Best Holistic Life Magazine November 2024

UNCOVER HOLIDAY JOY: SECRETS TO STRESS-FREE CELEBRATIONS!

November 2024

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH

DANIELLE

MARGGRAF World Leader

in

Somatic Healing

&

Transformation

DECODING SUCCESS: The

Science of

GOALS

DREAMS ON DEMAND: The Juicy Guide to Instant Manifestation Unspoken Burdens: The REAL REASON

Women Are Exhausted

BEWARE THE TRAP

of

PEOPLE

PLEASING

Cultivating

INNER SECURITY through

A Journey to Empowerment MINDFULNESS:

"N ovember's quiet beauty teaches us that even in stillness, there is growth and transformation."

stock.adobe.com | ylivdesign

- Jana Short

EDITING Best Holistic Life Magazine BEST HOLISTIC LIFE LLC ALL RIGHTS RESERVED https://bestholisticlife.com Cover Image Sabrina Norrie Chief Editor: Jana Short Editors: Dr. Dixie Short, Jessica Schreib Layout: Jessica Schreib U Schreib.Design, Germany.

Images: If not otherwise specified, images belong to the creator of the articles. Any reproduction, publication or distribution is copyright infringement.

2

Jana Short ABOUT THE EDITOR

Jana Short is making waves among international influencers and entrepreneurs through her various platforms. She is a highly accomplished mindset coach, NLP & RTT practitioner, entrepreneur, best-selling author, podcaster, and Best Holistic Life Magazine editor.

Jana has received numerous accolades for her work, including being named one of Los Angeles' Women of the Year 2023 by Hollywood Soeleish Magazine, being featured on the cover of San Francisco Soeleish Magazine in July 2022, and being named the Los Angeles Entrepreneur Magazine's Top Influencer of 2022 for the second consecutive year.

Catch Jana on: https://www.janashort.com/

FACEBOOK-SQUARE /BestHolisticLifeMagazine INSTAGRAM /janashortofficial YOUTUBE /c/OhMyHealthThereIsHOPE

3

Best Holistic Life November 2024

47 TABLE OF

CONTENT Cover Stories 63 Exclusive Interview with Danielle Marggraf World Leader in Somatic Healing & Transformation 8

Decoding Success: The Science of Goals

11 Cultivating Inner Security through Mindfulness: A Journey to Empowerment 14

Beware the Trap of People Pleasing

25

Unspoken Burdens: The Real Reason Women Are Exhausted

28

Dreams on Demand: The Juicy Guide to Instant Manifestation

73

Mindset 21

THE 'YET' FACTOR Catapults You From Zero To Hero!

32 The Power to Thrive Lives Within: A Spiritual Perspective for Growth, Change and Overcoming Adversity 41 How to Overcome Skepticism: 5 Strategies for Success as a Leader 52

Embrace Intuition For A Holistic Life

58

How Gratitude Heals the Pain of Rejection: 5 Proven Strategies

77

3 Steps to Loving Yourself: Finding Your Inner Peace

82

CAN YOU TURN RESENTMENT INTO GRATITUDE?

85

Happy People Don't Burnout: Work-Life Balance

94

Let's Walk Each Other Home: A Legacy of Resilience

119 Have you Stopped Dreaming? 5 Rules for Life-Altering Dreaming 124

Fiery Feelings: How Embracing Anger Can Empower

144 Cultivating Self-Compassion: Step 11 of the NLP-Powered Journey

Health 35 My Journey Out of the Darkness of Disease into the Light By the Power of Spirit-led Brain Retraining 55

10 Tips to Boost Energy During Menopause

62

AFTER the diagnosis

132

5 Secrets to Feeling GREAT as you get older

139 Empowering Women Through Menopause: A Holistic Approach to Health and Wellness 155 How Women Over 40 Accelerate Fat Loss, Balance Hormones, and Support Muscle Retention in 17 Minutes Per Day

139

Ta b l e o f Co n t e n t

4

77

Inspiration 17

7 Intentions for Your Best Holiday Season Yet

20

Transform Your Dark Side with Akashic Records

38 Painting a Global Canvas: My Journey from Personal Healing to Worldwide Movement

151

46

Could A.I. be your best holistic life coach?

47

5 Tips to Help You Ditch Harmful Synthetic Scents

73

Meeting People In ‘The Wild’: How To Offline Date

88 From Rejection to Acceptance: Healing Unworthiness and Finding True Belonging 89

3 Ways You can Give Thanks through Service

97

Customizing YOUR "Wholistic" Life-Style

102

Giving Thanks Transcends Borders

127

"Finding my Origins"

135 Understanding Light Therapy: Mechanisms, Applications, and Scientific Insights 147

127

Clarity in Communication: Finding Your True Voice

149 Healing Trauma with Yoga: A Transformational Journey Towards Wholeness 151

What’s All The Buzz About Mushrooms?

153 From Darkness to Light: Emotional Architecture’s Approach to Seasonal Well-being 160 The Future of Entrepreneurship: 5 Trends and Predictions for the Next Decade

From the Team 95

What makes Digestzen so unique?

104

Seasonal Recipes to Help you Live Your Best Life!

161

Monthly Energy Update

5

Our CON T R I BUT ER S

Best Holistic Life November 2024

S C O T T G AT E S

MUNEEZA AHMED

@gateswellness NLP Trauma Coach

https://muneezaahmed.com/ Medical Intuitive

JENN DRUMMOND

ELIZABETH MARSHALL

@‌thejenndrummond World Record Holder

@elizabethmarshallfit Fitness Trainer

N AT H A L I E B O T R O S

P AT T Y O L I V E R

@thebon_vivantgirl The Bon Vivant Girl

@ pattyoliverenergyhealer Energy Healer

LAETITIA ANDRAC

D AW N A C A M P B E L L

@essential.shift Strategy & Energetic Coach

@dawnacampbellofficial The Mind Whisper

MARK ANTHONY

@psychiclawyermarkanthony Psychic Lawyer, Best Selling Author

LUNDEN SOUZA @Lifelikelunden Life Coach & Podcaster

6

PA R I N A Z S H A M S

DR. DIXIE SHORT

@_parinazshams_

@AskDrDeeDNM Doctor of Natural Medicine

STEPHANIE WEEKS

THERESA BYRNE

@_therealstephanieweeks Wife. Mother. Avid Manifester

@ theresa_byrne1 Award-winning mindset coach

AL WYNANT

A N D R E A S C H WA R T Z

@ingomu.coaching

@andreaberlinschwartz Health Coach

JA M E S G R AY RO B I N S O N

DA N I E LLE M A RG GR A F

https://jamesgrayrobinson. com Spiritual & Relationship Expert, Best-Selling Author

@daniellemarggraf Coach

KAREN HANLON

TAY L O R S A P P I N G T O N

@kgrove11 Painting Your Soul

@tayloredwellbeing Muliti-modality Practitioner

A Z LY N N B E R RY

@e_motionalarchitecture Emotional Arcitecture

A M A N DA H A RT

@ amandaharthq Intuitive Consultant & Author

7

Best Holistic Life November 2024

D e c o d i n g S u c c e s s : Th e S c i e n c e o f G o a l s

DECODING SUCCESS: THE SCIENCE OF GOALS

BY JANA SHORT

Explore proven strategies and psychological insights to effectively set

Small Wins: The Unsung Heroes of Success

and achieve your personal and professional goals.

In the quest for major goals, we often overlook the significance of

Navigating the Route to Your Aspirations: The Essence of a Cham-

small victories. However, acknowledging and celebrating these minor

pion's Mindset

triumphs is essential. Teresa Amabile and Steven Kramer's work on

Have you ever paused to consider what distinguishes those who attain

'the progress principle' uncovers the immense motivational and

their dreams from those who don't? It's rarely a matter of luck or

happiness boost provided by small accomplishments.

relentless effort alone; more often, it lies in the power of mindset.

Each modest victory forms a positive feedback loop, reinforcing a

Let's explore the enthralling realm of success psychology, revealing

growth mindset. By celebrating these moments, you reinforce the

how adopting the right mindset can be your ultimate ally in realizing

progress you're making, keeping the fire of motivation alive, espe-

your ambitions.

cially when your ultimate goal appears distant.

The Champion’s Mindset: Beyond Just Positivity

Goal Setting: Crafting Your Success Story

Carol Dweck's innovative concept of a 'growth mindset' is pivotal in

Goal setting is a science-informed skill. Edwin Locke and Gary

understanding achievement. People with this mindset believe their

Latham’s research on goal-setting theory demonstrates that specific,

skills and intelligence can be honed through effort and persistence.

challenging goals lead to enhanced performance. The trick lies in

This belief fosters a love for learning and resilience that are essential

finding a balance between ambition and realism. Goals should push

for remarkable achievements. In contrast, a 'fixed mindset' perceives

your limits while remaining within the realm of possibility.

talents and intelligence as unchangeable, which can impede personal

Dividing these goals into smaller, achievable tasks simplifies the path,

growth.

providing a clear guide and series of reachable targets, which makes

Success-oriented mindsets go beyond simple optimism. They

monitoring progress and staying motivated easier.

embody 'realistic optimism,' a blend of hopeful outlook and practical

Resilience: The Backbone of Achievement

approach. Research has shown that optimists are more enduring and

A key component of a success-focused mindset is resilience—the

adept at stress management, turning potential failures into growth

capability to recover from setbacks. Angela Duckworth’s work on 'grit'

opportunities. Realistic optimists don't rely on wishful thinking; they

underscores the importance of combining passion with persistence as

actively strive for success, acknowledging challenges but remaining

a key indicator of success. This 'grittiness' enables individuals to see

assured in their ability to surmount them.

failures not as impassable barriers but as opportunities for learning.

8

9

Best Holistic Life November 2024

Building resilience often involves reworking our internal

Environment’s Influence: Crafting a Circle

dialogue. It's about shifting from self-doubt to self-com-

of Success

passion and viewing challenges as chances to expand and

Your surroundings, including your social interactions,

learn.

significantly impact your mindset. Immersing yourself

Mindfulness and Reflection: Guiding Your Way to Success

in an environment of positive, goal-oriented individu-

Incorporating mindfulness into your daily life can

als can inspire and provide a supportive network. Seek

significantly impact your achievement mindset. Mind-

mentors and companions who encourage your develop-

fulness, the practice of being present and fully engaged in

ment and challenge you to reach new heights.

the now, sharpens focus and aids in stress management.

Wrapping Up: Embracing Your Unique Path

Coupled with regular reflection, it helps you evaluate your

to Success

journey, understanding both your triumphs and setbacks,

Remember, the journey to achieve your goals is deeply

enabling more informed and strategic future decisions.

personal. What resonates with one person may not work

Habitual Success: The Stepping Stones of

for another. It’s about finding the right combination of

Consistent Achievement

techniques and strategies that click with you. Embrace

Our habits profoundly influence our life’s trajectory.

each part of this journey, including the challenges,

Success is typically the result of consistent habits rather

and never forget to celebrate the small steps. Each one

than isolated efforts. Developing habits that align with

represents progress toward the fulfillment of your

your goals is transformative, turning dreams into tangi-

dreams.

ble results. Whether it involves daily learning, network-

As you forge ahead, equipped with these insights from the

ing, or skill enhancement, consistent habits ensure

realm of success science, bear in mind that the capability

steady progress towards your goals.

to reach your goals is innate. Your mindset is your most formidable tool. Foster it with care, and watch as the landscape of your dreams transforms into your reality.

D e c o d i n g S u c c e s s : Th e S c i e n c e o f G o a l s

10

11

Best Holistic Life November 2024

C U LT I VAT I N G I N N E R S E C U R I T Y T H RO U G H M I N D F U L N E S S : A J O U R N E Y TO E M P OW E R M E N T

BY DR. DEE

Amid the chaos and turbulence of our modern world, the ancient practice of

awareness becomes the cornerstone for establishing and enforcing

mindfulness emerges as a beacon of hope—an anchor that holds us steady

healthy boundaries.

in the face of life's storms. In this segment, we delve into the transformative

Taming the Inner Critic: With its barrage of negative self-talk, the inner

power of mindfulness and its profound role in enhancing inner security.

critic often hinders boundary-setting. Mindfulness helps us recognize

As we explore the impact of mindfulness on our sense of safety, health,

and challenge this criticism, empowering us to establish boundaries

and overall happiness, we uncover the tools to navigate life's challenges

based on self-worth rather than self-doubt.

with grace, resilience, and empowerment.

Embracing Mindful Communication: Healthy boundaries thrive in the

The Essence of Mindfulness: A Path to Inner Security

realm of effective communication. Mindfulness enhances our ability

Mindfulness often likened to a gentle art of living, is the practice of being

to listen actively, express ourselves clearly, and respond rather than

fully present in each moment. It's the act of acknowledging our thoughts,

react—an integral skill in boundary negotiations.

emotions, and sensations without judgment—a portal to cultivating inner

The Holistic Impact of Mindfulness on Well-being

security. By weaving mindfulness into the fabric of our lives, we open the

A Nest of Safety: Mindfulness infuses our existence with a sense of safety.

door to self-awareness, self-acceptance, and an unwavering sense of safety.

By embracing each moment without judgment, we cultivate an internal

The Mindful Journey to Inner Security

haven—an environment where we're accepted, understood, and supported.

A Sanctuary Amidst the Chaos: In a world of constant stimulation and

A Symphony of Health: The mind-body connection becomes a harmonious

distractions, mindfulness serves as a sanctuary. By directing our focus

symphony under the influence of mindfulness. As stress dissipates, the

to the present moment, we find respite from worries about the past or

body's physical responses normalize, creating a balanced canvas for

future, fostering a sense of safety in the now.

holistic well-being.

The Mind-Body Connection: Physical health is intricately linked to mental

Elevating Happiness: Mindfulness carves a pathway to contentment by

well-being. Mindfulness practices have been shown to alleviate stress,

enabling us to appreciate the present moment, cherish life's simple

anxiety, and even physical ailments. As we free ourselves from the

pleasures, and navigate challenges with grace. This journey to happiness

chains of stress, our health flourishes, and our body becomes a vessel

is anchored in inner security.

of inner security.

The Call to Empowerment: A Mindful Future

Breaking Free from the Fight-or-Flight Mode: For those stuck in the

Mindfulness holds the power to transform our lives from within, aligning

grip of fight-or-flight responses, mindfulness acts as a gentle guide

our actions with our values and desires. As we step into the realm of

toward calmness. By observing our thoughts and emotions without

mindfulness, we unveil a world of inner security—a world where boundaries

attachment, we disrupt the cycle of reactive behavior, allowing space

are not mere barriers but gateways to self-empowerment.

for rational and empowered choices.

Navigating Life's Seas with Mindful Anchors

A Restful Haven for the Mind: Insomnia and restlessness often stem from

As we conclude our exploration of mindfulness as a catalyst for inner security,

an overactive mind. Through practices such as meditation, mindfulness

let's remember that each moment offers an opportunity to reconnect

cultivates mental stillness, granting us restful sleep and a rejuvenated

with our essence. In the sanctuary of mindfulness, we find solace from

sense of well-being.

the whirlwind of life, and within its gentle embrace, we craft boundaries

The Mindful Approach to Healthy Boundaries

that are true to our being. By weaving mindfulness into the fabric of our

The Dance of Self-Awareness: Mindfulness heightens our self-awareness,

existence, we equip ourselves with the tools to navigate life's complexities

enabling us to identify our personal limits and desires clearly. This

with grace, resilience and an unwavering sense of empowerment.

C u l t i v a t i n g Inn e r S e c u r i t y t h r o u g h M i nd f u l n e s s : A J o u r n e y t o E m p o w e r m e n t

Get Started Today

Need A Hand?

Keeping your body free of toxins and free radicals is necessary to maintain

A happy and healthy life is closer than you may think. We all have to deal

a healthy life and mind. You can add tons of foods to your regular diet to

with our health daily, which shows when we don’t feel our best. If you

help your body with its critical detoxifying processes. If you are looking

are tired of just making it through your day, you NEED to start investing

for a safe and all-natural way to detox your body at home, be sure to check

in your health today! You are not alone on this journey. If you need help,

out my Balancing Abundance Program. Because detoxing is so essential

I am always here to do that. Even if it is something as small as acting as

and realistically, everyone should be doing it on at least a seasonal basis,

a sounding board, do you have any questions or concerns I can help you

I have put together a program to help you do just that. Here’s the thing: I

with? Feel free to contact me directly at DrDeeandMe@gmail.com or book

know working with me one-on-one can seem challenging to get into (due

a one-on-one call with me. Be sure to subscribe to gain access to tons of

to limited space), and I wanted to give everyone an additional solution with

free goodies, and check back daily for more great recipes and information!

no limits. You deserve to be happy, healthy, and successful at everything you do, so here are some recipes to help set you up for success!

12

13

Best Holistic Life November 2024

Beware the Trap of People Pleasing

BEWARE THE TRAP OF PEOPLE PLEASING

BY S I R J A M ES G R AY RO B I N S O N , ES Q

We all do it. We try to be friendly or to manipulate

2. Chronic apologizing: People pleasers are constantly

people to like us, we engage in behavior calculated to

apologizing for things that weren’t their fault. This is

make people feel good. We often try to please people at a

co-dependance at its worst, taking responsibility for

significant cost to ourselves, sometimes even changing

the emotional state of another person, something that

thoughts, beliefs and behavior to please others. We

only that person can control. The “sorry paradox” is

compromise our principles, swallow our opinions or

that when we apologize for something we didn’t cause,

behave in ways we later regret all to fit in and be liked. It

we will get blamed for it. Apologizing for things we

is the worst form of co-dependenc as we turn the focus

aren’t responsible for only makes things worse and

of our life from us onto others.

allows the true culprit (the other person) to avoid

The problem of people pleasing arises with the emotional

responsibility for their actions. Stop it! Check it out!

toll it takes on our psyche. We sacrifice our wants and

3. Seeking approval: Many people seek approval from

needs to fulfill the wants and needs of others. We neglect

others because it validates their self-worth. The

our needs because we can’t stand the disappointment of

problem is that people who don’t develop an internal

others when we say “no”. We are taken advantage of and

sense of self-worth and seek external validation is

used by others who don’t respect boundaries and expect

that they disempower themselves to the whims and

us to keep them happy.

opinions of others. When we seek external validation,

How can you tell if you are people pleasing

we are at the mercy of whoever we are talking to, and

as opposed to being genuinely kind?

their bad day may translate into our low self-esteem.

Here are some clues which will tell you if you are a

Even worse, we may feel like our needs and wants

people pleaser:

don’t matter. The only approval we need is our own

1. Inability to disagree: People pleasers will always agree

approval. We need to practice positive self-talk and

with whatever a person is saying to them. Disagreement

self-validation.

might upset that person and lose their relationship.

4. Identity dysmorphia: People pleasers often not

Healthy people would know that if a person ends a

only sacrifice their time and energy to please others,

relationship because of a disagreement, they weren’t

but they can also alter their personality to conform

a “friend”. Friends would find a compromise or

to whatever the other person wants. As they can’t

simply agree to disagree. People pleasers won’t tell

say “no” for risking offending others, they negate

that “Friend” that they disagree because of the fear of

their needs and wants as well as overcommit their

losing their friendship. Ironically, if disagreeing costs

resources to attempt to keep others happy. They get

the relationship, there was no friendship to lose. We

stressed because of these tendencies which lead to

all must learn how to say “no” if we are going to have

health problems and unhappiness. They allow others

healthy boundaries.

to abuse them and their natural tendencies to be kind

14

15

Best Holistic Life November 2024

and helpful. As a result, they lose their sense of self and engage

someone happy, you must stop. Your health and well-being is far

in unhealthy behaviors.

too important to sacrifice it at the altar of false friends. When you

There are multiple causes of people pleasing.

set and enforce boundaries, you may lose these false friends and

These include:

have time to make real friends.

• Low self-esteem

3. Prioritize your needs: It may be a strange and new experience,

• Anxiety

but people must prioritize their time and needs to establish

• Culture

healthy behaviors. Nutrition, exercise, and self-care must take

• Sexism

top priority in anyone’s life. When we sacrifice our well-being to

• Conflict avoidance

please others, everyone suffers. If you don’t have time to satisfy

• Trauma

unreasonable demands, say so.

• Dependent Personality Disorder.

4. Practice a positive mindset: Most people pleasers believe that

To stop people pleasing, there are several steps you can take,

they are undeserving of love or friendship unless they engage in

including:

manipulating people to like them. We are all incredibly powerful

1. Establish boundaries: You have as much right to decide how

beings engaging in a human experience. Everyone deserves love

you are going to live your life as anyone else. Your happiness is

and support, but they must believe that they deserve it. Practicing

much more important than anyone else. You must decide the

affirmations, getting in nature, listening to music, engaging in

terms of your relationships and enforce them. If someone does

fulfilling hobbies and activities, watching positive movies all help

not want to relate to you because you don’t sacrifice yourself for

us to gain a positive mindset.

them, let them go. Your time is precious, and you must decide

In conclusion, it is healthy to want to be helpful and supportive. We

how to allocate it. I spent 30 years trying to please my parents

are all hard-wired to connect with others. It is unhealthy to sacrifice

by following a career I hated. Eventually I had to ask, “whose life

our wants and needs to try to make people happy. Recognizing this

is this, anyway?” I discovered that it was not my job to keep my

behavior is important to well-being, and being mindful of your

parents happy, so I quit. It was the best decision I ever made.

motivation will help transform people pleasing behavior to simply

2. Just say “no”: One of the best ways to empower yourself is

being a friend.

learning to say “no” to unreasonable demands on your time and efforts. If you are getting stressed and frustrated trying to keep

Connect with James: www.jamesgrayrobinson.com

ACTIVATE

16

YOUR MONEY ENERGY IN UNDER 10 MINUTES A DAY!

Unlock Your Financial Potential With The Morning Money 9-Day Activation + Meditation.

TRANSFORM with a daily Money Activation Meditation designed to ignite your money-making abilities.

Snap the Code To Download!

PLUS: 9 energy-enriched emails with sacred messages to rewire your mind for wealth.

PLUS - 50 powerful money beliefs to eliminate financial stress and mental “blocks.”

Experience the shift in your financial energy and mindset, and expand your journey to abundance today!

17

Best Holistic Life November 2024

7 INTENTIONS FOR YOUR BEST HOLIDAY SEASON YET

BY JENN DRUMMOND

Without fail, this time of the year seems to sail by faster than any

own gathering rather than waiting around for someone to invite

other. I’m not sure why that is - maybe an abundance of holidays on

you to their event

the calendar or a realization of all the goals we hoped to accomplish

5. I will let people help me. The Type A individuals among us

this year but didn’t (and now it feels like it’s too late).

might be tempted to take on task after task when this time of the

When things start to feel like they’re spiraling out of control, here

year rolls around. Host Thanksgiving? I’d love to! Make holiday

are seven phrases to help ground you and bring you back to your

themed treats for the school bake sale? Sign me up! Lead that

priorities.

client pitch session and try to land one more sale before the end

1. I will go with the flow. There can be a lot of pressure to achieve

of the year? Of course! Eventually, something has to give. Don’t

perfection over the holidays. Instead of stressing yourself out

let it be your mental health. Instead, delegate work to people who

over buying incredible gifts, hosting elegant parties, or accepting

offer support and be proactive about involving others in your big

every invitation that comes your way, take a step back and remind

projects. No one says you have to cook the entire Thanksgiving

yourself to go with the flow. I don’t know about you, but I want to

meal or decorate your house until it looks like it could be in a

reflect on the end of the year as a time of peace and stability - not

magazine. Assign pieces to people and focus your effort on strat-

worry and anxiety.

egy rather than execution.

2. My priority is quality time, not gifts. It’s around this time of the

6. I welcome forgiveness and gratitude into my life. As we begin

year that we start seeing advertisements for “best ever pricing!”

reflecting on the year that is coming to a close, feelings of anger or

and “holiday deals that won’t last long!” Feed into that and before

resentment might bubble up unexpectedly. You might be lament-

you know it, you’re left with a perilously low bank balance and

ing the fact that you didn’t get promoted in 2024 and blame one

insecurity about whether you’ve overdone it. Instead, resist the

of your teammates for causing the team to not hit its annual sales

temptation to buy new things and challenge yourself to evaluate

targets. Or perhaps you think about your Thanksgiving guest list

what you really need to obtain for yourself or others. You may just

and remember that ex who you had pictured attending… before

realize that gift buying no longer serves you and you’d instead

they broke up with you. As hard as it might be, take a deep breath

rather spend time with the people who are important to you.

and let those feelings go. This is the time of the year for gratitude

3. I will be gentle with myself. It’s common to let feelings of shame

and appreciation. Focus on all the great things that do exist in your

and guilt creep in over the holidays. “Why did I eat a second piece

life, not the ones you wish you had.

of pecan pie? I really have no self control” or “I don’t really feel

7. I will look for the good in people. Just as the holidays can be a

like going to Andrea’s Friendsgiving, but I feel obligated.” These

time for joy, there are also moments where we all really question

kinds of worries are normal, but they have no place in 2024!

humanity (if you’ve ever seen Black Friday shopping videos where

Release them. Let them go.

people bash each other over the head in their hunt for a bargain

4. Loneliness will always pass. Get on social media these days

TV, you know what I’m talking about). For a reminder of what the

and all you see is photos of holiday parties, Friendsgivings, and

holiday season is really about, volunteer at a place with a holiday

engagements. Compare that with what you have going on and

rush - such as a food pantry or soup kitchen. You’ll get to meet

even busy people might feel a bit lonely. Remind yourself that

other people doing the same thing and perhaps rediscover your

these feelings are temporary, and that relationships are about

holiday spirit.

quality rather than quantity. You could also consider hosting your

Connect with Jenn: https://linktr.ee/jenndrummond

7 In t e n t i o n s f o r Y o u r B e s t H o l i d a y S e a s o n Y e t

18

19

Best Holistic Life November 2024

Transform Your Dark Side with Akashic Records

TRANSFORM YOUR DARK SIDE WITH AKASHIC RECORDS

BY PAT T Y O L I V E R

We each have aspects of ourselves that we don’t like that we

This is how karma affects your ability to manifest what you truly

are ashamed of - or made to feel ashamed of - and then deem

desire in life such as more money, better health, or a more aligned

unacceptable. By doing so, we disown that part of ourselves, and

romantic partner. That’s because karma is a form of energy, and

hide it from the world by repressing it. As long as we repress it,

everything is energy. Karma that does not serve you will keep you

we think no one will know, and it slowly gets pushed down to our

in repeating patterns, not to punish you but rather to give you

subconscious and unconscious levels. The problem with doing this

an opportunity to change it by making a new free-will choice to

is that anything that goes against your divine authentic nature

empower yourself over it. Once you do, you will heal the negative

will eventually present itself for healing. This can be described

pattern, clear the karma, and raise your vibration which will cause

as an aspect of karma known as samskaras, which are limiting

you to attract more desirable, higher vibrational outcomes into

beliefs that we act upon that can keep us in states of lack and

your space.

unhappiness until we resolve it, even if it takes multiple lifetimes.

These are the exact types of situations I bring to light for people

In psychology this is known as your shadow self.

during their Akashic Record readings with me to clear karma or

If you’ve experienced negativity, which most of us have,

heal their shadow self that is keeping them in negative states of

you probably have processed it in survival mode, forming an

lack in one form or another. Just like all healing work, shadow

emotional trigger until you resolve it. For example, maybe you

work entails being incredibly open and honest with yourself and

were highly sensitive as a child and cried a lot when your feelings

how you’ve chosen to react to your life challenges so far. It literally

were hurt. That crying was interpreted by your friends and

brings light to the darkness so that you can empower yourself to

family as being overly needy and they made fun of you for it. You

change it. While you are not responsible for any wrongdoings that

immediately created a connection in your mind that expressing

have happened to you or been put upon you, you are responsible

your sensitivity made you a weak person, so you decided to

for healing that part of you that’s keeping you disempowered.

hide that part of yourself out of shame, hoping to be more

The problem is, we are often blind to our karma or the choices

accepted or approved of by others. To counteract your natural

we’re making that are holding us back. This is the power

gift of sensitivity, you covered it up with anger and aggression

of leveraging your soul’s record - your Akashic Record - to

instead, eventually making it an unconscious habit. Then anytime

understand the root cause of your negative repeating situations

someone hurts your feelings, it would trigger that shadow aspect

and shadow aspects that you can’t seem to break out of and

of yourself causing you to react negatively, becoming more hostile

are keeping you from creating the life you desire. Your Akashic

and controlling.

Record holds all of the choices you’ve ever made since your

Universal law tells us that the energy you put out into the world

soul’s moment of creation by Source. You can learn to access your

is what you will receive back, so you begin to attract people and

Akashic Record to reveal the root cause of a negative pattern, and

situations that resonate to the limiting belief that you need to

new action you can take to resolve it once and for all, changing

continue being hostile and controlling, affecting all of your future

your life’s trajectory and timelines available to you. Anyone can

relationships and opportunities until you resolve it. If you don’t

learn to do this, and I teach you how in my Akashic Healing course

resolve it in the lifetime in which you created it, it becomes karmic

“Live a Soul-Powered Life!”

because it doesn’t align to your soul’s blueprint for authenticity

You can read more about this, and all of my energy healing

and flow of abundance.

courses, on my website at https://www.pattyoliver.com/courses.

20

21

Best Holistic Life November 2024

THE 'YET' FACTOR CATAPULTS YOU FROM ZERO TO HERO! B Y M A R K A N T H O N Y, J D , P S Y C H I C E X P L O R E R

I first met Jana Short, author of THE ‘YET’ FACTOR, when she invited me to be

THE ‘YET’ FACTOR may be one of the most important books

a guest on her podcast, “Oh, My Health…There Is Hope.” I’ve been a guest on

you will ever read. It will educate, encourage, and motivate

many TV and radio shows and all too often once the cameras go off, the host’s

you to be more than you ever dreamed you could be.

true self emerges, which is not always the positive public persona projected

I was honored when Jana asked me to write this foreword.

by the host. With Jana, I saw that she was the same on camera as she was off

As I was reading this extremely engaging and well written

camera. She is truly genuine and sincere about her work. As an interviewer,

book, I felt uplifted and inspired. It resonated with me on

her easy-going style encourages a guest to open up and reveal your inner most

a personal level as it brought to my mind the wise advice

thoughts and feelings. This is what makes Jana a superb talk show host.

of my parents.

After the interview Jana invited me to join her ensemble of writers for “Best

I recalled my father’s mantra, “Success is failure turned

Holistic Life” Magazine a quarterly online publication she had recently

inside out,” and my mother’s affirmation, “Believe you

launched. “Best Holistic Life” rapidly evolved into a major monthly publication

have value and never overlook yourself.”

both online and in print format with millions of subscribers.

