A Journey to Feed the Soul

"Freedom is not the absence of commitments, but the ability to choose—and commit myself to—what is best for me." —Paulo Coelho.

Have you ever heard the phrase, "Do more of what feels like freedom"? My coach introduced me to this concept, and I instantly fell in love with it. But what does it truly mean to do more of what feels like freedom? For me, it means nourishing my soul with the things and people that bring it to life. It's about seeking out moments and places where my spirit feels at ease, at peace, inspired, and joyful.

This year, for the first time, I experienced the enchantment of a live violin performance. My entire being was set ablaze with wonder. The music, the performance, and the grandiose event hall combined to create a magical experience that made my soul soar. In that moment, I felt like a million bucks, and my soul whispered, "This is home."

Bookstores are another haven for my soul. Walking through the aisles, touching the beautiful book covers, and being surrounded by endless knowledge and stories—these moments make my soul do somersaults. I dream of having all those books in my home library. In the embrace of a bookstore, my soul again whispers, "This is home."

Art galleries elevate my spirit to new heights. Surrounded by creations born from imagination and framed in beauty, I find pure magic in the creativity. My eyes revel in masterpieces, and I yearn for a home where I can display art that speaks to me. In an art gallery, my soul sings, "This is home."

The list of places where my soul feels at home goes on—cozy coffee shops, parks with majestic trees, endless beaches, sunlit spaces. Even the sun itself, shining high in the sky, makes my soul sing and feel alive. These are the places where my senses are heightened, and where my creativity flourishes.

Words hold immense power for me. Deep conversations, intellectual podcasts, and inspiring human stories bring my soul immense joy. Reading books, particularly biographies and transformative tales, often leaves me pausing to absorb the profound insights. I can feel my brain expanding and breathing as I learn something new. Documentaries, powerful movies, and music with meaningful lyrics feed my soul who like a glutton, is always craving more.

Traveling and discovering new places and cultures is another way my soul finds freedom. Immersing myself in the energy, history, and architecture of a new place, and observing how others live their lives, never ceases to amaze me. A recent trip to Singapore left my senses alive and in awe. Every inch of the city felt crafted with love and care, making my soul feel at home.

I could write volumes about what feels like freedom to me, and I am committed to doing more of it. But how about you? What feels like freedom to you? Where are those places, activities, people, and things that make your soul whisper, "This is home"?

Book & Documentary Recommendation:

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

Becoming by Michelle Obama

13th Directed by Ava DuVernay

Free Solo following rock climber Alex Honnold

Jiro Dreams of Sushi - A fascinating look into the life and craft of Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old sushi master, and his relentless pursuit of perfection.

With all my heart,

Salima