The Blog
This is where Buffy Owens muses on the threads of curiosity woven throughout her life. She tugs at the threads of body wisdom, follows the rhythms and seasons of being human, and gathers the dreams that keep calling us toward the human we’re becoming in the second half of life.
Chipotle Paste
This condiment is one of my trusty staples that I keep on hand for a dash of pizzazz. It’s one of those key ingredients that can make any meal delicious. If ya’ wanna know a wee little secret, I kind of pride myself on being able to make a fantastic meal when it seems there is nothing in the refrigerator. And this Chipotle Paste is one of my secret weapons! Plus, it keeps for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator and longer if you freeze it.
Resistance & The Salvation of Softness
Have you ever had a moment of subtle resistance? Well, of course, we all have. Here is a little trick I learned while exploring Awareness Through Movement and again while sitting on my cushion. To be frank, it has helped me in just about everything I do.
Recently I noticed I was reluctant to start dinner. Strange. I love to cook. I love to eat. I have a big beautiful box of fresh veggies from my local CSA. So, why on earth was I resisting this?
Garden Green Smoothie
I really enjoy the cool quickness of a green smoothie during the summer months. There's nothing like gobbling down those enzymes and phytonutrients that you can only get fresh from the vine.
Movement Of Emotions
Recently a student approached me at the end of class and asked me if experiencing strong emotions while doing Awareness Through Movement was normal. My answer: “Yes.” Emotions don’t surface all of the time, but it does happen, and the intensity of the experience can vary.
When I first started reading Moshe Feldenkrais’ books nearly 25 years ago, I was utterly obsessed with the mind-body connections—specifically how I could shift my emotional base and perspectives by working with my body. I consumed his writings along with those of Ida Rolf, Alexander Lowen, and books like Emotional Anatomy.
Crustless Quiche with Goat Cheese
I'm a big fan of the crustless quiche for a variety of reasons. First, it's easy. Second, it works well for those who are gluten-free. Third, and this is true of all quiches, you can bake it once and eat on it for a few meals. Often, I'll prepare my quiche in 4-6 ceramic ramekins. You can buy a set with lids so that you've got some grab-and-go breakfast or lunch options for a few days.
Journey Back To Wellness with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Forty years ago, my life was abruptly altered. It was my last year of college, and I woke up one night with so much pain in my ribs – both front and back – that I had difficulty breathing.
It continued to happen night after night, and I knew that I’d better get it checked out.
Low-Grade Inflammation Wreaks Havoc
Chronic inflammation has been on mind. Why? Because recently, I’ve been working with A LOT of people who are struggling with chronic pain and depression. No surprises that those two who up hand-in-hand. But the truth is, they’re not alone.
Pure Red Borscht (Barszcz Czerwony Czysty)
This is such a simple and delicious recipe! Recently I invited my partner’s mother over to teach me the ins-and-outs of making this classic Polish Soup. Once fall hits, I find that a mug of this nourishing goodness soothes my palate and warms my soul. I tend to make a batch of this every other week throughout the cooler months.
Mindful Movements in Laundry Moments
Are you moving through your day without fully living? It is easy to pass through daily activities and wait for something to happen — to wake us up and grab our attention. I have fallen into this mindless trap, caught in a place where I feel as if my subconscious was always preparing for something else.
One way to fully live today is by being mindful and practicing a bit of everyday awareness. I realize this is easier said than done — awareness is a habit that’s not easily picked up. So, I thought I would share with you one of my favorite mindfulness rituals to help you appreciate the mundane and to live more fully into the moment.