Lisa Beck Living

Create Your 2012 Goddess Year!

2012-02-07T11:54:00.000-08:00

O.k. so I'm a little late in posting this, but I've actually yet to finish my fabulous 2012 Goddess Guidebook by the amazing Goddess Leonie!

I have done this workbook every year for the past 3 years and I love love LOVE it and can't recommend it enough.

What is it?

The Goddess Guidebook is a beautifully illustrated and guided workbook that you create for your year.

It is a visioning and writing process in which you realize and proclaim your dreams for the year ahead. What do you want to create? What do you want to let go of?

Just because it is February doesn't mean it is too late. The first one I did was in the summer! I was too excited to wait until the next January to start visioning!

Hear more about this incredible workbook from Goddess Leonie herself:

Get your very own 2012 Creating Your Goddess Year Workbook HERE

A Love Letter ~ And a Farewell...

2012-02-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

Dearest Drum & Dance Community...my family, friends...myheart:

GRATITUDE

First of all let me say that I am grateful beyond words foryour love & support. The community that we have co-created continues to wowand amaze me and I am committed to continuing on this journey with you inRhythm, Song, & Dance!

The future is BRIGHT!

I am also amazed at the incredible amount of growth, change,and transformation occurring in my life and in the lives of my friends andloved ones. Since the new year began (Jan 1 or Jan 24 - whichever it is foryou) I have found a new place of clarity, peace, and surrender in my life andmy work.

This year is about releasing, on the deepest level, and I amwriting you to make a very important announcement of something that I havechosen to let go. For now.

TIME FOR CHANGE

Our wonderful West African Dance Class on Wednesday nightsis coming to a close. The last class will be on Wednesday, February 29, 2012from 7-8:30 p.m.

We've shared 4 1/2 years of the most amazingexperiences...some of them the highest in my life thus far...and the mostincredible growth for me as a teacher and as a dancer...have all occurredbecause of and through this class. Beautiful friendships and bonds have beenformed...ones that will last many, many years.

I didn't choose to become a dance teacher.

It chose me.

if you only knew

2012-02-01T10:02:00.000-08:00

If you knew how great you really are...

if you REALLY knew, you would love yourself more, care for your body better, shine your light brighter and not give a DAMN what others think or say.

You would treat yourself like the amazing being that you are and people around you would admire your greatness and be inspired by your grace and confidence.

This is called self-love.

This is the place where we get to fill our own cup and give to ourselves so that we may care for others in the most powerful way.

So give yourself some props today...for the magnificent being that is you.

Cleansing with The Mistress of Spice

2012-01-27T22:23:00.000-08:00

I just completed a 10-day cleanse with The Mistress of Spice herself, Aparna Khanolkar. She led a group of us through a beautiful, nourishing, healing, and educational cleanse towards greater health.

Sugar, alcohol, chocolate, flour, wheat, gluten and any and all processed foods were out. Meat and dairy products of course were out, too...but since I don't eat those anyways it was no problem for me. Plenty of fresh veggies, fruit, basmati rice, heavenly spices, ginger tinctures, herbs and enemas were in. Ya, I said enemas. This was my first experience with enemas, or what I'd rather call "basti" and while it wasn't my favorite thing to do...it wasn't nearly as dramatic and traumatic as I had heard from other friends. It's about cleaning out our systems and letting go of toxicity and stagnation. Amen to that.

I cooked fresh meals every day and spent hours in the kitchen. I loved this. I loved preparing the foods for me and my love and boy did he love it, too. Budhi told me that he's felt more nurtured and cared for by me than ever before. So yes....I will continue to cook like that...with spices that satisfy every craving. Cumin, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, fennel, and other spices filled our home with their enticing and mouth-watering aromas.

I gave myself luxurious oil massages every day (that I will continue forever), and meditated every single day without miss! Yay!!!

I felt more grounded than ever before. My skin and eyes are clear and radiant and yes...I lost those 5 lbs that needed to go!

This wasn't a deprivation cleanse. Yes, we had to cut out a lot...but I felt so satisfied and nourished that I didn't have a craving until the very end. I was looking forward to dark chocolate and a soy latte...but I was looking more forward to seeing these foods as special treats and as medicine. No need to stuff my face or scarf everything down. Breathe. Take your time. Take it in...the textures, tastes, smells, etc.

This was about tasting, feeling, and being more present with the food. Ayurveda is healing me, one day at a time. I am learning more about my body and about how to properly care for it, and I have The Mistress of Spice to thank.

If you are interested in learning more about cleansing with The Mistress of Spice or finding out about her amazing cooking services, classes, and fabulous cookbooks, visit her blog.

If you are interested in Ayurveda and want to learn more about it, check out this site for some incredible information.

Here's to vibrant health and radiance always!!

Grace, Power, & Beauty

2012-01-24T09:59:00.000-08:00

On February 18 from 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. I am co-leading a day-long retreat for women with my dear friend and sister, Aparna Khanolkar, entitled Grace, Power, & Beauty. We also just announced our March 31 retreat in Encinitas, CA (for more info click here).

This will be a magical day of self-love. A day to honor and celebrate ourselves through meditation, movement, nourishing food, Ayurvedic wisdom, and practical tools we can take home.

This year, I am committed to honoring and caring for myself even more than before. I truly believe that the more love, respect, and nurturing we give to ourselves, the more we have to give to others and to the world.

As we feel cared for, loved and adored...we naturally give it out generously to others.

I think many women have gone (and continue to go) about this the wrong way. I certainly have in the past. I have noticed that the love and adoration I used to desire was to come from another person. A man. My family. My friends and fans. How wrong I was.

It can only start with us. Every day.

This love is to come from within. It begins with forgiveness. In fact, the forgiveness piece can be a long journey for many of us. So many women feel (consciously and subconsciously) that they don't deserve the love and respect they desire because of something that happened in their past or because of the way they are or the way they look, or because of what their parent or teacher or peers told them as a youngster.

This is nonsense and we all know it.

Have you ever opened your arms wide and then embraced yourself with love and said "I'm sorry" or "I forgive you" or "I love you?" I know it sounds wacky and corny....but just try it sometimes.

It's time to forgive yourself. It is time to love and honor and adore yourself for the amazing women (or man) you are. Join me this year in really committing to self-care and self-nurturance.

There are endless ways to begin or enhance this new journey into self-love. I drum, I dance, I practice yoga, I get massages and facials, I learn about new ways to take care of my body, I drink green smoothies, I practice abhyanga (self massage), I cook, I take weekend retreats by myself, and more.

If you are interested in a day of self-pampering and self-honoring, Aparna and I invite you to be a part of Grace, Power, & Beauty on Feb 18 in Santa Barbara. Registration and more information HERE.

Register Now

Letting Go - I'm Ready. Are You?

2012-01-16T10:01:00.000-08:00

So I watched an inspiring vlog this morning by Gabby Bernstein entitled "You Gotta Want It" and I am inspired to share my thoughts and my process with you.

For this past year (and longer), I have been trying to let go of patterns and thoughts and beliefs that no longer serve me. This has been a life-long relationship with something that I have allowed to create an incredible amount of stress and anxiety within me. I'm talking about money here. I have sabotaged myself over and over for years around money and around my attitudes, beliefs and lack mentality.

The past few days I have noticed an incredible amount of physical discomfort and pain (neck, shoulders, lower back, hip and now my knee) and I know deep in my heart that it is connected to anxiety around my finances. This is what our thoughts and negative emotions can do to our precious body temple. This is how dis-ease is created.

Why am I sharing such a personal thing with you?

Well, after watching Gabby's vlog, I feel that it is important to out ourselves sometimes. Face it, put it out there and realize that SO many people struggle with similar issues. I know many friends who are incredibly gifted, talented, smart people who have so much to offer the world but who undervalue themselves and/or have found themselves in mounds of debt.

Read more »

2012: Step it UP!

2012-01-09T10:24:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness...this past weekend I entered into unknown territory. You know the saying that goes "Do something that scares you?"

Well I did it.

It isn't that dramatic, but for me was a biggie. I went to a 3-day marketing conference in LA called iMarketing Genius. I even bought "casual business" attire so that I looked the part.

Me? Casual business attire? I'm the one you see downtown in my yoga pants, hair in a pony tail and large bottle of water...or in flowy pants and colorful scarves and big hoop earrings. I am a dancer, a performer, afterall.

I have to say that I enjoyed being frightened and I enjoyed doing something different with myself. I enjoyed dressing up in beautiful business attire (yes, it exists) and taking crazy amounts of notes on how to better my business and become a marketing maven!

That was one of the main messages of the conference. If you do things the way you always have, you won't achieve your dreams and get to where you want to go.
Read more »

2012: magic abundance

2012-01-01T19:25:00.000-08:00

magic abundance.
magic, abundance.
magic-abundance.
magically abundant.
abundantly magic.

My words, my "phrase" for 2012.

They came to me as I was creating a beautiful altar with the fabulous Beth Amine.

Purple and gold are my magic abundance colors. Purple signifies royalty, nobility and spirituality. Gold signifies wealth and prosperity. These colors, along with silver, white and deep blue, were created as our color pallet for the decorations, costumes and graphics for our Winter Solstice Concert & Fundraiser on Dec 16.

Today I created a vision board for the year. It reflects movement, meditation, magic, spiritual openings, music, rhythm, beauty, love, color, and yes...abundance.

Here is what I created so far:

Budhi asked what magic abundance means to me.

It means creating my own magical world...filled with beauty, prosperity, riches, generosity, endless gifts, brilliant color, vibrant energy and endless possibilities.

I am not talking about living in the clouds or in la-la land.

This world is grounded, strong, powerful, and full of all kinds of magic; ethereal, witchy, alchemical...creating and birthing new from the old, "something" out of "nothing", brilliance from dullness, and so forth.

Read more »

Abundance For All

2011-11-30T14:31:00.000-08:00

Sending this out into the universe and using it as a message to you and to MYSELF as well...

There is enough for everyone.

It is time to start rejoicing in the successes of our contemporaries, "competitors" and so-called "enemies". Let their success act as fuel to get your act more together; inspiration to be more organized and clear about your mission and about what you want to experience.

Jealousy and envy are o.k. to feel (we are only human)...but I DARE you to send a blessing to the guy or girl who gets the job you really want or to the organization who gets the grant you were going for.

I know things can get tough.

My life isn't always peachy keen and full of sunflowers, coconut pudding, drumming and dancing all day with money raining down anytime I need it (I'm working on that one).

I work my frickin' ass off and get frustrated sometimes when things don't go the way I feel I "need" them to go.

When things don't go our way, how about we open to the possibility that there is something BETTER coming for us? If we close ourself off to this and bitch and moan it will never show up.

Start being more inclusive and let's change the lack mentality we grew up with...into a mentality of community, inclusiveness, and ABUNDANCE for ALL.

Let's change the paradigm, people!!

In Gratitude

2011-11-25T16:19:00.000-08:00

Welcome back to me. Yes, I'm back blogging again. I took a little break and am feeling so grateful for all of it...

Here is my Thanksgiving Weekend Gratitude Shout Out!!

In Gratitude...
...for your love, your dance, your drum, your spirit
...for the way in which you give me generous hugs and encouragement
...for the way you move your body to the rhythm of life
...for your belief in what I bring to the community, to this family, to the world

As a young person I wanted to blend into the background. I didn't think my light was worth shining. Each one of you has helped to turn me around and rid myself of this "small" thinking. I am forever grateful for your helping me to know my truth. I vow to help you know yours.

I hope each of you knows that YOU are just as spectacular and brilliant as the brightest star in the sky. YOU are worthy of endless and boundless LOVE, ABUNDANCE, JOY, HAPPINESS and so much more...

Thank you for being you.

I look forward to journeying further with you on this golden path. A path that we co-create together. One in which cooperation, empowerment, creative expression, generosity, joy, and MUSIC AND DANCE rules the day.

Happy Thanksgiving Weekend to each of you. May it be safe and joyful.

What are you grateful for?

Gratitude opens the heart.

Make it a daily practice.

Love,
L

My Bollywood Top 10

2011-11-04T11:09:00.000-07:00

O.k. you've been asking for it. Yes, you!

Since being introduced to Bollywood dance and movies 3 or 4 years ago, I have watched over 30 films and while I still have a ways to go I want to share some of my favorites. Keep in mind that the majority of the movies I have seen are contemporary films. I have yet to watch the classics and look forward to diving into the roots of Bollywood.

The following films were chosen for their stories, music and dance numbers, cinematography, breathtakingly beautiful actors and actresses, and of course...DRAMA. From "Shakespeareanesque" tragedies and forbidden love stories to epic historical pieces and cheesy comedies, this list covers a lot! The brief descriptions of the movies come from IMD (Internet Movie Database).

Enjoy and I'd love to hear about your favorites, too!

#10 Dil Se
The clash between love and ideology is portrayed in this love story between a radio executive and a beautiful revolutionary.

Calmness of Mind

2011-10-31T13:10:00.000-07:00

“Calmness of mind is one of the beautiful jewels of wisdom. When you are calm, having learned how to govern your own emotions, how to govern your own mind, you know how to access the gifts of the universe. Your prosperity increases, your opportunity to make a difference for good expands, and you live with a license of a higher order of being.”

~ James Allen

Calling on Kali

2011-10-25T14:32:00.000-07:00

Liberate me. Remove the illusions. Destroy the ego's hold on me. Burn away what no longer serves me.

Destroy the unreal. Shower me with your compassion, love and affection.

I am ready.

Face it and feel it.

2011-10-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you need to go into the depths of your sorrow, pain, anger, loss, grief or whatever you are feeling and just feel it.

Sometimes it's good to just jump into it and say "I'M HERE. LET'S DO THIS."

We are a culture of stuffing our feelings. Grinning and bearing it.

Covering it all up with a tight-lipped smile and a "I'm good" or "I'm fine" when asked how we are doing.

This is bullshit.

And I'm here to tell you that I'm guilty as charged. I've been known to stuff, ignore, and deny my true feelings to make things o.k. and make everyone think all is well.

I'm ready to release this pattern.

I'm ready to face it and feel it. I'm ready to go into and feel the grief, anger, or whatever I am dealing with.

Read more »

Become More of You

2011-10-19T12:04:00.000-07:00

"You are part of life in its ever-upward pull of becoming. Life would say to you this day there is something I am inviting you to become --more of you, more of life, more of good --more of all that you can be."

~ Mary Morrissey

When We Dance

2011-10-13T10:07:00.000-07:00

When we dance, all matters of the day disappear.

The movements and music burns off any anxiety and stress that we might be holding through our firey passion, joy, and sweat.

When we dance, we fly.

The foundation is set. The smiles are contagious.

Our bodies become one with the music.

We celebrate with every cell of our being.

We are changed.

Join me this Saturday for cleansing, healing, inspiring dance.
AfroFusion Dance Workshop

Dance on...

Do it. Just do it.

2011-10-10T16:22:00.000-07:00

You remember how brave you were when those training wheels finally came off and you got on that bike to really ride it for the first time? Do you remember those feelings of longing to ride your bike? Do you remember the feelings of anticipation, exhilaration, fear and joy all at once? And while you were riding that bike, did the satisfaction, pride, excitement make you feel more alive?

New experiences and opportunities are presenting themselves to you constantly.

Is there something presenting itself to you right now that you are drawn to, but the minute you choose to explore it or try it, something just "happens" to get in the way or some good excuse comes up for you to stay safe and stay away from it?

I'm here to tell you that the excuses will never end, the obstacles won't go away as long as you choose to resist. If you continue to live your life in the comfort zone, you get in the way of your growth and expansion. But we all know this, right?

Read more »

October Splendor

2011-10-07T20:57:00.000-07:00

This month is jam-packed full of goodness on all levels. Dance, music, food, costumes, community, and plenty of opportunities to PAR-TAY!

Check it out...

Unplug and Be Free

2011-09-26T10:52:00.000-07:00

Each year I attend a fabulous dance and drum camp in the southern sierras where I immerse myself in music and dance and connect with folks from all around the world. No cell reception, no internet or t.v., just face-to-face interaction and REAL living. This is once a year, and it feels amazing to not carry around my phone or plug myself into the world of the internet each day for that week.

Well, I recently decided that unplugging from electronics once a year is not enough. I need more.

This past Saturday I unplugged for the entire day, and while this doesn't sound very dramatic, it was for me. Well, at least I thought it was going to be. I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was for me to spend a day unattached from the gadgets that sometimes seem to run me and run my business.

So what in the world did I do with myself?

Well, it was a gloomy and cloudy Saturday, so I cleaned. And I cleaned. And I cleaned some more. My house was so happy for the extra attention and love. So was my garden. The green can is packed full of overgrown bush clippings, dried out canna flowers, and probably 10 feet of the monstrous morning glory trying to consume our entire backyard.

The house and garden took a breath of fresh air after being dusted and swept and cleansed. I did, too.

It was fun to wake up Sunday morning and realize that the world hadn't stopped or gone more chaotic without me being right there to watch it and be a part of it.

The work I do and the way I've designed it has me on the computer A LOT.

If I'm not teaching, dancing and drumming, then I'm blogging, sending newsletters, texting and e-mailing reminders to my students, creating Facebook events and more. I actually love it all. But I've noticed that my energy level has dropped dramatically by Thursday evening for the past several weeks. I can barely lift a finger or an eyelid. I just melt into the lazy boy and then sleep in way late on Friday morning if I don't have a meeting or appointment.

I realize that this just isn't sustainable for me. So, I vow to unplug at least twice per month for a 24-hour period. It's a start. I'll work up to 4 times per month. Wish me luck.

The word that best describes last Saturday for me??

FREE.

I thought less about work and about to-do lists. I thought less about the future and just experienced the present moment...more. I did what I used to do more of on a Saturday...before my cell phone and before the internet became what it is today. I tidied up around the house, I read, and I went for a hike with my man and my pups...without the urge to check statuses and texts. Ah...freedom.

So, I invite you to free yourself once in a while from the techno-umbilical chords and experience a day without the gadgets. Maybe you already do. Good for you.

And good luck.

Lisa

Commitment Isn't Scary

2011-09-22T08:45:00.000-07:00

I am republishing this post from 2010, as I feel it necessary to remind myself and share with you the commitment piece, especially this time of year as daylight becomes shorter and the weather gets cooler. I know sometimes I want to curl up in my bed and pull the covers over my head and never come out...

Read on...

I am so grateful for the clarity and deep knowingness today, that dedication and commitment are essential for growth in all areas of our lives.

When we fall in love with something (be it a person, activity, work, hobby, etc), it is so easy to commit to it and dedicate our time to it because we are so connected and feel so clear. When that "honeymoon stage" is over, it is so important to recommit and rededicate ourselves if we want to work through the kinks and stagnation. We check in with why we fell in love with it in the first place. We check in with that connection we felt when experiencing this person, this job, this class, this practice. We then go to a place of gratitude for it showing up in our lives, for teaching us, inspiring us, supporting us, and allowing us to grow. We are grateful for the passion and love that it helped to bring forth through us and as us.

Today I check in with my strong dedication and commitment to dance, to teaching dance, and celebrating dance and drum with students and fellow musicians and artists. I am dedicated and committed to nurturing and growing this strong, supportive, loving, and beautiful community of dancers and drummers...no matter what challenges and inner struggles might come my/our way. I am absolutely dedicated and committed.

Commitment isn't scary. Commitment to what (or who) we love is liberating, expansive, and takes us to greater and grander heights...embrace it and be grateful for it!

"A total commitment is paramount to reaching the ultimate in performance." ~Tom Flores

May you step forward in commitment and dedication to all that you love and know as your truth!

