WILD MAG #3 Sept 2023: Vera Kretschmar

ISSUE 03 I SEPT 2023

MENTAL HEALTH LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX

VERA KRETSCHMAR ANGEL INVESTOR

WINE TIME IN THE TROPICS

RIDING THE RED CARPET WOMEN GONE WILD

//

LEARNING TO FLOAT

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RESET YOUR GOALS

VOLUME 3 / SEPT 2023

ISSUE 03 I SEPT 2023

WILD Magazine

UBA

Founder

Chief Marketing Officer

Rhonda Swan

Brian Swan

Editor In Chief

Head Of Publishing

Jonas Muthoni

Annelise Sylta

Editor

Head of Sales

Nigel Simmonds

Ryan Lenett

Creative Director

Editorial Content Director

Stuart Sullivan

Tarryn Reeves

Graphic Design

Accounting

Adi Mika

Jelena Dakic

Writers

Senior Designer

Nico Simmonds, Andrew Hall,

Dave Abejar

MENTAL HEALTH LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX

RIDING THE RED CARPET WOMEN GONE WILD

//

LEARNING TO FLOAT

//

RESET YOUR GOALS

VERA KRETSCHMAR BY DEO @CIAO.BALI

Karen Donald, Hanalei Swan Administrative Director

© No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Starrwyn

WILD Magazine is published by the

France, America, and more) in related

women everywhere. As a child, Rhonda

unleashing their voice is of paramount

Unstoppable Branding Agency, a

fields such as digital marketing,

grew up in a turbulent home and

importance in order to attain success.

forward-thinking public relations and

graphic design, UI/UX, and content

struggled with her self-image and an

branding company based in Bali with

production as well as publishing. For

eating disorder that lasted for almost

This is the third issue of WILD

influence and followers internationally.

its employees, degrees are not the

10 years.

Magazine, a publication which seeks

prerequisite – instead, it is experience,

to leverage the company’s faith in

UBA utilizes storytelling, SEO, and

knowledge, and skill which matter to

When she overcame her struggles,

empowered women and their partners

brand messaging to grow its clients’

the company.

Rhonda realized that she wanted

across all countries and nationalities.

to help other women achieve the

personal branding. It employs

4

VERA KRETSCHMAR ANGEL INVESTOR

WINE TIME IN THE TROPICS

experts from all over the world (from

Unstoppable Branding Agency was

same success. The drive behind the

We feel priveleged that you are taking

countries such as Malaysia, New

founded upon Rhonda Swan’s firm

Unstoppable Branding Agency is to

the time to read our publication, it

Zealand, Germany, the UK, Singapore,

belief in the importance of empowering

empower women by showing them that

makes what we do so worthwhile.

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Dream a little. Travel a lot.

5

VOLUME 3 / SEPT 2023

WELCOME Welcome to WILD Magazine Issue #3 and let me say right up front here I feel so grateful to be able to share this publication with you. My huge thanks to the team at UBA and especially to our bespoke Print Division which we have newly launched to be able to produce quality magazines – not just for our own needs but for all of you out there too, whether it’s for you’re a masterclass event, company incentive trip or coaching seminar. If you’d like to talk to me about this, get in touch!

This month has also been tinged with not a small amount of sadness for me as I lost my father to old age, and it’s hit me harder than I thought it would. But I take comfort in the fact that my Dad is up in heaven right now telling me to quit the waterworks and get a grip.

We all know that the circle of life is inevitable, but how wild the ride will be is on us to decide. It’s how we leave our mark, how others remember us. This is what my father taught me.

I remember back in high school, at 16 or 17, we got asked a bizarre question: “What do you want folks to say about you in your eulogy?

How do you want to be remembered?” This was a confronting question. It felt like a curveball then, making me squirm in my seat.

But today, I get it.

That question? It’s not just a question; it’s a roadmap. It guides our choices, our actions, and how we make a lasting impact on those around us. It’s a reminder that life is precious, and we must cherish every moment knowing that our actions are making an impression on the world.

So, my friends, let’s seize every moment with purpose and love, because it’s not about how long we’re here, but about how brightly we shine while we are. Be unstoppable. - Rhonda Swan

6

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CONTENTS

82

70

30

TRISTEN DURKIN

KORTNEY MURRAY

VERA KRETSCHMAR

Tristen Durkin shares her passion

Angel investor Vera Kretschmar outlines her best strategies for investing, and points to what’s most important in life, from giving

Founder of True Medical Aesthetics for creating a beauty clinic that empowers women to feel good about themselves in a way that has far-reaching effects.

CRYSTAL JACKSON Crystal Jackson, one of the co-

Kortney is the key to so many business success stories ... helping entrepreneurs to make capitol out of what are often limited resources.

founders of Elevate Co & owner of Crystal Jackson – Intuitive Business Synergist, stands as

back to discovering there is more to

a beacon of inspiration and

money than chemical factories.

guidance.

40

54 MENTAL HEALTH/5

MENTAL HEALTH/1

46

RHONDA SWAN

The Greek God Sisyphus was

MENTAL HEALTH/3

crises, we are faced with seemingly

Rhonda needs very little

boulder up a hill every day, only to

In the tapestry of human

uncertainty. Who should you trust?

have it fall to earth at the end of it.

relationships, we all tread

He should have been a woman.

the delicate path of seeking

28 introduction. As the publisher of WILD magazine and the Women

famously punished to push a

72 TARRYN REEVES Unleashing Your Inner Power: The Transformative Journey of Sharing Your Story in a Book.

insurmountable collective

correspondent Kavi.

the Unstoppable force behind her successful agency UBA.

As we navigate multiple global

connection, writes our

Gone Wild book series, she remains

8

74

44 MENTAL HEALTH/2 Hanalei Swan shows us what lies beneath the surface with a compelling piece about the emotional tides that subsist within all of us.

60 50 MENTAL HEALTH/4 Making space outside of work returns the connection to your biggest fan – you.

LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX Why vacation sex is the best sex – and how to bring it home, writes elite matchmaker Stephanie Jaie.

9

9

would you like to be a

AUTHOR? Author applications for

2025 ARE BEING ACCEPTED NOW!

Share your story with the world & be one of the next Wild authors in 2025

LEADERSHIP EDITION

10

w w w.w g w b o o k . c o m

CONTENTS

80 THE T LADY

68

76

JET STAR

BEATE NIMSKY

We uncover the story of a woman transitioned from the glitzy world of travel influencing to a passionate

Elissa Scott, The T Lady, owns a

advocate for empowerment.

leading company that specializes

Meet Marjet Van Wijk

in making herbal tea for women

LEARNING TO FLOAT It’s easy to stay afloat when the water is calm but the real challenge comes from learning to keep

REENA MERCHANT Forward-thinker Reena Merchant

64 Trailblazers in forging healthy

INTUITION

relationships, Anna Nowak and Alicia Berg, are showing us how to have a better relationship with sex.

Your female intuition is a powerful tool exclusive to you. Give it your trust, and make sure you use it

DIANA WENTWORTH Diana Wentworth, Founder of Inside

PATTI NEGRI Patti Negri, psychic medium, “Good

author of seven best-selling and

exercises to help you get back in good psychic shape.

92 SABABAY Sababay Winery is on a visionary mission to uplift the livelihoods of Bali’s farmers by seamlessly blending culinary excellence with locally-crafted wines.

Nigella Lorson.

Edge Foundation for Education,

balancing and some easy elemental

you to be happy.

to stay ahead of the game, writes

86

host, shares the benefits of energy

Academy, Beate Nimsky just wants

problem solver to build human tech.

88

in your way.

Witch,” podcaster, author, and TV

four... founder and CEO of Nimsky

has integrated the personal with the

MADE HOT

tranquil when life poses new waves

84

Counting the Beate ... two, three,

And we love her for it.

going through menopause.

48

36

international keynote speaker, award-winning books, and co-author of two Chicken Soup for the Soul titles, shares the power of what it means to be drawn rather than driven.

94 18 CUSTOM COLLAB UBA and Deviate Agency have announced a partnership to provide dynamic and infallible digital branding solutions to clients.

EVENT HORIZON When Powerhouse Rhonda Swan plans an event, she does not do so lightly. The best-selling author, CEO and advocate for women empowerment recently put together the Wildest book launch of the year backedby a red carpet extravaganza.

11

NETWORK NEWS

UBA Launches New Publications Division MAKE A STATEMENT THAT SPEAKS VOLUMES WITH A BESPOKE MAGAZINE FOR YOUR EVENT. THE Unstoppable Branding Agency has

than 30 years and has worked as the editorial

launched a new publications division on the

leader at Tatler Magazine, as well as creating

back of its success with WILD magazine.

publications for the likes of American Express, Visa, and Mastercard, not to mention hotel

“It just made sense,” says UBA founder Rhonda

magazines for The Regent Beverly Wilshire,

Swan. “Everywhere we went with WILD, people

InterContinental Resorts and Bali’s respected

complemented us on the magazine. So we

luxury publication The Yak. Nigel is backed by a

decided to open a new publications division so

team of experienced writers, designers and web

we can make quality magazines for our clients

developers.

as well.”

ISSUE 02 I JUNE 2023

How does it work?

UBA today specializes in the creation of one-off

- Do you have a Blue Chip client that needs a

magazines for high-level events, whether its for

magazine for their leadership event?

seminars, high-ticket coaching or Masterclass

- Do you need a magazine with Masterclass

retreats. Magazines are designed, curated and

content for your high-ticket coaching seminar?

produced for delivery anywhere in the world.

- Create a high-quality magazine for your successful company, curated at every step of the

“Our luxe publications combine high-level

way.

creative design and great photography with intelligent, focused editorial to create

Leave it to us!

compelling magazines that scream QUALITY,”

We walk you through the process, creating

says Rhonda. “We use only advanced printing

and consulting you on relevant, targeted

methods and exceptional paper stock and our

content and individual design that matches

team boasts some of the most experienced

your message. We handle all aspects of the

staffers in the business.”

publication, from design to production, printing

CUSTOM COLLABORATION SPIRITUALITY IN BUSINESS GODDESS IN THE MACHINE THE POWER OF INTUITION

REENA MERCHANT PHILSOPHER SCIENTIST

and delivery.

WOMEN GONE WILD // LEADERSHIP LAWS // BURNOUT TO BALANCE

At the helm of the new division is British

12

Editor In Chief Nigel Simmonds who has been

For more details please contact us at https://

creating award-winning publications for more

unstoppablebrandingagency.com

A WORLD OF PUBLISHING POSSIBILITIES.

NETWORK NEWS

FEARLESS. 14

WILD WHEN POWERHOUSE RHONDA SWAN PLANS AN EVENT, SHE DOES NOT DO SO LIGHTLY. THE BEST-SELLING AUTHOR, CEO AND ADVOCATE FOR WOMEN EMPOWERMENT RECENTLY PUT TOGETHER THE WILDEST BOOK LAUNCH OF THE YEAR BACKED

BY A RED CARPET EXTRAVAGANZA.

15

NETWORK NEWS

WOMEN Gone Wild: The Feminine Guide To

Read your way to success

Justine Siegal, an American baseball coach, sports educator and the founder of Baseball For

Fearless Living launched to acclaim at Barnes and Noble in Huntington Beach, California,

Women Gone Wild: Feminine Guide to Fearless

All offered her experience and knowledge from

with a gathering of authors and supporters

Living Wealth Edition is about redefining wealth

the stage. In 2009, Siegal became the first female

attending the book signing event and later a red

and encouraging women to build their own

coach of a professional men’s baseball team

carpet extravaganza in their honor.

financial success, says Swan. The book offers

when she worked for the Brockton Rox, in the

insights and strategies for wealth creation and

independent Canadian American Association of

The book is the first edition in a four-part series

management, with a focus on the meaning of

Professional Baseball.

covering Wealth, Intuition, Leadership and

W.I.L.D – Wealth, Intuition, Leadership and

Diversity (W.I.L.D) published by Rhonda Swan

Diversity.

Jen Welter, an American football coach who is currently linebackers coach for the Vegas

of the Unstoppable Branding Agency.

“This powerful book involves 25 female authors

Vipers of the XFL, brought more sporting tales

Said Rhonda, a five-times best selling author,

from all walks of life, and their stories reflect a

of triumph. She was a defensive coaching intern

CEO and advocate for women empowerment:

wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and

for the National Football League’s Arizona

“Anyone reading this book will be moved by the

challenges,” she said. “Together, they create a

Cardinals during their training camp and the

transparency of the shared experiences and

strong message of resilience, empowerment,

2015 preseason, making her the first female

inspired by the vulnerability of the writers. I

and hope, providing a much-needed boost of

coaching intern in the NFL.

like to describe this edition as a Chicken Soup

inspiration and motivation.”

Swan says: ‘Each of these powerful voices as

For The Soul-type book focussed on female The 25 authors in the book include Rhonda

well as our other incredible speakers ensured

Swan, Diana Wentworth, Jamie Anderson,

our message to uplift women everywhere came

The Wealth Edition is about redefining

Danette May, Danelle Delgado, Adriana Alvarez,

through loud and clear.‘’

wealth in every area of life, says Swan, and

Hanalei Swan, Camberly Gilmartin, April Ryan,

showing women the power of connection and

Michelle Beltran, Kortney Murray, Stefanie

Kamin Samuel, First female African-American

collaboration by sharing stories designed to

Bruns, Blair Kaplan Venables, Ania Halama,

Helicopter pilot for the Navy, also starred at

support each other.

Karen Whelan, Tarryn Reeves, Dana Kay, Ebony

the event. She began her professional career in

Swank, Barbie Layton, Genevieve Searle, Shar

the U.S. Navy as first female African-American

Moore, Michale Gabriel, and Robin Mullin.

helicopter pilot and holds a PhD in Positive

empowerment.

“Women Gone Wild is a safe space for women to

Neuropsychology, a Masters of Science in

share their WILD stories and what they have been through to get to where they are today,”

Swan explained why Women Gone Wild

Information Systems, a Masters of Arts in

she added. “These are stories of triumph, failure

partnered with She Talks for the launch: “It’s

Spiritual Psychology, and a Masters of Science

and ultimately inspiration.”

an important collaboration and partnership for

in Spiritual Science.

us. In the end, we both want the same thing: to Swan and her authors partnered with the

offer a platform for women to share their stories

Kamin’s unique background combines both

founder of She Talks, Julie Ducharme and

and knowledge. We want to break down gender

technical and soft skills, allowing her to assist

Combat Boots To High Heels [501c charity]

barriers and promote and empower women.’’

individuals in taking practical action in the real world that gets dramatic results.

supporting women veterans, for their official book launch and red carpet event, which

Speakers at the event included experienced

featured a host of high-profile female figures,

voices including Sharon Lechter, author, and

Said Swan: “We’re grateful to all our authors,

celebrities, renowned authors and inspirational

businesswoman. Lechter has worked on the

attendees and speakers and we look forward to

speakers.

President’s Advisory Council on Financial

our next edition of Women Gone Wild which we

Literacy.

know will add to the significant body of work we’re putting together to enhance and empower

The events included book signings and entertainment from American Idol’s

Also offering her experience and insight was

Jessica Meuse.

Diana Wentworth, author of seven best-selling and award-winning books and the co-author of

the lives of women around the world.” www.wildmag.com

two Chicken Soup for the Soul titles. Film rights to her romantic memoir, Send Me Someone, were purchased recently by the Lifetime Network.

16

See our event pics P.94.

NETWORK NEWS

Dreams Gone Wild UNSTOPPABLE BRANDING AGENCY’S RHONDA SWAN & DEVIATE AGENCY’S JONAS MUTHONI FORM AN ALLIANCE THAT BREAKS BOUNDARIES ONLINE AND IN PRINT. ISSUE 03 I SEPT 2023

MENTAL HEALTH LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX

VERA KRETSCHMAR ANGEL INVESTOR

WINE TIME IN THE TROPICS

RIDING THE RED CARPET WOMEN GONE WILD

//

LEARNING TO FLOAT

//

RESET YOUR GOALS

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: WILD MAG, ISSUE 1; WILDMAG.COM; JONAS AND RHONDA AT NASDAQ; ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER PODCAST

18

UNSTOPPABLE Branding Agency (UBA), a top PR

Jonas Muthoni have put in the effort to uplift each

We want to provide women with the inspiration,

and branding firm, and Deviate Agency, a leading

other and collaboratively come up with methods

guidance, and support they need to become the

digital marketing company, have announced a

and solutions that are geared towards women’s

best version of themselves.”

partnership to provide dynamic and infallible

empowerment. The partnership and the magazine

digital branding solutions to clients. This

are expected to make a significant impact in

Jonas echoes this sentiment, adding that he sees

partnership marks the first time these two sectors

the marketing and PR industries, as well as the

WILD Mag as a way to create a community of

have merged to create an unbeatable force in the

personal and professional growth of women

women who can learn from and support each

digital branding world.

around the world.

other. “We want to build a space where women can

The partnership is expected to create a ripple

Another key feature of WILD Mag is its focus on

each other grow,” he says. “There’s so much power

effect in the digital marketing and branding

practical advice and actionable insights. Rhonda,

in that kind of community.”

industry, as both companies have a wealth of

the founder of the best-selling book series

experience and expertise in their respective fields.