THE ‘YET’ FACTOR teaches this, and no one is more

To say Jana is impressive would be an understatement. Her positive influence

qualified than Jana Short to show you how. THE ‘YET’

sweeps the globe as a best-selling author, podcast host, holistic health

FACTOR will change your thinking. Yet, it is much more

influencer, and entrepreneur. She coaches clients through her expertise

than a positive thinking book. It goes far beyond that by

as a master practitioner in NLP (Neuro-linguistic Programming) and RTT

examining how what may be holding you back in life can be

(Rapid Transformational Therapy). Jana has been featured on the cover of

deeply ingrained in your DNA. THE ‘YET’ FACTOR explains,

numerous magazines. Her accolades include recognition as the Top Magazine

“Generational trauma passes traumatic experiences from

Publisher and Publicist of the Year by IAOTP (International Association of Top

one generation to the next. Trauma can imprint DNA,

Professionals), Influential Women of the World-Global Influencers, One of

influencing gene expression and impact emotional and

the Top Entrepreneurs for 2020, Woman of the Year by Hollywood Soeleish

physical health. Ultimately this can lead to a depressed

Magazine, and Los Angeles Entrepreneur Magazine’s Top Influencer, to name

mindset and poor physical health. THE ‘YET’ FACTOR helps

a few.

identify these chains of your past and your family’s past

It is easy to see Jana Short as a force of nature with an unlimited source of

and help you to unshackle yourself from an outmoded and

energy. She truly appears bigger than life—but it wasn’t always that way. In

unnecessary negative self-image.”

her not-too-distant past Jana’s health hit rock bottom. She was diagnosed

Marine Corps Drill Sergeants call this negative mindset

with a debilitating medical condition with a fatal prognosis and it appeared

and self-image “stinkin’ thinkin.’” THE ‘YET’ FACTOR

her life had zero future.

can reshape your stinkin’ thinkin’ in many ways, beginning

For most people the natural reaction to such a dire diagnosis would be to sink

with understanding the power of words. You will discover

into the quicksand of despair. Instead of surrendering to what medical doctors

how your body actually believes what you tell it. The power

claimed was the inevitable, Jana refused to accept this fate and she emerged

of our thoughts and words shapes our reality. If you tell

healthier, stronger, more positive and determined. Jana Short shouldn’t even

yourself you’re sick, you’ll find a way to be sick. If you tell

be here—yet—she is. Literally Jana is the phoenix who rose from the ashes.

yourself, you cannot do something, then you’ll believe you

How did she do it? The answer is THE ‘YET’ FACTOR which catapulted her

cannot do something. The fascinating thing is that most

from zero to hero!

of us do not even realize we’re mired in these behavior

T H E ' YET ' FACTOR C a t a p u l t s Y o u F r o m Z e r o T o H e r o !

22

23

Best Holistic Life November 2024

patterns. These are the by-products of generational trauma and learned behaviors acquired during our childhood.

Bible verse in 1 Timothy 6:10 it actually states, “For the love of money is

American Philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson is credited with saying, “life

the root of all kinds of evil.” This is a significant difference. Love of money

is a journey, not a destination.” The ancient Chinese philosopher Lao

conjures images of the iconic movie “Wall Street” where nefarious narcissist

Tzu said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” An

Gordon Gekko stated, “Greed is good!” This villainous tycoon masterfully

empowering feature of THE ‘YET’ FACTOR is realization your journey of self-

portrayed by Michael Douglas, exemplified how some people love money so

transformation takes time. It’s okay to misstep and even fall because your

much that it becomes their master instead of their servant. This creates the

journey focuses on progress rather than perfection. Every small step you take

negative mindset of greed which can drag one into the darkness of insatiable

moves you closer to reaching your full potential. One of these small steps is a

desire and self-centeredness.

simple shift in perspective. Instead of saying, “I can’t do this,” you add “yet,”

On the flip side of the karmic coin, financial guru George Clason wrote, “Money

transforming it into, “I can’t do this—yet,” or “I haven’t done that—yet.”

is the medium by which earthly success is measured. Money makes possible the

THE ‘YET’ FACTOR helps you appreciate each moment of your growth and

enjoyment of the best the earth affords.” Making money is a good thing and

understand that what you learn during the journey, even the missteps and falls

profit is not a bad word. One must not love money, but rather what money can

provide the skills which will enable you to reach your destination.

do, especially when applied as an extension of your love. Once again, balance

Balance in your life is critical for physical, emotional, mental and spiritual

is the key.

well-being and growth. My work as an afterlife science, near-death experience

As one of the leading Global Influencers and Top Entrepreneurs, Jana Short

researcher and evidential psychic medium focuses on bridging the gap between

teaches you in THE ‘YET’ FACTOR how financial success is one of the keys to

the spiritual and the scientific. Most people are familiar with the term “aura.”

achieving a winning mindset and attaining a successful balance in your life.

An aura is the electromagnetic energy field perceived as the radiating light that

THE ‘YET’ FACTOR illuminates how financial prosperity becomes a positive

surrounds an energy source. For example, the “glow” around a light bulb is an

extension of a person who is well balanced physically, emotionally, mentally,

aura. You are seeing its energy field. Humans and all living beings have energy

and spiritually. Economic success enables you to enjoy the fruits of your labors

fields aka auras. There are four levels to our auric field: physical, emotional,

and provide for loved ones. Financial prosperity also empowers you to assist

mental and spiritual. When one or more of your energy levels is out of balance

charities which help make the world, or at least your corner of it, a more

this negatively impacts other aspects of your being.

positive place.

Think what happens when your back is out of alignment—you’re in pain. This

At some point in life, you may feel you have no value and zero future. No one

pain then infiltrates all aspects of your life, physically, emotionally, mentally

knows this better than author Jana Short. THE ‘YET’ FACTOR is a must-read

and spiritually. In other words, when you’re in physical pain it is difficult to

book which transforms you from the limiting self-doubt attitude into the

be emotionally happy, mentally focused and spiritually aware. One imbalance

limitless possibilities of the ‘YET’ mindset which energizes you physically,

throws everything out of alignment. But when you are balanced physically,

emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and financially. This enlightening book

emotionally, mentally and spiritually, you feel good and life rocks!

will empower you to recognize that each growth moment of your life journey

THE ‘YET’ FACTOR demonstrates how to bring this balance into your life and

is as significant as the destination. THE ‘YET’ FACTOR mindset catapults you

energize you to achieve things you did not believe possible. That is one of the

from zero to the hero of your own life story.

reasons why THE ‘YET’ FACTOR is an excellent guide for entrepreneurs. One of the key components to balance in your life is accumulating wealth. This means more than just financial security; it is realizing your monetary objectives and

_______________________________

achieving economic success.

Mark Anthony conducts free on-air readings on his livestream show THE

For too long financial success has been stigmatized due an often-misquoted

PSYCHIC & THE DOC Thursdays, 7 ET/4 PT. Find out how to tune in at:

Bible verse, that “money is the root of all evil.” When you examine the entire

www.AfterlifeFrequency.com

T H E ' YET ' FACTOR C a t a p u l t s Y o u F r o m Z e r o T o H e r o !

24

25

Best Holistic Life November 2024

UNSPOKEN BURDENS: THE REAL REASON WOMEN ARE EXHAUSTED

BY TAY LO R S A P P I N GTO N

The women I support aren’t exhausted by what they are DOING…

Many of my clients have yet to admit that…

They are exhausted because of what they are AVOIDING.

• They’re unhappy

And, if I had to guess, I bet it’d be no different with you.

• They hate their job

The women I support have done more than enough by the time we

• Their marriage is loveless, routine, and in some instances, falling

cross paths.

They’ve...

apart • Their lonely and crave a partner (at the very least companionship)

• done the testing

• They’re feeling super stuck

• done the protocols

• They lack community and connecting with other women

• done whatever fancy new stuff is available to “read” your energy

• They find motherhood all consuming and it cripples them

and tell you what you “need” • Seen every kind of doctor, specialist, and practitioner you could think of

• They have no idea who they are and they feel lost • They have it “all” and want more

The messy, needy, tired, angry, angsty, hungry, lonely parts haven’t

• Cut out food that they love and choked down things they hate

been witnessed

• Missed out on social events and capturing memories in moments

The perfectionist in you (and them) hasn’t been beautifully un-perfected

they’ll never get back.

They haven’t released the things they’ve been holding onto, have

These women have forfeited their life…

been taught to ignore, or think they need to fix.

AND, I always have to gently remind them like I will you….

And when you cultivate safety to land in this place

Yes, you’ve done a lot AND there are things not mentioned and that

That’s when you move mountains in a palpable way

haven’t made this list that you can still do.

A world where all women feel safe, called, and compelled to do this

Did you just let out a big sigh?

work is a world I dream of

Did you roll your eyes?

Life doesn’t slow down, stop, and wait for you to be ready to do this

Do you maybe want to stop your feet?

work.

I get it AND that too is a totally normal response coming from someone

Life offers you invitations

who is SO TIRED by just BEING…

Are you responding or ignoring yours?

So what exactly are the things I am speaking to?

Big Love, Taylor

What are the things many of my clients have yet to do?

I am so glad you asked..

Connect with Taylor: https://beacons.ai/tayloredwellbeing

Un s p o k e n B u r d e n s : Th e R e a l R e a s o n W o m e n A r e E x h a u s t e d

26

27

Best Holistic Life November 2024

D r e a m s o n D e m a nd : Th e J u i c y G u i d e t o In s t a n t M a n i f e s t a t i o n

DREAMS ON DEMAND: THE JUICY GUIDE TO INSTANT MANIFESTATION

BY DAWNA CAMPBELL

Last month, we tackled the frustrations of delayed

Manifestation Mechanics

manifestations—why our dreams sometimes get stuck in

Are you ready to shift gears and instantly unlock the

traffic. Now, get ready as we dive into the juicy stages of

door to the magic; making your dreams come true? Let's

manifestation, uncovering the secrets to harnessing the

break down the essential elements that supercharge your

true power of bringing your desires to life!

manifestation game.

To master manifestation, think of it like a building a house,

The Power of Imagination and Intention

you need a foundation, walls, and a roof. In manifesting

Your imagination is like the superhero cape of manifestation.

it is a blend of Manifesting Your Reality, Manifestation

Suit up by vividly visualizing your desires—feel them, see

Mechanics, and Empowering Yourself to Manifest. By

them, and dive into the experience like you're starring in

balancing these elements, you create a harmonious and

your own blockbuster movie. But beware! Imagination

effective manifesting practice.

alone won’t save the day; you need clear, laser-focused

Manifesting Your Reality

intentions to steer this energy. Think of setting goals as

Manifestation is the art of turning your thoughts into reality

activating your personal GPS—plotting a course straight

with laser-focused intention and unwavering belief. Sync

to your dreamy destinations.

up your mind, heart, and actions with your deepest desires.

Dreaming: The Starting Point of Manifestation

Visualize your goals vividly, set powerful intentions, and

Manifestation kicks off with dreaming big—think skyscraper

radiate positivity to effortlessly attract what you seek.

big! Your dreams aren't just wishful thinking; they're the

This dynamic process skips the waiting game by aligning

blueprints for your future reality. Picture the most epic

seamlessly with the universe's energy. It's not just wishful

version of your life without limits. These dreams fuel your

thinking—it's like dancing the tango with the universe,

creativity and unlock a universe of possibilities. When you

harnessing the law of attraction and the limitless power

dare to dream boldly, you lay the groundwork for spectacular

of your mind to turn dreams into reality. It's not about

manifestations, giving your imagination and intentions

idle daydreaming or hoping for miracles; it's about taking

the raw fuel they need to turn dreams into dazzling reality!

deliberate steps and trusting in the co-creative process

Claiming Your Thoughts and Ideas

with the universe.

Take charge of your thoughts like a boss. Ensure that the

28

29

Best Holistic Life November 2024

building blocks of your reality align perfectly with the dream

knowing that you have the blueprint and the tools to craft the

mansion you're aiming for. Positive thoughts lay the foundation

masterpiece that is your future.

for success, while negativity only builds roadblocks. Direct your

Stilling the Mind and Getting Clear on Your

mental energy towards manifesting exactly what you desire.

Desires

Writing Down Your Dreams: A Plan of Action

Mental clarity is your secret weapon. Picture your mind as a laser

Grab that pen and unleash the power! Writing down your dreams

beam—focused and precise. Embrace calming practices such as

not only makes them real but also bridges the wild gap between

meditation or mindfulness to sharpen this clarity. A calm mind

daydreams and real-life successes. Get detailed with a step-by-

becomes a clear mirror reflecting your deepest desires, allowing

step plan to turn those dreams into reality. It's like drawing up

you to articulate and manifest them with pinpoint accuracy.

blueprints for your future mansion—every checkmark on your

Emotional Shifts: Tuning into Your Inner Compass

list brings you closer to living in that dream home!

Your emotions are like the GPS of manifestation. They signal

Leveraging the Universe: Partnering with a Higher Power

whether you're on track with your desires. Tune into your inner

Manifestation is teaming up with the universe, not flying solo.

compass, syncing emotions with what you aim to manifest.

Trust in this cosmic partnership to have your back and show

Positive vibes turbocharge your manifesting mojo, making

you the way. Align your desires with the universe's vibes to tap

dreams a reality with gusto.

into boundless wisdom and support. Let go, go with the flow,

Release and Trust

and watch the magic unfold naturally. Remember, everything's

Letting go can be tough but crucial. Release your grip on specific

happening for your highest good, supercharging your manifesting

outcomes and embrace the journey. Cultivate patience and trust

mojo and bringing those dreams within reach.

in divine timing, knowing that what's destined for you will

Empowering Yourself to Manifest

arrive when it's ready. This opens up space for manifestations

Now, step into your role as a conscious creator. Embrace your

to unfold organically and beautifully.

innate power to shape your reality with every thought, emotion,

Embrace Your Manifesting Power

and action. Recognize that you are the architect of your destiny,

Ready for the fin al piece of the puzzle? In Part Three, we'll

capable of influencing your life's course.

delve into the signs and validations that your manifestations

Accepting Your Power to Create Change

are manifesting in your life. Stay tuned for more insights and

You hold the power to shape your reality—think of yourself

guidance on mastering the art of manifestation! For additional

as the chief architect of your destiny! Recognize the immense

manifesting magic and personalized support, visit

influence your thoughts and actions wield over your life's canvas.

www.bettercalldawna.com.

Empower yourself with unshakable self-belief and confidence,

30

31

Best Holistic Life November 2024

Th e P o w e r to Th r i v e L i v e s W i t h i n : A S p i r i t u a l P e r s p e c t i v e fo r G r o w t h , Ch a n g e a nd O v e r co m i n g Ad v e r s i t y

THE POWER TO THRIVE LIVES WITHIN: A SPIRITUAL PERSPECTIVE FOR GROWTH, CHANGE AND OVERCOMING ADVERSITY

BY K . AY ' N E A R I L E Y

Within every heart lives a seed of divine intelligence, a point of

balance to the interior world, bringing about profound change and

conscious power that has no limitations or preconceived ideas. It

transformation in our own personal reality.

exists as a pure state of vibration that is free, unbounded, timeless

Knowing that we are all here for a very specific and unique reason

and infinite. Its force is so powerful that its fullness of resonance

we can see how our collective experience with others is like a

can only be described as primordial and ineffable. Its universal

grand masterful piece of music coming together for the ultimate

design is irrefutable and as necessary as the air we breathe.

goal of harmony and cohesion. Each octave of expression brings

As we live and embody this human experience, we encounter many

a vibration that is integral to the other.

scenarios and circumstances along the way that can present to

This ultimately brings us to the importance of planting roots

us a landscape of reality that is imperfect, seemingly corrupt and

within communities that support rather than separate as this

oftentimes hard to understand. As a species, we are just learning

is the way of the future for our planet and our soul’s evolution.

to spread our spiritual wings and are still within the infancy stage

As we learn to embrace our vulnerabilities, insecurities and

of understanding ourselves as interconnected beings and at ONE

challenges with compassion and understanding, we can begin to

with all things in creation.

share and hold space for others to do the same. This becomes the

From cosmic dust particles to the creatures of this earth, we are

way of transmutation and restoration of the human potential.

all interdependent on one thing; each other. Through conscious

I believe that as we fine tune our vibration and own our part of

understanding that we all belong to each other, we can begin

the collective journey, we begin to uncover a mystical and sacred

to come together once again as a community that works within

space within us where we can safely unfurl our deepest emotions

cooperation and the betterment of all.

even in this unknown landscape of life. It’s within safety that we

In many ways we are just learning that all things manifested

come to understand that each experience of adversity can be the

begin first within and then without. As we continue to evolve

very thing that sets us free from expectations, judgements and

and test the waters of this shared collective environment, we can

how we believe things should be and look.

see where and how duality plays a pivotal role in understanding

What a sacred passageway adversity can be for the enhancement

ourselves and ultimately the world around us. This mirror effect

and evolution of the soul. From this gateway of understanding we

becomes in many ways, the opportunity to turn inward and restore

can see how the Universe is always inviting us to be a perpetual

32

33

Best Holistic Life November 2024

student of itself while becoming more adept in navigating many of life’s extraordinary challenges. Below is a quote from one of my favorite self-help authors.

“Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.” ~ Napoleon Hill As we pause and ponder these great words from Napoleon Hill, we see and feel into the orchestration power of the universe at work aligning us with a gift that perhaps we cannot yet see in the moment. Learning to move about with the grand force and flow of every experience in life is the ultimate surrender and is always teaching us something new.

All of us upon this planet at this time in evolution are awakening at various degrees of understanding, and as we come into new perspectives and awarenesses, it’s imperative that we honor all walks of experience. There is no one size that fits all when it comes to spiritual awareness and the evolution of the soul. As we rise up in awareness, we come into a greater understanding that everything belongs in the totality of the experience.

As we harness our own innate power and remembrance of who we really are as individuals and as a collective, we go beyond the notion that we simply "human" ourselves. We ourselves become the expansiveness of our own cosmic nature. This realization becomes the gateway that shifts our reality from me to we and opens our hearts to the field of Oneness.

Moving into a state of consciousness that operates within “Oneness” will bring about profound shifts in your life as you will step into the intelligence of the soul and begin to embody the human avatar state. This process can vary in the way it unfolds and feels for each individual as everyone is here to achieve a different level of awareness within the self.

The journey of self-reclamation is a sacred dedication of resolving inner conflict, separation and indifference. As we find unity within, we experience a belonging in the world like never before.

This is where we meet the totality of the Universe and the grandeur of infinite potentials in this world and beyond.

Connect with K.Ay’Nea: https://www.heartofonenessholisticexpo.com/

ADVERT

34

35

Best Holistic Life November 2024

MY JOURNEY OUT OF THE DARKNESS OF DISEASE INTO THE LIGHT BY THE POWER OF SPIRIT-LED BRAIN RETRAINING

BY CONNIE STRASHEIM When I first became bedbound from chronic Lyme disease and mold

and higher than, the physical realm. And because of this, your spirit and

toxicity over 20 years ago, I had little notion of the treacherous journey

Mine have the power to control your body’s chemistry. Don’t let illness,

that I was about to embark on. If I had known then the incredible trials

the world, other people, or your biochemistry control your mind and

that I would face in the years to come: trials that would nearly take my

your body. Let My Spirit in you be in charge.

life at times and leave me drowning in endless tears for more than a

If you’ve ever battled a complex neurological disease as I have, then you

decade and half—my hope might have fizzled out right then and there.

know how difficult it is to “think positive” when your brain and body

If I had known on September 26, 2004—that fateful day when I

are a mess. At first, I struggled to believe what I heard. Yet I pondered

became ill—that I’d soon lose my home, job, life partner and many of

this fact: if I had the Author of all Life and the Universe living on the

my friends; and that my new constant companions would be severe

inside of me, then why couldn’t I change my chemistry, through the

fatigue, depression, anxiety, brain fog, insomnia, dysautonomia and

power of God in me?

hypoglycemia (among others)—I might have given up at the outset.

Still, years would pass before this revelation would fully possess my

But since life is something that we do one day at a time, once I decided

heart and mind, and I would discover how to truly walk out the truths

to take the hand that life had dealt me moment by moment, I found

that God had given me.

that I could endure. This, along with my relationship with God, gave me

In the meantime, I learned about neuroplasticity—or the ability of the

strength, hope and encouragement.

brain to shape and mold itself—and in turn, heal the physical body.

I was also given wisdom for the journey, and one day shortly after I

Along with this, I learned about the principles of brain retraining, and

became ill, I asked God what I was supposed to do with my life now,

how science has proven that we can change our chemistry, just by

since I could no longer work at my job as a flight attendant.

changing our beliefs, thoughts, words and behaviors.

In my mind I heard, I want you to write.

Subsequently, God showed me that whenever I allowed myself to

At first, I thought, Write what? I can’t even string two sentences

be divinely led, I could make a natural, scientific practice like brain

together, I have so much brain fog! But shortly thereafter, the idea came

retraining become a supernatural one! If speaking positive affirmations

to me to write a doctor interview book on Lyme disease. So, I did (with

and life-giving words could heal me, how much more could I heal and

much difficulty!) from my cheap little apartment in Costa Rica, where I

have the abundant life that my Creator intended for me, when my words

had moved to because I could no longer afford life in the US.

came directly from the spiritual realm? And I could tap into that realm

To my amazement, the book prospered and I was able to live for two

through my relationship with God.

years off of the income from its sales. It also opened doors to writing

So once I started to practice brain retraining according to God’s leading,

opportunities with other doctors and healers.

I began to experience exponential restoration and rejuvenation in my

I’ve now authored, co-authored, or ghostwritten over 20 books, most

entire being.

of which I created amidst the throes of severe chronic illness. I believe

I believe that God isn’t just a spirit, but also a person, with a mind, will

that only divine favor from the spiritual realm could have accomplished

and emotions, like us. And this God desires not only for us to be well,

that for me.

but whole: in spirit, soul and body. In my just-released book, Guard the

In the meantime, and for many years, I continued to take medicine, and

Mind, Mend the Body: Heal by Harnessing the Power of God’s Spirit,

lots of it: everything from herbal remedies, to antibiotics, hormones,

Mind Renewal and Neuroplasticity I share why, as well as how we can

toxin binders, IV nutrients, and more. Over the years, I spent over half

be made whole by the power of God’s Spirit in us, along with other tools.

a million dollars on medicine: money that I could have used to buy a

While today I’m still not 100% healed, I can work, travel, exercise and

house and lots of vacations!

live a pretty normal life. All because I discovered the power of God, my

Despite this, my health improved only modestly. Until one day, I

mind and the supernatural realm to aid me in my journey.

received a revelation that turned my life around.

Over the past 20 years, I’ve discovered many tools for attaining health

In 2011, God spoke to my mind and said: My Spirit in you is superior to,

and wellness. These involve natural medicine, lifestyle strategies, brain

My J o u r n e y O u t o f t h e Da r k n ess o f D i s e a s e i n to t h e L i g h t By t h e P o w e r o f S p i r i t- l e d B r a i n R e t r a i n i n g

retraining and most importantly—having a relationship with God, who

healing prayer minister. She loves to help people find freedom from

can divinely heal and prosper us in every area of our lives.

disease, emotional wounding and spiritual bondage by providing cutting-

I share about these tools in Guard the Mind, Mend the Body, as well as in

edge healing solutions through her books, coaching services and prayer

a 22-teaching course that I created entitled, A Top-Down Approach to

ministry sessions.

Healing: Spirit, Soul and Body. They are the product of nearly two decades

As part of Connie’s work, she has collaborated with some of the world’s

of medical research; what I’ve learned about God and the power of the

most gifted healers and integrative doctors to write books on Lyme disease,

supernatural realm to heal, and of course—my journey from the darkness

cancer, chronic fatigue, nutrition and environmental illness—among

into the light. To learn more, see: ConnieStrasheim.org.

other topics. Her most recent ghostwritten books as well as personal books

Connie Strasheim is the author, co-author or ghostwriter of over 20

have averaged 4.5-5 star ratings on Amazon and have reached thousands

health and wellness-related books, as well as a health coach and prophetic

of people worldwide. To learn more, see: https://conniestrasheim.org/

36

37

Best Holistic Life November 2024

Pa i n t i n g a G l o b a l C a n v a s : M y J o u r n e y f r o m P e r s o n a l H e a l i n g t o W o r l d w i d e M o v e m e n t

PAINTING A GLOBAL CANVAS: MY JOURNEY FROM PERSONAL HEALING TO WORLDWIDE MOVEMENT

BY KAREN HANLON

As I stood on the stage at the Global Woman Summit in

The power of this approach lies in its simplicity and

London, facing an audience of women from around the

accessibility. I reminded them that it’s not about artistic

world, I felt a surge of emotion. This was more than just a

talent but about the journey, the exploration, the freedom

speech; it was the culmination of a deeply personal jour-

to express oneself without judgment.

ney that had led me from the depths of despair to the cusp

Gina from Cyprus enthusiastically shared, "Wow, Paint-

of a global movement.

ing Your Soul is an amazing idea. I loved your speech. I

As I shared my story, the audience seemed riveted by the

think people can paint whatever they feel. It's a great way

transformation I had gone through. I wanted them to

for people to get creative. I think it should spread even

feel immersed in the process, to remember a time when

further around the world."

they were able to express themselves freely. Tears could

Spreading Color Across Borders

be seen among the audience as many found a piece of

The Global Woman Summit served as a launchpad for

themselves long forgotten. I had opened a portal in that

Painting Your Soul's international expansion. Soon, our

moment for them to feel safe and just be themselves. The

programs will be available in the UK, Germany, Greece,

emotional connection underscored the power of creativ-

and other countries. This growth is a testament to the

ity as a lifeline, and how picking up a paintbrush and a

universal need for creative expression as a tool for mental

journal could express what words alone couldn't capture.

wellness.

Little did I know years ago that this act of self-preser-

As part of the summit, we created a collaborative art

vation would evolve into Painting Your Soul, a holistic

piece, inviting women from various countries to add their

approach to mental wellness through expressive arts that

personal paint strokes. This symbolic act represented

now reaches people across continents.

the heart of our mission: connecting people worldwide

A Language Beyond Words

through the power of expressive arts.

As I continued my speech, I emphasized a core belief that

Claire from the UK reflected: "Karen has just delivered

has driven my work: there is a language beyond words,

the most amazing talk about her concept, Painting Your

a way to tap into the deepest recesses of our being and

Soul. It really resonated with me because I work with

express ourselves authentically. This language is univer-

young people -- ambitious motivated teenagers who are

sal, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers.

really stressed out and anxious. What this Painting Your

"Imagine a canvas," I told the audience, "not just for

Soul process does is give people the opportunity to just

paint, but a portal to your emotions. Each stroke, each

calm down, to just tap into their inner knowing, and to

color, becomes a symbol, a whisper of your soul." The

create without being an artist. Because, really, everybody

audience leaned in, captivated by the idea of rediscover-

is an artist."

ing this forgotten form of expression.

38

Best Holistic Life November 2024

The Global Impact of Creative Expression

This interaction crystallized the far-reaching impact of

The response to Painting Your Soul at the summit was over-

Painting Your Soul. From helping cancer caregivers find

whelming. Women from various backgrounds and profes-

solace to empowering first responders and veterans to

sions found resonance in the approach, seeing its potential

process trauma, the applications of this approach are vast

application in their own lives and work. Many approached

and deeply meaningful.

me afterwards, eager to share how the speech and the idea

A Global Movement, One Brushstroke at a

we were sharing had touched them.

Time

One American attendee shared, "I am so inspired by you. I

As I reflect on the journey that brought me to that London

love your story. I love the therapeutic nature of art. I have

stage, I'm filled with gratitude and a sense of purpose. What

a brother who is developmentally disabled. I want to talk to

began as a personal healing journey has blossomed into a

you about him and about painting. He is an artist at heart."

global movement, touching lives across continents.

This comment underscored the versatility of expressive arts

The Global Woman Summit experience reinforced my belief in

therapy, its potential to reach individuals facing various chal-

the universal power of creative expression. It doesn't matter

lenges, from stress and anxiety to developmental disabilities.

where you're from, what language you speak, or what chal-

Another attendee confessed, "When I heard your speech it

lenges you face – the canvas welcomes all, offering a safe

was just so touching. From the moment you started speaking

space for exploration, healing, and growth.

I was mesmerized. I couldn't take my eyes off you. It went

As Painting Your Soul continues to expand globally, I'm

deeper than just at an intellectual level. It touched my heart.

reminded of the words I often share in my workshops: "We

I was blown away. I thought, Who is this person? What is this

are all artists inside, and we all have something to express."

magic? I want to try it!"

This truth knows no borders.

A Moment of Profound Connection

To those reading this, whether you're in New York or New

One of the most touching moments came when Margo from

Delhi, London or Lagos, I invite you to pick up a brush, open

The Netherlands approached me after the speech. She said,

your heart, and let your soul speak through color. Together,

"You mentioned a story about Gretchen, your terminally ill

we're painting a more vibrant, emotionally resilient world –

friend. That struck me because I'm working on an initia-

one brushstroke at a time.

tive with a dear friend of mine who is terminally ill. We are organizing a retreat for terminally ill people. And the idea

Connect with Karen:

of bringing their soul into a painting is so beautiful and so

https://linktr.ee/paintingyoursoul65

aligned with the feeling we have, trying to bring terminally ill people together in a safe haven. Thank you for doing what you're doing."

stock.adobe.com | beaubelle

39

ADVERT

40

41

Best Holistic Life November 2024

HOW TO OVERCOME SKEPTICISM: 5 STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS AS A LEADER

BY D I PA L S H A H

Skepticism is a pervasive challenge that women in

As women continue to rise in the business world, we are

entrepreneurship, leadership, and CEO roles must

paving the way for future generations, creating a legacy

navigate. If you want to achieve success you have to

of empowerment and success.

step back and understand how to overcome this deeply

One of the biggest challenges I see in my practice is imposter

rooted characteristic that has developed in your life that

syndrome, where women doubt their achievements

is keeping you from reaching your greatness.

and fear being exposed as a “fraud.” This internalized

In my journey of creating a business and leading a team,

skepticism can affect their confidence and willingness

skepticism was a constant challenge and still creeps up

to take on new challenges.

time to time. As the decision-maker, I am often questioned

Another challenge is the increased scrutiny women in

and doubted. However, I learned to trust my intuition and

leadership positions often face. Every decision they make

understand that my path, though imperfect, is the right one.

is closely watched and judged, adding to the pressure and

The key is to remain flexible and open to change and

stress of their roles. This heightened scrutiny can make

challenges. This adaptability has allowed me and my

it difficult for women to take bold, innovative steps for

team to achieve our goals year after year. By believing in

fear of failure or criticism.

the vision we are able to find success in an everchanging

And lastly, let’s not forget about a woman’s ability to

environment.

balance professional and personal responsibilities can

Skepticism is what holds many individuals back from

create additional stress and expectations. Women may

reaching their greatest potential. It can lead to imposter

feel compelled to overperform in both areas to counteract

syndrome, reduced opportunities, increased scrutiny,

these doubts, leading to burnout and decreased well-being.

and additional stress. However, by building a strong

Here are some Strategies for Success:

support network, developing confidence, challenging

Navigating and overcoming skepticism requires a

biases, setting boundaries, embracing resilience, and

multifaceted approach. Building a strong support

seeking visibility.

network is crucial. Connecting with mentors and peers

No matter how difficult things get, you can overcome

who understand the unique challenges women face in these

skepticism and achieve personal and professional success.

roles can provide invaluable advice and encouragement.

