AUTHENTIC. JOYFUL. HEALTHY.
NEW BEGINNINGS Your healthiest self yet, one step at a time
PHYSICS AND DIVINITY Manifesting and co-creating explained scientifically
WINTER BREAK FASHION Shop for your winter getaways...or staycations
ASK THE COACH Overcoming loneliness when you’re not alone
PREMIER EDITION VOLUME 1
WINTER 2025
CONT Departments 4 EDITOR’S NOTE A little about me and this new magazine.
5FAVORITES A chic curation of my most loved items.
20FASHION Shoppable winter break resort wear, plus mood elevating outerwear.
34SPIRITUALITY
38HOT TOPIC Is the current school system really beneficial for our kids?
48INTERIOR DESIGN Refresh your home for spring and embrace dark walls.
Discover how the secrets of quantum physics give some light to how G-d manifets in this world.
46FEATURED Meet Margalit Lankry, insightful creative and design whisperer.
58ASK THE COACH The secret to happy relationships start with a healed self.
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ENTS Features 6START YOUR DAY STRONG The powerful formula for driving your best day.
11SUPERB SUPERFOODS Learn about the benefits of some incredible superfoods and how to eat them.
18IT’S NEVER TOO LATE 30DRESS TO Glow-up and get MANIFEST healthy with Culinary Nutritionist and Lifestyle Coach Ilanit Journo of Get.fit.ima.
Personal Stylist Devora Golan expounds on how your clothing choices will bring out your best self.
42WHERE ARE THE WOMEN IN THEIR 50'S? 60MAPPING The vulnerable tell-all THE DIVINE article that inspired this magazine.
Explore G-d’s gift of Astrology. to align with your highest self.
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EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome! You don’t have to be good to start...you just have to start to be good. -Brene Brown
W
elcome to the inaugural issue of Glimmer magazine! This issue embraces the powerful theme of fresh starts and reaching your highest upgrade yet: Your most authentic, healthy, present self! As someone who has always dreamed of and enjoyed curating a space filled with inspiration, empowerment, and support for women, it fills my heart with joy to finally share this new vision with you. Some of you may remember me from my blog, Fashionisha. But since retiring from that platform, I have been in a several year long space of healing, and upgrading myself and my life. My desire to share, with passion, a place for women of all types and ages to connect over real talk has never waned, and the time has come to rebirth this passion via the creation of this magazine. My hope is that, based on the growth and experiences of my own journey, I will enable all of you to move towards creating and living your own best lives. Each page has been crafted with care, featuring stories of vulnearbility and growth, articles on relevant hot topics, and practical tips for transformation with insights that encourage you to take bold steps toward the life you desire. Of course I will always include some of my favorite fashion, design and lifestyle tips along with lots of shopping links. See something your like? Just click on it! And that includes our wonderful advertisers’ pages as well. Whether you're seeking the courage to make hard changes, to open your mind to new concepts for the betterment of your life, or just relax and have some fun, I hope you find inspiration, encouragement, validation, and motivation within these pages. If there’s any message I’d like to convey through this magazine, it’s that it’s never too late for a fresh start. Together, let’s celebrate new beginnings and the endless possibilities that come with them. Here’s to taking that first step towards the life you’ve always imagined!
Sharon Langert
In this issue Discover some nourishing superfoods and super habits to kickstart your day and set a positive momentum, learn about the healing and transformative changes you can manifest on an energetic level, and embrace the excitement and challenges of facing new stages of life. Plus, get inspired with our winter vacation style ideas that will keep you looking fabulous wherever your journey takes you. It’s time to take your seat as the captain of your own ship!
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S O M E O F M Y F A V O R I T E T H I N G S Click on photos or text links to shop
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1. Nothing makes a home cozier and more winter friendly than a fluffy and gorgeous textured throw like this one. 2. I used to wear heels all the time, and now I’m so glad there are chic walkable options like these Giuseppe Zanotti fun embellished booties that feel polished without the pain. 3. For all “The Secret” fans, Rhonda Byrne’s sister book “The Magic” is truly magical. Divided into a practice a day, this gem of a book will change your life one day at a time. 4. I shuffle through favorite flowers often, but this season I’m slightly obsessed with white Asian lilies for the grand elegance they imbue my home with, and their long lasting endurance. 5. Recently I’ve become obsessed with castor oil, famous for hair growth, but also for its skin and body healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Ditch the expensive and chemical laden creams and balms and use organic castor oil on your face and body for the best and most calming anti-aging results ever. 6. Tortoiseshell nails are trending now and I’m not mad about it. 7. There’s nothing like beating the winter blues by cozying up in a cloud-soft lounge set that goes easily from inside lounging to comfy errand running.
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START YOUR DAY
STRONG
Remember, you are the captain of your own day. The key to cultivating a better life always starts with small manageable actions that are within your control. This approach fosters long-term positive transformations. Regardless of external circumstances, employing our four-step formula each morning will undoubtedly enhance your day, which will lead to an overall better life. The equation is simple: small actions combined with consistency yield life-changing results. Page 6
4 Step Formula
FOR YOUR BEST DAY Ever
01
Gratitude List As soon as you wake up, grab the reins of your conscious brain and spend your first few moments to reflect on 5 things you appreciate in your life, no matter how small they may seem. This simple, yet powerful practice will set a positive tone for the rest of your day and will set you up for attracting more things to be grateful for.
Mirror Affirmations
02
This is one of the most powerful ways to re-wire your brain to replace a toxic self narrative with a loving and compassionate one. We become what we think and say about ourselves, and so much of that has been programmed from other people and is simply not the truth. Stand in front of the mirror and look into your eyes (this will feel uncomfortable and awkward at first, but do it anyway!) and speak encouraging statements about yourself and your life in the present tense.
Movement
03
Take a moment to schedule some movement into your day. Whether it’s a 30 minute walk, a gentle yoga practice, or a trip to the gym, prioritizing moving your body every day is non-negotiable for staying youthful and healthy physically and mentally. Our bodies were meant to move and checking a workout off your list will give you a sense of accomplishment throughout your day.
Super Foods
04
We really are what we eat, and everything that we need to feel our best and heal can be found in food! The expectation to be “perfect” on a diet, or to simply eat in order to look a certain way only sets us up for failure and disappointment in ourselves. An easier way to create a healthy relationship with food is to eat your first meal jam-packed with the most nutrient dense foods which will give you the energy and momentum to continue on a healthy path all day.
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1. Gratitude Like everything else, waking up in gratitude takes practice and gets so much easier over time. The difference you will feel throughout your day will be so dramatic when you train your mind to think of things to be grateful for the minute you wake up. It doesn’t have to be anything major, it can be as simple as saying, “Thank you for my comfortable bed. Thank you for being able to sleep. Or thank you for being able to walk to the bathroom.” Another powerful way to alter your neurons to recognize the good things without even trying is to get yourself a gratitude journal and take a few minutes each morning to make a list of 10 things you’re grateful for. Before you know it, you’ll be seeing the magic all around you with hardly any effort.
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2. Affirmations You can rewire your brain and create a new belief system about yourself and your life by stating new truths in the present tense. This practice especially works wonders when you state them while looking at yourself in the mirror. If you don’t know where to start, think of a common negative thought pattern you may have and reframe it to state it in the positive. If for example you often criticize yourself about you body, you can say something like, “I’m beautiful just the way I am, my body is intuitive and strong and doing everything for my benefit.” If you feel alone or unworthy, say, “I’m surrounded by supportive loving people and I support and love myself.” As fake as you may feel in the beginning, your brain will listen to your words and seek out proof in the world around you to support your new truths. It’s really miraculous what you will become and receive when you tell you brain to see it.
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3. Movement There have been studies done that show how simply contracting your muscles releases feel good chemicals in your body. If you are struggling to fit exercise into your day, start small, by going for a 10 minute walk and doing some stretches that feel good to you. Not only will you secrete those good chemicals into your body, the feeling of accomplishing even a small workout is enough to boost your dopamine and self confidence. The more you practice this as a non-negotiable in your life, you’ll actually start to crave and love moving your body in the morning.
