Inspiration Archives: Mariel Hemingway

The awareness that has shifted my life the most is my ability to feel present in what I am doing in each moment. I have had a lot of experience, like all of us, yet knowing that I am here right now, this second is the key to my finding joy and a sense of peace. It is not always the easiest road and I remind myself daily that being present is a state of fluidity and motion...there is no stasis so I remember that a state of peace is always alive inside of me. I breathe and connect to my body in a way that enables me to find "me" at a deep level.

It used to be that I was in a constant state of worry. I lived fearing I would miss something or get my life wrong. What I love about being in my late forties, being single and being aware is that I no longer live thinking about what has happened in the past or worrying about what may or may not happen in the future. I savor being alive in this moment. I have even learned to embrace my challenges as my gifts and guides. Life is not always easy yet I know that with my challenges come my most exquisite lessons. I realize now that in life energy always shifts and peace is always my natural state of being. With my perceived hardships comes an awareness and deeper understanding of me, hence I can feel the beauty of when life feels difficult for me. My connection to the Divine is what moves me. By allowing myself the space to feel "what is" has made me feel more connected to that which is "bigger than me."

My most cherished moments are when I feel my connection to God and that comes in many shapes, colors and sensations. For me my teacher has always been my body as it moves in harmony with nature. Where I feel myself most is when I am outdoors hiking, doing yoga in the yard or working in my garden...I feel the breeze on my skin and the sun warming my back and I smell the delicate array of natures natural gifts... orange blossoms, jasmine or a freshly picked strawberry and I know that there is something so much bigger than me orchestrating my life. I am a feeler or better said I am empathic. I have learned through movement and breath a connection to my body and when I feel, my awareness becomes my guide. Healthy food, sacred space and living in tune with nature are keys for me to find peace of mind, body and spirit.

What I like to share with people is my love of "what is." I neither make it wrong nor glorify it. To be at peace with "what is" is a gift and I have learned over time. I love to introduce the sacredness of nature, food and movement as tools to accept "what is" no matter what that might be. I would love for others to know the beauty of being present in their own bodies and that by creating that awareness inside is how one can deeply feel the joy of being alive.