Happy New Year Yogis,
This is such a wonderful time of year, when once in a calendar cycle we get to consciously declare that which we wish to Create; and resolve to Release that which no longer serves. Rituals, like these, bring with them a deep and meaningful sense of reflection and imbibe our lives with a richness of custom and rites of passage that may get overlooked within the routine of our regular, daily lives.
As you set forth into this New Year observe the quality of this custom, the invitation to 'Say Out Loud' that which you desire. How does it make you feel? How will the quality of your life be enhanced, made 'richer', fuller, 'better' and how will that deepening enhance the lives of your loved ones and the community over-all.
These declarations have power, whether made out loud in a festive group or softly, silently to oneself as the sun rises on the first day of 2013.
As for me, I approach this time of reflection, mostly, with a sense of allowing for the natural Excitement in the ways my life is already unfolding to Arise and Deepen the seeds within me.
May those seeds be infused with Courage, Vitality and Love and may what Springs Forth serve to en-liven and en-lighten us all.
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In the meantime, here's an easy, delicious and healthful way to start your year off right. I've been making it for years and it's oh so good.
Raw Kale Salad
1 bunch Dinosaur Kale
1/2 - 1 clove garlic (depending on your taste and desired result)
1/2 c. Olive Oil
1 lemon
1 large pinch of Salt
1 - 1 1/2 handfuls tomatoes
Rise and de-spine 1 bunch of Dinosaur Kale (the dark dark green kind). Hand tear into 1 inch pieces and leave to drip dry. In the bottom of a large bowl add garlic, finely minced or run through a garlic press (my preferred method but note that the flavor will be much more intense), Olive Oil and Lemon, hand squeezed (you may need more or less depending on the size). Then add the Kale. Mix to coat. Once coated add the Salt to the top and begin to massage the Kale, Salt and Dressing until the Kale begins to softly wilt. The tomatoes are added at the last. Enjoy right away or allow to marinade (if you can wait) a couple of hours.
Until next time Be Well and Namaste'
Shanti