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4. Superfoods Starting
your day with
superfoods like berries, chia seeds, nuts, and protein is a great way to fuel your body and mind. These nutrient-dense options provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can boost your mood and energy levels. We all know how it can often end: We wake up with great intentions to make healthy choices and as the day goes on, the desire to eat unhealthy, calorie and sugar laden foods becomes irresistable until we find ourselves wolfing down a thick muffin or a handful of french fries because we’re starving and, hey, we only live once! The problem is that those foods usually make us feel even more tired, moody, and uncomfortable. Our chances are way better at sustaining our ability to make better self-serving choices if we start the day strong, packing in as many super foods as we possibly can. And even if we do let go later on, at least we know our bodies were well fed with loads of nutrition that we needed, which will help maintain our energy and mood throughout the day.
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The Benefits
Our top 10 superfood picks to try...and what makes them so powerful. Lemon
Vitamin C dynamo that helps cleanse the liver, boost collagen production, increase iron absorption, and prevent kidney stones.
Celery
Hydrating, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, nutrient dense, contains vitamin k for bone and blood health, reduces blood pressure.
Chia Seeds
Lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, aids in digestive health, reduces inflammation, helps with weight control, anxiety and depression.
Walnuts
Healthy fat, contains alpha linolenic acid for blood vessel health, brain health and cancer prevention.
Ginger
Anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, immune boosting, blood sugar lowering, digestive health powerhouse.
Turmeric
Rich in anti-aging phytonutrients that protect cells from damage, helps fight depression and cancer cells.
Blueberries
Major antioxidant, low sugar fruit, promotes heart, bone and blood health, and may improve memory and brain health.
Pumpkin Seeds
Full of fiber and healthy fats, with magnesium, iron and zinc, for heart health and immunity..
Yogurt
Full of probiotics for gut health, high in protein and calcium for cell, muscle and bone building. Stick with low sugar, high protein yogurts.
Eggs
Nutritionally rich, complete source of protein, contains vitamins A, D, E, and choline for cell and brain health.
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The Recipes Here are some easy ideas for getting your super foods in the morning. Your body...and your tastebuds will love you!
Immunity juice: Blend and then strain into glass, one lemon partially peeled, one slice of fresh ginger, 1/4 cup frozen or fresh blueberries, 1 fresh pitted date, 2 tsp of ground turmuric, 1 celery stalk, 1 tsp of olive or coconut oil, 1 pinch of celtic or sea salt and enough water to cover ingredients before blending. This juice can be modified by adding a carrot or 1/2 an apple, or some chia and/or flaxseeds or some stevia if you like it sweet. You can pretty much add or subtract anything to the base of lemon, ginger, turmeric and blueberries.
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Breakfast is the opportunity to nourish not just the body, but also the soul
Easy Omelette: There is nothing more sustaining than a delicious omelette for breakfast. Add cottage cheese to the mixture for extra protein and throw in loads of veggies for fiber.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Protein and probiotics are a great way to feed yourself in the morning. Add some blueberries, chia seeds, ground flaxseeds, walnuts and a touch of honey for a delicious and soothing breakfast.
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HENYA’S CORNER Dessert for breakfast? Why not? Especially when it’s healthy and nutritious. I met Henya when I moved to Boca Raton, and we immediately became fast friends. Soon after, I hired her to help me feel better and get rid of my peri-menopausal bloat. Henya is a holistic health, wellness, and fitness consultant who taught me how to look and feel my best at this stage of life. She is educated, caring, fun, and extremely scientific and practical in her methods, while taking a whole body holistic approach to healthy living. And not only that, she’s a terrific cook and bakes the most delicious, healthy desserts for her clients. So if you wake up and are craving something sweet, here's one of Henya’s healthy-licious recipes that will leave you feeling great about eating, while satisfying your sweet tooth.
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IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO START Written by:
Ilanit Journo @get.fit.ima
Hey there! Let’s get real for a second. How many times have you told yourself, “I’ll start on Monday,” only for Monday to come and go? Or maybe you’ve thought, “It’s too late for me,” as you scrolled past yet another influencer doing burpees on Instagram. Well, here’s the good news: it’s absolutely, positively, never too late to start your health journey. I’m Ilanit, a busy mom of five (yes, five!) and a fitness, nutrition, and health coach. I’ve helped countless women—many who thought it was "too late"—rediscover their energy, feel amazing in their skin, and build healthy habits that stick. And guess what? You can too. Yes, you. No matter how busy, overwhelmed, or stuck you feel right now. Let me tell you why.
Been There Done That. Got the T-Shirt A few years ago, I hit a wall. Between running after kids, managing a household, and trying to sneak in some work, I completely forgot about me. I was tired, sluggish, and couldn’t recognize the woman in the mirror. I wasn’t living—I was just surviving. I used every excuse in the book. I’m too busy. I’m too old. I don’t have time for this. Sound familiar? But then, I realized something: if I didn’t make a change, my exhaustion would only get worse. I’d have even less energy for my kids, my dreams, and, most importantly, myself. So, I started small. I didn’t jump into crazy diets or start running marathons. I just began with the basics: drinking water, adding veggies to my meals, and finding ways to move my body that actually felt fun. And let me tell you—those small changes turned into something huge. I felt lighter, stronger, and happier. I wasn’t just a better mom—I was a better me.
Meet Rivka: Proof It’s Never Too Late Now, let me introduce you to Rivka, one of my amazing clients. Rivka came to me in her late forties, convinced she was doomed to feel sluggish forever. She had tried everything: juice cleanses, crash diets, workout fads—you name it. But nothing stuck. We started with baby steps. I encouraged Rivka to drink water first thing in the morning, to add a protein to every meal, and to take short walks that fit into her busy schedule. She thought it wouldn’t make much of a difference—but boy, was she wrong. Within three months, Rivka was down 20 pounds, had more energy than ever, and was glowing with confidence. She wasn’t just proud of the weight she’d lost. She was proud of the woman she was becoming—someone who showed up for herself every single day.
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The Secret Sauce? Small Steps, Big Wins
You might be thinking, “Okay, Ilanit, but where do I even start?” Here’s the thing: health doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the simpler, the better. Here are some of my go-to tips for getting started: 1. Water First: Start your morning with a big glass of water. It wakes up your body, flushes out toxins, and gives you a little energy boost. 2. Veggies Most: Sneak in veggies wherever you can. Salad for lunch? Great. Add a side of roasted broccoli to dinner? Even better. 3. Protein, Protein, Protein: Protein keeps you full and fuels your body. Think eggs, chicken, tofu—whatever you enjoy. 4. Move in Love: Forget the workouts you hate. Dance around your kitchen, go for a walk, or try yoga. Find something that makes you smile. Lift for Strength Training has so many incredible benefits. 5. Track Your Progress: Keep tabs on how you’re feeling. Notice the small wins, like sleeping better or feeling less stressed.
The Cost of Doing Nothing
Let’s get real for a second. If you’re reading this and thinking, “I’ll just wait until life calms down,” I want to challenge you. Life never calms down. Waiting for the “perfect” time to start is like waiting for a unicorn to show up on your doorstep. It’s not happening. The cost of doing nothing is staying stuck where you are. It’s feeling tired, frustrated, and defeated day after day. But taking even the smallest step toward your health can change everything.
What’s Possible for You
...you don’t have to do it alone. Find a friend, a coach, or a community to cheer you on. Because, trust me, when women support each other, magic happens.
Imagine waking up with energy to take on your day. Imagine feeling strong and confident, slipping into clothes that fit perfectly, and finally ditching that nagging guilt over what you eat. Imagine a life where you prioritize you—not in a selfish way, but in a way that makes you a better mom, partner, and friend. This isn’t just possible—it’s probable when you commit to yourself. And you don’t have to do it alone. Find a friend, a coach, or a community to cheer you on. Because, trust me, when women support each other, magic happens.
