Living By Grace
The ZENTAO journey. Transforming personal insights into a life philosophy of healing and purpose.
Contemplation is the loving sense of this life, this presence and this eternity. ~Thomas Merton
As a child, I was often captivated by the mysteries of the universe. This curiosity ignited a lifelong journey as a spiritual seeker, exploring Eastern philosophy, Chinese medicine, energy medicine, yoga, and psychology. My path eventually led me to Italy, where an invitation to move to Venice introduced me to the allure of la dolce vita. Yet, adapting to a new culture brought its own challenges, culture shock, loneliness, and self-doubt.
Amid these struggles, I turned inward, finding support in nature, spiritual teachers, and mentors. I also reflected deeply on my life’s calling and sought clarity. As a life counselor, and integrative wellness practitioner, this period of introspection led me to create ZENTAO—a holistic philosophy and healing practice designed to help navigate change and cultivate self-awareness by harmonizing all levels of being-physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. ZEN is awakening to our true nature, and TAO is the way, the natural order of the universe. Initially a personal healing practice, ZENTAO evolved into my life’s work and the core of my coaching and healing practice.
ZENTAO centers on eight guiding principles: Authenticity, Self-Observation, Self-Inquiry, Intention, Presence, Love, Compassion, and Service. These principles emerged organically, encouraging a way of living that “flows gracefully into the Now,” enriching the soul. Rooted in Eastern wisdom, energy medicine and transpersonal psychology, ZENTAO empowers individuals to embrace life’s challenges with resilience.
In today’s fast-paced world, we often lose connection with our true selves. After almost two decades, ZENTAO’s principles offer an antidote, fostering awareness, peace, and connection. Step by step, this philosophy transforms one’s perspective, helping to cultivate courage, authenticity, compassion, and a healthy self-image. Most individuals I have worked with find that ZENTAO opens pathways to balanced living, reduced stress, and a sense of abundance, creativity, and wisdom in daily life.
How I embodied the eight core principles of ZENTAO
If you start to walk on the way, the way appears. ~Rumi
Authenticity
In my early years of coaching, I struggled with balancing others’ expectations with my truth. I realized authenticity meant more than just honesty—it required me to connect deeply with my heart’s wisdom, allowing me to set boundaries and be my most genuine self. As I embraced this, I noticed my confidence and self-acceptance growing, leading to stronger connections with others as I radiated my true self. This practice taught me the power of heart-led decisions.
Self-Observation
Observing myself with kindness did not come easily at first. I used to judge my emotions, but with time, I practiced noticing my thoughts and reactions without judgment. This shift allowed me to see the beauty in my experiences, granting me a liberating detachment. Through patience and acceptance, self-observation has become a cherished practice, helping me approach life with a clearer mind and deeper understanding.
Self-Inquiry
During a challenging period, I found myself reacting strongly to certain situations. Instead of ignoring these reactions, I began looking inward, questioning why they triggered me. As I paid attention to my emotions and bodily sensations, I discovered hidden fears and unhealed parts of myself. This ongoing journey of self-inquiry has shown me that each answer brings me closer to clarity and helps me respond to life with greater awareness.
Intention
Setting intentions has been transformative. I remember a moment when I felt stuck in a cycle of self-doubt, so I decided to set the intention of embracing my strengths. I visualized my goals and infused them with positivity, trusting that my intentions would guide me. Over time, I noticed shifts within—my self-worth grew, and my actions aligned with my soul’s purpose. Intention taught me that change begins with the heart’s desire to succeed, but at the same time remain humble.
Presence
Living in the present was difficult until I began incorporating mindfulness into my day. During a quiet evening, I focused entirely on the moment’s sensations—the warmth of my tea, the sounds of nature, the peaceful stillness. I felt an indescribable completeness and knew this was the essence of Presence. Learning to ground myself in each moment has connected me to my soul’s mission and deepened my sense of fulfillment.
Love
I remember a time when I felt disconnected and overwhelmed. I turned inward, where unconditional love resides, breathing in love through my heart center, allowing it to flow into my body and radiate outward. This practice reminded me that love is my essence and helped me reconnect with the world around me. Love has become my foundation, helping me see the interconnectedness of all things and bringing joy into my everyday life.
Compassion
Compassion became vital in my journey of self-acceptance. I learned to respond with kindness instead of criticism when faced with self-doubt. I would pause, breathe, and gently reassure myself. This inner compassion gradually expanded outward, allowing me to see others’ struggles with empathy. Practicing compassion has opened my heart and deepened my connections, showing me that our shared humanity is a gift.
Service
Service has become my guiding purpose. One of my clients once expressed how the principles of ZENTAO transformed their outlook on life. I realized then that my journey was not just for myself but for others, too. This realization drives me to give back, share my experiences, and support others on their paths. By offering my work selflessly, I find fulfillment beyond what I once imagined possible.
The master practice: The Circle of Now™
Like a river, flow effortlessly. Like a tree, adapt resiliently. Like the sun, shine radiantly.
The Circle of Now is a profound meditation that guides you inward, connecting you with your authentic essence and harmonizing your spirit with the unity of all.
What about you? Are you yearning for greater depth within yourself or facing challenges with any of the eight core principles of ZENTAO? Perhaps you’re finding it difficult to fully embrace the present moment, to cultivate clarity and alignment, to attune to the whispers of your inner self, or to find balance within the natural world. I welcome you to enter the flow, bringing more fulfillment and balance into your life.
There is no leader, there is no teacher, there is nobody to tell you what to do. You are alone in this mad brutal world. ~Krishnamurti
The eight core principles of ZENTAO brought me profound meaning and healing during a pivotal time in my life, becoming a fortress supporting me daily. I’ve witnessed these principles provide the same strength and transformation for others. We’re all searching to fill a perceived emptiness, to find meaning and feel whole.
The true meaning of life lies in our journey to find the answers to the challenges it throws at us. A life coach, teacher or mentor can act as guides on your journey, offering insights, perspectives, and tools to help you see new possibilities. They can point you toward different paths, inspire reflection, or provide knowledge about practices and philosophies. However, they can’t walk the journey for you or eliminate your struggles.
The real transformation happens when you internalize these teachings, apply them to your life, and discover your own truth. Ultimately, they can illuminate the way, but only you can take the steps needed to bring about change.
ZENTAO is about discovering what’s true for each of us by examining our beliefs, questioning our doubts, and facing any inner resistance. Your true nature does not lie. Embrace it fully and be your own, authentic self.
The Art of Flow
The Art of Flow journal embodies a transformative journey of connection, inner alignment, clarity, and self-love, drawing deeply from the essence of ZENTAO’s eight core principles. Through my writing, I aim to share stories, poetry, meditations and reflections that reveal the miracles, wonders, and opportunities in each moment—a journey of contemplation, growth, and transformation where uplifting moments and hidden depths intertwine. By embracing flow, we nurture unwavering self-love, empowering ourselves to live authentically and gracefully. Each of the eight principles weaves seamlessly into this journey, guiding us toward a balanced and profoundly fulfilling life.
I am deeply grateful to each of you for following, subscribing, and joining me on this journey.
May the flow be with you now and always! 🙏🏽
With love,
Yoli
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