wokefluff

[wokefluff]

iWoke: Essential Apps for the Modern Zen Seeker

Things are insane right now and as much as I love to say nothing is normal or abnormal…this 45 bullshit is not normal. So while we protest, berate our reps and do all we can to fight back we also have to heal ourselves from the inside out. So how do we disconnect and truly spend time with our thoughts and allow ourselves to reconnect? I’ve found some apps to stay zen right from my phone, making it mobile and realistic but most importantly effective. Check them out below.

Calm

Meditation is the first step to any true form of self care, in my opinion. Zoning out via my favorite mediation app, Calm, is the practical step I took to begin my own woke journey. After unsuccessfully trying a few different apps, which I won’t disparage here, I settled on Calm and gladly forked over the $60 annual fee. Why? It has everything you need. Guided meditations, open music, multi-day progressive meditative programs and (the best bonus) sleep stories. That’s right, this girl will put you right to sleep. And it works. Cannot recommend Calm enough.

Moon

Think you’re unaffected by the moon cycle? Whoops, you’re wrong. You are no less connected to the movements around us than the ocean, my friend. So how can you stay on top of it? Download the free Moon app to see a daily percentage read of moon fullness (is that a term?) Best part? Moon sends quirky notifications with funny sayings to remind you of lunar events. I won’t spoil any, but enjoy!

Stone

Crystals are key. If you don’t believe in them it’s because you’ve never touched one. Intention is everything, of course, but different stones do carry different properties. Do all your crystal research with Stone – a beautiful visual guide to the gems and their powers. Super helpful while navigating through the wonderfully crunchy crystal store!

Bear

This is a less straightforward zen/woke/California/avocado recommendation but I find it super overwhelming to have lost thoughts. If I have a good idea or memory I need to write it down, or in this case log it to Bear. There are plenty of note app choices these days and I’ll offer that I love Bear because it’s clean, simple and fast. Syncing is never an issue and nothing falls into the void – totally worth the $0.99 a month. A mind must be organized to be peaceful, am I right?

Podcast: That’s So Retrograde

An essential step in self improvement is a desire to learn and the ability to take advice and suggestions. When I started getting into woke-type ideologies I immediately found my now-favorite podcast: That’s So Retrograde. As the title implies, the charming and hilarious hosts Stephanie and Elizabeth dive into all things zen, astrological, metaphysical and woke. They provide a true treasure trove of resources, opinions and experts to totally amp up your spiritual journey. Case in point: Bethenny Frankel started using their signature Roses and Thorns game on the latest RHONY cast trip. It’s everywhere, get listening. You won’t be sorry.

Let me know if you try/like/loathe any of these apps – I hope you find them helpful. Be kind to yourself so we can start healing this world! Because, again, let’s just all remember this is not normal.

The post iWoke: Essential Apps for the Modern Zen Seeker appeared first on WokeFluff.

from WordPress http://ift.tt/2xRFfiX via IFTTT

[wokefluff]

Las Vegas Shooting: 15 Unanswerable Questions

I know I’m not alone in feeling helpless, lost and raw after the Las Vegas tragedy. Simply sending our love, donations and prayers doesn’t seem like enough. Because it isn’t. Gun control is the biggest threat to our national security – the call is coming from inside the house.

In searching for an arc of this post I felt like every choice was wrong. After an hour of frustration I’ve decided to simply post a list of truly unanswerable questions that I’ve asked myself in the wake of this tragedy.

What stops us from doing better?

How can it be legal to buy automatic firearms without a permit?

How can you bring 10 of those automatic weapons into a hotel and throughout public space?

What good intentions come with a civilian assault rifle?

How do we recognize that some people in this world only feel whole when others are hurting?

How do we demand change from the people making the most money from the gun market?

How did those same people turn their backs on the elementary school of children and teachers?

How did it get beyond the first school?

What truly responsible gun owner would be challenged by proper permit laws?

How much is blood money worth in karma?

How do we honor those we’ve lost without affecting true change in written laws, procedures and outlines for punishment?

Who benefits from these laws?

How could the president not mention gun control in a speech about the largest mass shooting in American history?

How do we explain and rationalize the need for basic safety in our society?

Who wouldn’t understand?

Sending love.

