear or experience something, and that something is presented yet again. Sometimes shockingly.
For instance: you thought an exact phrase, then you hear a song stating that phrase verbatim, then a friend talks about that song.

Coincidence?

Psychologist Carl Jung’s theory states “Synchronicity is the experience of two or more events, that are apparently causally unrelated or unlikely to occur together by chance, that are observed to occur together in a meaningful manner” (1)

“Synchronistic events reveal an underlying pattern, a conceptual framework that encompasses, but is larger than, any of the systems that display the synchronicity. The suggestion of a larger framework is essential to satisfy the definition of synchronicity as originally developed by Carl Gustav Jung.” (2)

I view synchronicities as the signs, pointing the way within the flow.

How To Get Into The Flow

Gratitude is one of the most important aspects for allowing you to open up to your potential, especially when life seems not so fruitful.
Start listening to Yourself, you will understand the flow of your life more. Gaining more of a comprehension of your inner knowing.

Perhaps listening to yourself is not so easy, because what yourself says goes against what others tell you to do/be?

That is alright, ultimately, listening to yourself will guide you to your truth. You know all the answers to your life’s questions. Even if it goes against the grain.

So What?

The grain will form around you.

Go with ease, free form within the flow, the path of least resistance is the easiest place to be in. Once in you will be guided to where you need to be and what to do. Planning, order and control become obsolete, all you need to do is trust. Trusting will allow you to float on down the river of the flow.

I will elaborate more on ways to finding your truth, gratitude and being in the zone in another post, for now, let this be known ; )

xo,
Nicole

1 & 2

Alter Egos

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Which one do I desire to be today ; )

While my purpose is to attain higher consciousness and a comprehension of the bigger picture.
I also have to understand the notion that.
I am human.
A Human, with emotions,
varying along the spectrum.
I am not always perfect by societal standards, yet, I am perfect in my learning about self and others.
I accept that everything that happens is meant to, for cultivation, growth and re-calibration in re-creating.

In being human, I have recognized distinctive qualities of myself surface at different times. Either a situation, person, or an emotional reaction brings about these characteristics.
I realize that whether they are deemed acceptable is beyond me, in this strive for higher consciousness I have to

own all parts of me.

I accept and love me,

unconditionally…

Because I like to make life fun and interesting, I have personified the different facets of my being.
Like the elements, these parts of me are the earth, fire, water and air of myself.

Annabella:

Fire qualities. Feisty and fiery, she is a little warrioress with a sharpness of tongue. Rebellious, rambunctious and passionate, her spirit has been strengthened through tumultuous experiences.

Celeste:

Air qualities. She is esoteric, airy and dreamy, her head tends to be high in the clouds. Floating around somewhere in the etheric, her thoughts pertain to universal and cosmic awareness. She is outlandish, giving rise to idiosyncracies and uniqueness.

Aurora:

Water qualities. She is flowing, empathic, compassionate and understanding. Encompasses a mentality of accepting whatever life is bringing. Positive and inspiring, she makes for interesting company.

Persephone:

Earth qualities. She is grounded, introverted, calm and contemplative. Quietly thoughtful and observant, she has a deep understanding of human nature. Quite meditative in her approach to life and others.

We are all products of life and society.
After experiencing suffering and injustice in life, barriers of mistrust can be created.
What I have witnessed so often is that we can sometimes
anticipate hostility.

Collectively.

Since most people have experienced pain, hurt and trauma in some manner, these wounds manifest individually in varying ways….
patterns that become prevailing in our society.
Becoming being wary of one another, not knowing if we can trust that others have good intentions.
While living in conditions of feeling that we have to be a certain way to feel accepted

Ego barriers that block us from seeing

love.

Before I go, I would like to pose questions for you to ponder upon.

What would it feel like to live in a society where the main tenets were support, encouragement and appreciation, rather than the judgement, criticism and blame that is so prevalent?

Imagine for a minute, how it would feel, to know that you were always accepted for every part of your being?

No matter what

xo,
Nicole

 

Beauty Secrets

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Here I’m giving home remedies for cultivating natural beauty from outside in. As we all know, beauty radiates and starts from within. Buffing and shining the outer, so your inner light can sparkle even brighter.

I prefer to have an au natural glow and have found some fun ingredients to play around with. Below are some of my favorite natural beauty treatments; be forewarned anti-aging may occur with use.

