I am still getting my feet wet with this blog writing thing. I don't consider myself a writer really but, sometimes words just come naturally, especially words of the heart. I've recently started a gratitude journal. There have been studies on how just writing down a few things you are grateful for each week can be a game-changer to your overall outlook on life. I also don't consider myself a journaller, but yoga has opened me up to writing down mindful moments. And, honestly, if a successful icon like Oprah keeps a gratitude journal, then there must be something to it. She says, "You radiate and generate more goodness for yourself when you're aware of all you have and not focusing on your have-nots" in her "10 Ways to Rediscover Everything You've Got" article (Oprah.com). I'm sharing this with you because its actually working for me! Most importantly, I've noticed how peaceful it makes me. So perhaps gratitude=peace? That thought of "counting your blessings" and focusing on the things you have does put you at ease. Try it! What are you grateful for this very moment? I can't read your mind, but that one thing is likely to cancel out any stressful moment you may have had today. There are outside entities that may have an effect on you each day (work, money, people, etc), but being at peace and knowing you are making the best of what you have is essential to a positive living.

My main point in saying all of this is that in the grander scheme of things, with all of the chaos in the world, recent terror attacks, politics, mind-boggling news and more, we must find peace within ourselves. Find what works for you. Whether it is journalling, reading, meditating, singing, dancing, taking long walks on the beach; make the positive choice to find that peaceful place every day. You will thank yourself. ;)

Peace out - Lee-Ann

A new moon represents a new phase. A celestial movement, in which the Moon and Sun are in the same ecliptical longitude or are in sync with each other from the Earth's vantage point. A beautiful phenomenon, I must say, that occurs approximately every 29.5 days, or once a month. I don't claim to be an astronomer and I don't mean to get all science-y, but I do observe the wonders that are beyond us. This notion of starting a new cycle of life with a New Moon has stuck with me. I visited the ruins of Chitchen Itza back in February, and it was so apparent (think back to your grade school history lessons, it will come back to you as well) that many ancient civilizations, such as the Mayans, relied heavily on the phases of the moon to develop their understanding of the world and nature as we know it. With a New Moon, we, the Earth, are connected again to our Moon and Sun. That feeling of connection to the universe around us can influence all inertia and propel energy for things to come.

As a creature of progress, it is important that we get moving on the things we want to happen, even if its one step at a time, literally. Remind yourself that there’s never going to be a perfect time for anything, and starting is the first step toward anything successful. Set the intention. Plant the seeds. A loved-one of mine recently mentioned to me, and I am paraphrasing this if he's reading, “if I can be the reason someone changes their way of thinking for the positive, than I will have served my purpose”. In larger terms, we are a product of the influences we receive and/or provide to others. What a beautiful cycle of growth it is. Just like the moon cycle. We connect, we shine, we give up light to get light, we give others light, etc. This is the very fuel that lights my fire as an business professional, dance teacher, yoga instructor, loved-one, and living human being. I hope it ignites you on your next journey as well, and that you are able to pass that along, and so on and so forth.

Lastly, with dance recitals, graduations, festivals, beach trips, and outdoor fun all underway, I encourage you to get out and move! Whether its just walking outside during your lunch break or taking one of my classes, find something that works for you. Take a step forward, turn a new leaf, get yourself up, inspire others! You are capable of so much more than you think! ;) Thank you for your inspiration and good vibes! --Lee-Ann