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The caliber of these young designers are mind-blowing!
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It took me over fifty years, to put myself first to whisper yes to my own needs without apology or the need to earn it. The mirror didn’t lie, but I didn’t always believe her. I poured into others like I was infinite, like love meant vanishing. Now, it feels foreign this choosing me. This not shrinking. This breathing without waiting for someone else to grant me air. It’s uncomfortable, yes. Like wearing a crown for the first time after a lifetime of holding it for everyone else. But this discomfort? It’s sacred. It’s the ache of rebirth, the stretch of a soul coming home to herself. I am not late. I am right on divine time. And finally, so beautifully, I am mine.  She walks between worlds- canvas and catwalk, altar and avenue- each stride a spell, each gaze a resurrection. Brushstrokes echo on her skin, a gallery of old wounds turned gold- only feel when she enters a room like a thunder-soft storm. Once draped in silence, she now wears her voice like silk- flowing, fearless, stitched with the seams of becoming. She is the healer in heels, the mother of her own rebirth, cradling her past like a sacred pose to the goddess she’s sculpting each day anew. She poses- not to be seen, but to mirror what is possible when a woman remembers she is both... the muse and the masterpiece.  Awakening is the process of shedding outdated patterns, limiting beliefs, and unresolved traumas that no longer serve our growth. It involves confronting the shadow self, acknowledging past wounds, and releasing emotional baggage that hinders our ability to live authentically. Though often uncomfortable, this deep inner work is important for transformation and personal evolution. Through healing, we open ourselves to new possibilities and expand into a higher state of consciousness and self-awareness.
Awakening also invites us to live in alignment with our core values and inner truth. It calls for authenticity, integrity, and the courage to make choices that reflect our true selves even when faced with external pressure or fear. This path may challenge our comfort zones but empowers us to reclaim our voice, stand in our sovereignty, and design a life in purpose and alignment with our highest potential. Above all, awakening is a continual journey, not a final destination. It demands ongoing self-awareness, courage, and devotion to personal truth. Setbacks and doubts may arise, but we grow a life of deep fulfillment, clarity, and meaning with dedication to growth, love, and authenticity. I wasn’t lost. I was gathering fragments. Pieces of art, echoes of sound, forgotten dreams and quiet fire. Every version of me was a brushstroke, a drumbeat, a whisper of the Muse I was becoming. Now I stand whole- not perfect, but powerful. The masterpiece was never missing. It was just waiting to be remembered.  Okay, so we've all heard the usual stuff about aging gracefully—drink water, wear sunscreen, and get enough sleep. And yeah, that all helps. But you know what no one talks about enough? How softening your heart can make you look more beautiful. You know those people who have this peaceful, glowy vibe? They don't look 'young' in a frozen-in-time Botox way... they just look soft. Their faces are relaxed, their eyes twinkle, and they carry this calm, loving energy that makes you want to sit next to them and spill your soul. That's what happens when you start letting go of old pain, resentments, and emotional baggage. Your face shifts. Your jaw unclenches. Your forehead stops doing that tense little scrunch. Your smile gets more real. Your whole vibe lightens up and trust me, it shows. That inside-out glow. It's not about being perfect or happy all the time. It's about opening your heart again, even just a crack, and letting yourself feel things without armouring up. That's where your natural femininity starts to shine through. That quiet magnetism? Yep, it lives there. How do you actually do it?
