Happiness is not a destination. It is a method of life.
- Burton Hills
about Joanna
- Joanna Scaparotti
- Beverly, MA, United States
- Joanna's passion is creating mindful entrepreneurship and soul-centered authentic businesses in the wellness industry that seamlessly integrate values such as abundance, service and wellness with the freedom of flexible lifestyles and the benefits of creative community collaboration.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Year in Review
Last year when I took stock of how the year went, all I could think about were all the ways in which I didn't succeed or meet some of the lofty goals I had set for myself. It was a pretty dreary way of looking back at the year, and to tell you the truth, I am not sure why my usually optimistic self took the glass half empty approach. It left me feeling discouraged and depressed.
This past year for me was one of difficult changes, constant struggle with chronic pain, and significant losses in my personal life too. The way life happened outside of my control threw all my plans into disarray, and I really didn't have a chance to work on anything except for survival in 2008. Instead of focusing on all the hopes, dreams and accomplishments that weren't fulfilled - I am choosing to review my year in terms of gratitude, appreciation for myself, for those who stood by me and supported me when things were really rough, for all the abundance that exists in my life. Making this list acknowledging all the wonderful people in my life and all the really loving and kind ways that I took care of myself despite the challenges was really empowering.
Even if your year was not as challenging as mine, even if it was just ok or even if it was absolutely fantastic - I encourage you to step back from accomplishment thinking and review your year through a lens of gratitude and appreciation. It feels really good to do it, and it's a really nice way to reconnect with the spirit of this holiday season.
This past year for me was one of difficult changes, constant struggle with chronic pain, and significant losses in my personal life too. The way life happened outside of my control threw all my plans into disarray, and I really didn't have a chance to work on anything except for survival in 2008. Instead of focusing on all the hopes, dreams and accomplishments that weren't fulfilled - I am choosing to review my year in terms of gratitude, appreciation for myself, for those who stood by me and supported me when things were really rough, for all the abundance that exists in my life. Making this list acknowledging all the wonderful people in my life and all the really loving and kind ways that I took care of myself despite the challenges was really empowering.
Even if your year was not as challenging as mine, even if it was just ok or even if it was absolutely fantastic - I encourage you to step back from accomplishment thinking and review your year through a lens of gratitude and appreciation. It feels really good to do it, and it's a really nice way to reconnect with the spirit of this holiday season.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Baby steps towards relaxation
One dynamic that is particularly challenging in our culture is balancing our innate needs for rest and movement. When we are super busy all the time, always moving, or regularly tense or anxious, our bodies bring us back into balance by catching those dreaded colds or flus to force us to stay home to rest and rejuvenate and return to homeostasis. If you don't want to end up stuck in bed this month, there are some easy techniques you can incorporate into your life to keep balanced. I suggest you schedule downtime for yourself and practice doing leisure activities. Just like when you begin an exercise program, you're most successful at reducing stress and relaxing if you take baby steps. Start with just 5 or 10 minutes three times a week.
Start with a leisure activity that gives you something to do while practicing rest and relaxation - reading a book, petting an animal, knitting or painting. Eventually you might add 10 more minutes onto your sessions and a few additional days a week and flex your skills with some intermediate activities such as reflecting on your life, writing in a journal, or drinking a hot beverage in a cozy room. As you work up to a deeper state of peace and calm and become adept at being still, you might try more advanced resting techniques like sitting and looking out your window to observe the weather, or meditating and quieting the mind. It might seem silly to practice relaxation like this, but I'm certain you know someone who just does not know how to slow down. Yet it's a skill that can be developed with practice - I promise. And the benefits to your health, your sanity and your well-being are priceless.
Start with a leisure activity that gives you something to do while practicing rest and relaxation - reading a book, petting an animal, knitting or painting. Eventually you might add 10 more minutes onto your sessions and a few additional days a week and flex your skills with some intermediate activities such as reflecting on your life, writing in a journal, or drinking a hot beverage in a cozy room. As you work up to a deeper state of peace and calm and become adept at being still, you might try more advanced resting techniques like sitting and looking out your window to observe the weather, or meditating and quieting the mind. It might seem silly to practice relaxation like this, but I'm certain you know someone who just does not know how to slow down. Yet it's a skill that can be developed with practice - I promise. And the benefits to your health, your sanity and your well-being are priceless.
Monday, November 24, 2008
10 Tips for a Stress Free Holiday Season
- Eat a Balanced Breakfast every day during the busy holiday season to manage your appetite and keep your energy up.
- Sleep Enough each night so you'll be sure to make good decisions about what you're eating and how you're spending your time and money.
- Put Your Well-being First by making self-care a priority. Make time daily to relax and rejuvenate so you look and feel your best.
- Say No to commitments, events (and foods) that don't nourish you or enrich your life.
- Go With The Flow when things don't turn out how you expect. Don't let hassles become roadblocks.
- Cherish The Moment. Remember when you were a child and delighted in small and unexpected magical moments?
- Smile Freely at everyone you encounter. Never underestimate the power you have to change a situation with warmth and friendliness.
- Take A Break. There are only so many hours in the day, so put non-essentials on hold while you ramp up for the festivities.
- Ask For Help when you need it, and return the favor when you can. That's what friends and family are for.
- Indulge A Little. The holidays only come once a year, so give yourself permission to be joyful and have fun instead of bogged down with details and commitments.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Seasonal Blues
With the sudden plunge into darkness after the Daylight Savings Time changes, you might find yourself dealing with some winter blues. Do you find that you suffer from symptoms of fatigue, the blues, irritability or trouble focusing this time of year?
Well, according to the Mayo Clinic - you could be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder. These symptoms may be caused by changes to your circadian rhythm due to less sunlight hours this time of year. If you feel down for days at a time and can't seem to get motivated to do activities you normally enjoy, the Mayo Clinic recommends that you go see your doctor.
For the rest of us - simply adding more light to your day, exercising regularly, managing stress, keeping up social connections, or taking a trip to a warm sunny location can make a big difference. Read specific tips on preventing and managing seasonal blues here...
Well, according to the Mayo Clinic - you could be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder. These symptoms may be caused by changes to your circadian rhythm due to less sunlight hours this time of year. If you feel down for days at a time and can't seem to get motivated to do activities you normally enjoy, the Mayo Clinic recommends that you go see your doctor.
For the rest of us - simply adding more light to your day, exercising regularly, managing stress, keeping up social connections, or taking a trip to a warm sunny location can make a big difference. Read specific tips on preventing and managing seasonal blues here...
