Pisces New Moon: Surrender, Dream Big & Trust the Magic

On February 27th at 4:44 PM PST (7:44 PM EST), the Pisces New Moon rolls in, bringing that dreamy, mystical energy that makes us feel everything a little deeper. This isn’t just any New Moon—it’s the last one of the astrological year, and it’s opening the door to Eclipse Season, aka one of the most transformative times of the year. No pressure, right?

Pisces energy is all about intuition, creativity, and flow, which means this lunation is inviting us to release control and trust the process—easier said than done, I know. And with Jupiter in the mix, everything might feel extra—bigger emotions, deeper insights, and maybe even a little overwhelm. But here’s the thing: Jupiter expands what we focus on. So if you lean into the silver linings and possibilities, you’ll start to see doors opening that you didn’t even know existed.

Adding to the mix, Mercury and Uranus are shaking things up, making this a moment for unexpected insights, creative breakthroughs, and maybe even a nudge to finally say (or do) that thing you’ve been holding back. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to take a leap, trust your gut, or let go of what’s not working—this is it.

So what’s the move? Dream big. Set intentions. Let go of what’s weighing you down. The universe is working behind the scenes—just give it some space to work its magic. 🌑✨

Radical Self-Love: The Ultimate Love Story Begins with You

This Valentine’s Day, let’s rewrite the love story we tell ourselves. Instead of waiting for love to come from outside, let’s turn inward and cultivate a deep, unwavering love for ourselves—the kind that nurtures, heals, and transforms.

Why Self-Love is the Most Important Love of All

We are taught from an early age to be kind to others, to love deeply, and to give selflessly. But what about offering that same love to ourselves?

Self-love is not just bubble baths and spa days (though those are lovely!). It is a profound commitment to treating yourself with the same tenderness, compassion, and respect that you offer to your dearest friends. It is the foundation of your confidence, boundaries, emotional well-being, and ability to thrive in relationships.

When you cultivate self-love:
✨ You stop seeking external validation to feel worthy.
✨ You make choices that align with your highest good.
✨ You embrace your imperfections as part of your unique magic.
✨ You set boundaries without guilt.
✨ You become your own best friend.

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The Link Between Self-Love and Manifestation

Your relationship with yourself determines what you allow into your life. When you operate from a place of self-worth, you attract experiences, opportunities, and people that reflect that worth. Self-love is the secret ingredient to manifesting your dreams because the Universe responds to the energy you emit.

So, how do you cultivate this deep, unwavering love for yourself?

8 Powerful Ways to Cultivate
Self-Love

1. Speak to Yourself Like Someone You Love

Notice the words you use when talking to yourself. Would you say the same things to a friend? Shift your inner dialogue from self-criticism to self-compassion. Try affirmations like:
💬 "I am worthy just as I am."
💬 "I give myself grace as I grow."

2. Embrace Your Shadow and Light

You are both the sun and the storm. True self-love means embracing all parts of yourself—the joyful, confident you and the one who sometimes struggles. Every part of you is worthy of love.

3. Set Boundaries as a Form of Self-Respect

Saying "no" to what drains you is saying "yes" to yourself. Boundaries are not selfish; they are a sacred act of self-care.

4. Prioritize Rest Without Guilt

Your worth is not tied to how much you accomplish. Give yourself permission to rest—whether it's through Yoga Nidra, journaling, or simply slowing down.

5. Release the Need for Perfection

Perfection is an illusion. Self-love means embracing yourself in all your beautifully imperfect glory. Celebrate progress over perfection.

6. Make Time for Joy

Ask yourself: What brings me joy? Whether it’s dancing, painting, singing, or being by the ocean, infuse your life with things that make your soul light up.

7. Listen to Your Body and Honor Its Needs

Self-love is deeply connected to embodiment. Instead of punishing your body, listen to it. Eat nourishing foods, move in ways that feel good, and rest when needed.

8. Treat Yourself Like the Love of Your Life

Buy yourself flowers. Write love letters to yourself. Take yourself on a solo date. Show yourself the romance and devotion you desire from others.

