At my bat mitzvah party, before I gave my speech, my dad introduced me and ended by telling me to ‘speak into the microphone like a rock star.” His demeanor was humble and kind always. And the fact that he referenced rock was, to be honest, kinda a surprise. He was after all, a huge … Continue reading Daddy’s Rock Star: My Dad, My Rock
Tag: emotional well-being
Flowin’ Like a Fountain
Fountains are very meditative and calming, as well as refreshing, to look at. To me, they represent Joy, in their effusive, unabashed expression. They are flowing, expressing themselves freely, not self-conscious of what people who look on at them think of them. People can be like fountains—when they speak from their heart and are authentic, … Continue reading Flowin’ Like a Fountain
Happy 36th to Me—Authenticity Breeds Felicity
I know my life experiences inform my writing. The sudden passing of my father in 2006, my cousin's tragic death 6 years prior. But I think there is something else to it as well. My whole life I have been authentic. I never succumbed to peer pressure in high school. For most of college, I … Continue reading Happy 36th to Me—Authenticity Breeds Felicity
My Obese Aura
I’ve always appreciated physical space. I grew up in a lovely two-story house. Perhaps that’s why? But I think it’s more than that. As a yoga instructor and wellness coach, I appreciate a space as an opportunity to set the mood. To set a tone. To invite reflection, and inner peace. My favorite place to … Continue reading My Obese Aura
What If It’s OK?
Do you have something you do that you wish you did differently? You're like, "C'mon Gila, of course. What kind of question is that?" Ok, well, out of the myriad of things that popped into your mind, pick one! Here's my example: I wish I had more clout and confidence with my private clients. I … Continue reading What If It’s OK?
Ballroom Dancing: Lead and Follow
As I referenced in my previous post my job future is up in the air. This morning I thought about how I really have to stop myself from thinking about the future. I can't project what will happen, envision my life in months from now. I have to take things one week at a time, … Continue reading Ballroom Dancing: Lead and Follow
Empathy Is Key
They say a smile is magical. When you share it you lose nothing, but the other gains hope, encouragement, and comfort. I’d like to add to this that a smiley, friendly, empathetic remark is priceless. Last week when our water was off due to a block-wide water leak, I went back after my morning workout … Continue reading Empathy Is Key
Taking Accountability for Your Stress
You know how they say people can't drive us crazy if we don't give them the keys? Or how the only thing we can control in life is our response? Well, I've been thinking about this for a long time—more than a decade in fact—and while I understand this on a rational level, it hasn't … Continue reading Taking Accountability for Your Stress
Channeling Suffering Into Creativity
I read an insightful blog post on turning suffering into creativity by Dr. Eric Perry. I find I resonate and learn from many of his posts. The link to this particular blog post is here. I wrote the following in a comment to this blog post: "I have gone through suffering and have also come … Continue reading Channeling Suffering Into Creativity
Stress Management Tips
Stress needs to be managed moment to moment, as well as daily, so it doesn't build up to the point of lashing out. Practicing healthy coping mechanisms for stress throughout the day (e.g. breathing, light stretching, positive affirmations) helps diffuse the stress so it doesn't build up. Doing a mindfulness practice for a few minutes … Continue reading Stress Management Tips
