3 Things that I wish I had known before I started a podcast.

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As I get ready to relaunch my podcast, I am looking back at how I could’ve done things better. As with everything, we grow from practice and I definitely grew from that experience. 

Over ten episodes in, I felt the need to stop and reflect because things were not going as smoothly as I thought they would. I am a firm-believer in self-accountability and staying humble no matter what. 

So, it was time for me to be honest with myself. 

Here are 3 Things I wish I had known before starting a podcast:

1. Don’t let people project their issues onto you. 

I had been wanting to start a podcast for a few years  and when I finally decided to do it, it didn’t feel right. I was met with people in the wellness industry who were overly concerned about how they appeared so much that I felt like I was changing my vision to appease them. 

My first interview was someone who I had taken spin class from before. After I saw a post of hers on Instagram expressing her disappointment with a particular company, I wanted to provide her and others a platform to be transparent about their experience. 

Her words about the company were not positive so when she expressed her unhappiness with the title after it had published and claimed it was sensational, I was very disappointed. I am not one to hold onto materials or push an agenda so when she said that I had, I was very upset. 

I defended myself, the name and the reason why I decided to call it ‘The Surviving Series’. It had nothing to do with pop culture but actually an extension of my name which means survivor. I had planned on using that title for years.

But, after she said that, I started to take on her story and blame myself even though that wasn’t my intention. I snapped out of it and promised to not let someone’s opinion of me and my work overshadow my true intention. 

2. Detach yourself from who you interview. 

The second guest that I had on was a BIKRAM yoga teacher who was introduced to me through a former friend. Yes, we stopped being friends after things went South with this guest.  

Before the interview, I had been transparent about the intention of the episode. To focus on surviving teaching after so many years. While we were recording, I noticed that he was advertising his yoga studio and was taking it into a different direction. I started to become tired keeping up with him and his facade that he was putting on for the camera. 

Even though it wasn’t how I wanted it to turn out, I decided to keep it. During the editing( which took about a week), I noticed that he was releasing footage that he had secretly recorded while we were interviewing. I was beyond stunned. 

It never dawned on me that people do things like that and when I started to do research on him and his studio, there were several misconduct allegations and claims of inappropriate behavior against him. I was appalled and disgusted in what I read about him. 

I contemplated never interviewing anyone again but then I decided to separate myself from people’s stories and intentions. I can only set clear boundaries and affirm them when it is time to do so. 

3. Have clear boundaries. 

As I mentioned in the last paragraph, I could’ve set better boundaries in general when dealing with those that I interviewed. A part of me was afraid to do so in case they declined the interview once I had. 

I now know that I would rather not have a guest on my podcast if they are going to be disrespectful to me or my work- whether they decide to continue with it or not. 

Dealing with disrespectful people is no longer a part of my life, professional or personal and I am allowed to make that clear on all sides. 

3 Ways that we can heal racial tensions.

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I want to spend my life healing. Living what I ask of others in all areas of my life. I have seen too many examples of the antithesis in the wellness community. People who spew trends to gain followers and attention. Growing a community is great but intentionally creating something for attention is not my goal. I want to root myself in authenticity and transparency.

There is no doubt that globally, there is a lot of tension around race and class issues that are founded upon different structures or ideas depending on where you live. So, I am not speaking for everyone. I am speaking from my experience and how I believe healing can transpire when it comes to race.

Although in many circumstances, race has become attached to a political party. This article is not about politics and never will be, on this blog. Who you choose to vote for is your prerogative.

Here are 3 ways that we can heal racial tension:

1. By speaking from a place of understanding.

I distanced myself from a friendship with someone who would identify herself as being a white liberal. We got into an argument because she was trying to tell me what racism was and gloating about how other white people are racist but she is not. However, every time I offered her a different perspective about the racism I have experienced, she cut me off and shut me down.

This, to me, is one of the ultimate forms of racism. Those who think they are championing on behalf of my demographic but don’t even allow me to speak. They know what’s better for me than I do. Which is the very definition of white supremacy.

It is so vital for us to listen to one another. We might learn from someone else. I have learned and am still learning that if I knew everything, I would be dead. Life is about growth and becoming a better person. Not diminishing what someone else has to say.

2. By acknowledging that all races can be racist.

There is a recent radical ideology that only one race can be racist because of power structure and that is a complete fallacy.

In fact, the most racism that I have experienced has been by what we socially call Latinos and Asians living in The U.S.A. When I often mention this, people dismiss me because a lot of the focus has become about racism from white people. However, the pain I have felt from being racially profiled by someone of another race (other than white) has felt just as painful.

Racism is a form of evil and within all of us is good and evil. We all carry the potential to be racist.

3. No one is above me and I am not above another.

About a year ago, I had an argument with a guy that I used to date. He would also identify himself as a white liberal. We are no longer in communication but when we did speak, he would make condescending remarks about black people and would often recommend a specific playlist that was ‘urban’ to me and I felt as though it was merely because of the color of my skin. He knew that I loved all genres of music and so did he but would only recommend a specific genre to me to listen to. I felt like he was trying to ‘put me in my place.’

I am telling you this story to highlight that often the people who feel as though they can speak for another race, in a lot of my cases it has been white liberals, carry a condescending tone that makes it seem like they are above me.

No one is above me and I am just as capable of succeeding as any other race. Therefore, I do not appreciate those who will label themselves as acknowledging that they have white privilege and then speak for me without listening to what I have to say. Or, will not acknowledge that I am capable of succeeding as much as they can. Only God is above me and my beautiful skin is a blessing, not a curse.

15 more reasons to forgive.

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As Maya Angelou says, ‘Uproot guilt and plant forgiveness.’

Many of us focus on punishing people (including ourselves) for the past. And, there is a huge difference between holding someone accountable and holding grudges against someone.

Not only is lack of forgiveness unhealthy for us, it is not helpful for the global consciousness of the planet and the world. If we want to be truly healthy, it won’t involve eating plant-based, buying organic or toxin-free products- those can be helpful yes. But, if we eat healthy, are still hold grudges and lack of forgiveness in our hearts, there is no point in living a lifestyle of health.

The cornerstone to health is love and we can only practice it from a place of openness, awareness and non-judgement. Forgiveness helps us to attain this.