🌹 P.S. If you’re ready to deepen your self-love practice, join me for my Self-Love Yoga Nidra Journey on February 16th. 💫 This 60-minute guided session will help you release self-doubt, embody self-acceptance, and tap into the most unconditional love of all—your own.

So, what’s the deal with the Dopamine Menu?

It seems to be the current craze, and if you’re wondering what all the buzz is about, let me fill you in. A dopamine menu is all about curating a list of activities that bring you joy, give you that little feel-good boost, and help you stay balanced when life feels overwhelming. It’s like your own personal restaurant menu, but instead of meals, you get to choose from things that light you up and make you feel good, whenever you need a break or a mental pick-me-up.

Now, let’s dive into yours!

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Dopamine: The Brain’s “Feel-Good” Chemical

Dopamine is like a little cheerleader in your brain, making you feel good when you do something you love. It’s a neurotransmitter, part of your body’s reward system, and when it kicks in, it gives you that rush of pleasure that makes you think, “Yes, let’s do this again!” Whether it’s eating something delicious, finishing a task, or enjoying a fun activity, dopamine is there, telling your brain, “Great job! Keep going!”

This is why things like junk food, sugar, and scrolling through social media can be so addictive—they flood your brain with dopamine, making you want to repeat those experiences. While a little dopamine boost is great, too much from these quick-fix sources can create an unhealthy cycle.

When your dopamine levels are balanced, you feel happy, motivated, and focused. But if they’re low, life can feel a little off—you might feel tired, unmotivated, and just generally meh. You might even experience things like memory problems, mood swings, trouble sleeping, and low energy. On the flip side, if your dopamine levels are too high, that can also cause issues.

What Dopamine Does for You:

• Brings Pleasure and Reward: It’s the reason you feel so good when you do something you enjoy.

• Boosts Mood: Helps regulate your emotions and keeps you feeling more balanced.

• Encourages Learning and Memory: Dopamine makes sure you remember those rewarding experiences, reinforcing positive behavior.

• Regulates Hormones: It’s involved in keeping your hormones in check.

• Supports Motor Control: Dopamine also helps with movement and coordination.

• Improves Focus: Keeps your attention sharp, so you can stay on track with tasks.

In short, when dopamine is flowing at a healthy level, you’re motivated, alert, and ready to take on the day. But when it’s out of whack—too high or too low—it can really throw things off. So, whether it’s enjoying a walk outside or savoring a good book, finding ways to naturally stimulate dopamine can help keep you feeling your best.

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What’s a Dopamine Menu?

A dopamine menu is simply a list of activities that trigger your brain’s natural dopamine response. This is the “feel-good” chemical that gives you that rush of pleasure and satisfaction—whether from finishing a project, enjoying a cup of coffee, or listening to your favorite song. When we engage in activities that release healthy amounts of dopamine, our brains say, “Yes! We love this! Let’s do it again!”

Having a go-to list like this is super helpful, especially if you’re feeling stuck, low on energy, or lacking motivation. When you’re not sure what will give you that boost, just look at your menu and choose something that fits your needs in the moment.

Think of it like this:

• Starters or Appetizers are quick activities, perfect for a small burst of joy or motivation. Think a short walk, tidying up, or even listening to a favorite song.

• Main Courses are those activities that take a bit longer but truly fill your cup—like playing an instrument, visiting a friend, or diving into a good book.

• Sides are little things you can add to any activity to make it more enjoyable—like background music, lighting a candle, or listening to a podcast.

• Desserts are indulgent treats, like scrolling social media or watching a favorite show—fine in moderation but easy to overdo.

• Specials are the high-reward activities you may need to plan for, like booking a vacation, going to a concert, or treating yourself to a massage.

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Why It’s Extra Helpful for ADHD

Now, if you have ADHD (or know someone who does), you know how tricky it can be to stay focused, motivated, and on-task. That’s because ADHD brains tend to have lower levels of dopamine, which makes it harder to get that sense of reward from everyday tasks. This is why people with ADHD often gravitate toward things that give them a quick dopamine hit—like social media, video games, or sugary treats.