Lisa

My "Aha!" on Manifestation

2011-09-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

So I've been doing a lot of work on abundance and attracting more abundance into my life, as well as organizing my financial "house" and getting clearer about my financial goals and desires.

I've also been doing a lot of experimenting with manifestation and visualization. Hans King suggests that when we want to experience something, we write out a "letter" or some sort of request note to the universe/god/angels (whatever you prefer) and say "I would like the experience of...". Then we write why we would like this experience.

A few weeks ago I did this. I wrote a letter in my journal and asked to experience things that have to do with my classes and workshops and how many students I wanted and how much money I wanted. But when I began to write the "why" part of it, I hesitated.

I realized that it is my work to feel abundant, feel supported, feel prosperous in every moment, no matter what. I shouldn't have to manifest something in order to feel this way. I realized that this creates a cycle of wanting more and more and more things in order to feel good. This is why some folks who seem to have so much money and status and stuff aren't truly happy.

If we keep trying to fill these voids inside of us with "stuff", be it numbers of students or a new car, we will find that the temporary high or joy we feel will disappear eventually and we will find something else to want to manifest.

Abraham says that your emotion is your primary manifestation. The only reason we want stuff is not to have the stuff. It is to feel good or feel better. We can feel good now, and work to maintain this higher feeling state, and as we maintain this, more good will come into our experience. We won't be so attached to the things that we assume will "cure" our ills or make us "better". We will be happy in the moment, and we will watch as more good comes to us.

So the question is, "What is your primary emotion right now?"

Perhaps you are feeling depressed, frustrated and stuck or stagnant. My beloved, Budhi Harlow, believes that the words "stagnant" and "flow" best describe negative and positive feeling states. So you are feeling stagnant and you seem to attract more and more reasons to feel this way. You want to get the "flow" back into your life.

So what do you do to get into a place of flow?

Abraham advises us to find anything in our experience that we appreciate. We take baby steps to climb out of the stagnation. We look at a flower blooming in the yard. Then we look at the sky, feel the gentle breeze on our face. We look at our favorite chair in the living room and feel appreciation for it. We realize that we have most everything we need (running water, electricity, heat, etc) and we feel appreciative.

But perhaps you really want that car and you really want more money. What is the feeling state you are wanting? Is it security? Stability? Status?

Do you know that you are already secure and stable and perfect just as you are? No? That's o.k. if you don't believe it right now. I don't always feel this way. In fact, I hadn't been feeling this way until very recently. I felt slightly depressed, overworked, and weak.

My "aha" moment on manifestation came as I was writing out my desires, as I mentioned above. I decided that instead of feeling so crappy, I needed to get clear about what I wanted. Then I realized that the reason I wanted what I wanted was because my desire was to feel better.

Our minds are powerful and crazy. I had made myself believe that I needed certain things to make me feel better.

Yes it is o.k. to want more money. It is o.k. to want that car. It is o.k. to ask for those things. But our work FIRST is to identify if there is a feeling state we are wanting and to get ourselves there FIRST. Then, we watch as the money, car and other things will most likely come into our experience with much more ease and flow.

Perhaps this doesn't resonate with you. All I ask is that you experiment with it. That is what I'm doing right now. Work on feeling better and see what comes of it. Get clear on what you want and see how these things manifest (or not) into your experience as you maintain that better feeling state. I'd love to hear how it goes.

So I leave you with a video from the folks at Abraham-Hicks. Abraham describes it best....

One Year of Bollywood Dance!

2011-09-17T17:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I realized that I've been sharing Bollywood dance with the Santa Barbara and Ventura-area communities for a year this month.

Bollywood came into my life through the beautiful and talented Hemalayaa, who introduced me to both Odissi Classical Indian Dance and Bollywood Dance. There was some unknown force that pulled me toward her and her classes. To be totally honest, I had little interest in Indian dance and music, and while I definitely admired and appreciated it, I didn't see myself participating in it as a dancer and definitely not as a dance teacher. I had no idea the love affair that would ensue and the deep connection I would feel toward it.

When Hema came into my life, there was an opening for new experiences and new forms of dance. I thought I'd give Indian dance a try. I immediately fell in love with Odissi, which I studied for 7 months. It has grace, power, beautiful story-telling, heart connecting and is incredibly intricate and difficult! Studying it was inspiring and delightful to my body, mind and soul. My plan is to study in India someday.

Shortly after taking my first Odissi class, I tried Bollywood dance and couldn't stop laughing and smiling while learning new, playful, sensual ways to move my body and express myself. Plus, I didn't really even notice how much I was sweating and panting while bouncing and bopping the hips. What a workout!

When I decided to offer a Bollywood Fusion Dance series in Santa Barbara a year ago, I had no idea what the interest would be. 27 students showed up the first day. I've averaged between 18 and 20 students per class since, and we are still going strong and growing! The choreography is getting more colorful and we've performed 4 times in the past year. Hema also hired me to help choreograph her "Bollywood Dance Party" workout dvd in 2009 and 2010.

I am so proud of the fact that I followed my bliss with Bollywood and this journey continues to unfold in magical and beautiful ways.

I've watched dozens of Bollywood movies since I started teaching, and viewed countless You Tube video clips to get ideas for choreography and to just get a big dose of inspiration before my class on Monday nights.

If you haven't tried a class, I highly recommend! My class is offered on Monday nights at 6 p.m. at the Santa Barbara Dance Center. Class is geared for all levels, and there are ongoing performance opportunities.

If you don't live in the SB or Ventura area, there are Bollywood dance classes popping up all over the US. I am happy to say that people are catching on to how fun, invigorating this style of dance is...and how much of a workout it is for the body!

Here is the first piece I choreographed a year ago, featuring dancers Rachel Thurston and Arielle Christner, at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History's Folk & Tribal Arts Festival:

Thank you to all of the beautiful folks who continue to dance with me!

Thanks for a great year...

Lisa

More Compassion

2011-09-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but in my life right now there seems to be a lot of loved ones going "through it." Not just a few rough patches here and there. I'm talking major life transitions, unexpected strife, physical and emotional challenges, mid-life (or mid-mid-life) crisis, financial meltdowns, etc etc.

Maybe this is happening all the time and I'm just not as aware as I am now...but I don't think that is the case. I think right now is a time of incredible change and transformation. From the weather to politics to catastrophic events in personal lives and in the lives of millions, major change is occurring.

Everywhere.

I've been blogging like crazy about my own personal stuff, but today I want to talk about compassion.

As I process and reflect on all of events going on, the word "compassion" comes to the forefront. It is easy to get stuck in our own drama and not have the "time" for others. But I think right now we are being asked to bring forth more compassion. At least I feel that this is being asked of me.

I have come up with 5 major ways in which I can be more compassionate and can practice this quality in my daily life. Perhaps they resonate with you, as well.

1. Slow Down
We live in a fast pace world. Period. The more you slow down, the more you allow yourself to be in the present moment. Your senses come alive and you see, hear, and feel more. This automatically puts you in a place where more compassion can come through. Take time to smell the flowers and observe everything around you...with more compassion and objectivity.

2. Listen from a higher place.
No, I don't mean have conversations at the top of a mountain or skyscraper. I mean, when you are listening to someone talk about their woes, tune into what their needs and feelings really are. Instead of focusing on the drama or the complaining you are hearing in their words, listen to the fear, anger, frustration that is at the core of it all. For example, someone comes to you and says, "You are never going to believe what he did. This is the fourth time. He is such a jerk. Why is he putting me through this?" Instead of jumping on the bashing bandwagon, take the higher road and get to the feeling place of the person. You could say "I hear that you are hurt. It sounds like you feel disrespected, unappreciated, and that you might even be angry with yourself for allowing this to continue." This shows the person that you are really hearing him/her and that you want to help.

3. Be patient.
So you are having a bad day and so is your husband/wife/roommate/best friend. They push your buttons...so, you make it all about you and what they are doing to YOU. Wait a minute. STOP. Take a step back and step out of yourself for a moment. Take a breath and realize that everyone is doing the best they can in each moment. Know that what is coming at you isn't personal. There are many ways in which the ego tries to cover up everything and attack. You have a choice. You can stop the negative banter/behavior right now or you can continue to escalate it until someone really loses it or breaks down. Practice patience and do what your mom always told you, count to 10! Count to 10 before you reply. Maybe you'll need longer than 10 seconds. Maybe you need 24 hours. Take the time to cool off and work yourself into a place of more compassion.

4. Reach out.
You cannot practice compassion for others if you cannot practice it for yourself. One way of being more compassionate towards yourself is to reach out to friends/family for support. It is easy to hide out or go within and withdrawal from the world when we are feeling super low. Sometimes this can be a good place, but if you linger here too long, you end up running the negative tapes over and over into your mind. This is not a good thing. Call a friend. Write to your mom. Text your sister and say "hey! I need a friend right now. Can we meet for lunch this week?" Give yourself a break and show yourself compassion.

5. Soften.
Quan Yin (pictured above) is considered a Goddess or bodhisattva of compassion and mercy for all. The common image of Quan Yin, or Guanyin, is female with soft features and flowing robes. This image reminds me to soften more. No matter your gender, bring forth and celebrate more of your feminine qualities: creativity & inspiration, intuition & insight, selflessness, courage, nurturing, humility, and sensuality. As you celebrate these aspects of your being and soften into them, so will life around you soften. We need to remember that we draw towards us what we put out. Choose to be softer and watch how the world responds!

May each one of us bring more compassion into our days and into our worlds!

With love,
Lisa

gratitude, gratitude, gratitude

2011-08-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

Today I am extremely grateful.

Grateful for my body all healed and happy to be dancing, teaching, and doing what I love to do most...sharing music and dance with amazing folks in this community!

Grateful for the sunshine, gentle breezes, and for my mom's successful triple bypass surgery!

The past few weeks have been intense, and I am grateful for all of it.

Contrast is everything. It puts life into perspective.

It puts me in a place of gratitude.

What are you grateful for today?

transformation can be a pain in the a*#

2011-08-22T09:30:00.000-07:00

The topic of surrender has been in my vocabulary a lot lately. Surrender means trusting in the process and getting out of my own way. Surrender means letting go of what doesn't serve me anymore; clearing away and allowing.

Allowing what is to be just what it is. Allowing the good to come through.

Transformation has also been a key word. I've blogged about it recently. There is a feeling deep down that things are shifting for me in a big way.

Surrendering is part of the transformation. If you continue to hold on and tighten your grip on the way you want things go be, nothing new can come through. We create blocks with our thoughts and with our desire to control. Surrendering allows the space to be made. It frees up the energy to move.

So I've been in this state of surrender. But not without serious action. Just because I'm surrendering doesn't mean that I am passive and lazy. There is much to be done and a lot of space to clear.

I've put in hours and hours of clearing and cleaning my physical (and mental) spaces. I've been journaling and meditating more. I decided to finally start balancing my checkbook again after years of denial and procrastination.

I've been patting myself on the back for all of this great work, even though deep down I really don't know what I am preparing myself for. I just know that I'm ready to take things to another level. I just know that it is part of the surrendering process...and part of my personal transformation.

I've now been waiting for miracles to pour in and shower me with so much magic and bliss and joy that I don't know what to do with myself.

But there was something else that needed to happen.

I took a trip to my hometown in the midwest to visit family and friends. It was an interesting trip and brought up a lot of old stuff for me. I had a good time but was excited to get back home to Santa Barbara. Happy to get back into my life of teaching, dancing, creating...and transformation.

And then, no more than 4 hours after my plane landed, my back completely gave out. I landed at 3 p.m. and taught a dance class at 6 p.m. This was not the best idea...to move my body like that after spending the day on an airplane. After class, my back began to scream at me. Deep lower back pain shocked my body and made me stop everything.

I had to stop dancing. I had to stop practicing yoga. I had to stop stretching. I couldn't sit at my desk. I couldn't bend over.

Actually, I still can't do many of these things. The truth is, I am in the midst of healing my back as I write. I am looking deep into this pain. It has many things to tell me and teach me. I am trying to be patient. I am trying not to get angry or fearful. It is getting better a little each day, and for that I'm grateful.

So what is this teaching me?

That the timing of the trip to my hometown and my back going out upon my return is NO ACCIDENT or COINCIDENCE.

Childhood stuff, money stuff, and self-esteem stuff really need to get worked out.

There is deep, emotional "crap" that is ready to let go.

That transformation can be a pain in the ass (or back, in this case)!

That I need to continue to surrender and let go.

That the answers will come in time...and to be patient.

So I wait...patiently I wait. I wait for my body and heart to heal. I rest and I go to the chiropractor and acupuncturist like a good girl. I teach when I need to teach and rest as much as possible. I breathe and tell my muscles and my mind to stop clenching and grasping.

Sometimes this brings tears to my eyes. This is a good thing.

I write. I share. I express and I let it all be...just as it is.

More to come...

celebrate your essence

2011-08-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Today I ask you to celebrate the essence of who you really are.

You are...
Not your job.
Not your hair color.
Not your salary.

Who are you, at your core?

No matter what mistakes you've made in your life, underneath all of it is a spirit. A glowing, shining, beautiful soul in human form.

One who seeks happiness, joy, love, acceptance, and inspiration. What else do you seek?

What are your core values? What do you want to create in your life?

When you are feeling lost, stuck, or alone...take out a pencil and paper and answer the following questions.

1. What do I want to experience in this life (no limits or excuses)?
2. What brings me the most joy?
3. What are my core values?
4. What am I passionate about?
5. What do I need to let go of?
6. Who am I at my core?
7. What can I celebrate about myself today?
8. What steps can I take today that will lead me in the direction of my dreams?

Take the focus off of what you've done, where you've been, or in fear of what is to be (shame, blame, and fear).

We can change everything in this moment.

It begins with asking yourself questions like these.

It begins with gratitude.

It begins with getting clear about your essence...and celebrating it.

I Surrender

2011-07-29T12:49:00.000-07:00

I surrender to the unknown.
I let go, allow, release.
I breathe and go within.

I find peace there.
My thoughts come in and go out.
I trust in the process.

All is well.
I am well.
All will be well.

Life is a miracle.
I am open to it.
I surrender to the miracles happening in my life.

I forgive myself.
I forgive others.

I am grateful.
I am at peace.
I am whole.

I surrender.

Summer Camp, Transitions, and Sweet Surrender

2011-07-26T18:52:00.000-07:00

This year's post about Camp Fareta is a little different than past posts. I have more to share about what happened afterwards and where I am right now. Our time away was unexpectedly extended. The processing I am doing will take more time than usual. All is well!

Read on.

Summer Camp

This year was phenomenal as usual. The teachers pushed us way beyond our comfort zones and the drumming blew me away. This camp is very special to me in so many ways.

It is a vacation.
It is work.
It is rest.
It kicks my ass.
It connects me with others.
It connects me with myself.

Most importantly, though...I come away feeling more expanded and open than before. I feel that there is this beautiful long road of West African dance and discovery ahead.

The most incredible moment for me was when I was dancing down the floor and I realized that dance often feels better than anything else. It feeds me more than anything else. It connects me to the divine more than anything else. It is just better.

Better than sex.
Better than chocolate cake.

At other times, it feels like a lot of work and not so sexy...I feel awkward, uncoordinated, frustrated, and ready to quit. But on one particular day and in one particular moment, I felt electrified, tuned in and turned on (as Rev Michael would say).

It was bliss!

Transitions

Then something happened. At the end of our stay at camp, we learned that Budhi's father had suddenly passed away in his sleep.

We were home in Santa Barbara less than 12 hours when we had to get in the car and drive 8 hours in rush hour traffic to meet with family and attend the funeral in Arizona and Nevada.

I don't want to go into all the details of this unexpected trip, but I will say that I felt like I was in a dream. The twilight zone. When something like this happens, you just show up and do what has to be done. The processing comes later. I felt discombobulated. I can only imagine what Budhi felt.

There were many gifts that came from this weekend. When someone passes, it reminds us of what is truly important in life. It reminds us to take care of one another and express ourselves more. I felt extremely close to Budhi and his family, and had some huge revelations that I will share at a later date.

Sweet Surrender

So now I am in a space of surrender. I feel inspired by my teachers at camp. I feel introspective and a little raw from our weekend to the desert for the funeral. At the same time, I feel an urgency to go forward and make all of my dreams come true. We don't know what tomorrow will bring. I surrender and allow these feelings to be what they are.

I continue to cleanse, clear and organize. This is what I know that I can do in the moment to make space for the good to come in. I take breaks often and I am working on being even more loving and supportive to Budhi as he mourns his father's death and moves forward each day in his life.

I am grateful for all of the lessons and for all of the challenges of the past few weeks.

I surrender and allow.

Peace,
Lisa

Transformation-a-Brewin'

2011-07-08T12:01:00.000-07:00

I haven't been the best little blogger lately, but wait...I take that back. I've been doing the best I can and the blogs I've written have been less frequent but just as important. I am taking a step back.

There are some transformations happening within. This is a good thing, but it is not always the most comfortable place to be.

Something is underfoot and I have put holds on many things, including this blog, so that I can ride this wave...

My list of to do's is huge right now, but I feel stuck in mud sometimes and not sure of where to start. So, I've prioritized cleaning my house. Sorting through papers, rearranging furniture and getting rid of a lot of junk. I feel that this is where my energy is needed right now in order to clear the way for the BIG newness that is trying to come forth.

I chose an image of the feng shui buddha above to represent what I am working to create in all areas of my life. Peace. Surrender. Detachment. Ready and available. At one with all.

In feng shui, the main goal is to channel or direct the Chi (energy) inside your home so that it nourishes and supports the Chi inside your body. So, I am working on creating a nourishing and supportive home and foundation so that my inner Chi can be nourished and supported.

A new "me" is emerging. It is always emerging, but this transformation feels bigger than before. I may look the same when I come out of it...but it will (and already does) feel lighter, more expansive, and more powerful than ever.

So I honor the process...the uncomfortable times, the fear that comes up, the joy and the energy that surges within my body.

I am taking care of my inner and outer house and all that goes with it...the finances, the daily chores, the little tasks and the big ones too. And I'm finding the peace.

I am grateful for all of it.

Thank Goddess for change...

Love,

Lisa

The Bigger Picture

2011-06-24T11:54:00.000-07:00

Take a look at the bigger picture for a moment.

Take the focus off of you and of your experience and see yourself as part of a whole.
A living, breathing whole of existence called LIFE.

The thoughts we think, the actions we take and choices we make affect this whole.

Now ask yourself these questions:

How can I live my life in a way that improves the lives of others?

How can my actions help create a better world for the next generation?

Where in my life can I improve/change/add/subtract so that I not only create a better experience for me but also for those around me?

We can get so involved in our own dramas and experiences and points of views and opinions that we forget what this life experience is all about.

For me it is about working together with others. It is about sharing our unique gifts with others. It is about lifting each other up and shining our lights. It is about inspiring others. It is about empowerment. It is about transformation. It is about joy and celebration. It is about gratitude. It is about love. It is about compassion and understanding. It is about creativity and self-expression. It is about acceptance and truth.

Yes, it is about me. Yes, it is about you.

But when you find yourself caught up in the drama of your life or of someone else's life, take the focus off of you for a second and see where you might change your attitude or make a different choice. One that comes from your heart and one that uplifts others.

Make this life the best it can be...for you and for all of those around you!

Love,
L

Wisdom Bits

2011-06-08T12:18:00.000-07:00

I have so many great books next to my bed right now.

So I've been procrastinating on reading them because:

1. I don't know which one to start with.
2. Diving into a book from the beginning is a bit daunting.
3. The thought of actually finishing a book with my crazy schedule is overwhelming.

Stupid excuses, I know.

So today I decided to read a paragraph, page, chapter...however long I want out of each book at one sitting. I was so inspired by what I read that I thought it'd be fun to share the wisdom here on my blog.