Hair:

FYI: Sodium Laureth Sulfates and Parabens are not good for the body and should be avoided at all costs.
Natural shampoos with a pinch of Borax (12 mule team) works wonders to boost body, health and shine.

While I was in the Panamanian islands healthy conditioners were unavailable. Unknowing what to do about my hair I improvised by cutting an avocado in half and after shampooing slathered on my hair for 5 minutes.
Afterwards, my hair was extremely silky and shiny and bouncy.

To do: Cut open an overly ripe Avocado before showering. After shampooing slather on hair completely covering roots to ends. Leave on for 5 minutes or longer, you can even sleep with it on in a hair bag.
It helps moisturize, replenish and soften hair into a silky state.

Biotin (2-5 mgs) taken once a day and B vitamins helps hair grow quickly, fuller and healthy.

Natural Skin:

Natural face wash: I like to use baking soda or borax with a bit of water as a face wash. Or a natural soap with oatmeal or chamomile for sensitive skin.

Raw Apple Cider Vinegar: An amazing astringent, after the initial sting and redness cools down, skin is left healthy and glowing, with diminished breakouts.

OILS:  Oils are great moisturizers and healing for the skin.
Each oil carries a different property and will work according to skin type. My personal favorite is Coconut oil. Vitamin E and Wheatgerm help with scarring.
Olive Oil is anti-aging, mixed with Citronella oil, a great bug repellant.

Cocoa and Shea butters: Extremely moisturizing. Cocoa butter helps with stretch marks and scarring. Shea butter improves skin tone. Oils and butters can be mixed together as concoctions based on skin type and structure.

Exfoliators and Masks:

For fresh, supple and healthy skin.

Honey and sea salt: A mixture that exfoliates by sloughing off dry skin while the honey acts as an antiseptic.

Body Brush: Exfoliates skin and stimulates the lymphatic drainage system.

Yogurt (organic) mask:
Leave on for 20 minutes or more, it’s soothing to the skin while leaving it moisturized.

Castor Oil mask:
Healing and moisturizing for extremely dry, weathered skin.

Olive/Sunflower oil with sea salt & essential oil:
Natural exfoliator for whole body.

Aloe vera: Heals burns and can be used as a cooling mask.
Blend whole leaf with essential oils such as eucalyptus or mint and refrigerate.
Hydrates, heals and cools the skin.

Natural tooth paste and whitening:

I suggest toothpaste that is fluoride free. For information on fluoride dangers.
Baking soda and Hydrogen Peroxide work well as a toothpaste, and natural whitener.
A good friend introduced me to an AMAZING whitener; Activated Charcoal.
This can be sprinkled on top of toothpaste and is one of the best whiteners I have ever used.
Be careful when using, it is black powder and stains sink easily.

Bath Time

Luxurious and soothing, I create bath concoctions based on my mood.

Sea salt and Baking Soda (mineralizing)
Borax or Epsom salt (detoxing)
Lavender oil and sea salt (relax and cleanse)
Eucalyptus and sea salt(soothe and cleanse)
rose petals/ rose buds (feeling flowery)
The concoctions are endless, be creative and make one based on your mood.

Create your own pampering day:

Pick a day of the year that resonates with you. On this particular day take time to pamper yourself byindulging in your every wish and desire.
Celebrate who you are and all of your unique, amazing qualities. Write a list of your favorite things about yourself, or shop for favorite beauty items.
Dress up or down, sing in the shower,dance in sexy underwear.
Eat foods that make you feel sensual, dress in clothes that make you feel beautiful.
Do whatever your heart and beauty call you to do on this day of yours. Allow you to enjoy and celebrate feeling gorgeous in your skin.

Own the Goddess within
Like Aphrodite coming out of the sea-foam, a “goddess bath” is a sensual way to celebrate your day. Fill a bath up and sink into it as a reminder of your unique light, awakening you to your splendor.

xo,

Nicole

Pranayama

Posted in Spirituality, WellnessTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 7 Comments

“It’s the best high you can get naturally” (quoted from new friend on bus)

Do it at the office, do it on the train, do it while driving,
I’ve even done it while partying.

Here, my dears, we are discussing an ancient yoga technique. A quick fix to stress and anxiety.

