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Italian Medley Vegetable Pasta Soup Recipe Yields: 8 servings 64 ounces organic vegetable broth 2 organic carrots, sliced (using a mandoline) 2 organic broccoli heads, cut into bite-size pieces 1 bag of organic frozen edamame (omit if staying away from soy products) 2 organic onions, medium diced 2 cups organic arugula, 1 bag of precut cabbage, onions, mushrooms, and mizuna (chrysanthemum leaves) (optional) 1 bulb organic garlic, sliced 1 box of gluten-free pasta 1 tablespoon organic extra virgin olive oil Garlic and onion herb seasoning to taste Himalayan pink salt, to taste Black pepper, to taste Garlic powder, to taste Green onions, sliced 2-3 drops each of certified pure, tested grade (CPTG®) dōTERRA® thyme and oregano essential oils (optional) Kitchen Equipment Mixing bowls/cups/spoons for mise en place ("everything in its place") ingredients Measuring cups/spoons Large pot Medium pot (to boil pasta) Cutting board Chef knife Vegetable peeler Colander Mandoline Wooden spoon Ladle Serving bowls Soup spoons Cooking Instructions Sanitize the kitchen (sink, faucets, countertops, stovetop/oven, cupboard handles, smart devices, computer, etc.). Mise en place ingredients. Add water to a medium-sized pot and boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Pasta will be added separately to the soup when ready to be served to avoid pasta from absorbing too much of the soup. Peel garlic cloves and slice. Peel onions and slice medium dice. Wash the carrots and broccoli. Use a mandoline to slice the carrots. Cut broccoli into bite-size pieces. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to a large pot and turn the heat to medium. Sweat the garlic and onions to release the aroma. Pour 64 ounces of vegetable broth into a large pot. Add the remaining ingredients, except the pasta and green onions, into the pot. Add seasonings to taste. The essential oils are an option to add to the soup. Add pasta right before serving. Garnish with green onions. Happy cooking! Enjoy! Cheers! Gini x 16 February 2025

Self-Compassion in Times of Pain We all face pain, whether through loss, failure, or loneliness. In these moments, self-compassion—treating ourselves with the same kindness and understanding we would offer a friend—is crucial for healing. Why Self-Compassion Matters When we experience pain, it’s easy to be self-critical or feel isolated. Self-compassion allows us to acknowledge our suffering without judgment, recognizing that pain is part of being human. This gentle approach helps us heal and grow rather than getting stuck in cycles of blame or negativity. How to Practice Self-Compassion Acknowledge Your Pain. Recognize your emotions without dismissing or minimizing them. It’s okay to struggle—allow yourself to feel without judgment. Treat Yourself Like a Friend. Ask yourself what you’d say to a friend, and extend the same kindness to yourself. Embrace Shared Humanity. Understand that everyone faces hardship. You’re not alone in your suffering; this connection can bring comfort. Practice Mindfulness. Observe your thoughts and emotions without getting overwhelmed. Mindfulness helps you sit with discomfort and approach it with curiosity. Permit Yourself to Rest. Healing takes time. Allow yourself to slow down and rest when needed without guilt. Be Patient with Yourself. Healing isn’t linear. Show yourself patience and kindness, even on the tough days. Make This a Daily Practice. Cultivate self-compassion in your daily life. The more you practice, the more it becomes like second nature. Self-compassion is about approaching pain with care, patience, and understanding. By treating ourselves with kindness, we not only heal but grow stronger. If you’re going through a tough time, take a moment to acknowledge your feelings and offer yourself the same love you give others—you deserve it. Cheers! Gini x 25 May 2025

Harnessing the Power of Oils! In our fast-paced world, emotional well-being is essential for maintaining balance and overall health. One natural way to support emotional wellness is by using essential oils. These potent plant extracts have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, focus, and positive emotions. There are many brands of essential oils on the market. I use doTERRA . This blog post will explore seven oils that help me enhance my mental and emotional well-being. The Seven Essential Oils for Emotional Wellness 1. Lavender . Lavender is well-known for its soothing and relaxing properties. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and nervous tension. Diffusing lavender or applying it topically to pulse points can promote a sense of calm and improve sleep quality. Lavender is the main oil I diffuse at night to help me sleep. 