Soulful Sundays #20: Sweet Life

Welcome to my twentieth 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

We get just one shot at this sweet life of ours. It will never come again – so live! Why waste life with thoughts of the past, regretting the choices and mistakes we have made? Why squander our time fretting about the future? For the future may never come.

So many of us choose to love cautiously when we can choose to love passionately instead. Yes, maybe we will get hurt. But wouldn’t we rather die with a thousand words expressed than a thousand unspoken in our hearts? Not only are we guarded in love, but we live cautiously too… Too often we dismiss our dreams and lay them aside for fears of not being good enough. We fear success and we fear failure. But those burning desires within our hearts exist for a reason. Life is what we make of it. Be bold. Be brave. Your dreams are real, so go after them.

Today, let us live. May we laugh a little louder, dance a little freer, love a little larger, and dare to dream a little longer. May we throw caution to the wind and embrace the life we intended to live. Because ‘that it will never come again is what makes life so sweet.’ Nothing is ever guaranteed. So don’t wait for life to begin, begin living.

Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?

– Mary Oliver

Soul Strolls

On the last day of February here in Melbourne, I caught this beautiful sunset on what was officially the last day of summer. With a high of 34 degrees, she certainly turned up the heat for us!

Soul Food 

In keeping with the ‘sweet life’ – I am sharing these Jaffa Bliss Balls by Becomingness. They look a treat. Even better, is that they are guilt free! Mmmmm yummy.

Soul Music

Today, I am sharing this gorgeous track by Sons of Zion, Life. It’s a beautiful reminder for us to love, live and dream for today.

Soul Sisters

I must share with you Miriam’s post Bushwalking and Basking in the Now, which is the perfect reminder for us to live now and immerse ourselves in the moment. To look up and love life. Head on over and have a read!

Wishing you all sweet Sunday!

In love & light,

Hayley xx 

Soulful Sunday #15: Unchartered Lands

Welcome to my fifteenth 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

On Thursday I wrote about overcoming perceived failures and finding the courage to voyage unchartered lands. At the age of seventeen, I fell in love with this quote:

We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.

– Anonymous

That was it – off I went with my backpack in tow. Anyone who has ever left home will know that it takes courage to lose sight of the shore, and a willingness to step away from all we have known. But in order to discover new lands, we needn’t travel far and wide – we simply need to go where we have never been before. To break free from our zone of comfort and step into the unknown.

Our voyage may be an internal one; a pilgrimage of the soul. Who knows what hidden treasures we’ll uncover? The long lost dreams we might unearth… As we sail the depths of our oceans we learn to navigate our deepest wants, desires and wishes. What excites us? What beckons us to draw near? What causes us to rebel and make an about turn? If we don’t know where we are going and why we are going there, then our journey will be short lived. So find the courage to dig deep. Be unafraid to explore the depths of your soul. For our true essence is the guiding compass that will steer us safely home, time and time again.

Soul Strolls

I think I’m becoming known as the ‘flower stalker’ in our local park. I walk twice a day to this same park, yet each week new flowers blossom and bloom it’s as tough my soul strolls are always new. I captured these pretty colours this week.

Soul Food

Last Sunday I mentioned that I’ve been drinking a lot of smoothies lately, especially since the weather is lovely and warm here in Melbourne. So I thought I’d share with you my absolute favourite Choco-Berry Smoothie recipe. It tastes divine and the best part is, it’s healthy! Did someone say guilt-free chocolate?

Soul Sounds

This week I took 50 children to see Moana with the holiday club program. If you have children, find an excuse to watch the film! Now! It was beautifully uplifting, emotive and funny too. Since the theme of todays post is losing sight of the shore, I thought I would share the track How Far I’ll Go from the movie, which we all just loved.

Soul Brothers

This week I am sharing Ronovan’s Haiku ‘Hidden Treasures‘ in keeping with Sunday’s theme of discovering new lands. Head over to his blog Ronovan Writes and have a read!

