The Signs are ALWAYS There if You Listen

Inspiration: To continue to watch, look and listen when "guided."

It was a Thursday evening. The beloved inspirational teacher and author Marianne Williamson was here in New York City to promote her new book, "The Law Of Divine Compensation" on work, money and miracles. This was the second of her two night stint here. The night prior she was a the New York Open Center and I was finishing up my monthly November Wellness Newsletter.

I am always exhaused and elated after I complete these, never knowing how they will be received by others. So Wednesday night I did not sleep very well (feedback was inspiring btw). I had it in my mind's eye to go here Marianne lecture four blocks away from me at the local Barnes and Noble. I was even going to give up my favorite weekday yoga class. But at 5:45, after finishing up with a client, I felt depleted. Not only was I not going to do yoga, I wasn't energized to go to the book reading and signing.

So I check my messages, and I see an email from my friend Jessica who resides in Laguna Beach, Ca. It says, Subject: Marianne Williamson. "Denise, She's speaking tonight at the Barnes and Noble in the Upper West Side 7pm. Ok, I got the memo, I was told, yet again to go. So I did.

Marianne was running a bit late due to traffic, so I began to speak to those around me. I met a few lovely people that I happened to exchange info with but here was the twilight zone part; in front of me were two Denise's sitting right next to each other, and next to me, was a man who shared the same birthday as me. Could you believe! Do you think I was supposed to be there or what? Thank heavens I listened.

The lecture was inspiring, uplifting and just what I needed to hear. Another reminder to trust, listen and take action when I am both "guided' and inspired. So dearest ones, have you been listening to the messages in your lives. Taking action or not when appropriate. Spirit speaks to us constantly, but are we paying attention or letting the ego run the show. Think about it, and sleep peacefully.

With Love, Denise

 

November Wellness Newsletter

The year is coming to an end. We have seen the passage of Thanksgiving and are now beginning to think about the holidays. Thank you to those who have continued to support my path in all ways. Below is a link to my monthly wellness musing for your reading pleasure. Enjoy!

~When you begin to touch your heart or let your heart be touched, you begin to discover that it's bottomless, that it doesn't have any resolution, that this heart is huge, vast and limitless. You begin to discover how much warmth and gentleness is there, as well as how much space.~
Pema Chodron

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Read on for inspiration on being vulnerable...

A Not So ZEN Experience

Inspiration: To accept there are still parts of me that exist that are not to my liking.

I awoke early this am ready for a full day of work, training and yoga. It was a crisp morning in NYC. The forecast was for rain and snow in the 30 degree range. My ultimate favorite weather! Just kidding. Anyways, I didn't sleep very well last night knowing I had my early morning client on the Upper East Side. I adore this man (as a person) and that is the only saving grace for my traveling.

After making my way back from East to West side, I had a few minutes to spare before my next session, and decided to go to Rite Aid to pick up some photos I had ordered. The moment I walked into the store I felt a constriction of my energy. That, and it didn't look like the new and "chic" Duane Reade's I have grown accustomed to.

I asked a guy behind the register, "Where do I pick up photos?" His response was " Get in the line?" His tone was not very inviting which was a bit annoying. Anyway, I wanted to pick up some things but since time was not on my side, I decided to get online. When I approached the register they told me they didn't have any photos. Last night, I received a confirmation saying they were ready. Before I found this out, I silently said to myself not so nice things about the staff, especially the one who was looking for my prints. Not nice at all.

Like I always say, what we think about expands and I turned into somewhat of a hissy New York City bitch! I was frustrated and annoyed with the incompetence and the rudeness and just couldn't help myself. I saw this was getting me nowhere and was determined to get my prints. After a few minutes, they did find my order. I paid and happily bolted out of there...No wonder I never shop there.

The reason I share this with you now, is that our mood and energy help us to create the situations we find ourselves in. If my initial thoughts, could have been a little softer, maybe they wouldn't have been so blatantly rude and incompetent. Ouch! Did I say that? This I write for my friend on the West Coast Sim Lucien. A brilliant trainer and writer with a big heart.:)

So the next time you find yourself in an annoying situation, take a breathe, surrender and know you we be finished with it in no time. Of course depending on what that is. Think about it and have a wonderful nite.

With Love,
Denise

Day 21 Of Promise to Self to Scribe

Inspiration: To continue to live my truth, shine my light, and let go...

