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The Key Principles and Philosophies of Tantra: Understanding the Sacred Path

The Nature of the Secret Knowledge
Imagine a road that if revealed you cannot travel it.
Imagine a love that if known you cannot touch.
This is the nature of the secret knowledge, if you know what we seek, then it becomes the obstacle that cannot be surpassed; a new mirage of words, and entrapments that keeps you locked out. Unable to realize it.
Waking up is beyond language, but through words (dreams, thought, impressions, dharma and karma) we must go forth!
Keep in mind as it reveals to you, that each layer that peels falls because the previous one fell off. But again be careful because by opening it up you might get tangled in thinking there is a core, a truth, a veracious teaching, but in the end as with an onion there was nothing to be sought, nothing to be taught, nothing to pursue, nothing to be won.
Only endless layers of packed karma.
Poem by Gagayogini

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Hello my dear love,

This month we are exploring the fundamental principles and philosophies of tantra. By understanding these core teachings, one can begin to integrate tantra into their spiritual journey, cultivating a more balanced, aware, and fulfilling life.

Tantra is an ancient spiritual tradition that has captivated seekers for centuries with its rich teachings and transformative practices. Originating in India, tantra encompasses a wide range of practices designed to expand consciousness, deepen self-awareness, and connect individuals to the divine. At its core, tantra is not merely a set of rituals or techniques but a profound philosophy that integrates the body, mind, and spirit.

Tantra is About Union

The central philosophy of tantra revolves around the concept of union. Tantra seeks to unite the individual self with the universal consciousness, blending the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of existence. It teaches that everything in the universe is interconnected, and through conscious practices, we can experience this oneness with all of life.

In tantric teachings, this union is often symbolized through the sacred dance of Shiva and Shakti, the divine masculine and feminine energies. These energies are not seen as opposites but as complementary forces that, when balanced, create harmony and wholeness. Tantra teaches that each individual embodies both these energies, and the process of self-realization involves harmonizing these forces within.

Through tantric practices, whether it be meditation, breath work, or conscious sexuality, practitioners seek to merge with the divine and experience the fullness of life in its sacred entirety.

Tantra Embraces the Body as Sacred

Unlike many traditional spiritual paths that often emphasize transcendence of the physical body, tantra teaches that the body is sacred. It is viewed as a temple and a vessel for divine energy. The physical body is not something to be rejected or ignored but rather honored and revered as an essential part of the spiritual journey.

This philosophy extends to the senses as well. Tantra encourages practitioners to awaken their senses and embrace the fullness of experience, whether through touch, sound, sight, or taste. The sensual world is not seen as separate from the spiritual world but as a doorway to deeper consciousness. By engaging with the senses mindfully, tantra guides practitioners to live fully in the present moment, fostering an awareness that connects body, mind, and spirit.

The Power of Breath and Energy

One of the key practices in tantra is the use of breath to cultivate and circulate life force energy, often referred to as prana or kundalini. Breath is seen as the bridge between the body and the spirit, and by mastering conscious breathing, individuals can awaken latent energies within themselves.

In tantric meditation, practitioners use specific breathing techniques to guide prana through the body. This circulation of energy helps to balance the chakras, harmonize the mind, and promote emotional and physical well-being. Tantra teaches that by consciously directing breath and energy, we can reach heightened states of awareness and deepen our connection to the divine.

Breath work in tantra is often integrated with movement, sound, and visualization, creating a holistic experience that stimulates both the body and the mind. By focusing on the breath, tantra enables practitioners to enter deeper states of meditation and reach a heightened sense of self-awareness and presence.

The Importance of Presence and Awareness

A core aspect of tantra is the cultivation of presence and mindfulness. In the modern world, distractions are ever-present, and it is easy to become disconnected from the present moment. Tantra offers a path to overcome this fragmentation by emphasizing the importance of being fully aware and present in each moment.

Through meditation, breathing techniques, and mindful living, tantra encourages practitioners to cultivate a deep awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and actions. By observing the mind without attachment, individuals can transcend the ego and tap into their higher self. This mindfulness also extends to relationships and sexuality, where presence and conscious connection can transform the experience into something sacred and transformative.

