Keara Kisses: Curated Content for Self-Healers Summer 2023

CURATED CONTENT FOR SELF-HEALERS

10 TIPS FOR SELF HEALING PEACEFUL PARENTING SELF-PARENTING TIPS

BETTER WORK DAYS

ENGAGING

EMPLOYEES WORK/LIFE BALANCE SUMMER 2023

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SUMMER 2023 PRACTICAL MAGIC TEA

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Cold Brewed Cacao Allergy Relief Tea Healing Herbs Self Care with Essential Oil

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Soul Food KEARA KISSES Healing Breath Healing Sound Healing Talk Collective 3 Card Read Animal Magic Animal Talk There's no right way...

Healing Rest Authenticity Checklist Chapter Excerpt "Why are my labs normal?"

Modern Life-Keeping Listener/Reader Q&A

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Overcoming Obstacles 10 Tips for Self Healing

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Change is a Chance Peaceful Parenting

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Self Parenting Practices MOM XOX About FAQ Job Analysis: The Foundation of all Jobs Work/Life Balance

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Self Care in the Workplace Better Work Days 10 Ways Employees Demonstrate Engagement Co-Creating Thriving Workplaces RESOURCES Contributors Upcoming Events Self Healing Directory

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Hi! This magazine was born from an intention to create consistent, relevant and valuable information for those on this email list. I will publish each season. If you would like to be part of this magazine, please contact me. My contact information will be below.

This issue begins with a section from Practical Magic Tea. I shared recipes from the tea shop that focus on natural remedies. I shared my recipe for allergy tea. Start taking it now for upcoming fall allergy season. Herbs are more effective when taken preventatively.

The next section will be from Keara Kisses. Many of you know, Keara Kisses are messages of peace and love in honor of my daughter, Keara.

Summer 2023 showcases natural healing practices. We can feel more calm by simply focusing on our breath. This is a particularly useful coping skills when you are feeling anxious.

Did you know that you can heal yourself with sound?! Which sounds expand you versus which sounds drain you? How can you use sound to manage your mood? Music definitely has the potential to raise my vibration!

Sound healing can even be used on our pets! My animals love it when I use a tuning fork on them. Check out the free Circle of Intentional Healing with Sound Therapy on the upcoming events page.

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We have an excerpt from "Why are my labs normal?" Dr. Kylie teaches new ways to read bloodwork that gets to the root of the issue.

Bloodwork being "normal" has been a common problem for me throughout the years, but not as much as when it involved Keara.

When Keara died it was determined that her organs were damaged. The same organs that had cancerous tumors when she was a baby.

She was prescribed a medication she should not have been on because one of the failing organs was her liver. Her liver was unable to process the medication leading to a seizure and her death.

The doctor's office gave me a copy of her bloodwork where everything was "normal." Clearly nothing was "normal."

Dr. Kylie's work resonates with me. If you are struggling with health issues, I recommend reading her book. Dr. Kylie also has a podcast. Check hers out after you check out mine!!!!

Following Keara Kisses. will be information on a non profit that I founded with Katie. We are still working out the details but it includes information on co-creating thriving workplaces. If we have to work, we may as well all be thriving!

We include a Q&A section. Anyone can email me or leave a comment on youtube with a question.

We will answer the ones that have common themes.

We trust that there is something in this magazine for everyone. Please contact me with questions/comments, or if you would like to participate with this publication. You can reach me by email at kearakisses44@gmail.com. I am grateful for your support.

Lori

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Cold Brewed Cacao* 1 SERVING

1 Tablespoon Cacao Powder 1 cup warmed Plant Based Milk Flavor to taste with Pure Maple Syrup, Cardamom, Cayenne, Cinnamon, or Pure Vanilla Extract Dissolve powder in warmed liquid by stirring until smooth. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a container with a lid. Shake until frothy.

Pour over ice and enjoy! *Cacao is not recommended when taking antidepressants

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benefits of CACAO Anti-inflammatory Balances blood sugar Brain and mood boosting Rich in antioxidants, calcium, iron and magnesium Supports cardiovascular health

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Healing with herbs

Allergy relief tea echinachea goldenrod nettle peppermint

.25 tsp .75 tsp .75 tsp .25 tsp

Steep 4-8 minutes in 16 ounces of water.

Makes (1) 16 ounce serving. echinacea: boost immunity goldenrod: break up mucus and soothe throat nettle: relieves itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing peppermint: reduce inflammation

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Aloe vera

Nature's remedy Aloe vera is an herb that produces a gel with countless benefits when used externally and internally. Especially good for sunburn, it is invaluable in the summer!

Aloe vera is a succulent that facilitates physical as well as emotional healing. Symbolically it reminds us that we create our own fortune and luck. It represents the cleansing and purging of what no longer serves us, along with growth and healing. Connect with nature through the powerful aloe vera plant.

As with any healing tool, try it for yourself. Pay attention to how your body responds to its use. Is it healing? Do wounds feel better, faster?

Aloe vera is considered both anti inflammatory and filled with antioxidants. It is perfect for mouth care. Try this mouthwash recipe and decide for yourself!

healing mouthwash recipe 1/2 cup aloe vera juice* 1/2 cup filtered water 1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 3-4 drops of peppermint essential oil To make: Combine all ingredients in airtight bottle and shake until baking soda dissolves. *Aloe vera juice is sold at most grocery stores or you can harvest it from a plant.

To use: Gently shake bottle, then pour a small amount into a cup. Swish the mouthwash in your mouth for several seconds, before spitting it out.

Refrigerate between uses.

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SELF CARE HEALING FOOT SOAK 4 tbsp. carrier oil such as jojoba oil 10-20 drops lavender essential oil 10-20 drops peppermint essential oil 1 cup Epsom salt 1/4 cup dried rose petals Fill a basin with water at your preferred temperature and depth. Blend half of the jojoba with half of the essential oils. Add to the epsom salt and rose petals before adding them to the water, stirring gently to mix.

Soak your feet in the water for 20-30 minutes. Dry thoroughly. Combine the remaining oils and apply them to your feet as a moisturizer.

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with Kimberly Arthbuthnot

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S = SEASONAL Nature produces certain foods in each season for our comfort: Summer: hydrating fruits and veggies like berries, cucumbers, melons, peaches. tomatoes and zucchini Autumn: rich, dense food like apples, blackberries, potatoes and pumpkin Winter: warm, cooked teas and broths like soups and stews with winter garlic, onions, root vegetables and winter squash Spring: cleansing greens like asparagus, green peas, lettuces and strawberries (eat the leaves!)

O = ORGANIC Choose certified organic foods when possible to avoid: antibiotics genetically modified or bio-engineered foods growth and other hormones pesticides preservatives

U = UNREFINED Choose foods as close to their original form as possible for the most minerals, nutrients and vitamins.

Some examples: -vegetables and legumes grown in earth's soil, and picked from a bush, shrub or tree -foods that swam in a lake, ocean or stream like wild caught fish and seafood -foods that grazed on grass (beef, lamb and pork) and/or roamed free to eat insects like eggs and poultry -grains that are intact and have not had their bran, endosperm or germ removed

L = LOCAL Choose foods grown in your surrounding area. These foods will be fresh and in season for you. Buying local food supports your local economy and is environmentally friendly. Fresh and local fruits and vegetables have more nutrients!

Learn more about Kimberly on page 84

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breathing as a tool for self healing by New Beginnings with Rosanna

Inspirational breathing, also known as breathwork, is a powerful inward journey. Breathwork supports evolution, release of old beliefs, and the reconnection and remembering of your pure essence.

Every living being, animal, and plant breathes.

Inspirational breathing is taking gentle and slow, circular connected breaths with intention and presence. It is an ancient healing practice that combines Life Force Energy and awareness for self-exploration and healing on the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual levels. This cutting-edge tool for transformation and consciousness is the key source to wholeness. Give yourself the gift of total Presence!

Lovingly,

Rosanna

Try this mini exercise: Find a quiet space to comfortably sit. Place your left hand on your heart and your right hand on your belly.

1.) Take a slow Inhale through your nose to the count of 8.

2.) Hold your breath for a count of 4.

3.) Slowly exhale through your nose to the count of 8.

Repeat (steps 1-3) about six times, as it feels right for you.

Feel your body relax more & more with with every cycle of breath.

Lastly, bring your hands to a prayer pose in front of your heart and touch your thumbs to your heart chakra.

Take one last cleansing breath, in through the mouth and exhale through the mouth while sounding out the "AHHH" sound.

Use this mini exercise anytime to manage stress and anxiety.