The Bottom Line
Here’s the truth: it’s never too late to start. Whether you’re 30, 50, or 70, there’s always room for growth, change, and becoming the best version of yourself. Don’t let self-doubt or fear hold you back. Take that first step. Drink the water, eat the veggies, go for the walk. Do it for you, for your future self, and for the life you deserve. So, what do you say? Let’s start this journey together. One step, one sip, one veggie at a time.
Ilanit is a Certified Culinary Nutritionist and Fitness Lover as well as a Mindful Lifestyle Coach. Book a free Breakthrough Consultation @get.fit.ima or www.getfitima.com.
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FASHION
WINTER Break
It’s been cold and dark for a while, and many are looking forward to sunsoaked escapes and sandy shores. This season, winter break fashion is all about blending comfort with tropical flair. From bold bathing suits that pop against the tropical backdrops to stylish tote bags ready to carry all your seaside essentials, our feature showcases the perfect ensembles for those who crave sunshine and warmth in the coldest months. Complete the look with chic cover-ups and eye-catching accessories that elevate your winter getaway wardrobe. Get ready to embrace the art of looking chic while soaking up some Vitamin D and much needed relaxation, by the pool or on those sunlit beaches. Page 20
Neutral Click items or links to shop
Clockwise from top left: Maygel Coronel One Piece Bathing Suit. Tiered weekend dress. Beaded carryall bag. Valentino espadrille wedges. The perfect straw hat. Giuseppe Zanotti Belt Bag,
Nautical Click items or links to shop
Clockwise from top left: Mini stripe romper set. Insulated beach cooler bag. Blue striped midi dress. Golden shell earrings. Retro crimson bathing suit. Linen look sandals. White tier beach skirt.
Vivid Click items or links to shop
Clockwise from top left: Sunny cover-up. Pink and green tear-drop earrings. Supergoop Glow Stick Sunscreen. Green patent thong sandals. Pink floral swimsuit with matching sarong. Fuchsia rattan beach bag.
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T H E
B E S T Not able to get away? Why not boost your mood with some new, style elevating outerwear pieces to carry you over into the next year. Don’t let the cold hold you back from having fun with fashion! From bright faux furs and bold animal prints, to classic camel trench styles and metallic colored hues, adding some pizazz to your outerwear wardrobe will brighten your days as the winter drags on. And don’t forget the chic accessories to go along with your new look!
SHOP THE LOOK
Emerald Faux Fur Gucci Sunglasses Vintage LV Book Bag
BOLD FUR
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OUTERWEAR
SHOP THE LOOK
Leopard Trench Coat Gold knot hoop earrings Black stilleto boots
Be the woman you would look up to
LEOPARD RULES
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CLASSIC CAMEL
SHOP THE LOOK
Camel Coat Camel Boots Chocolate Woven Clutch Grey Sweater Dress Mac Myth Lip Cream
A woman who knows her worth will always be powerful
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SHOP THE LOOK:
M E T A L L I C
Blue metallic puffer coat Retro Sunglasses Classic Turtleneck Faux Leather Wrap Skirt
COBALT Page 29
Dress to Manifest YOUR DREAM LIFE
t
Written By: Devora Golan
he difference between manifestation and wishful thinking is action. While wishful thinking is a positive thought or desire that you hope will come to fruition, manifestation is having that positive thought, visualizing what it would look like in your life, and then taking active steps to turn that dream into reality. Getting dressed in the morning is so much more than an essential practical step in your daily routine. It’s an opportunity. An opportunity to decide how you want to feel that day, what you’d like to accomplish, and who you want to become. I call this, ‘Dressing with Intention’. Dressing with Intention is the very first step to make all of your goals and dreams come true. It’s a little gift that you can give to yourself every single day that will create a big impact. When you put on a killer outfit you are affirming to yourself that you are worth it, that you deserve to look and feel amazing EXACTLY as you are!
“Dressing with intention will help you become the person you were always meant to be.” We’ve all had that incredible feeling of wearing an outfit that we absolutely love. Maybe you got dolled up for an event or you found the perfect Power Outfit that fits like a glove. You know you look good; you walk into the room with a surge of confidence. You are literally Radiant. Imagine experiencing that feeling every single day. Imagine the great things you could accomplish! Dressing with Intention will help you become the person you were always meant to be. When you dress as the person you want to become Right Now, you are actively bringing out into the world all of your dreams and deepest desires; taking those hopes and positive thoughts in your mind, and making them concrete. Do you want to be more confident? How would that person who exudes confidence dress? When I envision a confident woman I see bright and bold colors with unexpected combinations. Do you want your business to explode and become uber successful? How would that person who already achieved those things present herself? In my mind, I see a woman in an edgy cool outfit with sharp clean lines and some statement jewelry. These visions are incredibly personal and could look different for each person.
“When you put on a killer outfit, you are affirming to yourself that you are worth it...” Page 30
“An intentionally styled outfit is THE most powerful manifestation tool because you are putting out into the world everything you want to achieve and receive.” The idea is to utilize what it means to YOU and then connect it to real life. When you start dressing as THAT person, you will become Her and you will embody your most elevated self. An intentionally styled outfit is THE most powerful manifestation tool because you are putting out into the world everything you want to achieve and receive. Everyone that you encounter will immediately see that you are a person who is capable of amazing things. And you are taking that physical action step to tell G-d that you are ready to receive all of the greatness. In the short term, the benefits of dressing well will emerge immediately. When you love your look, it will be an instant mood booster; basically a shot of dopamine that will last all day. When you learn to dress as your best self, the long term benefits are immeasurable. You will begin to believe that you CAN actually accomplish amazing things and, in turn, your actions will reflect that. Your Energy will be Higher, you will be more productive and you will glow with confidence. Believe it or not, you already have everything it takes to make your biggest dreams a reality. You are beautiful, just as you are, right now! You have your own unique talents, an amazing personality, and you have a superpower that no one else has! When you reflect those unique powers and bring them to the surface in the way that you dress, you tell the world exactly who you are without having to say a word. That is when the magic happens! You will unleash your potential and become the next level version of yourself! You will radiate with confidence and your energy will be Infectious. You may even inspire others around you to explore the powerful manifestation tool of personal style. Devora Golan, an experienced Personal Stylist and Empowerment Coach, helps women all over the world generate impact through style. With her unique STAR Method, she helps women of all ages and sizes activate their inner magic through curated power outfits and mindset work so their radiant personality shines through! Devora believes that you can become your best self and achieve amazing goals through styling with intention.
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SPIRITUALITY
THE
PLACES
IN Written by Sharon Langert
BETWEEN. PHYSICS
AND
HASHEM. When I was growing up, my first memory of learning about Hashem (God) came from a song that went like this: “Hashem is here, Hashem is there, Hashem is truly everywhere. Up, up, down, down right left and all around, here, there and everywhere that’s where he can be found.” Clearly G-d is a confusing concept to grasp as a child, and a fun song is an effective way to simplify the most fundamental foundation of our existence as Jewish people. But the concept of G-d does not get easier even as an adult. There is only a limited capacity to what our human brains can comprehend. But in recent times, there seems to be this nouveau spiritual awakening, where more and more people are becoming aware of the idea that G-d is not just up and down and all around, nor is He just some big guy in the sky, but He is literally embodied inside of us. He is actually everywhere, everything, and everybody, making us co-creators and able to effectively aid in changing the fabric of this universe. As difficult as this is to understand, we can all accept that humans have souls and that we are created in the image of Gd. So let’s start with that. What exactly does that mean? And what is a soul?
