F*CK Eating Animals

Well, as the entire world is under confinement, maybe it would be good for us to really think deeply into the root of this virus and global pandemic. If the rumors are true, it originated from a food market in Wuhan, China, where people ate all sorts of animals including bats, snakes, raccoons, dogs, deer, and…porcupine?? The SARS virus also spread from a mongoose-like creature called a civet, while the H1N1 Swine flu pandemic in 2009 which jumped from pigs to humans causing 575,400 deaths worldwide. Is it not clear that eating these animals isn’t such a great idea??!! I mean, mother nature is wreaking havoc and has been trying to teach us a lesson.

We have become so detached emotionally from other living beings, including mother nature HERSELF, it is outrageous. And this global pandemic is evidence that we are not living in harmony with nature or OUR OWN nature. We don’t need to eat animals to survive. Of course we have been brainwashed to think that we NEED meat to get protein. Well, that is FALSE. We can get just as much protein from plant based food. I’m not saying everyone should become a vegetarian, but I am saying that we should be more conscious of how our meat eating is effecting the planet, and how the meat industry pushes meat consumption solely for financial gain and gives a sh*t less about our health. I stopped eating meat, other than fish, nearly 4 years ago. I don’t crave meat and really dropped it quite easily. When I realized how much more energy I had, it was really easy to give up.

I also learned about the spiritual repercussions of eating meat; when you consume meat from an animal who has undergone pain and suffering, those emotions are stored in its cells, and when we consume that animal, the fear and pain is also consumed. It effects you on a mental and emotional level. Heavy meat eating can cause higher levels of aggression, anger, and generally make you more “animalistic”. It keeps your consciousness at a lower frequency and weighs you down. It clouds the mind so you don’t think as clearly. When you switch to a plant-based diet, you notice a lightness, a clear mind, and your natural vibration and frequency raises. I don’t need to tell you all the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables but I’ll impress how ESSENTIAL they are for your overall health and for your immune system especially in times like these. Plant-based diets reduce risks of disease and prevents illness.

AHIMSA is one of the yamas (virtues) of yoga, and is the philosophy that all living beings, including animals, are sacred, so we must treat them with love, compassion, and non-violence. This is why when you start practicing yoga and understanding Eastern philosophy, meat is slowly reduced and eliminated from your diet. When i met one of my first teachers and I told him I ate meat, he told me, “Stop as soon as you can.”

That’s all for now, thanks for reading and feel free to reach out:)

Love,

Stacia

The healing power of HERBS.

It’s no question that modern day health issues are often addressed by doctors providing conventional, modern medicine. I am in no way suggesting people do not consume modern medicine, but I do suggest being open to natural remedies that can actually be MORE POWERFUL and healing than any pill. It is worth mentioning, that synthesized medicine actually has its roots in medicinal properties of plants. However, scientists have isolated the particular constituents and synthesize them. This way of taking medicine, can be dangerous because it is missing the OTHER parts of the plant that have balancing effects when it interacts with your body. The reason herbs have less side effects than medications, is because the herb is naturally balanced to ease into your system with the right amounts of each constituent. When you take a pill and its a concentrated synthetic chemical, and doesn’t have the other parts needed to not harm your system, you have side effects.

The story I feel inspired to share, happened to me just as I was moving to Maui, HI in 2018. I was in the process of moving, when I started to get a sore throat. It progressively got worse and worse, and what I thought was something not serious, ended up being a deathly case of bronchitis-like symptoms for over a month. I lost my voice, I was coughing up mucous, I had a fever, and had trouble breathing. This was a great first month in Maui, where I could barely talk to my new roommates, lost the job I had lined up because i couldn’t make it my first week of being hired, etc. I was just posted up in my room trying to heal from this awful sickness. I was loading up on all my vitamins and tinctures but nothing was working. I went to a doctor, who sent me home with a big brown bag of medications. 2 different inhalers, a steroid pill, antibiotics, and some other pill… I remember going through the directions for each prescription and they all had such terrifying warnings and side effects. I started using the inhalers to help open my lungs and I admit they were helpful, but I wasn't being healed. Not even the antibiotics worked! and this was already my second round after getting a round of them immediately when i started getting symptoms. I eventually took the matter into my own hands and i started researching natural cures. I started making herbal teas, with what I had available to me- and I was healed in about a week after drinking my potions a couple times each day. I threw out all the prescriptions and realized the power in herbs. I was so grateful and people started asking me for my recipe, and even to make them bottles of it. Turns out, I was a victim of VOG. Which happens to people that are new to the islands and aren't accustomed to properties that float in the air from time to time. VOG is volcanic dust and gas that gets sent around from the volcano on the Big Island. People are often effected by this, but I had no idea and really learned the hard way. But- through the process i discovered the power of herbs! So during these vulnerable times, I recommend loading up on natural antivirals, antibiotics, and antimicrobials.

