New Year, goals & energy
If there was ever a year where new healthy, vibrant and passionate energy is needed, it is 2021.
“2020 Vision” was the buzz phrase last January, but for many people it was a year of challenges and heartaches.
Yet many friends told me they found a blessing last year. I heard comments such as “I spent more time with members of my household,” “I embraced time alone,” “I took charge of my health,” and “I’m grateful to live in paradise where it’s easy to be outside.”
Looking back, I realize that I learned so much about myself, my family, my friends and the world in 2020. I never imagined I’d find politics so fascinating. My soapbox pitch: “Now is the time to get and stay healthy, folks!”
January has always been a month where I embark on healthy eating and exercise plans. I go on a cleanse every January, reminding myself how grateful I am for every morsel or liquid I put in my mouth. When tempted to have something naughty, I remember how abundant my life is and how going without for a period of time teaches me humility and respect for my body and others.
I also take part in a temazcal ceremony at Los Arroyes Verdes in Bucerias – a pre-Hispanic healing steam bath with numerous known health benefits for cleansing the mind, body and spirit. The heat of the steam coupled with the healing properties of the various plants used within purify the airway and digestive tracts, tone the nervous system, help alleviate bone problems and soothe the muscles.
The ceremony is directed by a temazcalero, a teacher responsible for the heat, healing and life of each person. While undergoing a purification of the soul, the ceremony rids us of all the toxic energy we carry with us on a daily basis, at the same time enhancing our spirit, physical being and emotional strength.
Participation in the temazcal ceremony is $US45 (five or more people required) and available by appointment only at 329-298-6314.
New hobbies
Some folks take on new hobbies at this time of year. My plan is to create large mobiles hence I’ve been gathering shells, driftwood, and other wee gems and watching YouTube videos to learn. Others take up painting, jewelry making and more. Dare I say there is no better place than here to commence such projects, since arts are alive and well on the North side of the bay!
Sandrina’s restaurant in Bucerias offers classes where all you have to bring is yourself. Sandra has everything you need to create a piece of art that you paint under her direction. She offers two one-day classes on Sunday and Monday, January 17 and 18, and will be commencing cooking classes later in January. Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">.
Murals
Strolling through the streets of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Bucerias you’ll find many murals – some commissioned, some coordinated efforts and others passion projects by the artist.
La Cruz artist Silvia Uzcanga adds beauty and delight to all she touches. Growing up in Xochimilco, an area of Mexico City, Silvia remembers fondly the scents emanating from the canals as boats adorned with glorious woven flowers paraded for everyone to enjoy. Creating art is her passion.
She is the sole local artist in La Cruz who painted in association with Colectivo Tomate. This exciting project brought together youth and art in beautifying the walls of the town.
Each mural created in the project is based on a story about the house owner. Silvia’s was a story about a father raising four children on his own. Her vision was to honor the memory of this man who so loved his son and daughters. His oldest daughter wanted to create a piece so that others can remember her dad as dearly as she does. For art by Silvia, go to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Tracy Bonin’s most recent artwork was a mural she created for a contest in Bucerias. It represents the four seasons in Banderas Bay, featuring sun, surf, mountains, water and whales, all in the vibrant colors of Mexico. Please vote online through the website, maravillanayarit.com/art-contest, until January 10. Contact Tracy at facebook.com/tracyboninart to create something unique for yo.
To welcome you to 2021, may January have you strolling through La Cruz and Bucerias, enjoying their abundance of boutiques, dining and music venues and galleries.