A dopamine menu is like a secret weapon for managing ADHD because it gives you healthy options for boosting dopamine when your brain needs it most. When you’re feeling low energy or distracted, you can choose something from your menu—like a short yoga session, journaling, or going for a walk—to give yourself a quick mental boost.

On the flip side, if you’re feeling overstimulated and need to calm your mind, your menu can offer grounding activities like meditation, stretching, or sitting down with a hot cup of tea. The beauty of a dopamine menu is that it’s tailored to you. It helps you stay balanced, motivated, and focused without falling into the trap of instant gratification that doesn’t serve you in the long run.

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How to Create Your Own Dopamine Menu

Ready to build your own dopamine menu?

Here’s how to get started:

1. List Your Go-To Feel-Good Activities
   Think about the things that bring you joy or leave you feeling refreshed and energized. These can be as simple as taking a walk, listening to music, or reading a chapter of a book.

2. Categorize Them
   Break your list down into Starters, Main Courses, Sides, Desserts, and Specials. This helps you choose the right activity based on your energy levels or how much time you have.

3. Use It When You Need It
   When you’re feeling low, overstimulated, or just need a quick reset, look at your dopamine menu and pick something that feels right. It’s like a gentle nudge from your brain, reminding you that joy is always an option.

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Final Thoughts

Your dopamine menu is your invitation to engage in intentional joy. It’s a way to honor your needs, stay balanced, and give your brain the healthy stimulation it craves. Especially for those with ADHD, this tool can help you regain control of your focus and motivation, keeping you grounded in activities that truly nourish your soul.

So, what will you put on your dopamine menu? Take a few minutes to jot down your list and see how it feels to have these little bursts of happiness ready and waiting for you.

Until next time, keep honoring your joy, your energy, and the balance you deserve.

You’ve got this!

Transition: Embracing Life's Constant Flow

Is transition a part of life, or is life a constant transition?

It's a question that has lingered in my mind as I reflect on the many changes I've experienced. We all go through it, whether it's the start of a new career or the end of a job, a new relationship, a breakup, or a move to a new home, city, state, or even country. Aging, too, is a series of transitions, from one stage of life to another, each bringing its own mix of emotions and experiences.

Yesterday, I officially closed a significant chapter in my life—my New York chapter.

It is the day I signed the closing papers for my NY apartment, it all became real. A part of my heart will always remain in NYC, with its endless energy and vibrant streets.

But now, I'm looking forward to making California my future, at least for now. 😉

Transitions take time, and while it can feel difficult and bittersweet to move on, there’s also a quiet excitement that comes with embracing what’s next.

I've been in Southern California since 2021, and yet it’s taken three years to fully look forward to a future in the Golden State. This isn’t my first big transition; I've moved from France to Thailand to the US, and there from Pennsylvania, Texas, New York, Iowa (during the pandemic), and now Los Angeles. Each transition carried with it a mix of excitement and sadness. I got married, divorced, became a mom, and rescued many pets. My career journey has been just as varied—I was a travel agent, an assistant, a yoga teacher, a yoga mentor, and now a life coach. And the learning never stops—most recently, I became a certified hypnotherapist, integrating it into my coaching to help remove the blocks that hinder our growth.

Life’s ups and downs are inevitable.

Sometimes we glide through them with ease, and other times we carry a sadness that lingers. But I’ve learned to transform fear into excitement, worries into new possibilities, and angst into deep breaths.

It’s not always graceful; I often feel messy and out of sorts. But I try to find grace in the midst of it all—grace for myself, which allows me to navigate these changes with compassion for the feelings that arise.

The support of a few close friends and the love of an open-hearted community have been my anchors through these transitions.

