3 Steps to SPRING Forward into a Beautiful Life

"Life can be beautiful if you let it," is my mantra for the season. That's my main objective, to live a beautiful life. For me, that's why springtime is the perfect time to clean house physically and mentally by shedding old stagnant energy and renewing one's resolve to getting what you want out of life.

Here are 3 easy steps that you can take today towards getting what you want... for me, that's a beautiful life:

Step 1. Set an intention by telling the universe what you want. There are a couple of ways to do this: writing it down in a journal, using affirmations, or just thinking good thoughts about what you want are my go-to methods. For some, dream boards are a favorite, in my case... Pinterest, lol. However, with the first two, personally, I like to journal or verbally affirm what I want when I'm already in a good feeling mood. This way, whatever I'm telling myself is not forced or not something that I truly don't believe (yet). Asking or stating desires is the easy part, because we want for stuff all the time, right? The difference is in how you are wanting... is it coming from a place of lack? Because if it is, that's just resistance in disguise. And any resistance you have regarding the matter at hand, whatever it is, wrecks and slows up its flow to you.   

However, what if I told you that when things happen (resistance) that you don't like, you are, in effect, asking for the thing you don't like to be different? It's true. This is called clarifying your desires... becoming crystal clear about what you don't want makes you absolutely more sure about what you do want. No one likes resistance, but it IS a part of the ebb and flow of life, therefore necessary. It's all about how you look at it.

Step 2. Chill out, relax and appreciate the now. Your everyday existence cannot get better if you're busy bemoaning how bad things are (if they are, in fact, that bad). Focusing on undesirable circumstances only creates more undesirable circumstances. 

You cannot IMAGINE how good your life would be if you milked the little, good things out of your day as much as you do the stuff that annoys you or gets you BIG mad. The more you chill out, relax, and let things happen for you after you set an intention, you'll start to notice that the thing(s) you set an intention for or spoke about will start popping up all around you, in big and little ways. You just have to pay attention.

I love to gush over, appreciate and make a big deal over the littlest things, like how good my ice cream is on a hot day, how perfect the weather is, how delicious my pasta was at lunch, how easy it is to access fresh juice that I love, etc., etc. I MILK all the juice out of the things that feel good to me. No good thing goes unnoticed. As a result, good sh*t keeps finding its way to me, and I to it all along my path. If you appreciate small things with great intensity, you get warmed up on the path to bigger and better AND more of the same things that make you happy. Over and over again.

Step 3. Watch for the signs that want you want is on its way to you, and follow your good feeling impulses. There are signs on your path to stuff and experiences you want to have every single day. Your path is always leading you— your job is to find joy in the journey. Think of following good feeling impulses as another way of "following your bliss," but in a more simplified fashion. Instead of some big lofty run away from life fantasy, it's more like run towards that which feels good. You know the feeling when inspiration strikes? Well, when your vibe is right, your actions will start to feel more inspired. You'll notice urges or feel an inner encouragement to act on an idea, go certain places. This is what I mean by good feeling impulses. When your vibe is right, opportunities, people you need to connect with, fun you want to have, things you want will literally start to fall right in your lap. You'll be moving along minding your own self business, and BAM! A whole funstorm of good times and "happy accidents" will roll right up on you.

Think about the last time you had a day where everything seemed to go favorably for you. Notice what was different about it. Did you find yourself smiling at strangers? Did they smile back? Were you tense or relaxed? Lots of good eye contact with others; open body language? That's probably a yes to nearly all of these, right? The point is that you get what you put out. If you're putting out good energy, that's what you're going to get in return. The main focus is not necessarily on getting stuff. Having things is great, but feeling good day to day is the key to opening up your life and space up to receive. If you can master that, you'll be well on your way to living a beautiful life filled with your heart's deepest desires.

5 Things to do in Riviera Maya's Pueblo Sacbe Community

Discovering hidden and little locally known gems is my fave. So I was ecstatic when I was invited to hang out in Sacbe, a Mayan Riviera sustainable community in the heart of the jungle of Playa del Carmen. Sacbe is a private property, so you basically have to know someone and have their permission to enter. Lucky for you... my Tia Ira and I are working together to bring in small groups of women (and men) who want to experience Sacbe and all of the natural wonders it has to offer. 