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Every thought we have emits a frequency that resonates within this quantum field. When we align our thoughts with our desires, we send out a powerful signal that attracts similar energies back to us. In Hebrew, the word for soul is Neshama, which essentially means a “spark” or “breath” (Neshima in Hebrew) of G-d. And, as is above, is below. Let’s explore further: Breathing deeply is the quickest way to calm down the nervous system and get out of our heads and into a state of just being. Most of us have been living in a belief system that our thoughts and emotions ARE us and that’s why we allow them to control us to the point of chaos. But the truth is that most of our thoughts and emotions are programmed into us from our childhood, and based on the context of our lives and circumstances, and are not really the truth about who we are. Once we realize this we are able to “wake up” and start to ponder, if I’m not my thoughts and emotions, then who am I? Well, the nouveau spiritualists like to say that our true essence is that of the observer. When we get into a relaxed, meditative state, through our breath, we are able to simply observe our thoughts and emotions as if we’re watching a river flow by, and thereby, we learn how to rise above them, and make adjustments to our entire perception of ourselves, our potential, ultimately changing our life. We not only “have” a spark of G-d in us, we are the ultimate manifestation of G-d’s presence in this physical world. This knowing that we are, in essence, spiritual sparks of G-d, is the beginning of understanding our intrinsic self worth which will lead us to our highest purpose, without the thoughts and emotions of our programmed false narratives getting in the way to convince us otherwise.
To comprehend this, we must first explore the principles of quantum physics. Don’t get scared off by this if you’re not familiar with it. It’s actually pretty simple. At the microscopic level, everything around us—our bodies, the air we breathe, the stars in the sky—consists of atoms and particles that vibrate at different frequencies. While we perceive solid objects as tangible, the truth is that they are composed of mostly empty space, with the majority of an atom being energy. This energy is in constant motion, creating a vibrant tapestry of existence that is both dynamic and interconnected. Now, consider the concept of the quantum field, which is that empty space of energy and vibration. This invisible realm is where possibilities abound, where every potential outcome exists simultaneously. It is a space of infinite potential, a divine playground where the energy of our thoughts and intentions can shape our reality. In this context, we can begin to understand how tapping into our deep consciousness, our G-dly state of being, can lead to profound shifts in our lives. Every thought we have emits a frequency that resonates within this quantum field. When we align our thoughts with our desires, we send out a powerful signal that attracts similar energies back to us. This is where the divine aspect of ourselves comes into play; it is our innate ability to create and manifest our dreams. By recognizing that we do not have to just passively allow our reality to drag us around, but we can become active participants in how we think, feel, and act, we empower ourselves to take control of our lives.
In a universe that often feels chaotic and overwhelming, this deeper understanding of the nature of reality is not only eye opening and freeing, but also reveals a profound connection between science and spirituality. At the intersection of physics and the divine lies an extraordinary revelation: all matter is primarily condensed energy, and within this energetic framework exists a space where transformation and manifestation can occur.
GLINDA MAGAZINE
8
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It is in the spaces between our thoughts, the pauses of silence, that we can access the vast energy fields beyond our physical matter, where we connect with our true essence—the divine spark that resides within each of us. The process of manifestation begins with awareness. By cultivating mindfulness and tuning into our inner selves, we can identify the beliefs and patterns that may be holding us back. It is in the spaces between our thoughts, the pauses of silence, where we can access the vast energy fields beyond our physical matter, where we connect with our true essence—the divine spark that resides within each of us. This inner dialogue allows us to shift our perspectives and align our energy with what we truly desire. Practices such as prayer, meditation, visualization, and affirmations can help us harness this power. When we perform these practices, we quiet the noise of the outside world and delve into the quantum field, creating a fertile ground for our intentions to take root. Meditation allows us to access our subconscious mind. Visualization allows us to vividly imagine our goals as if they have already been achieved, further amplifying the energy we send out into the universe. Affirmations serve as a reminder of our worthiness and capability, reinforcing the belief that we can manifest our dreams. And prayer is the most powerful, because it encompasses all of the above.
divine, we realize that the spaces in between—those of stillness and reflection—are not voids, but gateways to transformation. They are opportunities to connect with the quantum field, where our thoughts and energies intertwine with the universal fabric of existence. As we embrace this knowledge, we empower ourselves to create the lives we desire and affect the entire world in a positive way. By recognizing our inherent ability to shift our realities and manifest our dreams, we step into our roles as co-creators of our existence. The journey of self-discovery and empowerment is not just a personal endeavor; it is a divine exploration of the interconnectedness of all things. In the end, I truly believe that this new understanding of the sacred realms where science and spirituality converge, is an invitation for us to explore the divine potential that lies within us all. Hashem is right here, inside us, around us and rooting for us to ascend to our highest selves and assist in the healing process of the world in these intense times before Moshiach. We are not supposed to just sit by idly and wait, we are all here to participate in bringing him here as soon as possible. It is time to manifest the extraordinary.
In understanding the connection between physics and the
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ABOUT THE SCHOOL SYSTEM
Written by Sharon Langert
person, always questioning and trying to understand, somehow with an uncanny and innate knowledge that things may not be exactly as they seem on the surface. But I think in today’s world, where there are way more consciously living people, there are more people questioning a lot of the systems that have been set in place a long time ago for a very different world, and for different reasons than what we may now consider what ‘getting an education’ should provide. My greatest lessons came from simply living. Most of the knowledge I use today is brand new knowledge I have attained only in the last 20 or so years and pertains to how to navigate this crazy world and interpersonal relationships, which was something they absolutely do not teach in school. Sure in elementary school school it’s key to set the foundation for the future with reading, writing and mathematical skills, but if you think about it, who wrote the history books? And science, as we were told, was science, always set in stone….until it wasn’t and it all changed.
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of my goals when I came up with the idea for this magazine was to discuss topics that I felt needed to be addressed but weren’t being talked about enough. It’s been decades since I started questioning a lot of the blanket beliefs and systems that we take for granted as being “normal”. Once you go there and start understanding that every single belief we hold has been spoon-fed or programmed into us as vulnerable and open children, the rabbit hole becomes endless and our sleepy eyes begin to open. We start to realize that the things we always believed as objective truths may actually be completely subjective, although readily accepted by most, but, to put it bluntly, made up by some powers that be in order to influence and control us to their benefit. One of the biggest issues I’ve had ever since I was a little kid was with the way the school system is set up and runs. Of course, as a kid I didn’t have the full awareness of this. This came much later as I struggled with my own kids’ struggles with their schools, and started going back to analyze my own experiences and traumas when it came to school. Maybe I’m unique, as I was never an ‘in the box’ type of
Here are two examples off the top of my head that will bring home my point. Regarding history, I was taught in a very biased fashion about how the Revolutionary War was such a positive thing and how the colonies stood up against their evil enemies to fight against taxation. We did not learn how the British coming over and colonizing a beautiful land with beautiful people by mass murdering the Native Indians and destroying their land to build ugly industrial cities may have actually been cruel and unfair. Imagine if we learned history that way! Another example was how the US swooped in and ended the second world war saving all the remaining Jews after the Holocaust. What we did not learn was that it was actually Russia that swooped in and ended the war, with the help of the other Allies, and that during the holocaust the good old USA was not very keen on helping the Jews to emigrate to the US. We also did not learn that the CIA recruited top Nazi doctors and officials to learn their secrets on how to brainwash an entire nation to blindly obey. So how do we actually trust the textbooks to portray history accurately?
