April is settling into its close. I’ve been reflecting on all the movement March brought. This month has felt different in contrast. March was vibrant, busy, social. April has been soft, spacious, and internal.
Both are sacred. Both have been necessary.
March moved with magic. March started out with intention and aligned energy. For those who know me in either work or personal life, you probably know I’ve worked as a promotional specialist for over a decade now—representing clients, connecting with communities, showing up fully. This time, I was generating leads for a China trade organization at an international trade show in Chicago.
The energy? Curated. Focused. Aligned.
But you know what they say— “All work and no play…” So, I made s-p-a-c-e. I caught a show with an old friend, that took me back to my adolescence. I also had the chance to meet Michael Graves of the Misfits. Genuine energy. Raw stories. A performance that reminded me to stay curious—always learn something from everyone you meet.
My yogic discipline held steady through Daylight Savings. A new ally supported my practice. The Mouth Shield is a tool that aids in nasal breathing during a pranayama practice. Its introduction sparked introspection.
The question arose: Do I need tools to meditate or rest? The answer is gentle- while tools serve their purpose, ultimately, stillness and our higher self are always enough.
Collaborating with the 1937 Foundation was one of the most fulfilling experiences in March. Facilitating a “RESET” restorative yoga and sound sesh was a full-circle moment. For context, the 1937 Foundation is a nonprofit focused on social equity. It is dedicated to advancing restorative justice and inclusive cannabis policy in underrepresented communities. Our missions beautifully align—community, healing, and expansion.
Stay tuned for future sessions!
March also held room for celebration and grounding. My birthday flowed with love. This was followed by a very brief return to the hustle. Then, I took a much-needed break from the Chicago rhythm. In this slower space, I rediscovered my joy for baking pies—specifically, blueberry pie. There’s something beautifully meditative in preparing something with love and intention.
And in the stillness—I baked. 🫐
Baking pies has always been therapeutic when done by choice. I shared these sweet gifts with my aunt, my grandparents in their 90s, and their caregiver. My abuelos always loved pan dulce (pastries in Spanish) with their coffee. They used to walk together daily. They’ve only ever known life side by side.
My grandmother—now bedridden with Alzheimer’s/Dementia—reminds me of grace, even in silence. Holding her hand has softened my relationship with aging. Offering my grandmother reiki provides comfort in caregiving. Simply being present helps me journey into the unknown (perhaps, the very same place where we came from).
March also brought connection in other forms. The month finished with an appearance at the Illinois Women in Cannabis (IWC) Coworking Day and Mocktail Mixer. Twas an inspiring evening among some of the kindest and most creative entrepreneurs.
Shoutouts to:
@monysmaravillas @rachelrosejewelry @blazeboxmedia @3coupessociety @chicagowickstop
✨ Gratitude to @alwaystimeless.co & @ogeezgummies – future collaborations? I’m open.
A divine synchronicity also unfolded—at a 1937 industry night. I discovered L.F.S.T – La Familia Sobre Todo (@lafamiliasobretodo), a Chicago-rooted streetwear brand dedicated to honoring culture and family. Their pink trucker hat? A manifestation I’d quietly carried and brought to life in real time. Ask and the universe shall provide. 💗
Also gave time to Heffer BBQ (@therealhefferbbq), my sister and brother-in-law’s incredible pop-up. Assisted another successful service at Skylark Bar. Hey Chicago folks—catch them twice monthly now at Skylark Bar or Monochrome Brewery.
Support small, eat well. Pull up and say high!
Practices of Self-Love, So Far (2025 Edition):
- Drink more (quality) H2O
- Moisturize—inside and out
- Don’t hold in your pee
- Dance more
- Less thinking, more movement
- Let it go (yes, even flatulence)
- Make art
- Ask: How would you soothe your inner child? Then do that.
- Feed yourself with urgency—mind, body, spirit.
- Slow. Down. Pause.
April’s Soft Landing 🌿
Most of April had been spent in South Florida, reacquainting myself—with myself.
No events, no deadlines, no expectations.
Just being. A necessary solitude. I enjoyed palm-lined walks with my fur-baby. The sun-drenched afternoons among ocean waves and whispers reminded me that…
…this too, is the work.
As someone who’s worked the hustle of festivals, conventions, and various other events—stepping away has been a radical practice. But this stillness is medicine. The pause is a part of the process. Rest is radical. In a culture obsessed with “the hustle”, slowing down is a sacred act. And in that quiet, I’ve heard a deeper voice—one that calls me back to intention, alignment, and purpose.
As spring blossoms and we continue to honor the Earth (every day), I invite you to align in small, meaningful ways:
♻️ Recycle your vapes, cartridges, and batteries.
Locate a recycling spot near you:
https://www.call2recycle.org/
Thank you March. Thank you April. Thank you to this present breath.
Here’s to quiet revolutions, deep breaths, and soft landings.
With grace,
Jennifer Quezada
Creator | Educator | Wellness Coach
Yoga Stoned LLC
🌀 @yogastonedusa
🌐 www.yogastonedusa.com
Yoga Stoned USA 