H o w to Ov e rcom e S k e pt i c i sm: 5 St r at eg i es fo r S u cc ess a s a L e a d e r

42

43

Best Holistic Life November 2024

Joining professional organizations and networks that

build a reputation and opens doors to new opportunities.

advocate for women in business helps build a network of

Promoting successes through social media, publications,

supportive peers, creating opportunities for collaboration,

and professional networks amplifies women’s voices and

learning, and growth.

achievements.

Developing unshakable confidence is another key

Every challenge encountered and every barrier broken

strategy. Focusing on one’s achievements and strengths

sets a precedent and creates a ripple effect. When women

helps build self-confidence. Practicing positive affirmations

succeed despite skepticism, they redefine what is possible

and visualization techniques can reinforce self-belief and

and challenge the status quo, encouraging more women

combat self-doubt. Continuously investing in personal and

to pursue leadership roles. This collective movement

professional development enhances skills and knowledge,

amplifies the voice of women in business, promoting

keeping women competitive and adaptable.

a culture where diversity of thought and experience is

Challenging and educating others about skepticism is

valued and celebrated.

essential. Addressing skepticism directly by challenging

Moreover, each woman's journey serves as a beacon of hope

biases and educating others about women’s capabilities

and a source of inspiration for others who may be facing

helps combat gender bias. Using data and evidence to back

similar doubts. By sharing their stories and celebrating

up decisions and demonstrate expertise can be powerful

their victories, these trailblazers show that it is possible

tools in overcoming doubt. Advocating for diversity and

to overcome skepticism and thrive. This shared knowledge

inclusion within organizations creates a more supportive

and experience create a supportive community where

environment for all women.

women uplift each other, fostering an environment of

Setting clear boundaries between work and personal

collaboration rather than competition.

life helps maintain a healthy balance. Establishing

The road to success is rarely smooth, but it is in navigating

and communicating these boundaries prevents burnout

these challenges that women discover their true strength

and ensures time for self-care. Delegating tasks and

and potential. By continually pushing boundaries and

responsibilities to trusted team members distributes the

challenging limitations, women not only achieve their

workload effectively, allowing women to focus on their

goals but also contribute to a broader cultural shift towards

most critical responsibilities.

equality and inclusivity in the business world. Doing so,

Embracing resilience is fundamental to navigating

women leaders not only achieve personal success but also

skepticism. Viewing skepticism as an opportunity to prove

drive meaningful change, creating a more equitable and

capabilities fosters resilience. Learning from setbacks and

empowered business landscape.

using them as stepping stones for growth and improvement

In the demanding world maintaining mental clarity,

strengthens resolve. Staying focused on long-term goals

emotional stability, and overall well-being is crucial

and remaining persistent in the face of challenges helps

for success. It is time to unlock the potential for a more

maintain motivation and drive.

balanced, creative, and fulfilling journey. Take the Ultimate

Seeking visibility and recognition is also crucial. Actively

8 Ultimate Senses Quiz and find out what your 2 strongest

seeking opportunities to showcase achievements and

Intuitive abilities are to see how much your intuition plays

leadership skills increases visibility. Participating in industry

a key role in your business.

conferences, panels, and speaking engagements helps

Connect with Dipal: http://linktr.ee/dipalshah

A D VERT

THE AFTERLIFE FREQUENCY World-renowned 4th generation psychic medium, near-death experiencer, and Oxford-educated attorney Mark Anthony, JD, The Psychic Explorer® bridges the divide between faith and science in this fascinating afterlife exploration, taking you around the globe, from the cosmic to the subatomic, and into the human soul itself.

Combining physics, neuroscience, and riveting true stories, this book explains the scientific basis for Consciousness, Near-Death Experiences, Shared Death Experiences, and all forms of After Death Communication.

For more information on The Afterlife Frequency, Mark’s webpage and YouTube channel go to: www.AfterlifeFrequency.com

44

45

Best Holistic Life November 2024

Could A.I. be your best holistic life coach?

46

COULD A.I. BE YOUR BEST HOLISTIC LIFE COACH?

BY DOUGLAS MULHALL It’s no secret that artificial intelligence is ushering in a new era of holistic care

sleep patterns affect hormone levels. This allows for interventions that address

and prevention, where technology and human expertise converge to create a

root causes rather than just treating symptoms.

comprehensive and personalized approach to wellness. This revolution goes

Human Longevity, Inc. (HLI) focuses on longevity and preventative care. By

way beyond treating illness; it's about understanding the intricate tapestry of

combining advanced genomics with machine learning, HLI aims to identify

human health, from genetics to lifestyle, and using that knowledge to prevent

potential health risks decades before they manifest. This long-term perspective

disease and optimize wellbeing.

focuses on treating the whole person over their entire lifespan, not just

These tools can provide valuable insights, but they do not (yet) replace

addressing acute issues as they arise.

professional medical advice. Instead, they serve as excellent starting points

In nutritional science, Thorne HealthTech leverages AI to bridge the gap

for understanding personal health, but any concerns should ultimately be

between scientific research and personalized health solutions. By analyzing an

discussed with a healthcare provider.

individual's health data against a vast database of clinical research, Thorne's AI

Also, check the privacy protection and “terms of use” provisions of these

recommends specific supplements and lifestyle changes tailored to that person.

services before entering your personal data. As a general rule, any AI platform

LifeOmic's Precision Health Cloud represents another leap. By creating a unified

should explicitly tell you that you own your data, and nothing can be done

platform that integrates and analyzes health data from various sources, LifeOmic

without your expressed consent. Security such as end-to-end encryption is

enables healthcare providers to see the full picture of a patient's health for

a must – check for it.

more accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.

Accessible AI Tools for Individuals

Zebra Medical Vision and PathAI are bringing the power of AI to medical

Several AI tools are being used to gain health insights without incurring costs.

imaging and pathology, respectively. These technologies improve diagnostic

Symptom checkers like Ada Health and K Health enable users to input symptoms

accuracy and allow for earlier detection of potential health issues. By identifying

and receive feedback based on AI analysis.

subtle patterns that might escape the human eye, these AI tools enable a

Fitness trackers, including devices from Fitbit and Apple Watch, use AI algorithms

more proactive approach to healthcare, aligning with the holistic principle of

to analyze physical activity and health metrics, providing personalized insights

prevention rather than cure.

into wellness. Smartphone health apps often come with built-in features that

Health Catalyst takes a broader view, using AI to analyze healthcare data at

track metrics like sleep and heart rate.

a system level. By identifying inefficiencies and areas for improvement in

Nutrition-focused apps like MyFitnessPal and Lose It! leverage AI to help users

healthcare delivery, Health Catalyst enables organizations to provide better,

monitor their dietary habits and get personalized nutrition feedback based on

more holistic care to their patients. This systems-level approach recognizes that

individual goals. Some emerging technologies also use AI for skin analysis,

holistic healthcare is not just about individual treatments but about creating

allowing users to take photos of skin conditions and receive feedback.

an entire ecosystem of care that supports overall wellness.

Holistic Healthcare Providers Using AI

Finally, Biolytica represents the cutting edge of personalized health optimization.

Companies like Babylon Health, are reimagining the doctor-patient relationship

By using AI to analyze a wide range of health data – from genomics to epigenetics

through AI-powered platforms. Babylon's virtual consultations and symptom

to microbiome data – Biolytica creates hyper-personalized health journeys for

checker provide quick answers to health queries, offering a gateway to continuous

its clients. This approach embodies the holistic ideal of treating each person

health monitoring and personalized advice. By analyzing patterns in a user's

as a unique individual with specific health needs and goals.

health data over time, Babylon's AI can detect subtle changes that might

The integration of AI into healthcare is not about replacing human judgment

indicate the onset of health issues long before they become serious problems.

with machine algorithms. Rather, it's about augmenting human expertise

Viome applies this personalized approach to the gut microbiome, a crucial

with powerful analytical tools that process vast amounts of data and uncover

yet often overlooked aspect of overall health. Using AI to analyze the complex

insights that might otherwise remain hidden. This synergy between human and

ecosystem of microorganisms in our digestive system, Viome provides tailored

artificial intelligence enables a truly holistic approach to healthcare – one that

nutritional recommendations that go beyond generic dietary advice. This level

considers all aspects of an individual's health, from genetic predispositions

of personalization recognizes that each individual's body responds differently

to daily habits.

to foods. Optimizing gut health can impact everything from immune function

P.S. The field is moving so fast that by the time you read this article, it will

to mental health.

probably be out of date. Try asking your favorite chatbot for updates.

Companies like iCarbonX and InsideTracker integrate multiple data streams –

Written with assistance from Prodigy.ai.

from genetic information to blood biomarkers and lifestyle data from wearables

Our Molecular Future: How Nanotechnology, Robotics, Genetics and Artificial

to uncover complex relationships between health factors that might escape

Intelligence Will Transform Our World

human observation. For instance, InsideTracker might reveal how a person's

47

Best Holistic Life November 2024

5 TIPS TO HELP YOU DITCH HARMFUL SYNTHETIC SCENTS B Y K A T H R Y N W A LT E R S

Ever wondered what your skin is absorbing every day? As the largest

your physical health but also your emotional and mental well-being.

organ in your body, your skin takes in up to 70% of what you put

To make informed choices about your fragrance products, here are

on it. So, imagine the impact of every product you use. From lotions

five tips that can help you protect your skin from harmful chemicals:

and creams to perfumes and sprays, every product can either help or

1. Read the Labels: The first step to choosing safer products is learn-

hurt your health. This isn’t just about surface-level beauty; it’s about

ing to read labels. This might seem simple, but it’s not always as

safeguarding your well-being from potentially harmful substances

easy as it sounds. Many products use complex scientific names for

that can enter your body through your skin.

ingredients, which can be confusing and overwhelming. Start by

Synthetic fragrances are all too common in our daily lives, subtly

familiarizing yourself with common natural ingredients such as

infiltrating our personal spaces and routines. Shockingly, around 33%

essential oils (e.g., lavender, eucalyptus), botanical extracts (e.g.,

of us experience almost immediate effects from these scents, mani-

chamomile, aloe vera), and plant-based alcohol. Pay attention to

festing as headaches, dizziness, or even respiratory issues. Often-

vague terms like "fragrance,” which often hide a mix of undisclosed

times, the convenience and allure of these fragrances overshadow

synthetic chemicals.

the potential health risks they carry. Just think about the exposure:

2. Avoid Certain Ingredients: Be wary of ingredients like phthal-

day after day, year after year, these synthetic compounds build up in

ates, parabens, synthetic dyes, formaldehyde, glycol, phosphate,

our systems, potentially leading to long-term health issues that we

and EDTA, which indicate the presence of synthetic and poten-

might not immediately connect to our favorite scents.

tially harmful chemicals. Phthalates and parabens, for instance,

Beyond the immediate reactions, synthetic fragrances harbor a more

are commonly used to prolong the shelf life of products but can

insidious threat: endocrine disruptors. Endocrine disruptors can be

disrupt hormonal balance, while formaldehyde and synthetic dyes

particularly harmful because they affect the body’s delicate hormonal

can cause allergic reactions. It might seem overwhelming at first,

balance, which is essential for regulating many bodily functions,

but with practice, identifying these harmful substances becomes

including growth, metabolism, and reproductive health. What’s even

second nature. Remember, the shorter and more recognizable the

more alarming is that these disruptors are often hidden in plain sight within our favorite products.

ingredient list, the safer the product is likely to be.

3. Try a Patch Test: Always do a patch test with new natural products

At St. Lucy Botanists, we champion the power of nature as a safer

to ensure you don’t have a reaction. Apply a small amount to your

alternative to synthetic fragrances. Our perfumes are crafted from

inner wrist and wait 24 hours to see if there's any irritation. This is

100% natural ingredients, ensuring that what you apply to your skin

particularly important for those with sensitive skin or allergies. It’s

doesn’t interfere with your body’s rhythm. Natural fragrances do more

a small step that can save you from a lot of discomfort and ensure

than just smell good—they can enhance your mood and even reduce

that you’re only using products that truly benefit your body. Keep

stress, depending on the scent. For example, lavender oil is known

in mind that everyone’s skin is unique, and what works wonders for

for its calming properties, while peppermint oil can invigorate and

one person might not suit another. You might also consider keeping

refresh. By using natural ingredients, we ensure that every product

a record of the results of your patch tests as, over time, you'll build a

interacts positively with your body’s chemistry, supporting not only

valuable database of ingredients and products that are safe for you.

5 Tips to Help You Ditch Harmful Synthetic Scents

48

49

Best Holistic Life November 2024

4. Start Simple: Begin by replacing one product at a time with a natural alternative to help make the transition more manageable. For instance, you might swap out your current synthetic perfume for a natural one or replace a synthetic room spray with natural essential oil diffusers. Gradually integrating natural products will not only make the process easier but also allow you to observe the benefits of each new addition in real time. Remember, big differences are made up of the small changes you make along the way.

5. Stay Informed: When it comes to your health, staying informed is your best defense against harmful ingredients. Make it a priority to remain up to date on the latest research on natural versus synthetic components. Subscribe to newsletters from trusted sources, follow reputable experts in natural health on social media, and join online communities dedicated to clean beauty and wellness. Knowledge is power, and by arming yourself with the latest information, you can confidently navigate the sea of products on the market. Don’t be afraid to ask questions—the more you know, the better equipped you are to choose products that truly nurture and protect your skin.

Your skin deserves only the absolute best, so start today by choosing products that honor your body. Experience the profound difference that natural, high-quality ingredients can make from day to day. Your path to a healthier, more balanced lifestyle begins with the simple choice to go natural.

Connect with Kathryn: https://www.stlucybotanists.com/

5 Tips to Help You Ditch Harmful Synthetic Scents

50

51

Best Holistic Life November 2024

E m b r a c e In t u i t i o n F o r A H o l i s t i c L i f e

EMBRACE INTUITION FOR A HOLISTIC LIFE

BY S H A RO N H O L A N D G E L FA N D

Years ago, my child was diagnosed with Crohn’s Ulcerative Colitis

openness, we create space for our intuition to flourish. This

and Ileitis. I remember the drive home vividly, feeling overwhelmed

shift in mindset can transform how we perceive challenges and

by the diagnosis amidst a divorce and an uncertain future. My son

opportunities. During the uncertainty of my son's diagnosis and

was terrified, the doctor dismissive, and the skies mirrored my

the changes in our family dynamic, shifting from fear to a mindset

despair. As I drove through the dark, pouring rain, I kept asking

of love and trust enabled me to respond from a place of strength

myself, "How did I get here? Where did things go wrong?" In

rather than panic. This change helped me support my son and

that moment of turmoil, a calming voice within me said, "We’ve

his siblings better and deepened our connection as we navigated

got you. You will all be better than okay." Though I couldn’t see

the journey together.

it then, this inner wisdom brought me peace. I thought, "Okay,

Developing Intuition Through Empathy and

show me the way." Then, as if the universe was communicating

Compassion

with me, the storm outside transformed into a silver-lined, sunlit

We can be so busy ‘doing’ and being hard on ourselves that we

sky. This marked the beginning of our journey toward healing

forget the importance of self-empathy and compassion. Both allow

and led me to a second career, where I now have the privilege of

us to feel and connect deeply within our hearts, where intuition

helping other women go from feeling exhausted and burned out

lies. This self-awareness helps us understand our emotions,

to experiencing peace, confidence, and joy.

triggers, and reactions, paving the way for intuitive insights.

Understanding Intuition

Psychology Research and Behavior Management suggests that

Intuition is that inner voice, that gut feeling guiding you without

self-compassion is associated with mental health and well-being

conscious reasoning. It's a natural part of our psyche, often mistaken

benefits. Practicing self-compassion creates a nurturing inner

for something mystical. Intuition helps us make decisions and grow

environment that encourages intuition to thrive. Being kind to

personally, providing clarity and confidence in life's challenges.

ourselves makes listening to and trusting our inner voice easier,

Tuning into your intuition means listening to that inner voice,

reducing self-doubt and fear. Empathy towards ourselves also

recognizing its signals, and trusting its guidance. This starts with

enhances our ability to empathize with others, strengthening our

creating stillness in your life. Amidst the chaos of daily routines,

intuitive connections. The more we practice consciously, the more

finding moments of quiet reflection allows your inner wisdom to

we create new habits, allowing us to thrive and find peace and joy.

surface. By practicing stillness, uncovering my inner saboteurs,

Practical Techniques for Enhancing Intuition

and being open-minded, I learned to trust that voice and myself.

• Mindfulness Practices: Regular mindfulness and breathing

Mindset: The Foundation for Intuition

can enhance your intuitive abilities by quieting the mind and

A positive, open mindset allows us to embrace intuitive insights

allowing insights to surface. You don’t have to meditate to do

without judgment. When we approach life with curiosity and

this. It’s about BEING. Find a place that feels right for you. I

52

53

Best Holistic Life November 2024

love being in nature, which helps me tune in to my

In parenting, intuition can guide you in understanding

higher self and enhance my intuition.

your children’s unspoken needs and emotions. In your

• Journaling: Keeping a journal to track your intuitive

career, it can help you identify opportunities and make

insights and patterns can help you recognize and

decisions that resonate with your values and goals. In

trust your intuition more.

personal relationships, intuition fosters deeper connections

• Body Awareness: Pay attention to physical sensa-

by encouraging empathy and understanding.

tions. Your body often responds to intuitive insights

Embrace and Trust Your Intuition

before your conscious mind does. Keep track of

Intuition is a powerful tool for empowerment and growth.

repetitive feelings or symptoms in the body. That’s

Understanding, developing, and trusting your intuition,

your body’s way of talking to you, signaling that

you can navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confi-

something may be off.

dence. Too often, we 'think’ through things and then talk

Incorporate simple daily practices like tuning into your

ourselves out of possibilities.

gut feelings, creating quiet time for reflection, and actively

My son’s diagnosis turned into a blessing in disguise

listening to your inner voice to strengthen your intuition.

for all of us. While it took a health scare to ‘wake up,’ it

If something feels off, you get triggered, or you feel

allowed me to create space not only for my growth but

resistance, your intuition tells you to pay attention. When

for my kids as well.

things are going smoothly, you are in the flow and know

By nurturing our intuition, we tap into a profound source

because it feels right in your body—you are in alignment.

of inner wisdom and strength, guiding us to a life of clarity,

Integrating Intuition into Daily Life

empowerment, and fulfillment. Remember, your intuition

Applying intuitive insights in various areas of life, such as

is always there, ready to guide you towards your true path.

parenting, career, and personal relationships, can help you

Embrace it with an open heart and let it lead you to a life

make aligned decisions. Embracing a more intuitive life

of empowerment and inner peace.

leads to greater self-confidence, better decision-making,

Connect with Sharon Holand Gelfand:

and a deeper connection with your authentic self.

https://linktr.ee/sharonholand

E m b r a c e In t u i t i o n F o r A H o l i s t i c L i f e

54

55

Best Holistic Life November 2024

10 TIPS TO BOOST ENERGY DURING MENOPAUSE

BY ANDREA SCHWARTZ

Menopause is a significant transition in a woman's life, bringing

Example: If you're struggling with sleep, try going to bed just 10

various physical and emotional changes. One of the most common

minutes earlier tonight and gradually work up to a 30-minute earlier

complaints during this period is a lack of energy. Fortunately, there

bedtime. This can make a significant difference in how rested you feel.

are numerous strategies to help you feel more vibrant and energetic.

5. Shift Stress Hormones: Reduce Stress, Lower Cortisol Stress

Here are ten tips to boost your energy during

increases cortisol levels, which can lead to fatigue and weight gain.

menopause:

Find stress-reducing activities that work for you, such as meditation,

1. Exercise: 30 Minutes a Day of Something You Love Exercise is a

journaling, or deep-breathing exercises.

powerful tool for improving mood and boosting energy. Whether

Example: Start your day with a 10-minute meditation session. Apps

you enjoy walking, swimming, dancing, or yoga, find an activity you

like Headspace or Calm offer guided meditations that can help you

love and commit to at least 30 minutes daily. Regular physical activity

relax and reduce stress.

increases endorphin levels, which can improve your mood and help

6. Exposure to Morning Sunlight: Morning sunlight helps regulate

combat fatigue.

your circadian rhythms, boosting melatonin production and improving

Example: Consider joining a local dance class. Not only will you get a

your sleep and mood.

good workout, but you'll also have fun and meet new people, enhancing

Example: Spend 10-15 minutes outside each morning. Even a short walk

your social life and overall happiness.

around your neighborhood can help you feel more awake and energized.

2. Nutrition: Quality Over Quantity A calorie isn't always just a calorie.

7. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can negatively impact your

Nutrient-dense foods like fruits and vegetables provide essential

energy, stress levels, and sleep quality. Cutting back on alcohol can

vitamins and minerals, while processed foods often contain empty

make a big difference.

calories. If you eat junk food, you're likely to feel sluggish.

Example: Start by gradually reducing your alcohol intake. If you usually

Example: This week, try eliminating one processed food from your

have a glass of wine every night, try cutting back to a few nights a week.

diet. Swap out chips for a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts. You'll be

Notice how your energy levels improve.

amazed at how much better you feel.

8. Take Stand and Move Breaks: Our bodies are designed to move.

3. Hydration: Drink Up Our bodies are primarily made up of water,

Sitting for prolonged periods can sap your energy. Make it a habit to

and even slight dehydration can lead to fatigue and impaired physical

get up and move every hour.

performance. Aim to drink at least 64 ounces of water daily.

Example: Set an alarm on your phone to remind you to stand up, stretch,

Example: Invest in a beautiful water bottle and infuse your water with

or take a short walk every hour. Even a few minutes of movement can

fresh fruits like lemon or berries to make it more appealing. Carry it

invigorate you.

with you everywhere to remind yourself to stay hydrated.

9. Be Social: Social connections bring joy, happiness, and energy.

4. Better Sleep: Prioritize Quality and Quantity Sleep is crucial for

They also increase longevity and overall well-being.

energy levels. Develop a good sleep routine and practice good sleep

Example: Make an effort to spend time with friends and family. Schedule

hygiene. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, and avoid

regular dinner dates, or join a club or group that interests you. The

hitting the snooze button.

positive interactions will boost your mood and energy.

1 0 T i p s t o B o o s t En e r g y D u r i n g M e n o p a u s e

10. Try Relaxed Intermittent Fasting: Intermittent fasting can be beneficial for managing weight and energy levels during menopause. It's particularly effective for reducing visceral fat.

Example: Start by eating breakfast a bit later and having dinner earlier.

Don't stress about strict fasting periods; the goal is to give your digestive system a break and stabilize your hunger hormones.

Remember, this isn't suitable if you have a history of eating disorders.

Menopause doesn't have to mean a constant battle with fatigue. Incorporating these ten tips into your daily routine can boost your energy levels and improve your overall quality of life. Remember, it's about making small, sustainable changes that work for you. Embrace this new chapter with a positive mindset and take charge of your health and well-being.

If you want more personalized guidance and a supportive community, I invite you to join the A.B.S. Wellness App. Together, we can create a plan that fits your unique needs and helps you thrive during this transitional period. Let's embark on this journey together, embracing the changes and celebrating every success.

Connect with Andrea: https://linktr.ee/andreaberlinschwartz

56

57

Best Holistic Life November 2024

H o w G r at i t u d e H e a l s t h e Pa i n o f R e j e c t i o n : 5 P r o v e n St r at e g i e s

58

HOW GRATITUDE HEALS THE PAIN OF REJECTION:

5 PROVEN STRATEGIES B Y M A R I A B A LT A Z Z I

The pain felt like a knife that glowed electric orange with unbearably hot heat as it seared through my heart. My breath was shallow as I rocked my tightly wound body, trying to

rejection can transform a negative experience into an opportunity for growth.

comfort myself. Maybe I will feel better if I go outside and walk, get out into nature. That

• Practicing gratitude enables you to notice the posi-

is it; go outside. I know from my studies in wellbeing and experience that getting outside

tives in life, even when rejected, which can make these

will uplift my mood.

moments feel less overwhelming.

As I put one foot in front of the other, I felt my chest expand as air filled it. My shoulders

Builds Resilience

dropped from practically touching my ears to a comfortable resting place. My brow

• Regularly practicing gratitude creates a sense of inner

unfurrowed. I followed the dirt path through tall pine trees, smelling the earth mixed

strength that can help you bounce back more quickly

with the crisp air. I felt my mood lighten. A smile even graced my face.

from rejection.

And my thoughts and felt sensations?

Oddly, at that moment, I was actually starting to feel grateful. I felt grateful that the pain of a broken heart was causing me to do some very serious self-reflection, causing me to realize that I was pretty cool and if some guy did not think I was all that. Well, then, he is not my guy, and why the heck would I want to be with someone who did not value me? So, in fact, this guy who caused my heart so much pain did me a favor by rejecting me.

• Gratitude gives you a more optimistic outlook overall, which can help you see hurts as temporary setbacks rather than defining moments.

Enhances Self-Worth • Focusing on what you are grateful for keeps your value and worth present despite rejection.

It also got me thinking about how rejection and gratitude can be intimately intertwined.

• Being grateful and compassionate toward yourself can

Feelings of gratitude can be the soothing balm that heals wounds if you can shift your focus

reduce negative self-talk and self-criticism that often

to allow yourself to feel something other than pain, even for a moment.

Gratitude, the Antidote to the Pain of Rejection We are grateful when we appreciate what we have – a great career, wonderful friends, a loving significant other. However, when we do not have these things we feel the opposite – pain and oftentimes rejection. You did not get the job, accepted into the cool kids’ club, got dumped by your lover. “Ouwie” to any of these kinds of scenarios.

happens when you feel rejected.

Promotes Mental Health • Gratitude reduces anxiety and stress, which can help soften rejection.

• Overall happiness levels get a boost from being grateful, which can offset the negative emotions that come

Gratitude is a positive emotion that savors the good things in life, appreciates what is

with rejection.

working and your value, which is what I did when I was walking through the tall pine

Motivates Next Steps

trees. I managed to give myself the space to make mental notes about things I value about myself. It eased the emotional pain I was feeling. Candidly, it did not fix all of my hurt.

• Gratitude can help you see rejection as an opportunity for personal growth and self-improvement.

There was still more crying and reconciling to do. However, it did start me on a healing

• You can appreciate the lessons learned from the expe-

path, and I felt much better at that moment. That is what having an attitude of gratitude

rience of being rejected, creating a mindset for contin-

can do during moments of painful rejection. It can help minimize it and maybe even create a positive memory for later.

Five Ways Gratitude Can Help Heal Rejection Shifts Perspective • By focusing on what one still has, your worth, and the lessons learned, the sting of

uous learning.

Taking Action • Journaling: Keep a daily gratitude journal, making it a habit to note three things you are grateful for. Do this, especially when feeling rejected.

59

Best Holistic Life November 2024

• Mindfulness: Use this and meditation practices focused on gratitude to help shift away from rejection and towards the positive aspects of life.

• Reflect: Start and keep a running list of the attributes you value about yourself. Visit this list on a regular basis.

Gratitude can transform painful hurts into openings to grow and rejection into thanksgiving.

This article is an excerpt from the next book I am writing as part of my "Take a Shot at Happiness: How to Write, Direct & Produce the Life You Want" series.

The first book in this series was voted “Best Personal Development Book of the Year” by this magazine and is the recipient of the Silver Nautilus Book Award 2024, which recognizes books that promote spiritual growth, conscious living, and high-level wellness. Also recognized by National Indie Excellence Awards in two categories: Wellbeing Winner and Personal Growth Finalist.

Connect with Maria: https://mariabaltazzi.com

Sources: Spend Time in Nature to Reduce Stress and Anxiety https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/stressmanagement/spend-time-in-nature-to-reduce-stress-and-anxiety The Neuroscience of Gratitude and Effects on the Brain https://positivepsychology.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude/

A D VERT

60

61

Best Holistic Life November 2024

AFTER t h e d i a g n o s i s

62

AFTER THE DIAGNOSIS

BY VIRGINIA OMAN I clearly remember sitting there on that surgical steel exam table after all tests

last time I fell, I broke my hand. Typical of me, I just said to myself, no worries

had been completed and I was waiting for the neurologist to come back in with

I’ll just run wearing a cast. However, I was a sign language interpreter at the

the results. I had been plagued by mystery symptoms drastically impacting

time and I realized that if I fell again (which I no doubt would) and re-broke

my life including leg numbness in one leg, double vision, constant vertigo and

my hand, I may well lose my ability to sign or finger-spell.

inability to balance. It was terrifying and no doctor had been able to explain

Even after the hard loss of having to give up running, I just took to the water

it. Finally, the neurologist comes into the room and stood before me with her

instead and worked up the strength to swim laps each day instead of run.

exam notes. She looks down at them, then closes the folder, looks me straight

Throughout this journey, I have used the principles of the mind-body connec-

in the eye and says 4 words very seriously; “You have Multiple Sclerosis:”

tion and designed a plan of action that I used every day to keep my body one

Facing the Prognosis

step ahead of MS.

Then it seemed like an eternity went by. She didn’t say anything right away.

Adapting and Thriving

So I looked at her with a deer in the headlight expression of fear and shock on

MS progresses to a point where I will have to give up something I adore doing.

my face, and said; “Well now what do I do??”

But I will then recalculate and find another form of the activity that I CAN do.

She said…”I would look into getting a wheelchair”.