Pranayama

Prana= life force
Yama= breath

I will go into more detail on meditations and visualization down the road.
The practice of discussion is alternate nostril breathing, balancing the left and right hemispheres of the brain, easily bringing one into alpha states.

This form of yoga connects to the Nadis, also known as energy channels or meridians, which also connect to the chakras.

The left channel= Ida
Represented as the feminine.
Right brain.
Yin
Cold, introverted, receptive.
Being. Associated with creativity, nurturing, empathy, emotions.
Passive, observant, intuitive and understanding.
Represented by the moon.

The right channel= Pingala
Is represented as the masculine.
Left brain.
Yang
Red, hot and extroverted.
Action. Associated with logic, language, rationality, analysis, imagery.
Enactment, planning, drive and purpose.
Represented by the sun.

Sushmuna = Center
Masculine and Feminine balanced
Enlightenment. Attainment of higher consciousness.

A guy friend and I were recently discussing our inner feminine and masculine. I was explaining to him that even though I am female, I pressure myself at times to keep going and doing, instead of being ok with “being”

We were contemplating how it can be challenging in our society to go into the yin, the passive state of observance and waiting.
In the western world, we are conditioned to be in action, instead of waiting for the notion to act.

Now, this is significant and may seem confusing, yet makes perfect sense. A bit of a paradox.

If you don’t know what to do, don’t do. Wait until the notion comes to you.
You know, when you know.
Action with knowing is more powerful than action without.
That is why meditating or breath work can be a powerful form of quieting your mind,
to hear yourself more clearly and act from your true sense of being.

Pranayama:

Alternate nostril breathing is quite easy and one form of Pranayama. It helps balance the left and right hemispheres of the brain. If stressed, it can quickly bring you into balance. It’s simple and can be done anywhere at any time.
A test to see which side of your brain you are using:
Lick the top side of your index finger and hold it under your nose and blow. Whichever nostril is blowing more powerfully is the side of the brain you are working with.
This technique is a way to balance both sides:

Sit crossed-legged or in Lotus posture.
Close your eyes.
Hold right hand up to your nose area, in a cupping motion.
Then take a deep normal breath, inhaling, and before exhaling block the right nostril with your thumb, so that the exhale only takes place in the left nostil.
Exhale fully for 5 seconds through left nostril.
Breathe in fully for 5 seconds through left nostril.

Switch finger placement before exhale so that the left nostril is covered by pinkie finger.
Exhale for 5 seconds fully out of the right nostril.
Inhale for 5 seconds fully through right nostril.

Switch finger placement again so that you exhale through left, in through left. Continue to alternate for at minimum 2 minutes up to an hour.

I like to visualize light coming through each breath and filling me up, while expelling toxins, stress and negativity on the exhale.

Kundalini yoga has several forms of pranayama, a bit different then what I have mentioned. One of those is; right nostril stimulating and energizing: breathe in through right nostril, out through left. The left nostril calm and tranquilizing: breathe in through left, out through right.

Right nostril stimulating and energizing: breathe in through right nostril, out through left. The left nostril calm and tranquilizing: breathe in through left, out through right. Try for 2 minutes or more.

To gain more information on Kundalini yoga there are classes held at many yoga studios. They have powerfully shifted many parts of my life, connecting me to mind, body and spirit. There are many more breathing practices for different areas of life and the body, including breathing at certain times of the day. As you develop more of a practice you will understand more of your mind, creating equilibrium and self-awareness. If you’d like a personalized session or practice to work with please contact me directly.

 

Hope this gives you the high you are seeking  😉

xo,
Nicole

Superfoods for Superpowers

Posted in Health, WellnessTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 9 Comments

In order to feel healthy, homeostasis must occur within the body. While detoxing is extremely important in our chemically laden society, what is just as important is fueling the system. To propel one forward in a direction of feeling SUPER. 😉

I am giving a list of foods that are like octane 93 for the body.
Ok, not gasoline. Rather,  foods that are like sunshine and water on a flower (body), that is planted in rich, fertile soil, growing superbly.

These SUPERfoods are a way to get SUPERhigh, naturally.

Like SUPERheros.

When one starts including more of these foods into their diet, weight loss and alkalinity will naturally occur. Over time stored toxins and chemicals will be released.
Some of these are medically labeled Superfoods, while others are personal favorites.

