I'm not one to celebrate myself, especially when it comes to my birthday. In fact, I will share that I am EXTREMELY hard on myself… (I sense a smile and nod of agreement from those reading this who know me best, I see you Joy Newman & Missy Beck). I bask in the joy of celebrating others. However, there are three rituals I do every year on my birthday.
Ritual #1
On the eve of my birthday, (which this year, will be a FULL MOON, where I'll be teaching class at the Gale Hotel Rooftop.) I write myself a little love note of reflection from the past year and intentions for the year ahead.
I'll carry this love note in my wallet for the next 365 days. It's a reminder that's always accessible and gives me the ability to check-in with myself. To reflect on where I have been, how far I have come, and how I continue to MOVE FORWARD (my mantra) with strong will, kindness and grace. Celebrating triumphs, knowing that challenges will arise, but allowing myself to persevere with support from my community, my dearest friends, and my loving family who want and envision the very best for me.
Ritual #2
I indulge in pizza and Momofuku Milk confetti cake with my closest friends & family.
Ritual #3
Dougie Hugs from Jack!
As I look back on this past year, my biggest takeaways are my love of yoga and launching this platform with Jack (my nephew, my business partner, and my inspiration). I am grateful to be back in my hometown of Miami, Florida, to be closer family, reconnect with old friends, (shoutout to Marisa Marcus & Mitch Sklawer for the amazing opportunity at Shelborne & Gale Hotel) and make new ones (Shoutout to Emily at Aiyanasempiredg for Goat Yoga, in the Village of Pinecrest, Florida). I continue to hold NYC in my heart, with a plane ticket tucked in my back pocket.
I am a work in progress… I look forward to experiencing and seeing what unfolds in my future.
I invite you to join me in my birthday rituals and on my journey - leave a comment and let me know how you celebrate your birthday!
“Don’t just count your years, make your years count” - George Meredith