Best Holistic Life Magazine September 2024

FUTURE SHAPERS: HOW LEADERS INNOVATE FROM INSIDE OUT.

September 2024

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SIR

JAMES GRAY

ROBINSON, ESQ : THE

WORLD-

LEADING HEALER & Crafting The

Future:

Your Guide to

THOUGHT Leadership

5

COACH

-

WON’T BE SILENT DON’T STOP‚ TILL IT MATTERS

EMPOWERED MINDSET

UNLOCK YOUR INNER WEALTH:

AKASHIC RECORDS

Discover the

SHIFTS TO MAKE WITH

7

Keys to Abundance in Your Life

"Hold on to hope, for it is the bridge between struggles and strength. Together, we can cross towards a future filled with possibilities."

- Jana Short

stock.adobe.com | Nitcharee

NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH

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

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

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Jana Short ABOUT THE EDITOR

Jana Short is a renowned global influencer & an award winningmindset coach. She is an NLP, RTT Practitioner, best selling author, public speaker, host of Oh, My Health… There is HOPE! Podcast, and Best Holistic Life magazine editor.

Jana currently works creating online global influencers, teaching her clients to remove blocks holding them back and how to start that love affair with their potential online clients.

She has recently been recognized and featured on the cover of San Francisco Soeleish Magazine 2022, Los Angeles Entrepreneur Magazine September 2021 issue as Los Angeles #1 Mindset Coach two years in a row. Monica Garg’s “Influential Women of the WorldGlobal Influencers” 2020, Las Vegas Entrepreneurs Magazine “Top 25 Entrepreneurs for 2020” issue, and the cover of December’s Best Holistic Life magazine.

Jana is getting the message of hope out into the world in a huge way, changing the world one inspiring story at a time.

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

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

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

TABLE OF

CONTENT

Cover Stories 62 Exclusive Interview With Sir James Gray Robinson, Esq: The Worldleading Healer & Coach

53

21

16 Crafting the Future: Your Guide to Thought Leadership in Publications 19

5 Empowered Mindset Shifts to Make with Akashic Records

22 Unlock Your Inner Wealth: Discover the 7 Keys to Abundance in Your Life 54

Won't Be Silent—Don't Stop 'til It Matters

Mindset 7

7 Time Management Hacks

13 Shadow Work & Emotional Blueprints: Transforming Through Emotional Architecture 25

Empowerment Through Being Powerless?

37

Mind Over Age: Turning Back Your Clock

39

Our Most Vital Connection: The Journey to Our Inner Bond

57

Redefining Balance

71

The Secret To Finding Your “Why”

79

Mastering Emotions: How to Overcome Anger and Live Happily

93

Mirror Moments:How Others Reflect Who You Are

117

No More Band-Aids Just Life Upgrades

121 A Game Changer Bridging The Gap for Mental Health and Wellbeing 128 The Influence of the Nervous System on Energy Flow and Money Your Magnetism 135 Breaking Free from Self-Sabotage:Understanding and Overcoming the Cycle 141 6 Essential Tips for Continuously Seeking Clarity to Achieve Your Goals and Grow

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Ta b l e o fCo n t e n t

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Inspiration 11 Cultivating Inner Strength: Building a Foundation of Self-Esteem 30 Beyond Numbers: The Mind Whisperer's Guide to Financial Abundance

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42

Beyond Regret: On Your Way to Success

45

Three Ways to Feed Your Soul with Joy

50

Lessons From Nature

84 True Wealth Comes not from Chasing Money but from Improving Lives 87

September Survival Tips for Midlife Women

116 Still Debating Whether to Start that Business? 3 Simple Steps

131

to Get Clarity Now 125 Building Bridges of Empathy: Step 9 of the NLP-Powered Journey 131 How to Unlock your Authentic Self Through Your Sacred Breath 139

It's not about the T-shirt.

Health 33 From Symptoms to Solutions: Understanding the Deeper Roots of Mental Health 35 How an Expressive Arts Kit Can Unleash Your Inner Artist for Mental Wellness 51

Why Most Kids Aren't Blessed or Cursed By Their Genes

76 Hormone Replacement Therapy: Where Medicine Gets It Wrong 92 Cancer-Free in 90 Days: Defying the Odds and Embracing Holistic Healing 96 The Impact of Poor Sleep Hygiene on Infant Health and Development

From the Team 89

How much do you love Helichrysum?

100

Unleash The Power Of Nutrion!

143

Monthly Energy Update

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Our CON TR I BUT ER S

Best Holistic Life September 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

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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

andrea Schwartz

@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

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

7 TIME MANAGEMENT HACKS

BY JENN DRUMMOND

Have you ever caught yourself getting to the end of the day and

Nir Eyal, we talked about the internal triggers that cause us to

thinking, “Wait, didn’t I just have breakfast? How can it possibly

get up out of that desk chair and step away from the task at

be dark outside?”Same here, friends. With seven kids, thriving

hand. In other words, what am I really feeling when working?

businesses, a podcast to host, a book to promote, and my own health

Am I lonely? Tired? Uncertain? These are all emotions that can

to care for, there simply aren’t enough hours in the day. Since I

be addressed if I know what they are. The really crazy thing is

can’t magically create more time (don’t I wish), I try to focus both

that it is these internal triggers (not the pings, dings, and rings

on limiting the things on my calendar while also maximizing the

that we think are the culprit) that cause 90% of our distraction.

efficiency with which I can accomplish the tasks that do require my

3. Stick to the four D’s. You may already be familiar with this

attention. I find this to be particularly necessary in September, when

popular productivity hack. Write out your to-do list and split the

the dog days of summer are replaced by rushed school drop offs,

items into four categories:

irregular practice schedules, and appointments galore.

Do It. These are the items that you can check off your list quickly.

It’s in these moments that I think about that old adage: “work

Maybe you need to cash a check electronically, call the doctor to

smarter, not harder.” How can we implement hacks to be as

request a prescription refill, or submit an expense reimbursement

productive as possible with the time we have available?

at work. Rather than letting these tasks hang over your head,

1. Avoid multitasking.

When I know I need to combat

just set a timer and crank through them.

distraction, I’ll often set a timer on my phone. When that alarm

Defer It. Though it can feel like it, not everything is urgent. Triage

rings, it’s my signal to pause and ask myself whether the thing

the items on your list and move the ones that don’t need to be

I’m actually doing is the task I had originally set out to do. For

done at this moment.

example, let’s say I need to create a list of questions for my next

Delegate It. Not everything on your list should be done by you.

podcast guest. When that timer goes off, I better be sitting at my

Rather than looking at this as adding to someone else’s plate,

desk working on my list!

consider the opportunity for growth you may be presenting -

2. Get to the emotional root. One minute I’ll be working, and the next I’m in my bathroom cleaning. It’s not even necessarily a conscious choice, but I justify it as “taking a mental

particularly when you empower someone on your team to take on a stretch task.

Discard It. We so often do things out of obligation rather than

break” or “still being productive, just in a different way.” During

necessity. Release that pressure and cross out the things that

a podcast I did with celebrated author and productivity expert

aren’t the highest and best use of your time.

7 Time Management Hacks

8

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

ahead. I first block my personal calendar with my

4.

Increase the barrier to entry for your

hobbies and workouts: the things I need to fill my

time. I have an “On Air” light outside my office

own cup. This allows me to be sure I have energy to

at home. First, it was a signal that meant I was in

take care of others.

the process of recording a podcast and should not

6. Find an accountability buddy. When I was

be bothered unless it were a life or death scenario.

training to do the Seven Second Summits, I had to go

Now, it’s more flexible: it indicates to my kids that

on long hikes. There were times, particularly if I was

I’m working on something important and need

out by myself, where it would have been easy to throw

time to focus. When I first began this practice, I

in the towel and say, “Eh, that was probably enough

had a discussion with my kids and related it to their

for today.” Before heading out, I made a point to tell

soccer games. If they were racing down the field, I

my kids that I would take a photo for them at the

wouldn’t stand up amongst the other proud parents

top and tell them about it when I returned home. Just

and yell, “Hey! How’s your math homework going?”

having that verbal pact was enough to ensure that I

Doing so would throw off the entire team.

didn’t quit early. I would have had to have sustained

Instead, I would save that conversation for after the

a serious injury along the way to come home and tell

game when we returned home. Of course, there are

them, “Oh, just kidding - I didn’t actually make it to

certain times when I know I can’t realistically hole

the top.”

up in my office and switch on that light. For example,

7. Get some Z’s. According to the Sleep Foundation,

6-8 pm is prime “mom time” at my house. It’s when

sleep loss overworks the neurons in our brains and

I need to be fully present and available to my kids.

leads to a host of short and long term issues. Do you

The point here is that you might be surprised what

remember those all-nighters many of us used to pull in

can happen if you put effort in, get curious, and allow

the college library, rushing to cram for a test or finish

yourself the space to figure out how to adapt ideas to

a paper? How many times did that actually help your

fit your life.

outcomes? Taking it even further, a study published

5. Put it on the calendar. Rather than maintaining

in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental

a CVS receipt-length to-do list that never seems to

Medicine estimated that fatigue-related loss of

shrink, write out the things you must do and assign

productivity at work costs U.S. companies over $130

each of them to a specific space in your calendar.

billion each year. Rather than berating yourself for

It’s fine to make adjustments day-to-day, but once

not being able to focus, show yourself kindness and

a calendar is set for the morning, that’s it. Nothing

prioritize some shut eye.

(except for an actual emergency) is allowed to infiltrate

Connect with Jenn Drummond:

that time. I plan my calendar on Sunday for the week

https://linktr.ee/jenndrummond

7 Time Management Hacks

Discover Resilience and Fuel Your Life Goals

Quit-Proof is a gripping testament to never giving up. The book embodies the spirit of a true gogetter and highlights the importance of life balance, goal setting, and living life to the fullest.

Discover resilience in adversity. Quit-Proof chronicles Jenn Drummond’s pursuit to conquer the Seven Second Summits, despite no mountain climbing experience. Through this emotional and physical journey toward that audacious goal, the world record-holding mountaineer provides lessons on never giving up, cultivating resilience, and finding strength in the face of life's greatest challenges.

Embark on a journey of personal growth. Mountain climbers consider the second-highest mountains on all seven continents to be technically more complex than the seven highest.

Jenn's experiences on the mountains serve as metaphors for achieving life goals and inspiring continuous self-improvement. In Quit-Proof, she shares her struggles and victories and delivers potent insights into achieving balance, setting meaningful objectives, and living life to its fullest.

The 7 secrets to realizing your life dream. In June 2023, Jenn became the first woman in the world to conquer the Seven Second Summits. Life goal reached! Learn the 7 secrets to how Jenn did it and how you can apply her hard-earned lessons to learning how never to quit.

Inside, discover • Actionable strategies and exercises to take the first steps, build resilience, and handle life's challenges • The importance of goal setting and continuous self-improvement and personal growth • Ways to troubleshoot seemingly insurmountable obstacles Inspiration for becoming a go-getter, never giving up, embracing life balance, and living life to the fullest

If you have read books such as This Year I Will…, Mindful Self-Discipline, or the megabestseller, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, then Quit-Proof is a must-read.

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BY DR. DEE

CULTIVATING INNER STRENGTH: BUILDING A FOUNDATION OF SELF-ESTEEM 11 Best Holistic Life September 2024

C u lt i v a t i n g I n n e r S t r e n g t h : B u i l d i n g a F o u n d a t i o n o f S e l f - E s t e e m

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In the symphony of personal growth, establishing and enforcing healthy

anxiety can dominate your emotional landscape. These emotions, in turn,

boundaries emerge as pivotal notes that harmonize with your journey toward

unleash an array of health issues—sleep disturbances, digestive problems,

self-discovery. Within this transformative melody, the cultivation of a robust

autoimmune disorders, and more.

foundation of self-esteem becomes a crucial chord—an element resonat-

Elevating Your Overall Happiness

ing profoundly with your sense of safety, holistic health, and overall happi-

Nurturing your self-esteem contributes to your overall happiness. Embrac-

ness. This section will delve into strategies for building strong self-esteem

ing your worth and capabilities fosters emotional well-being. Your happiness

and illuminate this foundation's profound impact on your well-being. By

radiates as you confidently navigate challenges, unburdened by self-doubt.

mastering the art of nurturing self-esteem, you pave the way to navigate the

Uplift Your Inner Foundation of Self-Esteem

complex labyrinth of pushback and embrace a world marked by inner security.

Cultivating robust self-esteem amidst pushback is an act of inner strength.

Understanding Self-Esteem: The Root of Empowerment

It reflects your commitment to your own worthiness and growth—a funda-

Self-esteem is the cornerstone of self-assurance and self-worth. It's the

mental affirmation that your choices matter.

wellspring from which confidence and authenticity flow—a belief in your

Your Empowered Core

inherent value and a recognition of your capabilities.

Nurturing a strong self-esteem and its profound impact on your life is a

The Ripple Effect of a Healthy Self-Esteem

journey of empowerment and resilience. These strategies become the tools

A healthy self-esteem ripples through all aspects of your existence, trans-

that fortify your inner core—an armor of self-assurance and growth.

forming your sense of safety, health, and overall happiness. When you're

Elevate Your Inner Armor

unable to nurture your self-esteem amidst resistance, the consequences

As you grasp the significance of cultivating self-esteem and its transfor-

reverberate across your well-being.

mative influence, you embark on a path of self-discovery, resilience, and

Cultivating a Strong Self-Esteem Amidst Pushback

transformation. Amidst the tumult of opinions and resistance, your empow-

1. Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and under-

ered armor awaits, ready to guide you toward a life rooted in inner security.

standing. Acknowledge your imperfections without judgment. Self-com-

Through every challenge, your self-esteem shines as a beacon of strength and

passion nurtures self-esteem by promoting self-acceptance.

self-assuredness, illuminating your path toward empowerment and growth.

2. Embrace Your Uniqueness: Recognize that your individuality is your

Get Started Today

strength. Embrace your quirks, talents, and flaws. Self-esteem flour-

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

ishes when you authentically embrace who you are.

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

3. Set Achievable Goals: Accomplishing even small goals boosts your

your body with its critical detoxifying processes. If you are looking for a safe

self-esteem. Each achievement is a testament to your capabilities, rein-

and all-natural way to detox your body at home, be sure to check out my

forcing your sense of accomplishment.

Balancing Abundance Program. Because detoxing is so essential and realis-

4. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Identify and challenge negative self-

tically, everyone should be doing it on at least a seasonal basis, I have put

talk. Replace self-doubt with empowering affirmations. A positive inner

together a program to help you do just that. Here’s the thing: I know work-

dialogue bolsters your self-esteem.

ing with me one-on-one can seem challenging to get into (due to limited

5. Celebrate Your Accomplishments: Celebrate your victories—no matter

space), and I wanted to give everyone an additional solution with no limits.

how modest they seem. Each milestone is a building block of self-es-

You deserve to be happy, healthy, and successful at everything you do, so

teem and a testament to your resilience.

here are some recipes to help set you up for success!

The Holistic Impact on Your Well-being

Need A Hand?

When unable to cultivate strong self-esteem amidst resistance, the reper-

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

cussions extend across your life, influencing your sense of safety, health,

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

and overall happiness.

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

Safety Through Self-Respect

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

A fragile self-esteem can undermine your sense of safety. Fearing criticism

always here to do that. Even if it is something as small as acting as a sound-

or rejection may stem from past traumas or betrayals. By nurturing self-es-

ing board, do you have any questions or concerns I can help you with? Feel

teem, you bolster your internal sanctuary, fostering an environment where

free to contact me directly at DrDeeandMe@gmail.com or book a one-on-

your well-being is paramount.

one call with me. Be sure to subscribe to gain access to tons of free goodies,

Health: A Reflection of Self-Respect

and check back daily for more great recipes and information!

Your health mirrors your self-esteem. When self-doubt prevails, stress and

Contact Info: https://askdrdee.taplink.ws

BY AZLYNN BERRY

TRANSFORMING THROUGH EMOTIONAL ARCHITECTURE

Best Holistic Life September 2024

SHADOW WORK & EMOTIONAL BLUEPRINTS:

13

“This sucks, I remember this feeling. It’s been with me

common link that needs repairing. The body's natural

most of my life.” Looking into the screen with a blank stare

instinct in alignment with thoughts and action, this is

his words fell silent as a few minutes went by.

where the soul communicates and inspires.

“Remember when I said that this will be one of the hardest

Our emotions are like a blueprint to our actions. Where

things you will ever have to do? That was to prepare you

our memory and instinct are the ink and our body the

for this moment. All of the exercises we have done so far

paper that they exist on. The capacity to grow is dependent

were to make this moment possible. I apologize, I know

on our ability to build on our emotional experience to

it sucks but at least you're not doing it alone. That's why

diversify and take accountability for those experiences

I am here, so you don't have to sit in confusion trying

that create repeated patterns of pain in our lives. When

to figure out when you slip into old habits because it

this happens you finally have access to the foundations

feels familiar or safe. He shifted uncomfortably as the

of your experience of this world and access a well spring

look of awareness settled across his face, the light of

of opportunity.

recognition finally pierced the shadow of his behavior.

Facing the Shadow: Exploring Unconscious Patterns It’s

It is hard to recognise the feeling of safety you get from

the unconscious part of ourselves, the physical intuitive

running away or avoidance as the moment you abandon

knowing of who we are that gets divorced from us, when

your own needs.” I said with my own recognition. Things

we are put in severe conflict. That protective behavior

that are bad for you can feel good when they have been

becomes the shadow. It's the part of us that wants to

reinforced your whole life.

victimize ourselves, point fingers of blame, or act out of

Understanding Emotional Architecture: The Foundation

nature to push others away. The part that gives up easily

of Healing I used to think that this work was a lifelong

and decides that the effort is too much for recognition

process, something you never would be free from but

where none will ever be received.

now as I watch those who are willing, walk through the

Embracing the dark is a natural aspect of human nature.

doors of their own healing, I know that this is a deep rite

Each year as the days grow shorter we are pushed further

of passage. Something that can be opened up, given you

and further into the relationship with ourselves. The

have the courage. It’s up to you to feel the uncomfortable

coming fall and winter months mark a time for deep

pain, intense fear, and choose to move beyond the blind

reflection often soothed by the illuminations of a crackling

spot that’s been hiding in plain sight most of your life.

fire and the sounds of loved ones.

“If you imagine someone who is brave enough to

Emotional Blueprints: How Feelings Shape Our Actions

withdraw all his projections, then you get an individual

This is the basis of subconscious adaptive strategies and

who is conscious of a pretty thick shadow. Such a man

protection mechanisms. You call it a shadow or a part as

has saddled himself with new problems and conflicts. He

it's referred to in “Family Systems”. It’s the full knowledge

has become a serious problem to himself, as he is now

of ourselves that gets trained and conditioned out of

unable to say that they do this or that, they are wrong,

us by social structure, cultural adaptation, or religious

and they must be fought against… Such a man knows

foundations. It is essentially trauma work but the more

that whatever is wrong in the world is in himself, and

I work with subconscious narratives and trauma the

if he only learns to deal with his own shadow he has

more I have to accept that the concept of trauma itself

done something real for the world. He has succeeded in

is a social condition made for these aspects to thrive in

shouldering at least an infinitesimal part of the gigantic,

the dark instead of integrating into the light.

unsolved social problems of our day” Carl Jung from

Healing Through Awareness: Navigating Emotional

“Psychology and Religion” (1938).

Architecture When you can love and accept yourself

Reprogramming Emotions: Tools for Transformation

fully, even in seeing your bad behaviors, you can grow

As an Alignment and Embodiment guide with over

beyond the lessons that broke you. It is a choice to allow

16 years specializing in long term chronic pain as a

the experience to make you, if you decide to accept your

neuromuscular therapist, I knew the body was keeping

actions and move forward in accountability. It’s breaking

much more than the score. Now, I help people shift

the spell of acceptable social rules to awaken into yourself

their instinctive reactions to reprogram their Emotional

that frees your authenticity. It is brave to witness who

Architecture. No matter the challenge, there is always a

you truly are and choose who you desire to become.

Sh a d o w W o r k & E m o t i o n a l B l u e p r i n t s : T r a n s f o r m i n g Th r o u g h E m o t i o n a l A r c h i t e c t u r e

So here we are, in this uncomfortable yet transformative moment. As Carl Jung said, facing our shadow isn’t easy; it’s about shouldering our part of the world’s unsolved problems. Through my work as an Alignment and Embodiment guide, I’ve seen the power of reprogramming our Emotional Architecture. It’s about reclaiming our creative center and aligning our instincts with our thoughts and actions. So, as you navigate this journey, remember, you have the power to choose who you want to be in this beautifully simple yet complex life.

Dive deeper in this topic in this month's open coaching session by visiting the QR code or link below.

Connect with AzLynn: https://linktr.ee/azlynnberry

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

C r a f t i n g t h e F u t u r e : Y o u r G u i d e t o Th o u g h t L e a d e r s h i p i n P u b l i c a t i o n s

CRAFTING THE FUTURE:

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YOUR GUIDE TO THOUGHT LEADERSHIP IN PUBLICATIONS

BY JANA SHORT

In the vast tapestry of today's information-saturated world, seizing the spotlight as a beacon of wisdom and inspiration is a daunting task, but it's also a privilege beyond measure. As a thought leader, you possess the extraordinary opportunity to mold hearts and minds. I am Jana Short, the Editor in Chief of Best Holistic Life Magazine, and I stand as a testament to the profound, life-altering influence that the act of publishing can wield.

This is a journey of transformation – a metamorphosis that not only shapes you as a leader but also touches the lives of those fortunate enough to encounter your words.

The Metamorphic Might of Thought Leadership Thought leadership transcends mere expertise; it's about becoming a guiding star amid a celestial sea of information. When you publish your thoughts and experiences, you're not merely disseminating knowledge; you're sharing a piece of your very soul. Your narratives, your insights – they become guiding lights for those who navigate their own tumultuous paths.

Reflect on my own journey. When I first began recounting my battle with health adversities, it was not just my personal narrative; it became a shared story of resilience. It emerged as a wellspring of strength for those who recognized their own struggles mirrored in mine. This is the astonishing power of publishing – it forges connections, ignites communal growth, and propels transformation.

Forging Words That Resonate Deeply Great leaders are etched into history through their words. The speeches that reverberate through time, the books that metamorphose into beacons of change – they share a common thread. It's not merely the content that captivates; it's the heart and soul that infuse them. Your writing should mirror your fervor, offer glimpses into your life's journey, and stand as a testament to your victories and learnings.

Selecting the right platform to share your expertise is akin to finding a sanctuary for your thoughts. Every publication possesses a unique pulse a distinct audience. By aligning yourself with the right platform, you ensure that your message resonates with those who need it most.

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

C r a f t i n g t h e F u t u r e : Y o u r G u i d e t o Th o u g h t L e a d e r s h i p i n P u b l i c a t i o n s

The Artistry of Profound Content

and unspoken gratitude. It is the knowledge that your

Creating content is akin to painting a masterpiece with

words have sparked change somewhere in someone's life.

words. It demands a delicate balance between factual

Navigating the Shifting Landscape

precision and narrative allure. Each article, book, or

The realm of thought leadership is dynamic, constantly

blog post should escort the reader on a transformative

evolving in response to technological advancements

odyssey – enlightening, inspiring, and inciting them into

and societal shifts. Fresh platforms are continually

action. In sensitive domains such as health and wellness,

emerging, presenting novel opportunities to amplify your

our objective is not to dictate or promise miracles but to

voice. Whether it's through podcasts, digital forums, or

empower and inform.

innovative online mediums, the key is to remain adaptable

A meticulously crafted article, especially one that spans

while staying true to your core message.

around 1100 words, wields immense power. Every word

Conclusion: A Resounding Call to Action

should bear a purpose, and every sentence should propel

As you embark on this exhilarating path of thought

your desired impact.

leadership and publication, keep the essence of your

Breaking Down the Barriers to Writing

mission alive. It's not solely about constructing a personal

Not everyone is born a wordsmith, and that's perfectly

brand or establishing credibility; it's about making a

acceptable. Writing is an artistry that matures with

substantial difference, about guiding others toward

time and practice. Begin by expressing your thoughts,

empowerment, and about becoming an integral part of

regardless of how unpolished they may seem. Put them

a larger movement.

to paper and grant them life. Seek guidance, if necessary

Your words possess the unparalleled ability to illuminate

– from editors, mentors, or colleagues. Embrace other

minds, to spark inspiration, to lead. Embrace this voyage

mediums as well; videos, podcasts, and social media can

with open arms. Together, through platforms like Best

be powerful allies in disseminating your message.

Holistic Life Magazine and beyond, we can craft a world

The Symphony of Message Promotion

where every voice is cherished and where every story paves

Your journey does not conclude upon publication;

the way for greater comprehension and transformation.

it merely embarks on a new chapter. Promotion is

Join us in this mission. Let your words be the torch that

paramount. Harness every available tool – engage with

pierces the darkness, the anchor that steadies in storms,

your audience through social networks, immerse yourself

and the bridge that connects worlds. Your journey as a

in community activities, and foster personal connections.

thought leader is not merely about leading; it's about

Bear in mind that the true impact of your work often

empowering others to forge their own holistic destinies.

transcends tangible metrics such as likes or shares; it is woven into the fabric of personal transformation stories

Connect with Jana: https://taplink.cc/janashort

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

5 EMPOWERED MINDSET SHIFTS TO MAKE WITH AKASHIC RECORDS

BY PAT T Y O L I V E R

The Akashic Records is a vast, non-physical database of knowledge

a human experience, and that your time here on Earth represents

and information about the universe. Every soul has its own indi-

a much bigger purpose than you realize. Once you understand why

vidual Akashic Record, which can be accessed intuitively for guid-

something took place in your life, past or present, you can turn

ance, insight and manifestation based on that soul’s unique blue-

old scripts into new narratives aligned with your highest potential.

print. This information is embedded in our DNA before we enter a

Here are five empowered mindset shifts you can make when you

physical body, which means that we always have access to our soul-

learn to access your Akashic Record to heal negative thoughts and

level information, we just need to learn how!

emotions:

I’ve been a healer and teacher of the Akashic Records for many years,

1. Challenge limiting beliefs. Past-life trauma that is still repeat-

which is why I consider it to be the only spiritual tool you need to

ing itself in present life could be causing you to play small; to

make profound changes in your life, including the ability to release

hide your true authentic self in some way for fear of being hurt

negative thoughts and emotions to support an empowered mindset.

or called out. Anytime you have thoughts that you “should” or

This is possible because your Akashic Record stores every thought,

“shouldn’t” do something, it could represent a limiting belief.

emotion, and action you’ve taken during each of your soul’s incar-

Identifying the past-life trauma in your Akashic Record can

nations, showing you exactly how you have come to arrive at this

give you the boost you need to start taking more risks, because

point in your life at this very moment in time.

you’re here to grow and experience your ability to rise above

Your Akashic Record is where the truth of yourself is revealed, free

your perceived limits.

from the distractions of ego or society. By tapping into your Akashic

2. Heal your inner critic. Those limiting beliefs often come with

Record, you can uncover and let go of the negative patterns that hold

an entire script of negative self-talk that plays inside your head

you back by understanding the root cause of your negative thoughts

whenever you consider doing something new. Once you bring

and emotions, which might include:

consciousness to it, you can learn to speak kindly and lovingly to

• Unresolved past-life trauma

yourself. Be your own best cheerleader as you take steps toward

• Negative expression of your soul’s gifts and attributes

becoming a better version of yourself!