The post Las Vegas Shooting: 15 Unanswerable Questions appeared first on WokeFluff.

from WordPress http://ift.tt/2xejR8h via IFTTT

[wokefluff]

Real Housewives of Altanta Season 10 Trailer REACTIONS

Time has stopped to pave way for the MOST wonderful time of the year. In a totally unexpected drop, the Bravo gods have graced us with the ultimate gift: the Real Housewives of Atlanta trailer. If you’ve been underground for the last year, you may be unaware that ALL STARS Nene Leakes and Kim Zolciak-Biermann are returning, full and part time respectively, to fan the flames in the most entertaining city in America – at least by Housewives standards. Check out the full video below followed by some of my thoughts, comments, concerns and gay gasps.

Nene 2.0 has ARRIVED, and the trailer spotlight is certainly on her, honey. As I expected, Nene seems to be trying her best to keep the vibe light. I love a Nene that can playfully inquire about her wig line. That’s what we want. We also want her as a verbal assailant, which we are served plenty of by trailer’s end.

Not to be outdone, Kim is splattered ALL over the trailer – despite being only part time. Her impromptu beef with Kenya is escalated to the point of potential violence – obviously. That being said, I’d lunge after a bitch too for calling me an extortionist Mother. Brielle is making her own choices and her own BANK, don’t be jealous Kenya. P.S. – THE NEW FRACK? We don’t even get a season to mourn? Also isn’t there any possibility for new nicknames? Just saying. P.P.S. – Kim and Porsha is an unholy dream team, long live the new Frick and Frack.

Kenya is in for a tough year. She got fake married which, for some reason, she feels deserves an authentic celebration. Literally every other cast member will see to the opposite, it seems. Her most memorable trailer moment was this question mark man, so I think that says it all.

  Now I’ll be the first to admit I have no firsthand experience with the Hotlanta dating scene HOWEVER is it exclusively composed of convicts and African princes? WHY would Sheree ever need or want to date a man in FEDERAL prison. That’s the other thing, these girls only mess with true criminals. Anyway, I live and breathe for Sheree – may she collect and drop ALL the bones again this year.

    Trying to stay calm and level headed but can someone please explain to my WHY WE STILL HAVE TO SEE PETER? I swear, if this divorce was a manipulated TERRIBLE improv sketch in the vain of the Nene-Gregg reunion storyline I will lose myself. At this point, hell even three seasons ago, I say we trade Cynthia just to NEVER see or hear Peter again. Too harsh?

  Can I say I’m NOT SURE about some of the hairstyles we’ve seen, in the same way Ramona was NOT SURE about Luann’s roquet-looking jumpsuit a few years ago? Please see my feelings for Kenya’s Minnie poofs and Kandi’s bangs written clearly on Cynthia’s face. Side. Eye.

  I truly mean it when I say this is the most wonderful time of the year, upon us. Hotlanta meets Beverly Hills to create a winter wonderland. Too poetic? Sorry I care.

I’d like to close out with this wild infrared shot of Nene to both celebrate the impending storyline of her being a chemically altered evil spirit (new heights every year, producers – you give us so much) AND remind us all to grab a glass of wine while we wait for NOVEMBER 5th.

Oh, and go read this if you haven’t yet.

The post Real Housewives of Altanta Season 10 Trailer REACTIONS appeared first on WokeFluff.

from WordPress http://ift.tt/2xbWv24 via IFTTT

[wokefluff]

Everybody knows Friday night is made for an offensively large takeout order. ONE set of utensils, thank you so much. #FridayFeeling (at Malibu, California)

[wokefluff]

Harry Potter and the Resistance: 7 Lessons from Adult re-Reading

“Not again,” was the response I most often heard when asked what I was reading as a child. I would always reply, “Harry Potter” much to the chagrin of my parents, who might have hoped their son would read more than the same 7 books for the majority of his life. If that is their dream, it has hardly been realized at this point. Now 25, I just spent a week re-reading the entire series – a most fruitful endeavor. I learned a ton, remembered all I forgot and came away with a newly shaped perspective on the world around me. Care to learn from my thoughts? Keep reading, and learn how Harry Potter has inspired me to keep my resistance energies strong and focused. The following contains spoilers and assumptions that you are well-versed in the realm – totally not an intro-to-Harry-Potter post, just as a heads up.