 Although it's not far removed from the hustle and bustle of the thriving 5th Avenue district-- once you're in, you'll understand why it's such a closely guarded secret that locals don't want tourists trampling all over. 

Here are a few things that you will want to do in Sacbe:

Enjoy a vegan and vegetarian prepared meal with friends and locals. 

Bill, an owner of the one of the properties in Sacbe, is a retired expat living in the nearly completely self-sustained community. The wood-fire oven, which he built, is often used to when he hosts weekend gatherings, where fresh, organic healthy food is always on the menu and in demand. Guests are encouraged to use the kitchen to make communal meals from ingredients that they bring for all to sample and enjoy while dancing the day away.  

Me at Cenote El Toh

Go for a swim in one of the private Cenotes.

Cenotes were a part of a system of underground "freatico" rivers that were the main water source for the Mayans thousands of years ago. Cenote water is similar to ocean water, but much softer and sweeter. The Mayans considered the cenotes sacred, not only because of their importance as a water source and irrigation system for their crops, but it was also used in rituals to communicate with their god of rain, Chaac. Today, to honor the integrity of the waters, when swimming in a cenote, or any body of natural water, really-- wearing biodegradable sunscreen and repellant is a necessity to keep it clean and protect the delicate eco-system.

Visit the Ebben Ku del Portal Xibalaba temple for special healing events. 

Ebben Ku regularly hosts cacao, Temazcal and sound healing/meditation ceremonies for locals and invited guests. The circle of cacao ceremony is a gathering to help participants be present and get centered in their bodies and to listen to the body and heart in silence. It allows one to honor the ancestors' memories using old Mayan rituals. At the conclusion of cacao drinking, the circle "opens" (comes out of silence) with the introduction of special instruments, singing mantras, and chanting. The circle's guide leads, then invites others to sing special and meaningful songs that build on the energy of love and compassion.

The musical sound healing and meditation is an eclectic combination of traditional acoustic instruments from various cultures. These ancestral instruments are designed to invoke meditative, contemplative thoughts and feelings within the body, and to effect the molecular structure of the body's cells. Music healing combines aromatherapy, with crystal and color therapy to restore and soothe the body and mind.

Finally, the Temazcal ceremony... Temazcal is a Nahuatl word that means house where you sweat. These small spaces are a part of traditional medicinal practices from different cultures of Mesoamerica. During Temazcal, the body is detoxed and purified using heat and infusions of natural herbs. It is an intense experience, so make sure you enter into it well-hydrated.

House Hunt

Sacbe is a small, but growing community of like-minded people who wish to conserve the jungle, preserve the natural (and stunningly beautiful) water system, build using sustainable materials, while respecting its village of indigenous and ethnically diverse residents. The grounds are full of a whimsical homes which defy architectural norms and have to be seen to be believed. Take a look at the video below for a tour of one the homes currently under construction. 

Experience full-body clay healing therapy in the cavern of the Cenote Guadalupe.

Inside of the cavern walls you can get a full-body treatment using local clay with natural minerals and essential oil infusions. The mixture is applied all over the body to help with various physical ailments, including pain the body caused by stress and muscular tension relief. The clay is a natural exfoliant that also rehydrates the skin. Afterwards re-invigorate your senses and float around in cenote Guadalupe's chilly crystalline blue-green waters while peering up through the natural skylight from the ground above you.

Check out the video below to watch footage from my visit to Pueblo Sacbe and see why it's a special, magical place. If you want more information on how to visit Sacbe, hit me up here or contact Casa Corazon. See you in paradise! 

3 Morning Habits to Change Your Energy and Create the Life You Want

A couple of plates of win to get the day started... notice the laptop... literally attached to my hip. Alas, the life of a digital nomad.

There’s this saying that goes “ if you’re not happy with what you are about to get up and go do, then you need to get up and change your situation.” 