Monday, November 3, 2008
The Dangers of Chronic Emotional Stress
Did you know that chronic emotional stress is dangerous for your health over time?
Our bodies have two nervous systems. The one that gets you ready to fight or flight is called the sympathetic nervous system. The other one is the parasympathetic nervous system which regulates relaxation, body repairs, and digestion. When one of the systems is engaged, the other one is not active.
According to Dr. Ben Kim, anxiety, tension, frustration, and anger set off your body's fight or flight response in the same way that running into a mountain lion would kick in your survival instincts.
So, when emotional stressors keep your sympathetic nervous system in a state of chronic stimulation, your body does not get a chance to repair itself, relax, and digest your food well to nourish the body.
This means you end up with accelerated aging and breakdown of your body's tissues over time.
The good news is that practicing deep relaxation on a regular basis can tone your parasympathetic nervous system and improve your health. Take a look here for some ideas on how to incorporate deep relaxation into your lifestyle.
Our bodies have two nervous systems. The one that gets you ready to fight or flight is called the sympathetic nervous system. The other one is the parasympathetic nervous system which regulates relaxation, body repairs, and digestion. When one of the systems is engaged, the other one is not active.
According to Dr. Ben Kim, anxiety, tension, frustration, and anger set off your body's fight or flight response in the same way that running into a mountain lion would kick in your survival instincts.
So, when emotional stressors keep your sympathetic nervous system in a state of chronic stimulation, your body does not get a chance to repair itself, relax, and digest your food well to nourish the body.
This means you end up with accelerated aging and breakdown of your body's tissues over time.
The good news is that practicing deep relaxation on a regular basis can tone your parasympathetic nervous system and improve your health. Take a look here for some ideas on how to incorporate deep relaxation into your lifestyle.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
New location - Salem, MA
Hello!
I am pleased to announce that I have relocated to Salem, MA! I am still recovering from the pelvic pain injury that had me off my feet for a lot of the past year, but I am surely on my way to complete recovery. While I cannot offer Reiki bodywork sessions just yet, starting in November I'll be offering wellness coaching and Solutions for Stress out of Body & Soul Massage and Wellness Center in downtown Salem.
I am also accepting Reiki students for November and December 2008. I teach Reiki as a one-on-one training for private individuals or small groups of friends/family and customize the curriculum to help students reach their personal goals. For more information, take a look at my website here.
Also, for current or past students - there's a Reiki Refresher scheduled for November 30th. Has it been a while since your Reiki attunement? Would you like a Reiki recharge and an opportunity to practice with others? This 2 hour Reiki intensive is open to Reiki practitioners attuned to any level. There's more information about it on my website here.
As always, I can still be reached at 617-429-1793 or joannascaparotti@gmail.com.
Hope you're well!
Joanna
I am pleased to announce that I have relocated to Salem, MA! I am still recovering from the pelvic pain injury that had me off my feet for a lot of the past year, but I am surely on my way to complete recovery. While I cannot offer Reiki bodywork sessions just yet, starting in November I'll be offering wellness coaching and Solutions for Stress out of Body & Soul Massage and Wellness Center in downtown Salem.
I am also accepting Reiki students for November and December 2008. I teach Reiki as a one-on-one training for private individuals or small groups of friends/family and customize the curriculum to help students reach their personal goals. For more information, take a look at my website here.
Also, for current or past students - there's a Reiki Refresher scheduled for November 30th. Has it been a while since your Reiki attunement? Would you like a Reiki recharge and an opportunity to practice with others? This 2 hour Reiki intensive is open to Reiki practitioners attuned to any level. There's more information about it on my website here.
As always, I can still be reached at 617-429-1793 or joannascaparotti@gmail.com.
Hope you're well!
Joanna
Sunday, September 14, 2008
My daily checklist
I don't know about you, but when I'm not feeling well I just want to curl up on the couch and watch TV or sleep until the symptoms are gone. This is a decent way to handle an acute illness like a cold or the flu because the body does need to rest in order to for the immune system to do it's job. However, when you are dealing with a chronic health condition like I am - spending every day on the couch is not going to help me feel better. In fact, it often makes me feel worse because of all the things that fall by the wayside.
Learning how to cope and take care of yourself, your home, your family and maybe even your work responsibilities when you have a chronic condition is really tough. It's easy to get caught up in a mode of "I'll put it off until tomorrow or until I feel better" and months may go by before it happens. So I have devised a couple of tricks to help me be productive in harmony with my condition, rather than working against myself! One of my favorite ways is my daily checklist.
I have a little whiteboard up on the wall in my bedroom where I see it several times a day. At the top I wrote "Love Yourself Today", and along the left in bright colors I made a checklist of daily goals. Some days it's really a stretch to check off everything on the list, but I like the challenge and reminder to take care of myself and my obligations. My goals encompass self-care, daily household tasks, and projects.
My daily checklist looks something like this:
Learning how to cope and take care of yourself, your home, your family and maybe even your work responsibilities when you have a chronic condition is really tough. It's easy to get caught up in a mode of "I'll put it off until tomorrow or until I feel better" and months may go by before it happens. So I have devised a couple of tricks to help me be productive in harmony with my condition, rather than working against myself! One of my favorite ways is my daily checklist.
I have a little whiteboard up on the wall in my bedroom where I see it several times a day. At the top I wrote "Love Yourself Today", and along the left in bright colors I made a checklist of daily goals. Some days it's really a stretch to check off everything on the list, but I like the challenge and reminder to take care of myself and my obligations. My goals encompass self-care, daily household tasks, and projects.
My daily checklist looks something like this:
- Make the bed and open the blinds
- See or talk to someone who cares about me
- Cuddle with the cats
- Go for a 15 minute walk
- Do one - two chores around the house
- Yoga and PT exercises
- Take meds on time
- Eat healthy meals and snacks
- Spend time on X project
- Read and respond to email and voice mail
- Take stretch breaks
- Get some sunshine and leave the house
- Meditate
- Go to bed by 11pm
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Three simple steps for well-being
Hey there!
I've spent a good amount of time online researching chronic pain over the past year to find better ways to cope and manage it. Quite frankly, I'm pretty disappointed with the material out there. There are books that get technical about what happens in the body, and others that talk about medication management - but I haven't found any good ones on how to maintain a sense of well-being and joy while dealing with the burden of chronic pain. So after awhile, I turned decided to follow the wisdom of my favorite quote:
So, I meditated and tuned in to my inner voice about how best to maintain well-being under the challenging circumstances. I found three specific steps to take each time I feel pain or discomfort.
So what does that mean exactly?