Learn more about Rosanna on page 83

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HOW SOUND HEALS with Hilary from Holistic Harmonics

Exploring the benefits Does music affect you? Do you get chill bumps when you hear certain songs? Have you noticed how as we go through our daily life we make sounds without noticing? There is a reason for that!

an Ancient Practice Sound healing has been used for centuries. In addition to promoting emotional and physical wellbeing, it fosters transformation and enlightenment.

restore balance in Your body Sound healing is based on the principle that everything in the universe is in a state of vibration.

Various instruments including our bodies can be used to create frequencies that resonate with our unique energy. We all vibrate in a unique pattern, like a fingerprint of our soul.

Sound healing promotes healing, relaxing and transformation.

sound healing in 21st century For centuries, sound healing has been used to promote emotional and physical well-being, and to foster enlightenment and transformation.

In recent years the popularity of sound healing has grown as people seek holistic and natural alternatives to traditional healthcare. My own healing journey demonstrated the power of sound when traditional medicine failed to offer relief.

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science supports sound healing Numerous studies continue to be published regarding the use of frequency for healing.

Researchers at Stanford University have used frequency to map dangerous mosquito populations, generate healthy heart tissue, and even destroy cancer cells! https://stanmed.stanford.edu/innovations-helping-harness-soundacoustics-healing/

profound effect on body and mind As sound waves travel through our body, they affect our nervous system, brainwaves, and even cellular and genetic function. Sound healing helps to boost immunity, improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety and blood pressure, inflammation, stress and the effects of trauma all while increasing clarity, focus and mindfulness.

Amplified creativity and bonuses of sound waves!

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modalities of sound healing There are many Sound Healing modalities. My favorite modality includes self-creating sounds using our bodies and voice.

Stay tuned to learn more exciting ways to attune, amplify and align with your authentic self!

Join Lori and Hilary on July 16, August 20 and September 17 for a Circle of Intentional Healing.

Details on Page Learn more about Hilary on Page 79

Happiness depends upon ourselves.

ARISTOTLE

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Self Talk That Heals

I AM PERFECT EXACTLY AS I AM I am responsible for my own happiness

I CHOOSE BETTER FEELING THOUGHTS

Joy is the essence of my being MY HAPPINESS comes from within me

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collective 3 card read Wow! The collective is creating magic this summer!

The tarot deck consists of 78 cards. Major arcana make up 22 of the 78 cards. The rest are considered minor arcana. This reading has 2 out of 3 major arcana cards.

Major arcana represents things such as destiny, life lessons, soul contracts and spirituality. The major arcana 1-21 are the story of a journey. The journey begins with the Fool.

The Fool begins the new cycle by taking a leap of faith into the unknown.

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Carefree and traveling lightly, the Fool goes with the flow. The Fool has no baggage as it has already been released. Ready to take risks and have trust in the universe, the Fool has lots to learn on this new adventure!

The King of Cups shows up to remind you of the importance of balancing your emotions. You have the kindness and wisdom to live a balanced life. You have the ability to manage your emotions.

When balanced, the King of Cups represents creativity, inspiration and intuition. Like the Fool, there are no emotions blocking the way. The King of Cups rules their emotions!

The Magician reminds you that you have everything you need to create the life of your dreams. Your tools include your emotions, your beliefs and values, your passions as well as your thoughts.

You are invited to embody a beginner's mind like the Fool, manage your emotions like the King of Cups and use all of your knowledge, skills and abilities to take actions and to think thoughts that align you with your dreams. You are the creator of your Magic!

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ANIMAL MAGIC Healing with Cats I have always identified as a dog lover. Until I decided to get a cat. The more I learn about them, the more they fascinate me. I plea the fifth on how many cats I currently have...

Cat Lady?

Honestly I would be happy just doing things with my animals! The last guy I met asked me a series of probing questions. The entire time I was thinking: you forgot to ask me how many cats I have!

My cats were there for me when no one else was. Sad, but true. There were mornings I would wake up covered in cats. Ok I am exaggerating a bit, but you get my point. They sensed I needed their support and they gave it to me unconditionally.

Cleaner than most people You heard me. groomers!

Cats clean themselves!

Cats can be fastidious self-

Cats are Natural Healers

Amongst all of their charm lies an innate ability to heal. This by far fascinates me the most. Cats purr at the same frequency that has been shown to heal and grow bones and to lower stress in humans. When cats purr, they are healing themselves as well as us! Sound healing in its glory!

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Spirt Animal The spirits of animals help to guide us on our journey. They guide us to embrace and recognize the characteristics we share with them. Let's look at what the spirit animal of cat is here to teach us.

Cats invite us to embrace the qualities of adaptability, agility, determination, grace, independence, purpose and selfhealing. They live on their own terms and are adaptive enough to thrive.

When cat shows up as your spirit animal, you are being asked to embrace cat qualities.

Perhaps its time to self heal from the inside out. Or maybe you are being guided to patiently wait until its the best time to act. Act with courage and with a spirit of adventure. Be independent and find ways to adapt.

Allow Open to the magic of cats by embracing the qualities they offer on your own personal journey. Call on cat spirit animal when you want to welcome the energy they offer.

Believe you’ll land on your feet, go after what you want, be curious and discover on your own the frequency at which your soul resonates.

“Cats have it all – admiration, an endless sleep, and company only when they want it.”

Rod McKuen

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TALK with Kate THE CAT WHISPERER My cats left me no choice but to call in a Cat Whisperer. When you are at your wits end, it doesn't seem quite as silly as it sounds.

THREE'S A CROWD Even sillier is the fact that I have 3 cats. Two of these cats started peeing in random places all over my house. This was happening on a daily basis.

WHAT IS THAT SMELL? No matter how much I love my cats, I did not love showing up places smelling like cat pee! My belongings were being ruined and I was no closer to solving the problem.

NOTHING TO LOSE After spending hundreds of dollars ruling out medical causes, I was willing to try anything. Suddenly the animal whisperer recommended by a friend didn't seem so silly.

CAT WHISPERS The animal whisperer came to my house. He began by introducing himself to each cat. He explained to the curious and nervous cats why he was there. These were whispers I heard.

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SWEET NOTHINGS I didn't hear the whispers of sweet nothings, but the Cat Whisperer assured me that the cats had received the information they needed. He explained that he connected with them soul to soul. His soul told their soul that their behavior needed to be changed. Their soul told his soul what they were communicating with their behavior. The proof was in the notes he took and shared with me!

SIBLING RIVALRY He learned from them that my oldest cat was jealous of my newer cats so he was bullying them. One in particular was too afraid to walk past him to get to the litter box! No wonder she was peeing anywhere she could.

These cats were mirroring what it would be like to have children! Oh my.

WHAT I LEARNED I am passionate about animals and this experience left me in awe. I learned that animals are like people, they have complex emotions like we do. If we learn to tune into our animals and really listen, we can communicate with them on a deeper level.

HAPPY ENDING FOR EVERYONE Well, I am no longer a skeptic. Within days, my cats stopped peeing all over my house. Thankfully, things are back to normal. As normal as life can be with 3 cats, 1 dog and 1 snake!

This is a great alternative to rehoming your animals when they are experiencing behavior issues. It's also a great way to learn how to be a parent!

Kate

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There’s No Right Way to Do the Wrong Thing

by Brandi

Animals Do Not Want to Die Just like us, animals have feelings too. Social media has proven this over and over with an endless stream of animal videos. The animals become more human like every day.

We Judge Which Animals are Worthy of Love Like humans, animals demonstrate emotions including anxiety, fear, grief, joy, pain, sadness and unconditional love.

Like humans, animals protect and care for their loved ones. Animals even exhibit gift behaving behaviors!

Humans and animals both possess and use natural instincts.

The organs of animals function like those of humans. Their eyes see, ears hear, mouth tastes, bladder pees, and butt poops. Just like us.

Humans choose to ignore these similarities. Instead they choose to see animals as less than, undeserving and unworthy of love and respect.

If you believe animals are not as evolved or self aware as humans, take a good look at how some humans are behaving. Then decide if you would choose humans over animals.

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Appeasing Guilt with the Same Outcome Some humans whether led by their heart, or by well funded and placed marketing will make choices that they believe make killing animals better. They will choose to find a local butcher, purchase organic, free range, grass fed, organic, pasture raised animals to consume.

None of these factors have anything to do with the rights of these animals. It almost feels worse when I think of those animals being slaughtered by people they loved.