Yeah! I made it! Twenty-one days of consistently writing in this blog. Who would have thought? Not me. At best I have written maybe four times a month in the last year. I have to admit, I am proud of me.:)

Promises we make to ourself our important. They keep us accountable, they keep us consistent. This creates a habit as Deepak Chopra and others say. Today, also makes the completion of twenty-one days of meditating with Deepak in the morning. So a double whammy for me this month.

May this continue to occur in ever area of my life. Being consistent and creating good habits that will assist me along my journey to healing, wellness and abundant living. It has been a long, arduous road of my forty-six years here on earth school. So many triumphs, so many losses. But throught it all I have stayed the course and stayed connected to my spiritual path, knowing I am always watched and looked after by the benevolent ones as my teacher Kathleen Kelley refers to them.

So it is with deep intention and heart I wish all of you your hearts dreams and desires fulfilled. Stay the course, be true to you and shine your magnicificent light for all to behold. Have an amazing evening!!!

And thank you to those who have supported me along this journey dance of life.:)

With love and much gratitude,
Denise

The Jokes ON ME

Inspiration: To not allow myself to fall into addictive patterns of behavior, especially through exercise.

Greetings: I am almost there. This is day 20 of my promise to self to scribe. My musing for today is about exercise and yoga. I rarely ever write about this but truth be told I move often. I do some form of exercise usually six days per week.

In the past, I would exercise to escape my true feelings. To surpress what I was really feeling. While I no longer do this, thanks to yoga and meditation, I have been moving too much in the last two months. The reason; because someone I was involved with and care for deeply was coming to NYC for Thanksgiving to visit his family. We had tentative plans (but he says he was looking forward to seeing me and that he loved me).This is a man I had known for a few years. I was his trainer. We dated for about six months and since he was moving and I "wasn't the ONE" (or anyone else btw), we ended things.

I saw him while I was in L.A. last year and again this past May. We are psychically and karmically connected; a deadly combination. There is still chemistry between us, so I wanted to look "HOT" when we got together. Well, his week here is coming to an end and I have not heard from him. So the jokes on me. I have trained and done yoga, often days both, wanting to feel great and empowered.:)

Knowing him, it is not personal. This is who he is, and although he says communication is so important, he does anything but. I am not angry. I am free! Energetically, I also let my feelings for him spill into a blossoming friendship I am exploring with someone else. This even caused me to sabotage (energetically speaking what is growing ). He now needs "space".

So I will use this as a great lesson to self. A lesson to not give my power away or become distracted. To focus on me and surrender more deeply to SPIRIT, for healing and transformation...Maybe this sounds familiar. We, woman often times forget about what is really important and worry about pleasing others, when in fact the more we please ourselves, the more love there is, both internally and externally.

Think about it and have a "wonderful" evening.
With Love, Denise

Our Thoughts Have Creative Power

Inspiration: To continue to have faith no matter what.

Day 19: Promise to self to scribe.
Yesterday was Thanksgiving. I wasn't sure what my plans were, yet alone gather with others and eat my favorite thing, a turkey leg. Sounds so simple but let me explain.

Back in the day when I was living on Broadway, Upper West Side, there was a small, hole in the wall diner that made a giant turkey daily. Their specialty was fresh turkey sandwiches and they even sold it by the pound. Many times a week I would have an exquisitely, large, King Henry the 8th leg. I looked forward to this and it became a staple in my diet. And yes, plenty of protein.:)

So fast forward to the day before yesterday. I was sitting outside my apartment in the hallway, having a conversation with my next door neighbor. We spoke about Thanksgiving and I told him how I wished I could have a turkey leg. Mind you, I had no formal plans until the evening. So I thought anyways.

A new yogi friend of mine asked me to stop over to say hello before they had Thanksgiving dinner. I said I would for a bit as I was thinking of seeing a movie and then meeting a friend later on. I then received a message saying, "If you don't have plans, what I meant to say was come join us for dinner."

Well, my prayer was answered! I would never have expected or anticipated such a lovely day, wonderful people, good conversation, and yes, a turkey leg. It was even free-range. So happy...The moral of this post is, if you plant a seed and let it go, you never know how it will turn out. If I could only do this for the bigger stuff that would be wonderful....I will do my best.

Hope your turkey day was filled with lots of love, divine surprises and joy.

With Love, Denise

Gratitude Day

Inspiration: To continue to FEEL grateful for all the blessings and miracles that are here for me.

Day 18: Promise to scribe to self. Almost there...

