The Skeleton Key to Self-Awakening: A Journey Towards Self-Mastery

I was not prepared for the amount of learning that I gained in The Skeleton Key to Self-Awakening by G.L. Eroles. First of all, this book is beyond my comfort zone. But I was willing to take the challenge of reviewing a book about metaphysics and chakras, so I dove right into it with an open mind.

I appreciate that this book is written in simple English. The book is approachable and easy to comprehend. Also, it is entertaining! I like that journaling is one of the recommendations in this book because I also wrote about the benefits of journaling in my books. 

The recommendations prescribed in this book are practical and rooted in common sense. Continuous self-care should be practiced even if we are not trying to open any metaphysical door. Nurturing relationships is also important in establishing harmony and peace. Lastly, pursuing one’s passion is an ideal way to begin one’s self-awakening. It is effortless to grow as a person while doing what one loves. I like that the author teaches his readers that passions are worth pursuing and that they unlock creativity and enhanced self-knowledge.

I am personally going through heaps at the moment, and this book has helped me cope with my current and ongoing challenges. I only wish that the author presented footnotes or a glossary for some unfamiliar words. It would also have been helpful if he was able to share his social media handles or a website for continuous learning. He writes like a teacher, so it would have been nice to connect with the author about this methodology. He could also use these social media platforms to conduct workshops, webinars, and even start a podcast in the future! His material is rich in potential for future teaching opportunities. I am all for his unconventional yet practical lessons on self-discovery and self-mastery.

The Skeleton Key to Self-Awakening is now available!

That '90s Mixtape: A Trip Back in Time

That ‘90s Mixtape by Danna Rose is a nostalgic love letter to the decade of grunge. That was a magical time, as it was the golden age of OPM. Pinoy rock emerged as a powerhouse which even radio jocks could not ignore. This novel captures the magic of this period, and it was a treat to read this book in its entirety. 

The novel is filled with brands from the ‘90s- the mere mention of Benetton, Cattleya, Guess, Jingle Magazine, Filofax, and Giordano was enough to make me feel right at home. I grew up with these brands, and I am happy that some of them are enjoying a resurgence today. I still cannot get over the fact that they are known as vintage now, but the author was able to capture the magic of these brands in the novel. While places such as Mayrics no longer exist, the posh appeal of De La Salle University and Alabang still persists to this day. The author has definitely done her homework, making this book an informative journey back in time. 

My only complaint about this book is that I wish it could go on and on as a series. Evie is a likable protagonist whose appeal lies in not knowing that she is a cool girl. She is appealing without trying at all. We need more self-propelled female lead characters to influence today’s youth. They do not need a love interest in order to create an impact, but if they do find someone who makes their hearts sing, then they should balance love with their own passions. 

That ‘90s Mixtape by Danna Rose still tugs at the heartstrings of readers in the 21st century. Set in the grunge era and peppered with OPM rock tracks which make great reading companions, it is a timeless tribute to youthful chutzpah and the guts to be yourself. It is now available under Central Books!

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Bakit Mahirap Mag Move-On: A Guide to Healing

Bakit Mahirap Mag Move-On was the perfect book for me during the breakup of a well-known Filipino celebrity couple. I grew up watching them, and even if they are total strangers, I feel as if I know them well. I felt heartbroken because I was rooting for them since they were both teenagers. After reading this book written by the talented Tita Clem, I realized that their relationship is none of my business. And that while this book is a work of fiction, it still has a lot of practical advice for the brokenhearted.

I also experienced a painful breakup when I was younger, and I can say that I can wholeheartedly relate to Tes. The book’s heroine was initially filled with self-doubt about her ability to move on from her cheating ex, but she was able to find ways to recover and grow as a person. Her road to recovery is easy to emulate, and Tita Clem’s writing is witty and entertaining. I especially loved her Spotify QR codes for the corresponding songs to her story. The soundtrack made her book feel like a movie, and this gave me a pleasant and memorable reading experience.

I hope that Tita Clem will release more books in the future. Her writing has immense commercial potential, especially for the younger generation. The young have a lot to learn from her wisdom and lighthearted wit. She has a creative mind, and I am sure that people will always have a place in their hearts for lessons on moving on and self-growth.