The first step is pretty easy. As soon as I notice new discomfort or pain - I pause what I'm doing to give it my attention. I check out what I'm sensing and "listen" to my body and heart for cues as to what I need. Am I hungry? Is it time for medication? Am I stiff? tired? tense? upset? lonely? frustrated? etc... Once I figure out what is going on, I respond to the pain or discomfort message from my body with a loving act.
A loving act could be any of the actions I could take to directly address the message from my body. A loving act might be taking medication or a nap. It might be doing stretching or yoga or listening to a guided meditation CD on visualizing pain away. It might be calling a friend or making a date for coffee because I'm lonely. It might be calling a doctor or pharmacist to address a concern. It might be scheduling a Reiki session or a massage to give my body some positive attention. It might be asking someone for help. The idea is to respond to the messages from my body in a nurturing way, rather than letting myself sink into a cycle of frustration at my body, helplessness and depression about being in pain.
Since I've started following these steps - I've noticed that my quality of life has improved drastically. This is mostly due to my outlook shifting from feeling like a victim of circumstances outside my control to feeling empowered, valued and loved as I do kind, gentle and nurturing things for myself. While I use these steps to deal with chronic pain, I bet they would be useful under many circumstances - perhaps even every day life. Feel free to try them out!
I've spent a good amount of time online researching chronic pain over the past year to find better ways to cope and manage it. Quite frankly, I'm pretty disappointed with the material out there. There are books that get technical about what happens in the body, and others that talk about medication management - but I haven't found any good ones on how to maintain a sense of well-being and joy while dealing with the burden of chronic pain. So after awhile, I turned decided to follow the wisdom of my favorite quote:
If you find not what you seek within, you will never find it without.
So, I meditated and tuned in to my inner voice about how best to maintain well-being under the challenging circumstances. I found three specific steps to take each time I feel pain or discomfort.
- Stop what you're doing
- Listen to your body and heart to find out what is needed
- Respond with a loving act
So what does that mean exactly?
The first step is pretty easy. As soon as I notice new discomfort or pain - I pause what I'm doing to give it my attention. I check out what I'm sensing and "listen" to my body and heart for cues as to what I need. Am I hungry? Is it time for medication? Am I stiff? tired? tense? upset? lonely? frustrated? etc... Once I figure out what is going on, I respond to the pain or discomfort message from my body with a loving act.
A loving act could be any of the actions I could take to directly address the message from my body. A loving act might be taking medication or a nap. It might be doing stretching or yoga or listening to a guided meditation CD on visualizing pain away. It might be calling a friend or making a date for coffee because I'm lonely. It might be calling a doctor or pharmacist to address a concern. It might be scheduling a Reiki session or a massage to give my body some positive attention. It might be asking someone for help. The idea is to respond to the messages from my body in a nurturing way, rather than letting myself sink into a cycle of frustration at my body, helplessness and depression about being in pain.
Since I've started following these steps - I've noticed that my quality of life has improved drastically. This is mostly due to my outlook shifting from feeling like a victim of circumstances outside my control to feeling empowered, valued and loved as I do kind, gentle and nurturing things for myself. While I use these steps to deal with chronic pain, I bet they would be useful under many circumstances - perhaps even every day life. Feel free to try them out!
Friday, August 8, 2008
Summer of transitions
I hope this letter finds you well!
This has truly been a summer of transitions for me. You may recall that I finally got a diagnosis for the chronic pain which has been interfering with my life and work for many years and began a treatment program to bring my pelvis back into alignment with some fantastic rehab people. I've been working with my providers for pain relief and re-educating my pelvic muscles how to relax and get back into proper alignment for several months now.
In addition to this often exhausting and painful physical work, I've been working through emotional and spiritual healing about the pain condition in my body, and also in regards to the primary relationship in my life. Unexpectedly this summer, my personal life and living situation underwent a big upheaval with a painful separation and divorce from my best friend and husband of almost seven years.
It sure has been a challenging couple of months, but what has gotten me through each day is taking all the self-care tips and advice that I have been offering to others for years. They really do make a difference, especially when you use them during stressful or painful times in your life. I encourage you to take a peek through the archives of my Urban Vitality Blog for wellness, stress reduction, and relaxation advice any time you are feeling a bit stuck or overwhelmed.
Despite my overly optimistic hope for being back to work giving Reiki & Wellness bodywork sessions full-time in the fall, it looks as though realistically I've got to stay off my feet for a while longer so my body has the best opportunities for healing as possible. My hope is to do more writing about wellness and stress reduction for your reading pleasure this fall, and to get those meditation and relaxation recordings clients and students have been asking for in the works! By the way, I am still taking Reiki students and officiating weddings and life celebrations on a limited basis for the time being- see Reiki and Life Celebrations for more information.
Take care,
Joanna
PS. If you missed it, back in February, I wrote about my ongoing struggle with chronic pain, and it continues to be a challenge that I am facing every day. The good news is that the prognosis is good, and with rest, recuperation, rehabilitation, and lots of self-care, I can overcome this challenge and get back to working full-time providing Reiki and Wellness bodywork sessions!
Any questions or want tips? You can always reach me at 617-429-1793 or joannascaparotti@gmail.com.
This has truly been a summer of transitions for me. You may recall that I finally got a diagnosis for the chronic pain which has been interfering with my life and work for many years and began a treatment program to bring my pelvis back into alignment with some fantastic rehab people. I've been working with my providers for pain relief and re-educating my pelvic muscles how to relax and get back into proper alignment for several months now. In addition to this often exhausting and painful physical work, I've been working through emotional and spiritual healing about the pain condition in my body, and also in regards to the primary relationship in my life. Unexpectedly this summer, my personal life and living situation underwent a big upheaval with a painful separation and divorce from my best friend and husband of almost seven years.
It sure has been a challenging couple of months, but what has gotten me through each day is taking all the self-care tips and advice that I have been offering to others for years. They really do make a difference, especially when you use them during stressful or painful times in your life. I encourage you to take a peek through the archives of my Urban Vitality Blog for wellness, stress reduction, and relaxation advice any time you are feeling a bit stuck or overwhelmed.
Despite my overly optimistic hope for being back to work giving Reiki & Wellness bodywork sessions full-time in the fall, it looks as though realistically I've got to stay off my feet for a while longer so my body has the best opportunities for healing as possible. My hope is to do more writing about wellness and stress reduction for your reading pleasure this fall, and to get those meditation and relaxation recordings clients and students have been asking for in the works! By the way, I am still taking Reiki students and officiating weddings and life celebrations on a limited basis for the time being- see Reiki and Life Celebrations for more information.