We Take Meat for Granted Animals are being killed entirely for our benefit. Yet we show no gratitude. The amount of meat that is wasted in America alone is a profound reality that we cannot afford to continue to ignore. Some of these animals were killed for nothing when we let meat expire, overcook it, throw it out or consume more than our bodies can use or truly need.

Let's Evolve Like other limiting beliefs that we readily transform, it is time to examine and transform our limiting beliefs about animals.

Ask Yourself Are you ok with the way animals are treated just so that we can have as much meat as we can buy, however and whenever we choose?

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Are you ok with the abuse that the animals endure while they are waiting to die for you? Are you ok with the amount of waste from greed and disrespect that we accept in our culture? The huge need for antibiotics? Does it seem obvious that animals have feelings and value their freedom just as we do?

What If? As you read in Animal Magic on pages 23-24, animals are powerful and purposeful. What if we lived in a world of peace together with animals? A world of mutual respect and unconditional love?

What if we increased our awareness of the reality of the dairy and meat industry? What if we gradually ate less and less meat? What if?

Energy People are more aware than ever about the exchange of energy between people and things. We feel the energy in rooms, of loved ones that have passed and more. We sage our houses, carry around crystals, do yoga, and meditate. We do these things all to create, exchange and/or receive improved energy.

Have you considered that you are receiving the energy of the animals you consume? If they are fearful, you are consuming the fear hormones that were excreted just before the animal died. If the animals were poorly treated, you are consuming perhaps years of despair AND fear.

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Ever wonder if some of the anxiety, depression and fear in our society is the energy of the animals we are consuming?! That would be some weird circle of life wouldn't it? Or perhaps it's karma for how we treat animals.

You can help And guess what? The impact of eating meat on our planet is HUGE. And we are becoming resistant to antibiotics due to the large amount of antibiotics that are fed to the animals we eat.

Instead of ignoring these realities, we can embrace them. We can reduce how much meat we consume.

We can be aware of where there is waste. We can advocate for the rights of animals.

Humans are not more deserving or better than animals, just because some of us think we are.

According to Our World in Data, "80 billion animals are slaughtered each year for their meat." * That is a staggering amount of animals waiting to die each year. Have we evolved to systems of assembly line killing of animals?

Think about your own evolution and what you want your legacy to be.

Animals do not want to die. There is no right way to do the wrong thing. *https://ourworldindata.org/meatproduction#:~:text=80%20billion%20animals%20are%20slaughtered,the%20w orld%20is%20getting%20richer.

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REST AS A REMEDY with Dr. Karla from Crown to Sole Wellness

Sometimes we make ourselves sick by DOING TOO MUCH STUFF! I know there are times when I have carried too much stuff "on my plate" at one time.

No, I don't mean carrying food on my plate as in a meal (I'll talk about that another time!). What I'm talking about is having too many responsibilities at one time and doing too many activities to my detriment.

Your activities may include "good stuff" but when you overload yourself without getting quality rest, your mind and your body suffer.

This leads to us resenting even the "good stuff."

We all have responsibilities, and it is good to be active and productive. However, it is important to pace yourself and get adequate rest-emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually.

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While I still have responsibilities, I had to learn to say NO to some things and RELEASE THE GUILT of feeling like I was letting people down. I realize SOMEONE ELSE could do it...Or not. Oh well!

One of the most important remedies that has helped me in bouncing back from autoimmune disorders is intentionally resting well and adequately. That includes sleep, as well as relaxation of my mind/body and just letting some things go.

As you make your schedule each day, week, month, and/or quarter, be sure to include REST and RELAXATION so you can be rejuvenated!

Learn more about Dr. Karla on Page 82

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AUTHENTICITY CHECKLIST SIGNS YOU MAY BE AUTHENTIC It is none of your business what other people think of you.

You accept others as they are.

You are unapologetic and pure intentioned.

You are willing to look at your own vulnerabilities.

You believe in your own potential.

You express yourself freely without fear of judgment.

You follow your heart.

You go with the flow.

You have no one to blame.

You only compare yourself to the best version of yourself.

You say what you mean and mean what you say.

You show up for yourself as your true self.

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"Why Are My Labs Normal?”

Your guide to reading your own blood work, even if your doctor told you they’re normal. Abridged Chapter 1.

By: Dr. Kylie Burton, DC, CFMP Chapter 1: Stop Chasing Symptoms Stop chasing symptoms. No, seriously.

Just stop.

What was the last thing you typed into Google regarding your health? What did you find? Were you happy with the results?

Let me guess, you went down several rabbit holes and you’re still dealing with most of the symptoms you’ve been Googling.

You may even feel like doctors and practitioners (of all backgrounds) are simply throwing darts at the dartboard at you. You've taken a whole plethora of supplements, possibly even medications.

Where has it gotten you?

Have you been told your labs are “normal” yet you feel like crap?

If all this sounds familiar, this is for you!

Whether you have a diagnosis or not, this is for you. I’m about to teach you how to transform those “normal” labs into real answers, healing, and hope.

These “normal” labs can reveal what’s causing your symptoms.

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Then, once you resolve the hidden causes, your body’s innate healing is activated.

But let’s get this straight right now stop chasing symptoms!

Stop thinking there’s one cause to each symptom.

There’s not. And what you’re about to see, using your normal labs, are the multiple pieces of the puzzle. Think about these pieces as what’s needed to get you healthy - diagnosis or not.

As you start truly getting healthy, removing underlying barriers (as you’re about to learn inside your labs), symptoms will just start resolving.

Promise. I see it all the time.

Stop asking yourself “what causes x?”

Start asking yourself “what do I need to do to get healthy?” Let’s take a deep dive into an example: “About 10 years ago, my body started tingling all over with burning nerve pain, especially in my hands and my feet. I could not think, balance, or understand. My mouth nerves were so inflamed I could not open my mouth because even room air was too much. I was hospitalized for a week, given steroids and told I probably had MS. They sent me to a neurologist who did tons of testing, but could never find anything but nerve deterioration in spots and plaque on my brain.

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I've had many side effects from the steroids and antibiotics, but no answers.

I've had joint and muscle pain and swelling that comes and goes with right ear pain and difficulty hearing...

5 years after the nerve pain began, I had the metal removed from my mouth, which helped a lot. Since then,I’ve tried muscle testing practitioners who all said I had Epstein-Barr virus. Not long after the metals were removed, major hot flashes began, not to mention swelling and pain in my joints, to the point where it was difficult to sit. Then I was sent to a specialist where an MRI found a torn labrum in my left hip socket. I have received many diagnoses throughout the last decade but very little relief.”

Instead of searching for specific “root causes," let’s think about how to simply get healthy and activate the innate healing mechanism in each of us. Then, simply watch as all these mysterious symptoms go away.

Maybe your health story is similar nobody knows what to do with you. You feel like your health is a guessing game for all who try to “crack your code.”

I never chase symptoms. I never just blame it on “it’s because you’re a mom” or hand out the next pill. I dive deep into the numbers - those “normal” labs are worth the price of gold when the right person is reading them. That right person is about to be you!

Before we get into the numbers though, I really need you to understand the power of this concept: stop chasing symptoms.

Erica is my age, early 30s. She's got a preschooler, and a one-year-old. Like many mommas, Erica was fighting fatigue that kept getting blamed on motherhood. Early morning on a fall September day, she woke up to a right shoulder that was unwilling to move. If given a diagnosis, it would’ve been “frozen shoulder syndrome.” However, there was no accident; no trauma; no reason this symptom would appear. She just woke up with it.

When you have a 3-year-old, and a 1year-old, and your right arm is your dominant arm, picking up your kids is not an easy task – if you can do it at all.

At first, she thought it would just go away. It'd be one of those scenarios where people wake up and can’t move their back; only this is her shoulder.

Eventually, at some point, she thought the movement would return in her shoulder. But it wasn't happening.

Her first attempt at relief and answers was the primary care doctor where she was given Cortisone injections (steroid injections) in the shoulder. It is the standard way of thinking when you’re treating joint pains and stiffness.

Sometimes they work. Sometimes they don’t and often a series is needed to see any benefit. But for Erica, nothing.

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Her husband convinced the doctor to take some blood work.

“Your labs are normal,” came the results.

Next attempt, manual therapy via the local chiropractor and massage therapist’s office.

After multiple treatments in a two-week period, no change. No relief.

The longer she fought this shoulder problem, more and more joints started to hurt. It became so vast one doctor wanted to throw the term, RA (rheumatoid arthritis) at her. But the blood work came back negative.