Greetings: Today is Thanksgiving. A day when most gather with family friend for turkey, decadence.Whatever you have planned for today, do what speaks to you. Whether it is in fact getting together with loved ones, going to a movie, or eating Chinese food, do what makes you happy.:)

Be grateful for each moment. As there are no guarantees in life. Marinate in the fullness of who you truly are. Shine your light and bless others. As you do this your life will become even more blessed. And have a "magical" day!!!


With Love and Many Blessings, Denise

Happy Pre-Turkey Day

Inspiration: To do whatever it takes to stay inspired and uplifted.

Day 17
Well, I am almost there. Twenty-one days of my commitment to self to scribe in this blog. To continue to be inspired takes work. It is a consistent and ongoing practice of keeping your thoughts, feelings and emotions elevated.

This can be extremely challenging at times. Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. The day when family and friends gather around to eat a huge amount of turkey, sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie. For me, this day has not been celebrated with my immediate family in years. Out of the gate, one knows it is not a positive experience. Truth be told, I have no idea what my folks are doing tomorrow. Probably what they know best wallowing in self-pity and doubt.

This is why I am not going to be with them. It has taken me a long time to get to where I am today. So no matter how it may look to the outside world, I am doing what makes me happy. What makes me grateful. Presently, tomorrow is still in gestation. Yoga, a movie, a friends gathering. Whatever feels good.

The reason I share my own experiences in most of these musings, is that I teach by example. I have gone through just about all of the muddy layers, and crap one could possibly imagine. What I am referring to is more of an emotional nature.

So tomorrow, on gratitude day (which is really everyday), I will surround myself with people and situations that bring me joy and uplift my "spirit". I hope you all do the same. Wishing you a very peaceful, ease full and blessed turkey day!

With Love, Denise

Dare to DREAM!

Inspiration: To keep on moving on...

This past month, and year, has been extremely challenging. Having to really take a good hard look at what is working, what is not, and what I really need to let go of. This has been a painful but freeing process. As I tell others, anyone and anything that "zaps" your energy needs to be released. Often times, it may appear selfish if others are involved, especially as it relates to family. But if you are not being supported, seen and uplifted, then it is best to lovingly let go; at least for a time.

The holidays are approaching. This week arrives the gratitude holiday, Thanksgiving. While everyday is a blessing, many of us particular find ourselves being a bit more grateful; of all the miracles and blessings in our lives. Reaching out to those we may have overlooked in the past.

Recently, I received the most beautiful and loving email one could possibly imagine. It was from my beloved, dear friend and Intuitive Counselor Elana Kilkenny. We met nearly nine years ago, when I was a very different Denise, searching to be different, looking for a guide to lead me. She arrived in my life at the perfect moment. For many years, we worked together unraveling all the layers and resistence that were not serving me. We have become dear friends and her family is a testiment to the beauty that is possible.

So last night, after saying to myself (as I often do), when is my physical world, work life going to radically shift, I received the most humbling message. Without my ego desire to share, let's just say it was divinely timed and guided by SPIRIT. This brought tears to my eyes and expansion in my heart.

I awoke today, with a greater sense of purpose and desire. My heart is beginning to burst open and expand in amazing and miraculous ways! I will not give up...I have yet begun to fight (Samuel Adams I believe). Well fighting is not the exact word....But you get the jist.

So dear ones, never ever give up on your DREAMS. Stay in the energy of what is possible. Vibrate positive feelings and emotions. Take "guided" action when appropriate. And most important "Dare to DREAM"!!! I am.

With Love and gratitude.
From my heart to yours, Denise

Pure Acceptance

Inspiration: To allow the energetic space within and around me to take shape.

Day 15:
Acceptance. Embracing what is transpiring in our lives. Without judgment, without expectation, without pushing. Allowing everyone and everything the freedom and space it needs. This is a tough one. I know...

The more we can fully accept and embrace and let me emphasize FULLY,  the more we open ourselves up to the gifts and blessings available in each moment. The more resistance we hold in our mind and our hearts, the more we struggle against the flow. Struggle against what is.

Pure acceptance is a practice.A conscious practice of breathing into those things that may scare you and be overwhelming. A practice of "allowing" what ever feelings you may be experiencing to be there.

For me personally, I have been in a place of transition for most of this year. Desiring my work and life to shift into the glorious masterpiece I know it will be. I know it is.When I am projecting into the past and anticipating the future, this makes me uneasy. Stress and anxiety set in. Whenever there is a low energy vibration such as these, nothing, I repeat nothing has a shot in hell of showing up in an authentic way.