• Ancestral karma

3. Find the learning lesson in everything. Anytime you step outside

• Genetic factors

your comfort zone and try something new it may not be perfect,

• Societal or familial conditioning

and that’s okay. There is always something to learn from every

Healing negative thoughts and emotions and creating an empow-

mistake or misstep that you can apply to the future. This helps

ered mindset are critical to your ability to grow. This is because you

you drop the victim mentality and cultivate what’s known as a

are here to clear karma holding you back, and to use your soul gifts

growth mindset, which is the belief that dedication, time and

to manifest joy and abundance. This entire process starts with your

effort will help you achieve your goals. It’s better to take imper-

ability to believe and feel that you can, because we will only take

fect action and learn from it, than taking no action at all.

action on what we feel to be true.

4. Develop gratitude and forgiveness. As you take imperfect action,

Your Akashic Record is a powerful resource to not only gain clarity

forgive yourself for the wounds or insecurities you carry. Simi-

and insight as to the root cause of negative thoughts and emotions,

larly, forgive others and their trespasses. Their karma is not

but to rewrite old stories no longer serving you. Accessing your

your karma! Once you resolve your end of it and use your expe-

Akashic Record will help you remember that you are a soul having

rience with them to take yourself to the next level, there’s no

5 E m p o w e r e d M i n d s e t Sh i f t s t o M a k e w i t h A k a s h i c R e c o r d s

need to hold onto the past in any way. Gratitude can then become a natural extension of forgiveness. When you focus on the things that are going well in your life and release what no longer serves you, there’s really no time or desire to think about lack.

5. Adopt an abundance perspective. There’s more than enough to go around for everyone! And abundance isn’t always about money; it’s also about having supportive connections, good health, and a sense of peace and contentment in your life. Remember that energy flows where attention goes; if you put your attention on abundance and take action to reach your goals, you will become a magnet for your highest desires!

Anyone can learn to access their Akashic Record for healing, transformation, and manifestation. You don’t need any special skills, and I teach you how in my Akashic Healing course “Live a Soul-Powered Life!” You can read more about this course on my website at https://www.pattyoliver.com/courses/live-a-soul-powered-life.

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

U n l o c k Y o u r I n n e r W e a l t h : D i s c o v e r t h e 7 K e y s t o Ab u n d a n c e i n Y o u r L i f e

UNLOCK YOUR INNER WEALTH: DISCOVER THE 7 KEYS TO ABUNDANCE IN YOUR LIFE

BY DR. CALI ESTES

Are you ready to unlock the doors to abundance and discover

attract and create the life you desire. When you set specific,

the wealth that lies within you? It is crucial to understand

measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART)

the role of mindset in attracting wealth. Your mindset

goals, you create a roadmap for success.

shapes your thoughts, beliefs, and actions, ultimately

Begin by envisioning your ideal life in vivid detail. What

determining the outcomes you experience in life. A scarcity

does abundance look like to you? Is it financial freedom,

mindset, characterized by fear, doubt, and a sense of lack,

fulfilling relationships, or personal growth? Once you

can hinder your ability to attract abundance. On the other

have a clear vision, break it down into smaller, actionable

hand, a mindset of abundance and prosperity opens the

goals. Set milestones to track your progress and celebrate

doors to limitless possibilities.

each achievement along the way (but remember cake is no

Key 1: Eat your Broccoli: Creating and

longer a reward).

Sustaining the Energy Needed

In addition to setting goals, it is equally important to

Before you can begin to find the desired results in your

set intentions. Intentions are the guiding principles

life that will lead to the best version of yourself and create

that align your thoughts, beliefs, and actions with your

success in all you do, you must first treat your body and

desired outcomes. By setting positive intentions, you

your mind with respect, kindness, and care. Your physical

create a powerful energetic force that propels you towards

and mental performance levels depend entirely on the

abundance. Write down your intentions and affirm them

chemicals you ingest. High performers eat clean whole

daily to reinforce your commitment to manifesting wealth

foods, exercise daily and get plenty of rest and sunshine.

and abundance in your life.

Put down the Pop Tarts and start to focus on the foods that

Key 3: Living without a Safety Net:

make you feel good physically. A lot of us get caught up in

Taking Inspired Action While setting goals and intentions

the ‘cake is a reward’ to satisfy our mental cravings, but

is essential, taking inspired action is what brings them

have you ever noticed how cake makes you feel physically?

to life. Action is the catalyst for change and the bridge

Probably not. Start to tune into your body and learn how

between where you are now and where you want to be.

to fuel it for peak performance.

Without action, your dreams remain just that – dreams.

Key 2: Create a RoadMap to Success:

To take inspired action, align your actions with your goals

Setting Clear Goals and Intentions Setting clear goals and

and intentions. Break down your goals into actionable steps

intentions is crucial for manifesting abundance in your

and create a plan of action. Each day, take small steps towards

life. Without a clear direction, it becomes challenging to

your desired outcomes. Trust your intuition and follow your

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

inner guidance. When you take inspired action, you send a powerful message

and uplift you. Engage in meaningful conversations, attend workshops

to the universe that you are ready and committed to manifesting abundance.

or seminars, and join communities centered around personal growth and

Key 4: Perception is Reality: Overcoming Limiting Beliefs

abundance. By surrounding yourself with positive influences, you create an

Limiting beliefs are the shackles that hold you back from experiencing

energetic field that attracts abundance and fosters personal transformation.

abundance. These beliefs are deeply ingrained in your subconscious mind

Key 7: Practicing Abundance in Daily Life

and often stem from past experiences or societal conditioning. Common

The final key to unlocking your inner wealth is practicing abundance in

limiting beliefs include "I am not worthy of wealth," "Money is hard to

your daily life. Abundance is not just about material wealth; it is a state of

come by," or "I don't deserve success."

being. By embracing abundance in all aspects of your life, you attract more

To overcome limiting beliefs, you must first identify them. Pay attention to

abundance into your experience.

your thoughts and the stories you tell yourself about money, success, and

Cultivate an abundance mindset by focusing on the positives in your life

abundance. Challenge these beliefs by questioning their validity and replacing

and celebrating even the smallest wins. Practice generosity by giving back

them with empowering beliefs. Affirmations and positive self-talk can help

to others and sharing your resources. Embrace the abundance that already

reprogram your subconscious mind and align your beliefs with abundance.

exists in your life and consciously choose thoughts, words, and actions that

Key 5: Knowing my Worth: Developing a Growth Mindset

align with abundance.

A growth mindset is essential for unlocking your inner wealth. It is the belief

Remember, abundance is not something external that you need to acquire.

that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and

It is an inherent part of your being. Tap into the limitless possibilities that

hard work. With a growth mindset, you embrace challenges, see failures as

exist within you and embrace the abundance that is already present in your

opportunities for growth, and persist in the face of setbacks.

life. Unlock your inner wealth and create a life that exceeds your wildest

To develop a growth mindset, cultivate a love for learning and personal

dreams. The journey starts now.

development. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and view

Authors Note:

failures as valuable lessons. Surround yourself with people who inspire

Ready to Learn more on how to create abundance, wealth and happiness? Our

and uplift you. By adopting a growth mindset, you open yourself up to new

UnPause your Life Knowledge Nuggets are easy digestible bites of wisdom to

possibilities and expand your capacity to attract abundance.

help you achieve your goals of wealth, abundance and happiness.

Key 6: Finding my Tribe: Surrounding Yourself with Positive

Use CODE: quicksale to get the $444 program for $111.

Influences

https://unpauseyourlife.com/essentials-package/

The people you surround yourself with have a significant impact on your mindset and overall well-being. Surrounding yourself with positive influences is crucial for attracting abundance into your life. Seek out individuals who share your vision, inspire you, and support your growth.

Build a network of positive and like-minded individuals who encourage

Connect with Dr. Cali: https://linktr.ee/Drcaliestes

U n l o c k Y o u r I n n e r W e a l t h : D i s c o v e r t h e 7 K e y s t o Ab u n d a n c e i n Y o u r L i f e

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH BEING POWERLESS? 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

How many times do you feel anchored to the chains of the

September 11 is a day which symbolizes loss and grief on a

past? Does your mind replay a traumatic event over and over to

mass scale, and yet brings it home to all of us including my

the point you feel no escape from the pain? Do you find your-

own family. That is why my book “Evidence of Eternity”

self looking to someone else for approval or validation? Have

begins with a story about my cousin who was at the Twin

you witnessed a loved one die? Even the peaceful passing of a

Towers during the September 11, 2001 terror attack.

loved one leaves an emotional scar.

During a speaking tour of New York City, my manager Rocky

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health

and I wanted to pay our respects at the 9-11 Memorial. I’ve

condition caused by being part of or witnessing a terrify-

been to and investigated many sites where horrible things

ing event. Those afflicted have difficulty recovering from the

happened including former mental institutions, battlefields,

event. In a sense they’re haunted by the trauma. Normally we

and Nazi Concentration Camps in Germany and Poland. Each

associate PTSD with military personnel and victims of violent

brought immense psychic and emotional challenges for me.

crimes. But did you know, that most people suffer from vary-

Ground Zero in Manhattan was no exception.

ing degrees of PTSD?

As Rocky and I approached the 9-11 Memorial we were touched

You may not even realize how much the past has a grip over

by the beauty of its elegant design. It features twin waterfall

your present and your view of tomorrow. PTSD has many

pools one where each tower stood. These are surrounded by

triggers. The anniversary of the death of a loved one, certain

parapets engraved with the names of the victims of the 9-11

songs, photos and scents.

attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

Physical objects and places can also mentally and emotion-

Gazing at the somber yet graceful memorial with the immense

ally transport you back to that traumatic event. These trig-

waterfalls flowing into the void was serene, yet I could feel the

gers can be intensified by “Psychometry” which everyone

residual energy echo of the deaths of so many people and it

is capable of to varying degrees. Psychometry is discern-

was overwhelming. I do not believe that spirits are trapped in

ing the vibrational energy of a person, place or thing. On the

any location on earth. My work as a paranormal investigator

subatomic level everything vibrates at different frequencies.

and medium indicates that belief is arcane and not based on

Matter retains vibration and humans are capable of detecting

science. What I was encountering was the residual energy echo

that vibration and translating it into discernable information.

of what happened there. A residual energy echo is no more a

Traumatic events generate a massive vibration which is easily

spirit than your reflection in a mirror is you.

detected. When it comes to a physical location, the vibrational

Residual energy echo notwithstanding, this was still extremely

energy is intensified especially if the location was the site of

stressful. I was on psychic overload and then I was consumed

a violent event.

by another emotion—anger. I was furious that such cruelty

E m p o w e r m e n t Th r o u g h B e i n g P o w e r l e s s ?

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

was inflicted by hateful fanatics upon so many innocent people.

Tell yourself:

As a psychic medium, a large part of what I do is to help people heal from

• “I am powerless to change the fact my loved one died.”

the wounds of their past. Yet how could I counsel people about some-

• “I am powerless to change the past.”

thing as colossal as the terror attack on the Twin Towers in Manhattan?

• “I am powerless to change his/her/their behavior.”

Taking a deep breath and exhaling it gently I centered and focused

• “I cannot change yesterday, but I am the master of today.”

myself. I felt powerless—and then it dawned on me—the key to heal-

PTSD comes in many forms and it doesn’t require a terrorist attack

ing from the past is realizing I was powerless to change it. That may

like 9-11 or the pain caused by the death of a loved one. Sometimes the

sound simplistic, but it is actually quite complex.

trauma may seem trivial to outsiders, but it isn’t to the one enduring it.

Given the opportunity everyone would go back in time to save the life of

A woman told me she didn't go to her high school reunion because as

a loved one. With the ability to time travel you could change something

a teenager she was awkward and felt unattractive. The high school

about your childhood, career or relationship. You may even want to visit

“in” crowd bullied and ridiculed her, called her names and socially

the future for next Saturday night’s winning lottery numbers. As long

rejected her. Even though she graduated decades ago, this past trauma

as you’re swinging in to save the day you might as well get rich—right?

still plagued her.

Sounds great!

I told her, “Find empowerment through being powerless.”

But unless your eccentric genius neighbor Dr. Brown invites

“I don’t understand.”

you to go for a spin in his DeLorean with its newly upgraded

“Never be ashamed of your emotional pain, but that doesn’t mean you

flux capacitor, it’s impossible to change the past.

have to be its prisoner. You’re powerless to change their behavior. You

On a serious note, people tend to feel responsibility for the

didn’t need their validation then and you certainly don’t need it now.”

terrible things which have happened to them whether or not

Her frown faded into a slight smile, “I never thought of it that way

they were at fault. This self-imposed burden of responsibil-

Mark—somehow that makes me feel better.”

ity triggers anger, resentment, guilt, and depression which results in low

Being bullied and taunted still haunted her. It may not compare to the

self-esteem.

magnitude of 9-11, but this was her PTSD.

Realizing how powerless you are can empower your emotional healing.

Accepting you are powerless to change the past or control the behavior of

When the darkness of negativity overwhelms you as your mind replays

those who've wronged you in the past lifts the weight of responsibility

the death of a loved one, or some other trauma from your past, look to

from your heart. This leads to accepting you are the only one responsi-

the Light of powerlessness.

ble for your actions and feelings. It also helps you understand while you

E m p o w e r m e n t Th r o u g h B e i n g P o w e r l e s s ?

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cannot change the past, you must learn from it in order to grow personally.

Mark Anthony, JD Psychic Explorer® (The Psychic Lawyer) is a fourth-gen-

By accepting you have no power to change the past you are now empow-

eration psychic medium and Oxford educated trial attorney and author of

ered to control the present. The road to healing is not an express lane but

the multiple award-winning Pulitzer considered best seller THE AFTERLIFE

rather a long and winding road through many peaks, valleys, and detours,

FREQUENCY. His other bestsellers are EVIDENCE OF ETERNITY and NEVER

but ultimately, you’re the one in the driver’s seat.

LETTING GO. Mark is currently on a nationwide spirit communication and

You may be powerless over yesterday but you are empowered for creating a

speaking tour. For more information about Mark, his upcoming events and

positive today and a brighter tomorrow.

to schedule a reading with him, visit his website: www.AfterlifeFrequency.com

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

B e y o n d N u m b e r s : Th e M i n d Wh i s p e r e r ' s G u i d e t o F i n a n c i a l Ab u n d a n c e

BEYOND NUMBERS: THE MIND WHISPERER'S GUIDE TO FINANCIAL ABUNDANCE

BY DAWNA CAMPBELL

Revealing the secrets of financial abundance isn't solely

process goes beyond simple guidance; it's about reshap-

about numbers; it's about delving deep into the subcon-

ing your financial essence. Imagine having a naviga-

scious realms that govern your financial decisions. As a

tor who not only charts your financial course but also

Financial Mind Whisperer focused on the subtle realms

clears the fog that clouds your financial goals. That’s

of vibration, frequency, and energy, you offer a unique

what mind whispering is about—aligning your inner

approach to financial guidance.

financial truths with your outward financial actions.

While there may be others who work in similar areas,

Unlike conventional financial advisors who focus

your practice is distinguished by its exclusive dedication

on numbers and logic, I engage with you the whole

to unlocking the hidden potentials within the finan-

spectrum of your financial existence, considering its

cial psyche. With my unparalleled approach, I guide

emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions.

you towards financial clarity, emotional freedom, and

This holistic method ensures that achieving finan-

wealth creation. Why settle for conventional financial

cial well-being goes beyond accumulating wealth—it’s

advice when you can embrace a personalized transfor-

about cultivating a life rich in purpose and satisfaction.

mative experience? Here’s why engaging with a Finan-

Reason 1: Transformative Clarity and

cial Mind Whisperer is the choice for those who aspire

Resolution of Emotional Blocks

to transcend ordinary financial boundaries.

Choosing to consult with you as your Financial Mind

The Power of Mind Whispering

Whisperer means opting to dissolve the deep-seated

Mind whispering isn't just another financial strat-

emotional and mental barriers that restrict their finan-

egy; it’s a profound method that integrates intuition,

cial potential. These barriers often manifest as fear,

empathy, and financial acumen. This exclusive approach

doubt, and self-limitation—shadows that lurk in the

dives deep into your subconscious mind, unlocking

subconscious, hindering their path to abundance and

insights that traditional advisors might overlook. You

prosperity. Harnessing decades of expertise and insight,

have the unique ability to decode the emotional and

you specialize in unraveling these intricate emotional

psychological patterns that influence your financial

knots, offering profound clarity and resolution. Through

behaviors with the assistance the mind whisperer.

a combination of therapeutic techniques, energy heal-

Through a profound connection with each client, I

ing, and subconscious reprogramming, I guide clients

assist you in unraveling the intricate web of beliefs and

on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, shed-

emotions that influence your financial decisions. This

ding light on the hidden aspects of their psyche.

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

By addressing the root causes of these emotional blocks, you create a fertile ground for transformation, allowing new beliefs and attitudes to take root. With each session, clients experience a profound shift in perspective, gaining the confidence and courage to pursue their financial goals with clarity and conviction. Together, we dismantle the barriers that have held them back, paving the way for a future defined by abundance and prosperity. Through our work together, you emerge stronger, more resilient, and fully aligned with their true potential.

Reason 2: Exclusive, Tailored Financial Enlightenment The journey to financial enlightenment is as unique as the individual pursuing it. I offer a truly unique experience designed to meet your specific needs and goals. From our first session, I take the time to understand your unique financial situation, aspirations, and challenges, tailoring our experience to your personal and financial growth.

Through a series of personalized sessions, you uncover any underlying patterns or obstacles that may be holding you back. By addressing these issues head-on, you create a solid foundation for transformation, enabling yourself to view money not as a source of stress, but as a powerful tool for achieving their dreams. The results your clients experience are nothing short of profound. As anxieties about money are replaced with confidence and clarity, you are empowered to make informed financial decisions that align with your values and aspirations. With each session, you step further into financial power, unlocking new levels of abundance and prosperity.

Reason 3: Holistic Harmony and Enhanced Life Quality The impact of financial stress extends far beyond mere monetary concerns—it infiltrates every aspect of our lives, affecting our health, relationships, and overall sense of well-being. You are committed to addressing these multifaceted challenges with a comprehensive approach.

Through the transformative power of mind whispering, we alleviate financial stress, uplifting not only your wallet but also your physical and emotional well-being. Through your specialized techniques and personalized guidance, clients often experience a profound shift in their overall quality of life. They report not only greater financial abundance but also improved physical vitality, heightened emotional resilience, and deeper, more fulfilling connections in their relationships. This holistic improvement is the true measure of wealth—the ability to thrive in all areas of life, not just financially.

Redefine Your Financial Destiny As your Financial Mind Whisperer, I provide a transformational experience that aligns your financial path with your life’s purpose. For those ready to elevate their financial narrative and live a truly abundant life, choosing this unique path is the first step towards profound change.

Ready to redefine their financial destiny? Visit www.bettercalldawna.com to discover the exclusive benefits of mind whispering and uncover your subconscious block and start your journey toward financial enlightenment today.

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

FROM SYMPTOMS TO SOLUTIONS: UNDERSTANDING THE DEEPER ROOTS OF MENTAL HEALTH

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

I need you to hear me.

aspects of your person that have not been safely explored and integrated.

By the time this issue of Best Holistic life lands in your hot little hands

Taylor how in the world do my gut issues, lack of libido, or irregu-

the month of May and mental health awareness month will be long past.

lar cycles have anything to do with my mental and emotional health.

And given that recent statistics reflect that I have two seconds to capture

Well, sugar, I am so glad you asked because this is exactly what I work

your attention and I will likely have your attention for no more than 8

with in practice Every. Single. Day. With the women in my community

minutes I want to waste no time getting to the point.

AND I wouldn’t dream of walking away without giving you something

* In 2019-2020 20.78% of adults were experiencing a mental illness.

to sink your teeth into.

* That is equivalent to over 50 million Americans.

So, let’s get to it, shall we?

* Millions of adults in the U.S. experience serious thoughts of suicide,

Have you ever felt butterflies in your belly or even, dare I say, got the

with the highest rate among multiracial individuals.

nervous poops prior to a big event?

* The percentage of adults reporting serious thoughts of suicide is 4.84%,

These sensations are just one example of how the mind can impact the gut.

totaling over 12.1 million individuals.

In fact, it’s been found that chronic depression, stress, and/or anxiety

* 11% of adults who identified with two or more races reported serious

can actually change the physiology of the digestive tract affecting the

thoughts of suicide in 2020 – 6% higher than the average among all adults.

way it functions.

* Over 1 in 10 youth in the U.S. are experiencing depression that is

But wait, there's more...

severely impairing their ability to function at school or work, at home,

I'm sure, by now, with the amount of information available on the inter-

with family, or in their social life.

net you know that lack of sleep symptoms associated with stress, anxi-

* 16.39% of youth (age 12-17) report suffering from at least one major

ety, and depression can be amplified making it more difficult to actu-

depressive episode (MDE) in the past year.

ally fall and stay asleep.

* 11.5% of youth (over 2.7 million youth) are experiencing severe major

If this goes on long enough it will eventually lend itself to things such

depression.

as insomnia or even sleep apnea.

* 22.87% of adults who report experiencing 14 or more mentally unhealthy

Then there is longevity.

days each month were not able to see a doctor due to costs.

Given that you are reading an article in Best Holistic Life I imagine

* In the U.S., there are an estimated 350 individuals for every one mental

you're interested in doing everything you can to live a LONG happy

health provider.

and healthy life.

We have a major problem on our hands in the United States that spans

Part of bringing that desire to fruition is tending to your mental health.

far beyond the month of May and if we collectively do not take it seri-

I’m sure you’re starting to see that mental health has extensive impacts

ously we are going to see what is already an epidemic grow beyond epic

on the ENTIRE body.

proportions with a potential no point of return.

It’s been found that chronic mental health issues (can we find a new

Arguably, the physical symptoms most of you experience on a routine

word for this please, how do you feel about opportunities, mental health

basis are the final manifestation of a mental and emotional metaphoric

opportunities, feels so much kinder than issues) can actually decrease

weed that has not yet been pulled.

overall life expectancy….

Most of you chasing symptoms to slow step your way into a better life

I would suggest you read that again…

have no idea that many of the physical ailments you experience are

Why is this the case?

directly associated with if not totally rooted in the mental and emotional

Because as you’ve started to see in the picture being painted above

F r o m Sy m p t o m s t o S o l u t i o n s : U n d e r s t a n d i n g t h e D e e p e r R o o t s o f M e n t a l H e a l t h

34

between gut health, sleep, energy, and even your heart…

Mental health impacts everything from immune health to resilience through chronic health conditions.

Emotions that are freely experienced and expressed without judgment or attachment tend to flow fluidly without impacting our health.

As you can see above… repressed emotions (particularly fearful or negative ones) zap mental energy, negatively affect the body, and lead to health problems.

Humans are wired to defend against threat and loss in life; meaning you tend to prioritize bad over good.

While this is a tidy survival mechanism for someone who needs to stay hyper vigilant in a dangerous environment, the truth is that for most of us, this "negativity bias" is counter-productive.

You use words like health and longevity to define what you are seeking to experience out of life and I think these are great starting places and the one word many of you don’t often touch upon which so neatly wraps up everything we all seem to be after is resilience.

Resilient people are able to experience tough emotions like pain, sorrow, frustration, and grief without falling apart.

Resilient people do not deny the pain or suffering they are experiencing; rather, they retain a sense of positivity that helps them overcome the negative effects of their situation without bypassing the emotion that is arising.

Believe it or not, there are some people who are able to look at challenging times with optimism and hope, knowing that their hardships will lead to personal growth and an expanded outlook on life.

So while May is long gone and I am not one to tell you to spend too long looking in the rear view mirror I do want to take this moment, while I have your attention, to remind you.

You’re doing great.

Being a human is far from easy.

We’re all in this together.

And if support is what you need it’s often only one call, click, or message away.