I call these "Wisdom Bits". Inspiring passages from inspiring books that I'm reading.

Enjoy.

On the Law of Attraction:

From The Vortex: Where the Law of Attraction Assembles All Cooperative Relationships by Esther and Jerry Hicks (The Teachings of Abraham)

"Make what you want a more dominant part of your vibration than what you have; and once you are consistently doing that, what you want and what you have will intertwine, and you will be living your desire."

"...no other person has the ability, or a responsibility to hold you as their singular, positive object of attention. Your inner being, however, the source within you, always holds you, with no exceptions as a constant object of appreciation."

"Make your active vibration be about what you do want and notice how quickly your life changes to match your vibration."

From The Law of Attraction: Learning to Attract Wealth, Health, and Happiness by Esther and Jerry Hicks (The Teachings of Abraham)

"...it just takes a little negative utterance from someone, a memory of something, or some suggestion that takes you into a negative tailspin right away."

"Your thoughts contain enormous creative, attractive power that you harness effectively only by consistently offering good-feeling thoughts."

On Partnerships/Love Relationships:

From Waking Up Together: Intimate Partnership on the Spiritual Path by Ellen and Charles Birx

"As companions, we provide safety, encouragement, and support one another."

"Daily meditation practice coupled with open attentiveness to your partner yields a deep sense of connection."

On Living Your Dreams:

From Do the Work! by Steven Pressfield

"A child has no trouble believing the unbelievable, nor does the genius or the madman. It's only you and I, with our big brains and our tiny hearts, who doubt and over think and hesitate. Don't think. Act."

"Our mightiest ally (our indispensible ally) is belief in something we cannot see, hear, touch, taste, or feel."

"When we conquer our fears, we discover a boundless, bottomless, inexhaustible well of passion."

So, there you have it. A few Wisdom Bits for your day.

Focus on what you want.
Believe the unbelievable.
Connect to the source within and feel the love and acceptance that is there for you.
Manifest your desires by making your active vibration be about them.

Some great inspiration for your day!

Peace,
Lisa

Connection of Body, Mind, Spirit: Wake up your Senses!

2011-06-01T11:34:00.000-07:00

The connection of body, mind, and spirit have come up for me lately in many different places. The catalyst for this has been the two Prince concerts I attended recently, which really inspired me to look at my sensuality and attitudes around sex; how all of it is connected to my spirit and my mind. Is it connected? Or am I still shedding the false ideas around sexuality (shameful, dirty, private) that I grew up with in small town Minnesota?

Probably.

But witnessing the creative~genius~Purple Man himself in concert has created a wave of change and growth for me. My senses and awareness are awake!

Seeing Prince in concert and observing my thoughts and feelings during and after his magnificent shows, truly has been like a light switch turning on. I remember being a young girl and feeling a little dirty and naughty for loving his music, videos, and HOT sex appeal. Seeing him in concert last month brought things to a whole new level, however. He celebrates his sexuality. He celebrates his sensuality. And there is no disconnect to spirit, mind, and heart. It is all there in full bloom. I hadn't really thought about it on a deep level as a child and young adult. I just knew how it made me feel.

Prince's music, message, and attitude is refreshing and delicious. He celebrates his uniqueness and his gifts and isn't afraid to share all of it with the masses.

So, I am willing and ready to let that part of myself release and flow. What does that mean? Well, for me it just means integrating it more into all that I do. I have already been allowing this energy to flow through dance and drum, performance, teaching and such. The work for me is keeping that place alive and flowing in all that I do. Letting that sensual energy to be more present in my life.

This doesn't just mean sex.

For me this means taking deeper breaths, being more aware of the sights and sounds and the beauty all around. Feeling deep appreciation for my senses, for my body, for the loving beings who surround me, my family, my pets. And yes, feeling more aware, grateful, and passionate towards my partner and our relationship.

It is about activating and re-activating the aliveness that is within. Let the chi flow.

Let the energy be free.

And in the words of Prince:

Treat every step U take (every step)

As if U're walkin', huh, on holy ground (holy ground)

Place U, place U above all others

When it comes, when it comes to the gettin' on down

(from the song, The One)

I plan to do more blogs on the connection of body, mind and spirt. Stay tuned...

For the love of Dog.

2011-05-18T08:37:00.000-07:00

Two men I admire and who teach deep spiritual truths.

Go for it

2011-05-17T17:21:00.000-07:00

Take care of your body each day.
Fill it with nourishing foods and nourishing thoughts.
Move, dance, shake it.
Release stress and tension and breathe.

Know that you have the power to transform your body and your life at any (and every moment).
You are a creator and you can create the vibrant, healthy life that you've always wanted.
You may already consider yourself a healthy health-nut...but there is always room to take it to the next level.

Go for it.

Every Once in a While...

2011-05-13T16:41:00.000-07:00

Give yourself permission to stay in bed a little bit longer.
Have a lazy day.
Unplug from your life.
Get nothing done.

Don't answer the phone.

Turn off the t.v.

Turn off the computer.

Give yourself permission to do what you need to do.
Take your time.
Slow down.

Breathe.
Stretch.
Feel.

Put your bare feet in the grass.
Play with your dog.
Skip down the street.
Play your favorite music and dance in your living room.

Really really let go.
Every once in a while.
Or maybe more.

My Name is Prince...

2011-05-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

"...and I am funky. When it comes to funk, I am a junky."

I was around 9 or 10 when I discovered Prince. His "Purple Rain" album was one of the first tape cassettes I ever bought (along with Cindy Lauper). It was the 80's and Prince was it. That's all I know. From "When Doves Cry" to "Darling Nikki"...oh boy, I was grooving to lyrics I didn't quite understand...which is probably a good thing.

Being from Minnesota, you'd think I had a chance to see him live. It just didn't happen. His "Quest" nightclub was a popular spot, and he showed up from time to time as a surprise and played late into the night. He would have random parties at his purple mansion and only certain people would come to know about it. I wasn't one of them. I just didn't manage to see him live in his (and my) city of Minneapolis.

Well...I finally got the chance to see my purple god of funk last night at the LA Forum.

Run (don't walk) to your nearest Ticketmaster (or purchase online) and get tickets to see this genius in action. He is playing tonight and again next weekend (Thurs-Sat). Don't think twice about it. If you've ever been a fan (or still are), you won't be disappointed. Period.

Esperanza Spalding opened for him. Phenomenal.

Sheila E performed a few of her hits and backed him up with her incredible percussion and vocals! It's a Glamorous Life, baby!

This concert was full-on entertainment. Joyful, thrilling, dance-packed.

There are many affordable tickets at $25 a pop. You simply can't beat it. Our seats were great and we danced straight for 3+ hours. I am definitely going to see him again during his "21 Nite Stand". This is your chance!

Prince delivers...and then some. His talents blow me away. His incredible guitar playing, super sexy voice hits you in all the right places, and the guy dances like he's still in his 20's.

3 costume changes, 4+ encores, phenomenal back-up band, and a list of hits that go on and on...I am a happy girl.

He's still got it, folks. Go see this concert.

Vibrant Health: My 8-Week Wellness Plan

2011-05-02T15:42:00.000-07:00

photo by r.s. thurston

I have begun an 8-week wellness plan and am already feeling amazing, inside and out. On June 25, 2011 I will be performing in the Santa Barbara Solstice Parade and co-leading with Budhi over 50 performers in our Panzumo Drum & Dance Ensemble. So, I thought this would be a great excuse to get healthier, gain more strength and build endurance for the parade performance! I will be dancing for at least an hour and at the same time smiling, clapping, and exuding joy and energy. So, I need to be in tip-top shape!

This wellness plan is my own creation but has been inspired by many folks. Here is a list of my health and spiritual gurus for you to check out:

Kris Carr - Crazy Sexy Life
Alicia Silverstone - Kind Life
Tim VanOrden - Running Raw
Michael Bernard Beckwith - Agape International Spiritual Center
Abraham - Hicks

Check out my wellness plan HERE.

I sure hope it continues beyond the 8 weeks, of course. I am taking it one day at a time.

I'd love to hear about your health journeys!

Love,
Lisa

New Day

2011-04-26T09:22:00.000-07:00

A New Way...

Rebirth. Renew. Revitalize.

Each day is an opportunity to make new choices.

Each day is an opportunity to begin living from your new paradigm.

Who do you want to be? How do you want to be?

What are your dreams? Write them down and feel into the completion of them.

What are you willing to let go of right now?

Cleanse. Clear. Clean.

Let go of the shackles you have created in your mind.

Just let them go and feel the power that is you. Own it.

Celebrate who you are right now.

Appreciate the journey so far. Feel the transformation.

Step into your power and see yourself in a new way. You've arrived.

You're here.

Welcome.

I've had a revelation

2011-04-20T11:42:00.000-07:00

rev·e·la·tion: something revealed or disclosed, especially a striking disclosure, as of something not before realized

re·veal: to make known through divine inspiration

rev·el: to take great pleasure or delight (usually followed by in): to revel in luxury.

e·la·tion: a feeling or state of great joy or pride; exultant gladness; high spirits.

This past weekend, I attended Agape's annual Revelation Conference in Century City (Los Angeles). To say I had a revelation is an understatement. The conference included amazing spiritual teachers Michael Bernard Beckwith (founder of Agape), Hans Christian King, Malidoma Patrice Some, and Abraham (Esther and Jerry Hicks).

Here are a few gems (paraphrased) of the teachings from the conference:

Once you begin to think more and more outside of your current paradigm, the choices you make start to be from that new place and transformation begins to occur. (Michael Bernard Beckwith)

"Being who you are is the gift you give to you. Always be you." You are in charge because you operate as source. (Hans Christian King)

Each person born into this world is a "gifted professional". It is our job to "take office" and share our gift. "This is a job that we cannot be fired from and we are not authorized to retire from." (Malidoma Patrice Some)

Know that you "can't get it wrong and you can never get it done". We are always evolving and changing, and we are always "launching new rockets of desire" into our vortex (universe). "You are constantly expanding, constantly becoming." (Abraham - Hicks)

I have created a 10 page PDF of my notes from this conference and if you are interested in having them e-mailed to you, please contact me. I am happy to share my notes and feel it is part of my duty to do so!

May you continue to grow, evolve and transform into your TRUE and RADIANT self each and every day!

Lisa

Djun Djun Mamas Level 1 Workshop

2011-04-10T10:55:00.000-07:00

Calling all divine divas and gorgeous Goddesses in the SB/Ojai/Ventra/Oxnard area!! Join in the Djun Djun Mama fun at my Level 1 Workshop beginning April 28!

Register on the Panzumo website our "Class Schedule" page.

Check out this great video of a Djun Djun Mamas performance in December of 2009:

I hope you will join us!

Lisa

The next big thing...is right here.

2011-04-05T09:21:00.000-07:00

"Beyond the beauty of external forms, there is more here: something that cannot be named, something ineffable, some deep, inner, holy essence. Whenever and wherever there is beauty, this inner essence shines through somehow. It only reveals itself to you when you are present."

Eckhart Tolle

On Friday, March 25 of this year we shared our Panzumo Spring Concert at the Music Academy of the West in beautiful Hahn Hall. It was a lot of work...good work, but work.

Rehearsals, costumes, collaborations, fundraising, ticket sales, radio ads, newspaper articles and lots of Facebook promotion took up a lot of our time leading up to the big show.

I created the fliers and the programs for the show and also designed the new Panzumo t-shirts that debuted at the show. I led 22 Bollywood dancers, 10 West African dancers, 14 Djun Djun Mamas, and performed many numbers with Panzumo. I gave private lessons to students who had never performed before, and was a cheerleader and motivator to all.

I am not saying all this to brag or to impress you.

In fact, I look at this list and realize even more the importance of...delegation. Over the past 3 years, Budhi and I have realized the importance of creating a team and asking for help. With each show, we learn more and more about how to run things more smoothly and how to also take care of ourselves in the process.

The show was a huge success. It almost sold out, and everyone who attended (as performers and guests) loved it. I knew it would be. There was no question about that.

But now the question I'm getting is..."So, what is next? When is the next concert? What is the next big thing for you guys?"

So I take a deep breath and smile. These are not unexpected questions...but they remind me of how humans are always working towards or waiting for the next big thing.

Whether it is working your ass off so that you can go on vacation for a week, waiting for the perfect moment to quit your job so that your real life can begin, or preparing for a big show, party, event, workshop, etc. It seems our thoughts are usually focused on the future.

We forget to enjoy the moment. This moment. The present. The presence.

Often when our time is spent working towards something "big", we miss that focus and drive when it is over. We want to create or prepare ourselves for the next one and we ask "what IS the next big thing?"

It is happening all the time. It is right here. We are living miracles. We can create and become whatever we want to be. But if we don't relish in the moment, in the journey, we miss so much.

We miss out on the good that is here when we obsess and focus on what is better and what is to come. We take for granted the love and magic that is right here...right now.

Right now I am enjoying the space in my schedule, the time I get to just "be". Yes I am thinking about what I need to work on and prepare for. But I am present and grateful and truly experiencing the decompression that is happening in my body and mind after such a huge production.

Yes it is fun to prepare and work hard to create something or experience something. But live right now.

Be grateful for the breath. Be grateful for who and what you are right now.

This is where the gold is.

May you relish in this moment and be free.

Love,
Lisa

"Once you have made peace with the present moment, see what happens, what you can do or choose to do, or rather what life does through you. There are three words that convey the secret of the art of living, the secret of all success and happiness: One with Life. Being one with life is being one with Now. You then realize that you don't live your life, but life lives you. Life is the dancer and you are the dance."

Eckhart Tolle

Beholding is an artful practice

2011-04-04T17:00:00.000-07:00

Photo by Kvikken

This past Sunday I attended the Sunday service at Agape International Spiritual Center in Culver City with Budhi. I was so taken with the "Meditative Thought" for the week that I had to share...

"Beholding is an artful practice, a state of awareness wherein we uncover, discover, and rediscover gifts of the soul, the divine and perfect pattern that is within us. So often these gifts become covered up by the noise of deception including thought forms of worry, doubt, fear, not-enoughness, over-busyness, or constant entertainment to avoid being alone. There is no end to human ingenuity when it comes to escape routes and coping mechanisms.

Who do you behold when you look into the mirror of self-reflection? Do you recognize your Self, your Original Face? Your contract with Earth School is that you will discover and deliver your gifts, talents, skills, compassion, love, joy -- all that it means to be a spiritual being having a human incarnation. How you choose to honor the clauses in your Earth Contract is your choice, your creation."

~Michael Bernard Beckwith

Spring Storms (inner and outer): The Clearing & Cleansing

2011-03-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, the south coast of California was drenched with rain. Constant, and at times intense, this rain cleared away a lot of debris and there are more storms on the way. All of this rain during the full moon and spring equinox seems pretty auspicious, and it reminds me of my own personal rainstorms.

Last week was intense, with the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan and the crisis in Libya. I felt like the whole world was on edge...and perhaps continues to be.

Last night, I attended a Spring Detox Cleanse at Source Yoga. It couldn't have come at a better time. The workshop included self-massage with ayurvedic herbs and oils, breathing techniques for cooling and releasing, heated yoga with lots of core work and twists and jumps to allow our bodies to purge through sweat, then chanting and clearing of the chakras, and ending in meditation.

On my way to the workshop I asked myself "What am I ready to let go of?" The answer was clear. I am ready to let go of the fear, frustration, and anger that arises when things don't go my way.

That is what the past week has been for me. Just a lot of stuff not going my way, getting in my way, or in the case of the current world events, making me feel powerless and small.

So...I floated out of the workshop feeling very refreshed and emptied...emptied of the crap that had been lingering and poisoning my body and my mind. Then this morning I woke up feeling grounded and focused.

It is now 3 1/2 hours later and I can already feel my energy begin to scatter and sink once again. I took a good 2 hours before I actually turned on my computer, but once I "plugged in" to the world, my work, and to people I allowed myself to get pulled back into the negativity and business of life.

**Insert deep breath here**

I realize that it is an ongoing process. Things get dirty, we clean them. They get dirty again, and then we clean them. Same with the mind.

This is my work. To remember what is true, take care of myself, go to that place of peace and knowing. To get quiet when I need to, sweat and exercise it all out when I need to, chant and do yoga when I need to. Constantly clear out the gunk and let that fear, anger, and frustration just float by like the clouds.

There is no magic potion or class or pill that will make it all go away. Granted, the workshop WORKED me and got a lot of stuff cleared...both physically and mentally. I will continue to do workshops like this to nurture, heal, and empower myself. But the everyday spiritual work of staying centered and being o.k. with whatever happens...that is what is needed on a consistent and moment-to-moment basis.

It reminds me to connect to the present moment and....breathe deeply.

So today I ask for more strength, groundedness, and TRUST that all is well and all will be well. Plus a large dose of PEACE with WHAT IS and GRATITUDE for ALL I AM AND ALL I HAVE.

We have a big show on Friday and it is going to be fabulous. The little problems that come up are just that...little.

Let the rain clear away that which is not needed. And may peace prevail within each sentient being on this earth...no matter what comes our way.

Blessings to you and Happy Spring!
Lisa

Energy Stuck? Then move!

2011-03-16T11:31:00.000-07:00

This morning I experienced feelings of over-excitement, anxiousness, nervousness, and fear...a sort of toxic combination of negativity running through my mind and body.

I tried to meditate.

My mind had no intention of quieting down and finding the space in meditation today. Hell no!

So, I got myself busy and started to work. But the more I worked, the more I felt excited, anxious, nervous and fearful. What about you ask? Oh, just everything. And nothing.

Now I know that I have the power to change this. So that is what I am doing now. Remember my blog post about what is in my medicine bag?

Well, I am looking into it right now and realizing that my body needs to MOVE.

But first, I recognize that these feelings are self-created and that I am not a victim. I have the choice to change the way I feel and to change the thoughts in my head. Abraham teaches to choose a better thought.

For me in this moment, it is to go into gratitude for all that of the blessings in my life. There are many.

And now, I shall MOVE.

Sometimes when you don't know what to do, you feel stuck or stifled or frustrated or perplexed on on edge...or a combination of all of these (and more), you need to physically MOVE. Make sure "physical exercise" is in your medicine kit!

Today I choose to go for a jog with the neighbor's labrador, who doesn't get enough exercise as it is. So, I will be helping both of us by moving and getting the energy flowing! I will be shaking up the negative ions and pumping life energy, vitality, and joy into my blood, bones, tissues, and brain.

Away I go...

Love,
Lisa

p.s. I invite you to share. What is your favorite way to physically move negative or stuck energy out of your body? I would love to hear your answers. Please comment below.

My "Aha!" Hike

2011-03-11T14:49:00.000-08:00

photo by rsthurston.com

So today I needed to get into the foothills and surround myself with trees, water, and all things nature. I've been living in my head the past several days...in planning mode, strategizing mode, and visioning mode. This is all good, but my feet needed to come back to earth and stand in the present moment.

It took me awhile to center and ground, and at one point while I was crossing a creek I stumbled and had to stop to fix my shoe. I looked around at the creek and there was a giant flat boulder in the middle of the water that looked like the perfect place to sit and relax. As I walked over to it, I realized that my stumbling was a gift because it forced me to stop and look around...and notice that boulder.

Even out in nature, we can be predominantly in our heads...and feel like we need to get somewhere.

My "somewhere" was a lookout point about 20 more minutes up the path. Well, I didn't make it there. I sat on that boulder for a good 1/2 hour, closed my eyes and listened to the sounds of the water rushing, the gentle wind blowing, and the rhythm of my breath. I laid back onto the rock and opened my eyes to gaze at the twisting branches of the grand oak trees and the bright blue sky up ahead.

