Travel – Holistic Hazel

A Meal in Siachiyasa

Hazel Moono — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 15:52:16 +0000

As the scorching Zambian sun hung high in the sky, I found myself in a place far removed from my comfort zone. Siachiyasa, a remote village that was a world away from the bustling city life I had grown accustomed to. My mission here was not one of grandeur or ambition, but rather a humble quest to experience the world and its people in a way I had never imagined.

My journey had led me to a quaint, thatched-roof hut, where an 82-year-old woman lived. She was a stranger, yet her eyes sparkled with warmth and wisdom. As I stood before her, feeling like an outsider in this unfamiliar land, I couldn’t help but marvel at the simplicity of her existence.

“Welcome,” Elderly woman greeted me with a smile that reached her eyes. Her voice was like a soothing melody, and her wrinkled hands beckoned me closer. “Would you care to learn how to cook a meal in our village?”

I nodded eagerly, though my excitement was tinged with a tinge of nervousness. My culinary skills back home were basic at best, and here I was, about to be schooled by a Zambian elder in the heart of Siachiyasa.

The elderly woman led me into her humble abode. With the grace of a dancer, she moved towards a brazier in the centre of her hut. As if reading my thoughts, Elderly woman said, “In our village, we cook with the wisdom passed down through generations.” She handed me a wooden spoon and we began.

I watched in awe as the elderly woman mixed her ingredients and filled the hut with a pleasant aroma. As she cooked, the elderly woman shared stories of her youth. She told me tales of a simpler time when life was about community, gratitude, and learning from one another. Her words resonated deeply within me, touching my heart in a way I hadn’t expected.

As the sun began its descent, casting an orange hue over the village, the elderly woman and I sat down to share the meal we had prepared together.

With each bite, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the elderly woman’s kindness in opening her home and heart to a stranger. Gratitude for the opportunity to immerse myself in a culture so rich and different from my own. Gratitude for the simple pleasures of life and the lessons learned from this wise woman who had seen the world change around her.

Siachiyasa, the village I had stumbled upon, had gifted me with a profound lesson in humility and the beauty of human connection. I left the elderly woman’s hut that afternoon not just with a newfound culinary skill but with a heart full of gratitude for the unexpected teacher who had welcomed me into her world, reminding me that in the most unlikely places, the most precious lessons can be found.

GRATITUDE AND FULFILLMENT WITH LOVE FROM SIACHIYASA

Hazel Moono — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 07:30:53 +0000

As I ventured into the heart of Siachiyasa village, my senses were immediately ensnared by the dusty and dry landscape that unfolded before my eyes. With each step I took, I felt like a stranger in a vividly painted dream. Siachiyasa was a world unto itself, untouched by the relentless march of time and globalization. It was a place where the pace of life was determined by the sun’s ascent and descent, where traditions were preserved with unwavering devotion.

Amidst the gloomy landscape of the village, I encountered an unexpected oasis of tranquility. I soon found myself standing before the humble abode of an elderly woman.

The woman, her back slightly hunched with the weight of eighty-two years, sat serenely in the shadow of her thatched roof. Her eyes, wise and twinkling like ancient stars, met mine as I approached. It was as if she had been expecting me, though I was but a stranger in her world.

“Welcome, ” she crooned, her voice a melodic lullaby that hung in the air. “It’s a hot day, isn’t it? Would you care for some water?”

I watched in awe as she reached for a clay jug, a relic from a bygone era, and poured water into a kango cup. The water was cool and refreshing, a gift from the depths of the earth, and it quenched a thirst I hadn’t realized I’d been carrying.

As I sipped the water, I couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of fulfilment wash over me. Here was a woman who had lived through decades of life’s ups and downs, a witness to the world’s changing tides. And yet, in this remote corner of Siachiyasa, she had found her own brand of contentment.

We sat in companionable silence, the old woman and I. In that moment, I understood that fulfilment need not be found in grand adventures or material wealth. It could be as simple as a cup of water offered with kindness on a scorching day.

As I bid farewell to my newfound friend, I carried with me not only the memory of her gracious hospitality but also a profound appreciation for the beauty of life’s small moments. Siachiyasa had gifted me a lesson in gratitude and fulfillment, a lesson I would carry with me on my journey.

In the heart of Siachiyasa village, I had found a place where a simple act of kindness could light up a soul and fill it with a profound sense of contentment. And for that, I was eternally grateful.

Unleashing Your Authenticity: Discovering Your Personal Style

Hazel Moono — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 07:38:32 +0000

Personal style is more than just fashion; it is an expression of who we are, reflecting our personality, values, and unique flair. Discovering your personal style allows you to feel confident, comfortable, and authentic in your appearance. Allow me to guide you through the journey of self-discovery to help unleash your true style and embrace your individuality.

1. Explore your influences

To discover your personal style, start by exploring your influences. Look at the people, cultures, and eras that inspire you. Collect images, create mood boards, and gather inspiration from fashion magazines, blogs, and social media. Pay attention to the colours, patterns, and silhouettes that resonate with you. This process will help you uncover your preferences and provide a foundation for your personal style journey.

