Life and Travel with Jessica
  • Home
  • Blog
  • Bucket List
  • Travel
  • Shop
  • About
  • Work With Me
  • Contact
  • Ohio Sisters

A week in Vietnam with saigon om

11/20/2018

7 Comments

 
Picture
"Sitting on our mats on the ground, joining in a guided meditation, listening to the birds chirping in the top of our shala, and the waves just beyond, I couldn't help but smile, and just be thankful to be alive, and to be spending a part of my life in this glorious slice of God's earth." 
This was an entry I wrote in my journal I kept while at the retreat. I don't normally journal, but there were so many moments, and so many emotions happening, that I didn't want to forget a second of it. A good portion of this post has been taken from the journal I kept at the retreat.
​
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
As I am sitting here looking at my three hundred plus pictures, and going through my pages and pages of hand scribbled notes, I am wondering how on earth to truly share with you guys, and do justice, to the five days and six nights I spent with saigon om. I guess I will just share with you what our week looked like, and start by telling you our daily schedule while at the retreat. I know I wrote a little about the schedule in my previous post, where I told you all about saigon om and how excited I was to attend a retreat by them. If I'm being honest, when I wrote that schedule down, and then showed it to my husband, it left us both feeling a little overwhelmed. Neither of us were super advanced in yoga, had ever attended a retreat, or knew anything about mindfulness, and that schedule, while it looked amazing, was a bit daunting! If any of you felt the same way when you looked at it the first time, don't feel bad! But I knew it would be good for us, we wanted to do it, and so we did it! And wow, I can't even begin to explain how happy I am that we did! So with that in mind, here is what our week looked like while at our yoga and mindfulness retreat with saigon om in beautiful Mui Ne, Vietnam.

A week in Vietnam with saigon om
Daily Schedule
6:00-7 a.m. Qi Gong, mindful walking on the beach, and guided meditation
7:00-7:45 a.m. Fruit, tea and coffee
7:45-8:30 a.m. Lecture
8:30-10 a.m. Morning yoga
10:00 a.m. Brunch
11:00 a.m -4 p.m. Free time
4:00-6 p.m. Evening restorative yoga, mindful tea drinking, group sharing
6:15 p.m. Dinner
​
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
6:00-7 a.m. Qi Gong, mindful walking on the beach, and guided meditation
I am a bit embarrassed to admit that one of the things I was worried about, was our schedule beginning at six o'clock in the morning. I have trouble getting to bed before midnight, and getting me out of bed before eight is nearly impossible, so the thought of having to start my day every morning at six, was a bit troubling! However, I discovered with delight, traveling to a place eleven hours ahead of home, is the perfect solution for that! I fell asleep every night before eight, and every morning we arose before sunrise. Sneaking out of our villa, following the trail to the ocean, we would watch the magnificent sunrise, the clouds slowly peeking above the ocean, the sun casting its fiery rays. This was a beautiful moment for Nick and I every morning.

A week in Vietnam with saigon om
Once the sun had rose, we would wander up to our shala, which was a second story open-air hut with a beautiful thatched roof that housed a large number of birds, that had a breathtaking view of the ocean. Shala means house in Sanskrit-it is used in yoga to mean a house of yoga. This is me at the front of our shala.

A week in Vietnam with saigon om
​The Chinese practice of Qi Gong was a delight! Qi in Chinese means energy, and Qi Gong is the practice of using breathing, meditating, and movement to get your energy moving (Sarah and Hang explain it much better!).
I loved learning about this thousands of year old art form, and getting to use the free flowing movements to wake up my organs, and even ease some of the tension in my shoulders!
The photo above and below are courtesy of Pascal Lefebvre, the owner of Full Moon Village Resort.
​
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
Our mindful walking was a beautiful time spent every morning walking in mindful silence, as a group, along the beach. 
​
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
Guided Meditation
​During our first morning guided meditation I sat on my mat, and participated in the guided meditation. I closed my eyes, listening to the sound of Sarah's voice gently guiding us on our meditation journey. Tears ran down my face as I listened to the birds chirping, the waves crashing, and focused on loving awareness towards myself. I was overcome by such deep feelings of joy, peace, and a love for myself and my surroundings.