I asked my angels to help me stay present and focused, to help me soften more in this life and to be more present.

As I hiked back towards my car, the "aha" truly hit me.

I realized that I had made it. All my dreams have come true. There is no place I need to get to, to be "better". I have all that I need and my life is a miracle. I felt deep gratitude for the realization of this...amidst all of the supposed chaos of my mind, and the news about tsunamis and tragedies all over the world. In that moment, I was safe and all was well. There is nowhere to be and nothing to do.

Who knows what is to happen tomorrow, or in the next moment?

I shed tears for the little girl who felt awkward and inadequate, who wanted to blend into the background and avoid making waves. I had no idea that I would grow and develop into the person that I am today. I am surrounded by so much love and support that it sometimes makes me weak in the knees.

I shed tears for the ridiculous amount of stress I put on myself sometimes, and then I let out a big "ha!"...recognizing the comedy in all of it.

Then I shed tears and sent prayers to the people of Japan and all affected by what happened early this a.m. and realized how we truly are all one. They aren't the only ones affected. Everyone is. This beautiful family of humans and animals and rocks and tress and bugs and clouds...we are all together in this.

Finally, I chanted a mantra in my head..."There is a miracle at every turn."

I saw the most amazing flowers jump out at me as I said this...purple, white, vibrant yellow. I stepped right over a little snake as I said my mantra, and watched it skirt away. Then a squished little lizard in the middle of the path reminded me of the importance of presence at every moment.

Each step we take
Each breath we take
Should be done with PRESENCE.
For we have no idea sometimes
the impact we create...

May the presence be with you in all of your moments.
May you feel and hear the rhythm of your breath.
The inhale and the exhale.

May gratitude wash over you often.
To remind you of your gifts.
To remind you of the love that surrounds you.

May you have many "aha's" in this lifetime.

Love,
Lisa

self-worth: bring it!

2011-03-08T18:34:00.000-08:00

"You are as amazing as you let yourself be. Let me repeat that. You are as amazing as you let yourself be." ~Elizabeth Alraune

I've had many opportunities lately to look at the value I put on myself and my work. This is an ongoing theme as I grow my business, my teaching, student and client base...and as I just simply walk in this world.

It seems that each day I am given the opportunity to make a choice: step into my power, get the job done, declare my purpose, mission, and passions; -OR- deny, hide, and shrivel into a corner and wish it all away. I never do the latter, but I flirt with it.

I'm only human.

Perhaps this is where the work truly lies. Making the choice to live BIG or live small. Some days it is easy to live BIG. You feel that the world is lifting you up and cheering you on. Other days you feel like the world is against you and you are out there all alone.

The funny thing is that all of this lives in our heads. We tend to create so much drama around miniscule matters. We assume. We project. We blame. We feel devalued and misunderstood.

The good news is that we can make better choices.

That is where our freedom lies and where we can transform old habits into new ones. So the work is in making better choices, observing our mental chatter (without judgement), and asking important questions.

"Am I valuing myself in this moment?"

"How can I reclaim my power right now?"

"Am I believing the thoughts in my head that make me feel like crap?"

"Am I open to new ideas, experiences, and opportunities?"

"Am I ready to tell a new story?"

I am, and I hope you are too.

It's o.k. to slip sometimes. I do, and I brush myself off, pick myself up, and start moving forward again.

You are worthy...

Love,
Lisa

"You have a clean slate every day you wake up. You have a chance every single morning to make that change and be the person you want to be. You just have to decide to do it. Decide today's the day. Say it; This is going to be my day." ~ Brendon Burchard

what's in my medicine bag

2011-02-25T17:46:00.000-08:00

photo by Fabio Sabatini

So yesterday I had a moment (or two) of feeling overwhelmed, overworked, and exhausted (physically and emotionally). I had lost sleep 2 nights in a row, and during the days had been uber productive, staying up too late working (thus the loss of sleep) and forgetting to eat sometimes, too. I LOVE being in productive mode, but maintaining balance is key. Needless to say, I was off balance and in need of some healing! I thought to myself, "hmmm...I need inspiration, some words of wisdom, some ideas about what to do in this moment."

And then I realized, duh! I have all the tools I need right in my own medicine bag.

You see, we each have our own medicine bag. It is easy for us to go to others for advice and ideas on how to feel better. But they don't live in our heads and our bodies and may not know exactly what we need in the moment. We have the tools to regain balance, restore, and find peace. Sure, it is super beneficial to read and re-read blogs and books from our favorite spiritual teachers, watch videos and listen to audio books and such. In fact, getting inspiration from teachers is in my medicine bag. But I think it is important to check in with ourselves first, and ask ourselves what we need first. Perhaps we don't feel like we have the energy to look within, but why not just take a quick peek and see what we find first?

After I had the "aha" moment, realizing I had a full to overflowing medicine bag for these emergency situations, I laid down on my bed with my pups and played a meditation mp3 from goddessguidebook.com that not only relaxed me, but put me to sleep...something my body desperately needed. I woke up feeling rested and at peace, and like I had gotten a tune up!

What does my medicine bag contain?
Here are 10 of my goodies (in no particular order):

1. yoga
I have 2-3 favorite local group classes to choose from, and when I don't have time I participate in online yoga classes from yogatoday.com. They have anywhere from a 6 min. heart opener sequence to an hour-long vinyasa power flow.

2. green smoothies
Yup. These not only heal my body, but they heal my heart and my mind. I cannot stress enough how potent and energizing green juices and smoothies are. Check out the recipe for my favorite green smoothie on earth.

3. write/journal
A lot of the blogs that I write are inspired by emotional turmoil or those uncomfortable spiritual growing pains I occasionally experience. When I hit rock bottom, writing and blogging often help me climb up and out of it.

4. dance
(no words to describe how I feel about this particular medicine...I am utterly in awe and speechless when it comes to thinking about how dance heals me on so many levels)

5. take a bath
Epsom salts, essential oils, fresh cut lavender and rosemary sprigs from our garden, candles, Maxwell and Sade music to melt to...and I am gooood!

6. read a book
Reading on the computer is o.k. Reading a magazine is fun. But holding a book in your hand and devouring the pages is an entirely different experience. Some recent favorites "Isolde: Queen of the Western Isle" by Rosalind Miles; "The Passion of Mary Magdalen" by Elizabeth Cunningham, and "Now is the Time to Open Your Heart" by Alice Walker.

7. hug my man
A hug from a loved one is instant medicine, but a hug from my beloved shoots a love arrow straight into my heart. A hug from my man gives me energy and gets my blood flowing and pumping. I feel safe, cared for, adored and protected.

8. call mom

I am one of the luckiest daughters on earth because I have a mom who is a soul sister and spirit sister and mother all at the same time. She is wise, caring, and a phenomenal listener. She reminds me of who I am and she believes in me 1000%. From the moment she brought me into the world, I have felt nothing but unconditional love from her. 'nuff said.

9. listen to an inspiring interview or lecture

I am so grateful for my spiritual and health gurus! Too many to name.

10. do the work

O.k., so one of those spiritual gurus is Byron Katie. She has a program called "The Work", where you ask 4 questions and then state turnarounds. It basically shows you that thoughts cause emotional stress and pain, nothing else. It is incredibly revealing and heart opening! Check her out at thework.com.

There you have it.

Of course I have so much more like getting a massage, or getting on a plane to Maui (too impulsive?), but here are a good solid 10 to share!

I would love to hear what's in your medicine bag! Feel free to comment or send me an e-mail to tell me what helps heal your heart, body, and soul in times of overwhelm, stress, exhaustion, etc etc! Better yet, write down your medicine bag or tool kit and keep it in your desk or somewhere safe to refer to in your times of need!

In love and gratitude,

Lisa

P.S. **Update Feb 27**I was inspired to add this short video clip today after dancing in my living room for an hour to express how dance is so healing and transformational!

I Choose Love

2011-02-15T18:06:00.000-08:00

I found this great ad in a magazine with the tagline, "Love steps out first." I don't even remember what the ad was selling. I cut it out and put it on my vision board above a picture of a woman's feet in the sand. It reminds me to choose love at every moment. I am working on this every day. I notice when I don't choose love. I notice when I do. I feel the difference and remember that love is the most powerful medicine and teacher.

I am ready to choose love in every moment.

I am ready to put on my big girl pants and rise to the level of love, service, compassion, understanding, and peace. The drama can fall away. The need for drama can evaporate. Expectations aren't needed. Only love. I am like the water and I flow with the changes.

I am ready to be a greater vehicle for love.

Let me show others what love looks like in action. In those desperate, aching, frustrating moments, let me choose love and show others the way. Let me be more aware of my love in action. Let my eyes and ears and heart open more to the love that is everywhere.

I see love in everyone.

I let go of judgements, resentment, and assumptions. I embrace and celebrate the differences between myself and others. I listen more and talk less.

When you want to be right in an argument and/or conversation, ask yourself "What do I choose in this moment? To be right or to be love?" Our egos, when fired up and/or challenged, want us to be right, in control...sometimes manipulative and selfish.

What if we choose to be love instead? What if we are vehicles of love in every moment? The moment when something turns out the way you don't expect, do you huff and puff and curse and get angry or do you take a deep breath and change your attitude? Do you make space for the miracle to be revealed?

"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around."
--Leo Buscaglia

Update:
So after I wrote this blog, I saw a vlog post by a goddess that I totally admire, Alexandra Jaye (My Goddess Life) and had to share it!

You are the Gift.

2011-02-14T09:38:00.000-08:00

Give yourself a Valentine's gift today...

Stop your limited thinking, your lack mentality and negative language.
Start talking about how good this life is.
Talk more about the abundance, love, joy that exists all around you.
(If you really look, you will find it everywhere)
Start talking about what is good and what works.

Be your own coach and teacher.

Claim your power and gifts.

I love you!

XO
Lisa

Balance

2011-02-04T16:11:00.000-08:00

"Balance."

Ah, how I love the word. Some say the idea of balance is overrated. Others say it is what they desperately need more of in life. I fall in the latter category. I think "balance" is a beautiful word and a beautiful way to be. From more balance in the body (yoga, meditation, movement, health and vitality), to the home (clutter-free, spacious, clean, beautiful and comfy), to the business (healthy schedule, clear vision, staying on top of tasks). These are all important to me and fall under the category of balance in my life.

I've blogged about balance before. And here it is again, reminding me to look at where I put my energy, how I spend my time, and how I take care of myself.

So my dad recently visited for 8 days and his presence always inspires Budhi and me to get things done around the house. My dad is a "get 'er done" kind of a guy, and boy did we get 'er done! From rebuilding the rotting fence to re-grouting the kitchen tiles to weeding the garden and beyond. For eight days, I wasn't totally and completely consumed with my business as usual. I was working on home projects, cooking up a storm, and keeping the house clean. That is a full time job in itself! It felt so good to get these things done, and I'm so grateful for my dad's visit!

However, I did miss my business! Because I don't have my own office (YET), I didn't do as much work on the computer as usual and didn't get too far on those BIG business projects that have been looming in my mind.

So, what all of this means to me is that BALANCE is key. A fine balance in my day between home projects and upkeep, business/work time, and personal time. Most people would say "ya, good luck with that...and tell me if you ever get there!" I think it is possible, though, to balance all of it...so that I don't feel completely behind and overwhelmed with the projects in my life. So that I do take time for myself each day, to rest and relax and be mindful of my thoughts.

My dad's visit was great, because I chose to focus on the house. Before he came, the house was lower on my priority list...though I knew that I needed to change things. The business was 90% of my energy. Now that he is gone, I realize there is somewhere in the middle that I would rather be.

So what does this look like for me? Well, one of my resolutions for this year is to be more organized in all aspects of my life. This means a detailed and well thought out schedule of work/play/home time. I operate very well with a schedule. I also like spontaneity, so I leave space for that as well.

I look forward to finding more balance, and changing things as needed so that there is a beautiful flow to my life and my affairs.

Flow
Space
Clarity
Balance

"I believe that being successful means having a balance of success stories across the many areas of your life. You can't truly be considered successful in your business life if your home life is in shambles." ~ Zig Ziglar

Green Smoothie Vitality

2011-01-29T10:08:00.000-08:00

Green energy...
Green vitality...
Green deliciousness...

This 8 oz cup of goodness has changed my life! If you think this green smoothie probably tastes like grass, you're wrong. It is absolutely divine. Depending on the type of greens you use, it can taste like a delicious fruit smoothie. Spinach and romaine are the most mild, and collards and kale are the most intense. I love them all, and recommend them all. The banana, maca, avo, and carob nibs make it taste DELICIOUS. But don't just take my word for it....try it for yourself. And give it a couple of tries and a little experimentation to your taste. Your body will thank you.

Lisa's Updated Green Power Smoothie

* 1 banana

* 1/2 apple or pear or 1/4 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

* 1 bunch greens (kale, romaine, spinach, or collards, etc)

bunch parsley (optional)

* 1/2 avocado (or 1/4 cup coconut milk or 1/4 cup brazil nuts/almonds/walnuts = GOOD FATS!)

* dash sea salt (pink Himalayan salt is best)

* 1 tsp maca powder (for immunity and passion power!)

* 1 tsp vitamineral green powder (for minerals, phytonutrients, and green power)

* 1 tsp raw cacao nibs or 2 tsp raw cacao powder (available at health food stores or order online) -- cacao is LOADED with antioxidants (more than blueberries) as well as magnesium

* plenty of spring water (I fill my blender up to the 4 1/2 cup line)

* 1 tsp flax seed oil or hemp seed oil (MORE GOOD FAT and Omega 3 and 9)

If your blender is a high powered one, you can probably put all ingredients (except oil) in and blend until smooth. We have a standard cheap one, so we do a little at a time. Blend until smooth on high, then turn blender to low and add oil. Blend for 10-20 seconds.

Mine usually makes 4 1/2 - 5 cups of smoothie. Budhi and I split one in the morning and then one at about 3 or 4 p.m. to help get us through the rest of the day.

I've heard that using one kind of green at a time is better, instead of mixing the greens. It is also good to alternate often. So, in the morning it will be spinach and in the afternoon it will be kale. Then next morning will be collards and then in the afternoon back to spinach.

We started doing 2 smoothies a day last week, and it has made a HUGE difference in my energy. The afternoon smoothie gives me such a boost I can't even tell you. Sometimes I feel like I could run 5 miles after I eat it! If you aren't sharing the smoothie, I recommend making one big smoothie in the mornings, drinking 1/2 in the a.m. and then bringing the rest to work for the afternoon "slump".

Oh, and don't forget to CHEW your SMOOTHIE! Don't just gulp it down. Swish it around, chew it, and allow the saliva in your mouth to start the digestion process. Take your time with it and enjoy how it makes you feel...your body will thank you.

Bon Apetit, and feel free to share your green smoothie recipes in the comments below!

Love,

Lisa

Crazy Sexy Inspiration

2011-01-22T19:24:00.000-08:00

Since March of 2010, I have cleaned up my diet in a major way. I embarked on PCRM's 21 Day Vegan Kickstart and haven't looked back. I wrote about this beautiful journey in a recent post.

Today I want to talk about a new 21 day cleanse I've recently begun. The cleanse comes from Kris Carr's most recent book entitled "Crazy Sexy Diet". I have been excited for this book to come out, not only for all of the great info I knew would be included, but because I absolutely admire and support this woman and her work. Kris is a wellness guru, inspirational speaker and author and I am devouring her book (as well as the green smoothies and juices in the diet)!

I had no intention of doing a cleanse anytime soon, but have always wanted to do one. When I saw that her book included a 21 day cleanse and that she was starting it with thousands of her fans on January 17, I decided to jump in.

My vegan diet is pretty clean and healthy as is, but I had NO IDEA the impact that taking out sugar, bread, and coffee would have on my energy. I thought that the sluggishness I feel at times was due to my job and all of the teaching and dancing I do every day.

A few weeks ago I wrote in my journal that I hoped to see a day soon where I wake up feeling more energized and refreshed. That day has arrived. It is HAPPENING and it is sugar free, gluten free and caffeine free (except for a cup of green tea in the afternoons). I absolutely love eating this way and while I do experience the occasional sugar craving, I know that my energy is worth more. I will bring organic dark chocolate back in after this cleanse, but only as an occasional treat (instead of a daily dessert). Plus, I've found cacao nibs and cacao powder and have been including them in my green smoothies. Delicious and SO nutritious! Bring on the chocolate power!

Kris encourages an 80/20 raw to cooked percentage in the cleanse. I say "encourages", because she isn't trying to stuff this info down our throats and create unrealistic rules for the cleanse. She encourages everyone to do their best and do what works for them. This is one of the many reasons I love her and her message. Meat eaters and vegans alike can do this cleanse. It applies to all.

Right now I am at about 60-65 % raw and am slowly working on increasing this ratio to get the full benefit of the cleanse. I absolutely love steamed veggies with quinoa, but with every meal I make a huge green salad as the main entree. So far, so good.

Check out my lunch from today...

Mustard greens, kale, leeks, onions, red bell peppers and garlic sauteed in miso broth. Hefty salad, quinoa and kidney beans. I felt like I could run a marathon after eating this lunch. I didn't feel weighed down, sleepy or sluggish.

So what is this cleanse all about? What is Crazy Sexy Diet all about?

It is about creating a more alkaline diet. It is about cleaning out the toxins and filling your cells with green energy. It is about adding more fresh veggies to the diet and eating less acidic foods like animal products, processed junk, and sugar. It is about vitality. It is about longevity.

It is about being 100% Crazy Sexy!!!

I have never felt more alive and energetic in my life. Thanks to Kris Carr for being a hero, inspiration, mentor, and rock star to me and to thousands of others.

Go get this new book and begin to create a healthier, more vibrant and juicy YOU!

Check out this great interview with Kris and Gabrielle Bernstein (another Crazy Sexy Rockstar):

Love,
Lisa

Care for Dancing Bodies - Part 3

2011-01-12T15:49:00.000-08:00

Hey Healthy Hotties!

This is the final post in my "Care for Dancing Bodies" blog series.

Check out Part 1 and Part 2.

What do you get when you put passion, healthy feet, and total commitment together? Well, you get this blog post. But you also get one damn sexy, grounded, and well rounded dancer. What if you also add yoga, pilates, and plenty of fresh veggies and whole grains into the mix?

Look out world...here comes SUPER DANCER!!!

So I decided to revisit some old (but ROCKIN') blog posts of mine to remind you (and me) about how important it is to truly care for ourselves and our dancing bodies.

Passion

The following is from an article written by Dr. Susan Biali

The word passion comes from the Latin patior, meaning to suffer or to endure. These days, losing its uncomfortable roots, passion is a feeling of unusual excitement, enthusiasm or compelling emotion toward a subject, idea, person or object. Here's how to get it:

Revisit and repossess your core dreams and fantasies.

Consider your dreams to be private, unique and sacred.

Get help from and watch the actions of the already passionate.

Indulge, honour and live in your own imagination.

Don't talk about it, do it.

See your passion manifested into action or production.

To read the full blog post from January 2009...CLICK HERE.

Fabulous Feet

"Keep in shape from the knees down. It’s also a good idea to keep the rest of your body in shape, too, of course, but be sure to exercise your feet and legs every day. Walk and dance as often as you can. Always warm up before dancing, and stretch afterward. Pamper your feet after a hard day’s work. Massage your feet or bribe someone else to do it for you. If you’re on your feet all day, stay off them during the night. Whether you’re reading, socializing, or relaxing in front of the television set watching the newest dance reality series, try to elevate your feet above your heart to relieve swelling. Clean your feet before going to bed, using pumice or a scrub to take off dry skin."

