The sweetest things or no more lockdown blues

For me, being in lockdown is nothing new. As a child, I remember when we had to plan well and alternate which grandparents we can visit in our green Renault 4.

In Yugoslavia in the 80s, the government renegotiated the foreign debt at the price of introducing the policy of stabilisation which in practice consisted of severe austerity measures — the so-called shock treatment.

Due to effect of the oil crisis, there was an introduction of fuel limitations (40 liters per car per month), limitation of car usage to every other day, based on the last digit on the license plate.

There were shortages of coffee, chocolate, and washing powder. We were cueing in front of the supermarket in my hometown Našice, just like I do now in London. Except there were no trolleys. One could get only 4 or 5 items and that was it. Somehow I view these moments nostalgically, but I guess my parents would have perceived it differently. I relished those simple home-made cakes, which are up to now, my absolutely favorite dessert.

In our south Slavic temperament, we say: “Bilo nam je bolje kada nam je bilo gore/It was better when it was worse”.

Croatia, Life, ChildhoodAleksandra Horwood13 May 2020Happy Stance Yoga Therapylockdown, Yugoslavia, Croatia, Family, Homemade food, Sweet memories, plum jam, Renault 4Comment

How and Where to Meditate, a Strategy for a Healthier Life

First, the posture. The widespread image of a yogi sitting cross-legged in samadhi might be out of reach for most of us and also not really necessary to imitate. If you can sit on a floor, that might be very useful as you don't need much and you can practice anywhere, anytime. But if you cant, don't despair. Most of us will need something to sit on, even if it is a yoga block, a big dictionary, a cushion, a folded blanket or a sweater. You can be as innovative as you want to. Some of us might have bought or made themselves cushions filled with buckwheat hulls, for instance. There are limitless possibilities to explore and play with, but I would suggest before you establish a regular sitting practice and discover what you really need, leave that for later. For now, utilise whatever you see around you.