2. Peppermint . Peppermint oil is my go-to choice for boosting energy. Its invigorating aroma helps refresh my mind. Try diffusing peppermint while working or applying a drop to your temples for an instant refresh. Sometimes, I will add a drop to the palm of my hand, rub them together, and inhale deeply. Wow, what a pick-me-up! 3. Wild Orange . Citrus oils, especially wild orange, elevate mood and reduce stress. Wild orange’s bright and refreshing scent promotes a sense of joy and positivity. Diffuse it, add a drop to your wrist for an instant mood lift, or add a drop to your water for a refreshing beverage. Yum! **Note: Please use glass or stainless steel cups when adding essential oils to liquids. This article explains safe containers for essential oils. 4. Frankincense . Frankincense has been used for centuries for meditation and emotional balance. It promotes feelings of peace, relaxation, and introspection. To enhance emotional stability, apply it topically with a carrier oil (i.e., fractionated coconut oil, olive oil, etc.) or diffuse it and be present. 5. Balance (Grounding Blend) . Balance is a unique blend of oils, including spruce, frankincense, blue tansy, and chamomile, designed to create a sense of grounding and stability. It is ideal for managing everyday stress and promoting emotional equilibrium. Apply it to the bottoms of your feet or diffuse it throughout the day. This is one of my faves to diffuse. 6. Adaptiv (Calming Blend) . Adaptiv is doTERRA’s proprietary calming blend, which is designed to support emotional strength. Its blend of oils, including wild orange, lavender, copaiba, spearmint, and neroli, is excellent for easing overwhelming feelings and promoting well-being. Apply it to your wrists or diffuse it in stressful situations. I diffuse this oil throughout the day in my office. My clients find this relaxing aroma pleasant, putting them at ease when we meet. 7. Ylang Ylang . This oil is known for its heart-opening and mood-enhancing effects. Ylang Ylang helps reduce stress, anger, and low self-esteem. It supports emotional connection and joy. The scent brings me so much happiness whenever I diffuse it. How to Use Essential Oils for Emotional Wellness Diffusion. Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser with distilled water to create a calming or uplifting atmosphere. Topical Application. Dilute essential oils with carrier oil and apply them to pulse points, behind the ears, or the soles of the feet. Inhalation. Inhale the aroma directly from the bottle or apply a drop to your palms, rub together, and breathe deeply. Mmmm, ahhhh! Let's Sum It Up! Essential oils are a natural and effective way to support emotional well-being. Whether you need relaxation, focus, or a mood boost, these doTERRA essential oils can help balance your mind and emotions. Experiment with different oils and blends to find what works best for you, and embrace the power of aromatherapy for emotional wellness. For those interested in learning more about essential oils, please email me at: aloha@tasteoflife.blog . For those interested in purchasing doTERRA products, please order through my website at: https://www.doterra.com/US/en/site/tasteoflife . Cheers! Gini x 18 May 2025

My Story Let's be real. We've all had our share of mental and emotional struggles at some point in life. I admit that I have. There were a variety of factors contributing to my fluctuating mental and emotional health. For many years, my health challenges drained me physically and emotionally, making each day feel like an uphill battle. Chronic pain and relentless hives left me feeling frustrated and helpless, as if I were trapped in a body that refused to cooperate, even with all the health and holistic changes I've made. I often felt stuck in life—desperate for a huge change but unsure of what that change should be. There was a phase in my life not too long ago when I considered and tried different things to determine if I had a new passion. Patience was wearing thin, waiting for something to happen, something to shift, yet it felt like nothing ever did. My faith wavered, and I wondered if things would ever improve. The exhaustion of waiting for a breakthrough left me frustrated and annoyed, and I longed for a sense of purpose and peace. There were days when the frustration of my stagnancy, coupled with health issues, felt unbearable, even with prayer and positive self-talk. I knew I wanted more for myself but didn’t know what it was or how to take the first step. The weight of uncertainty held me back and trapped me in a cycle of wishing for change but not knowing how to create it. The waiting, the pain, the emotional turbulence—it all built up, leaving me drained and unmotivated. Despite the struggle, I knew I couldn’t stay in this