LEARN HOW TO JUMP INTO THE NEW YEAR WITH RENEWED ENERGY AND PURPOSE!
December 2024
th
ANNIVERSARY ISSUE
CHAMPIONING
HOLISTIC HEALTH
&
HARMONY
DISCOVER THE SECRETS TO
UNLOCKING
YOUR TRUE NORTH
4SELF-CELEBRATION TIPS TO
Live Your Best Life
WITH
How one
6-Month Journey
Erased A Lifetime of Pain
TREES TALK:
ARE WE LISTENING? FIVE FORMS of
WEALTH that MONEY
Can’t Buy
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Best Holistic Life December 2024
4 T i ps to L i v e Yo u r B est L i f e w i t h S e l f-C e l e b r at i o n
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4 TIPS TO LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE WITH SELF-CELEBRATION BY L I S A Z A H I YA
In a world obsessed with airbrushed perfection,
passion.
celebrating your authentic self can feel like pushing
But by the age of 10, things changed. I grew tall, my body
a boulder uphill. We're constantly hit with messages
developed early, and suddenly, the dance world didn’t
suggesting we aren't good enough—as parents, in our
seem so welcoming. My ballet teacher suggested to
bodies, and in how we move in the world.
my mom that maybe I should try another dance style,
This relentless pressure to conform makes self-
like tap, because I was "too womanly" for ballet. I was
acceptance seem like a radical, almost rebellious act. But
crushed. I felt like I was too much for the thing I loved
what if embracing your true self is the key to unlocking
most. I began to shrink myself, trying to fit in, and
not just inner peace, but also wild success? By daring to
eventually, I stopped dancing altogether.
love yourself, you can transform every aspect of your life,
After graduating college and starting my adult life,
from personal fulfillment to professional achievements.
I kept trying to make myself smaller. I'd take dance
When you embrace who you are, as you are right now, you
classes occasionally, but the joy was gone. Then one day,
clear out the mental clutter of self-doubt, allowing you to
I stumbled upon a belly dance class. The teacher was a
radiate authenticity and confidence. Accepting yourself
vibrant woman in her fifties, unashamed and larger than
fully means you stop wasting energy on self-criticism
life. Women of all ages, sizes, and shapes filled the class,
and start channeling it into productive, creative pursuits.
moving with confidence and grace. I watched from the
This authenticity attracts people to you and opens doors
doorway, mesmerized.
you never imagined. It's like discovering a superpower
The teacher noticed me watching week after week and
you didn't know you had (and who doesn’t want that?).
finally invited me to join. Stepping into that class changed
This journey to self-acceptance is something I’ve
my life. I began to belly dance, and for the first time in
experienced firsthand. Before I could even walk, I knew
years, I celebrated my body. I realized I didn’t have to
I was destined to dance. I'd host endless recitals in my
make myself smaller to fit in. I started to embrace who I
parents' basement, twirling with my mother’s scarves,
was, dressing in beautiful costumes, moving confidently,
dreaming of the big stage. Starting dance class felt like
and reclaiming my space.
living a dream, and ballet, in particular, became my
That journey led me to create Studio Zahiya, an award-
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Best Holistic Life December 2024
REFLECT, RECHARGE, AND RENEW:
GET READY FOR THE NEW YEAR! BY N AT H A L I E B OT RO S
We made it through another year, it's now time to pause and
Recharging isn’t just about rest; it’s about restoring your
take a deep breath. The transition into a new year is more
energy so that you can approach the new year with vigor.
than just a date on the calendar; it's an opportunity to reflect,
Start by prioritizing your well-being.
recharge, and renew. It’s a moment to assess where you’ve
Physical health is closely linked to mental well-being, so
been, recognize the progress you’ve made, and set the tone
taking care of your body will also boost your emotional resil-
for the future you desire. Let’s prepare to tackle the new year
ience.
with clarity, energy, and purpose.
Consider engaging in activities that bring you joy and relax-
Reflect: Understanding Where You’ve Been
ation. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones, indulg-
The first step in preparing for the new year is to reflect on
ing in a hobby, or simply taking a long walk in nature, do
the past twelve months. It’s crucial to assess your successes,
what nourishes your soul. This is your time to unwind and
the challenges you faced, and the lessons you learned. Rather
rejuvenate.
than dwelling on mistakes or regrets, I encourage you to focus
Don’t forget to recharge your mindset as well. Remember, the
on the insights gained and the journey that has shaped you
new year is a blank slate, and you want to enter it with a posi-
into who you are today. Ask yourself questions like: What am
tive and empowered attitude. Practice gratitude by acknowl-
I proud of this year? What goals did I achieve? Where did I
edging the good things in your life. Gratitude shifts your focus
fall short, and why? How did I grow as a person? By answer-
from what’s lacking to what’s abundant, helping you culti-
ing these questions, you’re not only acknowledging your
vate a mindset of optimism and possibility.
achievements but also identifying areas for improvement.
