Soulful Sunday #43: Dance To Your Own Rhythm

Welcome to my forty-third instalment of ‘Soulful Sundays’. A weekly share where I post a roundup of soulful reflections, each including recipes, songs, quotes, blogs I have read and/or any other inspirational discoveries to sooth the soul.

For me, Sunday’s have become a day of quiet contemplation and simple pleasures. A time to reflect on the week gone by and to consider my hopes and dreams for the week ahead.

My hope is to extend some love outward and to share some simple pleasures with anyone who cares to receive them.

Soul Reflections

Five days ago I submitted my book proposal to Hay House Australia, the worthy winner will be announced on March 2nd 2018 (My Mum’s birthday!) Happy birthday Mum?! 😉

There were many moments during my writing process where I became stuck. Mostly, when I began comparing my book to other books in the same category, or when I compared myself to other people with better credentials, more social media followers and bigger profiles then mine.

Comparison is the thief of joy.

– Theodore Roosevelt

True creation comes from a place of joy, it emerges from the heart. That’s when our creativity begins to flow.

When I stopped comparing myself to others and trusted in my own unique individuality, my words became infused with the love for what I do.

Our creative ideas may not be for everyone, for some it just wont resonate. And that’s ok. Don’t let that stop you. Remember your ‘why’ and trust that someone, somewhere is waiting for that perfect photo, painting, book, dress, interior design, song or melody.

Stop comparing yourself to others and dance to the rhythm of your own drum. Remember to take joy in the dance itself.

When you dance, your purpose is not to get to a certain place on the floor. It’s to enjoy each step along the way.

– Wayne Dyer

Soul Strolls 

This week we’ve been soul ‘dancing’ rather than strolling, and have shaken our hips to the sounds of Alt J, Warpaint, Fat Freddy’s Drop and more! On Thursday, at our first musical event – it bucketed down with rain. But we didn’t let that stop us. There was something refreshing about dancing in the squelching mud as the heavens opened, drenching us with the cleansing waters of Mother Earth.

The sun made her appearance again for The Pleasure Gardens in St Kilda, where we enjoyed the incredible performers, artists and unique individuals who attended this family friendly event. It was the perfect way to let our hair down after exam studies and proposal deadlines.

Soul Food

I looooooove coconut and I love fruit (I still believe I’m made for Hawaii!) So today I am sharing this delicious Quick Coconut Chia Seed Pudding. I bought all of the ingredients today and plan to try out a few different fruit combinations! I’m loving fresh mango at the moment, and can’t wait to try a mango version. What fruit would you add to your Coconut Chia Pudding?

Soul Music

With so much magical music in the air, it’s so hard to choose just one song to share! So today I am sharing two of my favourite songs from this weeks events, Fat Freddy’s Drop’s Roady to get you in the feel goods, and the more deeper sounds of Warpaint’s Love Is To Die. 

Soul Sisters

Today I am sharing Tanya’s post A Storm So Perfect. Tanya wears her heart on her sleeve and in today’s raw, heartfelt peace – through her experiences she reminds us to step beyond our fears and into the life we were meant to live. Head over and say hello, Tanya is a beautiful soul.

Wishing you all a magical melodic Sunday filled with fresh hopes, dreams and  wishes for the week ahead ❤

Today, love, dance, create from your heart – and enjoy each step along the way.

In love & light,

Hayley xx

Soulful Sunday #41: Paint A Picture

Welcome to my forty-first instalment of ‘Soulful Sundays’. A weekly share where I post a roundup of soulful reflections, each including recipes, songs, quotes, blogs I have read and/or any other inspirational discoveries to sooth the soul.

For me, Sunday’s have become a day of quiet contemplation and simple pleasures. A time to reflect on the week gone by and to consider my hopes and dreams for the week ahead.

My hope is to extend some love outward and to share some simple pleasures with anyone who cares to receive them.

Soul Reflections

If you could paint a picture and step into it, what would you paint? A beautiful garden with wild flowers abloom? A country cottage by the lake? A family portrait of loved ones past and present? Maybe your painting isn’t a place or person, but a feeling; a depiction of love, sorrow or joy.

Whatever colours and hues suit your mood, don’t hold back. Trust that whatever you’re calling forth in your heart will take form on this glorious canvas of life. The universe is your palette, so what are you waiting for?

Soul Strolls

Yesterday, we enjoyed a stroll along Warrandyte River. Ever since I enjoyed a delicious morning in Warrandyte with two fellow bloggers and friends, I’d wanted to return here with my partner. Warrandyte is such a beautiful place. Surrounded by nature, we managed to secure the last table in the sunshine where we enjoyed some yummy tea and scones! Mmm.