Take care,
Joanna
PS. If you missed it, back in February, I wrote about my ongoing struggle with chronic pain, and it continues to be a challenge that I am facing every day. The good news is that the prognosis is good, and with rest, recuperation, rehabilitation, and lots of self-care, I can overcome this challenge and get back to working full-time providing Reiki and Wellness bodywork sessions!
Any questions or want tips? You can always reach me at 617-429-1793 or joannascaparotti@gmail.com.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Quick update
Hey there!
Just a quick note to let you know that physical therapy and the treatment program I'm undertaking is making significant progress! The pain has been reduced by 50% at this point! My doctor told me to take it easy this summer and let my body heal - so that's what I'm doing. The plan is to be back to working full-time by the fall, which I am really looking forward to doing! I'm still taking Reiki students, officiating weddings, and seeing a few regular clients and others by referral when I can handle it at my temporary office location at Brickbottom Artists Association on the other side of Union Square Somerville. I'm not sure yet if this will be a permanent location, but I'll let you know as the summer goes on. Meanwhile, have a wonderful summer and feel free to send me an email or drop me a line if you need any advice or would like a session.
Take care,
Joanna
Just a quick note to let you know that physical therapy and the treatment program I'm undertaking is making significant progress! The pain has been reduced by 50% at this point! My doctor told me to take it easy this summer and let my body heal - so that's what I'm doing. The plan is to be back to working full-time by the fall, which I am really looking forward to doing! I'm still taking Reiki students, officiating weddings, and seeing a few regular clients and others by referral when I can handle it at my temporary office location at Brickbottom Artists Association on the other side of Union Square Somerville. I'm not sure yet if this will be a permanent location, but I'll let you know as the summer goes on. Meanwhile, have a wonderful summer and feel free to send me an email or drop me a line if you need any advice or would like a session.
Take care,
Joanna
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Cancellations - Medical leave
Hey everybody,
I'm taking a couple of weeks off giving sessions while I begin physical therapy for the structural issues in my pelvis that have been causing a lot of pain over the past couple of months. I am looking forward to getting some relief!
Please note that cancellations includes the April 27 Developing your Reiki Intuition and May 4th Working with Chakra's workshops too. They will be rescheduled later in the summer.
I will be continuing to teach private Reiki lessons and designing wedding ceremonies in the meantime.
If you need a referral to a Reiki Master while I'm out of commission, shoot me an email at joannascaparotti@gmail.com or call me at 617-429-1793 for my recommendations.
Take care,
Joanna
I'm taking a couple of weeks off giving sessions while I begin physical therapy for the structural issues in my pelvis that have been causing a lot of pain over the past couple of months. I am looking forward to getting some relief!
Please note that cancellations includes the April 27 Developing your Reiki Intuition and May 4th Working with Chakra's workshops too. They will be rescheduled later in the summer.
I will be continuing to teach private Reiki lessons and designing wedding ceremonies in the meantime.
If you need a referral to a Reiki Master while I'm out of commission, shoot me an email at joannascaparotti@gmail.com or call me at 617-429-1793 for my recommendations.
Take care,
Joanna
Friday, March 14, 2008
Testimonial
"I would absolutely most definitely recommend you to anyone I know who is looking for Reiki. I have worked with many many healers, psychics, shaman, you name it, all around the country, and I honestly wanted to let you know that you are with the ones I consider to be at the top! If I didn't think this, I simply would not mention it. So please know that it is how I truly feel!" - Denise S.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Tips for easing allergies
Do you get spring allergies like I do? Here are some of my favorite tips for managing!
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Tips on Spring Cleansing
Ok I know you are going to ask about detoxing or cleansing programs next, so let me tell you about some of my ideas. Though there are many detox programs out there, they can be harsh and difficult to manage. I prefer intentional nourishment programs, like the one outlined below, as a pleasant way to cleanse and renew your commitment to healthy living.
This program is especially good to use at the change of seasons, at the beginning of a weight loss program, during times of stress and tension, or during any time of transition to help instill healthy habits. Try it for a weekend or a week, and see how you feel!
Supplies
• A good vegetarian cookbook for ideas
• several lemons
• local honey (to build up immunity to pollen)
• organic apple cider vinegar or brown rice vinegar
• olive, flaxseed, safflower or sesame oil
• garlic
• ginger
• your favorite herbal teas, green teas
• organic and whole foods
Meals
o For your meals - cut out packaged and pre-cooked foods, dairy products, anything rich or high in fat, and stick with the basics
o Breakfast: choose fresh fruit, granola, whole grain cereals, soy or rice milk, or try scrambled eggs with veggies
o Meals & Snacks: choose organic whenever possible from the following: leafy greens, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, chickpeas, red, white, black, pinto beans, lentils, tofu, eggs, fish, lean meat, whole grains like quinoa or brown rice
o Flavor your meals with apple cider, balsamic or brown rice vinegar, olive, flaxseed, safflower or sesame oil, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, onions and herbs and spices
o Drink plenty of water (flavor with lemon if you desire), herbal and green teas sweetened with local honey
What to do
• Begin the first night with a healthy dinner with above suggested foods. Consider a salad in warm weather or soup or stew during the colder months. Use lemon, garlic, vinegar, ginger, herbs and spices, and oils listed above as your condiments. Try not to eat too late.
• Set aside time to do the Chi Kung Healing Meditation.
• Drink plenty of water and/or herbal teas throughout the evening.
• Choose a healthy breakfast from the foods suggested above & feel free to drink tea with local honey.
• Make a healthy, seasonal midday meal using the guidelines above.
• Set aside time to do the Chi Kung Healing Meditation once or twice each day
• Snack on veggies and fruit throughout the day if you are hungry or drink water with lemon if you are thirsty. Drink plenty of water and tea all day long.
• Exercise gently doing cardio, walking, yoga, or stretching to circulate your cardiovascular and lymphatic system to help them work most efficiently. Make sure to bathe afterwards to cleanse your skin of any toxins that were released.
• Generally take it easy, try not to do anything stressful, and enjoy yourself. Give yourself the time and space you need during this cleanse. Pick up an old hobby or a new one and generally try to relax during the cleanse instead of working or worrying.
Chi Kung Healing Meditation
Set aside time each day to do the following exercise.
• Sit in a comfortable position in a chair or on the floor.
• Start by envisioning someone who brings you happiness or makes you smile when you think of him or her.