Here are 15 more reasons why I forgive:

1. I forgive because life is too short to hold onto grudges.

2. I forgive because the truth is simple and carries no baggage.

3. I forgive because I could carry the pain and hurt others have inflicted on me but it’s not worth it.

4. I forgive because growth requires letting go.

5. I forgive because my life belongs to me.

6. I forgive because if I don’t heal my hurt, I will continue the cycle.

7. I forgive because I want my internal light to shine and not be dimmed by pain.

8. I forgive because the present deserves my best.

9. I forgive because life is meant to be lived joyfully and full of happiness; not misery and pain.

10. I forgive because although I believe in boundaries, I do not believe in closing my heart.

11. I forgive because how much I have gotten does not determine how much I will give.

12. I forgive because in this humanly-body, others will make mistakes as I have made with others.

13. I forgive because I decide what comes with me.

14. I forgive because my destiny doesn’t lie in upset and anger.

15. I forgive because the magic of love is about believing, over and over again.

9 Things that I will never do again.

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Learning is a big part of life and, obviously, the more I grow, the more I learn. I don’t believe in failure, I only believe in lessons and blessings. Whatever form it takes at that time. 

I have made some mistakes in my life and I am grateful because without them, I would not have acquired the knowledge that I have from them. 

So, here are 9 Things I will never do again: 

1. Believe that another human is above me. 

2. Stop myself from being present. 

3. Give in to fearful thoughts. 

4. Control and manipulate another for my Ego’s gain. 

5. Think I know everything there is to know. 

6. Close myself off to forgiveness. 

7. Not believe in second chances. 

8. Love with conditions. Relationships have boundaries but love doesn’t. Sometimes we have to take a step away from someone to love them fully. 

9. Think that I am done growing while my heart is still beating and my lungs are still taking in air. 

9 choses que tous les empathes doivent savoir.

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Ce n'est que récemment que j'ai découvert que je suis un empathe, une personne très intuitive, qui ressent profondément et prend d'autres énergies, claires et sombres. Grâce à ma découverte, j'apprends de plus en plus que ma mission dans la vie est de guérir et avec cet appel vient la responsabilité. Un pour être honnête, véridique et gentil - du mieux que je peux être.

À tous mes autres empathes, c'est pour vous afin que vous ne vous sentiez pas seul et que vous suiviez votre chemin vers votre appel et votre destin.

Voici 9 choses que les empathes doivent savoir:

1. Protégez votre énergie. Tout le monde ne veut pas le meilleur pour vous.

2. C'est bien de dire non.

3. Vous méritez aussi l'amour authentique.

4. Vous n'avez pas à souffrir toute votre vie pour vous sentir vivant.

5. Vos sentiments ne sont pas votre ennemi; ils sont vos amis - apprenez à les exploiter dans la bonne direction.

6. Soyez prêt à laisser derrière vous les personnes et les choses qui vous abattent.

7. Vous méritez de recevoir autant que vous donnez.

8. L'alcool, les drogues et la toxicomanie ne sont pas conçus pour vous empêcher de ressentir. Ne les utilisez pas en tant que tels.

9. Prenez soin des autres mais prenez d'abord soin de vous.

3 Things that I wish I’d known before Quarantine.

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If someone would’ve told me that this year would be how it has been a year ago, I would laugh at them and tell them that they are insane. This year, I have flown to five countries, worked full-time about two months of the six months and, have had my life as I knew it before all this happened ripped out from underneath my feet. In a nutshell, it has been a rollercoaster. 

I went to South Africa for my birthday and to see friends and family in February. And, while I was there, I felt like an outsider. I was grateful to be in Africa but for the first time, I felt like South Africa was not my home and I wondered why. On my way back to Los Angeles, I was so happy to be back in The United States of America. I felt home. I had never ever felt like this in my life. 

I spent the next three weeks working and staying busy. Grateful to be in the city of Angels, whether those angels were in the sky or fallen was none of my business, I felt alive but I had this feeling that I needed to change something about my life. I made a decision to let go of toxicity and one night, I prayed to God to release me of what I no longer needed on my road to truth and prosperity. 

A few days after my prayer, there was a mandate ordered for Yoga studios to shut down and therefore, I would be out of partial work as I teach at different yoga studios. The next day I was doing a tarot reading on myself and I pulled a card that said, ‘What are you clinging on to?’ I knew what it was but was too stubborn to admit that there was people and things that were not a part of the life that I wanted. 

As always, there is nothing that I regret. It took this for me to be here now and the present is the best place I will ever be. 

Here are 3 things that I wish I’d known before Quarantine: 

1. You’ll be okay. 

These past three months have been the hardest time of my life. I have always been an independent and self-sufficient person who has been able to talk, smile or outwit myself out of any situation until this. It went from being two weeks, to a month and then suddenly three months. I went from seeing this as a blessing to crying on my bedroom floor while listening to gospel music. I have had to take each moment day-by-day. 

For the first time in my life, I have been late on my rent by no fault of my own and the feeling of shame has been overwhelming sometimes. The feeling of being in a situation because of something you have no control over has created a different kind of faith and hope that I didn’t know possible. Sure, sometimes I am angry, lost and confused but then I look to God, pray, breathe and remember that everything will be okay because it has been okay. If I have my life, my health, my mind and my soul, I am flourishing. 

2. Get ready to leave behind the old you. 

I have spent my life feeling like an outsider. I always joke that it’s because I am an Aquarius and we are known for that but in truth that was to mask the pain that came from feeling misunderstood a lot of the time. I believe firmly in independent-thinking and I was not raised in a society that allowed that so I was shunned a lot and told to keep quiet for asking questions or thinking differently. Because of this, I developed a thinking that I couldn’t really say how I felt. So, in my earlier years, I would catch myself lying when I wanted to tell the truth, keeping quiet when I wanted to scream and hurting myself instead of releasing my anger in a healthy way. 

Over the years that old façade of me has slowly bee dissipating and eventually was forced to leave my life when I came back from South Africa and noticed how different I was to lifelong friends and family. Some of them didn’t want to hear what I had to say, would flake on me or shame me for wanting to know the truth. I couldn’t hold on any longer. The old me was okay with sacrificing what I had to say to be liked but the new me can’t- just can’t. No matter who hates me, who won’t speak to me again or who thinks I am the worst person alive. I am done playing a role of someone who I am not. I am me: unfiltered, non-PC, sometimes offensive but is trying to be a good person and I am done trying to fit into a mould to be accepted and loved. 

