Facing out

At the start of my yoga sessions with my good friend, she talks about how I can choose to start my practice sitting with my hands on my knees either facing up or down. With my hands turned down, I draw my own energy inwards as I center myself. With my hands turned up, I open myself up to receive input and energy from the external world.

Throughout the month April, I turned inwards. I did lots of reflecting, journaling, regrouping and processing. This new blog sat quietly because I didn't have much to say.

October 2016 - Mural on Mandela Parkway across from Brown Sugar Kitchen

Honestly, I'm still not sure if I have anything to say. But as May begins, I feel the need to switch. To look more outwards. To share a bit more of myself. I feel the need to start sitting with my hands and heart facing out.

Last year, I chose "receptivity" to be my word for the year. I would envision myself with antennas, receivers, blinking lights all over my body. (Yes, I am a science fiction nerd). All of these imagined devices were tuned to receive information. I tried new things - bike tours, making jam, learning Spanish. I explored a unique time in my life - no job, unemployment, lots of sleep and reading.

Me, working on the glow, April 2016

This year, I chose "glow" to be my word for the year. And yes, it wasn't until after I decided on this word that I remembered it's cultural connection to being pregnant (which by the way, for those who do not know, I have absolutely no interest in being). So why then "glow" for 2016?

I wanted to be more centered, present and nurturing to myself and others. I wanted to invite in warmth, love and illumination to my life. I wanted to light candles, watch the stars and be mesmerized by embers glowing in a fire. And I wanted to remember to radiate from within joy, curiosity and gratitude.

What's your word, vision or focus for 2016?