You'll be amazed at how different you look in the mirror—and how much lighter life starts to feel. Because soft hearts don't break you down; they light you up. 💕  We hear a lot these days about 'living your truth' and 'being authentic', but what does that actually mean in real life? It's not just about posting your unfiltered self on social media or being brutally honest 24/7. Living an authentic life is deeper than that. It's about showing up as the real you, in your thoughts, in your choices, and in how you treat yourself and others. Being true to yourself At its core, living authentically means being true to who you are, not who you think you should be. It's understanding your own values, beliefs, and passions and then making decisions that line up with them. That might mean saying no when you really don't want to do something, even if others expect you to. Or it might look like switching careers, speaking up for what you believe in, or simply being more honest with yourself. Letting go of people-pleasing One of the hardest parts of being authentic is letting go of the need to please everyone. We've all been there doing things just to keep the peace, fit in, or avoid judgment. But over time, that starts to wear on you. When you live authentically, you learn to say yes to what lights you up and no to what doesn't feel right. That doesn't mean you become selfish or insensitive; it just means you respect your own boundaries and energy. Owning your imperfections The truth is that no one has it all figured out. Living authentically also means embracing your flaws and quirks instead of hiding them. It's okay to not have all the answers. It's okay to change your mind, make mistakes, and grow at your own pace. The more real you are about those things, the more relatable and grounded you become. Why it matters When you live in alignment with your true self, everything feels lighter. You can breathe and take a deep breath without feeling resistance. You stop pretending. You stop comparing. You start attracting the right people and opportunities because you're no longer hiding behind a mask. Life becomes more meaningful because it's based on your terms, not someone else's version of success or happiness. In the end… Living an authentic life isn't about being perfect. It's about being honest. With yourself, with others, and with the world. It's a daily practice of checking in, choosing what feels true, and honouring your path even when it looks different from the rest. So take a breath, drop the act, and come home to who you really are. That's where the magic starts.  Today, I caught a whiff of one of my best friend's perfumes from the past and wow, it stopped me in my tracks. It was like time folded in on itself. Suddenly, I wasn't just smelling something nice but feeling something. I started thinking about how scents carry memories, emotions, and even entire versions of ourselves. That little moment launched me into a full-on scent analysis spiral, and I realized that smell might be the most underrated tool for reigniting motivation and joy. I found out that smells are wired straight into the brain's emotional center today, bypassing logic entirely. That's why just one familiar fragrance can instantly bring back a mood, a memory, or a sense of power we forgot we had. For me, the scent of Calvin Klein's Eternity holds that magic. It reminds me of a time when I felt bold, unstoppable, and completely in love with life. Wearing it again feels like a portal - not to the past, but to the parts of myself I want to lead with today. If you've been feeling stuck or a little too "meh" about life, try this: find a scent that reminds you of your strongest, most alive self. Spray it before a workout, a creative session, or even your morning coffee. Pair it with a fierce mantra, something like a song that lights you up, wear something that feels iconic, and move like you're already becoming your next-level self. You're not chasing the past, you're waking up the version of you that's been waiting to lead.  The Johari Window is a tool that can help you understand yourself better by shining a light on both what you know about yourself and what others see in you. It's a simple yet powerful way to build self-awareness and improve your relationships with others. I love using the Johari window in my sessions/workshops. I love this technique, and I used it on myself and in practice. The Johari Window is divided into four areas: the open self, which includes everything you know about yourself and others know too, the blind spot, which includes things others see in you that you're unaware of, the hidden self, where you keep private information about yourself, and the unknown self, which has aspects of you that neither you nor others are aware of yet. To use the Johari Window to make the unconscious conscious, start by exploring your "open self." This is the part of you that's visible to both yourself and others. The more you understand your strengths and areas for growth here, the better you'll be at navigating relationships and challenges. Ask your friends, family, or colleagues what they like or notice about you to gain a clearer picture of your traits. This feedback helps you recognize the strengths you may take for granted and notice areas where you could improve. Next, focus on your "blind spot" – things others see in you that you might not be aware of. This could be certain behaviours, habits, or even unconscious biases. Getting feedback from people you trust can help you become aware of these blind spots. For example, you might discover a tone of voice or mannerism you use that others find off-putting without even realizing it. While understanding and working on your blind spots, you can improve how you relate to others and become more mindful of your actions. The "hidden self" is where you store personal secrets, fears, or vulnerabilities that you keep from others. It's important to explore this area with care, perhaps through journaling or therapy, to see what's hidden beneath the surface. Opening up to trusted friends or a coach can help you uncover what you've been keeping secret. Finally, the "unknown self" is the most mysterious part of the window—these are things about you that neither you nor others know. By engaging in activities like mindfulness, meditation, or even breathwork/toning, you may discover untapped potential or repressed emotions that can help you grow and move forward in life.  When I look back at my life, it's clear that reinvention has been the defining theme. Each chapter has had its own challenges, opportunities, and transformations. From moving from Sweden to Canada, stepping onto the runway as a fashion model to diving into the healing world of sound and art, every step has shaped me into the person I am today. I want to share a little about myself, not because it's perfect, but because it's real. Reinvention isn't easy, but it's worth every ounce of effort. A New World at 28 At 28, I decided to move from Sweden to Canada. It was both exhilarating and intimidating to leave behind the familiarity of home and start fresh in a new country. Canada offered new opportunities and experiences that pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow in ways I never imagined. This move became the foundation for many of the transformations that followed. A Fresh Start at 30 At 30, my life took a major turn. I got married and, at the same time, started my career as a model and some acting (29). It was exhilarating and challenging in equal measure. Modelling gave me a sense of confidence and presence, but it also taught me resilience. Navigating an industry built on appearance and perfection, I learned how to hold my ground, believe in myself, and adapt to ever-changing demands. It was a glamorous world, but I grew stronger and more self-aware beneath it. However, I wish I appreciated my body more than I did at the time. The Healing Power of Being at Service Fast forward around 10 years and life shifted again. I went through a divorce, and it felt like the ground beneath me had crumbled. But that ending was also an amazing beginning. I began to carve out a new path, this time focusing on something deeply meaningful—helping others. I finished my degree in 2007 at VIU and pursued a career in the employment industry and as a vocational rehab specialist, helping individuals with disabilities find employment and purpose. This chapter of my life brought fulfillment on a whole new level. It was about empowering others and seeing their lives transform, and that work left an imprint on my heart. I am still doing this job today and I am loving it. The Healing Power of Art In my 50s, I moved to my dream home—a place by the water that felt like pure magic. The waves became my daily companion, a constant reminder of the ebb and flow of life. It was here that my passion for painting came alive. I wasn't just painting; I was releasing emotions, telling stories, and connecting with something bigger than myself. Art became a form of therapy for me, a way to process my experiences and channel my energy into something beautiful and raw. Painting was no longer just a hobby; it was a calling. I found myself creating bold, edgy pieces that reflected the complexities of life, the struggles and the triumphs. It felt like I was stepping into my true creative self unapologetically. Discovering Sound Healing In 2023, my journey took yet another turn. I became certified in sound healing, a practice that resonated with me on a soul-deep level. The power of sound to calm the mind, release stress, and heal the body felt nothing short of miraculous. I started dabbling in sound and pranic healing in 2013 (got my first tuning