I'm passionate about many things but residing at the top of the list are veganism, music, nature, dancing, exercise and yoga. I love being a vegan, it just feels right for me. I was an ovo-lacto vegetarian for 21 years and went vegan about 3 years ago. Why do I love it? The biggest thing for me is not supporting factory farming and the systematic abuse of innocent animals. It also helps that there's so much amazing vegan food - who knew?

Another passion for me is swimming - I love being in the water! Swimming outdoors in fresh water is my favourite as it also connects me with nature. Green spaces are important to me as I grew up surrounded by beautiful trees and thus find forests and lakes particularly soothing for the soul. Although I live in the city now, at some point I would like to move somewhere where my connection to nature is stronger and more immediate.

Music and dancing - so much fun! I've played music on my own and in bands for most of my life (just doing it on my own presently). Whether it's playing it, listening to it or moving to it, music is a powerful and joyous form of expression. About 10 years ago my appreciation for music was broadened by the introduction of ballroom, latin and swing dancing. My parents had been dancing for a number of years and I'd always thought it seemed like it'd be a lot of fun. When my dad was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease their dancing together became more and more difficult until ultimately it was no longer possible. So I learned how to dance (Waltz, Foxtrot, Rumba, Cha Cha, Argentine Tango, Bolero, East Coast Swing, Triple Step, Milonga and more!). It's been a great way to spend time with my mom plus it's a lot of fun! It's bittersweet knowing that I started because of my dad's health decline but it's something really positive that's come out of it.

I've also studied martial arts (I have a 2nd degree black belt in Kempo Karate) and used to run my own dojo (school). The fact that I now enjoy yoga and dance is probably connected to my martial arts and music background. Movement, mind/body connection, body awareness and personal expression are such key aspects that really apply to all of them.

Blanket summary statement: I believe strongly in treating people, animals and this planet with respect and compassion.

Hopefully this blurb has given at least a partial insight into who I am and what I'm about :)

Please be in touch if the above resonated with you on some level - it'd be great to connect!

Shannon

Pisces

Empathy, Humor, Intelligence, Sensitivity, Thoughtfullness