For informational purposes only, not intended to diagnose or cure, please eat at your own risk….of feeling like soaring.

Greens:

Kale, Spinach, Chard, Broccoli, Bok Choy and many others.
Greens are extremely rich in nutrients and include high amounts of Chlorophyll (blood of plants). Leafy greens contain phytochemicals (disease preventatives) and high concentrations of vitamins and minerals. Aiding in the longevity of the body, greens are of utmost importance and their benefits are essential. Eating raw is the best way to ingest greens, or you can buy a green powder to get the daily intake of these supers. Steaming them is a good way to ingest.

Maca:

Grown in the Peruvian mountains, Maca is similar to a radish. The powdered form of this plant contains significant amounts of minerals, amino acids, carbohydrates, and glycosides. It helps with endocrine function, which includes the glands and hormone secretion. It is an adaptogen, meaning it adapts to the state the body is in, adding what is needed. This plant supports adrenal and pituitary gland function.
Maca can be used as an excellent alternative to steroids. It boosts male and female stamina, libido and sex drive.
I add a spoonful into my smoothies or take in capsule form.

Cacao

This fruit comes from the Amazon. Unprocessed and unheated it is otherwise known as raw chocolate. This superfruit is one of the most nutrient dense and chemically complex foods on Earth. It contains powerful antioxidants as well as high doses of vitamin c, phenethylamine (love feeling), omega 6, tryptophan, and serotonin (good feeling). Which is why us ladies crave when we are PMS-ing.
Contrary to processed chocolate, raw chocolate aids in weight loss, while regulating blood sugar. It is beneficial to the heart and cardiovascular system. I add powdered form into my smoothies along with Maca or get cacao nibs and munch on them.

Quinoa:

Quinoa is a grain grown in South America, a staple food to the Aztecs and Incans.
It has the highest nutritional profile of all grains. Containing fiber, B vitamins, and all 8 essential amino acids. Making it a supergrain.

Bee Products: Honey, Pollen, Royal Jelly and Propolis:

Human use of bee products stems back thousands of years, to the Egyptians and beyond. The use of Bee products is extremely beneficial to the body.

Honey: Antiseptic, antioxidant and infection fighter. Honey helps to alleviate allergies if bought locally.

Pollen: Rich in B vitamins, protein and amino acids. Bee Pollen improves digestion and assists reproductive system. Increases libido and drive, while balancing hormones.

Royal Jelly: Helps brain, anti-aging, PMS, fertility. A natural antibiotic.

Propolis: Studies in Japan and Bulgaria were able to confirm this superfood as an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant and immune-system booster. It can help regenerate and heal receding gums. Assists in healing burns.

Acai:

Grown in Central and South America, Acai berry is extremely beneficial. It has a high antioxidant profile, protecting the body from free-radicals. It improves circulation, heart and immune system, while increasing energy.

Goji Berry:

High in minerals and essential amino acids, Goji berries include polysaccharides to boost potential and increase lifespan. Amazing healing powers, aiding in cuts, burns and rashes. Cancer-Preventative this berry can control and reverse obesity.
Activates the immune system.

Berries and Grapes: Blueberries, Raspberries, Blackberries

Berries are amazing disease fighters with high antioxidant levels. They contain high amounts of vitamin c, phytonutrients, phytochemicals and Ellagic acid (blocks metabolic pathways, preventing cancer).
Grapes and red wine contain Resveratrol which prolongs life, helps memory, reduces risk of heart disease, and is also an anti-inflammatory.
It is best to buy these fruits organic, they are sprayed heavily with pesticides if not.

Figs and Kiwis:

Both of these fruits contain high levels of vitamins and minerals. Figs are a source of Vitamin B6, high in fiber, cancer preventative, and alkalizing. Kiwis are higher in vitamin c then an orange, protect DNA and contain a variety of flavonoids and carotenoids (antioxidants).

Yerba Mate:

Known as the “Drink of the Gods”, this teas comes from, yes, South America.
This drink enhances vitality and well-being, while being packed full of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and polyphenols. The antioxidant profile is high, it’s touted as an immune booster. One of the most balanced stimulant with no crash.