Wishing you a wonderful voyage on this magical Sunday,

In love & light,

Hayley xx

 

Soulful Sunday #12: Slow Down

Welcome to my twelfth 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

Finding the balance between Doing and Being is something I wish to focus my attention towards more in 2017. That, as well as CONNECTION, which I blogged about on my website in my recent post: 3 Tips To Get Clear About The New Year.

But why do we often feel guilty when taking time out from our busy schedules? Why, as a nation, are we so addicted to Doing? I’m not immune to it myself, but I will be making space to find more balance this year. I want to be CONNECTED to Life. To feel and connect with each moment, each breath, every experience good and bad. And I know that the only way to achieve this is through my mindfulness practice. Part of which involves spending time in nature.

So wherever you are on this sacred Sunday, slow down. Breathe. Take a guilt free moment to simply Be. Whilst it is important to ‘get stuff done’; it is equally important to embrace the art of leaving things ‘undone.’

Soul Strolls

This week saw my partner and I take a camping trip to Yanakie by Wilsons Prom. My blogger friend and favourite travel writer, Miriam Blaker at Out an’ About  inspired me to travel there after seeing her beautiful images and camping trip documented here.

As I walked along the beech, I thought of Miriam and how wonderful it was to be walking the same shoreline she walked, taking photos of the same skyline she admired, and sharing my dreams and wishes to the same vast ocean she undoubtedly spoke to from her heart. I have connected with Miriam within this colourful community of beautiful online bloggers, but walking in Miriam’s footsteps felt both whimsical and magical, as though connected by nature itself. I know one day we shall share a red wine and some great food somewhere in the great outdoors. In the meantime, I will be traversing her footsteps across time and space as I continue to be inspired by the beautiful places she has travelled within Melbourne; the perfect travel brochure for an English rookie like me!

Here are just a handful of the wonderful sunset pictures we captured at Yanakie.

Yanakie shoreline

Beautiful sunset at Yanakie

My little Jellyfish friend xx

Writing my dreams in the sand for the ocean to envelope

Mark admiring the sunset

Trying to get my sandals back on hehe

Soul Food

We have been experiencing some extreme heat in Melbourne, and the other week it was extremely muggy and hot with rain breaking through here and there. With the humidity I needed something easy and quick to prepare so I made this Rainbow Chili Couscous in under fifteen minutes. It was delicious!

Soul Sounds

This week I am sharing a meditation track called ‘I Know The Trees’ so that you can drift off to the sounds of nature. You can find it on Spotify by clicking on this link here.

Soul Sisters

Today I am sharing Deb’s gratitude post from  Once Upon A Hot Flash. I just love Deb, she is such a shining ray of sunshine and if you haven’t come across her Daily Gratitude posts yet, then head over to her blog. Gratitude is something we can all foster in 2017, and Deb is the perfect lady to remind you to express gratitude for the simple pleasures in life!

And on that note I wish to say thank you to my blogger friends, to connections old and new, and to embracing the art of ‘Being’.

In love and light

Hayley xx

 

Soulful Sundays #7: Mindful Craft

Welcome to my 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

This week I have focused on living more mindfully. It’s ironic that I teach children yoga and mindfulness, yet often, within moments of leaving school my mind begins to race again with the smallest of distractions. It’s not that I don’t know how to live mindfully, just that at times it’s so easy to forget.

So I have been connecting with my breath more whenever I notice my thoughts slip into auto pilot; I must reply to Tanya, I must remember to pick up lentils and potatoes, when is my hair appointment again? And breathe. Now isn’t this a wonderful day? Look how that butterfly flits around my midriff as though weaving an invisible outfit upon me… Maybe it’s sprinkling invisible glitter bliss balls on me. There. Now doesn’t that feel better? 😉

I wrote a list of 20 things I love to do. Surprising how many I had neglected. I suggest you try it too. Then make a promise to do one thing of those things off that list each week. One thing on my list which I had neglected was crafting, so whilst out (purchasing my lentils and potatoes) hehe I stopped in at Kikki K to pick up a new journal and treated myself to some inspirational quotes. And then I remembered the jars I had collected and stored in my kitchen cupboards. So when I got home, I dismissed checking my emails, switched off my phone and got crafty. I even said out loud: “I’m having so much fun!” So cheesy I know, but it was true. I felt so happy enjoying this simple pleasure. This week – whatever makes your soul happy, do that.