Here’s an example: I’m a musician and multi-instrumentalist and when MS

I think back on that moment quite often. What if I had been a different type of

progressed to the point where my hands could no longer hang on to drum

person?….one who follows the rules, one who complies with what is assigned

sticks, I sold my drum set and decided to become a student of hand drumming.

to me, one who believes the cultural norm that the medical establishment

I learned djembe, congas, frame drum, darbuka and riq. When my fingers lost

knows everything that’s best for us. What would I have done? Sure. I would

their ability to play chords on my guitar, I sold my guitar and learned to play

have taken her advice and left there to go buy a wheelchair. I then would have

the mountain dulcimer, a wonderful string instrument I COULD play. All of

brought it home and had it sitting in some corner of my living room and every

this opened up an entire new world to me that brings me an abundance of joy

time I saw it, I would have thought to myself….well I guess my body is declining

every day. I wouldn’t have even discovered these new genres if it hadn’t been

everyday due to MS and I soon won’t be able to walk.

for MS. In fact, I can honestly say that I have more happiness and fulfillment

Defying Expectations

in my life now, than ever before. Even before MS came into my life 35 yrs ago!

And what I found out by living this journey, is that that internal forecast of the

The Power of Choice

future may have come true very quickly. We are what we believe.

The message of this story is this; If and when you ever receive what seems like

It is a travesty when well-meaning doctors prescribe the future feeling sure

an end-of-life type of medical diagnosis, always remember that the direction

of what they say due to statistics and medical data.

of your life moving forward is entirely based on the decisions you make. Just

Very fortunately for me, when she gave me the diagnosis and her recommen-

like me, you can use the mind-body connection to create your reality. There is

dation of getting a wheelchair, she was talking to a person who by design …

always a way over, around and through. You DO have the fortitude to rise above

was NOT a person who complies or always follows prescribed rules or cultural

and design a path that works for you. Don’t sit back, succumb, surrender and

norms. I remember clearly when she said the words…”I’d look into getting a

ingest the words as some fatal news, for it is not. In fact, depending on how

wheelchair” a voice immediately came roaring internally into my head which

you choose to respond to this, it could be the beginning of a path of increased

loudly and emphatically YELLED; “ wheelchair??..... there’s no way in hell I’m

empowerment and life fulfillment. Never let a doctor’s diagnosis of a chronic

going to end up in a wheelchair!!”

or progressive illness determine the future of your life and happiness. Never

The Journey of Resilience

allow their words or medical graphs or testing results to seep into your soul

So it was that the next 16 years of my life, despite the progression of MS (it IS a

and be the truth of who you are and what quality of life you can have. THAT

progressive disease) I was emphatic and defiant and chose to keep up my very

is entirely up to YOU.

active life of running and mountain biking. This became harder and toward the

Contact and Support If you’ve been given a serious life altering diagnosis and

16 year mark I started to trip and fall when running. I would fall on pavement

would like to contact me for further information, please get my contact infor-

or rock, get cut or bruised but would just get up and keep running. I refused

mation from my website. (virginiaoman.com) I’d be happy to speak with you.

to give up running even if it meant having scrapes and bruises on me which I

There is a FREE document there that I authored on the Mind-Body connection.

just covered up with clothing. What eventually put a stop to that was that the

63

B e s t H o l i s t i c L i f e N o v e m b e r 2 0 2 4 > COVER STORY

EXCLUSIVE EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW INTERVIEW WITH WITH DANIELLE MARGMARGGRAF GRAF WORLD World Leader LEADER IN in SOMATIC HEASomatic Healing LING & Transformation & TRANSFORMATION

DANIELLE

64

65

Best Holistic Life November 2024

E x c l u s i v e In t e r v i e w w i t h D a n i e l l e M a r g g r a f W o r l d L e a d e r i n S o m a t i c H e a l i n g & T r a n s f o r m a t i o n

Danielle, can you share what inspired you to start your journey in the healing arts, somatic therapy and healing your relationship with money?

Yes! After experiencing childhood trauma at 13, I was always drawn to the healing arts— anything body/mind. I found myself searching for meaning and looking for signs. In 2011, I found myself in the midst of a divorce with two babies under two years old. I was educated (Master's degree) and did everything I was ‘supposed’ to do. I consider myself a ‘master manifestor,’ but as I manifested food stamps, multiple car repossessions, a failed marriage, and eventually homelessness, I realized that no matter what I “did,” I always seemed to be spinning in self-doubt and low self-esteem, which always resulted in poverty. It was like some invisible programming was running, but I couldn't put my finger on it. Money always seemed to be the result of me operating from this trauma and drama that kept me spinning the same results over and over, no matter how much mindset work or manifesting work I did.

So, the journey began of understanding how money was connected to my own mind/body/ subconscious and how to heal it. I remember standing in the hallway of my parents' retirement home, over 800 miles away from anyone or anything I knew, and having this lightning bolt moment—I thought and decided in that moment, “This ends with me.” I was referring to the low self-worth and shame that I carried, which kept me spinning in poverty and pain, and I refused to pass it down to my babies.

Your story includes pivotal moments of profound transformation. How did these experiences shape your approach to coaching and healing?

I believe that we are all organized exactly as we needed to be to survive. Nothing is wrong with us! We don't need to break down barriers and chisel away blocks within ourselves to get where we want to go. This kind of thinking reinforces the idea that something is wrong with us—that another person can heal us and knows better than we do. This is our shame, the belief that “something is wrong with me.” I carried that for a very long time. The truth is that we are perfectly wired for exactly what we needed at the time. That wiring may no longer work to get us where we want to go, so we require learning a new way that feels safe in our bodies while supporting our success. I see everyone in their power and I am only a guide to help point out patterns and wires that may have gotten crossed in their past. When we re-pair these wires, we can actually create entirely new ways of moving in the world. We see ourselves and the world differently, and we then have the space to make great changes with who we are, not what we do

66

67

Best Holistic Life November 2024

What does leading with devotion rather than duty mean to you, and how do you incorporate this philosophy into your work?

Most of the women that I work with come from patterns and paradigms of “should,” “being the good girl,” and “have to’s.”

Their identity, voice, and power were never really theirs to begin with, so they have operated from a place of duty and supposed to’s. We are sold this idea that if we do everything “right,” we will have success and pleasure. Unfortunately, most of these women only feel overwhelmed, confused, and burned out when they arrive at this elusive place of ‘getting there’—house, kids, career, etc. The joy, happiness, and pleasure are missing. The first question is, “What’s wrong with me?!” This activates a feeling of shame, which we then have to hide because society says I should be grateful, not dissatisfied! Being in devotion means reclaiming and restoring the very foundation of who we are and how we operate in our body, business, and life. It’s rejecting anything that degrades our divinity and wholeness and using our own inner GPS of feelings, intuitions, and nudges of desire to lead and choose.

Can you elaborate on the concept of turning daily operations into sacred rituals?

Yes! I’ve never been big on systems, schedules, or daily operations, and I know that those are all ways to improve effectiveness and efficiency toward success. I like to weave all of myself into every part of my business so that it is a true reflection of me, not a diluted version saved for when I get on stage or get featured on a cover. Every part of my business is a sacred ritual infused with the devotion and energy of the magic and momentum of receiving and creating. When I have my weekly team meeting, for instance, it’s not a box I check; it’s an opportunity to collaborate and create, brainstorm, intuit, and imagine while ensuring we are operating at the highest service for all involved. It becomes an opportunity to BE with all the joy of the service we are providing and the community we are cultivating, which can be felt by my clients and beyond. It’s an energetic standard, and it is felt by everyone in my community.

E x c l u s i v e In t e r v i e w w i t h D a n i e l l e M a r g g r a f W o r l d L e a d e r i n S o m a t i c H e a l i n g & T r a n s f o r m a t i o n

How did your personal struggles with financial hardship influence your perspective on wealth and abundance?

This is a big question! In short, it has influenced EVERYTHING! Every part of my thinking, feeling, and perspective is marked by the contrast of what was. When I finally understood that money is my teacher, and that it is as much a sacred tool as any other medium, everything changed. I realized that I projected my emotional debt, which included unworthiness and deep shame, onto money, resulting in lack of money, poverty, and never feeling enough. I not only had to work on myself to stop operating from these wounds, but I also had to learn to access my own wisdom and practice deep faith. I once heard a story about blind faith, which is the faith most people have when they aren't being called to stretch into the unknown—when their lives aren't at risk, and when they aren't faced with the actual death of ego or their very lives. True faith is trusting in the unknown no matter what. When it comes to money, most people ride the collective wave of despair and money depression.

They preach or teach abundance or desperately want to believe in abundance being available to all of us but don’t embody or practice it. I remember thinking if I succeed as a young single mom and use my faith to completely trust and devote my life to Spirit, it will be enough proof for people to believe—because if I can do it, anyone can do it. And that’s what I have done and continue to do.

You emphasize the importance of creating space for success and growth. Can you explain how this principle applies to both personal and professional life?

Oooooo, I love this question. All things magical and mystical happen when we create space. Your body has so much information to share with you, but it is only in rest that we can receive it. There is so much power in prioritizing rest and space for daydreaming, imagination, and being in the vision of the life you desire to create. When you work out a muscle, it doesn't get stronger in the action; it gets stronger in the rest, in the in-between. We are trained to not allow time or space for the in-between, and we become machines pumping out content for results. Results-driven production is not success. Rest, receiving, and creating a life from the space knowing you deserve to rest is how you reclaim your power for prosperity, and that is how you have the capacity to grow beyond your wildest dreams.

68

69

Best Holistic Life November 2024

What role does somatic therapy play in your practice, and how did it contribute

How do you help your clients activate their wealth

to your healing journey?

energy and transform their inner wisdom into external

I had done manifesting and mindset and money work for years, and I would have

success?

these spells of success followed by months or years of nothing. I couldn’t figure out

My singular job and purpose with my clients is to have them

what I was doing wrong. It was when I was at my lowest point that I remembered a

be so aligned with their own voices—the voices of Soul,

quote I had heard a million times before by Napoleon Hill: “Opportunity comes from

Body, and Mind—that they can distinguish which is which

temporary misfortune and defeat.” Well, I can tell you that sleeping on my massage

and be able to make decisions and take action from the

table because I was homeless was definitely misfortune and definitely defeat, so if

part of them that will get them the result they desire. Most

Hill was right, then there had to be an opportunity present if I could only just see it. I

women have given away their power, identity, and voice in

remember that night I found words that matched what I was feeling—safety, fight/

exchange for safety. Undoing that conditioning and those

flight, polyvagal theory, trauma—and I had this awakening throughout my entire

paradigms takes time, but it is not about giving them more

body. THIS was the missing piece after years of energy work, shamanic journeys,

information to consume. It is about guiding them inward

healing sessions, therapy, and group therapy. I felt I had found the missing puzzle

into their own wisdom, which will bring about limitless

piece. Within 24 hours, I was enrolled in a certification program, and it has changed

wealth. When you take action based on fear, supposed

my life, my business, my body, and my money! By not retelling the story, which is

to’s, or shoulds, it comes from a place of focus on the end

what I did for many, many years in traditional talk therapy, I was able to allow my

result—for most, this is money. I redirect and help recalibrate

body to tell the story through sensations, visions, colors, temperature, and emotions.

and reorganize them to tap into their subconscious so they

It was absolutely incredible. It expanded my consciousness of being! In mindset work,

focus on the process, not the end result. By doing this, they

we’re often taught to chase our thoughts and control them—that always proved so

are able to give themselves permission for more pleasure,

challenging for me and my clients agree!

which creates a high vibration and allows them to be open enough to RECEIVE more.

E x c l u s i v e In t e r v i e w w i t h D a n i e l l e M a r g g r a f W o r l d L e a d e r i n S o m a t i c H e a l i n g & T r a n s f o r m a t i o n

70

You mention a vision of past life as a high priestess. How has this

Fashion seems to be a significant aspect of your life. How do

influenced your work and spiritual practices?

you integrate your love for fashion into your holistic practice?

This is a really wild story! When my daughter was 9 months old (over 15

Ha! I love fashion! Most people don't know this, but I was going to

years ago), I was invited by my then-therapist to have a shamanic journey

go to FIT in NYC and changed my mind at the last minute. I think it

session as I was in the deep end of my healing journey at the time. It was a

was because I was intimidated and went the “safe route” instead.

pretty cool session, and one of the visions he saw was me as a High Priestess

Honestly, for many years, I have worked on my insides. Now, especially

hiding in a dark cave with my baby as all the townspeople searched to kill

having just turned 50 this year, I feel it's time to have my outsides

both me and my baby. I had run many temples as a Priestess (a female priest)

match my insides! It's fun and playful and brings me so much joy to

and would facilitate these safe and sacred spaces for women to gather in

look and feel good in clothes that represent me inside and out—so

the mystery of the sacred feminine. I took the experience with a grain of salt.

essentially, it's what I do with my clients but with fashion! We are

In 2014, I decided to become certified as a Women's Group Facilitator in the

here (on this planet) to find joy and play in it, and it gets to look like

lineage of The Red Tent. I ran many successful women's circles for many years,

whatever we want it to! Fashion, for me, is the transmission and 3D

never giving that shamanic session a thought. In 2021, I was introduced to

equivalent of radiance, fun, creative design, play, and expression.

a woman who does Akashic records. I was drawn to have a session with

Sometimes we throw on a crown for a photoshoot and it's way

her. As we settled into my first session, she “opened the record” and started

over the top and goddess-like. Other times, I’m in black lace and

to share what she saw—me as a High Priestess in a cave hiding for my life

can feel my inner fiery goddess Kali ignite! Fashion is a way to be

with my baby! She shared so much more on my teachings of helping women

fully expressed. If you've ever watched “Who Wore It Best” or the

to create wealth, prosperity, and more riches through the sacred feminine!

“Worst Dressed List,” you know that people have an opinion. To be

These two practitioners and the sessions are on opposite coasts and were

able to fully embody your inner wild woman and wear her proudly,

over a decade apart. I now accept and embody my role as a modern-day

fully self-expressed in clothes, garments, and accessories, is to be

Priestess as part of my own lineage and purpose in this lifetime!

BOLDLY self-expressed out loud. It's a reclamation of sorts, but instead of carrying a picket sign, I adorn myself in sequins, glitter, and gold!

71

Best Holistic Life November 2024

What advice would you give to someone feeling stuck and overwhelmed by societal pressures and ‘shoulds'?

Ah, the million-dollar question. We will always rub up against pressure when it is coming from outside of us. Think of the word “pressure.” Someone else’s ideas and beliefs are pressing on you, and your body is saying something else—maybe your body is a hell no, or maybe your body is uncomfortable. There is a sense of, "If I don't do it, I won't be safe." This is an underlying feeling for so many! I say your body does not speak in maybes! So, the answer is in your body! You need to learn her language. This will enable you to gain the skills to listen and take action based on your truth, not someone else’s old beliefs. If you operate from old trauma or drama, you are operating either from a way that you have learned will keep you safe or from a story that has become a big part of your own self-image that is probably not even your authentic self. It’s time to unschool yourself from what is yours and what is another’s. You can begin to meditate to still the mind and body, walk in nature to move through thoughts that need processing, or seek out a skilled somatic therapist or coach who can help teach you the difference of your own voices so you know what's coming from within you and what’s being pressed on you.

How has your journey through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition impacted your career and coaching methods?

Oh gosh, that feels like a lifetime ago! IIN was my introduction to coaching. I sold my wedding rings, and because Spirit has a great sense of humor, I received the exact amount of money I needed to pay for that certification. I didn't know what coaching was, but everything about it resonated through my body. It was like I had come home to a part of myself, and it felt like PURPOSE! Like this is it! Obviously, I drifted a long way from talking about nutrition and health, but I credit IIN for opening up a door to a world that has literally changed my life and the lives of my children, not to mention the thousands of women I have worked with over the years. I had done so well in that first year that I was asked to come back to teach in their extended master's course. I was a recurring teacher for years. It was an honor and a sign I was on the right track!

You speak about the superpower of hoop earrings. Can you share more about this unique belief and its significance to you?

So much juicy fun in the history of hoops! Hoop earrings actually date back to originating in Africa, although the oldest pair was found in Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq) among the Sumerians. For some civilizations, they were intended to protect the wearer. Hoops represent status, wealth, and spirituality. I've always worn hoops, always loved hoops, and for whatever reason, they make me feel at home in myself. Maybe I have past life ties to wearing them, but all I know is hoops make everything better! You can wear sweats, throw on a pair of hoops, and look amazing!

As a leader in your field, what future goals or projects are you excited to pursue?

I am excited to share that my first book will be coming out in September 2025—this has been a long time coming. I have been working on it for years and we finally have an official date! My future goals include relaunching a product line that had to be put on the back burner a few years ago, which will actually support deep embodiment to help integrate the very feelings we all want to feel—prosperous, wealthy, fulfilled, calm, safe, and grounded in deep trust within our own wisdom. I have been traveling to speak on so many stages, and it feels so amazing to be asked! I would love to do more of that! I also have a deep desire to start a non-profit for single mothers. They are the least funded and most impoverished demographic, and they are raising our future generations. This has been a long-time dream, and I am excited to make it a reality.

E x c l u s i v e In t e r v i e w w i t h D a n i e l l e M a r g g r a f W o r l d L e a d e r i n S o m a t i c H e a l i n g & T r a n s f o r m a t i o n

72

73

Best Holistic Life November 2024

M E E T I NG PEOPL E I N ‘ T H E W I L D ’: H O W T O O F F L I N E D AT E

BY M AG DA K AY

Online dating has become the new normal. Forget the glass slipper or

Two Key Skills To Master:

fighting off a dragon to win love- it seems that the modern day fairytale

When it comes to meeting people in the real world, there are two key

is to ‘swipe right’ on your true love on a dating app and live happily ever

skills that can dramatically improve your chances. Firstly, you need to

after. Dating advice has become centered around how to create a winning

make yourself approachable, and secondly, you need to learn the art of

profile, or what to write in your first messages, how quickly to respond

approaching.

or not respond- how to find love online, then ride off together into the

Become Approachable

sunset. It seems like every week a new app is launched with the promise

Imagine that you’ve been going to the same gym for months, that you see

of helping to connect people searching for intimacy, love or even perhaps

the same people there a few times a week, and even after all this time, none

just sex… but I can’t be the only one who is hesitant to get on board with

of them ever greet you, not even the personal trainers. Instead, everyone

this new way of dating?

just puts in their headphones and focuses on their own individual work-

What about the rest of us? The more traditional, hopeless romantics who

outs… It would be difficult to connect with anyone in this environment.

are still clinging on to the hope of meeting someone organically, in the

Of course, we all love to blast our gym playlists or perhaps listen to

3D world? Are we delusional? If you can relate to this, don’t worry- You

podcasts when we are working out, or walking or waiting in line at the

are not alone.

coffee shop- but even the simple act of wearing your earphones sends a

I am single right now, and it’s undeniable that I feel some pressure to

subconscious message saying: “I am busy! Don’t interrupt me!” to those

try dating apps, since this has become commonplace. Moreover, I am an

around you.

Intimacy Expert! Surely, I should be a master of the apps already?

The same goes for your phone- If your eyes are down and you’re looking

The truth is, it’s just not my thing. I am by no means against dating apps-

at your screen, it’s much less likely that someone will want to interrupt

I know many people who use them with great success. My own brother

what you are doing to approach you.

found love on an app and is now happily married with the sweetest 6 –

So, next time you’re in public, try putting your phone down and ditching

year old.

the music or podcasts, and see what happens.

Whilst dating apps offer the opportunity of connection to many people

A Smile Goes A Long Way

who feel more comfortable online, or who perhaps have busy schedules

While I’m not suggesting sitting alone in a public space such as a coffee

or simply find it difficult to meet people they like in real life- they are not

shop grinning from ear to ear (people would probably go out of their way

the answer for everyone.

to avoid you), a little smile is one of the best ways to shift your energy and

Even if you are on the apps, knowing how to meet, approach and talk to

make you seem more approachable to others.

people organically is still a handy skill to learn, don’t you think? Even

Life can get busy or hard, and some people are carrying stress and negative

though I don’t like using dating apps, I am no stranger to meeting people,

emotions around with them so much that it reads on their faces. Some

flirting and dating. Perhaps it’s because I never allowed myself to get

people just feel unapproachable.

swept up by the apps, but I have never lost my ‘offline skills’ when it

Let Your Energy Become Magnetic

comes to meeting potential dates. In fact: I have perfected them.

The truth is, being seen as ‘open’ or ‘approachable’ to others, is all depen-

My mission is to share these skills and show that meeting new people

dent on how we feel within ourselves. People can read and feel energy,

offline can be fun, easy and fulfilling. The fear of rejection or ‘failure’ in

even if it's just on a subconscious level. If we feel angry, upset, stressed or

dating can sometimes hold us back- but even if you aren’t successful, you

negative, our energy closes – to the point where we can literally repulse

may just get a great story out of it!

people!

M e e t i n g P e o p l e In ‘ Th e W i l d ’ : H o w T o O f f l i n e D a t e

74

75

Best Holistic Life November 2024

M e e t i n g P e o p l e In ‘ Th e W i l d ’ : H o w T o O f f l i n e D a t e

76

However, when we feel optimistic, happy and relaxed, our energy naturally

A few years ago, I developed my first ever girl crush, to the point where I

opens, and we can become not only approachable but magnetic, meaning we

wanted to ask her out. So, I did what everyone does to their first crush; I

attract people and draw them in.

ignored her for three weeks because I was terrified…

Your emotional state can make you either attractive or repellent. Pretty

After a while I couldn’t wait any longer and decided I just had to try to strike

powerful, right?

up a conversation. The next few times I saw her, I was watching closely for

Practicing gratitude is a very effective way of keeping your energy open. I

the perfect moment to arrive for me to talk to her. The nerves kept building,

know sometimes it can be difficult, but if you focus on the negative, people

I kept over-thinking, and the perfect moment never came- when I finally did

will feel it. Work with a coach or a therapist, read books about gratitude or

approach her it was a huge, awkward mess.

journal – find a way of releasing your negative thoughts and shifting to a

I got to experience first- hand what it’s like for a man to ask a woman out,

more positive mindset.

and it gave me a lot of empathy and understanding for men.

Look Good – Feel Good

As a woman, I am a big fan of making the first move, but how you do it,

Making sure you look good is another way to be more approachable – but not

matters. If I’m interested in a man and curious to get to know him, I might

in the way you might think… This is not about fitting in with beauty standards

casually suggest going for a coffee. This is not me asking them on a date,

at all, but rather dressing in a way that makes you feel attractive. If you feel

the stakes are low, and I leave a lot of space for them to step in and step up.

good, you will naturally have a more open energy and feel more attractive

Without words, by doing this I am communicating my interest, but that’s

and approachable to others.

where I stop. I will suggest a coffee but ask him to pick the place. I can make

Let me share a personal example of this: Recently I was getting ready for a

the first move, but I still want a man to take the lead. I start the game, but he

meeting which I knew I wanted to open up my energy for. I chose to wear

needs to pick up the ball and play with me.

my favorite dress; the fabric feels amazing on my skin, and I love the way it

I won’t make all the moves for him, or chase him, but I can make that first

makes me feel. It’s long and loose, not fitted or a particularly ‘sexy’ cut, it’s

step.

quite old and well-worn and was a little creased… but none of that matters - I

If this feels like too much for you, make it more subtle. Smile at someone

feel great in it!

and keep eye contact for a few seconds, or even just say hello. Find a way to

In the three hours it took me to walk to my meeting, have the meeting, and

break the awkward space between you, the silence and the distance. Anything

then walk back home, I had three men approach me.

which breaks the ice, subconsciously communicates: “Hey, I don’t bite- it’s

One of them literally chased after me from the coffee shop I was in, and said

OK to talk to me”.

he walked behind me for a while waiting for me to get off my phone (again

Put These Steps Into Practice

– put your phone away when you’re in public!)

Once you start making yourself approachable, and even start approaching

This phenomenon had nothing to do with the dress. It was about me in the

others, I’m sure you will be amazed at how the world opens up to you, and

dress, about how I felt in the dress. Do your hair, wear your favorite jewelry,

how many incredible people you will meet.

fragrance, accessories! Whatever you need to feel like a million dollars! When

I hope these tips work for you – and I’d love to hear from you if they do! I

you feel that way, you become magnetic. People will notice.

always enjoy reading my client’s stories, and I’d love to read yours too.

So, now that you know how to be approachable, it's time to learn the next part of the equation: How To Approach People So often I hear women complain

Connect with Magda: https://magdakay.com/bestholisticlife/

how so few men approach them these days, and how there are no ‘real’ men

To help you along, I have a gift for you: my tips to becoming a master of

left… but I get it! Approaching someone is scary. Rejection does not feel nice,

flirting and seduction. In this masterclass, I delve into the art of balancing

no matter which gender you are. Let’s be honest, many women do not seem

desire with love, safety with danger. That sweet spot which allows you to

approachable, and if a man is brave enough to take a chance, they are met

feel comfortable with someone, without getting friendzoned. And especially

with a reaction that teaches them to never try again.

for the readers of Best Holistic Life magazine only, I’m offering a massive

If I was a man, I’d be terrified to approach a modern woman! And I got a

discount. You can grab it here: https://magdakay.com/checkout-get-bet-

taste of it…

ter-at-flirting-seducing-special/

77

Best Holistic Life November 2024

3 STEPS TO LOVING YOURSELF: FINDING YOUR INNER PEACE

BY MARCI HOPKINS

As we navigate the holiday season, a time that can evoke complex

Step 2: Set Boundaries: Protect Your Energy and

emotions and challenges, the importance of safeguarding our

Emotional Well-Being

mental well-being and prioritizing self-care becomes paramount.

As the holiday demands pile up, prioritize your well-being by setting

Amidst the festive whirlwind, it's all too easy to lose sight of our own

boundaries that honor your needs. Learn to gracefully decline

needs. Embracing self-love and discovering inner peace amidst the

draining obligations and embrace activities that rejuvenate your

flurry of activities is not just beneficial but essential for our mental

mind, body, and spirit. Establishing a self-care routine that nurtures

health.

joy and serenity is crucial amidst the holiday frenzy.

My journey from chaos to clarity wasn't an easy one. I vividly recall the pivotal moment in an AA meeting when I hesitantly

Step 3: Find Forgiveness: Release Resentment and

whispered those transformative words, "I love myself". It marked

Cultivate Healing

a turning point in my healing and recovery journey—a moment of

The holiday season may resurface old wounds or unresolved

vulnerability and courage that set me on a path of self-acceptance

conflicts, triggering emotions that need tending to. Practice

and inner peace. This profound experience inspired the creation

forgiveness, towards both yourself and others, to foster inner

of my book "Chaos to Clarity: Seeing the Signs and Breaking the

peace and profound healing. Let go of past grievances, anger, and

Cycles," a heartfelt endeavor to share my story, experiences, and

bitterness, embracing forgiveness as a transformative act of self-

valuable tools to guide others in their healing and recovery journeys

love that enables emotional resilience and serenity.

to help in finding self-acceptance, self-love, and a purposeful life.

In conjunction with my book, I am delighted to offer a complimentary

In the spirit of self-love and mental well-being, let's explore three

self-love guide designed to support you on your journey towards

critical steps to loving yourself and fostering inner peace during the

self-compassion and inner peace. This comprehensive guide

busyness of the holiday season:

includes practical tips and daily exercises to help you cultivate a deep-rooted sense of love and acceptance for yourself.

Step 1: Go Within: Embrace Self-Reflection and

As the holiday season unfolds, remember to honor your journey

Compassion

towards self-love, self-care, and mental well-being with courage

Amidst the frantic pace of the holidays, take moments of tranquility

and compassion. May "Chaos to Clarity" illuminate your path

to reconnect with your inner self. Engage in practices like meditation,

towards self-acceptance, self-love, and a purpose-driven life

journaling, or nature walks to listen to the whispers of your soul.

brimming with joy. Embark on this transformative journey of self-

Practice self-compassion, embracing your vulnerabilities as integral

discovery, and let the radiant glow of inner peace guide you through

parts of your unique beauty and worth.

the festive season and beyond.

Connect with Marci: https://bestholisticlife.info/ChaostoClarity

3 S t e p s t o L o v i n g Y o u r s e l f : F i nd i n g Y o u r Inn e r P e a c e

78

79

Best Holistic Life November 2024

BOOK ADVERT

TRANSFORM THE CHAOS

OF HARMFUL PATTERNS

into the clarity of recovery with Marci Hopkins. Her intimate stories of addiction—to alcohol, attention, and the promise of a fresh start—shine a light on the dark places of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.

By healing past trauma, making amends in relationships, walking in faith, and creating a joy-filled life, Marci proves that there is a better way to live even when it is challenging.

80

81

Best Holistic Life November 2024

CA N YOU TUR N RESE N TME N T I N TO GRATITU D E ?

82

CAN YOU TURN RESENTMENT INTO GRATITUDE?

BY K ATA RZ Y N A 'K A S I A' D O D D

November is a month when we remember to give thanks and be

POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE TEACHING

grateful. We are naturally grateful for things that go our way or

I learned from Native American spirituality that there is a positive

make our lives better and happier. It’s easy to express gratitude

and a negative teaching. Positive one is when straight knowledge is

in these instances. But what about other things that are difficult

handed to us “on a plate” and we just absorb it. Negative teaching

and seem like their purpose is to destroy us or make us miserable?

happens, when there is an obstacle or adversity on our path. Its role

In order to see any sense in it and to prevent becoming stuck in

is to reach deeper inside of our being and wake up a beautiful part

it, we need to expand our awareness. And that requires certain

of us that we don’t know (yet). Thanks to this outer darkness we

conditions: time, inner silence, patience and trust.

find the opposite inside, which is the light. The negative teaching

EVERYTHING IS FOR US, NOT AGAINST US

is more difficult, but at the end it feels more valuable, because it

When something stressful or bad happens we tend to think it’s

is our own wisdom we discover from within. Nobody gave it to us.

against us and we have to fight it. What we also think is that we

DIAMONDS IN DISGUISE

didn’t want it and we didn’t create it. However, this interpretation

Behind everything that feels to us as bad, evil or tragic there is a

means we have not understood the experience yet and there is

piece of our essence that wants to emerge. The deeper it dwells, the

an abandoned or disconnected part of us that is ready to be seen,

more scary it seems. Birth is usually accompanied by some kind of

accepted, and included in our awareness. Our self-awareness wants

pain. Pain forces us to dig deeper. By analogy, the less resistance

to expand inwardly.

to our deep Self we have, the less pain we need in our life to get

We have lots of little pats of us that are beyond our awareness. We

to know these parts of us. We all are conquerors expanding our

are here in our bodies to discover these parts of our deeper Self and

boundaries and life’s territory by acquiring more knowledge, more

become more and more whole. However, there is a veil, sometimes

experience, more confidence, more understanding, making the

a thick veil that separates our awareness from our subconscious.

range of life wider. The same applies to our inner world. There is

These unknown parts of us want to be seen and accepted so

so much undiscovered territory inside of us. However, before we

desperately that they use a “hammer” to break through the veil.

can see the diamond, we look at its disguise that feels ugly, bad or

Otherwise, we would never pay attention to them. And we feel it as

evil. And here we arrive to our virtues.

a bad, difficult or offensive occurrence in our life.