Noni:

One of the stinkiest fruits I have ever come across, it smells like dirty feet.
The benefits of Noni are incredible, it is a powerful antioxidant and immune booster. Containing xeronine, selenium and terpine, which contribute to detoxifying, while aiding healthy skin and cell structure. The juice can be found here in the states. In tropical environments Noni trees are abundant, you can literally pick the fruit off the ground, eating fresh boosts serotonin.

Link to one of my first posts, explaining other favorite Superfoods

Apple Cider Vinegar

What are your Superpowers?

xo,

Nicole

For more information on more Superfoods check out these links.

Web MD

Superfoods

Raw Superfoods

Raging Chakras

Posted in Spirituality, WellnessTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , 4 Comments

I started playing with my Chakras when I was 22…..

Falling asleep one night, my hand was irresistibly drawn to my lower abdomen. This area was warm and tingling. Like a vortex sucking me in, it started murmuring of unlocked emotions and memories.
I started moving and spinning this energy center, clearing and invigorating it.

My intrigue awakened.

At this time my belief system was of no desires or cares for anything religious, or spiritually inclined. I had been spiritual when I was younger but was delving into a more atheist belief system at 22. These esoteric beliefs were way to airy-fairy to my overly intellectual mind.

Until this spoken night.

I then started witnessing issues in my life dissolving, amazing occurrences were starting to happen and a whole new world was developing around me.

I thought to myself

“I want to know more about this”

I undertook research probing the depths of the complex and different theories. Here is a tiny synopsis of what I have come to, as with anything I post discern with your own informed deliberation and research.

Energy, Baby:

Chakras are contained in our energy fields, otherwise known as Life-Force, Prana, Chi, Electromagnetic, Aura, Orgone and many other names.
These fields are like a blueprint of energy for individuality. In them are cone -shaped energy center that hold a vibration and color, like a human rainbow, these are the chakras.
An energetic library, they contain every experience, thought, and emotion we have  had, when out of balance they can cause disorders, distortions and disease on many levels.

There are 7 main chakras, and according to varying theories up to 36 more that are within our bodies.

I am going to breakdown the main ones for y’all. ; )

Root Chakra:

Adrenal Gland
Red
Located below the perineum. Related to physical well-being, survival, instincts, primal, earth energies.

Mental and Emotional Issues: Survival, territorialism, wars, violence, oppression.

Physical Issues: Low body disorders. Including hips, legs, immune system, feet and ankle problems.

Ultimate Potential: Self Groundedness

Sacral Chakra:

Gonads
Orange
Located 2-3 in above sacrum. It relates to creativity, sexuality, pleasure and relationships. Our energetic life force and sexual energy, Kundalini, is said to be contained here.

Mental and Emotional Issues: Blame, guilt, control, shame, regrets.

Physical Issues: Any Sacral area disorders. Including male and female sexual organs, sexual dysfunction, reproductive issues, urinary and bladder issues.

Ultimate Potential: Self-Creativity and Healthy Sexuality.

Solar Plexus Chakra:

Pancreas
Yellow
Located in the solar plexus region, 2 inches above the navel. It is related to personal power, self-control, confidence and courage. Sometimes people refer to a feeling in the pit of their stomach, indicating this chakra.

Mental and Emotional Issues: Low self-esteem, low confidence, indecisiveness, anxiety, nervousness, doubt.

Physical Issues: Any solar plexus area disorders. Including indigestion, digestive problems, ulcers, diaphragm, liver, gall bladder, kidneys.

Ultimate Potential: Self-Empowerment

Heart Chakra:

Thymus
Green and Pink
Located in the chest It relates to our emotions, love, compassion, empathy and heart. Where the term heartbreak stems from, as love is felt directly through here.

Mental and Emotional Issues: Anger, fear, jealousy, coldness, lack of compassion and empathy, fear and feeling unloved.

Physical Issues: Any heart area disorders. Including heart problems, respiratory, breast problems.

Ultimate Potential: Self-Love

Throat Chakra:

Thyroid
Blue
Located in the throat, connected with expression, will, speech, fluent thought, honesty, independence.

Mental and Emotional issues: Criticism, judgement, communication and listening problems.

Physical: Any throat and mouth area disorders. Including addictions, throat cancer, sore throat, neck problems.

Ultimate Potential: Self-Expression and Honesty

Third Eye Chakra:

Pituitary
Purple
On forehead, 1 in above bridge between eyebrows. Regulates mental, intellectual and intuitive functions.