Soul Strolls 

I love lavender, as I have probably mentioned before. I use lavender oils daily and the scent is one I find calming and comforting. So when I passed my favourite corner on my daily walk, I was pleased to see that the red roses were in full bloom, creating a striking blood red contrast with the subtle lilacs of the lavender plant. Both plants reminded me of home in England, and brought a smile to my face.

Soul Food

This week I am sharing my guilt free Blueberry & Oat Biscuits. I baked these for our camping trip last weekend and they were met with orgasmic Ummm ‘s and Ahhh’s of approval all round. If you love a good dunking biscuit without the refined sugars, then give these biccies a try. You wont regret it!

Soul Sounds

Today I am sharing a lovely little track from one of my favourite soundtracks Many Beautiful Things. This song is called Meeting Lillias. It is short, but oh so very sweet.

Soul Sister’s

Today I am sharing a very apt post by one of my favourite writers here on WordPress, Miriam from Out n About. Miriam’s post is very fitting for this weeks focus on mindful living. Looking Up In November is a beautiful reminder  for us to look up and keep our eyes to the skies.

In love and light,

Hayley xx

Operation Affirmation Frustration

Some people go into panic mode when they realise the power of their emotions. They attempt to tie a noose around their negative thoughts and walk around affirming positive statements that simply aren’t true yet.

I am not denying that affirmations are a powerful and effective tool for manifestation; because they are and that is why I use them myself and encourage others to do so. However, I am suggesting that we choose our affirmations carefully. If we affirm something that is too far from our current personal reality, this may lead to further frustration. If there is too great a discord between where we are and where we’d like to be in our affirmative statement, then our good intentions could, in fact, have the opposite effect and lead to blocks.

For example, it’s no use saying ‘I am slender’ on days when we feel like a beached whale. That statement will only remind us of what we are not (yet) feeling. And it’s a sure fire way to have us running for the spoon and jar of peanut butter! (Or is that just me???) So on days when our self esteem and joy are somewhat waning, rather than attempt to bridge an impossible gap, it is much more effective to reach for thoughts and feelings that improve our current state of mind. This is usually something closer within our reach, for example; I feed my body with foods that help it thrive. I love my workouts once I get going. I know that my body is capable of reaching a healthy weight if I allow it to. I am progressing towards a healthy body. My next meal will be healthy and nutritious. There are parts of my body which I love. I am further along than I think. From here, we are able to build some positive momentum. These statements are achievable now. We can take action.

You see, it is not what we say, but how we feel when we say it. So if we are affirming that we are sexy hot like Beyonce Knowles, but feeling like we are sexy NOT like Princess Fiona, then the only emotions we are emitting to the ethers are those of lack, inadequacy, frustration, and disappointment. It is much more powerful to reach for something that makes us feel better NOW! (And no – that does not include the Haagan Daaz Cookies and Cream ice-cream!) That’s a temporary feel good! Trust me – I know… 😉 It means reaching for an honest thought or feeling that allows us to feel vibrationally aligned again in this moment.

Once we feel empowered again, then we can embrace the more assertive ‘I Am’ present moment affirmations – such as I Am *insert desire of choice*
eg. tall dark and handsome/in possession of the job I seek/the shizzle McNizzle!

If we affirm these statements whilst feeling good, then guuuuuurl you are all that and more! (And you fellas!) Heh hem – all this Beyonce talk has got me feeling like Beyonce! Maybe this whole post was wrong after all? And all we gotta do is fake it till we make it?! 😉

Happy Friday loveables! And remember – you are beautiful – Beyonce bootay or not!

Word.

