Þetta Reddast (pronounced thet-ta re-dust) means it’s all going to work out in the end. Go with the flow and everything will be okay.
Icelanders know (and have a knack for reminding the rest of us!) that…
We are all connected to nature.
Change is inevitable, but stress is optional.
Joy, calm and humor are always available.
Nimbleness, not rigidity, reveals stability.
We recently returned from our amazing Let There Be Light — Be Awed in Iceland Yoga Retreat with Hanan & Heather, November 7-13, 2024. We witnessed God’s stunning creation in this land of fire and ice. Our gutsy group of adventurous retreaters experienced rainy days with gusty winds (up to 60mph!), taking in all of the sites and elements of this wonderland. Our chances were supposedly “slim” to see the Northern Lights due to rainy conditions and cloud cover all week, but we prayed in faith to see the striking phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis. And, God showed up big time and graciously answered our prayers! Do you see the angel wing? ❤️
Those who live at the ends of the earth stand in awe of your wonders. From where the sun rises to where it sets, you inspire shouts of joy.
Psalm 65:8 NLT
Upon landing in Iceland, we embarked on our journey to see the Reykjanes Lighthouse, Gunnuhver, and enjoyed several hours at the luxurious Blue Lagoon. In the days following, we toured the Golden Circle sites, including the Kerio Crater, Pingvelir National Park (where you stand between two continents), the Fontana Wellness Geothermal Bakery and healing waters, Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall. We visited the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Reynisfjara Black Beach, and Solheimajokull Glacier. Many in our group added in additional experiences, such as glacier hiking, spa days, horseback riding, and exploring the city of Reykjavik and the town of Selfoss during their free time. And, of course, we offered a variety of yoga practices for guests to unwind and soak in the goodness of their experiences. Enjoy a sampling of photos in the following slideshow…
Hanan and I are beyond grateful to curate unique retreat destinations and experiences. All of our offerings are divinely put together as we seek God first and pray for every detail. Each person joining us contributes such a beautiful piece to the collective whole, and we always come away in awe and wonder of God’s provision and blessing. Our next international retreat will be in Portugal September 2025. Are you being led to join us in travel and adventure? The Sacred calls us into the Wild, and the Wild calls us into the Sacred. –Victoria Loorz
Wait quietly in my presence while My thoughts form silently in the depths of your being. Do not rush this process, because hurry keeps your heart earth bound. I am the Creator of the entire universe yet I choose to make my humble home in your heart. It is there where you know me most intimately; it is there where I speak to you in holy whispers. Ask My Spirit to quiet your mind so that you can hear my still small voice within you. I am speaking to you continually…words of AWE & WONDER. Tune your heart to receive these messages of abundant blessing. Lay your requests before Me, and what in expectation.
In every relationship, people are constantly exchanging energy that can become a cord connecting two people. This energetic cord forms just below the breastbone and can remain long after a relationship has ended. This unbroken cord may leave an open channel between you and another person, through which emotions and energy can continue to flow. If you are unaware that the cord exists, it is easy to feel the other person’s emotions and mistakenly think that they are yours. Besides the fact that this can limit the amount of closure you can experience in a relationship, letting this cord remain intact can leave you with a continued sense of sadness while creating feelings of lethargy as your own energy is sapped from you. Cutting the cord can help you separate yourself from old baggage, unnecessary attachments, and release you from connections that are no longer serving you.
Finding and cutting unwanted cords is a simple, gentle process that is best done alone and when you are relaxed. It is important that you are strong in your intention to release the cord between you and someone else. To begin, breathe deeply and perform a simple centering meditation. When you are ready, visualize or sense the cords that are connecting you to other people. Run your fingers through the cords to separate them until you find the cord you wish to sever. There is no need to worry, because the cord you need to sever will feel just right. [Or, there may be no cord to sever at this time.] [If and] When you have found it, determine where the cut should be made and then visualize the cord being cleanly cut. Afterwards, if you feel that cutting the cord has left spaces in your energy field, visualize those spaces being filled with healing light.
There may be times where cutting a cord can help free a relative or loved one to reach new stages of growth. You’re not severing a relationship, but you are severing the cords that are no longer serving you both. At other times, a cord may simply refuse to be cut because it is still serving a higher purpose. It is also important to remember that cutting a cord with someone is not a replacement for doing your emotional work with people. It can, however, be an enactment of that work upon its completion. In any case, cutting a relationship cord should always be viewed as a positive and nurturing act. By cutting the cords that no longer need to be there, you are setting yourself and others free from the ties that bind. ~ Madisyn Taylor
INTIMACY = In To Me See How we look at others and treat them is often a reflection of how we see and treat ourselves.