So what to do. Whatever it takes. Prayer, meditation, yoga, exercise, seeing a funny movie on a work night, whatever it takes to shift out of the negative emotion. I have written many a time, that there is no such thing as a neutral thought. It is either positively or negatively charged. A good reference point is to check in with your emotions. Renowned spiritual teacher Wayne Dyer suggests saying, " I want to feel good." Repeat this until you do. Think about it and sleep well.

With Love, Denise

Our Expectations

Inspiration: To continue to surrender my EGO attachment to have things my way.

Day 14:
Our expectations. We may desire this or that to happen in the physical, on our timetable. An event, an interaction, a work opportunity. Whatever it may be doesn't really matter. When we expect, we ultimately set ourselves up for disappointment.

When we get "out of the way" and live in the present, the universal intelligence unfolds to us physically in mysterious and magical ways. When we push, or force, whether verbally or energetically, it will not work out for our highest good.

Specifically, this past weekend, I was hoping to see someone. Although we communicated by text, he mentioned nothing about getting together. I was expecting or anticipating to see him since we have become closer over these past few weeks. So when I received a text this morning responding to my channeled guidance last night, I was pissed off when he responded and closed with have a grt8 day! Not the most intimate of things to say. You get the undertone here.

So, I have decided to practice what I so often lovingly preach. Expectations don't serve us. So right now, I will surrender these negative feelings and be a good parent to myself and trust the divine plan. Everything is as it is supposed to be in each moment. The more space we create within, the more space there is for our desires to flow at the right time.

What might you have some expectations about? Maybe there is something even more magnificent available that is unfolding? That said, I think I will take my own advice...That and go to yoga now to clear out my chakras.:)

Have a wonderful and blessed day!
With Love, Denise

To First Love on His Birthday

Inspiration: To continue to cultivate loving relationships.

Day 13: Of promise to self to scribe

Today, is my first love's birthday. He turns 47. We first met at sleep-away camp when I was thirteen. We became friends when I was going out with one of his best friends (whatever that means at such a young age). Turns out we were from the same hometown and went to the same school. So at fifteen he was my boyfriend. We dated very on and off until I was twenty-two.

Fast forward to present day and we still communicate. On our respective birthdays in November and April, we look forward to hearing from each other as if it was yesterday. He is the first one to always call me on my special day.:-) When we do connect, it is as if we are both fifteen again. This warms my heart.

So today, on his birthday we caught up. For some reason this past April, he left me a message and we didn't get to speak. But today, we connected fully. It is truly beautiful and a gift, to reminisce with someone who truly knows you and loves you unconditionally. A gentle reminder, that love never dies. It just transforms in relationship. My dear friend was very vulnerable on this day and opened up to me more fully than ever before about his life, and what he is experiencing.

I felt truly blessed that he was able to do this with me as he is not one to share his deepest feelings. I was grateful to hold space for him and allow the conversation to unfold in whatever way it was meant to. I always say, on your birthday, it is about you! So today, it was about being a friend and reflecting back what I knew to be true. That he was a good man. That he will always hold a space in my heart. That there is nothing in the world I wouldn't do for him. True unconditional friendship and love. A gift, a blessing.

I share this as a gentle reminder to embrace all of those wonderful individuals who have touched your life in some way. For me, these two days a year, hold so much purity and heart. If I, we, could always live from this place, life truly is a miracle....Have a blessed day.

With Love, Denise

Grounding IN the Big Apple

Inspiration: To continue to stay peaceful, focused and grounded amidst the noise and the chaos.

In the past, I have written how at times living in New York City can really get the best of you. The crowds, the noise, the rushing from here to there...to nowhere. You get my drift. So for me, being a high octane "Aries", it gets to me even more (in my opinion anyway).

Personally, I find it is extremely helpful to have a daily ritual or two to ground, to stay as present as you can. Years ago, teachers of mine said that when I meditate I will be calmer, not thinking this would ever happen consistently in this lifetime. So now I am completely humbled and grateful for this practice which I do every morning before leaving my home.

It has become second nature. Not to say that I am completely "empty" when I meditate, but I sit and surrender and let go. That's what it is all about. This helps to set the tone for the day. Have you ever woke up in a pissy mood and the day just carried on this energy? Probably even escalated? So meditation is key.