place forever. I refused to! I tried my hardest to continue persevering. I began making small shifts, getting creative, and taking risks through faith, even if I didn’t know exactly where they would lead. It wasn’t about having all the answers but taking small steps toward healing and rediscovering myself. The Power of the Mind One of the most important lessons I’ve discovered is how powerful the mind can be. Our thoughts shape our reality, influencing how we feel, react, and move forward. While it's natural to experience sadness, frustration, or hopelessness, I realized that I couldn’t let those thoughts consume me. I had to actively challenge negative thinking patterns and replace them with thoughts encouraging growth, resilience, and hope. I did not want them to define who I was. I learned that even in my lowest moments, I could shift my perspective and create a more positive outlook. A Journey of Healing & Growth Healing isn’t a straight path. It has its setbacks, uncertainties, and moments of doubt. But what I’ve realized is that progress comes from persistence and self-compassion. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or lost, know you are not alone. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away. It's vital to feel your feelings, process them, and take small, intentional steps toward the life you want to create. Life in 2025: A Breakthrough Finally Happened After many years of ups and downs, life in 2025 has been balanced with the brightest outlook I've experienced in a long while. The changes I longed for have finally started to unfold, bringing clarity, purpose, and a sense of peace I once thought was so far away. This year has been far different from the years of waiting and wondering, and I am so grateful and blessed. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that there is hope. No matter how long it takes, breakthroughs do happen. Continue the faith and hope. Positive changes do occur. Seeking Help & Resources for Mental Wellness If you're struggling with mental and emotional well-being, reaching out for support can be crucial in healing. Here are some resources that can help: Therapists and Counselors. Seeking professional guidance from a licensed therapist can help you work through emotions and develop coping strategies. Advanced technology has made therapy convenient for us now. Support Groups. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide comfort and validation. Online and in-person groups are available for chronic illness , chronic pain , and mental and emotional health . Crisis Hotlines. If you're in distress, hotlines like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988 in the US) or Crisis Text Line (Text HOME to 741741) can provide immediate support. For ToL community members in Japan and the UK, please get in touch with TELL Japan and SOS Silence of Suicide , respectively. Books and Podcasts. Self-help books and mental health podcasts can offer insights and tools to navigate emotional challenges. Mindfulness and Meditation Apps. Apps like Insight Timer and Calm can guide you through mindfulness exercises to manage stress and anxiety. Holistic Health Practices. Incorporating yoga, breathwork, essential oils , pure supplements , or journaling can support emotional balance and self-reflection. Medical Professionals. Sometimes, mental and emotional challenges have a physiological component. Consulting with a doctor can help rule out or address underlying medical conditions. No matter where you are on your journey, many resources are available. You are not alone, and healing is possible. Cheers! Gini x 11 May 2025

Embracing Mental Health Awareness Month May is Mental Health Awareness Month , a time dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting understanding around mental health. This annual observance reminds us that mental wellness is just as essential as physical health and an opportunity to foster compassion, empathy, and empowerment. Why Mental Health Awareness Matters Mental health struggles affect millions of people worldwide. From anxiety to depression, many face challenges that often go unseen. Yet, societal disgrace and misconceptions usually prevent individuals from seeking the help they need. Mental Health Awareness Month highlights these issues, encouraging open dialogue and breaking down barriers preventing people from accessing support. The Power of Acknowledgment & Support Acknowledging our mental health needs is the first step toward healing. Whether speaking with a therapist, leaning on trusted loved ones, or practicing mindfulness and self-care, there are many ways to nourish our emotional and mental well-being. Understanding that it’s ok not to be ok is crucial. Everyone’s journey is unique, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Tips