1. ACCEPTANCE

Cracking the cover of The Sorcerer’s Stone is an immediate vortex into a world we only wish was a part of our own. Unlike the antagonistic Dursley’s, it is quite easy for the reader to accept the terms of this new magical world and, more noteworthy, the differing lifestyles and cultures of those that reside within it. In this subtle way, J.K. Rowling innately teaches children to view those that may be different than them with a lens of wonder and intrigue. It’s incredibly powerful to create a consciousness in children to celebrate individuality. This sense of wonderment is echoed in our protagonist, connecting him instantly with the reader. We follow Harry through the beginnings of his journey as he learns of his true identity and eventual destiny, all the while adjusting to the notions of who is he meant to be alongside him. Observing Harry’s awakening reminded me of the importance of my path, especially during this “administration.” We must all be reminded in times like this that there is no different or normal or weird. Everyone is individual and why wouldn’t you want it that way? We could all stand to take in a little bit of Harry’s wide-eyed appreciation for those that are potentially unlike him.

2. THE POWER OF WORDS & PERCEPTION

The symbiotic relationship between Ginny Weasley and Tom Riddle’s diary/horcrux was certainly the defining plot of The Chamber of Secrets for me, as an adult reader. I remember being easily swept away by the high action subplots and blood on the walls dramatics in my youth but in my re-reading I was absolutely most horrified by the diary. The way Riddle manipulated Ginny struck a chord with me – highlighting the powerful pull of loneliness and promised companionship. It struck me as an odd parallel between Trump and his loyal voter base. He was able to climb into power on twisted promises based in lies – counting most on those that had felt marginalized in the previous years of progress. Using these methods Trump became very Riddle-like, crafting his own “alternative facts” and perceptions to sway the voters. Unfortunately, there was no Harry or Fawkes to save election day – however Trump/Riddle has certainly been exposed. His treachery has now launched a new and stronger conversation about facts, gaslighting and perspective. We have to try to look on the bright side, right? I mean, Tom Riddle eventually got his so there’s that to look forward to.

3. ALL IS NOT WHAT IT SEEMS

Is there any more complete and appropriate representative for “don’t judge a book by it’s cover” than Sirius Black? The poor guy was framed for setting up the murder of his best friends AND the murder of 13 innocent muggles. That’s a hard reputation to overcome, as evidenced in the antics of The Prisoner of Azkaban. We see the dark side of crowd/mob mentality reflected in the warped communal perception of Black. They illustrate the notion that sometimes prejudices are simply inherited and are always unwarranted. It is difficult to make one person change their mind if an entire crowd tells them not to. The real world applications for a lesson like this are innumerable. While they don’t apply to Trump, a man that very clearly showed himself pre-election, I would say this notion most cleanly applies to Bernie Sanders. Initially seen as a hero of a new progressive movement, Bernie went on to do his best to emphasize and exacerbate the internal divisions within the Democratic party. Is he fully responsible for the results of the election? Of course not. But is he all that he seemed to be?

4. THE WORST CAN HAPPEN

Not exactly the lightest of vibes, but realizing that the worst scenario can be played out is a crucial life hurdle. While positivity is undeniably important in maintaining a happy lifestyle and conscious mind, it is not effective if used as a mask. Pretending the worst could never happen not only forces you into an ignorant position, it also leaves you completely unprepared. If we learned anything from The Goblet of Fire it is the importance of observation and preparation. Had anyone noticed the odd tendencies of alleged-Mad Eye, or more closely investigated Barty Crouch Jr. floating in on the Marauder’s Map outcomes could have been very different. Obviously we learned this lesson post-election in The U.S. and I will say it has been unbelievably challenging. The results forced me to question not only the ideas of who I thought were my neighbors but also to accept that sometimes the most awful things do happen. Life on this Earth is all about facing challenges and improving yourself, so a solid takeaway from this book is to treat the worst happening as a new challenge. A new way to learn, kick some ass and, hopefully, change the world.

