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Curiosity, Healing & Adventure
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  • Nina Mizuno

Curiosity, Healing & Adventure

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  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Berry Springs

    June 22, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 90 °F

    My last two nights in the RV are at Berry Springs. I'm so enchanted with the beautiful waters to swim and soak. A brief fantasy arose of living here until I remembered the conditions in the other 3 seasons.

    I feel so lucky to experience this. And, I am told that it was a very wet season, which is why everything is so lush. It's not usually this green.

    And I can't help my gratitude to my zenith zones that made me curious and interested in this part of the world. While I didn't have a direct experience there, the ripples are being felt now.

    It's interesting to notice my emotional swings. My drive out of Kakadu was really tender. I was just emotional and let the tears go. I turned on my chanting music folder, which has mantras, recited sutras, and kirtan. It calmed me until a bird flew straight into my van, and I had another overwhelming moment of sadness. The mantras were played again for relief. I couldn't say why I felt sad. Today was a more gentler wave of sadness that I met with prayer.

    I look at these moments with curiosity and an appreciation for the spiritual tools I have. A decade ago, I could have easily spiraled into a depressive episode. The darkness has lost its power over me. I don't run or push it away anymore. Nor do I judge. I am aware. I am free. And sometimes, I am sad.

    Happy solstice...

    Pictures are of ibis, a peculiar bird I've enjoyed seeing.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Litchfield Park: Wangi

    June 21, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 90 °F

    Wangi Falls didn't disappoint. The swimming holes and waterfalls got bigger, which was a treat.

    I took the creek walk and jumped into every swimming hole!

    The large lizard pictured was about 3 feet long, it was the 3rd one I saw.Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler
    1

    Litchfield Park: Florence Falls & Buley

    June 20, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 88 °F

    After my last long drive of 4 hours, I reached Litchfield Park and made an immediate stop at Buley Rockhole. It was a series of swimming and soaking areas along the creek's path. This is another thermal spring with clear refreshing waters.

    I then went to Florence Falls, were my camping reservation was. This was a much larger swimming hole. I was so happy that I bought a noodle in Mataranka, as I comfortably floated in this fresh water swimming hole.

    I practiced my swimming and noticed I'm getting better. I suppose it is in me. And that being out of swimming areas for almost 3 years one would get rusty. I sat with the awareness of my comfort in water once again.

    These last areas are helping me forget the challenge to arrive here. Although I made some mistakes in Western Australia planning, the Northern territory is rewarding.

    I'm told that the NT is only accessible a few months out of the year as flooding and extreme heat is usual 8-9 months out of the year. So blessings for coming at the right time.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler
    1

    Ubirr

    June 19, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 91 °F

    Fantastic rock art exploration.

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Kakadu National Park

    June 18, 2024 in Australia ⋅ 🌙 77 °F

    After two blissful days in Mataranka, I headed north to Kakadu National Park. I was hesitant in planning the park because of the expenses, but it is a highlight of the area that I couldn't miss. I even splurged for a sunset cruise on the Yellow Water River that was recommended by all. It was amazing. More wildlife concentration than anywhere I have been... and I have been to plenty of parks and reserves.

    The abundance comes from the bird and fowls. I saw cranes, herons, eagles, and jabiru. And, of course, the waters were filled with crocodiles 🐊.

    What I have never seen before coming here was the abundance of water lilies and lotus flowers. 🪷 So beautiful!

    Feeling blessed and happy!    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Mataranka and Bitter Springs

    June 16, 2024 in Australia ⋅ 🌙 72 °F

    Sigh, it's been a long journey, and now I feel like I have arrived. I spent a long afternoon in Bitter Springs, a natural thermal pool. It's like a lazy river and you take a drift in the water. It's so clear you can see the bottom, and it's at least 9 feet deep. Ah, it was so nice. I booked an extra night here so I can enjoy it again tomorrow.

    I also finalized my remaining trip itinerary, as it is high season and the parks I'm visiting are popular.

    I find myself reflecting on how I spent more than I planned. I didn't anticipate the fuel consumption would be so poor in this particular campervan, plus the caravan parks rates were higher than my previous research.

