Self-Care, Self-Fulfillment, Self-Love
Why do high-achieving women, like you, experience tension?
How can you counteract this strain on your body?
Believe it or not, you already have everything you need to set yourself free.
First, let’s look at tension and why it occurs. Tension arises when you experience mental or emotional pressure, which can come from external and internal sources. For example, if you work in a high-stress job, you may feel intense pressure to achieve. This can be external pressure from management or internal pressure from yourself…or both.
As a high-achieving woman, you may have a tendency to put internal pressure on yourself to be perfect, to do better, to be better, thus bringing about tension that can lead to mental and even physical strain. A mind impacted by pressure can lose clarity.
As tension builds in your mind, it starts to reside in your body. Muscles tense up when the body is under stress, which is how our body guards against injury. Tense shoulders, sore backs, and tight hips can all be signs of the mental strain you’re carrying. Excessive tension build-up can also trigger unhealthy emotions.
Releasing tension from your body can also release it from the mind and return you to a place of ease. An excellent way to accomplish this is by creating spaciousness through movement. This can dissolve the pressure causing tension in the body and mind. It can also liberate unhealthy emotions that were stored in a physical form in the body. As well, the breath you use during movement creates air and space within the body.
Therefore, creating spaciousness in the body releases unhealthy tension and unburdens your mind. Yet it’s also good practice to get in touch with where you hold tension in your body, so you can become aware of it before it begins to speak so loudly that it stops you in your tracks. Let’s start with a body scan.
Body scan
Take a moment to pause each day. Allow yourself to breathe and be still while you scan your body, starting either at the bottom or the top.
Begin by mindfully directing your attention to your toes or the top of your head. Notice how it feels. Then go to the next part of your body and do the same. As you move through the scanning process you may find tension is stored in certain areas, such as your shoulder or hips. You may notice your jaw clenches or your feet are sore.
Your body is a guide to how you’re feeling. By scanning your body daily, you’ll learn how it stores tension, which can be helpful in preventing and releasing future physical and emotional distress.
Movement
There are endless ways to move your body to create spaciousness. Any movement that brings you joy can also create internal space.
Walk in nature
The energy of nature can remove you from life stressors. The sound of birds and running water, the feeling of fresh air on your skin, and the beauty of lush green forests and sparkling blue seas, distracts your senses and calms your mind.
Yoga
Yoga focuses on the body moving in tune with the breath. This is an especially powerful type of movement because with each breath we create space. Pairing movement with breath can be very helpful for releasing tension and inviting spaciousness.
Dancing
Dancing can be a fun way to get your body moving and to feel spacious and free. The best thing about dancing is that you can do it anywhere. Play tunes in your spare time or while you do chores and let the music get you moving.
When you’re not up for movement
Laughter
Put on your favorite comedy show for a good laugh. Laughter releases hormones that counteract stress and release tension. A joyful laugh is one of the simplest ways to bring spaciousness into your mind and body.
Touchstone
Create spaciousness in your body by calming your mind with a touchstone. A touchstone is an object that represents a desire and enables you to embody it. It can be prayer beads, a rosary, a gemstone, or anything that has meaning for you. Envisioning or physically holding a touchstone, while being mindful of your breath, can help your body relax and release tension.
The outcome
Mindful movement of your body and your breath produces hormones that reduce stress and releases old stored energy from tensions or unhealthy emotions. Encouraging the movement of your breath, inhaling and exhaling, allows new energy to flow through the body and releases tension. At first, this might feel unfamiliar, because the stuck energy was part of you for some time. However, once it’s gone, you’ll begin to feel the spaciousness you’ve created and the new and lighter energy within.
For more support with releasing the tension from unhealthy emotions and relationships that no longer serve you, click here to claim your complimentary Self-Reflection Guide: The Art Of Letting Go. Discover additional ways that spaciousness can accelerate your freedom, flow, and fulfillment.