I'm one of those people who believe in change. And creating lasting, far reaching change is much easier to do than you think. Here's how: 

1. Positively encourage yourself before rising. Notice the things that you appreciate and that you have to look forward to during the day. For me the lure of a tea and good breakfast is often enough to get me up and moving. Most days I wake up feeling pretty good. Some days I’m more energetic and enthusiastic than others, but for the most part I roll out on the “right” side of the bed. But when there are times that I don't, and little bit of self-encouragement goes a long way. It might take more reinforcing than usual throughout the day, yes. But it helps. 

2. Create a morning ritual. By now you know I have a regular yoga and meditation practice— that helps me tremendously. It helps me with my patience, my attutude (yes, Lordt!), my clarity, it helps me to prioritize, it helps with my sense of focus and balance-- all of that. For you it might be exercise, or reading or praying in the morning. Whatever it is that's good for you, take time to do that-- even if it's just 5-10 minutes. You deserve it that much time for you, don't you? Of course you do.

3. Finally, this was the biggest thing: What changed in me that allowed me to change my situation, which now affords me a bit more freedom with how I move is #1-- my attitude about what I was getting up to do day to day. The internal conversations that I’d have (and still do) with myself about what I was about to do has been the biggest daily habit that has helped me create all of these wonderful new experiences.

Example: I’m no morning person, so when I had to get up early to commute on the train, it was sort of a pain in the arse, but I never allowed myself to focus on that. I used that time to listen to inspirational messaging, to read and to focus my mind on how I was going to have the best, most productive day. Everyday.

I told myself that this commute situation was temporary, but while it lasted it was going to be peaceful. I told myself the same thing about going into the office. I focused on the good— how quiet it was, how everyone on my team was super capable, how I appreciated the teamwork, how much I looked forward to lunch everyday in the city… blah, blah, blah.  Whatever it took. I milked the good for all that it was worth. I talked myself into a better and better situation. And now I work wherever I like. BOOM! *mind blown* 

This is the work. Baby steps towards small changes to your habits creates big time change. Like my dude @necessaryblackness says, “Change your energy, change your life.” It’s that simple. 

Leave a comment here or hit me on social. How are you creating positive change in your life? What habits do you have in the morning or throughout the day that are helping you?

My 7 Fave Places to Co-Work + EAT in Playa del Carmen

So, I've been in Playa del Carmen just over a month now. And one of my immediate tasks was to figure out who has the good wifi and access to food and caffeine to fuel the workday. Most people here who work online will assure you that the wifi is trash. It's been my experience that most days are decent. With the exception of today-- my home signal has dropped more times than I can count at this point. But no worries... it always comes right back up (mostly). It's a good thing I'm spending most of my time writing today and not surfing, however. Aside from that... my studio apartment is very comfy and has literally everything that I need. So, it's easy to just stay in the house and work, but that's not why I'm here. I wanted to be immersed in the community and get to know people. Therefore, going out-- if only for a few hours daily is a must. 

I've made my way around and here are a few jewels I've uncovered. Some of these places are already known, tried and true in the digital nomad community, others I kind of discovered on my own, not having seen any previous mention in the groups that I belong to.

HOT 

Hot was recommended to me by a fellow traveler who was passing through. My new buddy Juanita said she passed through hot everyday for breakfast. And their menu selection does not disappoint. They are one of the few places I've been able to find that serves breakfast all day. On the menu, they have everything from waffles to omelettes to smoothies to bagel sammies. And that's just breakfast. I enjoy working at Hot because it's relatively chill They play a rotation of American pop (if you're into that sort of thing) which you don't get to hear everywhere. And they're not too busy during the week-- especially compared to the bustling in and out activity at some of the neighboring cafes. The only two downsides are that there seems to be a limited number of outlets indoors, and none on the patio. So, make sure you're charged up. Also, they are doing construction right across the way-- which is loud enough to possibly be a distraction for some (not me). But if you have to take calls, you'll definitely be confined to staying inside. Aside from that, I love that it's not over air conditioned inside and the staff is super pleasant and will leave you to your work.

