The Art of Shinrin Yoku: Forest Bathing

Allow me to introduce you (or re-introduce if you’re already aware of the magic of what this is) to shinrin-yoku. Say it out loud, it even feels relaxing rolling off of the tongue. (Shin-rin yo-koo). Shinrin Yoku is a centuries old Japanese modality that involves being present-minded in nature, noticing the colors, sights, sounds, and energy around you when you’re in the forest. It’s been proven to improve your sleep-wake cycle, reduce stress, strengthen the immune system, and improve cardiovascular, and respiratory functioning. In fact, forest bathing is prescribed in Japan as a preventative measure, by doctors. I’ve had the…

View Post

Five Healing Herbs for the Mind and Body

Hey y’all! I hope you all are still staying safe, and mindfully practicing social distancing. It’s so important for us to try and keep each other safe during this time, and right now, the best practice for that is to keep our distance, lovingly. In the mean time, while we’re at home or experiencing nature in a safe way, one thing we can do while at home is to strengthen our immunity through a health diet, and movement. Part of my health regimen is Ayurvedic, and ancient herbs. I’d love to share some of my favorites here with you. Please,…

View Post

Creating Space For Yourself

During times like these, it’s so important to create space for ourselves. Whether that’s mental space, or physical space, it’s important to create a sanctuary. We all need a place where we can retreat to when things get rough, or a place where we can create routines, and rituals in. That’s why I designed my “zarea,” or zen area, in the basement of my home. Using a few purchases from Amazon, but mostly repurposing decor that I had in my bachelorette pad, I created a space where I can meditate, do my Bible studies, and study for wellness coaching. Create…

View Post

3 Mindful Plants to Grow at Home

The weather is heating up pretty much everywhere, and while our cabin fever is at full FOMO because of the stay at home orders all across the country, there is a way to bring a little bit of outside in. Have you ever thought about starting an indoor plant jungle? While this may seem like the hobby you remember your aunties, and grandmas engaging in when you were little — just know they were definitely on to something. Taking care of an indoor plant could be the most mindful thing you do. While caring for them, you’re compelled to be…

View Post

Why You Should Start Journaling

My therapist once told me, “If you talked to your friends like you talk to yourself, you wouldn’t have any.” It stuck with me so much at the time, because I couldn’t help but to engage in negative self-talk. You see, I used to be a type-A perfectionist.  I mean, from making a mistake in an assignment for work, to forgetting to water some plants, feeling “too” “emotional” about seemingly superfluous things, the smallest things, my thoughts would be, “so stupid, why did you do that, get it together Angel, WTF,” and worst. My therapist, let’s call her Ms. L…

View Post