My respiratory and immune boosting recipe -

Ingredients :

Ginger (fresh)

Lemon (juice and rind)

Thyme

Sage

Mint

Honey (1 tsp)

Apple cider vinegar (2 Tbsp)

Turmeric (1/2 tsp)

Cayenne ( eyeball - depends how much spice you can handle)

Prepare a pot of hot water, throw in a generous amount of ginger (peeled and chopped), lemon zest, sprigs of thyme, mint leaves, and sage into the pot, and let them simmer for 20 minutes, covered with a lid. Amounts will vary, I always intuited how much to put in. It is recommended to use for every 8 oz of water, use one tablespoon of the dried herb, or 2 tablespoons fresh. I recommend fresh! While the herbs are simmering, prepare your cup by putting the apple cider vinegar, honey, turmeric, and cayenne. When the tea is ready, strain out the herbs, and pour into your cup of other ingredients. Stir, and voila!

2 Weeks In.

My life in Koh Phangan, Thailand.

Quite a bit has unfolded since I arrived in Thailand. I have only been here two weeks but it feels like months. I came with no plans and had no idea, really, why I was here or what exactly I was going to do. I just knew I wanted to be on the ocean surrounded by palm trees. I was happy to travel anywhere by myself and digest my experiences that occurred over the previous month. I finally had the luxury of solitude. I was in a good, peaceful space. I knew this was only temporary, as the Full Moon party was approaching. Pretty soon the resort would be crowded with inebriated tourists covered in neon paint, dancing to EDM. Not really my style, but it’s always good to put ourselves in uncomfortable situations.

My first morning here, I befriended a nice guy from Holland, named Robin, who I shared breakfast with. I was relieved to meet someone I immediately got along with. Mid-conversation, I turn my head and met a pair of familiar eyes. “Hey!!” the guy across from me says. I respond with a “NO way! Hey!” and I remember that I met this guy in Bali, at the home-stay I was at just one week prior. I had overheard him speaking about Thailand and told him I was also going. He had given me his card with cell number in case I needed anything, as he knew I was travelling by myself. He was actually the last person I spoke to at that home-stay right before I stepped into my Taxi.

He joined Robin and I for breakfast and it just so happened that they were both from Holland. The three of us chatted for hours and ended up spending the next few days together. I thought I would be exploring by myself but the universe clearly had something else in store. We had so much fun cruising through Thailand on motorbikes, visiting different beaches, went to a crazy party by water taxi, shared meals and sunsets together. They were both much older than me and I felt so safe and taken care of with them. Pretty funny just me and two Dutch guys, getting along like peas in a pod.

After a few days of good times, I needed something productive to do. The resort I am at also has a diving school, so I decided to get my Open Water Certification. Ideally, they also provide accommodation during the course. So I was able to get a few nights in a bungalow while I was scuba diving. I made a ton of friends through the dive course, the instructors and interns are all awesome people. Many of them are interested in yoga and suggested I start teaching classes at the resort or even on the boat going out to dive. I spoke with the owner of the company and was given the A-OK to use their facility to teach yoga classes. So I haven’t started yet, but it’s in the works. In the meantime, I am working in the restaurant here during the day, and getting paid accommodation and 2 meals a day. It works out well because it gives me something to do during the day, I get to meet lots of people, and of course save money. There’s definitely a language barrier that makes working a little more challenging, but it’s a great learning experience.  It’s really starting to feel like home here, and I love the laid back lifestyle. I walk into work, turn on some reggae vibes, serve people from all over the world, clock out and hop in the ocean for a swim, and have the rest of the evening to enjoy time with my new friends, my yoga mat, and the 2 TB worth of study material on my hard-drive.

I am keeping myself pretty busy here, but enjoying every moment. I’m so excited to create an open space here for people to escape the party scene and find peace on a yoga mat. I love being in the restaurant as well and have a lot of ideas to help out the restaurant structure/organization as well as detoxifying menu items. It’s hysterical watching people stumbling in like zombies after partying in the jungle till 7am. Entertaining, nonetheless.

So that’s my update for now. Not sure when I will be coming home.. going with the flow and will see what unfolds next.

Peace and Love,

Stacia

Just DO IT.

     The month and a half I spent in Bali definitely gave me a different perspective on life. If you read my previous post, the change in lifestyle was apparent from day one. Living there for a month and half, rather than a weeks vacation, I felt that I was able to get a more enriched experience. When you pass through a country, you really aren't gaining much. I think through traveling, you gain the best education, and that education is really gained from a slightly prolonged stay... rather than a scratch n' sniff experience, where nothing really sticks with you in the long run. If your goal is to fill up your passport book with as many stamps as you can, I'm not so sure you're increasing your cultural diversity or skill set in any way. Stay for a while, get to know the people, let go of your customs and adopt a few new ones, let go of your conditioning, and be open to new experiences. This requires being FEARLESS. But still smart, and cautious, but fearless nonetheless.

      I was a bit disconnected for a while, because our power went out and I used my phone as a flashlight to use the restroom in the middle of the night. The universe conspired against me, but I believe it was for my own good, and I clumsily dropped my phone right into the toilet. Being in the middle of a rice field, I really wished I knew how to harvest rice so I could go get some ASAP. Unfortunately my precious lifeline was not able to be saved. To this day, I have yet to have a phone conversation with any family or friends. I eventually got an Indonesian cell and sim card in case of emergency, and I can "what's app" with people here. Other than that, all my communication has been via email and Facebook. I enjoy not having contacts in my phone and not receiving text messages or calls. It's liberating and granted me more freedom. No one to answer to, no feeling that I need to reach out to anyone. Just me, doing my thing in foreign countries.