Chou Chou

Chou Chou is a digital nomad favorite in the neighborhood, and for good reason. It's beautiful, the bakery case is lit, and the wifi is strong. During the week this is the perfect place to grab a bite or a fresh juice and tap away at your keyboard. The menu is mostly of the healthy variety, but has a decent selection at a great price. I typically spend only about 100-130 pesos for a meal and beverage. That's $5-6.50 USD for fresh juice and organic eats. Say whaaat?! Yes, boo. That's a steal. I try to have something different every time I go there... looking forward to that quiche the next time. It's been calling out to me. Stop and chat with Marie, one of the beautiful co-owners-- she has such warm and welcoming energy.   

At Chou Chou, you'll find a decent amount of plugins, indoors and out, plus plenty of seating. The single con is that the restaurant closes early on Mondays. But, considering that they didn't used to be open at all on Monday, I guess a few hours is better than none.

The Little Teapot

The Little Teapot is one of the first happy surprises I found on the busy 5th Avenue strip. An avid tea drinker, I was drawn to it for obvious reasons. It's the only teahouse I've come across so far. It's quaint, with a large loose leaf tea selection, which they offer by the cup and to carry home. There are a couple of outlets on patio, which, by the way, is perfect spot for people watching. I especially like to chill there in the evening. The one con is that because there's only patio seating, if you go in the daytime, depending on the position of the sun, it can really heat up, even though they have an awning. And although they do not serve yerba mate (my personal fave), their selection of black blend teas (read, higher doses of caffeine) make up for it. And for this, I forgive them.

Ah Cacao, 38th

Ah Cacao is another spot frequented by digital nomads seeking delish coffee (so I hear). I know for a fact their chai tea is bangin' and if you have a sweet tooth, they have plenty of baked goods to satisfy your needs. Their prices are on par with Starbucks (which the locals consider to be expensive), and there are several locations on and near 5th Ave. The one that most locals, and people like myself who work remotely frequent is the one between 38th and 40th. It has a large interior and patio, plus additional seating upstairs for those seeking a little more quiet. Essentially everyone up there is working, so don't come around all chatty patty taking your conference calls in that section. The outlets are plentiful and that wifi is strong. The only con is that there was a rumor going around that after 90 minutes you've got to buy something else or hit the bricks. A fellow roaming worker friend of mines assured me that no one is going to kick you out. Although, your wifi will expire, you simply have to log back in using your initial code on your receipt. Problem solved.

Elemento Cocina Creativa

I came across this lovely, spacious delight with a gallery feel, following the tree shade, zig zagging through the residential area between my place and 5th. This spot definitely is definitely off the beaten tourist path. Yet, something about it feels a little Brooklyn hipster. Don't get me wrong, it's serene and beautiful. They serve breakfast all day (a win in my book), it's vegetarian friendly-- plus, it's attached to an actual co-working space-- so you know the wifi is goody. It's exactly the kind of place where I'd like to brunch. The only con is that it's not open on Sundays. Boooo! Aside from that, everything you need is right there for you-- including cute little boho chic throw pillows or an oversized handmade dreamcatcher that you might like to figure out how to pack up and take back home with you. 

Be Roof

I finally got the chance to work here when my mom came to visit. I was looking for some place chill where she and I could both relax while I worked. This was the perfect place. We nabbed one of the queen-sized lounge beds in the shade and ordered a couple of caipirinhas. She watched TCM, while I typed. The weather was ideal-- not too hot and the space is pretty dope with a great view of Playa. There's a lounge pool on the opposite side of the bar. They play ambient house music-- which I can tolerate, the wifi was strong the entire time, and I was able to work undisturbed all afternoon. If you're not a drinker, I highly recommend the fresa agua. That's sweetened strawberry water-- soooo refreshing. A couple of cons to consider are: There aren't very many outlets around; so, make sure you're charged up. And, I hear that getting a good seat can be a challenge if the hotel below it is particularly busy. And me, I'm always thinking about exposure to the sun... and since this spot IS on top of a roof... you can see how that might be an issue. Bring your sunscreen, kids. On the upside, you're working on a rooftop with a pool and a bar... one can always just grab a beer and jump in the water to cool off. I think I like that trade-off. 

