Akosua Dardaine Edwards's Blog, page 9

Feeding My Spirit Rather Than My Fear

 I will feed my spirit rather than my fears - Sonia Choquette 

I have been paying more and more attention  when fear  takes center stage, dictating my choices and actions.  The revelations demonstrated that sometimes fear is my default ,sometimes because of social conditioning and sometimes because I make up stories in my head that say I cannot or ought not to do, act or receive.

Fear of abandonment, fear of rejection, fear of losing has been a running tape in the back of my mind, I must admit that I have a very long way in being more self aware about these fears, for which I am grateful. 

Understanding how fear influences our decisions is the first step toward breaking free from its grip. It's important to recognize the ways in which fear can manifest, whether it's fear of failure, rejection, or the unknown.

Our spirit, on the other hand, represents our inner strength, passions, and true desires. By nurturing our spirit, we can align our actions with our deepest values and aspirations. This shift in focus allows us to approach life with a sense of purpose and authenticity.

This year I want to make it a practice of feeding my spirit rather than my fears. As the old cliche says, what you feed will grow. By feeding our spirit rather than our fear, we can cultivate a life filled with courage, growth, and true fulfillment.

Peace and Blessings

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A Year of Character, A Year of Possibilities

How the Obsession with Feeling Good Can Lead to a Life out of Balance

 This undeniable truth of change reveals that the attachment to always trying to feel good is something that will cause inner tension. The craving to feel pleasant makes you have a strong preference for some emotions over others. It makes you seek solutions and quick fixes that can help you experience a smaller range of emotions than what is normal. We welcome and try to hold onto the pleasant and we strive to fight away the unpleasant. Yung Pueblo

I have been noticing trends on social media and even in chatting with some of my friends there is a tendency to bypass tough emotions and to focus on always being happy and positive.

The quest for happiness often feels like a never-ending journey. We're bombarded with messages that suggest we should always strive to feel good, be happy, and avoid negative emotions at all costs. But what if this relentless pursuit of happiness is actually leading to more suffering?

Focusing on being happy all the time at the expense of feeling and dealing with tough emotions such as sadness, grief, anger, fear creates an attachment to the idea of constantly feeling good, which can lead us to avoid or suppress any negative emotions.

I believed that if I project feelings of sadness that it would invade my life and seep into everything that I did, what I have learnt is that there must a balance, there must be an outlet for those feelings to be seen and tended to, without tending to those feelings they remain and show up in other areas of life. Balance is essential. All our feelings are guide and if buried alive they don't die. 

It's important to embrace a more balanced approach to emotions. Mindfulness practices can help us become more aware of our feelings without judging them. By accepting all emotions, both positive and negative, we can reduce the tension and suffering associated with the constant pursuit of happiness. Strategies such as meditation, journaling, and therapy can also provide support in developing a healthier relationship with our emotions.

In a world that often equates happiness with success, it's crucial to remember that true well-being comes from accepting and experiencing the full range of human emotions. By letting go of the attachment to always feeling good, we can find a deeper sense of peace and fulfillment in our lives.

Peace and Blessings

Still Time to Download until 31st January

A Year of Character, A Year of Possibilities

Navigating Life’s Ocean: Embracing the Universal Journey

 Find freedom in uncertainty. Be receptive and responsive instead of predictive and protective. Sister Corita Kent 

Have you ever felt like you're alone on a boat in the middle of the ocean, tossed and turned by the waves of life's challenges?  I have learned that it's a  more common feeling than I realized,   It's a universal experience that binds us all together in our shared humanity. When we are in the space of transformation, it sometimes feels like being out on the ocean, the ground beneath us is no longer solid.

Life’s experiences, no matter how personal they may seem, are often universal in nature. The struggles, triumphs, joys, and sorrows we face are part of the human condition. We all go through periods of uncertainty, moments of self-doubt, and times when we feel lost. It's as if we are all navigating the same vast ocean, each in our own little boats, yet on a collective journey.

This is where the importance of faith in something higher comes in. Faith is not just about religion; it’s about believing in a higher purpose, a greater good, or a guiding force. It’s about trusting that even in the midst of the storm, we are being led towards a shore of growth and understanding. Building this faith requires inner work – introspection, self-awareness, and a commitment to personal growth.

