As February winds down, we find ourselves in a quiet in-between season—not quite winter, not quite spring. This time of year offers a unique opportunity for reflection, renewal, and gentle preparation for the vibrancy of spring ahead.
The Beauty of the Transition
Winter invites stillness and rest, while spring brings energy and new beginnings. Instead of rushing through this seasonal shift, embracing it mindfully allows us to honor both cycles—letting go of winter’s heaviness while welcoming spring’s freshness.
Ways to Gently Transition into Spring
1. Adjust Your Daily Routine
Begin incorporating more movement, like light stretching or yoga, to awaken the body.
Spend a few moments outside each day, even if it’s just a short walk to notice signs of spring.
2. Nourish Your Body with Seasonal Foods
Start adding fresh greens, citrus, and lighter meals to your diet.
Continue enjoying warm, grounding foods like soups and herbal teas for balance.
3. Refresh Your Space
Open the windows to let fresh air in on milder days.
Declutter a small area in your home to create space for new energy.
4. Set Intentions for the New Season
Reflect on what you want to cultivate in the coming months.
Write down a few small goals or affirmations to guide your transition.
Embrace the Moment
Rather than seeing February as a waiting period, embrace it as a time of quiet transformation. The shifts happening in nature are mirrored within us—reminding us that growth doesn’t happen overnight but through gentle, steady change.
How do you welcome the transition from winter to spring? I’d love to hear your thoughts! ??
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For most of my life, I have been an “I can” person. I can push through. I can figure it out. I can keep going, no matter what. That mindset carried me through challenges, fueled my passions, and shaped the way I moved through the world. But this past year—facing three hip surgeries, constant pain, and now preparing for yet another grueling surgery—has taught me a lesson I never expected: it’s okay to say “I can’t.”
At first, those words felt foreign, almost like giving up. I resisted them, believing that if I just tried harder, pushed a little more, I could still do everything I used to. But the reality of my healing journey forced me to pause.
I began to recognize that saying “I can’t” wasn’t about weakness—it was about truth.
It was about listening to my body instead of fighting against it. It was about setting boundaries, asking for help, and honoring what I needed, not just what I wanted to be able to do.
Learning to accept “I can’t” has brought an unexpected sense of peace. It has opened the door to self-compassion, allowing me to focus on what I can do in this season of life—whether that’s gentle movement, meaningful connection, or simply resting without guilt. It has shown me that strength isn’t measured by how much we push through, but by how well we adapt, accept, and allow ourselves to be human.
The Benefits of Accepting Limitations
Accepting our limitations doesn’t mean giving up—it means making space for a different kind of growth. Here are a few ways this shift has been a gift in my life:
Less Pressure, More Peace – Releasing the need to always push forward has allowed me to be more present. Instead of feeling like I’m falling short, I’m learning to embrace where I am.
Deeper Self-Compassion – Saying “I can’t” doesn’t mean I’m failing; it means I’m honoring my needs. This mindset shift has allowed me to treat myself with the same kindness I would offer a loved one.
More Meaningful Connections – When I let go of the need to do everything on my own, I opened myself up to receiving help and support from others. That vulnerability has deepened my relationships in ways I never expected.
Redefining Strength – True strength isn’t about endurance at all costs; it’s about knowing when to pause, when to ask for help, and when to let go.
Finding New Possibilities – While I may not be able to do certain things the way I used to, I’ve discovered new ways to move, teach, and connect. Accepting my limitations has made room for fresh opportunities.
If you’re struggling with your own limitations—whether physical, emotional, or something else entirely—know that “I can’t” is not the end of your story. It’s an invitation to shift, to soften, and to embrace life as it is, rather than how we think it should be. And sometimes, that shift brings more healing than any amount of pushing ever could.
For me, I have even learned that saying “I can’t” to mowing the lawn or doing heavier house work has brought so much freedom into my life. I never thought I would be okay with handing over the reigns of the lawn mower to a paid yard boy but it is truly amazing!
Have you ever had to learn to be okay with saying “I can’t”? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. ?
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
“How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours.” — Wayne Dyer
Karma is a concept that is often misunderstood. Many people see it as a system of punishment and reward—a cosmic scorecard that doles out justice. However, at its core, karma is not about retribution but rather about cause and effect. It is the natural unfolding of consequences based on our actions, thoughts, and intentions.