Soul Food

I just love the look of this delicious Super Simple Vegan Lemon Cheesecake by Alice Nicholls infused with DoTerra’s Lemon Essential Oils. I love these pure essential oils, which I have been using for a year with incredible results. Not only do they heal on an emotional and physical level, but they taste amazing too. If you’d like to get your hands on some oils, I am happy to share the oily lurrve!

Soul Music

I am loving these Indian infused electronic beats. I have been craving dance lately, a beloved pastime which I have long neglected. So today, I’d like to invite you to move to Dao by Soham. 

Soul Brothers

It’s Bonfire Night at home in England, yet I have come to realise that bonfires are not a traditional custom here in Australia. Therefore, I thought I’d share Roger Bussey’s post Guy Fawkes: 5th November which explains the history behind why we light bonfires in England on the 5th of November.

Wishing you all a creative Sunday, may your visions burn bright!

In love & light,

Hayley xx

Soulful Sunday #40: The Sweet & Simple

Welcome to my fortieth instalment of ‘Soulful Sundays’. A weekly share where I post a roundup of soulful reflections, each including recipes, songs, quotes, blogs I have read and/or any other inspirational discoveries to sooth the soul.

For me, Sunday’s have become a day of quiet contemplation and simple pleasures. A time to reflect on the week gone by and to consider my hopes and dreams for the week ahead.

My hope is to extend some love outward and to share some simple pleasures with anyone who cares to receive them.

Soul Reflections

Since I read An Artists Way last year by Julia Cameron, I try to journal most days. I love to write, and so find this part of my day therapeutic. It’s a chance to connect with myself, my thoughts and feelings, and to let go of anything that may be troubling me. Cameron suggest we try ‘morning pages’ – a stream of (unedited) consciousness of no less than three pages upon awakening. It’s great for clearing the mind of any mental chatter before we begin our day. This powerful ritual brings our awareness to any repetitive thoughts patterns, habits or new insights we may be experiencing.

Lately, I added a fourth page titled ‘Cherished Moments’ which I write in the evening before sleep. I’m not one for writing about every little detail of my day, but being the sentimental soul that I am, I do like to capture the magic in the mundane, those moments that truly matter to me.

My ‘Cherished Moments’ are simply that – moments that I cherish the most from each day – a gratitude list if you wish, or a history of the ‘sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all.’

Today, may you cherish each moment and savour those that leave lasting footprints on your heart.

Soul Strolls

I am currently house sitting for my friend in Mentone for three weeks whilst I care for his two cats and his dog, Bambi. Bambi was found on the side of the road as a pup, beaten and left for dead. A nervous, yet sweet, tender soul with a loving disposition, she enjoys walking. And so do I! A match made in heaven… 🙂

Here’s Bambi soaking up the beach vibes… whilst the cats chill out at home on the sofa! 😉

Soul Food

I have been working some long days this term, and have turned to quick, easy dinners which can also be used the next day for leftovers, like my Scrambled Tofu & Veggie Spaghetti. It is quick, simple and yummy. Winning!

Soul Music

Today I am sharing this magical track which literally lifted me up and set me on fire! The video is stunning and the message is one of simple purpose and Divine magic.

Soul Sisters

I have been focusing on the simple things in life this week, and so has my good friend and fellow blogger, Miriam. I feel compelled to share Miriam’s post titled The Calm Hour. A magical post of beauty and wisdom, Miriam reminds us to savour the simple and embrace the stillness within. I urge you to head over to Miriam’s delightful page! I always leave feeling uplifted and inspired…

Wishing you all a simple Sunday of stillness, peace and cherished moments.

In love & light,

Hayley xx

Soulful Sunday #38: Goodbye Bad Habits

Welcome to my thirty-seventh instalment of ‘Soulful Sundays’. A weekly share where I post a roundup of soulful reflections, each including recipes, songs, quotes, blogs I have read and/or any other inspirational discoveries to sooth the soul.

For me, Sunday’s have become a day of quiet contemplation and simple pleasures. A time to reflect on the week gone by and to consider my hopes and dreams for the week ahead.

My hope is to extend some love outward and to share some simple pleasures with anyone who cares to receive them.

Soul Reflections

The first day of October, a chance to begin again. For me, the first day of a new month offers opportunity for fresh intentions. In September, my focus was SELF CARE. I felt I made some great progress here; increasing my yoga practice, spending more time in nature and walking daily, setting healthier boundaries and saying ‘no’ to demands on my time, saying ‘yes’ to life. Yet, I noticed there were still parts of my life that remained imbalanced, that no longer supported my self care regime. One of those was the presence of alcohol.