Finally, she gets to me! I came into the picture about 6 months after the shoulder had become the initial problem. My approach - get her “normal” labs (the blood work her doctor’s had already taken)! Those labs would tell me what's causing the chaos in her body. From my experience, those labs would tell me how to get her body healthy so the joint pain and stiffness naturally resolves.

I pulled the blood work from her existing medical records, the answers were right there. She just needed a different perspective on her “normal” labs.

Why? Because even though you've been told that your labs are normal, doesn't mean they're “ideal”.

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Sure enough, one marker inside her “normal” blood work catches my attention. It was right there in the CBC the most common blood test!

For Erica, the marker that caught my eye was 88%. It’s higher than the “normal” range and definitely outside the “ideal” range.

For the docs who saw the stat, I’m sure they thought what everyone would think: “There’s no way a bacterial infection has anything to do with her shoulder.” The only way to find out is to treat it and see if the symptoms resolve.

In her words, a month into her simple supplement regimen, she emailed me: “So far, everything is good. I'm still taking the supplements and feeling less pain. I am off my steroids without any relapse and joint pain, which is good. “ Within 3 months, she’s no longer taking any steroid medication and her husband says her joint pain is completely gone.

Her energy is back up and she’s more like the woman he once married. “I feel like I have my wife back.”

I never touched her shoulder. How powerful is that?!

Erica isn’t the only one getting caught in the “chasing symptoms” trap. Our entire medical system is getting caught in the trap and even many alternative care practitioners.

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Next up is a woman we will name Rebecca.

At 27 years old and three years into marriage, Rebecca's health had absolutely tanked.

Prescribed 15 different medications, with at least that many supplements at the same time she was hardly able to eat.

Yet she was gaining weight like crazy over 100 pounds - at 27 years old! Her whole life was ahead of her but at this point, she didn’t feel like living.

“Nobody could figure out why.”

Until I met her.

These were her symptoms: Aches and pains in joints and muscles Acne, dry skin, hives and rashes Anger and irritability Anxiety, nervousness and restlessness Arthritis and stiffness in movement Apathy, depressions, fatigue Belching, heartburn and stomach pain Binge and compulsive eating Bloated feeling, constipation and diarrhea Craving certain foods Depression and fear Excessive sweating and hot flashes Feeling of weakness or tiredness Frequently ill Headaches Water retention Weight gain

What if I were to start chasing symptoms? What if I were to start chasing a diagnosis? I might as well start throwing darts at the dartboard. There’s a lot to chase!

Whether you have a diagnosis or not, I don’t care. I will help you figure out the causes of your body betraying you. Once we know the causes (and pay attention to the plural), you can begin your healing journey and watch as your symptoms start drifting off into the clouds.

The only thing a diagnosis tells you is the symptoms your body is presenting with happen to fall underneath an umbrella. If you’re “lucky” and that's you, they can then give you a pill. Now you’re set as you can “manage” your symptoms for the rest of your life.

You all know what I'm talking about.

At some point you give up and start trying some type of alternative healthcare and the “natural” route. It could be the same thing. You show up with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. They say, “let's just support your thyroid” and recommend a list of 7 supplements to take for the rest of your life. Is that any different?

Don’t fall into the alternative health world trap either. The supplement industry is another billion dollar industry - just like pharmaceuticals.

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Don’t think they’re any different. They want you on supplements forever too it’s money in their pockets!

Soapbox done.

Back to Hashimoto’s. Really, your thyroid is not the issue. Your immune system is the issue. It’s responsible for attacking your thyroid. Your thyroid is literally just trying to swim, keep its head above the water, and there are so many things trying to sink it, pull it under. So, focusing on healing your thyroid isn’t going to get you very far.

It doesn't matter where you come from whether it's Western medicine or “alternative” medicine - you must get the numbers!

When you present as a 27-year-old and you don't want to live the rest of your life because your health is an absolute disaster and nobody knows what to do with you, more guessing with natural supplements are not answers. Get her medical records; pull her “normal” labs.

How many labs? How far back?

Get it all! Because then you can track patterns. In fact, if you felt like crap 10 years ago, I want numbers from 10 years ago. I want to know the pattern and what happened to you when your health took a nosedive. Plus, what’s happened since then, including recent labs. The numbers tell us.

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You’re about to find out just how valuable these numbers really are.

As Rebecca learned how valuable her labs really were, her husband sat there listening as I showed my findings and my recommendations moving forward.

He was curious, “if you can do that for her, what can you do for me?” So, we pulled his labs.

About her and her husband, Rebecca reported, “We both felt better early on.

He noticed a difference with mood and acid reflux within a couple of weeks. It's been a game changer in our relationship - since his anxiety and mood swings have improved. I can't believe healing his gut could do that. I noticed my energy improve early on. I've started to have less migraines, stomach issues and muscle pain. I already feel so much better so quickly. I almost can't imagine how much better I can feel in six more months. We haven't had any negative side effects and are excited to continue with the process. Thank you so much.”

How do I do this? Let me teach you whether you have a medical background or not.

You’re about to gain knowledge worth the price of GOLD. You’ll find more answers inside your “normal” labs than ever before. Once you’ve gone through all your labs, you may find it overwhelming. You’ll find yourself asking, “where do I begin?”

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I’m here to help. Your body can’t heal at once, no matter how bad we want to feel better overnight.

Remember, I am a doctor. But I’m not your doctor. I don't know your health history. All I know is that I specialize in turning “normal” labs into answers, healing, and hope. You’re going to get more personalized answers than ever before. And when you have real answers, you can find real relief diagnosis or not.

Disclaimer: This book shares personal experience and provides education.

Interaction with this book, guide, and any of Dr. Kylie’s social media platforms does not constitute a doctor/patient relationship. Where a condition is identified or a lab result is outside the normal range: patient should seek appropriate conventional medical management and drug administration by a physician.

These lab ranges are different from your “normal” range. “Normal” ranges have failed us. It’s time to read labs the right way and I’m here to take something so complex and make it very simple. The ranges are a combination of a variety of training including one from Dr. Datis Kharrazian (and his team) with my clinical experience.

Learn more about Dr. Kylie on page 81

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BEYOND THE DIAGNOSIS WITH DR. KYLIE PODCAST Whether you have a diagnosis attached to your name or not, discover the root cause of your symptoms and learn how you can start changing your story today.

Never tell the same story to another doctor again.

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Listen to these episodes on any major podcast platform, youtube at keara kisses or kearakisses.com under musings. Like, subscribe and comment!

Recent Recordings No more broken families, homes or people How reviews disempower us Generational Patterns - Blessings or Curses?

Using bloodwork to inform with Dr. Kylie From violence to purpose with Sarah Sherman 20 tips for engaging teenagers Changing how we respond to gun control 4 empowering beliefs about emotions 4 things worry wants you to know

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How self awareness empowers you Mind games we play with ourselves Be confident Know yourself: How to recognize your authentic self Know yourself - understanding our triggers Recognizing and practicing healthy boundaries Know yourself: recognizing your superpowers Know yourself: exploring our foundations Know yourself: invest in yourself Love yourself Healing yourself from trauma How to heal yourself Take your power back How to practice self care How to process emotions How to process thoughts How to find yourself How to co-create your best life ADHD is a superpower Information is not the same as wisdom Callout culture What parents want teens to know Know thyself Follow your inner GPS

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Questions from our listeners. If you would like to send a question to be answered anonymously, email kearakisses44@gmail.com

Q: How can I find my voice?

A: Your voice is not lost, so doesn't need to be found. It's deep within you. Your inner voice is the part of you that loves you unconditionally.

To begin to hear your voice more clearly: ask your inner voice important questions create a dialog with your inner voice get to know yourself identify the difference between your inner voice and your ego inner voice is loving, ego is not inner voice knows what is in your highest good, ego will say anything to protect you from perceived threats.

Q: How do I become more confident?

A: Get to know yourself. This is the number one way to gain confidence.

We all have differing abilities. Get to know what your strengths are, as well as your challenges. It is up to you to determine yours and to use them to create your best life. Compare yourself only with the best version of yourself. Get to know who that is and you will be more confident!

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Q: Why don't my teenagers listen to me? What can I do?

A: Your teenagers are your teachers. They are inviting you to go out of your comfort zone. There are several reasons teenagers don't listen to parents. They include things like: seeking attention because they have unmet needs that they are unable to verbalize they are distracted they know they can get away with it you have a history of not meaning what you say Things you can do: ask for your teenagers attention be present when speaking with your teenager whether you initiate the conversation or they do mean what you say and say what you mean recognize if their behavior is triggering you and explore why speak directly with your teenager about their behavior Q: I just started a new job and would like to make friends, but I am not sure of how to do this in a professional and friendly way.