Big Love, T Connect with Taylor: https://bestholisticlife.info/TaylorSappington Statistic Reference: CDC

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

HOW AN EXPRESSIVE ARTS KIT CAN UNLEASH YOUR INNER ARTIST FOR MENTAL WELLNESS

BY KAREN HANLON

H o w a n E x p r ess i v e A rts K i t C a n U n l e a s h Yo u r I n n e r A rt i st fo r M e n ta l W e l l n ess

36

For too long, mental health has resided in the shadows, shrouded in silence

"So much personal healing goodness wrapped up in one kit!” said partic-

and stigma. We struggle to articulate the complexities of our emotions, leav-

ipant Suzanne. “If you’re going through something, this art therapy kit is

ing us feeling isolated and misunderstood. But what if there was a language

the missing piece in your journey to processing and expressing yourself in

beyond words, a way to bypass the limitations of verbal communication and

a powerful way. I didn’t know what to expect and yet went on an hour-

delve into the deepest recesses of our being?

long heartfelt introspective journey that ended up as a piece of beautiful

Painting Your Soul offers that bridge. The company I founded provides an

art, designed by my soul."

innovative approach to mental wellness through a unique, therapeutic art

4. A Multi-Sensory Experience: Engaging More Than Just Sight

program and expressive art kits, making the power of art therapy acces-

Our Painting Your Soul expressive art kits go beyond the typical paint and

sible to everyone.

brushes. They offer a multi-sensory experience designed to fully immerse

Here's how an expressive arts kit, like those offered by Painting Your Soul,

the participant in the therapeutic process.

can boost your journey towards mental well-being:

Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Soothing scents like lavender and chamo-

1. Unveiling Inner Peace: Reducing Stress and Anxiety

mile create a calming and grounding atmosphere, further enhancing relax-

The modern world bombards us with constant stimuli, leaving us feeling

ation.

overwhelmed and anxious. Studies have shown that engaging in creative

Guided Meditations: Gentle guided meditations prepare both mind and body

activities like painting can significantly reduce stress and anxiety.

for the creative journey ahead, promoting mindfulness and inner focus.

Quieting the External Noise: As you lose yourself in the creative process,

"The kit was amazingly calming and helpful in so many ways for me

the worries and anxieties of daily life begin to fade.

personally,” said participant Lin. “People really need to invest in the expe-

Unlocking Relaxation: The act of creating art, whether through vibrant

rience, whether they’re into art or not. If you want to find a way to work

colors or gentle brushstrokes, has a calming effect on the mind and body.

on your mental health, this is a good way to go. The guided meditation with

"It made me way less anxious … I got to get inside myself a little bit and I

Karen’s voice is very calming. It’s lovely. Add the ocean sounds and the fact

totally forgot I was anxious. I let myself go!” said Karen, a military veteran

you can revisit is a huge plus. I like to listen to the guided meditation outside

and participant at Quantum Leap Farms.

of painting and find it also helps with anxiety."

2. Embarking on Self-Discovery: A Journey of Inner Wisdom

Research Backs the Benefits:

Expressive art therapy goes beyond mere stress reduction; it's a powerful

Studies have consistently shown the positive impact of expressive arts ther-

tool for self-exploration and personal growth.

apy on mental well-being:

Exploring Your Inner World: Through guided meditations, journaling

A 2016 study published in the Journal of the American Art Therapy Asso-

prompts, and the freedom of artistic expression, you embark on a jour-

ciation found that art therapy reduced anxiety and depression in individu-

ney of self-discovery, uncovering hidden emotions, gaining deeper insights

als with chronic pain.

into your true self.

Similar studies have found that art therapy interventions can effectively

Connecting with Your Authentic Self: As you create without judgment, you

manage stress and improve emotional well-being.

begin to connect with your authentic self, building a sense of self-accep-

A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Psychology highlighted the role of art

tance and understanding.

therapy in promoting self-awareness and emotional processing.

"The experience was so peaceful and enjoyable, there are many components

Painting Your Soul: More Than Just Art

[of the kit] including meditation, journaling, aromatherapy and painting. I

Painting Your Soul is not just about creating art; it's about creating a move-

felt so calm and relaxed and I continue to use the meditation when I wake

ment. As the founder, and over many years experience, I have seen first-

up at night and I can’t get back to sleep,” said participant Suzana.

hand the transformative power of art therapy and its ability to empower

3. Cultivating Healing and Self-Love: A Path to Emotional

individuals on their journey towards mental wellness.

Release

Our expressive art kits are more than just a collection of supplies; they are

Art therapy provides a safe space for emotional release, building healing

a gateway to self-discovery, emotional release, and inner healing.

and self-love.

Join us on this transformative journey. Unleash your inner artist, paint

Processing Difficult Emotions: Through art, you can express emotions that

your soul free, and experience the profound impact of art on your mental

may be difficult to articulate verbally, allowing you to process them in a

well-being.

healthy and cathartic way.

Remember, the power to heal and thrive lies within you, waiting to be

Promoting Self-Acceptance: As you create and witness the beauty you

expressed.

produce, you cultivate self-acceptance and a greater sense of self-worth.

Connect with Karen: https://linktr.ee/paintingyoursoul65

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

MIND OVER AGE: TURNING BACK YOUR CLOCK

BY THERESA BYRNE

“Age isn’t anything but a number. And that number is none of your business.”

Imagine a world where the clock moves differently, Benjamin Button-style, and where our traditional versions of aging become just a number on a piece of paper rather than a limitation.

I am a HUGE believer in the power of our mindset and what our minds do with it. I explain to clients that when we buy into a belief on what our age means, we also take on the ideas of what we think that number represents. I LIVE this!

Our cells will correspond to the beliefs on how we think we are supposed to look, feel, and be when we “act our age”.

HOW? Let’s say you believe being a 40-year-old means certain things in your mind: Many believe at 40 the body starts showing signs of aging like changes in metabolism, weight gain, loss of muscle tone, and the onset of gray hair and wrinkles.

Add the notion that hitting 40 might trigger a midlife crisis

for

some

Mind Over Age: Turning Back Your Clock

individuals which manifests as questioning life choices, feeling

Vintage television shows danced across screens, Eisenhower's

restless or dissatisfied, or making drastic changes in career or

presence loomed in the White House, and the crack of baseball

personal life.

bats echoed as the Dodgers and the White Sox battled for glory.

It may also mean you’re supposed to have achieved a level of

But it wasn't just the ambiance that shifted; it was their

financial and career success. With the expectation you’d have a

mindset.

solid grasp on financial matters, including savings, investments,

Dr. Langer orchestrated an environment where the men were

and retirement planning. You may feel pressure to secure your

treated as they would have been in their prime. No coddling, no

financial future.

one offering to help them, no concessions to age—just a subtle

Guess what**?** The body starts to follow these age-related

nudge to inhabit their younger selves once again.

belief patterns. The aches and pains, questioning your life

Mirrors vanished, ensuring they couldn't catch a glimpse of

choices, and if you haven’t been living your best life financially

the years etched upon their faces and break the enchantment.

you might start to feel awful about yourself.

Then came magic.

Now picture this - you don’t have a belief about your age and

Over five days, Dr. Langer administered a battery of tests,

what it means, and half the time you forget how old you are.

measuring both physical prowess and cognitive agility. And the

• You’re active.

results? Nothing short of astounding.

• You have fun.

Like characters in some fantastical tale, the men seemed to

• Maybe you play team sports, maybe you go out dancing

shed the weight of years, their mental and physical performance

because you like it, and maybe you still get excited about

markers soaring to levels reminiscent of decades past. Aches

things like you did as a kid.

faded, movements quickened, and minds sharpened, defying

Then people start to treat you differently and you stop noticing

the conventional narrative of decline with age.

how you feel in a negative way. You don’t complain about the

What sorcery was at play here?

issues of your age. And your body responds, people saying they

The answer lay not in potions or elixirs but in the power of their

have no idea how old you are!

own perception. About themselves. Dr. Langer's study, aptly

Sounds like the stuff of science fiction, but what if I told you

dubbed the "Counterclockwise Study," revealed that the mind

it's not only possible but has been demonstrated right here

held the key to unlocking the secrets of youth. By immersing

on planet Earth? Thanks to Professor Ellen Langer, a visionary

themselves in an environment that rewound the clock, the men

researcher from Harvard whose groundbreaking study rewrote

rewrote their own biological script, proving that age need not

the rules of aging.

dictate capability.

In the late 1970s, Dr. Langer embarked on an experiment that

But perhaps the most remarkable lesson from this isn’t just

would challenge the very fabric of what aging can mean. Her

about defying the ravages of time but about embracing the

subjects? Eight men, seasoned by life in their 70’s, and not

boundless potential of your human mind. As a reminder how our

immune to the wear and tear it brings.

thoughts wield a profound influence over our reality, shaping

These men, though not decrepit, were slogging through life with

not only how we perceive the world but also how we experience

the typical burdens of aging: slow movements, nagging pains,

it.

and a weariness that seemed to seep into their bones. Each of

So, the next time you find yourself groaning about your years or

them complained about easily being fatigued and the seemingly

saying, “at our age …” remember the tale of these intrepid men

“normal” complaints among men their age.

who dared to defy it. And STOP ACTING YOUR AGE!

The stage was set at a retreat center in New Hampshire over

Want more ideas on how to use your mindset to support your

five days, but this was no ordinary getaway. It was a portal to

goals? I’ve got you! Reach out for support.

the past, a time capsule transporting the men back to 1959, an era they fondly remembered from their 50s.

Connect with Theresa: https://theresabyrne.taplink.ws/

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

OUR MOST VITAL CONNECTION: THE JOURNEY TO OUR INNER BOND

BY VIRGINIA OMAN, LCMCH, NCPT

Most of us think that the most important connection we have in our life

often during their day. I have them narrow it down to 2. And then I

is with our partner, or our child. Maybe even a special animal.

ask them what was the earliest time in their life they remember feel-

But many of us fail to realize the most significant connection we have in

ing those 2 feelings.

our life is the one we have with ourselves. It is your connection with you.

Understanding “Problematic” Feelings

How you feel about yourself. I mean ow you REALLY feel deep inside.

We usually trace it way back into childhood and then take some time

As a Licensed mental health therapist of over 30 years, I can attest

to explore what was going on. From there I help them to understand

for this statement. I have borne witness to the transformative power

those “problematic” feelings, make sense of how and why they appeared

of nurturing this inner bond. It holds the key to everything about us.

inside them and what their function was. It helps them to realize that

Over the decades, the people who come to me for help with any kind of

the specific feeling actually helped them at that time. It sounds counter

depression or problematic anxiety, are people who have broken connec-

to what the person would normally assume and therefore helps them to

tions with themselves.

normalize the feeling and have compassion for it.

We are born into this world as a sponge, emotionally taking in any and

A further helpful tool that can help to start the healing process is as

all sounds, expressions, tone of voice and kinds of touch. And as early

follows; I ask them to look in their collection of childhood photos, and

as age 6 believe it or not, our internal connection with ourselves and

find one or two photos of them as a child with an expression on their

how we feel about ourselves is already established and continues to be

face that captures that feeling. Something in their face (even so slightly)

influenced.

indicates how they were truly feeling inside. Candid photos tend to work

Our Most Important Connection

best for that. As an example, It would not be a posed formal family

It sets in motion the thoughts we think and how we behave as we go

photo used as a Christmas card that shows them with an artificial smile.

through life.

Write A Handwritten Letter To Yourself

It determines how we see ourselves, others and the world around us.

Once they have found the particular photo that resonates the most with

And it determines how well we function emotionally and psychologi-

them, I suggest they put it up somewhere close where they can see it

cally. It is a huge determination of how we do school and in our voca-

during the day. And just be cognizant of what that little being was feel-

tions. It greatly influences the choice of friends and our choice of a part-

ing and going through. One exercise that can also continue the healing

ner. And as this describes just about everything, I’d say our relationship

is to have them set a time when they can be undisturbed, sit down with

with ourselves qualifies as being our most important connection.

the photo of them as a child and write a handwritten letter to them-

This is an area I specialize in because I know how extremely import-

selves in that photo. (it’s good to have a box of Kleenex handy for this).

ant it is to determine the essence of every single individual. I have so

My clients that have done this have always remarked that they found

many years of doing this work that usually within 30 seconds of meet-

it to be not only a meaningful exercise for them, but for many it has

ing with anyone I can tell what kind of connection they have with them-

been life changing.

selves on the inside.

Important note: If reading the description of this exercise feels scary or

When I work with clients, this is one of the first areas I focus on. If they

emotionally stress-inducing, I would highly recommend not doing it

are motivated to do some healing work, I might ask a client to close

until you can find a skilled therapist who can guide you through it and

their eyes and just list any problematic feelings they tend to feel most

help to effectively process what comes up in the letter.

O u r M o s t V i t a l C o n n e c t i o n : Th e J o u r n e y t o O u r I n n e r B o n d

Get In Touch With Your “Inner Child”

all in an effort to numb the pain. This not only doesn’t work,

This is an experience of getting in touch with your “inner child”

but it will only make that little one inside you cry harder trying

and it can be some of the most powerful healing work of all.

to be heard and thereby can increase the depression or anxiety

Some of my clients choose to purchase a favorite cuddly stuffed

over time. The hurt needs to be healed, not temporarily numbed.

animal as that can many times be symbolic of a loved stuffed

For anyone interested in gaining self-insight and perhaps

animal they had or perhaps one they never had but always

improving their psychological emotional health, I hope you think

wanted as a child. Animals are the beings on earth who truly

about the information in this article. If nothing else, allow your-

give unconditional love. Clients may find calm and security by

self to just be curious about that little soul inside you. They are,

holding their stuffed animal and some even choose to hold it

and always have been…. sacred.

while they fall asleep at night.

If you’re curious to explore your inner being and would like some

For so much of our lives, we spend our energy doing anything

guidance or further information, please feel free to get in touch

and everything to AVOID getting in touch with that young child.

with me. Doing this work can make a world of difference in the

It is a travesty. S/he has been inside us all this time just crying/

quality of your life.

dying to be recognized and heard. But instead of spending the

Connect with Virginia: https://linktr.ee/virginiaoman

time to connect with them, we overwork, overshop, overeat, etc.

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

B e yo n d R eg r e t: O n Yo u r W ay to S u cc ess

BEYOND REGRET: ON YOUR WAY TO SUCCESS

BY D I PA L S H A H

Imagine looking back on your life and seeing every missed oppor-

comparing yourself to others is a surefire way to fuel unnecessary

tunity and mistake as stepping stones to your greatest achieve-

regret. Setting the bar too high for ourselves can lead to regret. When

ments—this is the power of understanding and overcoming regret.

our expectations are unrealistic, we set ourselves up for disappoint-

Think about all the regrets in your life? I like to write it down to

ment. It’s important to set achievable goals and celebrate prog-

really understand where I can start to shift the energy in my life

ress, not perfection.

so that I can give more of myself as a person and entrepreneur.

Let me share a personal story to illustrate how regret can manifest

You may be an entrepreneur, high achiever, and dream chaser just

and, more importantly, how we can overcome it. I decided it was

ike me but, regret can feel like a heavy weight, a constant reminder

time to revamp my website. I wanted it to be sleek, user-friendly,

of missed opportunities and mistakes. But what if I told you

and professional—something that would wow my customers and

that understanding and overcoming regret could be the key

streamline my business operations. Despite my reservations, I hired

to unlocking your greatest potential?

a web developer who promised to deliver exactly what I envisioned.

Regret is a complex, multifaceted emotion rooted in our abil-

The process began with high hopes and excitement. But soon,

ity to reflect on the past and imagine different outcomes.

it turned into a nightmare. The developer’s communication was

It is a feeling of sorrow or disappointment over some-

poor, deadlines were missed, and the site was riddled with techni-

thing that has happened or hasn't happened. It’s that

cal issues. I went from feeling confident in managing my website

nagging voice in the back of your mind that says,

to being completely clueless about its new structure. Problem after

“If only I had done this differently…” or “I wish I

problem surfaced, and each attempt to resolve them only led to

hadn’t missed that chance.”

more complications.

After thinking about something you regret, have

Despite my growing doubts, I convinced myself that this upheaval

you ever felt a sense of sadness, guilt, shame, and

would ultimately benefit my business. I thought about how amaz-

sometimes anger ? It's a powerful mix that can signifi-

ing the final product would be, how impressed my customers would

cantly impact your mental and emotional well-being.

Persistent regret can feel paralyzing

feel, and how much easier my life would become. But reality had a different plan.

We often compare our lives with others, especially in this age of

The project dragged on for months, and by the time it was “finished,”

social media. Seeing others succeed where we feel we’ve failed can

the website was a mess. It was slow, unresponsive, and difficult to

trigger regret. But remember, everyone’s journey is different, and

navigate. My customers were frustrated, and so was I. Instead of

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

the seamless, modern site I had imagined, I was left with a digital

experience. Shift your focus from what you lost to what you gained

disaster that felt like a massive step backward.

in terms of wisdom and resilience. This mindset shift can trans-

For a while, this regret haunted me. I replayed the scenario over and

form how you perceive your past and your potential.

over in my head, imagining how different my life could have been if

One of the best ways to combat regret is to take action. Set new

I had taken that risk. With the anxiety that was builty up and sleep-

goals, take new risks, and seize new opportunities. Action creates

less nights it affected my confidence and my willingness to seize

momentum and can help you move past regret. As entrepreneurs

new opportunities. But then, I realized something crucial—regret

and high achievers, our journey is filled with highs and lows. Regret

was only holding me back because I was letting it.

is just one part of this journey. But it doesn’t have to define us or

So, how do we manage regret and use it to propel us forward rather

limit our potential. When you’re fully present, you’re better able to

than hold us back? The first step in overcoming regret is to acknowl-

make decisions that align with your goals and values.

edge it. Don’t suppress it or pretend it doesn’t exist. Recognize that

Regret is a natural part of the human experience, but it doesn’t

it’s a natural human emotion. Allow yourself to feel it, but don’t

have to be a barrier to your success. By understanding why regret

let it consume you.

happens and adopting strategies to manage it, you can transform

Every regret carries a lesson. Ask yourself, “What can I learn from

this emotion into a powerful motivator. Remember, it’s not about

this experience?” Maybe it’s about taking calculated risks, trusting

avoiding regret entirely but about learning from it and using it to

your instincts, or being more prepared. Extract the lesson and use

propel you forward.

it to make better decisions in the future. We are often our harshest critics. Forgive yourself for the mistakes you’ve made. Understand

Take the Ultimate 8 Ultimate Senses Quiz and find out what your

that everyone makes mistakes and that these mistakes are oppor-

2 strongest Intuitive abilities are to see how much your intuition

tunities for growth. Self-compassion is key to moving forward.

plays a key role in your business.

Instead of viewing your regret as a failure, reframe it as a learning

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

THREE WAYS TO FEED YOUR SOUL WITH JOY

BY TOBIE SPEARS

In today's fast-paced world, finding joy can sometimes feel like

difference. Small acts like helping a neighbor, volunteering at a

a daunting task. However, true happiness often comes from

local shelter, or joining a community clean-up can also make you

simple, everyday actions that nurture our soul. Whether it's

feel happier. These simple acts shift your focus away from your own

through helping others, taking care of ourselves, or sharing a

worries and towards the positive impact you can have on others.

smile, these small steps can lead to significant improvements

Prioritize Self-Care

in our overall well-being. Here are three effective ways to feed

Taking care of yourself is essential for feeling joyful. This means

your soul with joy.

doing things that make you feel good physically, emotionally,

Embrace the Power of Service

and mentally. One important part of self-care is how you talk

One powerful way to feel more joy is by helping others. People

to yourself. Using kind and positive words about yourself can

who volunteer often feel happier and are less depressed than those

improve your mood and make you feel better about who you are.

who don’t. A study in the Journal of Social Service Research found

Another way to practice self-care is by doing activities that relax

that people who volunteered had a 22% lower risk of depression.

and make you happy. Something as simple as taking a walk in

This shows that helping others can boost your mental health.

nature can help. A study in Environmental Health and Preventive

Helping others gives you a sense of purpose and connects you

Medicine found that spending time outside can lower stress and

with your community. It also helps you meet new people, which

improve your mood. Walking in a park or forest, and breathing in

can make you feel less lonely. Giving to others doesn’t just help

the fresh air, can clear your mind and bring a sense of peace. Self-

them—it makes you feel good too. For 12 years I have been lead-

care also includes doing things you enjoy, like hobbies, exercis-

ing humanitarian trips to volunteer in Guatemala and I have seen

ing, or spending time with friends and family. There are multi-

the power of this first hand.

ple studies that show meditation, physical activity and a healthier

After volunteering in Guatemala, our volunteers return to their

diet all decrease symptoms of depression.

lives full of gratitude and appreciation. An awesome volun-

Be mindful to schedule time to care for your own needs. Perhaps

teer said “my time in Guatemala changed my outlook on life. I

you need to wake up 30 minutes before the kids and your partner

learned that it’s the people you meet and the relationships you

to create time for yourself. I have found some of my most peace-

build that will fill your life with the feeling of true and genuine

ful mornings are before the rest of the world is awake. As humans

happiness. This experience helped me to feel how grateful I am

that give, give, give it is oftentimes difficult to pencil in our own

for everything. I noticed how my attitude also changed. I was a

self care however making time for these activities helps balance

lot happier”. Emery

your life and supports your happiness. Remember, taking care

The amazing thing is you don’t have to do big things to make a

of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s important for your overall health.

Th r e e W a y s t o F e e d Y o u r S o u l w i t h J o y

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

Share Your Smile Smiling is a simple yet powerful way to feel happier and spread joy to others. When you smile, it can make you feel better, thanks to something called mirror neurons in your brain. These neurons make you mimic the actions and feelings of others. So, when you see someone smile, your brain makes you smile back, spreading good feelings between you.

Research shows that smiling, even when you don’t feel like it, can actually make you feel happier. A study from the University of Kansas found that smiling during stressful times can reduce stress and make you feel more positive. This happens because smiling releases chemicals in your brain that fight stress and make you feel good. Smiling also improves how you interact with others. When you smile at someone, they often smile back, creating a connection that boosts both your moods. This simple act can build a sense of community and shared happiness.

While volunteering in Guatemala I get to use my smile muscles much more than a normal day working on my computer. There is nothing better than playing, coloring, or flying kites with the kiddos to bring a smile to my soul. I’ve noticed that children smile so much easier than adults and that the more I hangout with kiddos the more smiles I give and receive. Remember, adding more smiles to your day can be easy. Make a mental note to smile at people you pass by, choose to watch a funny movie, or even smile at yourself as you sit in front of your computer screen. These small actions can make a big difference in how you feel and how you connect with others.

Let’s wrap it up

it’s through a kind act, a gentle word to yourself,

Bringing more joy into your life involves helping

or a shared smile, each step you take towards joy is

others, taking care of yourself, and smiling more.

a step towards a richer, more meaningful life. Try

By volunteering, speaking kindly to yourself, making

incorporating these practices into your daily routine

time for activities you love, and sharing smiles, you

and notice the positive changes they bring. You’ll

can feel happier and more fulfilled. These simple

likely find that by feeding your soul with joy, you

practices support each other, building a strong foun-

also enhance the lives of those around you, creat-

dation for a joyful life.

ing a ripple effect of happiness and well-being.

Additionally, remember that joy is not just a fleeting

So take the time to serve, care for yourself, and

emotion but a state of being that you can cultivate.

smile more—you deserve it.

It’s about finding happiness in the small moments and spreading that joy to those around you. Whether

Connect with Tobie: https://linktr.ee/behumanitarian

Th r e e W a y s t o F e e d Y o u r S o u l w i t h J o y

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

50

L ess o n s F rom N at u r e

LESSONS FROM NATURE

BY ELIZABETH MARSHALL I’ve been a reverent fan and observer of the natural world

flourishing, a season for stillness, and even a season

published in major international

my entire life.

for withering and death so that something new can be

magazines well after my “expiration

As a child, I remember my mother taking me out to the

reborn.

date” as a model, my physique and

forest to run through the meadows, play in the rivers, and

It’s human to want to live on the mountaintop and to

mental health continued to improve,

look for fairies in the tree trunks. I remember running

avoid pain and discomfort, but challenge and struggle are

I was running a successful business,

along beaches and looking out at the vast stretches of

a part of the design of nature and of life. Our humanness

and life was good.

ocean and feeling a stirring of poetry and passion in my

and inherently emotional nature cause us to fret over

Then, divorce came for me.

soul as I began to notice how the natural world and the

uncertainty and circumstances that are out of our control,

Anyone who has ever been through a

patterns of humanity are interconnected in so many

but I’ve learned that one of the best ways to cultivate

divorce can attest to the personal hell

different ways.

peace and purpose in my own life is to remember that

that it puts a person through. Mine

Nature has an endless supply of wisdom to offer us if

there is a season for everything, including suffering and

was no different. But in this new

we just slow down to listen and observe. Just like in the

pain, and that even the things that I would rather not

challenging season of life “winter”,

heavens above us, human beings go through alternating

experience in life have a function and a place if I will

I was able to remember that sadness

periods of sunshine and darkness in our lives.

humble myself enough to search for what they are.

and heartache- just like joy and

In the same way that a snake sheds its skin, we too go

Remembering the seasons and the other lessons that

flourishing-

through many transformational periods in our personal

I’ve learned from nature have helped me the most with

Spring was on my doorstep even in

journey where we throw off old habits or identities and

my fitness journey, self love and self talk. A season of

the face of bleak cold and darkness,

adopt new roles and new beginnings.

stagnation, withering and “death” are what caused me to

and like clockwork, the sunshine and

And just like the climb up a steep mountain is the

go on my fitness journey in the first place. I was only in

flowers came again for me before too

toughest and most challenging right before reaching the

my mid twenties, but I was already overweight, unhappy

long.

summit, our life paths can also be the most challenging

and addicted to mind numbing substances as a way to

My favorite thing about nature is

when we are on the verge of a tremendous breakthrough.

mentally escape from the situation that I had created for

that it teaches us peace, humility

In addition to mountains, the sun, the moon, the forests,

myself. But being sick and tired of being sick and tired

and stillness. It teaches us that

the ocean and animal behavior, I have also been a keen

is what ultimately motivated me to begin thawing out

everything has a purpose, a place,

and lifelong observer of the seasons, and how they stand

my heart and my own expectations of myself, and the

a function and a season, even the

as a metaphor for our human journey through the world.

discomfort of this personal “winter” was the catalyst for

things that we may not like or look

Every year the seasons change from one to another like

me to change this stagnant part of my life!

forward to in life. Everything works

clockwork, and we don’t fret or get anxious about what is

My personal “spring” was just as full of life, flowering

together and there is nothing to fear.

going to happen in a few months or a year down the road.

and beauty as the physical spring that we all experience

We only need to have the courage to

We know that a full year goes through cycles that may

each year. As I began to move my body more and stopped

live our lives and strive valiantly, and

look and feel different from an aesthetic and temperature

loading it up with harmful stuff, my mind and self esteem

the universe will weave it all together

perspective, but that each season serves a purpose and

began to heal as well. I began to look better and feel

in a tapestry that is even more

works in tandem with the others in a beautiful, cyclical

better because I took the initiative to punch my little

beautiful and perfect than anything

pattern of growth, flourishing, withering and death.

flower head through the snow and the grass of my own

that we could have designed for

When I apply the metaphors from nature to my own life

limitations. I was growing even though it was hard and

ourselves.

and journey through the world, they serve as a wonderful

it was happening in some harsh circumstances!