My favorite grounding ritual is nature. In the summers I love lying in the grass until sunset, savoring in the beauty and majesty all around me. Now that it is getting colder here, I have gone on pre-sunset nature walks in Riverside Park to empty myself. To let go of whatever I may be carrying that is weighing me down in my mind and heart. I leave feeling refreshed and invigorated!

Whether you reside in a big city or not, grounding in general helps you to stay focused in the midst of whatever is going in your internal and external world. Being grounded or present, also helps you to culivate more patience and acceptance with self and others.

These are just a few examples of what might be helpful. And of course my Heart, my joy; Yoga...What keeps you sane, grounded? Ponder that for a moment and sleep peacefully.:)

With Love, Denise

My Heart

Inspiration: To continue to allow my heart to burst open.

 My heart has opened like a wildflower

Waiting to be touched by your sweetness

      I am ready to dance again

 Let me hold you in my arms, MY Love

     Come find me. I am waiting for you.

I wrote the above to myself on May 18, 2012. My heart is dancing. Is yours?

With Love, Denise

Being More Visible

Inspiration: To continue to show up more fully in all ways.

Day 10:
How can your desires find its way to you if you are not willing to be seen? Visibility. How much are you willing to put yourself out into the world so that your deepest heartfelt dreams come true.

For example, how do you expect to meet a romantic partner if you sit home in hiding? Unless the UPS man/woman comes your way. No seriously. Many of us (and me too) desire things to be different in our lives. Whether it is personally or professionally it is essential to show up, show your face in some way.

I am a masterful at hiding.(I must have been a monk in a prior incarnation.) So this evening, I was invited to a friends art exhibit and performance on the Upper East Side. I didn't want to get dressed up, which is normal for most folks. I didn't want to venture all the way across Central Park. But I did...

I ended up having a nice conversation with a few people that would never have happened otherwise. There is also the possibility of one of these individuals working with me. No expectations of course, just saying. I realize its no big deal for many to go to these things but I have my routine, my rigidity. I wasn't able to practice my Wednesday night yoga so I readjusted to go earlier in the day. Not my favorite, but I did it.

What I am trying to say, is that we can get stuck in our comfort zones. I love alone time.My life is extremely physically, especially for a middle aged 46 year old woman.:-) I am miss independent, self-sufficient. Maybe it was my survival mechanism early on from my wonderfully dysfunctional family; who knows...But now, I am working shifting this in lieu of new experiences, even if it feels like a burden at times.

What might you have been hiding from, not showing up more fully? The next time an invitation or something comes your way you would normally decline, go out of your way and dance with possibility. Think about that and sleep well.

With Love, Denise

Learning to Surf the Waves of Life

Inspiration: To ride the wave relinquishing my fears.


Day 9 of promise to self.
The inspiration for this musing comes from an article a friend just sent to me entitled, " The Surfer's Guide to Taking Risks" by Srinivas Rao. In his article, he compares each stage of surfing to our life. From standing on the shore to riding the wave from start to finish.

It was very interesting. In surfing he says, one has to be truly present. There isn't much time to let distractions and fears take over or you will wipe out. In life, we aren't actually on a surf board but his comparisons make a lot of sense.

In a nutshell, here is what I got.

If you are standing on the shore, you are not in the game.
If you are waiting for the perfect moment, you create it by getting out there.
If you fall down, you just get up and do it again until you succeed ( My interpretation).

Life is a series of waves. We have moments of complete elation and moments of complete depletion. The key is to keep on keeping on. Our wipe-outs will ultimately make us stronger; or not. It is all the way you look at it. For me, my deep wish is to write a book. Am I doing anything about it. No. I am standing on the shore waiting for the sky to part and some unseen force hand me a book contract.

This isn't going to happen. I have to take action. It is scary and I don't know where to start. How about starting to write that bio I promised myself about six days ago to send to a publisher here in New York City.
What am I so afraid of???

We fear failure. We fear success. Is there a happy medium? Yes. Acceptance. Accept that no matter what happens in the physical, you are an abundant, blessed being. From that space have the courage to act on your dreams while embracing the fear and stepping into the unknown.

Maybe tomorrow I will just do that. What about you?

With Love, Denise

Namaste

Inspiration: To continue to be blessed with practicing and teaching my love of yoga.

Namaste. Many of you may know what the word means, especially if you practice yoga. Some may not. This inspiration comes from an email I received from a new yoga client today.

Earlier, I had sent him an email confirming possible times for the week. The last time we met, at the end ofg session, I asked him if he ever heard the word Namaste. His response was no. I explained to him that it was was something that is said often at the end (or beginning ) of yoga class. He completely took this in with an open heart and mind.