It takes practice, persistence and commitment when on the seas of life, it is easy to feel isolated and alone. That becomes an opportunity to tap into Divine Guidance and intuition - all of us have access to it. The challenge is when we look outside of ourselves. It starts within.

Building our faith, doing the inner work, and taking one day at a time are our life jackets on these seas. 

Peace and Blessings

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A Year of Character, A Year of Possibilities

The Power of Authentic Living

Authenticity invites us to explore who we really are. It encourages us to engage in practices that foster self-awareness, from journaling to meditative reflection. As we get to know ourselves on a deeper level, we gain clarity about what truly matters to us—whether it’s a career path, friendships, or personal values. With this clarity, we make decisions that align with our true selves rather than living according to someone else’s script.

 In January, the intention I have set for myself is to show up in Authenticity. And what does that mean or what does that look like? To show up in authenticity means to be fully present, wholly , holy and true  in any given moment or situation. It involves letting go of any pretense, masks, or personas you might feel pressured to put on, and instead, embracing who you truly are—your thoughts, feelings, values, and beliefs—without fear of judgment or rejection.

Now as a recovering people pleaser, showing up authentically is a process, a practice and a discipline. It is a remembrance of who I am, knowing that there is no need to "fake it until you make it" there is no need to dim my light. compromise my values to make others comfortable.

I have started paying attention to how I respond, putting a pause between the thought and the action. That eliminates me doing anything to fit in, rather than being true to who I am. Running from uncomfortable feelings rather than facing them head on. This shift helps reduce stress and anxiety because you are no longer constantly trying to measure up to external standards. This shift helps reduce stress and anxiety because I am  no longer constantly trying to measure up to external standards.

Authenticity requires a level of vulnerability that can sometimes be seen as weak because there must be a level of acceptance of our imperfections. 

I welcome the Journey, come join me

Peace and Blessings

Still Time to Download until 31st January

A Year of Character, A Year of Possibilities

Entering 2025: Goals, Objectives, and the Beauty of Surprises

     No one welcomes a chaoticsurprise, but they happen now more than ever. For all the external resources wecan amass to make us think we are safe and protected from harm in this world,none are as powerful, reliable, and truly effective as trusting our own guidance,knowing how to make a clear decision, and following through with it, and beingable to confront the fears and illusions in our life. Carolyn Myss

 

It's the first day of 2025, I usually feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. The start of a new year often brings with it a sense of renewal and the opportunity to set fresh goals and objectives.  I make it a ritual to have a hearty wonderful breakfast, somewhere beautiful where I can sit in a tranquil environment to decide how I want to live and feel in the upcoming year. 

As I sit down to set my sights on the future, it's important to remember that life has a way of surprising us. Unexpected events, both big and small, can alter  plans and challenge  expectations. Rather than viewing these surprises as obstacles, we can choose to see them as opportunities for growth and discovery. 2024 blew my mind, I had ups and downs, twists and turns that I could have never fathom at the start of the year when I sat down in beautiful Bahia Brazil

As I sit here today in equally beautiful Honduras, I am reminded that goals and future planning are a guide, there is no certainty. The lessons along the way determine who you become.

Holding space for surprises builds resilience, trust, faith, surrender and taps into curiosity.

By balancing ambition with flexibility, we can navigate the year ahead with grace and resilience. Here's to a year filled with growth, discovery, and unexpected joys!

Cheers to 2025

Peace and Blessings

A Simple Christmas on Roatán: Embracing Traditions and Mindful Living

Healing is a love offering tothe world - Byron Katie

This Christmas season, I traded the hustle and bustle of city life for the serene simplicity of Roatán, an island nestled off the mainland of Honduras. While the world outside felt rushed and full of noise, this small, tranquil village allowed me to reconnect with simplicity, and the beauty of nature.

Walking the beach each morning, I breathed in the crisp sea air, feeling the sand beneath my feet as the gentle waves lapped against the shore. The simplicity of the village of Camp Bay was humbling—there were no crowds, no deadlines, just the rhythmic sound of the ocean and the occasional chirp of a bird. It was a stark contrast to my usual fast-paced routine, yet the silence was the gift I didn’t know I needed.