This book is one of my favorite releases for 2023. I am thankful that I found this book when I am already in a stable relationship. I hope that this book will help more people move on, whether from their own breakups or those of their celebrity idols.

Bakit Mahirap Mag Move-On is now available!

A Constellation of Almosts: A Diary of Recovery

I was touched while reading A Constellation of Almosts by Bella Coronel. As a mental health advocate, I understand the nuances of mental illness. The author states in her introduction that she was diagnosed with a mental illness. This work is her diary of recovery, so to speak, and it was a privilege to take the journey with her.

She wrote with honesty, especially when dealing with painful subjects such as loss and longing. To have a mental illness and to get hurt by people whom she cared for were not easy to deal with. She also wrote about worrying, which I could totally relate to. As a serial worrier, I know how it is to endlessly analyze an outcome which has not yet happened. I also know that this is a tendency of those with mental illnesses, and I empathize with the author. I hope that she is getting the treatment that she deserves.

I saw her humanity in her poetry. She gave her mental illness a face and poetic representation. Her work is lyrical without being too cliche. I appreciate her usage of simple English, and I could tell that her work comes from the heart. 

In this day and age where mental illness is more than just an advocacy but also grounds for disability status, it is important to have literature written by those affected by mental conditions. People undergoing these illnesses need to know that there is hope, and that it is possible to have a creative outlet while recovering from mental illness. Bella Coronel is a shining example of empowering herself, while inspiring others to look after themselves, and their minds. After all, mental health is healthcare.

A Constellation of Almosts is now available! It is an inclusive and empowering book which I highly recommend for all readers.

Locker: The Perfect Traffic Companion

I brought the copy of Locker: A Collection of Poetic Flash Fiction Stories by Michelle Ayon Navajas during a busy day of errands. I rode the train, and I was also caught in some Manila traffic. Since it was a holiday, my commute turned out to be longer than usual. I did not feel bored during my trip because I thoroughly enjoyed reading my book. I consider it to be the perfect traffic companion.

Poetic flash fiction deals with short stories of 1,500 words or less, which are told in a literary manner. This collection resonated with me because the author creatively incorporated everyday experiences into her work. My favorite was Cry because it appealed to my sense of empathy. In an age where people move fast and time never seems to slow down, it is important to consider how others feel, even if they are paid to do tasks which we ask them to do.

The author speaks of the Dreamer in her Forewords, and the theme of dreams is interwoven into her stories. She is a shining example of never giving up, as she has published her work in her 40s. She speaks of longing, expectations, pain, and hope. Her stories give me hope in the Filipino writer, as she gives a well-rounded set of themes in this book. She also celebrates being alone and the self-growth that goes with knowing yourself. I admire her tendency to tackle seemingly everyday themes in a lyrical manner. I also like how this book does not need to be read from cover to cover. But I did just that, and I had an enjoyable time. I hope that the author will continue to write poetic flash fiction stories because she is innately skilled in doing so.

Locker: A Collection of Poetic Flash Fiction Stories is now available!

Verge: A Celebration of Possibilities

I enjoyed Verge: A Collection of Poetry by Anthony Shieh not just because the author is a good friend of mine, but because the book stands out among the poetry volumes I have consumed this 2023. As the year comes to an end, it is refreshing to read about uncertainties, implosions, and grief in one beautifully illustrated book. I must say that it is a world class publication, from its layouting to its illustrations (which was done by the author himself).

The star of this book is the poetry. Nowadays, many people style themselves as poets. However, not everyone has the technical skill in order to tackle this genre with grit and structural prowess. The author skillfully weaves his own doubts, fears, and sadness with his hope for an uncertain future in his poems. He remains spellbound and full of wonder, even if his pandemic season was filled with grief and pain. He looks forward, while remaining tied to the painful events which have influenced him to become a poet and an author. For someone who has undergone many lonely life events, it is admirable that he was able to channel his pain into poetic works of art.

His illustrations give us a window into the thoughts that run through his head. His poems and his drawings gave me an idea of how he has reflected on his pain, and how his trust that the possibilities would be better than his past has pushed him to write and publish this book. I admire his determination not just to survive, but to also continue creating. His art speaks for itself, and it invites the reader to indulge on their own borders, rather than avoiding them.