3. Let go of control. 

In my entire life, I have never cried as much as I have in these past three months. I’ve cried tears of joy, tears of pain, tears of anxiety, tears of gratitude, tears of confusion and tears of sadness. In all of my emotional phases, I have had to let go of being in control. 

I admit to being a control freak and it has been something that I have been working on in therapy over the past decade. I have had to learn that control does not equate to power. A hard yet powerful message. For the first time, all the things that I was able to do to remain in control have been taken from me and I have had to redefine what power means. I’m not sure that I know the answer but I do know that holding onto something tightly so that it never leaves is not because of power but it is because of fear. My internal powerful voice knows that what is meant for me will never go, will leave and come back or, had it’s purpose once upon a time. 

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Ce qu'il a fallu pour m'atteindre.

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Il m'a fallu libérer ma victimisation auto-imposée

Pour me rejoindre

Il m'a fallu comprendre que les gens qui ne m'aiment pas pourraient ne jamais m'aimer Pour me rejoindre

Il m'a fallu libérer des gens qui sont censés m'aimer mais me ridiculiser Pour me rejoindre

Il m'a fallu voir réel comme réel et faux comme faux Pour me rejoindre

Il fallait être réel comme réel Pour me rejoindre

Il m'a fallu m'asseoir dans de profonds regrets et griefs Pour me rejoindre

Il m'a fallu regarder la lumière Pour me rejoindre Ça m'a pris confiance en Dieu Pour me rejoindre

Il m'a fallu comprendre que l'autonomisation est auto-gouvernée Pour me rejoindre

Il m'a fallu être en paix dans ma propre peau Pour me rejoindre

Il m'a fallu comprendre les situations, les gens et les choses sous tous les angles Pour me rejoindre

Il m'a fallu abandonner la nécessité de condamner et d'abandonner les autres Pour me rejoindre

Il m'a fallu choisir une vie meilleure pour moi Pour me rejoindre. Cliquez ici pour consulter nos cours d'école d'élévation.

3 Things that I have learnt about vultures.

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As hard as it is to admit this about life, a lot of it comes with vultures. People who take from others and are incapable of thinking of anyone else but themselves. All of us have aspects of this within- that is how we survive. However, there are some who lack the ability to look within, apologize and decide to give to someone without using it against that person in the future. 

These are vultures and they exist in all realms of life: family, friends, romantic relationships and work life. I’m not a psychologist or have studied psychology. However, I am a certified health coach and a spiritual guide. I have had many experiences with this behaviour, with others and even with myself. Until I chose to better myself, I was a vulture, too. 

Here are a few things that I have learnt about vultures: 

1. They give and love with conditions. 

Unfortunately, most of us are raised in a very selfish way of thinking. Many of us were taught and conditioned to believe that if I give to you, you owe me or I can use it against you in the future to make myself feel like a better person. I used to think this way. I have given and loved with conditions, tit-for-tat. This kind of conditioning is exhausting. I saw that when I expected others to give to me, it tired me because I was waiting on a day that night never come to me. 

Once, I learnt to give from a place of abundance, I released the need to get back. There is a difference between always giving and never receiving in return and, giving with the sole purpose to receive. The former is allowing ourselves to be used and the latter comes from a self-centered place. Vultures feel entitled to receive, so giving from abundance is not worthy of them doing. 

2. They can never really be happy. 

Have you ever been in the presence of someone who always has something negative to say about others? Sometimes I notice myself being that person and ask myself to focus on gratitude. I’m not sure why this is the case but, as a whole, we have a tendency to look to the negative. There have been studies that suggest we derive this from our biological nature to survive and need to be critical so that we can understand what we are up against in order to evolve as a species. 

However, I have learnt and am still learning that only pointing out the negative aspect of people is exhausting- not for them; for me. A long time ago, a friend asked me, ‘Are you ever happy with a situation?’ And, I had to be honest with myself, the answer was no. I had been conditioned and had a tendency to look to the negative. That’s when I started to meditate and consciously focus on the things are positive. There is a difference between complaining about something and acting on it to make it better vs. perpetually seeing the wrong in situations and not doing anything about it. 

3. They are just around to use you. 

This has been a constant theme in my life and I’m sure it’s a common theme in most people’s lives. I am not perfect- I don’t want to be. But, something that I take pride in is that I like to live in positivity. I believe in betterment and progression through self and hard work. Not everyone thinks like this and they don’t have to. However, when you think like this, vultures want a piece. 

You see, vultures want a piece of what you have created and what you will create at any cost because they lack the capability to do it for themselves and have a sense of jealousy towards others. If you notice there is someone who is in your life who tells you what you want to hear, disappears when you need them and is never really happy for you, you might have a vulture in your life. Notice how they respond to boundaries because they don’t take well to them and will intrude on perimeters you have set because their purpose is not to bring anything valuable into your life but to take as much as they can.

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Dear Hali- a letter to my inner child.

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Dear Inner Child, 

There will come a time when you come to understand for yourself that there is only so much others can do for you- you have to do for yourself. 

The World is made up of Egos and facades and, unfortunately, we are raised to feed that but please don’t give into that. It won’t always be easy but it is necessary. There will come a time when you will be misunderstood and shamed into thinking and being like others but, please hold onto your authenticity. That is how your light will shine. 

I know that sometimes you wish you had role models who showed you how to love in a healthy way but somethings we have to learn for ourselves. It’s not up to who raised you to define you or validate you, it is up to you. 

I know that sometimes you feel like a small dot in The Universe because you are. Instead of that frightening you, let it humble you. So that no matter what you accomplish or don’t, you can still be grateful. 

There will be people who are around to teach you: family, friends and boyfriends who at times will be kind, at times will press your buttons and, at times will hurt you to your core. Their words are not God’s word. Yes, continue to work on yourself but do not be shackled by what you did a year, ten years or a lifetime ago. Apologize, forgive yourself and create healthy habits. Because life is too precious to live it ashamed, guilted and manipulated into. 

There is power in truth and please don’t forget that. Secrets fester in the dark, truth is light. Sometimes it blinds us but then we find our way. Whatever that way is, do it in the light. 

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9 Things that I have made peace with.

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The older that I get, the more at peace I become with myself. Just like everything else worthy, if we want peace we have to work at it. It requires focus, determination and trusting God. Which is practice. I don’t always get it right but that doesn’t mean that we don’t try anyway. 