The  days on Roatán meant embracing a slower, more intentional lifestyle. The locals still practice simple living, where daily routines revolve around family, community, and connection with nature. Every meal was a reminder of this slower pace, prepared with care by hands that have perfected the art of home-cooked food. Fresh baleadas made with flour, and refried beans, local produce, and traditional dishes brought me closer to the island’s heart. Each bite felt like a little piece of Roatán’s soul—nourishing not just the body, but the spirit.

Watching the community Fishing, a staple of island life, became a part of my daily rhythm. Whether it was casting a line off the dock or learning local techniques from the fishermen, it was a grounding experience. It reminded me that living simply doesn’t mean living without—there is abundance in the land, the sea, and in human connection.

But perhaps the most striking part of this stay was witnessing how a tight-knit community thrives here. Despite the island's small size, there’s an unspoken understanding among its people—everyone knows each other, and there’s a shared responsibility to care for one another. I felt part of something bigger than myself, where traditions are kept alive through shared experiences, respect, and togetherness.

This Christmas, Roatán taught me a valuable lesson: that the essence of the holiday is not about the grand celebrations, the stress of shopping, or the noise of the world. It's about embracing simplicity, slowing down to reconnect with nature, and cherishing the traditions that truly matter.

While I could have stayed in the city, surrounded by the distractions of modern life, this Christmas on Roatán was a beautiful reminder that peace, tradition, and connection still exist in the simplest of places.

Peace and Blessings

Reflecting on 2024: Lessons from Nature, Stillness, and Healing

 No amount of money, nothinking you are special, no place you live no amount of anything allows you tobreak any law of nature Carolyn Myss

As 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the profound lessons this year has bestowed upon me. This journey of discovery and growth has taught me invaluable truths about nature, stillness, healing, and the art of simply being. Here are the key experiences and lessons that have shaped my year. I made a commitment to go to the ocean and the forest every weekend. I surprised myself to keeping that commitment baring travel or adverse weather.

Nature Has All the Answers

Throughout the year, I have turned to nature for guidance and solace. Whether it's the rhythmic sound of ocean waves, the rustling leaves in a forest, or the tranquility of walking to the river on Sunday, nature has a way of providing clarity and answers. Every question I posed to the universe seemed to find its response in the natural world. Nature's wisdom is boundless, offering solutions and insights that our busy minds often overlook.

We Are Nature, Not Just a Part of It

One of the most profound realizations I had this year is that we are nature, not merely a part of it. This shift in perspective has deepened my connection to the world around me. It has made me more mindful of the rhythms and cycles that govern life. Understanding that we are intrinsically linked to the natural world has fostered a sense of unity and belonging, reminding me that we are all interconnected.

The Power of Stillness and Silence

In the midst of life's chaos, I discovered the critical importance of stillness and silence. These moments of quiet have been instrumental in growing my intuitive muscles. By creating space for stillness, I have been able to tune into my inner voice, gaining clarity and insight that guide my actions and decisions. Silence has become a sanctuary, a place where I can reconnect with my true self.

Embracing Solitude

This year, I chose to stay home from multiple events, and in doing so, I discovered that I was missing nothing. Embracing solitude has been a gift, allowing me to recharge and reflect without the noise of constant social interaction. It has given me the freedom to focus on what truly matters and to appreciate my own company. So much so that friends have either asked me directly if I am becoming a hermit or have been gently nudging me to go out more.

The Reciprocity of Giving

Giving back has always been a core value for me, but this year I learned that giving to others is also a way of giving to myself. Acts of kindness and service have brought immense joy and fulfillment. They have reminded me that the more we give, the more we receive, creating a cycle of generosity and gratitude that enriches our lives.

The Art of Doing Nothing

In a culture that glorifies busyness, I have embraced the notion that it is okay to do nothing sometimes and just to be. These moments of inactivity have been rejuvenating, providing a much-needed respite from the demands of daily life. Allowing myself to simply exist without the pressure to perform or produce has been liberating and healing.