So when I received his kind response to my email, he signed Namaste and his name. This was really touching for me to read.:-) Namaste: translated means- The divine light that is within me, bows down and honors the divine light that is in you.

We are all divine beings of light. One doesn't have have to practice yoga to say Namaste. So the next time you say hello or goodbye to someone, try this greeting. If they don't know what it means, tell them. You may be surprised at their response.

Namaste and goodnight.

With Love, Denise

The Simple Things

Inspiration: To appreciate the little things many of us take for granted.

Day 7 of promise to self to scribe.

About a year and a half ago, I threw my television out. I did this for a myriad of reasons. Here they are:

Reason 1: It was an old monstrosity.
Reason 2: I was enrolled in a six-month long yoga teacher training and thought it would distract me
Reason 3: I live in a studio and it was ruining the feng shui.

All pretty good reasons, especially number 3. I am beginning to rethink this as last night was the first time I watched t.v. (other than on computer) in a very long time. Let me explain. I was over at a friends home last night giving her and her husband a much needed date night. Let's say I was watching the kiddies.:-) To be able to sit and channel surf was something I missed. I finally decided to watch a movie, and found the first Rocky, circa 1976 to be on (Yo Adrienne). Sly definitely has come a long way. He was so young and looked rather tall (not in real life) in the film. Amazing what the camera can do.

Anyway, the point I am trying to make is that is was wonderful to be distracted, or entertained. Something I feel I have been missing in my home, instead opting to read and immerse myself in healing and meditation. I used to have over 300 stations and never even watched a movie. Perhaps there is a balance...

So now I think I may have to succumb and find a place in my very humble abode. That or move really soon...Anyway, what might you have taken for granted? Not really appreciated when you had it. It can be anything from a material possession to a friendship. Think about it and have a wonderful evening.

With Love, Denise

Happy Saturday!!!

Inspiration: Simply put, day six of my commitment to scribing.

I love Saturdays! Most recently, my weekly ritual is to rise, eat breakfast, chill and go back to sleep. Wake-up, have lunch and then go to gym and yoga class. The rest of the day is up for grabs.

It has taken me some time to really listen. To rest, to pause and not feel guilty. That is why I love getting up today and going back to sleep. When others view Saturday, as a "let's get it done kinda day", I look at it as let's relax into rest. For me, this rest is not leaving my apartment until after noon.:-)

Weekends can also be a time of deep introspection if one chooses. When most of us are off, there is an opportunity to reflect, on how we feel; without the hustle and bustle of the usually work week. For me, I do my best to reflect daily, often times not particular thrilled, but present so I can make conscious empowered  choices in a positive direction.

So on this first day of the weekend, how are you feeling? How will you spend your day off.?  In this in-between the week time, are you being good to you? There is no better time than now. Today. Whether it is a Saturday or not. Think about that had RELAX into your sweetness.

Have a magical day!
With Love, D

A Prayer for the Dying

Inspiration: To continue to be grateful for my life, no matter what is going on in and around me.

Greetings. Day five. Yesterday was a full day. Emotionally. I felt great, I felt anxious, I felt sad. But most importantly I felt and feel grateful.:) Grateful for all of life's mysteries and opportunities.

My Thursday night ritual is going to yoga class with one of my favorite teachers and friend Eddie Teboul. Eddie has been trained in the Jivamukti style of yoga. Jiva means individual soul and mukti means liberation while living. It is a beautiful system that combines devotion, chanting, story and of course flow.

We always begin class with a call and response. A sacred chant that sets the tone to open ourselves up. As we began this invocation, Eddie took the opportunity to devote his teaching last night to a dear friend and fellow teacher who was going to pass in about two days time. He spoke of her devotion to yoga and it's principles and even shared that this extraordinary woman made peace with her impending passing and was ready to surrender her physical body with an open heart, joy and gratitude. That it was her time to end this part of her journey.

He had mentioned her name, but I didn't think much of it. From the onset, class held a heightened energy and created a space for us, me, to really embrace the fullness of this life, and to appreciate "everything". That the day to day mundane dramas, inconveniences and distractions will always be a part of its ebb and flow.

As usual, class was magical and afterwards my friend and I went out to grab a bite and hear some music. Then it hit me as we spoke and reflected on class. There was a recognition, when I heard her name again echo within me. I knew who this woman was, not personally, but I did attend some of her classes many years back. A woman now in her fifties, at peace with the life she has been given. I don't know what it is, but when you know who the person is, it really does hit closer to home.