As I continue to struggle with my hip recovery, I often get people saying that I don’t deserve this because I do good in the world. Would I be experiencing this if I didn’t do good things? Is what they are referring to karma? I do not think so.
In my mind, karma is not punitive or rewarding.
In many spiritual traditions, including Hinduism and Buddhism, karma is seen as a teacher rather than a judge. When we act with kindness, integrity, and compassion, we tend to experience more peace and fulfillment. When we act with harm, dishonesty, or negativity, we may encounter challenges—not as punishment, but as an opportunity for growth and self-awareness.
A key aspect of karma is that it is not instant, nor is it always obvious. Sometimes the effects of our actions take time to unfold, and they may not always manifest in the ways we expect. This can be frustrating, especially when we feel we are acting with good intentions yet still face difficulties. However, rather than seeing these moments as punishment, we can view them as an invitation to reflect and realign with our highest values.
In our daily lives, karma reminds us to be intentional with our actions. How we treat others, the energy we put into the world, and the mindset we carry all contribute to the experiences we attract. If we want more love, we can offer love. If we want more kindness, we can be kind. This doesn’t mean life will always be fair or predictable, but it does mean we have more power over our experiences than we often realize.
Ultimately, karma is a mirror.
It reflects our choices and allows us to take responsibility for the energy we cultivate in our lives. Instead of fearing karma as a force of punishment, we can embrace it as a guide. A guide that helps us live with greater awareness, intention, and purpose.
As I move forward with my struggles I will continue to do good without any attachment to being rewarded (or punished). In my downtime I am crocheting hats for the needy, making cards for my neighbors, sharing uplifting messages on social media, baking bread for others and generally trying to share goodness from my heart.
In a world that often feels fast-paced and self-centered, the act of serving others stands as a profound counterbalance—a way to connect, inspire, and build a greater sense of purpose. Service to others doesn’t require grand gestures or vast resources. Instead, it begins with small, heartfelt acts of kindness that ripple outward, creating an impact far greater than we might imagine.
Why Service Matters
When we serve others, we tap into a deeper sense of humanity. Science and spirituality alike remind us that helping others not only benefits the recipient but also nurtures the giver. Acts of service release oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone, fostering connection and joy. Beyond this, service cultivates empathy, strengthens communities, and reminds us of the beauty of interdependence.
Small Steps Toward Big Impact
Often, we underestimate the power of small actions. A simple smile, a kind word, or a thoughtful gesture can brighten someone’s day. What may seem ordinary to us can be extraordinary to someone in need. Consider volunteering a few hours at a local shelter, helping a neighbor with groceries, or simply being present for a friend who needs to talk. These moments of service weave a tapestry of kindness that uplifts everyone involved.
Cultivating the “Greater Good”
The “greater good” begins with individual intention. When we act with selflessness and compassion, we inspire others to do the same. Imagine a world where these acts multiply—where kindness becomes contagious and communities are transformed. By cultivating an attitude of service, we contribute to a collective spirit of unity and hope.
Reflect and Engage
Take a moment to reflect: How can you serve today? Perhaps it’s through your talents, your time, or simply your willingness to listen. Every action, no matter how small, carries the potential to plant seeds of positivity that will grow and flourish in ways you may never witness.
As we move forward, let us remember the power of service. Together, we can build a world rooted in compassion, one act of kindness at a time. Serving others isn’t just an act—it’s a way of being, a path to cultivating the greatest good within ourselves and our communities.
What will your next step be in creating this ripple of service?
Let’s face it, setting an intention is the easy part. Implementing your intention can be the true work. To implement your intention, you are basically saying to the universe you are willing to step into a relationship that requires work. All relationships take work and this spiritual marriage between you and the universe is no different.
My Intention for the Year
I have set out to bring a sense of renewal into my life. It is not that my life is bad, but I do have certain lifestyle choices that I know need to be adjusted. At one point in my life many of those choices worked for me. That is no longer the case.
To implement a sense of renewal, and align with the forces of the universe, I must be willing to have deliberate actions. Publicly proclaiming your intention is a powerful step to begin the process. Plus, it gives me a record for accountability.
