New Year-Same Journey

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The journey to healing is a deeply personal and transformative experience, one that is never linear, but full of discovery, growth, and self-compassion. For me, it has been a winding path of reconnecting with both my inner self and the natural world around me. It's a journey that has led me to a unique practice, one that brings together my love for yoga, Pilates, and the therapeutic powers of water, all within the comforting embrace of my very own homemade hot spring.

Every morning, I step into the serene warmth of my hot spring, a man-made haven I’ve carefully crafted as a space for healing, reflection, and deep connection with my body. As the steam rises, I am reminded of the transformative power of water—how it can soothe, cleanse, and renew. The heat gently relaxes my muscles, allowing me to slip deeper into each stretch and breath as I flow through my yoga poses and Pilates movements.

What I love most about this practice is the intuitive nature of it. There are no rigid schedules, no perfect routines to follow. Instead, I allow my body and mind to guide me, listening to what I need in the moment. Some days, my body craves deep stretches, flowing into poses like downward dog or child’s pose, letting the warmth of the water support me. On other days, it asks for something more active—a Pilates workout that engages my core and strengthens my muscles, all while the water’s buoyancy offers support and relief.

This intuitive approach to my workouts has been a form of healing in itself. It has taught me the importance of listening to my body, of tuning out the noise of the world around me, and of being present in the moment. The hot spring, with its soft bubbles and gentle warmth, is the perfect environment to foster this kind of connection. It encourages me to slow down, to be mindful of each movement, and to let go of any tension or expectation.

But the healing goes beyond just the physical. There is a spiritual aspect to my practice that is nurtured in the quiet solitude of the morning. The steam that rises from the water feels almost magical, as though it is carrying away any lingering negativity, leaving me with a sense of calm and clarity. I feel connected not only to my body but to something greater—the energy of the earth, the cycles of nature, and the wisdom of the universe. This is why I call it "man-made nature." While the hot spring is a creation of my own design, it mirrors the natural processes of rejuvenation, renewal, and balance found in the world around us.

As I move through my yoga and Pilates practice each day, I am reminded of the importance of self-care and self-love. This healing space I’ve cultivated isn’t just about physical wellness; it’s about emotional and mental well-being, too. It’s about embracing who I am, acknowledging my growth, and honoring my healing process. The gentle flow of the water, the warmth that envelops me, and the rhythms of my breath all contribute to a profound sense of peace, helping me release any lingering stress or negative energy from the day before.

In the quiet of the morning, with the soft sounds of water and breath, I am reminded of the importance of slowing down and allowing space for healing. We often rush through life, caught up in the demands of the world, but this practice has taught me the power of pausing—of taking a moment to be still, to connect, and to renew. And as I continue on my journey, I carry this lesson with me, trusting in the process of healing, and embracing the beauty of both man-made and natural wonders alike.

For anyone on their own healing journey, I encourage you to find a space—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—where you can slow down and listen to your body. It doesn’t have to be a hot spring or a specific workout routine. What matters is finding a place of peace and connection that nurtures your soul. For me, that place is my homemade hot spring, and every morning, it becomes a sanctuary where I can heal, reflect, and grow.

Healing is not a destination but a lifelong journey, and with each breath, each movement, and each moment of connection, I continue to embrace the process with love and gratitude.