Connect with Elizabeth:

reminder that there is order in what can seem like chaos.

Showing myself that I had the capacity to bloom and

www.thighsoverthirty.com

There is design and purpose in both the struggle and

grow even in tough conditions led me into an incredible

the victory. There is a season for growth, a season for

summer of flourishing in my 30s. I began getting

never

last

forever.

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WHY MOST KIDS AREN'T BLESSED OR CURSED BY THEIR GENES

BY DOUGLAS MULHALL More often than not, children aren’t prisoners of their genes – it’s what acti-

structive response is learned, it can also be unlearned by training the body to

vates those genes that counts. The process is called epigenetics, and it has

turn different sets of genes on and off. Similarly, some studies suggest that

bigger impacts on children than what their genes are pre-programmed to do.

racism experienced during early development can affect epigenetic signa-

Epigenetics vs. Gene

tures later on in life.

Editing Your genome is like a book of operating instructions. Each book

The Jekyll and Hyde Effect

chapter runs different parts of the body. Each word is part of a DNA sequence

The complexity of epigenetics is mind-boggling. On top of the thousands of

in a chapter that tells that part what to do. But here's the thing - much of

genes in DNA itself, dozens of chemicals are used by the body to read those

your DNA doesn’t automatically know how tell your body what to do – it

genes, and tens of thousands of proteins are generated as operating instruc-

gets programmed through experience. This programming happens when

tions to the body. This produces a nearly infinite set of combinations. These

different chemicals are attached to DNA and act as on/off switches. Those

combinations can be good or bad for us.

switches control the production of proteins that in turn tell parts of your

The good and bad are what I call the Jekyll and Hyde Effect.

body to perform different functions. The process of turning switches on and

For example some metals such as iron, zinc, copper, and manganese in trace

off is a response to your changing environment. It’s the environment that

amounts are essential for cells to function, but in larger amounts they’re

trips the switch. This is known as an epigenetic effect.

toxic and provoke oxidative stress that triggers an immune response. As

An epigenetic effect changes how the body reads DNA without changing the

metals build up, the body tries to get rid of them by using inflammation to

DNA itself. Because of that, the changes that occur are are reversible. The

clear away damaged tissue. Unfortunately, when the body can’t clear the

DNA hasn’t been modified; only its actions are.

metals anymore, the inflammation becomes chronic, and the body turns

By contrast, genetic engineering changes the DNA. The words are scraped

against itself. The Dr. Jekyll effect becomes the Mr. Hyde effect. That effect

off the page and replaced. With that analogy, you can see how epigenetics

is a leading trigger of hypertension and heart disease, and can start in the

is often safer than gene editing, because with epigenetics your mistakes can

early years of life.

often be reversed. With gene editing, reversal is a lot harder if not impos-

A special class of supplements with epigenetic benefits

sible.

A group of naturally derived chemicals known as polyphenols is especially

The nature vs. nurture debate is out of date

important for turning off the inflammatory switches and turning on restor-

Parents are bombarded by claims about whether nature or nurture has more

ative switches that promote good health. Here are examples of polyphenols

impacts on their children, but here’s why the debate is out of date: It turns

in food supplements with beneficial epigenetic effects.

out that nature is nurture; our genes (nature) are profoundly affected by our

1. Curcumin: Has anti-inflammatory properties and promotes expression of

environment (nurture), in how they perform.

genes involved in antioxidant defense.

For example, it’s estimated that 70-90% of diseases are triggered by changes

2. Resveratrol: Found in grapes and berries, activates enzymes that can

in environment. The time frame for these effects varies widely. It can change

change gene expression patterns and reduce inflammation.

things in a few minutes or hours (as with an inflammatory response to

3. EGCG: Found in green tea and has anti-inflammatory effects through

infection), or pass down through the generations, (as with the impacts of

changes in gene expression.

a chemical like the pesticide DDT, which can make the grandchildren more

4. Quercetin: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

susceptible to diabetes).

5. Ellagic acid: Found in pomegranates and berries. Shown to inhibit a

Scientists are finding that natural epigenetic effects occur more often than

destructive process known as DNA methylation that leads to harmful

changes to DNA sequences. This is especially important for kids, because

changes in gene expression.

as they are growing up, their body is learning through experience which

Getting ahead of the curve in epigenetics

genes to switch on and off in response to environmental factors. It’s called

Some epigenetic therapies are in clinical trials. To learn more about the

learning by doing.

connection between epigenetics and health, and the role of polyphenols

For example, a traumatic event can train genes to turn on a defense response

in restoring health, visit Clinicaltrials.gov and search with the keywords

that the body uses when it encounters other stressful situations. If the

“epigenetic therapy”.

response is emotional withdrawal or aggressive defense, this is more likely to be favored over other responses in similar future situations. If a self-de-

Connect with Douglas: www.natureoflongevity.com

Why M o s t K i d s A r e n ' t B l e s s e d o r C u r s e d B y Th e i r G e n e s

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W o n ' t B e S i l e n t— D o n ' t Sto p ' t i l I t M at t e r s

WON'T BE SILENT—

DON'T STOP 'TIL IT MATTERS

BY ABE GURKO

There is a good reason why the legal subtitle of

strange, rare situation I found myself in and love

my memoir, “Won’t Be Silent–Don’t Stop ‘til It

it for the opportunity to be reminded that history

Matters" is “Embracing My Superpowers of Humor

gave me a spine of steel. It is an asset, my Excali-

and Optimism”. They are my earned badges of

bur, that gives me strength and encouragement that

honor. The arduous process of learning self-love

my parents had been forced to experience in order

and respect has been the most satisfying accom-

to survive the tragedies of World War II.

plishment and the guiding light through my life's joyously treacherous journey. Granted it took a

Granted, the years of suffering knowing what

while to tap into and acknowledge that I even had

your parents endured made me question– correc-

these superpowers. Guess it would have been too

tion–dare myself to try comparing any level of

easy. No, I had to labor like the slaves of Egypt,

discomfort I may have experienced over the years–

which is also in my DNA–I guess–to push those

emotional, physical, or otherwise–to what my

damn boulders up the peak of the pyramids. I’d

parents had lived through. Ultimately you have to

been fighting with my best self internally. It took

forgive yourself for lack of a better term, self-flag-

years to finally realize that my keen sense of humor

ellation, and not understanding that you made

was a protective device that shielded me from feel-

that decision–unnecessarily– to compare your-

ing vulnerable, inadequate, and insecure growing

selves to their unimaginable, unthinkable reality.

up a short, chubby nerd with glasses from New

For instance, in the windy New York City winter,

Jersey.

I felt guilty complaining that I was too cold. I had to stop and embrace the power I’d inherited to get

Not only is that a mouthful, but it's a bitter pill to

me through the many challenges that had nothing

swallow especially if you are the person that said

to do with the weather.

description applies to. It took decades for me to believe that I could laugh in the face of danger.

To earn my keep and finish my memoir, I had to test

The danger was self harm and I was lucky enough

and prove that through every critical life-changing

to understand the importance of my superpow-

moment, I was able to access my superpowers of

ers as gifts I had inherited in my DNA. My parents

humor and optimism in order to get through one

were Holocaust survivors and transgenerational

day at a time. In the book, I chose to feature a few

trauma can be a burden. Yet, I chose to embrace this

of the major challenges.

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

1. Changing my physical appearance because just being a fat kid was not gonna be the way I spent the rest of my life. No judgment of others but I was too busy judging myself for how I looked. That was the true beginning of the journey to self-love. I took off my clothes, looked in the mirror and said, “You look like shit.” Cried then laughed and knew that I was going to be OK. I lost 65 lbs. And have never looked back.

2. When I became a drug addict–the first time–I knew it wasn't going to end well. Something had to give. I looked at my emaciated self in the mirror, “I never thought I would hear these words out of my mouth; You’re too skinny”. I laughed, then cried and cut out the massive intake of cocaine and discovered the fitness community. It was the ‘80s and “Let’s Get Physical” by Olivia Newton John was a big hit on MTV.

3. Optimism comes with proving to yourself that you can Just Do It. Whether it was for creative pursuits or becoming popular. For a fat kid from New Jersey, becoming a club kid at Studio 54 was a satisfying accomplishment.

4. Romantic breakups, great jobs and career pursuits not panning out for reasons completely out of my control were also heartbreaking, such as the end of my working relationship with Carrie Fisher, which of course was followed by another bout of needing to clean up my act. But I did.

5. Just because I got off the road to happy destiny a few times and had to be reminded that I have the superpower to stop doing what was not in my best interest, doesn’t make me a bad person. Just someone flawed.

Humor and optimism continue to be the equivalent of my drug of choice.

Admittedly, one thing I haven’t done successfully is laugh all the way to the bank. Believe me, you need that sense of humor to get through that shortcoming, too. Thanks in part to crossing off the biggest item on my Bucket List, writing “Won’t Be Silent–Don’t Stop ‘til It Matters” and receiving the level of love and support from my social media following had been the most mind-altering seventh heaven on earth. Through this newest chapter, literally and figuratively, I have come to a place of total serenity, joy, and gratitude. My best self and I are at one with a strong connection to a higher power layered with the admiration for what my parents have bestowed will carry me through.

Will I make mistakes? Of course. But now I know what to do.

Connect with Abe: https://linktr.ee/WontBeSilent

W o n ' t B e S i l e n t— D o n ' t Sto p ' t i l I t M at t e r s

Won't Be Silent: Embracing my superpowers of humor and

optimism to survive being second-generation Holocaust, coming out, addiction, and endless unbelievable obstacles

 A relevant, humorous, witty, heartfelt read!

Devyn Carter

 LOVE WON’T BE SILENT, DONT STOP ‘TIL IT MATTERS Jacqueline P

 The Perfect Read for anyone that has ever felt invisible or silenced Brian

 BUY THIS BOOK IMMEDIATELY!!

Johnna Muscente

 Terrific Memoir! Hard to Put Down!

S. Woodruff

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

REDEFINING BALANCE

BY AMY BALLANTYNE

This is an idea that could change your life. I believe we are

I realized many years ago that I was looking for something

following an outdated model for balance that is setting

outside of myself to change, as if balance was a mysterious

people up for frustration, overwhelm, stress and even more

force that would one day descend and all would be well. With

so, failure.

greater wisdom and life experience, I came to know that

I have sat with countless individuals in coaching sessions

the feeling of balance that I desired was my responsibility

where they say, “Amy, all I really want is more balance

to create within. I have since learned how to tap into that

in my life.” If you have ever said these words, you are not

feeling of balance for myself and I am excited to share the

alone. In the hardest, most busy, chaotic, stressful, and

three strategies that have helped me, so that you also may

overwhelming times in my life, I used to wish for balance.

achieve new levels of balance and harmony in your life.

Our outdated model for thinking about balance is part of

The 3 strategies include: becoming a prioritization master,

what causes people even more stress and overwhelm.

inserting PPP (Purposeful Pause of Peace) and present

Be really honest with yourself for a moment.

moment focus. When these three strategies come together

When would your work life and home life ever actually

in your life, I deeply believe that work-life harmony and the

be equal on a balancing scale? Equal in time, effort,

desired feeling of balance are possible more often.

responsibility, and enjoyment? Rarely, if ever. This is part

Becoming a Prioritization Master

of the problem. People are striving for things to be equal and

The first key to increasing the feeling of balance is to begin

feeling frustrated with life and themselves when they can’t

looking at your priorities. The tool that I love to share with

make that happen.

my clients is the Eisenhower Matrix or Covey Quadrant.

When asking my clients what balance means to them, they

The power of this tool is its simplicity and ability to help

mentioned feelings such as peace, calm, contentment,

you decipher and decide where to spend your time in each

healthy, happy, productive, purposeful, and grateful.

moment.

Can you relate to any of these feelings that are associated

For those people seeking the feeling of more balance in their

with balance in the minds of many?

life, I have improved upon this matrix slightly by drawing a

Redefining Balance

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

Redefining Balance

separate box right in the top middle. I call this the Ballantyne Balance Builder.

I created this because I found that people often fail to put any of the activities into the top two quadrants that actually bring them joy, peace, calm, wellness etc. Their reasons (or excuses) are that those things are not as urgent and important. Ensuring that at least one item is written in that box which brings positive feelings is key (i.e.

Urgent & Important – breakfast smoothie at 8am, Non-Urgent & Important - cuddling with kids, reading a great book or meditating for 20 minutes).

If you don’t prioritize these moments that help you feel more balanced, calm, happy, peaceful, NO ONE ELSE WILL!!

Inserting the PPP: Purposeful, Pause of Peace The second strategy is PPP (Purposeful Pause of Peace). I came up with this nugget while in a coaching call with a client who was really struggling with juggling her family life stress and her work stress. We discussed, at length, the internal drive to always keep going and keep doing. She shared her fear that stopping to pause, and rest would be seen as weakness and being undisciplined. I suggested to her that being intentional and purposeful to take a pause, to breathe, reflect, calm down, and get present would always be a valuable practice. When we take this pause, we return to our work or our interactions in our home life with far more clarity and presence. We make better decisions and respond to challenges in a more productive and healthy way.

Present Moment Focus The third strategy is present moment focus. Imagine a gymnast, in a handstand on a balance beam. This requires a significant amount of present moment focus. In his book Strategic Acceleration, Tony Jeary, Coach to the Worlds Top CEOs says, “Focus is found in the ability to block out all of the things we don’t like about yesterday and the things we worry about tomorrow and to do the next correct thing we need to do today.”

Focus is a discipline that can be learned and must be practiced.

As I shared at the beginning, I have an idea that I believe could change your life, because it has changed mine. I am much calmer, more present and happier even though our lives seem to be more and more busy. When we change the way we look at balance, the way we experience balance will change. I encourage you to select a strategy that was shared and take action immediately. Becoming a prioritization master, inserting PPP (purposeful, pause of peace) and present moment focus have worked for myself and many others.

Connect with Amy: https://campsite.bio/amyballantyne

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B e s t H o l i s t i c L i f e S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 4 > COVER STOR Y

E x c l u s i v e I n t e r v i e w W i t h S i r J a m e s G r a y R o b i n s o n , E s q : Th e W o r l d l e a d i n g H e a l e r & C o a c h

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SIR

JAMES GRAY

ROBINSON, ESQ : THE

WORLD-

LEADING HEALER &

COACH

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SIR JAMES GRAY ROBINSON, ESQ: THE WORLDLEADING HEALER & COACH

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E x c l u s i v e I n t e r v i e w W i t h S i r J a m e s G r a y R o b i n s o n , E s q : Th e W o r l d l e a d i n g H e a l e r & C o a c h

What moment or experience during your career as a trial attor-

When you realized you were experiencing burnout after 27

ney was the catalyst for your transition towards wellness and

years in the legal field, what were your first steps toward

transformation work?

healing and embracing mindfulness?

The only reason I became an attorney was to please my parents.

I wanted to l learn about alternative medicine and energy heal-

My father was a famous trial attorney and I was a third-genera-

ing. I trained under several internationally known healers who

tion lawyer. I intensely disliked the conflict, arguments and stress of

taught me about holistic healing, mindfulness and how to manip-

practicing law. My father told me many times that I was too “nice”

ulate quantum energy. I learned how to heal clients using mind-

to be a lawyer. Over the years, it became apparent to me that no

fulness, energy and neurolinguistic programming

matter how successful I was I would not get the recognition and validation I craved from my father. He was my senior law partner

With five near-death experiences shaping your journey, how

and my brother was a partner in the firm as well. This only multi-

have these events influenced your perspective on healing

plied the stress inherent in a law practice. In the last year of my

and spirituality?

practice several events occurred that led to my nervous break-

When people have near death experiences, they experience the

down. First, I won a large trial that I handled by myself (the firm

separation of awareness and conscious thinking. I call it “touch-

didn’t offer any help) that earned a large contingency fee. Contrary

ing the divine” or “meeting the soul”. When I experienced numer-

to normal firm practice, I was not awarded a bonus for the win.

ous out of body experiences, it changed the way I perceived real-

Secondly, I was sued by the ex-husband of a client who claimed I

ity and made me realize that I could create whatever reality I

broke up his marriage. I didn’t even know these people before they

wanted. It also taught me that I was much more powerful than I

filed for divorce. There was no basis in law or fact for the lawsuit

had been led to believe and I could use this power to help others.

but the court made me go through an embarrassing two week jury trial which the jury came back in 15 minutes finding me inno-

How do you integrate your extensive training in neurosci-

cent. Even though the plaintiff admitted on the stand that he was

ence, neurobiology, and mind-body-spirit medicine into your

trying to extort money from me, the Court did not punish him. The

current practices of coaching and healing?

judge told me later that the only reason he made me go through

I have observed that when i help people understand how their

the trial was I was a lawyer. Finally, I regularly won awards for

brains create their reality and not just observe it, I can teach

pro bono work (frowned upon by my partners)

them techniques of how to force the brain to create the life they

When I put the awards out in the lobby, they were taken and

want. Through various techniques I have learned through my

hidden in a closet in the office. The firm didn’t want the public to

many travels abroad and exposure to different healing modal-

know I donated free legal work for deserving victims of domestic

ities I show them how to change their beliefs, thoughts and

violence. The fact that I was being treated this way by my father’s

behavior to thrive. What I offer that is truly unique is twenty

law firm and the tremendous stress of my litigation practice led

years of training in esoteric, holistic and epigenetic techniques

me to have a nervous breakdown. I was in talk therapy which was

that go beyond mere life coaching or neurolinguistic program-

ineffective to help me handle the stress. After I quit, I dedicated

ming. These techniques empower people to quickly and easily

my life to finding out what caused my nervous breakdown and

change their life.

learn how to help other lawyers, professionals, entrepeneurs and executives turn stress into success.

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As three documentaries featuring your work are set to release in Focusing on the legal community's stress and burnout

2024, what key messages do you hope viewers will take from “Beyond

issues is a significant part of your work. How has your

Physical Matter?”

background as an attorney shaped your approach, and

My hope is that people will see this movie and be empowered to take

why this focus?

responsibility for their health and wellbeing and understand how power-

I am intimately familiar with all of the forces that come to bear

ful their mind can be. Science is proving what alternative medicine prac-

on a practicing attorney. I am also intimately familiar with why

titioners have known for a long time, energy is the key to health and

attorneys don’t want to ask for help even though their life

longevity. We can take control of our lives and create the life we want

may be crashing down around their ears. I offer them confi-

using our minds and energy that is readily available.

dentially, understanding, and effective methods to quickly heal their pain. I think having gone through burn out and nervous

Following your recent knighthood and the President’s Lifetime

breakdown gives me a unique perspective that allows me to

Achievement Award, how do you intend to further your mission to

connect with my client on a deeper level. I certainly under-

heal the planet?

stand their pain and suffering and pray that no attorney has

I will be receiving an international humanitarian award in London in

to go through that pain and suffering.

November from the “Men with Hearts” organization. I continue to make documentaries, including “Beyond the Mastermind Secret” and “Beyond

Could you share an impactful story from your practice

Physical Life”. I am also involved in writing books and making movings

where your guidance facilitated a client's dramatic life

on “Beyond Parenting”, “Beyond Nutrition”, “Beyond Business” and other

transformation?

topics that are challenging society today. I have also just formed a produc-

The American Bar Association has asked me to write a book

tion company to make feature films, docuseries, TV shows. I continue

about attorney wellness which is being printed and will be

to speak to the American Bar Association, private groups, and corpo-

available soon. It is called “A Comprehensive Guide to Well-

rations to raise their consciousness about how to live a thrilling, fulfill-

ness in Law” and it contains numerous case studies of how

ing and successful life.

attorneys and their staff were able to transform their lives.

Every time a lawyer comes to me it is usually as a last resort.

It is highly gratifying to help lawyers overcome health issues, addiction issues, and marriage or family issues, not to mention turning around their legal career.

Among the nine books you've authored, which one would you recommend to newcomers to your work and why?

That is like asking me which one of my children is my favorite! The Comprehensive Guide to Wellness in Law will be the most important book on emotional and mental wellness for professionals published in a long time.

E x c l u s i v e I n t e r v i e w W i t h S i r J a m e s G r a y R o b i n s o n , E s q : Th e W o r l d l e a d i n g H e a l e r & C o a c h

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E x c l u s i v e I n t e r v i e w W i t h S i r J a m e s G r a y R o b i n s o n , E s q : Th e W o r l d l e a d i n g H e a l e r & C o a c h

You advocate for high-level professionals to 'hack' their brains to transform stress into success. Could you share a technique or tip that anyone could apply to start this transformation?

SMILE. Even though this sounds simplistic, when we smile we activate cranial nerves which are connected to the Vagus nerve.

When the Vagus nerve is activated, we relax, digest, love, imagine, communicate and connect. When we smile we make other people smile as well. It is contagious. It is neurobiological. It is effective. Turn that frown upside down.

For those in high-stress jobs battling anxiety and depression, what initial steps towards healing do you recommend?

Call me.

How do you foresee the fields of neuroscience and neuroplasticity evolving and their potential impact on wellness and healing practices?

The brain is responsible for how we experience life. It is incredibly resilient and flexible. It also is at the root of all physical, emotional and mental issues. A large part of the problems society is experiencing today is the result of improper programming we have been subjected to as children, adolescents and adults. Fortunately neuroplasticity allows us to change that programming to achieve healthier and more enjoyable lives. Teaching people how to change their beliefs, heal their traumas and wounds, and assume a positive mindset will go a long way towards healing any medical condition.

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Balancing your roles as a mentor, spiritual leader, and business consultant while maintaining your wellness is no small feat. How do you manage this?

I get up really early, mainly because I am so excited to experience what the world has to offer. I also have assembled an incredible team that helps me manage everything from marketing, management and planning. It is highly important for people to associate with others who will support them (at least emotionally) and connect with.

What guidance would you give to young lawyers or law students to help them avoid burnout and maintain their wellbeing?

Gather a group of like minded people to help you become successful. These are called “mastermind” groups and there are thousands of them online. They also have to discover ways to balance the stress of a law practice, many of which I teach. They have to understand that they have a mind, a body, and a soul that must be healthy and nourished. Some of the technique I teach only take a few minutes a day but they can have a profound impact on their health. They have to pay as much attention to the emotional and spiritual life as they do their career.

Looking forward, what legacy do you hope to create through your work, and how do you envision it impacting future generations of professionals and healers?

I have been advocating some drastic changes to the practice of law, some of which are starting to occur. I hope to not only change the nature of law, but also change society to be more mindful and aware of itself.

E x c l u s i v e I n t e r v i e w W i t h S i r J a m e s G r a y R o b i n s o n , E s q : Th e W o r l d l e a d i n g H e a l e r & C o a c h

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THE SECRET TO FINDING YOUR “WHY”

BY DR. JENNY NUCCIO

From an early age, we’re told what success should look like: having an ambitious career, owning a big house, driving a fancy car, and maintaining a picture-perfect relationship.

Whether it’s pressure from our families, our friends, or society at large, we often feel like we must fit into these predefined molds. It’s perfectly fine to want these things. The problem lies when such a lifestyle is motivated by others and not a deep internal aspiration. Indeed, for so many others, this path leads to a sense of unfulfillment, with only 47% of Americans reporting being very satisfied with their lives. For the other half, this statistic highlights the widespread unhappiness we feel when our lives don’t align with our true purpose.

Ever since Simon Sinek’s TEDx talk on the Golden Circle, there has been a massive trend towards finding our ‘why’—the North Star that ignites our passions and gives our lives meaning. For some, this journey is a deliberate quest, while for others, their ‘why’ seems to find them in the most unexpected ways. I could’ve never anticipated my own journey, which began with a series of mission trips that left an undeniable mark on my heart. I remember stepping foot in Kenya that very first time, surrounded by unfamiliar faces yet enveloped in a sense of belonging that transcended language and culture. The connection I had with the local community was almost immediate, and upon witnessing the resilience of the women and children in Mombasa, I realized that my purpose was intertwined with theirs. It was a revelation that changed the trajectory of my life forever.

Th e S e c r e t T o F i n d i n g Y o u r “ Why ”

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Th e S e c r e t T o F i n d i n g Y o u r “ Why ”

Imagine waking up each day with a sense of purpose, knowing

3.

Analyze Your Strengths and Talents: Take

that your actions are aligned with something greater than

assessments to identify your key strengths. Additionally,

yourself. For me, this journey began with selling everything

seek feedback from friends, family, and colleagues about

I owned and moving permanently to Kenya to start Imani

what they see as your unique “superpowers.” Understanding

Collective. My goal was to help break the generational cycle of

your natural talents can provide insight into how you can use

poverty, but it became even bigger than that. I wrote my first

them to make a meaningful impact.

book called Let It Be Wild to share my story in the hopes of

4. Seek Inspiration and Guidance: Think about people

inspiring others to follow their dreams. Essentially, I centered

who inspire you and learn from their journeys—you might

my entire life around my newfound purpose. What began as

even inquire about mentorship opportunities. Additionally,

a small sewing training program aimed at empowering the

immerse yourself in books and podcasts that explore what

women I had come to love and respect, is now a thriving

it means to find your purpose and live a meaningful life.

community of artisans, each story a testament to the power of

Surrounding yourself with inspirational people and content

finding and following one's ‘why.’

can help give you the confidence to pursue your dreams.