Tantra and Sacred Sexuality

One of the most well-known aspects of tantra is its approach to sexuality. In many spiritual traditions, sexuality is often seen as something separate from spiritual practice, but tantra integrates sexuality into the path of self-realization. Tantra views sexual energy as a powerful and sacred force that can be used for spiritual awakening.

Rather than focusing solely on physical pleasure, tantric sexuality is about cultivating deep connection, intimacy, and sacred union with oneself and a partner. Practices such as conscious breathing, eye gazing, and slow touch help build a strong energy connection that allows sexual energy to flow freely through the body. Tantra teaches that sexual energy, when harnessed properly, can be a gateway to higher consciousness, profound healing, and spiritual transformation.

This approach to sexuality emphasizes the importance of balance, presence, and intention. It is not about seeking gratification but about experiencing the fullness of life force energy in a conscious, intentional way. By embracing sexual energy as sacred, tantra transforms intimate encounters into acts of spiritual devotion and personal growth.

Tantra’s View of the Mind and Ego

Tantra also acknowledges the role of the mind and ego in our spiritual journey. The mind, often dominated by thoughts, desires, and distractions, can be a source of suffering and disconnection. Tantra offers practices that help practitioners observe the mind without attachment, allowing them to transcend the ego and its limiting beliefs.

One of the central teachings of tantra is that the ego is not something to be eliminated but to be understood. Through meditation, chanting, and self-reflection, individuals can gain insight into the nature of their thoughts and emotions, recognizing that they are not defined by the ego but by their higher self. Tantra teaches that through awareness, we can transform the mind, releasing limiting beliefs and embracing our true nature as divine beings.

The Path of Tantra as a Way of Life

Ultimately, tantra is more than just a series of techniques or rituals. It is a way of life, a path of deepening self-awareness, embracing the sacredness of all things, and realizing the interconnectedness of all beings. Tantra invites practitioners to live consciously, to honor the body and mind, and to merge with the divine in every moment.

Through its principles of union, presence, sacredness, and mindfulness, tantra provides a transformative path to spiritual awakening. It teaches that the journey to enlightenment is not about transcending life’s experiences but about embracing them fully and with awareness.

The core principles and philosophies of tantra offer a unique and profound approach to spirituality. By integrating the body, mind, and spirit, tantra provides a holistic path to self-realization and spiritual growth. Through practices such as conscious breathing, mindfulness, and sacred sexuality, tantra invites us to experience the divine in every moment and to live fully, authentically, and in harmony with the universe.

If you are interested in learning more about tantra, begin by exploring simple practices such as mindful breathing and meditation, or seek out a practitioner, such as myself, to train with. Remember, Tantra is a practice; over time, these practices will help you cultivate deeper self-awareness and connect to the sacred energy within.

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Ivy’s June Travels & Schedule

🌈 Happy Pride Month! Which LGBTQIA+ organizations will you be donating to this month?

Hollywood, FL
Monday, June 2nd | 2pm-8pm
Tuesday, June 3rd | 10am-8pm
Wednesday, June 4th | 10am-8pm

Stamford, CT
Thursday, June 12th

Chicago, IL | Edgewater
Sunday, June 22nd | 11am-8pm
Monday, June 23rd | 10am-8pm
Tuesday, June 24th | 10am-1pm
Wednesday, June 25th | 11am-7pm

Outside of these dates I am available in NYC. In-calls available in Union Square & the East Village. Out-calls available to high end hotels.

Peace & Love,
Ivy Rosalia

Lessons from Japan | Finding Stillness in the Stream: How Shintoism Shapes Reiki

A fountain of light erupts in white, as my crown chakra begins to ignite…
“Just for today,” I say;
Love will replace any fear.
“Just for today,” I say;
My path is brilliantly clear.
Reiki balances and unites;
It’s a pure “energy flow”,
to connect, to heal, to help create, to ensure you continue to grow.
Your potential will rise your self-belief soar;
Honour Reiki’s arrival as it knocks at your door.
Universal life energy,
the sun, moon and stars align.
Let it lead you, guide you, teach you, this is your time to shine!

by Nikki Ayton

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Sometimes the most powerful forces don’t roar, they whisper.

