Meet the Flip Fam: Meghan Asha

Happy Flip Fam Friday! On Fridays, we profile members of our community who artfully build the spirit of serendipity into their daily lives.

This week, we’ll meet Meghan Asha, the visionary behind FounderMade: a platform that makes it possible for breakthrough new brands in the beauty, wellness and food space to grow and get connected to big retailers.

Her passion for adventure — both her own and others — has helped others build businesses that change people's lives.

Get to know her — and check out the next generation of consumer brand unicorns at the FounderMade Discovery Show in Los Angeles on October 16!

Your favorite nickname: I have so many....my dad calls me Macaroni, my sisters call me Meggles...and my husband calls me Masha

Where were you born? San Jose, CA

Where do you live now? Soho, Manhattan

What’s your profession or calling? I help others build...

What’s a secret power that you have (that may surprise us!): I’m the most spirited in the room! I think it comes from my days in high school as a cheerleader.

What’s your go-to local zen spot? Santa Monica — I love the ocean and running on the beach.

What’s your most beloved travel destination? Paris! I ran the Paris Marathon last year...it was phenomenal.

Why is adventure important to you and what do you do to infuse that into your daily life? We’re in the business of new product discovery! Every day our team gets sent new product innovations from around the world. Adventure comes from learning about these brands and the inspirational entrepreneurs behind them.

What's your mantra for getting through challenges or tough times? Winning and learning, never losing

What's your go-to 'thing' to get unstuck? Jumping high and cheering at the gym, I realize if I physically get unstuck...my brain usually follows.

Follow Meghan’s adventures: @meghanasha and @foundermade.

Meet the Flip Fam: Jen Glantz

Happy Flip Fam Friday! On Fridays, we profile members of our community who artfully build the spirit of serendipity into their daily lives.

This week, we’ll meet Jen Glantz, author, creator of Bridesmaid for Hire, and founder of the podcast You’re Not Getting Any Younger.

Her adventurous spirit has sparked an experiment to live in a different city every month. Check out how Jen infuses discovery into her daily life, the power of pizza, and why adventure is good for romance.

Your favorite nickname: Jenny

Where were you born? Deerfield Beach, Florida

Where do you live now? In a new city every month!

What’s your profession or calling? The founder of the viral business, Bridesmaid for Hire, the creator of the blog, The Things I Learned From, the voice of the podcast, You're Not Getting Any Younger, and the author of the Amazon-bestselling books, All My Friends are Engaged, &  Always a Bridesmaid for Hire, published by Simon and Schuster. 

What’s your go-to local zen spot? The nearest pizza place. I like to head take myself out for a slice, put some good music in my ears, and take some soothing breaths.

What’s your most beloved travel destination? Venice Beach, CA.

Why is adventure important to you and what do you do to infuse that into your daily life? Long walks with no destination in mind. I try to head outside for 45 minutes and see where my feet take me.

What's your mantra for getting through challenges or tough times? Never give up. I repeat it again and again! When I went to publish my second book, it was denied 20-something times before a publisher finally said yes. I just keep pushing forward and not giving up!

What's your go-to 'thing' to get unstuck? Loud music and dancing around my apartment.

What's an experience in your life that changed who you thought you were? Last August, I sold 90% of my belongings and began living in a new city every month. I only travel with one suitcase. This adventure has changed who I thought I was and made me more of a down to earth and "go with the flow" kind of person!

Has Serenflipity played a role in your life? It's the greatest thing to do for date night. I've been dating my boyfriend for 2.5 years and Serenflipity helps keep our time together fresh and fun.  

Follow Jen’s adventures: @jenglantz

Meet the Flip Fam: Janette Valenzo

Happy Flip Fam Friday! On Fridays, we profile members of our community who artfully build the spirit of serendipity into their daily lives.

This week, we’ll meet Janette Valenzo an adventurer extraordinaire in Los Angeles. Check out how Janette infuses discovery into her daily life, how she tackles tough emotions, and why adventure makes life worth living.... 

Name: Janette Valenzo

Your favorite nickname: Jan or JanJan the Peanut Butter Man

Where were you born? Los Angeles

Where do you live now? Rancho Cucamonga

What’s your profession or calling? Actor/Teaching Artist

What’s a secret power that you have (that may surprise us!): I have as close as possible to a photographic memory without actually having a photographic memory, so I guess just a really good memory, especially with faces.

I tell people my memory isn't that good only because this secret power gets me in awkward situations when I remember people, but they don't remember me... oh well!

What’s your go-to local zen spot? James Turrell's "Skyspace" in Claremont, while drinking a matcha latte from this local coffee shop called, "Sanctuary Coffee" coincidentally.

What’s your most beloved travel destination? There was something about Belgium that I loved. From walking around until my feet could not take another step to eating waffles for every meal, I would drop everything to go back. I loved it and felt truly alive there with no one knowing me and me knowing nothing.

Why is adventure important to you and what do you do to infuse that into your daily life? Since I can remember finding a way to make my life almost movie-like has kept me interested in life. As someone who has depression, adventure has been the only way I can get myself going. It can be small by checking out a new restaurant nearby or taking a new path to walk in the evenings. I try to give myself little adventures to tackle, because it makes my life worth living.

What's your mantra for getting through challenges or tough times? "It's okay to not be okay." I don't know who told me that, or where I heard it, but the minute I did, it gave me the permission to stop trying to be perfect all the time and to accept when things seem impossible. When my father passed, I did my best to hold everything in (as the oldest child, I had to majorly step up). I didn't allow myself to be anything but perfect, and then one day, about two months later, I was on my bathroom floor and couldn't move. I had been smoking cigarettes and feeling super guilty (my father died from cancer), and I had been telling my sister that it was okay for HER to not be okay. Hypocrisy at its finest. I started crying and crying, until I fell asleep (no worries! the cigarette was out!). I woke up and accepted that I was only human and grieving was a part of that experience. It's okay to not be okay.

What's your go-to 'thing' to get unstuck? I travel. Whether it is one hour away or in a different time zone, I get moving. I force myself to get lost. Being physically lost gets my mind working again.

Has Serenflipity played a role in your life? So, being that travel is my go-to thing to get unstuck, I couldn't get unstuck for some of the summer since work kept me near home for the majority of the month of July. I had bought the game for my birthday a while back, but was saving it for a time that I needed some shaking up.