Ditch my tracking of steps walked. Yep, that is correct. After twenty five years of logging my steps, I am going to release it. I am not going to look at the amount of steps, but rather look for quality of steps. Are they in nature? Were my daily steps meaningful? Did I enjoy my time walking?
Shift directions a bit. By fostering the things that bring me joy, I am going to make more space for them. That will give me less space for things that cause me stress. I still intend to teach adaptive yoga as my primary “job”, but implanting my own bakery business is next up for cultivating JOY.
Nurture my creative side. I intend to create some magic in my life through publishing affirmation cards, a teaching manual for yoga teachers, and an online course for mindful manifesting. Watch out! It is going to be another new direction I take my business. These options will allow me to renew my physical body by reducing my demanding workload.
Foster my friendships and relationships. Most people know I work a lot. I genuinely love what I do so it never feels like work to me. However, in my desire to do what I love, relationships and friendships have been less of a priority the last 10 years. I want to renew some old friendships and create new ones.
Tips for Implementing Your intention
To implement your action plan for your intention you must do a few things that will bring the intention into your daily life. I find these simple things bring great power to your world:
Write it down. Put the word of your intention everywhere you might see it. Your mirror, car, planner, desk, and screen saver on phone. Anywhere your eyes will be, the word needs to be there.
Tell people your intention. You have to talk about it to anyone in your life. I have been known to even tell my dentist and barista my intention! When you speak it, you become it.
Choose daily. Everyday you must be willing to think, speak and act in alignment with your intention. Not everyday will be a success, but at least you can know that you are on your way!
Affirm your intention. Every day spend 3-5 minutes speaking your intention into an I AM affirmation. For example, “I am renewing”.
Not sure what your intention is? This video will walk you through the process of finding your intention! This step by step tutorial will help you find the direction your spirit is wanting you to take this year!
I believe wholeheartedly in the process of choosing a single word that becomes a thread to be woven throughout your life each year. This intention becomes part of you in thoughts, words and actions. This word of the year embodies your choices and actions.
Renewal is not merely a return to what once was but a conscious awakening—a reimagining of one's purpose and connection to the world.
Word of the Year
For over 25 years I have chosen a word of the year. I do this not to set goals or resolutions, but to instead weave a thread into the tapestry of my life. The choices and thoughts that I make need to align with my word. In the yoga world we call intention a sankalpa.
Sankalpa is a Sanskrit term in yogic philosophy that refers to a heartfelt desire, a solemn vow, an intention, or a resolve to do something. It is similar to the English concept of a resolution, except that it comes from even deeper within and tends to be an affirmation.
Choosing a word or sankalpa for your year gives you direction in which to lead your life. For 25 years I have chosen many different words and have taken action. I have worked on some great things over that time span and all of it has lead to some greatness! A few of my recent favorites have been: refinement, deliberate, bold, reverence, and limitless. My least favorites have been peace and equanimity as they were two of the hardest years of my life.
Word of the Year 2025–Renewal
2024 and all the physical challenges of the last decade cumulated with three hip surgeries. I am ready for a big shift in my life. To restore a freshness into my life much like we do as we renew our strength in sleep. I want to make new in how I self care, how I work, how I serve and how I love. In some sort of ways I feel regeneration is in the works.
To seek renewal is to embark on a deeply personal journey of rediscovery, shedding the weight of past burdens and embracing the boundless possibility of becoming whole again. It is a soulful act of nurturing the inner self, replenishing depleted wells of energy, faith, and hope. Renewal is not merely a return to what once was but a conscious awakening—a reimagining of one’s purpose and connection to the world. It is the quiet yet profound courage to step into the light after seasons of shadow, to reclaim joy, and to realign with the essence of who we are meant to be.
My ideas so far to finding renewal include:
Choosing quality over quantity as it relates to movement, friendships, hobbies and more.
Moving my habits to a more yin style and quiet space
Shifting my work from being so active and to more passive
Creating content that is meaningful and lasting
Reclaiming My Power is Key
Here is how I intend to do it:
Set Boundaries: Renewal often requires protecting your energy. Learn to say no without guilt.
Embrace Self-Acceptance: Let go of perfectionism and embrace the beauty of imperfection.
Make Daily Changes: Choose mindful activities rather than active activities when stressed.
Essential Oil Blend for Renewal
Each year crafting a custom blend to support my vision. Here is this year’s aroma blend to support my word of the year.