“Women Gone Wild”, is no stranger to empowering

The launch of WILD Mag has been met with

Clients can expect a more personalized approach,

women to achieve their goals. With her expertise

enthusiasm from women across the world. The

as both firms will work together to create a

in branding and marketing, she has helped

magazine’s social media pages have already

strategy that best fits their brand and overall goal.

countless women entrepreneurs build successful

amassed a large following, with many women

come together to share their experiences and help

businesses and establish themselves as leaders

sharing their excitement about the magazine’s

The founder of Deviate Agency, Jonas Muthoni,

in their respective industries. Jonas, on the other

launch and what it represents.

and the founder of UBA, Rhonda Swan, have also

hand, brings his extensive knowledge of digital

joined forces to create WILD Mag, a magazine that

marketing to the table, ensuring that the magazine

With its focus on empowering women and

celebrates women and their achievements while

is not only informative but also visually engaging

celebrating their achievements, WILD Mag is

also providing valuable insights and advice for

and accessible to a wide audience.

poised to become a major player in the women’s empowerment space. As Rhonda and Jonas

women who are looking to take their lives to the next level. The magazine’s focus on personal and

The launch of WILD Mag comes at a time when

continue to build the magazine and its community

professional growth is especially timely, as many

women are facing unprecedented challenges

of readers, they remain committed to their mission

women are looking for guidance and support as

in both their personal and professional lives.

of helping women thrive in every aspect of their

they navigate the challenges of a changing world.

The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately

lives.

affected women, with many having to juggle work, WILD Mag’s commitment to authenticity and

childcare, and other responsibilities without

“This is just the beginning,” says Rhonda. “We have

inclusivity is one of the things that sets it apart

adequate support. In addition, women continue

big plans for WILD Mag, and we’re excited to see

from other publications. Rhonda and Jonas have

to face discrimination and harassment in the

where this journey takes us.”

made it clear that they want the magazine to be

workplace, as well as societal pressures to conform

As the worlds of PR, marketing, and digital

a space where all women can feel seen, heard,

to narrow standards of beauty and behavior.

branding continue to merge, and entrepreneurs like Rhonda and Jonas continue to pave the way

and valued. They have enlisted a diverse group of contributors to ensure that the magazine

Despite these challenges, Rhonda and Jonas

for women’s empowerment, it’s clear that the

represents a wide range of perspectives and

remain optimistic about the future of women’s

future is bright for women everywhere. With the

experiences. This commitment to diversity and

empowerment. They believe that by providing

right tools, resources, and community, women

inclusivity allows women from all walks of life

women with the tools and resources they need

can achieve anything they set their minds to – and

to feel that they are part of a community that

to succeed, they can help create a world where

WILD Mag is here to help them do just that.

supports and uplifts them.

women are valued and respected for who they are and what they contribute.

www.wildmag.com

The partnership between UBA and Deviate Agency, along with the launch of WILD Mag, is

“I’ve always been passionate about helping women

a testament to the power of collaboration and

achieve their dreams,” says Rhonda. “With WILD

empowerment. Entrepreneurs Rhonda Swan and

Mag, we’re taking that mission to the next level.

19

UPFRONT: GOALS

5 Steps to Better Goal Setting MAKE SURE YOUR PLANS GET YOU TO WHERE YOU WANT TO GO.

BY SOPHIE ZOLLMANN

OWN GOALS.

WE often set goals without thinking a whole lot

Focus on the things that excite you about your

as you do. Turn goal setting into a team effort

about them. We might set a number for revenue,

business, the ones that get you out of bed

by brainstorming together and choosing the

customer acquisition or retention, or work/

each morning.

objectives that will be prosperous for every

life balance without considering whether it’s

member of your team.

reasonable, attainable, or if it’s even what you

When you take the time to really think about

really want! Sometimes we set goals just because

what you want from your business, you can set

5. Is This REALLY What I Want?

we feel like we should, but we don’t take the time

goals that energize and motivate you. After all, what’s the point of setting a goal if you don’t get

We often set revenue-based goals without really

to map out the steps that will actually get us where we

REALLY excited about achieving it?

want to go.

2. What Can I Realistically Control?

You’ve probably heard about setting SMART

Revenue and project-based goals are awesome-

goals, and you know that your plans for your

as long as they’re attainable. Things are kind

business should be:

of crazy in the post-pandemic world. We’re still struggling with supply chain issues, labor

• SPECIFIC

shortages, and a shaky economy, and you can’t

• MEASURABLE

control ANY of it.

• ATTAINABLE • RELEVANT

Goals should not rely on external factors or

• TIME SENSITIVE

people to be attainable, so build your goals for your business around KPIs you CAN control.

The SMART strategy is very effective, but it might not be enough to create the business AND the life

3. How Will My Goals Impact My Future?

you’ve been dreaming about. So, let’s take it a

Your business funds your lifestyle, and your goals

step further. Let’s dive in a little deeper and look

need to support both! You need to think about

at how you can set goals that truly support your

what you want to achieve now, next year, and 5

vision for your business and your life.

years down the road. You’re creating a long-term plan that you achieve through a series of steps,

Before you sit down for your next planning

so set goals that benefit your business today and

and strategy session, ask yourself these

build the future of your dreams.

important questions:

thinking about it, but remember, money isn’t everything! Before you set your goals, think about what will truly make life better for you and your team.

You might find that more flexibility or more free time matters more than a few extra dollars. Talk to your team and strategize on goals that will make everyone happy.

Asking yourself these questions helps you assess what you really want for your business, your team, and your lifestyle rather than just going along for the ride. You’ve clearly defined the outcomes you want to achieve, and now you can start building strategies around them rather than just wishing and hoping.

Start turning your goals into action plans and create the steps that map a clear path to your goals. You’ll need to set long-term objectives with lots of short-term milestones to ensure that you stay firmly on the path to your ultimate vision.

Whether it’s more money, more time, a bigger 1. What am I Passionate About?

house, or a better car, the goals you set today will

You may not be able to control the future, but

Why did you start your business? Think back to

help you get there tomorrow.

with clearly defined goals and an actionable plan, you’ll be motivated, excited, and ready to conquer

that first spark of inspiration that fueled your fire and made you SO excited that you took an

4. How Will My Goals Benefit My Team?

enormous leap of faith and set out to forge your

You’re all in this together, and your team

own path and create the business of your dreams.

should reap as many benefits from your goals

22

any challenge that dares to get in your way! www. sophiezo.com

UPFRONT: FINANCE

Maximizing Working Capital WORKING CAPITAL LOANS ARE A VALUABLE TOOL FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESSES

BY KORTNEY MURRAY

DON’T DROP THE BALL.

A WORKING capital loan is a type of short-term

It helps keep the business running smoothly and

improve cash flow and help businesses meet their

loan that is designed to help businesses cover

ensures that essential expenses are met.

financial obligations.

their day-to-day operational expenses and

Marketing and Advertising: Small businesses

Flexibility: Working capital loans are often more

manage their cash flow. In this section, we’ll

often allocate a portion of their working capital

flexible than other types of loans. They can be

discuss why businesses might consider taking

to marketing and advertising efforts. This

used for a variety of purposes and do not require

a working capital loan and the benefits it can

can include promotional activities, online

collateral in most cases.

provide.

advertising, social media campaigns, or

Quick Approval: Working capital loans are

traditional marketing methods to attract new

typically approved more quickly than other types

Why Take a Working Capital Loan?

customers and increase sales.

of loans. This means that businesses can access

There are several reasons why a business might

Equipment and Technology: Working capital can

the funds they need in a timely manner, without

consider taking a working capital loan. These

be used to purchase or upgrade equipment,

lengthy delays.

include:

machinery, or technology necessary for

Short-Term Repayment: Working capital loans are

Managing Cash Flow: One of the most common

the business operations. This can improve

typically short-term loans, with repayment terms

reasons businesses take working capital loans is

productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness.

ranging from a few months to a few years. This

to manage their cash flow. A working capital loan

Cash Flow Management: Working capital is crucial

means that businesses can quickly pay off their

can provide the funds needed to cover expenses

for managing cash flow gaps that may occur

debt and avoid long-term financial obligations.

during times of low cash flow, such as when

due to delayed payments from customers or

Credit Score Improvement: Taking out and repaying

waiting for payments from customers.

early payment demands from suppliers. It helps

a working capital loan can help businesses

Funding Growth: Businesses that are growing

bridge the gap between receivables and payables,

improve their credit score. This can make it

rapidly may need additional working capital to

ensuring the business can meet its financial

easier to obtain financing in the future and can

fund their expansion. A working capital loan can

obligations.

lead to better loan terms and interest rates.

provide the funds needed to hire additional staff,

Business Expansion: Working capital can be used

invest in new equipment, or expand into new

to fund business expansion initiatives, such as

Managing working capital efficiently is critical

markets.

opening new locations, launching new products

for small and medium-sized businesses to

Covering Unexpected Expenses: Sometimes,

or services, or entering new markets. It provides

maintain their financial health and achieve long-

unexpected expenses arise that businesses are

the necessary resources to support growth

term success. By implementing the strategies

not prepared for. A working capital loan can

opportunities.

discussed in this article, such as monitoring

provide the funds needed to cover unexpected

Debt Repayment: Small businesses may allocate

cash flow, optimizing payment terms, and using

expenses, such as repairs or emergency

working capital to repay existing debts, such

technology to manage finances, businesses

equipment purchases.

as loans or credit lines. It helps improve the

can improve their working capital efficiency

Inventory Management: Working capital is often

business’s financial health by reducing interest

and boost their financial performance. And, in

used to purchase inventory or raw materials

expenses and enhancing creditworthiness.

certain cases, taking a working capital loan can be a smart choice that provides immediate access

required for production. It ensures that businesses have enough stock to meet customer

Benefits of Taking a Working Capital Loan

to funds and helps businesses manage their cash

demands and maintain a smooth production

There are several benefits that businesses can

flow during times of need.

process.

gain by taking a working capital loan. These

Operational Expenses: Working capital is used to

include:

cover day-to-day operational expenses such as

Improved Cash Flow: By providing immediate

rent, utilities, salaries, and other overhead costs.

access to funds, a working capital loan can

24

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26

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Contact us at: sales@coastalkapital.com 65

FEATURE

FROM THE “WOMEN GONE WILD” BOOK SERIES TO THE UNSTOPPABLE BRANDING AGENCY, RHONDA SWAN IS A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH.

PHOTO BY COSTES PORTRAIT. 28

IN a world where entrepreneurship is the new

named by Forbes as being the top PR & Branding

“Intuition”, is set to launch in June 2024. This

black and women empowerment is at its peak,

firm for entrepreneurs.

eagerly anticipated book will delve into the power of intuition and its role in guiding women

Rhonda Swan stands as a beacon of inspiration for many. Not just an entrepreneur, but a

Women Gone Wild Book Series

towards their true purpose and passions. With a focus on intuitive decision-making and tapping

mother, author, speaker, and coach; Rhonda wears many hats with unmatched grace and

In addition to her work with the Unstoppable

into inner wisdom, “Intuition” promises to be

efficiency. As the founder of the Unstoppable

Branding Agency, Rhonda is also the author of

a game-changer for women seeking to achieve

Branding Agency, one of the top branding firms

the Women Gone Wild book series. This series

greatness in their personal and professional

dedicated to entrepreneurs, and the author

is a collection of real-life stories of women

lives.

of the Women Gone Wild book series, which

who broke free from the constraints of societal

includes a chapter from her daughter Hanalei

expectations and chased their dreams with

But the journey does not end there. The W.I.L.D.

Swan, Rhonda has dedicated her life to helping

unrelenting passion. It is a celebration of the

Series is slated to continue with subsequent

others find their voice, build their brand, and

wild, fearless, and unstoppable spirit of women

installments, including “Leadership” and

unleash their full potential.

all over the world.

“Diversity”. Each book will explore essential

Unstoppable Branding Agency

Rhonda’s intention with the Women Gone Wild

development, equipping women with the tools

aspects of personal and professional series is to inspire and empower women to

and insights they need to lead with confidence

The journey towards becoming ‘unstoppable’

break free from the chains of self-doubt, fear,

and embrace diversity in all aspects of life.

started when Rhonda and her family lost

and conformity, and to embrace their wild side.

everything during the 2008 economic and

It is a call to action for women to own their

The visionary authors behind the W.I.L.D.

financial crisis. Having transitioned from a

power, pursue their passions, and live life on

Series are not only passionate about

corporate role to entrepreneurship just three

their own terms.

sharing their wisdom in the pages of these transformative books but are also available

years prior, she came to the realization that the significance of establishing a personal brand is

As women discover the wisdom and experiences

for speaking engagements and interviews.

frequently underestimated by entrepreneurs.

shared within the pages of Women Gone Wild

As trailblazers in their respective fields,

This crucial insight was the catalyst for her

they’re inspired to chart their own paths

these authors are committed to inspiring and

remarkable recovery from financial ruin

towards financial freedom and success. The

empowering audiences worldwide. Whether

to reconstructing the Unstoppable Family

collective vision of these visionary authors

it’s on stages, virtual events, or through media

Empire in just a few short years. Through

frames a new era of women’s empowerment,

interviews, they are eager to share their

this experience, she not only learned but also

where financial literacy and entrepreneurial

experiences and insights to ignite positive

demonstrated that a robust personal brand is

spirit pave the way for limitless possibilities.

change and empower women to step into their greatness.

the cornerstone of any successful business.

Consequently, Rhonda made it her life’s

Together, the authors have unleashed a

mission to assist others in comprehending and

powerful resource for women seeking to

With the upcoming launch of “Intuition” and

developing their own brands, culminating

embark on their own journeys of financial

the promise of “Leadership” and “Diversity” on

in the founding of the Unstoppable Branding

empowerment. With the book available in

the horizon, the W.I.L.D. Series is set to become

Agency.

bookstores across the USA, including Barnes

a powerful resource for women seeking growth,

and Noble, Target and Wal-Mart they are

empowerment, and transformation. These

The company is not just another branding

igniting a movement of empowered women who

books will serve as guiding lights, illuminating

firm; it is a powerhouse dedicated to helping

are fearlessly pursuing their dreams, making

the path towards success, authenticity, and

entrepreneurs, especially women, build a

significant waves in the women empowerment

purpose.

strong and authentic brand. Rhonda and her

space.

team work closely with clients to understand

www.rhondaswan.com

their vision, values, and target audience, and

The current book in the series is the first

then create a customized branding strategy

installment of the W.I.L.D. (WEALTH.

that aligns with their goals. From creating

INTUITION. LEADERSHIP. DIVERSITY) series,

captivating visuals to crafting compelling

and it is already making waves in the realm of

narratives, the Unstoppable Branding Agency

women’s empowerment and financial success.

www.unstoppablebrandingagency.com

ensures that every aspect of a brand is meticulously curated and resonates with its

Following the remarkable success of the Wealth

target audience. In 2021 her company UBA was

Edition, the next book in the series, titled

29

COVER STORY

FOR VERA KRETSCHMAR, BUILDING BUSINESSES WITH MEANING HAS TAKEN CENTRE STAGE IN LIFE.

BY NIGEL SIMMONDS

VERA Kretschmar – angel investor, real estate developer, beauty clinic owner and global luxury business mind – figures it’s time for a few things to change. “I think I’m at a stage in my career where there’s a bit of a shift going on,” says the German-born Chinese-Indonesian, whose business interests span beauty care, tech start-ups and property investments.