    Just to check that I am not going crazy about how much longer the drives are, google confirmed that it took me 7.5 hours to drive 315 miles. In the US, I would have done that in 5. And the Aussies look at me in disbelief when I tell them my distance in the past 2 weeks.

    Camping in Australia is really enjoyed by retirees/seniors. This is in contrast to the US, where it was mostly younger people with the majority being under 50. As such, I haven't made any strong connections.

    All I know is that I will probably take some downtime in Bali before I continue my touring. My future planning will be spacious, even if it means seeing fewer destinations. I have to honor my preferred pace.

    Photos are not mine...    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Katherine

    June 15, 2024 in Australia ⋅ 🌙 75 °F

    Finally, I made it to the northern territory. Although it is winter, temps are in the low 90s.

    I finally soaked in my first hot (warm) spring in Australia in Katherine. Headed south for another one. My final week in the RV is geared around springs, waterfalls, and national parks.Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Kununurra

    June 14, 2024 in Australia ⋅ 🌙 75 °F

    Things are more lively since I started heading east. The temperature is warmer, and it is high season in the north. There is more going on, which feels interesting.

    Tomorrow, I enter the official Northern Territory. I'm really excited because there are hot springs I plan to visit along with some national parks.

    Although this trip feels rushed, I can now slow down and enjoy the coming days with less driving. I think that will make for a more pleasant experience.

    And on today's drive, I reflected on my bias towards some Aboriginals. I began to think about our own Native Americans and the First Nations of Canada to remind myself of the theft of culture and lands natives have experienced. My own Mexican heritage had their oppression through colonization. These people are no different than the many other marginalized tribes around the world. Compassion and loving-kindness came flooding in.

    Then I thought of the movie Rabbit Proof Fence to remind myself of the horrific histories the Aboriginals ensured... and ancestral trauma they probably cope with. Empathy swelled in.

    I'm not ashamed of my biased awareness because I am taking the time to understand the injustice. An old version of myself would have just silently judged and avoided. Thankfully, I have evolved!

    And before I leave, as I had planned, I will humbly offer a small donation.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Mary's pool

    June 13, 2024 in Australia ⋅ 🌙 77 °F

    Today has been a day of minor mistakes. The big one was at the gas station, where I left my card. After driving for about 15 minutes, I realized that I didn't have my card. Luckily, upon return, the clerk had my card, and the universe had my back.

    That made my gps angry, and I lost directions. Luckily, there is only one highway, but it helps me to know where I am and upcoming gas stations. This region is so remote that you should stop at each station to be safe. They are about 300 km apart, and the prices are much higher than they were in the west.

    I'm noticing my own aversion to some Aboriginals. It's not the color of their skin but in their impoverished state that is challenging me. With some reflection, I admit I am uncomfortable with poverty, especially when it leads to poor hygiene. 😔 I wonder what I could do to turn that bias around?

    I'm getting closer to Darwin, and my pace can start to slow down.

     I have already driven over 3k kilometers. I'm still surprised at how different it is. I have done four US cross-country trips, the first in 5 days. A six hour drive here is both physically and emotionally draining. #roughcountry    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Cable Beach and Broome

    June 12, 2024 in Australia ⋅ 🌙 72 °F

    Halfway point... some really great moments today that overrode the aversive ones.

    The sea water was great, and there were no threats. It was a good workout, although I miss yoga.

    I drank my first beer (x3) since being here.

    I finally saw live kangaroos.

    Prayer:
    May my days have ease, relaxation, and fun. Please let my drives be safe and quick. May the vistas have more interest and diverse landscapes. Thank you for my audiobooks that keep me company on the monotonous drive.

    Thank you for the abundance that allows for this trip to have minimal economic impact.

    May all beings enjoy life to the fullest and renounce fear. May all beings have love and support. May all beings be well and happy.

    🧜‍♀️💓🙏👣    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    80 mile beach

    June 11, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 82 °F

    In need of a place to sleep that is not on the highway, I stop at 8 mile beach. Swimming is not advised because there are sharks. I asked if I just wanted to the waist, and they said tgey come close to shore. Tomorrow is Cable Beach, where jellyfish and crocodiles are the hazards. I'm in croc country now, and a few bodies of water are safe 🤨Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Karajini National Park

    June 10, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 79 °F

    Another long drive through the desert. I enjoyed a hike to the gorge and waterfalls near my campsite at Dale's Campground. I even took a dip in the cold waters.