Despite most folks thinking I am an extrovert, I am pretty quiet and shy when it comes to speaking to people. Some of the cards had me asking people about their likes, the beliefs, and really I felt like nothing was off limits. I even went to Disneyland alone! I had always wanted to do that, but also felt it would be weird and I would just be on my phone the whole time. Thankfully, halfway through, my family showed up!

Still, to be at Disneyland for at least seven hours alone and not losing myself in my phone but actually speaking to strangers? Well, that was amazing to conquer. I also learned to how embrace my awkwardness and give myself a bit of love in the process. 

Follow Janette’s adventures on Instagram: @janettevalenzo, and check out her 30 days of getting out of her comfort zone!  

Meet the FlipFam: Angelina Zeppieri

On Fridays, we profile members of our community who artfully build the spirit of serendipity into their daily lives.

This week, meet Angelina Zeppieri. Angelina is a publicist and entrepreneur who uses her creative talents to write, blog and produce podcasts. She's also avid traveler who loves spending time near the ocean. Read on for more about this wonderful woman and her enviable, surprising secret power!

Name: Angelina Zeppieri

Where were you born? New York

Where do you live now? Still here, reppin' NYC.

What’s your profession or calling? Publicist by day, entrepreneur by night (aka writer, podcaster, blogger, traveler + more!)

What’s a secret power that you have (that may surprise us?)  I can name and identify over 20 types of pastries, easy. My family owns an Italian bakery in the Bronx, Zeppieri & Sons, so I basically grew up on these delicacies. My grandfather was a baker, my father is a baker, my brother is a baker-in-training... you can imagine the creations I've seen and tasted!

What’s your go-to local zen spot? Anywhere near the ocean!

What’s your most beloved travel destination? Greece! It sparked my love for travel, and I haven't looked back since.  have an incurable case of wanderlust, so I'm always looking for adventure. Planning my next venture helps provide me with something to look forward to. Even if it doesn't involve visiting a foreign country or traveling to a distant city, I find a local adventure to immerse myself in... it could be as simple as visiting a museum exhibit, going on a hike, or brunching at a new spot downtown. 

Why is adventure important to you and what do you do to infuse that into your daily life? I have an incurable case of wanderlust, so I'm always looking for adventure. Planning my next venture helps provide me with something to look forward to. Even if it doesn't involve visiting a foreign country or traveling to a distant city, I find a local adventure to immerse myself in... it could be as simple as visiting a museum exhibit, going on a hike, or brunching at a new spot downtown. 

What's your mantra for getting through challenges or tough times? "Let the space between where I am, and where I want to be, inspire me." I'm constantly thinking, "What's next? where's next?" (I even named my blog after this notion!) and sometimes that can get overwhelming. It's been important for me to realize that even if I don't know for certain what's coming next in my life, it will be great.

What's your go-to 'thing' to get unstuck? I need to move around and get outside. I like to run, bike, even go for a walk when I need to rejuvenate myself. It's more than just physically "unsticking" myself, it helps clear my mind.

Has Serenflipity played a role in your life? Serenflipity reminded me how important it is to connect with people, whether they're lifelong friends or strangers. From reaching out to old friends I hadn't spoke to in a while, I was reminded to take care of these relationships that are important to me. It's so easy today to get stuck in our own routines or get lost in our phones!

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Connect with Angelina

Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, whereisnext.com

Meet the Flip Fam: Tyler Gage

On Fridays, we profile members of our community who artfully build the spirit of serendipity into their daily lives.

This week, Meet Tyler Gage, a Forbes '30-under-30' entrepreneur, Amazonian explorer and the author of Fully Alive: Using the Lessons of the Amazon to Live Your Mission in Business and Life. Tyler has spent the last 12 years studying with indigenous elders in the Amazon rainforest, venturing far from his suburban roots at the age of 20. After graduating from Brown University, Tyler turned down a Fulbright grant to start RUNA, a social enterprise that makes energizing beverages with guayusa, a rare Amazonian leaf, and improves livelihoods for 3,000 indigenous farming families in Ecuador. Since we love his work so much, we asked Tyler to fill us in on where he finds inspiration, where exploring fits into his life, and how serendipity can make a difference in situations big and small.

Your favorite nickname: "Mr CEO" — my friends call me this when I'm being an idiot to (not so) gently remind me that titles often mean little ;)

Where were you born? Berkeley, CA

Where do you live now? Bellingham, WA

What’s your profession or calling? I'm an entrepreneur, author and speaker who uses wisdom from the Amazon and start-up success to bring innovation and inspiration to growing organizations.

What’s a secret power that you have (that may surprise us?) Riding unicycles: When I was growing up, my dad was also a bit of a clown — literally. His hobby was riding unicycles, juggling, cracking eggs on his head, you know, the usual clown stuff. He taught me to ride his eight-foot-high unicycle, which he called “Gerry the Giraffe,” when I was too young for Mom to be in even mild agreement.

In the business world, my ability to balance different perspectives and balance an exceptionally high degree of variables would the most useful translation of this skill. :)

What’s your go-to local zen spot? The woods behind my house. I made the big move from Brooklyn, NY to Bellingham, Washington to get clean air and be amidst the cedar trees here. 20 steps out my door and I'm there. Something about the majesty of northwest forests speaks to my heart in a beautiful way.

What’s your most beloved travel destination? Kauai. I know I should say Ecuador or Peru given why infatuation with the Amazon, but in terms of sheer relaxation and rejuvenation it doesn't get any better.

Why is adventure important to you and what do you do to infuse that into your daily life? In the word of business, I actually love cold calling and reaching out to people I just want to know or talk to. It's mostly rejection but the adventure of not knowing who will respond, and having that 1 person out of 10 get back to me, brings a healthy amount of adventure to my work.

What's your mantra for getting through challenges or tough times? "Thank you." Learning to relate to obstacles as teachers has been at the very core of my study in shamanic traditions in the Amazon.

What's your go-to 'thing' to get unstuck? It depends how stuck I am. It's a mix of boxing or running, followed by meditation. If I'm really stuck, I turn to a special tobacco pipe I have for prayers and connecting to that medicine has gotten me through some major ruts and chaotic situations (internally and externally).

What do you think about adventure potentially being the next meditation? What could the benefits be? I think the two go hand in hand. I'm a huge fan of supporting young people in particular to know other places and cultures in immersive ways — the value of learning to thrive in foreign environments is one of the greatest gifts I think you can give someone.