Soulful Sundays #6: The Early Bird Catches the Worm

Welcome to my sixth 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

I resonate a lot with Terri’s quote. I never used to be an early riser, but I cultivated a habit of going to bed earlier and waking just before the sun rises. Of course, there are days when I don’t make this – but when I do wake and the sun is already up, like Terri – ‘I feel the world has started without me.’ There is something sublime about the silence of the morning, broken only by the merry hum of the songbirds. While the rest of the world sleeps, early risers have already set their intentions for the day, greeting the new dawn with grateful hearts and a gentle knowing. While the rest of the world begins to wake, early risers have cultivated a quite contentment that will last throughout much of the day, having spent the last hour sowing seeds of peace and purpose. I feel a marked difference on the days I manage to rise with the sun, compared to those when I am late to catch the train.

If you aren’t already waking to catch the sun rise, I encourage you to practise this habit. Begin gradually if you need to, going to bed fifteen minutes earlier and rising fifteen minutes earlier, until you have slowly worked your way towards greeting the new day at sun rise. You wont regret it.

*tip – if you are in the winter months, it will be harder! So leave some warm clothes by the bed, a hot water bottle and a heater to encourage you to leave the warmth of your cosy bed!

We went camping this weekend with friends, and while the rest of the happy campers slept, I rose to catch the sunrise along the beach. I was met with this beautiful sky. I love the way the sun breaks the clouds and resembles heaven’s light, greeting the surface of the ocean with a gentle kiss.

I watched as the surfers dotted the shoreline, patiently awaiting the moment they could connect with Mother Nature.  Her voluptuous bosom swells as she breathes life into the ocean, the surfers seizing her glorious waves. They are free. She is free. And all of this at the break of day.

Soul Strolls

A man and his two peaceful companions stopping to enjoy the sunrise this morning.

Our beautiful camping grounds at Jan Juc, Melbourne. So tranquil and picturesque.

Soul Food 

We arrived home later than usual due to camping. I like to nourish my body, especially after a weekend of nature, and so decided to make a quick Coconut & Currant Curried Quinoa. It is quick to prepare and tastes delicious. Plus I have leftovers for my work lunch tomorrow, as this dish can also be enjoyed from chilled.

Soul Sounds 

Today, in keeping with the theme of nature, I am sharing another meditation track titled ‘Echoes of Time.’ This track, with it’s use of wind instruments and flutes, reminds me of the sounds of nature.

Soul Brothers

Today I am sharing the post of Sourav from Indihope, where he shares 5 Quick Tips to Set Yourself Free. You will be both surprised and inspired by Sourav’s list, which gets to the heart of the matter and offers suggestions you may not have considered.

In love and light,

Hayley xx

Soul Sundays #5: Now or Never

Welcome to my 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

This week has been a little tough. I have felt overwhelmed. Pulled in different directions. I have been frustrated and blocked creatively.

So easily our vision is pulled from the Now. We are interrupted, or become distracted; and not always by another well meaning person, often it can be our own self-sabotaging thoughts that intrude on our peace and sacred space. Despite our best efforts and intentions, if we listen to the voice of procrastination for too long, doubt begins to set in. Or we lose focus entirely, abandoning our project on the grounds that ‘now is not a good time to be creative.’ But Now is the only time.

Who are we kidding when we tell ourselves that we’ll work on it ‘later’ or ‘tomorrow’ or when we have ‘more time’ and the ‘conditions are ripe’?

Every time we tell our selves this – we are ‘cock-blocking’ creativity. And as vulgar as that may sound to some, that is the reality of how vulgar, intrusive and pervasive our self-sabotaging thoughts can be. The endless cycle of perfectionism and procrastination kills creativity and stops it in it’s tracks before it even has chance to gain some forward momentum.

So my advice is to simply begin. Regardless of the conditions, take action. Because worse than a blocked creator, is a frustrated one. And the only way to become unblocked is to oil the instrument and put it in motion.   It doesn’t matter if it’s not great, at least it is something. And so last night, as the rain poured, I penned this little poem. And today, the sun made her appearance.

Rain kisses earth,
Cleansing dense energy.
As energy outside shifts,
Souls inside create their lists.

Sun embraces land,
Birthing new ideas.
As inspiration takes form,
Hearts grow warm; their souls reborn.