But you don’t have to pack up and move across the world to

5. Quiet Your Mind and Visualize Your Ideal

discover your purpose. It might mean volunteering in your spare

Future: Create a vision board with images and words

time, switching careers, moving to a new city, leaving a toxic

that represent your ideal future and the impact you want

relationship, going back to school, or simply honoring your

to have. Try imagining yourself five or ten years from now

authentic self by developing new habits. Your ‘why’ is deeply

and writing a letter from your future self, describing what

personal and unique to you; it shouldn’t be based on anyone’s

you’re doing and why it matters. This is an incredibly helpful

expectations but your own.

exercise for bringing your aspirations into focus.

If your ‘why’ hasn't revealed itself to you yet, here are a few

6. Set Goals and Take Action: Set specific, measurable,

tips to help you uncover your purpose and, in turn, lead a more

achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals that

fulfilling life:

align with your values and passions. Create a step-by-step

1. Identify Your Values: Start by writing down a list of

action plan to pursue activities and habits that resonate with

your core values. Reflect on the significance of each of your

your 'why,' and don’t forget to track your progress. One

values. Ask yourself questions like, "What principles guide

step at a time, you will start living a life that reflects your

my decisions?" and "What do I stand for?" By understanding

true purpose.

your core values, you can gain clarity on what truly matters

Finding your ‘why’ starts with finding yourself. It’s a beautiful

to you, providing a solid foundation for your purpose.

journey, and I can’t wait for you to embark on it. Remember that

2. Reflect on Your Passions and Interests: Take

your ‘why’ doesn’t need to be a fixed goal set in stone. Stay open

some time to journal about activities that make you feel most

to new experiences and be willing to adapt your purpose as you

alive and fulfilled. Look for recurring themes or patterns in

evolve. Life is an adventure, and your ‘why’ should grow and

your writing. You can also create a mind map to visualize

change as you do. Embrace the journey with an open heart, and

your interests and see how they connect to your values and

you will find a path that is uniquely yours, filled with passion,

aspirations. This allows you to uncover hidden passions and

meaning, and fulfillment. Your ‘why’ is out there waiting for

interests that can guide you toward your ‘why.’

you—are you willing to go and find it?

Connect with Dr. Jenny Nuccio: https://imani-kids.com/

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H o r m o n e R e p l a c e m e n t Th e r a p y : Wh e r e M e d i c i n e G e t s I t W r o n g

Menopause Myths and What’s Really Going On With Our Bodies “Female problems.”

This is the diagnosis doctors throughout the 20th century gave

changed somewhat, we’re not as far beyond history as we like to believe. The new versions of “female problems” are: “It’s your hormones” and “It’s menopause.” At its best, blaming chronic symptoms on a woman’s body is intellectually and medically lazy.

At its worst, it’s classic gaslighting, especially when it wasn’t always normal for women to experience disruptive health challenges in advanced age.

HISTORY TELLS A DIFFERENT STORY Have you ever spoken to someone connected to women from previous generations? Before the 1950s, women used to look forward to menopause as an opportunity to redefine themselves and their relationship to their bodies.

For the last 70 years, however, a wave of chronic illness has been ravaging women worldwide. Men, too, but women typically suffer more due to increased immune activity devoted to the reproductive system each cycle. Night sweats, fatigue, panic attacks, thinning hair, joint pain, mucus production, and even hot flashes were not commonplace for women a century ago.

The symptoms we associate with menopause may not even be related to age. In her article in Gyno B Magazine, an experienced OBGYN doctor states that “Many common symptoms of menopause, including sleep changes, weight gain, vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse or even some chest symptoms, can also signal serious medical conditions.”

THE HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY THEORY When women reach the stage of their lives when their bodies are transitioning out of fertility and into the next season, hormones do adjust. Reproductive hormones like progesterone, estrogen,

BY MUNEEZA AHMED

HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY: WHERE MEDICINE GETS IT WRONG

to women with unexplainable chronic symptoms. While this has

estrone, estradiol, and testosterone shift to create a new balance.

These hormones deviate from their normal range due to weakened adrenal glands, which are the master glands of the endocrine system and are responsible for many bodily processes, such as hair growth, sleep cycles, exercise, and even daily functions like urination and driving.

The hormone replacement therapy theory says that virtually ALL symptoms experienced during the later third of a woman’s life are hormone-related. Especially estrogen, according to the initial 1960s marketing campaigns about hormone replacement therapy.

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There are many great articles on the history of hormone

have nothing to do with hormones.

replacement therapy if you want to do some of your own

If your adrenal glands are the likely source of your struggles,

research.

seek to restore them with rest, eating every two hours,

So, using this theory, modern medicine has devised treatment

reducing your intake of dietary fats, avoiding adrenaline

plans to replace hormones where levels are not ideal to

rushes in any form, and abstaining from substances that

remedy any and all symptoms—a silver bullet for every

spike adrenaline, like coffee, matcha tea, black and green

health problem. But what is the reason for hormone levels

tea, chocolate, caffeine in any form (and especially energy

being unbalanced? Is it all about age, or is something else

drinks), alcohol, and recreational drugs. Avoid extreme hot

happening in the body?

or cold temperatures as well.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

If you need to focus on removing heavy metals, check out

In his first book, Medical Medium: Secrets Behind Chronic

the Heavy Metal Detox cleanses in Anthony William's Brain

Illness and How to Finally Heal, respected author Anthony

Saver book. These cleanses have helped millions resolve

William describes various groups of the Epstein-Barr Virus

conditions like chronic anxiety, depression, brain fog, and

that present significant symptoms on multiple timelines.

more. If you’re dealing with a viral pathogen, core immune

For example, Group 2 of the Eptein-Barr Virus (a virus

supplements like zinc, vitamin C, vitamin B12, licorice root,

virtually all of us have in one or multiple forms) tends to

cat’s claw, L-lysine, and lemon balm will help you overcome

stay relatively dormant in the body until someone reaches

those bodily invaders.

age 50 or so when a woman is traditionally entering their

Seek support from an experienced holistic practitioner who

menopausal phase.

can help guide you through the proper protocols to regain

So, symptoms like chronic fatigue, vaginal dryness, brain fog,

your health so that you can void the hamster wheel of

muscle and joint aches, mystery pain, migraines, insomnia,

hormone replacement therapy.

and more, may be blamed on menopause when they are all

THE INCONVENIENT TRUTH ABOUT HORMONE

symptoms of the Epstein-Barr virus. Unfortunately, hormone

REPLACEMENT THERAPY

replacement therapy cannot halt the Epstein-Barr virus in its

Have you heard about the Women’s Health Initiative study

tracks, so the underlying cause will not go away. However,

that followed over 160,000 women and concluded that

hormone replacement therapy may appear to help because

hormone replacement therapy increased the likelihood of

reproductive hormones have a steroid-like effect on the body,

serious illnesses like breast and other cancers, heart attacks,

suppressing the immune system, which temporarily relieves

strokes, bone fractures, and more?

some symptoms.

Thankfully,

Without the hormone replacement therapy, though, or after

treatments exist, but they are still widely untested in the

the body no longer responds to the treatment, symptoms are

long term. These days, women as young as 18 are receiving

almost sure to return. In truth, weakened adrenal glands,

hormone replacement therapy treatments, and birth control

in tandem with viral pathogens like the Epstein-Barr and

prescriptions for everything from acne to chronic fatigue

shingles viruses, are the culprits behind nearly all symptoms

have become so normal nobody questions it.

connected with menopause.

It takes some courage to step outside of the well-beaten

ALTERNATIVE PATHS EXIST

path of modern medicine as an answer to women’s health

If you’re experiencing menopause symptoms, know that

concerns. Still, if we can complement the miracles of modern

your body is not faulty. There is nothing wrong with your

medicine with holistic tools that address our whole bodies, we

hormones and absolutely nothing wrong with you reaching

can achieve the health we are designed to enjoy.

the later stages of your life. You have options beyond using

Connect with Muneeza:

hormone replacement therapy as a fix-all for symptoms that

http://www.muneezaahmed.com/links

updated

hormone

replacement

therapy

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Born from a wild dream that founder Jenny Nuccio made into a reality.

Imani Collective is a community of dreamers and shakers unafraid to ask, "Why not?"

Through this community, we unleash a woman's greatness through empowerment + opportunity.

In Let It Be Wild, Jenny shares her journey of discovering and nurturing her wild soul that led to starting the business that is holistically empowering over 100 artisans in Kenya.

This book will take you through Jenny's audacious life journey that led her to make Kenya home.

From an elementary school start-up business to backpacking through Peru, Jenny candidly shares her highs, lows, and lessons learned as she stepped into her truest self.

It is Jenny's hope that the reader will see themselves in these stories, awaken their own wild soul, and go out and change the world.

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

MASTERING EMOTIONS: HOW TO OVERCOME ANGER AND LIVE HAPPILY

BY N AT H A L I E B OT RO S

Anger is a powerful emotion. While anger is a natu-

When you see your triggers laid out in front of you, it

ral response to various situations, holding onto it can

becomes easier to understand them. This clarity can

prevent you from living happily. This intense emotion

help you anticipate and manage your anger before it

can affect your relationships, productivity, and over-

becomes overwhelming. Sometimes, the root of your

all well-being. Remember, anger is a punishment you

anger might not be immediately obvious, so define it.

give to yourself for somebody else’s mistakes. Let’s

Is it a specific person, situation, or recurring event?

talk about the nature of your anger, its impact on your

For instance, you might realize that your anger is often

life, and practical strategies to release it, so you can set

linked to a fear of failure, or maybe, your anger might

yourself free.

be tied to a sense of inadequacy that surfaces when

Acknowledge and Understand your Anger

you compare yourself to others. Digging deeper through

When you feel the surge of anger, don't dismiss it or

writing can reveal underlying issues such as fear, inse-

push it away because it is a valid emotion. Instead,

curity, or past trauma and it is crucial for addressing

acknowledge it, and understand its roots.

and resolving them.

Journaling is a simple, yet powerful tool that can

When you identify and understand your anger, you can

help you understand your anger. Writing down your

use different techniques to let it go.

thoughts and feelings will help you to notice patterns.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation

Maybe you get angry when you're criticized at work,

As thoughts and feelings of anger arise, take a deep

when a colleague undermines your efforts, or when

breath and be mindful of the moment. It will help you

a project doesn't go as planned. Perhaps you notice a

stay present, allowing you to observe your thoughts and

surge of anger when you feel disrespected in a relation-

feelings without judgment. Practice it daily, this can

ship, like when a partner forgets something import-

reduce the intensity of your anger and address it before

ant to you or when a friend cancels plans last minute.

it escalates. It will also train your mind to respond

M a s t e r i n g E m o t i o n s : H o w t o O v e r c o m e A n g e r a n d L i v e H a p p i ly

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calmly rather than react impulsively to anger-triggering

when you find yourself getting angry, pause and exam-

situations. By calming your body, you also calm your mind,

ine your thoughts. Are they realistic, or are you jumping

making it easier to think clearly and respond rationally.

to conclusions or making assumptions? Remember, often,

Develop Healthy Communication Skills

anger is fueled by distorted thinking, such as overgener-

This is essential for managing your anger. Effective

alizing or catastrophizing. By consistently challenging and

communication helps you express your feelings calmly and

reframing your thoughts, you can reduce the intensity of

constructively, reducing misunderstandings and conflicts.

your anger and respond to situations more constructively.

Start by using "I" statements to communicate your needs

Let it go

without blaming others. For example, instead of saying,

Letting go of grudges and forgiving others, as well as your-

"You always make me angry," say, "I feel upset when my

self, can free you from the burden of anger. Holding onto

opinions are dismissed." This approach focuses on your

resentment only keeps you stuck in a cycle of negativity

feelings rather than accusing the other person, which

and pain. Remember, forgiveness is not about condoning

can prevent defensiveness and promote more productive

the behavior that hurt you. It’s about freeing yourself from

conversations. Express your needs and feelings confidently

its emotional grip. Incorporating forgiveness into your life

and respectfully, without being aggressive or passive.

can transform your relationships and enhance your over-

Cultivate Empathy and Compassion

all happiness.

Empathy and compassion are powerful tools for managing

I know sometimes it is hard to let go of your anger, but

anger. Start by trying to see things from the other person's

it will create space for positive emotions and experiences.

perspective. When you put yourself in their shoes, you gain

Regularly reflect on what you're grateful for and shift your

a better understanding of their feelings and motivations.

focus from what's wrong to what's right in your life. Prior-

This shift in perspective can reduce your anger and increase

itize activities that nourish your life. Engage in physical

your ability to connect with others. Incorporating empa-

activity to release endorphins, improve your mood, and

thy and compassion into your daily interactions can trans-

reduce stress. Surround yourself with supportive, positive

form your relationships and reduce anger. These practices

people who uplift you. If you are still struggling with letting

help you respond to conflicts with patience and understand-

go of your anger, scan the QR code below to set up your

ing, leading to healthier and more fulfilling connections

FREE Happiness Breakthrough Session. I'm here to help

with others.

you kickstart your path to happiness.

Reframe Your Thoughts

Set yourself free from anger and grudges!

Replacing negative thoughts with positive or neutral ones can also help. Instead of thinking, "This always happens

Connect with Nathalie:

to me," try, "This is frustrating, but I can handle it." Also,

https://www.thebon-vivantgirl.com/links

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Oh ,my HEALTH...

82

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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!

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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!

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

T r u e W e a l t h C o m e s n o t f r o m Ch a s i n g M o n e y b u t f r o m I m p r o v i n g L i v e s

TRUE WEALTH COMES NOT FROM CHASING MONEY BUT FROM IMPROVING LIVES

BY AMANDA HART

From a young age, I was immersed in the entrepreneurial

Cultural and Societal Influences

spirit of my father. Watching him transform ideas into

Media Representation: Media often portrays wealthy

successful ventures, I learned that true wealth comes not from

individuals in a negative light, associating money with

chasing money, but from solving problems and improving

corruption and unethical behaviour.

lives. His teachings have shaped my approach to financial

Societal Norms: Societal expectations can pressure individuals

empowerment, focusing on overcoming mental blocks and

to conform to specific financial norms, leading to internal

embracing a mindset that leads to prosperity. This article

conflicts.

delves into how you can transform your financial mindset,

Personal Experiences and Trauma

crush money blocks, and thrive.

Financial Setbacks: Experiencing significant financial loss

Understanding Money Blocks

can lead to a fear of taking financial risks.

Money blocks are psychological barriers that hinder our ability

Trauma and Abuse: Experiences of financial control or

to achieve financial success. They stem from negative beliefs

manipulation can create deep-seated fears around money.

and fears about money, often rooted in our upbringing and

Psychological Factors

past experiences. Common money blocks include:

Self-Worth: Low self-esteem can prevent individuals from

• Fear of not having enough money

charging what they deserve for their services.

• Belief that wealth is evil or corrupting

Fear of Success: The fear of responsibilities that come with

• Feeling undeserving of financial success

success can sabotage financial goals.

• Anxiety over financial instability

My Journey of Financial Empowerment

Roots of Money Blocks

When I was a young girl, I watched my entrepreneurial father

Childhood Experiences

solve problems to make people's lives better. His amazing ability

Parental Attitudes: Growing up in a household where

to visualise and turn ideas into something beautiful left me in

parents constantly worried about money can instil a fear

awe. His focus on improving lives led to his financial success,

of scarcity. If parents frequently argued about finances, a

teaching me that wealth follows value creation.

child might internalise the belief that money is a source of

My father exposed me to the raw challenges of entrepreneurship,

stress and conflict.

from failures to frustrations, but his persistence and dedication

Money Messages: Hearing statements like "Money doesn’t

were invaluable lessons. His lasting words, “It’s not what

grow on trees" can create limiting beliefs about wealth.

I gave you, it’s what I taught you that counts” have guided me through life.

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When I first started my entrepreneurial journey, I faced numerous

NLP Techniques

challenges and setbacks. My father’s advice to focus on making

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques are highly

a difference rather than chasing money guided me. I invested in

effective in shifting negative thought patterns about money.

my growth, sought out mentors, and stayed true to my passion

These techniques work by reprogramming the subconscious mind,

for helping others. Over time, my mindset shifted from scarcity

changing the language and internal dialogue, and altering the

to abundance, and financial success followed naturally.

mental and emotional associations related to money. Techniques

Raising my own children, I chose to teach them resilience and

such as reframing negative beliefs, anchoring positive states, and

determination rather than shielding them from challenges. Many

using the Swish Pattern can help transform your financial mindset.

might say I should have spent more time on leisure activities, but

Practical Tips for Daily Life

my goal was to show them that overcoming obstacles is key to

• Meditation: Start your day with a 5–10-minute meditation

thriving. Today, my children are making a difference in the world,

focusing on financial abundance. Use meditation apps like

driven by their passions, and they're both under 25 years of age.

Headspace or Calm for guided sessions.

Shifting Your Mindset Transforming your financial mindset involves replacing negative beliefs with positive, empowering ones. Here are some strategies to help you shift your mindset:

• Visualisation: Set aside 5 minutes each day to visualise your financial goals vividly. Create a vision board to reinforce your visualisations.

• Journaling: Spend 5-10 minutes each morning or evening

1. Practice Gratitude: Start and end your day by listing things

journaling about your financial goals and progress. Keep a

you are grateful for. This practice rewires your brain to

gratitude journal to attract more positive financial expe-

focus on abundance rather than scarcity.

riences.

2. Visualise Success: Spend a few minutes each day visual-

• Affirmations: Repeat financial affirmations aloud or silently

ising your ideal financial future. Picture yourself achiev-

each morning and evening. Write them on sticky notes and

ing your financial goals and enjoying the benefits of finan-

place them where you will see them often.

cial freedom.

Transforming your mindset to overcome money blocks is a powerful

3. Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to reinforce your

step towards financial empowerment. By recognising your blocks,

new beliefs. Statements like "I am worthy of financial

shifting your beliefs, and trusting your inner guidance, you can

success" and "Money flows to me effortlessly" can help

create a prosperous and fulfilling financial future.

change your mindset over time.

Remember, the journey to financial freedom is not just about

Techniques to Overcome Money Blocks

making money; it’s about growing, evolving, and making a positive

Hypnotherapy

impact on the world.

Hypnotherapy is a powerful tool that can help individuals overcome

What Action Can You Take?

money blocks by reprogramming the subconscious mind. It involves guiding individuals into a relaxed, trance-like state where the

1. What money blocks are holding you back? Write them down and start working on shifting those beliefs.

subconscious mind becomes more receptive to positive suggestions

2. Take one actionable step today towards your financial goals,

and changes. This process can help replace negative beliefs with

whether it’s reading a book on personal finance or setting

empowering ones.

Meditation Meditation helps to calm the mind, reduce stress, and enhance

a new budget.

3. Join a community or group that supports your financial growth and share your journey with others.

focus. Through regular practice, individuals can cultivate a positive

Engage with your financial journey, embrace the challenges, and

mindset and greater mental clarity, enabling better decision-making

celebrate the milestones. Your path to financial empowerment

regarding finances. Specific meditations for financial abundance

starts now!

can include visualising financial goals and repeating affirmations during the sessions.

Connect with Amanda: taplink.cc/amandahart

T r u e W e a l t h C o m e s n o t f r o m Ch a s i n g M o n e y b u t f r o m I m p r o v i n g L i v e s

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SEPTEMBER SURVIVAL TIPS FOR MIDLIFE WOMEN BYA N D R E A S C H W A RTZ As summer fades and September rolls in, many of us find ourselves in

2. Prioritize Self-Care: Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.

a whirlwind of activity. For midlife women, this time of year brings

Whether it’s a quiet cup of coffee in the morning, a relaxing bath, or

unique challenges. The back-to-school season can be exciting and

a brisk walk, prioritize moments of self-care throughout your day.

overwhelming, as it often signifies a return to routines and a renewed

3. Stay Organized: Organization can significantly reduce stress. Use

focus on responsibilities. Balancing personal goals, family needs, and

planners, digital calendars, and to-do lists to keep track of appoint-

the demands of everyday life can feel like an intricate juggling act.

ments, deadlines, and commitments. This helps prevent last-min-

Here, we explore these challenges and offer strategies to help you thrive

ute rushes and forgotten tasks.

during this transitional period.

4. Mindful Eating: The busy back-to-school season can lead to

September often marks a significant shift from the more relaxed pace

unhealthy eating habits. Plan nutritious meals and snacks that are

of summer to the structured routine of the school year. For those with

easy to prepare and energize you throughout the day. Focus on whole

school-age children, this means early mornings, packed lunches, home-

foods, and avoid the temptation of quick, processed options.

work help, and extracurricular activities. The seasonal change can still

5. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is a great stress reliever and

impact your daily rhythm and responsibilities even if your children are

energy booster. Find an exercise routine you enjoy and can stick to,

grown or don’t have school-age kids.

whether it’s yoga, walking, or a fitness class. Even short

This time of year can stir up a mix of emotions. There’s the excitement

bursts of activity can make a difference.

of new beginnings and the stress of increased demands. Many women

6. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to lean on your support

experience a sense of loss as their children become more independent.

network. Share your feelings and experiences with friends,

It’s common to feel nostalgic about the years that have passed and

family, or a wellness community. Sometimes, just talking

anxious about the future.

things out can provide relief and new perspectives.

September is an ideal time to reassess and rebalance priorities. With

7. Embrace New Opportunities: September is also a time of new

the shift in routines, finding ways to integrate personal goals into the

opportunities. Consider taking up a new hobby, enrolling in a

new schedule is crucial. This might include carving out time for self-

class, or setting a new personal or professional goal. Embracing

care, pursuing hobbies, or setting new health and wellness objectives.

change can bring a sense of accomplishment and joy.

Midlife women face unique health and wellness challenges, which the

In my experience, September has always been a month of mixed

back-to-school rush can exacerbate. Hormonal changes, fluctuations in

emotions. As a mother of three, I’ve navigated countless back-to-school

energy levels, and the stress of managing multiple roles can all impact

seasons, each bringing challenges and rewards. I’ve learned the impor-

physical and mental well-being. It’s essential to address these chal-

tance of flexibility, organization, and self-care in maintaining balance

lenges head-on with effective strategies.

and well-being.

Strategies for Success

One strategy that has been particularly effective for me is integrating

1. Create a Flexible Routine: While structure is important, flexibility is

small moments of mindfulness into my daily routine. Whether it’s a

key. Create a daily schedule that accommodates your responsibilities

few minutes of deep breathing, a short meditation, or simply taking a

but also allows for adjustments. Include time for exercise, relaxation,

moment to appreciate the beauty of nature, these practices help ground

and activities that bring you joy.

me and reduce stress.

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September Survival Tips for Midlife Women

As we move through September and into the fall, remember that you are not alone in facing these challenges.

You can navigate this busy season with grace and resilience by prioritizing selfcare, staying organized, and seeking support. Embrace the changes, celebrate your successes, and know you have the strength to thrive in this exciting stage of life.

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 t h r i v e

d u r i n g this

transitional

period.

Let’s embark on this journey together, embracing the changes and celebrating every success along the way.

Connect with Andrea: https://linktr.ee/andreaberlinschwartz

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

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Historically speaking, helichry-

Helichrysum is a must for every

While helichrysum is fantastic at

sum has been used for aiding with

first aid kit. Our body's ability to

helping assist and repair the liver,

asthma,

whooping

clot our blood can and does save

it also is an anti-aging must. Some

cough, headaches, liver ailments,

our lives in a number of inci-

of its primary uses include detoxi-

and mucolytic. This is mainly due

dents. Sometimes, it is better for

fication, liver stimulant, lymphatic

to its anticatarrhal (ability to elim-

our bodies to purge any unwanted

drainage,

inate mucus) properties. However,

elements that have found their

psoriasis, wound repair, tissue

what sets helichrysum apart from

way into our bloodstream. This is

pain, and repair. Helichrysum is

other anticatarrhal elements is

why helichrysum is used in French

also an essential oil that, when

that it is also a natural antiviral,

medicine to cleanse the blood, for

pure, can be taken internally,

antibacterial, and expectorant. All

detoxification, hematomas, lymph

topically, and diffused. Because

of which makes this yellow flower

drainage, eczema, dermatitis, and

it can repair our bodies naturally,

a true powerhouse. It makes it

psoriasis. Circulation is one of the

detox organs as well as the blood,

so that not only can this essen-

most valuable actions within the

and drain our lymphatic system,

tial oil help break up and elimi-

body. When our blood becomes

our bodies can devote more time

nate mucus. It also helps destroy

thick with placks and toxins, it

to repairing and rebuilding areas

unwanted visitors that may have

can slow traffic down, destroy-

within themselves. Adding the

slipped past our immune system

ing neighboring cells. By helping

antioxidant properties makes this

while

the body flush out toxins and keep

an ideal oil to reduce scarring,

things moving at an optimal rate,

regenerate tissue, and prevent

our bodies are able to function at a

wrinkles!

bronchitis,

dealing

invader.

with

another

pancreas

stimulant,

much higher rate.

Helichrysum Anti-Aging Under-Eye Cream

Directions: In a small bowl, combine the shea butter, sweet almond oil, and rosehip oil. Mix gently to create a uniform mixture.

Add 3 drops of Helichrysum essential oil to the mixture. Helichrysum is believed to have properties that can help promote skin rejuvenation and reduce the appearance of fine lines. If using, add a few drops of vitamin E oil for

1 tablespoon shea butter

its skin-nourishing benefits and as a natural preservative.

1 teaspoon sweet almond oil

Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the essential oil is evenly distributed. Carefully transfer the anti-aging under-

1/2 teaspoon rosehip oil

eye cream mixture into a clean, airtight container. Small glass containers work well for this purpose. Use a small

3 drops Helichrysum essential oil

amount of the Helichrysum Anti-Aging Under-Eye Cream on your clean fingertips. Gently tap and apply the cream

Optional: Vitamin E oil

to the under-eye area, avoiding direct contact with the eyes.

Note: Store the under-eye cream in a cool, dark place. As this recipe contains natural ingredients, it's advisable to use the cream within a few months to ensure freshness.

stock.adobe.com | Julia

How much do you love Helichrysum?

