How do you find calm so that you can truly relax? With a good book, a meandering stroll in the neighborhood, a perfect dinner and glass of wine, or…? I have many ways to unwind and during the last week, I found two more that soothed my senses and spirit. Asked to attend for media coverage was MindTravel, one of the most unique experiences I’ve had of late. Another was to discover the history and scents of Trudon-The Classic Candle Cyrnos, sent as a sample. Each provided a unique opportunity to de-stress and find clarity.
Enjoy the following descriptions and consider experiencing these moments, too.
MindTravel by Murray Hidary
When I was asked to attend MindTravel Live to Headphones Silent Piano Concert in Paso Robles, California, I had no idea what to expect. Nevertheless, I responded with a “yes!” When the designated Sunday evening came, my +1 and I packed up folding chairs, added light jackets, and drove to the bucolic Downtown City Park where a baby grand piano surrounded by flowers was set near the gazebo. At the registration tent, we received wireless headphones after which we found a perfect location with other attendees.
Mindfulness expert and composer Murray Hidary blended music and mindfulness as he played his own composition of soothing, improvisational music meant to “quiet the mind, open the heart, and connect us more deeply to ourselves and those around us.” For two hours this live, special piano performance was delivered directly to our wireless headphones. Anyone walking in the park or dining at restaurants overlooking the area were unable to hear the music; during the concert, I noticed many looking quizzically at our group, most of whom were meditating, simply closing their eyes, and escaping from stress and anxiety of daily life. Some were sleeping on the grass, others were listening intently with eyes wide open, all were letting their minds wander. Personally, I followed the music which led me to a variety of thoughts and emotions.
Perhaps you are not the target audience for this experience, but you may want to consider. If you are a music lover, the concert may offer inspiration. Wellness aficionados may find these two hours a wonderful time to “reset.” Those who make time for meditation will find the silent piano concert a brilliant way to deepen their practice. And couples, friends, and solo travelers will most certainly find this a unique and memorable evening out.
Murray Hidary performs the Silent Piano Concert internationally. His passions “for contemporary classical music, visual art, theoretical phsics, and wisdom traditions” are the keys to “understanding the universe at both the visible and hidden levels.” Specifically, his mission with MindTravel is “to move people to greater purpose in the lives through music.” For more information and locations of MindTravel, click HERE.
Trudon – The Classic Candle Cyrnos
Let’s admit it. Lighting a beautiful candle on your dining table for an elegant meal, by your side as you cook, outside as the sunset appears, or in a bath laden with bubbles sets the stage for peace and tranquility. I have several candles that when glowing provide a sense of calm no matter what I’m doing or whom I’m with. When I was offered a sample of Trudon’s The Classic Candle Cyrnos, I was thrilled.
Trudon, a French brand founded in 1643, was awarded the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant label for its “rare French savoir-faire, rooted in centuries of history and expertise.” By 1719, Trudon became the Royal Manufacturer, the one and only candle maker to hold this title. Its history is fascinating and I encourage you to learn more HERE by viewing a compelling timeline featuring vintage art and photographs. The manufacturing tradition continues today with its workshops in Normandy.
The Classic Candle Cyrnos ($140) is named after the sunny Provencal Cyrnos villa with an aromatic citrus garden where, in the early 20th century, the “flamboyant upper crust” such as Queens, poets, and artists “met in the shade of fig trees and parasol pines.” This south of France location of Roquebrune and its views of the Mediterranean Sea offer notes of lavender and dry herbal aromas of Provence. With a burn life of 55-60 hours, the Cyrnos candle emits mesmerizing scents of lemon, thyme, pine, cedar, lavender, wood, and musk; these notes immediately transported me to the Cote d’Azur. Not only is the wrapped box stunning, the candle itself is magnificent with each label centered and affixed by hand. Intrigued? Learn more about the process of candle production at Trudon by clicking the link HERE.
While you unwind and enjoy peace through scents of Trudon – The Classic Candle Cyrnos, know that it reflects “a living heritage where history, craftsmanship, and manual savoir-faire remain deeply intertwined.” Ahhh.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