Renew: Setting Intentions for the Year Ahead
Remember, reflection is not about perfection; it’s about
With your energy replenished and your mind clear, it’s time
progress. Each experience, whether positive or negative, has
to renew. This phase is all about setting intentions and goals
shaped you and brought you valuable lessons. Embrace them
for the year ahead. But before you start writing down reso-
all as you prepare to step into the new year.
lutions, I want to challenge you to think differently. Instead
Recharge: Replenish Your Energy
of setting rigid goals that can sometimes feel overwhelming
After reflecting, it’s time to recharge. Let’s be honest, the
or unattainable, focus on setting intentions that align with
end of the year can be exhausting - mentally, emotionally,
your values and aspirations.
and physically. You’ve been pushing yourself, striving to meet
Intentions are powerful because they focus on how you want
goals, and perhaps even stretching yourself too thin. Now is
to feel and who you want to become, providing direction
the time to take a step back and focus on self-care.
without the pressure of perfection. For instance, instead of
R e f l e c t , R e c h a r g e , a n d R e n e w : G e t R e a dy f o r t h e N e w Y e a r !
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Best Holistic Life December 2024
CELEBRATING 5 YEARS OF BEST HOLISTIC LIFE: A JOURNEY OF GROWTH, INSPIRATION, AND TRANSFORMATION As we mark five incredible years of Best Holistic Life, we’re filled with immense gratitude for every step of this transformative journey. From humble beginnings to becoming a global beacon for holistic living, our success is a testament to the power of community, authenticity, and the pursuit of a healthier, more fulfilled life. Here's a look back at our milestones, highlights of beloved contributors, and a sneak peek into what 2025 has in store for you!
OUR JOURNEY: FROM NEWSLETTER TO GLOBAL INSPIRATION 2018: Best Holistic Life began with a single vision—to inspire others to live their best lives holistically. Our first newsletters reached a modest but passionate audience. 2020: We started offering one-time free articles to writers who shared our mission, planting seeds for collaboration that would later flourish. Subscriber Growth: From an initial 1,200 subscribers, we have grown into a powerful community of 1.7 million readers worldwide. Signature Features: Over the years, we’ve introduced beloved segments, including: • Recipes: Delicious, nourishing, and easy-to-follow recipes for a healthier lifestyle. • Oil Highlights: Exploring the benefits of essential oils for mind and body. • Moon Calendars: Guiding readers through the rhythms of the moon to enhance their spiritual and emotional journeys.
C e l e b r at i n g 5 Y e a r s o f B e st H o l i st i c L i f e : A J o u r n e y o f G r o w t h , I n s p i r at i o n , a n d T r a n s fo r m at i o n
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Best Holistic Life December 2024
HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR FEATURED WRITERS Throughout our journey, we've had the honor of collaborating with exceptional writers who embody the essence of holistic living. Here’s a glimpse into the transformative stories and insights they’ve shared:
Jolene Goring
QUANTUM HEALING LEADER
Jenn Drummond
BREAKPROOF YOURSELF
Jolene’s
Jenn shared her inspiring journey
illuminated
of
science and holistic wellness. As
resilience—from
surviving
exclusive the
of
a catastrophic car accident to
Arizona's
becoming the first woman to conquer
holistic nutritionist and a global
the Seven Second Summits. Her story
wellness influencer, Jolene shared
teaches us to embrace imperfect
her journey from geophysics to
beginnings, adapt to adversity, and
becoming a best-selling author and
prioritize people over peaks. Her
Mrs. Arizona Globe. Her commitment
actionable wisdom reminds us all
to
that no challenge is insurmountable
accessible and indulgent wellness
with the right mindset.
practices has left an indelible mark.
Mandy Morris
Patty Oliver
MANIFESTATION LEADER OF THE YEAR
first
interview
intersection
empowering
board-certified
women
with
Mandy, the founder of Authentic
ENERGY HEALING AND AKASHIC RECORDS EXPERT
Living,
soul-driven
Patty’s journey from breast cancer
journey of transformation. Her
shared
her
survivor to transformational energy
upcoming book, The Promise, is
healer is a testament to the power
a heartfelt guide to manifesting
of spiritual resilience. Through her
and living authentically. Mandy’s
work with the Akashic Records,
work blends science, love, and
Patty empowers individuals to clear
spirituality, helping millions unlock
karmic patterns, align with their soul
their potential and rewrite their life
blueprint, and manifest abundant,
stories.
joyful lives.
C e l e b r at i n g 5 Y e a r s o f B e st H o l i st i c L i f e : A J o u r n e y o f G r o w t h , I n s p i r at i o n , a n d T r a n s fo r m at i o n
WHAT’S NEXT FOR 2025? As we look ahead, we’re thrilled to share upcoming features that promise to elevate your holistic lifestyle journey:
Interactive Digital Content:
•
Exclusive Interviews:
• Personalized wellness plans.
• New voices in wellness, spirituality, and self-care.
• Virtual workshops with our expert contributors.
• In-depth features on groundbreaking holistic health practices.
• Expanded Moon Calendars: Monthly guidance paired with medi-
• Themed Recipe Challenges: Fun, community-driven competitions
tations and rituals
to inspire healthy cooking. • Special Collaborations: A spotlight on emerging holistic brands and creators who share our passion for sustainable and mindful living.
THANK YOU FOR 5 INCREDIBLE YEARS Every milestone, every article, and every connection we’ve made has been possible because of you, our readers. Your support inspires us to continue delivering content that educates, empowers, and transforms. As we celebrate this anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to guiding you toward your best holistic life.
Let’s grow, heal, and thrive together. Cheers to the next chapter!
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