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We have advanced in so many ways, and we are so much more knowledgeable about mental health issues and the way kids behave, yet the school system has hardly changed one bit to keep up with the current times. When it came to science, we learned that the smallest possible physical particles were the photon, neutron and electron of the atom, and that all natural matter behaves in a very predictable concise way. No one had ever mentioned how in quantum physics, they had discovered much smaller and deeper parts beyond the atom that behave in extremely unscientific and unpredictable ways, and that human observation affects cosmic results. So pretty much, the text books may very well be inaccurate and biased. And I haven’t even touched on the way religion is taught in the religious schools, but that’s a subject I’ll save for a different article, because it’s an extremely controversial topic and needs an entire article on its own. Now I’d like to mention another issue, probably the most important one, that we rarely ever question: The way the school buildings are designed, how the classrooms are set up, the amount of time a child has to sit still in one place, the amount of time the kids get to go outside and not only play but also learn in nature, and the methods used for teaching that include difficult memorization, testing and lots of comparisons and competing, which lead to stress, anxiety and shame. Is this really the most conducive way for a child to thrive, develop a strong sense of self, and expand a strong critically thinking mind? Absolutely not. And some say that’s the point. The way things are seems more like a method of controlling and training kids to just accept facts blindly without ever feeling safe enough to question the system. We have advanced in so many ways, and we are so much more knowledgeable about mental health issues and the way kids behave, yet the school system has hardly changed one bit to keep up with the current times. Even workspaces and the way we work has changed for the better. Many corporate offices have gone from being low ceilinged, fluorescent lit rooms with rows of cubicles (I worked in offices like that when I was single, and it was quite depressing.) where you had to literally clock in, to fun interactive spaces, with oversized windows and cozy sofas, large tables for collaborations, kitchens and happy hours, and the ability to work remotely when necessary? Most corporations now also offer retreats to add more fun and relaxation into work, and to raise the morale for the employees. But somehow, when it comes to our kids in school, we expect them spend their days in buildings that look like prisons, sitting like ducks in row, with no space for individuality and very little lessons on collaboration and learning about interpersonal skills. Instead, we blame and medicate the kids for ‘acting out,’ and have an epidemic of depressed and anxious teenagers. I know it’s been a while since my kids were in school, and it is true that, in recent years, there has been an effort by some parents and educators to make some changes and create new educational prototypes, but these new schools are still considered on the fringe, and most parents don’t want to label their kids as different or weird. In my opinion, it’s time to speak up and advocate for a change in the general school system for the sake of a healthy future for our kids and the future of the world at large.
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Implement Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Programs: Integrate SEL into the curriculum to teach students emotional awareness, empathy, and resilience. Create a Safe Space for Expression: Establish dedicated areas in schools where students can express their feelings, engage in art therapy, or participate in mindfulness activities.
We asked AI to help us formulate some ideas to improve our current school system, to bring it into the future, and here is what it generated.
Promote a Growth Mindset: Shift the focus from grades to personal growth and effort, encouraging students to view challenges as opportunities for learning. Increase Access to Mental Health Resources: Provide on-site counselors and mental health workshops to support students' emotional wellbeing. Encourage Peer Support Programs: Foster a culture of peer mentoring and support groups to help students connect and share their experiences. Revise Assessment Methods: Move towards more holistic assessment approaches that value creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking over standardized tests. Incorporate Life Skills Education: Teach practical skills such as stress management, communication, and decision-making to equip students for real-life challenges. I’m pretty impressed with these ideas! I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic. Email your comments HERE.
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WHERE HAVE ALL THE WOMEN IN THEIR 50'S GONE? WRITTEN BY SHARON LANGERT
PART ONE: THE QUESTION When I was younger, I hardly ever thought about life after 50. Nor had I even noticed the demographic of women in their 50’s as being a vibrant, integral part of society, at least from my perspective. Besides for a random grandmother or office worker, these women didn’t seem to be around very much. I mean, it makes sense to a certain degree, because of what’s called confirmation bias. Confirmation bias is when whatever we think about or focus on, our brain will automatically seek out to ‘confirm’ within the environment around us. This is why what we actively think about and seek out is so, so important. For example, if we constantly think of ourselves as victims of our circumstances, our mind will always find proof that we are indeed victims. On the other hand, if we consciously seek out the things that are beautiful in life, our mind will keep finding more beautiful things to be grateful for. So, for me, as a young woman, getting older was something I know I avoided thinking about. But the funny things is, I DO notice and like to observe people around me and I definitely remember seeing senior citizens around. I noticed when they would go out with their friends for lunch and when they showed up at events. I noticed when they were grocery shopping and taking their good old time counting their cash and coins instead of swiping their credit card. I also remember noticing kids and teenagers and the women in my stage of life, but what I never remember noticing were the middle aged 50-60 something women. And if I did, they were usually the moms or
bubbies in the background, or some sour faced woman all alone. Where were the fun happy groups of women at this stage of life? This awareness really came up a lot after I moved out of Lakewood. Lakewood is a community that is homogenous in so many ways. Bubbies can also still be young moms, women mostly wear wigs which to some extent hide age differences and keep everyone looking similar. Families stay close and local, so many women don’t really feel the full effects of empty nesting. These, among other reasons, may be why this middle aged demographic didn’t really stand out when I lived there. Once I left the bubble of Lakewood, in both North Jersey and South Florida, I noticed there was a very significant gap between the young moms and the old people. In Springfield, New Jersey, I literally did not fit into any crowd. I was either too old or too young. Where were all the people my age? I did find a wonderful crowd of friends in Boca and Miami, although in both groups, I was still the oldest and pretty much the first one to empty nest. I kept collecting friends younger than me because, again, it seemed like once you hit a certain age, the women just disappeared. There were not friends to be made my age, so my new friends just kept getting younger. Here in Netanya, you see the same dynamic: There are either young families or old people. I mentioned this to a new friend of mine, curious to hear what she had to say, and she replied, “Yeah, now that I think about it, where are all the women our age?
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PART TWO: THE BAD NEWS On the day of my 40th birthday, I woke up in a panic. (To a Gen X’er, turning 40 meant we were over the hill. Of course in today’s world, nobody considers 40 old anymore!) I went into the bathroom and looked in the mirror and breathed a sigh of relief. I looked exactly the same as I had looked when I was 39! I didn’t suddenly become a Golden Girl! Phew! But I knew I was getting closer, so I began to shift my perspective. I decided that instead of dreading getting older, I would literally seize each day as if it were my last and just all-out enjoy my life. All bets were off: I was still just as young, energetic, and gorgeous as before, but now I had more wisdom and experience, and I cared way less about impressing anyone or needing other people’s approval. This was the decade when I created my own line of clothing and sold pieces to several boutiques. And it was also the decade I created Fashion-isha, the first Jewish modest fashion blog, which laid a rich foundation for other modest and orthodox bloggers to follow in. And follow they did! It also afforded me some of the most wonderful experiences that included becoming one of the first modest fashion influencers, (although we didn’t use that word back then), getting published in magazines, meeting celebrities at fashion events, expanding my network of friends throughout the Jewish blogging world, getting invited to speaking engagements, and mentoring other bloggers. Simultaneously, it was also in that decade that things started unraveling in my personal life. I use the word unraveling, because as difficult as things seemed at the time, I now know that the unraveling was actually a closing of one chapter to bring in a new one. All the while, the aging thing was actually pretty ok. Sure I complained about gaining a few pounds, and how the body was changing, but I still had my energy, went out, had fun, hosted people every shabbos, got dressed up, and pivoted my blogging into social media management, spirituality and coaching.
Then I hit 50. I woke up and looked in the mirror and was like….ok…we are still good! My friends threw me a party on a boat and we had loads of fun! I started doing TikTok’s and reels on how this stage of life isn’t really that bad or hard at all. I was loving my badass Gen X attitude and telling people that we are the NEW generation of old people and we are different. I was actually IN that “missing” where-are-all-thepeople-my-age decade and here I was, a strong voice for us all, except I was still the oldest in my friend groups, and if I think about it…where WERE the women in their 50’s just a few years older than me? Hmmmm…. And then I hit mid-decade, and one day I woke up and realized it had happened. I disappeared. Or at least I felt like disappearing. Let me explain: Perimenopause and menopause are two very different things. Women in perimenopause like to use it as an excuse for weight gain and bitchiness, and love to complain about it, but comparatively it’s not all that terrible, really, when you take into account all the hormonal cycles and ups and downs we have experienced since puberty and our childbearing years. The symptoms are pretty similar: Moodiness, bloating, weight gain, intolerance of certain foods and alcohol, hot flashes, itchiness… blah blah blah. But during actual menopause something BIG happens. And I cannot exactly put my finger on it, but it’s definitely more mental. The brain actually changes like in some sort of backwards adolescence, and you literally lose yourself in so many ways. The demons you once thought you’ve overcome come back with a vengeance. The courage and motivation that propelled you towards new endeavors and success in your 40’s suddenly flickers out like a strong gust on a little candle. Our kids are pretty much grown and doing their own thing, which leaves us with a lot more time to overthink and overfeel. And, for many of us, life did not turn out exactly how we imagined, bringing lots of disappointments, regrets, and sadness.