A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
7:00-7:45 a.m. Fruit, tea and coffee
Once the guided meditation was over, we all walked down from the shala where fresh fruit and teas were awaiting us. If that wasn't enough, we got to order a fancy tea or coffee from the wait staff. My iced Vietnamese coffee with coconut cream was probably one of my favorite parts of the day! I also loved the opportunity to sit and conversate with the amazing individuals from five different countries, and all walks of life that were at the retreat. Being in a group of like minded people, talking, sharing, and nobody on their cell phones (!!!) felt like paradise to me!


A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
​7:45-8:30 a.m. Lecture
After we had our fill of the glorious fruits, teas, and coffees, we made our way back up to the shala. I thoroughly looked forward to, and enjoyed the lectures. The word lecture conjures up for most hard chairs, fluorescent lighting, and a long-winded professor. More opposite of that this could not have been! We sat in a semi-circle in our shala, on our yoga mats, with the wind in our hair, and the ocean beside us, learning lessons that we would later practice on the mat, and in everyday life. Hang and Sarah enraptured and delighted us with their vast knowledge, humor, and contagious joy. We learned about the different doshas, mindfulness, the garden of the mind, and how words can affect us, and more! I took lots of notes and am so excited to keep applying these wonderful principles to my life.

​
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
8:30-10 a.m. Morning yoga
​Ahhh morning yoga...can you think of anything more perfect?
Lying there on my back focusing on my breathing, hearing only the gentle sounds of Hang's voice, and the crash of the ocean, with its cool salty breeze blowing delicately on my face, I knew i was truly in paradise.​ And yes, this is the view from our shala!
​
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
10:00 a.m. Brunch
Brunch was an absolutely glorious time! After four hours of yoga, meditation, and lectures, we were all invigorated-and hungry! We made our way downstairs where a buffet of freshly squeezed watermelon, coconut and other various juices were waiting, along with a different vegetarian pho every day, as well as fresh salads, coffee, and other various brunch foods. We ate these with the glass doors wide open to allow the outdoors access to us. Sigh, heaven.


A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
11:00 a.m -4 p.m. Free time
After brunch we had five glorious hours to do whatever our hearts desired. This included for Nick and I spending time at the pool, walking the beach, and spending time in our room. 
A note about the hotel, I have never stayed in a place more secluded, delightful, and luxurious, all rolled in to one, than the Full Moon Village Resort in Mui Ne. It housed the most beautiful pool I have ever swam in, incredible and authentic vegetarian Vietnamese cuisine, amazing staff, the ocean right at our back yard, and don't even get me started on our room! It was not even a room, but our own private villa! A completely fenced off, perfectly private villa with a spacious kitchen, dining and living room, bathroom, and a bedroom with romantic netting surrounding the bed! This luxury was completed by our very own outdoor hot tub! I will be writing more about this amazing resort in an upcoming blog post about Vietnam.

​
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
​4:00-6 p.m. Evening restorative yoga, mindful tea drinking, group sharing
At four we all arrived at Sarah and Hang's villa, yoga mat and couch cushions in hand.
We would start the evening with a mindful tea drinking ceremony, first reading the above mantra, then partaking in mindfully, gratefully, and with purpose drinking our tea.
Next was group share. I loved group share! We took turns sharing whatever was on our mind and heart. Some were joyful things, some had realizations and epiphones, and others were struggles and losses. We shared together, we cried together, we experienced together.
Last was restorative yoga. If you are a person who thinks yoga is too hard, then you must try restorative yoga! The lights were dimmed, soft music was played, and we all lay on our yoga mats using big fluffy couch cushions for comfort. Hang and Sarah took turns guiding us on this relaxing, and healing yoga session. Nick even fell asleep one day and started snoring real loud. And Nick never takes naps! It was that relaxing and good!


A week in Vietnam with saigon om
​6:15 p.m. Dinner
The first fifteen minutes of dinner was spent in mindful silence. We first gave thanks to our higher being, and then gave thanks to the food. We were encouraged to say hello to each piece of food, imagine the journey they took to get to us, and to chew slowly and thoroughly. Doing this, we got to experience mindfulness and a different way of thinking in something we do every day, in something as simple as eating a meal. Truly amazing! I actually really enjoyed the mindful silence at dinner time. I got to really taste, and really enjoy every bite, instead of wolfing it down like I normally do. After fifteen minutes we were free to get seconds, and talk. Nick and I usually stayed until about seven thirty talking with all our new friends, then went back to our villa for bed. 
The next morning we got to do it all over again!