• Bring that smile into a golden globe in front of you. Bring it in your third eye and bring it down to your heart. Offer your heart love and kindness. Sit with it as long as you want. Observe what happens or does not happen.
• Then bring your smile down to your lungs. Do the same.
• When you are ready, move on to your pancreas, then liver, the kidneys, then bladder, then reproductive organs.
• Then go back to the golden globe and swallow it into your stomach. Repeat the loving, kindness with your stomach, then spleen, small intestine, large intestine, gallbladder, and colon.
• Your loving intent will nourish and enliven your internal organs!
This program is especially good to use at the change of seasons, at the beginning of a weight loss program, during times of stress and tension, or during any time of transition to help instill healthy habits. Try it for a weekend or a week, and see how you feel!
Supplies
• A good vegetarian cookbook for ideas
• several lemons
• local honey (to build up immunity to pollen)
• organic apple cider vinegar or brown rice vinegar
• olive, flaxseed, safflower or sesame oil
• garlic
• ginger
• your favorite herbal teas, green teas
• organic and whole foods
Meals
o For your meals - cut out packaged and pre-cooked foods, dairy products, anything rich or high in fat, and stick with the basics
o Breakfast: choose fresh fruit, granola, whole grain cereals, soy or rice milk, or try scrambled eggs with veggies
o Meals & Snacks: choose organic whenever possible from the following: leafy greens, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, chickpeas, red, white, black, pinto beans, lentils, tofu, eggs, fish, lean meat, whole grains like quinoa or brown rice
o Flavor your meals with apple cider, balsamic or brown rice vinegar, olive, flaxseed, safflower or sesame oil, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, onions and herbs and spices
o Drink plenty of water (flavor with lemon if you desire), herbal and green teas sweetened with local honey
What to do
• Begin the first night with a healthy dinner with above suggested foods. Consider a salad in warm weather or soup or stew during the colder months. Use lemon, garlic, vinegar, ginger, herbs and spices, and oils listed above as your condiments. Try not to eat too late.
• Set aside time to do the Chi Kung Healing Meditation.
• Drink plenty of water and/or herbal teas throughout the evening.
• Choose a healthy breakfast from the foods suggested above & feel free to drink tea with local honey.
• Make a healthy, seasonal midday meal using the guidelines above.
• Set aside time to do the Chi Kung Healing Meditation once or twice each day
• Snack on veggies and fruit throughout the day if you are hungry or drink water with lemon if you are thirsty. Drink plenty of water and tea all day long.
• Exercise gently doing cardio, walking, yoga, or stretching to circulate your cardiovascular and lymphatic system to help them work most efficiently. Make sure to bathe afterwards to cleanse your skin of any toxins that were released.
• Generally take it easy, try not to do anything stressful, and enjoy yourself. Give yourself the time and space you need during this cleanse. Pick up an old hobby or a new one and generally try to relax during the cleanse instead of working or worrying.
Chi Kung Healing Meditation
Set aside time each day to do the following exercise.
• Sit in a comfortable position in a chair or on the floor.
• Start by envisioning someone who brings you happiness or makes you smile when you think of him or her.
• Bring that smile into a golden globe in front of you. Bring it in your third eye and bring it down to your heart. Offer your heart love and kindness. Sit with it as long as you want. Observe what happens or does not happen.
• Then bring your smile down to your lungs. Do the same.
• When you are ready, move on to your pancreas, then liver, the kidneys, then bladder, then reproductive organs.
• Then go back to the golden globe and swallow it into your stomach. Repeat the loving, kindness with your stomach, then spleen, small intestine, large intestine, gallbladder, and colon.
• Your loving intent will nourish and enliven your internal organs!
Spring Cleaning - Inside and Out
After the long winter, we may find ourselves facing the spring feeling sluggish and fatigued, which is not a great way to start the spring, especially for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. So, while you’re doing your spring cleaning around your house, consider giving your body a spring cleanse too.
The wise woman tradition says that our bodies know how to take care of themselves, but it is up to us to provide them with the most nourishing foods possible. If we nourish our bodies, our bodies will take care of detoxing by themselves, and the organic, whole foods we provide it for nourishment will help new, healthy cells grow to replace the ones the body naturally releases.
A spring cleanse can reenergize you, minimize allergies, and strengthen your immune system by bringing your body into balance with the natural world. Start off by cleaning out your pantry and replace the packaged foods with whole grains, rice, and beans. Throw out the heavy rich foods you've been eating all winter, and fill your refrigerator (and meals) with all those local fresh, whole foods that are becoming available at your farmer’s market or grocery store. Pick up a vegetarian or whole foods cookbook for menu ideas using more produce.
The wise woman tradition says that our bodies know how to take care of themselves, but it is up to us to provide them with the most nourishing foods possible. If we nourish our bodies, our bodies will take care of detoxing by themselves, and the organic, whole foods we provide it for nourishment will help new, healthy cells grow to replace the ones the body naturally releases.
A spring cleanse can reenergize you, minimize allergies, and strengthen your immune system by bringing your body into balance with the natural world. Start off by cleaning out your pantry and replace the packaged foods with whole grains, rice, and beans. Throw out the heavy rich foods you've been eating all winter, and fill your refrigerator (and meals) with all those local fresh, whole foods that are becoming available at your farmer’s market or grocery store. Pick up a vegetarian or whole foods cookbook for menu ideas using more produce.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Coping Gracefully
Dear readers,
I like to post here a couple of times a week, but as you may have noticed recently I have not been posting as much as usual. The reason why is chronic pain. It's hard to be creative and outgoing and energized when you are immobilized by pain, as any of you suffering from chronic pain of some kind or another know. I've been dealing with severe pelvic pain since October and struggling to find a specialist with great communication skills who can pinpoint what is going on inside my body and help me create a solution or management plan. It's been quite challenging on a number of levels, even though I have worked in health care for some years now.
First of all, it's pretty tough to talk to someone about your symptoms, especially when they are frustrating, incapacitating and in an embarassing part of your body. It's even harder to keep your chin up and keep trying to get the care you need, when the health care provider you trust to assist you does not address your whole person with the attention that you need and deserve during this difficult time. It seems to get harder each time to bring your story to a new provider, hoping this time you'll get results. I have deep empathy for anyone who has struggled with getting a difficult health problem addressed. Being in pain (or very ill) is a very vulnerable position to be in, and unfortunately, you really have to push and advocate for the attention and treatment that you need. That can be hard to do when you are feeling great, and it becomes a daunting obstacle when you need it most.
