Things To Do At Panola Mountain State Park in Stockbridge, Georgia

Panola Mountain State Park is a hidden gem just outside the perimeter of Atlanta in Stockbridge, GA. The large park offers paved walking trails, bike rentals, fishing, camping sites and a variety of other outdoor activities. The parks' main attraction is Panola Mountain which is a granite rock formation similar to Stone Mountain, however much smaller. I went on a Sunday afternoon to catch a sweat and some fresh air. 

Like all state parks in Georgia there is a fee to enter; Panola Mountain's is $5. After entering the park from the HWY 155 entrance there are picnic pavilions, restrooms, a playground, fitness area, as well as a small gravel parking lot for the PATH Trail. Since this was my first time at the park I decided to walk the shortest trail. Though it was short, it didn’t make hiking it any less challenging! I walked 4 miles roundtrip in 93 degree Georgia humidity, 🥵.  There is an entrance sign to the trail that suggests having a cell phone, water and trail buddy, which I also encourage due to the seclusion of trail. 

Hikes up to Panola Mountain are by reservation only due to the sensitivity of the plant species that live on it. However, there is an observation deck along the Alexander Loop Trail that gives you the chance to see some of the mountain and learn about its history. Along the trail there's lots of lush green forest, plants and various bugs. Overall, it’s is a nice and quiet hike. I would recommend this trail to all fitness levels since you can walk as far or short as you want. It’s also a great option for you to enjoy a less crowded park or enjoy a change of scenery.

I'm excited about the beautiful weather we have here in Atlanta during the summer. It gives me an excuse to go outside and explore all the city and state has to offer. Where are you looking forward to exploring this summer? What are some of your favorite state parks to visit?

The Dilemma Between Reading Books over Scrolling Social Media

This year I challenged myself to read one book per month, for a total of twelve books for the year. I'm going to write a comprehensive summary of all of the books that I've read this year in December, but instead of twelve books, I'll be summarizing eighteen. Yep, I've almost finished eighteen books this year! This is a huge feat, considering I haven't been an active reader since middle school.

This year has proven productive in terms of growth, clarity and transformation. It has had a fair share of triumphs, and disappointments. I have learned that in life, you are responsible for your success and happiness. You have to own up to your mistakes, and that everything in life is temporary, including pain. However, pain is a necessary component for spiritual and personal growth.  

On top of reading and evolving as a person, I also made the conscious decision and effort to reduce my social media use. There are two main reasons behind this decision:

1. In order for me to read as many books as I can, and reach my book goal, I had to switch focus. Instead of scrolling through Instagram or Facebook for an hour, I used that time to read. I actually deleted my Instagram and created a new one, and I feel pretty damn good about it.

2.  The second reason I limited my social media use was because I needed a break from consuming and more time healing and creating. I read this quote by Amarachi Nwosu that said, "Once you cut out all the unnecessary influences and energies, you get closer to being your authentic self. You get closer to aligning with your true beliefs, dreams and what you want to see in the world. Sometimes you have to disconnect to connect." In short, I needed to refresh and recharge my mind and reconnect with myself.

Everything that I have learned and the books that I've read will be in the book summary that I post in December. Until then, I won't be posting much. Mostly so I can finish reading and start writing the post. Love and light. See you then!

What Ayurveda & Self- Care Can Teach You About Balance

"Take time to do what makes your soul happy"- Unknown

We live in a society that is obsessed with success, hard work, hustling and constant digital connectivity. While there is nothing wrong with working towards personal and professional goals, one has to consider the toll that constant movement has on the mind, body and soul.

Up until recently, I struggled with always being on. I'm a naturally flowy person, so stillness to me equates to unproductiveness and a lack of progression. It wasn't until I experienced extreme feelings of anxiety that I re-evaluated my lifestyle and starting questioning my choices. 

I noticed not only do I have an erratic daily routine, but I don't take time out for self - care. I was also, according to Ayurveda, not eating for my bodily constitution. Let me back up a little bit and explain what Ayurveda is for those who may be unfamiliar. 

Ayurveda is an Indian/Vedic holistic science. It's based on the belief of the mind-body connection and that whatever troubles your mind, manifests in your body and soul. It's a preventative method that helps heal the root problem, and not just the physical symptoms. In Ayurveda, everyones body is made up of a prominent constitution or dosha: Vata, Pitta & Kapha. 

"Ayurveda: A Life of Balance" by Maya Tiwari is a great starter book to learn about Ayurveda. I read it to figure out why I was feeling frazzled in the first place. The book states that we must eat foods and create routines that nurture our dosha so that we can be our best selves. I wasn't doing that, so I slowly began incorporating some of the suggestions of the book: daily meditation, eating nourishing foods (that agreed with my body), not pressuring myself to complete my to-do list, and expressing gratitude. Slowly, I began to see improvements that helped me uncover my spirit. For so long I felt like an imposter in my own life. I depended on external factors and people to validate me and bring me internal happiness. It wasn't until I looked within that I found the answers that I was looking for. It sounds super cheesy, but everything we need in life is already within us.

Ayurveda taught me to love myself unconditionally. Love myself so that I can truly love others. When feelings of anxiety, or depression arise, its because deep down I feel inadequate. Love is the answer to everything. It taught me that Mother Nature provides us with everything we need or want to survive. Food, water, sunshine, fresh air, and nature. Most of which we take for granted. Ayurveda taught me to forgive myself, so that I can forgive others. Resentment, guilt, and hatred are all resistant to love. Contentment, joy, and gratitude are freedom. 

There's nothing more liberating than looking in the mirror and loving the reflection you see. Life is the best teacher there is, and I'm grateful to forever be a student. 

What You Should Eat at "UpBeet" in Atlanta

UpBeet is a fast - casual restaurant located in Midtown Atlanta. Dubbed the "healthier version of Chipotle" they offer fresh juices, smoothies and bowls that are both vegan and vegetarian. If you're not quite ready to make the transition to full on vegan, they also offer dishes with animal protein. Learning about the opening of UpBeet had me super excited to try them. Atlanta doesn't have many options when it comes to vegan and vegetarian food choices, so I think this new addition to the city will benefit health - conscious foodies such as myself.

I went early on a Saturday morning to beat the crowds, get the freshest food possible, and enjoy the atmosphere. The restaurant is airy, bright, modern and welcoming. The inside is clean and the patio has a nice feel as well. Once inside, I was a bit confused by the layout of the line. The workers patiently guided me through the line and I was able to take my time and figure out what I wanted to order. If it's your first time going to Upbeet, I would recommend visiting early when there aren't many people, or take a look at the menu before hand. It can be a bit overwhelming. I ordered the Macro bowl, which includes brown rice, kale, lentils, roasted brussel sprouts (yum!), and other roasted vegetables. I also ordered a Green Day smoothie (minus the banana). My total was $25 which I felt was extremely overpriced, but not a surprise considering the location and quality. The food was delicious none-the-less, but I feel as if the smoothie could have taste better considering the $12 price tag. Maybe because I omitted the banana the smoothie lacked the creamy consistency I was looking for. I probably wouldn't order that particular smoothie again. 

Overall, I would say my first visit to Upbeet was a success. The food and atmosphere are great and the location is convenient. They have an extensive menu and use eco-friendly packaging. They also recycle and compost their trash, which makes me feel a little better when I throw away any left over food. I definitely recommend Upbeet if your in the Midtown area, or your open to trying something new. What is your favorite fast - casual restaurant? Would you be open to trying Upbeet?