This last month, as I traveled through Japan for the first time, I found myself thinking about where some of our modern spiritual practices come from. You’ve probably heard of Reiki, energy healing that’s made its way into clinics, yoga studios, and maybe even your own home. If you have seen me in person, you’ve experienced it in session. Not everyone knows that Reiki has roots tangled deep in Japan’s native spiritual tradition: Shintoism.

I’ve been diving into the history of Shintoism, the ancient spiritual tradition of Japan, and its fascinating connection to Reiki. Exploring these roots feels extra meaningful, since I experienced it first-hand.

Shinto isn’t some exotic philosophy. You have probably touched its edges before:

• Purity and Harmony—Ritual cleanliness and balance with nature. That moment when you splash water on your face before a big meeting? Shinto priests call this misogi, ritual washing to clear energy.
  

• Shrines— Torii gates mark sacred spaces.
  Ever noticed how crossing through a stadium tunnel changes your focus? That’s what torii gates (those iconic red arches) do—they mark where ordinary life stops and something bigger begins.
  

• And matsuri (festivals) celebrate the kami (deities, divinities, spirits, mythological, spiritual, or natural phenomena).
  The electric feeling at a tailgate or concert? Shinto’s matsuri festivals tap that same primal group energy—just swap beer for sake and the band for a drum procession.
  

• No Separation of Sacred & Secular — The mechanic wiping grease from his hands bows to his tools, The chef treats his knife like a living thing, The salaryman pauses under a cherry tree not to pray, just to notice.

A Brief History of Shinto: The Way of the Kami

Shinto, meaning “the way of the gods” (神道, shintō), is Japan’s indigenous belief system, dating back thousands of years. Unlike many religions, Shinto has no single founder or sacred text — it’s built around rituals, nature reverence, and a deep sense of connection between people and the unseen world.

Shinto holds that spirits, kami, reside in natural objects like rivers, trees, stones, wind, and even everyday objects. But unlike gods in Western traditions, these kami aren’t all-powerful, they’re closer to energetic presences, living in harmony with the land and its people.

It’s not about worship. It’s about participation. In a world that pushes us to go faster, Shinto invites us to slow down and notice the sacred in the everyday.

You won’t find dogma in Shinto. Instead, it’s expressed through actions: purifying oneself before entering a shrine, offerings of sake and rice, seasonal festivals, and moments of stillness beneath ancient trees. There are shrines scattered throughout the country of Japan. Finding one on most corners, as you would expect to find your favorite coffee or food franchise. Japan itself does an amazing job of building the new around the old, not destroying their history, but embracing and honoring it.

The Shinto-Reiki Connection

Shinto bows to the mountain. Reiki helps the mountain in you remember its strength.

Reiki was developed in the early 20th century by Mikao Usui, a Japanese spiritual seeker who trained in multiple disciplines, including Shinto, Buddhism, and martial arts. While Reiki as a system is unique to Usui, it echoes Shinto in fundamental ways: the belief in an unseen life force (ki), the importance of purification, and the emphasis on energetic balance between people and nature.

When a Reiki practitioner places their hands on or near your body, they’re not just “healing” you, they’re aligning you with something older, subtler, and deeply natural.
It’s not a performance. It’s a rebalancing. A remembering.

In essence, Reiki can be seen as a modern healing art rooted in Shinto’s reverence for energy and spiritual harmony.

I used to think spirituality was about adding more; more chants, more rules. Then I stood in a Tokyo shrine where the only instruction was to “Notice.”

This month, let’s practice mindfulness through the Shinto move:

1. Pause at any threshold (doorway, car door)

2. Exhale like you’re leaving baggage outside

3. Step forward lighter

No apps. No cost. Just 2,000 years of proof that sometimes, the deepest power comes from not forcing it.