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Helichrysum Anti-Aging Under-Eye Liquid Mask 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel · 1/2 teaspoon rosehip oil · 2 drops Helichrysum essential oil 2 chamomile tea bags · Optional: Cotton pads or round cotton pads

Directions: completely. In a small bowl, combine the aloe vera gel and rosehip oil. Mix gently to create a smooth mixture. Add 2 drops of Helichrysum essential oil to the aloe vera and rosehip oil mixture. Helichrysum is believed to have properties that can help promote skin rejuvenation and reduce the appearance of fine lines. If using cotton pads or round cotton pads, dip them into the cooled chamomile tea until they are fully saturated.

Gently squeeze out any excess liquid from the soaked cotton pads, then apply the Helichrysum Anti-Aging Under-Eye Liquid Mask by placing the soaked cotton pads under your eyes. The soaked cotton pads should adhere comfortably to the under-eye area. Lie back and relax for about 10-15 minutes while the mask works its magic. After the allotted time, remove the soaked cotton pads and discard them. Gently pat the remaining liquid onto your skin. Follow up by applying a small amount of your favorite moisturizer if desired.

Note: If you don't have cotton pads, you can also apply the liquid mask directly under your eyes using your clean fingertips.

stock.adobe.com | All king of people

Brew a strong cup of chamomile tea using the two tea bags. Let it steep for about 5-10 minutes, then remove the tea bags and allow the tea to cool

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

C a n c e r- F r e e i n 90 Days : D e f y i n g t h e O d d s a n d E m b r ac i n g H o l i st i c H e a l i n g

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CANCER-FREE IN 90 DAYS: DE F Y I NG T H E ODD S A N D E M BR AC I NG HOL I S T IC H E A L I NG

BY STEPHANIE WEEKS

In June 2020, my husband made a startling discovery—a lump in my breast

These words were a profound shift in my life. She was right! I had been

that I hadn't noticed. This prompted a whirlwind of tests, including ther-

studying health, wellness, nutrition, orthomolecular science, cancer, cancer

mography, mammography, blood work, and a needle biopsy. The initial

causes, cancer cures, subscribed to Nature magazine reviewing the actual

diagnosis was a relief: the lump was benign. However, 2020 proved to be

scientific papers, following amazing thought leaders, etc for FUN. My career

a relentless year, testing my limits to their very edge. Balancing a high-

was in finance!

stress job, managing multiple companies, transitioning to remote work, and

Those words resonated and I knew them to be true! There was a lesson in

preparing my child for High School Graduation and college left me drained

this for me and there would be things I would experience, learn and share

and burnt out.

that would help those who joined this cancer club that no one wants to be

The Diagnosis

a member of.

January 19, 2021, just a few months later …. came the Diagnosis: Aggres-

The Plan

sive, Invasive Stage 3 Grade 3B Triple Negative breast cancer, with several

Protect My Space and my Mindset, no exceptions. I decided on More than

lymph nodes involved. Despite being hailed as "the healthiest person" by

1 Direction. I would not do the Standard of Care alone, I would compli-

friends and family, here I was……

ment it with holistic healing, encompassing physical, emotional, and spir-

The diagnosis brought a whirlwind of tests, decisions, options, interviews

itual well-being. I developed a plan based on my 20+ years of research!

of oncologists, scans, research and more.

This included nutrition, exercise, and stress management. Stress Free was

The Turning Point

a MUST. I will share details of this plan in my October Article as we cele-

You see, In January 2021 about 10 days prior to the diagnosis, I hit rock

brate Breast Cancer Month.

bottom. A colossal breakdown led to a moment of catharsis. I remember

I have started an Instagram page, Beyond The Diagnosis, to create a commu-

being on the phone with my sister regarding work screaming and crying, "I

nity for those touched by breast cancer.

cannot do this anymore!" That was out of character for me. That moment,

Beyond The Diagnosis

reflecting back, seems like a movie scene. As I am on the phone scream-

Beyond The Diagnosis is a testament to resilience, a place where the collec-

ing, the clouds came in, and the lightning strike hit. It later felt like the

tive wisdom of our experiences becomes our strongest guide. Whether you're

universe was listening, when within days, my world was turned upside down

navigating your own breast cancer journey, supporting a loved one with

with the cancer diagnosis. This was a wake-up call—a stark reminder that

breast cancer, or seeking to understand breast cancer more deeply, our

unmanaged stress could derail even the best-laid plans for health & well-

content is designed to enlighten and empower this channel is for YOU!

ness.Although it felt overwhelming and there was no way to manage the

It is a sanctuary for understanding & navigating the journey through breast

stress, suddenly I had No other choice.

cancer with grace and knowledge. Our channel stands as a beacon of hope

The Journey to Healing

and insight for anyone touched by breast cancer, delving into breast cancer

Despite the grim prognosis, I refused to accept it as my reality. My jour-

treatments, survivorship, and the latest in care advancements for breast

ney to becoming cancer-free in 90 days was almost missed in the chaos of

cancer treatment.

everything that comes along with a diagnosis and treatment plan for some-

Discover inspiring stories of resilience from breast cancer survivors, show-

thing like this..

casing the integral role of holistic wellness in their healing paths. We blend

In one of our appointments, My integrative doctor told me, "You've been

expert medical insights with compassionate narratives, ensuring you have

preparing for this your whole life. You just didn't know it." She had been

a supportive guide through the complexities of breast cancer support &

my provider for years and knew all the steps I did to remain healthy and fit.

recovery.

She was always telling me… you need to rest, you need to lower the stress

Until Next time, sending you love & Light

and better control the demands of your career.

Join Our Community! Instagram - @‌_BeyondTheDiagnosis

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

MIRROR MOMENTS:

HOW OTHERS REFLECT WHO YOU ARE B Y M A R I A B A LT A Z Z I “Magic mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest one of all?” Okay, so you

Chances are that the answer is a resounding “yes” to at least one of

may not be like the evil witch in Snow White. Nevertheless, in an age

these. Those who show up in your life often reflect how you show up

of selfies and narcissistic tendencies, you might consider the person

for yourself and others. They are a mirror for how you behave and an

you are looking at in the mirror and what the people around you are,

insight into how loving you are to yourself.

perhaps, reflecting back. What do your relationships say about you?

If you view someone as critical and unforgiving, take a good look at

Seriously, contemplate how characteristics of others within your close

where this exists inside you. When you search and find that part, ask

quarters may, in some form, be showing up in you. When someone is

if you can love yourself enough to forgive yourself for being critical

upsetting, bugging, or frustrating you, look to see if those irritations

and judgmental toward yourself. Can you forgive those around you for

are your traits getting mirrored back. You may not be the fairest one of

being critical and judgmental toward you? Once you forgive yourself

all and may even be a bit of an evil queen who needs to do some clean-

and them, let all the criticism and judgment go because it is not serv-

ing up within yourself.

ing you. It never did and never will. This release is essential. It is the

I work as a television producer, and there is a story producer I have

key to self-acceptance, self-esteem, and, ultimately, self-preservation.

known for years. We were once doing a particularly challenging show.

When I started doing this self-reflection, I also spent time looking at

The location was challenging. The talent was challenging. The network

all my relationships. I thought long and hard about the kind of people I

was challenging. The timeline was challenging. However, no matter

wanted in my life and, more importantly, those I did not because they

what was going on or how crazy it was, this story producer was always

were unhealthy for me to be around. Disconnecting from some of those

kind. Every person she met, every email she signed, and every phone

relationships was a tough yet necessary choice. The company you keep

call was enveloped in kindness. As a result, she always got cooperation.

affects how you love and view yourself, which impacts your level of

As I kept noticing this about her, I started to look at how I communi-

happiness, and, in turn, influences how you interact with the world.

cated with people and the reactions I was getting. I cannot say I scored

This relationship assessment includes considering your family. While

as high as that story producer. She was far more patient than I was.

you cannot choose your biological parents and siblings, you can choose

So, I tried to emulate her, and guess what? I started seeing that people

whom you call family. The community around you can create a pantheon

were much more receptive. I was getting back what I was putting out—

of those who will care about your wholebeing (mind, body, and spirit)

this seems like a simple and obvious lesson. Yet, like myself, it is not

and support your personal and professional endeavors. Keep those who

always easily practiced for many, especially when feeling rushed and

make you feel good and lose the rest. That does not mean you do not

stressed. Grace under pressure is a good one to keep trying to master

talk to these people if they come around. You just do not go out of your

for everyone’s sake.

way to engage them. If you must engage them professionally, if they

That is one part. The other is noticing when people are

are related to you, you will now know how to deal with them and have

consistently showing up...

boundaries. There will be a term of engagement and a value set on their

• With inaccessible feelings

words and actions.

• Not fully disclosing their feelings

Learn to see who you are dealing with, are they friends, family, or foes?

• Acting toward you in a way that has you feeling used

More importantly, what are they reflecting back to you? Both are acts

• With judgment, criticism, and lack of support

of self-love and self-preservation. Save yourself from the evil queens

• As envious, selfish, and self-centered in a hurtful way

inside and around you.

Take a beat to ask yourself...

This article is an excerpt from "Take a Shot at Happiness: How to Write,

• Are my feelings inaccessible?

Direct & Produce the Life You Want." Voted “Best Personal Develop-

• Do I withhold my feelings?

ment Book of the Year” by this magazine and the recipient of the Silver

• Do I use and abuse myself? Do I do that to others?

Nautilus Book Award 2024, which recognizes books that promote spiri-

• Am I too judgmental, critical, and unsupportive of myself and others?

tual growth, conscious living, and high-level wellness. Gift: pages from

• Am I envious?

my book.

• Am I selfish and self-centered in a hurtful way to myself and others?

Connect with Maria: https://mariabaltazzi.com/book-excerpt/

M i r r o r M o m e n t s : H o w O t h e r s R e f l e c t Wh o Y o u A r e

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Th e I m p a c t o f P o o r S l e e p H y g i e n e o n I n f a n t H e a l t h a n d D e v e l o p m e n t

THE IMPACT OF POOR SLEEP HYGIENE ON INFANT HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT

BY D R. TA W N I E LO W T H E R

Developing a healthy sleep routine is crucial for main-

iological processes, including growth and cellular repair.

taining a balanced life, not only for adults but also for the

Understanding this rhythm is essential for recognizing how

developing brain. When I worked at a hospital sleep center

disruptions in sleep patterns can impact overall health and

that treated many infants and children, psychiatrists often

development. Several studies have supported this argument,

referred patients suspected of having ADHD to rule out

as findings demonstrated a direct link between growth

sleep disturbances before making a diagnosis. Although not

spurts and body length that are heavily influenced by Delta

universally practiced, this approach highlights the connec-

Sleep and lack thereof. When removing other possible

tion between sleep issues and behavioral or developmental

outcomes, such as a hot room or other medical conditions

concerns. Establishing proper sleep patterns in early child-

for example, a child may experience night sweats during

hood is vital for brain growth.

deep sleep, which is responsible for stimulating growth

Quality sleep is fundamental for cognitive functions such as

hormone (GH) release. This hormone is associated with a

learning and memory, as well as for emotional regulation

simultaneous increase in body temperature.

and brain structure development. Ensuring infants develop

Cognitively, REM sleep is crucial for brain development

and maintain good sleep hygiene can significantly impact

and is most sensitive as it begins to make certain synapse

their cognitive skills, emotional well-being, and overall

connections for motor skills, processing information and

brain growth. Neglecting sleep health during infancy can

being able to respond to situations appropriately. During

lead to long-term developmental issues, underscoring the

REM sleep, dreams occur and play a crucial role in memory

importance of prioritizing healthy sleep habits from the

consolidation and emotional regulation. Numerous stud-

start.

ies have suggested that rapid eye movement (REM) sleep

As we grow, the less prominent our Delta sleep becomes,

is vital for brain development. During this stage, the brain

also known as Deep sleep or Stage 3 sleep (NR3). The Growth

processes and integrates information from the day, helping

Hormone (GH) is usually associated with the first Delta

to solidify learning and emotional experiences.

Sleep, and is vital for muscle development, tissue repair

The significance of REM sleep extends beyond immediate

and regeneration. Growth hormone secretion follows a

cognitive functions, influencing long-term neurological

pulsatile, circadian rhythm, characterized by varying levels

growth and psychological health. Researchers have found

throughout the day. The highest concentrations of growth

that disruptions in REM sleep can adversely affect cogni-

hormone are typically observed during nighttime hours.

tive development and emotional stability, highlighting its

This nocturnal peak plays a crucial role in various phys-

essential role in overall brain maturation.

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Dr. Amy Huffer is a Licensed Social Worker (LCSW), and has a PhD in

parents were likely sleep-deprived as well. “Infants and toddlers depend

Human Science as well as a Infant Mental Endorsement. She has been

on their parents to help them self-regulate, but if the parents are not

working with children for almost 20 years, from infancy up to age 5, and

well-rested, it becomes difficult for both them and the children. As

understands that babies have a difficult time regulating sleep and need

parents, strive to remain present, calm, and composed while the child

help with structure by creating a routine. As parents struggle with their

learns to self-soothe and manage their own emotions and behavior.”

sleeping habits, this may cause an imbalance in the child's regulation.

Dr. Huffer also highlights several signs that children might be

The environment can also play a role, both good or bad in influencing

responding negatively to excessive sleep debt:

healthy sleep behavior to optimize the child's growth. I was intrigued

• Excessive daytime sleepiness

with Dr. Huffer’s work and wanted to share some of her insight.

• Behavioral changes like crankiness, tantrums, aggression, hyper-

Dr. Huffer emphasizes that some things she had experienced related to poor quality sleep in infants and toddlers, was that insufficient sleep posed a significant challenge because when a child isn't sleeping, their

activity, and clinginess • Cognitive changes like difficulty paying attention or concentration on tasks.

Th e I m p a c t o f P o o r S l e e p H y g i e n e o n I n f a n t H e a l t h a n d D e v e l o p m e n t

• Note: some of these behaviors are normal part of infant and toddler

• Keep a sleep diary. If your child is struggling with sleep, write down

development, so keeping a sleep diary helps better understand the

what is happening with the child. Track what time you put the child

child's sleep patterns.

to bed, the time the child fell asleep, any wakefulness during the

Here are some helping tips for parents:

night and what the child is doing. Also, what time they woke up in

• Develop a simple bedtime routine. About 30 minutes prior to

the morning. Also track any naps during the day. This can help you

bedtime, dim the lights and soften noises in the child’s environ-

see patterns in the child's behavior and provide helpful information

ment.

to your pediatrician or other healthcare provider.

• Engage in less vigorous activities 3-4 hours before bed. Then do the three B’s: Bathtime, brush teeth, and books.

• Be consistent. New patterns can take time to develop. Give your-

If you suspect your child may have a sleeping disorder, or need help getting on track please reach out to our sound sleep consultants page or to your local pediatrician.

self and the child time to adjust to any new changes to their sleep

Connect with Dr. Tawnie:

routine.

https://www.soundsleepconsultants.com/

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Gluten-Free

Vegan

Dairy-Free

Unleash the power of nutrion!

UNLEASH THE POWER OF NUTRION!

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NATURAL SNICKERS CANDY BAR Se rves 6 For the nougat layer:

2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted

freezer to set while you prepare the caramel layer. Prepare the caramel layer:

1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight 1/4 cup coconut milk

Drain the soaked dates and add them to a blender or food processor along

1/4 cup coconut flour

Pinch of sea salt

with the almond butter, melted coconut oil, coconut milk, and a pinch of sea

1/4 cup maple syrup

For the chocolate coating:

salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the blender as

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup dairy-free dark chocolate chips

needed. Remove the baking dish from the freezer and spread the caramel layer

Pinch of sea salt

1 tablespoon coconut oil

evenly over the nougat layer. Return the dish to the freezer to set while you

For the caramel layer:

For garnish:

prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dairy-

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted soaked

Crushed peanuts or almonds

free dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals,

2 tablespoons almond butter

Flaky sea salt

stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Remove the baking dish from the freezer and carefully lift the layered mixture out

Directions:

of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut it into small rectangu-

Prepare the nougat layer: Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a food

lar bars. Dip each bar into the melted chocolate, using a fork to fully coat it.

processor along with the coconut flour, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a

Place the coated bars on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle

pinch of sea salt. Process until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides

crushed peanuts or almonds and flaky sea salt over the top of each bar for

of the bowl as needed. Line a square baking dish with parchment paper, leav-

garnish. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator to allow the chocolate to

ing some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Transfer the nougat mixture

set for at least 30 minutes.

to the lined dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Place the dish in the

Unleash the power of nutrion!

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ROASTED SUMMER VEGETABLE SALAD Se rve s 6 For the salad:

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

For the tahini dressing:

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 ears of corn, husked, kernels removed

1/4 cup tahini

1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, cubed

1 red bell pepper, diced

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 yellow bell pepper, diced

2 tablespoons water

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 small red onion, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon agave syrup

1 teaspoon garlic powder

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 ripe avocado, diced

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

with a fork and set aside to cool. In a separate large

small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste. Once the

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large

bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, corn kernels,

tofu and roasted vegetables are ready, assem-

bowl, toss the cubed tofu with olive oil, smoked

diced bell peppers, and sliced red onion. Toss with

ble the salad. In a large serving bowl, combine the

paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and

olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables

cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, crispy tofu

pepper until well coated. Arrange the tofu cubes

on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and

cubes, chopped parsley, and diced avocado. Drizzle

on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and

roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until slightly

the tahini dressing over the salad and gently toss

bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

charred. In the meantime, prepare the tahini dress-

until everything is well coated. Serve the Roasted

While the tofu is baking, cook the quinoa accord-

ing by whisking together tahini, lemon juice, water,

Summer Vegetable Quinoa Tofu Avocado Salad

ing to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it

maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a

immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Salt and pepper to taste

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HORMONE BALANCING CHOCOLATE RASPBERRY MUFFINS Ser ves 12 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour

1 cup unsweetened almond milk

1/2 cup almond flour

1/2 cup agave syrup

1/2 cup cocoa powder

1/4 cup melted coconut oil

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup fresh raspberries

Directions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the muffin cups. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, mix together the almond milk, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy. Gently fold in the fresh raspberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

RESTORATIVE GREEN JUICE Ser ve s 4 2 green apples, cored and chopped 2 cups fresh spinach leaves 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted Juice of 2 limes 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled 2 cups coconut water Ice cubes

Directions: Wash and prepare the green apples, spinach leaves, cucumber, avocado, lime, and ginger as needed. In a juicer, add the green apples, spinach leaves, cucumber, avocado, lime juice, and ginger. Turn on the juicer and process all the ingredients until you have a smooth, vibrant green juice. If the juice is too thick, you can add coconut water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Blend again if necessary.

Unleash the power of nutrion!

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RAW SMORES BROWNIES Serve s 1 2 For the brownie base:

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place it in the refrigera-

1 cup raw almonds

Pinch of salt

tor while you prepare the marshmallow layer. To make the marshmallow layer,

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted

For the chocolate drizzle:

drain and rinse the soaked cashews. In a blender, combine the soaked cashews,

3 tablespoons raw cacao powder

1/4 cup vegan chocolate chips

coconut cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until

Pinch of salt

1 teaspoon coconut oil

smooth and creamy. Spread the marshmallow layer evenly over the brownie

For the marshmallow layer:

For the topping:

base in the baking dish. Return the dish to the refrigerator and chill for at least

1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight Vegan marshmallows, cut into small

1 hour to set. Once the marshmallow layer has set, prepare the chocolate driz-

1/4 cup coconut cream

pieces

zle by melting the vegan chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a small

2 tablespoons maple syrup

Vegan chocolate chips

saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the marshmallow

Directions:

layer. Quickly sprinkle the chopped vegan marshmallows and chocolate chips

Prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, leaving some

over the chocolate drizzle. Return the dish to the refrigerator and chill for an

overhang on the sides for easy removal later. To make the brownie base, place

additional 30 minutes to allow the chocolate drizzle to set. Once fully set, use

the raw almonds in a food processor and process until finely ground. Add the

the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the baking dish. Cut

pitted dates, raw cacao powder, and a pinch of salt. Process until the mixture

into squares and serve.

sticks together when pressed between your fingers. Press the brownie mixture

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Unleash the power of nutrion!

106

HORMONE BALANCING CHOCOLATE FIG SMOOTHIE BOWL Ser ves 4 For the smoothie:

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 ripe bananas, frozen

Pinch of cinnamon

1 cup unsweetened almond milk

Pinch of sea salt

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

For the toppings:

4 dried figs, soaked in warm

Sliced fresh figs

water for 15 minutes

Chopped almonds or walnuts

2 tablespoons almond butter

Coconut flakes

1 tablespoon chia seeds

Chia seeds

1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds

Drizzle of almond butter

Directions: Slice fresh figs and chop almonds or walnuts. Set aside. Drain the soaked figs and add them to a blender. Add the frozen bananas, almond milk, cocoa powder, almond butter, chia seeds, ground flaxseeds, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt to the blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more almond milk to reach your desired consistency. Divide the smoothie mixture among four serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced fresh figs, chopped almonds or walnuts, coconut flakes, and a sprinkle of chia seeds.

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TURKEY MEATBALL SUB Se rves 4 For the turke y meatballs:

For the marinara sauce:

dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Shape the turkey mixture

1 lb ground turkey

1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes

into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over

1/4 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs

2 cloves garlic, minced

medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1 teaspoon dried oregano

5-7 minutes. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the marinara sauce. In a

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried basil

small saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano,

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until

1 teaspoon dried basil

For assembling:

slightly thickened. Once the meatballs are browned, transfer them to a baking

1/2 teaspoon salt

Gluten-free sub rolls

dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are coated

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Dairy-free cheese slices

evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh basil leaves, chopped

are cooked through. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the gluten-free sub rolls according to the package instructions. Once the meatballs are done,

Directions:

remove them from the oven. Slice the gluten-free sub rolls in half lengthwise

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground

and place a few meatballs on each roll. If desired, top the meatballs with dairy-

turkey, gluten-free breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano,

free cheese slices.

Unleash the power of nutrion!

FIGALISHIOUS BLACKBERRY SMOOTHIE Serve s 2 For the fig layer:

1 cup frozen blackberries

1 ripe banana, frozen

1/2 cup unsweetened coconut yogurt

2-3 fresh figs, stems removed

1 tablespoon agave syrup

1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon chia seeds

For garnish:

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Fresh fig slices

For the blackberry layer:

Fresh blackberries

Directions: In a blender, combine the frozen banana, fresh figs, almond milk, chia seeds, and ground cinnamon. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more almond milk to reach your desired consistency. Pour the fig smoothie into two serving glasses, filling each glass about halfway. Rinse out the blender and then add the frozen blackberries, coconut yogurt, agave syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy. Carefully pour the blackberry smoothie on top of the fig smoothie layer in each serving glass, filling the glasses to the top.

LENTIL TOMATO SOUP Serve s 6 1 tablespoon olive oil

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

1 onion, diced

4 cups vegetable broth

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups water

2 carrots, diced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

2 celery stalks, diced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 bell pepper, diced

Salt and pepper, to taste

8 ounces vegan sausage, sliced

Fresh parsley, chopped

1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed

Directions: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the sliced vegan sausage to the pot and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until slightly browned. Stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Bring the soup to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer, covered, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the Lentil Tomato and Sausage Soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

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CITRUS SALMON SALAD Se rves 6 For the salad:

1 orange, segmented

and season with salt and pepper. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for

1 lb (450g) salmon fillets

1 grapefruit, segmented

12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky. Remove from the oven

2 tablespoons olive oil

For the dressing:

and let it cool slightly. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens,

Salt and pepper, to taste

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

sliced cucumber, diced avocado, sliced radishes, orange segments, and grape-

4 cups mixed salad greens

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

fruit segments. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh

1 cucumber, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

lemon juice, fresh lime juice, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper to make

1 avocado, diced

1 teaspoon honey

the dressing. Once the salmon has cooled slightly, flake it into bite-sized pieces

1 cup radishes, thinly sliced

Salt and pepper, to taste

and add it to the salad. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Serve the Citrus Salmon Avocado Cucumber Radish Salad immedi-

Directions: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil

ately, garnished with additional citrus segments if desired.

Unleash the power of nutrion!

HORMONE BALANCING ENERGIZING TRUFFLES Se rve s 1 2 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted 1 cup raw almonds 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tablespoons almond butter 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed 2 tablespoons maple syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pinch of sea salt 2-3 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut

Directions: Place the pitted Medjool dates in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes to soften. In a food processor, add the raw almonds and pulse until finely ground into a coarse flour-like consistency. Drain the soaked dates and add them to the food processor along with the ground almonds, unsweetened cocoa powder, almond butter, ground flaxseed, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.

Process the mixture until it forms a thick, sticky dough. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon of water to help it come together. Using your hands, roll the dough into small truffle-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

If desired, roll the truffles in unsweetened shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture. Place the truffles on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

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SPICY BBQ CHICKEN PIZZA Ser ves 6 For the pizza dough: 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup warm water 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the toppings: 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken breast 1/2 cup dairy-free BBQ sauce 1/4 cup sliced red onion 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers 1/4 cup sliced jalapenos 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves Dairy-free cheese shreds Olive oil, for brushing

Directions: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to preheat as well. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each portion into a ball. Place a sheet of parchment paper on your work surface and sprinkle it with gluten-free flour.

Roll out one dough ball into a circle, about 1/4 inch thick, using a rolling pin. Repeat with the second dough ball. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread half of the dairyfree BBQ sauce evenly over each pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges. Top each pizza with half of the shredded chicken, sliced red onion, bell peppers, jalapenos, and fresh cilantro leaves. If desired, sprinkle dairyfree cheese shreds over the toppings. Lightly brush the edges of the pizza crust with olive oil.

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Unleash the power of nutrion!

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GRILLED CITRUS SALMON STEAKS Serve s 6 For the grilled citrus salmon

For the grilled vegetable salad:

Directions:

steaks:

2 zucchinis, sliced lengthwise

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, whisk together the

6 salmon steaks, about 6 ounces each

2 yellow squash, sliced lengthwise

olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lime zest, lemon juice, lime juice, salt, and

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 red bell pepper, halved and seeded

pepper. Place the salmon steaks in a shallow dish and pour the marinade

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 yellow bell pepper, halved & seeded

over them, making sure they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for 15-30

Zest and juice of 2 lemons

1 red onion, sliced into thick rounds

minutes. While the salmon is marinating, prepare the vegetables for the salad.