So how do you muster the resources you need during a difficult time and persist until you get the care that you need? Well, here's what I do to cope gracefully:
I like to post here a couple of times a week, but as you may have noticed recently I have not been posting as much as usual. The reason why is chronic pain. It's hard to be creative and outgoing and energized when you are immobilized by pain, as any of you suffering from chronic pain of some kind or another know. I've been dealing with severe pelvic pain since October and struggling to find a specialist with great communication skills who can pinpoint what is going on inside my body and help me create a solution or management plan. It's been quite challenging on a number of levels, even though I have worked in health care for some years now.
First of all, it's pretty tough to talk to someone about your symptoms, especially when they are frustrating, incapacitating and in an embarassing part of your body. It's even harder to keep your chin up and keep trying to get the care you need, when the health care provider you trust to assist you does not address your whole person with the attention that you need and deserve during this difficult time. It seems to get harder each time to bring your story to a new provider, hoping this time you'll get results. I have deep empathy for anyone who has struggled with getting a difficult health problem addressed. Being in pain (or very ill) is a very vulnerable position to be in, and unfortunately, you really have to push and advocate for the attention and treatment that you need. That can be hard to do when you are feeling great, and it becomes a daunting obstacle when you need it most.
So how do you muster the resources you need during a difficult time and persist until you get the care that you need? Well, here's what I do to cope gracefully:
- Treat yourself compassionately. (Read about compassion here and here.) I give myself permission to feel my emotions around the pain - frustration, anger, helplessness. I write them down in a journal to get them out of my system and let them go.
- Communicate what's happening to friends and family members and enlist their support. This includes not only asking them to listen and be a witness to my struggle, but also asking for help in preparing what to say to the doctors, getting to/from appointments, to cover chores and errands when it hurts too much, and receiving reminders, encouragement, sympathy and pep talks when I'm having a bad day.
- Don't try to give 100%. In fact, on severe pain days, I don't even try for 60%. I figure out what's most important - do what I can and leave the rest. (See post about the 60/40 principle)
- Honor my body's messages. I check in regularly for cues on what my body needs. I rest when tired. I drink when thirsty. I stretch when tense. I breathe slowly when anxious. I cry when frustrated. I lie down or sit still and use heat when it hurts.
- Relax deeply. Each morning I spend about 30 minutes in meditation. I sit comfortably, sharing the couch with my cat, and breathe slowly. I let my breath center me, and I put my hands over the painful spots and let Reiki flow. I sit in quiet receptivity, starting my day off with peace and calm. Through listening within like this every day, I have learned a lot about myself and what I need. I also spend time in the afternoon or evening in meditation too if it's been a busy or active day, since that's when pain tends to be worse. I breathe slowly and relax and do gentle stretching to avoid complicating things with tension.
- Get clear about my history. I make notes of my symptoms, when they occur, how they feel, and how they've developed over time. Typing this up and giving it to a healthcare provider facilitates communication and understanding, especially if you are feeling frustrated or upset at the time of your visit.
- Get clear about my boundaries and needs. For most conditions there are plenty of treatment options that range from mild to invasive with varying side effects and degrees of effectiveness. Ultimately the decision on which treatment plan to follow is up to you not your healthcare provider. Don't be bullied into something that you aren't comfortable with. Ask a lot of questions and get the answers, facts, and details you need to know to make an informed decision that you feel comfortable with.
- Don't let the pain put the brakes on my life and get me down. I like to keep living even when I'm hurting, so I don't let it hold me back. Instead I find ways to work around the pain. For instance, I use a stool when giving sessions to clients instead of standing. I ask friends to come over instead of walking to meet them somewhere. I get food delivered to my house instead of trying to carry groceries home from the store. Things like that.
- Exercise to the best of my abilities right now. If that means all I can do is gentle yoga and walking, then I do that instead of nothing. One of these days I hope to get back to classes and weight lifting at the gym, but for now gentle is good enough.
- Treating myself to massages, reiki, acupuncture by other practitioners for nurturing and supporting my body in relaxing during this stressful time.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Do you strive for 100%?
Last month an online friend of mine mentioned the 60/40 principle. It was developed by a psychologist in the 1930's as part of a program to help people manage their inner environment for good mental health. Striving for 100% or more all the time leads to many challenges like fatigue, depression, anxiety, and the physical ailments associated with chronic stress. Many of us are trained culturally or driven internally to be perfectionists all of the time, and despite our best efforts, we often fall short of our expectations and end up exhausted and disappointed in ourselves. I don't know about you, but this is certainly a pattern in my life.
The psychologist, Dr. Low, taught his patients to take a different approach. He encouraged them to lower their expectations to a more reasonable level - 60/40. He said that 60/40 is average for everybody and encouraged his patients to give themselves permission to be average. He pointed out that if people really lived at 100% they'd probably have ascended to another realm by now. He taught that if you can accomplish 60% at your best, that's pretty good, and if you're having a bad day it's ok to drop your optimum even lower.
I encourage you to try out the 60/40 principle this week and give yourself permission to set reasonable goals and relax while you work towards them.
The psychologist, Dr. Low, taught his patients to take a different approach. He encouraged them to lower their expectations to a more reasonable level - 60/40. He said that 60/40 is average for everybody and encouraged his patients to give themselves permission to be average. He pointed out that if people really lived at 100% they'd probably have ascended to another realm by now. He taught that if you can accomplish 60% at your best, that's pretty good, and if you're having a bad day it's ok to drop your optimum even lower.
I encourage you to try out the 60/40 principle this week and give yourself permission to set reasonable goals and relax while you work towards them.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
What do you lead with?
Have you ever paid attention to how you walk? Do you walk like you're in a hurry to get to your destination, or do you enjoy the journey? We all know that walking is good exercise, but did you know it can be a fun way to relax and reduce stress?
Next time you are walking, pay attention to your body language. What message are you giving yourself and those around you? Are you leading with your head or chest, maybe leaning forward for speed? What do you see as you walk? Do you notice your surroundings, or are you concentrating on your destination? This type of walking might be a make a good cardio workout, but it's not likely to help you relax.
Try leading with your belly instead. I know it sounds silly, but if you just give it a try you'll be glad you did. As you stand, relax your belly fully - just let it all hang out and lean back a little as if you just finished a big meal and you're making room for digestion. Now as you begin to walk, lead your movements with your belly, hips and thighs, continuing to relax and lean back slightly. You'll find you'll naturally want to take some nice slow breaths and your body begins to relax. Leaning back like this, instead of hunched forward, you may notice more of your surroundings and enjoy them too.