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Connect with Tyler

Instagram, Twitter, tylergage.com

Meet the Flip Fam: Colin O'Brady

Each week, we profile members of the Serenflipity community who artfully build the spirit of serendipity into their daily lives.

This week, meet Colin O'Brady, an inspiring endurance athlete and speaker who calls Portland, Oregon home. Scroll on to learn more about his record-setting achievements, why he believes that stepping outside of your comfort zone is critical, and the mantra he uses to get unstuck (he tells us it works every time).

Name: Colin O’Brady

Your favorite nickname? CTOB (my initials)

Where were you born? Olympia, WA

Where do you live now? Portland, OR

What’s your profession or calling? I'm a Professional Endurance Athlete (2xWorld Record Holder)

What’s a secret power that you have (that may surprise us)? I can hold my breath underwater for 4 minutes.  

What’s your go-to local zen spot? Mt. Hood... being in the outdoors of the Pacific Northwest grounds me.

What’s your most beloved travel destination? Mallorca, Spain. I used to live there...it’s the best.

Why is adventure important to you and what do you do to infuse that into your daily life? I make it a point to say 'yes'. The more you say yes, the more adventures you're bound to have!

Why do you get out of your comfort zone? There's no better way to grow (in my opinion) than to adventure outside of your comfort zone. I love what I do for "work" because put simply, adventuring is my job. The happiest times in my life are when I push my body beyond its perceived limits — I come back out on the other side renewed and inspired by the experience.

Photo courtesy of Colin O'Brady

What's your mantra for getting through challenges or tough times? "This too will change." I learned this during a 10-day silent meditation retreat. You sit for so long that your body aches, but you realize that everything is impermanent. Remembering this has taken me through a lot of tough moments.

What's your go-to 'thing' to get unstuck? Slow down to speed up. In the past, I used to think I needed to work harder when I'm lacking creatively, spiritually or just having a hard time. But I've found that taking a deep breath, meditating, or going for a walk helps me to get unstuck. Do less to do more.  

How has Serenflipity played a role in your life? I was at a conference in Atlanta with Cara Thomas. I didn't know any of the people there. She opened up the decks and let the games begin. Before I knew it I was dancing the night away with a pack of new friends! This reminded me of the days backpacking around the world post college; I love it.

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Connect with Colin:

Instagram, Twitter, TED Talk

Meet the Flip Fam: Venetia

On Fridays, we profile members of our community who artfully build the spirit of serendipity into their daily lives.

This week, meet Venetia. A multi-talented powerhouse who just released her first electronic album GLO, this creative musician and writer was also one of the first 10 employees at Airbnb. There, she told video stories about the company's earliest hosts, traveling from Barcelona to Copenhagen to Istanbul to Hong Kong to Rio. No stranger to using her voice, she tells us more about how she lives her most expressive life.

Name: Venetia

Your favorite nickname: V

Where were you born? Schaumburg, IL

Where do you live now? San Francisco, CA

What’s your profession or calling? Musician & Writer

What’s a secret power that you have (that may surprise us?) My sensitivity. It helps me read people and understand situations quickly because I feel all the feels. Of course sometimes it causes me to uncontrollably sob for no reason but that's just par for the sensitive course.

What’s your go-to local zen spot? Golden Gate park, walking through the mighty trees.

What’s your most beloved travel destination? Greece!

Why is adventure important to you, and what do you do to infuse that into your daily life? The brain gets bored of doing the same thing all the time. It's full of chemicals that are just aching to ooze into that bloodstream of ours. When we have adventures we get all sorts of yummy feelings. Sure, sometimes adventures aren't always perfect, but often you find yourself achieving lots which makes you feel good. I like to take friends on full day surprise adventures where I just pick them up and then go from place to place I have chosen for a special day just for them.

What's your mantra for getting through challenges or tough times?  "We made it!". It's a gratitude practice that keeps things in perspective no matter how tough things get. My boyfriend and I say "We made it!" each morning when we wake up and night before bed. It's inspired by watching my aunt take her last breath on this planet after losing a battle with cancer. I couldn't believe how it happened. I realized there's either this "in" breath or "out" last breath and then, well, silence. That moment really changed me. So then I realized that just by breathing in and out I was alive each day and that was everything. Now I get excited when a whole day or night goes by and I've still made it. If you're reading this YOU MADE IT! Isn't that great?

What's your go-to 'thing' to get unstuck? Nature. I have a theory that nature has all the wisdom I ever need to know if I just watch, ask and sit with her. If I am stuck, I go for a walk, breathe and observe.

How has  Serenflipity played a role in your life? Serenflipity helps me with travel, adventure, empowerment, knowledge and the tools to live my boldest and most expressive life. In that way, Serenflipity always has something to teach me or encourage me with — and I am grateful for it.

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Connect with Venetia:

Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Spotify, Soundcloud, iTunes, venetia.com 

Why Choosing Your Path Should Be Exciting

“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
~Mary Oliver

You have one shot at the current moment, and one shot at the next; so why not make each count? Why not choose to show up in a way that expresses who you are at your core? Why not make the contributions that only you can make?

Here’s the thing: no one else can do you.

Imagine for a moment that we're all cells in the same body. For the body to function properly, we must each do our unique work. Picture a single cell looking over at another cell and thinking, "Ah, what they're doing looks interesting, maybe I should give that a try", or spotting a cell who’s speeding along and thinking, "She’s really got it made so I might as well just give up." This would basically be like a cell for the eye wanting to be a cell of the brain, or deciding to just sit this one out. Yikes!

When you think your contribution doesn’t really matter or have a positive impact on the whole, you’re lost. When you ignore the impulses and intuitive nudges to move in your own way, looking instead to others for answers, you're also lost. This is why choosing what you do each day should be exciting and mean something to you — the positive sentiments will spill over into every facet of your life. 

Today, decide that your piece of the puzzle does matter and intentionally choose to pursue what excites you and lights you up. Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas for you to consider as you begin to serve yourself and the world.

Take baby steps

There’s this great scene in the movie What About Bob?, when the obsessive-compulsive Bob (played by Bill Murray) discovers baby steps. “Baby steps to the elevator....Baby steps onto the elevator...". It might sound silly, but you should take the same approach to creating a path that keeps you feeling inspired and fulfilled. Once you pinpoint what excites you, find a way to give it more space so it can take shape. 