I am struck by how something timeless in these practices still resonates. Something about stepping back from the noise and letting yourself just be. Whether through Reiki, meditation, or simply pausing to appreciate the kami in a sunset, we’re all seeking connection to ourselves, each other, and the unseen energy around us.

Whether or not you’re into spiritual practices, there’s a quiet truth here: life isn’t just happening to you — it’s flowing through you.

Maybe you don’t need to do anything this month. Maybe the best thing you can do is find a patch of sun, breathe, and remember—you’re not just living, you are life itself.

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Ivy’s May Schedule

Stamford, CT
Wednesday, May 7th

Philidelphia, PA – Southwest
Tuesday, May 13th | 10am-8pm
Wednesday, May 14th | 10am-8pm
Thursday, May 15th | 10am-5pm

Los Angelos, CA – Marina Del Rey
Tuesday, May 20th | 10am-8pm
Wednesday, May 21st | 10am-8pm
Thursday, May 22nd | 10am-8pm
Friday, May 23rd | 10am-8pm
Saturday, May 24th | 10am-8pm

Outside of these dates I am available in NYC. In-call available in the East Village, Union Square, and Astoria. Outcalls available to high end hotels.

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Peace & Love,
Ivy Rosalia

Clarity, Independence & A Hard Reset: Your April Power Move

“Unlimited”
by Pheobe Garnsworthy

She wakes up scared.
Not of what she can’t do, but of what she can.
She has the power to create whatever she wants.
The ability to be whoever she wishes to be.
But all that power somehow suffocates her.
And she falls down worried with guilt as to what other people might think if she ever showed them her power.
Scared that if she steps out of the crowd that she’s going to stand out too much.
But she has no choice.
She has to follow her dreams.
If she doesn’t they will haunt her all day.
Remind her of the kind of girl she is meant to be.
The kind of girl she deep down wants to be.
And one day she listens.
She is no longer lost.
She is finally free.

*Disclaimer: Just because a poem/quote/post is gendered, does not mean that it is only applicable to the gender it is written in.

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April is here, and with it comes a turning point. The energy is sharper, clearer—like the first cold splash of water on your face. The fire of March—shedding the old, making bold moves—now shifts into something deeper.

No more waiting for permission or chasing fresh starts. This month thrives on cutting ties with limitations and stepping firmly into your empowered evolution.

Two cosmic heavyweights are rolling through: a Full Moon that forces
endings and a New Moon that sets the stage for raw, unfiltered progress.

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One is a wake-up call; the other is a launchpad.

✨April 13: Full Moon — The Hard Truth & The Breakaway

Some endings come slowly. Others hit like a hammer.

This full moon is the second kind—one that exposes codependent or unhealthy relationship dynamics finally coming to a close.

You might see that you’re letting go of a relationship, not just with people (romantic, business), habits, or even outdated self-perceptions.
Also, dependency in an area of your life where it’s gotten stuck, draining, or just plain painful.

Blame doesn’t matter here; true shift happens when you prioritize yourself. If something’s been sucking your time, energy, or peace without giving anything back, the universe is handing you the scissors — tie cosmic events to tangible action.

🔥 Full Moon Challenge: The “Does This Serve Me?” Test

• Identify the drain — What (or who) leaves you feeling exhausted, resentful, or stuck?

• Cold hard truth — Are you keeping it out of obligation, fear, or just habit?

• One decisive move — Distance, a hard conversation, or a full exit. No half-measures.

This is not weakness—it’s strategic surrender.
Letting go isn’t losing. It’s making room for what actually fits the person you’re becoming.

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✨April 27: New Moon — Building Unshakable Foundations

New Moons are for fresh starts, and this one keeps you grounded.
No more chasing shiny distractions. It’s time to lock in on what matters: health, money, discipline, or a long-delayed goal.

🔨 New Moon Action Plan: Forget motivation. Build systems.

• Pick one priority — Not five. One. (Example: Strength, savings, or a skill you’ve neglected.)

• Ruthless routine — What’s the simplest daily action that gets you closer? Do that. No exceptions.