Between all those circumstances, and the drastic hormone and neurological changes, it is the perfect storm for those demons to come back to demand their final round of healing. This time they are bigger, stronger and hungrier than ever. They have you up against the wall, gun to your head, screaming, “It’s time to finally fix your damn life!” And they’re not playing. You better fix all that stuff you stuffed down and said, “Nah, I’m good,” to, because it was too painful and exhausting to do the work to heal. And you would have had to show up for yourself, and that might mean you lose some people, and even a whole big chunk of your previous self. It might mean you have to disappear for a while. Even if you don’t want to. We wake up at 3 am drenched in sweat, our heads swimming with anger, grief, fear and regrets. (And on top of that we always have to pee!) We end up starting fights with the people we love, because our fuse is so short, and we feel so needy. And then the fights only confirm everything our demons have been screaming at us about: See?? You are not safe. You are not loveable. You made big mistakes. You always screw up. You’re a failure. It’s too late. What’s the point? These ‘demons’ are pretty evil sounding, but in truth they are all the bits and pieces of ourselves…our actual “angels” …that are begging to be seen, heard, hugged, accepted, loved, and set free. They have been our helpers and protectors in the past, and they need to be listened to until they feel safe enough to finally leave us alone. And replacing version 1.0 with version 2.0 is not for the faint of heart. First, we need to reassure them that we are safe and that no one can truly hurt us anymore because we are finally ready, with the knowledge that it’s our own responsibility to care for ourselves, set healthy boundaries, and create our own dream life. It’s scary as hell, because the people who are not jiving with this new healed self may get really pissed at us. Like if someone is used to you always saying yes, or always picking up their
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pieces, and then you stop because it’s not our damn job to be everyone’s yes man and fix their problems, you may lose something big, like the toxic people we convinced ourselves we needed. But not only that, we also have to lose parts of ourselves…the parts that craved being nice all the time to experience “love”, or the inner drama queen who creates situations that bring attention or validation to themselves, or the one who partied hard but really just needed to drink because she has social anxiety and still worries she’s not fun enough sober. We have to UNBECOME, and it’s scary AF. These demons/angels are relentless, and therefore we are often exhausted and full of rage. We lose the desire to go out or have fun, and on top of that, we lose our sex drive, and it’s the sex hormones that give us that feel-good, sexy, I-canconquer-the-world, dopamine filled motivation. And when that goes, all we want to do is lay on the couch, hide behind a screen, be by ourselves because socializing feels so pointless and draining, and then we feel even more alone. And god forbid we should make ourselves vulnerable and reach out to friends, even though the minute we do we feel better, and we probably help them feel better too, because they’re probably going through the same thing silently as well. But we don’t, because we are stuck, and sad, and we have lost ourselves. We feel like disappearing. So we disappear.
PART THREE: THE GOOD NEWS We have two choices in this stage of life: Disappear. Curl up into nothingness. Hide behind a screen to wallow in your loneliness and misery. Or become that sour faced 50 something “Karen” who picks a random cause to channel all her aggression into. Or use alcohol and food to get you through and then get fat and sick, but at least you can fill your schedule with doctor appointments and taking meds to give you something to focus on. (Too many people accept that this is the stage of life where we start getting sick and needing tons of medications. This is all a brainwashed lie!) OR Disappear. Become a brave badass and do the deep healing work that needs to get done. Hire a coach or a therapist. Feel those feelings even if you need to scream, cry, swim in the sea, and do somatic weird-ass movements to shake it all off. Even if you feel silly, feeling your childhood emotions at an age where the world views you as a full adult. Set strong boundaries and be ok with disappointing people. Lose the people that are not aligned with your upcoming best self. Lose the parts of you that think they’re protecting you but are no longer needed. (Like the “people pleaser”, the “self criticizer”, the “always-trying-for-the-perfect-body” self abuser, and the “scared wild child”.) Reassure those parts and let them know they’re safe and with YOU now. This is not for the faint of heart because our brains DO NOT want to lose the parts of ourselves that we’ve built around us (ego) and will resist as much as possible. It takes a lot of strength and hard work, and you may need to mourn the loss of your old self, but do it anyway. Then re-parent yourself with compassion, and affirm that you are safe and awesome, and that you got this, because you do.
Then, slowly reappear: Make a bucket list and start checking the damn thing off. Go to music festivals, jump out of airplanes, do psychedelic healing, travel, start a new business, spend your money on things you’ve been pushing off, move somewhere exotic and scary. But mostly try to uncover who you are authentically, like before the world got a hold of you and shut you down. Try to think back to your first happy memory. What did you love to do as a kid? What were some of your ‘crazy’ dreams and wishes. It’s time to re-become that person full of wonder and passion. Get out and connect with people authentically as YOU, and suddenly you will find new friends that align with you. (And they might be old people!) And finally, take care of your health: Eat whole healthy foods, prioritize protein, take supplements like magnesium, calcium, zinc and vitamin D for your bones. Fix your sleep habits and rest when you need to. Get outside in nature and walk as much as you can. Lift weights a few times a week because you will need your muscles for the next stage of your awesome life. Now is the crucial use-it-or-lose-it stage. And finally, prioritize yourself, because you finally know that you’re worth it, and you will feel better soon, and you still have almost 1/2 your life left to live, and it’s on you to make it amazing.
AUTHOR’S NOTE: Here’s a thought that came to me as I was talking with my 81 year old mom. I’m hesitant to use the cliche’d butterfly metaphor, but I have a little twist to the story. Usually, the butterfly story represents external beauty. The caterpillar is the ugly insect that spins a cocoon and eventually comes out as a beautiful butterfly. But did you ever actually watch a sped up video of the process? I recently did on an Instagram story and it was mesmerizing and devastatingly beautiful. (Just like childbirth). And I finally got my answer of where all the women in their 50’s are: They’re cocooning. When you watch that video of the butterfly struggling out of the cocoon, it is dark, scary and messy, (kind of like mascara running down a middle aged woman’s face). Layers upon layers have to fall away and turn to rubbish, and it looks really painful. But keep this in mind: The next time you see that table of silver haired, wrinkly old ladies laughing together at the early bird special, or dancing away with no shame on a cruise, or sitting on the beach unfazed by their saggy chests and bellies, just know, these are the real butterflies. They are no longer earthbound, or ego bound. They are finally truly authentic and having fun. They are finally free.
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CLICK TO CHAT WITH LIORA
FEATURED Margalit and I have been fast friends for over 30 years, and although most people know her as the super creative and professional interior designer at Margalit Lankry Designs, I wanted to showcase her as the upbeat, fun, bubbly and incredibly profound friend that I’ve come to consider like a sister. Hey Margalit, you’re on! Can you start off by telling the readers a little bit about yourself? I am the daughter of an artist, and grew up in a very, very creative home. We were always decorating the house or doing some creative project, and it’s in my DNA…in my blood, to be creative. As a young mother, I was also always doing something creative in my home, whether it was baking and decorating fancy cakes, going to flea markets and repurposing old items, or painting and decorating my first apartments on a very limited budget. These activities gave me so much joy, and, it’s kind of funny that at the time, I never dreamed my creative endeavors would lead to a full time career.