What you can do with a 20 extra minutes each morning is astounding. Can you wake up earlier to accomplish something you'd like to eventually turn into your career? For example, if you want to become a content creator or writer, can you carve out a mini-session each day before or after you finish work? With baby steps, there’s really no need to fearfully leap and hope for a net. What a relief!

Say goodbye to your distractions

In a keynote speech about the third metric, Arianna Huffington discusses the dangers of multi-tasking: “You think you’re being efficient, but actually, you’re being stupid.” As Huffington wisely points out, we now have scientific evidence that actually proves we can't successfully multi-task. Can you eliminate distractions during the time you've set aside in order to show up for what you're most excited to create? 

When I tell people that I habitually turn data off on my phone while I’m focusing on a project, they think I’m crazy. However, I'm convinced that it’s one of the smartest things I do! The other option — the constant interruption of e-mail/Facebook/[insert your favorite distraction here] — just doesn’t support my growth and happiness.

Unfortunately, it can be nearly impossible to avoid the lure of those pings. Protect yourself and your time by consciously deciding when you want to let your attention wander, instead of letting those distractions decide for you.

Let your feelings lead you

As you continue to move in the direction of work that excites you, remember to check in with yourself and your gut reactions; they'll tell you that you're on the right track. My clients describe their positive feelings in different ways, such as a floating, expansive feeling, a sense of effortless ease, and even something inside that says "YES!".

All of these are your brain sending feel-good chemicals to your body, like messages to go for it. A friend of mine recently decided to take what she’s calling her 'leap-of-faith tour.”' She left behind a life and choices that were making her unhappy to follow her lifelong dream of being a dancer. She’s choosing to follow the fuzzy, bubbling, warm feelings this choice gives her, and loving every minute of it.

To paraphrase from motivational author Napoleon Hill’s work: "Knowledge is not power. It’s potential power."

Knowledge without action is completely useless. Taking action is the only way to test drive the feelings you’re after in your work. It’s also the single greatest differentiating factor between getting where you’re meant to be or not.

Action has magic in it. Begin today by choosing a path that excites you.

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About the Author

Cortney McDermott is an award-winning writer, speaker, and strategist to Fortune 500 executives, entrepreneurial leaders, and think tanks around the world. She writes for a number of international publications, including She Owns It and The Huffington Post. Her debut book, Change Starts Within You is “soulful, sassy, and full of practical insights,” as best-selling author and Harvard Valedictorian Monika Lutz puts it. “If Eat, Pray, Love married The 4-Hour Workweek, Cortney’s book would be their firstborn child.”

Connect with Cortney: Instagram, cortneymcdermott.com

7 Dreamy Destinations That'll Relax Your Body and Mind

A nutritionist, author and traveler dedicated to merging ancient healing wisdoms with modern western nutritional science, most of the wisdom I’ve learned has been in the field while studying alongside Ayurvedic doctors, Balinese bone healers, Shamans, herbalists and other specialists in from spots that range from South America to Asia. I credit a few special destinations with making a deep impact on my work, each of them perfect for relaxing your body and mind — making it easier to invite more serendipity into your life. 

1. Ubud, Bali. If you’re on your own personal Eat, Pray, Love journey, Ubud is for you! This central Balinese city is a healers paradise, and the place I wrote my first book, Eat Right For Your Mind-Body Type. A typical day in Ubud is full of back-to-back vinyasa and yin yoga classes at the Yoga Barn, a delicious vegan brunch complete with a coconut the size of your head, an afternoon of creative writing, followed by your choice between Vedic astrology or conscious relationships workshops, completed with a night of sweaty ecstatic dance, a grounding sound bath and more fresh vegan cuisine. We call it Ubudtopia for a reason; mind-body healing is your full-time job in this paradise. 

2. Chiang Mai, Thailand. If ceremony and reflection are what you're craving, Chiang Mai is your place. You'll come face to face with an ornate temple dazzled with jewels in honor of the Buddha on each corner you turn. Ceremony is an integral part of everyday life in Chiang Mai, and you'll definitely walk into one at some point in your stay (especially if you live with a local Thai family like I did). Don't forget to visit the Sunday market for fresh fruit, elephant and Buddha souvenirs, along with a pair of oh-so-comfy Thai fisher man pants! 

3. Mykonos, Greece. This refreshing white and blue island feels as crisp as it looks (and it's the place I'm writing to you from). The deep ocean views stare back at you wherever you are, whether you're relaxing by the infinity pool, practicing your daily yoga flow, or indulging in an authentic Greek breakfast of fresh yogurt, honey comb, walnuts and figs. Mykonos is the perfect place to pamper yourself and let loose — all while having fun at one of the many beach lounges without the pretentious feel of south of France. 

4. Formentera, Spain. This off-the-beaten path island is the quiet sister of Ibiza, with private beaches and to-die-for restaurants operated by some of Italy's best restaurateurs. Fun fact: More people speak Italian here than Spanish. Formentera is referred to as "la isla azul" because you'll be surrounded by turquoise blue waters that match a Tiffany’s box no matter where you go on this small strip of land. Love a little bit of luxe on a relaxing, serendipitous trip? With it's harbor full of yachts, Formentera is for you.

5. Cusco, Peru. The city closest to the world-famous Macchu Pichu, Cusco is a spiritual mecca for anyone who needs a more grounded and shamanic approach to spirituality — Ayahuasca optional. Cusco's mountainous climate and ancient Incan ruins are ideal for the more adventurous traveler who loves a bit of historical depth in their journey of self-discovery, and doesn't mind a bit of altitude acclimation (the city is a jaw-dropping 11,000 feet above sea level). Even more, there are many orphanages in Cusco that are open to receiving help, which will truly complete your experience and remains the highlight of mine. 

 6. San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. Costa Rica is a top travel spot, but far fewer people venture to its neighbor country, Nicaragua. An up and coming hotspot, a trip typically costs a fraction of the price you'll pay to get to Costa Rica. San Juan del Sur is the most southern tip of Nicaragua and a total oasis in this country, offering rustic architecture, beachside sunsets and delicious Central American cuisine. In addition to lots of opportunities for yogis, there are also amazing ways to practice community service and get involved in town. I'll always remember the pre-school I helped build during the month I spent here.