Starbucks, Ultramar ferry terminal

Some Starbucks are busier that others in Playa, and there seems to be no less that 5 in the area. This one, is probably the least busy of all. I like that... all the comforts of Starbucks, with accessible outlets and plenty of seats... aaaand... overlooking the ocean. It makes the long walk (from my neighborhood) all the way down to the end of 5th to the ferry pier almost worth it. Now that I've discovered so many other places to work, this is no longer my number one go-to, but it is lovely nonetheless. I mean, just look at the view.

The legit con at this location, is having to pack up your stuff to go next door to use the public ferry bathroom. It's not the worst in terms of public restrooms, but definitely not cute. And when I say pack your stuff, please believe me. I walked away from a pair of sunglasses at a Starbucks just to go to the counter and order a shot of espresso and somebody got me for my sunnies. I was a little peeved, but it taught my a** a valuable lesson. Do not leave anything out or unattended. To be fair, it happened at a different Starbucks. But the point is that was only a 12 dollar loss... they could have clipped me for my wallet-- which I carelessly left in my bag at the table. Warning received; lesson learned. 

So, that's all I have for now! If you're in or around Playa del Carmen and looking for a co-working spot hit one of these up... and maybe we'll run into each other. Work smart, not hard! 

3 Reasons Why Traveling Alone is Great For Introverts

“Introverts unite, separately.”

One of the most surprising details I've learned about traveling alone is how much I enjoy it. A natural introvert, this should not have come as a surprise to me. I enjoy my own company a great deal when at home, and solo travel has proven to be no different for 3 reasons:

1. My schedule is my own.

I can sleep in if I want, whenever I want. The best thing about taking an extended stay abroad, for me, is not having to rush around everyday feeling like I have to do and see it all. There are a number of places where I want to go and things I want to do, yes. But because there is no sense of scarcity in time, everything I want happens when it's supposed to. Plus, I allow myself the flexibility to change my plans if something else comes up that I'd rather do in the moment. I also move with the sense that I will be back more than once to a place. So, whatever I don't get to do this time around, I will get to the next time. This attitude by itself takes so much stress out of travel because I'm not stretching myself thin with long weary days of checking off a to do list. I just go with the flow and trust that I'm going to have a good time doing whatever I ultimately decided. Which brings me to number 2.

2. I, alone, decide my itinerary.

When you travel solo, you are 100% in control of when you come and go and where you're at in any given moment. For example, if I'm at a boring event or a crappy restaurant, I can just get up leave whenever I feel like it. I don't have to consult with anyone. I don't have to consider if my partner or joining party is ready or not. I'm ready, and that's what matters. If I want to go snorkeling, but the opportunity to go horse-backing comes up and I want to do that instead, I recalibrate and head to the stables. No one is here to disagree with my decision about how my day should go. I choose my adventure.

3. I can choose to be alone (or not).

One of the things I hear other travelers complain about is loneliness. This concept just doesn't phase me. This is one of the powers of introversion, I think. Even back at home, it was common for me to go days without leaving the house, seeing or talking to others. This happens quite naturally when traveling alone, and I'm fine with it. Especially after being out all day on an adventure. Meeting, talking to and interacting with people is fun and a part of the excitement of being in a new place. However, at the end of the day, I'm spent and I need the quiet of being alone to rejuvenate me. On the occasion where I'm meeting and hanging out with friends all day or for the evening, it's even more critical for me to recuperate and re-charge. The thing is I get to choose if I want involve others with my plans, or go along with theirs. Either way, it's up to me. And by the way, befriending strangers has done wonders for my socializing skills. Trust me, learning to be social is definitely something that I've had to practice and work at over the years. It seems the years of forcing myself to learn to break the ice and network in a room full of strangers has really paid off. Now, I'm at the point where meeting and talking to strangers is a completely natural, everyday occurrence. 

So, if you're an introvert, traveling solo might just help you poke your head out of your shell much further than normal. But there's also plenty of time to retreat from the world and be alone, even in a bustling city full of people. For me, it's one of the most  liberating, exhilarating, peaceful experiences I've had in a long time.  

Do you travel solo? If not, why??? Leave me a comment or hit me on the 'Gram.