    At night, I had a small meltdown because I'm tired and have to drive so much daily. Drives are longer than Google estimation, and it's boring.

    Australia is a rough country in these parts, and it is taking a toll on me.

    Another disappointment is that I have yet to see wildlife. Kangaroos are supposed to be prevalent everywhere, and I have seen many dead along the highway. Where are you, Joey and Sheila? The park boasts an active dingo population, but no such luck.

    After the new moon earlier this week, the sky gazing has been amazing. I've never seen the Milky Way, so 🌌.

    One week down...    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Ningaloo Reef - Turquiose Bay part 2

    June 9, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 75 °F

    Anxious about my swim experience, I was determined to work through my fears. I spoke briefly with my mom, who reminded me her sister died after being pulled by a current. Interestingly, her death date is my birth date. I didn't need the reminder.

    Sitting on the beach trying to conjure courage, I journeyed for assistance. I was guided to jump in and face my fear. So I did and didn't go too far out as a test run. That was fun.

    Confidence building, I head out again. A went out farther and felt a little struggle getting back in. At the end of the afternoon, I did it 5 times. I am proud of myself.

    I knew that fear was something this trip was going to bring up. I dealt with it last summer when I was camping in bear country. What I found interesting is that when fear arises, it is when my desire for companionship is strongest. Despite that, I recognize I have tremendous courage to do what I do. I've taken many risks and put myself in unfamiliar circumstances regularly. Some say that builds strength and confidence. Does one beget the other?

    Photos are from the web to represent what I did today.

    The mound that looks like poo is made by termites. They were all around the peninsula.

    Btw, my Australian number is +61457303827. I'm headed into the remote Northern Territory. If I stop posting (more than a couple of days), please take measures. Thank you, caring friends...    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Coral Bay Exmouth

    June 8, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 75 °F

    Coral Bay was windy, and corals were dead. Although I planned to hang out here all day, I decided to head north and go to the Cape Range NP.

    I went to the famous Turquoise Bay and learned of the drift snorkel. This snorkel comes with the warning of strong currents and no lifeguard. I did it once and struggled to get back to shore. I tell myself that I am tired and hungry and I will try again tomorrow.

    At least the water is warm.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    In the zenith zone

    June 7, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 77 °F

    The reason I started in Western Australia is because the stars led me here. My astrocatography chart has 3 zenith points here plus my Saturn line. Here's what astro.com says.

    Moon's Node/MC Line (Moon's Node in Zenith) 132 km

    In these regions, you will discover support for your ambitious projects. 

    Moon's Node/MC lines give you an understanding about the meaning and purpose of this earthly existence. You come closer to fulfilling your destiny. People who have trouble detaching from the parental home and their past can get the necessary impetus to make it happen.

    Moon in Zenith at Same Latitude

    Along this line, your private and social lives combine well, you may also appear more prominently in the public eye. The special energy of these regions is also suitable for activities related to trading with foodstuffs, perishable goods as well as running a guesthouse or a hotel.

    A stay at such a place can bring a greater awareness of your unconscious motivation. You thereby gain insights into hidden dimensions of your psyche, and you begin to see how the subtle influences stemming from your mother have affected your social and professional development. You learn to distinguish between your own inner motives and outside influence.

    Saturn/IC Line 36 km

    Along this line you are required to take a closer look at your relationship with your family but also at your origins in general. Difficulties you encounter here can lead you to re-assess your duties and responsibilities towards your family but also to look after your own interests.

    Relations to your parents play a central role, and you may feel distant towards members of your family. 

    This is a place where you get plenty of opportunity to deal with your emotions. Your psychic and emotional states may exhibit tension, you may feel unsure. But this is a clear sign that you have to start dealing with these feelings and strive for understanding.  

    Sun/MC Line (Sun in Zenith) 3 km

    These regions are ideal for the realisation of ambitious plans and undertakings. Along this line are the best places for career advancement, and a fulfilling social position.