A: Starting a new job is stressful enough, but doing it without support for 40 hours a week can be lonely. Here are some suggestions: be aware of the culture at work - take notice of your surroundings be friendly and smile, get to know people's names and job titles be patient with yourself be present and accountable bring in something homemade or from the bakery immerse yourself in learning your new job functions and responsibilities introduce yourself to everyone you encounter, ask them about themselves organize lunch orders share personal information with others to learn more about them for example, "I have a dog. Do you like dogs?" trust that you will attract friends at work that will serve your highest good as you serve theirs

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47 | summer 2023

“The greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it.”

– Molière

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I'd been in fire departments since I was sixteen. Now in my twenties, I sought a position on the FDNY.

"The Test" By James S. Krieger

"I had never wanted anything in my life more than this. I was damned if I was going to give up. I got back into position, when the man said ‘go’ I dug in harder than I ever had and ran at that wall like if I didn’t go over it, I’d go through it."

My parents were children of the depression. My father flunked out of college, joined the Army and was a decorated WWII veteran who struggled to provide for his family. The plan for my brother and I was that we would get college degrees and white-collar jobs.

My brother followed the path, became a lawyer.

I was the rebel. An unmotivated student, a poor performer. I joined a volunteer fire department at the age of sixteen and found my calling. My calling was not well received. I ended up with a college degree and doing fire insurance inspections. Then I saw the notice for the civil service test for New York City firemen. My father had passed by then, so my path was clear.

Looking back, I realize how lucky I was. I had no idea the scale of what I sought. I thought, you take a test, get a job, right?

I knew nothing. I grew up in the small city of Poughkeepsie. I’d visited NYC, that’s it. The test for firefighter, two parts, written and physical, is offered every four years. There are over twentythousand applicants for approximately two-thousand-five-hundred positions.

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The written test took place in schools all over NYC on a Saturday. So many guys.

If you received lower than a 95 on this test, you should be checked for a lobotomy, it was that simple. The physical test is where the sorting took place.

The paperwork included a description of the parts of the test. I read them and was not filled with joy. The test I looked up was old and was strength based. This one was agility based. An obstacle course, a ledge balance, a flexed arm hang and a mile run. This test was designed for volleyball players and track stars. I was built like a football lineman.

This was my first dash of cold reality.

You could try out the course. The test course was in an old Armory in the Bedford Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn.

I took the Subway from Grand Central Station. I knew nothing about NYC neighborhoods and the fire and crime epidemic that gripped that city in the early 1970’s. All In knew was that as the train traveled and stopped, I became more of a minority, a white kid in his sweatpants and sneakers.

I walked through a devastated neighborhood towards the armory.

There were other white kids, doing the same. This lily-white suburban kid was scared. All these black people. I’d heard so much. I feared I’d never even get to the armory. I wasn’t shot or beaten.

They waved. “Good luck, fireman.” Some of them said. How did they know? I had so much to learn, neighborhoods knew, they always knew.

The first part of the test required me to scale an eight-foot wall. I failed. I failed almost all of the tests. I went home stunned. Just take the test, get on the job. Not for this boy. I wasn’t built right.

I had never cared much about anything, school, work, I was unmotivated. My failure put me at a personal crossroads.

I could be like my father and just get by or.

I chose or. I was going to do whatever it took to pass this test and get on the New York City Fire Department.

I joined a gym. I ate better, I ran, ran a lot. But that eight-foot-wall stood as a barrier to my future. I’d watched the other candidates get over it, I knew how to do it, but I had to practice and I lived in the suburbs, no alley walls here.

I built one. Two-by-fours and plywood, in my mother’s driveway. Then I built a mockup of the ledge balance. For almost a year, running on the track, running at that wall. Balancing on that ledge. I got better, I got over the wall, I got good at it. I had the timing just right. I was ready.

That same armory, but this time it was for real. The man said ‘go’ and I ran for

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that wall, confident. My foot hit just right, my hands went out. I knew they’d easily catch the back side of the top of that wall.

I missed. I didn’t understand. I’d done this a hundred times perfectly. Then it occurred to me. My mother’s driveway angled downhill, an edge I did not have here.

Hundreds of young men around me. All of us cheering on the others. My future slipping from my grasp. I’d lost.

It was at this point my ambivalent life changed. Yes, I’d worked hard to get here. But for nothing. The old me would have shrugged, oh well. Now I had less than a minute to decide.

I had never wanted anything in my life more than this. I was damned if I was going to give up. I got back into position, when the man said ‘go’ I dug in harder than I ever had and ran at that wall like if I didn’t go over it, I’d go through it.

I hit it hard with my foot and my fingers just caught the back edge of the top.

Everything I had went into pulling myself over. I dropped to the other side.

I had many more obstacles to go, but I’d beaten my mortal foe. I’d learned. If you want something, it’s going to a lot more work than you think to get there.

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I passed that test, barely. I was number 4998 on the list. I didn’t find out the history of the list and how few they hired until many years later. This is where luck came into play. My list was being used. I was on my way, I just had to wait.

Women had taken the test, a first. They all failed. They sued. It took years. As the case progressed, nobody was hired. Now I knew if I didn’t get on from this list, I would be too old to take the next test.

Overtime in the fire department skyrocketed. Members were retiring at full pay. When settlement was reached, the city decided to use the existing list.

They had to hire to reduce the overtime, and hire they did, with both hands. In 1983 they finally called number 4998. I raised my hand and fulfilled my dream.

In proby school, the instructors berated us. Told us the only reason we were here was because of the women getting a judge to bypass the merit system.

I stood in formation and smiled. I don’t care. I’m here.

Luck helped. But luck would not have mattered if I didn’t fight for something just out of my grasp.

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SELF HEALING We all have the ability to heal ourselves.

The thoughts we think and the words we choose matter.

You have everything you need to be at peace in your life and to heal yourself. If you think you don't, you can change that thought!

Manage your thoughts so that you focus on the ones that serve you and release the ones that don't.

The following tips are to remind you of the abilities you have within to heal yourself.

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10 TIPS BE PRESENT IN EACH MOMENT CARRY, HOLD OR WEAR A CRYSTAL LIKE

Amethyst

eat whole foods FOCUS ON YOUR BREATH

listen to music Release thoughts by writing them down

Spend time with animals Think Expansive Thoughts

WEAR BRIGHT COLORS

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53 | summer 2023

Change is a Chance with Jake The sound of the bell ringing screams through the ears of every student at 8:30 in the morning. Cheerful faces of friends seeing each other for the first time in months, laughing throughout the halls, everyone looking for their locker, and discussing who is in homeroom together.

Middle school The days of changing in the locker room with at least 15 other kids your age, everyone smells like they just ran a marathon in 100degree weather. People transitioning from young kids into their teenage selves.

Changes At this point in life, there are many new things coming and old things going. Middle school is full of changes. In my case, my parent's divorce was a huge change for me. My parents never got along well so it wasn’t a surprise to me, and my dad worked nights, so I was used to not seeing him often as well. But the hardest part of this experience for me was my mom moving an hour away from my hometown. This meant an hour away from school, friends, and the environment I had known my whole life.

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Creepy OLD House The new house was enormous, old, and honestly, a little creepy.

Built in the 1700s, this house was not new, but to me, it was brand t new and different. As soon as we walked in there was a black and white checkered kitchen floor, wood floors in the living room, bright light from the windows above the counters, and the strongest of all, a dusty smell. The house hadn’t been lived in for 3 years, which was obvious for anyone to see. Grim lined each window from the outside, the blue siding was barely gripping onto the house. Two large trees stood tall in the front yard; an overgrown garden surrounded the house like a mote.

Apocalypse?

The first few nights felt almost like a dare from a friend to stay in an abandoned house around Halloween time. But as we moved in our things and began to make the house our own, the house felt more and more like a home. The feeling of being ostracized overwhelmed me once I got used to living away from everything I had known. There were no more spontaneous bike rides with my friends or meeting up at the park to play basketball. This new town made me feel like the apocalypse had happened. There were very few people, and nobody my age so I began doing more things on my own.

Basketball and Music Independence seemed to slap me in the face after we got done unpacking. My mom had work to do because she owned her own store as well as worked for New York state writing civil service exams. While my sister was in high school, also working a job after school she didn’t have much time to hangout either.

Basketball and music became my safe haven.

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55 | summer 2023

Each day after my hour-long commute to school, I would walk the half-mile downhill to the park and shoot baskets until it got dark with my headphones on blaring music.