for Enhancing Mental Wellness This month, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on your mental health journey and consider integrating practices that promote emotional wellness: Emotional Wellness. Meditation, journaling, or breathing exercises help calm the mind and reduce stress. Physical Vitality. Maintain a balanced diet, stay active, and prioritize sleep to support overall well-being. Holistic Remedies. Incorporate essential oils, herbal teas, or wellness supplements to support emotional and mental health naturally. Altruism and Kindness. Nurture relationships and consider acts of kindness to enhance your emotional state. Self-Discovery and Aha Moments. Embrace the journey of learning about yourself and what truly brings you joy and peace. Quick and Healthy Recipes. Nourish your mind and body with simple, wholesome meals. Try a calming smoothie made with banana, spinach, almond milk, chia seeds, and honey—a refreshing way to support your mental and physical wellness. Gratitude and Simplicity. Focus on what you have rather than your lack. Cultivating gratitude can significantly enhance emotional well-being. There's No Shame in Taking Care of Our Mental Health Together, we can make a difference. By sharing our stories, supporting others, and promoting mental health resources, we contribute to a more compassionate and understanding world. Let’s continue to raise awareness and take meaningful steps toward mental wellness. Have you taken time to prioritize your mental health this month? Let’s start a conversation below. Cheers! Gini x 4 May 2025

Embracing New Beginnings Beyond its religious significance, Easter occurs with the arrival of spring, a season of rebirth and fresh starts. This transition encourages us to embrace change, let go of what no longer serves us, and step into new opportunities with faith and courage. A Season of Reflection & Gratitude This season offers an invitation to pause and reflect on the blessings in our lives. It is a time to appreciate our families’ and communities’ love and support, express gratitude for the lessons learned through hardships, and extend kindness and generosity to others. The themes of forgiveness and renewal encourage us to mend relationships, practice compassion, and seek inner peace. The Importance of Hope Easter is a celebration of hope. It reassures us that light follows darkness, joy comes after sorrow, and growth emerges from struggles. It also reminds us that each day is a new opportunity to rise, just as Jesus did, and embrace the fullness of life, whether through spiritual devotion, personal growth, or simple acts of kindness. May this time inspire us to release the past, cherish the present, and step boldly into a future filled with possibilities. Have a blessed Easter. Cheers Gini x 20 April 2025

Aloha Welcome to Taste of Life (ToL) ! I’m Gini, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to share this new chapter with you. For those of you who have followed my previous blog, Foodnista Soul , thank you for being part of that journey. I’m excited to connect and introduce you to what ToL  is all about. Behind the Transition Over the years, Foodnista Soul  has been a space where I shared my love for food, recipes, and all things culinary. But as time passed, I realized my heart was pulling me in a different direction. I found myself craving more depth, balance, and conversations about the things that nourish us—not just in the kitchen but in every aspect of life. That’s when ToL  was born. This blog is about more than food. It’s about nourishing your mind, body, and soul while creating a vibrant, fulfilled, and purposeful life. Don't worry; I’ll still share quick, healthy recipes here! Taste of Life Preview Taste of Life  is designed to be a space for individuals searching for more joy, balance, and connection. Whether you’re struggling with the day-to-day grind, feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, or simply looking for inspiration to live more intentionally, I hope you'll find content that resonates with you. These are the seven pillar topics that will be featured: Emotional Wellness. We’ll explore tips and practices for managing stress, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, and finding peace and balance. Physical Vitality. I’ll share my health journey and how I’ve found ways to keep moving and stay healthy, even on tough days. You’ll find insights on how to honor and strengthen your body. Holistic Remedies. From essential oils to non-toxic living, I’ll introduce you to the holistic products, supplements, and remedies that have transformed my approach to health and wellness. Altruism and Kindness. Acts of generosity are mighty, not just for those we help but also for