- From www.suite101.com, "Care for Dancing Feet" by Leslie Halpern (July 30, 2007)

To read the full blog post from February 2008...CLICK HERE.

Dedication and Commitment

I love this one. This one sometimes kicks your ass, when you question why you are dancing or why you are doing what you are doing. What got you so fired up in the first place??? Time to check in!

I am so grateful for the clarity and deep knowingness today, that dedication and commitment are essential for growth in all areas of our lives. When we fall in love with something (be it a person, activity, work, hobby, etc), it is so easy to commit to it and dedicate our time to it because we are so connected and feel so clear. When that "honeymoon stage" is over, it is so important to recommit and rededicate ourselves. We have to check in with why we fell in love with it in the first place. We check in with that connection we felt when experiencing this person, this job, this class, this practice. We then go to a place of gratitude for it showing up in our lives, for teaching us, inspiring us, supporting us, and allowing us to grow. We are grateful for the passion and love that it helped to bring forth through us and as us.

Read the full blog post HERE.

Recap

So, we make sure our inner fires are lit and red hot. We pamper our feet and rest them when needed. We recommit and rededicate to the dance of life and the dance in the studio. We do yoga and/or pilates and/or anything else that compliments our dancing. We hike, we play, we swim, we run, we rollerskate, etc. to keep our bodies strong, flexible, and full of vibrance and energy!

We also eat the most incredibly delicious and nutritious veggies, fruit and whole grains. I don't even need to go into this part with you. We each know what our bodies need and what our bodies respond to. 3 glasses of wine or 3 glasses of fresh spring water? A bag of potato chips or 1 colorful bowl of steamed veggies and rice? A slice of chocolate cake or a slice of mango? You know how your body feels after eating such things. You have the power to choose what works for your dancing body. I hope you choose wisely and I hope you are dancing into your 90's!!!

Rock on with your bad self...

Love,

Lisa

note to self: just breathe

2011-01-11T17:25:00.000-08:00

Ahhhhhhh......

In this moment I am remembering to breathe, trust, and let go of thoughts that are NOT true.

Trusting that all is well. All is happening and unfolding in perfect order. Feeling grateful for this understanding. Allowing the uncomfortableness and "waiting" to be what it is.

Sometimes it is good to surrender, sit, watch, and wait. Less force, more space. Less resistance, more listening. More allowing, less questioning.

And always breathing in a more intentional way.

I am so grateful for my teachers in this moment. I am so grateful for all that I know deep in my heart. I listen to the still inner voice and I allow it to speak to me and through me. I allow it to move me and direct me. I am listening. I am ready...I am breathing.

Namaste~
Lisa

Veggies and Me: A Love Story

2011-01-07T13:09:00.000-08:00

In March of 2010, I challenged myself to PCRM's 21 Day Vegan Kickstart Program. I had no expectations, no intentions to maintain a 100% plant based diet. I just took it on as a fun challenge. I HIGHLY recommend this program, for anyone interested in flirting with veganism, or perhaps just curious about it. 21 days turned into 313 (and counting) of nearly 100% plant based eating. I say "nearly" because I do eat honey from time to time (working on that one).

Why am I telling you this?

I am not writing about this to convert you. I am simply sharing my experience, because many of my students and friends are super curious about how I maintain this diet and have asked me to share.

I am a dancer, drummer, teacher, performer and I require a lot of food to keep the energy up. To be honest, I do have days where my energy is super low and the fridge is super empty and I crave bulky and filling foods. I don't crave meat or dairy or eggs anymore, but at times I do feel hungry and depleted. The only reason for this is because I haven't been on top of my shopping and menu!

As the days pass...the weeks pass...the months pass...those depleted moments are less and less. I have learned about what to stock up on in those emergencies, and which foods do NOT work in those moments (tortilla chips, bread, sweets, etc)!

I have never in my life had more FUN in the kitchen than now. I have fallen in love with so many new foods, and have experimented with cooking and baking vegan versions of old favorites!

These days, we are so fortunate to have a plethora of information available to us via the internet. There are thousands upon thousands of websites dedicated to health and nutrition and I've found hundreds of blogs and websites dedicated to eating a plant based diet! I feel extremely supported in my new way of eating and I think it is now a lot easier to manage this lifestyle than say, 10 or 20 years ago!

More and more restaurants include vegetarian and vegan options, and if you go to the bookstore you will find lots of vegan cookbooks!

Vegan food does not have to taste bland or boring. I have NEVER felt like I've lost ANYTHING by switching to veganism. All that I have lost is unwanted extra weight and feelings of bloatedness and puffiness! I feel lighter and healthier than ever! I LOVE my veggies!

I must tell you that I was vegetarian for almost 10 years before I made the final switch to vegan. I also grew up in a relatively healthy home where fruits and veggies were plentiful. So, the transition wasn't as dramatic or difficult for me. In fact, it was a HUGE relief. Especially as I educated myself more and more about the way animals are treated in factory farms.

My advice to you...

If you are interested in trying out a vegan diet or vegetarian diet...
1. TAKE YOUR TIME
2. TAKE SMALL STEPS
3. CELEBRATE YOUR TRIUMPHS
4. DON'T FEEL GUILTY if you slip up!
5. RESEARCH as much as you can about what the body needs for energy and vitality.

Some VERY HELPFUL books I recommend:
1. The Kind Diet, by Alicia Silverstone
2. Quantum Wellness, by Kathy Freston
3. Crazy Sexy Diet, by Kris Carr

Cookbooks I adore:
1. Cafe Gratitude Cookbook
2. Veganomicon, by Isa Chandra Moskowitz
3. The Kind Diet, by Alicia Silverstone
4. 1000 Vegan Recipes, by Robin Robertson

Blogs that make me happy to be vegan
1. Kiss Me I'm Vegan
2. Chic Vegan
3. Veg News
4. Crazy Sexy Life
5. Kind Life
6. PPK

I'd love to hear about any of your favorite vegan/vegetarian books, blogs, and websites!

Happy health, and BON APETIT!!

XO
Lisa

P.S. Check out this success story!!

Care for Dancing Bodies - Part 2

2011-01-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

This is part 2 in a series of 3 blogs entitled "Care for Dancing Bodies". Check out Part 1.

As I stated in Part 1, yoga is fabulous for flexibility, strength and connecting to the breath.

Another amazing compliment to dance is pilates.

Here are the core principles of pilates (taken right out of Wikipedia):

Concentration
Pilates demands intense focus: "You have to concentrate on what you´re doing. All the time. And you must concentrate on your entire body". This is not easy, but in Pilates the way that exercises are done is more important than the exercises themselves. In 2006, at the Parkinson Center of the Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, Oregon, the concentration factor of the Pilates method was being studied in providing relief from the degenerative symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Control

All exercises are done with control with the muscles working to lift against gravity and the resistance of the springs and thereby control the movement of the body and the apparatus. "The Pilates Method teaches you to be in control of your body and not at its mercy".

Centering

In order to attain control of your body you must have a starting place: the center. The center is the focal point of the Pilates Method. Many Pilates teachers refer to the group of muscles in the center of the body – encompassing the abdomen, lower and upper back, hips, buttocks and inner thighs – the “powerhouse." All movement in Pilates should begin from the powerhouse and flow outward to the limbs.

Flow or efficiency of movement

Pilates aims for elegant sufficiency of movement, creating flow through the use of appropriate transitions. Once precision has been achieved, the exercises are intended to flow within and into each other in order to build strength and stamina.

Power Engine or Powerhouse

The power engine is a muscular network which provides the basic control and stability in the lumbopelvic region, which furthermore consists of the Pelvic floor muscles, the Transversus, the Multifidus, the diaphragm, the muscles of the inner thigh, and the muscles encircling the sitting bone area.

Lateral Posterior Breathing

Posterior lateral breathing is a way of breathing that facilitates bibasal expansion of the ribcage. To understand this concept properly you have to first learn to expand and release the ribcage without deliberately breathing in or out. The in-breath (inhalation) and out-breath(exhalation) should occur instinctively as a result of the conscious expansion and release of the ribcage.

Precision

Precision is essential to correct pilates: "concentrate on the correct movements each time you exercise, lest you do them improperly and thus lose all the vital benefits of their value". The focus is on doing one precise and perfect movement, rather than many halfhearted ones.

Breathing

Breathing is important in the Pilates method. In Return to Life, Pilates devotes a section of his introduction specifically to breathing "Bodily house-cleaning with blood circulation". He saw considerable value in increasing the intake of oxygen and the circulation of this oxygenated blood to every part of the body. This he saw as cleansing and invigorating. Proper full inhalation and complete exhalation were key to this.

More of this Wikipedia article on Pilates HERE.

A few years ago I began taking a class called "Yogalates" with Kristen Hoye, which is a fusion of yoga and mat pilates. I had no idea what pilates was and I am amazed at the strength that my core has maintained, even though I don't take the class currently. Pilates is especially helpful for African dance, as the large motor movements and swinging actions in the dance can cause back and knee pain if the core is not engaged and strong.

Lately I have been experiencing some lower back and knee discomfort, so I am getting the message loud and clear that it is time to do more yoga and pilates!

If you are looking for great complimentary movement exercises for dance, pilates and yoga are a great way to get you strong, flexible, and more in touch with your body!

Here are a few videos of some basic pilates exercises you can do at home:

For the belly
For the butt and thighs
For the back

May you continue to strengthen, open, and move like never before!

Stay tuned for Part 3...

Lisa

4 Key Qualities to Start the New Year Right

2011-01-03T12:21:00.000-08:00

photo by rsthurston.com

These are the qualities I wish to bring forth this first month of 2011:

Radiant Health ~ Open Mind ~ Caring Heart ~ Organization

Radiant Health

*Be out in nature at least 10 min. every day

*Make green drinks 1-2 times per day

*Eat the most nourishing and energizing foods every day

*Yoga 2 times per week

*Take a dance class at least once per week

*Meditate for at least 5 min. every day

*Journal every day

*Move every day

Open Mind

*Be open to all possibilities

*Be open to all opportunities

*Be open to others' perspectives

*Be open to the lessons

*Learn something new

*Explore all of the options

Caring Heart

*Practice real listening

*Keep ego in check

*Do something kind for a stranger

*Be more generous than ever before

*Smile more

*Give love abundantly

Organization

*Keep and stick to my work schedule

*Keep a clean house

*Bulletin Board
*iCal

*Honor my scheduled rest periods

*Leave room for spontaneity!

*Keep a balanced checkbook

*Keep a balanced budget

*Be kind to self as I go through the growing pains of developing and nurturing my organizational skills

Ahh...it feels great to write these all out. I could go on and on and list even more qualities, but I think 4 are quite a few to focus on for this first month!

What are yours?

Happy Visioning...

Lisa

Any Excuse to Start Anew

2010-12-27T13:39:00.000-08:00

I used to say "Oh, I don't make New Year's Resolutions. Every day is like the one before. January 1st is just another day."

Now I say, "Bring it on!" I ask myself, "How can I begin anew and focus on recommitment...getting more clear...freeing myself of clutter, people, and things that don't serve me anymore?"

In yoga, one of my teachers says that as we breathe in we bring into our beings all that we wish for and desire. As we breathe out, we release the old and stagnant, toxic and tension that we don't need anymore.

So with each breath we are given the opportunity to start anew if we breathe with intention and presence.

What a gift that is!

This New Year's, I am going to celebrate and get clear. Not by getting drunk at midnight and eating too much chocolate and cookies, but by starting ANEW. What a gift.

I'm not waiting until Dec 31st or Jan 1st. I've already begun. Cleaning out closets, getting rid of things, writing down my desires and dreams, and visioning. I do it during the spring (spring cleaning), fall (equinox), and winter (solstice and New Year's), and many other times in between when I'm feeling stuck, disconnected and/or frustrated.

Why not do it as much as possible? Why not get into the spirit and declare what you want?

I dare you to start now. The more you declare it, the more you draw it to you.

Happy Visioning and Happy New Year!

Love,
Lisa

My love list today...

2010-12-21T13:03:00.000-08:00

Kris Carr inspired me to write a love list...she often blogs about what she loves. Today I am inspired to share my own love list with you.

What do you love today?

I love the rain on the windshield as I drive in my warm and reliable car.

I love the sound that the heels on my boots make as I walk on the pavement.

I love dressing up even if I am only going to the grocery store.

I love the bank teller at my bank who wore a beautiful teal shirt and tie today, and who also wore a big beautiful smile.

I love coconut rice pudding, scented candles, and beautiful conversation while sipping hot apple cider to start the day.

I love being heard, truly heard, by dear friends.

I love cozying up on my couch and watching Bollywood movies with my love.

I love opening up to all of the possibilities of this life, and trusting that all of my needs are met right here in this moment.

I love not being stuck in a certain story of who I am, and being willing to change the story, grow, and expand beyond my wildest dreams.

I love my animals, their soft coats and warm bodies as we cuddle in the morning.

I love my man, his strong and supportive presence in my life and the fact that he is committed to our relationship and to our work together.

I love my family, their unconditional love for me, their values and giant hearts.

I love the photos of me and my sister next to my computer. One is of when we were little kids in our jammies with our dolls, and one as adults with our arms around each other at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. It reminds me of my bond with my family, my love and respect of and for my sister, and it reminds me that wherever I go, I am loved and supported.

Life is good.

Love,
Lisa

Oh What a Night...

2010-12-19T18:50:00.000-08:00

photo courtesy of Rachel Thurston (rsthurston.com)

It was the event of the season. Our baby. The thing we have been focused on and have been nurturing and birthing for months. Our 4th Annual Winter Solstice Party & Fundraiser was epic, magical, and exceeded all of my expectations.

From the moment I stepped into Parish Hall until the moment I walked out, there was a warm buzz in my heart. A warm and excited buzz that said..."this is it!" I felt like a mad scientist with these brilliant ideas swirling around, and somehow they all came together and we were able to communicate our vision...sometimes without words.

The decorations were more beautiful than I had imagined. Gorgeous fabrics draped on the tables, leftover summer solstice african fabric as a backdrop on the stage and around the food area. Christmas lights all around. Vendors that filled their tables with the most beautiful clothing, jewelry, flower and gem essences.

The food was spectacular, even though it was 99% gone by the time I hit the table to eat! From the pumpkin curry soup to the African coleslaw to the chocolate brownies to Patrice's famous bean salad - all VEGAN. And then there were the mixed drinks that Kristi served. Coconut milk with cinnamon and cane juice, pomegranate and acai berry juice. This is the kind of food that Budhi and I love and want to share more with the community, our friends and family. Vitality food makes for a vitality life.

Of course I have to mention the performances. 2 hours of heartfelt, invigorating, joyful music and dance.

Not to toot my own horn, but the performances were damn good!

Many commented on how beautifully the night progressed, from the candle dance with Shankara dancers and Emiliano Campobello on flute to the Gaia Priestess drummers and Lotus Moon music, to Panzumo and student performances in Bollywood, West African and Djun Djun Mamas. There was something for all. And Dramane Kone, dear friend and djembefola, never disappoints with his drumming fire, big smiles and electric stage presence! Sara Munro's hoopdance and Sese's interactive dance performance were icing on the cake. Many guest performers offered their gifts to support our cause and to help us raise awareness for music and dance education in the schools. We are so grateful.

We raised money for our Rhythm, Song and Dance Programs; we brought community together, we celebrated, we connected on a deeper level than ever before.

But what hits me the most each time I think about it is the students who really made this all possible. The Bollywood, West African, Djun Djun Mamas and Budhi's drum students sold a ton of the tickets, provided the food, decorated the place, and performed their patooties off! My heart swells so big when I recall all the energy and love that was put into the night by the students.

I will be posting a video collage in the next few weeks that captures the magic -- especially the performances.

Oh what a night...

Love,
Lisa

Care for Dancing Bodies - Part 1

2010-12-13T06:00:00.000-08:00

Dearest Dancers,

I don't know about you, but all of the great dancing I do sometimes takes a toll on my body. Especially when the drums are inspiring me to jump, reach, and kick higher. Sometimes we just can't help it...even if our body is saying "Hey, you usually can't do that. What are doing to me? Don't you think you should warm-up longer before you do that?" We simply don't listen because our spirits are singing, we feel ecstatic, and are in dancing bliss....

So, how can we take care of ourselves when we aren't dancing? Yoga is a great complimentary practice. So is pilates. Meditation helps calm the mind and connect within. I will be doing 3 parts to this series of blogs, so stay tuned for more great resources. This one is dedicated to yoga.

Here are some great resources for you as you continue on your dance journey. And if you aren't on a dance journey, these resources will help you as well. We all could use a little more self care...

1. I found the following videos from the Yoga Today You Tube Channel and love the poses and sequences and loving self care of the video clips. These are all great to use as complimentary practices for dancers, and help to relieve back pain, knee pain, and stress! Enjoy.

Therapeutic Knee Exercises
Lower Back Relief

Of course, going to a class is best...but if you don't have an hour and a half, these videos are great for getting a little yoga in when you can!

May you continue to care for your bodies...

Love,
Lisa

Rock Your Life. Begin Now.

2010-12-11T10:04:00.000-08:00

My Story

Before I came to Santa Barbara, I was a lost (but still happy and grateful) soul. I didn't like my body, I thought I wasn't very smart or creative. Even though I had my parents and close friends and family tell me how special I was all the time...there was this mean, evil voice inside my head saying "who do you think you are? you better shut up and live quietly because if you fail you will be the laughing stock!" Where did this voice come from? Why is she so mean to me (she still pops up from time to time)???

I think for me it came in the form of two male classmates of mine. I can't blame everything on them, but in 6th grade they began to tell me hurtful things about my looks. We all have had these bullies. Some of us were able to rise above right away or soon after. I chose to believe everything they said and wallow in my insecurities...for years.

I compared myself to my cute little friends with their size 2 jeans, their button noses, and shiny new cars. I compared myself to my smart friends who had all the answers in English and Math class. I felt dumb and ugly and I felt that it was safer to live quietly and blend into the background.

The Breakthrough

The miracle came when I moved to Santa Barbara. I met my partner, a strong force who has deep passion for his work and art. Then I met my dance teacher and mentor who became a dear friend and who inspired me with her sensuality, playfulness and open heart. Then I met more and more creative and brilliant musicians and artists who were just like me and who encouraged me to express myself more. The more I tapped into my creativity and started expressing myself and my gifts, the more encouragement and love I got back. Because I was being authentic. It felt good and very scary at the same time.

Then one night I sang a solo for the second time at a club downtown. It was the finale show for this group vocal class I was taking. A friend of mine took me aside after the show and told me, "Lisa, you can't hide anymore. There is a gift inside of you that is meant to be shared. I am telling you that you have a responsibility to sing more and uplift people with your music. You are a healer."

Tears streamed down my face and I wanted to hug her and shout from the rooftops but also hide under a blanket at the same time (screaming, "I want my mommy!")

So, now I feel this huge PASSION and DRIVE to continue to share and create more of me. I have been slowly cultivating this since I moved here, without even knowing it. I have been shedding the sob story of how inadequate and average I am. None of us are "average". We just live our lives this way. It is time to find our fabulousness (if you haven't found it already)!

The Goods

My advice to those of you out there who are wanting a breakthrough?

Surround yourself with people who absolutely inspire you. What also helps me is to have access to spiritual teachers who give me messages that uplift and inspire me.

I also urge you to try something new. Take that beginning yoga class or that dance class that you've been talking and talking about! Sign up for a book club or support group that speaks to your heart.

Know that you are who you are right now, perfect and complete ALREADY. Even if you don't believe this...say it to yourself every day. I am complete, whole and perfect as I am right now. Maybe this sounds airy fairy and cheesy weezie...I'm telling you that it works for me.