Mental and Emotional issues: Concentration, overly rational, over/under intelligence, manipulative, close-mindedness, impatience.

Physical Issues: Any upper mental and brain issues, including depression, sinus problems, migraines, neurological disorders.

Ultimate Potential: Opening to Self-Awareness and Intuitive Capacities

Crown Chakra:

Pineal
White
1-3 inches above the top of head, like a crown. Oversees our wisdom and highest mind coming through, said to connect to universal consciousness.

Mental and Emotional Issues: Separation, over-reacting, hopelessness, rigid thinking, over-intellectualizing.

Physical Illness: Paralysis, stroke, skin disorders, multiple sclerosis.

Ultimate Potential: Selflessness and Connectedness

Playing with your Chakras:

Take a pendulum and hold it over one of these centers and see which way it is spinning.
To charge: hold your hand over and spin it clockwise, visualizing white light or the color of the chakra infusing it.
To clear: move hand and energy counter-clockwise, while also scooping up and out. Imagine any emotional patterns, gunk and debris being released into light, happiness and health.
Old memories and pain may surface, let it be, you are healing.

How do your Raging Chakras feel?

xo,
Nicole

Update as per request:

Different schools of thought have different theories on the way each Chakra is supposed to spin correctly. The higher the Chakras on the body, the faster they spin. Some schools of thought propose that they alternate from clockwise to counter-clockwise starting from the Root Chakra. There is also the theory that when healthy they all rotate clockwise at a certain speed.
To open and clear spin counter clockwise, to close spin clockwise.

In my experience I have found with myself and others, that each person will vary. Blocks within the chakras will sometimes be seen with the pendulum as going straight across, diagonally or a lopsided circle, sometimes very slow, sometimes very fast.

You have the key to unlock your Chakra’s secrets.

I believe that intention and the power of the mind is one of the most powerful healers. You can send your own healing energy in with a pendulum or with your hand, infusing as I have mentioned above with visualization. If the ways I have mentioned don’t feel right to you, this is where your intuitive process comes in, you can “speak” to your chakras, feeling into them and allowing them to show/tell you the best way for them to heal. You will come to find an understanding.
There is an innate intelligence behind everything.

If you would like more guidance into working with your Chakras, I can assist you in reading them.

My contact is listed in the Purpose and Dream Creating page at the top.

Spiritual Philosophy

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Like a musical score this is about to pick up the frequency, where as before it was longer and slower, now it is becoming shorter, more frequent and sweet.
I am about to take you in a completely different direction than where we have been.
Through my worlds of creating my spiritual philosophy, one that has been sanctioned from stepping outside of religion with non- adherence to any one tradition.

My life has been one of turbulence at times, yet, my spirit has been strengthened through owning my experiences. What has allowed me to reach my highest potential has been creating my own tradition; arising from an evolving form of mixing and merging what feels right for me. I blend different cultures, philosophies and creeds to suit my individual needs, looking within mentally, physically,emotionally and spiritually. Always guided by my heart.

This has been developing for me since I was 11, when I was introduced to the concept of the universe, soul questioning and delving into realms of the unknown, spiritually and philosophically.

My philosophy encourages finding love in every aspect of life. Radiating from this place is what I am always striving to achieve. Realizing in every moment I am exactly where I need to be.

I believe that we create the meaning of life, it seems that the meaning is taken so SERIOUSLY in our world. My goal is for my reality to be light, loving, happy, magical and easy, so as to enjoy life freely.

I like to make my tradition playful for me, while watching my life powerfully come into action with gratitude, excitement and abundance.
Inner joy being a purpose in my life, life is a game I wish to have fun with.

If there is God, a Force, Universe, whatever you desire to call it, I believe that source is something that should set one free.
My co-creation of life with this expression becoming an artistic endeavor in every moment. Reality becoming living, moving, breathing, creating the art of being.

Purpose and Dream Creating

If you so desire to come along, I will be going over a diverse range of topics. Ever evolving, I have come to find  well being and ease through learning varying perceptions and techniques that hold truth for me.

An outward and inward state of being; I am a living conscious universe, while living within a living, conscious universe

and so it goes…

xo,

Nicole

Oh Chicago

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Oh Chicago,

I have a secret to impart in you.