forks) and, then in 2023, I invested in gongs and instruments, transforming my space into a sanctuary for healing. I got certifications in Sound and Gong healing. Suddenly, my home wasn't just my refuge; it became a place where others could let go of their burdens and rediscover peace. Sound healing felt like the perfect complement to my other passions. It blended my desire to help others with my love for creativity. It wasn't just about creating beautiful sounds; it was about creating transformative experiences. Watching my clients leave sessions feeling lighter, more grounded, and more connected to themselves has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. A Life of Purpose and Creativity Looking at my life now, I feel like all the pieces are coming together. Modelling taught me confidence and resilience. Vocational rehab taught me empathy and the power of transformation. Painting gave me a way to express myself and connect with others. And sound healing has allowed me to create a safe space for people to heal and grow. Every chapter, every reinvention, has built upon the last to create a life that feels deeply aligned with who I am. Of course, the journey isn't over. I'm still dreaming, still creating, and still finding ways to grow. My next steps include expanding Sinnica Sound, my sound healing practice, and diving even deeper into my art. I want to create experiences that leave people feeling inspired, empowered, and at peace. What Reinvention Has Taught Me If there's one thing I've learned, it's that reinvention is not a one-time event. It's a continuous process of shedding old layers and stepping into new versions of yourself. It requires courage, self-reflection, and a willingness to embrace change, even when it's uncomfortable. But here's the thing: every step is worth it. Reinvention has brought me closer to myself. It's helped me uncover strengths I didn't know I had and passions I didn't know existed. And most importantly, it's allowed me to live a life that feels authentic and meaningful. To anyone reading this, I hope my story inspires you to embrace your own reinvention-whatever that looks like for you. Whether you're starting a new career, pursuing a passion, or simply trying to find your footing, know that you have the power to create a life you love. Have you ever walked into a room and instantly felt the mood, whether light, happy or heavy, tense? Or spent time with someone and left feeling drained, even though nothing "bad" happened? That's because we are all walking tuning forks, constantly picking up and resonating with each other's energy. Think about how a tuning fork works. When struck, it vibrates at a specific frequency, and if another tuning fork is nearby, it starts vibrating at the same frequency. Humans do the same thing with energy. We tune in to the emotions, thoughts, and vibrations of people around us, sometimes without realizing it. Have you ever felt anxious after hanging out with someone stressed? That's you unconsciously matching their energy. Ever left a conversation feeling uplifted and lighter? That's you absorbing good vibes. We're always exchanging energy, but the problem is we don't just take it in. We sometimes hold onto it. Your energy field/aura is like a sponge. It can soak up emotions, thoughts, and frequencies from others, especially if you're an empath or highly sensitive. Some signs that you're carrying energy that's not yours include feeling drained after socializing, experiencing random mood swings that don't feel like you, having a heavy or foggy mind even when life is good, and feeling off but not knowing why. If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to clear your energy. Just like tuning forks can be reset, so can you. There are many ways to shake off energy that's not yours. Sound healing, like singing bowls, tuning forks, or sound baths, can help recalibrate your frequency. Spending time in nature, saging/smudging your space and body, walking barefoot, sitting by the ocean, or hugging a tree can clear heavy energy. Movement and breathwork, such as shaking your body, deep breathing, or dancing, can also reset your frequency. Water is another powerful cleanser. Taking a shower, soaking in a bath with Epsom salt, or even visualizing energy washing off you can help release what's stuck. It's also important to set energetic boundaries. Before meeting people, mentally set the intention: "I will not take on energy that is not mine." This simple practice can make a huge difference in protecting your frequency. Just like you wouldn't let someone dump their trash in your living room, don't let people dump their energy into your aura. Be mindful of who and what you tune into. Next time you feel a bit off, ask yourself: Does this belong to me? Is this mine? If not, let it go. Re-tune yourself to your frequency and keep your vibe strong.