The Power of the Mind

This year has underscored the truth that our minds can either heal us or terrify us—it's our choice. I have witnessed the incredible power of positive thinking and mindfulness in overcoming challenges and fostering resilience. By consciously choosing to focus on the good and practicing self-compassion, I have been able to navigate difficulties with greater ease and strength.

Healing as a Journey

Finally, I have come to understand that healing is a process, both physically and mentally. It requires patience, self-love, and a willingness to embrace the journey, rather than rushing towards an endpoint. Healing is not linear; it is a dance of progress and setbacks, but each step forward is a testament to our inner strength and capacity for renewal.

As I reflect on 2024, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons I have learned. Nature, stillness, solitude, giving, and the power of the mind have all played crucial roles in my journey of growth and healing. Each experience has reinforced the importance of living mindfully, embracing the present moment, and honoring the interconnectedness of all life.

Here’s to a new year filled with continued growth, healing, and the profound wisdom that comes from living in harmony with ourselves and the world around us. 🌿✨

Akosua's Books

Nyabo (Madam) Why Are You Here?

Now What? The Flipside

What Did I Learn Today? Lessons on the Journey to Unconditional Self Love

Find Akosua on

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Embracing Gratitude: My Journey Back to Boxing

  Not only is it important to have gratitude for your body that is allowing you the opportunity to experience life but being diligent about finding what actually helps nourish your body will make every aspect of your life easier. Yung Pueblo 

In life, there are moments that test our resolve and redefine our sense of self. For me, one such moment was a serious shoulder injury that threatened to end my love for boxing forever. The journey from despair to rediscovery has taught me invaluable lessons about trust and belief—in both my body and my mind.

When I first sustained the shoulder injury, I felt helpless and afraid, not only did it impact boxing, it impacted living- driving, how I slept, lifting, dressing myself were all put on pause. Boxing, which had been a source of strength, discipline, and joy, suddenly seemed out of reach. The physical pain was immense, but the emotional turmoil was even greater. I was faced with the prospect of never stepping into the ring again.

Recovery was not just a physical process, but a mental and emotional journey as well. It required patience, perseverance, and above all, a shift in perspective. I learned to listen to my body, honoring its needs and limitations while nurturing its capacity to heal.

Physical therapy sessions were challenging, but they became a testament to the power of the human spirit. Each small improvement, each regained movement, was a victory worth celebrating. I realized that healing was not linear but a series of ups and downs, where progress was often accompanied by setbacks.

Trusting My Body

One of the most profound lessons I learned was the importance of trusting my body. Despite the injury, my body had an incredible ability to heal and adapt. This trust did not come easily; it was built slowly, through every exercise, every moment of rest, and every ounce of effort I put into my recovery.

Trusting my body also meant respecting its boundaries. I learned to differentiate between pushing my limits and knowing when to pull back. This balance was crucial in preventing further injury and ensuring sustainable progress.

Believing in My Mind

Equally important was the belief in my mind. The mental barriers were often more challenging to overcome than the physical ones. Doubts and fears were constant companions, whispering that I might never box again.

However, through mindfulness and positive affirmation, I began to rebuild my confidence. Visualizing my return to the ring, I focused on what I could do rather than what I couldn’t. This shift in mindset transformed my recovery, turning it into a journey of empowerment rather than a struggle.

The Return to Boxing

The day I stepped back into the boxing ring was a culmination of trust, belief, and relentless effort. It was a moment of profound gratitude—for my body’s resilience, for my mind’s determination, and for the journey that had brought me back to this place.

Boxing again felt like reclaiming a part of myself that I had feared lost. It was not just about the physical act, but about the triumph over adversity and the reaffirmation of my passion.

Embracing Gratitude

Today, I am filled with gratitude for my body and mind. They have shown me that even in the face of significant setbacks, recovery and renewal are possible. This experience has deepened my appreciation for the strength and capability inherent within us all.

Gratitude is now a cornerstone of my daily life. I honor my body by taking care of it, celebrating its abilities, and nurturing its needs. I honor my mind by cultivating positivity, resilience, and a forward-looking perspective.

So, here’s to the strength within us all, and to the endless possibilities that arise when we choose to believe and trust. Let’s embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth and celebrate the resilience that makes us who we are. 