I don’t drink often, but when I do, I wake the next morning feeling drained, depleted and even somewhat depressed. Which is why my focus for October is ABSTINENCE. I will be having a sober October with the hope to remain sober thereafter. At the age of 32, I realise that alcohol no longer serves me. Therefore, I am choosing to end my rocky eighteen year relationship with it. I wish to let go of this old habit of mine that simply does not support me, my health or the health of my relationships.

What are your intentions for this new month? Remember, you can do anything you tune your heart and soul into.

Soul Strolls

The weather has been warming up here in Melbourne, which means more opportunity to get outside! I captured these pretty white flowers whilst out walking with my man last week in Gardeners Creek. I feel blessed that my partner has taken to joining me on my walks, a shared experience I do not take for granted.

Soul Music

I’d love to share Angel by The Wings by Sia – a beautiful, uplifting track that comes as a timely reminder that ‘you can do anything.’

Soul Food

I have shared this recipe before, but I will share it again as it really has become a staple in my morning routine. One of the best ways our body can feel energised and healthy is through the consumption of more greens, particularly leafy greens such as spinach and kale. My Kiwi and Kale Green Juice has the perfect balance of citrus and greens to leave you feeling vibrant and fresh. Give it a try, it really is delicious.

Soul Sisters

On this Soulful Sunday, I would like to share Michelle’s post Sunrise Sermon: New Life. Michelle’s post reminds us that if we take care of our vessel, anything is possible. And should we wish to feel more fulfilled, we must nurture our dreams and our souls. Michelle also invites you to join her Community of Trailblazers to empower and support your journey!

Wishing you all an intentional Sunday and first of the month.

In love & light,

Hayley xx

 

Soulful Sunday # 37: Love The Moment

Welcome to my thirty-seventh instalment of ‘Soulful Sundays’. A weekly share where I post a roundup of soulful reflections, each including recipes, songs, quotes, blogs I have read and/or any other inspirational discoveries to sooth the soul.

For me, Sunday’s have become a day of quiet contemplation and simple pleasures. A time to reflect on the week gone by and to consider my hopes and dreams for the week ahead.

My hope is to extend some love outward and to share some simple pleasures with anyone who cares to receive them.

Soul Reflections

Today, I’m reminded to love the moment I’m in. So often we are pulled this way and that. We race from one thing to another, rarely immersed in the present; already thinking of ‘next.’ To live consciously takes practice – a dedication to catch oneself whenever tempted to drift.

Here I am enjoying my drum lesson with my man, who took a sneaky shot whilst I was playing. We both love music. I love this photo as it captured a moment I was loving, with a person I love with all my heart. How sweet when we love the moment we are in?

Soul Strolls

Later, we took a soul stroll. Following our noses, we came across this beautiful park with a flowing river. Curious, we decided to go off the beaten track and cross the river. As we crossed, we paused for a moment on the rocks to listen to the rhythm and flow of nature.

The river served as a reminder to go with the flow; to trust the direction of life.

Soul Music

I am loving listening to Deuter at the moment. I find his music beautifully enchanting and soulful, full of emotive rifts and melodies. In keeping with the theme of flowing with life, I’d like to share a track called Sound of Invisible Waters. It really is quite stunning. Sometimes the magic of life flows by – invisible, unnoticed. Yet if we tune in to ourselves and our surroundings – we tap into that invisible flow. That is where the magic happens.

Soul Food

I made this delicious chocolate mousse at the weekend, except, I decided to infuse mine with DoTerra’s Wild Orange essential oil instead of peppermint. It went down a treat with my guests, who all agreed it tasty divine.  I love that this recipe combines two of my favourite things; essential oils and chocolate, to pack a punch of yummy goodness into my tum. Health is wealth – you really can have your cake and eat it.

Here’s my chocolate orange version!

Soul Sisters

I’d love to share this post by Girly Christian who shares 10 Ways To Show Kindness. One way we can begin to enter the flow of life is to live mindfully and purposefully. We can do this by spreading love and kindness.

Today, on this soulful Sunday – may we spread seeds of joy, accept life as it is, and love the moment we are in.

In love & light,

Hayley xx

 

 

 

 

 

 

Soulful Sunday #35: Honour Yourself

Welcome to my thirty-fifth instalment of ‘Soulful Sundays’. A weekly share where I post a roundup of soulful reflections, each including recipes, songs, quotes, blogs I have read and/or any other inspirational discoveries to sooth the soul.

For me, Sunday’s have become a day of quiet contemplation and simple pleasures. A time to reflect on the week gone by and to consider my hopes and dreams for the week ahead.

My hope is to extend some love outward and to share some simple pleasures with anyone who cares to receive them.

Soul Reflections

There are days when our hearts are so over-joyed we feel we could walk on air we’re so high… And then there are days when we want to punch pillows and hide under duvets in a darkened room. Life’s contrasts are real. But we needn’t hide or run from them. We just need to live them. And be kind to ourselves in the process.