Here’s what I’ve learned about easing the transition process:

• Accept the Discomfort:

Change is normal, and you may experience growing pains and make mistakes along the way. Instead of judging, expecting, or hoping for something different, try to tolerate situations for what they are.
It’s okay to feel sad, angry, joyful, and excited —sometimes all at once.

• Practice Self-Care:

You know I’m all about this! Move your body, even if it’s just a walk around the block, and allow yourself to relax—meditation is my go-to. It’s about nurturing your well-being, especially when things feel uncertain.

• Establish Routines:

Transitions can disrupt our routines, which can leave us feeling unsettled. Routines provide consistency during change, but staying flexible is key, too, so you can adapt to unexpected challenges. I journal most days, meditate, and practice being present to keep my mind from escalating stress.

• Give Yourself a Break:

It’s okay to feel sad one moment and happy the next. You don’t have to be anyone but yourself. Be honest and listen to your body—it knows what you need most. Sleep when you’re tired, go for a run or a yoga class, or turn up the music and dance if you’ve got pent-up energy. And when you need to talk, reach out to a friend, therapist, or coach. You don’t have to go through transitions alone.

If you’re going through a transition right now or thinking about transitioning and need clarity, let’s talk. Book a complimentary coaching call.

I’m here to support you as you navigate your own transitions.

Full Super Blue Moon

The full moon has long been associated with heightened emotions, sleep disturbances, and erratic behavior, giving rise to the term "lunacy" and inspiring myths like werewolves.

In both ancient mythologies and modern spiritual practices, it is seen as a time of spiritual enlightenment, where intuition is heightened and the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds is thinner, allowing for deeper insights.

The full moon is believed to be a potent moment for rituals of transformation, self-reflection, and setting intentions. While some scientific studies suggest a correlation between sleep disruptions and the full moon, the reasons remain unclear and more studies are being done.

Monday, August 19th at 11:26 am PST (2:26 pm EST), the Full Super Blue Moon in Aquarius will be exact.

So what does that mean for you?

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Key Themes for this Full Moon:

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1. Balance and Integration:

   • This lunation challenges us to balance Leo's self-expression with Aquarius's vision for humanity. It's a call to embody our authentic selves while recognizing our interconnectedness with others.

2. Embrace Change:

   • With the Full Moon squaring Uranus, there's a strong emphasis on change—especially unexpected, swift changes that may feel unsettling but are necessary for growth. It encourages us to embrace innovation and break free from outdated structures.

3. Reflection and Release:

   • As a Full Moon, it's an opportunity to reflect on what has been cultivated and to release what no longer serves us. The presence of Mercury retrograde amplifies the need to look back before moving forward.

4. Heightened Emotional Energy:

   • The Supermoon amplifies emotions, potentially causing mood swings or heightened sensitivity. This is a time to navigate through these emotions with awareness and patience.

5. Community and Collective Consciousness:

   • Aquarius, representing the collective, encourages us to reflect on our role within communities and groups. It's a time to consider how our actions and gifts can positively impact the world.

6. Rarity and Significance:

   • The Super Blue Moon in Aquarius is rare, the first since August 2014, making this lunation exceptionally powerful for manifesting new visions and goals.

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Astrological Implications:

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• Mercury Retrograde in Leo: Invites introspection and urges us to reassess before making new moves.

• Uranus in Taurus: Promotes radical shifts, particularly in areas related to stability, security, and material concerns.

• Fixed Signs Involvement: The alignment of the Moon, Sun, and Mercury in fixed signs (Aquarius, Leo, Taurus) emphasizes determination but also the need to adapt to inevitable change.

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Practical Advice:

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• Flow with Changes: Instead of resisting, surrender to the unfolding changes. This is a time for adaptability and open-mindedness.

• Clarify Intentions: Use the powerful energy of this Supermoon to gain clarity about your desires and let go of what hinders your progress.

• Community Focus: Consider how your actions and contributions affect the larger community, and align your goals with collective well-being.

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This Full Super Blue Moon is a potent time to recalibrate your personal and collective intentions, embrace change, and fully express your authentic self while considering your role within the larger whole.