“I’m beginning to be more open about what I’m doing in terms of investing,” she says, “because typically I have always been very private. Whereas once I saw myself solely as an entrepreneur, now I am in a position to give something back.”

To this end, Vera looks past her 24/7 commitment to wide-ranging projects – which literally span the globe – and tells me about her most exciting upcoming venture, a foundation planned for underprivileged girls that is currently under development.

Called Anaya’s Angels, the non-profit organisation aims to support and sponsor 25-30 girls in Bali in a soon-to-be-built modern facility with a wellequipped library, computers, study hall, dance hall and gardens.

“It’s given me so much joy to be in a position where I can mentor young women,” says Vera, whose early years in investment banking led her on a path of deal-making, real estate and venture finance from Europe to the US, China and lately Southeast Asia.

30

PHOTO: ADAM RASYID. RETOUCH: DEO @CIAO.BALI 31

COVER STORY

“Whereas once I saw myself solely as an entrepreneur, now I am in a position to give something back.”

“Being able to make some meaningful

and living in another country and always

hormone tests providing actionable insights

impact on the future education of these girls

working on her real estate developments.”

into hormonal health in minutes at home.

just makes me super happy,” she says.

It was a work ethic she was inspired to emulate,

Her main focus however is as Managing

Prioritizing sustainability and health,

with a dream to work in investment banking

Director at a boutique investment banking

Anaya’s Angels plans to source its own eggs

and finance. “I always knew I wanted to go into

advisory firm called Ivory Capital Asia, which

and fresh fruit and vegetables from their

finance,” says Vera. “I grew up watching Wall

is based in Singapore and does mergers and

garden, as well as offering a modern home

Street and movies like that, so at a relatively

acquisations across the board. Vera’s role is to

and study facility in natural surroundings.

young age I knew I was going to leave Germany

bring in potential deals for the team to assess.

“Our ultimate goal is to support the local

and move to the US. But then when I got to

community and empower these girls,” says

New York I realised that I wasn’t so good at it.

“Mostly I assist in introductions for deals, and we work on both the buy and the sell

Vera, “equipping them with the fundamental and essential resources needed to pave

“I worked in corporate for a long time, which

side. I’m less involved in the financial

the way for a prosperous future.”

sometimes I liked, and sometimes I really

analysis, because we have a big team that

couldn’t care less. So when I got fired from my

does that, and everyone in the office has

Vera’s own upbringing was filled with

last corporate job I realised that there was a

an investment banking background.

privilege, she says, with horses and ballet

reason I didn’t fit in so well because I knew

and piano classes at a private school near

that I really didn’t care about the businesses

“So, in the beginning I was a little hesitant

Cologne, Germany, where her Indonesian

so much. Now that I run my own businesses, I

to get involved because I don’t have a

architect mother had moved to study

enjoy what I do because I care so much more.”

traditional investment background. But then I realised it didn’t matter so much,

and met her German husband.

Today Vera is the founder of companies

because bringing in an introduction is so

“I had a very peaceful European upbringing,”

across sectors, including Anaya Aesthetics

important. You can hire analysts to run

says Vera, “and I had family in Asia that I

and Anaya Property Investments in Bali,

the numbers and do the forecasts and work

would visit in Singapore and Indonesia once

as well as a marketing agency called

out the details. But if you don’t have the

a year when we would see them,” she says.

Anaya Creative Agency, which handles

deal in the first place, there’s no deal.”

her public relations and social media.

What does she look for in a potential business

Growing up, she watched her mother adapt to life in Germany and become the

She is also an investor in high-performance

investment? “There are several ways to look

family’s main breadwinner. “My mother

luxury ski wear brand Perfect Moment,

at it,” she says. “You can just straight up

was a huge influence on me,” she says, “and

and a Singapore-based health App called

look at the numbers, but for me I always

I grew up seeing her managing children

Prelude Health, which focusses on rapid

PHOTO: DEO @CIAO.BALI 32

THE ANGEL WITHIN. 33

COVER STORY

STARS AND STRIPES. 34

PHOTO: DEO @CIAO.BALI

“Anyone looking for VC money should be completely transparent about their business, and be real about its attributes.” look at the founder, and where the business

Another area of interest for Vera is crypto,

estate projects here in Bali, and I have also

can go. I typically tend to invest in things

and she is an investor in IX Swap, positioned

just purchased a villa on Lake Como that I am

that I actually like, because for me its

as a “Uniswap” for security tokens with

going to spend some time remodelling. That’s

disingenuous to try and promote a business

the world’s first automated market maker

always been a big dream of mine, so I’m very

that I have zero knowledge of or interest in.

for securities on the blockchain.

excited. And then I have a big project coming

“So I found that, for me, my niche is just things

“IX Swap is basically solving the crypto

in the Middle East. There are also a few tech

that I personally like. I have been investing in

liquidity problem,” says Vera. “It aims to

startups that I have invested in. And of course

women-run start-ups and businesses. I also

bridge the gap between traditional finance

there is the Anaya’s Angels foundation in Bali,

like consumer goods, and retail brands, where

by allowing tokenisation and trading of

which I know is going to be so fulfilling.”

I like the products. I can wear the product,

traditionally inaccessible private market

I can talk about it, my friends can wear the

assets. Essentially it eases the problem of

What’s most important to her in life? “Since

products. That may not be the best investment

turning your crypto assets into cash.”

2017 all I have done is work,” says Vera. “I

up in Dubai, so I will be spending more time

don’t take weekends off – I’m always on the go

strategy, because, you know, most of the time it’s the chemical plants that are very boring

Being an entrepreneur is what suits her, says

because this is what I find most interesting.

and unsexy that make the big money. But I just

Vera, and she’s learned the hard way that while

To me, building a meaningful business is

feel that this approach is what works for me.”

a good degree from a prestigious school may

the most important thing, probably to the

look great on paper, the reality of running your

neglect of other aspects of my life. To be

own show requires a specific set of skills.

in a position to be able to mentor young

“Having said that, you are still looking at the

women and run a business that supports 50

hard numbers. Anyone looking for VC money, I think, should be completely transparent

“I think there are a lot of aspects that

families is very fulfilling for me. At the end

about their business, and be real and

contribute to success in business which are

of the day, this is what makes me tick.”

authentic about its attributes. What’s your

not learned at university,” says Vera, adding:

go-to market strategy? How are you going

“I’ve learned more from other people than I

www. anaya-aesthetics.com

to make money with the product, what are

ever did studying at school. I have been lucky

www.anayapropertyinvestments.com

the next stages and who are your partners?

enough to have certain mentors and friends

www.ivorycapitalasia.com

I also need to see that the founder and the

in my life that I have always admired and who

www.prelude-health.com

team are really in tune with their brand and

have helped me on my business journey.”

www.perfectmoment.com

know the business inside out – who are your competitors, what is the market landscape?”

What’s next on her to-do list? “I’m involved in a restaurant-bar-lounge and some real

35

FEATURE

REENA MERCHANT INTEGRATED THE PERSONAL WITH THE PROBLEM SOLVER TO BUILD HUMAN TECH.

BY TARRYN REEVES BY definition, the tech industry is all about bits and bytes.

But is there an opportunity for tech to do more? How can we elevate our tech companies to their highest potential, to develop software that humans want to use, and also provide outstanding workplaces for our staff? Reena Merchant, a user experience leader at Google and Founder of OurVoice, shares her insights about making the tech industry more human-centric.

Why Considering the Human in Tech is Important Elevating the human side of tech can be better both for business and for people. This includes considering human needs in software development, as well as within the workplace culture.

“I was interested in joining the tech industry because I am a logical thinker and enjoy problem-solving. But, on the other hand, I am also a very sensing, feeling person, so I struggled a lot with deciding whether the tech industry was right for me as a career path,” reflects Merchant.

Merchant decided to enter tech and was determined to integrate the two parts of herself into the data-focused industry.

36

STAY REAL.

LEFT BRAIN, RIGHT BRAIN 37 37

FEATURE

A HUMAN APPROACH.

38

“There simply aren’t as many women in tech. And because of the cultural fabric, we are often expected to behave in a certain way.”

Having risen through the ranks of various high-profile

importance of “authentic leadership.” Authentic leadership

tech giants, Merchant knows there is an opportunity

involves showing up honestly and transparently. It’s also about

to invite more humanity into the tech industry and

listening to everyone’s point of view and taking the time to

that doing so will benefit everyone involved.

understand different perspectives. By doing this, leaders can create a culture of collaboration and belonging that will help

Users of software products can provide a unique perspective into

foster innovation and drive better results for the company.

their workflows, pain points, and needs. Understanding these can help shape new solutions and tools that can revolutionize

Secondly, companies should ensure that they consider

technology and make human lives more meaningful. For

that humans will use the software they develop. “I believe

this reason, it is essential to prioritize investing in people-

building products on a core understanding of users is

centered innovation rather than relying solely on data-

absolutely critical to success,” says Merchant. “If we create

driven insights. The combination of the two is critical.

products or services that genuinely address an underlying human need, people will want to buy them. This not only

Additionally, we should ask ourselves: “How do we create

drives up sales revenue but also makes people’s lives better.”

diverse, inclusive cultures and environments where everyone

User experience research is a fantastic way to incorporate

can thrive? If we do that, it’s not only better for individuals and

human insights into the product development process.

teams, but we can also create better products,” says Merchant.

Finally, companies need to redefine what product success As technology evolves and expands, it is important to remember

looks like. For example, there is an opportunity to expand

the human aspects of business. To do this, there are key

our traditional measures of financial success. By quantifying

considerations companies should look at when creating a

user sentiment in ways that can tangibly tie back to product

culture that emphasizes the importance of people within the

engagement and revenue, we can ensure our products positively

organization and the products that they are developing.

impact both users and the bottom line. Additionally, goals should include long-term product and brand viability, in

How Tech Companies Can Take a More

addition to focusing on short-term performance indicators.

Human Approach to Business Tech companies have a vast scale of reach and have the Firstly, companies must redefine good leadership. “There

ability to impact society and cultures. Therefore, they need

is a perception that to be a good leader, we must have a

to develop products that add value to the world and do not

louder demeanor. This is simply not true. It’s about driving

deduct from it. There is a responsibility for tech to deliver

successful outcomes, and this can happen no matter what

results that are great for business as well as humans.

our leadership style,” emphasizes Merchant. This inclusive approach will help create an environment where employees

www.reenamerchant.com

of all backgrounds can thrive. Merchant also stresses the

39

MENTAL HEALTH

IS A WORKING WOMAN

THE GREEK GOD SISYPHUS WAS FAMOUSLY PUNISHED TO PUSH A BOULDER UP A HILL EVERY DAY, ONLY TO HAVE IT FALL TO EARTH AT THE END OF IT. HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN A WOMAN, WRITES NICO SIMMONDS. PHOTOS: ARANPRINE

NO woman needs the concept of invisible labour explained to her. The pressure of choosing between motherhood and a career, the lack of appreciation for stay-at-home parents, the burden of sexual harassment, the onset of postpartum depression, the expectation to be a primary caregiver for children and adults alike; it’s a familiar yet frustrating pattern which never seems to end. For women in the workforce (and, let’s face it, everywhere else), these issues are gear-grinding – why are these issues still so prevalent in today’s relatively modern world? Surely we’ve come far enough since the fifties to solve them?

When you step back from all-consuming, mega-progressive internet culture and look into the real-life professional world, it still feels like the corporate world is not built for women. Office culture is still mind-bendingly malecentric, and it leaves women in the position of fighting female-specific mental health issues. Sure, most women are working now – but are companies actually doing enough? Are women’s issues dismissed as a part of life?

Should companies not accommodate their female workers just as well as their men? Most importantly, why are we hearing so much about mental illness in the workplace?

40

TAKE IT IN YOUR STRIDE.

41

MENTAL HEALTH

“There is a gender gap in the usage of mental health services, and it perpetuates the stereotype that women are more fragile than their male counterparts.”

Are women really more susceptible

stable, linear relationship – when in reality,

A company’s employees are what keep the

to mental health issues?

they’re closer to being in a mid-20s on-and-

gears turning; you’d like them to be well-oiled.

off college situationship. Of course, this isn’t Women are diagnosed as mentally ill more

applicable to all types of work, but inflexible

Equipping young women (as well as our

often than men; for all intents and purposes,

work hours aren’t what keep a company

perennial ladies) with resources to stay

this would mean that women are more

running – that’s down to its employees being

afloat and build connections with each

vulnerable to mental health issues – except

happy, healthy, and ultimately productive.

other is better for a community’s collective good. If you ask us, it’s a no-brainer.

that statistics like this are rarely ever interpreted accurately. Only 12.1% of men in

Covid-19, in all of its turbulent glory, has

the United States sought out mental health

started a workplace revolution with its

Leading by example; eliminating

treatment in 2021 as opposed to 21.4% of

introduction of the flexible work day. So often,

misogyny from the top-down.

women. There is a gender gap in the usage

women are saddled with additional invisible

of mental health services, and it perpetuates

baggage; looking after children, running

Too often, we have seen films and media of

the stereotype that women are more fragile

households, keeping communities together

businessmen in suits as the golden standard

than their male counterparts. The world will

– why should workplaces make their lives

of success. The last forty years have shown us

continue to use the prevalence of mental

more complicated by adhering to unmoveable

a different path; one of successful, flourishing

health diagnoses in women as a weapon to

customs because “that’s how the world works”?

women in business and entrepreneurship.

Yet still some industries remain stunted – the

undermine their ability unless the tenets of workplace culture are made anew.

People can finally be free to conquer

abuse of power, ever present in human nature,

the rest of their lives during the day

continues – for whom, exactly, is this better?

In the productivity-manic era of 2023,

as long as they get their work done

the idea that all of the responsibility of

productively. For many working women,

Privileged communities and parties in

personal wellbeing is dependent entirely on

this flexibility is well-appreciated;

power play an equally important role in

the individual and not their environment

communities are flourishing, peace is kept,

the movement against race and sex-based

permeates the atmosphere; but how can one

and houseplants are being watered.

discrimination. When they rise to the occasion, the rock of Sisyphus can be split;

learn to make the best of their situation when the situation is, for the most part, fixed?

Everyone needs a friend

the invisible labour that women and POC carry can be shared. As an example, men

How can women overcome the centuriesold rock of Sisyphus that is the journey to

Entering the workforce as a young woman

who are granted paternity leave may ease an

enrichment and financial freedom? Some

is intimidating, no matter how you look at

invisible workload that others in their lives

of the burden surely lies at the feet of the

it. Subtly misogynistic workplace culture,

might be carrying, just as bystanders who

companies and corporations employing them.

limited support systems, and a lack of

call out discrimination when they see it can

representation isn’t exactly encouraging

help eliminate negative influences in the

So, how can workplaces be

– but it is entirely solvable. Corporate DEI -

office. Collective effort is singularly the most

better to their women?

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy comes

important factor in a healthy environment,

to mind, as well as the more traditional paths

and environments that encourage these

A strange side effect of our 21st century

of well-organised HR and health insurance

efforts are ones that will last.

uber-productive work culture is the idea

policies that companies and burgeoning

that productivity and work hours are in a

entrepreneurs can offer.

42

CREAETING BALANCE. 43

MENTAL HEALTH

A SPOKEN WORD POEM

BY HANALEI SWAN

FIND YOUR FLOOR. 44

SOMETIMES, I forget how it all began. I

Will I ever be enough? Do enough? Feel enough?

think back to the moment when I could feel

Enough, enough, enough. Shame settled all

I’d tell her to release the pressure. You place

the wind flowing through my hair, and all

over me like the dust from a construction site,

bricks of worry on top of your body, building

I could hear was laughter in the air. Beams

making its home in the cracks and creases

your towers taller and taller, crushing you

of sun danced on my skin as I danced with

of my skin as these skyscrapers of worry

smaller and smaller until you feel like nobody.

my feet in the sea, completely carefree. Sand

continued to rise from my mind. Each floor

scattered across my face like a painting from

built with self-doubt and missed opportunities,

I’d reassure her that you are somebody. And

the ocean. I found my heart buried in the sand;

overshadowing the vibrant landscape of my

no matter the pressure you may feel from

on the beach, I was fully me, like raw light,

younger self, turning my aspirations into mere

the world around you, you still matter.

undisturbed by the pressures of life. I never

foundations for what could have been. I could

You are here not to die, not to just stay alive, but

thought anything would change, this infinite

no longer stand the person I was within.

to truly live. Promise me that you will truly live.

love for the world around me and for myself.

