the magic of discomfort

My family calls me, Bruja (broo-ha), which means “witch” in Spanish.

When my boys were young, the term referred to my magical Mommy superpowers—knowing what mischief they tried to hide, intuitively understanding their emotions and needs. Now, they use it lovingly (I think) to make fun of my interest in karma, manifestation, energy. The nickname was strongly reinforced when a psychic once told me I hail from a long line of sorcery. Plus, I have bony, veiny hands--which apparently give off a very witchy vibe.

A few months ago, my inner bruja decided to attend a wellness tradeshow. As I wandered the aisles of massage therapists, yoga attire, and protein powders, I was drawn towards a woman who sat cross-legged on a satin covered cushion, looking positively peaceful amongst the bustling atmosphere. As she invited me to sit with her, I was immediately attracted to the warm glow of her spirit.  She radiated a loving gentleness and to have access to an ancient wisdom which the rest of us mere mortals are not privy to.  Her name was Sahej. I wanted to know her secret.

A few weeks later, Sahej invited me to attend a sound bath and breathwork ceremony. The intention was to usher in a new year with clean, vibrant energy. Embracing my word of the year—adventure—I decided to go. Wanting to share this unique experience with someone, I texted numerous girlfriends who were suddenly inexplicably “busy” or responded with “I love that for you.” It seemed I was destined to go alone.

On a dark and rainy evening, I stepped into the rural hall where the ceremony was to be held—a heritage building with a century’s worth of memories within its wooden walls. The twenty-foot ceiling was alight with hundreds of twinkling stars projected upon it. Images of swirling universe gases in gorgeous hues of emerald, indigo, and fuchsia danced amongst the constellations. The colourful textiles laid upon the floor were surrounded by white pillar candles. Soothing music played in the background and fragrant rooibos tea brewed on the counter. Sahej sat, smiling, behind a shrine of golden marigolds and sound bowls.

Once we settled, Sahej invited her guests to cocoon ourselves in warm blankets and lay upon the ground. Get comfortable and open our hearts to whatever was destined to occur that evening.

While I won’t share the details of the ceremony because each of us experienced our own journey, I will say that the evening felt sacred and profound.

Why am I writing all of this, you might be wondering? You’re likely thinking, “That’s nice for you, Kel, but what does it mean for us?”

The intention of this blog is two-fold.

One, there may be moments in life when you are inexplicably attracted to a human you meet in passing. I’m not talking about sexual attraction (though that opportunity may hold adventure as well!). I am talking about an energetic connection. When you seem to be vibing at the same frequency as another human you have just met, lean into that moment. They likely have a story, a skill, or a lesson to share with you. Sahej reminded me of the power of my breath, of creating deliciously quiet moments, and of setting meaningful intentions.

Two, when the opportunity to experience something new falls into your lap, seize it. The sound bath ceremony was out of my comfort zone, especially knowing I had to walk into that room solo. I am so glad I was able to get over my nerves and attend this incredible night. I met very cool people, gained new insight into myself and my life, and now have an amazing story to tell you.

Admittedly I may be more woo-woo than you and a sound bath ceremony might not be your jam. That’s fine because it’s not the point of this tale. In writing this blog, I hope to encourage you to walk through the world looking for ways to grow, play, and try new things. Bruja or not, you deserve to live an adventurous life!

And, if the woo-woo does appeal to you, please check out the website alchemyofheart.ca to learn more about Sahej and her special brand of magic.