So today I awoke early, excited to be given this life, my body, my mind and heart. Full of possibility about the magic each day brings to us. The more I, we, can live with gratitude, the fuller our experiences will become in each moment. This is my mantra for today:

"Each and every day is a divine opportunity to experience the fullness of who we are. I am grateful for the gift of my breath, I am grateful for this life."

Enjoy the journey and have a blessed day!
With Love, Denise

Don't Panic, It Doesn't Help

Inspiration: To remember to take a pause, a moment before freaking out to see things clearly.

Day 4 of promise to scribe. I literally just had a mini-freak out! Yes, miss zen as some think of me. A situation I thought would be resolved today did not. I was counting on it. Expecting it. Blame it on Mercury Retrograde and people being off so to speak.

Not that this was intentional in any way. Just an oversight. So what did I do? I did my best to negociate in the moment and when that wasn't working I surrendered. After my disappointment and fear escalated, I took a moment to really go inside and ask for a resolution. The best possible scenario. It came in a manner I never would have expected. So I went with it and it worked out.

Of course I am purposefully being vague about the details but what I wish to share is that when we expect and or freak it is totally USESLESS! This is why it is best to have no expectations or rely on others in any way.

So the next time you begin to panic, take a moment to pause, to breathe and to ask. There is always another way, another option. We just have to look outside of our comfort zone. As I am still calming down from my mini-storm, I will now take my own advice and go to yoga class. OM.

Be good to you. Always.
With Love, Denise

The GREAT Procrastinator!

Inspiration: Simply put, not to procrastinate anymore.

Day three of my "commitment" to scribing. So here it is almost 9pm on a blistery, snowy and cold New York City winters day. It wasn't enough that we had Sandy last week, now we are being visited by a so-called Nor'easter and I had to take out my snow boots on November 8th.

I loathe the cold. So why do I live in NYC? Maybe because this is where I am going to meet my next husband and find work and vocation that makes my heart soar! Just kidding and maybe not. Anyway, New York City is really one of the only places where this is still some semblance of life pulsating amidst the snowy chaos.

So today, my dear friend Tony did a reading for me over the phone. This is why I am now writing. When I say he did a reading, what I mean is an intuitive card reading. Without going into the airy fairy details, what most important, was to look at my present situation. It said not to procrastinate any more. Was there anything I have been putting off ? How funny and how true. I have been a procrastinator all of my life. So to unlearn this behavior takes A LOT of practice.

He asked me what I have been procrastinating about and something crystal clear entered my minds eye. I had asked the Universe (and the universe has asked me) to somehow, someday connect me with someone who may assist ( or motivate) me to write a book. Not that I am even close, but an opportunity came my way to submit a bio to a publisher here in New York. This was over three weeks ago. Did I do it? You already know the answer...A big Negative! Why? Because of my fear and what it would actually feel like. That and I would actually have to write the damn thing.

So right now, I am using this medium as a promise to myself to get this done. Within a weeks time ( actually longer than one needs), I will do this. Whatever happens happens. I need to step into my deepest dreams while lovingly embracing the fear of the unknown. I have been asking for some time "What is next for me?" It is much easier to stay stuck in what is familiar than move forward. I am pretty much done with the last sixteen years incarnation of being known as a fitness trainer. Anyone that says that to me I want to ----. Yoga teacher or GODDESS is okay though.:)

So people, what might you be procrastinating about. What have you been putting off that you know would be beneficial to do, to explore? There is no better time than the present. Dare to live your wildest dreams! Think about it and have a "magical" night.

With Love, Denise

The Grass IS Always Greener

Inspiration: Day 2 of being consistent in my thoughts, deeds and actions.

So yesterday I decided to commit to writing 21 days straight in this blog. I am excited to continue to express whatever musings and insights come into my minds eye. When contemplating what to scribe today, what "popped" in was a conversation I had with a friend last week.

This friend is a very talented musician who is married with two adorable children. His wife is an extremely successful international performer/singer. So for the past few years he has become mother so to speak; staying home, putting his creativity and dreams aside. They lead a very "comfortable" and abundant life on the surface, traveling all over the world, taking vacations to wherever they desire.

But on this particular day, I received a text from this friend asking if I had time to meet with him. He has never done this so spontaneously before, so I knew it was important. We met at a local coffee shop and I immediately knew when I saw his face what had transpired. His wife had an affair...He looked so vulnerable, so sad. But out of this space I saw a tremendous future for him. Let me explain.