Have you ever felt stuck, tense, or like your energy just isn't flowing the way it should? Toning is a simple but very powerful practice that helps release blocked energy and restore balance to your body. It's an old technique that uses vocal sounds like humming, chanting, or deep vibrational tones to create a natural energy flow, boosting relaxation and inner harmony. What is toning? Toning is a way of using your voice to create sustained sounds without worrying about melody or lyrics. You don't have to worry about sounding great! And unlike singing, which often has structured notes, toning is about allowing your voice to express whatever feels natural. These sounds create vibrations that can help clear tension, improve focus, and deepen your connection to yourself. And you will have moments of awful sounds, but it's mainly clearing out stagnant energy from your throat. How does it work? Sound is energy, and when we use our voice in a focused way, we send healing vibrations through our body. These vibrations can:
Toning is very easy to practice; no special equipment or musical talent is required! Here's a simple way to get started:
Toning isn't just about making sounds- it's about reconnecting with your body's natural rhythms. It lets you release stress, increase self-awareness, and tap into a deep sense of peace. Whether you use it as a daily practice or whenever you need a reset, toning is a simple yet effective way to bring more balance and flow into your life. It's another way of experiencing a sound bath, I guess!  Our minds are constantly working, processing the world around us, making choices, and deciding where to focus. But the way we direct that focus can shape our lives and the impact we have on the world. The saying, “Visionary minds shape futures, practical minds navigate moments, and distracted minds linger on personalities,” offers a useful way to understand how different ways of thinking lead to different outcomes. A visionary mind looks beyond the present, imagining possibilities and pushing boundaries. Visionaries see challenges as opportunities, question the status quo and dream of what could be. Think of figures like Maya Angelou, who used her creativity and courage to shape a better future. A visionary mindset encourages us to ask, “How can things be better? What can we create or change?” Visionaries inspire others by daring to think differently and open doors to new possibilities. On the other hand, practical minds focus on the present, solving problems step by step. These thinkers turn big ideas into tangible actions, making sure progress actually happens. Without practical minds, visionary ideas would stay as dreams. Practical thinkers are the builders, the ones who focus on what needs to be done today to create a better tomorrow. They may not always seek the spotlight, but they are the ones who keep things moving forward with steady, realistic actions. Then, there are distracted minds, which get caught up in personalities rather than ideas or progress. It’s natural to be curious about other people, but spending too much time fixating on their lives—whether through gossip, comparison, or judgment can hold us back. When we focus too much on others, we risk neglecting our own growth and goals. Shifting that energy toward meaningful conversations, ideas, and actions allows us to stay on track and create something valuable. We all have elements of these mindsets within us, and we can choose which ones to cultivate. We can nurture our visionary side by dreaming and brainstorming new possibilities. We can strengthen our practical side by setting small goals and taking consistent action. And if we find ourselves caught up in distractions, we can shift our focus toward more constructive and fulfilling pursuits. In the end, it’s not about choosing to be only a visionary, a practical thinker, or avoiding distraction altogether. It’s about balancing these perspectives in a way that supports our goals and values so we can create a future that matters, both for ourselves and for the world around us.  The idea of being in harmony with oneself and the universe often sounds poetic or spiritual, something reserved for meditation retreats or deep philosophical discussions (generally speaking). But what if it's a practical way to live that can bring balance, clarity, and even success in everyday life?
At its core, being in harmony means aligning your thoughts, emotions, and actions with your inner self while also recognizing your connection to the larger world. It's about feeling at peace with who you are, making choices that resonate with your values, and understanding that you are part of something greater, whether you call it nature, energy, or the flow of life itself. Inner harmony begins with self-awareness. When you understand your needs, strengths, and emotions, you make decisions supporting your well-being rather than working against it. Many of us live with internal conflicts, pushing ourselves too hard, ignoring our true desires, or letting external pressures rule our options. The more we learn to trust ourselves and listen to our intuition, the more our inner world settles into balance. When you are in harmony with yourself, you naturally align with the world around you. This doesn't mean life is always easy or that everything goes your way, but it does mean you are better equipped to handle challenges. You begin to notice patterns, opportunities, and synchronicities, those seemingly random moments where life just clicks into place. Many experience this when they finally stop forcing things and start allowing life to flow. Instead of struggling against circumstances, they work with them. Instead of resisting change, they embrace it. This shift in mindset can lead to better relationships, improved health, and a deeper sense of fulfillment. Some steps to find harmony:
Being in harmony with yourself and the universe is never about perfection, it's about awareness and flow. It's a way of moving through life with confidence, knowing that when you align with your true self, you also align with the opportunities and experiences meant for you. It's not just a poetic concept; it's a way of living that can bring deep satisfaction, peace, and purpose. |
Annica JohanssonMy name is Annica Johansson and I am an Artist, Life Coach and a Sound Healing Therapist. I am writing about personal development, daily musings, spirituality and depicting mother nature's amazing beauty. Welcome! Categories
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