I need a disclaimer plastered on my body

If I could see my younger self again, I would sit

Now, I often forget that little

for anyone who may dare talk to me, telling

her down and tell her I’m sorry. I’m sorry for all

kid is still inside of me.

them not to worry because I hated myself

the time I spent thinking I wasn’t good enough.

as much as they probably hated me. I’ll tell As you grow up, you realize the world is growing

them all the lies they thought about me are

I’m sorry for all the hopeless nights dwelling

faster than you. Things that once seemed

probably true, and I’ll wear their lies with

over the things I could never do right.

small when you were young suddenly become

pride because I have begun to believe they are

skyscrapers looming over you. The pressure

real. You don’t know how desperately I want to

I am sorry for pushing you to the side and

from the sky pushes down on you like bricks,

change the person I am within and swap into

leaving you to dry, like a flower starved of light.

becoming heavier and heavier the longer time

someone else’s skin. It’s easy to fall into this

I watched you slowly begin to wilt away, and

ticks. When I finally opened my eyes and looked

trap of losing yourself when you believe the

I never did anything about it because I found

up to the sky, I realized how small I actually was.

whole world wants you to be someone else.

comfort in the falling of your petals and my

One of the first times I felt small was under stage

I forget that little kid who found light in the

your petals still did not bloom, and I realized

lights. The moment my breath became short, and

darkest of places and painted with the ever-

how empty I was without you. Because you were

my voice became grand, bouncing off the walls

changing hues of the sunset is still within me,

the light in my eyes that always managed to find

and into the crowd of hundreds of people all

buried underneath towers and the concrete

the simple beauties held within life. Watching

waiting to hear what I had planned. Illuminated

rubble of lies I told myself, saying I would

the delicate beams of sunlight filtering through

underneath a microscope, the pressure set in. I

never be enough, like a bird in a cage trapped

tree leaves. The feeling of sand slipping through

could only wonder if I was doing enough for these

without a key, waiting to be let free. She is still

your hands. The ways the dust dances under the

people to be proud of me. I could only imagine

there, but over time her voice has become bare

light, like glitter thrown into the sky. No matter

what they thought of me. Who is this girl barely

as I have learned to ignore the tendency to

how faint, I can still see through your eyes. I

thirteen, telling me what to think? Look at the

listen, to put my ear up to the door of the cage.

would remind you that the stars in the sky are

way she walks, look at the way she talks. I bet

I had begun to silence the want to be free.

not as far as they seem, these buildings around

newfound solitude. But as the seasons changed,

you are so much smaller than you believe them

she can’t even come up with a coherent thought.

Like a solitary star fading into twilight,

to be. You are so much bigger than you know.

sometimes I wish I could go back in time to

Let your roots grow through the concrete, in

As my years passed, these towns populated by

grasp that fading light before it slipped beyond

between the little cracks of the streets, and deep

the problems within my mind grew into cities.

the horizon, where memories and possibilities

into the soil beneath you. Watch as those cities

If you ever want to feel small, go to a city. While

intertwine like constellations in the night sky.

begin to dissipate as your roots spread, and

I could only imagine what they thought of me.

the love for yourself begins to regrow again.

you’re there, walking down the neverending streets, you’ll wonder if you really matter in

If I could, I would look that little girl in the eye

the grand scheme of things. If you were to

and show her all the things she could never see,

Those buildings with bricks made of the worries

leave this place would that change a thing, or

help her remember all the lessons she lost, lift

you gave yourself and the problems you’ve

would life continue on never to remember your

her up, and show her that the sky isn’t so scary.

collected that you’ve held on to so dearly are not structurally sound, remember who you

name? It probably would never remember my name. These thoughts corrupted my brain.

I’d tell her to never be afraid to cry. Let the tears

really are and knock those buildings down.

that pour from your eyes soak into your skin and release the emotions you’ve held within.

www.hanaleiswan.com

45

MENTAL HEALTH

bridging the gap IN THE TAPESTRY OF HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS, WE ALL TREAD THE DELICATE PATH OF SEEKING CONNECTION, WRITES KAVI WEBER.

HAVE you ever felt alone among friends? As if

connection is not reciprocated, but you’ll never

them feel guilty, but rather inspired to support

you were having a conversation, but nobody was

know if nobody addresses it. It’s about taking

you.

really listening to you. In this difficult situation,

responsibility for your role in the relationship by

when you reached out for support, they didn’t

expressing your desires. That is the only thing

They also have the right to say no to you. It would

show up. It seemed like your friends were

you have control over. When you communicate

be easy to take that personally. But in reality?

uncomfortable with moving beyond the surface

maturely and effectively, the way the other

There could be any reason they did not want to

level.

person responds will teach you exactly what you

be relied upon. If someone is not willing to fill

need to know.

that place in your life, you need to know. Some friends may have different desires and intentions

Maybe, in those moments, you asked yourself: “What would happen if I really needed support?

In order to do that, you first have to ask yourself

than you. And that’s okay, as long as it’s known

Will I feel comfortable the next time I ask for

what, exactly, you want? Do you want to feel

and communicated.

support from the people I trust?”

heard? Do you want people to respect your time?

It’s a scary feeling, and, unfortunately, a very

By making your desires specific, they become

This last part might bother a few people, but

achievable for the other person.

it’s important. On top of your responsibility to communicate, comes your responsibility to make

common one. This negative experience is necessary for your growth and evolution as a

Next, you want to ask the person if they’re open

the people who support you feel appreciated,

person, moving us away from unfulfilling or even

to having the conversation, rather than springing

and your responsibility to offer what you wish

toxic relationships.

it on the other person randomly – it’s all about

to receive. These tenets of reciprocity help the

timing. This will make them more likely to

people around you to feel good about being in

We all need support in different forms: some

hear you out, because it doesn’t feel like you are

your life. I think that’s what we all want. So if you

people lean on their families, while others

suddenly attacking them.

notice someone’s been showing up for you a lot, ask how you can show up for them and watch the

find friendships, mentorships and other

bond grow tighter.

affirmative relationships. Support is one of

Lastly, you want to own all your emotions. This

the fundamental aspects of human relation:

means that you speak in a way that does not

providing someone else with help, understanding

blame the other person. This means using the

In the tapestry of human relationships, we all

and empathy. Closeness in a relationship implies

phrase: “when you do X, I feel Y.” This keeps the

tread the delicate path of seeking understanding,

mutual support: being unsupported in a close

situation objective and focused on the topic at

connection, and support. The beauty of the

relationship is unbalanced.

hand.

human experience lies in the ability to bridge gaps, to mend what’s frayed, and to weave

Does this mean your relationship with this

For more insight, I recommend the book

stronger bonds of connection. Each vulnerable

person is toxic, and you should cut them off? Not

Authentic Relating by Ryel Kestano.

conversation becomes a step towards true

just yet! There is likely a gap in communication,

Now, if the other person is receptive and

authenticity. I hope that everyone can find

meaning they might not have any idea how

committed to meeting your requests, you work it

the people who treat them with honesty and

you feel. You could think that your desire for

out with them. Remember, the key is not to make

compassion.

46

MENTAL HEALTH

L E A R N I N G HOW T O

HANALEI SWAN DIVES INTO THE ART OF NAVIGATING THE ROUGH TIMES AND RISING ABOVE LIFE’S CHALLENGES.

WEIGHTLESS.

EVERYONE experiences moments of

underwater. Instinctively, you might want to

internal struggle – be it anxiety, self-doubt,

struggle against it, but you soon realize that

depression, excess stress, or other mental

resisting and trying to swim frantically only makes

health challenges. When going through these

you sink faster. In such a high-stress situation,

rough patches it can feel like sinking beneath

the best approach is to calm your mind and let

the surface or struggling to stay afloat.

the wave carry you, before going to take a breath again. This applies to managing your emotions

I often find myself submerging under the rough

too. Imagine stress as a wave crashing over you;

waters of my problems, and letting myself get

the more you fight it, the deeper you’ll sink.

pulled into a whirlpool of internal chaos. It is effortless to allow myself to sink into anxiety and

Even when you have found ways to float better,

become submerged by the stress. Since becoming

life can still get pretty rough. These could be

more aware of myself I’ve realized that when

brought on by major life changes, unexpected

life presents these challenges we get to make a

events, or relapses in mental health. It’s important

decision whether we want to sink, fight, or float.

to recognize that floating doesn’t mean avoiding challenges, but rather facing them with resilience

It’s easy to stay afloat when the water is calm but

and adaptability. Even when these challenges

the real challenge comes from learning to keep

may arise you can adapt to the waves by relying

tranquil when life puts new waves in the way.

on your life vest. These problems will just

Floating in the situations of rough water is about

become another wave that will pass you by.

finding balance within your mind and allowing yourself to rise above struggles, while still

The journey of learning to float is ongoing and

acknowledging their presence. Instead of ignoring

takes time to integrate into your life. However,

the things in your life that cause worry or distress,

your personal growth journey and the lessons

just like the feeling of sinking in rough water,

you learn about yourself are far more important

you can learn to manage these emotions more

than any final destination. Consider what in your

effectively, like calming yourself and your breath so

life causes stress and ask yourself: Is this where

you can begin to float above the surface once again.

I want to invest my energy? Does this weigh me down or lift me up? Is it worth the struggle? With

When learning how to float you can adopt different

simple questions like these, it becomes easier

techniques and tools to flow with life’s challenges.

to identify what you need to release or how you

Think of these techniques like your life vests and

may need to adjust in your response to the stress.

practices you can implement into your day to find

Decide whether you’d rather channel your energy

calm in the sea. This could include mindfulness

into fighting the current or riding the wave.

practices, self-care, creating art, journaling your thoughts, setting boundaries, and practicing

In the unpredictable seas of life, we all face

positive self-talk. Though they may sound simple,

moments of turmoil and turbulence. These

implementing small things like this can move your

challenges, like the crashing waves, can seem

energy into a better and less draining direction.

overwhelming, and it’s natural to feel like we’re sinking. However, our response to these challenges

When I begin to feel these waves and relapses of

is a choice we can all make. Learning to float

anxiety I find myself needing time alone and use

amidst the rough waters of our problems is a skill

this time to refocus my energy on creativity, giving

that requires practice, but it’s a skill that can be

me space to find calm when I would usually dwell

honed. By adopting mindfulness tools and practices

on my thoughts. Maintaining these practices and

as our life vests, we can navigate these challenges

tools of mindfulness when encountering a new

with greater resilience and clarity. Embracing

wave may initially feel challenging. However,

the current rather than battling it allows us to

when confronted with the choice of sinking,

conserve our energy and stay afloat. Remember,

struggling, or staying afloat, remembering to

even when the waves are relentless, the journey of

refocus your energy and anchor yourself to your

personal growth is the true destination. So, the next

life vest becomes crucial to float past the wave.

time you feel the undertow of stress, ask yourself where you want to invest your energy and whether

Embracing the current rather than battling it

it’s worth the struggle. Choose to float, adapt,

can save you from sinking. As a surfer, one of

and grow, for in doing so, you’ll find the strength

the first things you learn is how to stay calm

to weather any storm that life may bring.

when getting hit by a wave. While surfing, you’re bound to fall off your board and be tossed around

www.hanaleiswan.com

MENTAL HEALTH

BRE-ATHE MAKING SPACE OUTSIDE OF WORK RETURNS THE CONNECTION TO YOUR BIGGEST FAN – YOU.

BY NICO SIMMONDS

OHM. 50

IN a world that seems to have come so far in such a short span of time, our women are still suffering. Let’s face it, hard work is exactly that – hard work. Striving to make it in a competitive world, it can be difficult for women to find time to flourish. The lack of a work-play balance, as well as the isolating individualist culture that seems infused into the idea of “success” in the current climate seems to be leaving women alone, sequestered in their homes under a pile of “ToDo”’s and extreme this-or-that internet-borne ideals; recent labels like “THAT GIRL” and The Girlboss all spring to mind, each pedaling new and higher requirements than the last.

In the thick of it, it may seem to women that they don’t have space to exist as themselves, and the pressure to keep it all instagrammable and aesthetic seems to make it worse. The concept of balance and moderation is difficult to come by both online and in real life for women, and mental illness is skyrocketing as a result.

51

“Mental illness can be genetic as well as environmental – it’s multi-faceted, and no one solution will work for everyone.”

So how should women rebuild their

Nature and nurture

connection to themselves?

work to help the arduous crusade of meeting new people within a hectic life, as well as

Mental illness can be genetic as well as

finding a new hobby and a community.

A recent movement online seems, ironically,

environmental – it’s multi-faceted, and no one

to be encouraging women to take time off of

solution will work for everyone. Therefore, a

social media. The concept of the Dopamine

rounded approach should be used to combat

Detox is not new, but its main reach has,

such a complex problem; seeking professional

The all-too-familiar pattern of hammering

until now, been towards phone-addicted

counseling as well as conscious life changes

away for weeks on end for a seemingly

young adults rather than working women.

to improve the quality of your day-to-day life.

fleeting weekend or vacation is not a

The concept is simple; since social media

No woman on earth is as straightforward

particularly fulfilling one for most; the fuse

is designed to evoke such a high amount of

and simple as we’d like ourselves to be, and

does, eventually, have an end. Finding a

serotonin in order to keep you scrolling, to

it’s only right that we invest in ourselves the

healthy work-life balance and a routine that

take time off would allow your overstimulated,

regard that we’d treat others with. Being “high

doesn’t cause major burnout is particularly

overtired dopamine receptors to recover.

maintenance” isn’t exactly a crime, right?

challenging for women when they have more

The burnout

on their plate than work and sleep, as they

Men and women alike have reported feeling The death of the third place

usually do.

movement, and the trend is rapidly gaining

With the emergence of suburbia and a general

Erratic new year’s resolutions and sudden,

traction online. Perhaps it’s something to look

lack of the walkable communities that so many

shocking diets are usually thrown into the

into.

grew up with, the concept of a “Third place” –

mix – they never last though, do they? The key

somewhere that isn’t home (the First place) or

to avoiding burnout, however, is consistency

work (the Second place) where you can spend

and to know oneself. Instead of committing to

your time unwinding – has dwindled. Kids

going to the gym every morning at 5AM, try a

Working from home, although beautiful

have plenty; playgrounds, malls, and peers’

guided class twice a week – it’s likely to end up

in its flexibility, seems to have encouraged

houses come to mind, but adult playgrounds

being more consistent – and who knows, maybe

workplaces to disregard what was previously

are, despairingly, not quite as popular.

you’ll find your third place.

more mindful, grounded and connected to their surroundings since participating in the

The unattainable work-life balance

considered polite work-home boundaries. Your phone is always in your hand; why not answer

The third place is one that builds community,

the work call? The danger there, as many surely

fostering connection and optimism, usually a

know, is the slow and painful death of free

public setting that hosts frequent gatherings.

time.

Your gym, library, or local cafe could, essentially, function as a third place. It may

52

REBUILD.

53

MENTAL HEALTH

BY REENA MERCHANT PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASTRID VERHOEF WWW.ASTRIDVERHOEF.NL

AS WE NAVIGATE MULTIPLE GLOBAL CRISES, WE ARE FACED WITH SEEMINGLY INSURMOUNTABLE COLLECTIVE UNCERTAINTY. WHO SHOULD YOU TRUST?

LISTEN. 54

“I SHOULD have listened to myself.”

and interdependent considerations, things get a bit trickier.

I can’t count the number of times I have said these words to myself in retrospecting on past “mistakes”

Endless possibilities can whirl through our minds.

in my life. Of course, there are no mistakes in life,

“Should I choose option A? But option B is easier.

so there really shouldn’t be any regret. Yet regret is

Option C seems the safest though!” <insert brain

something that we as humans can’t easily escape. And

exploding emoji here> We create pros and cons lists,

fear of future remorse paralyzes us in the present

flip coins, ask our friends and family for input. I’ve

when we are faced with difficult decisions.

even created complex weighted sum spreadsheets before. But the more we do this, the more confused

As we navigate multiple global crises, we are being

we can get. Because in the most turbulent of

faced with seemingly insurmountable collective

situations, there usually isn’t a clear winner. And

uncertainty. As humankind, we are navigating one

no amount of coin flipping or spreadsheet wizardry

of the most challenging times in history. In today’s

changes that fact. Ultimately, when left unchecked,

reality, we are both collectively and individually

this inner swirling leads to fear based decisions.

having to make decisions we are not accustomed or

When we can’t identify a clear logical winner, we

equipped to make. Decisions where the stakes are

choose the option that either feels least scary, or the

terrifyingly high.

one that appeases our biggest fear.