    A stay in these places can help define your goals, giving directional clues regarding your calling and official capacity within the community. Here you will be noticed and receive support, recognition and protection. With an increase in your self-esteem, you can begin to turn personal wishes and desires into reality, and experience the satisfaction of success.

    This line is seen, generally speaking, as advantageous and constructive. These energies activate a sense of realism, and aid in the search for truth. All areas of your private life, including hidden events or well-kept secrets, are more quickly and easily revealed. The revelation of some of these truths may not always be in your best interest.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler
    1

    Pink Lake & Kalbarri

    June 6, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 77 °F

    Pink lake

    Kilbarri

    I'm beginning to realize that images in guidebooks are optimal weather conditions, high-quality equipment, and optimal timing. My visit to Pink Lake didn't live up to the hype, so it was a quick detour.

    I continue to Kalbarri and make the visitors center my first stop. The beach is apparently good for snorkeling, and I want to find out where to go.

    The clerk was nice, but once again, fear is projected on me. Do I realize how far I'm driving? Have I checked road conditions? There's a storm coming in, did I know that?

    After an earful, I felt stressed. I checked in my site and didn't like how I felt. I decided to go to the beach for some healing. With weather rolling in the swell was big, or whatever a swell does. The current were too strong to even swim. I head to the tranquil bay instead. Well, with a fushing barge up ahead, it wasn't that tranquil.

    Nonetheless, I can't seem to shake the anxiety. After a short swim, I decided to return to begin researching my route and stops. I was really trying to be spontaneous, but now I can't without worry.

    In full Capricorn/Virgo mode, I lay out a plan. More than 6 hours in front of the computer to get a clear view of timing, route, stay locations, and points of interest.

    I felt dismay that most of my days were going to be behind the wheel. The rental agency would not allow me to drop off at a closer location. 😒

    It's after 11 and I'm having trouble sleeping. My insomnia hasn't been a factor since I've been here. I have been going to bed between 8-9 and sleeping 8-9 hours. My sleep has been amazing until now.

    No matter what I am waking up early to get a head start. It feels like time moves slowly out here. A three hour drive feels like forever.

    The landscape hasn't changed, it's arid desert. On the positive, it reminds me of Sedona and Northern Arizona with its drought tolerant shrubs and rusted sand. It feels familiar.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Drive to Geraldton

    June 5, 2024 in Australia ⋅ 🌙 68 °F

    Per the recommendation, I started at Sandy Cape. It was filled with seaweed due to a recent storm. I stopped and chatted with some senior Aussie's. It seems that every time I talk to someone over 60, they are quick to give me unsolicited warnings and advice. The first time, a man was talking unsafety to the degree of murders. I quickly shut him down and told him I didn’t have space for his fears. Today, it was milder. Although I didn't appreciate her racist comments about aboriginal children. Anyways, I'm learning not to take it in. A big step for an empath with anxiety like me.

    I made my way to 3 Bays & Dynamite Bay. The guidebook boasts amazing views and a scenic hike. It was pretty, and the path was short.

    Due to road closures, I decided to head all the way to Geraldton. It would put me at around 250 kilometers for the day. I visit the downtown area and observe its industrial section. I finally get my feet in water.

    I head another 20 minutes to a free camp site on the beach. I'm relieved and starving and quickly whip up my dinner. Before I could take my first bite, Rangers warned me that the 5 sites were taken, and I would be cited if I stayed. I asked if there was another free area, and they told me about Coronation Beach, another 25 kilometers north. Damn... it's close to sunset, so I decide to hold off on eating to make my way.

    Getting to Coronation Beach and finding a spot was another relief. I took my meal and headed to the beach to enjoy it. This is the first time I sat and watched the sunset in its entirety. And the beach is prettier than where I was. The waters are calm, and I plan to take a dip before leaving tomorrow.

    Another eventful day, yet I am eagerly awaiting my arrival to Monkey Mia and Exmouth for some prime snorkeling. It's also my sun and moon zenith points in Astrocartography. It's the reason I picked this area.