Rinse and repeat As the night fell, my hands blackened from dust, my clothes soaked in sweat, my headphones screaming lyrics into my ears, I would walk back home. Dinner was usually shortly after and then it was time to shower, do homework, then press repeat for the next day.

Social Isolation Pre-Covid Socially, I went from seeing friends daily after school to almost never. This was one of the toughest changes for me. I loved hanging out with my friends and they were very important to me because of the bonds I had made. But almost instantaneously, my friends seemed to forget about me as we began to hang out less.

Nowadays, I keep a very small circle of only a couple of friends and an even smaller circle of close friends.

Self Reflection Those years to me do not feel like the worst times. Reflecting, now I see that this loneliness taught me many things. I learned how difficult it is to own a house because as the “man” of the house at age 12, I oversaw trying to fix things and do the home projects. I was also taught how to be at peace with myself. That doesn’t mean self-love, but I was able to take this time to do what was good for myself.

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Finding the Silver Lining This period of my life changed me into who I am today by making me into a person who tends to face problems on their own.

I have recognized that this is not always the best trait but for some things, it is a great tool. As a higher-up at my job, my boss recently told me that I need to rely more on my staff to help me out because I am not paid to do the job of three people. So, although I learned the importance of facing problems on my own, the double-edged sword has shown me there are people in my life that want to help me.

Gaining Perspective Not all situations are under your control. Being able to know what you can and cannot control, in my opinion, is a great skill to have.

I believe moving is what taught me this. I did not control where we moved to or how it affected me. But I was able to control how I reacted to this change. Without this chapter in my life, I don’t think I would be where I am today.

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57 | summer 2023

peaceful parenting

Parenting takes place in many contexts You may parent a child, friend, parent or sibling. You may parent an animal or a stranger on the street. Most importantly, you parent yourself. Do you parent yourself the way you parent others?

What is the quality of the space you hold for yourself?

Anytime we are in the role of a parent we are responsible for holding space in one way or another. How do we hold space for others if we don't know how to hold it for ourselves?

Healthy and Unhealthy Parents Teach us It seems obvious by our parenting experiences that many of us are meant to learn to parent ourselves! Whether we learn what to do from healthy parents, or what not to do from unhealthy parents, we have the ability to be for ourselves everything we are seeking in others.

Be the Parent you Seek You will know you are parenting yourself when you stop looking to others for things like approval, guidance and validation. This is emotional and mental freedom.

Recognizing Parenting Behaviors Recognize and manage your own emotions. What others think doesn't matter as much as what you think. Validate your own emotions. Love yourself unconditionally. Talk with and about yourself in a loving and caring way.

Identify your Inner Voice You have an inner parent voice. A voice that lovingly guides you. Learn to tune into this voice when you seek guidance or are guiding others. Intend to hear it.

Manage your Mind Your inner parent voice always speaks with unconditional love to you. If you can’t hear this voice it may mean your mind chatter is too loud. Work to reduce the volume of your thoughts, especially the limiting ones.

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Be Aware of your Thoughts Consciously become aware in the moment what you are thinking.

Be Purposeful Set an intention to embrace expansive insights and thoughts. Choose not to give attention to ideas or thoughts that do not serve your highest good.

Show up as the Best Version of You Make a choice to embrace healthy thinking and behavioral patterns. We can choose to treat ourselves with unconditional love. We can choose better feeling thoughts.

We are our best parent.

Parent Yourself as You Want to be Parented We can learn to meet our own needs by learning to parent ourselves. Everything you are looking for outside of yourself find within yourself. Need validation? Look within. Validate yourself. Need unconditional love? It's in there too.

Identify your Emotional Needs Learn to meet your own needs as a parent does for a small child. Recognize that if your needs were not met as a small child, you have the ability to meet them for yourself in the present moment.

You are the Creator of Peace for Yourself Choose to love and nurture yourself. Create peace within and you will be a magnet for peace to surround you. Parent yourself like the parent you always dreamed of!

Parenting Yourself is an Expression of Self Love We are programmed to believe we must put the needs of others before the needs of ourselves. It is not selfish to love and parent yourself. It is only selfish when we do it to the detriment or the well-being of others.

What is your Parenting Signature?

We pass our skills on to our children and others in the form of generational blessings or generational curses. How are you showing up as a parent in 21st century?

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59 | summer 2023

Self-Parenting Practices Be as present in each moment as possible.

Be aware of how you speak to yourself, your attitude, tone and choice of words all matter.

Embody the energy and beginner mind of a child.

Forgive yourself as you would a small child.

Get to know your emotions. When they show up, how they feel, how to express them in a healthy way and how to release them.

Learn how to create emotional boundaries so that you can separate your feelings from the feelings of others.

Get to know yourself, your core beliefs, values and guiding principles.

Give yourself space from healing when you need it.

Identify and manage your emotional triggers.

Keep a consistent schedule. It is easier to balance our emotions when we know what to expect.

Manage your mind so that your thoughts serve your highest good.

Set the intention each day to show up as your best self.

Understand the parts of you that make you unique.

XOX

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MOM XOX Maximizing Our Momentum One Person at a Time MISSION Leverage and support charitable giving that expands the potential of communities, families, human resources and individuals.

VISION Unlimited growth potential.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES Belief in our infinite potential to co-create thriving workplace environments.

Charitable donations create momentum.

Passionately seek, create and share knowledge, skills and experiences that inspire others.

We are more powerful together than separate.

CORE VALUES Inclusivity Integrity Open mindedness Resourcefulness Trust Unconditional Love

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63 | summer 2023

MOM XOX Employers have influence and are often instrumental in supporting their community. Employers are able to facilitate charitable giving by offering employees the opportunity to also support their communities and interests through payroll deduction.

MOM XOX is a non profit organization focused on maximizing our momentum by leveraging our collective resources. MOM XOX offers employers of any size an opportunity to develop, engage, support and value their employees.

A creative, effective and efficient way for individuals and businesses to work together, it’s also simple to implement. MOM XOX will provide the information and support to communicate with your employees about this exciting new program.

Represent a cause, demonstrate giving, support your employees development, AND live in a community where the efforts of nonprofits are valued and supported. Be the change you want to see through giving, supporting and being part of the solution.

Together, we can make a difference.

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MOM XOX is currently building a team of employers that believe in their own power to make a difference.

This is an opportunity for employers to join with their employees to showcase the ability to be a community leader in supporting their employees as well as community needs through charitable donations.

Email momxoxinc@gmail.com for more information.

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65 | summer 2023

MOM XOX Charitable Giving through Payroll Deduction Frequently Asked Questions What is charitable giving through payroll deduction?

Payroll deduction is a tool that allows employees to donate to a charity directly from their gross salary. Charitable giving offers a multitude of benefits to employees, employers AND charitable causes.

What are the benefits of donating through payroll deduction?

Payroll deductions allow you to make recurring payments over the course of a year that add up to making a meaningful difference by year end. It's easy to keep track of your donations because the information will accrue on your paystub, as well as be reported on your W-2. Payroll deductions also allow you to reduce your taxable wages.

Are there fees associated with donating through payroll deduction?

No. Why should I participate through payroll deductions instead of donating directly to charities?

Payroll deductions are the most efficient way to give. You don’t have to write or send a check, track your donations or remember to give. MOM XOX raises money at a lower cost than if the organizations were fundraising themselves.

This provides organizations with the opportunity to do the important work of providing valuable services to our communities!

Will progress of donations be tracked and reported to participants?

Yes, every month participants will receive a report which shares the fundraising results of the previous month.

Who benefits from my charitable donations through payroll deductions?

The charity that you choose benefits. You also benefit by knowing that you have made a difference through your charitable donation.

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How can I afford to give?

Even a modest payroll deduction can help to make a difference. Giving through payroll deduction makes your contribution even easier because you can spread it over the entire year. And your intention to give is what matters, even the smallest amounts matter.

Are the donations tax-deductible?

Yes. Your donation can be deducted from your annual pay using Schedule A, Gifts to Charity of your itemized tax return.

What are the guidelines for claiming payroll deducted charitable donations on your taxes?

Notice 2006-110 states that a taxpayer should obtain a pledge card that shows the name of the charity PLUS one of the following: a document from your employer that shows the total amount withheld for payment to charity a pay stub W-2 from employer taking deductions The above rules are predicated on the following conditions: You Itemize You Donated to a Qualified Charitable Organization Your Gift Was made by December 31 of the tax year The above summary of certain federal income tax laws is provided for informational purposes only. We urge you to consult your tax advisor for the federal, state, and local tax consequences of a charitable contribution.

