Getting my energies in focus

Each season I like to do a little closet cleaning. One reason is because I live in New York and who has any closet space here? But it is hard to decide what to let go of. That amazing vintage piece I have had for years? Or those flared pants that may come back in style when this skinny jean craze is over. But another reason I clean out is because, as a spiritual person, I am all about ‘out with the old, in with the new.’ I don’t want my possessions to possess me and energies must be altered. Besides, who doesn’t like a Saturday shopping spree at Barneys?!

I am not only cleaning out my literal closet but I am doing the same thing internally at Shiraz NYC: New people, new clients and a new energy to inspire me and help my company grow. It may not be as easy as pitching my favorite early 90's tee shirt but it certainly is rewarding in the long run!

Hmmm… it’s curious how I use the closet as a metaphor.

Here are seven other ways I have put my energy to good use:

1. Many people don’t know this Shai fun fact, but growing up in Israel I competed in jumping and dressage. When I feel nostalgic for my competition days I head out to Bergen County Equestrian Center. Only a 20-minute drive from the city in Leonia, the riding center is a beautiful oasis! I visit whenever I can get out there for take classes.
Call 201-2421920 to saddle up.

2. With the temperatures soaring it’s time for Rose. I tasted a perfectly dry and delicious one last weekend: Cuvee du cep d'or, By Cotes de Provence, 2007

3. Who wouldn’t want to work with amazing baubles, bangles, beads and blondes? Van Cleef and Arpels asked my company to work on the launch party of their collaboration with ‘it’ fashion girl Erin Fetherston. Here is a picture from the event, which ended up dazzling!


4. I really had to turn water into wine last week when I was asked to transform a construction site into a chic roof top terrace for a new condominium development at 52 East 4th Street. I turned out perfectly (as I always strive to do) and the sunshine was the icing on a beautiful cake. Actually the cherry on top was that an offer was made on the penthouse, which made news in Metro. Go team!

5. For a wedding I have been working on for quite some time, I wanted something special for the couple. I worked with my kitchen staff and prepared a custom flavored sorbet of lemon and thyme. YUM! It is the most refreshing taste on a hot summer day. Now that my kitchen staff made this I have a list of things I want! If you want your own delectable sorbet be sure ot order from Dolce Amore at 718-246-5414

6. With the preppy all American look taking over the runways, I am way ahead of the trend. I have always loved J Crew shorts. But I always have to add my personal flavor to them by taking new pairs to my tailor to shorten the hem and take in the seams for s sexy Shai look.

7. I am sure I am not the only New Yorker who wakes up with their head spinning from all the work, emails and crackberry’s going on in everyday life. When I feel like I have too much on my plate I take some time out in the morning to Meditate. Here is my morning routine:
-I sit comfortably on my sofa making sure every electronic device is off. I either make sure my feet are firmly on the floor or that I am sitting Indian style with my back supported.

-I then close my eyes and start breathing deeply. While getting into my zone I concentrate on parts of my body from head to toe and ask each part of my body to relax. 


- When I feel more at peace I visualize the Fountain of Love. I imagine a natural spring with a fuchsia tint (don’t laugh!) and I take a deep breath from the universe and exhale love into the world. While doing this I think positive thoughts such as loving myself, that I am capable of anything and general upbeat ideas.

- After about 30 minutes my mind is at ease, I am refreshed and ready to turn on my Blackberry and face another amazing day!