On an individual level, we are having to make

The problem is that a fear based choice isn’t always

decisions about our health, families, travel, jobs,

the best for our well-being. And although it may seem

homes — our survival. And we are being faced with

like the easiest way forward in the short term, it

these choices all at once and on short notice. These

doesn’t always lead to the best long term outcomes.

decisions are especially challenging because so much is variable, and there isn’t much we can pin down

The Answer Lies Within

or count on. Even the things that do seem relatively

Though seeking data and information externally is

constant are new as most of us haven’t navigated a

useful in informing our decision making process,

situation like this in our lifetimes.

the final answer always lies within. Once we’ve done our research and gathered external input, we have to

When no decision is easy, and fear of making the

make the final call. No one else can do that for us.

wrong choice can paralyze us, how can we lean into our inner knowing to guide us through ambiguity?

Fear and panic can cloud our ability to listen to

How can we listen to ourselves and step out of the

ourselves. If we are able to quiet our fear, the answer

fear of future regret?

is usually clear. When seeking answers within, it’s important to temporarily quiet the outer noise.

Fear-Based Decisions

When we can make decisions from a place of calm,

What makes listening to ourselves hard? When the

these usually end up being decisions we can trust.

choices are simple and there is less at risk, listening

And, trust based decisions yield positive

within is usually fairly easy. However, when the

outcomes that are likely to persist long

stakes are higher, and our options have convoluted

after the initial fear passes.

55

MENTAL HEALTH

FIND YOUR WAY.

Trust-Based Decision Making

The mind is extremely useful in helping us frame the problem at hand. What

In my life, trust based decisions have brought me the most confidence in the

are we trying to solve? What is the decision that needs to be made? What are

short term, while also delivering the strongest outcomes in the long term.

our options? And what are the factors we should consider? The mind helps us

As I’ve navigated turbulent times in my own life, I have realized however,

navigate life in this way.

that making trust based decisions isn’t always easy. Over time, I’ve formed a framework that I frequently lean on, and I’d like to share it in hopes that

Sometimes the answer is clear. If we are considering whether we can safely

it may help others. My ability to make trust based decisions always depends

walk into fast, oncoming traffic, the clear, mind-based answer is NO. This is

on how well I can hear my inner voice. The process I use to tap into this

a very logical decision and the answer is straightforward. In most cases, we

consists of three steps:

would not be torn in making this decision.

Step 1: Identifying my inner voice

But sometimes the answer isn’t as clear, and the decision is harder because

Step 2: Listening to my inner voice

we may be pulled between various options our mind is presenting. When

Step 3: Trusting my inner voice

this happens, it can be helpful to go a bit deeper.

Step 1: Identifying our inner voice The Heart What is our “inner voice” and how do we identify it? At any given moment,

In comparison to the mind, our heart-voice is feeling based. The dialogue in

we each have many threads of internal chatter running concurrently, and

the heart space is primarily focused around how things will make us feel.

this is one thing that makes listening to ourselves particularly challenging.

The chatter in our heart does shift, but less frenetically than the mind. It

How do we know which parts of our internal chatter to pay attention to,

feels more stable and slower moving.

while being able to ignore the noise? Separating out our internal dialogue

The heart helps us understand the emotional states various options will

into three layers can help with isolating the fear from the knowing.

evoke. How will option A make us feel versus option B? Which will make us feel happier? Will any of the options make us sad?

The Mind The mind houses our most frenetic, fastest shifting internal dialogue. This is

The key to truly hearing the heart is quieting the mind. If our mind is still

the space in which we weigh pros and cons. Our mind-voice is thought based

running a million miles a minute, it will immediately jump in and confuse

and is the most logical.

our ability to hear our feelings. For example, if determining

56

SEE CLEARLY.

57

MENTAL HEALTH

NAVIGATE THE MAZE.

58

whether a relationship is right for us, we may

Step 2: Listening to our inner voice

undoubtedly feel love for a partner, but our

Once we identify our inner voice, the next

ability to “hear” this may be hindered by our

step is to listen to it. Because our inner voice is

mind’s interference.

knowing-based, it usually won’t be yelling out

Quieting the mind can allow us to separate our

the answer with blaring sirens. That’s rather

mental logic from the feelings in our heart.

the mind’s technique.

And organizing the chatter in this way can

Our intuition speaks to us subtly, and usually

make things easier to navigate.

the way we know what it’s trying to say is via the peace we feel inside. Something simply

Sometimes, allowing ourselves to feel into our

feels right — and we just know the way

heart can effectively augment the thoughts in

forward.

our mind, and our decision can become clear at this point. Other times, fear can still get in

Step 3: Trusting our inner voice

the way and cloud our emotions. This is when

The final step is to fully trust our inner voice.

going even deeper can be helpful.

Many times we silence our inner knowing out of fear. We rationalize our way out of

The Gut

facing and accepting our knowing because

The voice in our gut is the most constant and

our mind or feelings can get in the way. But

stable. Of all our internal chatter, our gut-

having the courage to believe our inner voice is

based voice is most intuitive, consistent, and

foundational to making trust based decisions.

calm. This voice is knowing-based. If we can quiet our mind and quiet our heart, isolating

Final Thoughts

our various layers of internal chatter, we can

Listening to ourselves can be challenging,

then create the space necessary to hear our gut

especially in difficult times, but like exercising

— or our intuition.

a muscle, it is possible for us to strengthen this capability. When we can quiet the external

What we truly and intuitively sense at our

chaos and focus our attention within, we can

core isn’t just a thought or a feeling — it is a

bypass the fear that paralyzes us. In listening

knowing. It’s always there, and we can count

within ourselves and organizing our inner

on its stability.

chatter, we can clearly tap into our inner

It doesn’t feel frenetic, and it is never fear

knowing and trust our decisions, moving

based. The knowing in our gut can always

forward confidently and calmly no matter how

guide our decision making process when the

turbulent the outside world is.

choices are too complex for the mind and the heart to parse.

www.reenamerchant.com

The mind, the heart, and the gut are all important and none of them should be discounted. We need all three in harmony.

But during challenging circumstances, our inner voices can panic and start chattering all at once, internally debating and making it impossible to clearly move forward. When this type of confusion or fear arises, organizing our inner dialogue can help us identify our inner voice.

59

LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX

WHY VACATION SEX IS THE BEST SEX – AND HOW TO BRING IT HOME, WRITES ELITE MATCHMAKER STEPHANIE JAIE. YOU walk back to your room not-so-lightly buzzed from the three Mai Tai you drank together by the pool. You giggle as you both reach for the room key at the same time and have a moment of pure joy as you play together deciding who will open the door first. His lightly sandy arm brushes yours as he holds the door open for you to enter, sending a wave of pleasure and chills through your entire body. You can’t help but wonder, how did I get so lucky to land this smoke show of a man?

Not even halfway through the door he impatiently grabs you and pulls you into the room letting the door shut with a not-so-discreet slam. As he caresses your neck with his lips, he takes in the smell of your coconut sun cream and lets out a light moan. There’s an unshakeable lightness in your step, a brightness in your eyes, a joy in your heart. You let out a satisfied smile that turns into a giggle as you fall back onto your plush, soft bed.

And then it happens – he’s on top of you, licking every last piece of ocean salt off your sun-kissed body. What transpires next may have been minutes, may have been hours – but one thing is for certain: THIS is the best sex you’ve ever had.

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SULTRY.

61

LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX

Vacation sex is so well known to be more

2. Novelty and Excitement

On vacation, we can’t help but spend time

passionate, frequent, and intense than at-home

While routine is important for day-to-day energy

together! We have fewer distractions and often

sex that it’s become its own category. Often

optimization, it is also a gravitational pull that

are engaging in fun activities together. We are

couples can find themselves thinking the only

can ease us into a zombie-like slumber if we’re

spending dinner talking to each other instead of

way to access these states of pleasure is by

not careful. This can happen in our day-to-day

listening to the news, we are learning the salsa or

dropping thousands of dollars on an annual

lives as well as in the bedroom (you know those

taking a cooking class together. The combination

vacation. And while this can be a solution, who

times when you do the same three positions, in

of novelty and uninterrupted connection time is

wants to only have epic sex once a year?

the same order, because you know they work?

a sure-fire mixture for intimacy, bonding, and

Yep, that’s what we’re talking about here). It

epic sex.

Today we’ll dive into the top 3 reasons vacation

has its benefits, but can also lead to a state of

sex is better than regular sex, and how to bring it

boredom and lack of enthusiasm – not exactly

How to bring in quality time together

back home.

our sexiest traits!

Outside of scheduling dates, like above, start

When we’re on vacation we’re learning, growing,

bringing more presence into the times that you

1. Stress Reduction

and exploring together. We’re exposing ourselves

DO connect. Make mealtimes opportunities to

The biggest enemy of our libido is stress.

to new connections, new languages, new foods,

engage with each other instead of numbing out

When our cortisol spikes due to an angry boss,

and maybe even some new dance moves! This

while watching TV. Take an extra five minutes

miscommunication around the kids, or getting

novelty-seeking breathes fresh life into us as

before you get out of bed each morning to snuggle

cut off in traffic – our hormones take a hit.

individuals, making us more open to trying

and tell your partner you appreciate them. Turn

And while we might be aware of this influence

new things. This can have the effect of making

routine chores like grocery shopping or laundry

on estrogen; our testosterone-dominant

us more bold and willing to act upon our

into opportunities to connect instead of just a

counterparts are just as susceptible. Stress

attractions. And, learning new things together

task that needs to be done. Get creative and bring

puts us on edge, making us less patient and

has been scientifically proven to strengthen

presence into as many of your routine tasks as

communicative with our partners. Stress also

relationships!

possible!

– setting up for battle or running away from a

How to create novelty in your regular life

It’s no doubt that vacations create the perfect

predator are not exactly the best energies with

Try something new! When was the last time you

cocktail of relaxation, novelty, and quality

which to begin an intimate connection!

did something new and adventurous with your

time required to light your libido on fire! While

partner? Better yet – when was the last time you

scientific research sheds light on the hormonal

When on vacation, most (if not all) of these

went on a legitimate, full-fledged date at all? Take

and physiological factors affected by stress,

energies are released. We have a relaxed

this as your sign to get back into the dating phase

it’s the moments of connection, vulnerability,

schedule, no boss or angry drivers to worry

of your relationship, and make sure those dates

and pure enjoyment that truly make vacation

about, we don’t need to grab groceries, and

are fun, exciting, and embodied. Try a paint

sex an enticing prospect. So, the next time you

generally speaking, are in a much more relaxed

and sip, a new dance class, a hike somewhere

plan a getaway, remember to leave some room

and enjoyable state. This decreases cortisol and

romantic, a fun boat ride, or something else

for romance! And, when you’re in between your

brings us into the parasympathetic nervous

that will get you out of your heads and into your

annual escapes, remember that you have the

system; where we can rest, digest, and enjoy life’s

bodies – together.

power to create fun new experiences, reduce

activates our Fight/Flight/Freeze/Fawn response

stress, and engage in quality connection every

pleasures.

3. Uninterrupted Quality Time Together

single moment of the day. Pleasure is a choice my

How to bring more relaxation into your day-to-

How much quality time do you spend with your

friends – is it what you will choose?

day

partner regularly? And no, quality time does not

Schedule pre-connection timeouts for yourself

mean sitting next to each other silently while

www.stephaniejaie.com

when you know you’ll be connecting with your

watching the latest episode of Black Mirror. I’m

@stephaniejaie

partner. If you always share dinner, for example,

talking about full presence, enjoying each other’s

or have a scheduled date night, make sure to

company. When we first start dating we’re so

somatically release the energy of the day before

enamored with the human in front of us that we

you connect with them. Meditation, somatic

can’t HELP but spend quality time with them. As

shaking, rage dancing, and self-pleasure sessions

we become more familiar, and regular life kicks

are great ways to move energy through the body

up, this interest in each other tends to decrease.

and release any cortisol that may have built up during the day.

62

TAKE THE NEXT STEP.

63

LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX

CONTRARY TO CONVENTIONAL ‘WISDOM’ BEING A MILF IS COOL, CLASSY, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED TABOO

64

ANNA NOWAK AND ALICIA BERG

MEET Anna and Alicia aka The Banksy’s behind good

created Made Hot. To provide a trusted, go-to resource

sex. Business partners, twin sisters in their forties and

for all things mental, emotional, physical and sexual

lucky enough to call each other best friends, too. The

wellness. So humans across the world can live their

heart of Made Hot is “let us teach you to do you and be

best, most satisfying lives possible, filled with endless

you”. “We spent most of our lives missing out on many

amounts of pleasure, joy, confidence and happiness. We

of life’s greatest joys and pleasures,” they say. “Through

are MOTHERS. FRIENDS. DAUGHTERS. SISTERS. We

many discussions and self-exploration, we’ve found

are on a mission of empowerment. We own our scars.

that we weren’t the only ones – and that lots of humans,

We break down barriers. We step out of our shadows.”

like us, are missing out on fulfilling relationships

Here the sisters – together with coach Anup Sohanta

and sex lives. There’s nothing we want more than to

– share their views on how to own your sexuality post

help change this for others and that is exactly why we

childbirth.

65

LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX

TEA FOR TWO.

66

Part 1, written by Anup Sohanta, A.K.A Noopface

our bodies. It can lower libido or even deplete it, but women

MOTHERS are often known for their caring and nurturing

still want and need to have sex. It’s part of our DNA to crave

dispositions, displaying qualities like kind-heartedness and

that connection. While we sometimes convince ourselves

a commitment to being responsible for a child, or multiple

we don’t need it, there’s nothing wrong with admitting, as

children. When I consider the finer aspects of the feminine

a woman, to enjoying sex. It calms our nervous system.

energy that a mother displays, it’s the ability to soothe with

Touch, warm skin, emotions, whispers between lovers,

a passionate heart; however, that’s not to say that moms

partners, the release when you relax into your body and

can’t show masculine energy and display dominance when

when your partner hits all the right notes. The release! You

needed to provide for their children.

know what we’re talking about … there’s nothing better.

A mom is more than just a mother, she is a person before

For us here at Made Hot, sex isn’t just a physical act. We

anything else. She has her own wants, needs, dreams,

want to talk about everything that surrounds it. The

ambitions and desires. When I talk about desires, I mean

intimacy. The build up. Sending a text to your partner

to say that moms don’t automatically lose interest in sexual

or spouse, leaving a little note on the bathroom mirror,

desires once they have given birth. A mom deserves to

giving and receiving compliments, self care. Mentally and

experience her life too. To experience sexual pleasure, just

physically nurturing your body.

as much as a bachelor who feels he’s at the precipice of his carnal desires.

When you are able to align the physical and emotional, you come back to yourself. Your roots. Your magic. Parts of

What’s my point? Well, from my own experience, I have

you that may have shut off, come back to life in full bloom.

seen how being a mom often becomes the identity that a

We all need human connection and contact. As mothers,

mother carries with her and and how it becomes another

sometimes we’re left feeling overstimulated. Touched out.

label. A mom cannot be put into a box as just a mom, for she

Our time, our days, as we wake and as we sleep, are all part

has a direct connection with the universe and the divine.

of someone else’s needs and wants. We’re pulled in a million

She gives life and whether she’s a biological parent or not,

directions, feeling stretched too thin and oftentimes, not

she cares for life.

enough.

Remember when the term “MILF” was highly popularized

Remember Mothers, the partners in our life desire us.

by the movie American Pie? It became a label to call

Crave us. Don’t shut them out just because you are going

attractive moms when younger men wanted to have sex

through a new phase of life and not feeling like yourself.

with them. I believe that the term MILF should be used

This will pass. Talk about it. Communicate. Sometimes

to respect a mother’s sexuality. A mother is not only

when you share your fears and insecurities with the one

physically sexy but her mind is to be adored and her

you love, you can gain their perspective and understand

prowess respected. I feel like we often get caught up in the

how they see you through their eyes – in all your beauty of

idea that a mother loses interest in sex as she progresses

motherhood.

in her journey as a human being. That once she gives birth or grows older, her libido somehow diminishes

So get out of your head. No matter what path brought you

and she loses her sexual appetite. That is certainly not

to motherhood, we’re all in this together. It’s hard. But,

true and recognizing that false notion is a step closer to

remember to romanticize your life. Your partner wants to

understanding how to love on a partner that is a mom.

be there for you. Kiss. Touch. Get those endorphins running throughout your entire body and immerse yourself in it.