7. Arambol, Goa, India. Do drum circles, hatha yoga, contact dance, and Tantra festivals call your name? If so, head to Arambol, Goa. This hippie town in the north of Goa (the southern tropical beach city of India) is for the more experienced traveler who seeks authenticity and flavor from their vacation without the frills of a typical yoga getaway; think beach huts with no electricity and ecstatic dance around a banyan tree. An Ayurvedic Practitioner, Arambol is the place I go to unwind and relax after an intense panchakarma experience. I’ve hosted retreats in Arambol and participants tell me they'd never imagined that this side of India even existed. 

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About the Author

Sahara Rose is the author of the The Idiot’s Guide to Ayurveda and has been called “a leading voice in the millennial generation into the paradigm shift” by Deepak Chopra. She is a Certified Ayurvedic, Holistic and Sports Nutritionist and specializes in making Ayurveda easy to understand and follow so everyone can benefit from it's ancient wisdom. Discover your mind-body type with her quiz and follow her adventures on Instagram and her podcast, Highest Self Podcast.

Connect with Sahara: Instagram, eatfeelfresh.com

Here's What Happened When I Flipped My Way Through the Work Week

I was super inspired by the idea of Serenflipity cards since the first time I heard about them. While I’m a person who loves to try new things, I find myself stuck in ruts from time to time. Sometimes, my creativity suffers; other times, I find myself caught up in a comfortable routine and naturally stop pushing myself to grow. 

Though I’m nearly two years into my journey as a small business owner and try to take advantage of my freedom I have to design my life each day, the ability to work from anywhere can be oddly paralyzing — both locally and globally. In an effort to add some pizazz back into my daily patterns, I decided to put my deck to the test by flipping a new card each day of the work week. Here’s how it went.

Day 1: “Cancel as much on your calendar as you can. Then, sneak out and say YES to at least one random thing that comes your way.”

This card couldn’t have come at a more perfect time; I’ve been feeling super stressed and in need of downtime, something I'm still learning to treat myself to. While I couldn’t cancel my morning client calls, I shuffled around some of my project work and took the afternoon off of work. A friend stopped by and we ended up catching up for hours over cocktails on my back patio. I laughed so hard my abs hurt, and went to bed with a big smile on my face that night instead of stressing about the next day. Carving out time to have fun with friends is important, and I need to make myself more available to do it!

Day 2: "Identify a big fear and see if you can take one action to confront it.”

One of my biggest fears is that something will happen to someone I love who lives far away. I moved to California almost a decade ago, but still feel guilty about missing out on precious time with my family and friends on the east coast. Though I can’t control what might happen to someone I care about or always visit on a whim, I can definitely connect with them in meaningful ways. Today, I called my Mom and Dad and caught up with two close friends over text. Just taking the time to check in on each person and hear about what's been happening in their lives made me feel really good.

Day 3: “Ask a stranger for a mantra and live by it for a day.”

I work from coffee shops often and usually chat with people I don’t know during the course of a day. Today, I decided to ask the barista for her mantra, which was “we are what we repeatedly do.” Though I’d heard this before, I found that having a reason to actually apply forced me to put it into practice and think about each action I took.  It's fascinating how small things that can subtly transform into habits have the ability to shape who we are and how we live. Little things can define us, so we should consider them carefully.

Day 4: “Wear something unexpected or outside of your usual style today, whether it’s an accessory or a full ensemble.”

This card was so much fun for me! I recently bought a pair of futuristic-looking, all white sneakers from an Aldo shoe sale but felt self-conscious about wearing them as they’re pretty far outside of my standard style. Today, I whipped them out proudly. I got a couple of compliments and a couple of questions (my neighbor thought they looked like space shoes!) but wore them all afternoon around San Francisco. I felt like I was drawing attention to myself, which was uncomfortable, but it felt good to try something new and different. Why not?

Day 5: “Keep a smile on your face all day long. Take note of how people respond and how this makes you feel."

I actually smiled when I flipped this card (how fitting!) because I've been focused on being more joyful and genuinely positive for a few years. This card reminded me that smiling often comes from a place of gratitude — and that finding things to feel happy about makes it easier to connect with other people in a truly authentic way. Though this card is a perfect nudge to uncover even more positive stuff, it also reminded me that it's not always easy for people to see what's great about themselves or their lives. While staying upbeat per usual, I found that I felt extra patient with others, noting that struggles aren't always visible on the surface. I also felt extra lucky that I have so much to smile about!

Though I can’t tie a transformational moment or specific life change to my experiment using the cards this week, I feel refreshed and inspired after having tackled a mini-challenge during each work day. I started to really look forward to my flip each morning and trying to accomplish whatever the card said. Small shifts can inspire big waves, and sometimes all it takes is a sentence to get started.

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About the Author

Krista Gray is a web producer and freelance writer who lives in San Francisco. When she's not working with clients through her company GoldSquare, she loves reading, traveling and learning new things.

Connect with Krista: Instagram, Twitter, goldsquare.co
 

Meet the Flip Fam: Sean Elliott

Happy Flip Fam Friday! On Fridays, we profile members of our community who artfully build the spirit of serendipity into their daily lives.

This week, we’ll meet Sean Elliott of @moohahvanadventures, a talent manager, vanlifer and Dad extraordinaire based in Los Angeles. Check out how Sean and his daughters infuse creativity and discovery into their quests on the open road and raise the stakes on adventure.... 

Name: Sean Elliott

Your favorite nickname: Well lately, I am loving when my daughters think it is sooo, SO hilarious to call me “Sean" instead of “Dad”.  Lots of mileage out of that one, and it is zero funny.

Where were you born? St. Cloud, MN

Where do you live now? Pacific Palisades, CA

What’s your profession or calling? I represent actors, celebrities, and creators. I run the West Coast office of Authentic Talent Management.  

What’s a secret power that you have (that may surprise us!): I can hold my nose and blow air out of my tear duct. Pretty sweet. 

What’s your go-to local zen spot? I paddleboard, way out there. I point my SUP towards the open ocean. And also do simple yoga and stretches while pretending I am the only human on the planet.  

What’s your most beloved travel destination? My daughters and I are designing a 4x4 Mercedes Sprinter together.  We will be making memories every weekend in Southern California, and beyond.  Already, the creativity of the design process has been so rewarding as they are really making it their own (including naming her MOOHAH). I’m just kind of there to facilitate things and keep it all moving along (and also pay for it).

