Behind this door, some magic will happen. This is where Vangelis will spend 2 hours with me, doing breathing exercises, some guided meditation and acupuncture. He is a psychotherapist and healer. Along with his wife Elena, they work with people to help them with better health and emotional healing.

I think the first element is being in this cave house where generations of people have lived. The stone of these islands is, in itself, a connection to the earth.

He shared several things that I will always remember. As we do deep breathing, he says “The breath is the Doctor”. I know deep breathing is important but his words resonate. Deep breathing can provide an instant reset of the nervous system.

Then Vangelis provides deep love, empathy and nurturing to guide the experience. It is deeply moving. Lots of tears of emotion. Not necessarily sadness, just pure emotion.

He also reminds me to stop and pause, throughout the day or year, including a vacation. (Ok, I’m pretty good at this part…) But he shares that the word vacation is based on vacate, the vacating of stress and problems and noise.

Elena provides some essential oils and acupuncture. It’s a beautiful experience.

I shift back to my day, which in itself is healing. A walk into town, a Greek Salad, a beach chair, a swim, some reading and a Paddleboard in the bay.

The same day that I am healing and immersed in peace, I learn of the multiple shootings back in the US. More school shootings and the shooting of a political activist. To say it is disheartening would be a deep understatement. The range of reactions that I’m reading feel jarring and filled with hate. I feel intentionally detached yet deeply troubled. I pray that everyone in the world will do some very, very deep breathing. And perhaps eat a Greek Salad.

I enjoy an Aperol Spritz at sunset before my friend Myriam picks me up for dinner at 9. We are on a French dinner schedule.

We go to Aegiali for dinner, a small family restaurant. We share our experiences from the day and talk about how lucky it is that we met. I will miss her, she is leaving today to go back to Toulouse. France is having their own political unrest that troubles her.

We have a delicious dinner of grilled shrimp and Fava balls.

At the end of dinner, most restaurants here offer a special Raki. It is warm with honey and local herbs including cinnamon, cloves and others.

Amorgos, thank you for some wonderful experiences. I will always remember you.