Zest and juice of 2 limes

2 tablespoons olive oil

Brush the zucchinis, yellow squash, bell peppers, and red onion rounds with

Salt and pepper to taste

Salt and pepper to taste

olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the marinated salmon steaks

Juice of 1 lemon

and prepared vegetables on the preheated grill. Grill the salmon for about 4-5

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky. Grill the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred. Remove the grilled salmon and vegetables from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, remaining olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Drizzle the dressing over the grilled vegetables.

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HORMONE BALANCING BEET SOUP Ser ves 6 3 medium beets, diced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

2 medium carrots, diced

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 onion, diced

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

3 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 cups vegetable broth

Fresh cilantro, chopped

1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

Coconut yogurt

1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and ground turmeric to the pot. Cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the diced beets and carrots to the pot, and stir to coat with the spices. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk, and bring the soup to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the beets and carrots are tender. Once the vegetables are cooked through, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches until smooth. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the Hormone Balancing Beet Soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and a dollop of coconut yogurt, if desired.

GREEN POWER SPINACH RAVIOLI Se rves 6 For the ravioli filling:

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped

For assembling:

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

24 gluten-free vegan ravioli wrappers

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

For serving:

2 cloves garlic, minced

Vegan Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Directions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in chopped basil leaves and cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes are softened. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling mixture cool slightly. While the filling cools, prepare the ravioli wrappers according to the package instructions, or if making homemade, roll out the dough and cut into squares. Place a teaspoon of the filling onto one half of each ravioli wrapper. Brush the edges of the wrapper with water and fold it over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate. Serve the Spicy Spinach, Basil, and Tomato Ravioli hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and vegan Parmesan cheese if desired.

Unleash the power of nutrion!

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SPICED APPLE CRUMBLE Se rve s 1 2 For the apple filling:

For the crumble topping:

Directions:

6 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish or

and sliced

1/2 cup almond flour

individual ramekins with coconut oil. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

with maple syrup, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons coconut sugar

pinch of salt until well coated. Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons melted coconut oil

baking dish or ramekins. In another bowl, combine the gluten-free rolled

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

oats, almond flour, chopped walnuts or pecans, coconut sugar, melted coco-

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Pinch of salt

nut oil, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined and

Pinch of salt

the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apples in the baking dish or ramekins. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crumble topping is golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm as is or with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or coconut yogurt, if desired.

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S t i l l D e b a t i n g Wh e t h e r t o S t a r t t h a t B u s i n e s s ? 3 S i m p l e S t e p s t o G e t C l a r i t y N o w !

STILL DEBATING WHETHER TO START THAT BUSINESS? 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO GET CLARITY NOW! B Y L .Y. M A R L O W

Taking the plunge into entrepreneurship just clicked for me. Ever since

deeper goals or are you chasing someone else’s dream? The clearer you

I was old enough to realize that I could make my own money and not

get on your why, the easier your path forward becomes.

rely on anyone else, I was all in. I tried my hand at everything – collect-

2. Test your risk tolerance

ing recycled cans, hair braiding, selling apple candy. Anything that was

Starting a business requires taking risks - financial, personal, and

easy and didn’t cut into precious time with my friends. Soon enough the

professional. It's critical to have an honest gauge of your appetite for

essence of entrepreneurship wasn't just about making money – it was

risk before jumping in. A helpful exercise is to create a simple risk

about crafting a life on my own terms. Sure, there were some doubts

assessment quiz and score yourself. On a scale of 1 to 5, rate your

along the way, and yes, fear sometimes got the better of me, but entre-

comfort level with potential realities like inconsistent income at first,

preneurship always felt like a natural extension of who I was, always

needing to invest personal savings, the possibility of failure, longer work

within reach.

hours, and a lack of structure. Tally up your score and evaluate if it falls

If you're on the fence like I’d been many, many times throughout my

within the range of tolerance needed to start a business at this time in

entrepreneurial journey, torn between the lure of entrepreneurship and

your life. This assessment injects a helpful dose of perspective into a

the comfort of a regular paycheck, you're not alone. The oscillation

decision that’s often clouded by optimism and excitement.

between bold confidence and hesitant uncertainty is a rite of passage

3. Talk to real-world entrepreneurs

for many aspiring entrepreneurs. Through my many ventures, some

Speaking with people who have actually started businesses can provide

successful, other lessons learned, read on to explore three critical steps

invaluable insight into the reality of day-to-day entrepreneurship.

I've discovered to help you gain the clarity you need to make one of the

Friends or family who are entrepreneurs can give you a raw look at their

most exhilarating decisions of your life.

challenges and wins. If you don’t personally know business owners,

Let’s dive in…

many are active online sharing their journeys publicly. Search for entre-

1. Get clear on your why

preneurs in your desired field on platforms like YouTube, Instagram,

The first step is getting very clear on why you want to start a busi-

podcasts, and blogs. Soak up their stories, lessons learned, and advice

ness in the first place. Is it for more freedom, to pursue a passion, or to

to get a well-rounded understanding of the entrepreneurial path. Allow

increase your income? Getting to the heart of your motivation will help

their real-world experiences to challenge any assumptions or fantasies

you evaluate if entrepreneurship is the best path.

you have around running a business.

For example, if you ultimately want to spend more time with family,

The excitement of entrepreneurship can be intoxicating. By getting clear

becoming an entrepreneur may help with flexibility but also demands

on your why, assessing risk tolerance, and learning from real entre-

long hours especially at the start. If you want to follow a lifelong passion,

preneurs, you’ll be equipped to make a decisive choice about taking the

then a business aligned with that makes more sense than pursuing

entrepreneurial leap. Trust the process and listen to your inner voice.

whatever is currently profitable in the market. Take some time to write

You’ll know what the right decision is for this season of your life and

out your why—the reasons, hopes, and expectations around wanting

career.

to start a business. Does entrepreneurship ultimately align with your

Connect with L.Y. https://linktr.ee/lymarlow

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NO MORE BAND-AIDS JUST LIFE UPGRADES

BY D A N I E L PA C K A R D

Do you struggle with anxiety, low confidence, procrastination,

I was never free of them. So, not only was I not happy, but I felt

perfectionism or people-pleasing? But no matter how many coaches,

trapped, broken and angry.

therapists, books, videos, retreats or classes you do, you’re just

One particularly painful and pissed-off day, I looked up at whoever

never free of it. All you can do is manage it. So, it’s still there,

is up there listening, and I said “What do you want from me?

keeping you from being the person you want to be and living the

What am I missing?”

life you want to live?

I didn’t expect an answer back, but an answer definitely came

Would your life be better if instead of managing what holds you

back. I heard the words my dad told me all those years ago.

back, you could finally be free of it?

“Results matter.”

My name is Daniel Packard. I’m a Mechanical Engineer. My company

It woke me up to the sad realization that all those “experts,”

Full Liberation Technology spent 8 years and over a million dollars

while well intentioned, did not get great results. I was still in

in research and development to reverse engineer an innovative

pain and struggling.

system that’s helped thousands of people live much happier lives

So, for myself, and all the people who are still struggling, I started

by being free of what holds them back quickly and permanently.

my own research company to see if it might be possible to use my

You may ask: “How the heck is an engineer able to help people

engineering, problem-solving training to reverse engineer a way

be happier?”

for people to move beyond symptom management and achieve

Here is how: When I was thirteen, my dad, a physicist, sat me

real freedom.

down one day and said, “Daniel, anybody can have a theory or an

It was a noble mission but way harder than my team and I thought

idea. But what matters is results. Results matter.”

it would be.

This idea that “results matter” led me to U.C. Berkeley Mechani-

Fortunately, engineers are unrelenting problem solv-

cal Engineering school where I was trained how to look at complex

ers, so we didn’t give up. We worked with

problems and engineer simple solutions that work and get results.

addicts in South Africa, monks in India,

The good news is engineering school trained me how to make

entrepreneurs in Europe, NFL athletes

machines work. The bad news is I wasn’t trained how to make life

in the U.S. After eight years working with

work. So, yes, I could make a robot that plays ping-pong, but I was

over 3,000 people on five continents we finally began

an anxious, insecure, procrastinating, people pleasing, perfectionist.

to crack the code.

So, I went looking for help. Ten years and $100,000 of psycholo-

The first insight we decoded was that most of what people are

gists, coaches and spiritual teachers later, what results did I get? I

struggling with are not individual problems but rather different

could manage my problems, like anxiety and procrastination, but

symptoms of one overarching experience: Fear.

No More Band-Aids Just Life Upgrades

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You can call it “anxiety” or you could say you’re expe-

tested to work together to heal the root cause quickly.

riencing a great deal of fear.

The system also gets results because it has easy-to-fol-

You can call it “people pleasing” or you can say you’re

low instructions that tell you exactly what exercises to

afraid to not be liked.

do on what day and when and for how long.

A perfectionist is afraid to make a mistake.

Once we had a system that made it simple to heal the

A procrastinator is afraid to finish something.

nervous system, 90% of our test cases felt measurably

An insecure person is afraid to be fully authentic.

safer. This resulted in not only their fear starting to go

My team and I saw that if we wanted to achieve perma-

away, but also the symptoms of their fear going away.

nent results for people, we had to focus not on the symp-

And not temporarily…the results were permanent. They

tom, but the root cause: the fear.

now had the freedom to live the life they were truly

That clarity led my team to the first big discoveries we

meant to live. No more band-aids, but full life upgrades.

made, which is that--contrary to what the experts tell

Because results matter, we don’t charge our clients at

us--fear is not a problem of the mind. Fear originates

the beginning of our 6- week process. We charge our

in the body, specifically the nervous system.

clients only at the end, once they have clear, measur-

Your nervous system is your body’s mechanical threat

able results that what they are struggling with is gone

response system. If your body’s nervous system is out

and not coming back.

of balance, you’ll feel like there’s a threat and you’ll

Why? Because results matter.

feel “unsafe” and fearful. However, this all happens

So, if you struggle with anxiety, people pleasing, procras-

in the body first and then spreads to the mind second.

tination, perfectionism or low confidence, would your

This isn’t just theory. Once we developed a system to

life be better if you could finally be free of it?

heal the nervous system and permanently calm the body,

Do you like the idea of our “No Change, No Charge”

the data clearly showed our test cases automatically also

guarantee where you pay only at the end, once you have

had a much calmer mind.

clear, measurable results?

I emphasize the word system because it’s the system

If the answer is ”yes” to these questions come visit us

(not the theory) that gets the results. We saw individual

at danielpackard.com to learn more about how we can

tools are fine for symptom management, but to solve

help you get better results, the result of real freedom

something quickly, you need a system of complemen-

to live a much happier, more fulfilled life.

tary tools that have been engineered, optimized and

Connect with Daniel: www.danielpackard.com

ADVERT

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A GAME CHANGER BRIDGING THE GAP FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING

BY BECCA TEBON

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the intricate

ing, which often relies on heavy weights, resistance bands offer a

link between physical exercise and mental health. Among various

safer, versatile, and portable alternative.

forms of exercise, low-impact weight training with resistance bands

Mental Health Benefits

stands out as a particularly beneficial practice. This form of exercise

Reduction of Anxiety and Depression Exercise has long been associ-

has been proven in multiple studies (over 9200) to not only cater to the

ated with reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. The endor-

body's physical needs but also offer significant mental health benefits,

phin release that accompanies physical activity acts as a natural

making it an ideal choice for a wide range of individuals, of any age or

mood lifter. Low-impact resistance training, in particular, can be

stage, and those finding themselves with little to no time for fitness.

highly effective for those who may be intimidated by more intense

In fact, most of the studies researched how resistance exercise

forms of exercise. The gentle nature of the workout allows indi-

promoted better anti-inflammatory balance in the body and physi-

viduals to engage in physical activity without exacerbating feelings

cal performance simultaneously with an increase in cognitive profile

of stress or anxiety.

leading to feeling better.

Enhanced Mood and Cognitive Function

What is low-impact weight training with resistance bands and

Engaging in regular exercise, such as resistance band training, has

how can you exercise that minimize strain on the joints while still

been shown to improve mood and cognitive function. Physical activity

providing effective resistance to build and tone muscles and boost

increases blood flow to the brain, promoting the release of brain-de-

mood you ask?

rived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports brain health and

Great question. Here an overview descriptionand overview of low-im-

function. This can lead to improved memory, concentration, and

pact weight training. Resistance bands are stretchable in nature

overall cognitive performance. The structured yet adaptable nature

and come in a wide variety of materials and shapes. I created the

of resistance band exercises can also enhance the sense of accom-

powHERband™ System using three bands. Two are made from a

plishment and mastery, further boosting self-esteem and confidence.

hypo-allergetic material, are ergonomic, and are great on land, in

Stress Relief

the pool as well as infrared sauna. They are used to induce muscu-

Resistance band training can serve as an effective stress reliever. The

lar contraction, build strength, balance, flexibility/range of motion,

rhythmic and repetitive nature of the exercises can have a medita-

assistance, as well as, endurance. Unlike traditional weight train-

tive effect, allowing individuals to focus on their movements and

A G a m e Ch a n g e r B r i d g i n g Th e G a p f o r M e n t a l H e a l t h a n d W e l l b e i n g

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breathing. This mindfulness aspect helps to calm the mind and reduce

their body. The repetitive and controlled movements involved in resis-

the impact of daily stressors. Additionally, the physical release of tension

tance band exercises promote the reorganization and strengthening of

through exercise can alleviate physical symptoms of stress, such as

neural connections, which is particularly beneficial for trauma victims

muscle tightness and fatigue.

whose neuromuscular systems may have been compromised. This form

Improved Sleep Quality

of exercise facilitates the release of endorphins, contributing to improved

Regular physical activity is known to improve sleep patterns, and low-im-

mood and mental resilience. Consequently, resistance band training

pact weight training is no exception. Exercise helps regulate the sleep-

serves as an effective, low-impact tool in trauma recovery, fostering

wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Improved

both physical healing and emotional well-being.

sleep quality can, in turn, enhance overall mental health, as inadequate

Conclusion

sleep is often linked to mood disorders and cognitive impairments.

Low-impact weight training with powHERbands, resistance bands is

Social Interaction and Support

a versatile and effective exercise that not only strengthens the body

Participating in group resistance band classes or even working out with a

but also significantly benefits mental health. By reducing symptoms of

partner can provide valuable social interaction. Social support is a crucial

anxiety and depression, enhancing mood and cognitive function, reliev-

factor in maintaining mental health, offering emotional support, encour-

ing stress, improving sleep quality, and providing social support, this

agement, and a sense of community. Group exercise settings can help

form of exercise serves as a holistic approach to well-being. Whether

combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, fostering a supportive envi-

for beginners or seasoned fitness enthusiasts, incorporating resistance

ronment where individuals can connect and share their fitness journeys.

band training into a regular routine can lead to a healthier mind and

Support for trauma victims of trafficking and abuse

body, contributing to an improved quality of life. If you want to get even

Resistance band training has been demonstrated in studies to support

happier in just 17 Minutes a day from the comfort of your home, join

trauma victims by leveraging the neuroplasticity inherent in the muscles,

the RESET and start your day magically.

aiding in both physical and psychological rehabilitation. While the workout is empowering, and they begin to strengthen and reconnect with

Connect with Becca: https://linktr.ee/beccatebonfit

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BUILDING BRIDGES OF EMPATHY: ST E P 9 OF T H E N LP-P OW ERED JOURN EY

BY S COT T G AT ES

Greetings, fellow seekers of self-discovery and personal growth. As we continue our odyssey through transformation, we find ourselves

• Hypervigilance: Constantly being on high alert, always scanning for potential threats, can lead to chronic stress and anxiety.

at Step 9 of our 12-step program: "Building Bridges of Empathy." In

• Emotional Numbing: Difficulty experiencing or expressing emotions,

this pivotal stage of our journey, we delve into the profound realm of

feeling detached from loved ones, and a sense of emotional numb-

empathy and connection, utilizing the potent tools of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to foster understanding and compassion within

ness are common symptoms of PTSD. • Avoidance: When we actively avoid situations, places, or people that

ourselves and toward others.

trigger memories of the trauma, which can lead to social isolation

For those who have served in the military, the transition back to civil-

and withdrawal.

ian life can be fraught with challenges, especially when dealing with the invisible wounds of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In this arti-

• Hyperarousal: Experiencing exaggerated startle responses, irritability, and difficulty sleeping due to heightened arousal levels.

cle, we'll explore how NLP techniques can help bridge the gap of empa-

Understanding these struggles is crucial in offering empathy and support

thy and understanding, offering solace and support to those who have

to those affected by PTSD.

or are serving as we all grapple with the struggles of PTSD.

1. Submodality Shift: Rewriting Traumatic Memories

As I have coached with my clients and groups, my mindset has changed

Submodality Shift is an NLP technique that involves modifying the sensory

on the term PTSD. Short and quick, "Post Traumatic." After we experi-

qualities of traumatic memories, thereby diminishing their emotional

ence intense moments, we are all different human beings; each moment

impact and providing relief from distressing symptoms.

is unique to us. Now, "Stress Disorder," instead of a label, take it literally. You respond to those moments in the wrong (Dis) order or sequence.

Even more, what if you changed the entire term PTSD in your mindset

• Identify Traumatic Memory: Start by pinpointing a specific traumatic memory that continues to cause distress.

• Alter Submodalities: Examine the sensory qualities of the memory—

to PTG? Post Traumatic Growth.

such as its brightness, size, distance, and associated sounds—and

You've heard the saying, "What doesn't kill us makes us stronger." I

intentionally modify them. For example, dimming the brightness,

encourage you to visit the fantastic resource center for this at Boulder-

shrinking the size, or moving the memory further away can reduce

Crest.org. I have had the opportunity to meet and talk with the founder, former Navy EOD specialist SEAL Ken Falke; his research and support

its intensity.

• Introduce Positive Elements: Incorporate positive elements into the

teams are incredible.

modified memory, such as a sense of safety, support, or empow-

Understanding the Pain Points of PTSD

erment. Visualize these positive aspects overlaying the altered

Before we dive into the NLP techniques, it's essential to acknowledge the struggles that many ex-military personnel experience as they navigate life with PTSD. • These may include:

memory.

• Reframe Perception: Encourage the individual to revisit the modified memory and notice how the changes in submodalities and the introduction of positive elements alter their emotional response.

• Flashbacks and Nightmares: Vivid recollections of traumatic events

With repeated practice, the memory loses its emotional charge, allowing

can intrude upon daily life, causing distressing flashbacks and

for greater emotional regulation and healing. Through the Submodality

nightmares.

Shift, individuals can reclaim agency over their traumatic memories,

B u i l d i n g B r i d g e s o f E m p a t hy : S t e p 9 o f t h e NLP - P o w e r e d J o u r n e y

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facilitating a sense of empowerment and emotional resilience.

By cultivating hope and resilience through Future Pacing, individuals

2. Future Pacing: Cultivating Hope and Resilience

can shift their focus from past traumas to future possibilities, reclaim-

Future Pacing is an NLP technique that involves mentally rehearsing

ing agency over their lives and fostering a sense of empowerment.

positive outcomes. It fosters hope, resilience, and a sense of agency

Conclusion and Invitation to Step 10

over one's future.

Step 9: "Building Bridges of Empathy" has equipped us with power-

• Identify Desired Outcome: Encourage individuals to envision an

ful NLP techniques to offer support and understanding to those grap-

optimistic future scenario in which they have overcome the chal-

pling with the struggles of PTSD. Through Submodality Shift and Future

lenges of PTSD and are leading fulfilling lives.

Pacing, we can rewrite traumatic memories, cultivate hope, and foster

• Engage the Senses: Guide them to vividly imagine this future

resilience in the face of adversity.

scenario, engaging all their senses to create a multisensory experi-

As we conclude this article, I extend a heartfelt invitation to join me

ence. Please encourage them to visualize, hear, feel, smell, and taste

next month for Step 10: "Empowering Transformation." In this step,

the details of their desired outcome.

we'll explore how NLP techniques can empower individuals to embrace

• Anchor the Experience: Have them anchor the positive emotions and

change, unlock their full potential, and embark on a journey of profound

sensations associated with this future scenario by linking them to

transformation.

a physical gesture or sensation. This serves as a powerful reminder

Are you ready to continue the journey of self-discovery and empower-

of their resilience and capacity for growth.

ment? Join me and the phenomenal experts here at Best Holistic Life

• Reinforce Through Repetition: Encourage regular practice of future

magazine next month on our shared journeys of growth and healing.

pacing, reinforcing the positive neural pathways associated with

Please reach out to those around you who may need a hand-up and bring

resilience and hope. With each repetition, the envisioned future

them here next month.

becomes more attainable and tangible.

Connect with Scott: https://taplink.cc/gateswellness

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Th e I n f l u e n c e o f t h e N e r v o u s Sy s t e m o n E n e r g y F l o w a n d M o n e y Y o u r M a g n e t i s m

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THE INFLUENCE OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM ON ENERGY FLOW AND MONEY YOUR MAGNETISM

BY DANIELLE MARGGRAF

In today's fast-paced world, the quest for status, money, influ-

flow of energy.

ence , impact can often feel overwhelming. Yet, understanding and

A regulated nervous system supports an abundance mindset, where

honoring the sacred connection between your nervous system and

opportunities and resources are seen as plentiful and accessible.

your capacity to attract prosperity can transform your inner land-

Dysregulation, however, can lead to a scarcity mindset, character-

scape and overall well-being into material abundance. Embracing

ized by fear and lack, which impedes financial growth and pros-

these principles allows for a gentle shift towards receiving and being

perity.

supported in your true essence.

Expanding Capacity to Receive and Embracing

The Nervous System and Energy Flow

Sacred Feminine Energy

Imagine feeling a sense of calm and relaxation, where your mind

Energetic Hygiene and Clarity on Want and Willing: Practicing ener-

and body are in harmony. This state is achieved when the para-

getic hygiene, such as clearing her energy field, helped prevent

sympathetic (rest-and-digest) system of your nervous system is

burnout and maintain balance. Setting clear energetic boundaries

active, allowing energy to flow freely throughout your body. This

with her clients ensured that energy exchange remained healthy and

balance fosters a sense of safety, openness, and readiness to receive

sustainable. Choosing what you want and what you are willing to do

abundance.

for others creates boundaries that keep everyone safe.

On the other hand, chronic stress, trauma, and emotional distress

Cultivating Self-Worth: Rather than fixing herself, Sarah embraced

can lead to a state of nervous system dysregulation, where the

all parts of herself with a somatic therapist and coach and was able

sympathetic (fight-or-flight) system dominates. This creates ener-

to embody mindset shifts that reinforced her inherent worthiness of

getic blockages, leading to feelings of contraction, scarcity, and

abundance and prosperity. Affirmations like “I am worthy of finan-

resistance to abundance.

cial abundance” and “I attract wealth effortlessly” helped rewire

A Personal Journey of Transformation

her nervous system towards a receiving state.

Let’s dive into the story my client- we will call Jane, a passion-

Healing Past Traumas: Addressing and healing past traumas that

ate practitioner dedicated to helping others heal and transform.

impacted her self-worth and financial beliefs was crucial for Sarah’s

Jane often found herself deeply engaged in emotional labor and

long-term abundance. Gentle therapeutic practices, including

energy exchange, leaving her feeling drained and questioning her

somatic therapy and coaching round money energetics , helped

self-worth. Despite her dedication, she struggled to feel worthy of

release stored trauma from her nervous system.

receiving abundant compensation for her services, which made it

Aligning with Authentic Purpose: Aligning her work with her

challenging to attract and accept financial prosperity.

authentic purpose and passion elevated Sarah’s vibrational

Jane’s journey mirrors the experiences of many who are highly

frequency and attracted financial abundance. When working from a

empathetic and sensitive to others’ energies. This heightened sensi-

place of passion and alignment, her energy became naturally expan-

tivity can make one more susceptible to nervous system dysreg-

sive and receptive.

ulation. Honoring energetic boundaries and self-care practices

Embracing Feminine Energy: Embracing feminine energy, which

becomes essential to prevent overwhelm and ensure a balanced

includes receptivity, intuition, and flow, supported a balanced and

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

abundant state. Practices such as dance, creative expression, and connecting with nature enhanced her feminine energy and opened her receiving channels.

Financial Abundance Practices: Jane engaged in practices that focused on magnetizing abundance, such as money mindset coaching, visualization of financial goals, and gratitude for current financial blessings. Regularly reviewing and celebrating financial milestones, no matter how small, kept her focus on abundance.

Practical Steps for Implementation Daily Routine: Jane integrated calming practices like morning meditation, daily mindset study, reading inspirational material , and evening journaling into her daily routine. She scheduled regular breaks and selfcare activities to maintain nervous system balance throughout the day.

Reflective Practices: Jane regularly reflected on her personal beliefs about money and abundance, actively working to transform limiting beliefs.

Journaling prompts like “What beliefs about money do I need to release?” and “How can I open myself more to receiving?” helped guide her transformation.

Connection Between Receiving and the Nervous System The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a crucial role in how we perceive and respond to our environment. A regulated nervous system, where the parasympathetic system is active, creates a sense of safety and calm, essential for being open to receiving. When the sympathetic nervous system dominates, the body stays in a state of stress and alertness, making it difficult to relax and receive.

Past traumas and conditioning can create patterns that associate receiving with danger or vulnerability. However, practices that regulate the nervous system enhance the mind-body connection, making it easier to recognize and act on opportunities for receiving.

Integration into Everyday Life Jane incorporated mindset, money and somatic practices and tools as well as meditation into her routine to calm her nervous system, making herself more open to receiving. She practiced body awareness exercises to notice how her body felt when she thought about receiving and used trauma-informed approaches to heal past traumas impacting her capacity to receive. Energetic clearing and grounding exercises supported her nervous system regulation and energetic alignment.

