“There is a wildness that exists within and around us.”
The writing of Awaken the Wildness Within occurred over a period when, after experiencing grief and depression, I immersed myself in nature, practicing an ancient form of Buddhist meditation called Shinrin-yo ku - opening your senses to your surroundings, or what in yoga is called Swadhaya - the sacred study of the Divine through nature and introspection.
I did not realize that I was engaging in rooted spiritual practices. Nor did I know I was planting the seeds for my first book. I simply listened to the whisperings of my heart and let it guide me. I did what I loved. I ran in the forest, I meditated by the creek, and I opened myself up to beauty and inspiration.
Ultimately, I awakened a part of myself, words flowed, and a profound healing occurred. Awaken the Wildness Within is the tangible gift created from the transformation I underwent.
“I've been reading Awaken the Wildness Within slowly, a page or two at a time for the past few months. Tonight, I came across page 201, Savasana and the photo that accompanied it. My breathe hitched and I swear my heart stopped. I felt something I've never felt before. I've done yoga for years and always struggled with the stillness of savasana, but your words and the picture connected with me immediately. The image, the flower is exactly what the pose, for me, needs to feel and look like- rooted downward, open to receive, soul and spirit reaching upward. I will carry that with me in my minds eye to every practice. For this and so many other reasons, words and emotions I've experienced reading your book, I'm grateful.” ~ Rachelle
“I just purchased your book…it is beautiful and moving. My dad recently passed away and finding this book brings some peace. He loved all things Nature.” ~ Jennie
“Your book has spoken to my heart.” ~ Megan
"I'm a yoga instructor and I have used your poetry in my classes…your book is beautiful." ~ Carleen