"Everyone sees your glory but no one knows your story ." @margalitlankrydesigns
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As my kids got a little bit older and I had more time. I started to feel more empowered, and that’s when I started turning my passion into my career. I started small, and built it up project by project and step by step, and here I am over 25 years later with a full blown interior design firm. I love it! And I especially love that I was there along the way watching all that growth. You’ve always been a total inspiration to me. Tell us, what’s your favorite quote, and why? I have so many favorite quotes, but this one resonates the most: “Everyone sees your glory, but no one knows your story.” I feel like it’s so easy to look at other people’s careers and success, and automatically think, “Oh my gosh, they’re so lucky, it’s so easy for them, they’re so talented, and they’re in such demand…” But the truth is we have no idea what it took for them to get to where they are. We don’t know what challenges they’ve been through or what may be going on in their lives behind the scenes. That is so true! As we know very well, everyone has their challenges no matter what they may look like on the outside or on social media. What would you say was something that stands out as being one of your most inspiring moments? There was a time in my life when things were a bit challenging and I got into gardening. I had moved into a new house, and I started waking up early at that stage of my life, because I realized that would be a great way to get some me time. It was springtime and there happened to be these old, dead twiggy looking bushes that were put in by the owner. So one day I decided, you know what? I’m going to take a clipper and start trimming them down and see what I can do with it. I started chopping inch by inch, section by section, cutting off all the dry twigs and branches, and when I got to the center of the plant, I couldn’t believe what I found! In the base, in the bottoms of this plant, there was a soft greenish white core that was full of life. This plant that I thought was completely dead was still alive! And it was such a great message for me that I internalized: That even if something looks like it’s over and dead, there’s still always a chance and an opportunity for rebirth, to regrow, to change your ways, to redirect your life and bring good into your life. And if it happens with the plants and trees and flowers outside in nature and the universe, then for sure we can do it with our own selves. When something feels stuck, and hard and impossible, if we go down deep into the center and nurture it, take care of it, water it, and love it, there’s always a chance to re-create and find new opportunities. That’s such a great story, and one that inspires so much hope. I’ll never forget the day I came over to your house and you were gardening, and you showed me the most magnificent hot pink flower. You literally had tears in your eyes when you said, “Look at how stunning this is! I just cannot get over the beauty of Hashem’s world, it makes me so happy.” In that moment I knew you were one of the deepest most special souls, and we would be best friends! Tell us some of the things (besides flowers of course) that you just cannot live without. Are we talking about family? Kids? Home? Of course my family will always come first...and I love my business (I always knew I was creative, but I never knew how much I LOVE business!) But aside from those things, I absolutely cannot live without chocolate. And I can’t live without COLOR! And finally, I don’t kow what I would do without friendship in my life. As we always like to say: Friendship is better than therapy! So, what are some design trends that you’re loving these days? I’m not a big believer in trends because trends come and go, and it’s so important in people’s spaces…their homes and businesses and beautiful office spaces...to surround themselves with the things they love and that speak to them. But the one thing I feel makes a huge impact in design is lighting. Lighting has the most magical transformative power. You may not remember the details of a room, but with the right lighting you remember the mood and the feeling. And that to me is what it’s all about: The mood and the way it makes a person feel when they walk into a room.
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INTERIOR DESIGN
HOME R
BIOPHILIC DESIGN
TRENDI
SHOP THIS LOOK
Photo credit: Livingbrightinteriors.com
IT’S ALL ABOUT NATURAL, EARTHY TONES AND
INVITING THE OUTDOORS IN Page 48
EFRESH NG NOW
Don’t have a green thumb? Here are some easy ways to bring a mood enhancing outdoor vibe indoors, just in time for spring.
Clockwise from top left: Something as simple as adding a pair of palm trees in ratten baskets, installing a living wall, or even applying a bold palm leaf pattern wallpaper as an accent, will bring a whole lot of life to your rooms.
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DARK OBSESSION
Dark walls are often said to make a room look smaller, but the glamour, elegance, and coziness they imbue a space with makes this trend well worth it. For those who are wary, try painting just one accent wall, adding a bold piece of art, some moody lighting, and watch how the atmosphere of the room completely transforms.
Contrasting dark walls with creamy whites, metallic touches, and lots of sensual texture will really make your space pop with elegance.
Enhance the moody vibe of black walls or kitchen cabinets
with some earthy rustic textural artwork or backdrops.
Go full on glam by accenting dark walls and furniture with gilded accents, fur throws and pillows, and dramatic lighting.
shop the obsession Click on items to shop
Color chart courtesy of Tagandtibby.com
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Q. I have a pretty good life for the most A. part. I’m a busy wife and mom, but I still feel lonely and not seen much of the time. What can I do to feel happier and more connected to people?
I like to say, loneliness has very little to do with the people around us, and much more to do with how disconnected we are from being our most authentic, happy selves. I have found that most problems that people come to me with always boil down to facing their own emptiness and pain, and healing the wounds that hold them back from really stepping into their truest, happiest selves. So how do you do it? Take out a journal and find a quiet place. Really sit with yourself and try to remember what you were like as a small child. What were some of your memories that brought you the most joy? In those memories you’ll find clues as to what will bring you joy today. Write whatever comes to mind down in your journal. For example if you remember loving to play outside and running around in the grass, then maybe spending more time in nature, or being active would bring you more joy today. We often lose ourselves and our passions as we grow up. Life gets in the way, but there are often other, deeper factors. Maybe it’s because somebody said something or acted in a way that discouraged us from being our true selves. This is where we need to work on unbecoming the versions of ourselves we created to fit in and survive. Now, think about a time in your childhood or younger self when you were hurt. Write down the first memory that comes up. Now imagine what you looked like then and SEE her. Now give her permission to say what she really feels and wants to say. What emotions are coming up? Write those down as well.
COACH Page 58
When you truly love and approve of yourself, you raise your vibration and become magnetic, attracting the right people and opportunities for you.
Have a question for the coach? Submit your inquiries here. Interested in booking coaching sessions? Contact the coach here.
Now, as the current version of yourself, write down what she needs to hear. And you will know what it is because she is you. Give her an imaginary hug and tell her what you would have wanted...and needed to hear. This is going to be your new narrative. Every morning, say the affirmations of these encouraging words in the present tense. It’s more powerful if you do it while looking in the mirror. Feel free to add any other affirmations that come to mind. After about a month you will feel a shift in how you feel about yourself and become more magnetic to the people around you. When you truly love and approve of yourself, you raise your vibration and become magnetic, attracting the right people and opportunities for you. The combination of figuring out what brings you joy, and making sure you incorporate whatever that is into your everyday life, along with healing your core wounds, will lead to positive shifts in yourself, the people around you, and your entire life for the better. You will notice that you’re not lonely...or alone, after all. NOMADIC
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ASTROLOGY
MAPPING THE DIVINE: EXPLORING G-D’S GIFT OF ASTROLOGY Written by: Ayala Gross @bocababycompany What would you accomplish if you were told you couldn’t fail? What dreams would you chase if you believed that your ambitions were a calling from your destiny? Many of us never dare to explore our potential because we are too afraid to fail. At our core, we are spiritual beings having a physical experience, navigating life on "spaceship Earth." At the focal point of our physical experience is a desire to not only exist, but to make a meaningful impact. Questions of “Who am I” and “What is my destiny” rattle away in our conscious and subconscious mind. Imagine if, from upon your first breath on earth, a unique blueprint of who you were meant to be was mapped out in the cosmos. Each of your strengths and weaknesses harmonizing perfectly, infused with the energy of free will. Every facet constantly supported by celestial influences that Gd put into existence as you navigate your soul's journey. In Judaism, there's a belief that the entire universe was created for each individual. Every star, planet, asteroid and even a blade of grass serves a purpose for humanity, allowing for influence and inspiration. I didn’t fully understand that concept until two days ago, when Yitzchak A. Pinkesz, a Kosher astrologer and author of "Kosher Astrology" reviewed my birth chart. What I learned about myself was fascinating. Firstly, I’m not here to persuade you that astrology is Kosher, and if you're reading this far, you may already have an interest in the subject. We’re not discussing fortune-telling, but rather a deeper exploration of how astrology aligns with Jewish teachings. If you want to understand more about how our holy writing permits its study and daily use, I recommend Pinkesz’s book; it offers incredible insights that will blow you away. That being said, let’s dive in. My birth chart revealed aspects of my personality that I was already aware of, as well as insights I hadn’t considered before. It also showed me the kindness and love of Gd for little me on planet Earth, providing me with an “instruction manual” on how to use the tools I was born with to pursue my passions and aspirations. I am a sun sign (aka: zodiac sign) of Leo, with the natural ability to be “radiantly present, noble, and self-aware”, but with my moon in Scorpio, giving me the ability to “intimately bond and emotionally share with others”. This new knowledge of my moon sign, which I never heard of before, showed me how I could tap into its strengths and use both my sun and moon signs to flow beautifully in my intimate & professional relationships. I also channeled this new energy into my spiritual growth & my Hisbodedut (conversational, meditative prayer done in seclusion).