A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
I am someone who loves to totally immerse myself in things; cultures, languages, experiences. And being totally immersed in this culture of mindfulness was completely transformative! We got to listen to teachings about mindfulness, and then experience it during a yoga session, a walk on the beach, even eating! And that was just perfect. 
And yes, yoga and meditation can be daunting. But Sarah and Hang guide you through it with ease. Giving you tips, helping your form, and always teaching you new techniques and sayings, it was such a special experience.  



Picture
Not a bad way to spend five days!
​
I 1,000% recommend trying a yoga and mindfulness retreat at least once in your life. Hang and Sarah hold retreats and trainings year round in Vietnam and Australia, if you've ever wanted to visit one of these delectable places, and also Canada if you live in Canada or the States and don't want to venture too far from home. It doesn't matter which location you choose (though I'm quite partial to Vietnam...), just go! Go on this transformative, once in a lifetime journey with saigon om.
If you have any questions about the retreats or different training courses, feel free to email them (
[email protected]), Sarah and Hang are the greatest and will be happy to answer any questions. Just tell them Jessica from My Peace Love Life sent you! Go like them on facebook to see all the amazing things they are doing!
​
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
A week in Vietnam with saigon om
*A million thank yous to my wonderful husband Nick for going on this adventure with me, and for all of these amazing pictures he took, and also to saigon om for sponsoring this post and for being so so incredible*

​Peace Love and saigon om
Jess <3
​
7 Comments

Decadent Raspberry Cheesecake Mousse (Vegan!)

3/22/2018

4 Comments

 
Decadent Raspberry Cheesecake Mousse (Vegan!)
Hello my lovely readers!
Today I will be sharing with you my very own raspberry cheesecake mousse recipe. Oh, did I mention that it's vegan?!! Yes indeed!
So for those of you who eat vegan, or simply can't eat dairy, look no further for a way to satisfy your cheesecake cravings (cheesecake is one of the things I've missed most since giving up dairy)!
This recipe uses simple ingredients, is easy to make, plus it's super healthy for you! It makes for a great breakfast to start out your day, a wonderful mid-day snack, and it will wow your dinner party guests as a stunning dessert!



Picture
A word about ingredients;

-To ensure this recipe is as healthy as possible, be sure to use 100% pure maple syrup. Most "maple syrups" sold at the store use high fructose corn syrup and a bunch of other nasty stuff. Read the ingredients before you buy, it's more expensive but so worth it.

-Coconut cream can be found in the Asian aisle at the grocery store. Thai Kitchen is the best!

-Use fresh raspberries! They're no good thawed out and all mushy. Plus they're healthier fresh!
​
                    Recipe for Vegan Raspberry Cheesecake Mousse

-Soak 1 1/2 cups cashews in cold water in the fridge, overnight.

-The next day, drain and rinse your soaked cashews. Blend them until creamy in a food processor (I just use my Ninja!). Add a tiny bit of water if needed.
​
-Once your cashews are nice and creamy, set them aside.

-Open a can of coconut cream. Do not shake! Carefully spoon the creamy white part into a bowl, leave the watery stuff at the bottom.


Picture
-Using a hand-held mixer, mix the coconut cream until it stiffens (it will be kind of like whip cream).

​-Fold in 2 tbs maple syrup.

-Fold in the creamy cashew concoction.

-Taste, and if you'd like it sweeter, fold in another tablespoon of maple syrup (I did).
​
Picture
From here, you have two choices. You can spoon your mixture into adorable dessert glasses (like these here that my awesome neighbor Hank gave me!) and eat right away, or refrigerate overnight before eating. If you eat it right away, it will have a more cheesecake feel, but if you eat it after being refrigerated overnight, it will have a more mousse-y texture. Both ways are very good! I ate some right away, put the the rest in the fridge, then ate some in the morning! Don't forget to top with fresh raspberries!
​This recipe filled both glasses, plus had enough the next day for two more glasses.