How do I know if I am donating to a Qualified Charitable Organization?

The IRS allows you to use an online search tool for Exempt Organizations.

This may be used to verify that your charity of choice is eligible for tax deductions. https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/tax-exempt-organization-search.

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job analysis: The Infrastructure of a JOB Job analysis is the foundation of all jobs. It is the first step in the recruitment and selection process.

Job analysis findings are the basis of the job description, the performance reviews and the employee evaluations. A thorough job analysis includes professional development and succession planning. Job analysis is the backbone of the job.

Employee engagement, performance, satisfaction and turnover can be managed using job analysis. Just as we analyze the current position, we can understand the factors that influenced past employees and use these factors when we create job descriptions.

My last job consisted of analyzing hundreds of job titles with ensuing job descriptions, specifications and classification standards.

Things like what makes you expert at the job, how many years does it take to become expert at the job and exactly what you need to know to start the job are all a part of job analysis. This information is generally not provided to job seekers in the job description, even though it may be helpful

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in their decision making. It is part of the transparency and the collaboration employees are demanding. It is information that directly impacts the engagement, performance, satisfaction and turnover related to the job.

What if we made the job analysis an ongoing and more transparent as well as interactive process? What if we built on the foundations that already exist for each particular job?

Making the job description more representative of reality is a key factor in attracting the best candidates.

Telling employees how they can thrive and the difference they are making is motivation they seek.

The job market has changed. Many have woken up to their drive to do what they love. Employees want to know about the work/life balance, opportunities to learn and grow personally and professionally, as well as the work environment. They want to know what's in it for them.

Using the job analysis as the framework for your employees offers clarity, direction, structure and transparency. If you are struggling with engaging or retaining employees, begin with the job analysis.

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work/life balance with Kate Work/life balance is important. Up until the pandemic, it seems most people forgot just how important it is. It took a pandemic for us to value it again.

WE ACCEPTED IMBALANCE Working long hours, working on the weekends, putting work before family, friends, and even our well-being was the norm. We may not have even realized just how much time and energy we were putting into work. This imbalance was accepted and expected by everyone.

UNTIL WE GAINED A NEW PERSPECTIVE Then the pandemic happened, and it forced most people to adjust how they worked.

Some even stopped working altogether.

Many had to start working from home, and while it may have seemed daunting at first, particularly for those individuals who are not technically savvy, it also opened the doors of discovering self-enjoyment again.

REMEMBERING LIFE Working from home or alternate workschedules due to the pandemic allowed us more time for the things we enjoy.

Including spending time with our friends and family or our pets.

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Some of us were finally able to get that animal we had longed for but couldn’t because of our time spent away from home working. It allowed us to pick up our old favorite hobbies or perhaps find new ones.

Many of us got to read that book we had been eyeing for months, or catch up on our favorite tv shows that we somehow forgot about.

EMPLOYER BENEFITS OF WORK/LIFE BALANCE This adjustment to work-life benefitted us as individuals, as well as our employers. Work/life balance boosts overall morale and retention.

Employees work just as hard if not harder than when they are out of balance.

SEEMS OBVIOUS NOW Employees are not working to their potential when their work and life is out of balance. Now that we have been shown that, we are committed to maintaining it. We have all witnessed the destruction that overworking can cause as children, partners or co-workers.

SECRET TO HAPPY, PRODUCTIVE EMPLOYEES Companies that promote a work/life balance are more likely to be sought out by prospective employees, especially those companies that offer working remote. It's the secret to happy, productive employees!

So let this be a reminder that it’s okay to think of yourself and your happiness when it comes to work. Success means nothing if you can’t enjoy it!

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Self Care in the workplace When we accept an offer of employment, we are told what is expected of us in our position. We are briefed on the type of workload, work hours and culture of the employment. We base our decision about the offer on this information.

What happens when the employer is less than transparent? Or when the interviewer thinks they know the culture and expectations, but don't? Or when there is a disconnect between a department and human resources?

For those that have experienced something less than transparency, you might be wondering the same thing.

Informed Decision?

Molly accepted a job offer two years ago with a local news station. Her understanding of the job position was that she would work approximately 25 hours per week as a reporter. She would pitch and produce two stories each week.

She asked every question she could think of and the answers pointed to the job being a perfect fit with her personal life. She excitedly accepted the job offer and began reporting!

Subtle Shifts that Add Up It took Molly two years to realize that she was working more than 40 hours per week. To make it worse, she works hours into the night. She is also expected to pitch and produce 4 stories each week!

Her workload and hours have doubled, yet her title and job contract has remained unchanged. And she can't even put her finger on exactly how it happened!

Work/Life Imbalance Molly noticed because her personal life was out of control. She was not doing things she loved, and neglecting her loved ones and pets as well as herself. This wasn't what she signed up for.

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Speak up Molly made the decision to speak up about her schedule and workload. She asked to be paid for the hours was working. Her manager told her she deserved a raise, but explained that it was not in the budget.

AHA Moment Molly was upset about this and rightfully so, this was what she needed o hear. She asked herself "if my employer doesn't care about my happiness, why am I giving all my happiness to this employer?"

In that moment Molly took her power back. She is the only one responsible for ensuring that she is happy. When we seek it outside of ourselves, we somehow never quite find it.

Boundaries in the Workplace Molly made the choice to set boundaries. It wasn't an easy decision or natural for her to set these boundaries. She was nervous when she informed management that she understood their position. She affirmed that she would continue providing quality work but that it would be within the 25 hour work week and 2 weekly stories framework she had signed up for.

Find Balance in Giving and Receiving at Work We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, many of use put in extra time and effort without compensation and all for what? If it isn’t bringing us happiness and joy then why not spend more time focusing on ourselves, putting ourselves first. I am not saying don’t put an effort in at work but don’t give more of yourself than your job deserves.

Molly had an understanding employer. When your employer does not understand your needs and communication or respect your boundaries, it is time to question if this employment is in your highest good.

We want to be our best selves and sometimes that means setting boundaries and making a change. After all if you don’t love your work than a job is just a job. Either way, it is never more important than your own well-being and growth.

Kate

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better work days Co- create engaging workplace Employee engagement is a strategic business objective for co-creating thriving workplaces! Employees and employers benefit when the workforce is engaged!

The enthusiasm and involvement of employees AND employers matters. We want to work places where we feel valued. Engagement is a top priority for successful employers.

Every day people are becoming more aware of their ability to follow their dreams. Create workplaces that align with their dreams and your business will thrive too.

kearakisses.com

10 Ways for employees to demonstrate engagement Be coachable.

Be open and honest about your employment needs.

Be present by focusing 100 % of your attention on duties as much as reasonable.

Create boundaries and communicate them clearly.

Embrace the purpose of your role.

Know what skills you bring to your work.

Manage your time and prioritize your deadlines/tasks.

Practice mindfulness throughout the day.

Seek opportunities to develop your skills.

Understand your limits and triggers.

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Co-Creating Engaging Workplaces Employers have the opportunity to engage employees from the inception of each job.

How and what you think about the duties of the job matter.

Get excited about the importance of the hire. Now write an engaging job description that is as energetic as the candidate(s) you seek!

Engagement begins with the job description.

10 Tips for creating Engaging Job Descriptions Be clear, concise and honest, speak directly to your candidates using “you” statements.

Describe the key points and/or skill sets using up to 5 bullet points.

Focus job responsibilities on growth and professional development, as well as purpose.

Include an application close date, start date and general email address for questions.

Invite video cover letters.

Involve as many people as appropriate.

Know the culture and describe it clearly in one sentence.

Lead with what’s in it for the candidate.

Use language throughout that is empowering and uplifting. Avoid gender specific language.

Use one sentence to describe how the position fits into the company mission. Include how it contributes, improves, serves or solves a need. Illustrate the value of the position in the company.

8 Ways to Engage Employees

Create a clear, consistent and value driven onboarding process

Hold leaders accountable for creating strong and trusting relationships

Make employee wellbeing a priority

Offer skill development programs and support

Offer strategic competency based pay

Role Model clear mission, vision, values and guiding principles

Set challenging goals that align with mission

Support a culture of engagement by asking questions and listening to answers

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kate anthony Kate Anthony is a graduate of Albany Law School. She plans to use her education to advocate for the rights of animals, among other things!

In addition to advocating for animals, Kate helped Lori to get 501(c)(3) status for MOM XOX. Together they will be working to bring educational and self development programs to schools, as well as workplaces.

kearakisses.com

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HILARY BRUMLEY

Hilary Brumley's story is one of triumph over adversity.