5. THE IMPORTANCE OF INTERNAL STRUGGLE

Reading The Order of the Phoenix was actually a deep internal struggle of my own once upon a time. It is the longest and the most internally themed – most of the action occurs within Harry’s mind. I was not down for that vibe in high school. More magic, less whining I remember thinking. However, in venturing back to Harry’s mind, I found myself much more engrossed this time around. I had much more experience to relate to in terms of self discovery, so his realizations rang genuine to me – no longer confusing and far-off. I’ve also reached a place in my own journey where I realize that everything is internal and about yourself. The only relationship that truly matters is between you and yourself – that acts as the foundation for all else. Transforming and reflecting on my thoughts alongside Harry reminded me just how important introspection is for growth and improvement as a human being.

6. EVERYONE IS FLAWED

After toying with us for years, J.K. Rowling finally revealed some of the makeup of Severus Snape in The Half Blood Prince. Instantly unlikable, Snape was a kind of passive antagonist throughout the series. I felt vindicated for always mistrusting his character and allegiance after he murdered Dumbledore – but obviously we know the behind the scenes of that decision. That being said, in the space of the sixth story alone, Snape was certainly marked a villain. Interestingly enough, and certainly not by accident, Rowling also utilized this journey to explore Snape’s roots. By observing the traumas of Snape’s childhood, the reader is able to relate to him on a more human level. We’ve all felt excluded and simply odd at a certain point or with a certain crowd – this empathy makes Snape a more rounded character. That’s when it hit me – we’re all Snape. We’re all flawed with parts that are good and parts that are evil. The balance is what matters. Then I began to think of those I love that may or may not have voted for Trump. They’re flawed too, just as I am and Snape is. It would be rash to write someone off entirely based on one action or vote, however it is important to understand their thinking at the time. Knowing what we know now, of course Snape can be forgiven and understood – perhaps this is possible also for former Trumpers too? TBD.

7. FIGHTING FOR WHAT’S RIGHT IS WORTH IT

I mean, could there be a more perfect conclusion to the series than The Deathly Hallows. By perfect I do not mean that nobody died or there were no sad parts, I mean it was a totally fitting end to a wild ride. I believe in this seventh saga is where Rowling hit her hardest point home – fight for what is right. Like should-be-President Hillary Clinton famously said on the most depressing morning in my personal history, “never stop believing that fighting for what’s right is worth it.” Harry didn’t even question walking into his own death for the results of the greater good. In that way he’s the ultimate inspiration because what is more important than the good of the many? Like Harry we have to use this time to commit ourselves more deeply to the causes and fights important to us. The evils of the world want to divide us and want to stop the progress that was made over the last 8 years. We won’t let them.

All in all, re-reading was even more enjoyable and beneficial than the first (17) time(s) I read Harry Potter in my youth. I had real adult experiences to draw from and a framework to understand the social commentary dripping from every page. J.K. Rowling is one of the brightest lights this world has to offer and undeniably a true genius. She is exactly the type of strong, intelligent and persuasive woman that we must elevate and learn from during times like this. Keep resisting and stay in the lumos, my friends.

The post Harry Potter and the Resistance: 7 Lessons from Adult re-Reading appeared first on WokeFluff.

from WordPress http://ift.tt/2h507Ja via IFTTT

[wokefluff]

32 years ago the single GREATEST television series premiered (differing opinions will NOT be acknowledged) and we all need to be thankful. Thanks for teaching so many of us (homos) about sexuality, adult relationships and competitive overeating. It's not extra to say I don't know who I'd be without the girls. (at Miami Beach, Florida)

[wokefluff]

We need every reason we can find to celebrate these days - no better reason than the queen. May she live forever. #HappyBeyDay (at Gillette Stadium)

[wokefluff]

Friday's are for lightening your eyebrows, catching up on Leah Remini's crusade against the cult of Scientology and spending an inappropriate amount of time taking couch selfies. (at Denver, Colorado)

[wokefluff]

Just felt like pouring some creativity into the spirit of the #resistance. The universe is going to sort this shit out soon enough, right? (at Denver, Colorado)

[wokefluff]

Huge fan of the evil queen. Taylor Swift, too. 😉🍎🐍 #RHONY #LWYMMD (at Denver, Colorado)

[wokefluff]

Let the #RHONY season 9 is OVER tears begin to fall. Super psyched for reunion finale madness tonight but MORE importantly praying for a Secrets Revealed. Join me, please. (at Manhattan, New York)

[wokefluff]

Are Real Housewives of OC producers destroying Tamra?

