The Lake Shrine in Pacific Palisades is one of the most stunning, peaceful havens in Los Angeles. It was the creation and vision of Paramahansa Yogannada, the great Indian yogi and Founder of The Self Realization Center. When I first stumbled upon it’s beauty many years ago, it simply took my breath away. I have returned many times, especially when friends and family come and visit from far away. When I walk on the serene pathways, I feel the connection with the Earth, the wonder of the blossoming flowers and the simplicity of the koi fish swimming effortlessly in the lake. I am recharged and refreshed. I become instantly rejuvenated.
We must feed our bodies and spirit to carry on with all of life’s demands, so this week I invite you to carve out your own bit of happiness. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Smell the Roses: I read somewhere that when you smell a rose, your blood pressure drops! I’m not a Doctor, but I feel better when I take a moment to inhale that sweet aroma. Sniff away.
2. Hit a new Trail. We are creatures of habit, so go find yourself some new stomping grounds for a change. If your can’t find a patch of woods, locate a charming neighborhood to stroll. Just for the heck of it.
3. Stroke some Bark. I’m a tree-hugger. Guilty as charged. There is power inside those hearty trunks, so find a tree that speaks to you and show it some love. It’ll give you love right back.
Life is more enchanting than we realize. It’s up to us to notice!
If you’re in Los Angeles, go see this haven for yourself…
The Lake Shrine
17190 Sunset Blvd.
Pacific Palisades, California 90272
lakeshrine.org
Many thousands of visitors come each year to enjoy the scenic beauty and serenity of this spiritual sanctuary. The ten-acre site, with its gardens and natural spring-fed lake, is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including swans, ducks, koi, and trees and flowers from around the world. The grounds include a Court of Religions honoring the five principal religions of the world, the Mahatma Gandhi World Peace Memorial where a portion of Gandhi’s ashes is enshrined, a museum with exhibits on Paramahansa Yogananda’s work, and a gift shop with arts and crafts from India. The temple itself is on a hilltop overlooking the lake.
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