Recently, I have become more at peace about a few things. 

Here are 9 Things that I have made peace with: 

1. That when you do the right thing, most people will criticize you. 

2. When you are authentic, most people might not understand you. 

3. Hard work and dedication pay off, always!

4. There is no such thing as free, someone is paying for it. Whether it’s you or another. 

5. Giving to others feeds the soul. 

6. Unless someone is in my shoes, they have no right to tell me how to live my life. 

7. Unless I am in someone else’s shoes, I have no right to tell them how to live their life. 

8. Forcing happiness on myself and others only creates resentment. 

9. Life is about ups and downs. Stability starts with the mind.

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3 raisons pour lesquelles j'ai abandonné certaines personnes de mon passé.

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Bien que je suis né à New York, ville d'authenticité et d'innovation, j'ai grandi en Afrique du Sud et en Angleterre. J'habite à Los Angeles où je sens que je suis censé être ici et je n'ai jamais pu comprendre pourquoi en grandissant je ne m'intégrais jamais. Je suis juste retourné en Afrique du Sud et je me sentais comme un étranger. J'avais le même sentiment que j'avais grandi.

J'apprécie cet endroit et je suis reconnaissant pour ce que j'y ai appris; cependant, je ressentais continuellement là-bas que mon opinion n'était pas digne d'être entendue par les pairs et les cercles sociaux. Quand je suis rentré de mon voyage, je n'arrêtais pas de me demander pourquoi je me sentais comme si je ne me connectais qu'avec quelques personnes de mes cercles de lycée et mes pairs. Comme pour toute réponse, si vous êtes éveillé, Dieu révélera la réponse au fil du temps.

J'ai récemment traversé un réveil personnel qui implique le style de vie, la carrière et la politique. J'avais exprimé ce que je ressentais sur FaceBook avec un ancien professeur du secondaire et j'ai commencé à être attaqué à cause de mes commentaires par elle et ses amis. J'avais le même sentiment que j'avais ressenti en grandissant et en exprimant mes opinions. Je n'ai appelé personne et j'ai raconté une histoire personnelle et ce que j'avais vécu pour soutenir un candidat politique particulier. Quel est mon droit humain. Alors que les souvenirs me revenaient quand j'étais petite et que je parlais de ce que je croyais et que je recevais des tonnes de contrecoups. J'ai décidé de couper la corde sensible entre ce groupe de personnes et moi. De plus, toute autre personne qui a supprimé mon droit de parler et de dire ce que je ressens au cours des dernières années.

Voici 3 raisons pour lesquelles j'ai abandonné mes quelques personnes de mon passé:

1. Il était temps.

J’ai été très explicite sur la façon dont je ne pouvais pas aller dans deux écoles britanniques en Afrique du Sud. L'intention de m'envoyer là-bas était bien intentionnée, mais elle est conçue pour étouffer la libre pensée. Je suis un débatteur et un libre-penseur. J'accepterai votre point de vue avec un argument justifié comme d'autres devraient accepter le mien. En grandissant, je n'avais pas l'impression que c'était le cas.

y J'ai passé beaucoup de temps à essayer de m'intégrer, puis à abandonner, car cela m'a coûté plus d'énergie et de temps pour forcer l'intégration que pour être moi-même. J'en ai fini avec les situations et les personnes qui ont besoin d'énergie pour se forcer et s'intégrer dans une autre personne parce que l'individualisme concerne l'expression de soi. Si les gens ne peuvent pas accepter ce que j'apporte à la table, il ne sert à rien de les y forcer.

2. Je mérite des gens autour de moi qui me traitent avec soin.

Je ne suis pas une victime, mais j'ai eu tendance à laisser certaines personnes me faire part de leurs problèmes et j'ai également permis à quelques-uns de m'intimider pour changer d'avis sur un problème important dans ma vie. Mais cette époque est révolue. Je suis trop adulte et trop bien lu pour permettre à quiconque de influencer mon opinion. L'année dernière, j'ai pris la décision d'être ouvert à de nouvelles idées mais aussi de défendre certaines questions, non pas en fonction de ce que les masses faisaient, mais en fonction de mon alignement avec Dieu et de ce qu'il a l'intention de moi et de ses enfants. Parce que cet alignement a toujours été le meilleur pour moi. Si Dieu me traite avec miséricorde et gentillesse, il n'est pas nécessaire de m'entourer de gens qui ne le font pas.

3. Je choisis une vie de respect et de paix.

Nous avons tous nos situations où nous nous disputons et même combattons, mais tant que nous pouvons nous comprendre, nous travaillons vers la paix. J'ai appris que certaines personnes ne veulent pas la paix et le respect dans leur vie, ce qui est bien. Mais c'est important pour moi. Il est impératif pour moi de travailler à la paix. Mais l'abnégation n'est pas cela. C'est céder. J'ai choisi de m'entourer de ceux que nous pouvons respectueusement désapprouver sans condescendance les uns envers les autres car personne ne gagne.

Nous passons tellement de temps à courir après la première place: financièrement, physiquement et mentalement et nous oublions que nous pouvons être numéro 3, 10 ou même durer, et être dignes aussi tant que nous sommes en paix avec nous-mêmes et ceux qui nous entourent, pas tout le temps mais la plupart du temps. Je libère respectueusement certaines personnes de mon passé car la paix est l'une des monnaies les plus importantes de ma vie.

9 Afirmaciones para apoyar la unidad.

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Ahora estoy aprendiendo, más que nunca, que la unidad es un desafío para mantener continuamente. Dentro de nosotros, así como con los demás. El yoga ha sido mi mayor maestro de la Unión porque me ha demostrado que, independientemente de cómo se sienta mi cuerpo y mi mente, debo aceptarlo. El reconocimiento es el primer paso hacia la unidad. Siempre habrá tiempos de división, particularmente externos basados ​​en etiquetas innecesarias. A veces olvidamos que detrás de la persona que hemos etiquetado, hay corazón y alma. Que nunca se puede romper ni ocultar. Aquí hay 9 afirmaciones para apoyar la unidad:

1. Estoy completo.

2. Hago lo mejor que puedo para escuchar la opinión de los demás sin vilipendiarlos.

3. Se me permite sentir cómo me siento, siempre y cuando no esté lastimando a nadie, incluido yo mismo.

4. Se me permite pensar cómo pienso. Mientras no lastime a nadie, incluido yo mismo.

5. Estoy apoyado por las personas en mi vida.

6. Apoyo a las personas en mi vida.

7. Soy el observador continuo.

8. Puedo tener razón y estar equivocado. Si soy constantemente el primero o el último, necesito abrir mi mente.

9. Soy un ser humano en un mar de otros seres humanos que están unidos como personas que viven en la misma tierra.

An Introduction to Angel Numbers.