    ALOT has happened and I couldn't possibly sum any of it up into words unless I wrote a novel. What I will say, and what I feel compelled to say, is to trust yourself and to trust life. It hurts me to see so many people depressed with their lives, seeing no light at the end of the tunnel. There is a way out, and your heart knows the direction. Trust that you can do the things YOU want to do. We are meant to be HAPPY. Do the things that make you happy, not the things society makes you think you should do. Whether there is something you have always wanted to learn, a place you have always wanted to go, a project you want to start, etc. Fear is an ILLUSION. Don't let it stop you.

     In the U.S., people don't really travel much. So when I decided I was leaving for x amount of time, many people expected it from me because I am rather unconventional, but there were still the people that thought I was nuts and tried filling me with fear." you could extract this disease, that disease, get robbed, raped, don't get in weird taxis, keep your money in 10 different compartments, lock up your stuff everywhere you go, don't drink anything, don't eat anything off the streets" etc. The sad truth is, I felt MORE SAFE in Bali than I often feel when I'm out in Orange County. The people are ridiculously kind, genuine, helpful and warmhearted. I did not fear at any moment that I was going to get robbed or raped. Not even when at times I was walking through a rice field in the dark. (no cell=no flash light)

     Long story short- Do what you want, and don't let anyone talk you out of it. Things work out. There were so many uncertainties I faced, and risks I took, but EVERYTHING worked out. If you a feel a calling, go for it. Don't wait for the "right time". There is no "right time" when you will be "ready"... If you don't do it now, you might never do it. It's in your mind to do it NOW, so do it now. Be present. The greatest lesson yoga can teach, is be present. Let go of the past, and release your expectations for the future, and be PRESENT. You can do anything at THIS moment. You're ready. Go.

      I just arrived in Koh Phangan, Thailand. Walked up the road and found myself a nice Thai meal that I had the waiter pick out for me. The place I'm staying is right on the beach. There are hammocks everywhere, other travelers hanging out playing pool, good music playing, and I'm sitting on my balcony feeling extremely grateful for this moment. I hope that this post will kick you into a different time zone. If you want to meet me in Thailand, I have an extra bed. Just say the word.

Love always,

Stacia

Balinese Warriors

     My experience so far in Bali has completely surpassed my expectations. Not only is it stunning, but I feel like time is on my side. Getting away from the quick paced American lifestyle, I'm slowing my roll and truly enjoying each passing moment. It's refreshing and relieving. When I first got here, I had this feeling that I needed to hurry up and enjoy it before my time is up. Then I realized, I'm gonna be here for a while.  I'll be here tomorrow, the next day, and the next day and the .... 

     While Bali is nothing short from breathtaking, I have found myself at fault for only sharing the beautiful sights. Yes, it is absolutely stunning. But, it is also very poverty stricken. 

     Between the lush green fields, beautiful temples, hand carved statues of deities, and fresh produce falling off the trees and onto your plate.... There are people living in scanty shacks, sitting all day in the blazing heat, working out in the fields fighting off mosquitos, and begging tourists to purchase their goods or hop in their taxi so they can support their children, who are by their side, being taught the same method to make a living.

      So absorbed with the delight of my new surroundings, I lost sight of my place here. I am a tourist enjoying this foreign country, that the Balinese people work so hard to maintain. Yes, the food is fresh and delicious, but I  am reminded of the hard work that the locals put into their hands-on agriculture that make these amazing meals possible. Yes, there are beautiful temples and buildings that give us something to be awestruck at,  but I am reminded of the days, weeks, months, and years of hands-on labor of the Balinese people, and  their harsh working conditions. They are out in the blazing sun rotating crops, building impressive temples and homes,  selling beautiful hand made crafts for pennies on the streets, and ensuring that tourists have everything they could possibly need. 

      Here's the twist- The people here are so hardworking, yet so kind and warmhearted. They are not bitter about their work and love to share what they do. A few bucks and you'll learn how to carve a wooden mask or prepare a traditional Balinese meal.

      In America, it's more common that not, that people go home after a "hard days work"  in their air conditioned office, feeling like they have an excuse to be lazy in front of the TV for the rest of the night, and often using work as an excuse for their poor attitudes and sunken spirits. 

      The people here are so happy and content with life despite their seeming discomfort. Devoted to their gods, offerings are placed at the countless hand carved statues, and incense are found up and down their city's bustling streets to ward off evil spirits. 

      I know I'm just catching a first glimpse of life here, as this is only my 4th day in Bali...but what's going on here is really something magical. 

     I hope everyone back home will take this as an opportunity to feel grateful for what they have, even if it's not your picture perfect vision for your life. Be happy you have clean water to drink, air to breathe, a shelter over your head, and people you love around you. More importantly, feel grateful for the endless opportunities we have in America. If you don't like your situation and it's bringing you down, you have the freedom to change it. Take that to heart. 

Sending love from Bali,

Stacia