Part 2, written by Made Hot, Anna & Alicia

So, a little homework from us … Find the sexiness in your

In light of the recent Mother’s Day, we wanted to let you

everyday life. Show love and affection. Tease and flirt.

know that being a MILF is cool, classy, and should not be

Love yourself and be a MILF. Wear it like a badge of honor.

considered taboo. The expression can often have a certain

Becoming a mother is just the next phase for you; and

stigma around it, but don’t we all want to be desired and hot

you’ve never been hotter.

no matter what role we are stepping into for others? Moms are hot. We said it. There is beauty in every stage of life and

www.madehot.com

we’re here to bring that to the forefront of this conversation.

@madehot_

As we go through different seasons, sometimes parts of us

@noopface

are put on pause. Becoming a mother alters every aspect of

67

INFLUENCE

MANY people dream of the luxury lifestyle of an

“When we receive positive feedback in the form

Empowerment Through

influencer, but not all as shiny as it may seem.

of likes or follows, our brain releases dopamine,

coaching Other Freelancers

Marjet Van Wijk, known by many as Jet, the CEO

a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and

and Founder of Laptop Lifestyle Master Program,

reward. This addiction to validation can lead

Today, Jet empowers others through her

successfully became a travel influencer and

to emotional highs and lows, impacting mental

coaching program, the Laptop Lifestyle Master

began traveling the world, living the life she had

health,” Jet explains. “The opposite is also true.

Program. She helps individuals achieve location

dreamed of for herself. But the more time she

Sometimes you post something, and it doesn’t

and time freedom by imparting valuable

spent in the influencer space Jet realized that

get likes, and it makes you feel less worthy of

freelancing skills. While her program is

there is a deeply dark side to the industry and

yourself as if somehow, you are not good enough.”

open to all, she has predominantly attracted women who resonate with her message

how much damage it can have on a person.

The quest for validation on social media As we journey through her experiences,

can contribute to increased rates of

we uncover the story of a woman who has

depression and even suicide.

The Pitfalls of the Comparison Game

calls to provide a comprehensive learning experience. Jet emphasizes the importance

empowerment, authenticity, and self-discovery.

Empowering Dreams Through Travel Influencing

Her coaching program combines self-paced courses with group workshops and coaching

transitioned from the glitzy world of travel influencing into a passionate advocate for

of empowerment and self-discovery.

Jet also realized the detrimental effects of the

of coaching, helping her clients navigate the

comparison game, which plagues social media

challenges of freelancing and entrepreneurship.

platforms, “People often compare themselves to A Message of Empowerment and Authenticity

Jet dreamt of a life that allowed her to explore

edited and filtered images, leading to unrealistic

the world, work with tourism boards, hotels,

beauty standards. Young individuals, in

and airlines, and share her adventures with

particular, struggle to differentiate between

As we wrap up our conversation, Jet leaves

her audience. However, as her career in the

reality and the carefully curated content they

us with a powerful message. She cautions

space developed, she discovered the challenges

see online, leading to feelings of inadequacy.

against chasing after the influencer dream and

and complexities of the influencer world.

This constant comparison can be detrimental to

sacrificing mental health and authenticity for

mental health, making individuals feel like they

likes and followers. She encourages everyone

“When I started to realize that I had stopped

need to change themselves to fit an unrealistic

to explore alternative paths to achieving

posting what I liked and started posting what

mold. It can also drive a culture of materialism,

a lifestyle of freedom and fulfillment.

got the most likes instead of what I enjoyed, that

where people constantly crave what others have.”

“There are so many other ways to gain time

was a real turning point for me,” Jet reflects.

This is a common struggle among influencers

The Transition from Influencer

who often find themselves altering their content

to Digital Marketer

and location freedom,” she declares.

Jet also highlights the dangers associated

to cater to their audience’s preferences.

Jet’s journey took a significant turn when she

with platforms like OnlyFans, shedding light

The influencer lifestyle, often perceived as

decided to leave the influencer world behind.

on how they can inadvertently contribute to

glamorous, can have a darker side. Jet discovered

The pivotal moment came when she realized

harm and unrealistic ideals. She questions

that in the pursuit of likes and attention on

she was no longer being true to herself and

whether this is truly a form of feminism or

social media one can end up totally disconnected

was posting content solely for validation. She

if it perpetuates harmful stereotypes.

from the authentic self. It can cause individuals

transitioned into offering marketing services

to create a fake life, prioritizing validation

to businesses, leveraging the digital skills she

Jet’s journey is a testament to the power of self-

from others over personal happiness.

had acquired during her influencer years.

discovery and empowerment. Her transition from influencer to digital marketer and laptop

The Neuroscience Behind Social Media Validation

Jet’s journey into the world of digital marketing

lifestyle coach serves as an inspiring example

was not without its challenges. She had to

of finding authenticity and purpose beyond

Being an advocate for understanding the why

overcome the ego associated with her influencer

the confines of social media validation.

behind behavior, Jet dove deep into research. She

persona and rebrand herself as a marketing

realized the damaging and addictive effect that

freelancer. The transition was marked by

IG: @jetvanwijkx

social media was having on her, she dove deep

growth and personal development.

https://jetvanwijk.com/

into exploring the neuroscience behind social media validation and why likes and followers can become so addictive.

68

From Influencer to Digital Marketer

and Women’s Empowerment Leader

M A R J E T

SITTING PRETTY. 69

GROWTH FACTORS BREAKING into male-dominated industries can be challenging yet

Resource Strategies

rewarding for women, and despite the hurdles in the financial sector, there are successful women entrepreneurs who serve as inspiration.

Expanding a business can be a challenging and overwhelming task for any entrepreneur, especially for women who may be working in male-

One founder created a company to empower women in business

dominated industries. However, there are resources available to help

by providing resources for public speaking, securing grants, and

women in business overcome these challenges and achieve their goals.

coaching. Her company helps women achieve their career goals by providing them with essential tools regardless of their industry.

One valuable resource is public speaking in the business industry and women in business. Attending events and conferences where

Helping Lead Women To Success

successful women entrepreneurs share their experiences and insights can be inspiring and empowering. These events provide opportunities

CEO and founder of Coastal Kapital, a prominent women-owned

to network and connect with like-minded individuals who can offer

financial service provider in Florida, believes that she has a voice

support, advice, and potential partnerships.

that can be shared with the world. According to Kortney Murray, empowering women in business and guiding them to build their own

Murray explains: “Expanding a business is a challenging but rewarding

empires is crucial.

journey, and there are resources and strategies available to help women entrepreneurs succeed.”

With the limitless opportunities provided by the internet and available tools, women are no longer confined by previously established borders

Always Trust In Your Intuition

in male-dominated fields. Her mission is to help others navigate the challenging process of finding the right funding and expansion tools.

Trusting one's intuition and staying true to personal goals is also key.

It's important to establish clear goals and listen to what one's intuition

"Public speaking is a powerful tool that can help women in business

or gut is saying. This can help entrepreneurs make better decisions

communicate their vision and values to a wider audience. Intuition

and stay aligned with their values and vision.

plays a vital role in building a successful company and leveraging available resources to expand it. Seeking out guidance and help is

“Trusting intuition, establishing clear goals is essential for any

essential for any entrepreneur looking to achieve their goals."

businesswoman, “Murray continues, but finding the right help and support, and bringing positive energy to the workspace and culture

Guiding Them Through Their Own Process

can all contribute to building a successful business.”

Trusting your intuition and staying true to your personal goals can

The Sky Is the Limit

be the key to building a successful business. By taking the time to establish your goals and listening to what your intuition or gut says,

Public speaking can be challenging for most of us. As a high achiever,

you can create a business that is aligned with your values and vision.

how has Murray set her sights on a new goal: public speaking while also achieving financial success? Murray explains: “Unwavering

It is also crucial to find a team that is willing to work with and support

commitment to my community and the financial empowerment

you as you grow. A team that shares your values and is committed

of women has earned me a reputation as a leader in the field. She

to your vision can help you navigate challenges and make better

explains: “With over three successful entrepreneurial ventures under

decisions for the long-term success of your business.

my belt, I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table.”

Finally, bringing positive energy into your workspace and culture can

Her forthcoming book, “Women Gone Wild: Intuition Edition,” set to

create a strong foundation for future growth. When positivity and

be released this year, and a movie slated for 2024, will provide readers

a can-do attitude are present, teams are motivated to work harder,

and viewers with insight into her tried-and-true methods for success.

innovate, and support each other. This sets the tone for a successful business that can thrive in the long run.

Murray continues: “I firmly believe that women supporting women is the key to success. My personal mission is to help guide others

Remember, building a successful business is a journey, and trusting

through the complexities of business financing, creating successful

your intuition and staying true to your goals can help you achieve

partnerships, and advocating for the challenges faced by business

success on your terms.

owners,” says Kortney. Her unwavering passion for helping women succeed and her dedication to the cause make her a formidable force

"I believe that by helping women trust their intuition and stay true

in the business world.

to their personal goals, we can empower them to build successful businesses on their own terms,” says Murray. “By providing them with the resources and support they need to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, we can help them achieve their dreams and lead them to success through their own unique process."

70 84

www. coastalkapital.com

CREATING KAPITAL

KORTNEY MURRAY EMPOWERS WOMEN WITH A RESOURCE-BASED INITIATIVE THAT HELPS ENTREPRENEURS ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS.

BY KAREN DONALD

KORTNEY 71 85

STORYTELLING

tarryn

A PICTURE PAINTS A THOUSAND WORDS. 72

Unleashing Your Inner Power: The Transformative Journey of Sharing Your Story in a Book EVERY one of us carries a unique and powerful story waiting to be told.

Empowerment through Vulnerability

Our lives are filled with experiences, challenges, triumphs, and lessons

Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but it is a profound source of

that shape who we are. While some choose to keep their stories locked

strength. By baring your soul and sharing your vulnerabilities in your

away, others find the courage to share them. Writing a book about your

book, you demonstrate courage and authenticity. This can empower you

experiences can be an incredibly empowering and transformative

to embrace your imperfections and inspire others to do the same. When

experience. Tarryn Reeves, CEO and founder of Automatic Authority Press

readers see you as a relatable and imperfect human being, they are more

& Publishing House explores why sharing your story in a book can be a

likely to connect with your story on a deeper level. That’s all any of us are

powerful tool for personal empowerment and growth.

really looking for - truth, meaning, inspiration and the understanding that we are not alone.

“Many people dream of writing a book, but few actually do it, and even fewer get their written work published,” says Reeves. “I have always loved

Personal Growth and Resilience

books but never thought I could write one. Yet here we are. At the age of

The process of writing a book is no small feat. It requires discipline,

thirty-five, I have written six books and in multiple publications and have

determination, and perseverance. Through this journey, you develop

worked with entrepreneurs across the globe to publish over 32 books and

valuable skills such as organization, time management, and effective

400+ stories with more being birthed each week. These stories start with a

communication. These skills not only help you complete your book but

dream or a vision and, often, self-doubt by the bucketful. It takes courage

also translate into other areas of your life, promoting personal growth and

to put yourself out there and be vulnerable, to put parts of your innermost

resilience.

thoughts in print, but what I can promise you is this: the transformation and expansion that one receives during the process, not only in one’s

Leaving a Legacy

personal life but also in business, cannot be underestimated.”

Your story is a legacy that can outlive you, inspiring future generations.

Whether it’s your children, grandchildren, or those travelling a path similar

Here are a few reasons why writing and publishing a book may be the

to yours, sharing your story can provide valuable insights and wisdom to

fastest way to elevate your self-belief, empower yourself beyond your

those who come after you. It can be a source of inspiration and guidance,

wildest imagination and grow your business at the same time:

reminding them that challenges can be overcome, and dreams can be pursued.

Self-Reflection and Healing The process of writing a book forces you to dig deep into your own

Empowering Others

experiences and emotions. As you reflect on your life’s journey and

One of the most powerful aspects of sharing your story in a book is the

experiences, you may uncover hidden wounds, unresolved issues, and

impact it can have on others. Your experiences, triumphs, and lessons can

unexplored passions. This process of self-reflection can be cathartic and

serve as a roadmap for those facing similar obstacles. You become a beacon

healing. By confronting your past and understanding your own narrative,

of hope and a source of guidance, offering practical advice and emotional

you can begin to make sense of your life and find closure for past traumas.

support to others on their own journeys.

Connection with Others

“There is just something about the journey of writing a book that is

When you share your story in a book, you open a window into your world

honestly, just magical. There’s no other way to describe it,” shares Reeves.

for others to peer into. Your experiences and challenges can resonate with

“You don’t need to be an expert, have all the degrees, or even be any good at

readers who have faced similar trials and tribulations. This connection

writing! You just need to have an idea and the willingness to begin.”

creates a sense of community and belonging, reminding us that we are

So, if you’ve ever considered putting pen to paper and sharing your story

not alone in our struggles. Your story can inspire others to share their

with the world, remember that your story has the potential to change lives,

own, fostering empathy and understanding among people from diverse

including your own. In doing so, you become a testament to the incredible

backgrounds. It may also change someone’s life as they learn from your

power of the human spirit and the boundless capacity for growth and

wisdom and your mistakes.

transformation. Embrace your story, write your book, and let your journey inspire and empower others. www.tarrynreeves.com

73

EMPOWERMENT

IN the realm of women’s empowerment and

The Evolution of Purpose

self-discovery, Crystal Jackson, one of the

Crystal’s path took a significant turn when she

Empowering Women: A Personal Mission

co-founders of Elevate Co & owner of Crystal

ventured into direct sales, achieving remarkable

When asked why she is passionate about women’s

Jackson- Intuitive Business Synergist, stands

success by reaching the top 10% of her company’s

empowerment, Crystal emphasizes the need for

as a beacon of inspiration and guidance. Her

ranks. This experience provided her with

women to break free from societal conditioning

journey from a corporate career to becoming a

valuable insights into entrepreneurship and

and biases. She acknowledges the ancestral

passionate advocate for women’s empowerment

mentorship. Crystal’s focus shifted towards

wounds that continue to affect women today

through business mentorship is a testament to

helping women, particularly in addressing issues

and the societal expectations that limit their

her unwavering commitment to authenticity and

of self-worth and confidence.

potential.

Crystal shares her story, her vision, and the

“I really learned so much through that process,”

Crystal firmly believes that empowered women

driving force behind her mission.

says Jackson. “I learned so much about myself

can bring about a more balanced and equitable

but also about entrepreneurship and how to

world. She envisions a future where women’s

Early Beginnings: A Path to Entrepreneurship

mentor and guide others to help them reach

perspectives and contributions are valued

Straight out of high school, Crystal Jackson went

levels of success.”

equally, not only in business but in all aspects of

personal growth. In this exclusive interview,

life. Crystal’s commitment to this vision extends

into college, working full-time to pay her college tuition and completing two years of a law degree.

She then launched her style coaching venture,

to her role as a mother, where she seeks to set an

This early experience of paid work provided

recognizing the deep connection between outer

example for her daughter and the next generation

her with a keen insight into the inner workings

appearance and inner confidence. However,

of empowered women.

of organizations and the disconnect between

as she delved deeper into her work, Crystal

management and employees. Crystal’s intuitive

realized that transformational change required

“As women leaders and entrepreneurs we really

nature allowed her to see the issues plaguing the

a holistic approach that encompassed more than

are modeling what is possible for the next

corporate world, and she felt a calling to make a

just appearance. Her journey led her to explore

generation of women coming behind us,” says

difference in the way businesses operated.

spirituality, human design, Akashic records

Jackson. “It’s exciting to be doing what I do and

reading, and emotional clearing.

helping other women but also setting an example for my own daughter. It’s time for women to

“My first job was with the Department of Transportation whilst I was still at school,”

“What I also began to realize is that business was

really show their children that we can do more

reflects Jackson. “I very quickly saw that

still being done and taught in a very masculine

than what society has laid out for us.”

management had no pulse on what their people

way and that people were getting distracted

were doing on a daily basis and that business

by the outside noise of how they should and

Crystal’s dedication to empowering women

decisions were being made by people who didn’t

should not market and run their businesses. I

is manifested not only in her coaching but

really understand the inner workings. I could

understood that I wanted to help people build

also in her virtual admin agency, Elevate. She

just see the breakdowns within the company,

businesses that they were passionate about but

recognizes that women often juggle multiple

especially in terms of employee morale. I was

also one that felt good and authentic to them,”

roles and responsibilities, making it essential

only a year into law at that time but I realized

shares Jackson.

to provide support where needed. Elevate offers business owners the freedom to focus on their

that I wanted to go into management and make a difference.”