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One of the big parts of alignment, in Spiritual terms, is seeing a synchronicity of numbers. Repeated formation of numbers like, 111, 222, 333... etc. Of course, these are not the only numbers that we see. However these are the most common. 

When one sees these numbers, they have different spiritual references. Essentially, they are messages from Angels to guide you to your most aligned and enlightened self. 

Here are a few examples and explanations of Angel numbers that you might be seeing:

111:

The number 1 signifies the beginning of something new. However, triple 1 signifies alignment. We see these numbers when we are most connected to Source and are able to visualize what we want and receive it. This is the number of manifestation. 

222: 

 2, specifically 22, is the highest vibrational number. You will most likely see this when you have been meditating a lot and your chakras are in alignment. It suggests that you have been doing the spiritual work and are on the right path. When you see this number, it generally means that you are headed in the right direction. 

333: 

Although many people have different versions of this. I conquer that this number is associated with something new coming into our lives to provide balance. 3 is the number of trinity, the perfect balance. When you see this number, pay attention to what has entered your life and how it is having an effect on your life- how it is providing you with balance. 

444: 

This has been the number that I have seen the most. It is a message from The Angels of letting go and trusting. When you see this number, you are being guided to trust that things will get better because The Angels know more about the situation than you do. So, surrender your worries to them and they will help you. 

555:

This trinity of numbers suggests that a big change is coming your way, it is usually associated with a spiritual transformation. For example, I saw this number before I met my twin flame. When you see this number, be prepared to be transformed and enlightened. 

1111: 

Similarly to 111, this number suggests that The Angels are telling you that you are highly aware and able to manifest. However, the added 1, is a number of high vibration. When you see this number, you are radiant and in the prime vibration for spiritual partnership, protection and manifestation. 

*Our Alignment course starts 4/7/2020. Sign up here by 4/6/2020

3 raisons pour lesquelles je ne considère pas les célébrités, les gourous et les superyogis comme mon sauveur.

J'ai vécu dans trois grandes villes différentes où résident des célébrités et des personnalités: Londres, New York et (maintenant) Los Angeles. Fait intéressant, chaque ville aborde et traite différemment les célébrités. À Londres, la personne moyenne ne pouvait pas être dérangée. De même à New York. Cependant, à Los Angels, il existe une culture axée sur les célébrités et applaudissant. Peut-être à cause d'Hollywood; cependant, il est évident ici que les personnes de stature renommée sont traitées au-dessus des autres.

Bien que je sois sorti avec quelques personnes bien connues et que je sois parfois fasciné par la culture des gens qui croient qu'ils sont au-dessus des autres, j'ai rarement été influencé ou aspiré à être comme une célébrité.

Oui, j'ai (et je continue d'admirer) ce que représentent certaines personnes qui ont réussi dans leur propre domaine. Mais ce n'est pas seulement dans une industrie; c'est dans toutes les industries. Voici 3 raisons pour lesquelles je ne considère pas les célébrités, les gourous et les SuperYogis comme mon sauveur:

1. La plupart d'entre eux sont déconnectés.

je me souviens d'un membre de ma famille, qui était célèbre en Afrique du Sud, j'ai des souvenirs de la façon dont elle a dû fuir les gens pour se sentir comme elle-même. Cela m'a laissé une impression pour le reste de ma vie. Vous voyez, j'ai toujours aimé chanter mais détestais ce qui allait avec. Un membre de ma famille m'a montré ceci: des contrats louches, des personnes dignes de confiance et la nécessité de toujours être numéro un.

Quand j'étais dans une relation avec un producteur bien connu, j'ai encore eu un avant-goût de cela. Il ne pouvait jamais baisser sa garde parce qu'il devait garder une image / un personnage qui était contraire à qui il était. Sa bataille entre qui il percevait et est, a créé une lutte et (à mon avis) il a perdu de vue pourquoi il avait commencé à faire de la musique en premier lieu.

Bien que de nombreuses personnes célèbres se fassent sembler relatables; la personne moyenne partage très peu avec eux. Ce qui est bien. Après avoir rencontré et fréquenté des gens bien connus, j'ai appris que je n'avais presque rien en commun avec eux. Je préfère admirer les gens avec qui je peux vraiment m'identifier et parler de leur caractère à partir d'un endroit authentique; plutôt qu'une image qui est dépeinte dans le monde à travers des campagnes et des médias.

2. Le travail acharné n'est souvent pas récompensé par un chèque de paie.

J'ai eu le plaisir de rencontrer certaines des personnes les plus travailleuses de ma vie et la plupart d'entre elles n'ont pas été reconnues ou bien connues. Cela ne signifie pas que les personnes célèbres ne travaillent pas dur; cela signifie simplement que parfois nous regardons au-delà du travailleur moyen quand il peut être plus inspirant que quelqu'un qui fait la couverture d'un magazine.

J'ai eu le privilège de travailler dans de nombreux emplois différents et de rencontrer la personne qui nettoie les toilettes, ramasse après d'autres personnes et gère un groupe d'employés sans la reconnaissance qu'ils méritent, mais avec un grand sourire, ce sont les gens que j'admire et regarder vers l'espoir. L'un des souvenirs les plus distinctifs que j'ai de mon école secondaire était de saluer l'un de nos jardiniers qui avait toujours le sourire aux lèvres.

Chaque matin, il me faisait la grâce de son sourire blanc et nacré et cela me donnait de l'espoir et m'inspirait à toujours rester positif. Cela a laissé une empreinte sur ma vie et je me souviendrai toujours de lui comme d'une inspiration pour moi.

3. Je veux une vie simple.

J'ai été très expressif et très littéraire quand j'ai décidé de quitter l'industrie musicale. D'après mon expérience, j'ai dû changer pour pouvoir faire ce que je peux faire naturellement, chanter. Je crois à l'évolution; cependant, je ne crois pas à changer mon moi authentique pour apaiser les autres. Ce qui est en contradiction avec ce que certains publicistes et producteurs m'ont dit de me faire reconnaître pour mon travail. Un producteur m'a dit que la plupart des gens célèbres ne savent pas bien chanter, c'est une question d'image.

