Food For Thought (1/12/25)
Reflections, Renewal, and the Magic of Small Moments: Books, Yoga, Music, and Moonlit Inspiration to Start 2025
Hi Friends,
Welcome to 2025! I hope your journey into the new year hasn’t been too rocky so far. It’s been a while—actually, a few years—since I last wrote this newsletter, and I have to admit, I missed it. Sharing these reflections, recommendations, and little treasures has always been a joy for me, and I’m thrilled to be back.
Thank you for your patience as I took a break to focus on other parts of life. As we step into this new year, I’m excited for a fresh start and to reconnect with this space. I hope this month’s edition inspires a little curiosity and reflection for you as much as it has for me.
What I’ve been reading:
The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael A. Singer
This book was introduced to me by a dear friend in early 2023, and here I am, re-reading it for the third time. It’s the kind of book that reveals new layers every time you revisit it.
Singer explores what it means to free yourself from the limitations of your mind and live in a state of openness and flow. Through profound yet simple insights, he invites readers to observe their thoughts and emotions without becoming entangled in them. One of the most powerful lessons: “You are not your thoughts. You are the observer of your thoughts.”
Whether it’s learning to let go of the past, embrace uncertainty, or find peace in the present moment, The Untethered Soul is a timeless guide for anyone seeking inner freedom and clarity. It’s no wonder I keep coming back to it—it feels like a companion on the journey of self-discovery.
Article spotlight:
Arianna Huffington on Politics, Scientism, and Religion
This essay from TIME stopped me in my tracks. Arianna Huffington reflects on the rise of “scientism”—the over-reliance on science as the only source of truth—and its intersection with politics and religion in modern society. She challenges us to see the limits of this mindset and recognize the need for deeper, more holistic approaches to understanding the world and solving its most pressing problems.
What struck me most was her perspective on the human spirit and how dismissing it leads to fragmentation rather than connection. It’s a powerful reminder that while science provides incredible tools and insights, it’s our humanity—our empathy, values, and creativity—that ultimately drive progress.
What I’ve been watching:
This captivating romantic drama follows a young escort from Brooklyn who impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. What begins as a whirlwind fairy tale soon takes a dramatic turn when his powerful and disapproving parents arrive in New York to annul the marriage.
With its compelling mix of romance, humor, and high-stakes drama, Anora explores themes of identity, love, and the clash of cultures. The performances are heartfelt, and the narrative keeps you hooked as the story unfolds in unexpected ways. If you’re looking for a film with equal parts charm and intrigue, Anora is a must-watch.
What I’ve been practicing:
Yoga 🧘🏽♀️ has been a lifeline for me lately. I’ve been going to the studio more regularly, and the experience has been nothing short of transformative. There’s something profoundly therapeutic about moving through the poses, focusing on your breath, and letting your mind quiet. It’s a practice that feels both meditative and healing, creating space to release tension and reconnect with myself.
Every class reminds me to slow down, tune in, and embrace the present moment. It’s a journey of self-discovery and growth, and I’m grateful for the sense of calm it brings to my life.
What I’ve been watching/listening to:
This YouTube channel has been an absolute treasure! Cercle creates stunning music mixes performed by artists in some of the most breathtaking locations around the world—castles, mountains, deserts, even underwater spaces.
I’ve been putting these mixes on to dance, work, or just watch, and it’s been such a joyful addition to my days. The music is incredible, but it’s also the visuals that make it special. It’s a reminder of how art, nature, and sound can combine to uplift and inspire. If you haven’t checked it out yet, I highly recommend it—it’s perfect for any mood.
What I’ve been pondering:
Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the ego—how it shapes our perceptions, decisions, and often, the obstacles it creates on the path to our goals and success.
The ego craves validation, control, and recognition, but these desires can conflict with what truly matters. It can make us defensive when we need to listen, competitive when collaboration is called for, or overly focused on external rewards instead of the inner fulfillment of meaningful work.
I’ve been reminding myself of this: “Success doesn’t have to mean being right, being the best, or proving yourself to anyone. True success comes when we align with our values, let go of the need for constant validation, and focus on the process rather than the outcome.”
The challenge is noticing when the ego is taking over and choosing to respond differently—to lead with humility, curiosity, and purpose. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.
What role does the ego play in your journey? How do you find balance?
Picture Highlighted:
Last night, I stepped outside and captured this photo of the almost full moon. There’s something magical about looking up at the night sky—it’s humbling and grounding all at once. The way the moon glows so brilliantly, steady in its orbit, feels like a quiet reminder of how small moments of beauty can bring us back to ourselves.
Did you know that studies have shown even brief exposure to nature—like moon-gazing—can help reduce stress, improve mood, and foster a sense of awe? For me, this simple act of looking up and snapping a photo was a moment of peace and reflection in an otherwise busy week.
What’s a small moment of beauty that’s inspired you lately?
Until next time,
Dena 👋🏽
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