    I reflected on how I feel in constant motion and plan to spend the next week leisurely in the area. I have to make time for some serious meditation and journey work to see if I can get some guidance and inspiration. I can't wait.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler
    1

    Cervantes and Jurian Bay

    June 4, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 63 °F

    With little power in my cabin battery, I decided to head to nearby Cervantes after my morning meditation. Making coffee and washing up would have to wait until I am in cell range and can plan how to keep my refrigerator going.

    Cervante is tiny, and the beach smells of seaweed. I decided to book a site in Jurien Bay. Check-in is at 12, so I have 3 hours. The smell at the beach was strong, and it was an overcast morning, so I decided to organize the camper better. Last night was a rush job. With everything in place and coffee consumed, I am feeling good. It's about time to head another 40 kilometers to Jurien Bay.

    The travel guidebook says it is a great place for snorkeling, and I brought my mask with me. I'm excited to be in the ocean again and my first time in the Indian Ocean. After checking in and getting the camper plugged in, I head to the beach. The winds and current are strong, so I skip the dip for now.

    I head to the local tourist information office to get the scoop on the best swimming and snorkeling beaches. The nearby marina was recommended as well as a snorkeling spot 10 kilometers north. That will be my morning stop tomorrow.

    I make the 30-minute walk to the marina and find the place to myself. The waters are calm here, but the water is cloudy and not great for snorkeling.

    I start in the water and it is about 70 degrees. The cloud coverage in the sky makes it feel like 60. Despite my aversion to cold water, I am determined to swim. After a long 5 minutes, i finally get used to it.

    Immediately, I feel tender and start to cry. Water is very healing for me, and I feel grateful. In this nutured state, I mentally proclaim that I am not going to worry about this trips expenses. I'm not going to feel guilty about how much I spend. I created this experience this trip. I manifested the abundance to live my blessed life the way I choose. And I'm leaning into the belief that I can maintain it all with ease!

    I am setting a goal for a daily dip in water while I am in Australia. It makes me smile!

    And another new habit I'm creating is taking more pictures and being in them. I purchased a selfie stick, and I love it. Yay to the evolved me who has befriended my insecurities!    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Starting roadtrip from Perth

    June 3, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 66 °F

    After a full night's sleep at Country Comfort (a pleasant hotel near the airport with a friendly and helpful staff), I picked up my Britz Trailblazer camper to start my road trip. This camper is fully loaded with a kitchen, toilet, and shower. It is only 5.5 meters. The rental cost makes me uncomfortable, and I have been feeling anxious about how much I am spending. I keep reminding myself this is a once in a lifetime trip.

    Belmont Forum, a nearby shopping mall, was recommended for all my needs. I picked up a camping chair at Kmart (surprised they still exist). I got my sim from Telstra. I got groceries from Woolworths. This rentry into commerce was natural. I haven't shopped in a mall since 2015.

    After all my errands were done, I reviewed the camping app to decide where I would camp. I picked Tuart Reserve a free campsite 222 kilometers away. The roads are smooth and nicely paved. In the first hour, I made a right and looked to my left for oncoming traffic. When I crossed into the intersection, I remembered that incoming traffic was to my right. It was fortunate that no one was there. I made a mental note to look both ways until I get used to driving here.

    By 5:30, the sun has set, and it starts to get dark. My gps says I will arrive at 6. I start to speed to try to get there before it is completely dark. And with luck, I made it 5 minutes before it was pitch black. Whew! Signs on the highway warn wildlife, and I did not want to start my journey by hitting a kangaroo.

    By 8 pm, I had organized my belongings and set up bed. I fell asleep immediately. By 1 a.m., I am awake and decide to put on headphones and listen to affirmations. I'm working on some mental reprogramming. I fall asleep shortly after.

    What a wonderful day!    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Qatar Airport

    June 1, 2024 in Qatar ⋅ 🌙 91 °F

    A nine hour layover in the world's best airport. Flying Qatar Airlines is a treat. I'm currently enjoying a women's only quiet room with lounge chairs.

    The extra leg room and friendly service made the first 15 hours comfortable. Although they claim to have over 200 entertainment options, many of them are in other languages.

    I'm reminded of the impatience that arises when traveling. I imagined myself with a patience superpower, spreading patience when people couldn't pause for a minute to offer space and courtesy.    Read more

    Trip start
    May 31, 2024
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