Whether you are high on life today, or having a duvet day (like me) because your lady cramps are in full force and the sight of puppies causes you to cry into your rice crispies – whatever your mood may be, honour yourself. Do what makes your soul happy (or at least do what makes you feel sane!) Take yourself off for a walk. Watch back to back episodes of Friends and laugh untill your belly hurts. Create a delicious, nourishing meal that heals, or devour some crumpets with drippings and drippings of butter!

Whatever you decide to do, do it with complete love for yourself. Honour your feelings, and trust that everything will be just fine.

Soul Strolls

I have the honour of house sitting for my friends again, taking care of their beautiful cat, Bella, whilst they are away on holiday. Their home is ten minutes from Princes Park, so I have been lucky enough to enjoy some daily soul strolls again this week. There is nothing like a walk to wash away your woes. I took this photo on the first day of Spring here in Melbourne, Australia.

Since ancient times, the first of September has been viewed as a time for reflection and renewal. As the seasons gently give way to one another, may we be gentle on ourselves. The seasonal transition is synonymous with our own growth and regeneration, so let us be kind as we reflect, blossom and bloom into all that we were meant to be.

Beautiful white flowers captured in Princes Park on the first day of Spring

Soul Food

Tomorrow, I’ve decided to make my Amaranth & Seed Superfood slices, it’s been a while since I’ve made them. They are such a delicious little snack to keep on hand for those moments when you need a little pick me up without the added nasties that can sometimes be hidden in so called pre-packaged ‘health’ bars. What’s your favourite little go-to snack?

Soul Music

I’d like to share a meditation track today titled, Love Song From The Mountains by Deuter. It is truly mesmerising, the perfect song to honour yourself with in a moment of tranquil bliss. Take a moment to close your eyes and become lost in it’s heavenly sounds.

Soul Sisters

Today I would like to share the post How To Recognise An Incredible Woman.

I discovered it on My Own Private Idaho. Head on over for a read! I’m sure we can all identify with the woman in this beautiful, honest piece.

Wishing you all a peaceful Sunday of love and self-honouring my friends.

In love & light,

Hayley xx

Soulful Sunday #33: Every Great Dream

Welcome to my thirty-third instalment of ‘Soulful Sundays’. A weekly share where I post a roundup of soulful reflections, each including recipes, songs, quotes, blogs I have read and/or any other inspirational discoveries to sooth the soul.

For me, Sunday’s have become a day of quiet contemplation and simple pleasures. A time to reflect on the week gone by and to consider my hopes and dreams for the week ahead.

My hope is to extend some love outward and to share some simple pleasures with anyone who cares to receive them.

Soul Reflections

“Quit daydreaming…” “Get your head out of the clouds…” “Those things don’t happen to people like us…”

From a very early age we have been led to believe that dreaming is for the absent minded, for those who live in a world of make believe. I once knew someone who was so proud of their ability to think logically, they believed logic equated to truth and anything else was complete fantasy.  But even Albert Einstein knew that:

Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.

– Albert Einstein

Never stop dreaming. The world needs more dreamers. Dreams are Divine whispers of the soul guiding us toward inspired action – so get still and listen. When we follow our bliss we live a life on purpose. Aligned with our hearts truest wishes, we give others permission to follow their dreams, to spread their joy with the world.

Today, be unafraid to dream. Remember that you are a limitless being with the ability to create the life you intended to live. If you can dream it, then you can do it.

Soul Strolls

I have been very lucky lately with plenty of house sitting opportunities arriving just in time to see me with a place to stay. I feel blessed to have friends with pets who need a pet sitter whilst they are away on their travels. This has worked out perfectly since I am currently in search of fixed accommodation. The Universe really does have ways of taking care of everything… So long as we surrender and trust the in process of life. My most recent house sitting opportunity is located close to a beautiful park in Box Hill, Victoria. Wattle Park is the perfect sanctuary for dreamers like me.

Soul Food 

I have been very under the weather lately and have been loading up on fruits and veggies to flood my body with some well needed Vitamins and Minerals. Today I am re-sharing my favourite Kiwi & Kale green juice recipe just in case you too need a delicious boost of goodness!

Soul Music

Since today is for dreaming, I am sharing Gabrielle’s Dreams. This track takes me back to my teenage years when I lost sight of my dreams for some time. Let’s remind ourselves that ‘dreams can come true.’

Soul Sisters

I would love to share this simple yet powerful poem by Chole about the importance of listening beyond the voice to reach our hearts, our souls. Head on over for an inspirational poem.

May you keep your heads in the clouds and your dreams close to your hearts. This Sunday is for dreaming. Dream big.

In love & light,

Hayley xx