• Delete the noise — If it’s not moving you forward, it’s slowing you down. Unfollow, unsubscribe, or say “NO” without guilt.

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Keep the Momentum: No More Backtracking

The Full Moon forces a necessary ending — one that might ache a little, like pulling a splinter you’ve ignored too long. But that sting? It’s proof you’re backing your higher self. Proof you’re choosing yourself. The New Moon then hands you a blank page. No past, no guilt, just the weight of your own potential in your hands.

The middle? That’s where you prove it. Where you stand firm in the person you’re evolving into, even when the old version whispers doubts.

Stop over-negotiating. You already know what you need to do. The next level of you is stronger, freer, more alive — waiting on the other side of that decision. Stop bargaining. Start building.

Physical = Mental. Your body isn’t just a machine; it’s the foundation of your resolve. Lift heavy. Sprint until your lungs burn. Move like your sanity depends on it — because it does. A strong body doesn’t just carry weight; it teaches your mind how to do the same.

Protect your energy like it’s the last currency that matters. Because it is. Not everyone deserves a seat at your table. Not every voice deserves your attention. Some bridges need to burn so you can finally see the horizon.

April doesn’t reward hesitation. It rewards those who act. Who plant their flags in new ground and refuse to look back.

The door is open. The air on the other side smells like freedom, like possibility. You’ve carried the weight long enough. That weight you’ve carried has taught you strength. Now, lay it down. The person on the other side of that door doesn’t need it anymore.

Walk through it— not because it’s easy but because you owe it to yourself.

🚪🔥 Keep going.

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Ivy updates:

I am going on a brief hiatus the first half of April. If you don’t see my social media or other online platforms of mine, don’t worry, I will be back!

Last month I announced that I am hosting sessions in NYC again out of the East Village. When I get back from my hiatus, I will also be hosting in Union Square as well as Astoria, Queens! And of course, I’m happy to visit high end hotels as well.

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April Schedule:

Columbus, OH
Tuesday, April 29th | 10am-8pm
Wednesday, April 30th | 10am-8pm
Thursday, May 1st | 10am-6pm

Stamford, CT
Thursday, April 24th

NYC area
Hosting in East Village, Union Square, and Astoria
April 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 25th, 26th

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If you have been enjoying my monthly newsletters, please let me know by replying to these emails with your words of appreciation, and/or by sending a gift. I’d like to know that the effort I put into them is honored and admired. ♥️ Please feel free to share any topics you would like me to write about as well.

Peace & Love,
Ivy Rosalia

Power, Growth & New Beginnings — Birthday Month! 🎂

Come Here to Me from Crete
Come here to me from Crete, to your temple,
Where stands your lovely grove of apple trees,
Where holy altars smoke with frankincense;
Here cold water sounds through apple branches,
The ground is all carpeted with roses,
Enchanted sleep falls from shimmering leaves;
Here the field that’s grazed by horses is lush
With spring flowers, here the winds sweetly blow
[…]
Here, O goddess, so gracefully you grasp
The golden cup, freely pouring like wine
The nectar all-mixed with our rejoicing.

Poem by Sappho (translated by Peter Saint-Andre)

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March brings a significant transition. Winter loosens its grip, daylight stretches longer, and the energy shifts.
It’s more than just the change of seasons; you’re standing at the start of something new.
This month focuses on letting go and leveling up. The key is to understand the balance between release and evolution.

March 14: Full Moon & Lunar Eclipse — The Beginning of the End

Lunar eclipses close chapters. They force decisions we’ve been avoiding. And this one? It’s the first eclipse of 2025, an 18-month cycle of releasing control.

Think of it as cleaning up your phone’s storage. You wouldn’t keep useless apps eating up space, right? Your mind, your time, your energy—the same rule applies.

If you’ve been micromanaging something—obsessing over the details, trying to force an outcome, holding on to something that’s just not working—this is your cue to let it go.

“Eclipse Challenge: Clean up space for what is essential.”

• Identify what’s been weighing you down. A project? A relationship? A mindset?

• Ask yourself: Am I fixing this, or am I wasting time?