I let go of the cords keeping me attached to ______________ (a person or situation).
I release all that no longer serves me to embrace positive change in my life.
I breathe love into myself. I can do what is required with love.
This exercise is perfect for times when you are feeling energetically drained by someone or a situation.
Think of a person you wish to let go of, or cut off from, or forgive. It might be someone who is presently in your life regularly, or not so frequent. They might be near to you or far away. Or it might be someone from your past. Visualize the person standing in front of you. Think of your reasons for letting this person or issue leave your life. It may be because the person or situation harms your well-being or causes you to feel negative emotions, or simply because it is time to let go of the situation once and for all. Let yourself feel all the emotions attached to the situation and the person.
Now bring your attention to your Solar Plexus, your stomach area. Visualize a fine silvery energy cord that reaches from your solar plexus to their solar plexus, this silver cord that creates the link, the attachment to each other. See it radiate and pulsate as it feeds the energy connection. Every time you even think about this person or be in contact with this person, the link between you is being strengthened.
Now imagine that you have a big pair of golden scissors in your hands–visualize yourself cutting through this energy cord with the scissors. If it does not cut through the first time, do it again with emotional strength behind it. Detaching yourself from this person [or situation]. Dissolving the connection.
You are now completely detached. I invite you to surround the person [or situation] with healing light, wish them well, bless them with love and forgiveness for their journey, and watch them turn around and move off on their path.
Feel the release around your solar plexus. I encourage you to pull any remaining energy back into your solar plexus–by simply telling yourself “I bring all my energy back to me.” Now cover and seal your solar plexus chakra with thick yellow light. You are safe and protected. You hold your own energy with love.
I don’t depend on my own strength to accomplish this; however I do have one compelling focus: I forget all of the past as I fasten my heart to the future instead. ~ Philippians 3:13 TPT
It is important we all find people that believe in us just as we believe in others.
There are times in our lives when we may find ourselves facing challenges that can seem overwhelming. The situation or task we are struggling with seems hopeless, and it is easy to stop believing in ourselves, our goals, and our dreams. It is during these moments that it can be reassuring and reaffirming to turn to the people in our lives who do believe in us, especially when we are finding it hard to believe in ourselves. An encouraging word, a reassuring look, or hearing the words “I believe in you” from someone who matters can help us turn our situation around in an instant.
Everybody has someone who believes in them, whether this person is a teacher, parent, friend, loved one, or an employer. Often their belief can wrap us in warmth, bolster us, and offer us a supportive hand to grab onto until we can regain our own support. Having that special person who believes in our abilities and our worth is a wonderful gift. But when we are feeling unworthy, it may be difficult to take in something so precious. We may even feel like we need to do it all on our own and that we shouldn’t be asking for help. However, in letting their belief and support impact you, you are acknowledging the part of yourself that knows you are worthy of trust and esteem. By allowing them to believe in you, your own belief in yourself and your abilities will start to emerge again. Borrow their vision, and you can make it your own.
If your special someone is not there to spur you on, you also can lift yourself up with the gift of a positive image. When you feel uncertain, you can create a vision of the future you desire that will serve as a beacon of light. To do so, simply imagine a future that is exactly as you’d like it to be. Imagine in detail how you feel, what you are doing, and how others are responding to you. Make your vision as real as possible, and allow your doubts to recede so you can focus solely on the goal you seek. The more intently you focus on the image of what you want, your belief in yourself will step to the forefront, making it easier for the universe [the Divine] to open up a path and guide you. ~ Madisyn Taylor, The Gift of a Positive Image: Voicing Faith in Another
Reflection & Intention: What parts of this reading resonated with you in this moment? This week’s theme revolves around the power of belief and loving encouragement — being willing to let go of discouragement, doubt and fear, and fully embrace faith, hope, love and support — believing in yourself and authentically encouraging those around you as well.
✨Intensify your imagination and envision a neon sign in all your favorite colors. It spells out a phrase, sentence, or slogan that has special meaning for you. It bears a message that is important for you to remember during this current time in your life. Fully soak in all it expresses. If you wish, tuck this sign away in your heart, where you can retrieve it and switch it on whenever needed.✨
The one thing that you have that nobody else has is you. Your voice, your mind, your story, your vision. So write and draw and build and play and dance and live as only you can. ~ Neil Gaiman
How to live a wholehearted life by Brene Brown: Let ourselves be seen—deeply seen. Vulnerably seen. To love with our hearts even though there is no guarantee. To practice gratitude and joy. To believe that we are enough.
