My Sacred Life - Inspiration

When I began blogging I had no expectations or ideas one way or the other, as to what it was all about. Who knew? To my delight, I discovered these amazingly inspirational and spiritual communities of artists, writers and poets, who have all provided a supportive and positive influence on my day to day life. I am so grateful for this, and since this is my 100th post, I thought I should let you all know just how thankful I am.

I have now finished up regular postings for My Sacred Life, but will continue to participate on Sacred Life Sunday. It has been such a beneficial focus to have.

Now, these are just great! lesson #1 and lesson #2 on art journalling by 'suziblu', found while visiting judy wise. Take a look, you'll be inspired and delighted!

The first mandala was made using straight lines and geometrical shapes, which means you have to concentrate and play by the rules. Very tough. The second mandala was made using only curved and wiggly lines. Which one looks more alive to you? I enjoyed this second one so much more (my mandala teacher Cheryl will not be surprised to hear :)) It was inspired by tropical water, coral, bubbles, seaweed, fish and sand. I think it means I need a holiday!

My Sacred Life - Centeredness

Mandalas are generally created with the design emanating from the centre and are very pleasing, satisfying and calming to look at for this reason. I feel the same way about healthy balance in my life. When I am off-centre it is because I have allowed other priorities or stresses to overshadow looking after myself.
If you look closely at this mandala and choose to read some meaning into it, I would say I was currently a little off-centre.

Participating in my sacred life has highlighted areas in my life where I had let slide a couple of the things that are important to my wellness.

So what do I have to do to stay centred?

• daily hour of yoga (stretching, breathing, meditation)
• daily walks with Jess the border collie (fresh air, sunshine and other sensory delights)
• eating fresh, colourful food (predominantly vegetarian, but some meat to keep iron levels up).
• drinking water
• expressing myself with art, poetry and writing
• singing out loud at every opportunity
• plenty of sleep
• music in the morning (no starting the day with TV)

I am very fortunate to have the time to practice this self care on most days. Most of these things come very easily, others take effort, but it's so worth it, to feel calm, centred and at peace.

My Sacred Life - Basking In the Glow

This weekend my son played in his soccer grand final match. He plays in a team full of enthusiastic and talented players. A tight game meant that at full time the score was nil all. So they played a further ten minutes each way, after which the score was still nil all. As happens in finals, the game was to be decided on a penalty shoot out (each team takes five direct shots at goal, the team with the most goals wins) Thanks to some sharp goal shooting and the efforts of a supremely talented goal keeper, they won the match!

Watching the joy and triumph on their 14 year old faces was just beautiful. We all want so much for our kids and when they achieve success, it is truly a warm and proud moment for parents.