Verge: A Collection of Poetry is now available. Do not miss out on this beautiful collection of poems which will surely inspire you to keep moving forward!

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Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” returns to No. 1 on Billboard Hot 100

The undisputed “Queen of Christmas” also dropped a behind-the-scenes look at her sold-out tour, ‘Merry Christmas One and All!’

Mariah Carey continues her reign as the undisputed Queen of Christmas with “All I Want For Christmas Is You” returning to the summit of the Billboard Hot 100 this week.

The pop megastar has logged in a total of 13 weeks on the top of the chart since its release in 1994, making it the biggest holiday song of all time.

“All I Want For Christmas Is You” also makes history as it scores a record-breaking 16 weeks on top of the Billboard Global 200 chart, which ranks songs based on streaming and sales activity compiled from more than 200 countries and territories around the world.

To mark its global dominance and impact, an activation in the Philippines and Southeast Asia has gone viral featuring Mariah Carey getting “defrosted from a giant Christmas snowball.” After seeing the SM Mall of Asia(MOA) Globe campaign that blew up on social media platform, X, Mariah acknowledged the tweet with a positive response complete with celebratory emojis.

In addition to the celebration of the song’s overwhelming success, Mariah Carey has released The Merry Christmas One And All! mini documentary, which gives music fans an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at her sold-out arena tour, Merry Christmas One and All!.

Embracing the festive spirit with unmatched enthusiasm, the Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter also giftedher "festive lambs" with a brand-new music video, "All I Want For Christmas Is You (Festive Lambs Edition)."

Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” is available on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Listen to the playlist here, which includes Mariah’s iconic holiday smash.

Source: Nyou

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Filipino celebrities Sarah Geronimo and Kathryn Bernardo join Tyla’s “Water” wave

The breakthrough hit from the South African superstar makes a splash in the Philippines, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Philippines chart and No. 13 on the Spotify PH top 50

Grammy-nominated R&B sensation Tyla continues to gain traction in the Philippines after two of its biggest celebrities, Sarah Geronimo and Kathryn Bernardo, recently made headlines with their performance of “Water.”

The global smash, which reached number one in New Zealand and landed in the top ten of the official music charts in the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, Denmark, the Netherlands, Ireland, Sweden, the Philippines, and her home country, South Africa, consistently surges in popularity—thanks to its song-of-the-summer vibe and viral appeal.

Filipino pop superstar Sarah Geronimo wowed netizens with her phenomenal take on the TikTok hit at the ASAP Natin ‘To TV performance last Sunday, December 17, 2023. The much-buzzed number became a trending topic in the Philippines on social media platform, X (formerly known as Twitter) and caught the attention of the South African singer-songwriter/performer.

After seeing Sarah’s performance online, Tyla immediately responded on X, saying, “It’s so crazy seeing people perform my song with huge productions, costumes, choreo, etc. etc…. what the heck.”

Other celebrities that jumped into the “Water” wave include Kathryn Bernardo, whose dance performance at the ABS-CBN Christmas Special 2023 also made a remarkable impression on the Filipino audience.

Released on July 28, 2023, Tyla’s “Water” is a refreshing blend of Amapiano and Afrobeats with sensual R&B, immediately catapulting its position as one of the summer’s reigning anthems of the year. The Grammy-nominated megahit was a worldwide success, and received remix treatment from hip-hop titan Travis Scott and EDM icon Marshmello.

The steamy banger proved to be a runaway hit in the Philippines, peaking at No. 13 on the Spotify Philippines Top 50 and reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Philippines chart. With its prominent presence on television, radio, online, and other platforms, the track made it to the high-profile playlists in the country and even became the cover of Viral Hits Philippines and Pop Rising PH.

Tyla is already gearing up for an even bigger 2024 with the upcoming release of her self-titled debut album, TYLA. Her self-titled record will represent the culmination of what’s been an incredible journey to this point for the 21-year-old Amapiano star, but also an exciting beginning.

Tyla’s “Water” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Preorder TYLA here.

Follow Tyla:

Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / Facebook

Source: Nyou

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