83

Best Holistic Life November 2024

TRUST, INNER SILENCE AND PATIENCE

Third, by trusting the creative force and clearing the mind from

If we stop at the level of the disguise, we will suffer and become

harmful fantasies, we create patience. Patience does not assume

victims, sometimes even perpetual victims. We will complain about

becoming oblivious. Patience moves us through the distance from

life, other people, fate, God, the planet, the government, what have

the now to the moment when we meet this part of us that was

you. So we need a strategy.

abandoned and wanted our love. The more patient with ourselves

First, think about the intelligent force that creates everything with

we are, the less time we waste, because we don’t create things that

passion. It is always at play. It always supports its creation. It always

are irrelevant. We are open to what IS.

wants us to thrive. But there is a gap between this intelligence and

Only then after everything unfolds we can understand the path,

our understanding of it. When we don’t understand something we

appreciate its wild road-signs, and feel gratitude for arriving to

automatically resist and distrust it. This creates bigger gap and

another hidden room in the inner temple where our essence lives.

more pain, and cuts us off from the support.

Nothing is more moving than getting back a piece of your own

We can fill this gap by acknowledging the discomfort and

essence.

unhappiness we experience. We don’t need to accept the

If you are in the middle of something difficult and there is no way

circumstances, but we need to validate how we feel. Always. This

you can feel grateful for it, that’s OK. Take one step at a time. First,

turns our attention inside and that is the key, because without

focus inward and acknowledge how you really feel as a human being

looking inwards we won’t be able to truly move forward. It starts

in this situation, without blaming anybody. Your own Self will be

the “engine” of flow and builds trust.

grateful to you for being present, and you will feel this gratitude.

Second, we acknowledge that we don’t know everything and that’s

And sometimes that’s enough to change the world. After all it’s

OK. By releasing the insistence on knowing everything instantly

about your greatness and not about how bad they or things are.

we clear our mind from producing false and distracting thoughts

I invite you to learn more about the relationship with your deeper

and ideas. The mind becomes more silent and open to the truth.

Self in my book You Are the Dream of the Universe.

Connect with Katarzyna: https://bestholisticlife.info/DreamoftheUniverse

84

Take an UNPRECEDENTED JOURNEY into Your Deep Inner Self in a Revolutionary Look at Self-Awareness.

Our journey on Earth often looks the same. We are raised, acquire knowledge, and make our way through life striving to find our true nature. Yet that quest for self-awareness can be derailed by unresolved trauma deep within, creating an emotional rift. That feeling of being lost on our inner journey can be masked by passions, daily tasks, or material possessions. You’ve turned to self-help guides, therapy, and meditation, yet a deeper connection and inner peace seem just out of reach.

In the end, we end up back at ourselves and asking, “Why am I here?” Now, you can begin to answer that question.

85

Best Holistic Life November 2024

HAPPY PEOPLE DON'T BURNOUT: WORK-LIFE BALANCE

BY N AT H A L I E B OT RO S

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget

regular "me time" just as you would a meeting or an appointment. For

the importance of balancing your professional and personal life. The key to a

example, you might decide to take a relaxing bath every Sunday evening to

happy and fulfilling life is to find that sweet spot between work and life. It is

prepare for the week ahead.

also crucial to understand this balance is not just about dividing time equally

Embrace Flexibility

between work and personal life but about ensuring neither area is neglected.

Flexibility is key in today’s dynamic work environment. Embrace opportunities

Without balance, you risk burnout, stress, and a decline in both physical

for flexible work arrangements if possible. This could mean working from

and mental health. Your productivity at work suffers, and your personal

home certain days of the week or adjusting your work hours to better fit

relationships can become strained. On the other hand, a well-balanced life

your lifestyle. When I started incorporating flexible hours into my routine,

fosters better health, stronger relationships, and increased productivity.

I discovered I had more time for personal interests and self-care activities.

So how do we achieve that?

This shift not only improved my productivity but also allowed me to feel more

Set Clear Boundaries

balanced and less stressed. Flexibility allows you to manage your time more

You should define your work hours and stick to them. I know it is tempting,

effectively and reduces the stress of rigid schedules. For example, if you enjoy

but when you’re off the clock, avoid checking work emails or taking work-

exercising in the morning, flexible hours can enable you to start your day with

related calls. Let your colleagues know your availability and respect their

a workout and then dive into work refreshed and energized.

boundaries as well. For example, you might decide that after 6 PM, all work

Practice Mindfulness

communications will be paused until the next day. This separation helps you

Mindfulness is a powerful tool for achieving work-life balance. By being

fully engage with personal activities and relax without work distractions.

present in the moment, you can reduce stress and improve your overall well-

Prioritize Your Time

being. Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing,

Your time management is a critical skill for achieving work-life balance. Make

or yoga into your daily routine. These practices help you stay grounded and

a list of your daily tasks and prioritize them based on importance and urgency.

focused, enabling you to handle work and personal challenges more effectively.

Allocate specific times for work, family, hobbies, and self-care. By doing this,

For instance, starting your day with a 10-minute meditation session can set a

you ensure that all aspects of your life get the attention they deserve. For

calm and positive tone for the rest of the day.

instance, you could dedicate the first hour of your morning to exercise and

Continuous Improvement

meditation, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.

Work-life balance is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing process.

Learn to Say No

Regularly assess your balance and make adjustments as needed. Life’s

One of the biggest challenges in maintaining a work-life balance is the inability

demands and circumstances change, and your approach to balance should

to say no. Taking on too many responsibilities can lead to overwhelm and

evolve accordingly. Reflect on what’s working and what isn’t: and be open

stress. It is critical to evaluate your capacity and say no when necessary. This

to make necessary changes. For example, if you find that working late nights

doesn't mean you are shirking your duties; rather, it shows you understand

is affecting your family time, or your current work habits are affecting your

your limits and prioritize your well-being. This was my biggest challenge,

health, consider making adjustments to improve your well-being.

as I never wanted to turn down a project and couldn't say no to my family,

Achieving work-life balance is a vital step towards finding true happiness and

which led me to be overwhelmed and constantly stretched thin. It's a difficult

enjoying every aspect of your life. Embrace the process, make adjustments as

balance to strike, but by learning to prioritize and set boundaries you can

needed, and celebrate your progress along the way. You deserve a life where

achieve it. For example, if someone asks you to volunteer for an additional

you can thrive both professionally and personally, and finding this balance is

task or event, consider whether you have the time and energy to commit to it

the key to unlocking your true happiness.

without sacrificing your personal well-being before agreeing.

If you are still struggling with finding that sweet spot, scan the QR code below

Make Time for Yourself

to set up your FREE Happiness Breakthrough Session. I'm here to help you

Self-care is a cornerstone of work-life balance. Make it a priority to engage in

kickstart your path to happiness. Remember: "Happiness grows where balance

activities that rejuvenate you. Whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk,

exists."

or practicing a hobby, these activities help you recharge. Consider scheduling

Connect with Nathalie: https://www.thebon-vivantgirl.com/links

Happy People Don' t Burnout: Work-Life Balance

86

87

Best Holistic Life November 2024

F r o m R e j e c t i o n t o A c c e p t a n c e : H e a l i n g Un w o r t h i n e s s a nd F i nd i n g T r u e B e l o n g i n g

FROM REJECTION TO ACCEPTANCE: HEA LING UNWORTHI N E S S AN D FI N DI NG TRU E BE LONGING

BY PA R I N A Z S H A M S

To belong is a fundamental human need. It gives us a sense of purpose and

Here are three steps to help you reconnect with yourself and heal the

connects us to the world. Ironically, though, the world around us often

unworthiness wound:

leaves us feeling rejected, unseen, and forgotten about. As much as we

1. Connected With Your Body Using Somatic Yoga

need to belong to a support network - be it family, friends, or common

Your physical body is your home. It has been with you since before you

interest groups— we are also unique individuals. This paradox can cause

came into this world and carries all of your unique qualities, strengths,

friction in our lives because belonging in the world often demands that we

and desires. Somatic yoga is a gentle, yet powerful practice accessible

hide parts of ourselves. Each group, whether it’s your family or religion,

to all bodies designed to restore your relationship with your home. It

comes with a set of rules you must follow to be accepted.

emphasizes slow, mindful movements that increase body awareness and

This can leave us feeling trapped: having to choose between our authentic

release stored tension and trauma. By practicing somatic yoga, you can

expression and inner peace or people and places that give us meaning. To

cultivate a deeper understanding and acceptance of yourself. This practice

cope with this conflict, we can adopt a masquerade-like quality to our lives

can ignite your inner wisdom, remind you of your personal power, and

where we live out two separate identities; one the outside world sees and

provide a consistent, safe home to retreat to. This connection to yourself

the other that occurs in the shadows, where it’s safe to express yourself

reinforces to your mind, body, and nervous system that you are worthy

freely.

of a connection that does not limit your expression or instill self-doubt.

This causes a fracture in your soul and identity, breeding deep self-doubt,

2. Use the Affirmation:

perfectionism, and a persistent feeling of unworthiness. Many of us can

“My Worth is Self-Evident, I Don’t Need to Prove It” Affirmations are

carry around this soul fracture without realizing it is the root cause of

powerful tools for reprogramming your subconscious mind. By consis-

many of our struggles in life, from personal relationship patterns to

tently repeating the affirmation, “My worth is self-evident, I don’t need to

professional unhappiness.

prove it,” you begin to challenge and change the deeply ingrained beliefs

Living with two conflicting identities creates a wound in our psyche that

of unworthiness. Over time, this affirmation can help you internalize the

tells us we are not worthy of love and acceptance as we are. Instead, we

truth that you are inherently valuable, just as you are.

feel we must become somebody else to receive acceptance.

3. Engage in a Community:

The Unworthiness Wound

That Honors Authenticity and Supports You in Being Real Finding a

The unworthiness wound is deep and often unconscious, directing our

community that values authenticity is crucial for your sense of belonging.

lives into a chase for belonging. We adopt behaviors, lifestyles, and rela-

Seek out groups or individuals who encourage you to be your true self,

tionships just to soothe our feeling of unworthiness and to prove that we

celebrate your uniqueness, and support you in your journey of self-dis-

belong; to say, “Choose me. Don’t reject me.”

covery and acceptance. Whether it’s a support group, a circle of friends, or

However, that wound cannot be healed through people-pleasing tenden-

an online community, being part of a group that honors authenticity can

cies or a picture-perfect life. It can only truly be healed when we feel

provide the validation and support you need to heal and grow. Belonging

content with ourselves; when we accept ourselves as we are, and appre-

is a deep, human need and starts with belonging to yourself. By connect-

ciate our unique qualities. Accepting our authentic selves is an act of

ing with your body, affirming your inherent worth, and engaging with

courage. To be radically authentic is to no longer stay quiet, but to say, “I

a supportive community, you can heal the wounds of unworthiness and

belong to myself, and that’s the start of all honest connection.”

create a life where you feel seen, valued, and truly belong.

To learn more about Parinaz’s in-person retreats that help you cultivate authentic self-connection and build a healing community, connect with me: https://linktr.ee/shamspari

88

89

Best Holistic Life November 2024

3 WAYS YOU CAN GIVE THANKS THROUGH SERVICE

BY TOBIE SPEARS

For some people, it's only once a year that they sit down to think about

out at a local animal shelter, or offering free services in your area of

the things they are thankful for. However, creating a daily ritual of

expertise, your efforts can make a significant difference.

giving thanks is a healthy way to foster a positive outlook. Whether

As a parent, I think it's important to teach young children the value

you are saying grace over a meal or writing down three things you are

of community service. When I was young, my mom often took us to

thankful for every evening, being aware of thankfulness is a powerful

the food bank or the homeless shelter to donate food to the hungry.

motivator to look for the positive in one's life.

As a teenager, I spearheaded coat drives for the homeless and visited

In our home, we make it a habit to offer thanks before every meal.

nursing homes during the holidays with my extended family to sing

We give thanks to the universe for the food provided, for the ability

and visit with the residents. These experiences created powerful

to be together, for the love we share, and for the safety of our family.

memories and taught me that working together allows us to make a

We also ask for special protection for those with heavy hearts and

bigger difference than if we were acting alone. Service is a great skill

sadness, hoping they are surrounded by love and peace. I believe that

for both adults and children to cultivate.

considering others' sufferings as we give thanks for our lives helps

Tip: Check out non-profit organizations to see where your skills are

us stay grounded and compassionate.

needed. Volunteering even a few hours a week can have a huge impact

In addition to offering thanks, there's no better way to show appreci-

on your community.

ation and gratitude than through acts of service. Helping someone can

2. Support Charities

not only brighten their day but also fill your heart with joy. Whether

Charities do incredible work to support those in need, and they rely

it's lending a hand to your neighbors, volunteering at a local shelter,

heavily on donations to continue their mission. You can express your

or supporting community events, there are countless ways to make

gratitude by giving back to these organizations through financial

a positive impact. Here are three simple yet powerful ways you can

contributions, donating items, or participating in fundraising events.

express your gratitude through service. Ready to spread some kind-

Before I ever founded my own nonprofit, my family and I appreciated

ness? Let's dive in!

being involved in humanitarian projects. My mother-in-law is from

1. Volunteer Your Time and Offer Your Skills

Ecuador, and when our girls were young, we decided to sponsor a little

One of the most direct ways to give thanks is by volunteering your time

girl from Ecuador to ensure she received the food and education she

and skills. Think about what you’re good at or enjoy doing, and find a

desperately needed. We sponsored Carolina until she aged out of the

way to share that with others. Whether it’s tutoring students, helping

program at 18 years old and finished her schooling. I strongly believe

3 W a y s Y o u c a n G i v e Th a n k s t h r o u g h S e r v i c e

90

91

Best Holistic Life November 2024

service is our duty as human beings, to serve when and where

balls, toys, clothes, reusable diapers, and more. At the end

it's possible. Now, as the founder of my own non-profit I rely

of our time together, the preschool students were singing

strongly on volunteers and contributions from strangers. We

and dancing, and the director sang a song of thanks to all the

wouldn’t be able to feed and educate all our kiddos without

volunteers. We danced in a circle with smiles beaming and

the financial support from sponsors.

tears streaming down our faces. It was a beautiful moment of

Tip: Research charities that resonate with your values and

kindness and gratitude. It’s vital to be kind, especially during

find out how you can contribute. Charities have a long list of

the season of Thanksgiving, as we give thanks for our lives

their current needs and ways to get involved.

and for the ability we have to serve.

3. Perform Random Acts of Kindness

Tip: Keep an eye out for opportunities to help others in your

Sometimes, the simplest gestures can have the biggest

daily life. A little kindness goes a long way and often inspires

impact. Performing random acts of kindness is a wonderful

others to pay it forward.

way to spread gratitude and positivity. Whether it’s paying

Showing thanks through service not only helps others but

for someone’s coffee, leaving a kind note for a stranger, or

also brings a sense of fulfillment and joy. So, take a moment

helping someone carry their groceries, these small actions

to give back, and you'll find that gratitude grows when it's

can make a big difference in someone’s day.

shared. Happy giving!

I recently had the opportunity to volunteer at a nonprofit preschool in Mexico. We donated school supplies, soccer

Connect with be.humanitarian: https://linktr.ee/behumanitarian

PO D CAST

Oh ,my HEALTH...

92

There is

HOPE! GREAT INTERVIEWS!

Just listened to the episode on medical gaslighting and could totally relate to Ashe‘s story. I have my own experience of doctors not listening and being treated for the wrong thing for 3 years.

This is such a must listen episode!

Lyn Thomson, 05/19/2022

INCREDIBLE PODCAST!

Jana and her guests uplift and inspire in every episode! A must listen for anyone looking to level up in business, mindset, and life—highly recommend!

maddie@podcastingyou, 02/14/2022

4.7

OUT OF 5

on Itunes 1.9k Ratings

LISTEN TO THE NEWEST EPISODE NOW!

93

Best Holistic Life November 2024

Let's Walk Each Other Home: A Legacy of Resilience

94

LET'S WALK EACH OTHER HOME: A LEGACY OF RESILIENCE

BY ANDREW MERCEIN.

It wasn’t easy for our ancestors, either; not for the first creatures that hauled

but as misguided children to be shown compassion and understanding. I was a

themselves out of the primordial ocean onto dry land, nor the tree-dwelling

lost boy, and even now, as a grown man, I still sometimes am, finding my way

mammals that endured the extinction of the dinosaurs. It wasn’t easy for the

along a path I’ve never walked before. And, even though I know how to find my

first upright primates who came down from those same trees into the plains,

way home, I spent far too long wandering alone in the pitch dark, stumbling

nor for our cave-dwelling, hominid forebears, huddled together against the

along, never knowing if or when I was one step away from falling down and

bitter cold of the ice ages.

finding myself unable to get back up again.

So many of us are fortunate in that we no longer have to contend with fearsome

The thing is, I wasn’t alone. People were there. But I isolated myself in shame

predators or live at the mercy of the elements. But the proliferation of human

because I didn’t realize that we all struggle with these things. There is no

society did not rid the world of danger. There are beasts of a different kind,

blueprint on how to do life. It’s confusing and scary. I constantly compared

that dwell in the shaded regions of our minds. Something stirs in the back

myself to the projections others put out, not realizing I was dying of thirst in

alleys of our consciousness. And, just like any bear, tiger, or wolf, it can--and

a rainstorm, surrounded by love, the very thing I needed in order to survive. I

will---eat you alive.

withered and shrunk against a baseline of “normality” that only existed in my

As our ancestors had spears and axes and arrows, we, too, have ways to ward

head, drowning in shame, self-loathing, and the fear that, in falling short of

off these creatures. But in order to slay a dragon, one must first acknowledge

some imagined ideal, I was letting down everyone I knew and loved. All I ever

it’s existence. Far too many people remain unaware what lurks in the shadows.

needed was to know that I was enough as I was; that, by virtue of existing, I

And, for that reason, so many are carried away in it’s clutches.

was worthy of being loved, period. And there were, are, and never will be any

A Journey Through Darkness

prerequisite conditions for that.

I have been one of those people. My lived experience taught me that life

A Vision of Community

wasn’t easy, but still; I felt broken for struggling. Even when I (seemingly)

Struggling does not make you broken. Even the most magnificent trees bend,

had everything, I suffered, and because I didn’t know what to do or where to

strain, and lose branches in a storm. We are stronger and more beautiful

turn, I self-medicated and self-loathed. I hated myself for feelings I didn’t

because we endure. Up until now, I’ve come out the other side of my despair,

realize were normal. The sky turned black, even when the sun would shine,

but I know far too many people who haven’t.

and nights were long and restless. Life lost it’s luster. I remember how, as a

When we launched the Mental Health Television Network, we had a vision to

boy, I’d claw at my forearms and beat my bare hands against a punching bag

create the first 24/7 streaming service dedicated exclusively to de-stigmatiz-

until my knuckles were raw and bleeding, all to distract myself from the gaping

ing the conversation about mental health. The reception has been incredibly

pit of despair inside.

affirming: people long to be a part of a community in which they feel safe and

In my reflection, I’ve come to realize that what most I needed was someone

nurtured and loved, free from the judgements of others, but just as impor-

to bare it all to, a shoulder to bury my face in, and cry, and cry a little more, to

tantly, free from self-judgement.

be held, and told that what I felt was normal… that I was worthy of love, and

This is our mission: to let people know that, no matter what you’re struggling

despite how I felt, that things would get better. I needed someone to tell me

with, you are not alone.

that life is messy and confusing and painful, but that it’s also breathtakingly

Spiritual leader Ram Dass said it best: “We’re all just walking each other

beautiful, and for every bottomless abyss there comes a soaring peak in turn…

home.” No one can say for certain where the road leads, but the best we can

that the dark clouds would pass, the ice on my heart would melt, and a brilliant

do is be there for each other, every step of the way.

sun would rise over the shapeless, grey horizon.

I promise… it’s more than enough.

I wanted—I needed—so badly to hear this, to know that I didn’t have to bear the crushing weight of fear and self-doubt all on my own, but I never did. I

Mental Health Television Network: https://mhtn.org/

didn’t know to treat my negative emotions not like demons to be vanquished,

Meet Andrew: https://linktr.ee/andrewmercein

95

Best Holistic Life November 2024

WHAT MAKES DIGESTZEN SO UNIQUE? THIS BLEND IS AN EXCELLENT OPTION FOR IMPROVING DIGESTIVE FUNCTION. I T A I D S I N B LO AT I N G , CO L I T I S , CO N ST I PAT I O N , A B D O M I N A L C R A M PS , DIARRHEA, GASTRITIS, HEARTBURN, AND NAUSEA. DIGESTZEN IS A UNIQUE B L E N D O F T H E F O L LO W I N G O I L S : G I N G E R , P E P P E R M I N T, TA R R A G O N , F E N N E L , C A R A W A Y, C O R I A N D E R , A N D A N I S E .

Ginger Benefits: Historically, ginger has been used for digestive health for thousands of years. Ginger is a warming oil that improves blood flow and contains natural enzymes to help break down foods to be metabolized. The scent alone of ginger can help with nausea and motion sickness.

Peppermint Benefits: One of the most significant benefits of peppermint is its ability to help regulate calcium ion channels. Basically, it helps get things moving when you are constipated and slows things down with diarrhea. It is also ideal for helping break foods down. Peppermint is an absolute must for any home.

stock.adobe.com | dariaustiugova & よしだなみこ / Namiko Y

Fennel Benefits: With antiparasitic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, diuretic, and expectorant properties, it is easy to see why fennel is part of this blend. Fennel aids with intestinal spasms, liver support, balancing hormones, and stimulating the sympathetic nervous system.

Wh a t m a k e s D i g e s t z e n s o u n i q u e ?

96

Digestive Magnesium Oil Spray • 1/2 cup magnesium oil • 10 drops Digestzen essential oil blend • Optional: Fractionated coconut oil

Directions: In a small glass spray bottle, combine the magnesium oil and Digestzen essential oil blend. If you have sensitive skin or prefer a milder formula, you can add a few drops of fractionated coconut oil to dilute the essential oil. This step is optional but can provide extra comfort for those with sensitive skin.

Close the bottle tightly and shake it well to ensure the essential oil is mixed evenly with the magnesium oil.

Spray a small amount of the Digestive Magnesium Oil Spray onto your abdomen or areas where you feel discomfort. Gently massage the spray into your skin using circular motions. Allow the spray to absorb for a few minutes before dressing.

Note: As this recipe contains natural ingredients, it's advisable to use the spray within a few months to ensure effectiveness.

Digestive Soothing Lotion • 1/4 cup unscented lotion • 10 drops Digestzen essential oil blend

Directions: In a small bowl, combine the unscented lotion and Digestzen essential oil blend. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the essential oil is evenly distributed throughout the lotion.

Carefully transfer the digestive soothing lotion mixture into a clean, airtight container. Small glass containers work well for this purpose.

After washing your hands, apply a small amount of the Digestive Soothing Lotion onto your abdomen. Gently massage the lotion into your skin using circular motions. Allow the lotion to absorb for a few minutes before dressing.

Note: As this recipe contains natural ingredients, it's advisable

stock.adobe.com | Artem Furman

to use the lotion within a few months to ensure freshness.

97

Best Holistic Life November 2024

CUSTOMIZING YOUR "WHOLISTIC" LIFE-STYLE

BY BENTLEY MURDOCK

When first approaching the concept of "Holism", some arrive at their

divide up that circle into as many sections, on which you'd like

own definition through an introductory concept, such as "Holy" or

to be actively working on this week or month. Keep it simple and

"Wholesome". To broaden the conversation, and to keep the mind

start where success is easy. Sustainability is what we're after, so

and heart as open as possible, I challenge you to embrace the concept

keep it to a few focus items, along with a few that were the focus

of "Wholism", from the perspective of what cumulatively causes

from last week or last month. The following are just a few ideas to

one to feel "Whole" and "Complete". Through this multifaceted

get you started and get you headed in the right general direction.

lens, we grant ourselves ultimate permission to define our own

Relational Peace

Wholistic Lifestyle routines, quite differently from those around us.

Consider how communication and compassion cover many aspects

Take a step back from what you think wellness is, and consider

of interpersonal relationships. Expression, The Five Love Languages

what a truly wholistic balance might look like for you. Perhaps the

by Gary Chapman, healthy boundaries, understanding, patience,

ideal “gym” for you is simply enjoying the outdoors, or playing

forgiveness, and the improved Golden Rule (treat others the way

with your grandkids. Your ideal lifestyle eating patterns for optimal

they want to be treated, and if you don't know, ASK) all play a role.

sustainable longevity, will likely not fit within the parameters of

The heart is either at war or at peace (with others and ourselves),

someone else's trendy diet.

so redefine peace and reorient all relational aspects of your life

If your wellness journey were, in some way, similar to the

accordingly.

multidimensional being you are and always have been, consider

Nutrient Density

what some of your most influential and interconnecting pieces

Nutrition measures vitamin, nutrient, and mineral levels. Fruits,

might be...

berries, melons, veggies, microgreens, crucifers, herbs, nuts,

Think about what makes you intrinsically YOU. Those pieces (and

and seeds are among the most nutrient-dense foods. Increasing

likely many others) have all worked in concert to collectively create

intake of these phytonutrient-rich foods enhances our ability to

the current level of physical, emotional, and relational well-being

fight disease and illness daily. Armor up at every meal! Remember,

you currently enjoy—or could be enjoying—today.

darker greens and berries indicate higher nutrient density and are

Grab a blank sheet of paper, draw a large circle, and use lines to

better for our bodies.

C u s t o m i z i n g YOUR " Wh o l i s t i c " L i f e - S t y l e

98

99

Best Holistic Life November 2024

True Self-Care

“Wholistic” Self-Assessment Wheel

This category should be customized because only you know

A powerful tool in determining what baby steps to be taking in

what your body, heart, and mind needs. Hygiene, cleansing,

order to put lasting and sustainable change into motion is the

detox, regular sunshine, fresh air, adequate sleep, and mental/

Wholistic Self-Assessment Wheel you’ve begun customizing

emotional rest are just the start. If you struggle to find time for

for yourself. The word wholistic means “all parts,” so imagine

rest, it’s even more important to prioritize your needs. Though it

what that might mean for you when it comes to the multifaceted

may seem selfish, putting yourself first is crucial for effectively

health and wellness goals you are currently pursuing. Play

loving and serving others. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

around with how you’ll customize your assessments in the

Macronutrients

future, and apply it to those goal-bound efforts you’ll continue

Many people are unaware of the benefits of the “plate method”

to make along the way.

for balanced meals, leading to meals lacking critical components.

To really solidify where I’m going with this, picture how a

Complex carbs, whole grains, oats, quinoa, root veggies,

“rising tide” in your life would certainly be able to “lift all

beans, lentils, legumes, and plant proteins should each have

ships” equally. All we have to do is start turning on those old

a prominent place on your plate. These should make up half of

faucets and bring those ships up!

each meal (25% complex carbs and 25% lean or plant protein),

The key questions for you to chew on would be these:

with fruits and veggies making up the other half.

What do the ships represent in my story?

Desire-Based Re-Creation

What’s missing in my wellness puzzle?

Most people think “recreation” means athletics or sports,

What could my baby-steps be if I started to bring up the tide

but it can mean the re-creation of your new self. This allows

in my life?

for unique customizations! Whether it's cardio, HIIT, Pilates, wrestling with kids, trampolining, or chasing your dog, tailor activities to what you love. Add resistance training when possible and keep it fun!

Connect with Bentley: https://linktr.ee/ingomu

A D VERT

100

101

Best Holistic Life November 2024

G i v i n g Th a n k s T r a n s c e nd s B o r d e r s

102

GIVING THANKS TRANSCENDS BORDERS

BY AL WYNANT

Growing up in a small town in Belgium, I enjoyed a childhood rich with traditions.

further cementing the sense of togetherness and appreciation. I could see why

My family celebrated holidays from New Year’s Day to Christmas. The holidays

so many people looked forward to this holiday and traveled home to celebrate

were filled with food, family, and gifts of chocolate for the kids, a staple of

it with family. That first Thanksgiving cemented the celebration as my favorite

almost every celebration. I have fond memories of delicious chocolate eggs on

holiday across two continents. It wasn’t what I had experienced from the movies,

Easter and St. Nicholas figurines on December 6. Thanksgiving however was

no fighting or screaming, but a heartfelt celebration of gratitude.

not part of our tradition. I had heard about it from American television shows

"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming

and movies, but I didn’t really understand it. Based on the movies, it seemed

gardeners who make our souls blossom." - Marcel Proust

like a gathering to air your family grievances and disagreements.

Inspired by Thanksgiving, I try to incorporate a spirit of gratitude into my daily

In my mid-twenties I moved to Tucson, Arizona. The city, filled with towering

life. I wanted to share my practices with you, especially now as we prepare to

saguaro cacti and stunning sunsets, offered a stark contrast to my quaint

celebrate the holiday once again.

Belgian hometown. As I settled into my new life, I became increasingly aware

Gratitude Journaling

of holidays I had never experienced. Two stood out. Independence Day and

I end my day by writing down what I am grateful for that day, whether it was a

Thanksgiving. Among these and other holidays, people seemed most excited

kind gesture from a colleague, an accomplishment, a delicious meal, the love

about Thanksgiving. The excitement appeared to surpass that of Christmas.

of a partner, or even a good movie. This practice helps me focus on uplifting

My first introduction to Thanksgiving came from a friend who invited me

moments and sets a positive tone for the next day. I am always grateful for

to join his family's celebration. He explained that the holiday was a time for

chances and opportunities, my partner and dog, being alive, for family and

giving thanks for the harvest and the blessings of the past year. He shared

friends in addition to the unique experiences of the day.

that the tradition dated back to the early 1600s when Native Americans and

Mindful Appreciation

Pilgrims celebrated the harvest together. I was intrigued and accepted the

Practicing mindfulness became a daily routine, with moments taken throughout

invitation to learn more.

the day to pause and appreciate my surroundings. Whether savoring the taste

On Thanksgiving Day, I arrived at their home and was greeted warmly. The

of my morning espresso, enjoying the view, or relishing a quiet moment in

house smelled amazing, and the dining room table was stunning, adorned

a park, this practice helps maintain a sense of presence and gratitude for the

with fall decorations and a massive cornucopia centerpiece filled with small

little things.

pumpkins and autumn leaves. The atmosphere was relaxing, and the sense of

Thank You Notes

family and excitement felt familiar. It felt like home.