• Make a decision. Start the process of letting go.

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March 20: Spring Equinox — Transcend & Rebuild

The Spring Equinox represents balance. Day and night are equal, reminding us that growth comes from both stillness and intentional action.

Setting goals is just the initiation; real progress comes when you align with something bigger. Whether it’s spirituality, creativity, or just a sense of purpose, the equinox is your chance to tap into something deeper.

🔹 Get Clear on Your Vision—What do you truly want? A stronger mindset? More discipline? A career move? A relationship that adds to your life? Be specific. Take 10 minutes to write down what success looks like for you — this year, this season, this month.

🔹 Drop the Excuses—Waiting for the perfect moment? It’s not coming. There will always be reasons to put things off, but progress starts when you move despite the obstacles. Begin where you are, with the resources you have. The first move is often the hardest, but it’s the one that changes everything.

🔹 Create a ritual—Instead of finding motivation, find one practice that keeps you anchored—journaling, meditation, lifting weights, morning walks. Even five minutes a day builds momentum. Rituals keep you connected to your vision when distractions try to pull you off course.

🔹 Cut the Clutter —Take an honest look at where your energy goes. Is it endless scrolling? Saying “yes” to tasks you don’t want to do? Overanalyzing decisions instead of taking action? Pick one habit that drains you and drop it. Reclaim that time for something that moves you forward.

🔹Step Outside Before Grabbing Your Phone — Just five minutes of morning sunlight sets your rhythm for the day. Forget the all-or-nothing mindset. You don’t need a perfect workout plan — just move. Lift weights, go for a quick run, stretch, or take a walk. Mental clarity comes when your body is strong.

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Take the Lead

March is a season of progress—a time to clear the clutter, plant new intentions, and step into the future with purpose.

Whether you’re releasing what no longer serves you or building something greater, the universe has already opened the door.

Now, walk through it.

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Birthday Month!

March is my birthday month! My birthday month is a special time of year for me. It reminds me that I am allowed to celebrate myself and be celebrated. 💞 I hope you do the same for yourself as well! 🌹

I do not share the exact date, but for curious minds, I will say that I am a March Aries. My birthday is towards the end of the month. 😘

Help me celebrate this month by booking a session with me or sending a gift! ♥️
CashApp, if you already know my handle, is preferred. My website has a list of gifts I enjoy receiving as well.
If I’m not visiting your city, you may inquire about flying me to your city.

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🔊 Announcement!!! 🔊

I will begin hosting sessions in NYC (East Village) starting in March! You are the first to know about it! 😘 I have my tour to Chicago the first week of the month, but after that I will be available in NYC again 🥰

If we haven’t had the pleasure of meeting before, please proceed to my site for screening if you would like to schedule your healing journey. 🙏

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Ivy’s March Schedule

Chicago, IL – Hosting in River North
Monday, March 3rd | 10am-8pm
Tuesday, March 4th | 10am-8pm
Wednesday, March 5th | 10am-8pm
Thursday, March 6th | 10am-5pm

Stamford, CT
Tuesday, March 11
Friday, March 28th

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I hope we are able to connect this month. If not, then sometime soon!

Peace & Love,
Ivy Rosalia

Build a Foundation of Self-Love 💖

“I will not apologize for choosing myself this time.
Self-love is the chapter I’ve always wanted to write.”

– Author unknown

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This month marks the 1-year anniversary of starting this newsletter! 😍 Thank you to everyone who has been enjoying them since the beginning, and to those who have joined along the way! 🥰 I am still figuring out what kind of content I like to include each month, so you will probably continue to see different kinds of topics each month. Something new I am trying this month is a guided meditation, voiced by yours truly! I put a lot of energy into the recording, and I am very proud of it 🥰 If they are received well, I may end up doing multiple recordings a month.

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February isn’t just about hearts💕, chocolates🍫, and fancy dinners🥩🍷. While society makes this month about love for others, how often do we refill our own cup of self-love?