C'est alors que j'ai promis de rester authentique envers moi-même et les gens que j'aimais. J'ai quitté l'industrie et j'ai commencé à faire des recherches et des guérisons sérieuses. 8 ans plus tard, je suis reconnaissant d'être exactement là où je suis. Aux yeux de la société, je ne suis peut-être pas aussi digne que quelqu'un comme Kylie Jenner ou une autre personne extrêmement riche qui est un jeune adulte. Mais, j'ai ma dignité, ma fierté et je peux me promener dans un parc et me perdre dans mon imagination sans être reconnu ou remarqué.

Je me remarque et je m'aime, c'est ce que j'apprécie plus qu'une fausse reconnaissance basée sur une image, de l'argent et ce que je peux faire pour les autres.

Ma vie est simple et je l'aime comme ça.

3 Reasons why I don’t look up to celebrities, Gurus or SuperYogis to be my saviour.

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I’ve lived in three different major cities where celebrities and well-known people reside: London, New York and (now) Los Angeles. Interestingly, each city approaches and deals with famous people differently. 

In London, the average person couldn’t be bothered. Similarly in New York. However, in Los Angels, there is a culture that is celebrity-focused and applauding. Might be because of Hollywood; however, it is apparent here that people of fame stature are treated above others. 

Although I have dated a few well-known people and am sometimes fascinated by the culture of people who believe that they are above others, I have rarely been influenced or aspired to be like a celebrity. 

Yes, I have (and still) admire what some people who have acquired success in their own field represent. But, that is not just in one industry; it is in all industries. 

Here are 3 reasons that I don’t look up to Celebrities, Gurus and SuperYogis to be my saviour: 

1. Most of them are out of touch. 

When I remember one of my family members, who was famous in South Africa, I have memories of how she had to run from people to feel like her true self. This left an impression on me for the rest of my life. You see, I have always loved to sing but detested what came with it. My family member showed me this: shady contracts, untrustworthy people and the need to always be number one. 

When I was in a relationship with a well-known Producer, I was given a taste of this again. He could never let his guard down because he had to keep up an image/persona that was contrary to who he was. His battle between who he perceived to be and is, created a struggle and (in my opinion) he lost touch of why he started making music in the first place. 

Although many famous people make themselves seem relatable; the average person shares very little with them. Which is okay. After meeting and dating some well-known people, I have learnt that I have almost nothing in common with them. I would rather look up to people that I can genuinely relate to and speak of their character from an authentic place; rather than an image that is portrayed to The World through campaigns and media. 

2. Hard work is often not rewarded through a paycheck. 

I have had the pleasure of meeting some of the most hardworking people in my life and most of them have not been recognized or well-known. This does not mean that famous people don’t work hard; it just means that sometimes we look past the average worker when they can be more inspiring than someone who is on the cover of a magazine. 

I have had the privilege of working many different jobs and meeting the person who cleans toilets, picks up after other people and manages a bunch of staff without the recognition that they deserve but with a big smile on their face are the people that I admire and look up to for hope. 

One of the most distinctive memories that I have of my junior school was greeting one of Our Gardeners who always had a smile on his face. Every morning, he would grace me with his white and pearly smile and it gave me hope and inspired me to always stay positive. It has left an imprint on my life and I will always remember him as an inspiration to me. 

3. I want a simple life. 

I have been very vocal and literary expressive about when I decided to leave the music industry. My experience was that I had to change to be able to do what I can do naturally, sing. I believe in evolution; however, I don’t believe in changing my authentic self to appease others. Which is a contradiction to what some Publicists and Producers told me would get me recognized for my work. I had one Producer tell me that most people who are famous can’t sing well, it is about image. It was then that I promised to remain authentic to myself and the people that I loved. 

I left the industry and began to do some serious soul-searching and healing. 8 years later, I am grateful to be exactly where I am. In society’s eyes, I may not be as worthy as someone like Kylie Jenner or another extremely rich person who is a young adult. But, I have my dignity, pride and I can walk in a park and get lost in my imagination without being recognized or noticed. I notice myself and love myself, that is what I value more than false recognition based off of an image, money and what I can do for others.

My life is simple and I like it this way. 

3 Things that I wish I had known before I started BiologiqueLife.

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In 2017, after I had written for a popular online international blog platform, I decided to start my own. Even though I had published articles for this website, I didn’t feel like it represented me in an authentic way because some of the articles were so editted that sometimes it didn’t sound like my own voice. 

At one point, I was their most popular and hated author. At times I did take it too personally. I would cry when I read negative comment after comment that was about words that were not my own. To avoid feeling bitter and resentful, I decided to no longer write for them and start my own, that aligned with authenticity and spirituality. A platform where I am not out to make money only and in a quick way with shocking headlines but because people resonate with the stories. 

When I started BiologiqueLife, I had just gone through a personal difficulty and wanted to create a platform to heal myself and others. I don’t regret any of the outcome and am grateful that I learnt all of this. However, if I was told anything about the process of BiologiqueLife, I would want to know the following: 

1. Not everyday is a day for creativity. 

I am a natural creative: I love writing, drawing, singing, colours and designing. However, when it comes to structure, money and taxes, I am knowledgeable about it but find myself putting it off till later.

In the past few years, I have had to be honest about what my strengths are and use them to counteract my weaknesses. For example, I have taken business courses and asked friends to help me with fine details because I believe in the success of it. There have been days when I would rather sleep in than do calculations. So, I reward myself with a treat after I have completed something that I don’t like doing. Bringing balance to myself and BiologiqueLife. 

2. You will understand the true meaning of a hater, how will you respond? 

I used to be afraid to do well for fear of people thinking that I thought that I was better than them. Growing up, people would constantly tell me that I was full of myself because I was and am confident. Sometimes this confidence was put on but I am a firm-believer in putting your best self out there to represent yourself as such. 

When I started BiologiqueLife, I knew that there/are negative people in the world but I didn’t see the full capacity of what others might be capable of when they can’t handle your success. For the most part, people have been supportive and loving- which is who I write for. However, I have had the few that are clearly not supportive of what I have created. And, it is okay, they don’t have to be. When they behave that way, I have made a decision to accept it and understand that I have something to learn. Sometimes it is to have thicker skin, to learn more or to ignore anything that is attempting to bring me down. Haters will always be around, they do not deserve my time or energy. 