The exciting thing is that we are always evolving and getting better. So, if you want to live your life healthier, more prosperous, more passionate, how does that look for you? How does that feel to you? Write down how the next version of yourself feels. Writing is so helpful to me. In the morning, I write 3 pages in my journal, as a part of "The Artist Way" (a book I highly recommend). I am in a women's group and we are tapping into our creativity and healing old wounds so that we can do and be greater human beings on this earth. It has been extremely helpful and has connected me to some amazing people!

Keep visualizing yourself the way you truly see yourself. Visualize it every day. If that voice inside says "oh, you'll never be that. you've waited too long and you're never going to get ther!" Just tell it that you don't need to listen to it anymore and to please leave! :) And if you slip and fall and revert to old habits and toxic behavior, don't feel guilty. Know that we can always start over. Each moment is a new birth!

It is up to each of us to make the change we need. Seek out resources of people who inspire you and see how they live their lives and what their philosophy is. Don't think you are alone in this.

Inspiring people/websites that I LOVE:

Sara Avant Stover - http://www.thewayofthehappywoman.com

Kris Carr - http://crazysexylife.com/

Sark - http://www.planetsark.com/

Leonie Allen - http://www.goddessguidebook.com/

Michael Beckwith - http://www.agapelive.com

Bob Proctor - http://www.bobproctor.com

These are a amazing peeps who inspire me. They may not resonate with you, but perhaps in your research you can find others who do.

O.k., now go ROCK YOUR LIFE! The time is now!

Love,

Lisa

Winter Love

2010-12-09T08:13:00.000-08:00

During this time of shorter days and colder temps, it is so important to take care of yourself, pamper yourself, and listen to your body more than ever.

This time of year we also see more colds, flu, bronchitis and such. When we come down with something, it is our body's way of communicating to us. Perhaps we are spending too much time on our work and on taking care of others...but not enough time for ourself. Perhaps our bodies are ready to cleanse and get rid of toxins. I see both as positive messages from our bodies. It sucks to get sick, but it forces us to rest and pamper ourselves.

Let's begin pampering ourselves NOW...you never know how you will feel or who you will be tomorrow.

Lisa's top 5 pampering tips (self-care necessities) for Winter:

1. Sleep. Go to bed a little earlier and get a little more sleep. Getting enough sleep is an all over body therapy. Our skin and muscles benefit. We have more energy. We have less anxiety and stress. Take cat naps during the day if you need to (without feeling guilty about it).

2. Eat well. Green drinks, nurturing soups, colorful salads, steamed veggies, brown rice, quinoa...these are a few of my favorite things. Eat a good size breakfast, a big lunch, and a medium dinner. Snack on carrot sticks, sliced cucumber and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

3. Go for walks. Every day, go for a 10 min (or more) walk in the neighborhood, along the beach. Warm up the legs, get the chi flowing, lift your spirits. Walking is good for the mind, body and soul.

4. Massage. Get a massage a couple times a month. Think of it as saving money for doctor bills in the future. I truly believe that massage is medicine. It not only helps relax and relieve muscle tension, but it moves stuck energy and releases toxins. It forces us to take an hour (or an hour and a half) of our day to be quiet and receive. Need recommendations (if you live in Santa Barbara area)? My favorites are Rejuvenasia and Massage with a Caring Heart

5. Read. Get a juicy novel and read for an hour each day. A hot cup of tea and cozy blanket on the couch are all I need to go into READING BLISS LAND...our teachers and parents told us how important reading is for the mind. I don't need to go into that. Give yourself a gift each day. Read, relax and get swept up into a beautiful story.

There are many more I could list here....but this is a good 5 to work on.

Take care of yourself so that you can take care of others and do the work you came here to do...

With love,
Lisa

Bollywood Debut

2010-12-07T16:44:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

I am so happy and proud to share my Bollywood performance debut with dancers Arielle Christner and Rachel S. Thurston. This is an epic piece for me.

Enjoy...

Respecting the Cycles of Life

2010-12-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

For the women reading this, we all know about cycles. Our bodies experience a monthly cycle that is no little matter. It effects our energy and our mood. According to The Body Ecology Diet, our cycle is extremely beneficial for us as women, because we get to cleanse once a month. Cleansing is important for our bodily functions, our organs, our blood, and our emotional state. I am personally working on loving my monthly cycle instead of despising it. As a dance teacher, it is very inconvenient when I am supposed to be teaching...but my body is asking me to rest! Fortunately, I do have days in my schedule when rest is possible. My work is to honor that time and actually REST my body when needed.

I have been inspired by Sara Avant Stover, a Goddess and wellness warrior, who stresses the importance of respecting the cycles of life; taking time to rest when needed, then doing the work when needed. Rest is just as important as doing. Rest allows us to be stronger and more centered when it is time for us to be "on". Read her most recent blog, "I'm Taking a Winter Rest", about literally unplugging from everything!

Many folks know that training for marathons or the like requires days of rest in between training. The same goes for weight training. I think many of us believe that resting the body (and mind) is passive, lazy, and a waste of time. I know that I personally have to force myself to lie down and rest sometimes...because I feel that there is so much to do, so much to think about! If I don't rest, I will get sick or worse.

Balance is key. Listen to your body. What does it need?

From a drumming perspective, the "rests", or space between the beats is extremely important. Hearing that space between notes creates music. If we were all pounding on the drums non-stop, there would be no music...only chaos...only noise.

There are many cycles and rhythms to life. Make sure to create space in your life by resting when your body asks you to rest. When my body wants to rest and I am forced to teach (because hey...it's my job), my mind takes a rest. I literally relax my mind, and usually the class goes better anyways!

Find the gifts in the cycles of life. Create more balance by honoring your body. When you become physically sick with the flu or the like, look at it like it is a cleansing experience. Your body is asking you to rest. Sometimes it has to force us to rest by becoming sick. Listen to this message from your body. Try to schedule more rest time in your day.

By respecting the cycles of life, we are creating a healthier and happier existence.

May you rest well and have a glorious weekend...

Lisa

Rockin' the end of the year -- Goals and other Goodies

2010-11-25T09:47:00.000-08:00

So I am in the midst of 5 days off. I don't remember when I had this many days free for me! I was writing in my morning pages (journal) this a.m. and spontaneously began to write 10 goals for today through the end of the year (and beyond).

You could also call them pre-New Year's Resolutions.

They were so yummy that I had to share them and I invite you to make some for yourself as well. As we enter into the winter season, it is important to rest more and take care of our bodies inside and out. What we eat, how much we sleep, and our stress levels will determine how much energy we have and how healthy and happy we feel. With colder temps and shorter days, we experience more extremes. It is ESSENTIAL to be in a place of self-care and self-love. Why not start now?

So here's my list:

1. Listen to my body more. Rest when needed and remind myself to breathe, stretch, and release the stress and tension when things get out of control.

2. Read more. Find books (non-fiction and fiction) that are inspiring and insightful. Get a library card and ask friends for suggestions!

3. More QUALITY time (less internet). During the next several weeks, be more conscious of the time spent in front of the computer. Schedule computer time and stick to it. Take more time for walks, reading, stretching, talking with friends and my man.

4. Pace myself more. Schedule my work days and stick to it. Work and then rest. Work and then rest. Give myself a break every couple of hours so that I have more energy while working! Ya!

5. Eat WELL. I am already doing this, but I can always improve. Eat more variety of veggies. Get creative in the kitchen. Plan out my meals so that I have enough fuel around to keep me going!

6. More romance and passion! Light candles, listen to groovy music (Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Zero 7 etc.), wear more colorful clothes that make me feel sensual and beautiful, wear essential oils and keep cut flowers from the garden on the kitchen table and in the bathroom. Get in the mood, baby! :)

7. Blog more. Blogging is a release for me. It is a creative outlet for me. Like painting, writing and sharing in my blog is creating little works of art for people to enjoy and be inspired by.

8. Spend more time with friends. Invite the girls out for a power hike or a coffee date. Get together with someone I don't know very well (but like very much)! Call my girlfriends who live on the other side of the country.

9. Be in JOY more. One of my key words is "joy", but I can practice what I preach MORE. Remind myself often of the gifts of this life. Write down what I am grateful for every day. This brings about SO much joy in my heart.

10. Keep my home clutter free...more. A clutter free home makes for a clutter free mind. Make my home more of a sanctuary. Clean, dust, and organize a little bit every day...it goes a long way!

Ahh...there it is. 10 great goals from here on out. As you notice, I use the word "more" in almost every single one on the list. I learned from this amazing woman, Niurka, how powerful (and transformational) our language really is. When we use the word "more", we are declaring that we already do the thing...we just want to do it more. Even if you don't do it, you trick your mind by using the word "more" and you are acting as if it is already in your experience...and you just want to experience it...more. Get it? Hope so!

What is your top 10?

A blessed Thanksgiving to you all...
Lisa

Gratitude List

2010-11-20T13:12:00.000-08:00

photo by r.s. thurston

10 things I am grateful for on this day (11/20/10):

1. Sharing my gifts through my work

2. Meeting inspiring new friends

3. Fresh vegetables and fruit

4. Humbling and challenging dance classes

5. Breakfast dates with friends

6. A body that moves and grooves

7. Moments of quiet, rest, solitude

8. The incredible support system of friends and family around me

9. Adorable and lovable animals (to remind me of unconditional love and dedication)

10. The breath -- to remind me that I can start each moment anew, with a deep breath and a long release

What are you grateful for today?

A Few of My Favorite Teachers...

2010-11-12T19:16:00.000-08:00

Greetings all,

I've been involved in some fabulous and super empowering conversations with some amazing friends recently, about making quantum leaps in our careers and businesses, the importance of (and maintaining) artistic and creative expression, health and spirituality, and my new favorite...social media marketing!

I wanted to share with you some of the ladies (and one gentleman) who have been huge sources of inspiration for me in business and empowerment. You may be familiar with some of these folks, but perhaps not...

They specialize in a range of fields, from business coaching and social media, to health and self-realization, to becoming the wealthiest and most prosperous person you can be (in all areas of life).

Here is my list:

1. Marie Forleo - "Where Women Entrepreneurs Live Rich, Happy, and Hot!"

2. Laura Roeder - "Social Media Marketing Strategy"

3. Danielle La Porte - "White Hot Truth - Because Self Realization Rocks"

4. Kris Carr - "Crazy Sexy Life"

5. Bob Proctor - "Life Success"

And here is a sweet Vlog from Crazy Sexy Life Goddess, Kris Carr (mentioned above), that I just watched about the importance of taking time off and taking care of your body!

Hey everyone, let's change the frickin' world with our awesomeness, positivity, gifts, power, huge hearts and creativity!

And links of people who inspire you, please pass on. I'll have more to come as I continue to dive deep!

XO
Lisa

I've Got the Fever...

2010-11-08T11:55:00.000-08:00

...Bollywood fever, that is!

If you haven't been around me much lately, you would not know that I am absolutely 100% in love with Bollywood dance, movies, stories...as well as Classical Indian and Bhangra dance and I can't wait to study more and more.

I have recently created a new dance offering, entitled, "Bollywood Fusion Dance Workout" in Santa Barbara and Ventura. I created this class because, well, the closest I could study Bollywood was Santa Monica. Why not create my own class so that I can really dive in to the music and dance from the land of Bollywood?

The response has been overwhelming and so exciting! My Santa Barbara class is full of eager and joyful students, and the buzz in Ventura is growing growing growing!!

Many folks don't know what in the heck Bollywood is. So, here is a taste from one of my favorite Bollywood films of all time (Devdas):

Here are the two fabulous fliers I created for my current and upcoming series (through the end of 2010). Click on them to enlarge:

From the music to the dancing to the poetry, drama, romance, allure, sensuality, and JOY...Bollywood has it all. I love to escape into the stories and the music and I invite you to join me!

Supporting artists = supporting yourself

2010-11-07T18:38:00.000-08:00

To be an artist takes courage. To run a business takes courage. To sell yourself and your work takes courage. I never realized this until I became one. I never planned on becoming an artist, an entrepreneur, or someone who was in the public eye with my work. It has been the most rewarding thing I've ever done, but also the most raw, open, and vulnerable place. It has also shown me how important the community around you, their support and love fuels your work and helps to encourage and nurture your growth. We aren't here to lock ourselves up in a room all the time and do everything on our own. We are here to share and connect and support one another.

It is from this greater appreciation and understanding of artists and entrepreneurs and community...that I introduce these two incredible people I know. One of them I know as my partner (in business and in life) for almost 11 years, and also as someone who is extremely passionate, gifted, and multi-talented. The other I know as a drummer and friend and incredible artist. Both are djembe teachers, performers, and have composed several albums.

***Budhi Harlow has just released his "Essential Djembe Rhythms" practice DVD! The proceeds from the sale of this dvd go to his SBHS and La Cuesta Rhythm, Song, and Dance Programs. Over 25 minutes of basic djembe parts, rhythms, and techniques. These are fundamental exercises that will kickstart your drumming! Purchase one in dance class on Wednesdays or e-mail Budhi at budhidrums@earthlink.net to learn more! Only $15. We have heard raving reviews from Budhi's students and some of you who have already purchased one. WE THANK YOU!!! Reminder: Budhi is the reason that I am here doing what I am doing. It is because of his travels to West Africa, his teaching, and his support that I have stepped into the role as a dance teacher on Wed nights. It is because of our meeting almost 11 years ago that this class exists and that we are able to share and PARTY every Wed night! :)

***Cameron Tummel is raising funds to complete his "Djembe Solos 4/4 Volume One" cd and get it out into the world. Some of you have already pledged, but I am asking others to help this great artist out! He is $500 away from getting his cd printed and copied and put into your hands! If he doesn't raise the full $500 by the deadline (through Kickstarter.com), none of the already pledged money ($1300) will come through for him and he will be back at zero.

How can you help? Pledge now! For a $20 pledge, you get a signed copy of the cd, and you also get the satisfaction of being part of the creation process with him! You will receive your cd by Christmas...ho ho ho!!!!

Here is where you pledge: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1852087400/fundamental-djembe-solos-call-and-response-play-al

***So, for only $35 you get a fabulous instructional dvd, cd...AND you are supporting these two phenomenal artists who put their blood, sweat, tears, HEART and SOUL into their work and into the Wed night dance class each week. Perhaps the drumming isn't for you, but you might know a drummer in your life who would absolutely love these as gifts!!! :)

We are a community, and a family, and your support means the world! What you put out (give), comes back to you in greater and greater amounts. Please circulate and spread the love through your support.

LOVE and DEEP GRATITUDE!!!
XO
Lisa

Return of the Goddess

2010-10-29T16:24:00.000-07:00

"And no one will listen to us until we listen to ourselves. The Goddess awakens in our hearts before she awakens in the world." ~Marianne Williamson

About 3 or 4 years ago I started hearing the phrase "Oh my Goddess!", and "She's such a goddess!" and I felt kind of funny and corny inside when I would hear it. I was more comfortable with the words "diva" and "wonder woman" to describe a woman in her power. This Goddess word sounded kind of pretentious and egotistical, even more so than the word "diva" to me at the time.

These days I use the word "Goddess" often, and have fully embraced it as part of my vocabulary. The worship of the Goddess was nearly destroyed many many years ago, but it is being reborn in artists, visionaries, and movers and shakers of today who are not afraid to proclaim it. I am so honored and grateful to be surrounded by such people (goddesses and gods alike), and am excited to step more and more into my Goddess self.

To me, it means being who I truly am. It means accepting my gifts and my talents as the truth of me. It means going forth with courage and passion. It means being a warrior, queen, mother, sister, daughter, artist, creator, friend, partner and lover with deep conviction and purpose.

A dear friend and Goddess, Rachel S. Thurston, is capturing the essence and Goddess nature of women in her photography. She recently published a blog about a recent Goddess photo shoot we did together. I was blown away by the photos and can't recommend her enough. The photos are magical, dreamy and sensual, and I am so grateful for her gifts.

photo by rsthurston photography

Dearest fellow Goddesses, let us continue to walk this path of truth, passion, and creativity. Let us show the world the beauty and strength that a Goddess possesses...through our work and our every day activities. Whether you are doing the dishes or painting a beautiful work of art, embrace and honor your Goddess self!

Here are some links to Goddess sites I know you will adore...
My Goddess Life
Goddess Guidebook
The Way of the Happy Woman

Until next time...
Lisa

For the LOVE of it

2010-10-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was magical. I was present and available and focused. Things flowed beautifully and when there was a snag, I simply observed my thoughts and let them float away like the clouds. I worked very hard, but as I worked I felt absolute euphoria and bliss for what I was doing. I am so grateful for this work I get to do.

Last night I taught my 2nd in a series of 5 classes for our current Djun Djun Mamas workshop. The women in the class are phenomenal Goddesses. Trudie is a beam of light and love. Jo is nurturing and is so open. Suzi is rock solid in her playing, friendship, and commitment to the class. Pam is peaceful, quiet, and learns so quickly! Nicky is firey, playful, dedicated. Michelle is kind, humorous and sweet. Carol is joyful and energetic. Lisa is present, available, and focused. Laurel is ready to ROCK and she emits a strong Goddess energy. Ann is playful, grateful, and a happy soul. Barb is loving, quick to learn new steps, and rhythmic. Maya is like a cat; careful, quiet, but fierce. Jackie is grace in action, determined, and supportive. Shari is grounded and spirited. I could go on and on about their greatness...but more than anything, I am reminded of why I started teaching in the first place. To share, connect, and learn. We are all mirrors of each other, so all of the qualities I admire in them I also celebrate in myself.

This morning I taught my 2nd in a series of 6 Bollywood Fusion Dance classes in Ventura. Again, I was surrounded by beauty, joy, and love. The dancers were so receptive and happy. My heart is opened wider each time I teach and share and learn from students. I do this because I love it and there is nothing I'd rather do as my work. I want to thrive financially and career-wise, but I realized today that I do this because I love it...absolutely and completely. I have moments of stress and fatigue and frustration, but am very grateful for these moments as well. They are opportunities to step into the next version of myself. They are opportunities to grow in new ways, create more, and use innovation to expand.

In gratitude,
Lisa

Commitment isn't a Bad Word

2010-10-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

I have a great story. It isn't one that will blow you away and change your life forever, but it is one of those stories that has a happy ending and will hopefully inspire you to live your life with conviction and dedication and commitment. Yes, that word "commitment" is a very important one.

Here's the story.

For the first time, one of my workshops needed to be advertised. I was so used to filling up these particular classes via word of mouth for nearly 3 years. Well, numbers were down and I was feeling like perhaps this particular offering was at the end of its life. You see, the idea of really having to put myself out there and sell my self and my services is sometimes scary. I'm sure you can relate if you have your own business, or if you've ever been in an interview for a job you really really want. You want to put yourself out there with conviction and purpose and confidence but the thought of failure creates a major block, creates more fear, and that conviction and purpose and confidence goes down the toilet. So, I gently spread the word about the class as best I could...but I knew it wasn't good enough. People weren't signing up. I was unsure of my commitment. Period.

I had to ask myself the following questions:
"Am I committed to teaching this?"
"Do I feel that this is worth all of the work (blood, sweat, tears) I put into it?"
"Do I love this?"

It took me a few weeks to mull these questions over and then came the crystal clear answers...YES I am committed, YES it is worth it, and YES I absolutely love it. When those answers came, the calls came. I started to advertise more and spread the word about my fabulous, incredible and life changing workshop. People were calling me up to the day of the first meeting, and I am happy to say that the workshop sold out!

Once I said "yes" and re-committed to my work and my purpose, the magic started to happen. Simple as that.

Are there places in your life where you need to re-evaluate your commitment? Are you just going with the motions and cruising along with no inner fire and passion to fuel you? Are you hoping things will just work out and that the right people and opportunities will just fall into your lap when you need it? Are you doing something that used to inspire you, but you're not getting the results you used to?