This free gift will help provide:
- A release from harmful emotions
- Liberation from unhealthy relationships
- Reduction of stress
- Increased spaciousness
- Greater joy
Start with a body scan, invite in movement (or its alternatives), and immerse yourself in spaciousness!
Receiving, Spirituality
Are you ready to receive all that the universe intends for you?
The study of quantum physics tells us that the planets, the stars, and everything else in the universe are connected as one unified field with a universal intelligence. In this field that connects us all, infinite realities exist, which allow for infinite possibilities. Since you are an interconnected part of the universe, and of all that is, you have the ability to access and receive the abundance of infinite possibilities.
However, your ego’s desire for control can often override your connection with the universe and its abundance. It is especially common for a woman who thrives on and makes sacrifices for success to believe that there’s a separation between herself and the universe. When this occurs, you may feel that the only way to be successful at achieving your goals is to work hard… even to the point of burnout. When your ego prompts a scarcity mindset, it creates doubt about the existence of infinite possibilities and the opportunity for success without sacrifice.
However, if you were to maintain your connection with all that is and allow yourself to have faith that the universe will provide for you, success can be achieved with greater ease and flow. Staying spiritually connected can help you maintain this abundant mindset, so you are open to receive the highest and best that the universe has to offer.
There are many practices that can enhance your ability to connect more deeply with your spirituality, such as: meditation, yoga, journaling, positive self-talk, and communing with nature. As you expand into a true knowing that you are one with the universe, you deepen your spiritual connection.
When you make that spiritual connection and can trust that the universe is providing for you in the best and highest way, you’re able to receive its endless possibilities. Here are some steps for you to connect more deeply with your higher Self and receive more from life.
Step 1: Engage with your vision
Part 1. Create your vision
Do you have a goal in mind? Or a dream you’ve been nurturing? Even though you’ve had great success in your life, you may still be striving toward an unfulfilled vision. To receive what you desire, you must first visualize it. For example, if your dream is to own a successful online business, instead of working your 9 to 5, hold onto that vision. Don’t let the fear of change or what others might say block you from receiving your goal.
Write a list of all the wonderful possibilities that could come from your vision. Keep an open mind about how this vision might manifest, because it may occur differently than you imagine or the end result might not be quite what you expect. The important aspect here is realizing a vision that aligns with your values and that you have the intention to achieve.
Part 2. Take action
Once you have a vision in mind, begin to move toward it, physically. It might be a small step such as creating a vision board or writing down your dreams to help you manifest and keep your vision alive. Or, perhaps a big leap such as hiring a website designer to help you start a website, investing in a product to sell, or moving on from your current position to make more time for your new venture. What matters is that you’re taking action to eventually receive what you want most in life.
Step 2: Connect Spiritually
Part 1. Understanding
You can have a vision and take action to achieve it. However, do you know why you truly want this? If you see this vision as something that adds value to your life, acknowledge why. Using the online business you want to create as an example, you might consider the following: Are you looking for a more flexible work schedule to access greater self-care? Do you have a product to sell that could help others? Is there a message you want to share with the world?
Understanding why you want to receive something will help you connect to it on a deeper, more spiritual level. Write down your thoughts or engage in a meaningful conversation to help you recognize the reasons why you want to receive this. Once you have a deeper awareness of your “why,” the universe can move forward on the “how.”.
Part 2. Be ready to align
Infinite possibilities exist in the universe and, as the study of quantum physics reveals, if you’re truly connecting as one with the universe, you’re open to receive possibilities that are in your highest and best good. So, when you have a vision, do the spiritual work to understand why you truly want it, and take action toward it, the universe aligns to connect you with your vision. So, be ready to receive whatever comes your way. And keep an open mind, because the universe may fulfill your vision in a different form than what you expect.