With her expanded knowledge and wisdom,

passions while outsourcing tasks that don’t align

Crystal embarked on a mission to empower

with their strengths.

Determined to create meaningful change, Crystal

women to create businesses aligned with

continued her education, earning a degree

their authentic selves. She believes in a more

“You don’t have to work a nine-to-five job if you

in business while gaining over two decades

holistic and personalized approach to business

don’t want to,” states Jackson. “You can build

of corporate experience. Her career spanned

coaching that considers not only external

a business that’s very successful while still

various fields, including human resources,

strategies but also internal alignment and self-

remaining inspiring and fulfilling.”

accounting and management. During this time,

discovery. Crystal’s approach enables her clients

she observed recurring challenges in businesses

to overcome personal blocks, harness their

and began to recognize common themes that

intuition, and build businesses that resonate with

hindered growth.

their unique essence.

74

IG/FB: @crystal.gayle.j

C R Y S T A L H O L I S T I C

B U S I N E S S

E M P O W E R M E N T

CLEAR. 75

GRATITUDE

the happiness

Counting the Beate … two, three, four, five … founder & CEO of Nimsky Academy, Beate Nimsky just wants you to be happy.

BY ANDREW HALL

NO matter how successful you think you are, author,

“I found that activating life energy is one of the

former business manager, and current life coach,

keys to happiness and success. That is why I have

Beate Nimsky, has a question for you: are you happy?

trained myself in the Taoist energy practices over 10 years with Master Mantak Chia. I combine

Because, Beate says, if you lack joy in your

his knowledge and techniques with many

life and your work – regardless of your status

other leadership tools to empower people.”

within an organization – that can drag you down and limit your personal horizons.

Conscious Leader Coaching System

“I worked in management in corporations for 10 years

Beate coalesced Eastern meditation and martial

and experienced how people are treated, especially

practice with Western metrics for successful business

during a merger,” Beate says. “People’s frustration

management to develop a system that empowers

and loss of productivity due to a lack of joy was

women who might question their place in the world.

obvious. I’ve always wondered how to change that.”

“The Conscious Leader Coaching System is a Crash, Bang, Boom

proven system that you can use for many years. The program is designed to take out the emotional stress

In the midst of a successful corporate career,

and anxiety of not being good enough,” she says.

Beate was involved in a serious traffic accident that left her physically injured and psychologically

“You will be supported and empowered to build

distressed. Her five-month convalescence

your business in your own way. It doesn’t matter

led Beate to question life’s priorities.

if you’ve already started building a business or if you’re just starting out with an idea. We help

“During this time, I learned from my doctor

you to integrate this system into your life so

how homeopathy works. He also sent me to the

that you can be a successful entrepreneur.”

Chinese Qi Gong grandmaster Mantak Chia, from whom I learned how to activate my life energy,

It is a personalized system that will help people

to heal myself and to feel a lot of joy inside. That

discover, develop and implement their unique

was the start of a new way of life, which led me

talents and ideas so they can successfully shape

to self-employment two years later,” Beate says.

a business and a life that suits them. Step-bystep learning with weekly personal coaching

76

THE BEATE GOES ON.

77

GRATITUDE

BE HAPPY.

78

with Beate and her team will help integrate what you have learnt

“Your breath plays a big role in this. Close your eyes and breathe in

so you can master your change and business development.

and out deeply into your lower abdomen for at least 10 breaths. With each breath you draw the energy from the pelvic area up to your brain

“To build business success it takes perseverance and

and breathe out very slowly into the earth. This alone brings relaxation

changed approaches. Including recognizing and

and calm to your whole system because the sympathetic nerve, which

transforming ingrained patterns, solving blockages,

is always driven by external perception, is not activated at this time.

and changing inhibiting habits,” Beate says.

“That’s when you can step out of your drama and truly become the In addition to an initial three-month program, the Conscious

creator of your own experiences. When you are in your heart and

Leader Coaching System offers individual one-on-one sessions

smile into it again and again, situations that normally trigger you and

in the areas of personal assessment, recognition, and resolution

trigger strong emotions like anger or envy are transformed. You stop

of emotional, mental, and energetic blockages, as well as energy

being a slave to your emotions.”

activation and transformation. This also includes the energetic clearing of the karmic patterns from the ancestral line in order

Staying Happy

to achieve a clear soul alignment without obstacles and thereby generate a new or different positioning with more joy and success.

How do you think about yourself, about life? Have you ever thought that you are an infinite being that exists without

Stepping Up

limits? From whom did you adopt your assumptions and beliefs that limit you? What beliefs do you avoid or defend that keep

Do you wake up happy every day? Or do you wake

you from at least trying what might be possible for you?

up with worry, judgment and anxiety weighing you down and keeping you stuck and unhappy?

Happiness is a choice, says Beate. You decide whether you want to believe people who see a problem in everything

The first step to happiness is gratitude. What if you were grateful for

and everyone and would rather not start something new

everything you have experienced in life so far? Grateful for the

because it could go wrong. You decide whether you want

so-called good and beautiful as well as the bad and ugly.

to compare yourself and take back your skills, or whether you step out of your comfort zone and live life bravely.

Beate says: “The first step of gratitude is not about evaluating, but about being thankful to yourself that you have mastered everything

Beate says: “When you doubt yourself, when you think you can’t do

up to this point. When you’re grateful, you don’t need to compare

something that you would like to do, you can always ask yourself:

yourself to anything or anyone. Stop comparing yourself to others.

would an infinite being choose doubt? Would an infinite being choose restraint? What would an infinite being choose instead? You

“Being grateful that you are alive, being grateful that

will discover how truly powerful you are, and how much strength,

you can make a difference, being grateful for your

clarity and focus were within you all the time. You will begin to tap

body gives you the energy for your next steps.”

into your true potential to shape, form and create your reality.”

The second step in the Conscious Leader Coaching System,

www.nimskyacademy.com

speaks to the natural vibrational (biotonus) state of your body.

@beate.nimsky LinkedIn beate-nimsky-16729973

Beate says: “Imagine all your cells vibrating in a harmonious rhythm in accordance with the universal energy. Every step feels like a light dance, like floating. Our bodies are the most wonderful instruments on this planet. It is our soul’s home in this reality.

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NATURAL REMEDIES

E

BLOOMING. 80

L I

S

S

A

The T Lady: A Natural Remedy to Weight Loss & Detox WHO says tea can’t be extraordinary? Whilst

tree, not a chemist shop! Everything we need

Menopausal Tea Removes the Stigma

tea is a part of everyday life – a staple for

is in the earth,” says Scott. In one cup of

of being Middle-Aged

people who want a caffeine hit but don’t

tea, The T Lady assures, women are able to

So, if you’ve never really thought about the

enjoy coffee’s bitter bite – it’s easy to overlook

get what they need to manage weight gain,

kind of tea you’re drinking, you might wonder:

the beauty contained in a single cup.

sleeping better throughout the whole night

Why care about The T Lady’s Menopause Tea?

and detoxing. In essence, it’s a warm embrace To Elissa Scott, a ‘cuppa’ represents so

for those who struggle with their health.

It’s simple. It’s because Elissa Scott cares so much about her tea combination. And that’s a

much more than a warming drink.

The Tea that Empowers Women

big reason why it’s so special: because it means

The Beauty of Simple, Natural Ingredients

Sure, The T Lady’s Menopause Tea is organic.

something. Not just to her, but to her clients as

Elissa Scott, The T Lady, owns a leading

It’s healthy. It’s caffeine-free. It’s a remedy

well. The T Lady caters to women who simply

company that specializes in making herbal

that assists women in managing menopausal

want to feel in control of their lives again.

tea for women going through menopause.

symptoms like hot flushes, sleepless nights,

They want to be healthier – to feel healthier.

and joint pain. It has been given to teenagers “As I personally approach my next stage

to reduce period cramps. But, perhaps

“We’re going to be the number one natural

of life, I wanted to look into natural

more importantly, the Menopause Tea was

alternative in a chemically-driven world. I

alternatives for the relief of menopausal

invented and brewed to empower women.

know in my heart I have created a miracle tea.

I’ve seen it with my own eyes. Women give me

symptoms,” she said in a recent interview.

“The beauty of the Menopause Tea is that

feedback,” Scott said proudly in an interview.

Scott’s Menopause Tea is brewed from nature

it’s a community affair. The tea maker

There’s a heavy stigma clouding over menopause.

itself. In a chemical-infused world, Scott

and the tea packers are women who

It’s not talked about often enough. Women aren’t

believes in standing out by using only natural

have survived domestic violence.”

educated on how to approach this stage of life, and often, people expect menopausal women

ingredients that boost women’s immunity and assist them to cope with the many

If there’s anyone who knows how difficult

struggles that come during menopause.

the road can be for women, it’s Elissa

to simply ‘power through’ their symptoms.

Scott. Having gone through a difficult life

The truth is, women should be seen in their

Research shows that about 75% of women

herself, she prioritizes the wellbeing of

struggles. A Harvard Health Publishing article

suffer from hot flashes, weight gain, mood

women everywhere. Her natural inclination

reported that the body undergoes very extreme

swings, and sleeplessness during menopause.

towards aiding the community shines

hormonal changes during menopause.

And for centuries, natural alternatives to

through The T Lady’s Menopause Tea.

medicine have been promoted as a safer

“We’ve got women who were previously homeless

Women are at risk of anxiety and depression,

way to manage menopausal symptoms. In

who are now working within our business,”

leading to suicide in some reported cases. They

fact, a lower rate of women experience hot

explained Scott. “I’ll share this with you: a

may even be deprived of sufficient sleep during

flashes in Japan. Studies show that this is

homeless lady rang me up, and she said that she

this period. And the problem is that the world

likely due to the fact that the older Japanese

needed some money. And I said to her: ‘Alright,

isn’t doing enough to recognize this need in

community consumes a healthy diet.

would you like to earn money by making some

menopausal women: the need to be understood.

sales calls?’ I texted her a list of my shops and Managing menopause, or anything health-

she sat in the gutter and called my contacts

Elissa Scott knows that women everywhere

related, takes time to master. It takes effort

to see if they needed another order of tea.”

long to be heard. Women want to know they aren’t alone. The T Lady aims to do

and consistency. However, going down this road armed with natural solutions

Scott also tries to take care of the Earth –

is one of the best ways to tackle the

the very source of her wonderful tea.

multitude of issues menopause brings.

“I like hand making the tea bags. My tea

just that, one cup of tea at a time. www.menopauset.com

bags are made of cornstarch. There’s “Chinese medicine has been around for

no plastic; they’re biodegradable.”

centuries. Adam and Eve sat next to an apple 81

BEAUTY

A EST H E TIC S GO FA R B E YO N D SKI N D EEP. J UST A SK T RIST EN D U RKI N

CONFIDENCE BOOSTER. 82

BEAUTY is a concept that has been idolized for

Having the father of one of her children pass away

centuries by the human race. Cleopatra, Marilyn

due to addiction combined with the loss of her

Monroe, Audrey Hepburn - tales of the physical

own father to suicide, Durkin realizes just how

beauty of these women still ring through the halls

important looking after our mental health is.

of history, but beauty goes far beyond skin deep.

“Connection, acceptance, and respect are things that Beauty is so much more than how we appear to others,

human beings crave, and we need to receive them from

it’s about how we feel inside and the confidence we

external sources but also from within ourselves. People

have in ourselves. When we feel good on the outside,

around you can tell you that there is nothing wrong with

our inner beauty can shine through and empower

your thin upper lip or sun-damaged skin, but if internally

us to take risks and be bolder in our life choices.

you believe that there is, for whatever reason, be that past trauma, lack of self-confidence, conditioning, or

Founder of True Medical Aesthetics, Tristen Durkin,

whatever, then it doesn’t matter what anyone says, you

shares her passion behind creating a beauty

will feel less confident and secure within yourself and

clinic that empowers women to feel good about

that in turn will likely hold you back from going after

themselves in a way that has far-reaching effects.

what it is your truly want in life,” explains Durkin.

“At True Medical Aesthetics, we believe beauty is more than skin deep. We understand that when we don’t

“The services offered by the aesthetics industry are often

feel our best on the outside, it can really hold us back

judged as being vain, shallow, and labeled as unnatural,

from achieving our goals and feeling empowered in

however, when done with the right intentions, they can

other areas of our lives. That’s why we aim to provide

truly change a person’s life. To me, it is not about changing

a safe space for women where they can be their

the way a person looks. I would never want that, and I

authentic selves and come away from spending time

turn people away who I feel are not the right fit for our

with our team feeling their best inside and out.”

space. It is about restoring a person’s natural beauty leaving them feeling refreshed, confident, and empowered

True Medical Aesthetics is not just another

- feelings which radiate out into all areas of their lives.

medical aesthetics clinic. Yes, it offers all the

I want women to take the time to truly consider, that if

usual services of injectables, laser treatments,

all the noise from society, the media, etc, was quiet, and

and weight loss therapies but it is the why behind

they weren’t fearful about what anyone else would say or

the brand that truly makes a difference.

think, what would they do to make themselves happier in a healthy way? That single contemplative question

“There is a lot of pressure from society to look a

alone is powerful beyond measure. We all deserve to

certain way in order to be considered beautiful. Out

feel happy, confident, and beautiful, every day.”

of that pressure arises insecurity and so much of that insecurity is preyed upon by those in the aesthetics

At the end of the day, beauty is much more than what

industry. I really wanted to create a safe place for

we look like. It’s about how we feel and how confident

women to feel accepted and welcomed just as they

we are in ourselves to take on life’s challenges.

are. We address so many different things in terms of

Aesthetic treatments can give us an extra boost of

aesthetics, but we also pair that with a rigid screening

confidence, but ultimately it’s up to us to tap into our

process to establish whether or not someone is seeking

inner beauty and use it as a source of motivation and

a treatment for the ‘right’ reasons and an approach to

strength. When we do that, nothing can stop us!

holistic wellness,” shares Durkin. “Mental health and the way we feel about ourselves makes all the difference

www.truemedicalaesthetics.com

when it comes to the way in which we live our lives. I think that the tragic losses that I have experienced in my life have led me to the path that I am on today.”

83

INTUITION

Patti Negri ENERGY BALANCING FOR THOSE WHO ARE TIRED OF THE RAT RACE

THE key to almost everything is balance. Unfortunately, modern society has us running faster than crazed rats on hamster wheels, and sometimes it feels like the wheels will fall off. Yes, we all know the benefits of meditation and “me time,” but for those battling it out in the rat race of life, we have mere minutes to pull ourselves together and try to get back into balance so that we can not only survive but thrive. Patti Negri, psychic medium, “Good Witch,” podcaster, author, and TV host, shares the benefits of energy balancing and some easy elemental exercises to help you get back in balance within 30 seconds, no matter where you are.

BALANCED 84 90

ELEMENTAL

What is Energy Balancing?

element of water. Find a sink or something similar. Before you turn on

Energy balancing works by harmonizing the energies within you, bring-

the tap, be sure to set an intention such as, I choose to release my anger.

ing into balance your elemental natures of earth, air, fire, and water.

Then turn on the tap and place your hands underneath the running water

When all of these elements are in balance, so are we. From this place of

for 30 seconds. You may wish to visualize your excess emotions draining

balance, we can achieve harmony and well-being in all areas of our lives.

down the sink. Now that you have released your excess emotions, you can deal with whatever brought on the feeling minus the overwhelm.