Why is adventure important to you and what do you do to infuse that into your daily life? I have an old 1970 LIFE magazine cover in my office featuring skier, Billy The Kid with the words “ON THE ICY EDGE OF WIN AND LOSE”.  I think that sums it up.  The unknown, the uncomfortable, and the unknowable all are important ways of getting unstuck and truly being open to new experiences.

What's your mantra for getting through challenges or tough times? The Kundalini yoga chant Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo.  I don’t know Kundalini or yoga well at all.  I think I like it because it is not in English and I have no clue what it means.  My brain doesn’t try to out-think the meaning of it or over-evaluate it.  

What's your go-to 'thing' to get unstuck? My move is to ghost out of the office and go for a 10-15 minute walk.  

How do you (and your kiddos) Serenflip? Well, the Sprinter Van design + build with my daughters is way outside of my comfort zone, but I love every second of it.  We are creating a one-of-a-kind adventure van, plus a lifetime of memories. I love how they are taking control of the project, and I love what crazy and creative ideas they come up with — it’s non-stop.  

I pictured something much more rugged and masculine, but it’s becoming so light and beachy, boho cool - and it’s really all them. So far, Paige’s favorite adventure idea for Moohah is to drive in the direction that Quinn says for 30 minutes or so, and then I ask Quinn where to go next and essentially just listen to her and go where she says!

And when I think about one instance watching my girls Serenflip, it has to be when Paige and Quinn picked cards to conquer their fears one day. I saw Paige coaxing Quinn to jump off rocks to overcome her fear of heights. It was so organic, and quite sweet and inspiring for me to witness. The ease of it just being a simple, straight-forward card spelling out exactly what to do made it effortless for them. They just picked the deck up and went with it.

What do you think about adventure potentially being the next meditation (and what could the benefits be)? Meditation is about going into the stillness of your inner space. Adventure is about the unpredictable unknown. When we allow ourselves to go into the unknown, into the world of instability, we truly open ourselves to becoming unstuck.  There can be a lot of unknowns and realizations in meditation, but there is never the fear of embarrassment, ridicule, bodily injury, etc. Adventure raises the stakes in both the psychological and the physical realms.

Follow my girls and me as we create our adventure van + our own adventures!

IG: @moohahvanadventures

4 Fun Things to Do With Your Friends When You're Bored With Brunch

I have an unpopular opinion: I hate brunch. I always end up hangry from having to wait too long. The restaurants are usually too crowded and rushed, making it hard for me to properly catch up with people. And, let’s be honest, I want way more champagne in my mimosa than I ever get. But I get the appeal. It’s nice to have a relaxing way to spend a weekend morning, an excuse to spend time a little more luxuriously with people you love. I just think there has to be a better way to do it than over a $20 plate of dry eggs.

Here are a few activities you might try swapping out brunch with to shake up your weekend mornings (er, afternoons).

1. Go on a Mystery Day Trip. Unlike going to happy hour, when you meet your friends for brunch you have a whole day ahead of you. So, instead of getting toasted, why not get out of town? Try swapping off which of your friends chooses the place and plans the trip so it’s not too much of a burden for anyone (and a bit of a fun surprise for the rest of you). Bring some breakfast sandwiches or granola bars for the car, and get your normal gabbing done while playing tunes on the ride. If you don’t have a car, have your friends pool their normal brunch budget to rent one for the day.

Then, spend the rest of your day exploring. Nearby hikes, quirky small towns; there are likely plenty of cool places within an hour or two of where you live that you haven’t experienced yet. Don’t be afraid to get sidetracked on the way and enjoy the journey, and get excited to come back with more memories than just what was on the menu.

2. Start a Spiritual Get Together. You don’t have to be a churchgoer to benefit from having a regular spiritual community. If you haven’t found a formal congregation that fits your needs, why not create your own group of spiritual misfits who are trying to figure it out together? What this looks like will really depend on the interests of your group, but it’s a great place to try out practices of different religions or new ways of opening your mind and seeing what sticks. Maybe one week it’s a group sound meditation and the next you’re having a solstice celebration, or every month you read a book by a different spiritual leader and discuss.

Gather some friends regularly with the intention of exploring the spiritual world and see what sort of growth and conversation it leads to.

3. Have a Learning Party. I bet you have loads of badass friends who know how to do cool things that you could only dream of doing, so why not use a chunk of weekend hours to teach each other some new tricks? This can be super low-key—you don’t need to create lesson plans or anything—and definitely doesn’t have to feel like you’re going to school on a Saturday. You should think of fun skills that everyone’s jazzed to learn!

Your artsy friend can teach everyone a bit of hand lettering and then you can sit around writing Insta-worthy inspirational quotes. The audiophile in the group can teach about podcasting by making a fun podcast of all your normal brunch chatter. Your international playgirl friend can share her tips for traveling on the cheap, and you can all sit around musing about your next trip and booking flights together. You’ll get closer to your friends by learning more about what they love and pick up some great new skills for yourself.

4. Do Brunch, but DIY Style. Okay, maybe this is cheating, but I think cooking together is such a powerful way to spend time with people that it deserves to be said. Just because I avoid going out to brunch, doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate mealtime with people I love. I’d just prefer to do it at home where I can make my mimosas as strong as I like.

So try out moving your weekly brunch into your home, and see how you can make it a little playful and fun! You could pick a theme every week—from childhood throwback to international flair—and have people bring something to contribute. You could go explore a farmers market and scrounge together a picnic brunch. You can do brunch 'Chopt-style' and have everyone bring what’s left in their fridge from the week to whip up something inventive together. By doing this, you get to make the meal an adventure in and of itself. 

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About the Author

Erin Greenawald is a freelance writer, editor, and content maker who is passionate about elevating the standard of writing on the web and helping people share their message with the world. Erin never says no to tea and a croissant with a friend—old or new!—and she loves any flip that encourages her to find some serenity in the crazy world around her.

Connect with Erin: Instagram, Twitter, Linkedin, Medium

3 Qs to Ask Yourself When You've Fallen Out of Love With Your Job

Feeling "over it" at work? Regardless of the reason you took your job, it’s super normal that the initial shine wears off over time. For many of us, work can start to feel like a relationship once the “honeymoon” period is over and you get to know the real characteristics of what you’ve aligned yourself with! 