As you deepen your spiritual connection, you’ll experience a greater sense of oneness with all there is, the universe aligns with your vision, and you open up to receive more fully. For more ways to help you connect spiritually, claim your free Discovery Guide: 5 Journal Prompts to Unfold Your Spiritual Self.
This gift will allow for:
- Greater self-awareness
- Increased positive transformation
- Manifestation of visions and goals
- Enhanced meaning and joy in life
Connect with all that the universe intends for you by connecting with your spiritual Self.
Receiving, Self-Care, Self-Fulfillment, Self-Love
Would you like more from life?
More love?
More joy?
More inspiration?
More abundance?
You can receive everything that you want in life. How does this work?
Everything in the Universe is made up of energy, including you. This means that energy is constantly flowing to and through you. So, you have an innate and unlimited capacity to receive.
However, it’s possible for life experiences or messages from your past to create a kink in your hose of energy flow. You might have learned not to get up your hopes and expect good things, because you’ve been let down previously. Or you were taught that you don’t deserve to receive something unless you have earned it or you need it as the result of an illness. Therefore, you can become limited in your potential to receive.
But, you have the ability to unkink your hose and access all that the Universe has to offer. With practice, you can learn how to get out of your own way and receive like a pro.
Here are 5 practices for expanding your power to receive:
Accept compliments
When someone offers you a compliment, make sure to respond with “Thank you.” Do not deflect the compliment by trivializing whatever was complimented. Also, there is no need to return a compliment at that moment.
Make gratitude a habit
Each time you get a gift or a compliment, focus on receiving it fully with the deepest appreciation. Then speak your sincere appreciation aloud to the giver, so they also feel your gratitude.
Practice receiving
If you want to expand your ability to receive, you must practice. Start by focusing on being present in the moment and noticing what you receive each day. This could be a smile from a stranger or a compliment from a colleague. See if you are able to receive without giving back.
Ask for what you want
My mother taught me that if I don’t ask, I won’t get. Most people won’t be able to read your mind and know what you want or need. Of course, that means it’s important for you to know what you want or need.
Stretch beyond your comfort zone
The level at which you are able to receive can reveal any limitations you may have around deserving. Invite yourself to stay open to receiving good things. You are worthy of receiving all that you need and desire.
When you are able to open up and receive more, life becomes more fulfilling and enjoyable than you could imagine. The key to immersing yourself in the practice of receiving is to know that you are worthy of having it all.
This means having a healthy, loving relationship with your Self. Click here to claim your complimentary tip sheet: 10 Ways To Love Yourself. When you love yourself deeply, you can receive fully.
This tip sheet will:
- Help you identify areas where you can have more self-compassion
- Encourage self-advocacy
- Remind you of your self-worth
- Support a shift in your mindset
So, start receiving more of life today.
Self-Care, Self-Love
Reinvent Yourself: New Season, New You
“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” – Socrates
Many times we perceive change as an obstacle to overcome, and we resist it. Yet this is what makes change stressful, because what we resist tends to persist. Instead, when we can view change as an opportunity and embrace it, we find that it creates more ease and gives us something to look forward to.
Since reinventing yourself is a type of change, your mindset will influence whether it feels like a struggle or enjoyable.
In my previous article, you identified a stirring within and recognized a restlessness nudging you towards a life change.
And now a golden opportunity has presented itself — the seasons have changed. Autumn has arrived!
Although I now live in Florida, I’m originally from New York state. So I love the natural changes autumn presents: a visual evolution of the leaves’ colors, tactile depth as we pull on sweaters and jackets, a sense of nesting as we spend more time indoors.
As the air begins to chill and the seasons change, it’s natural to feel inspired to transform your Self as well. Let the new season be your catalyst for change.
Reinvention allows you to refocus your direction and make the changes your soul desires.
I suggest you read 5 Signs That May Indicate It’s Time To Reinvent Yourself and claim your free gift of tools designed to get you started. Then you can take the first step toward embracing who you truly are.
Now that you’ve decided to step into change, what’s NEXT?