Every day, every moment, every minute we have opportunities to make a choice. What will you choose today? What are you committed to? What do you need to re-commit to? Earlier this year I wrote a blog about commitment and am reminded of its importance and purpose in my life.

Commitment isn't a bad word. Doors will open for us when we commit with passion and purpose.

May the passion be with you...
Lisa

Healing Properties of Dance

2010-10-11T21:37:00.000-07:00

dancer Kara Shoemaker

Tonight after teaching my Bollywood Fusion Dance class, two students came up to me to tell me how the class lifted their spirits after a very heavy day. It inspired me to reflect on how dance has been healing for me and to share my thoughts with you...

Body
Today I danced a lot, as I prepared for a week of new classes. Later, as I warmed up for a hip hop / jazz class that I was taking before I taught my class, I noticed how stuck the energy still was in my legs and hips. My hamstrings were tight and my energy was a little groggy, even after all the dance prep I did earlier in the day. Once I really worked up a sweat and got out of my mind, the blocks and stuck energy in my body was able to release! Ahhh! Since I wasn't "working" and actually taking a dance class, I was able to fully receive and learn. Then in my class, I was really able to let go and flow with what needed to happen. The class went so well and my body feels so good. What a healing experience for my body!

I can also say that dance has been the best overall workout for my body EVER. I used to have a heavier upper body, especially in my arms and around my chest. The weight has melted off and my arms and shoulders are more toned now than they have ever been, even when I was doing a lot of weight training in my 20's. My body has changed and feels a lot more graceful and strong.

Mind
As we go about our days (doing our work, communicating, planning, organizing, etc.), our mind is often in charge and we can become exhausted and overwhelmed by all of the thoughts in our head! Dance allows you to focus on the present moment and what is required: move your body, breathe, let go, have fun! How wonderful to let the thoughts of the day and the thoughts about past and future take a back seat. We are able to free our minds from the dominant thoughts, and really get into our body! We often feel lighter, freer, and more open after dance. What a relief for the mind!

Spirit
My classes are about moving energy. We move the negative energy out and celebrate the music and movements we are working on together. We let our thoughts dissolve, we work our muscles, we sweat and we celebrate through movement. I am thrilled to hear so many students comment about how happy and uplifted they feel after dancing. I know that I am attracted to classes that do the same for me. My spirit is so happy when my body is dancing and expressing! There is a freedom that comes with it, especially when you are truly able to let go of the mind and just dance. Your spirit comes alive and PLAYS!

dancer and teacher, Rosalina Matthies

However you choose to move your body, I hope you DANCE in some way! It is one of the most amazing healers and teachers in my life, and I am honored and so very grateful to be able to share it!

Dance on!
~Lisa

Agape Reflections

2010-10-06T12:09:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite places on earth is the Agape International Spiritual Center in Culver City, CA. Michael Bernard Beckwith leads this amazing spiritual community, and his teachings reach deep inside of me and have brought about so much change and clarity in my life! If you want to be uplifted and energized, I highly recommend his "Spiritual Liberation" book, and his "The Answer is You" dvd.

I went to the 11 a.m. service this past Sunday and here are my reflections from his talk. I know the rose metaphor is used often, but I personally can't think of anything more beautiful and appropriate to compare!!! Thanks for reading...

We are each an individual rose, here to show our true 
inner and outer beauty, here to open and share 
and express our lovely selves. We need not depend on 
others and outside circumstances to be happy. 
We need to cultivate, cultivate, CULTIVATE self-love, self-respect, 
self-awareness so that the beauty of who we are can truly shine 
on others, help others, inspire others to see their own beauty and 
cultivate their own goodness.

It is time to stop projecting and start cultivating, nurturing, 
and LOVING who we are. It is time to truly look at the 
beauty around us, inside of us, and feel grateful at every moment. 
Grateful for so called "good" and so called "bad" that is 
happening in our lives. If we are in a place of darkness, 
our question is: "what is the darkness trying to teach me? 
What is trying to be born within me?"

What are your shadows telling you? What beauty is trying to shine through you? 
Are you projecting your happiness onto your partner, parent, sibling, job?

It is time to look in the mirror and not to the outside world. 
Take responsibility for your happiness!

Djun Djun Mamas Oct/Nov Workshop 2010

2010-10-04T11:33:00.000-07:00

Are you a woman who...
* enjoys drumming and dance?
* is searching for a new creative outlet?
* is in need of a support group?
* loves to co-create and collaborate with other inspiring people?

If any or all of the above resonates with you, please join us for our next amazing Djun Djun Mamas Workshop where we explore rhythm, movement, and voice in a safe, sacred and inspiring space created by a group of amazing Goddesses! No experience drumming or dancing is necessary! An open heart and willingness to learn new things is all that is needed! Class begins Oct 12!

For more info or to pre-register, call (805) 966-4604 or e-mail info@panzumo.com

Making Space for Magic

2010-09-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

Teaching is my biggest teacher. When I am in the moment, operating from a connected and "present" state of mind, magic shows up. When I am attached to how I want things to be and my expectations are a certain way, the magic usually disappears...even though the class or the workshop or whatever goes well.

This week was a great example in my Wed and Sat dance classes. I had the classes structured and prepared in my mind and body...but when the time came, the energy of the students and the way I felt while dancing and leading was asking for something different. I was asked to go with what felt good and what was working. I was asked to make space in my "structured schedule" for spontaneity and magic. I listened and it worked.

This week we were warrior dancers and then beautiful feminine dancers -- I had a few other things planned, but the attention needed to stay on the warrior and the divine feminine because that is what was needed and what was being asked of the students. It was a great practice for me in letting go.

One of my favorite people and mentors, Kris Carr, made a sweet vlog on her website this past Friday that also addresses this idea of making space. From crazysexylife.com...

My advice: make great plans, nurture your amazing ideas, create a schedule, and visualize your goals and dreams coming true...but make space for the magic to come in. Let go of attachments, expectations, and judgements around how things are supposed to be. Once you do this, you allow for more beauty, magic and mystery to show themselves to you...and you are often pleasantly surprised at what unfolds...

Love and light,
Lisa

Why Dance?

2010-09-09T22:32:00.000-07:00

Why Dance?
Reflections on 3 years of Dance

For the past 3 years, I have offered dance classes. It began in Ventura at Pulse Drumming, where I had a class of sometimes 2, 3, 4...and one time 11 students! We danced on carpet every week for months because it was what we had to work with. It also began at Golden Tree Yoga in Santa Barbara with no mirrors, no live drumming, and some very supportive and determined friends and students who were so hungry for West African dance!

In the beginning I was curious and interested in observing myself as a "dance teacher", and found it quite strange and awkward...but something inside of me was screaming "YA, keeeeep going!" There were several times I was ready to quit. But it was those few dancers who told me how much it meant to them and how wonderful it made them feel that powered me through. I am so glad I kept going. Thank you to Budhi, Debbie, Asia, Kristen, Suzi, Kris, Cindy, Adele, Chris and others who wanted this to be. Can you believe what we've created and where we are now? I have to give extra special props to Budhi for helping to re-ignite mycreative spark and inspiring me to step into a leadership role. From the first day I met him, a light that had been dimmed for years was turned UP and it just keeps getting brighter as time goes on...with his loving and rock solid support.

At times, I still feel strange, curious, interested, and awkward before I lead the classes. But I also feel a excited, and a deeper and greater sense of purpose for these offerings. We have created a beautiful "family" of drummers and dancers TOGETHER. I am sharing what I know and what I've learned, and that is all that I can do with an open, humble, and loving heart. I am so grateful that there are so many beautiful people like YOU who feel that love and joy for this dance and can't get enough of it. Because that is how I feel. I can't get ENOUGH! I am so happy that many of you now are seeking out other teachers and trying out other offerings. This makes your dance more well rounded, and it allows you to experience different styles of dance and of teaching!

It took me 30+ years to find my true love. It is through dance that I can meet myself - my real self. I celebrate, express, and feel genuine LOVE through dance. It scares me to death sometimes and it empowers me at other times. It angers and frustrates at times, and exhilarates and blisses me out (most of the time). Dance gives me what no person and no thing can.

May each and every one of you find your true love --

XO
Lisa

Alaska Love - The Blog!

2010-09-05T22:56:00.000-07:00

About a week ago I returned from one of the most important and fantastic trips/vacations I have taken. It was important in so many ways. I love my sister dearly, but we've lived far away from one another for 11 years. She has visited me on many occasions, but I hadn't made the trip up to Alaska to visit her. I am so happy that I finally did. I visited Alaska at the age of 18 and then again at the age of 22, years before she moved there. This trip showed me new things and seriously opened my eyes. I deeply understood why my sister and my uncle and aunt decided to make Alaska their home. It has definitely taken hold of me.

Alaska is breathtakingly beautiful, truly mysterious, and totally wild. It has an allure that I can't even describe. It isn't like a tropical location where you can swim, bask in the sun and nap your worries away. Alaska is big, raw, and totally open. It is so completely opposite of Southern California that it was a huge breath of fresh air for me. More like a gust of fresh wind that my soul was longing to feel. All of my senses were alive and heightened, as they are whenever I travel. That is the beauty of travel. You are totally open and like a sponge. What I soaked up in Alaska was green and lush trees, hillsides, and bushes...all shades of blue water and mountains that never stopped. I soaked up the cool breezes, the warm sun on my face, the quietness, and the golden sunsets. Life is so abundant and everywhere! Even in the city of Anchorage, you don't have to go very far to see the trees and lakes and even a moose munching on some bushes!

Some of my favorite moments:
1. Sitting outside with my sister and aunt at a coffee shop near Denali, sipping lattes and soaking up the sun. Smiles, rosy cheeks, fresh air, and a day of magic and mystery ahead of us.
2. Eating a piece of heavenly apple pie (RAW and VEGAN) at Jack Sprat's in Girdwood.
3. Seeing the top (yes the TOP!) of Mt. McKinley and feeling the power of this majestic mountain.
4. Riding the train from Talkeetna to Denali with my second mommy (aunt Barb). The view, the conversation...all of it was so magical!
5. Meeting dall sheep for the first time. We were lucky enough that 5 of them came down all the way to the creek across from us so that we could sit and watch them for over an hour.
6. Seeing a GIANT male moose underneath a walkway at the University in Anchorage as we drove by. I'm talking HUGE!
7. Reading Barbara Kingsolver by candlelight in a cabin on Nancy Lake with my sister.
8. Hiking in the Chugach and Talkeetna Mounatins with my sister and realizing how much she loves to be in the mountains. It gives her life. It gives her joy. It is who she really is.
9. Jogging with Josie (my aunt and uncle's sweet aussie/golden retriever mix) for 20 minutes spontaneously in Anchorage.
10. Picking raspberries in my aunt and uncle's backyard, then picking lettuce, giant snap peas, carrots, and beets in their garden.
11. Sitting and watching dozens of beluga whales snorkel in the water. Amazing.
12. Laughter, laughter, laughter. Between my sister, aunt, and myself...there were countless moments of laughter and silliness. Medicine.

Here is a sweet little slideshow I put together of my trip to the great white north....more reflections coming soon.

Alaska Love - Preview

2010-08-29T14:53:00.000-07:00

I have so much to write about my recent Alaskan adventure, so stay tuned for posts on my travels and reflections about one of the best trips I've ever taken. For now, enjoy a few of my favorite pics from the trip...

Djun Djun Mamas Sept/Oct Workshop

2010-08-17T10:22:00.000-07:00

Djun Djun Mamas is part women's circle, part bootcamp, and part Goddess party all wrapped into one! We share, play, challenge, create, explore, and celebrate every week. I invite you to join me for our next series, beginning Sept 7!

Gorgeous Flier:

Fabulous Video Footage (thanks to RS Thurston!):

Join us for the time of your life!!! For more info call (805) 966-4604 or e-mail info@panzumo.com

Alaska here I come...

2010-08-14T11:35:00.000-07:00

At age 18 as a graduation gift, my parents sent me to Anchorage, Alaska to stay with my aunt and uncle and cousins for a week. I had no idea what it would be like and boy was amazed and awed by her expansive, vast, open, dramatic, and wild landscape. Alaska is like no other place. I was immediately smitten, and dreamt of moving there one day. The most vivid memory of that trip for me was breaking out in tears with my aunt as we watched majestic humpback whales breach over and over and over and over again on a whale watching boat trip. I had never seen whales up close and personal, and this was closer than ever! 3 years later I went back with my family to visit and again was enchanted by Alaska. The fondest memory I have of the second trip was biking alongside a turquoise glacial lake and picking wild raspberries. Both trips we went to Denali National Park to see Mt. McKinley and grizzly bears! Fabulous!

It has been 14 years since my second trip, and since then my dear sister has become an Alaskan! She has lived there on and off for 8 years or so, and I am finally getting back and learning more about her world in this wild land. It absolutely makes sense that she is up there. Holly was a wild child, so connected to animals and nature, and spent countless hours in the Minnesota woods with her camera and sketch pad, capturing all that she saw. I remember respecting that about her, but not fully appreciating it. Now, I understand and adore it and feel that I am becoming more and more connected to nature and animals myself. Living in Santa Barbara, surrounded by mountains and ocean, one cannot help but fall in love with the outdoors!

I can't wait to hike, bike, canoe, camp, trek, and breathe in the fresh Alaskan air with my sweet sister (and aunt and uncle who still live there)! I leave in 5 days, and will have much to report when I return. No computer, cell phone off (most of the time) on this trip...freedom.

Adios wild ones!

Panzumo Performs this Friday @ SoHo in SB!

2010-08-10T13:45:00.000-07:00

Don't miss this amazing show with Panzumo, Kirstin Candy, and DJ Sparkle! Get your tickets now by calling (805) 966-4604. Reserve your table for dinner at SoHo by calling (805) 962-7776.

Surround Yourself...

2010-07-31T13:12:00.000-07:00

Surround yourself with beautiful and inspiring:

People

Books

Photos

Quotes

Colors

Music

Movies

and?

Why? As you surround yourself more and more with beauty and inspiration, you will find that you attract more and more of it into your experience and into your life! Let go of the negative people, books, photos that aren't flattering or don't make you feel inspired while viewing, quotes and pieces of writing that don't resonate with you anymore, colors that are muted or make you feel agitated, clothing that is torn or stained or sloppy, music and movies that are violent or heart wrenching or heavy...

You know your tastes and you know what makes you feel good and what doesn't. Perhaps you need to re-evaluate and clarify your tastes and preferences again...perhaps you've changed in the last year, month, day?? Write down what and who inspires you. Write about the friends in your life that lift you up and inspire you with their work, personality, outlook on life!

Lately, I have been getting up every morning and writing about what I am grateful for. Each day I do a little reading and research about people, places, and things that inspire me and make me want to live my life to the fullest. I start my day with gratitude and inspiration...

If you feel stuck in your job or relationship or whatever, begin to search for things that make you smile, laugh, and sing "hallelujah!" Read inspirational stories of people making their dreams come true. Cut out photos in magazines of the garden you want to create, the relationship you want to attract, the clothing you want to wear, the travel you dream of. As you identify these things, begin to feel into them as if they are already in your experience. Imagine yourself there and imagine the gratitude you feel for them.

Visualization is a powerful tool in manifesting and getting clear about your dreams and desires. Feeling into those images and those dreams is even more powerful. Consistency in these actions will bring you closer to your dreams.

"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you've imagined."

~Henry David Thoreau

Surround yourself in beauty...

Love,

Lisa

10 Important Things

2010-07-23T21:44:00.000-07:00

So, as many of you know I recently returned from a phenomenal camp in the sierra mountains. Each day I was dancing 3-4.5 hours, eating delicious and nutritious foods, and operating on a tight schedule. It was part retreat, part boot camp, part schooling, part detox...and on and on.

Coming back to "real life" has been interesting. Camp really knocked the wind out of me (in so many good ways) and I feel as though I need to build myself back up, become clearer, more organized and focused.

There are 10 important things that are very clear to me right now as I reflect on my experience and try to come to a place of clarity and balance...

1. Schedules work for me. Since I've become self-employed I have really enjoyed doing things in my own time and creating my own schedule. Being at camp and being on a tight schedule reinforced to me how important it is to be consistent in my daily doings. I must say that some days I feel like I'm walking around not knowing what to do with myself. I realize that I function better with a schedule...one that I create, but one that I FOLLOW!!

2. Sugar is not my friend. It is hard for me to write these words, as I try to be positive in all that I say and write but this is just a fact and I just have to say it! The only sugar I consumed during camp was from fresh fruit...and two glasses of lemonade on a particularly hot day. Since I've returned I have consumed a lot of sugar. I am not one to down a whole box of cookies or eat a pint of coconut ice cream, but I love to get my sugar from bread, crackers, granola, chocolate and other sources that seem healthy but don't work for my body. I am now ready to leave the sugar out!

3. I love a daily sweat. At camp I sweat a lot and I worked my body a lot. I don't think a regular routine of 3-4.5 hours of cardio a day is good for my body...but 30-40 minutes of cardio each day lifts my spirits and makes me feel GREAT!

4. I love being a student -- in dance and in life. Taking dance and drum classes and being surrounded by teachers that I admire, adore, and respect filled my heart with so much joy and gratitude! I took a dance class the day after I got back from camp and it felt so good! Learning from others and being a humbled student makes me a better teacher.

5. I love my daily green smoothies. While the breakfasts were delicious at camp, there were no green smoothies! The morning (and sometimes evening) dose of chlorophyll, minerals, and other important nutrients makes my cells feel alive and my body vibrant and juicy!

6. I am in it for the long haul -- this dance thing...this new dance love that I have is just the beginning. I am so looking forward to studying West African Dance and other dance forms for the rest of my life. I am so grateful for a body that allows me to do so...who knows what tomorrow may bring, but today I dance!

7. Friends make the world go 'round. I bonded with the SB folks at camp, made new friends, and felt more open and loving to others when I returned. I loved being back in my dance class and giving everyone extra big hugs and smooches and radiant smiles! A smile goes a thousand miles...

8. Simplicity is beauty. Living out of a suitcase, without my phone or computer, walking from place to place was a great practice in simplicity. It is a beautiful way to live. I find I am walking and riding my bike more, and taking things in more slowly...

9. I am so grateful for our unique gifts and offerings. Learning and celebrating in a certain tradition is a rich experience, but finding what you bring as an individual and celebrating it is inspiring and empowering! I am grateful for our ability to attract a generous, loving, and supportive community of drummers and dancers. I am grateful for the unique gifts we bring forward in our performances, classes, and workshops.

10. Home is where the heart is. I sometimes felt at home in my bunk bed at camp. I sometimes felt alone in my bunk bed at camp. I sometimes felt at home on the dance floor at camp. I sometimes felt alone on the dance floor at camp. I sometimes feel at home in Santa Barbara. I sometimes feel alone in Santa Barbara. I sometimes feel at home in my house with my dogs and partner. I sometimes feel alone in my house with my dogs and partner. It is all a choice. It is up to me, and I am grateful for this realization! Home is right here if I let it be.

Camp Fareta 2010

2010-07-19T11:26:00.000-07:00

I want to thank Rosalina, Brenda, Deby, Loretta, Kathe, Natalie, Terry, Budhi, Jackie, Mindy, Laura, Savannah and Michael for attending Camp Fareta with me! It was a week I'll never forget.

Dance * Drum * Eat * Sleep!!!

At camp I had no internet access or cell phone reception, which was wonderful. It is an interesting transition coming back to the real world...but I am filled with gratitude for all that I felt and experienced last week.