Basil: The Oil of Renewal. This essential oil supports a strengthened and renewed outlook to life.
Peppermint: The Oil of the Buoyant Heart. This oil supports optimism and rediscovering joy.
Red Mandarin: The Oil of Perspective. This oil helps to feel refreshed and joy in simple things.
Green Mandarin: The Oil of Potential. This oil gives feelings of wonder and hope.
Bergamot Mint: The Oil of a Revived Heart. This oil brings feelings of hope and openness.
Ravintsara: The Oil of Expansion. This oil helps to expand the mind and find flowing ideas.
Immersion Blend: The Blend of Renewal. This blend assists in a peaceful, renewed mind.
Rainbow Moonstone: The Stone of New Beginnings. A stone for new beginnings & inner growth.
Affirmations for 2025
Daily affirmations can reinforce my healing intentions. Here are a few I have chosen:
“I release the past and embrace renewal with open arms.”
“Healing is a journey, and I honor my progress every step of the way.”
“I am worthy of love, peace, and happiness.”
“My heart and mind are open to the beauty of new beginnings.”
What Will You Choose?
If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating.
Follow along with me this year as I take action on my intention and renew areas of my life!
Every year I host an end of year ritual to release the year, look for lessons and growth, and find gratitude for what is. This year I was unable to host it so I recorded a sweet little ritual you can do in your own quiet space. I think reflecting on the year and closing it up is a powerful practice to then be open to new possibilities. Why carry over the things that no longer serve you into a new year?
An end-of-year releasing ritual can be a powerful practice for personal growth, emotional well-being, and setting intentions for the future.
Here are the key benefits:
Emotional Cleansing: Allows you to process and let go of emotional baggage, regrets, or disappointments from the year. Creates emotion space for new experiences.
Increased Clarity: Reflecting on the year helps identify patterns, lessons, and areas for growth. Clarifies what to release (habits, relationships, beliefs) and what to nurture moving forward
Stress Reduction: Symbolically releasing stress or negativity can bring a sense of relief and renewal. Encourages mindfulness and relaxation, reducing end-of-year tension.
Enhanced Gratitude: Reflecting on the past year often highlights moments of joy and gratitude. Focusing on what you value reinforces positive emotions and appreciation.
Intentional Goal-Setting: Letting go of what no longer serves you creates space for setting meaningful goals for the new year. Helps align actions with your values and aspirations.
Symbolic Closure: Provides a sense of completion, signaling the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Helps prevent carrying unresolved issues into the new year.
Spiritual Renewal: For those who are spiritually inclined, rituals can provide a sense of connection with something greater, enhancing inner peace and guidance.
You can find the video below, or on my youtube channel. Listen to it while you are still, or while you enjoy a walk outside. Either way I hope it brings you closure and hope.
I personally couldn’t have made it through this hard year without all of the love from my friends, my family, my community of people, and those who I don’t even know.
The generosity of love, support, coffee, encouragement, and pure goodness takes my breath away.
I truly couldn’t have made it without you.
Thank you and let’s close this awful chapter and turn a page for a new direction filled with hope, opportunities and joy.
Earlier this year in February I had a total hip replacement. In April, there was signs something was wrong so we did a revision and washed it out, had a series of unfortunate complications, and then just this past week, another hip surgery. That makes three this year alone and six total on my left hip. I have a whole series of vlog videos walking through the journey in a mindful way here.
First of all, thank you to everyone who has texted or messaged me this last week. It has been a whirlwind of preparation and then reality.
The surgery was done late Thursday. The surgeon said the entire joint capsule around my hip had “erupted” and was torn to bits. He said it was completely open and torn, causing the large amount of pain and swelling.
The infectious disease doctor also shared how horrific it was from his standpoint. He said he had never seen so much shredded tissue and he had no idea how I functioned. He walked in and said before we talk germs I have to say you are one “strong woman because I can’t imagine being able to function with that much shredding inside” He said the capsule had literally exploded.
The surgeon replaced the ball and cup liner as the liner was already showing wear with an irregular contact with ball as if something slipped. He got it functional and feels that caused the capsule to fill and pop. Thankfully I never dislocated which is shocking given I had minimal tissue around the joint itself. Thankfully my surgeon who installed the hip in February did an amazing job.
