Writ340-Michael

Practicing stress management has been impactful and important in my life; meditation, specifically, is the most effective stress-reducing solution for me. I was introduced to meditation in high school during a mindfulness class I signed up for. The class started out with a brief explanation of our lesson or focus of the day. We then set our intentions for the meditation, I typically would choose the intention of relaxation. My teacher would remind us each class to stay focused on our breath when distracting thoughts would enter our minds. He said to acknowledge the thoughts then dismiss them to experience a successful and beneficial meditation practice. Breathing is a constant movement flowing to create a balance through inhalation and exhalation. When I can direct my attention to how breathing sounds and feels, I can be fully present in the moment. That moment of pure bliss helps my brain think clearly once I peacefully end the session. Since I started meditating, I have applied ...

The Cost of the New Hip Neighborhood is The Price of Another's Displacement Displacement Happens in our Backyards Being in Los Angeles means that displacement is happening every day. From the eviction of Lil Bill’s bike repair shop on the USC campus to residents priced out of their homes the act of displacement is changing the very fabric of the city. The local bike shop business owner who was integral to USC community was affected by the new USC Village: his business was shut down after operating for over 40 years. During an interview with an anonymous displaced former Crenshaw resident, she described an area that was once deemed affordable and “unsafe” become a place for young, affluent individuals. Previously at night, she stated it was dangerous to stroll down the street, it was impossible to feel comfortable while turning into dark corners. Now due to gentrification, now walking down the street at night does not feel like there is always an impending danger. The forme...