New season, New You – Reinvention can:
1. Focus your mind
When you work on something new, your mind becomes more attentive to this purpose. Reinvention will compel you to focus on the changes needed to accomplish the desired outcome.
2. Increase joyfulness
You make changes to feel more fulfilled. Increased joyfulness follows this greater sense of fulfillment, as you work towards a new version of your Self.
3. Alter your direction
When you have clear aspirations and goals, discovering how to reach them is key. A reinvention will help you find the best path to get there.
Though you’re already successful and thriving, you can still benefit from a reinvention.
To get started on your journey of reinvention, first answer some questions that will give you a better idea of how you want to change. They will guide you to align with your most authentic self.
Questions To Ask Yourself
What are the biggest changes you want to see?
There can be many elements about yourself that you want to reinvent. From your appearance to your circumstances and most importantly your inner values. The first step for reinvention is identifying where you want to see change. As you identify the change you want, make sure you think about your options. Evaluate them all before making a decision. Common reinventions are reflected through: a career change, a new relationship, change of location, or even internal re-wiring to create your new persona with new values. Allow yourself to be creative and envision the changes that could transform you.
Why do you want to make these changes?
Come back to your core values and question your reasons behind this change. Are you making this change for yourself? Will this change move you closer to your ultimate goal? Think about your values before taking action and making the change. They will align you in the right direction for this transformation.
How do you feel about making these changes?
This question may stir up some emotion. Once you recognize your emotions, you can begin to understand and accept them. Maybe you’re hesitant to make a change because you think it might not turn out the way you imagine it? Or perhaps you are confusing nervousness with excitement? Determine whether you’re concerned about the outcome, and consider how you might shift your mindset to excitement to attain the transformation you desire. Eliminate the outside dialog of others. Look within and ask yourself how this will make YOU feel, not how others will feel.
How can you make these changes?
You may not necessarily be thinking of the small steps you can take. Start by researching and asking questions about the groundwork that’s involved before you move forward with your reinvention.
When can you start?
There can be some hesitation before starting your reinvention. I encourage you to start as soon as you have the groundwork in place. Reinvention is about developing the change you want to see, and it starts with a single action step.
Now that you have the answers to begin your reinvention journey…
Here are 5 tips to help you get started:
1. Don’t follow the rules
Embrace your individuality. You don’t have to abide by typical conventions—isn’t that the point? Time to bend the rules and expand beyond barriers. Create practices that compliment your new style.
2. Make new connections
Your friends and colleagues can either be a negative influence or a great source of wisdom. Choose carefully who you surround yourself with. The most supportive connections can lead to new ideas and opportunities that bode well with your reinvention.
3. Listen to trusted confidantes
Ask their opinions and take the time to reflect on their thoughts. You can learn a lot about yourself from other people’s perspectives.
4. Sit quietly with yourself
Notice your thoughts and emotions during your quiet alone time. You’ll get a better sense of who you are when you allow yourself time to just be.
5. Appreciate
Show your gratitude! Gratitude for your past self, future self, and the changes you’re embracing. When you truly feel gratitude, you experience a greater overall sense of positivity, which is an incentive for change. This expanded positivity encourages your journey of reinvention, and allows you a sense of being in the right place at the right time. Show gratitude to those around you as well. Your reinvention will be a more positive experience if the people around you feel appreciated.
In this new season, create a more evolved version of yourself with a reinvention. No matter how big or small the transformation, it can spark joy back into your life. Claim your FREE gift 10 Ways To Ignite Powerful Passion In Your Life and learn how to:
-
- Spark your joy
- Motivate yourself
- Promote your overall well-being
- Live a healthier lifestyle
- Connect with your desires in a new way
Remember that change is inevitable, and embracing reinvention can transform your life.
Comment below the biggest changes you want to see in your life!
Self-Care, Self-Love
Are you feeling a shift within?