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Astrology can help you in your personal growth, by highlighting your strengths and natural abilities, helping them manifest beautifully in your life. In his book, Pinkesz poses the thought-provoking question: Have you ever heard of a skyscraper built without a detailed architectural blueprint? Each floor uniquely drawn out and measured to precision. It seems improbable that Gd would send the most complex beings in the universe—humans—into the world without some form of simpleto-understand, personalized guidance for each individual. Astrology is a cosmic compass, a sparkling gift in our night sky that Gd gifted each human. It offers a meaningful way for exploring personal growth and decoding our abilities & souls purpose. Together with the richness and guidance in the best gift known to man (in my humble opinion), the Torah, we can utilize the knowledge of both to harness the energy of our purpose in the physical and spiritual worlds. By examining the unique characteristics associated with the planets and signs in your birth chart, you can gain insights that help you to reinvent in yourself in ways you may have never imagined. Here are two practical examples of how celestial influences can guide your journey of self-improvement: 1. Harnessing the Power of Mercury: The planet of communication and intellect, plays an important role in how we express ourselves and process information. If Mercury is prominently placed in your birth chart—say, in Gemini or Virgo—you might find that you have a natural affinity for learning and sharing knowledge. To reinvent yourself, try engaging in activities that enhance your communication skills. This could involve enrolling in a public speaking course, or starting a blog or book club. By honing in on your communication abilities, you can build confidence, connect with others, and expand your intellectual horizons. 2. Exploring Venus: This planet associated with love, beauty, and values, influences how we perceive relationships and self-worth. If Venus is in your chart in a sign like Taurus or Libra, you likely have a strong appreciation for aesthetics and harmony in your relationships. To reinvent yourself, focus on nurturing your relationships with others but also with yourself. This might involve setting aside time each week for self-care practices, such as meditation, creative outlets or simply enjoying nature. Reaching out to loved ones for meaningful conversations strengthens these connections and can enhance your sense of belonging and self-worth. As you can see, Astrology provides valuable insights that can help you understand yourself by understanding the influences of the planets that Gd perfectly placed for you in the sky at the time of your birth. You can harness these celestial energies by taking practical steps to enhance your Gd given skills and nurture your relationships, ultimately leading to feeling connected to your soul’s potential - your destiny! Grow, glow & let that unstoppable force flow within you.
Ayala Gross is an entrepreneur, author & founder of PURE by Boca Baby Co. Ayala converted to Orthodox Judaism at the age of 17, and at 28 years old become strongly connected to the teachings of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov. After facing a 15-year struggle with infertility, she considers her most significant role to be that of a mother to her children, whom she describes as miracles. Ayala actively uses her voice and influence to support others dealing with infertility within the Jewish community. She serves on the board of Yesh Tikvah as they support Jewish couples facing infertility.
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About this Magazine
My love affair with magazines started when I was a teenager. Magazines were the magical place I went to visit to escape into the shiny, colorful pages full of the creativity and dreams to fuel my imagination. As I slid my fingers across the glossy pages, I would relish in the gorgeous layouts, and drink in the thought provoking articles. There was something so appealing to me about the curation of it all. Magazines influenced my college and career choices: I majored in Fashion and Marketing, and my first real job was working in an advertising agency on Madison Avenue. I admired the editors of all the chic magazines, and dreamed of someday being a part of a magazine’s creative team. And in every home that I’ve lived in, piles of magazines could be found in abundance. Not only did my day brighten a bit every time I received a crisp, new issue in the mail, I loved how the stunning covers would add color and elegance to my coffee tables and bookshelves.
Looking back, I now know that the creation of my previous blog, Fashion-isha, was the precursor to the full embodiment of this dream. It took a few years, and a few tries at some other projects to get here, but as I realized there is indeed life after 50, but not really any intelligent or chic platform for this stage of life (or even for the younger women who are seeking the wisdom from our experiences), I knew this had to be my next big passion project. This magazine is an expression of all that I love, from the superficial to the deep and controversial, and I hope you’ve found as much joy and inspiration on these pages, as I have in creating them.
A note about the name of this magazine: It was a sunny morning in September, and I had been wracking my brain for a name for this magazine, when an unexpected idea was downloaded to my consciousness. I had stopped forcing it, and then I suddenly heard myself think, “Glinda.” Glinda? Like the good witch? So I quickly wrote it down. Now mind you, this was way before the movie ‘Wicked’ was released. And way before I even knew about the movie!
A glimmer is a tiny micro moment of joy. A fleeting, everyday moment that elicits a rush of happiness, gratitude, calm, peace, safety, or goodwill. But I kept trying it out in my mind, and typed it into the cover design, and somehow, I fell in love with the name. You see, when I was little kid, watching the original Wizard of Oz, I fell in love with Glinda the Good. She was by far, my favorite character. I loved that she was a magical witch who used her powers for good, guiding the characters who desperately needed help, on a journey to ultimately discover that all that they needed was inside themselves all along. Even my daughter recently reminded me that she remembers me saying how I felt connected with Glinda: She was glamorous, kind, helpful, but also powerful and a little witchy. And then, the movie Wicked came out! On one hand, I thought, wow, now that’s alignment and synchronicity, because the name would certainly be trending! But on the other hand, I had seen Wicked on Broadway and knew that the originial character, the one in my younger mind’s eye, really did not exist. She was just a fantasy; and as we all know, the more modern versions of Glinda, or should I say, Galinda, were not as pristine. So it was after watching the movie, that I finally accepted that I could not name this magazine after a character that was, although not exactly the villain, still not representative of the strong, magnetic and powerful Glinda that I once adored as a child. Around the same time, I had been seeing lots of posts on social media about “Glimmers” - tiny micro moments of joy—fleeting, everyday moments that elicit a rush of happiness, gratitude, calm, peace, safety, or goodwill. “A glimmer is the exact opposite of a trigger—it is some kind of cue, either internal or external that brings one back to a sense of joy or safety.” I woke up the next morning, and felt the aha moment...the glimmer. And it was then that I knew that I had the name for this magazine. And once again, I thanked my version of Glinda the Good, for holding the space (literally) that I needed to carry me through this journey, only to discover, that the perfect name, as well as the actualization of this endeavor, was always there, glimmering lightly on the surface, and inside me all along.
WHAT’S NEXT NEXT ISSUE COMING THIS APRIL
Be the light that illuminates a dark world
Gluten free goodies for Passover and all year
20 ways to lighten up your life
Luxury deals for the warm months
AND MORE!
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glimmer CONTRIBUTORS AND ADVERTISERS
CONTRIBUTORS Henya Lazar BA (HONS), RHN Health Wellness and Fitness Consultant @henyalazar Ilanit Journo Certified Culinary Nutritionist and Fitness Lover as well as Mindful Lifestyle Coach @get.fit.ima
ADVERTISERS Tzipporah’s Harmonizing Energy Healing Am.Yisroel.Ties Scarves and Mitpachot GripAfix Wig Grips and Wig Glue Liora Ben Ari Real Estate Agent in Israel Swag Pointe Promotional Items Shoshana Denberg Hypnobirthing Educator Devora Golan Personal Stylist and Empowerment Coach @devoragolan
AdTrak Media Mademoiselle Paris Couture Gowns Dealperx Designer Discounted
Dear Readers: THANK YOU for being here. We truly hope you enjoyed this magazine and would love to hear from you! All questions, comments, opinions and suggestions are welcome. Please feel free to email your feedback HERE. If you’d like to contribute or place an ad click HERE
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Table
SET YOUR
Pick a color. Any color.
Setting a gorgeous table can be as easy as grabbing several varieties of flowers in a monochromatic color family. Whether it’s one bold bouquet or several smaller ones scattered about, the dramatic color pop will bring much cheer to your dining experience.
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