Tamra Judge has evaded the Real Housewives chopping block for almost a decade, to the chagrin of the majority of her castmates. She has come back from throwing wine in Jeana’s face, lying to Shannon about gossiping of her marital troubles to Heather, and being excommunicated by her teenaged daughter. (KELLY SAID IT!) But has her bell finally been rung? This season Tamra is being treated to an entirely new edit: bitter and boring.

Is it worse to be evil or dull?

Let me begin my clarifying that Tamra has received the standard villain edit a few times before and has come out unphased. She seemed closest to being removed from the franchise at the end of season 9. This was the year she lied to Shannon, as mentioned above, turned on Heather Dubrow, tried to rally the girls against Vicki because of Brooks (not a bad instinct, turns out) and bullied Lizzie on the cast trip. Let’s also remember this was the year that random girl Danielle, who was friends with Lizzie, was completely edited out due to her husband being accused of being gay turning into a scandal. Producers were uninterested in this storyline and may I take a moment to ponder who took it there that year? …Just a guess. All of this is especially laughable since the Eddie storyline is now front and center. Anyway, this season ended with Tamra running out of Bali screaming that she would never be seen again. Instead of holding herself to that promise and fading into the Housewives graveyard, she became a born-again Christian and clung on for three more years.

So what’s different this year? Tamra isn’t the villain, she’s the low humming background noise that disrupts the flow of the episode – not to be harsh. Tamra’s main function this season seems to be dropping in a ton of negativity shrouded in self-indulgent laughter, all in the effort to trash Vicki. Don’t get me wrong, I love an enemy and a duo locked in battle – Kim and Nene forever. That being said, these conflicts do cross a line at the point when either party refuses to participate in the show antics with the other. For some reason this is faring much worse for Tamra than it is for Shannon. Perhaps because Shannon has a storyline of her own (a few, in fact) while Tamra’s critiques of Vicki seem to be the meat of her narrative. It’s not working for her.

Is Tamra’s fate self-sealed?

Will Tamra be able to turn this around? I honestly do not see it. She doesn’t have the embedded importance of a Ramona, for example, who can take time away from functioning reality but will easily find a place to return. (Check out my Mona bias) Tamra seems to be moved to a place without any relevant personal storyline and without the ability to mesh with the group. Not a good sign at all. So how responsible are the producers for this? Honestly, probably not very much at all. Tamra seems to be digging her own grave, refusing point blank to discuss Vicki or play the game with any other cast members. She is alienating herself and Shannon, or so she thinks, while Shannon continues to establish other relationships on the show. Shannon (and Kelly) are doing a fabulous job of weaving themselves into other dynamics, making room for them to stay regardless of whoever goes.

Yes, someone needs to go. It’s not going to be Vicki. Now we’ve said it. So what choice is there if not Tamra? Shannon is staying – she’s newer, fresher and has a ton going on. We need to see what goes on with her marriage, track the rise of her musical daughters and watch her body transform. Tamra just doesn’t have that type of pull. Tamra worked best as a comedic foil for Vicki and she really seems to be floundering without that relationship. I see this being her last season, calling it now.

Thoughts? Next?

Do you think TamTam is on her way out? Do you know what type of Housewives personality she is, that may be illuminating to this discussion. Already read it, awesome – thank you! Reward yourself with some classic RHOC viewing, for your ultimate pleasure.

The post Are Real Housewives of OC producers destroying Tamra? appeared first on WokeFluff.

from WordPress http://ift.tt/2vpT9IH via IFTTT

[wokefluff]

Is it worse to be evil or dull? Can Jesus fix it? Check out my thoughts on Tamra and her potential future on #RHOC only on WokeFluff.com. Link in bio! (at Newport Beach, California)

[wokefluff]

It's hard out there for a bitch. Sending good vibes to all my single sisters. #TuesdayMotivation (at Denver, Colorado)

[wokefluff]

I'm as thirsty for tonight's #RHOC as Peggy seems to be as she "confronts" Tamra. Peggy's chill, non-understanding vibes are my favorite storyline this season. (at Newport Beach, California)

[wokefluff]

There is something inherently sexy about 1920s menswear, and also Colin Farrell. Woof. Happy Monday! (at Denver, Colorado)

[wokefluff]

#TBT to the one true countess. #NeverForget (at New York, New York)