Soul Food

Another simple yet tasty dish to share today. When I feel overwhelmed, it’s important I prepare foods that are healthy and simple and quick to prepare. Otherwise, I find myself reaching for ‘quick fixes’ and foods that inflame my body. So here’s a quick Chickpea & Tepenade Salad that is both filling and delicious.

Soul Sounds

I play this meditation track to the children I teach during their relaxation. It is soothing and speaks to the soul. A breath of stillness is certainly what I have needed this week, and so I though I would send a Breath of Stillness your way to soothe your Sunday.

Soulful Strolls

When the sun made an appearance this afternoon, I took advantage and went for a stroll. It was just what I needed to let go of some of the frustrations and blockages that have been holding me back. I captured these beautiful roses in full bloom.

Soul Sisters

Today I am sharing Michelle’s post from Two Are Better Than One, titled You Can’t Hide. Since I often go walking to clear my head and meet with the ‘hopeful whispers’ of encouragement, I resonated a lot. Mosey on over and have a read! I’m sure you’ll find some inspiration on Michelle’s blog too!

In love and presence,

Hayley xx

Soul Sundays #4: The Fear of God

Peace be with you on this rainy Melbourne evening. 

Welcome to my fourth 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

I watched Martin Sheen in an interview last month, and this sentence that he said in the above quote struck a chord. Many people shy away at the mention of God. I know, because I used to be one of those people myself. And with messages such as this featured on the building below, which I snapped whilst out walking the other day, is it any wonder that people fear and reject God?

And whilst I have nothing against anyone’s personal beliefs, I do believe that it is possible to believe in God without being tethered to Christianity or religion. For me, God is Love. God is the life force that runs through every thing and every one, connecting us all to our true essence. The Oneness that is our very nature. I have no image of Him. I only feel His presence.

Soul Food

Since the Northern hemisphere are moving into colder weather, and Melbourne is experiencing a lot of rain this evening, I thought I’d share one of my favourite winter salads. This is great as a side dish or served on it’s own. It’s full of flavour and a perfect way to start your week feeling good.

Soul Sounds

Fleetwood Mac came on in the car whilst I was driving the other day. I’d forgotten how much I love this song. So I thought I’d remind you all of what a great track Everywhere is.

Soulful Strolls

I caught this beauty whilst walking at sunset the other day. Beauty really does surround us everywhere if we simply pay attention. I don’t no where I’d be without my nature walks.

Soul Sisters

In keeping with the theme of God, I wanted to share this post from Nina over at The Happy Life 101. Nina never fails to spread a little happiness to others, and this post that she shared reminded me of what God IS. He does not judge, He simply wants for His children to be happy and at peace. I will include the video that Nina shared below, and I urge you to visit her blog for a slice of joy!

Soulful Sundays #2: A Slice of Life

Happy Sunday all!

Welcome to my second 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

We can, at times, feel like leaves in the wind, being tossed and turned with little control over which direction we’re headed. Many of us struggle with the concept of surrendering to an invisible, all-knowing force, let alone trust in it’s ability to bring everything into Divine order. Yet, when we trust in Spirit’s will, we can be sure that the Universe will take care of us and make certain of our safe landing, and in the gentlest way possible. Our work is to surrender and give up the struggle, to allow life to unfold as nature planned, and with the utmost faith that the Universe is operating for our highest good.

Like a leaf, I have felt a little tossed around this week. I had a melt down mid-week and cried. And on Friday I blew off some steam.

A healthy body supports a healthy mind (which is why I have decided to have a sober October this month!) This weekend I remembered why I don’t go out partying anymore! These days, on the odd occasion that I do indulge, I tend to stick to 1-2 glasses of red wine. I cannot bear the feeling of a hangover, so when I forgot my limits on Friday, I woke up feeling like my world had ended. My usual optimistic self was an emotional wreck, I felt sorry for myself. I basically self-punished. As if I hadn’t already done enough damage to my body – now I was going to beat myself up in the process?!