Last month, we spoke about self-compassion—cutting yourself slack when life doesn’t go as planned. Now, let’s take that a step further. Before you roll your eyes and think, “That sounds fluffy,” hear me out. Self-love isn’t bubble baths and mirror affirmations; though, those are also great! It’s about building respect for yourself—your strengths, your boundaries, and even your flaws.

The Importance of Self-Love: Why It’s Not Just a Buzzword

It isn’t just a feel-good concept—self-love is your foundation. If you want to raise your potential at work, have healthier relationships, or just feel more grounded, it starts here.

When you prioritize self-love:

• You build resilience. Life’s punches feel less heavy because you’ve got your own back.

• You set better boundaries. You learn to stop agreeing to things that leave you feeling drained. Prioritize your time and energy for the things and people that truly matter to you.

• You’re healthier—mentally and physically. Study shows that it reduces stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression. It provides a psychological buffer that helps us navigate life’s ups and downs more effectively.

Self-love doesn’t just happen. It’s a skill one you can develop with intention.

Cultivating Self-Love: Simple, Actionable Steps

1. Know Yourself

Take some time to figure out what drives you. What makes you happy? What makes you feel drained? The better you know yourself, the easier it is to make choices that align with your values.
Spend 10 minutes journaling this week about who you are; your personality traits, what you like about yourself, what you would like to see different within yourself, what activities you enjoy, the type of people you like to be around, etc. Keep it raw and real. No filters.

2. Ditch the Negative Self-Talk

Are you familiar with the inner voice that tells you that you aren’t enough? That voice is lying. Start calling it out when it happens. Replace negative self-talk with something true.
Instead of telling yourself, “I’m terrible at this.” Say, ‘I’m making progress, and that’s what matters.”
It’s not faking positivity; it’s being fair and compassionate to yourself.

3. Say No Without Guilt

This might be the toughest for some of us, but self-love often means protecting your time and energy. Overcommitting is a fast track to burnout.
The next time you get invited to something you really don’t want to do, politely decline. No excuses are needed. “Thank you for the invitation, but I am not able to attend.”

4. Do Something Just for You (No Apologies)

We are often taught that taking time for yourself is selfish. It doesn’t make sense in the life we are living. Whether it’s hitting the gym, starting a hobby, or just watching a show you love, make space for your own happiness. Schedule one thing this week that’s purely for you.

This is brain chemistry. The more you treat yourself like someone worth caring about, the better your life becomes.

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One Small Habit to Start

This month, focus on one small act of self-love every day. Here are a few ideas:

• Write down one thing you like about yourself every morning.

• Take 5 minutes before bed to reflect on what went well that day.

• Commit to a workout—not for the calories, but for the endorphins.

Small wins add up for a long way. By the end of the month, you might just see yourself in a whole new light.

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You’re Worth It

This self-love can feel awkward or even selfish at first. But here’s the truth: loving yourself isn’t about ego; it’s about giving yourself the tools to show up better—for your work, your relationships, and your goals.

This February, make yourself more of a priority. The world can wait while you build something unshakable—a rock-solid foundation of self-respect. Whether it’s through reframing your thoughts, setting boundaries, or simply taking a moment to appreciate who you are.

Make this month about showing up for the most important person in your life: “YOU!”

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Ivy’s February Schedule

San Francisco | San Bruno area
Monday, February 3rd | 10am-8pm
Tuesday, February 4th | 10am-8pm
Wednesday, February 5th | 10am-8pm
Thursday, February 6th | 10am-7pm

Stamford, CT
Thursday, February 13th
Thursday, February 27th

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Peace & Love,
Ivy Rosalia

Self- Love Meditation

I’ve recorded a self-love meditation* for you to practice this month! Find a comfortable place free from distraction. Feel free to pause and go back as you desire. It will take you about 5-10 minutes to complete.
*Not my original content
Time Stamps:
0.0s – Setting up, first breaths, movement
55s – Visualizations and awareness
2m20s – Affirmations
4m10s – Closing remarks

Embracing January: Slow Down, Recharge, and Start Strong ❄️

Happy New Year! 🥳

We’ve crossed into 2025, and if you’re like most folks, you’ve got that “New Year, New Me” energy buzzing. The gyms are packed, planners are filling up, resolutions, big goals, and a sense of “go, go, go.” … How about we take a step back for a moment—this isn’t the time to go pedal-to-the-metal. Winter has a different rhythm; it’s slower and quieter. Pushing full steam ahead isn’t the goal. The focus is on finding balance, conserving energy, and being kind to yourself as you transition into 2025.