Thankfully, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. True honesty and genuine trust can come to light once you’re in deeper, helping you re-kindle the love you have for your company, role or work. Not sure how to draw out the good stuff when you're feeling frustrated or uninspired? Here are three key things you can think about to get started.
 

What has your company done (or not done) in the last year?

Is it mostly positive?

It’s natural to turn inward when you think about professional happiness, but before you start thinking about your own performance, consider what your company has accomplished in the time you’ve been there. Reflect on some of the moments when the organization has really shined, as well as those when it struggled. Has your company done something in the last six months that helped it stand out as a leader? Has the organization taken a brave stance that aligns with your values? By taking stock of the situation, you might be able to more clearly see what you have to be proud about.  

On the other hand, think about whether your company has disappointed you in certain areas over the last year. These might be things like providing an environment with psychological safety, mentorship opportunities, or camaraderie that leaves you feeling excited about how you're contributing to the cause or mission each day. If you find that the negatives outweigh positives, you’ll know you have good reason to consider a new job, approach or company.  
 

Can you flip your perspective?

Try helping someone who's new and still sees the magic.

Yes, hiring and supervising interns or new employees can take up your time and feel like a major energy drain—but these new people also have an interesting perspective: they’re still in the honeymoon phase with your organization, and are learning its culture. Instead of feeling frustrated, offer to help someone learn the ropes. This might be as simple as taking them to lunch, or even offering to give them a short primer before an important meeting you’re leading. 

Not only will the person you’re helping appreciate the kindness you’re extending, but by helping someone, you may actually begin to create the culture you noticed when you first started.  
 

What have you accomplished?

Why does it matter?

No matter how awesome the mission, humans get stuck in the drudgery of daily work. To hone in on what sets you apart, make a master list of your accomplishments. You’ll see just how prolific you’ve been during your time at work! If you’ve been at it for months or years, you might even be surprised to see just how much good work you’ve created during that time.

This exercise is a good way to remind yourself that you’ve made great progress, and it can inspire you to keep going — even if things seem like they don’t matter or feel too tough along the way.  

Remember this: Though you might never get all the back to feeling you had when you first fell in love with your work, you can achieve a more mature and wise type of love—one that has a deeper understanding of what it means to persevere, and to expand your skillset while delivering value each and every day.

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About the Author

Katie Crank is an attorney, social worker, and writer. She helps communities address decarceration, trauma, and the paths that lead women to justice system involvement. Katie also writes on the topics of health, productivity, and dog foster & adoption.

Connect with Katie: Linkedin, Instagram, Contently, Medium

4 Secrets That'll Make Your First Solo Trip a Magical Experience

By a serendipitous accident, I found a love for solo travel.

I was in Barcelona, Spain, without friends for a few days because of a miscommunication around arrival dates. I arrived a few days early, disoriented and feeling a bit overwhelmed that I was in a foreign country. I didn’t speak Spanish or have functioning Google Maps on my phone. After the initial shock wore off, the next few days were unfettered by commitments, my own ‘identity,’ agendas, and deadlines. I wove around monuments, wandered around the city at my own pace, and discovered hole-in-the-wall gems.

Since then, I’ve added a number more solo sojourns; sometimes for a slice of peace from the hectic and dark winters of the Big Apple (Sevilla, Spain was great for this), other times for some inner reflection or to visit friends abroad. Whatever your reason for going solo — conquering fears, getting to know yourself better, listening to your intuition, challenging yourself in new places and spaces — these are the my top tips.

1. Commit to making your trip happen. Set a hard deadline for when you'll leave. If you are like me and constantly can find an excuse to delay things (work, other commitments, etc.), this hard deadline should be a pre-booked flight so it's a set plan after a certain point. I've heard that it's best to book flights one to three months in advance and that booking tends to be less expensive on a week day. Surf around the web before you buy to make sure you score the best deal; I love Holiday Pirates, Sky Scanner, and Kayak. You can also find error flight fares on Secret Flying, which is perfect if you have more flexibility in your schedule.

Once you've bought your ticket, set an intention for your trip. Is this a museum tour of Paris? A food exploration of the Tuscany countryside? Will you go just to visit your friends in another place? Knowing will help you plan your budget, visits and excursions.

2. Plan in advance. Will you travel to SE Asia? Make sure that you have the right vaccinations and visa applications. Are you planning to backpack through Europe? If you're going with a United States Passport, know that you'll have just 90 continuous days across all Schengen countries in Europe for your stay. To keep up with rules, regulations and need to know info during my planning phase, I love to browse Nomadic Matt, Be My Travel Muse, and the CDC. 

The research, booking and planning part of taking a solo trip can get overwhelming, so don't be afraid to reach out to a friend for help. Even better if your buddy has been to the place you plan to visit!

Sunset over Florence by Emily Chen

3. Pack wisely. Most budget airlines in Europe and SE Asia have inexpensive airfares, but they'll only allow you to bring a single carry-on bag that weights between 7-10kgs. Choosing what you put in your suitcase can make a big difference in how comfortably you travel, and packing light is also the most sensible — after all, who wants to lug a huge suitcase up tons of steps or along cobblestone streets? Remember to bring a camera and your journal so you can commit your travel to memory along the way. 

4. Let your experience unfold. Your first night might be a little disorienting and can feel a bit lonely, so be kind and gentle with yourself. On my first night in a new place, I call a friend, drink enough water, go to bed, and sleep through the night to get through jet lag. In the morning, I have my grounding rituals — these are meditation, yoga, water, a trip to a local coffee shop, and breakfast. Figure out what makes you feel good so you can start the day with a ritual of your own, no matter where you are.

Get a true taste of your destination by traveling and eating like local whenever you can. My favorite thing to do in a new city is to join common interest groups like MeetUp, Couchsurfing, Internations, or even to stay in a hostel or Airbnb for a few days to meet like-minded travelers. You can even share a meal with locals through EatWith or Feastly — so cool!

To keep it fun and fresh, challenge yourself to meet new faces in new places. Different cities make me feel like a different person, so I tend to err on loose free-flowing days with minimal planning. I make time for magic to find me in corner bookstores, small seaside shops, and excursions with strangers I've just met who’ve become close friends. Go with an adventurous spirit and discover how beautiful and serendipitous moments find you along your trip!

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About the Author

Emily Chen is a freelance designer and illustrator. Her home is currently all over the world. She is passionate about food, shared experiences, new cultures.