At camp we had huge delicious meals of rice, veggies, beans, meat or veg option, salad, corn bread, etc, etc. We danced 3-4.5 hours per day. Budhi took 5 classes a day most days (3 dance and 2 drum) - more than anyone else at camp! Our bodies tired out more as the week went on, but it was difficult to sit out of a dance class taught by ANY of the incredible teachers...Youssouf (grace in action), Moustapha (rhythm master), Djeneba (earth mother), Marrie Basse (wise gentle spirit), Marietou (rock star funk mama), Mariama (joyful beauty), Alseny (sensual and playful), and Aziz (tall and handsome and we swear his feet don't touch the ground). We danced to Djole, Doundounba, Yankadi, Makuru, Soko, Gumbe, Kakilambe, Kanyesoli, Komodenu, Lindjin, Sabar, Bougarabou, Sunu, Wulasadon, Sinte, Soli, Madan, Manjani, and so many more! What an absolute joy and HONOR to watch and listen to the drummers play together...M'bemba, Fode, Mangue, Wadaba, Moussa, Karamba, Kalim, Lansana on balafon, and all the rest! The moments when the dance teachers solo'd in the circle often brought tears to our eyes with the magic they created and the beautiful conversation we witnessed betw drummer and dancer. So many smiles...

At night they had some kind of program for us...camp fire circle, salsa dancing on the deck, "Club Fareta" dance party, s'mores with the kids, or we would just hang out and drink tea, gaze up at the sliver of a moon surrounded by so many bright stars. Some of us were tuckered out by 9 p.m. and would read in the cabin or go over the moves we learned that day. One night we all got the giggles (thanks to Deby) and didn't get to bed until after midnight.

Other fun activities included swimming in the lake, sunbathing, canoeing, and of course making new friends! We met people from SF, Oakland, Santa Cruz, Visalia, LA, Nevada City, New York, Australia, Puerto Rico and more.

We weren't allowed to take photos or video of any of the classes, but they did have a few camp photographers. A set of photos from one of Djeneba's classes is online athttp://picasaweb.google.com/MitchTsai86/CampFareta2010Day2DjenebaSClass#slideshow/5493244060635586338

Yes I brought back a few new moves, but more than anything, I brought back the energy, the love, the joy, the magic of the experience of Camp Fareta!

I hope that you join us for camp next year. It is an experience that brings you so much closer to this dance, to yourself, to the community!

Much love to you all. I look forward to dancing with you soon...

Why I don't miss dairy...

2010-07-06T12:01:00.000-07:00

This is from Courtney Carver from www.bemorewithless.com and is for my health conscious friends and family...I feel very passionate about this am sending you this out of love (not to try to convert you or stuff it down your throat)...and many of you have asked how I now stay away from cheese and ice cream, these are some reasons! I also included my favorite Almond milk recipe at the bottom. I love making almond milk. It takes a little bit of time, but you'll make enough milk for several days with each batch! :)

Love and happy health to you!!

Lisa

Top 6 Reasons to Drop the Dairy (Especially Milk)

Cruel to calves – Cows produce milk to nourish their young, but calves on dairy farms are taken away from their mothers when they are just 1 day old. They are fed milk substitutes (including cattle blood-ugh) so that their mothers' milk can be sold to humans.
Cruel to cows – Cows have a natural lifespan of about 25 years and can produce milk for eight or nine years. However, the stress caused by the conditions on factory farms leads to disease, lameness, and reproductive problems that render cows worthless to the dairy industry by the time that they're 4 or 5 years old, at which time they are sent to be slaughtered.
Cows are also fed unnatural, high-protein diets, which include dead chickens, pigs, and other animals, because their natural diet of grass would not provide the nutrients that they need to produce such massive amounts of milk.
Cruel to kids - Cow's milk is the number one cause of food allergies among infants and children, according to the American Gastroenterological Association.
Cruel to adults - A U.K. study showed that people who suffered from irregular heartbeats, asthma, headaches, fatigue, and digestive problems showed marked and often complete improvements in their health after cutting milk from their diets. This is especially true for people living with inflammatory conditions and auto-immune diseases.
Cruel to the earth - In California, America's top milk-producing state, manure from dairy farms has poisoned hundreds of square miles of groundwater, rivers, and streams. Each of the more than 1 million cows on the state's dairy farms excretes 18 gallons of manure daily.
It's just weird - Besides humans (and companion animals who are fed by humans), no species drinks milk beyond infancy or drinks the milk of another species.
If you are considering a vegetarian diet or dumping the dairy, I highly recommend reading The China Study by T. Colin Campbell, The Kind Diet by Alicia Silverstone and Skinny Bitch by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin. There are many more great books, but these really made a difference in what I decided to put in my body.

Lisa's DELICIOUS ALMOND MILK (tastes like cream)!!

1 1/2 cups raw almonds (soaked 4 hrs or more)

4 cups water

1-2 dates

pinch hemalayan sea salt

In a blender or vita mix, blend well all of the above ingredients. I do a half a batch at a time in my small blender so I don't make a mess! In a nut milk bag or cheese cloth draped over a large bowl, slowly pour the almond mixture and squeeze out the milk (gently). Refrigerate and ENJOY in your coffee, tea, cereal, and in place of milk for your baking and cooking needs!

Almonds are delicious and nutritious!!!

Bon Apetit!

Lisa

Solstice 2010 Reflections

2010-07-04T12:46:00.000-07:00

This Solstice experience was to be bigger, badder and bolder than last year. And it was.

This year we put together a Solstice Workshop that lasted 10 weeks. The rehearsals began in late April and went up until the week before the parade. Each week we practiced, learned, fine-tuned, honed our skills, connected, and shared. We began each rehearsal with a circle warm-up and connection time. We ended with flushed cheeks and sweet sweat. Each week we felt stronger and more confident with the dances.

The drummers were a mighty group of 20 or so who practiced with the dancers in the workshop as well as on their own, during Monday night drum classes and extra practice sessions. The djun djun team was a powerful bunch led by Panzumo’s veterans and newer students. The djembe players were strong, determined, and playful! As a dancer, moving towards these fine male and female drummers with smiles on their faces and appreciation for the dance made it that much easier and more enjoyable!!

The dancers were a group of strong, sassy, and sexy women and one man! The one thing that sticks in my mind throughout this whole experience is the smiles. The dancers smiled often and I was so happy that I encouraged smiling in practices, because the dancers smiled throughout the entire parade performance...no matter how tired or sweaty they were. The pictures show it! This makes me so proud. This is why we do this...to share our joy. Smiles open the doors to JOY!!

I was blown away by the incredible human beings in our group. The talent was one thing, but the open hearts and beautiful friends that were made from this experience is priceless. My heart is filled with gratitude as I look back, and I can hardly believe that it could get any better. But it always does.

Here is a slideshow I put together of Friday and Saturday events: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69UC-ePCPhM

I continue to receive e-mails and calls from the students about how wonderful their experience was. I'd like to share a few of them here:

"The drumming was outstanding! The dancing was amazing! I would do it again this weekend."

"It was so great dancing on Saturday. The high energy from everyone was really beautiful. At one point in the parade I looked up the street and saw the palms and flowering trees with colorful, crazy floats, heard the drummers behind us, saw the dancers around us and just felt like this is it! All the unique costumes and dancers, amazing drummers!! Glad to be part of this."

"Lisa and Budhi thank you for sharing your life it has connected us to all within and all we did not know was even there!"

"Big hugs and kisses to Lisa and Budhi for allowing us this opportunity for such great love, joy and passion in our lives. Your love and commitment inspires us to not only enjoy the process of learning and improving our skills of dance and drumming, but it also inspires us to be more creative in other areas of our lives."

"I know you've heard a zillion times today, but you and Budhi conducted the most epic Solstice Experience!"

Thanks to dancer Polly Rice for the beautiful photos! Thank you to all who participated in this epic Solstice experience. See you all next year!!! XO

A Summer Gift

2010-06-24T17:17:00.000-07:00

Today I have been thinking about summer and how much it has always meant to me. I remember summers as a child and the freedom, joy, creativity, and adventures that occurred on a daily basis. I grew up in a beautiful small town in Minnesota with a giant lake in the middle, where I spent countless hours with my family and friends. I also biked, climbed trees, hiked in the woods, stargazed in my back yard, and played outside as long as my mom would let me. I felt free and vibrant and ready for anything...

How fun would it be to spend a day like this...like the child I used to be? I challenge each of you to give yourself a gift this summer. Take one day to be a kid again. Recall the summer fun you had as a child and revisit some of those activities. Go to the beach with friends and bring a frizbee or beach ball, swim and splash and play in the water. Take a picnic lunch with healthy food (no alchohol) and lots of juicy fruits! Find a spot in the tall green grass and gaze up at the blue sky overhead. Breathe in the fresh summer air and let all of the thoughts in your mind float on by like the clouds overhead. After dinner, get in the car and drive a little out of town. Find a safe spot to pull over and watch the stars with someone you care about. Talk about your dreams and deepest desires. Talk about what adventures you want to go on and the places you want to see. Talk about what you want to be when you "grow up".

I challenge you to do this for an entire day. An hour is nice, a half day is bliss, but an entire day will take you to another place entirely and give you a fresh perspective on life. During this day, truly feel as a child feels. Be as a child is. Play as a child would. Enjoy your day, enjoy your life and be innocent again.

Happy Summer!!!

Love,
Lisa

Out of the dark and into the Light

2010-06-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

Whoa. I feel like I've emerged out of a very intense and sometimes dark period (of a week or so) and am now stepping back into the light. How wonderful it feels to walk and be with more lightness and radiance! Last week was a tough one. This week feels more open and balanced. It is an example of how going through the dark is often necessary to propel you forward and up into the light. There were some changes that needed to be made that I didn't realize. There was a new way of being and living that was trying to emerge. I wouldn't be here in this way without the challenges and darkness. At the time that things seems to be spinning out of control, I felt like I wanted to get out of it or change it. Now I see how necessary it was for me and for my growth...and for the relationships in my life! I am so grateful for the experiences.

In my fabulous Yin Yoga class, my teacher talks about being with the uncomfortable feelings and not trying to manipulate them or change them. We are to just notice them and be with them. The more we struggle and fidget and resist what is going on, the more suffering and pain we cause ourselves. We are to ride through it...and what comes out on the other side is so sweet.

The next time you are feeling uncomfortable in life, be with those feelings. Perhaps you made a "bad" decision or said something you shouldn't have. Perhaps things aren't going the way you'd like them to at work or in your relationship. This is not to say that you should do nothing. Apologies need to be made. Taking action to smooth things out or to make the situation better is good. But resisting what is does you no good. Trying to change what happened is a waste of time. Things happen and then you move on. Feelings and emotions happen and then you move on. If you notice sadness or anger or frustration...simply notice them and try not to label yourself as sad or angry or frustrated. You will attract more of the same as you dwell in these feelings and label yourself as so. Take a deep breath! The present moment offers us a new chance, a new way, a new opportunity to be free. We are born anew in each moment.

Who we really are is love. Who we really are is wisdom. Who we really are is peace. In the chaos, go inside and feel love. Go inside and feel wisdom. Go inside and feel peace. It isn't easy, but it is the way. Most of all, feel gratitude for whatever is happening. Last night, I expressed gratitude for the tough week I had and gratitude for a wonderful day and week so far this time around...

Have faith that everything will be alright. Trust the process.

Love,
Lisa

Lose Yourself to Find Yourself

2010-06-10T20:14:00.000-07:00

Ahhh...life is a gift and full of beautiful lessons. My tossing and turning and restless sleep last night finally forced me to get up, grab a book off my night stand (in the dark) and make my way to the living room. I was pleased to see that I had chosen "A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose" by Eckhart Tolle.

I remember the first time I encountered Eckhart. Budhi and I went to a movie screening of "Living Luminaries" at a local spiritual center. We were blown away by the peaceful way in which he spoke, his calmness, clarity, and pure heart. Here is a video clip of Eckhart in Living Luminaries. I found a bunch of videos on You Tube and was very moved by his teaching. It wasn't until Oprah Winfrey hosted Eckhart on an online class that lasted several weeks that his teachings really began to sink in and I realized I had found yet another incredible spiritual teacher. I soon bought "The Power of Now" and "A New Earth", and I go to these books when I need to receive an important teaching. Last night was one of these moments.

My beautiful bookmark (created by dear friends of mine) was nestled in page 254 where the section heading is "Lose Yourself to Find Yourself" and talks about how we sometimes use others for egoic reflection or as ego enhancers. In my life, especially the earlier years, I have been known to be a people pleaser; someone who wants to get approval and who wants to make everyone happy and who wants everyone to like me. I remember my friend in elementary school asking me one day if I liked something, and I couldn't answer her until I heard what she liked. I don't think I had a sense of my own opinion or tastes or points of view until entering into my late 20's and early30's. Opinions and tastes are one thing, but I'm not sure if I knew who I really was until recently. I had glimpses of my essence, but didn't trust myself to step into that knowing and that power. So today I still have moments where I separate from my true essence, my inner knowingness and I go to that place where I want everyone to like what I am doing, saying, being. If I feel that there is disapproval towards my actions, I get knocked off my center and feel like that little elementary school girl again...shrugging her shoulders and feeling awkward and that I am not enough. I recognize now that all of this is about the ego. I realize now that it doesn't matter what others think or feel about me. I am glad that the older I get, the more I believe this. But on those days where I'm feeling particularly sensitive, it is important for me to recognize that my ego is leading the way.

Eckhart says "De-emphasizing who you are on the level of form is another way of generating consciousness. Discover the enormous power that flows through you into the world when you stop emphasizing your form-identity." When I connect to that greater power in me, the one that created me and flows through every thing and everyone...I disconnect from the form-identity...my little self that brings the drama, the unnecessary stress, the negative thoughts and dependence on others.

The next chapter I read talks about our inner purpose. Eckhart discusses the inner purpose vs. the outer purpose. Your inner purpose is Being and is primary. Your outer purpose concerns doing and is secondary. The beautiful thing is that we all share an inner purpose. It is to awaken. Simple as that! We awaken to our true selves and we begin to live in alignment with who we really are. The outer purpose is different for everybody and can change several times over in a lifetime. The outer purpose has to do with action and time, usually meaning the future and working towards it. There is nothing wrong with our outer purpose, but it is when we align the inner and outer that truly matters. If we identify solely with our outer purpose, the ego creeps in and the means will corrupt the end. So when I am worried about what others think or feel, no matter if I am teaching or speaking something that is positive and is something I care about...my ego is now involved and some form of suffering can (and will) come into the picture sooner or later.

On page 263, Eckhart says, "As long as you are unaware of Being, you will seek meaning only within the dimension of doing and of future, that is to say, the dimension of time. And whatever meaning or fulfillment you find will dissolve or turn out to have been a deception."

On page 265 he says, "In other words, not your aims of your actions are primary, but the state of consciousness out of which they come. Fulfilling your primary purpose is laying the foundation for a new reality, a new earth. Once that foundation is there, your external purpose becomes charged with spiritual power because your aims and intentions will be one with the evolutionary impulse of the universe."

Beautiful. I realize that my primary purpose is to allow that consciousness to always flow into what I do. "Be true to life by being true to your inner purpose. As you become present and thereby total in what you do, your actions become charged with spiritual power." (pg 269)

I love the idea of becoming total in what I do. How often are we total in what we do? How often do we do things half-assed, or without full awareness, even when our intentions are good. How often do we have conversations with people and not be totally present with them? When I lead a class, I am to become TOTAL in what I do. That is amazing.

So, after reading for about an hour I crept back into bed. Instead of focusing on sleeping (action, future), I focused on getting in touch with my inner purpose, my inner self, my true essence. Immediately my heart felt warm and comforted. All of my muscles relaxed. I fell asleep.

When we feel like life is kicking us in the butt and we are doing things like making the "wrong" choices, leading from our ego, and we just feel like quitting and moving to Hawaii...a blessing is just around the corner. Last night I decided to not let the "insomnia" get me down. I decided to go to one of the most amazing spiritual teachers on this planet, Eckhart Tolle, and he told me exactly what I needed to hear.

I am so grateful for the teachers in my life!

Time to Clean House!

2010-06-08T22:28:00.000-07:00

Almost a year ago, a friend returned from a journey abroad where she studied Buddhism, Ayurveda, and Yoga. One of the messages she brought back with her was "Clean your own house". This phrase has stuck with me ever since and applies to all areas of my life. From the sometimes messy room in my head to the piles of papers and dust collecting under my desk...it is important to clean my house.

Lately my mind has been very full and my health has been challenged because of it. The unnecessary stress I have caused has taken its toll and I am ready to clean it up and make space for what supports and nurtures me. I am ready to clean up the mess, get my inner house in order, and start anew. Setting new personal boundaries, daily rituals, and getting more REST are 3 big steps towards inner cleanliness and order. The dusting and re-organizing has begun. The "letting go" has begun.

I also realize the importance of keeping a clean and orderly physical house, as it reflects the inner house. The dust and neglected piles of papers represent what may be going on or not going on inside. Simplicity, order, beauty, space is being worked on daily and is a constant practice.

“A person might be an expert in any field of knowledge or a master of many material skills and accomplishments. But without inner cleanliness his brain is a desert waste.” ~ Sri Sathya Sai Baba

“Beauty of style and harmony and grace and good rhythm depend on simplicity.” ~ Plato

May you create and maintain a clean, simple, spacious, and beautiful inner house.

Love,
Lisa

Lisa Beck Living

Create Your 2012 Goddess Year!

A Love Letter ~ And a Farewell...

if you only knew

Cleansing with The Mistress of Spice

Grace, Power, & Beauty

Letting Go - I'm Ready. Are You?

2012: Step it UP!

2012: magic abundance

Abundance For All

In Gratitude

My Bollywood Top 10

Calmness of Mind

Calling on Kali

Face it and feel it.

Become More of You

When We Dance

Do it. Just do it.

October Splendor

Unplug and Be Free

Commitment Isn't Scary

My "Aha!" on Manifestation

One Year of Bollywood Dance!

More Compassion

gratitude, gratitude, gratitude

transformation can be a pain in the a*#

celebrate your essence

I Surrender

Summer Camp, Transitions, and Sweet Surrender

Transformation-a-Brewin'

The Bigger Picture

Wisdom Bits

Connection of Body, Mind, Spirit: Wake up your Senses!

For the love of Dog.

Go for it

Every Once in a While...

My Name is Prince...

Vibrant Health: My 8-Week Wellness Plan

New Day

I've had a revelation

Djun Djun Mamas Level 1 Workshop

The next big thing...is right here.

Beholding is an artful practice

Spring Storms (inner and outer): The Clearing & Cleansing

Energy Stuck? Then move!

My "Aha!" Hike

self-worth: bring it!

val·ue

what's in my medicine bag

I Choose Love

You are the Gift.

Balance

Green Smoothie Vitality

Crazy Sexy Inspiration

Care for Dancing Bodies - Part 3

note to self: just breathe

Veggies and Me: A Love Story

Care for Dancing Bodies - Part 2

4 Key Qualities to Start the New Year Right

Any Excuse to Start Anew

My love list today...

Oh What a Night...

Care for Dancing Bodies - Part 1

Rock Your Life. Begin Now.

Winter Love

Bollywood Debut

Respecting the Cycles of Life

© 2009 Jupiterimages Corporation

Rockin' the end of the year -- Goals and other Goodies

Gratitude List

A Few of My Favorite Teachers...

I've Got the Fever...

Supporting artists = supporting yourself

Return of the Goddess

For the LOVE of it

Commitment isn't a Bad Word

Healing Properties of Dance

Agape Reflections

Djun Djun Mamas Oct/Nov Workshop 2010

Making Space for Magic