Nature’s in hibernation mode—trees, animals, and even the sun taking its time to rise and set. Winter embodies the Yin energy of the yin-yang dynamic—soft, reflective, and inward-focused. While society pushes us to be all Yang—action, achievement, hustle—it’s an occasion to admire the season and lean into the power of patience and self-compassion.

❄️Rethink Resolutions

January resolutions often come with big expectations and even bigger pressure. Let’s flip that belief system. Instead of aiming for massive change right away, think smaller. Small, deliberate actions. Actions that feel natural and sustainable, not forced or overwhelming.

• Set Intentions, Not Deadlines: Resolutions can feel rigid like you’re racing against a clock. Swap them out for intentions that give you the flexibility to grow at your own pace. Forget the “all or nothing” mindset. Instead of saying, “I’m going to lose 20 pounds this month,” focus on simple habits like drinking more water or stretching daily.

• Prioritize Recovery: Just like muscles grow stronger during rest, so do your mind and body. Catch up on sleep, take walks in nature instead of high-intensity workouts, and allow yourself to recharge.

What’s one simple habit you could build this winter? Maybe it’s journaling for 5 minutes in the morning. Or getting outside for a short walk every afternoon. Start small, and slowly add on to your new habits as the week pass.

❄️ Embrace the Art of Slowing Down

It might feel counterintuitive, but slowing down isn’t the same as being unproductive. Slowing down gives you clarity. It helps you figure out what really matters before diving in.

• Conserve Your Energy: Winter is for recharging. Avoid draining yourself by overcommitting or chasing external expectations.

• Stay Present: Don’t rush through these quieter moments. Savor them. Whether it’s sipping coffee in the morning, reading a good book, or just taking a deep breath—these small moments of mindfulness can anchor you.

❄️ Self-Compassion Over Perfection

We are all our own worst critics. It’s easy to get frustrated if you’re not where you want to be yet. Remember: progress isn’t linear, and January doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s a practice.
Try this January mantra: “I am doing enough, and I am enough.”

• Give Yourself Grace: Missed a workout? Ate the pizza instead of the salad? It is not a failure. It’s human. Instead of feeling guilty, allow yourself to enjoy yourself in that moment. Give gratitude for that rest. Give gratitude for that yummy food.

• Celebrate the Small Wins: Maybe you didn’t hit all your targets today, but what did you accomplish? That’s enough. You are enough.

• Talk to Yourself Like You Would a Friend: Would you call your best friend a failure for skipping a task? Didn’t think so. It’s self-expression and joy. You don’t have to be the loudest in the room to feel accomplished or defeated—sometimes, it’s the quiet moments that mean the most.
  
  Show yourself the same kindness.

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This season has its own kind of strength. Winter teaches us patience. It reminds us that growth happens in cycles. Let this month be tuning in, not tuning out. Be present. Slow down. Recharge. When the time comes, you’ll be ready to take on the rest of 2025 with strength and clarity.

When spring comes, you’ll be glad you gave yourself this space to rest and realign. For now, honor the season and honor where you’re at. Slower days, quieter moments, and a little extra self-compassion can go a long way.

What’s one way you’ll give yourself a break this month? Think about it. Then, actually do it. You deserve that.

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Ivy’s January Schedule

Columbus, OH
Tuesday, January 14th | 10am-8pm
Wednesday, January 15th | 10am-8pm
Thursday, January 16th | 10am-7pm

Stamford, CT
*TBD. I will be in Stamford 2-3 days in January.

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🌟Here’s to starting 2025 with a clear mind, steady energy, and the confidence that you’re exactly where you need to be right now.🌟

Peace & Love,
Ivy Rosalia