2. Experiment and play

Discovering your personal style involves experimentation and playfulness. Try on different styles, mix and match outfits, and step out of your comfort zone. Visit thrift stores, boutiques, and online platforms to explore diverse fashion options. Attend fashion events, take part in clothing swaps, or organize styling sessions with friends. This process will help you refine your style, uncover hidden gems, and discover unexpected combinations that truly speak to your personality.

3. Embrace confidence and comfort

Feeling great in your personal style is about embracing confidence and comfort. Choose clothes that make you feel empowered, comfortable, and aligned with your true self. Consider your body shape, lifestyle, and practicality when selecting outfits. Remember, the key is to feel authentic and at ease in what you wear. Embrace your unique features and celebrate your body, as confidence shines through in how you carry yourself.

Discovering your personal style is a journey of self-expression and self-discovery. By exploring influences, experimenting, and embracing confidence and comfort, you can unlock your authentic style. Remember, personal style evolves over time, so be open to exploring new trends and influences while staying true to yourself. Embrace the joy of fashion and let your personal style become a reflection of your beautiful individuality.

The Importance of Making Time for Yourself

Hazel Moono — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 20:13:12 +0000

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to forget about ourselves amidst the demands and responsibilities. However, prioritizing self-care and making time for yourself is essential for leading a fulfilling life. Today, we will explore the significance of carving out time for self-care is crucial and how to make the most of the time you dedicate to yourself.

The Power of Self-Care

Self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for our overall well-being. Making time for yourself allows you to recharge, rejuvenate, and replenish your mental, emotional, and physical reserves. It promotes balance and prevents burnout, ensuring you can show up fully for others. Self-care activities can vary from practicing mindfulness, engaging in hobbies, spending time in nature, or simply enjoying moments of solitude. By prioritizing self-care, you acknowledge the importance of your own happiness and create a foundation for a fulfilling life.

Embrace Your Wholeness

Embracing your wholeness means accepting and celebrating all aspects of yourself. It involves recognizing your strengths, weaknesses, passions, and imperfections. Making time for yourself allows you to nurture different aspects of your being, including your physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions. By acknowledging and embracing your wholeness, you can lead a more authentic and fulfilling life, as you align your actions and choices with your true self.

Carving out Time

Making time for yourself requires intentional effort. Start by assessing your current schedule and identifying pockets of time that can be dedicated to self-care. It may involve waking up a bit earlier, scheduling dedicated “me time” in your calendar, or setting boundaries to protect your personal time. Communicate your needs to your loved ones, colleagues, and friends, and assertively prioritize your self-care. Remember, self-care is not selfish but a way to recharge and be the best version of yourself for others.

Making the Most of Your Time

When you have carved out time for yourself, make the most of it by engaging in activities that bring you joy, peace, and growth. This could involve pursuing hobbies, reading, journaling, practicing meditation or yoga, or pursuing personal development. Disconnect from technology, create a serene environment, and savour each moment of solitude. Allow yourself to be fully present and immerse yourself in activities that nourish your soul. By making the most of your time, you will experience a greater sense of fulfilment and a deeper connection with yourself.

Making time for yourself is a transformative act of self-love and care. By embracing your wholeness, prioritizing self-care, carving out dedicated time, and making the most of that time, you can lead a fulfilling life. Remember, you deserve to be nurtured, and by investing in yourself, you enhance your overall well-being and bring greater joy and authenticity to all aspects of your life.

Keep smiling!

Silent Noises

Hazel Moono — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 20:27:24 +0000

Silent Noises

Like the majestic power of thunderstorms, the symphony within my mind grows louder and louder, yet remains silent to you. It is a collection of melodies that paint vivid colors and bring me solace. These noises flow like tributaries of the Zambezi River, uniquely mine to own. They resonate like harmonious church bells, each with its own distinct sound, yet you cannot hear them, you say!

Within these sounds, I find comfort, sadness, and joy. I listen intently as you narrate, for these noises are my constant companions that uplift me in times of need and bring me joy amidst sorrow. They are an intrinsic part of me, the harmonies that strike others like lightning but offer me solace. Yes, they are mine.

Silently, the noises ring clear within me. In moments of tranquil sleep, I hear them whisper. In moments of pure bliss, I dance to their enchanting tunes. And in moments of sadness, they offer me solace. They are my noises.

These noises transport me to distant places, hidden deep within the recesses of my mind. Like a whirlwind, they sweep me away, coiling around me like a python. Yet, like a tributary of the majestic Nile River, I ebb and flow with the waves and tides, guided by the melodies within. Sometimes, these noises become beautiful and soothing, lulling me into a state of serenity. Other times, they erupt like a silent volcano, unleashing fiery emotions that only I can perceive. They remain unheard, untold, unfelt by anyone but their rightful owner. They are mine. I own them.

As I lay beneath the twinkling stars, gazing up at the celestial canvas, the noises dissipate, intertwining with the vast skies. The moon beams gently, and a nocturnal rainbow emerges, bringing peace. In this serene moment, I hear a whisper in the vicinity, lazily opening my eyes.

These noises are my thoughts, my companions throughout the journey of life. I embrace them, for they guide me until I reach my unknown destination. And as I peacefully close my journal, I bid farewell to this chapter, eagerly anticipating the next. So, join me as I embark on new adventures, for the symphony within shall continue to play.

Keep smiling

Holistic Hazel