I adopted the habit of writing handwritten thank-you notes to express my

Before dinner, my friend’s father gathered everyone around the table and

appreciation to friends and colleagues. This small act of kindness not only

asked each person to share something they were thankful for. We all expressed

strengthens my relationships but also makes me more aware of the positive

heartfelt statements of gratitude, and I was particularly touched by this. When

impact others have on my life.

it was my turn—I was a bit nervous—I expressed my gratitude for the kindness

Acts of Kindness

and hospitality of the family, for welcoming me into their tradition, and for

I committed to performing random acts of kindness, such as volunteering,

helping me understand the meaning of Thanksgiving.

being a mentor, offering a listening ear to someone in need. These acts remind

The meal that followed was a revelation. I savored each dish, discovering new

me of the importance of giving back and being grateful for the opportunity

flavors and textures. The turkey paired perfectly with the savory stuffing and

to make a difference. My first Thanksgiving in America was more than just a

tart cranberry sauce. At first, the green bean casserole seemed unusual, but it

cultural experience; it was a turning point that enriched my perspective on

has since become one of my favorite holiday dishes. The sweet potato casserole

life. The tradition of giving thanks, I realized, was universal, transcending

with marshmallows is still on my list of dishes I don’t quite understand. I had

borders and bringing people together. By incorporating these practices into

my first slice of pumpkin pie, and it was an amazing end to the meal.

my daily routine, I found myself living a more grateful, fulfilling life, deeply

After dinner, everyone gathered in the living room to relax and enjoy each

appreciative of the journey I am on.

other's company. We played games, shared stories, and laughed together,

Connect with Al at INGOMU: https://linktr.ee/ingomu

103

Best Holistic Life November 2024

SEASO N AL RECIPES TO LIVE YOUR B EST LIFE !

S SEASONAL RECIPES T TO HELP YOU

LIVE YOUR > BEST LIFE!?

C R E AT E D BY - D R. D E E

Gluten-Free

Vegan

Dairy-Free

104

105

Best Holistic Life November 2024

GRILLED CAPRESE SANDWICH Ser ves 4 8 slices of gluten-free bread 1 cup fresh basil leaves 2 large tomatoes, thinly sliced 1 cup dairy-free mozzarella cheese, sliced 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze Salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions: Preheat a grill pan or sandwich press over medium heat. Drizzle olive oil over one side of each slice of gluten-free bread. Place the bread slices, oiled side down, on a clean surface. Layer the dairy-free mozzarella cheese slices on half of the bread slices. Top the cheese with sliced tomatoes, followed by fresh basil leaves. Season the tomatoes and basil with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the tomatoes and basil. Place the remaining slices of bread on top of the tomato and basil layers, oiled side facing up. Carefully transfer the assembled sandwiches to the preheated grill pan or sandwich press. Grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Once grilled, remove the sandwiches from the heat and let them cool slightly.

HORMONE BALANCING MILK TEA Ser ve s 4 For the black tea:

For the coconut milk foam:

4 Tbsp black tea

1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut

3 Tbsp Stinging Nettle Leaves

milk, refrigerated

2 Tbsp Raspberry Leaf Leaves

1 tablespoon maple syrup

4 cups water

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Once boiling, remove from heat and add the tea mixture. Let steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on your desired strength. While the tea is steeping, carefully open the refrigerated can of coconut milk without shaking it. Scoop out the thick coconut cream that has risen to the top and place it in a mixing bowl. Save the remaining coconut water for another use. Add maple syrup and vanilla extract to the coconut cream if using. Using a hand mixer or immersion blender, whip the coconut cream until it becomes thick and frothy. Once the tea has steeped, remove the tea bags and divide the tea evenly among four cups. Spoon the whipped coconut milk foam on top of each cup of tea.

Seasonal Recipes to Help you Live Your Best Life!

106

SEASONAL RECIPES TO HELP YOU LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE! C R E AT E D BY -

DR. DEE

ITALIAN DESSERT PANFORTE Serve s 1 2 1 cup mixed nuts

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:

1/2 cup dried figs, chopped

1/2 cup dried cranberries

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Zest of 1 lemon

with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped nuts, dried

1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped

1/2 cup maple syrup

figs, dried apricots, and dried cranberries. In a separate bowl, whisk together

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 cup brown rice syrup

the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground

1/2 cup gluten-free flour

Zest of 1 orange

cloves, ground black pepper, orange zest, and lemon zest. In a small saucepan,

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1/4 cup coconut oil

heat the maple syrup, brown rice syrup, and coconut oil over medium heat

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Cocoa Powder, for dusting

until the coconut oil is melted. Stir to combine. Pour the syrup mixture over the dry ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Mix everything together until well combined and the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the syrup mixture.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared cake pan and press it down firmly and evenly using a spatula or your hands. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm and the top is set. Remove from the oven and let the panforte cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, remove it from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the panforte into wedges or squares.

107

Best Holistic Life November 2024

Seasonal Recipes to Help you Live Your Best Life!

108

HORMONE BALANCING CHOCOLATE RASPBERRY BAKED OATS Ser ves 6 2 cups rolled oats 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed 2 tablespoons cacao powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 2 cups unsweetened almond milk 1/4 cup maple syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup fresh raspberries 1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips Fresh raspberries and dairy-free yogurt Directions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or individual ramekins with coconut oil or cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, cacao powder, ground cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until evenly combined. Gently fold in the fresh raspberries and chocolate chips, if using. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish or divide it evenly among the ramekins. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the oats are set and the top is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm topped with fresh raspberries and a dollop of dairy-free yogurt, if desired.

109

Best Holistic Life November 2024

HORMONE BALANCING PECAN PIE Se rves 1 2 For the crust:

Directions:

2 cups almond flour

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the almond

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well

2 tablespoons maple syrup

combined and a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and

Pinch of salt

up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to

For the filling:

smooth out the crust. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes,

1 1/2 cups pecan halves

or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

1/2 cup almond milk

While the crust is cooling, prepare the filling. In a food processor, combine

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted

the pecan halves, pitted dates, almond milk, melted coconut oil, maple syrup,

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and

2 tablespoons maple syrup

creamy. Pour the pecan filling into the cooled crust and spread it out evenly.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Place the pie back in the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

until the filling is set and slightly golden brown on top.

Pinch of salt

Seasonal Recipes to Help you Live Your Best Life!

110

NASHVILLE CRISPY MUSHROOM SANDWICH Glute n - Fre e , Ve g a n, Ser ves 4 For the crispy chicken of the

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

woods mushrooms:

Cooking oil for frying

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the almond milk and hot sauce to create a

1 pound chicken of the woods mush- For assembling the sandwich:

batter. In another shallow bowl, mix together the gluten-free flour, smoked

rooms, cleaned and sliced into thin 4 gluten-free hamburger buns

paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat cooking oil in a

strips

Vegan mayonnaise

skillet over medium heat. Dip each mushroom slice into the almond milk batter,

1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour

Sliced tomatoes

then dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Fry

1 cup unsweetened almond milk

Lettuce or spinach

the coated mushrooms in the hot oil for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or

1 tablespoon hot sauce

Pickles

until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Nashville hot sauce

towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Toast the gluten-free hamburger buns

1 teaspoon garlic powder

until lightly golden. Spread vegan mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun.

1 teaspoon onion powder

Top with sliced tomatoes, lettuce or spinach, and pickles if desired. Place a generous amount of crispy chicken of the woods mushrooms on top of the vegetables. Drizzle Nashville hot sauce over the mushrooms according to your preference. Place the top half of the bun on top of the mushrooms to complete the sandwich.

111

Best Holistic Life November 2024

SWEDISH TURKEY MEATBALLS W/MASHED POTATOES Se rves 6 For the Turkey Meatballs:

florets

Roll the turkey mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Heat 2

1 lb ground turkey

2 tablespoons olive oil

tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs

1/2 cup gluten-free bread crumbs

1/4 cup dairy-free milk

in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer

1/4 cup almond milk

2 garlic cloves, minced

the browned meatballs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake the

1 small onion, finely chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

meatballs in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.

2 garlic cloves, minced

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cauliflower mashed potatoes.

1 teaspoon dried parsley

For the Cream Sauce:

Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well. In a

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

2 tablespoons olive oil

skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 cup dairy-free sour cream

and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the steamed cauliflower florets

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons almond flour

to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes,

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

stirring occasionally. Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a food processor. Add

For the Cauliflower Mashed

2 cups vegetable broth

the dairy-free milk and blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency

Potatoes:

Salt and pepper to taste

with more milk if needed. Keep warm. To make the cream sauce, heat 2 table-

1 large head cauliflower, cut into

spoons of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the gluten-free flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour. Slowly pour in the

Directions:

vegetable broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey,

until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in the dairy-free sour cream and

gluten-free bread crumbs, almond milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried

Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

parsley, dried thyme, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Seasonal Recipes to Help you Live Your Best Life!

LIBIDO BOOSTING CHOCOLATE ALMOND BUTTER BROWNIES Serve s 1 2 1 cup almond butter

2 tablespoons maca root powder

1/2 cup maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 cup cocoa powder

Pinch of salt

2 tablespoons ground flaxseed

1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chopped almonds for topping

Directions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, maple syrup, cocoa powder, ground flaxseed, maca root powder, vanilla extract, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until smooth and well combined. If desired, fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle chopped almonds on top of the batter, if using. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the baking dish for at least 10 minutes. Once cooled, lift the parchment paper to remove the brownies from the baking dish and transfer them to a cutting board.

CHEESY CAULIFLOWER SOUP Serve s 6 1 large head cauliflower, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 onion, diced 4 cups vegetable broth 1 cup unsweetened almond milk 1/4 cup nutritional yeast 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Directions: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the cauliflower florets to the pot, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is fork-tender. Once the cauliflower is cooked, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour the blended soup back into the pot over low heat. Stir in the almond milk and nutritional yeast, and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

112

113

Best Holistic Life November 2024

WARM PUMPKIN SALAD Glute n- Fre e , Ve g an , Ser ves 6 For the Salad:

1 cup sliced mushrooms

Directions:

1 small pumpkin, peeled, seeded, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced pumpkin with olive oil, salt,

diced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

and pepper. Spread out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.

Salt and pepper to taste

Salt and pepper to taste

While the pumpkin is roasting, prepare the marinated mushrooms. In a bowl,

15 oz can garbanzo beans, rinsed

For the Honey Mustard

whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and

6 cups fresh spinach leaves

Dressing:

pepper. Add the sliced mushrooms and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

3 tablespoons olive oil

15 minutes. In a large salad bowl, combine the roasted pumpkin, garbanzo

1 cup sliced cucumber

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

beans, spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, and

1 cup sliced red onion

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

marinated mushrooms. In a small jar, combine the ingredients for the honey

1 cup marinated mushrooms

1 tablespoon Maple syrup

mustard dressing: olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup,

For the Marinated Mushrooms:

Salt and pepper to taste

salt, and pepper. Shake well to emulsify. Drizzle the honey mustard dressing

2 tablespoons olive oil

over the salad and toss gently to coat.

Seasonal Recipes to Help you Live Your Best Life!

114

SPANISH POTATO OMLETTE Serve s 6 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the sliced

1 large onion, thinly sliced

onion and red bell pepper and cook until they are softened and slightly cara-

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

melized, about 8-10 minutes. Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet and

6 tablespoons olive oil

mix well with the onions and bell pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs

8-10 cherry tomatoes, halved

and season with salt and pepper. Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the potato

6-8 large eggs

mixture in the skillet. Gently shake the skillet to distribute the eggs evenly.

Salt and pepper to taste

Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the egg mixture, pressing them

Fresh parsley, chopped

slightly into the eggs. Cook the omelette over medium-low heat for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is almost cooked

Directions:

through. Carefully flip the omelette using a large plate or lid. Cook for an

Heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.

additional 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs are fully cooked and the omelette

Add the sliced potatoes and cook until they are tender, stirring occasionally,

is golden brown on both sides.

about 10-12 minutes. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside. In

115

Best Holistic Life November 2024

HAMANTASCHEN COOKIES WITH CHOCOLATE Ser ves 1 2 For the dough: 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour 1/2 cup coconut oil, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup agave nectar 1/4 teaspoon salt 2-3 tablespoons cold water, if needed

For the chocolate filling: 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips 2 tablespoons coconut cream

Directions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour, softened coconut oil, agave nectar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it comes together. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles of dough, about 3 inches in diameter. In a small saucepan, melt the dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut cream or coconut milk over low heat, stirring until smooth. Place a small spoonful of the chocolate filling in the center of each dough circle.

To shape the Hamantaschen cookies, fold up the edges of the dough circle to form a triangle shape, pinching the corners together to seal in the filling. Place the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Seasonal Recipes to Help you Live Your Best Life!

116

DETOX SWEET POTATO ARUGULA SALAD Se rve s 6 For the Salad:

Directions:

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the diced sweet potatoes on a

4 cups arugula

baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season

1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped

with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Roast the sweet potatoes in the

1 tablespoon olive oil

preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned. While

Salt and pepper to taste

the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the lemon herb dressing. In a small

For the Lemon Herb Dressing:

bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic,

Juice of 1 lemon

chopped parsley, chopped chives, salt, and pepper. Set aside. In a large salad

1 clove garlic, minced

bowl, combine the arugula and chopped walnuts. Once the sweet potatoes

Zest of 1 lemon

are done roasting, allow them to cool slightly before adding them to the salad

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

bowl. Drizzle the lemon herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

3 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives Salt and pepper to taste

117

Best Holistic Life November 2024

DAL LENTIL SOUP Se rves 6 1 cup red lentils, rinsed

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Directions:

4 cups vegetable broth

Salt and pepper to taste

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

ginger to the pot, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir

1 medium onion, chopped

1 large tomato, chopped

in the ground cumin, turmeric, coriander, and cayenne pepper, and cook

3 cloves garlic, minced

Fresh cilantro for garnish

for another minute to toast the spices.Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot,

1 tablespoon grated ginger

1 cup spinach, chopped

followed by the chopped tomato and vegetable broth. Stir to combine. Bring

Juice of 1 lemon

the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened. Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

Seasonal Recipes to Help you Live Your Best Life!

118

DAHI BAINGAN EGGPLANT CURRY Ser ves 6 1 cup coconut yogurt

Salt to taste

2 medium-sized eggplants

1 onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon coconut oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

1-inch piece of ginger, minced

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

2 tomatoes, chopped

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Directions: Wash the eggplants and cut them into cubes. Soak the eggplant cubes in cold water for about 10 minutes to remove any bitterness. Drain and set aside. Heat oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they soften and release their juices, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in the ground coriander, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Mix well to combine. Add the cubed eggplants to the skillet and stir to coat them with the spices. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplants are partially cooked. Pour in the dairy-free yogurt and mix well to combine with the eggplant mixture. Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the eggplants are fully cooked and tender. Season the curry with salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

SPICY PEAR ADRENAL MOCKTAIL Serve s 6 3 ripe pears, peeled and chopped 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated 1 teaspoons fresh turmeric, grated 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 cup pear juice 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Juice of 1 lime Coconut water Ice cubes Fresh pear slices and lime wedges, for garnish)

Directions: In a blender, combine the chopped pears, grated ginger, grated turmeric, honey or maple syrup, cayenne pepper, ground cinnamon, and lime juice.

Blend until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness and spiciness level if needed by adding more honey or maple syrup and cayenne pepper. Fill each glass with ice cubes and pour the pear mixture over the ice.

Top each glass with sparkling water, leaving some space at the top for garnish.

Garnish with fresh pear slices and lime wedges, if desired.

119

Best Holistic Life November 2024

H AV E YO U S TO P P E D D R E A M I N G ?

5 RU L E S F O R L I F E-A LT E R I N G D R E A M I N G

BY LAUREN HANDEL ZANDER

My daughter wants to be a fabulously wealthy, world-re-

exercise and a spiritual journey that your soul has been dying

nowned chef with an amazing husband. She started talking

to take. Writing it out will get you more present, emotional,

about this dream when she was ten years old.

and "on the hook."

Sometime after the first onslaught of rude awakenings,

2. Take Out the Negatives

insults, or disappointments, these dreams will likely die. I'm

Most clients begin dreaming from the point of what they

hoping that day never comes for my kids, but I know it came

don't want. This is probably because it's easier for humans

for me, as it does for most adults. I know it comes for the

to understand change from the perspective of what already

people we coach at Handel Group or they wouldn't be coming

exists. We can’t help being tethered mentally to the past and

to us to re-ignite and plan their dreams.

the present circumstances, but help it, we must. Writing

In our culture, as you "grow up," you are almost supposed

dreams is a purely creative endeavor, so you must suspend

to let your dreams die. You are supposed to get "realistic."

disbelief for a little while to design a future based on your

Luckily, here at the Handel Group, we are ushering in a new

ideals, not on "what you expect" or “what you don’t want.”

culture, in which dreaming for your life feels good and uplifts

• "I no longer hate looking in the mirror." vs. "When I walk

humanity by improving the consciousness we all swim in. The world needs dreamers! So, in the spirit of wild, life-altering dreaming, I will share the tips we've learned from years of coaching countless people to dream again.

1. Write It Down

by the mirror, I think 'WOW' and feel pride."

• "I finally pay down my debt." vs. "I enjoy paying my bills on time and I have extra money to invest!"

• "I stop picking jerks." vs. "I am in love with my soulmate."

Writing down your dreams is the first step to making them

3. Take Out the Hidden Jabs and Sarcasm

happen. Writing is a powerful way to think, plan, and cause

Your real, true, heartfelt dream has no room for jabs at others

change in your life. If you write your dreams the way we

or yourself. Most people unintentionally weave in these

suggest, reading them will evoke a visceral response. Getting

little buggers which end up zapping the power right out of

yourself into the "feeling state" of your desires is key to your

their dreams. Read through your dream, and if you feel your

ability to manifest them. Writing helps you consciously craft.

good vibrations dip at a certain line, you may have snuck in

You have to face it all when you write it down and you will

sarcasm or a jab.

easily see what fits and doesn't, what feels great to read and what doesn't. If you take your time, the writing will be a heart

• "My mom and I can finally be in the same room." vs. "My mom and I treasure our time together."

H a v e y o u S t o p p e d D r e a m i n g ? 5 R u l e s f o r L i f e - A lt e r i n g D r e a m i n g

120

121

Best Holistic Life November 2024

H a v e y o u S t o p p e d D r e a m i n g ? 5 R u l e s f o r L i f e - A lt e r i n g D r e a m i n g

• "I make zillions of dollars." vs. "I am compen-

5. Write It in the "NOW"

sated abundantly for my work and my feelings

Write your dream in the present tense language

of value start with me."

modeled above. This exercise is about getting you

4. Make It Real

to focus on being the person who could fulfill this

Most of us will go from one extreme to the other;

dream. Writing it in the present tense will have you

when we aren't jabbing, we're "pie in the sky."

feel it right now, making it easier to relate to and

Your dream has to be believable, real, and unique to

draw into your life.

you. Remove any clichés, because they distance you

Sidenote: writing your dreams in the present tense

from the feeling of your dream by being "fluff."

will also force you to face your disbelief and nega-

You want to force yourself to think about and write

tive voices. It's important to face and transform

what you mean, like:

these too, because if left unattended, they will

• "I feel like a million bucks" vs. "I am awake and alive."

• "I look like a supermodel" vs. "My body is trim and lean."

undermine you from the inside out.

Need help dreaming? At Handel Group, we work closely with clients to revisit their dreams and debunk the bad theories standing in the way. We

• "He is the absolute love of my life" vs. "I am so

get our clients to develop a big dream and a bril-

grateful for his thoughtful vacation planning"

liant plan to make it a reality. Don’t be afraid to

Then check for extremes and replace them with

dream big! A journey of a thousand miles starts

something truer, like these:

with a single step.

• "I'm always present with my kids" vs. "I am

Love, Lauren

present with my kids."

• "I have the perfect schedule" vs. "I adore making and sticking to my schedule."

• "I never scream" vs. "peaceful interactions are the norm in my life."

Connect with Lauren: https://tr.ee/SHA_6Oexpn

122

123

Best Holistic Life November 2024

F i e r y F e e l i n g s : H o w E m b r a c i n g An g e r C a n E m p o w e r

124

FIERY FEELINGS: HOW EMBRACING ANGER CAN EMPOWER

BY THERESA BYRNE

Anger often gets a bad rap. It's seen as destructive, uncontrollable,

doesn't disappear; it festers and manifests in unhealthy ways.

and downright dangerous. Yet, when harnessed correctly, anger can

The Healing Power of Anger

be a potent tool for healing and personal growth.

When acknowledged and channeled properly, anger can be transfor-

More powerful than fear, anger can drive us to make positive changes,

mative.

set boundaries, and reclaim our power. It moves us into action and

Here's how: Anger is a Catalyst for Change

sparks necessary changes. Think of the last time you got angry and

Anger highlights areas in our lives where we feel powerless or violated.

made changes in your life!

It can be the spark that ignites a desire for change. For instance, feel-

I’ll admit I’m a weirdo because I like anger.

ing angry about a toxic work environment might push you to seek a

I love watching my clients understand and harness anger in a healthy

better job. My nurse practitioner, Trier Abeyta, used anger to push

manner, especially after putting up with too much for too long. It’s

herself into lifting heavy weights, and now she’s a beast in the gym.

not that I enjoy being around negativity, but I grew up in an angry

Anger is also one of the stages of grief, so anytime we are grieving, it

household and had to learn boundaries early on.

will accompany the waves we are dealing with.

As an Anger Management Educator, I see people finally experience the

Anger can also drive social change. History is full of examples where

power of healthy anger—the “I’m mad as hell and not going to take

collective anger led to significant societal improvements, like the civil

it anymore!” kind of thing. After years of pleasing others, accepting

rights movement.

bad behavior, or not speaking up, I love watching my clients finally

Setting Boundaries

say STOP! Anger’s healthy energy is transformative.

Anger often arises when our boundaries are crossed or standards

The Nature of Anger

violated. It's a signal that we need to protect ourselves or take action.

Anger is a natural emotion, much like joy, sadness, or fear. When

By paying attention to what makes us angry, we can identify our

I teach self-defense, I highlight the “Mama Bear” effect—no one

limits and communicate them effectively. For example, if you're angry

judges a mama or papa bear for protecting their cubs. Anger arises

because a friend constantly cancels plans, you might feel unimportant

when boundaries are crossed, standards violated, or threats are

and ignored, so it might be time to set a boundary about respecting

perceived, by signaling that something needs to change. Unlike fear,

your time.

which paralyzes, anger propels us into action, giving us the energy to

Reclaiming Personal Power

confront issues and fight for what's right.

Anger can be empowering. It reminds us that we deserve respect and

However, many people are uncomfortable with anger. Society teaches

fairness. By addressing the source of our anger, we reclaim control

us to suppress, hide, or deny it, labeling anger as unbecoming, espe-

over our lives. We take BACK our power, out of the hands of someone

cially for women and professionals. This suppression can lead to

else. This can lead to increased confidence and a stronger sense of

chronic stress, anxiety, and physical health issues. Bottled-up anger

self-worth.

125

Best Holistic Life November 2024

InPower Tips: How to Use Your Anger in a Healthy Manner To harness the power of anger constructively, it's crucial to manage it healthily. Here are some insights on how to do just that:

1. Acknowledge Your Anger The first step is recognizing and accepting your anger.

Denying or suppressing it only intensifies its negative impact. Instead, allow yourself to feel angry without judgment. Understand that it's a valid and natural emotion.

2. Identify the Root Cause Anger is often a surface emotion masking deeper feelings like hurt, fear, or frustration. Take time to explore what lies beneath your anger. Are you feeling disrespected? Overwhelmed?

Powerless? Understanding the root cause helps you address the underlying issues rather than just the symptoms.

3. Express Your Anger Constructively healthy expression of anger is key. Avoid aggressive outbursts, passive-aggressive, or rebellious behaviors. Instead, communicate your feelings assertively. Use "I" statements to express how you feel and why. For example, "I feel angry when my ideas are dismissed in meetings because it makes me feel undervalued."

4. Channel Anger into Positive Action Redirect the energy anger provides into productive activities. I love to clean when I’m upset, it redirects my energy and my power. For you it could be physical exercise, creative pursuits, or problem-solving efforts. For instance, channeling anger from an unfair situation at work into a job search or professional development can turn a negative emotion into a positive outcome.

5. Practice Relaxation Techniques When anger feels overwhelming, calming techniques help. Deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness can reduce the intensity of anger and provide clarity. Regular practice of these techniques can also prevent anger from escalating in the first place.

6. Seek support. Sometimes, anger can be too complex or deep-rooted to handle alone. Seeking support from a professional can provide valuable insights and coping strategies. Reach out to me if you need support.

Takeaways: Anger is more than just a reaction to annoyance or injustice; it's a powerful catalyst for personal transformation. By understanding its purpose and learning to express it healthily, we can unlock its potential to heal and empower us. So, the next time you feel that familiar surge of anger, don't push it away. Instead, see it for what it truly is: an opportunity for growth and change. Embrace your anger, and let it lead you towards a more fulfilling and empowered life.

You’ve Got This!

Master T Connect with Theresa: theresabyrne.taplink.ws

F i e r y F e e l i n g s : H o w E m b r a c i n g An g e r C a n E m p o w e r

126

127

Best Holistic Life November 2024

"FINDING MY ORIGINS"

BY JENNY POWERS

Lost

of living in equilibrium with our environment. Evolution honed

A profound thread weaves its way through humanity, linking

our genes to help us survive and thrive, and hunter-gatherer life

us, our ancestors, and all of life since the beginning of time. It

was a successful adaptation for millions of years.

anchors us to Earth, our only home and where we evolved. Most

However, we no longer live in our natural habitat, and the modern

of us are unaware of this continuum and feel numb to the pull of

world rushes us through life on currents of whims, always seeking

these ancient connections. Yet, these ever-present ties are critical

what’s exciting and new. Our world continuously and exponen-

for our wellbeing.

tially changes, and our biology simply hasn’t had time to adapt.

For most of my life, I was lost and detached from this awareness. I

Modern humans live in discord because of a mismatch between

was a fish caught in the accelerating current of the modern world.

how modernity compels us to live and how we evolved to live.

Go faster, be sleeker, do better, and achieve more. I never came up

This fundamental contradiction was the root of my depression.

for air, because I was taught that fish didn’t need air.

Nutrition scientist Dr. Brandon Hidaka says it perfectly. “Humans

I was a perfect little fish. I earned all-A’s, accolades on the basket-

have dragged a body with a long hominid history into an overfed,

ball court, an advanced degree, and an important research career.

malnourished, sedentary, sunlight-deficient, sleep-deprived,

Since accomplishment and success are how our society defines

competitive, inequitable, and socially isolating environment with

worthiness, my self-worth became dependent on my achieve-

dire consequences.”

ment.

The results of our evolutionary mismatch are disastrous. Today,

I did have great successes. It looked like I had it all. But under-

most see a doctor for diseases that we never suffered from as

neath my facade, I was exhausted, burnt out, full of raging self-

hunter-gatherers; cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity,

doubt, and chronically depressed—an Eeyore with a smile pinned

hypertension, anxiety, and depression—the chronic diseases of

on. I thought this internal battle was my fault.

modernity. Fortunately, with an understanding of our evolution-

Eventually, life’s current got too fast for me to keep up, so I

ary origins, we can recognize where we conflict with our biology

retreated from life, thinking I failed. Something was deeply wrong

and work to restore our health and wellbeing. Returning to our

with me, but I didn’t realize it had nothing to do with me not being

origins

good enough. Through writing On the Origin of Being, I learned

1. Sleep

that my struggles were triggered by a disconnect between how we

Evolved trait: Living things evolved circadian rhythms to respond

evolved and how we currently live.

to the daily cycles caused by our Earth’s rotation. We are espe-

Finding the way

cially attuned to light. As hunter-gatherers, we were exposed to

We all learn basic evolution in school. However, except for those

the daily fluctuations of natural light, so biological processes, like

who continue studying biology, the rest are lucky to remember the

the secretion of the sleep hormone melatonin, are in sync with

actual meaning of “survival of the fittest.” We weren’t taught that

our surroundings.

evolution is connected to anything of value in our everyday lives,

Problem: In our artificially lit homes and offices, buffered from

so we forget it. But evolution is the thread that binds us together.

the elements, we get a fraction of the light intensity of the sun in

It turns out we’re not fish. We’re human beings with a long history

the mornings. Then, in the evenings, we have lights and screens

" F i nd i n g m y O r i g i n s "

128

129

Best Holistic Life November 2024

illuminating everything until we

and possessions. The U.S. has no

go to sleep. In this “twilight,” our

mandated leave requirements, and

circadian rhythms are out of whack,

the leave we do get, sits unused.

leading to poor sleep and disease.

Solution: Live a simpler life, with

Solution: Get bright sunlight in the

fewer possessions and less stress.

morning and reduce blue light in the

Develop a life outside of work, actu-

evening to keep our rhythms synced

ally take breaks from work, and enjoy

and get better sleep.

other people and the outdoors.

2. Nutrition

4. Nature

Evolved trait: We evolved to obtain

Evolved

the

most

energy-dense,

trait:

Every

creature

easily

evolved surrounded by nature, which

digestible, and quickly-absorbed

provided everything we needed to

foods to feed our big, hungry brains.

survive; clean air, clean water, food,

However, hunter-gatherers never

and materials to build with. In return,

stripped other nutrients and fiber

our ancestors held reverence for

from these foods and ate them whole.

nature and treated it sustainably.

Problem: No foraging diet contained

Problem: Many modern humans

ultra processed foods, such as refined

believe that we are separate from

sugar, flour, and vegetable oils, or

nature and have dominion over it.

fake foods like trans fatty acids and

We are so detached from the orig-

artificial colors, flavors, and sweet-

inal source of our resources, that

eners. Most food on the grocery

we destroy nature without realizing

shelves have these ingredients,

we’re really destroying our ability to

but never in our evolution did we

sustain ourselves.

eat these foods. Our bodies are not

Solution: Cultivate a connection with

equipped to handle them, leading to

nature in your own backyard, on your

metabolic diseases.

way to work, or on your lunch break.

Solution: Remove the foods from

Those who are connected to nature

our diet that our ancestors did not

are more likely to care for it.

eat, like ultra processed foods and

As I researched our evolved natures

fake foods, and try to eat more whole

and tried small, incremental behav-

foods.

ioral changes, I changed my lifestyle

3. Work and rest

and began to heal. Deep down, a

Evolved trait: Our ancestors evolved

hunter-gatherer still resides within

to meet our basic needs with work

all of us. We still have their evolved

integrated into life. We spent around

needs—and

15 hours per week obtaining food and

their evolved behavior as a guide

were content with minimal posses-

and adapting our own by using our

sions. Once our needs were met, we

intellect, we can bring a realigned

rested and enjoyed life.

and thriving version of ourselves into

Problem: More than half of Amer-

the modern world.

their

genes.