3. Consistency and devotion is key. 

People ask me, where do you find the time to write? And, honestly, I am not sure because in my head, I don’t have to find time- it is already there. I just have to use it. My life without writing is not living. We all have something that brings us life and reminds us why we need to share it with others; however, most of us don’t share it or are not consistent with it because we might be fearful, procrastinating or think that it is not worthy. 

There have been days when I have had to convince myself of why I started BiologiqueLife and write almost everyday because anything that requires consistency can be challenging. However, the outcome is more rewarding. Nothing that is worthy of achieving in life comes without effort, consistency and devotion- otherwise, everyone else would be doing it. 

Through serving others, devotion and giving up our Ego, we serve a bigger and higher purpose. We learn that growth and transformation requires digging deep within but, is possible if we do it with consistency.

3 Things that I learnt attending a British School as a South African girl.

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I have only made peace with one of the schools that I went to recently and, it has taken me many years to do so. I did have some great teachers, yes! But, it didn’t stop me from sometimes feeling like an outcast as a minority in my school- for most of my secondary schooling years. 

I went to a British School in South Africa for most of my schooling. And, although it provided me with a lot, I felt confined and as though I was never enough. A lot of it had to do with my heritage. Although I am of mixed heritage, some being British, I identify fully with being South African. The two cultures are very different- as variety of cultures are.

I spent a lot of time being angry at British culture and needing to fit into a particular academic bracket or ‘keep up with The Joneses’, so I ran away from this part of my life after I left High School for a long time. When I moved to America, people would confuse my accent for being British and (at first), I would get angry but now I don’t care. 

I have forgiven the negative side of history that Britain has largely contributed to. Which, to me was manifested in what I was taught at School and part of my ancestry. 

Here are 3 things that I learnt while attending, and since have left, The British School that I attended: 

1. To speak up. 

Coming from a politically active family, I was raised to speak up for injustice. A lot of which I would see at This School. We had a teacher who, I believed to be racist and when we would confront The Headmistress (Principal) about it, we were met with phrases like, ‘How do you know?’, ‘Study harder’ or, ‘Give her a reason to like you.’ Although I didn’t agree with what she said, there was nothing else that I could do but listen to her and hope that she was right. What if it worked? What if I could push down that intuitive feeling of being singled out because of my culture and race? 

Of course, no matter how much I tried, I was still met with the feeling that I wasn’t good enough and my intuition knew why. I learnt from this experience that I can only speak up and from a place of intuition and truth, everything else is up to the other person. 

2. Discrimination is real. 

Unfortunately most of us have been raised to be threatened by other people, cultures and races because we fear that they will steal from us. This fear-based thinking creates prejudice against women, people of different races and religions. The thing about discrimination is that it is stifling. For the discriminator, it leaves negativity and for the person who is being discriminated against, it leaves negativity with them too. 

One of my most painful memories of being discriminated against was when I 15 and had a huge crush on this boy from our brother school in Johannesburg . He will remain nameless but I was smitten by him. I felt like we had a vibe. We would talk almost everyday and one night, he tried to kiss me but (typical me) my head was in the clouds and I didn’t get what he was trying to do. 

The next week, I was in class and after class I mentioned how he had tried to kiss me. One of the girls that I trusted told me that she asked him about me and he said that he would only do physical things to me but would never date me because he is not inclined to date or be seen with a black girl.I felt the biggest punch in my heart and started to feel tears warm my eyes. After that, I promised not to date a man from South Africa again. I was burnt. 

It took me a long time to date anyone again because I felt like I couldn’t date anyone or fit in with any demographic because of how I was raised and being from a mixed heritage. It is only until recently that I have healed from situations like this because I have acknowledged that not everyone is racist and those who are, are conditioned that way because of who they are and what they choose to believe in; it has nothing to do with me. 

3. Share your stories with those who care ONLY. 

I have been through a lot and when I was younger,I would share my stories with everyone because I trusted everyone. Although I kept the stories of experiencing prejudice at schools silent for a long time, years after I started to tell them and noticed who responded in a kind and compassionate way. Some people would ask me to see the positive when I was merely speaking from a place of truth and it infuriated me. I learnt that there are some people who care about our truths and those who don’t care.

Not everyone will care, they don’t have to. However, I choose to surround myself with people who I share a story of how I feel with and allow me to embrace my vulnerable side. People who don’t blame me for my past but trust me to be okay once this situation has passed. People who allow me to be angry at the injustices in The World but support me in transforming that emotion into healing, art, writing and seeing the silver-lining in every situation. 

There is a stereotype of an angry black woman and I was so afraid to be that portrayal. I have released this image that has been pushed onto us and know in my heart that all people feel anger, it is okay. As long as we do something about what we are angry about. Emotions have a purpose and so do actions.

12 Things that I would rather be called other than mean.

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We all have faced some harshness and unkindness in our lives. I used to believe that this was normal so I was unkind and accepted behaviour in my life that was not positive, affirming and reassuring. 

Who knows why I used to settle for less than I deserved but I see it all around- people accepting unkindness and mean-spiritedness when we shouldn’t. About 4 years ago, I went through a culmination of different events that changed my perception of how I approach people and what I wanted to project to the world. Ever since then, I made a promise to myself to practice kindness as much as possible. I don’t always get it right but that doesn’t mean that I stop trying. 

Here are 12 things that I would rather be as opposed to mean: 

1. Kind.

2. Understanding.

3. Compassionate. 

4. Mature. 

5. Fulfilled. 

6. Loving. 

7. Happy. 

8. Joyful. 

9. Playful. 

10. Honest. 

11. Aligned. 

12. Purposeful. 

3 Reasons why practicing Satya is so important as a yoga teacher and practitioner.

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I love teaching yoga. It is my passion and has given me a foundation for growth, elevation and the ability to expand my beliefs beyond what I thought I knew. I used to have limited thoughts, sometimes still do; however, yoga has helped me believe there is more than I might think. It has opened my mind to the unknown, instead of fearing it. 

I have been teaching yoga for seven years now and there is a reason why many of the people that I went to training with are not teaching or don’t even practice anymore. It is not for the faint-hearted and it is not everyone’s destiny. Which is okay. 