After experiencing devastating tragedy and trauma that led to debilitating mental and physical illness, she knew she had to find a way to heal herself.

Through years of research and selfdiscovery, Hilary developed simple yet powerful transformational techniques that allowed her to heal and transform her life.

Now, as an Intuitive Vibrational Channel, Sound Healer, and Holistic Wellness Expert, Hilary is committed to sharing these techniques with others who are on their own healing journeys. She understands the pain and suffering that comes with trauma and illness, and she is passionate about empowering others to heal themselves so they can live pain-free, renewed lives.

With Hilary's guidance, clients can tap into their own innate healing abilities and release emotional and physical blockages that have been holding them back. Through Sound Healing, Vibrational Therapy, and other holistic practices, Hilary helps clients connect with their inner wisdom to find the healing they need to break free of the pain cycle and experience vitality.

Hilary's approach is compassionate, empowering, and effective. She knows that healing is a unique and individual journey, and she is dedicated to supporting others along their own paths. With her expertise, guidance, and support, you can experience the transformative power of self-healing and live your best life!

Hilary has created Holistic Harmonics Integrative Health Hub so she can invite as many people as possible to share the gift of self-healing.

brandi simon Brandi I’m a 40 year old elder millennial.

Like most in my generation and the ones before and after, I was raised being taught that animals were here for us to eat. We ate one or another for most meals.

Even though I knew they were animals. I was conditioned from early on, to dissociate what it truly meant.

While pregnant with my first child, I saw what was probably a 30 second video on Facebook. Instantly and intensely it was as if I was hit with a ton of bricks, pushing me off a 100 story building into the truth.

What have I done? What have I done to them? From that second, not one animal has touched my lips.

By my second pregnancy, I faced the truth about the dairy industry. My love of cheese could rival anyone’s, but I knew what had to be done. How could I as a mother, a breast feeding mother, pay to have another’s baby taken away and killed so I could have the milk meant for them?

No one becomes vegan because we don’t like the taste of things we were raised on.

It happens when we align our actions with our beliefs.

kearakisses.com

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81 | summer 2023

Dr. kylie Dr. Kylie is a mom of 2 and a chiropractor who hates adjusting. After figuring out how to scale her functional medicine practice using group programs and blood work her patients already have, she now helps her colleagues do the same.

As host of a top-rated podcast, Beyond the Diagnosis with Dr. Kylie, she has been on national TV, several international radio shows, Good Morning Utah, and Fox 26 Houston.

Dr. Kylie hosted the first annual, "In This Together Live" for us practitioners in Orlando, FL. She works with practitioners to co-create businesses that work for them. Current practices are transformed into time, money and impact!

Dr. Karla Karla Montague-Brown, M.D. is the founder and CEO of CROWN TO SOLE Wellness, LLC. She is a health and wellness lifestyle transformational coach and speaker for women with chronic illnesses such as autoimmune disorders.

Her mission is to encourage, empower, and equip women to take control of their health and create lives of joy, abundance, and holistic wellness.

Dr. Montague-Brown is a graduate of Oakwood University and Meharry College and spent many years providing medical services as a Board-Certified Family Medicine physician. She currently serves as a medical consultant for the State of Tennessee with Disability Determination Services.

She is the author of OVERCOMING AUTOIMMUNITY: One Physician’s Step

By Step Journey To Victory Over Her Chronic Illnesses, which chronicles her personal experience as a patient diagnosed with autoimmune disorders.

(Available on Amazon) In addition to serving others in a professional capacity, Dr. Karla enjoys spending time with her husband and the couple’s 2 young adult sons.

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ROSANNA M. LO MEO Rosanna's intuition has led her down many paths over the years. From Transformational Coach, Breathwork Facilitator, Energy and Sound Healer, Licensed Massage Therapist, Angel Card Reader, Author and Master/Teacher of Integrated Energy Therapy (IET) and Usui Reiki, Rosanna has followed her intuition every step of the way. Even her B.A. in Psychology and Italian was divinely guided.

New Beginnings with Rosanna was created to help divorced women heal their heart and fearlessly move forward to their happily ever after.

As an Atlantean High Priestess, “The Voice” Emissary of the 8th Dimensional planet Laos, Rosanna also teaches about the high vibrational frequencies of the 8th dimension. These loving and healing energies assist humanity to awaken, remember and reconnect with our Galactic family.

kimberly artbuthnot Kimberly Arbuthnot is a retired registered nurse, a professionally trained cook, a culinary educator, and a life coach trained in the Art of Feminine Presence.

She has created an experiential program to empower women who struggle with emotional, stress, and addictive eating habits.

Through a combination of coaching, support groups, education related to healthy eating, meditation and other transformational practices, Kimberly provides the participants with the tools necessary to release emotional eating habits.

Use of the tools can lead to freedom from the use of food as a coping strategy thereby allowing the women to drop unwanted pounds, feel better in their own skin, and regain health and vitality.

In addition to leading Emotional Eating groups, Kimberly leads groups in The Art of Feminine Presence and teaches Cooking and Eating for Optimal Health.

kearakisses.com

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85 | summer 2023

jake kelley Jake is currently a student at University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) pursuing a degree in Business Administration.

He holds a leadership role in the childcare program of the YMCA. Jake also does contract work, learning new things everyday.

When he isn't working. Jake enjoys going to the gym, fishing and playing video games with local and long distance friends.

JAMES S. Krieger Born in Poughkeepsie, NY, Jim comes from a historic family. His grandfather, Robert L. Smith was one of the last Smith Brothers of cough drop fame.

Educated at Proctor Academy, The New Hampshire Vocational and Technical College, and Pace University Jim chose to pursue a career with the largest fire department in the United States and the second largest in the world. The New York City Fire Department.

Jim served for 25 years and was twice promoted, retiring as a Captain. He worked in every borough of New York City, as he says, ‘meeting people for the first time on the worst day of their life.’ It is the best job in the world.

While on the job Jim and his wife Susan lived in Cornwall, New York where they raised their two children, Jenny and Katie. Jim and Susan now reside in southeastern North Carolina and are frequently found on its numerous beaches. They enjoy traveling and have driven coast-to-coast twice, meeting interesting people and exploring our amazing country. Jim has written four novels, one of which is available on Amazon, with a second due out in July.

The ideas and characters for his stories come from a lifetime of meeting people from every place on the social and economic scale across the U.S. and a dozen foreign countries.

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upcoming

WEEKLY

Modern Life Keeping with Lori Cristine podcast

MONTHLY Join Lori and Hilary July 16, August 20 and September 17 for a Circle of Intentional Healing 11:00 am EDT signup: kearakisses44@gmail.com

SEPTEMBER 2023 Residential Retreat "AWAKEN the GODDESS WITHIN" September 8-10, 2023 email Rosanna at: Rosanna@NewBeginningswithRosanna.com

kearakisses.com

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Self-healing directory coaching

functional medicine

Crown to Sole Wellness Karla Montague-Brown, M.D. 1:1 Coaching to Overcome Autoimmunity Learn more with free Discovery Call.

Schedule your call: https://calendly.com/karlambrown/ overcomeautoimmunitydiscoverycall https://crowntosolewellness.com/

Beyond the Diagnosis Dr. Kylie Burton Our mission is to be the LAST doctor that you have tell your current story to. Our goal is to have all within our reach fulfill their divine potential by experiencing the future of medicine, today.

Dr.KylieBurton.com

soul planning New Beginnings with Rosanna Heal your Heart after Divorce, Loss and Trauma.

Heal your body, mind and soul after your whole world has been destroyed.

Emotional healing is essential for a happy life, your rebirth and new beginning. https://www.newbeginningswithrosanna .com/

Keara Kisses Lori Cristine Explore life lessons, obstacles and purpose. Create a plan to close the gap between where you are where you want to be. Learn skills to align with your best self, overcome obstacles and thrive. kearakisses.com

sound healing Joy in Mindful Eating Kimberly Artbuthnot I meet you where you are and invite you to work in the format in which you are most comfortable including one on one, groups or 3-5 day retreats. email Kimberly for more information: arbuthnotrn@gmail.com

Holistic Harmonics Hilary Brumley 4 Foundations of Holistic Health to take you from Surviving to Thriving. Book your complimentary 30 min Pain to Power Breakthrough to create a personalized mini wellness plan: www.tinyurl.com/PaintoPowersession holisticharmonics.com

Future medicine will be the medicine of frequencies.

ALBERT EINSTEIN