Next we wait on cultures but everything thus far looks good as far as bacteria.
The pain is unbelievable. So much more than the actual joint replacement and sadly the use of my chronic pain meds limits the options for adding anything stronger. So I am icing. Resting. And doing what I can.
I am grateful to be home so I can manage my pain and be as comfortable as possible. Sitting and laying on the ol buns hurts so much so navigating on my side and belly with the wedge in my legs is quite a sight.
The restrictions as pretty intense and the mindfulness required with walking and moving is crazy. It will get easier.
We are all optimist the joint will function and also extremely cautious with the tissue and surrounding area, as well as all the sutures used to rebuild a capsule.
Once again, so grateful for all the love and support in my life.
“Equanimity arises when we accept the way things are”
Reflecting on 2024 is happening a little sooner than usual this year and I have begun the process of taking myself back to January when I first declared equanimity as my word for the year.
I believe in the process so much and have seen in my own life the power of intention. Not just choosing an intention, but inviting that intention into everyday choices.
Reflecting on the Year
As I set out in the early days of 2024, I knew that a total hip replacement was going to be my focus and I entered into it with a desire to be steady and unwavering no matter what. Little did I know that this often routine surgery that most people have great success with, would test me more than I can imagine.
Throughout the unbelievable amount of complications that begun with a fractured femur during surgery, I remained steady. The well-wishers reassuring me that I would be “fine” provoked me to use my voice to perhaps inspire people to be better listeners rather than solution-givers. The often used “you’ll be fine” was more painful at times than the surgery itself. I learned to utilize my strong nature to be a realist and stay grounded in navigating these painful moments. Being a realist to me means approaching life and situations with a focus on practical realities rather than idealistic or overly optimistic expectations. As a realist, I acknowledge the world as it is, considering its challenges and opportunities without distorting them through personal biases, fantasies, or extreme pessimism. It has served me well.
Midyear 2024
Remaining neutral to what was happening in my body was easier than most thought. I learned that expectations are often disappointments, so I opted to not have them. When April brought on a revision to my total hip, I forged on and just accepted it. During the first half of the year I used productivity to keep me centered and my online presence grew exponentially. I took courses and learned how to adjust my youtube channel for better viewership and overall content enhancing. Rather than spending my recovery days zoned out on TV I chose to stay efficient and productive.
This choice opened up the doors of opinions of others and assumptions. Those two things that can easily take us off our center, if we allow it.
Last Quarter of 2024
By the end of August I was facing more pain, more uncertainty, more tests, and new doctors. I was referred to a specialist who deals with complex cases of infection of the joint. This isn’t the ideal place to be, but I relied on my strong gratitude and faith to face the uncertainty.
The pain i feel everyday is becoming harder to manage and I am getting by with simply appreciating the days as they are. Part of my steadiness and unwavering way that I face challenges is by accepting it. I have found that when we strive for something different than what we have, we usually bring upon our own suffering.
Steady and Unwavering 2024
I relied on many tools to keep equanimity at the forefront of how I dealt with my challenges. I practiced daily mindfulness, I trusted my medical team, I relied on others, and I accepted what is. While the majority of my 2024 was dealing with my hip, I also found how to live steadiness in other areas:
hip surgeries and healing (all three of them)
out of work for five months
remaining financially thriving
learning and applying new skills
becoming super creative
navigating relationships
developing boundaries
speaking my truth
always practicing vulnerability
Final Thoughts on 2024
Years ago when I chose the word “peace”, I had intended the year to be an easy one where I filled my days with peaceful experiences. That year was one of the hardest years of my life. 2024 proved to be equally, if not more, challenging. I think that when we set our intention we visualize the best case scanrios. In truth, the intentions often challenge us more than we can ever imagine. It is not up to us how we are tested, but it is up to us on how we react or respond to the challenges.
Next year? Oh, I have a great word to weave into my life. It is going to be challenging for sure, but in a different way. Stay tuned.
“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.” –Hamilton Wright Mabie
Here we are at the last month of 2024 ! It sure flew by! I know for many of us the last few years has offered many changes, challenges and opportunities to really dig deep. At times I felt I was holding on tight to things that I felt I needed to get through it. Other times, I learned to just let go and trust. I do think that as we have all navigated this new territory we have learned the importance of connection, meaningful relationships and where we invest our time. The word that I chose this year wasEquanimity and it really has been a year where I was challenged many ways. I think overall I did an amazing job and hope to continue this way of steady and unwavering presence, however, I think I need a break from the challenges. I have yet another hip surgery on 12/19 and I hope that this will end my pain and bring full recovery.
