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[thehealingkind]

Teff: the tiny grain packing an almighty punch!

Just as we (finally) learn how to cook and devour the fluffiest quinoa, another 'superfood' hits the store shelves to keep us on our toes.

Say hello to teff, an ancient grain from Ethiopia which appears to be winning hearts (and for good reason).

What is teff ?

Teff is a grain about the size of a poppy seed that comes in a range of colours, from white and red through to a really dark brown. It’s currently the smallest known grain in the world, and has been hanging out in East African cuisines for around 3000 years before grabbing our attention here in Australia. The reason it’s survived for so long is it thrives pretty much anywhere, and can happily withstand the most waterlogged soil or drought-stricken desert without a single complaint.

Teff is jam—packed with good stuff and more flexible than your Wednesday night yoga teacher. Best of all, it retains its nutrients during the milling process as neither the germ or bran is said to be removed. Reason enough to try it out in some recipes? I think so! Watch this space, there's one coming to subscriber inboxes later this week!

Why is teff good for you?

Teff is high in protein and amino acids, making it fantastic for energy and muscle toning. It's carb content is quite high (and comparable to that of quinoa), but they're low GI and full of fibre which helps you keep your weight off and blood sugar down. It’s also full of iron and a great source of resistant starch which helps strengthen your stomach's probiotics.

So why does it need a gig in your pantry? It’s gluten free, nut free and (obviously) wheat free, making teff a perfect alternative for those with sensitivities. There are plenty of gluten-free and similar replacements out there, but teff offers oodles more nutrients and it’s earthy taste makes it a flavoursome alternative.

How do we eat teff?

You know that feeling of discovering a versatile new health food that just makes you want to try every way possible (or am I the only one who gets excited about that..)? There are so many different uses for teff grains and the flavour and texture changes with every one. Here are some options to get you started:

Serving suggestions: Sprinkle on: salads, breakfast bowls Add to: Risotto, schnitzels, smoothies Use as flour in: cakes, muffins, crepes and pancakes, biscuits Heat it for: porridge

Just a note, if you’re using it as flour add one part Teff to one part brown rice or millet flour.

Where do you purchase teff?

Thankfully farms in New South Wales and Tasmania have started growing teff which makes it much cheaper than it's been in the past. Being a lot closer than East Africa also means there are good supplies of the grain in major supermarkets and most health food stores. We found a good list of stockists via Teff Tribe here.

[thehealingkind]

Four reasons why you should always make the bed.

Let's face it, mornings (for some) can be a challenge. However, did you know that by simply adding one 3-minute task to your routine, you can feel more energised and refreshed, morning and night? Maybe it sounds too good to be true; but this life hack is pure gold.

If you're looking for a little extra pep in your step each day, simply start by making the bed.

Think I'm nuts? Read on.

1. You'll Feel Empowered.

It might seem silly, but it's true. If you're like me, you probably have a to-do list running through your head as soon as you wake. Lying in bed, thinking about all that you need to get done can be discouraging - that's not the mindset you want to kick start your day!

So, as soon as you get up, make the bed (neatly). It will leave you with a sense of accomplishment — you've already gotten one thing done! You'll feel much more ready to take on the tasks coming your way.

2. You Won't Be Able to Go Back to Bed.

Chances are, you're going to head for the bathroom as soon as you wake up. Make the bed before you do! That way, when you come out of the bathroom you won't be as tempted to sink back into bed. The bed is already made, so you might as well kick off your morning routine of exercising, showering, and getting ready for the day.

This simple act of making the bed helps you start off the day right, with action instead of passivity.

3. You'll Feel a Greater Sense of Calm When You Come Home.

You've been at work, at school, or running around with your kids all day, and you're tired — no, you're exhausted. When you walk into your bedroom, you don't want to see, scrunched-up, rumpled bedclothes. You've been dreaming of a restful, comfortable bed, and the sight of the messy sheets and blankets is hardly an enticing drawcard. If you make the bed in the morning, you'll come home to the sight of a fresh, neatly made bed that seems to beckon you to take your rest. You'll instantly feel a little calmer about your day, and you'll be in a more positive state of mind when you lay down to sleep in your beautifully made bed.

4. You'll Be More Organised.

No, Really! Part of being a whole, well-nurtured person is being organised. It's a habit that comes easily to some, while for others it's much more difficult. If you're not naturally prone to keeping things in order, start with baby steps — making your bed, for instance. A properly made bed doesn't have piles of things on it, so you'll have to find somewhere else to put papers, clothes, and other items. Instead of using the floor as a storage space, put each item where it belongs (as you discard it) and where it is most useful.