Lighting me up within,

your splendid city has cast a beautiful spell upon me.

My adventuring soul has ventured to places far away and unknown.

Yet, as far away as I have roamed, I have an understanding that this incredible city is

My new Home.

While Chicago in many aspects is business oriented, there are intensely colorful and airy energies to this city.
Lifting my Spirit. Living directly across from Lincoln park with an amazing friend. I am astounded with the way life unfolds, blissfully inspired by daily adventures.

While I knew there was always a love between this auspicious city and I, my connection has become attuned to my amazing group of loved ones here.
This past weekend was infused with a 3 day birthday celebration with
friends new and old.

 

Conversing from quantum energetic levels, to old school rapping and dancing, there was a myriad of experiences that were quite astonishing.
Equilibrium within the spectrum, an alchemy of abundance was profoundly created.
My eccentric mind fits in perfectly within this equation.

After having been quite the hermit for most of the summer, my heart is vibrating intensely with the happiness and ease I have found here.
An outer reflection of what is within.

694 Wine Bar

It was the second time I attended a soiree in this space,
coming full circle.

One walks in to this wine and cheese bar and immediately feels welcome. Wood inlaid with a modern, minimal twist creates a classy yet comfortable environment.

One could sit at the downstairs bar and quietly hear what was being played upstairs, while enjoying an exquisite array of wines and cheese to suit one’s taste.

Or one could meander upstairs to the second floor bar and patio to connect with the dancing and music occurring on this particularly gorgeous day.

The staff and owner were warm, inviting and accommodating. Creating an ambience that

felt

so

cozy

Within this place a vibe of musical magic was created.

What I have realized is sometimes I have to fall,
in order to brush myself off,
take a deep breath,
own up
and stand tall.

as is life.

xo,

Nicole

Sustainability Please

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“Go check out the waste room” My friend said to me.
I popped into the stinky room of where I am staying in Lincoln Park, Chicago. A neighbor was moving to Florida and throwing everything away. I was astonished to see so many viable products going to waste.
A bag full of plastic hangers, a brand new fan still in the box, a juicer, 5 bags of clothes.
New kitchen supplies and speaker system???!!!!!!!

Living off of little on a completely sustainable homestead in Hawaii, has cultivated within an appreciation for materials and what they represent.
My first time as a garbage picker, I went in there and plucked the stuff to use and donate.

Sustainability is the way of our future, it’s quite disconcerting to witness how much

We waste.

It’s easy to think out of sight out of mind, yet, our trash is taking up enormous amounts of space in our earth and oceans.

No one to blame, instead addressing a system that is set up quite unsustainably.
A more sustainable society would include an organized system of waste, to minimize the amount of used space.

 

Stuff and Clothes

I love to shop and be fashionably on top, yet over the past few years have developed a complex about buying new, from places that are unsustainable and un-humanitarian.

“There must be a better way”
I think to myself
“As quickly as this fashion comes in, it goes out.”

Fashion labels could reconstitute old fabric in overfilled donation centers for new pieces, sustainability becoming a fashion statement beyond vintage.

A mentality of sustainability could replace this outdated modality of purchasing so much stuff and creating waste.

How?
By thinking more about what is bought and thrown away.

Realizing that the idea
new and better = consumerism condition.

This mindset comes from the constant barrage of brainwashed competition to have the newest and best.
Watch any commercial and you will see this blatantly displayed.

To sell one into, out with the old, in with the new.

Between us Americans there is abundance alone to donate and reuse, to families in need here and overseas, which could balance out the imbalance of materials and

stuff turned waste.

The mindset of hoarding and buying “newer and better” could be minimized by recycling what is already in production.
There could even be places set up for this in a system of trade.
What is one persons trash could be anothers found treasure.

This process of donating could be made easier for our quick fix society, implemented as part of our trash system that is then filtered and designated properly.

A good friend has started a non-profit in Detroit in line with this idea. She is taking what people no longer want and donating to those in need.
World-Bridger Non Profit can be found on Facebook if you would like to donate in the Detroit area.

Abundance comes from giving.