Perhaps you’re experiencing uncertainty, looking at the close of your life’s current chapter, or becoming aware of new circumstances arising?
Feeling an internal shift can mean a life change is on the horizon.
And I have some good news…
Change is the impetus that helps us grow, so we may remember who we truly are.
According to researchers, the body replaces itself with a new set of cells every 7 to 10 years. As our body renews, so does our mind and consciousness.This provides your Self with the opportunity to be reinvented.
When the possibility for evolution presents itself, do you embrace reinvention?
Reinvention
Reinventing yourself is an exciting and powerful way to embody the natural changes that occur throughout life.
If you’re hesitant to embrace reinvention, perhaps you’re not sure it’s the right time. Or maybe you’re concerned that change might disrupt the version of your Self that you’ve already worked so hard to create. Reinvention can stir up unexpected questions, like…
Am I ready for a big change?
Is now the time to reinvent myself?
Do I have the courage to take this next step?
Last month’s article, Live With Intention: Become the Highest Version of You, covered setting intentions that transform you. Often when we set intentions, they prompt us to re-evaluate where we are and where we would like to be. Practicing these intentions can lead to reinvention.
Reinvention is all about choosing when and how to take on a meaningful change. It’s consciously deciding to transform areas of your life in ways that reflect your new beliefs. Like a caterpillar to a butterfly, reinventing yourself is an important part of growth.
However, sometimes you don’t recognize when it’s time for this shift to happen. Your body and mind are sending you signals, but you don’t notice them. You become restless, unmotivated and bored. It may be time to shed one skin for another, yet you’re reluctant to take action.
If you’re not sure whether now is the time for your reinvention…
Here are 5 signs to consider. Are you…
1.Comparing yourself to others
You constantly compare yourself to other people and wonder why they seem so much happier than you. If you notice that you’re judging your life, it could be time to shift your outlook and reinvent yourself.
2. Unhappy in the present
You find yourself spending too much time reminiscing on the past or contemplating the future. If you’re unable to stop and appreciate where you are at this moment, it might be a sign that you’re craving change.
3. Striving for perfection
As a Type-A personality, this is a quality that resonates strongly with me. Before I reinvented my Self, I was constantly striving for perfection. Unfortunately, this led me to a significant burnout. If I knew then what I know now, I would have recognized and acted on my perfectionistic characteristics before I imploded and harmed my health.
4. Beating yourself up
You are your biggest critic, and yet you can use that to your advantage. If your mindset is negative, take it as a sign to embrace positive thoughts instead. Reinvention empowers you to look at life from a different perspective.
5. Lacking Inspiration
Life has become frustrating and boring. You are looking for something to motivate you to action. Inspire yourself with a reinvention. A new mindset, a new look or a new space can change the way you view life.
Evaluate
You’ve set intentions to inspire positive change and you’ve identified the signs that it’s time to reinvent yourself. Yet, you’re still uncertain about what to do…
Take a moment to complete this evaluation. Rate each of the following with a score of 1-10 (1 is least satisfied; 10 is most satisfied):
Step 1) Ask yourself how you currently feel about each area of your life (rate below).
Step 2) Ask yourself what number you’d like to see in these same areas (rate below).
Acknowledge your results. Where do you see the greatest discrepancies between where you are and where you would like to be? Do you strive for a 10 in all areas, or do you just choose to work on a few?
This evaluation is a helpful resource for determining what areas you would like to reinvent. As a bonus, click here now to claim your FREE Guide: Reinvent Yourself: Embrace Who You Truly Are to assist you with identifying your next steps for action.
This gift will help you to:
-
- Initiate change
- Accelerate personal growth
- Reinvent yourself
- Create self-awareness
- Manifest joy
Regardless of where you are in life, take the time to notice the signs that are telling you to make a change. At any point in your journey through life, you can initiate reinvention.
No matter how successful you are, you may feel a stirring within and a desire for change.
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