For some time, he had conveyed to me how unhappy he was in his marriage and how the light, spontaneity and luster had disappeared. How he had pretty much felt like an invisible doormat. So we sat down and chatted for a bit. I told him, "This is a huge blessing and opportunity! You have told me how unhappy you have been and this is the doorway. It might not FEEL like it right now, but in time you will be amazed how wonderful this is."

He then when on to tell me he found a new studio space to practice his drumming and that new opportunities had already been presented to work with prominent musicians. All since this news went down with his wife!
Interesting right?

The universe or world we live in is like a cosmic computer. Our thoughts, feelings and actions ultimately manifest in some way in the physical. Many times, it is not to our liking. We would much prefer sugar coated ice-cream sundaes and magic fairy dust (just like how that sounds for some strange reason). What we usually get is a kick in the ass to wake us up!

So for my dear friend, I feel (and intuitively he knows this), he has turned a corner. A door is opening that he is beginning to walk towards. This will take time, but what he received is a divine opportunity to step out of that which no longer serves and to give birth to what makes his heart sing in all ways. With patience, kindness and compassion, may he find his rainbow...

In closing, I invite you all to lovingly take a good look at what your life looks like. Are you happy?  Is there something that needs some fine-tuning or letting go? Ponder that for a bit and have an amazing day!!!

With Love, Denise

My 21 Day Challenge

Inspiration: To continue to be consistent as my dreams unfold into reality.

Consistency. Something I have been asked to work on by those that inspire me for many years. To keep the energy and my joy growing on a consistent basis. I am so good at what others may find challenging; a disciplined workout/yoga/meditation regime and mindful eating. This comes easily to me because I practice consistently.

Today, international spiritual teacher Deepak Chopra is beginning his worldwide 21 day meditation challenge. I watched this inspiring man yesterday on Oprah's Super Soul Sunday. He said it takes twenty-one days to create a habit. So today I begin my own 21-day challenge. It is to write for twenty-one days straight in this blog.

My writing is something I have been called to do for some time. I don't really know why, as it has not been my focus or study at any particular point in time. For years, I have been keeping journals; documenting my life struggles, dreams and wishes. As  I had gone back over these, I realize many of my dreams have come true in miraculous and amazing ways! Additionally, I have been sending out monthly wellness newsletters and the feedback I have received has been extremely positive.

So today begins for me. I am a writer! I am an inspiration to others and I surrender the need to figure it out! I will do what I am "guided" to do whether it makes logical sense or not. I will continue to keep inspiration near, in whatever form moves me in any particular moment. I have no idea whatsoever what will flow out of me in these next remaining days...but I will use this as an incentive to no longer procrastinate with what makes my heart sing.:)

So what do you aspire to create in your life?  Be honest with yourself. Maybe it is to join Deepak in his meditation challenge? Maybe it is to be of service to others in some way? Think about it and have a beautiful and blessed day!

From my heart to yours. With Love, Denise

Happy Post Halloween

Inspiration: To continue to be inspired.:)

Greetings. I cannot believe how time flies! It is already November and we have just seen the passage of pumpkins, witches and super heros. I am fortunate enough to reside on the Upper West Side where our block on 78th hosts many little peeps dressed up in adorable costumes on Halloween. So with post Hurricane Sandy, it was truly a gift to be able to sit outside my brownstone steps and give sweet treats to these amazing kids.

A few days prior, we witnessed one of natures biggest extravaganzas on the East Coast. This hurricane of epic proportions, bringing most of our beloved city to a standstill. I am fortunate enough to be spared the loss of power and had plenty (too much) food, too much yoga and too much gym as these were the only things to really do; for me anyway.:)

The rest of New York, New Jersey and other places, not the case. Many are still left without power and will be for some days. Our subway system has started to revive itself with limited service. Let's just say, as a whole we got hit Hard! But there is also a gift in all of this. For us to bond, for community to work together as a unit. We tend to forgot that we really do need one another and this was an excellent opportunity for people to come together.

It has also been a time of introspection. Seeing what is real. The truth is, we never really know what is going to happen. This not only applies to national disasters but to what transpires in our own lives. How we live each day, each moment, creates the next. How are you living? What are you thinking, feeling and experiencing? Nature spreads her wings to get our attention. Are you listening now?

Think about that and spread your wings. Make a difference in some small way.

With Love, Denise