There is Love Here by Danna Faulds I feel the warm embrace of spirit flowing into me from somewhere I can’t see. There is love here, arising inside me as naturally as the sky brightens before dawn— love enough to fill all of us, and more besides. The spontaneous grace of the divine is moving through the universe, unfazed by fear or obstacles of any kind. Yes, it’s clear there is love here.
May you believe in yourself and voice FAITH and LOVE in others. 💜
You. Wow! ✨Switch on your neon sign and let it shine bright!✨
I believe in you.💫 And I am praying for you! 🙏🏻 Colossians 1:9
“All of us have in our veins the same exact percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean, and therefore, we have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears. We are tied to the ocean.” ~ John F. Kennedy
There is much we can learn from the ocean as we have a similar inner landscape within us as well.
Like us, the sea is ever-changing. And, like us, the earth’s vast oceans appear at a distance to be stable and homogenous. But beneath the mask of solidity that both we and the sea wear, there lies unpredictability, sensitivity, and power. There is much we can learn from the ocean, representative as it is of our inner landscapes. The rough sounds of the sea’s waves are spiritually soothing, and its salt can purify our physical selves. Yet not everyone has the luxury of living by the shore or even visiting the coastlines where water and land meet. The ocean, however, exists in our conscious minds, put there by images we have seen and descriptions we have read. Wherever we are, we can access that mental image and use it as the starting point from which we can help to heal our emotions by meditating on the sea.
To begin, gather together any ocean artifacts you may have on hand. Seashells, a vial of sand, beach glass, stones rubbed smooth by the pounding surf, or a recording of ocean sounds can help you slip more deeply into this meditation, but they are not necessary. Sit quietly and visualize the ocean in your mind’s eye. Allow all of your senses to participate in your mental journey. Feel the tiny grains of sand beneath your feet and the cool spray of mist. Hear the sea’s rhythmic roar as the waves meet the beach and retreat. Smell the tang of salt in the air. Watch the sun’s rays play over the ocean’s surface, creating shifting spots of teal, cerulean, cobalt, and green. Don’t be surprised if you see dolphins or whales frolicking in the waves — they are there to assist you. Spend a few minutes drinking in the ocean’s beauty and appreciating its vast splendor.
Once you are fully engaged with the setting before you, visualize yourself sitting on the beach, facing the ocean, and watching the waves advance and retreat. As each new wave of seawater approaches, imagine it carrying healing energy toward you. Just as the ocean’s tides sweep the shores free of detritus [debris], restoring balance, so can the waves in our mind’s eye cleanse our souls of what no longer serves us. ~ Waves of Healing, by Madisyn Taylor
Our intention for this week is to feel more peaceful, centered, light, and carefree — renewed in our body, mind, and spirit — as if we have spent the day at a beautiful beach. In Yoga Nidra we practice the fifth limb of yoga, PRATYAHARA, which means sense withdrawal. It is the ability to turn our attention inward, so we are focusing on our center, internalizing the benefits of our yoga practice. It can also be described as drawing the senses closer internally. Feeling our senses, observing them, and gazing at the mystery of everything inside ourselves — with love and compassion — rather than with lack and judgement. As we touch that open presence, we touch our deepest source of strength, and are renewed.
What helps you feel peaceful, renewed, and balanced?
Make this a priority, and create a personal intention around this idea.
Cease striving, and know ALL things are working together for good. Allow yourself to trust, have faith, and fully let go of stress, tension, and anxiety. Everything is happening exactly as it is supposed to, with hidden blessings you will soon understand.
Imagery Script: The Beach
For a few moments allow yourself to take several nice, long, deep breaths. Notice the cool air coming in, filling your lungs, and the soothing warm air going out. Just let all your thoughts float away as you bring your attention to your breathing… in and out.
You might mentally scan your body and notice if you’re holding any tension in your muscles. If you are, just gently let all that tension melt away with every out breath. Bring your attention to your breathing, in and out… in and out… let yourself feel more and more comfortable right where you are.
In your mind’s eye you see yourself descending down a long, narrow, wooden stairway towards a beautiful, inviting beach. Your bare feet feel the rough weathered steps, and with each step, you feel more and more tension gently melting away from your body.
As you continue down the stairway, you notice how the bright white sand stretches down the shoreline as far as you can see. The ocean is a deep shade of blue with the fine white crests of the waves sweeping towards the shore. You reach the end of the stairway and step down, sinking into the warm soothing sand. As you rub the sand lightly between your toes, a soothing sensation of relaxation gently melts through your entire body. The roaring sounds of the sea’s surf, the waves crashing over each other, calms your mind and allows you to feel even more relaxed.
