The Conch Shell

A few years ago I made the journey to Maha India (Maha means “great” in Hindi). This trip was one of the most challenging and enlightening experiences of my life.

Inspired by the sights, people and infinite displays of devotion, I wanted to share my personal experience exploring this great country. Out of this inspiration I produced a DVD called FreeYourSoulTV India.

This week’s Free Your Soul moment is an episode from the DVD entitled “The Conch Shell”, exploring the ancient use of a conch shell for worship, devotion and even health.  It’s a sound that fascinated me every time I heard it in India and sent positive vibrations throughout my entire body.

If you’re curious about India and want to hear a conch shell for yourself watch the video above and remember to find your own Free Your Soul experiences.

Until next week…Namaste. 

The Southern California Flower Market...and Sexy Pink Heliconia's

Los Angeles is a diverse, dynamic and unique city. Nothing captures this diversity in a single area as much as Downtown Los Angeles. 

From China town to Japan town to Skid Row (the worst poverty one could imagine in North America), downtown is also home to theater, incredible discount shopping and the countries largest flower district.

Established in 1913, the Southern California Flower Market is located at 7^th & Wall Street in Downtown Los Angeles. Twice a month, I take a forty minute drive to buy flowers here. This excursion is so uniquely L.A., I decided to share it for this week’s Free Your Soul experience.

Curious to see what a Sexy Pink Heliconia is? Watch the video above and plan your own visit to the market for your Free Your Soul experience. For more information go to http://www.laflowerdistrict.com  

Starfish

There are several rock formations that jet out into the Pacific Ocean. Along one of my recent bike rides, I pulled over to enjoy the view from one of these formations, which I never thought much of until my recent discovery of...Starfish.   

Starfish are exclusive to the salt water oceans of the world. They seem magically prehistoric, with six rays radiating out of a central disc, resourcefully clinging to rocks as the waves forcefully brush over their prickly bodies. 

Large families of starfish can be found in the crevices of several rock formations along the bike path. I was so blown away by their beauty I made them this week’s Free Your Soul magical moment.

Watch the video above to revel in their beauty and learn where you can go to see them with your own eyes! Keep in mind; it’s best to visit them when the tide is low.

Enjoy the video and remember to find your own Free Your Soul magical moment!

The Vedanta Center

Two weeks ago I attended a twelve hour spiritual celebration called Hanuman Jayanti largely observed by Hindus to commemorate the birth of Hanuman, the Vanara god who is the symbol of strength, energy and infinite devotion.

The celebration took place at the magical Vedanta Center located in Hollywood. On my first visit to the center, I was blown away by the tranquility of the grounds and majestic temple. An oasis to monks, spiritual seekers and friendly squirrels, the center is perched literally and figuratively above the craziness of Hollywood and the busy 101 freeway. 

The Vedanta Society of Southern California was created by Swami Vivekanada, a direct disciple of Ramakrishna. What draws me to the Vedanta center is the practice of Vedanta which explores the search for self-knowledge and God.

Vedanta is one of the worlds most ancient religious philosophies based on the Vedas (sacred scriptures of India).  The center encompasses all religions, hosts workshops, lectures and puja ceremonies year round. It's a magical place complete with squirrels that eat right out of your hand! For more information go to http://www.vedanta.org/