ourselves. We’ll explore the ripple effects of kindness and how giving back can shape personal growth. Self-Discovery and Aha Moments. Life is full of lessons, and I’ve had my fair share of aha moments. I’ll share how challenges have shaped me into who I am today and offer insights for your journey of self-discovery. Quick and Healthy Recipes. Let’s not forget the food! As a passionate culinary artist, I’ll continue to share recipes that nourish both body and soul and benefit busy individuals who still want to eat well. Gratitude and Simplicity. We’ll discuss the power of gratitude and how embracing the simple things in life can transform one's mindset and cultivate more joy. Why Taste of Life ? Life is meant to be savored; it’s about finding joy in the small moments, nourishing yourself from the inside out, and creating a life that feels full and meaningful. That’s the journey I’m on, and I hope you’ll join me. Let’s Connect I’d love for you to be part of this new chapter. Whether you’re here for wellness tips, personal growth, inspiration, or to find a trusted community, ToL  supports you. Please subscribe to the blog so you don’t miss any new posts, and follow my social media platforms for daily inspiration and motivation. Welcome to Taste of Life —let’s savor this journey together. Cheers! Gini x  1 November 2024

The Initial Story A new platform deserves a meaningful logo. Here’s the story behind the Taste of Life (ToL)  logo. One day, while working and interacting with the people I serve as a licensed clinical social work (LCSW) practitioner, I considered how to design my new logo. As someone of Japanese-American heritage, I found the concept of incorporating origami art to be original, personal, and unique. Origami is a form of Japanese art in which paper is folded into intricate designs. That day after work, I immediately went to Daiso , a Japanese dollar store, to buy a pack of origami paper. I envisioned crafting a teacup and teapot, symbolizing my love for tea and Japanese culture. Tea fills my soul with warmth, serenity, and joy—one of my many “tastes of life.” The Easter Eggs of the ToL  Logo I collaborated with a longtime friend to create the logo. Her outstanding talent helped create the design and digitize it beautifully. I’m so grateful for her time and brilliance. This logo holds hidden meanings, each representing one of ToL ’s seven pillars: Emotional Wellness. The hearts 💕 symbolize peace and balance. Physical Vitality. A symbol resembling the Korean finger heart 🫰🏻 sprouting from the origami teacup 🍵 on the left represents vitality. Holistic Remedies. The leaf 🍃 on the bottom right signifies natural healing. Altruism and Kindness. The three lines on the bottom to the right of the origami teacup 🍵 resemble a hand 🫴🏼 offering support. Self-Discovery and Aha Moments. The spirals 🌀 above and to the right of the vitality symbol depict life’s journey. Quick and Healthy Recipes. The origami teapot 🫖 and teacup 🍵 reflect my Japanese heritage and love for simple, nourishing food. Gratitude and Simplicity. The pink spiral 🌀 left to the vitality 🫰🏻symbol, the entire circle ⭕️ encapsulating artwork as the whole, the three dots 💬, and the hook🪝on the lower right represent gratitude. The colors match the website's theme, including my favorites, pink and orange. Each element of the ToL  logo carries a piece of my journey and the values that shape Taste of Life . Cheers! Gini x 10 November 2024

Transforming Your Kitchen into a Sanctuary In a world that often feels rushed and chaotic, our kitchens can become more than just a space to prepare meals—they can be sanctuaries where we reconnect with our senses, creativity, and inner calm. Mindful cooking brings full attention to every step of the culinary process, turning cooking into self-care and meditation. What Is Mindful Cooking? Mindful cooking engages your senses and focuses on the present while preparing food. Instead of simply following a recipe or rushing through tasks, you slow down to notice the colors, aromas, textures and sounds around you. This intentional approach enriches the cooking experience and deepens your connection to the food you create. What's the Benefits? Focusing on the simple, repetitive motions of chopping, stirring, and simmering can be incredibly meditative. Mindful cooking transforms the kitchen into a space for relaxation, allowing you to let go of external stresses and be present in the moment. My senses are engaged. For instance, I love the sounds of the knife and food ingredients being chopped on my bamboo cutting board. I enjoy the sizzling of the vegetables and the aroma of garlic and onions being sweated. I am incredibly excited to taste the final product of the dish. By paying attention to the journey of your ingredients—from