You begin walking slowly towards the edge of the water and notice the warm sun on your face and shoulders. The salty smell of the sea air invigorates you, and you take in a deep breath… breathe slowly out… and feel more relaxed and refreshed. Finally, you reach the water’s edge and you gladly invite the waves to flow over your toes and ankles. You watch the waves glide smoothly towards you, gently sweeping around your feet, and the trails of sea water that flow slowly back out again. The cool water feels soft and comforting as you enjoy a few moments allowing yourself to gaze out on the far reaching horizon. Overhead, you notice two seagulls gracefully soaring high above the ocean waters, and you can hear their soft cries becoming faint as they glide away. And all of these sights, sounds, and sensations allow you to let go and relax more and more.
After a moment, you begin strolling down the beach at the water’s edge. You feel a cool gentle breeze pressing lightly against your back, and with every step you feel yourself relaxing more and more. As you walk down the beach you notice the details of sights and sounds around you, and soothing sensations of the sun, the breeze, and the sand below your feet.
As you continue your leisurely walk down the beach, you notice a colorful beach chair resting in a nice peaceful spot where the powdery soft sand lies undisturbed. You approach this comfortable looking beach chair, then you sit down, lie back, and settle in. No one to be. Nothing to do.
Your heart, soul, and intuition are illuminated… The sun (Son) reflects deep truths… Listen now to the messages within…
Whole-heartedly trust this inner guidance. Be encouraged and inspired.
You take in a long deep breath, breathe slowly out, and feel even more relaxed and comfortable resting in your chair. For a few moments more, let yourself enjoy the sights and sounds of this beautiful day on the beach. And, when you feel ready, you can gently bring your attention back to the room, still letting yourself feel nice and comfortable right where you are.
The sun has an ocean. An ocean so deep, vast and blue. And on these eternal waters I float. And while I float, I can hear the seagulls nearby. Heaven has come down to earth for me.
“Rest and nourishment encourages healing and creativity: I give myself permission to relax, refresh and recharge.” This was one of our collective intentions for the Create in Croatia June 2024 Yoga Retreat that became deeply meaningful to me. Personal life lab sessions tend to reinforce what we aim to facilitate or offer.
You see, the Saturday (06/08/24) before flying out on Tuesday (06/11/24), my step-brother Alex unexpectedly and suddenly passed away of a heart attack at the age of 53. My husband and I drove down to Nogales, Arizona to spend some supportive and healing time with our precious family. Loss and grief always highlight what’s truly important…family, friends, connection, time spent, moments made, memories shared, love expressed.
My heart and soul dedicated this trip to Alex. There were constant reminders of his presence with me, and the peace he is experiencing in the heavenly realm. In the wild lavender fields of Hvar Island, we came upon this shrine with the translated inscription, “soul you are born to fly.”
Rest in Peace, my brother.
Our retreat community and experiences in beautiful Croatia exceeded our expectations. From the sincere people, amazing customer service, vibrant cities, quaint islands (more than a thousand!), red roof buildings (Yugoslavian influence), fascinating fortresses, majestic waterfalls (the small country has nine national parks), every shade of blue Adriatic Sea, stellar sunsets, nourishing food, gelato (of course!), fragrant lavender fields, historic Humac village, yoga with a view, ferries, yachts, boats, caves, nightlife, scenic walks and hikes…definitely something for everyone. Hvala, (“thank you”) Croatia. 🇭🇷
During these incredible international trips, it’s important to balance the giving and guiding with receiving and resting. The people-ing with the retreating. The significant conversations and connections with the rejuvenating times of personal reflection and digestion. I am blessed to partner and share all of these unique experiences with Hanan! “Then Jesus said, ‘Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat. So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone.” Mark 6:31-32 (NLT)
After our retreat week, I ventured through London and it’s outskirts to visit my Scottish maternal family. What a joyous reunion with cousins, my Aunty Pat, and their families. This was definitely divine timing as we were all in the London area on the same random day, 06/22/24.
Once again, what’s truly important…family, friends, connection, time spent, moments made, memories shared, love expressed…
In every life season, in every part of the world.
“Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others’ joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing others’ grief].” Romans 12:15 (AMPC)
What’s truly important to you?
Love & Hugs,
Heather
P.S. We are so grateful to Julie Copenhaver for her beautiful professional photography, and to Gorana and the Green Yogi Traveler team for their amazing assistance with this memorable retreat! ❤️