By understanding and addressing the connection between the nervous system and receiving, Sarah effectively opened her receiving channels, allowing for greater abundance and fulfillment. This holistic approach supported her financial growth while maintaining well-being and alignment with her purpose.

As Jane’s story illustrates, embracing your sacred feminine principles and optimizing your nervous system’s balance can profoundly impact your ability to attract and receive financial abundance. Embrace these practices and watch as your capacity for prosperity and well-being expands, effortlessly.

Connect with Danielle: https://www.daniellemarggraf.com

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

HOW TO UNLOCK YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF THROUGH YOUR SACRED BREATH

BY ALISON LEVINE

Let's start with how powerful our breath truly is and why deep

a generational pattern, a family story, our true authentic divine

breathing is so important. The shifts that happen just when we

makeup and being. When we are conscious with our breath, we

take one deep breath. When we breathe deeply, our mind and

can start to become aware of how we truly operate and how our

body receive it. Our digestion improves. Our hormones become

nervous system is feeling and what we are truly experiencing in

more balanced. Our levels of stress decrease, which means our

and out. The way we are divinely created to live. Live in abun-

cortisol levels drop. Our adrenaline can decrease quite a bit too.

dance, joy, homeostasis.

All of this promotes and allows for more relaxation and reduces

As someone who used to live a life in complete fight or flight,

our feelings of stress and anxiety.

couldn’t get out of bed some days from deep depression, living

We also will up our endorphins when we consciously choose

in fear, physical and mental exhaustion to the point of burnout

to breathe deep. Most of us are living life in a fight or flight

as a successful celebrity wardrobe stylist and I experienced deep

response. This is our sympathetic nervous system. Some of us

heavy postpartum depression and anxiety with my first daugh-

are even living in fawn, which is people pleasing and some sort

ter after a traumatic c section birth, the way I was able to heal

of freeze whether it's a functional freeze or a complete shut

and unlock my true authentic self was through the breath. I also

down and paralyzation, where we can’t even get out of bed or

was able to achieve my vbac ( vaginal birth after a c section)

move onto the next task in our day. We run our lives on auto

in 2020 and not only stay in a place of peace but overcome my

pilot and just DO, DO, DO. Onto the next task, the next request,

limiting beliefs and unlock the trauma in my body to achieve

and we keep going until we burn out or are physically exhausted

my vbac. Breathwork changed my life and I want you to expe-

and can’t do it anymore.

rience this change and unlock it too.

This is why taking deep breaths and coming home to our body,

Before this, I had done so much mindset work for many years

our homeostasis, our rest and digest place, which is our para-

and could not understand how nothing was sticking or work-

sympathetic nervous system is literally the #1 most important

ing. This is when I discovered true conscious breathing, which

thing we should be starting our day with before anything else.

is known as the trendy term “breathwork” . This is when we

The more we consciously breathe, the more benefits that can

continuously and consciously breathe for more than a few

happen. From physical benefits of reducing stress and anxiety,

breaths and allow our body to not only enter into homeosta-

improving our lung function, respiratory health, lowering blood

sis but true shifts of our consciousness. From the lower states

pressure, and promoting deep relaxation in the body. Mental

to higher states.

and emotional benefits such as reducing symptoms of stress,

All breathwork is, is choosing to consciously breathe and allow-

depression, and even PTSD, enhancing focus and concentration,

ing ourselves to have deep inhales and deep exhales. As I started

allowing overall emotional regulation, cultivating actual peace

to develop the practice of breathwork, I realized my body was

and increased feelings of well being.

holding so many old patterns, traumas, stories, and was putting

This is how we start to unlock our true authentic self.I like to

me back into a loop every single time that I felt I could not

say when you are regulated, you are REAL. Not a program that

escape or get out of, until I discovered breathwork.

we are running on from our subconscious. Not a limiting belief,

Not only did I heal my mind and body, but my soul came alive

H o w t o U n l o c k y o u r A u t h e n t i c S e l f Th r o u g h Y o u r S a c r e d B r e a t h

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

in the process as well. I finally had found that mind, body and

Remember to listen to your body and adjust your breath-

soul connection that I had been searching for.

ing technique as needed. If you have any health concerns

Which is why now, I teach hundreds of others how to find safety

or conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before

in their body, regulate and consciously breathe and unlock their

beginning any new breathwork practice of course. Listen to

authentic selves.

your body and know you have full body autonomy. Pay atten-

There are many ways to breathe and start to deepen into this process and experience the benefits as well as unlocking your

tion to the signs your body gives you. Tune in.

7. One of my favorite breathwork exercises. It helps so much

Authentic Self.

with letting go of stress and anxiety. Known as the 4-7-8

1. Deep Breathing: I like to think of this as the halo breath. Deep

Technique: Inhale through your nose for a count of 4, hold

breaths in and then making an O a halo with your mouth

your breath for a count of 7, and exhale slowly through your

out. Start by taking slow, deep breaths in through your nose,

mouth for a count of 8. Repeat this cycle for several rounds.

filling your lungs completely, and exhaling slowly through

You will feel your emotions leaving and the stress lifting. The

your mouth.

body will shift and relax.

2. Diaphragmatic Breathing: Focus on breathing deeply into

The Unlock of your Authenticity:

your diaphragm rather than shallow breathing into your

• Start to notice your emotions regulate daily.

chest. This helps to fully oxygenate your body and promote

• Your triggers no longer take a hold of you and actually trig-

relaxation.

ger you, you are able to choose to respond or not.

3. Counting Breaths: Counting your breaths can help you main-

• You are more peaceful and calm throughout your day.

tain a steady rhythm and focus your mind. Try inhaling for a

• You are sleeping better. You have less anxiousness.

count of four, holding for a count of four, exhaling for a count

• Your moods are more stable.

of eight, and holding again for a count of four.

• You have more joy in your overall day.

4. Visualization: Combine your breathwork with visualization

This is just the beginning of the true unlock to your authen-

techniques. Imagine yourself inhaling calmness and posi-

tic self and journey. The deep mind, body, and soul connection

tivity, and exhaling stress and tension. Think about some-

that will begin to take form.

thing that relaxes you. A beautiful island, a beach, the moun-

Need more support? Ready to unlock your true Authentic Self? I

tains whatever it is. You’re breathing in that beautiful air.

would be honored to guide you through my very own app, where

And as you exhale release any tension, stress, exhaustion,

you breathe with me and get out of the mind and drop into the

held emotions out.

body through your sacred breath. You come home to yourself

5. Box Breathing: Inhale for a count of four, hold for a count of

and unlock the authenticity of you daily.

four, exhale for a count of four, and hold again for a count of four. Repeat this pattern for several rounds, you’re liter-

My app Breathe and B

ally making a box. It can help to ease stress and drop into

https://apps.apple.com/in/app/better-breathe/id6476440512

the body deeper. As well as bring more oxygen into your body You can work with me at :

which is a good thing all around.

6.

Don’t

try

breathwork

once

and

stop. Don’t think

https://pensight.com/x/alilevinedesign

I’m not good at this or I can’t sit and do it. Everyone can breathe and consciously breathe for that matter and the results are life changing. Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Set aside time each day to practice breathwork, even if it's just for a few minutes.

My website: https://www.alilevine.com/

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BREAKING FREE FROM SELF-SABOTAGE: U N D E R S TA N D I N G A N D OV E RC O M I N G T H E C YC L E

BY PA R I N A Z S H A M S

I remember pleading with the universe for answers, saying, "Why am I

Recognizing that self-sabotage is your subconscious trying to keep you

doing this to myself? Why can’t I stop!?" as I sat on my couch and ate

safe can help you address it. With this understanding, you can create

an entire pack of chocolate chip cookies. With tears in my eyes, want-

emotional safety in more productive and mature ways.

ing nothing more than to set down the cookies and feel differently about

Run from what’s comfortable.

myself, I felt completely out of control. Sadly, that wasn’t the only time

• Forget safety.

self-sabotage reared its head.

• Live where you fear to live.

The same thing would happen in relationships. I found myself dating

• Destroy your reputation.

the same type of person—different name, different body, yet the same

• Be notorious.

characteristics that led to the same toxic cycles and, eventually, the

• I have tried prudent planning long enough.

same disappointing breakup. I finally reached my breaking point when

• From now on, I’ll be mad. -Rumi

I realized this was a pattern playing out within me.

Take Inventory of Your Behaviors

This began my hunt for the real answer as to why we do things that

In which area of my life do I doubt myself and question my worth? How

aren’t good for us.

has that self-doubt led to self-sabotaging actions or mindsets? What

Understanding The Cycle

is that costing me mentally, emotionally, financially, and spiritually?

Believe it or not, getting stuck in a cycle of being unable to get out

Building Emotional Safety

of your way commonly afflicts ambitious, hard-working, independent

One of the biggest lessons I learned while overcoming self-sabo-

individuals. Recently, a client of mine, a prominent investment banker,

tage was that I struggled to trust myself deep down. This perpetuated

said, “Every time I’m approaching a new threshold of success, I question

my subconscious attacks on anything that could lead to success and

whether I deserve it and watch myself sabotage it. I hate it and cannot

growth. Although I was a confident, high-functioning person, I ques-

stop it.” The answer to his question is simpler than it might seem.

tioned myself often.

The cycles we keep ourselves stuck in—even though we don’t like

I belittled myself frequently, saying “You’re such an idiot” or “What’s

them—are predictable. While bad habits aren’t helpful, they provide

wrong with you?”.

stability to our minds and hearts necessary to manage the parts of life

I didn’t realize it at the time, but that was the culprit of my self-sab-

that require bravery, resilience, and strength.

otage and it would continue until I believed in my value and improved

Our subconscious mind creates stability through routine habits, beliefs,

my self-esteem.

and mindsets, regardless of how productive they are to our well-be-

Questions To Get You Started

ing and growth.

• Do I struggle to make time for myself? Why?

B r e a k i n g F r e e f r o m S e l f - S a b o t a g e : U n d e r s t a n d i n g a n d O v e r c o m i n g t h e Cy c l e

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• What does it say about me if I put myself first?

If past pains are only addressed mentally, you might find

• What am I afraid will happen to me if I express my

yourself saying, “I’m over it, that was a long time ago!”

emotional needs?

• What are the 5 most commonly repeated thoughts in my head about myself?

when in truth, you still feel insecure about the situation or react when something similar plays out in the present day.

This is because your nervous system remembers what your

Exploring your self-worth can help uncover some of your

mind forgets. Long after your mind has “moved on” from

inner wounds that lead to self-sabotage. Often, these

childhood events, your nervous system retains a carbon copy

wounds take shape during childhood and carry forward

receipt of those situations and how they affected your self-

into adulthood.

worth, alerting you to potential threats in the future.

For example, a woman said recently, “I constantly fear that

Healing through somatics addresses these deep-seated

I won’t be chosen. Even though it was a long time ago, I

responses by working with the mind and body. One of the

still remember being the last one chosen for the class kick-

best things about somatic techniques is that you don't need

ball teams in 5th grade. It hurts when a relationship doesn’t

to rehash the situation to heal from it. Instead, you can

work out and I feel rejected.” This story highlights that

gently and effectively release the stored trauma and tension

fear—in this case, fear of rejection—creates a self-sabo-

from your body, creating a sense of calm and safety.

taging cycle of avoidance.

The journey to overcoming self-sabotage and finding

When we avoid situations that might reignite past pain,

emotional safety is possible. You can break free from old

we limit opportunities and experiences for growth. Subtle

patterns and step into a more empowered and fulfilling life

self-protection tactics like avoidance ultimately hinder

of long-lasting success and happiness. Embracing somatic

happiness and success. However, it doesn’t have to stay

practices and healing your inner child wounds can help

that way. You can rebuild emotional safety within, and you

you take the next step towards healing and wholeness and

can lessen self-sabotage.

transform your relationship with yourself.

The Path Forward Self-sabotage in my life declined significantly when I addressed the pain of my past both mentally and somatically (through the body).

Connect with Parinaz: https://linktr.ee/shamspari

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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

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BY AL WYNANT

IT'S NOT ABOUT THE T-SHIRT. 139 Best Holistic Life September 2024

I t ' s n ot a b o u t t h e t-s h i r t.

140

It truly is not about the t-shirt: Why being authentically yourself, and more,

So, why are we still wearing uniforms? Authenticity could also be celebrated

is key to your success.

in how you present yourself.

“Why blend in when you were born to stand out?” - Dr. Seuss.

Aside from authenticity, I find that these four areas offer far more substan-

I was a bit perplexed about coming up with a topic for this article. As I sat in

tial results than my wardrobe choice.

this co-working space, looking around the room, I couldn’t help but notice

YOU NEED VISION AND INNOVATION

that many would-be entrepreneurs dressed similarly, and it hit me. What's

Successful individuals have a clear vision and the ability to innovate. Jobs

the allure of the uniform?

revolutionized multiple industries with his forward-thinking ideas and

To be honest, there's nothing I love more than a comfy long-sleeve t-shirt, a

relentless pursuit of perfection. Zuckerberg redefined social interaction on

pair of joggers, and my favorite sneakers. Since the pandemic, I've definitely

a global scale. Their clothing had little to do with their groundbreaking ideas

gotten a bit more relaxed about dressing up for work. But hey, when I'm

and relentless drive.

working from my home office, I think that outfit is perfectly fine. Of course,

HARD WORK AND PERSEVERANCE IS KEY

when I venture outside for work, I do believe in dressing professionally.

Success requires sustained effort, resilience in the face of setbacks, and a

It's often touted that dressing like Steve Jobs in his black turtleneck and

willingness to learn and adapt. Successful entrepreneurs often share that

jeans or Mark Zuckerberg in his gray t-shirt and hoodie is the key to their

being a little crazy and having crazy faith in your project is the number one

success.

trait of success. These qualities are far more critical than what one wears.

As an entrepreneur in the wellness tech industry, I often find it amusing to

TALENT AND A TOOLBOX FULL OF SKILLS

see my colleagues show up in their self-imposed uniforms, fully convinced

Success is the result of talent and the continuous development of skills.

that their attire will lead to massive success. Silly, right? So, why are so

Successful people cultivate their talents and skills. They continue to learn

many of us doing it?

and develop themselves.

The notion that wearing the same outfit every day is a magic bullet for

RELATIONSHIPS AND THE RIGHT ATTITUDE

success is a simplistic view that overlooks the complex factors that contrib-

Building a strong network and maintaining positive relationships can

ute to personal and professional achievements.

significantly impact one’s success. Having a positive mindset and a can-do

Full disclosure, I just ordered the same long-sleeve t-shirt in three differ-

attitude is key. Many people will tell you that you can’t do it. Surround

ent colors that neatly fit in my comfort zone.

yourself with people who support you, motivate you, and encourage you

THE APPEAL OF THE UNIFORM

to succeed.

I understand the appeal of a uniform; it offers simplicity and efficiency. Not

OVERCOMING THE UNIFORM MYTH

having to decide what to wear each day can perhaps reduce decision fatigue,

To overcome the belief that a uniform is key to success, I started focusing

potentially adding a few extra minutes of productivity to my day. By elim-

on more substantive factors that aid in my success journey.

inating this daily choice, I can save my mental energy for more import-

I cultivate a growth mindset: Believe that abilities can be developed through

ant decisions.

hard work and learning. This fosters resilience and a readiness for chal-

Can I call that statement nonsense?

lenges, crucial for success.

As an entrepreneur, my choice of outfit will be the easiest decision I have

1. Clear goals are essential: Define success for yourself with clear, achiev-

to make today. And I think Zuckerberg may have an assistant who preps

able goals—SMART goals. Break larger objectives into manageable tasks

his outfits daily.

THE REALITY OF SUCCESS

to maintain focus and achieve a sense of accomplishment.

2. Add learning and development onto your calendar daily: Seek continu-

Success in the world of business is influenced by a myriad of factors that

ous learning and self-improvement. Stay updated with industry trends,

are much more substantial than your wardrobe choices.

acquire new skills, and be open to feedback.

I do think more clearly when dressed comfortably, but dressing comfort-

3. Develop effective habits: Establish routines that enhance productivity

ably does not guarantee success.

and well-being, like time management, regular exercise, and mindful-

For a while now, authenticity has been encouraged. Authenticity is being

ness. Effective habits reduce stress and improve focus, contributing to

promoted as one of the cornerstones of success for individuals and brands.

sustained success.

Being authentic fosters meaningful connections; it sets individuals and

Ultimately, success hinges on authenticity, vision, perseverance, talent, and

brands apart in an increasingly crowded and skeptical marketplace. It engen-

relationships—not on a uniform. By focusing on these substantive factors

ders trust and loyalty, crucial in an era where consumers and colleagues alike

and staying true to yourself, you can build a more meaningful, impactful,

are bombarded with choices. By being true to oneself, individuals and orga-

and sustainable path to success. Stand out by being genuinely you.

nizations not only enhance their mental well-being and resilience but also create sustainable, long-term success through genuine engagement and differentiation.

Connect with Al: https://linktr.ee/ingomu

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Best Holistic Life September 2024

6 ESSENTIAL TIPS

FOR CONTINUOUSLY SEEKING CLARITY TO ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS AND GROW

BY LUNDEN SOUZA In the pursuit of success, clarity is an indispensable companion. Whether it's

orative approach not only enhances your clarity but also fosters a sense of

about achieving your goals, becoming the person you aspire to be, or refin-

community and support.

ing the processes in your business and relationships, clarity is the guiding

4. Maintain Clarity in Processes, Calendars, Spreadsheets, etc.

light that keeps you on track. This article delves into six essential tips for

In business and personal life, clear and well-defined processes are essen-

continuously seeking clarity and ensuring you maintain it.

tial for efficiency and productivity. Whether it's maintaining an organized

1. Set A Goal & Sit With It

calendar, keeping detailed spreadsheets, or establishing standard operating

The first step towards achieving any goal is setting it. However, merely

procedures, clarity in processes ensures that tasks are completed correctly

setting a goal isn't enough. You need to sit with it, understand it, and inter-

and on time.

nalize it. This means not just knowing what you want to achieve but also

A clear process eliminates ambiguity, reduces errors, and streamlines

why you want to achieve it. When you take the time to sit with your goal,

operations. It also makes it easier to delegate tasks and track progress.

you allow yourself to connect deeply with your aspirations, which fosters a

By regularly reviewing and refining your processes, you can identify areas

stronger commitment to seeing it through.

for improvement and implement changes that enhance performance and

Sitting with your goal also involves breaking it down into manageable steps

outcomes.

and visualizing the path to success. By doing so, you create a mental road-

5. Catch Yourself in Autopilot Mode

map that helps you stay focused and motivated. This clarity of purpose acts

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to slip into autopilot mode,

as a constant reminder of what you are working towards, making it easier

where you go through the motions without conscious thought or inten-

to navigate challenges and stay resilient in the face of setbacks.

tion. This state can lead to stagnation and a disconnect from your goals

2. Continuously Seek Clarity on Who You Want to Be and

and values. Therefore, it's important to catch yourself in autopilot mode

Your Core Values

and reset your focus.

Your core values are the foundation of who you are and who you want to

Ask yourself, "Am I feeling the right feels that I want to be?" This question

become. They guide your decisions, shape your actions, and influence your

prompts you to assess your emotional state and ensure it aligns with your

relationships. Continuously seeking clarity on these values is crucial for

desired feelings. If you're not experiencing the emotions you want, take a

personal growth. Ask yourself regularly, "Am I showing up in alignment

moment to recalibrate. This could involve mindfulness practices, revisiting

with my values?" This introspection helps ensure that your actions and deci-

your goals and values, or making adjustments to your routine.

sions reflect your true self.

6. Regularly Review and Refine

Adding meat to the bones of your values means going beyond vague ideals.

Clarity isn't a one-time achievement; it's a practice that requires consis-

Define what each value means to you and how it manifests in your daily life.

tent effort and attention. Regularly review your goals, values, and processes.

For instance, if one of your core values is integrity, specify how you demon-

Reflect on your progress and make necessary adjustments. This ongoing

strate integrity in various situations. This detailed understanding helps you

process ensures that you remain aligned with your true self and on track

live more authentically and make choices that resonate with your true self.

towards your aspirations.

3. Seek Counsel

By prioritizing clarity, you create a solid foundation for success and fulfill-

No one has all the answers, and seeking counsel from others can provide

ment in all areas of your life. Regular reflection and adjustment keep you

invaluable insights and perspectives. Whether it's mentors, peers, or profes-

moving forward with purpose and intention, making it easier to achieve

sionals, consulting with others can help you gain clarity on your goals and

your goals and grow both personally and professionally.

values. They can offer advice, share experiences, and provide feedback that

Your goals matter, but you will not reach them without clarity. Tune in to

you might not have considered.

more on this topic on Episode 179: Reaching Goals & THE #1 HABIT of HIGH

Seeking counsel is particularly important when you're feeling stuck or

Performers on Self Love & Sweat THE PODCAST available everywhere you

unsure. Others can help you see things from a different angle, identify blind

listen to podcasts.

spots, and offer solutions that you might not have thought of. This collab-

Connect with Lunden: https://linkin.bio/lifelikelunden/

6 E s s e n t i a l T i p s f o r C o n t i n u o u s ly S e e k i n g C l a r i t y t o A c h i e v e Y o u r G o a l s a n d G r o w

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Best Holistic Life September 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 September 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.

SUN in Virgo and Libra Virgo : the practical and analytical self. Analytical, actions and practicality.

Moon with New Moon in Virgo + Full Moon in Pisces

Virgo energy ruled by Mercury is about communicating your ideas with a

Create a ritual to connect with the moon. Let me share more about the moon

penchant for details.

phases and how to honor these.

August 23rd- September 22nd:

The shadow of Virgo is being critical, judgmental, and perfectionistic. Take a journal and a pen.

New Moon: Set Intention.

JOURNAL PROMPTS:Where do I feel called to invite more

practicality into my life? What ideas do I want to bring into matter under this energy?

New Moon at 11° in Virgo (Monday 2.09 at 8.55 PM CDT and Tuesday 3.09 at 2.55 AM BST and 11.55 AM AEST).

In the darkness. Connect with the seeds to be planted

Virgo Sun + Virgo Moon = Earth + Earth element connection.

September 23rd - October 22nd:

Virgo is the yin. fThe being. Represents the energy of reverence and

Libra: connect with balance. Your own energetic scales. Co-create harmony

humility. The need to improve the world. It is an invitation to connect with

with those around you. Elegance, diplomacy and fairness.

ritual practices.

It is a time to use your skills of diplomacy in order to hear both sides of a

Rituals to improve our whole well being and sacredness. Indeed, Virgo is

story. You may feel called to embrace both in your artistry of life, the light

ruled by Mercury, a messenger between the physical world and sacred world.

and the shadow. Create contrast. Libra energy ruled by Venus gives you a

In mythology, virgin means “whole and complete”. Virgo’s energy asks

time to honor the need for harmony, peace, love and collaboration.

you to improve that sense. Prioritise your cyclical practices. Embody your

The shadow of Libra is about indecisiveness and lost to the sense of self.

sovereignty, wellness and joy.

Take a journal and a pen.

JOURNAL PROMPTS: How do I balance my own needs with the

reality of my life? What co-creation am I feeling called to birth in harmony with others?

JOURNAL PROMPTS: What is arising, what is my New Moon

intention? What is wholeness for me?

M o n t h ly E n e r g y U p d a t e

First Quarter Moon: Commitment.

144

What’s next?

FQ Moon at 19° in Sagittarius (Wednesday 11.09 at 1.06 AM CDT, 7.06

Let's drop into meditation in order to access more clarity. Choose your

AM BST and 4.06 PM AEST).

favorite type or if you need, head to Insight Timer and search ‘Laetitia

This is the time to take action. The time to grow. In the first Quarter

Andrac’ for some guided meditations!

Moon, you take inspired action towards the plans you have created.

Let's feel the ocean of possibility… and allow life to pleasantly surprise us

Virgo Intention + Sagittarius Moon = Earth + Fire element connection.

as Source co-creates our dreams with us

Sagittarius is a yang sign, it is mutable and aligns with the element of fire.

To stay connected always with the moon. Download my free Moon Calendar

Sagittarius is the Centaur, the blend between two realms, both human

from my article link. Let’s stay connected always. Until next time.

and animal. It is about seeking something bigger and seeking wisdom for

With love. Laetitia.

lifelong growth.

Connect with Laetitia: https://sales.essentialshift.co/links

It is the principle of wisdom.

Sagittarius invites us to explore and to wander the path less traveled, and all that it can teach us.

JOURNAL PROMPTS: What path do I need to take next? What

wisdom do I need to call on right now?

Full Moon: Illuminate.

Full Moon at 25° in Pisces + Eclipse (Tuesday 17.09 at 9.34 PM CDT and Wednesday 18.09 at 3.34 AM BST, 12.34 PM AEST).

Expression of the need to embody passion. Under the Full Moon, all is illuminated. The seeds and intentions planted in the September New Moon are revealed.

Virgo Intention + Pisces Moon = Earth + Water element connection.

Pisces is a yin sign, mutable and connected to the element of water. It is all about the principle of unity and connection within.

It is about trusting ourselves. To be guided by our intuitive wisdom. Take a journal and a pen.

JOURNAL PROMPTS: What needs to float away from my life right

now? What emotion am I holding onto?

Last Quarter Moon: Re-evaluate.

Re-evaluate. Last Quarter Moon at 4° in Cancer (Tuesday 24.09 at 1.50 PM CDT, 7.50 PM BST and Wednesday 25.09 at 4.50 AM AEST).

The time to surrender.

Virgo Intention + Cancer Moon = Earth + Water element connection.

Cancer is all about yin, it is cardinal and is a water sign. Yin is all about divine feminine and water is about embracing our emotions. The sign of cancer represents nourishment, feeling safe, it is a nurturer.

Cancer is all about the softness and feminine parts of the body, so look after those parts. This is a time for nourishment. What self care rituals can you embrace at this time?

The Full Moon invites you to embrace the need to improve it all and just let it be. Take a journal and a pen.

JOURNAL PROMPTS: How can I nurture myself right now? What

emotions do I need to surrender to?

145

Best Holistic Life September 2024

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