I find that it's pretty hard to stay cranky and stressed when leading with my belly - in fact I feel like I'm strolling and on top of the world. Next time you're feeling stressed, I encourage you to lead with your belly and see where it takes you!
Next time you are walking, pay attention to your body language. What message are you giving yourself and those around you? Are you leading with your head or chest, maybe leaning forward for speed? What do you see as you walk? Do you notice your surroundings, or are you concentrating on your destination? This type of walking might be a make a good cardio workout, but it's not likely to help you relax.
Try leading with your belly instead. I know it sounds silly, but if you just give it a try you'll be glad you did. As you stand, relax your belly fully - just let it all hang out and lean back a little as if you just finished a big meal and you're making room for digestion. Now as you begin to walk, lead your movements with your belly, hips and thighs, continuing to relax and lean back slightly. You'll find you'll naturally want to take some nice slow breaths and your body begins to relax. Leaning back like this, instead of hunched forward, you may notice more of your surroundings and enjoy them too.
I find that it's pretty hard to stay cranky and stressed when leading with my belly - in fact I feel like I'm strolling and on top of the world. Next time you're feeling stressed, I encourage you to lead with your belly and see where it takes you!
Start your day by "being" instead of "doing"
Recently, I was asked what I think the single most important thing someone can do to maintain sanity, keep stress at a minimum and increase productivity when launching a business. While those starting a business have a unique set of stressors, we all have complicated lives in our own way, so my answer applies to everyone.
In my opinion, the single most important thing a person can do is to take some quiet "me" time every morning. This means not starting the day with checking your email, watching the news or yelling at your kids to hurry up. It means setting aside a few minutes just for you to relax before you start your morning routine or finding a way to incorporate it into your current routine such as listening to soothing music on your commute to work. Whether you play with your pet, just sit with your favorite beverage savoring the flavors, meditate, do yoga, go for a walk, look out over your garden, play music you enjoy, or reflect in a journal, making the time every morning to just be is a very simple way to maintain sanity and keep stress at bay.
First of all, these special moments just for yourself allow you to be fully present in your day so you can truly own and appreciate it. By making "me" time first thing, you claim your day, rather than it being claimed by the rat race or your obligations to everyone else day after day. In addition, this quiet time sets the tone for your day. If you start out peaceful and focused, chances are the rest of your day will follow suit. Whereas, if you start the day in a rush, frantic and running late, chances are the rest of the day is going to be fairly stressful too.
There is another benefit of spending time being every morning before you start doing all the things that need to be done in your day. The quiet time gives you the opportunity to let creative ideas gestate, solutions to be discovered, and inspiration to happen because your mind is open and receptive instead of preoccupied like when you are busy the rest of the day.
In my opinion, the single most important thing a person can do is to take some quiet "me" time every morning. This means not starting the day with checking your email, watching the news or yelling at your kids to hurry up. It means setting aside a few minutes just for you to relax before you start your morning routine or finding a way to incorporate it into your current routine such as listening to soothing music on your commute to work. Whether you play with your pet, just sit with your favorite beverage savoring the flavors, meditate, do yoga, go for a walk, look out over your garden, play music you enjoy, or reflect in a journal, making the time every morning to just be is a very simple way to maintain sanity and keep stress at bay.
First of all, these special moments just for yourself allow you to be fully present in your day so you can truly own and appreciate it. By making "me" time first thing, you claim your day, rather than it being claimed by the rat race or your obligations to everyone else day after day. In addition, this quiet time sets the tone for your day. If you start out peaceful and focused, chances are the rest of your day will follow suit. Whereas, if you start the day in a rush, frantic and running late, chances are the rest of the day is going to be fairly stressful too.
There is another benefit of spending time being every morning before you start doing all the things that need to be done in your day. The quiet time gives you the opportunity to let creative ideas gestate, solutions to be discovered, and inspiration to happen because your mind is open and receptive instead of preoccupied like when you are busy the rest of the day.
Wow, your ezine...
Wow, your ezine is chock full of interesting information. I don't know how you do it so often, but I look forward to reading it each time it arrives. Thank you. - Beth S.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Reiki Refresher Feb 10th
Reiki workshop for all levels
Has it been a while since your Reiki attunement? Would you like a Reiki recharge? Want an opportunity to practice with others? Have some questions that you'd like answered about Reiki? Brush up on old techniques and learn some new ones for strengthening your Reiki flow during the Reiki Refresher!
This 2 hour Reiki intensive is open to Reiki practitioners attuned to any level. Cost: $50 Meets 3-5pm on February 10th at 21 Bow Street in Somerville, MA. Registration form here.
Has it been a while since your Reiki attunement? Would you like a Reiki recharge? Want an opportunity to practice with others? Have some questions that you'd like answered about Reiki? Brush up on old techniques and learn some new ones for strengthening your Reiki flow during the Reiki Refresher!
This 2 hour Reiki intensive is open to Reiki practitioners attuned to any level. Cost: $50 Meets 3-5pm on February 10th at 21 Bow Street in Somerville, MA. Registration form here.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Celebrate Being Festival Tomorrow
Celebrate Being:
A Festival For The Mind, Body, and Spirit
a town of Bedford healing arts day
Jan 27th 2008 Sunday
If you have been curious about alternative health but feel hesitant about where to begin or what to try, Celebrate Being is the perfect event for you. Here is a rare opportunity to sample from a smorgasbord of different kinds of energy work and healing modalities such as reiki, homeopathy, flower essences, meditation, shamanism, mediumship, and many more. Celebrate Being will offer a wide variety of classes, lectures, readers and healers to help warm hearts, strengthen tired immune systems and, in the heart of a New England winter, tap into deep sources of joy.
Celebrate Being is open from 1 - 5 PM tomorrow. For just $8 for an all-day-ticket ($4 for seniors), you get a personalized 20-minute reading or bodywork session, and admission to a wide variety of classes, lectures, and fun things to do.
For directions to the Council of Aging in Bedford MA, click here.
I will be at Celebrate Being! If you come, please stop by to visit!
A Festival For The Mind, Body, and Spirit
a town of Bedford healing arts day
Jan 27th 2008 Sunday
If you have been curious about alternative health but feel hesitant about where to begin or what to try, Celebrate Being is the perfect event for you. Here is a rare opportunity to sample from a smorgasbord of different kinds of energy work and healing modalities such as reiki, homeopathy, flower essences, meditation, shamanism, mediumship, and many more. Celebrate Being will offer a wide variety of classes, lectures, readers and healers to help warm hearts, strengthen tired immune systems and, in the heart of a New England winter, tap into deep sources of joy.