Oh, I have a new word brewing in my heart for 2025 so stay tuned!
As we close out this year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for being in my life. Sharing Yoga and wellness alongside you on your path is the greatest gift to me. I have experienced such love this year and generosity from so many. It is my firm belief that when you give unconditionally, good things come back in all forms.
May this bright season of reflection and connection touch you in a way that feels deeply warming for your soul. I hope that your version of celebration will be one that you enjoy and take in with all of your senses and appreciation. Take the time to slow down, breathe and enjoy all that each day offers.
Many blessings to you and yours. Oh, and be sure to check out my little mini gift giving catalog that has some great ideas for those on your love list. My “shop” closes on 12/15 so that I can prepare for hip surgery. (again).
Are you wanting to have access to a yoga or pilates practice at home that fits into your busy schedule? I offer chair yoga, sensation and intuition based guided gentle yoga, pilates and meditation without having to log in to a specific class time. All of my classes are offered at a donation. You can find ALL of my videos on my website! If you are struggling with developing a home practice, let’s talk. I would love to help you find a way to love practicing at home.
ESSENTIAL YOGA–COMPASSION (online)
Did you miss this month’s class on Compassion? No worries, this online version also includes the self-application of a variety of therapeutic grade pure essential oils throughout the practice. Please reach out to me if you need samples to fully enjoy this class. Donations are appreciated.
Join me for an hour long VIRTUAL ritual to release 2024 and make space for a new and blessed upcoming year. Through meditation and stillness, we will graciously embrace all of this year’s wisdom and then let go so that we can move forward into 2025 with a fresh and clear inner space. Participants will be provided with a list of optional items to have with them and will collectively hold space for each other during the ritual.
Are you looking for a way to jump start your health? Have you ever wanted to know some of my tips and tricks to living a positive life, losing weight, improving sleep and managing stress? How about a free wellness consultation to talk about your goals? Schedule yours today and let’s create a wellness plan! I offer FREE wellness consultations to talk about your goals and desire for a healthier, mind, body and spirit.
Many of you know that I use and rely on essential oils to maintain the health of my mind, body, and spirit. I use them throughout my home from cleaning, for pain management, energy, sleep, mood and much more. One of my favorite things is helping others get started using natural remedies and plant medicine.
GIFT GIVING IDEAS
Looking for a special gift? It is a great time to choose some special items for the special people in your life. I also offer gift certificates. Orders must be received by December 14th!
As we close up this year, it is a great time to reflect and release what no longer serves you so that you begin a new year with a fresh mindset. This complimentary blend of essential oils and smoky quartz is a beautiful way to do just that. Read here why it’s so awesome.
When I was looking to team up with an essential oil company, I wanted a few things. I knew that I wanted a company that mirrored my values related to ethical business practices and I also knew that I needed the company to offer the best, more pure plant medicine. I did my research and am so grateful that I landed with doTERRA. It truly is a company that honors the Earth, the growers, the people and the plants. There are many ways to get started using quality essential oils and I would love to walk you through how to do that, based on your individual needs. Taking 30 minutes to chat with me to figure out what is the best way to go would be an amazing first step in the process. I am offering an amazing welcome gift, free consulting and mentoring and a a free bonus blend of your choosing.
Reach out to me below and we will schedule a time to chat. In the meantime, check out one of the reasons why I chose doTERRA.
Did you know you can use essential oils in your favorites dishes in place of dried herbs or zests of citrus? Plus, they can add a great aroma to your house! These fun DIY’s make great little gifts for teachers, neighbors, and other deserving people.
So many of you have been so supportive of me during this unusual time in our lives. I am so blessed that I can continue to share my passion and touch your life. It means a lot to me that you know that you are very important to me, and I am incredibly grateful that our paths have crossed. I believe that now more than ever, we need to recognize the people and meaningful connections that we all have.
As always, it is my hope that you stay healthy and happy in your mind, body and spirit.