Akosua's Books

Nyabo (Madam) Why Are You Here?

Now What? The Flipside

What Did I Learn Today? Lessons on the Journey to Unconditional Self Love

Find Akosua on

Website
You Tube

  IG

There are no small choices

 There are no small choices -Carolynn Myss 

The Power of Choice: Every Decision Shapes Our Life

Life is a series of choices, each one weaving the intricate tapestry of our existence. Often, we underestimate the significance of the decisions we make, viewing them as small or inconsequential. However, the reality is that there are no small choices; each decision, no matter how seemingly trivial, contributes to the creation of our lives. This perspective can profoundly impact the way we approach our daily actions and long-term goals.

Consider the concept of the ripple effect, where a single action creates waves that spread outwards, influencing various aspects of our lives and the lives of those around us. This is true for every decision we make. Whether it's choosing what to have for breakfast, deciding to call a friend, or opting for a career change, each choice sets off a series of events that shape our journey.

For example, deciding to adopt a healthier lifestyle might start with the simple choice of having a nutritious breakfast. This seemingly small decision can lead to increased energy, improved health, and a more positive outlook, which in turn affects our relationships, productivity, and overall well-being.

Every day, we make countless decisions, both conscious and subconscious. These decisions accumulate over time, creating patterns and habits that define our lives. The power lies not just in monumental choices but in the consistent, everyday decisions that align with our values and goals.

When we recognize that each choice is a building block of our future, we become more mindful of our actions. This awareness encourages us to make decisions that support our long-term aspirations rather than succumbing to short-term impulses. Over time, this mindful approach can lead to significant transformation and achievement.

Understanding that there are no small choices empowers us to take control of our lives. It reminds us that we are the architects of our destiny, capable of shaping our reality through our decisions. This perspective shifts us from a passive to an active role in our life story.

Empowerment through choice also means embracing responsibility. When we acknowledge the impact of our decisions, we become accountable for the outcomes. This accountability fosters a sense of integrity and commitment, driving us to make choices that reflect our true selves and aspirations.

Peace and Blessings

Akosua's Books

Nyabo (Madam) Why Are You Here?

Now What? The Flipside

What Did I Learn Today? Lessons on the Journey to Unconditional Self Love

Find Akosua on

Website
You Tube

  IG

The Paradox of Fear and Certainty

 A lot of people refuse to do things because they don’t want to go naked, don’t want to go without guarantee. But that’s what’s got to happen. You go naked until you die. Nikki Giovanni 

The Paradox of Fear and Certainty: Embracing the Unknown

It’s a paradox we all grapple with: the refusal to pursue our deepest desires because of the fear that we won’t succeed. We crave guarantees in a world that offers none. Whether it’s taking that leap of faith in a career change, starting a new relationship, or moving to a different city, the desire for certainty often holds us back from achieving our true potential.

 Life, by its very nature, is unpredictable. We are wired to seek comfort and security, and it’s no surprise that we often wait for a “perfect” moment—a moment when success is assured. However, the reality is that guarantees are an illusion. They do not exist. The only certainty is uncertainty. This need for assurance can be paralyzing. It keeps us in our comfort zones, preventing us from taking risks and exploring opportunities that could lead to growth and fulfillment. Ironically, the very act of seeking guarantees can guarantee that we miss out on some of life’s greatest experiences. Embracing the unknown requires a shift in mindset. It involves recognizing that while guarantees are comforting, they are not a prerequisite for taking action.

 When we move past the need for guarantees, we open ourselves up to a world of                     possibilities. We gain new experiences, learn valuable lessons, and discover strengths we never knew we had. Taking risks allows us to create a life that is rich, fulfilling, and  aligned with our true desires.

   Ultimately, the refusal to act out of fear denies us the chance to live fully. By embracing  uncertainty, we can unlock our potential and create a life that is not only successful but  also deeply meaningful. So, the next time you find yourself hesitating because you want a  guarantee, remember that life’s greatest rewards often lie beyond the realm of certainty.                        

Take that step, embrace the unknown, and watch as your world transforms in ways you        never imagined.

Peace and Blessings