raw components to a finished dish—you cultivate a deeper appreciation for the nourishment you provide your body. This awareness can lead to healthier eating habits and a more respectful attitude toward food. Taking the time to prepare meals carefully can boost your self-esteem and provide a rewarding sense of achievement. Every meal becomes an opportunity to celebrate your skills and creativity. Embracing the Art Mindful cooking is more than just preparing meals—it’s a path to greater well-being and a deeper connection with yourself and the food you create. By infusing your cooking with intention and attention, you can transform a routine task into a joyful, meditative practice that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit. I encourage you to experience this practice the next time you're in the kitchen. Take a deep breath, slow down, be present, and let each movement of culinary art become a celebration of the present moment. Happy cooking! Cheers! Gini x 13 April 2025

Kindness Is Cool In a world that often feels rushed, competitive, and divided, one of the most profound and impactful things we can do is choose kindness. Kindness is more than just being nice; it is an intentional act of compassion, understanding, and generosity that can transform both the giver and the receiver. True & Authentic Kindness Genuine kindness starts within. It isn't only about grand gestures; it’s found in simple, everyday moments, such as offering a smile to a stranger, holding the door open, checking in on a friend, or choosing understanding over judgment. Kindness is not just about what we do but how we carry ourselves daily. The Multiplication of Kindness Kindness has a beautiful way of expanding. Extending a kind gesture doesn’t just stop with the recipient—it spans outward. A simple, kind word can brighten someone's day, making them more likely to pass that positivity to others. It would make a significant difference if everyone took a moment to uplift those around them. The Science Behind Kindness Studies have shown that acts of kindness release oxytocin, often called the "love hormone." This feel-good chemical enhances mood, reduces stress, and fosters a sense of connection. Additionally, kindness has been linked to lower blood pressure, increased lifespan, and overall well-being (Cedars-Sinai, 2019). But beyond science, kindness shifts our perspective—it softens our hearts, makes us more present, and reminds us of our shared humanity. Being kind is not just good for the soul—it’s good for our health, too! Small Ways to Live with More Kindness Rather than thinking of kindness as something to "give," try embracing it as something to "be." Here are a few ways to cultivate a kinder mindset in your everyday life: Start with Yourself.  Be mindful of your self-talk and practice self-compassion. Treat yourself as you would a friend. Patience. Instead of letting irritation take over, take a breath and choose a calm response. Sometimes, the kindest thing we can do is offer patience. Notice the Good.  Kindness isn’t just about actions—it’s about seeing and appreciating the goodness around you, even in the smallest moments. Be Present.  Giving someone your full attention—whether a friend, coworker, or stranger—is powerful and respectful. Show Curiosity.  Instead of assuming or judging, approach people and situations with curiosity and an open heart. This also offers fluid communication. Offer Grace. We all have bad days, make mistakes, and fall short. Choosing to extend grace instead of frustration encourages heartfelt understanding and connection. Express Appreciation. A sincere “thank you” or a kind word can brighten someone’s day. Acknowledging others, even for small things, strengthens relationships and spreads positivity. The Takeaway Kindness doesn’t require extra time or effort—it’s a choice to show up with warmth, understanding, and intention. The more we integrate kindness into our daily mindset, the more it shapes our world and ourselves. In a world where you can be anything, be kind—not just in action but in presence, thought, and heart. Cheers, Gini x 6 April 2025 References Cedars-Sinai (2019). The science of kindnes s. https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/science-of-kindness.html