“Karuna” is a Sanskrit word often translated as compassion or empathy, particularly for the suffering of others. It is a central concept in several Eastern teachings and traditions. Karuna goes beyond pity or sympathy; it involves a deep connection and a genuine wish to help ease the pain or difficulties of others. It is often referred to as “compassion in action” because it includes not just the feeling of compassion, but the active part of demonstrating compassion.
This month in all of my yoga classes we are going to be focused on this concept as we strive to serve others.
Here are 10 examples of practicing or embodying karuna:
1. Providing Comfort to the Grieving
Sitting with someone who has experienced a loss, listening to their pain without judgment or trying to “fix” it.
2. Offering Support to the Ill
Volunteering at a hospital, Assited living home or hospice to provide companionship or practical help to patients and their families.
3. Advocating for Social Justice
Speaking up against injustices, such as discrimination or inequality, to alleviate the suffering of marginalized groups.
4. Feeding the Hungry
Donating meals or volunteering at a soup kitchen to ensure no one goes hungry.
5. Helping Someone in Crisis
Offering emotional or practical assistance to a friend or stranger going through a difficult time, such as homelessness, mental health struggles, or financial hardship.
Engaging in meditation to cultivate goodwill and compassion for yourself, loved ones, neutral people, and even those who may have caused harm.
7. Forgiving Someone Who Hurt You
Letting go of resentment and extending understanding or forgiveness, knowing that harboring anger can perpetuate suffering for both sides.
8. Caring for Animals
Adopting or rescuing animals in need, or supporting sanctuaries and organizations dedicated to their well-being.
9. Protecting the Environment
Taking action to preserve nature by reducing waste, planting trees, or joining efforts to mitigate climate change, acknowledging the suffering caused by environmental degradation.
10. Practicing Active Listening
Listening with full presence to someone who needs to share their story, showing understanding and validation of their feelings.
These are just a few simples acts to embody karuna by addressing suffering with kindness, understanding, and a desire to alleviate it.
Karuna is not limited to specific actions but extends to a mental and emotional state of being that influences how one views and interacts with the world. It emphasizes the interconnection of all beings and the ethical responsibility to act with kindness and care.
Strawberry and Cranberry Christmas Jam combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of cranberries, creating a bright and flavorful preserve with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes. This jam is enhanced with warming spices, making it an ideal spread for the holiday season.
The jam can be spread on toast, served with cheeses, or used as a topping for desserts like cakes and ice cream. It’s often packaged as a thoughtful gift during the holiday season, making it a popular homemade treat for Christmas celebrations.
Strawberry and Cranberry Christmas Jam Recipe
Ingredients:
6 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
5 cups granulated sugar (adjust based on your sweetness preference)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (helps balance the tartness)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon orange zest (optional, for extra citrusy depth)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added warmth)
Instructions:
Prepare the fruit:
Thaw the frozen strawberries.
Rinse the cranberries
Puree the strawberries with the cranberries using a food processor. I found added both fruit helped the cranberries puree a little easier.
Cook the fruit:
In a large saucepan, combine the strawberries and cranberries. Add the sugar. Cook over medium heat and bring to a boil.
Once the mixture starts to simmer, add the spices.
Add the sugar and spices:
Stir in the , cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and orange zest (if using). Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The mixture will start to thicken as it cooks down.
Remove from the heat and add the fruit pectin.
Cook the jam:
Let the jam return to a boil for another minute, stirring constantly. .
Add vanilla extract (optional):
Once the jam has boiled, stir in the vanilla extract for a warm, aromatic flavor boost.
Jar the jam:
Sterilize your jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes, or by running them through a dishwasher cycle.
Carefully spoon the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth before sealing the jars with lids.
Seal and cool:
If you want to preserve the jam long-term, you can process the jars in a water bath canner for 10 minutes to ensure they seal properly. Alternatively, you can store the jam in the fridge for up to 3-4 weeks or freeze it for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions:
Spread on toast or scones for a festive breakfast or brunch.
Use as a topping for cream cheese or goat cheese on crackers for a holiday appetizer.
Spoon over vanilla ice cream or cheesecake for a delicious dessert.
This Strawberry and Cranberry Christmas Jam is a perfect homemade gift, too. It captures the flavors of the season and adds a personal, heartfelt touch to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy!
He said the capsule had literally exploded.