Compost

Organic compost when broken down anaerobically and aerobically not only creates new soil when compounded correctly, but can also be a source of sustainable energy.
To help with the shortage of healthy soil, we can create new soil out of compost, a process that is rather simple and can be done on large levels. When I worked on an organic farm in New Mexico we undertook this process. What this consisted of was making soil from a pile of organic material,
then we would pile on poo (cow manure) ; )
and straw material from the dry desert.
We would soak this concoction for 5 minutes at a time, while continuously piling more on.
Over time it would breakdown and after filtering, a dark silty soil would result.
By organizing and creating a separate system of compost in our trash system, it could serve the purpose of creating energy and soil production.

Recycling

Recycling, obviously, should be incorporated into our waste systems for all plastics, glass, paper, styrofoam and metals. I have found in major cities like NYC and Chicago there is a lack of recycling programs in larger buildings.
In a quick fix society, many will just throw away recyclable materials.

I like the idea of this recyclone

Wish:
for our government to take some of the billions going towards useless wars, and allocate funds to implement more organized systems for our trash nationally.
Which could help the needy, create new forms of energy, soil, and minimize the space we take up in these landfills.

xo,

Nicole

I Believe, Toronto

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Maybe you’re too serious about it,

Life isn’t meant to be so serious, it’s meant to be light and fun…

Stop judging yourself and
let go into acceptance
happiness
love.

I was deliberating these thoughts on the train ride from Chicago to Detroit onto Toronto. A trip spontaneously spurred by my dad.
Planes, trains and automobiles have become my second home, and meditation is a form of ease on them.
When a 5 hour train ride turns into 8 hours,

There must be a purpose, I think to myself.

I have to apply that even when life is not what I desire,
when I feel like giving up on myself,
giving up on my dreams,
letting go of the passion,
not understanding.

I believe in myself.

I believe that there is a purpose to everything, in seeking out what is positive, one will always grow from it.

I believe that what happens easily, is meant to be.

I believe to give up control, in order to let in the flow.
The flow of least resistance.

I believe that love is the only truth, all else is an illusion.

I believe that thoughts, actions, words and deeds create our reality.
Individually and collectively.

I believe that we are only human, doing the best we can with what we know.

I believe that life is beautiful, in order to see we have to remember.

I believe that a certificate does not give one merit, character or wisdom.
Life does.

I believe that the spirit thrives in laughter, letting go and having fun.

The pride parade happened to be the same weekend while we were in Toronto. Walking through the crowd, I was elated to see different cultures coming together to celebrate this symbol of tolerance.

I believe that judgement is a barrier to love. Who is anybody to judge?

I believe that the ego is annihilated in remembering that we are one.

I believe that intolerance and judgement come from perspective. Every person thinks they are right in their perception.

I believe there is no such thing as mistakes, only learning and growth of self.

I believe that tolerance and acceptance are the antithesis to self-righteousness and judgement. If we were raised in a world that promoted these tenets collectively,
we would see more love.

I believe each heart holds the secret of inner truth. Cultivate the heart.

I believe that love, empathy and compassion are practices of the highest. Accepting self and others through faults, leads to success.

I believe letting go of expectations, will allow one to be in the present.

I had time to myself while on this trip. Staying at the Park Hyatt, I indulged at Stillwater Spa.
I received a manicure, pedicure and facial, the service was impeccable.
The sauna and steams imparted healing on my mind, body and heart.
A tranquil, peaceful place Stillwater helped me to uncover my inner beauty by polishing the outer.
I was absolutely thankful for this luxurious treatment.

I believe in pampering, and feeling like a queen

I believe that a healthy mind, body and spirit creates happiness and ease.

I believe that life is a contradiction, in the duality of reality lies humor

I believe that every person is intrinsically gifted, sometimes waiting for their inner light to be uncovered.

I believe that in facing one’s shadow, one can see the light.

My father and I were sitting outside at Creme Brasserie, eating a lovely, light and delicious meal.

We were having a life questioning discussion.

I asked him

“Dad, if there was one thing you could impart, what would it be?”

“I used to play the game, and the game was top priority. Over time I have realized that family is the most important, however and whatever that family may be.” He responded

“Could that apply to the family of humanity?” I asked

I believe that children are our future, teach them to love each other.

I believe in taking care of the earth for future generations, it’s the only earth we have.

Every person believes differently, in that there is a beauty.

I believe in you, and me, to create, love, be happy and free.

Life is done unto as you believe.

xo,

Nicole