Using

icans work more than 40 hours a week. Work for the sake of work and

Start your journey at

“hustle culture” has become normal

www.ontheoriginofbeing.com.

as many work to gain status, money,

" F i nd i n g m y O r i g i n s "

FOR GREATER WELL-BEING,

we must adapt our modern lifestyle and live more in harmony with our natural and evolutionary selves.

While giving many benefits, aspects of modern society can also be harmful to our physical, mental, and cultural health. We can overcome many of these detriments if we better understand and express our primal self, which is largely encoded into our DNA.

Grab your copy on Amazon!

130

131

Best Holistic Life November 2024

5 S e c r e t s t o F e e l i n g GREAT a s y o u g e t o l d e r

5 SECRETS TO FEELING GREAT AS YOU GET OLDER B Y D R . L I Z LY S T E R

Getting older is a blessing; feeling worse as you get older is

In addition to watching our exercise intensity, we also need to

optional. After going into menopause at age 43 and now getting

mix up HOW we move our bodies. Sometimes I refer to exercise

ready to turn 60, I’ve been right alongside my patients, friends,

as the “E-word” due to some people’s resistance to it. If that’s

and loved ones on an exciting journey as a woman and women’s

you, remember that the goal is simply to keep your body moving.

midlife health expert.

I love Zumba because it combines physical activity with the

Based on research and personal experience, here are my top five

music and dancing I’ve come to love through my South American

secrets for feeling GREAT as you get older.

family background. Also, adding some kind of strength training

#1. “As the building gets older, it needs more

is important to keep as much muscle mass as possible as you get

maintenance.”

older.

Imagine someone has loaned you the most amazing house to live

Many kinds of physical activity will help keep your joints lubri-

in for a while. Everything in it works, and you have instructions

cated, your muscles and bones strong, and keep you on balance,

for using all the gadgets and appliances. How would you treat this

which in turn helps your brain stay sharp. As you get older, your

house? Knowing it’s not yours forever, you’d probably take excel-

body changes, but you can help yourself feel great by dancing

lent care of it, follow the instructions, and fix things promptly if

through the change.

they break.

#3. “Hormones can help.”

This amazing building is your body, the one you were given at

Most of our hormones decline as we get older. Replenishing

birth and yours to care for throughout your life. As you and your

hormones can help relieve all kinds of symptoms related to

body get older, treat yourself and your health with increasing care.

hormonal decline, including fatigue, unexplained weight gain,

Like any beautiful home, as it gets older, it needs more mainte-

sleep disruption, brain fog, lower libido, and so on. The good

nance.

news is that using hormone therapy to alleviate symptoms does

#2. “Dance through the change.”

not commit you to using hormone replenishment therapy (HRT)

The more we learn about moving our bodies, the more we discover

forever.

its positive impact on health. Do we have to exercise at the gym

Most of the scary headlines about HRT are based on a study

every day? Nope! It’s even possible to overdo it as we get older.

from over 20 years ago. We now know (after many subsequent

132

133

Best Holistic Life November 2024

large studies of thousands of women) that not all hormones are

#5. “Taking care of yourself is not selfish.”

created equal. Most women can use the right kinds of HRT for as

This might be a mindset shift for you. Especially as you get older,

long as they need or want to in order to protect their bones, gut,

it’s not selfish to take care of yourself; it’s essential. Just as you

brain, heart, and even breasts. HRT can also help hair, skin, nails,

love and care for that building you live in, treat and speak to your-

metabolism, sexual function, and more. Don’t needlessly suffer

self as you would your dearest friend.

as you get older. If symptoms of lower hormone levels interfere

Going into menopause, for example, can be feared or it can be seen

with your quality of life, talk with your doctor.

as the miraculous opportunity to open a new chapter of freedom

#4. “Lifestyle matters.”

and joy as you get older. Set boundaries and priorities to keep

Whether or not you choose to replenish hormones as you get

your resources abundant, both mental and physical. Don’t suffer

older, healthy lifestyle choices are crucial. The importance of diet

in silence; taking care of yourself is not selfish.

increases as we get older. Avoiding added sugars helps prevent

Age does not limit what we desire in life and what we have to

insulin resistance, which is critical for your metabolism and brain

offer. On the contrary, our accumulated experiences, lessons

health. Limiting alcohol intake to one drink per day for women

we’ve learned, and connections we’ve formed can lead to even

and two drinks per day for men is advisable.

greater contributions as we get older.

Protect your sleep. Imagine a big street sweeper cleaning up at

About a hundred years ago, only about five percent of women

night; this is what your body does while you sleep, especially

reached the age of fifty. Now at least half of us can expect to live

in your brain. Our bodies also make growth hormones while we

into our 80’s! This “modern problem” means we need to take

sleep.

a whole new look at getting older and how we want to feel over

After it finishes helping teenagers grow, growth hormone (GH)

our lifetime. Staying in community with each other helps keep us

helps with cellular repair all over the body. Sleep and burst-style

engaged in this positive approach to life.

exercise are great natural ways to promote GH production in your

Follow these top five secrets and stay feeling GREAT as you get

body. Good lifestyle choices get more important to help you feel

older.

great as you get older.

Connect with Dr. Lyster: linktr.ee/drlizlyster

5 S e c r e t s t o F e e l i n g GREAT a s y o u g e t o l d e r

134

135

Best Holistic Life November 2024

UN DE RSTA N DI NG LIGHT T HERA PY : MECH A N ISM S , A PPLICATIONS, A N D S CI EN T IF IC INSIGH TS

BY D R. TA W N I E

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is an established

Influence on Brain Chemistry

treatment method utilized to address various health conditions,

During light therapy, the photoreceptive cells in the retina absorb

particularly those related to circadian rhythm disorders and mood

the light, triggering a cascade of neural and hormonal responses.

disturbances. It involves exposure to specific wavelengths and

These responses include the regulation of melatonin and serotonin

intensities of light using devices like light boxes or visors. This

production. Melatonin is a hormone that promotes sleep, and its

therapy mimics natural sunlight without the harmful ultraviolet (UV)

production is naturally inhibited by light exposure. Serotonin, often

rays, providing therapeutic benefits while minimizing risks.

referred to as the "feel-good" hormone, is linked to mood regulation

Mechanisms of Light Therapy

and wakefulness. By increasing serotonin levels and delaying

The core principle of light therapy lies in its ability to influence the

melatonin production, light therapy can help alleviate symptoms of

body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm is a

depression and improve alertness and mood.

natural, roughly 24-hour cycle that regulates various physiological

Applications of Light Therapy

processes, including sleep-wake cycles, hormone release, and

Light therapy has broad applications, particularly in the treatment

metabolism. This rhythm is primarily driven by external cues, the

of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), non-seasonal depression,

most significant of which is light.

circadian rhythm sleep disorders, and certain types of insomnia.

Light Intensity and Duration

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

A standard light therapy device emits light at an intensity of

SAD is a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year,

approximately 10,000 lux, which is about 20 times greater than typical

usually in the winter months when daylight hours are shorter. Light

indoor lighting. This high-intensity light is critical for achieving

therapy is considered a first-line treatment for SAD, providing relief

therapeutic effects. The device should be placed 16 to 24 inches away

by compensating for the lack of natural sunlight. Patients typically

from the user’s face, and the light should be directed towards the eyes

experience significant improvements in mood and energy levels after

but not directly into them to avoid potential eye strain or damage.

consistent use of light therapy.

Sessions typically last between 20 to 40 minutes for 10,000-lux

Non-Seasonal Depression

light boxes. If a device emits a lower-intensity light, such as 2,500

Research indicates that light therapy can also benefit individuals

lux, the required exposure time extends to about 2 hours to achieve

with non-seasonal depression. By enhancing serotonin levels and

comparable effects.

improving sleep patterns, light therapy contributes to the overall

Und e r s t a nd i n g L i g h t Th e r a p y : M e c h a n i s m s , A p p l i c a t i o n s , a nd S c i e n t i f i c In s i g h t s

136

137

Best Holistic Life November 2024

management of depressive symptoms. It is often used in conjunction

Moreover, light therapy has been shown to affect gene expression

with other treatments, such as medication and psychotherapy.

related to the circadian rhythm. Research indicates that light can

Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders

influence the expression of clock genes, which regulate the timing of

Circadian rhythm sleep disorders include conditions like delayed sleep

various physiological processes. This genetic modulation underscores

phase disorder (DSPD) and advanced sleep phase disorder (ASPD).

the profound impact of light therapy on the body’s internal clock.

Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder (DSPD): Individuals with DSPD have

Practical Considerations and Safety

difficulty falling asleep and waking up at socially acceptable times.

While light therapy is generally safe, it is essential to follow

Morning light therapy sessions can help shift their circadian rhythm

recommended guidelines to minimize potential side effects. Common

earlier, aligning their sleep patterns with typical day-night cycles.

side effects include eyestrain, headaches, and nausea, usually

Advanced Sleep Phase Disorder (ASPD): This condition is characterized

resulting from improper use of the light box or excessive exposure.

by early evening sleepiness and early morning awakenings. Evening

Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as bipolar disorder

light therapy can delay the circadian rhythm, allowing individuals to

or retinal diseases, should consult a healthcare provider before

stay awake longer and sleep later.

starting light therapy.

Insomnia

For optimal results, it is advisable to use light therapy consistently at

Light therapy can also be effective in treating certain types of

the same time each day, preferably in the morning for phase-delayed

insomnia. By regulating the sleep-wake cycle, it can help individuals

individuals and in the evening for phase-advanced individuals. The

establish a more consistent and restorative sleep pattern.

therapy should be integrated into daily routines to ensure adherence

Scientific Insights and Research

and effectiveness.

Extensive research supports the efficacy of light therapy. Studies

Conclusion

have demonstrated that exposure to bright light can significantly

Light therapy is a scientifically-backed, non-invasive treatment

impact the hypothalamus, the brain region responsible for controlling

that leverages the power of light to regulate circadian rhythms,

circadian rhythms. This light exposure influences the suprachiasmatic

improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. By understanding its

nucleus (SCN), a group of neurons that serve as the body’s master

mechanisms, applications, and the scientific principles underlying its

clock.

effectiveness, individuals can utilize light therapy to address various

The SCN responds to light signals by adjusting the production of

health conditions and improve their quality of life. Consistent use and

hormones like melatonin and cortisol, which play crucial roles in

adherence to guidelines are crucial for achieving the best therapeutic

sleep and wakefulness.

outcomes.

If you or someone you know struggles with their sleep, please contact your local sleep provider or reach out to soundsleepconsultants.com for help.

ADVERT

138

“Life is like a film camera, Focus on what is important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things do not work out, take another shot.”

“I recommend that you take a shot at reading this practical and accessible book on happiness. Maria offers a creative approach that combines journaling and phone photography activities that help you integrate the concepts she writes about.” ~Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, New York Times Bestselling Author of Happier, Former Harvard Lecturer, and Founder of the Happiness Studies Academy

139

Best Holistic Life November 2024

EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH MENOPAUSE: A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS

BY MELISSA LESLIE

E m p o w e r i n g W o m e n Th r o u g h M e n o p a u s e : A H o l i s t i c A p p r o a c h t o H e a l t h a nd W e l l n e s s

140

It’s truly remarkable to witness the transformation a person can undergo once

or low estrogen due to rapid weight loss.

they have the right tools to overcome their frustrations. As a certified health

Progesterone: This hormone naturally fluctuates throughout a woman's life

coach, I encounter many women who are exasperated by their inability to lose

and typically declines as she ages and enters menopause. Monitoring proges-

weight despite working out and eating all the right foods. Often, these efforts

terone levels can provide insights into hormonal health and reproductive

are met with weight gain rather than loss, leading to a cycle of frustration

functioning.

and despair.

Testosterone: Levels naturally decline during perimenopause and menopause,

Through comprehensive intake questions and human performance assess-

and some individuals are more sensitive to this change than others. Testos-

ments, I frequently discover that menopause or hormonal imbalances are at

terone plays a substantial role in brain function, muscle mass, bone strength,

the root of these issues. Understanding this connection is the first step toward

cardiovascular health, overall energy levels, and sleep quality.

finding a solution.

Exploring Your Options

Understanding Menopause and Its Symptoms Menopause is a natural biolog-

Once you have a clear understanding of your body’s current state, it is time to

ical process, but its symptoms can significantly impact a woman’s quality of

explore your options. Effective management of menopausal symptoms and

life.

hormonal imbalances often requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some strategies:

Common symptoms include: • Hot flashes & night sweats

• Electric shock sensations

1. HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy): This involves supplementing the

• Mood changes & irritability

• Sleep disturbances

body with hormones to alleviate symptoms and balance hormone levels. HRT

• Decreased libido & vaginal

• Difficulty concentrating

can either be synthetic or bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).

• Thinning hair

2. Herbs and Supplements: Natural remedies can support hormone balance

• Weight gain & fatigue

and overall health. Common options include flaxseed, wild yams, maca root,

dryness • Headaches & joint pain

Listening to Your Body

calcium, and vitamin D3.

To address these issues, it is essential to understand what your body is trying

3. Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, good protein sources,

to tell you.

and adequate sleep can profoundly affect managing symptoms.

Here are some tools that can help determine where you stand:

4. Self-Care Practices: Stress management techniques such as meditation,

1. DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry): This scan provides detailed

yoga, and mindfulness can help reduce the impact of menopausal symptoms.

information about body composition, including bone density, fat, muscle

Personalized Health Coaching

mass, and visceral fat.

As a certified health coach, I consider all aspects of your life, not just your

2. RMR (Resting Metabolic Rate): Metabolic rate measures how much food or

diet and nutrition. Together, we examine how your career, relationships,

fat is converted to energy in a day. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) measures how

home environment, exercise, and spiritual life may affect your physical and

much energy is required to maintain basic body functions, such as heartbeat,

psychological well-being. This holistic approach ensures that we address the

breathing, and body heat maintenance, while at rest. This energy is expressed

root causes of your symptoms, rather than just the symptoms themselves.

in calories per day, showing how many calories you burn at rest.

Our journey together will involve creating a personalized plan that brings your

3. VO2 Max: This test assesses cardiovascular fitness by measuring the maxi-

body into balance, paving the way for the next stages of your health journey.

mum amount of oxygen your body can utilize during exercise. It will show you

It is all about finding what is best for you based on your unique needs and

your peak heart rate, your workout zones, and your recovery zones, allowing

circumstances.

you to work out smarter, not harder.

Conclusion

4. Health Coaching: Personalized guidance to help you set reasonable goals

Navigating menopause and hormonal imbalances can be challenging, but

and develop a plan for reaching them. Health coaches also help you identify

with the right tools and support, you can achieve balance and regain control

potential barriers to achieving your goals.

over your health. By understanding your body, exploring various options, and

5. Blood Work: Key hormone levels to check include:

implementing personalized strategies, you can overcome the hurdles and

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): TSH levels naturally increase with age,

become the healthiest version of yourself.

especially after menopause, due to decreased estrogen levels. If left untreated,

Remember, transformation is possible. It starts with listening to your body,

thyroid problems can increase the risk of complications associated with meno-

understanding its needs, and taking proactive steps towards holistic wellness.

pause, such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

As a health coach, I am here to guide you through this journey, ensuring you

Estradiol (E2): This hormone test measures estrogen levels in the blood and

feel empowered and supported every step of the way.

can help determine if someone is entering menopause or is already in the transition. Low estradiol levels can also indicate ovarian failure, early menopause,

Connect with Melissa: https://linktr.ee/melissaleslie

1 41

Best Holistic Life November 2024

SKINCARE IS PART OF OVERALL WELLNESS

BY ELIZABETH MARSHALL It’s never too late to start caring for your skin, but the earlier you develop

retinoids can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in as little

a daily regimen, the better. The reality is that, as we age, so does our skin.

as 12 weeks. They are meant to be used at night, so always use them as

And over the age of 35, this can include texture changes and dull, uneven

part of your bedtime routine.

skin that is more prone to wrinkles and fine lines. While the bouncy,

VITAMIN C: Dermatologists agree that the antioxidant vitamin c is one

smooth complexions of our teens and twenties may seem like a distant

of the most important ingredients to start using in your 20s and 30s (and

memory, dermatologists agree that there are many ways to revive skin,

to continue using in your 40s), as it helps prevent dark spots before they

even as we enter our forties, fifties, and beyond.

happen and supports collagen before you lose it. Vitamin C is a terrific

Just like with fitness, adopting skincare habits that are enjoyable to you

skin brightener with firming benefits since it boosts collagen and has

can be very helpful with your consistency over the long haul. And in

antioxidant and UV protection benefits as well. Vitamin C is best when

the same way that maintaining a regular schedule matters in the gym,

used during the day, so be sure to add it to your morning routine.

consistency is of paramount importance with a skincare regimen if you

ANTIOXIDANTS: Antioxidants are one of the most beneficial skincare

want it to be effective and want to see long-lasting results. If your skincare

ingredients that you should be using (starting as early as your 20s).

routine is not enjoyable, maintaining continuity is difficult. Choose the

They fight free radical damage, contribute to glowing skin, prevent

highest-quality products that you can afford (more expensive doesn’t

inflammation, and so much more. Look for one with ferulic acid to

always mean better!), and select your active ingredients carefully.

maximize the benefits, particularly past age 40.

So how should your skincare change in your 30s, 40s, and beyond?

SUNSCREEN: Using sunscreen daily can reduce the risk of developing skin

The changes in your skin that you may be noticing are most likely due to

cancer by about 50 percent, so it's crucial to develop a relationship with

perimenopause (or the years leading up to menopause), during which your

SPF as early as you can. Besides being good for fighting off scary things

estrogen levels begin to decrease. The result? Skin becomes thin and loses

like skin cancer, it’s also the number one way to protect your skin from

its elasticity. So it's necessary that you adapt to the changes in your skin

the aging and discoloring effects of the sun, which is the number one thing

with a new skincare routine that better fits your needs.

that ages and compromises the health and appearance of your skin. Always

Start by switching your facial cleanser to something gentle, like an oil, a

be sure to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin surfaces every day, use an

cream, or something similar that is soothing and replenishing. The name

SPF of 30 or higher, and be sure to reapply every two hours.

of the game for aging skin is moisturization, so you want to look for richer

As you age, your skin goes through a myriad of changes and has different

textures with just about everything that you use.

needs. Once you identify what those needs are (dullness, fine lines,

The tweaks to your diet that you start as part of maintaining your physical

discoloration, etc.), consistency in skincare is key. From using the

fitness help a lot with your skin too. A steady amount of collagen boosting

right products, incorporating potent ingredients, and living a healthy

foods and healthy fats, along with plenty of water, can all contribute to

lifestyle, there are many factors that can aid in keeping your skin healthy

clear, plump skin.

and beautiful. And since wellness is a full body project that involves

There are several skincare ingredients that you also want to start

rejuvenating both the inside and the outside of your physical body, be

incorporating into your daily regimen if you aren’t using them already:

sure to take care of your skin while you’re starting to take care of your

RETINOIDS: the wrinkle and acne fighting capabilities of retinoids have

nutrition and internal and physical fitness as well. Your skin is the largest

been known and celebrated for a long time. They’re the backbone of any

organ that you have, so you want to make sure that it functions, looks, and

acne treatment, and they also work preventatively to fight wrinkles and

feels as good as it can for as long as it can.

boost collagen production. Studies have found that the consistent use of

Connect with Elizabeth: www.thighsoverthirty.com

S k i n c a r e i s pa rt o f o v e r a l l w e l l n e s s

142

143

Best Holistic Life November 2024

C u l t i v a t i n g S e l f - C o m p a s s i o n : S t e p 1 1 o f t h e N LP - P o w e r e d J o u r n e y

144

CULTIVATING SELF-COMPASSION: ST EP 11 OF THE NLP-POWERED JOURNEY

BY S COT T G AT ES

Wow, my year-long journey sharing my NLP path of self-discovery and

• Sleep Disturbances: Persistent nightmares and insomnia resulting from

personal growth is almost over. It has been an enlightening year for me to

heightened arousal and anxiety. Understanding these challenges is crucial

hear the individual messages, ah-ha moments, and questions from so many of

to offering empathetic and practical support.

you. I am so proud of the hard work you put into yourselves. As we continue this

1. Perceptual Positions: Gaining a New Perspective

month, we arrive at Step 11: "Cultivating Self-Compassion." For this month's

Perceptual Positioning is an NLP technique that involves viewing a situa-

crucial stage, first, I want you to drop the word "Disorder" and refer to it as

tion from multiple perspectives to gain a deeper understanding and foster

post-traumatic Traumatic Stress.

self-compassion. This technique is particularly beneficial for those with PTS.

There is a reason I want you to do this. "Disorder" labels it as separate from

Visualizing experiences through different lenses promotes empathy for oneself

what commonly is experienced in daily life, and that's not true. Post-traumatic

and others.

Traumatic Stress is a shared human experience. Every human being that has

First Position: Self: Recall the specific event. Fully immerse yourself in the

ever lived has experienced it. Every human being yet to be born will experience

memory, experiencing the emotions and sensations from your perspective.

it. Don't believe me? Ask anyone, "What was the most traumatic moment in

Second Position: Other: Imagine stepping into another person's shoes during

their life?"

the event. See it through their eyes, understanding their thoughts, feelings,

Now, this is cool to me; the fact that they can answer you means they are

and motivations. This perspective helps you understand the actions and reac-

survivors. After it happens, the "Post" part is where every human being starts

tions of others.

to work on how that moment affects their life. What doesn't kill you CAN make

Third Position: Observer: Finally, take on the role of an impartial observer.

you stronger. It's called post-traumatic Traumatic Growth, a concept that

View the event from a detached, neutral standpoint, analyzing the situation

refers to the positive psychological change experienced as a result of struggling

without emotional involvement.

with a traumatic event.

Notice how different perspectives provide new insights and understanding.

Understanding the Struggles of PTS

Integrate Insights: Return to your perspective, integrating the insights gained

I want to acknowledge the profound struggles faced by ex-military personnel

from the other viewpoints. Reflect on how these new perspectives can help you

and first responders dealing with PTS.

reframe your understanding of the event and cultivate self-compassion. By

These brave individuals often endure the following:

using perceptual positions, individuals can develop a more nuanced under-

• Recurrent flashbacks: unwanted and distressing memories of traumatic

standing of their experiences, fostering empathy and self-compassion.

events that intrude upon their daily lives.

• Hypervigilance: a constant state of heightened alertness, making it difficult to relax and feel safe.

• Emotional Disconnection: Difficulty connecting with loved ones and experiencing emotions due to past traumas.

• Avoidance Behaviors: Steering clear of situations or places that trigger traumatic memories, leading to social isolation.

2. Reimprinting: Healing Inner Child Wounds Reimprinting is an NLP technique that involves revisiting and healing past traumatic experiences by accessing and comforting the inner child. This psychological concept represents the childlike aspects of our personality. This method is potent for those dealing with PTS, as it helps address deep-seated emotional wounds and promotes self-compassion.

145

Best Holistic Life November 2024

Identify a Traumatic Memory: Begin by identifying a specific

Reimprinting, we can gain new perspectives on our experiences

traumatic memory from your past. Allow yourself to recall the

and heal inner emotional wounds, empowering ourselves to

emotions and sensations associated with the entire event.

navigate the complexities of PTS with greater resilience and

Access the Inner Child: Visualize yourself as a child experiencing

compassion.

the traumatic event. Please pay attention to the emotions and

Henry Ford said, "Whether you say you can or you can't, you're

thoughts of your younger self, acknowledging the pain and fear

right." Every time you say, "I have PTSD, or I suffer with PTSD."

they felt.

Your unconscious brain believes it is the state you are supposed to

Provide Comfort and Support: Imagine your adult self stepping

be in and will do everything possible to make that happen. It's not

into the memory and offering comfort and support to your inner

the thoughts that get you; the words you say have power. When

child. Speak soothing words, provide reassurance, and offer

you hear yourself say, I have or I suffer with PTSD,. Immediately

safety and protection.

take a deep breath and say out loud these five positive statements.

Create a Positive Memory: Replace the traumatic memory with

• I survived my traumatic stress.

a positive, nurturing experience. Visualize your inner child feel-

• I have learned from it.

ing loved, safe, and supported. Reinforce this new memory with

• I am stronger, having gone through it.

positive emotions and sensations.

• I am growing from my experience.

Reintegrate the Inner Child: Bring the healed inner child back

• I will help someone else.

into your present self, integrating the feelings of love, safety,

These statements can shift your perspective and empower you

and self-compassion. Reflect on how this new perspective can

in your healing journey.

help you navigate challenges more resiliently.

I extend a heartfelt invitation to you to join me next month for

Through reimprinting, individuals can heal deep emotional

Step 12: "Embracing Transformation." In this final step, we will

wounds, fostering a sense of self-compassion and inner peace.

explore how NLP techniques can help us fully embrace the trans-

Conclusion and Invitation to Step 12

formation journey, unlocking our true potential and living a life

Step 11: "Cultivating Self-Compassion" has provided us with

of fulfillment and joy. I look forward to continuing this journey

powerful NLP techniques to foster empathy and understand-

with you.

ing for ourselves and others. Through Perceptual Positions and

Connect with Scott: https://taplink.cc/gateswellness

146

147

Best Holistic Life November 2024

CLARITY IN COMMUNICATION: FINDING YOUR TRUE VOICE

BY LUNDEN SOUZA

In the world of holistic well-being, clear communication stands as

4. Listen Actively Communication is a two-way street. Listen as

a cornerstone for building meaningful connections and fostering

much as you speak, if not more. Nod, smile, and respond appropriately.

personal growth. Imagine navigating through life with the precision

It shows you’re engaged and value the other person’s input—like a

of a well-tuned GPS, guiding you effortlessly through interactions

good dance partner. Oh, and put down your phone!

without the detours of misunderstandings or conflicts. It's not going to

5. Ask for Feedback Don’t assume your message was clear. Ask for

be perfect, but let's be real—we can get better! Clear communication is

feedback to ensure you’re on the same page. It’s like asking for a

not just a skill; it's an art that transforms relationships and enhances

friend’s opinion on your outfit—you might think you’re rocking it,

our overall quality of life.

but a second opinion never hurts.

The Art of Clear Communication

Finding Your True Voice

First things first—what is clear communication? It’s like trying to

Your true voice is the authentic you—unfiltered, unapologetic, and

explain TikTok to your grandma: simple, direct, and leaves no room

totally fabulous. Here’s how to uncover it:

for confusion. Clear communication is about expressing your thoughts

1. Define Your Core Values and Intentions Before stepping out into

and feelings in a way that’s easily understood by others. Think of it as

the world, it’s crucial to know who you want to be and how you want to

the GPS for your conversations, helping you reach your destination

show up. Reflect on your core values and the kind of impact you wish

without detours.

to make. It’s like having a blueprint for your authentic self, guiding

Why Clarity Matters

your actions and words.

Imagine trying to order a coffee and ending up with a kale smoothie

2. Embrace Your Uniqueness Don’t try to be someone else. Your quirks

because you weren’t clear. Tragic, right? Clarity in communication

and idiosyncrasies are what make you special. Think of them as your

prevents misunderstandings, reduces conflict, and strengthens

signature communication moves on the dance floor of life. The town

relationships. It’s like swapping fuzzy radio signals for crystal-clear

I am from in central California says "hella". I don't try to get rid of it,

sound—everyone gets the message, and no one’s left wondering what

I use it and then I share the story about where I come from.

just happened.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice Like any skill, finding and using your

Tips for Achieving Clarity

true voice takes practice. Start with small conversations and gradually

1. Know Your Message Before you speak, take a moment to figure out

tackle more challenging ones. Soon, you’ll be a communication rockstar.

what you really want to say. It’s like checking your shopping list before

4. Stay True to Yourself Authenticity is key. Don’t say things just

heading to the store—it saves you from wandering the aisles aimlessly.

to please others. Speak your truth with kindness and respect. It’s like

2. Keep It Simple Ever heard of K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple, Sweetheart)?

wearing your favorite outfit—when you’re comfortable and confident,

Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. Unless you’re at a

it shows.

Scrabble championship, no one’s impressed by big words.

Finding your true voice and achieving clarity in communication is a

3. Be Specific Vagueness is the enemy of clarity. Instead of saying,

journey worth taking. It’s about being honest, respectful, and authen-

“Let’s meet later,” try, “Let’s meet at 3 PM at the coffee shop on

tically true to yourself. So next time you’re about to communicate,

Main Street.” See the difference? It’s like swapping a blurry photo

remember these tips, add a touch of humor, and let your true voice shine.

for an HD picture.

Until next time, keep communicating clearly and living your best holistic life!

Connect with Lunden: https://linkin.bio/lifelikelunden/

C l a r i t y i n C o m m u n i c a t i o n : F i nd i n g Y o u r T r u e V o i c e

148

149

Best Holistic Life November 2024

HEALING TRAUMA WITH YOGA:

A TRANSFORMATIONAL JOURNEY TOWARDS WHOLENESS

BY DR. DIXIE BROWN

H e a l i n g T r a u m a w i t h Y o g a : A T r a n s f o r m a t i o n a l J o u r n e y T o w a r d s Wh o l e n e s s

150

Fifteen years ago, in a tranquil yoga studio nestled above the bustling city-

awareness. As individuals engage in yoga postures and mindfulness practices,

scape of downtown West Palm Beach, Florida, a profound moment of healing

they may unveil suppressed emotions and traumas stored in the body, allowing

unfolded against the backdrop of Mazzy Star's early 90’s hit, "Fade into You."

for a cathartic release and transformation.

