April 18, 2025

Hello Followers,

Thank goodness it is Friday; Easter weekend is on its way.

They say memories are treasures.

And that is no lie!

As Holy Week ends with Easter, it brings back memories with my three sisters celebrating the events in Catholic School.

Today is Good Friday, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

When Dan and I living in Mexico we had the humble blessing to take part in reenactment of the crucifixion.

The crucifixion of Jesus

This occurred during the first century AD, most probably between the years 30 and 33.

According to the accounts in the New Testament, Jesus, whom Christians believe to be the Son of

God as well as the Messiah, was arrested, tried, and sentenced by Pontius Pilate to be scourged, and finally crucified.

Collectively referred to as the Passion, Jesus' suffering and redemptive death by crucifixion are the central aspects of Christian theology concerning the doctrines of salvation and atonement.

Good Friday the Passion of Jesus in Ajijic

In many towns and villages, the trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ is remembered through a passion play, or a recreation of the Via Crucis, (the Way of the Cross) on Viernes Santo -- Holy Friday.

This may be an all-day event involving a cast of hundreds of amateur performers playing key roles in the Biblical story that reaches its climax with a simulated crucifixion.

In other places there may be some type of solemn procession in which most of the populace participates as penitents.

In addition, the Virgin Mary´s pain and suffering at the loss of her son may be recalled with the display of an Altar de Dolores--an Altar of Sorrows.

Dan and I went that Friday and were surprised to feel like a part of the reenactment.

It is amazing dedication that was put into the play.

It brought tears to my eyes seeing the suffering that occurred during the 1 century AD.

I learned this as a child, but as a Catholic it never dawned on me the sacrifice until you are involved in the actions of what happened back during that time.

We were so involved that we walked along with the person that represented Jesus and saw the sorrow in his eyes, the pain that he endured.

Through my pictures and the movie clips, I hope you can capture what I saw and appreciate the Christian theology concerning the doctrines of salvation.

Today Dan and I will continue the benefits of hugging a tree.

Hugging a Tree Promotes Calmness

So, you know how tree hugging is good for your heart, right?

Well, it is also amazing to keep you calm and bringing down your blood pressure.

Imagine this: you are hugging a tree, and it is like you are connecting with nature on a deep level.

This is not just about feeling good in the moment; it is about tapping into a natural way to chill out.

Studies have found that just by hugging a tree, you can kickstart your body’s chill mode, kind of like what happens when you meditate or take certain medications, but without any weird side effects.

Now, think about making this a regular thing.

Every time you hug a tree; you are not just giving yourself a break; you are helping your blood pressure stay on the friendly side.

It is like trees are our friends for keeping healthy and calm.

And let us be real, in today’s world, who would not want a natural and easy way to feel less stressed?

The combination of apple and cinnamon is not just delicious—

It is a powerful health booster!

This simple mixture can cleanse the body, regulate blood sugar, improve digestion, and even speed up weight loss!

Why Apple & Cinnamon?

🍏 Apples – High in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, apples help cleanse the body, improve digestion, and support heart health.

🌿 Cinnamon – A powerful anti-inflammatory and blood sugar regulator, cinnamon boosts metabolism, reduces cravings, and strengthens the immune system.

What Happens When You Mix Apple & Cinnamon?

1. Cleanses the Body & Detoxifies Naturally 🛡️

Apples are rich in pectin, a fiber that removes toxins.

Cinnamon flushes out harmful bacteria and supports liver health.

How to Use: Drink apple-cinnamon water daily to detox your body!

2. Rapidly Lowers Blood Sugar Levels 🍬⬇

Cinnamon reduces insulin resistance, helping stabilize blood sugar.

Apples provide natural, slow-releasing sugars without causing spikes.

How to Use: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon to a sliced apple and eat it as a snack!

3. Burns Fat & Speeds Up Weight Loss 🔥

Cinnamon boosts metabolism and turns fat into energy.

Apples keep you full longer, reducing hunger and cravings.

How to Use: Drink warm apple-cinnamon tea every morning on an empty stomach.

4. Strengthens the Heart & Lowers Cholesterol ❤️

Apples reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and improve heart function.

Cinnamon improves circulation and lowers blood pressure.

How to Use: Mix apple slices + a pinch of cinnamon in warm water and drink daily!

5. Boosts Brain Function & Memory 🧠

Cinnamon improves focus and cognitive function.

Apples protect brain cells from aging.

How to Use: Eat apple with cinnamon before work or study sessions!

MEDITATION in MOTION - Hugging Tree - Tai Chi Yoga Flow - Guided Qigong - WUWEI with Chi tree Kai

Under a tree in the season of spring, and in any season indoors or next outdoors with your feed grounding to the earth and crown lifting to the open sky is a great way to cultivate your internal Qi, connecting with the elements and restore balance, tranquility, and strength.

Until Saturday, trees are majestic and magical; they make everyone feel good. Hug your tree today.