Where do you need revitalizing? What areas have been dormant? How can you integrate all sides of you to become whole? Where must you focus attention in order to find equilibrium?
The most attractive partners are people who exhibit multiple aspects of themselves. A one dimensional mate can be a turn off, especially when flouting flexibility and refusing to explore the vast facets available.
Are you primarily yin without substantial yang? Is your left brain lacking while your right brain dominates?
Do you accentuate your soft, sensitive features, yet lack masculine characteristics, e.g. firmness, toughness, potency, intensity, discipline?
Are you preoccupied with power and control, ignoring feminine traits, e.g. vulnerability, intuitiveness, receptivity, tenderness? Do you refrain from feeling, remaining stoic through thick and thin?
Are you mainly an intellectual? Are you chiefly work and no play? Are you creatively stifled? How can you release your imagination?
Is the solution simply picking up a paint brush and covering the canvas you’ve been walking by daily? What about that coveted musical instrument you once cherished, lying in the attic, collecting dust?
Are you constantly social or typically isolated? Do you crave to stir up some excitement in an otherwise dull existence? Do you wish you could be more outgoing instead of the wallflower that has plagued you for an eternity?
Do you largely stick to a schedule or can you be carefree? Are you too grounded or too impulsive? Does spontaneity scare you? Are you rigid and structured, following the same patterns ad infinitum or inconsistent, a fly by night sort?
Are you afraid of empty spaces comfortable only when continually engaged? Do you talk incessantly, abhorring quiet periods and pauses? Ponder sitting still in silence for an extended period.
Has your sexuality been quiescent or smoldering? What about romance? Would you like to add sensuality and affection back into your agenda?
What’s missing emotionally? Do you pine for close friendships and fulfilling family associations? Do you go where the love is or are you shy about asking for hugs? Muster up the courage to request cuddling.
Are you excessively pessimistic, yet yearn for optimism, without a clue how to incorporate a different stance? Practice positive affirmations.
Where does your spiritual garden need nurturing? Do you desire to spend more moments convening in nature? Have you taken steps to restore your faith in humanity and the universe? Construct a private place in your home where you can relax and reflect.
Do you fancy refreshing and reviving your playfulness? Can you contemplate swinging on a swing to great heights and riding your favorite merry go round, or do you fear you’ll be judged as childish?
Are you able to let out the kid in you or are you worried you’ll be deemed silly? Do you consider mindless activities strictly for infants and toddlers?
Make a commitment to yourself to stimulate and invigorate the hidden aspects inside of you screaming for acknowledgment?
What’s gone astray physically? Do you crave hiking in the canyons but have been putting it off every weekend? Has your gym membership expired? Do you travel past the yoga studio on a daily basis, and profess you’re going to sign up, but to no avail?
There is no right or wrong here. Each attribute you’ve developed has had a purpose. The goal is to generate an even level and allow the gamut of qualities to surface.
Don’t delay because you’re frightened of failure. It’s not a test and you won’t be graded. The victory is in staying open without limitations and becoming a complete individual.
Singles Slogan for the Week: “Always be a first rate version of yourself instead of a second rate version of somebody else.” (Judy Garland)
Awaken your spirit to music that moves you, boosts your frame of mind, calms your chi, and deepens your connection to the life-force within.
On Monday March 18th, experience the genius of multiple Grammy Award winning jazz pianist/organist/composer/arranger Bob Cunliffe, at the Oyster House Saloon, 12446 Moorpark St., from 9:30p-12Midnight.
This is Studio City’s best kept secret and now that you’re in on it, don’t hesitate to share with your confidantes and cohorts.
Cunliffe is known for his innovative and swinging recordings and compositions. He began his career as pianist/arranger with the Buddy Rich Big Band and worked with Frank Sinatra, Joe Henderson, Freddie Hubbard, Benny Golson and James Moody. He has since established himself as a solo artist and bandleader, with more than a dozen albums under his name.
Bill’s trio includes guitar maestro, John Chiodini and superb drummer, Charles Ruggiero. Don’t be surprised if impromptu guests appear, adding to the already incredible sounds that will soothe your soul.
Take pleasure in the amazingly intimate, cozy ambience. The gracious, affable management will greet you with cheers and kindness. No wonder The Oyster House has been designated, “The Cheers of The Valley, Where Everyone Knows Your Name.”
There’s no other enterprise in the entire city where you can see such awesome talent, up close and personal, without a cover charge or minimum. Arrive early for delicious fare as kitchen service winds down by 10pm. Free and easy parking.
On Sunday March 24th from 6-9pm, you’re invited to join me at the recently renovated River Rock Lounge in the Sportsmen’s Lodge Hotel, to hear long time Studio City resident, Riva Spier sing her heart out. She’ll be accompanied by accomplished musicians, Alexandra Caselli, keyboard; Mike Flick, upright bass; and Larry Stensvold, guitar.
Riva is passionate about vintage tunes, while labeling herself a “cowgirl at heart,” having worked cattle ranches in The Rocky Mountains. At her show, “you'll hear a blend of torch songs, sultry vintage, upbeat pop, and a small dash of country tossed in for extra zest!”
Spier is fond of performing at the River Rock, calling it a “warm, inviting venue, next to the water, with a rich history, delicious food, and a friendly, welcoming staff.”
After relocating to Studio City from Quebec, Canada, Riva became a member of the Santa Monica Conservancy Mounted Patrol. She would ride her Appaloosa around Wilacre Park and along the streets of Studio City. She jokes that her horse adored the foamy Cappuccinos at Starbucks!
Riva is partial to Studio City and relishes the scope of activities it offers, “From city life with live music, theater, and dining, to riding your horse in Griffith Park and numerous hiking trails. There’s no end to options!”