“I am an elemental witch. I work with nature and its elements. Nature truly does balance us, but in our modern society, most of us don’t get

Air and Thoughts

enough time to commune with nature. The good news is, we don’t have

“Do you overthink? Get foggy? Sometimes you can’t get your thoughts

to leave our office or our recording studios to tune into the elements and

to SHUT UP! You need to balance your air element,” says Negri. A quick

reap the rewards,” explains Patti Negri.

fix to calm the air element is to bring awareness to your breath and add sound. First, set the intention that your breathing will clear and quiet

Our Elemental Selves

your mind. Then take 30 seconds to sound out vowels or chants like

Your entire life is made up of the four essential elements of earth, air,

Amen, Om, aaaa, eeee, etc. This is great to do before a presentation!

fire, and water. Earth represents who you are, your home, and your sense of being. Air represents your thinking brain, thoughts, and sense of rea-

Earth and Grounding

son. Fire represents your passion, creativity, the blood flowing through

Feeling ungrounded or as if you have left your body? Take 30 seconds to

your veins, and spirituality. And finally, water represents your emotions.

connect with anything made of wood or stone. Affirm that the object you are connecting with will ground and center you. Then hold onto it and

The next time you feel unhappy, unproductive, or like you are cruising

breathe.

through life “asleep at the wheel,” know that there is a remedy; you need to figure out which of your elements is out of balance.

Fire and Passion

How to Balance Your Energy - in 30 Seconds or Less!

ing and sound magic,” explains Negri. “Affirm in your head how you want

“Recognising which of your elements is out of balance is easy. All you

to feel and then, for 30 seconds and breathing deeply, make the sound of

need to do is think about which element aligns with your feelings. For

a bee buzzing. You will start to feel a tingling at the base of your spine,

example, I feel angry. That is an emotion. That’s water. I’m feeling foggy.

and in no time, you will have all the energy, passion, and creativity you

That has to do with my thoughts; that’s air.

need to move forward.”

Here are four simple techniques to quickly bring yourself back into bal-

These four techniques will act as your hidden powers! You can do them

ance as you move through your day.

anywhere. Best of all, they cost nothing and only take 30 seconds. So keep

All out of passion and feeling tired? Fire is what you need. “This is breath-

them in mind and pull them out whenever needed for immediate balance Water and Emotions

and relief.

Feel as if your emotions are out of balance? “Your emotions keep you from your full experience of life…you need the water element,” explains

www.pattinegri.com

Negri. You only need access to a running water source to balance the 85 91

FROM EGO TO ESSENCE HOW TO OPEN YOURSELF TO INFINITE POSSIBILITIES.

BY TARRYN REEVES

ARE you driven? Or, are you drawn? The pathway of being driven

were, park the pursuit of ‘more,’ and embrace the magic of ‘being’?

often leaves us feeling exhausted, stressed out, and unfulfilled always searching for the next best thing. To be drawn, however,

“The clear, easier path emerging in these dark times takes the work out

is where the magic lies. Diana Wentworth, Founder Inside

of it. All that is required is a shift of perception. You need only discern

Edge Foundation for Education, international keynote speaker,

and create a partnership with all that is available to us now and become

author of seven best-selling and award-winning books, and

completely open and receptive to your highest good,” says Wentworth.

co-author of two Chicken Soup for the Soul titles, shares the power of what it means to be drawn rather than driven.

Studies have shown that we have a minuscule 17 seconds to capture a negative thought and turn it into something more positive. As is

“We’ve evolved into a time when we can experience a

natural human behavior, our first thoughts in the morning are often

much more intimate, interactive, expansive relationship

centered around survival. Thoughts about all the things we have to do

with the unknown,” explains Diana Wentworth.

that day, the things we don’t want to do, situations we dread but know we must do; thoughts like these tend to start running rampant in our

The Essence Within

minds as soon as we open our eyes. It can be easy to get overwhelmed by stress and even easier to fall into victimhood, but we must learn to

We are all familiar with the term ‘soul,’ but what does it mean,

take control and set the stage of our day for wonder rather than woe.

and how can we connect with it to support us to live our lives to our fullest potential? “I refer to the soul as essence. It is the elixir

Wonder instead how great the day can turn out or how you can lift

that lights up the core of someone’s being. It is your purpose

someone’s spirits. Turn your thoughts instead to a place that lifts

based on your gifts to bring forth in this life; what you are here

you and makes you feel light and full of possibilities. “From that

to exemplify from your purest, truest place,” says Wentworth.

place, that feeling of wonderment, you become a flowing fountain nourishing the world with your unique gifts,” says Wentworth.

In her 80 years, Wentworth has experienced the profound magic that can occur when we feel and listen to the power of being

There are many ways in which we can learn to shift our thoughts.

drawn to people, experiences, and places. Some might refer to

Start your day with an app such as NuCalm or a journaling

this as luck; however, Wentworth understands that the magic

session. “You need only ask for what you want, listen and discern

that continues to unfold in her life is a result of learning to listen,

the highest answer to that,” explains Wentworth. As you move

connect with her essence, ask for what she wants and then allow

through your day, you only need 20 minutes to realign yourself.

herself to be drawn to the next best step to achieve her goals.

Take a 20-minute walk in nature, breathe deeply and/or listen to a short meditation. You will be surprised at the power that this

Just like a seed being drawn out of the Earth to bloom

has to support you in choosing your mental state - because that is

into the sunlight, so must we allow ourselves to be

what it is, a choice. You get to choose. You must expect magic.

drawn to the next thing that will lead us forward.

“Invisible help is not only available but standing by for eager Put the Drive in Park

directions!” says Wentworth. So start small and go from there. The more you follow the feeling of being drawn, the more magic you

Our modern way of living has us stepping further and further away from

discover. And who doesn’t want more magic in their lives?

our true selves and falling into the trap of running faster and faster in pursuit of the next best thing. But what if we just stopped, even just for a moment? What if there was a way for us to remember who we truly

86

www.dianawentworth.com

INFINITE.

87

INTUITION

YOUR FEMALE INTUITION IS A POWERFUL TOOL EXCLUSIVE TO YOU. MAKE SURE YOU USE IT TO STAY AHEAD OF THE GAME.

BY NIGELLA LORSON HAVE you ever had a gut feeling or inner

intuition, we can pursue careers that align

It’s also important to acknowledge

voice that guided you in your decision-

with our passions and strengths, rather

that intuition can be influenced by our

making process? That’s your intuition at

than being limited by societal norms.

emotions and biases. For example, we may

work! As women, we often undervalue

Using our intuition can also help us

be more likely to trust our intuition when

this powerful tool, but by tapping into our

navigate difficult situations, such as

we are feeling confident or optimistic, and

intuition, we can achieve great success in

negotiating a salary or dealing with a

less likely to trust it when we are feeling

our personal and professional lives.

challenging boss. By reading between

anxious or insecure. It’s important to be

the lines and picking up on subtle cues,

aware of these biases and to approach

So, what exactly is intuition? It’s not some

women who trust their intuition can

decision-making with a clear and open

mysterious ability that only a few possess.

navigate these situations more effectively.

mind.

processing and synthesizing vast amounts

Of course, intuition isn’t a substitute for

In addition to mindfulness, there are other

of information beyond our conscious

critical thinking or rational decision-

practices that can help women develop

awareness. It’s the reason we often feel a

making. It’s important to balance intuition

their intuition. Meditation, journaling,

“gut feeling” or “inner voice” when making

with logic and reason to make the best

and creative pursuits such as painting or

decisions.

decisions possible.

writing can all help us tap into our inner

In today’s fast-paced world, where we are

Use It Wisely

constantly bombarded with information

Many successful women credit their

and faced with numerous decisions, the

intuition for leading them down the

When it comes to using intuition in the

ability to make quick and accurate choices

right path. Oprah Winfrey, for example,

workplace, it’s important to remember

is essential. By trusting our intuition, we

has spoken about how she has used her

that it can be a valuable asset, but it’s

can tap into our inner guidance system

intuition to make decisions throughout

not a substitute for hard work and

and make decisions that align with our

her career. She once said, “I’ve trusted the

perseverance. Women who have achieved

values and goals.

still, small voice of intuition my entire life.

great success through intuition have also

And the only time I’ve made mistakes is

put in the time and effort to hone their

when I didn’t listen.”

skills and develop their knowledge.

mindfulness. Practicing mindfulness

Another way to develop intuition is

Intuition is a powerful tool that women

helps us tune out external distractions and

by paying attention to our physical

can use to achieve success in all areas of

focus on our inner voice, making it easier

sensations. When we are faced with a

their lives. By developing our intuition

to make decisions based on our instincts

decision, our bodies often give us physical

and learning to trust our inner voice,

and gut feelings, rather than being swayed

cues that can help guide us. For example,

we can make better decisions, pursue

by external pressures or societal norms.

we may feel a sense of tightness in our

our passions, and navigate challenging

chest or a knot in our stomach when

situations more effectively. It’s time to

When it comes to career decisions,

something doesn’t feel right. Conversely,

embrace our intuition and let it guide us

women often feel pressure to conform

we may feel a sense of lightness or ease

on the path to success!

to traditional roles, such as teaching

when we are making a decision that aligns

or nursing. However, by trusting our

with our values and goals.

In fact, intuition is the result of our brain

voice and develop a deeper understanding

Developing Intuition

of ourselves.

One way to develop intuition is through

88

ILLUSTRATION: ADI MIKA POWER PLAYS.

89

INTUITION

ILLUSTRATION: ADI MIKA 90

Intuition: What is it?

THE word “intuition” comes from

means of accessing deeper levels of

or stressed, we may be more likely to

the Latin word “intuitio,” which

consciousness and understanding.

interpret a situation negatively and trust our intuition that something is

means “looking at, considering, or contemplating.” The term was first

Today, the concept of intuition is

wrong, even if the evidence suggests

used in the English language in the

widely used and studied in fields such

otherwise.

late 16th century and originally

as psychology, neuroscience, and

referred to a type of direct perception

business. Research has shown that

Additionally, research has shown that

or insight that was thought to be a gift

intuition is related to our unconscious

people who are more in tune with

from the divine.

mind and is often driven by our past

their emotions and more self-aware

experiences and knowledge. Our

tend to have stronger intuition. This is

The concept of intuition has been

brain processes information and

likely because they are more attuned

studied and discussed in various

makes connections subconsciously,

to their own internal signals and more

cultures and philosophical traditions

and intuition is thought to be a result

able to recognize when their intuition

throughout history. For example,

of this process. In other words, our

is guiding them.

in ancient Greece, the philosopher

intuition is based on patterns that our

Plato wrote about the concept of

brain has learned over time, and it’s

While there is still much that we don’t

“anamnesis”, which refers to the idea

able to recognize those patterns even

fully understand about intuition,

that knowledge is innate and that we

when we aren’t consciously aware of

the science suggests that it is a real

can access it through introspection

them.

and powerful phenomenon. By paying attention to our physical

and contemplation.

Studies have also shown that intuition

sensations, our emotions, and our

In Eastern philosophy, the concept

is closely linked to our emotions.

past experiences, we can learn to

of intuition is often associated

Our emotions can influence our

develop and trust our intuition, which

with mindfulness and meditation

intuition by shaping the way we

ultimately helps us make better

practices. In Hinduism and Buddhism,

perceive and interpret information.

decisions to achieve greater success.

for example, intuition is seen as a

For example, if we are feeling anxious

These women celebrated their intuition in business...

Sara Blakely

to a news site that covered politics and current events.

Sara Blakely is the founder of Spanx, a wildly successful

She trusted her intuition that there was a demand for a

shapewear company. Blakely has spoken publicly about

more substantive news source and made the shift,

how she used her intuition to develop the Spanx product.

which ultimately led to the site’s success.

She noticed that there was a gap in the market for comfortable and flattering shapewear and trusted her gut

Sheryl Sandberg

feeling that there was a demand for such a product. She

Sheryl Sandberg is the COO of Facebook and author of

launched Spanx with a small initial investment and went

the best-selling book, “Lean In.” Sandberg has spoken

on to build a multi-billion dollar company.

about how she uses her intuition to make decisions in the workplace. She believes that women often undervalue

Arianna Huffington

their intuition and should trust their instincts when

Arianna Huffington is the founder of the Huffington Post,

making tough decisions. Sandberg has also spoken about

the popular online news site. Huffington has spoken

how she used her intuition to identify the potential of

about how she used her intuition to pivot the focus of the

Facebook when she first met Mark Zuckerberg.

Huffington Post from a celebrity-focused blog

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PARTNERS

sababay SABABAY WINERY WAS ESTABLISHED WITH A VISIONARY MISSION TO UPLIFT THE LIVELIHOODS OF BALI’S FARMERS BY SEAMLESSLY BLENDING CULINARY EXCELLENCE WITH LOCALLY-CRAFTED WINES.

AS the official wine partner of the Indonesian government’s ‘Wonderful

to our guiding motto, ‘New Latitude, New Attitude,’” remarked Evy Gozali,

Indonesia’ initiative, Sababay Winery has recently expanded its horizons,

Sababay’s Co-founder and CEO. This dynamic mother-daughter duo places

embracing a newfound passion for distinctive experiences that harmonize

immense faith in stimulating job creation within the tourism sector by

exceptional wines, gourmet regional delicacies, and rich cultural

delivering premium local products. Their vision is rooted in sowing the

immersion. This exciting addition of wine tourism to Bali’s repertoire is

seeds of knowledge through education and empowering individuals with

characterized by a steadfast commitment to authenticity, unwavering

technology, enabling them to reap the bountiful rewards that Indonesia

quality standards, and inventive creativity.

holds.

Nestled along the picturesque ‘Saba’ Bay in Gianyar, Bali, Sababay Winery’s

Elevating the Standards

dedicated team curates meticulously crafted guided tours, brimming with fervor, to shine a spotlight on Bali’s remarkable creative economic offerings,

Embarking on a journey to acquaint oneself with Sababay Wines and

spanning from luscious grapes to exquisite wines.

their recently acclaimed spirit collection, SABA, is an absolute must for enthusiasts of fine wines and spirits. The Winery and Distillery Tours offer

Forging Partnerships for Triumph

delightful experiences in the company of kindred souls who share a passion for exceptional libations.

The brainchild behind Sababay Winery, Mdm Mulyati Gozali, embarked

Sababay proudly presents the first-ever winery tour in Bali, an opportunity

on this remarkable journey after decades of navigating the realms of

for the public to immerse themselves in the splendor of Sababay’s natural

management and finance. She stands as the sturdy pillar of this brand. In

offerings. This original and authentic experience presents an enjoyable

2010, when she bore witness to the trials faced by grape growers in northern

education in wine appreciation and pairing, inviting participants to savor

Bali, it ignited her resolve to join hands with these farmers and transform

the nuances of locally crafted New Latitude Wines.

grapes into the most value-added product—the fine art of winemaking.

The captivating odyssey commences with an authentic tour designed to Sababay Winery has been blessed with the expertise of the immensely

evoke curiosity and expand wine knowledge in a relaxed and comfortable

talented French winemaker, Guillaume Queron. Hailing from a lineage of

setting. Guests gain insight into the winemaking process from inception to

winemakers in Bordeaux, Guillaume has crafted extraordinary wines for

completion, culminating in a delightful wine-tasting session, followed by

Chateau Villa Mongiron and earned distinction as a top pupil under the

relaxation in the serene garden surroundings.

legendary Jean-Luc Thunevin, the pioneer of the garage wine movement in Bordeaux.

Join and Discover

Together, the Sababay team embarks on an ambitious journey, exploring

Crafted with pride in Indonesia, Sababay consistently demonstrates its

the prospect of marrying the world’s finest grape varieties from France and

dedication to producing international-grade wines and spirits that are

Italy with the diverse terroirs of Indonesia, allowing New Latitude wines to

accessible to all. Simultaneously, the brand remains committed to giving

flourish amidst the tropical embrace of the equatorial line.

back to the local community and region.

Sowing the Seeds of Innovation

Tel: +62 361 949099 / +62 813 53219858 IG: @sababaywinery @sababay.distillery

“Sababay Winery recognized the paramount importance of innovation and

www.sababaywinery.com

adaptation to the ever-evolving global trends, all while steadfastly adhering

visit@sababaywinery.com

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CHEERS. 93

EVENTS

WOMEN Gone Wild: The Feminine Guide To Fearless Living launched to acclaim at Barnes and Noble in Huntington Beach, California, with a gathering of authors and supporters attending the book signing event and later a red carpet extravaganza in their honor.

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That’s why we offer a wide range of shows that are designed to help women connect with themselves, each other, and the world around them.

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