As a yoga teacher, I believe that it is important for me to stay true to the integrity of the practice and devote my time and energy to the authenticity of this mind, body and spirit connection. 

Here are 3 reasons why practicing Satya (non-falsehood) are so important: 

1. Without truth, we have nothing. 

How I made it to yoga was just like most of our stories, I had a previous belief system that I needed to be at war in order to live life to my full potential. I had to face that truth to change it. I remember lying down on my mat during a hot yoga class and crying my eyes out as I wept about a romantic situation that I had been forcing myself into. My truth at that time is that, he and I were more in battle than in union and I felt it in my body every time that I practiced. 

Even though I practiced yoga 5 times a week, I had been running away from this truth- which I needed to face because until I came to terms with what I had to, I wasn’t truly living. Sometimes we think that running away from honesty means that we are strong but the truth always catches up to us and we understand that it is brave to face it and stop running away. 

2. Wellness is based on reality. 

Honestly, I haven’t always been well as a yoga teacher and I have had times where I have been a hypocrite because I have spoken from a place of asking others to be at peace and face their truth when I have done the opposite. I have had moments when I have taught tired, annoyed and while going through some serious emotional pain. 

One day, I was in class and felt so depleted that I could hardly speak. This was a sign that I needed to be honest with myself and let go of the need to be right and above others when I am human. Especially because I teach, I need to be truthful with myself and face if I am unwell so that I can become well. 

3. Being authentic helps us align with our purpose. 

I have been traveling and along my travels, I take class at different studios. I recently practiced at a boutique studio outside of The U.S. and heard conversations in the changing room after a magnificent class. Another teacher had mentioned how her mentor was missing and my instinct was to ask if he was okay. Which I did. My question was followed by an answer that he was okay, then the teacher said that her mentor had told her all of his teachings and now she was able to teach and take his place. 

I was in shock because instead of showing compassion, she used this as a platform to promote her class. Which seemed very inappropriate. It was a learning lesson for me that, there is a time and a place. Being a teacher can be competitive because we are not always sure if we can get numbers up and develop a steady following which can sustain a class that we have been given. In these past seven years, I have learnt that if I am truthful and teach from a place of integrity and devotion, students will show up. I can encourage people to take my class; however, there is no need to force anyone to take my class because forcing only repels people from my intention. 

Not everyone will take my class and that is okay. I would rather have students who are genuinely interested in yoga and what I have to offer than those who don’t want to be there anyways. I will not force, lie and compete to have anything and anyone in my life- and that carries into my yoga practice and teachings.

3 Things that I wish I’d known before waitressing in New York City.

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As I turned on my YouTube page yesterday, a podcast of a lawsuit settlement between a famous celebrity Chef and his former Employees showed up 

on my recommended feed. Out of interest, I watched it and was both triggered and inspired at the same time. 

As one of the former employees spoke of this celebrity Chef, I had a flashback to when I met him (too) while I was working. How he put his hand on my coccyx and my facial reaction that prompted him to make a joke to distract how awkward it was. We were so busy at work that day that I had forgotten it happened until now. After watching this video, I recalled other times when I met and worked for Chefs who were well-known who mimicked this  behaviour. One of them once told me that he loved my lips and licked his in front of his ex-wife. Which was very inappropriate.

Today, I see how accepting this behaviour has had an impact on how I have settled for abusive relationships in my personal life. As, how we do one thing is how we do others. 

As always, I have learnt and grown from every experience. So, I don’t take it back. I just acknowledge, learn, heal and grow. 

Here are 3 things that I wish I knew before I became a waitress in New York City. 

1. Being prey for an abusive person does not mean that you deserve it. 

I used to work at a wine bar in Midtown, N.Y.C. and one of The Owners was known to be a womanizer, alchoholic and drug addict. Even though he had a girlfriend (who he mal-treated), we would see him once-a-week with a different woman. I am not sure if anything would happen with them, honestly it was none of my business, but it was clear that there was romantic interest between him and these random women because they would hold hands and he would pull out all the stops. 

As an extension of his general aggressive behaviour, he would call me into his office and ask me how I was doing, flirt with me and suggest days that we could hang out. I made it known that I wasn’t interested and when I did, the retaliation began. I told a (then) friend what was happening to me and he asked me why I was always in circumstances like this. He suggested that this was a me issue. Unfortunately, I believed him and I developed this belief that I would have to make myself small in order to be taken seriously. I carried this belief into relationships too. So, I would rarely voice how I felt and allow for mistreatment. 

Looking back with learnéd eyes, it is clear that I was not the problem. As a society, we will make the person who is being abused the problem and neglect the abuser, while the abuser goes on to abuse many more. The Chef I mentioned earlier is a prime example of this. I have learnt and clearly understand that when someone tries to make me feel small by coming onto me or with inappropriate behaviour, it is not a space that I want to stay in and I need to voice how I feel or protect myself from who is making me feel uncomfortable. 

2. Money does not warrant abuse. 

As a whole, when I would tell people about what was going on at work, my fear of not making money was fueled by their commentary. I would hear questions like, ‘What will you do for money?’, ‘Sometimes you just have to bear it’ or, ‘Where you go will probably be worse than where you are now.’These phrases could have been true, yes! But, so was my cry for help. 

It‘s not only with careers, in family and societal dynamics we often cover up abuse by mentioning what someone has done for us or given us to accept abusive behaviour. No matter what someone has done for you, you have every right to say that you feel hurt if someone hurts you. Materials and past behaviour is not an excuse to mistreat someone in the present moment. 

3. We need to listen to each other more. 

I can’t emphasize this to myself and to others enough! We need to hear each other’s stories before we make assumptions about how someone is looking at a situation. Before I graduated as a health coach, I rarely listened to people and would throw phrases at others to help them solve an issue because, as a wellness expert, I thought that I knew everything. 

In one of our learning modules, The Professor asked us if we are truly listening to others when they speak. I answered honestly to myself, ‘no’. I knew that I could do better and listen to more people when they spoke. We live in a rushed culture where we hardly listen to how someone is; even if we ask. Starting to listen to others deepens the relationship that I have myself and others because it allowed me to acknowledge what I was going and did the same for others. Sometimes people don’t need fixing; they just need someone to listen and shoulder to cry on. It doesn’t mean that they are being negative or weak; it just means that they are going through something.