Connect with Emily: Instagram, emcwanders.com

Meet the Flip Fam: Ashley Sumner

Welcome to our Flip Fam blog series, where we interview members of our community who artfully build the spirit of adventure and serendipity into their daily lives!

This week, we’ll meet Ashley Sumner, an entrepreneur and femme-empowered connector based in Los Angeles, and gather inspiration around how she infuses intuition and fresh ideas into the every day.

Name: Ashley Sumner

Your favorite nickname: Smashster

Where were you born? The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Where do you live now? Los Angeles, California 

What’s your profession or calling? Co-Founder of Quilt (*Read more below!)

What’s a secret power that you have? Intuitive connector

What’s your go-to local zen spot? The Raven Spa in Santa Monica. Massage therapist, Da Da is life changing!

What is your most beloved travel destination? Florence, Italy. I had the opportunity to live there in my early twenties and I felt the most at home. I now understand what nostalgia feels like and what it is to seek beauty in every moment.

Why is adventure important to you and what do you do to blend that into your daily life? My greatest ideas have come from taking adventures. Breaking free from my comfort zone, learning about different cultures and meeting people I wouldn’t otherwise meet are all high on my list for ways to be creatively inspired. On a daily basis, I try not to get stuck in too much routine. Even if it’s just walking a different direction...or fighting Waze to take a more scenic route (and turning the volume off so I don’t go crazy).

What's your mantra for getting through challenges or tough times? I remind myself of what I’ve already been through and very simply remember that I’m still here and doing great, better than great. Something has weight only if we allow it to.

What's your go-to 'thing' to get unstuck? I'm a cliché yoga-fiend. And I recently learned primordial sound (mantra-based meditation) with the lovely Megan Monahan.

How has Serenflipity played a role in your life? I remember flipping a card randomly when I was at Cara’s house. It was “do something nice for the oldest person you see today” (or something very similar). I picked up the tab of a woman nearby at lunch and left without saying anything. I gave that card to my friend, who gave it to another friend in NYC on her travels...and that same card found its way back to me a month later! It’s now off in the wild yet again - let’s see what happens:)

What do you think about adventure potentially being the next meditation (and what could the benefits be)? In my meditation I’ve learned to be more light-hearted and less judgmental. In my Serenflipity adventures I often walk away feeling just that way. With adventure, I think it’s about having a new perspective and realizing you’re just a small, measly dot on a large spinning blue and green globe and no matter what… you’ll get through it, whatever it is. 

Be sure to trail Ashley's adventures here!

IG: ashleyjsumner + we_quilt 

*And what is Quilt, you ask?

QUILT is the evolution of what was once One Roof US. After two years running co-working space out of homes, Ashley and her partner, Gianna Wurzl figured out a way to make it more flexible and accessible for all of their entrepreneurial lady peers.

Quilt is an online platform that empowers women to open their homes to other women for co-working, and get paid for it.

Hosts can list their homes on a daily basis to no more than 15 women for co-working sessions. Guests then have the opportunity to book on-the-go for $20. It's a wonderful way to build your network in a safe and intimate setting where you can truly connect with one another.

Quilt is launching July 24, 2017 on the westside of LA! Head here to sign up.

#unlockwomanmade

10 Fun Ways to Express Your Adventurous Side With Style

"Wear something unexpected or outside of your usual style today, weather an accessory or full ensemble."

A quote from one of our favorite Serenflipity Spark cards, exploring your closet for things you haven't worn in years might be just what you need to switch up your style and boost your confidence. Elizabeth Entin, the Founder of Runway Passport agrees. To take your flip even further, follow her 10 tried and true tips for a fun refresh.

Try a line you’ve never heard of

Everyone has their favorite designers and brands; chances are that you know what works for you. But instead of playing it safe, try something you've never heard of before. It's fun to be the first to discover something great before it becomes the next hot name or trend.

Add a statement piece

Wear a standout piece of jewelry (or even layers of jewelry) when you're casual and comfy. Go for a dramatic necklace, big hat, or a group of chunky and quirky bracelets that cover half your arm. Pair your pick with jeans and t-shirt for a fun twist during your normal day.

Be bold and show off

It's easy to get caught up in thinking, "I won’t wear a crop-top until I do 100 sit-ups a day for 6 months”, but you shouldn't let a misconception of having a perfect body stop you from wearing something you love. Instead, embrace what you think is a flaw, and you'll notice that the rest of the world doesn’t see it that way. 

Mix prints

Wear a floral top with a striped skirt—or put any other two creative patterns together. Not sure where to start? Try gingham, plaid, or polka dots. Go for it!

Do the fashion “don’t”

Magazines always feature trends and knock styles from previous years. Instead of following along, wear a look you love despite the fact that it's a "don't". You'll feel (and look) awesome doing it anyway.

Try an unusual combo

Why not put on your sexiest pair of heels with a casual pair of sweat pants and a t-shirt? Balenciaga did it on the runway, and style bloggers do it daily. You can too.

Dress it up on a casual day

Put on your favorite dress, a pair of heels, do up your makeup (hello, bright lip!) and meet a friend in a casual coffee shop or a hole in the wall bar for a beer. Heck, go do some errands! You'll enjoy the “I’m going to a special occasion” feeling during an otherwise ordinary day. What an inspiring way to live.

Style the same piece as many ways as you can

Here's a challenge: How many different outfits can you make with a single dress or skirt? I have a cute little black dress that I've worn as a top with jeans, to formal black tie event with stockings and heels, and with high boots and a mini jacket to an investor meeting. Your turn.

Wear the “wrong” color

That color that's just not you? Try it anyway. I was always convinced that green looked awful on me; but I tried it one day just for fun and I got so many compliments. Now I wear green often. Turns out, we don't always know what looks great on us!

Reach for the back of your closet

If you've saved clothes for years, reach into the dark, deep corners of your closet to round up outfits you used to love and have hung onto. Try them on again, and incorporate pieces that fit well into your wardrobe again. You might be surprised at how easy it is to mix and match, creating a brand new look.

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About the Author

Elizabeth Entin founded Runway Passport, a platform that sells clothing by emerging and fashion-forward designers from around the world. She loves traveling and discovering new and creative designers. Elizabeth is also passionate about animal rescue.

Connect with Liz: Instagram, Twitter, runwaypassport.com