Celebrate Being is open from 1 - 5 PM tomorrow. For just $8 for an all-day-ticket ($4 for seniors), you get a personalized 20-minute reading or bodywork session, and admission to a wide variety of classes, lectures, and fun things to do.
For directions to the Council of Aging in Bedford MA, click here.
I will be at Celebrate Being! If you come, please stop by to visit!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Evening of Fun & Relaxation
Relax and Rejuvenate with your Friends! Have you been wishing for an evening of RELAXATION and FUN? Gather together a group of your favorite friends and spend an evening rejuvenating together with some fabulous ladies.
Reiki & Wellness Practitioner, Joanna Scaparotti will start the evening with a few easy stress reduction techniques you can do at home to relax and rejuvenate, and then she’ll provide deeply relaxing mini-Reiki sessions.
Want solutions for eating right and feeling your best? Add Health Counselor Kathleen Moriarty. She’ll talk about Sugar Solutions and answer your questions about nutrition.
Want to get moving? Add Bellydance! Phoenix Avathar will bring the energy up a notch by giving a short bellydance performance and then teach you and your guests the fun, ancient art of bellydance.
Want answers or guidance to life challenges? Add mini-readings with Spiritual Guide and Intuitive Counselor, Anna Murphy.
Contact Joanna at joannascaparotti@gmail.com or 617-429-1793 for information and to book your Evening of Fun & Relaxation at your place or ours here in Somerville. Rates are $10 per person per service. Contact Joanna for specifics.
Bios:
Joanna Scaparotti is a Reiki and Wellness practitioner who specializes in solutions for stress, tension, fatigue and worry. Find out more about Joanna on her websites: mysolutionsforstress.com or reikiandlifecelebrations.com
Kathleen Moriarty is a Certified Holistic Health Counselor who specializes in helping women find food and lifestyle choices that will bring them health, healing, balance and the life they desire. Find out more about Kathleen on her website: kmoriarty.com
Phoenix Avathar is a Professional Bellydance Teacher, Performer, and Choreographer who specializes in empowering women to celebrate and embrace their bodies through belly dance. Find out more about Phoenix on her website: phoenxifirebellydance.com
Anna Murphy is an Intuitive Counselor and Spiritual Guide who specializes in helping people improve the quality of their relationships and lives. Find out more about Anna on her website: nancydruid.org
Reiki & Wellness Practitioner, Joanna Scaparotti will start the evening with a few easy stress reduction techniques you can do at home to relax and rejuvenate, and then she’ll provide deeply relaxing mini-Reiki sessions.
Want solutions for eating right and feeling your best? Add Health Counselor Kathleen Moriarty. She’ll talk about Sugar Solutions and answer your questions about nutrition.
Want to get moving? Add Bellydance! Phoenix Avathar will bring the energy up a notch by giving a short bellydance performance and then teach you and your guests the fun, ancient art of bellydance.
Want answers or guidance to life challenges? Add mini-readings with Spiritual Guide and Intuitive Counselor, Anna Murphy.
Contact Joanna at joannascaparotti@gmail.com or 617-429-1793 for information and to book your Evening of Fun & Relaxation at your place or ours here in Somerville. Rates are $10 per person per service. Contact Joanna for specifics.
Bios:
Joanna Scaparotti is a Reiki and Wellness practitioner who specializes in solutions for stress, tension, fatigue and worry. Find out more about Joanna on her websites: mysolutionsforstress.com or reikiandlifecelebrations.com
Kathleen Moriarty is a Certified Holistic Health Counselor who specializes in helping women find food and lifestyle choices that will bring them health, healing, balance and the life they desire. Find out more about Kathleen on her website: kmoriarty.com
Phoenix Avathar is a Professional Bellydance Teacher, Performer, and Choreographer who specializes in empowering women to celebrate and embrace their bodies through belly dance. Find out more about Phoenix on her website: phoenxifirebellydance.com
Anna Murphy is an Intuitive Counselor and Spiritual Guide who specializes in helping people improve the quality of their relationships and lives. Find out more about Anna on her website: nancydruid.org
Turn the blahs into playtime!
Over the holidays, a friend sent me a surprise package in the mail that included some very colorful and amusing Oracle cards called "Trust your Vibes" by Sonia Choquette. Most of them make me giggle, so I have been pulling one every morning to start the day off with a chuckle. I recently came across two cards that inspired me to change my perspective on winter. The first one was about scheduling downtime. Choquette points out:
If you need something to do - check out the Evening of Relaxation and Fun that my colleagues and I have put together.
By the way if you're interested in picking up your own deck of Vibe cards, you can find them here:
"Your ego generally doesn't approve of downtime because it's asked to give up control, which it doesn't want to do. Rather, it wants to run your life through fear and anxiety, keeping things in your head and under control. Downtime liberates you from this fear based treadmill and reconnects you to the pace and peace of the Universal flow."Instead, she suggests letting your inner child take over for the ego for a while and using that time to play instead. She says:
"To... instantly restore good vibrations, all you need is a serious dose of recreation and playtime. Rather than continuing to relentlessly press against the uphill battles of life, it's necessary to back off at regular intervals and do something fun. This gives your ego a break and allows your creative spirit to incubate...I've been hearing it from everyone and have even been complaining about it myself - the winter blahs are here! We're all tired of the cold dreary days. We feel lethargic, unmotivated and bored, isolated and make ourselves unhappy with our mental clutter. Let's take advantage of the natural downtime provided by winter, shut off our egos and invite our inner children out to play!
If you need something to do - check out the Evening of Relaxation and Fun that my colleagues and I have put together.
By the way if you're interested in picking up your own deck of Vibe cards, you can find them here:
Thursday, January 10, 2008
To be or not to be...
Do your New Year's Resolutions increase the size of your "to do" list? Consider an alternative approach to starting the year off right - set the tone for 2008 with an affirmative "to be" intention or two instead. For example, take a look at some of the intentions I've held over the years.
This year, I intend...
Take a look at previous posts about thoughts and emotions as intentions, how highly successful people use intentions and affirmations, or using them to create healthy habits.
This year, I intend...
- to be mindful of what I consume
- to be moderate and balanced in my choices
- to be diligent about self-care
- to be able to go with the flow of challenges and opportunities as life brings them
- to be calm and compassionate
- to be grateful every day
- to be open to change and growth
- to be brave and step outside my comfort zone and self-imposed limitations
- to be someone who breathes fully and slowly
Take a look at previous posts about thoughts and emotions as intentions, how highly successful people use intentions and affirmations, or using them to create healthy habits.
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