Picture
Me and my husband's favorite way to eat this is spooned on top of graham crackers for a fun breakfast! Try it!
​
Decadent Raspberry Cheesecake Mousse (Vegan!)
I hope you enjoy your very own vegan raspberry cheesecake mousse!
​

Decadent Raspberry Cheesecake Mousse (Vegan!)
Picture
Peace Love and Vegan Mousse
Jess <3
​
More articles you might like;
Picture
Vegan Fettuccine Alfredo
Picture
Vegan Fair Trade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Picture
Vegan Bubble Tea
4 Comments

Quinoa Summer Garden Bowl

7/11/2016

2 Comments

 
Picture
I have become quite obsessed with quinoa lately, as has the rest of the nation, and for good reason! Quinoa is one of the most protein-rich foods we can eat, it has almost twice as much fiber as most other grains, it contains iron, is rich in magnesium, riboflavin, and manganese! Plus it's super delish; I just love the texture of it!
So I decided to make a nutrition packed recipe, that's perfect for summer!

Picture
                            Quinoa Summer Garden Bowl
                                            What to do;


*Cook your quinoa according to package directions. I was surprised to find that cooking quinoa is a lot like cooking rice! I recommend cooking the entire bag of quinoa, since it refrigerates good, and makes a perfect snack or lite summer lunch.

*While your quinoa is cooking, cut up your vegetables. You can really use any vegetables you think would be good in your quinoa bowl. I used broccoli, onions, garlic, and green and yellow peppers in mine, and it turned out amazing.

*Once the quinoa has finished cooking, take the lid off and stir all your vegetables into it. By doing this, you're letting your veggies "cook" a bit, but they're still staying raw, which is where all the nutritional value comes from. 

*Transfer the quinoa and veggie mixture from the pot it was cooked in, into a large bowl.


Picture
*I don't really ever measure stuff when cooking, I just use what I think looks about right for me and my likings, and this was no exception. So! Stir together a couple squirts of lime juice, and a tablespoon or two of extra virgin olive oil. It's all about preferences. I like to go a little crazy on the lime juice, because it gives it a great flavor. The olive oil also gives it an amazing flavor, plus adds some moisture. Just be sure to not make it too oily. Toss into the quinoa mixture.

*Sprinkle in some garlic powder and sea salt, and you're done! 


Picture
Place the bowl in the fridge, and once it's cooled, you can start devouring your "Quinoa Summer Garden Bowl" that is just perfect for summer!
​
Wedding Dresses UK

​Peace Love and Quinoa
Jess <3


More Vegan Recipes you Might Enjoy;
Picture
Picture
Picture
2 Comments
<<Previous
      
    ​
    Picture

    I'm Jessica!

    I've traveled all over the world, but Ohio is where I call home. I'm a lifestyle & travel blogger, and author. I love setting goals, reading, and snuggling up with my fur babies. I can usually be found at my local thrift store, or in the hammock in my backyard.

    About Me
      
    Picture
      
     
    Picture
      
    Picture

    Popular Posts

    Picture
      
    Picture
      
    Picture
      
    Picture
      
    Picture
      
    Picture
      
    Picture
      
    Picture

    Categories

    All
    Asia
    Atlanta
    Beauty
    Blogging
    Bucket List
    Caribbean
    Changing The World
    China
    Christmas
    Coffee Break Retro Style
    Diy
    Dog Friendly
    Fashion
    Food
    Goals
    Guest Bloggers
    Halloween
    Health
    Home Decor
    Inspiration
    Money
    Music
    My Favorite Posts
    My Life
    North America
    Oceania
    Ohio
    Parties
    Sponsored Posts
    Support Small Businesses
    Volke House
    Wedding
    World Traveler
    Zero Waste

    Archives

    May 2025
    October 2024
    July 2024
    March 2024
    December 2023
    October 2023
    August 2023
    March 2023
    December 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    January 2021
    December 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    October 2014
    September 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    December 2013
    November 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013
    July 2013
    June 2013
    May 2013
    April 2013
    March 2013
    February 2013
    January 2013
    December 2012
    November 2012
    October 2012
    September 2012
    August 2012
    July 2012
    June 2012
    May 2012

    *Disclosure; This blog is a personal blog written by me. This blog accepts forms of paid advertising and sponsorship. The compensation received may influence the advertising content, topics or posts made in this blog. That content, advertising space or post will be clearly identified as paid or sponsored content. Even though I receive compensation for some posts or advertisements, I will always give my honest opinions, findings, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely my own.*
    Picture
Proudly powered by Weebly