Welcome, Spring! Spring is a season of transformation. When the world awakens, everything feels alive with hope and possibility. For me, spring represents renewal and new beginnings. It's nature's way of reminding us that no matter how heavy life may feel, we can start fresh and look forward to what is ahead. Spring wasn't always a season I appreciated. Growing up in Hawai'i, where the climate is warm and consistent year-round, we didn't experience spring like other parts of the world. For much of my life, spring felt like any other time of year, and I didn't see its significance. In the last several years, though, I have begun to see the season differently and notice its deeper meaning. Easter, which falls during spring, holds a special significance for me. It symbolizes hope, growth, love, forgiveness, and the chance to start anew. Spring's Deeper Meaning Spring offers a chance to pause, reflect, and rejuvenate. Whether you're releasing old habits or cultivating a healthier mindset, the message is clear this season: it's time to grow. Spring invites us to dream again. Further, we can set intentions and nurture them into something beautiful. Whether embarking on a new project, deepening relationships, or rediscovering passions, spring reminds us that growth is always possible. No matter our age or where we are, we’re never too old to grow. Lessons from the Season Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but we can thrive in our own time with patience and care. This reminder encourages us to embrace our journeys and trust that our efforts will bloom when the time is right. A Call to Embrace the Season As we step into spring, let us take a moment to embrace its energy of renewal. Reflect on what you want to release, what you want to grow, and what new beginnings you are ready to welcome. What does spring mean, and how can you embrace its energy this year? Share your thoughts below. I’d love to hear about your journey. Cheers! Gini x 23 March 2025

A Curious Mind & a Lifelong Pursuit The longevity of learning has always been essential to my life. My curious mind constantly wants to explore new things and understand the world around me. But it hasn’t always been a smooth, straight path—I’ve gone through trial and error to figure out what sparked my passion. And I'm still experiencing this. Starting with Social Work Since early adulthood, I’ve been drawn to learning new skills, hobbies, and knowledge. It all started after I completed the social work program. The field is vast, and when I first entered it, I had big ideas about how I wanted to establish myself as a practitioner. The more I learned, the more my ideas expanded. It felt like the more I knew, the more there was to discover. A Change in Course After earning my clinical social work license, I considered pursuing a doctorate in clinical psychology. However, about a year and a half into the program, I realized it wasn’t the right fit. I accepted that changing course is ok. I still dream of earning a doctorate in a different field, and that journey is still unfolding. Discovering Holistic Wellness During the lockdown in 2020, I leaped and became a certified dōTERRA essential oil (EO) specialist. This wasn’t just about products—it was a deeper dive into holistic wellness, learning about where EOs come from and how they’re made. This certification came when I needed something to focus on, and it helped me reconnect with my sense of purpose. It reminded me that the most unexpected paths can lead to beautiful discoveries. The Culinary Journey In 2021, I followed another unexpected passion and enrolled in culinary school . Cooking had always been a joy of mine, but I wanted to take it further. It was challenging at times, but that challenge was exactly what I needed. In late 2022, I earned my Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations. While it was a huge accomplishment, I’m considering another degree in holistic wellness from the same school. My path is never linear, but it’s always moving forward. And that's what I love about this journey of learning and growth. It's neverending for me. Mindfulness & Meditation In 2024, I added another layer to my journey by earning my mindfulness and meditation facilitation certification . This was a natural progression because of my work and personal interest in mental wellness. It’s been rewarding to guide others in mindfulness, but it hasn’t been without its learning curves. In early 2025, I also completed a certification in mindful self-compassion , which has deepened my ability to help others—and myself—practice kindness in the most challenging moments. In my ongoing growth journey, I still have many aspirations to achieve. I’ve learned to prioritize them because I understand I can’t do everything simultaneously. Even if I didn’t work full-time, I couldn’t reach all my goals simultaneously. And that’s okay. It’s not about doing everything perfectly or all at once—it’s about keeping that hunger for learning alive and continuing to grow, bit by bit. Never Stop Learning The most crucial lesson I’ve learned is never to stop learning. It’s a beautiful gift to continue evolving, even when the path gets messy. Every step, every setback, every success—it’s all part of the journey. Cheers! Gini x 30 March 2025