Glad you are here! Welcome to the community!
Who is Spicy Soul Mama, and why should you subscribe? A brief introduction.
Last night, I talked with a friend and told her how I “got into it with someone.” Before I had a chance to finish the story, she laughed, “Oh, you are such a Durga, always speaking up for what you believe. You’re fearless. Ram Dass named you right.”
I thought, hmmm, yeah, I guess I do. I like a good debate, hopefully in a safe setting, because otherwise, I shut down. I’m an HSP (highly sensitive person) and an empath, so that can be hard. I believe in standing up to question and understand. Plus, it’s in my firey, Sagittarius nature and my Aries moon rising - fire and fire.
Balancing active listening and compassion with my personality implores me to write, explore, and understand. Talking with others ignites the geeky seeker in me.
Writing Background
I’ve been writing and publishing for over eight years, beginning on Medium and some of their publications. I began writing for wonderful publications like Elephant Journal, LAYoga, and SFYoga online, as well as some community print publications like Common Ground and LiveThriveCA, to name a few. I even had an essay published in an anthology book during the pandemic. “Six Feet Apart in the Time of Corona”
Today, I am a regular journalist for Mad in America, where I interview mothers who are caregivers to their children suffering from extreme mental health states.
I have also published a few pieces in Business Insider about relocating from Silicon Valley's hustle and bustle to the desert heat of the Coachella Valley.
Recently, I have been finding my way as a copywriter for various businesses, so if you know any freelance opportunities… :)
Spiritual Background
Since 2004, I have taken this path seriously for personal growth and understanding. As a curious explorer, I enjoy learning from teachers like Wayne Dyer, Krishnamurti, Tara Brach, Gil Fronsdale, and Byron Katie, to name a few.
I am grateful to have had personal in-person experiences with Jack Kornfield, Sharon Salzberg, and others. The strongest influences on my spiritual growth are Ram Dass (B’H) and Krishna Das, with whom I have spent time on Maui and still see Krishna Das a few times yearly.
I engage in various bhakti (devotional) and meditative practices to the Divine daily.
Ancestrally and culturally, I am a proud Jewish woman and love this heritage and rituals.
I completed a 2-year certification in mindfulness with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach and continue to study Buddhist spirituality and practices.
You can meditate with me anytime on the Insight Timer app!
I am a certified Enneagram Coach trained under Ginger Lapid-Bogda and continue these studies for personal growth.
Growth and healing are never-ending journeys, and while I enjoy teaching, I see myself as a curious learner and guide. I believe in being the change I wish to see in the world and that life happens FOR us, not TO us. I believe in the power of the unseen and have witnessed magic in various forms.
Motherhood and Mental Health
I have two amazing children: an 18-year-old daughter and a 22-year-old son. They have shaped much of who I am today, undeniably, I would not be who I am without them. I have been married for 28 years, and this love and commitment have also contributed to my growth.
My son experienced a chaotic psychotic break at the young age of 14, and our lives were turned upside down for 2.5 years. It changed our lives and our whole family dynamic; there are many stories to share. I am grateful to say he is in a stage of recovery and stability. While it hasn’t always been smooth sailing, I continue to be involved in finding answers, solutions, and pathways for continued recovery.
Thank you for being here!
Here’s what to expect:
Posts once per week, mostly on Sundays.
Podcasts once a month.
Coverage the same topics - Motherhood, Mental Health, and Spirituality.
Because this is one of my income streams and takes multiple hours, I am offering this as mostly free. However, I ask you to consider becoming a paid subscriber. I have started writing my book, which I’d love your input on, and writing a book costs money.
3 levels of membership
May is Mother’s Day, so let’s honor all the mothers:
I’m offering a special discounted group subscription for May. Gift a subscription to someone not already subscribed and get a 2 for 1 at $47.50 per year, normally $50 for a year subscription.
Here’s what a paid subscription will provide beyond the free weekly posts:
Sneak previews on essays I will be writing for my book with the opportunity to provide feedback.
Each person gets a free 30-minute Zoom session for a guided meditation and/or parent mental health resource session. (Driven by you to find a time/day.)
If interested, I may offer a live community monthly meditation session, which I would LOVE. I am particularly interested in being a guide for metta - loving-kindness.
So, what do you think?
Thank you for your continued support. Namaste.