Feeling exhausted, I asked for help. I asked for a miracle. I knew I had to keep the faith. And just as quickly as everything had come tumbling down mid-week, it was rectified. On Saturday I got that phone call to bring about the good news I had been hoping for all week. And not only did the situation come right, but it far exceeded my expectations.

When the world around seems to tumble and fall, it is simply making way for the new. Keep the faith. Don’t be afraid to call for a miracle. Spirit loves you and wants you to be happy. The Universe would never throw anything at you that you cannot handle. You will always grow from any experience seemingly too hard to bear; and when the dark clouds part, the light will shine to guide your way.

Soul Food

In my bid to feel healthy again, I made another batch of these deliciously tasty (yet good for you) slices! The full recipe can be found on my website by clicking here.

Soul Sounds

In my rather tipsy state on Friday, I recall singing at the top of my lungs to Where is the Love in the taxi ride home! Oh. Dear. The taxi driver was extremely amused as my boyfriend sunk lower into his seat in embarrassment. Haha – Cringe!

I also meditated to a track called Leaf In The Wind by Izumi Tanaka. I couldn’t find it on YouTube but it is available on Spotify. A beautiful piece which inspired today’s post about fallen leaves.

Soulful Strolls

Despite feeling rough as nuts – I still managed to revive myself in nature. Here’s a little beauty from my Sunday stroll. Nature heals, nature revives, nature soothes the soul.

Soul Sisters

Since I resonated with this post so much today, I would like to share it. Brittany blogs at Ordinarily Extraordinary Mom, where she reminds us that everyone lives an imperfectly perfect life. Her post is a timely reminder that often, the Beauty is IN the Broken.

Stay blessed,

Hayley xx

Soulful Sundays #1: Stew & Strolls

Happy Sunday all.

I have wanted to share a weekly feature called ‘Soulful Sundays’ for a while. 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.

Each Sunday, I will post a roundup of soulful reflections to share, each including recipes, songs, quotes, blogs I have read and/or any other inspirational discoveries to sooth the soul.

My hope is to extend some love outward and to share some simple pleasures with anyone who cares to receive them. Let’s begin shall we?

Soul Food

We all love a little food for the soul. I love to cook, and I especially enjoy cooking tasty foods that nurture our body’s wellbeing. Growing up as a junk food kid – I have finally come to appreciate loving meals that heal and Mother Nature’s medicine. My Mum will have no problems in me divulging her culinary disasters that we had to endure as children. Thankfully, I have evolved enough from my boxed food munching days to be able to share some delicious (and nutritious) recipes with you. Like this Hearty Lentil Curry Stew I discovered and recreated. You can find the full recipe on my website, here.

It is a favourite with my partner and my guests. And the best part about it, is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare and is mouthwateringly tasty! A one pot stew for all the family to enjoy.

Soul Sounds

I have yet to discover how to embed music files here. So for now – it will be YouTube videos I’m afraid. But this track can be found on Spotify also. When I first heard this song, it brought tears to my eyes. In fact, if I’m totally honest, it made me cry. I was listening to it whilst meditating alone in my room and was struck with an overwhelming mixture of emotions. And then, I did something extremely odd, I stood up in the middle of my room and began to dance to it with tears streaming down my face! haha What a picture I was.

I don’t have such an overwhelming reaction to hearing this song anymore, but I do feel lots of hope and joy when I hear it, and I play it most days. Ironically, the song is called Her Joy Is Complete by Sleeping At Last.

Soul Strolls

It’s Springtime here in Melbourne, Australia and I have been out flower-stalking (as usual!) I love connecting with nature – so I will share this little beauty that I snapped along my stroll.

Soul Sisters

And lastly, I would like to share two beautiful posts that struck a chord for me this week.

The first was by Miriam over at Out an’ About, where she showcases the wonderful impact and beauty that humans can make when they collaborate and come together.

The second was written by the ever heartwarming reflections of a teacher over at A Teacher’s Reflections, where she shares her wonderful encounter with her young students as they enjoy the classic children’s story, Charlotte’s Web. 

What is soothing your soul this Sunday?

Warm wishes,

Hayley xx