As I moved through the poses, immersing myself in the practice and relishing

5. Self-Compassion and Healing: One of the profound gifts of yoga is its

its calming effects, I was suddenly enveloped by a wave of somatic release

ability to cultivate self-compassion and self-care. By providing a safe and

during pigeon pose. It was in that moment, with tears softly streaming down

nurturing environment for self-exploration, yoga empowers individuals to

my face, that the weight of past trauma, long harbored in the confines of my

develop a deep sense of acceptance, forgiveness, and healing. Through the

hips, melted away. The instructor approached me with compassion, offering a

practice of yoga, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery and

simple reassurance that it was okay. With a nod of acknowledgment, I granted

renewal, fostering resilience and a profound sense of well-being.

permission for her comforting touch, and as the soothing notes of the music

Incorporating trauma-informed somatic work into yoga practices further

lingered in the air, her gentle hand on my back held a sacred space for me to

enhances the healing potential of this ancient discipline. Somatic experienc-

release and heal.

ing, a body-oriented approach to trauma healing, emphasizes the importance

This transformative encounter not only unveiled the deeper dimensions of

of tuning into the body's sensations and exploring the physiological responses

yoga beyond its physical practice but also served as a catalyst that redirected

to trauma. By integrating somatic awareness techniques into yoga sessions,

the course of my healing journey and career as an integrative practitioner and

individuals can deepen their understanding of how trauma manifests in the

trauma therapist. While initially drawn to yoga for its physical benefits, this

body and tap into the body's innate wisdom to facilitate healing and release.

experience illuminated the profound impact of yoga on the nervous system and

Furthermore, the practice of trauma-sensitive yoga focuses on creating a safe

its intrinsic ability to facilitate the release of stored trauma through somatic

and supportive environment for individuals to explore movement, breath,

practices.

and mindfulness practices without triggering re-traumatization. With an

The ancient wisdom of yoga offers a multifaceted approach to healing

emphasis on choice, empowerment, and honoring individual boundaries, trau-

trauma, tapping into the connection of the mind, body, and spirit. Through

ma-sensitive yoga empowers individuals to reclaim their bodies and rewrite

the following components, yoga serves as a powerful modality for unraveling

their stories of resilience and healing.

the complexities of trauma and fostering holistic healing:

My own transformative journey that unfolded in that serene yoga studio years

1. Regulation of the Autonomic Nervous System: The practice of yoga,

ago stands as a testament to the profound impact of yoga in supporting trauma

encompassing breathwork, meditation, and gentle movements, plays a vital

healing and nurturing wholeness. This pivotal experience not only reshaped

role in regulating the autonomic nervous system. By engaging in calming

my personal understanding of healing but also inspired me to guide others

practices that activate the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest

on their path to recovery with compassion, mindfulness, and resilience. As

response), individuals can counteract the effects of the sympathetic nervous

an integrative practitioner and trauma therapist, I have come to appreciate

system (fight or flight mode), promoting a state of relaxation and equilibrium.

the intricate dance between yoga and trauma healing, witnessing the trans-

2. Mindfulness and Body Awareness: Central to yoga philosophy is the culti-

formative power of somatic work and mind-body practices in facilitating

vation of present-moment awareness and the deepening connection with the

profound shifts and empowering individuals to reclaim their inherent capacity

body and breath. This heightened mindfulness enables individuals to anchor

for healing and growth.

themselves in the present, fostering an intimate understanding of their phys-

The journey of healing trauma with yoga is a sacred exploration that invites

ical and emotional landscapes and paving the way for the release of tension

individuals to embark on a path of self-discovery, resilience, and renewal.

and stored trauma.

Through the interplay of ancient yoga wisdom, trauma-informed somatic

3. Release of Tension: The art of yoga postures, or asanas, serves as a mecha-

practices, and mindful awareness, individuals can navigate the intricate land-

nism for releasing physical tension stored in the body. Through gentle stretch-

scape of trauma, cultivating healing, release, and transformation. As we honor

ing, mindful movements, and conscious breathing, individuals can navigate

the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, we awaken to the profound

through areas of the body where trauma may be held, encouraging the gradual

potential of yoga as a gateway to healing, empowerment, and the restoration

release of tension and the restoration of balance.

of wholeness.

4. Emotional Processing: The integration of mind-body practices in yoga

May you be well, may you be happy, and may you be at peace.

facilitates emotional processing and release, offering a platform for indi-

The light and the dark in me honor the light and the dark in you. Namaste.

viduals to explore and navigate their emotional terrain with compassion and

Connect with Dr. Dixie Brown: https://linktr.ee/DrDixie

151

Best Holistic Life November 2024

WHAT’S ALL THE BUZZ ABOUT MUSHROOMS?

BY SANDRA CARTER

Does it seem that everywhere you turn lately people are talking about

nutrients. Mycelium connects trees and plants and provides a “highway”

mushrooms and how they are so good for you? Functional mushrooms

for nutrients to be transported throughout our forests.

are all the buzz, and they are seemingly everywhere. The demand for these

The “fruitbody” part of the mushroom, which is the part that you see

products continues to grow exponentially, and mushrooms are showing

on your lawn or in the grocery store, is the reproductive part of the

up in everything from coffee and performance powders to gummies and

mushroom. The fruitbody emits spores and then it generally dies off

even pet food. But, what is all the buzz about, really?

quickly, while the “mycelial” stage continues to live on, in some cases

Fascinated by Fungi

for hundreds of years and spanning over hundreds of acres. Fascinating

Functional mushrooms such as Reishi, Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail and

stuff! If you get a chance to see Fantastic Fungi on Netflix, I think you

Cordyceps have been revered for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine

will be amazed!

and now the body of scientific evidence continues to demonstrate a wide

A Look at Lion’s Mane

array of health and wellness benefits. I have now spent over 40 years in

One of the most popular functional mushrooms is Lion’s Mane. Lion’s

health and wellness as a researcher, preventive medicine specialist, and

Mane contains compounds known as nootropics, which means they can

now entrepreneur, and the more I learn about mushrooms, the more I

interact with our nerve cells. Impressive research has given way to a

continue to be fascinated by them.

deeper understanding of Lion’s Mane and its lifecycle. We have learned

Each Species is Unique

that species such as Lion’s Mane contain unique compounds in each

There are millions of species of mushrooms, and about 200 species are

phase of the mushroom lifecycle, or each part of the mushroom. One key

currently used commercially as functional mushrooms. At M2 Ingredients,

takeaway here is that to truly get the greatest benefits from Lion’s Mane,

we cultivate ten main species. As scientists continue to study the

you should make sure you are getting the whole mushroom – both the

uniqueness of each species of mushroom, we discover more and more

mycelial and fruitbody stages.

about the active compounds found in each species and what makes them

Revered Reishi

special.

The beta-glucan compounds found in Reishi have been shown to interact

Did You Know???

with our immune cells to help keep us “battle ready”. Our team of

Mushroom DNA is similar to that of animals! The Fungal Kingdom split

mycologists has recently conducted research to examine the prebiotic

from the Animal Kingdom a full 9 million years after the Plant Kingdom

benefits of Reishi and its ability to support a healthy microbiome,

did, resulting in amazing similarities in the DNA of mushrooms and

with some very promising results. Reishi is also considered to be an

animals. Like us, mushrooms inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide.

"adaptogen," meaning it can help balance and support a healthy response

Mushrooms are also heterotrophic, meaning that they eat other organisms

to stress.

for energy and nutrients. This shared ancestry means that we share a lot

Turkey Tail Mushrooms

of the same cellular pathways and cell receptors.

Turkey Tail mushroom is likely the most researched of all functional

The Unique Lifecycle of Mushrooms

mushrooms as it relates to immune function and metabolic health.

The lifecycle of mushrooms is very different from the plant lifecycle. The

Research for both humans and dogs has demonstrated Turkey Tail’s ability

majority of the mushroom lifecycle is spent as mycelium – a complex

to support a healthy immune response.

network of hyphae forming a web-like maze of cells that penetrates the

Colorful Cordyceps

soil and other substrates, breaking down organic matter and absorbing

Cordyceps is a very unusual mushroom. Its bright orange appearance

Wh a t ’ s A l l Th e B u zz Ab o u t M u s h r o o m s ?

is the result of the unique antioxidants it contains. Cordyceps is well

are also beneficial effects of “full spectrum” or whole food mushrooms

known in the sports performance world for its endurance benefits. Om

that contain both the mycelium and fruitbody. Mushroom extracts may

Mushrooms’ Cordyceps is supported by clinical research that showed

not contain all of the beneficial compounds.

significant increases in Max V02, a measure of endurance and aerobic

Welcome Om

capacity. Unlike the energy that is derived from caffeine, Cordyceps can

I founded M2 Ingredients (m2ingredients.com) and Om Mushroom

help with daily, long-duration energy.

Superfood (ommushrooms.com) with expert mycologist Steve Farrar in

What to Look For

2010. We supply functional mushroom ingredients and also produce the

One of the most important considerations Is understanding where and

Om line of products that includes powders, capsules, gummies, coffees,

how the mushrooms are grown. Mushrooms are bio-accumulators,

matcha, hot chocolates and protein powders. Our team of researchers,

meaning they will accumulate whatever is in their environment, including

mycologists, and growers have decades of experience and cultivate our

the water, the air and the substance they are grown on. If there are

mushrooms in Vista, California, in a 100% certified organic, completely

pesticides, pollutants, heavy metals or radiation present in the cultivation

environmentally controlled growing process. Our whole mushroom

environment, they will become a part of the mushroom. Finding

powder products can be found both online at ommushrooms.com and at

mushrooms from a trusted organic source is an important factor. There

thousands of natural product, grocery, and health food stores.

152

153

Best Holistic Life November 2024

FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT: EMOTIONAL ARCHITECTURE’S APPROACH TO SEASONAL WELL-BEING B Y A Z LY N N B E R R Y

F r o m D a r k n e s s t o L i g h t : E m o t i o n a l A r c h i t e c t u r e ’ s A p p r o a c h t o S e a s o n a l W e l l- b e i n g

154

Transforming Emotional Landscapes:

Running away won’t save you. Often, we take responsibility for other people's

Understanding The Seasonal Impact On Our Psyche

demons when, in reality, the light inside us is shining into their darkness.

As the days shorten, the darkness grows, and our world becomes filled with

Energetically, the Vibration of Anger intensifies without movement to release

imagination. Halloween brings goblins and ghouls to life as we gather to cele-

it and solidifies. Creating resentment, depression, dorsal vagal shutdown, or

brate. Harvest festivals introduce glimmering lights and bonfires, marking

the freeze response. Exposing even our own wounds that desire space for

the season with merriment in an attempt to fill our world once again with

change.

the light of the days that have grown dark. The long nights push the human

All things in this world require a balance to exist: the light exposes the shadows

mind further into itself as the reality of our world and its pressure become

just as darkness showcases the light. It is part of the growth process and the

almost inescapable.

way nature balances opposing forces. The darkness in one person cannot exist

The Origins Of Holiday Traditions:

without its polar opposite to show the truth of its nature.

From Survival Instincts To Modern Traditions

Thawing Frozen Emotions:

In tribal communities, people came together to survive the cold of winter,

How Movement & Boundaries Can Transform Mental Health and Get Moving

sharing resources through merriment to ensure the tribe continued into the

To release the emotional and energetic blocks, we must visit the parts of

next season. This is where most of our traditions for holidays originated, in

ourselves that feel the most unsafe. It's not in our mind that we will find the

the deep instinct to survive together. It's no wonder that seasonal depression

answer but in our body. Emotions stuck in a freeze can feel like they need

or the pressures of feeling loved and accepted are enhanced this time of year.

to thaw. When you find your mind racing, triggering you to sit down, curl

The effects of the dwindling light create very real physical changes. These

up, or shrink, fight it with small actions. Giving movement to what's been

changes, combined with higher stress, or unhealthy family dynamics, can

unexpressed will act like a nervous system reset. This will balance your natural

often bring on depression.

instinct and bring back the fight in your flight. Giving you an even playing field

While most people are no longer at risk of starvation or exile, the instinc-

to address what's been unresolved.

tive pressures are still ingrained in our genetic code, propelling the need to

Set boundaries first with yourself. Get to know what it feels like in your body

be accepted. Managing depression and its physical effects requires a varied

to go against what you want. What does it feel like not to speak up, express, or

approach.

invalidate yourself or your needs? That negative feeling is your body speak-

As an Alignment and Embodiment guide with over 16 years of specializing in

ing; chances are you already know what that feels like, but how often do you

long-term chronic pain as a neuromuscular retrainer, I knew the body was

ignore yourself? As you start to listen and express, your body will get on board

keeping much more than the score. Emotional integration was only possible

with the new program and stop the biofeedback of stress, high cortisol, gut

by getting the body on board. Helping people shift their instinctive reactions to

dysregulation, neck and shoulder tension, burnout, lower energy levels, or

reprogram their Emotional Architecture changes the physical instinct holding

even reduce autoimmune triggers.

them back. When the body's natural instincts are in alignment with thoughts

Forgiveness & Self-Compassion:

and actions, this is where the soul communicates and inspires life into a state

Healing The Heart & Releasing Resentments.

of ease and flow. The mind alone can not sway the body into action if the body

Extend forgiveness to yourself first. Starting within will balance the energy of

perceives danger.

being wronged by recognizing where we were wrong. Taking action on what

Depressions Hidden Roots:

we have control over instead of focusing on others. This will allow the frozen

The Connection Between Unresolved Anger & Emotional Freezing.

resentments to lead beyond the emotional trigger and back to your confidence

Depression is the freezing of unresolved emotion. During the holidays, it can

& healthy connection. Allowing your heart to be constantly cracked open is not

be impossible to avoid old emotional triggers. Anger or resentment that often

for the weak; it’s a sign of strength in the face of heartbreak. Extend empathy

becomes frozen is a boundary that’s been crossed so often that the body tries

and compassion till the ego is settled and two raw people are revealed and

to protect you by removing you from the trigger. When that trigger is a person

accepted simply as they are. Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself.

in your life, the voice or words of that person can become internalized into

At this time of year, the darkness can feel overwhelming. Remember that we

our own self-talk. This internalized voice can come to life each time you are

find true balance and growth by embracing our shadows and our light. Our

exposed to memories they have influenced. The body can be triggered by any

bodies and minds, in alignment, have the capacity to inspire profound change.

one of the senses—sight, touch, smell, even sound. Instantly, the chemistry

We invite you to join us in this journey of self-discovery and healing by clicking

of your body is transformed, throwing you deeper into the memory of what

the link below or scanning the QR code for an exclusive coaching session.

was. This is your body's way of showing you what is frozen inside you. The

Together, we can illuminate the path forward, one step at a time.

body shutting down is trying to keep you from moving towards them, risking

Azlynn Berry

the boundary being crossed again.

Connect with AzLynn: https://linktr.ee/azlynnberry

155

Best Holistic Life November 2024

HOW WOMEN OVER 40

ACCELERATE FAT LOSS, BALANCE HORMONES, AND SUPPORT MUSCLE RETENTION IN 17 MINUTES PER DAY

BY BECCA TEBON

The majority of women over 40 have a hard time with bone lose, belly

Caloric Restriction: The 16-hour fasting period naturally limits the

fat, tension and muscle loss. There is no magic pill or one-and-done

time available for eating, often resulting in reduced calorie intake.

method, and we are all bio-individual. Let’s explore proven science

Hormonal Balance

and results from using intermittent fasting and resistance bands to

The hormonal benefits of intermittent fasting are complemented by

support an amazing transformation for you.

resistance weight training workouts. Balanced hormones from fasting

WHAT IS INTERMITTENT FASTING?

can help regulate appetite, making it easier to control portions and

Intermittent fasting (IF) has surged in popularity as an effective

make healthier food choices during the eating window.

approach to weight management, fat loss, and overall health

Insulin Sensitivity: Intermittent fasting improves insulin sensitivity,

improvement. Among the various IF methods, the 16:8 approach—16

reducing the risk of insulin resistance and facilitating more efficient

hours of fasting followed by an 8-hour eating window—has garnered

fat burning.

significant attention. When combined with a structured exercise

Human Growth Hormone (HGH): Fasting significantly increases

regimen, such as the 17 Minute Workouts Training Method utilizing

HGH levels, which play a crucial role in fat metabolism and muscle

PowHERbands resistance bands, the benefits of 16:8 intermittent

retention.

fasting are further amplified. This powerful combination can lead to

Leptin and Ghrelin: These hormones, responsible for hunger and

enhanced fat loss, balanced hormones, and robust muscle retention.

satiety, become better regulated, helping to curb overeating and

THE MECHANISMS OF 16:8 INTERMITTENT FASTING

maintain a healthy weight.

Fat Loss

Muscle Retention

Combining 16:8 intermittent fasting with the 17 Minute Workouts

Muscle retention is a key concern during any weight loss regimen.

Training Method supercharges fat loss. The fasting periods deplete

The 17 Minute Workouts Training Method’s focus on high-intensity,

glycogen stores, priming the body to burn fat during and after

short-duration workouts is particularly effective at preserving lean

workouts. HIIT workouts with PowHERbands increase the afterburn

muscle mass while shedding fat.

effect, where the body continues to burn calories at an elevated rate

Protein Synthesis: Fasting periods followed by nutrient-dense meals

post-exercise.

can enhance muscle protein synthesis, particularly when combined

Improved Metabolic Rate: Fasting can boost metabolic rate by up

with resistance training.

to 14%, increasing the number of calories burned even while at rest.

Hormonal Support: Increased HGH levels during fasting support

Enhanced Fat Oxidation: Prolonged fasting periods deplete glycogen

muscle growth and maintenance, preventing muscle loss despite a

stores, prompting the body to utilize stored fat for energy. This shift

caloric deficit.

accelerates fat loss, especially when coupled with physical activity.

How Women Over 40 Accelerate Fat Loss, Balance Hormones, and Support Muscle Retention in 17 Minutes Per Day

156

SHORT BURST WORKOUTS AND RESISTANCE WEIGHT TRAINING The 17 Minute Workouts Training Method is a high-intensity workout routine designed to be efficient and effective, particularly when paired with PowHERbands resistance bands. These bands provide variable resistance, making them ideal for strength training and metabolic conditioning.

WHY POWHERBANDS? VERSATILITY: PowHERbands offer 3 bands with varying resistance levels, making them suitable for all fitness levels and a wide range of exercises - over 650.

CONVENIENCE: These bands are portable and easy to use, allowing for effective workouts anywhere, anytime.

JOINT-FRIENDLY: Lower impact on joints than traditional weights, reducing the risk of injury while challenging the muscles.

BONE DENSITY: Improves bone density mass GREATER MUSCLE STIMULUS: Due to the variable resistance & TUT (Time Under Tension) MUSCLE ACTIVATION: LESS CHANCE OF INJURY IMPROVED STRENGTH & ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE: extremely effective for athletic training due to the increased load, variable resistance, and instability.

STABILIZATION/CORE ACTIVATION: constant tension from bands adds an element of required core stabilization from your body to maintain form STRETCHING & MOBILITY: Resistance and assistance too! Great for both post-workout stretches, as well as pre-workout mobility work IDEAL FOR REHABILITATION: improve strength, size, and function of muscles while easy on the joints in the elderly as well as those undergoing rehabilitation INEXPENSIVE: Over 650 exercises working your entire body.

Think of it as your total gym for under $70

157

Best Holistic Life November 2024

MORE EXERCISE OPTIONS: You can perform exercises in both the

MENTAL HEALTH: A quick workout can help you refresh your mind

vertical and horizontal plane. For instance, you can do a chest press

PHYSICAL HEALTH: Regular exercise can help lower the risk of

or back row in a standing position rather than having to use a bench

developing common health conditions, such as heart disease (2022

PERFECT FOR TRAVEL: Hotel room or outdoors; lightweight and

study by the European Heart Journal)

highly transportable.

AGING: Research suggests that short, intense workouts can have a

IDEAL FOR BODYBUILDERS AND FITNESS COMPETITORS: tone up

positive effect on aging

before stage time

BONE DENSITY: Regular workout increase bone density, especially

THE BENEFITS OF THE 17 MINUTE WORKOUTS

when done with resistance bands and trampolines (offered with our

TRAINING METHOD

partnership programming)

EFFICIENCY: Designed to create consistency and fit into a busy lifestyle

The combination of 16:8 intermittent fasting, PowHERbands

The method

resistance bands, and the 17 Minute Workouts Training Method

incorporates HIIT principles, known for maximizing fat burn and

offers a powerful strategy for achieving and maintaining optimal

improving cardiovascular health.

body composition, while balancing hormones and mental support.

MUSCLE MASS/ACTIVATION: Using PowHERbands ensures continuous

Do these 4 exercises for Gorgeous Glutes: https://www.youtube.com/

muscle tension throughout the workout

watch?v=Wah2K05sD6k

HIGH-INTENSITY

INTERVAL

TRAINING

(HIIT):

SPACE: Can be done in a small apartment/college dorm, RV with little room

Connect with Becca: https://linktr.ee/beccatebonfit

N OURIS H , AWAKE N a nd SOOT H E MOO D B ARS

158

NOURISH, AWAKEN AND SOOTHE MOOD BARS DEVELOPED BY CELEBRATED PSYCHIATRIST CARLY SNYDER, M.D.

159

Best Holistic Life November 2024

160

Th e F u t u r e o f En t r e p r e n e u r s h i p : 5 T r e nd s a nd P r e d i c t i o n s f o r t h e N e x t D e c a d e

THE FUTURE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP: 5 TRENDS AND PREDICTIONS FOR THE NEXT DECADE B Y L .Y. M A R L O W

More than a decade ago, I took a bold leap from corporate America into the

3. The Growth of the Gig Economy

untreated waters of entrepreneurship by launching my first business—a

The gig economy, characterized by short-term contracts and freelance work,

nonprofit inspired by my personal story. Figuring out how to brand and market

is expanding rapidly. This trend is reshaping the traditional employment

it, let alone raise funds, still haunts me to this day. The transition was anything

model, providing entrepreneurs with the flexibility to hire talent on-demand.

but easy. I encountered numerous obstacles, from financial uncertainties to

Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and TaskRabbit are facilitating this shift by

the steep learning curve of running my own business.

connecting businesses with freelancers across various fields. As the gig

Back then, the landscape was vastly different, with the rise of social and digital

economy grows, entrepreneurs can tap into a diverse and skilled workforce

media just beginning to reshape our world. Technologies and trends that once

without the long-term commitment of traditional employment, allowing for

seemed insurmountable challenges are now at the crossroads of the future. Oh,

greater agility and cost-effectiveness.

what I would have given then for the tools and insights we have now! Today,

4. The Emphasis on Sustainability and Social Responsibility

as I reflect on my journey and look towards the future, I am excited about the

Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of the environmental and

trends and predictions that will shape the entrepreneurial landscape over the

social impact of their purchasing decisions. This shift is driving entrepreneurs

next decade.

to adopt sustainable and socially responsible business practices. Companies

Here are five key trends that every aspiring entrepreneur should be prepared

that prioritize sustainability, ethical sourcing, and corporate social

to embrace.

responsibility (CSR) are gaining favor with consumers who value transparency

1. The Rise of Remote Work and Digital Nomadism

and purpose. Over the next decade, we will see a surge in businesses that align

The global shift towards remote work, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic,

profit with purpose, contributing positively to society while achieving financial

is here to stay. Entrepreneurs are no longer confined to traditional office

success.

spaces; instead, they have the freedom to work from anywhere in the world.

5. The Surge in E-commerce and Digital Marketplaces

This trend is giving rise to a new breed of digital nomads who blend work

The e-commerce boom shows no signs of slowing down. With the proliferation

and travel seamlessly. Businesses are increasingly adopting remote-first

of online shopping, digital marketplaces are becoming the go-to platforms

models, leveraging technology to maintain productivity and collaboration.

for consumers. Entrepreneurs are capitalizing on this trend by launching

For entrepreneurs, this means access to a global talent pool and the ability to

e-commerce businesses and leveraging platforms like Amazon, Etsy, and

operate with lower overhead costs

Shopify. The next decade will see further advancements in e-commerce

2. The Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Automation

technology, including augmented reality (AR) shopping experiences,

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation are revolutionizing industries

personalized

across the board. From customer service chatbots to sophisticated data

Entrepreneurs who embrace these innovations will be able to provide

analytics, AI is empowering entrepreneurs to streamline operations, enhance

exceptional customer experiences and drive growth.

decision-making, and improve customer experiences. Over the next decade,

As I look back on my entrepreneurial journey, I am filled with gratitude for the

we can expect AI to become even more integrated into business processes,

challenges and triumphs that have shaped me. The future of entrepreneurship

offering innovative solutions that were once unimaginable. Entrepreneurs

is bright, with emerging trends and technologies offering unprecedented

who embrace AI will be well-positioned to gain a competitive edge, improve

opportunities for innovation and growth. Whether you are just starting out

efficiency, and scale their businesses effectively.

or looking to pivot, these trends and predictions will serve as a guide to help

recommendations,

and

seamless

payment

you thrive and be more resilient, impactful, and successful.

Connect with L.Y. https://linktr.ee/lymarlow

solutions.

1 61

Best Holistic Life November 2024

MONTHLY ENERGY UPDATE

BY LAETITIA ANDRAC Welcome to this space of the magazine. The one you connect with each month. The moon, the sun. Your spiritual being.

This is an invitation for you to set intentions and reflect throughout the month of November at key moments that punctuate the solar and lunar cycles – a form of soul nourishment.

Have courage, dear heart... This is a month for the Sun and the Moon. Grab a cup of tea (or coffee), your journal and an open mind.

Let us get started.

S U N I N S C O R P I O A N D S A G I T TA R I U S October 23rd – November 21st:

JOURNAL PROMPTS: What does adventure look like for

me? How can I bring more of this adventure into my life?

Scorpio:connection to intuition, emotion, taboo and sex. Death and

A time to reflect on the principle of death and rebirth. The intention

MOON WITH NEW MOON IN S C O R P I O + F U L L M O O N I N TA U R U S

of facing your fears and knowing and stepping into your own power.

Create a ritual to connect with the moon. Let me share more about

Death to us means clarifying your values and being deeply aligned

the moon phases and how to honor these.

rebirth. Power and renewing.

to your vision.

Scorpio is inviting you to embrace the playfulness and sexual part

NEW MOON: SET INTENTION.

of yourself.

New Moon at 9° in Scorpio (Friday 1.11 at 7.47 AM CDT, 12.47 PM BST

Scorpio is ruled by Pluto, which is all about taboo.

and 11.47 PM AEST).

The shadow of Scorpio is about being defensive, secretive and

In the darkness. Connect with the seeds to be planted

Scorpio Sun + Scorpio Moon =

vengeful.

Water + Water element connection.

JOURNAL PROMPTS: What is relevant to who you are

today? What is transforming right now, subtle or deeply?

Scorpio is a yin sign, it is fixed and aligns with the element of water.

Scorpio is about the principle of death and rebirth. The intention of facing our fears and knowing and stepping into our own power.

November 22nd - December 21st:

The scorpion has this ability to really cause death. Death to us means

Sagittarius: the explorer. The seeker. Always curious. Driven by big

clarifying our values and being deeply aligned to our vision. It is time

questions. Independent. Freedom.

to work on bringing your vision to life.

A time to ask those questions of “why am I here”. It is about going

Scorpio is inviting us to seek out this vision and for the meaningful

on new quests. Always having great ideas. A period of higher learning

impact we want to have in the world and surrender to the steps

and expanding the mind. Traveling and loving freedom. Go abroad!

forward. Take a journal and a pen.

Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, which is all about this optimism to begin again and expansion.

The shadow of Sagittarius is there is a risk of never being satisfied.

JOURNAL PROMPTS: What are my New Moon intentions?

What is my vision for the meaningful impact I want to have?

M o n t h l y En e r g y U p d a t e

F I R ST QUA RT E R MO ON: C O M M I T M E N T.

162

world and sacred world.

In mythology, virgin means “whole and complete”. Virgo’s energy asks

FQ Moon at 17° in Aquarius (Saturday 9.11 at 11.55 PM CST, 5.55 AM GMT,

you to improve that sense. Prioritise your cyclical practices. Embody your

4.55 PM AEDT).

sovereignty, wellness and joy.

This is the time to take action. The time to grow. In the first Quarter Moon, you take inspired action towards the plans you have created.

Scorpio Intention + Aquarius Moon =

JOURNAL PROMPTS: How can I cultivate more joy? What rituals

will help my wellbeing?

Water + Air element connection.

Aquarius is a yang sign, is fixed and connects with Air as an element. Air sign

What’s next?

that is fixed and yang can be a beautiful combo.

Let's drop into meditation in order to access more clarity. Choose your favorite

It is all about journaling original ideas. It is all about being the questioner.

type or if you need, head to Insight Timer and search ‘Laetitia Andrac’ for

Aquarius represents challenging ideas and making room for unorthodox ideas

some guided meditations!

or opinions. It is all about channeling change.

Let's feel the ocean of possibility… and allow life to pleasantly surprise us as Source co-creates our dreams with us

JOURNAL PROMPTS: What original ideas are coming from me right

now? What inspired action can I take right now?

To stay connected always with the moon. Download my free Moon Calendar from my article link. Let’s stay connected always. Until next time.

With love. Laetitia.

F U L L M O O N : I L L U M I N AT E .

Full Moon at 24° in Taurus (Friday 15.11 at 3.28 PM CST, 9.28 PM GMT and Saturday 16.11 8.28 AM AEDT).

Expression of the need to embody passion. Under the Full Moon, all is illuminated. The seeds and intentions planted in the November New Moon are revealed.

Scorpio Intention + Taurus Moon = Water + Earth element connection.

Taurus is a yin sign that embodies manifestation. As it is a fixed sign and an Earth sign it is all about feeling stable and grounded. Being productive by being in our body.

Creating using our hands, our soul and our minds. It is about the embodiment.

It is a sign that brings in practicality. Everything is slow and steady. Connect to the abundance you have.

It is about the symbol of connection to the cyclical rhythm. Taurus is full of abundance! It is time to invite financial stability and manifestation in the material world.

Drop into your senses and physical presence. Connect with pleasure, beauty and nature.

JOURNAL PROMPTS: How can I connect to abundance? What is

illuminated in this Full Moon with my New Moon intention?

L A S T Q U A R T E R M O O N : R E - E VA L U AT E .

Last Quarter Moon at 1° in Virgo (Friday 22.11 at 7.28 PM CST and Saturday 23.11 at 1.28 AM GMT and 12.28 PM AEDT).

The time to surrender.

Sagittarius Intention + Virgo Moon = Fire + Earth element connection.

Virgo is the yin. The being. It connects to the element of earth.

Represents the energy of reverence and humility. The need to improve the world. It is an invitation to connect with ritual practices. Rituals to improve our whole wellbeing and sacredness.

Indeed, Virgo is ruled by Mercury, a messenger between the physical

Connect with Laetitia: https://sales.essentialshift.co/links

163

ACTIVATE

YOUR MONEY ENERGY IN UNDER 10 MINUTES A DAY! Unlock Your Financial Potential With The Morning Money 9-Day Activation + Meditation.

TRANSFORM with a daily Money Activation Meditation designed to ignite your money-making abilities.

PLUS: 9 energy-enriched emails with sacred messages to rewire your mind for wealth.

PLUS - 50 powerful money beliefs to eliminate financial stress and mental “blocks.”

Snap the Code To Download!

Experience the shift in your financial energy and mindset, and expand your journey to abundance today!