It’s been over a week in the jungle, and I’ve earned my fair share of wild souvenirs: countless mosquito bites (yes, I finally gave in to DEET—judge away, but trust me, it was worth it), vivid dreams that felt like stepping into another reality, new animal/bug companions, and even a few human friends. The howler monkeys and thunderstorms kept me awake most nights, but those sounds became the soundtrack of this wild experience.

Being away from the hustle and bustle of the city, fully immersed in the jungle, gave me the space I needed to reconnect with myself, to really listen—to my thoughts, to the jungle, to life itself. And wow, the downloads I received were overwhelming at times. Along with these downloads, some intrusive thoughts resurfaced from recent experiences (which I won’t dive into here). It's fascinating how, when we’re not consumed by work, activities, or the digital noise of modern life, our thoughts become so loud and clear. It’s so easy to mask and numb everything in our society—we're constantly fed distractions, almost as if by design, to keep us from looking inward and exploring our inner-space.

Now, about those downloads…

I’ve got some ideas cooking—metaphorically speaking, of course (although, if you know me, you know I love a good kitchen session too). One involves another trek, this time a multi-day adventure through the jungle to explore an even larger ancient civilization, one that’s still mostly hidden, swallowed by the jungle’s growth. WHO'S DOWN TO GO?

Tikal made it clear it was just another point on my map, but there are so many more places calling my name. The next journey into the ancient cosmos will be even more immersive—walking miles, camping deep within the jungle, and connecting with its raw, multidimensional energy.

One of the biggest takeaways from this trip, amid all the downloads, was learning that it’s okay to slow down. I have more than enough time in the world. That doesn’t mean I should be lazy or procrastinate, but it does mean I can take my time to feel, to receive insights when I’m ready, and to share them when I’m ready. It doesn’t all need to happen at once. I had clear visions of my future, and I’m beyond excited to see it all unfold, trusting that I’ll be guided every step of the way. Everything is truly attainable if you believe in it and channel your energy into the actions you want to create. The universe is our guide, the map that leads us exactly where we need to be—if we allow ourselves to accept that guidance.

What's helped me is maintaining a practice for myself in the jungle that I can carry home with me—making it easier to keep the habit alive. This practice involved taking intentional time in the morning to be aware of my breath, to meditate, and to set my intentions for the day ahead. I’ve also decided to devote intentional time to reading and soaking in daily knowledge, as my brain is wide awake first thing in the morning before it’s clouded with all the other information throughout the day. And, of course, taking time to intentionally journal. I allow myself to pour my thoughts onto paper and watch the creation unfold. For me, I love guidance (as guidance led me here to the jungles of Guatemala), so I created a journal that includes 90 intentional prompts for 90 days to help you pinpoint your focus and devote a bit of time each day to allow the transformation to occur.

If you haven’t yet, grab your Xpansion Journal today and embark on a 90-day journey of self-reflection and transformation to achieve the life you desire.

**Each day of the journal includes an intentional prompt.**

I’m at peace in my own skin, even with a few breakouts from the humidity and constant sweating (and probably from some questionable food choices—my body has a funny way of letting me know when it’s not happy, usually with a new pimple or two). This trip even inspired me to finally purchase a food allergy and sensitivity test. With all the health journeys I’ve embarked on over the years, I’m surprised I hadn’t done this sooner. Hmmmm? I'm excited to see if there's a simple sensitivity I've been oblivious to all these years. I will say, though, I have not felt bloated ONCE on my travels, and that usually holds true every time I travel... outside of the US (cue eye roll).

I’m also sooo tired. This trip has been incredible, but I haven’t had a good night’s rest since I arrived (thanks to the spirits of these jungles and Tikal—I’ve been traveling to different realms in my dreams). I felt more active in my dream world during this trip than in the 3D world—even with all my physical activity. So, I decided to treat myself to some luxury on my last night in Guatemala. Although my trip has been pretty much jungle-luxury (esque) since my intention on this particular trip wasn’t to have a backpacking experience, however this kind of luxury I chose on my last night didn’t come with tarantulas in my room that I had to escort out politely. It also came with strong Wi-Fi, access to a TV and Netflix, and a jacuzzi inside the room—so yes, I wanted to relish this on my last night.

A little backstory about me—

The thing is... I LOVE balance. I love getting dirty, trekking through the jungle, being fully immersed in nature, shedding the layers I once thought made me feel "safe." But I also love comfort, convenience, luxury, and cleanliness. I freaking love a nice shower and a good, clean toilet to poop in. I believe we need it all (at least I do)—to truly enjoy the contrast and fully appreciate each moment in its purest form. I do my best, but yes... I'll use some DEET when I’m being attacked by horseflies, and I love kicking back with a margarita or two.

This trip has been one HUGE ceremony. Generational curses and old programming have been unraveling ever since I decided to embark on this journey, weeks before I even set foot here. I’m so grateful that fear hasn’t held me back. I’ll admit, I have all sorts of fears, but I damn sure will show up for every single one of them—because it’s more painful if I don’t. That's the motivation circulating throughout my inner being, to show up and to follow the pull. If you listen intentionally, the wind will truly tell you where to go.

So I leave you with this—

Take your journey wherever you feel that pull—it might be far away or near. It really isn’t about the distance; it’s about being brave enough to trek into the unknown.

Sincerely,

Greta Ruljevaite

A Week in the Jungle

Confronting Fears in the Heart of the Jungle