See how that one act of making the bed can lead to a calm, well-ordered space? Making the bed and putting a few things away takes between 5-10 minutes, and you'll be starting a habit of orderliness that will eventually extend to other areas of your home and life in general.

Can making your bed every day really change your life? It most certainly does mine. If not already, try it for a week and see the difference! And don't forget to report back and let me know what you think. Oh and if actually sleeping in your bed is an issue in itself you might appreciate this post, 8 tips for a better sleep!

[thehealingkind]

Your permission to disconnect for two hours a day.

"This is NOT a wellbeing book where you are instructed to make green smoothies and drink more water by someone riding a vintage bicycle. Or drinking a coconut. Or riding a bike while drinking a coconut.

 This provides modern tools for clarity and High Grade Living" - Jacqui Lewis.

Jacqui Lewis entered my life as my Vedic Meditation teacher and thankfully she's not left it. In fact, next week Jacqui is taking myself and 20 odd others on a mind, body, spirit adventure in India. Quite frankly there's not a lady I'd rather be leading this tour - Jacqui is one of a (quirky) kind; she's smart, engaging, witty and terribly funny. She's also hugely inspiring, a big thinker with wisdom to boot.

Jacqui's latest offering, the 7 day mind cleanse, is an ebook designed to boost your happy hormones (and let's be honest, who doesn't want their happy hormones boosted). Intended to shift the way in which you live for the better, this resource will serve to increase your happiness and joy, make you feel more grounded and in control in your everyday life.

A (very) busy lady herself, Jacqui has designed this book with herself and other busy people in mind. With just the smallest investment of time each day, it's intended that you will gain incredible clarity. The whole book can be read in 45-60 minutes tops, and there's a workbook you may choose to find an extra 5 minutes each day to complete. Do so, and allow the feelings of gratitude, pleasure and delight to unfold before you. Sounds pretty wonderful doesn't it.

So what’s it all about and how do you work out if this ebook is right for you? Well, do you... - Want to be more in control and calmer every day? - Require greater clarity and creativity? - Want to feel more grounded in day to day life? - Desire experiences of true happiness and joy on a regular basis? - Want this NOW instead of in a few weeks or months? - Need to control your hormones and reduce the stress hormones of cortisol and adrenalin? - Want increased health, and motivation to feel better every day?

You may want just one, or ALL of these things. The 7 Day Mind Cleanse cuts to the root of these points. Mind cleanse versus a body cleanse. These days the idea of cleansing our bodies has become normalised. Juice cleanses and detox diets abound. But what about the muddle that is stored in our brains? What can we do to ensure our minds, the very things which govern the health of our bodies, are in top shape? How do we keep our brains fit? The Mind Cleanse is a single week program designed to reset your brain. A quick holiday for your neural pathways. Sometimes we just need a break in order to come back refreshed, allowing us to cope with modern living in a really effective way. The ebook gives you those tools that will reduce stress and increase your clarity and happiness. A teaser of what is within, to get you excited... You can anticipate exploring the mind-body connection and gaining knowledge about how the mind and the body affect one another. You will become conscious of negative thought patterns and work on how to replace them with positive thinking. You are going to have two hours of digital disconnection every day – Power Down Hours; and you'll finish the week refreshed, with a clear mind and new values.  If you're interested in embarking on this 7 day adventure, head on over here to sign up.

*I am an affiliate of this eCourse and as such receive a small commission for every signup made via the link above. Do know that I will only align myself with products and services that I feel are of value to THI readers.

[thehealingkind]

This superfood is the bees knees. It'll get you seriously BUZZING.

Q: What is a bee's favourite part of a relationship? A: The Honeymoon period.

(Said the bee to the Queen Bee) Dear Honey,

That's it! The honeymoon period is over! I've seriously had it - your saccharin sweet snob-bee Queen attitude is annoying the bee-jeesus out of me! I am on strike! I've packed my bags and I am buzzing off. My yellow coat is on and I'm making a bee-line for WA (if you care!) where the very best pollen for bees is kept. You see, Western Australia is where low pollution and a diverse range of flowers means the pollen is more nutritionally complete and isn't contaminated by hazardous chemicals. I'll bee heading for the bee-gonias in Gidgeganup first (they are the best). Queen, when I return we shall have a serious conversation, you should also know that the working bees would like to discuss their working flowers (hours**). And for Pete's (and the rest of the working bees) sake, while I'm gone, bee-have yourself!

Sincerely, Hub-bee.

P.S. We're surrounded by wax... would it kill you to use it on your legs?! Ok, so now we'll stop giggling and get to the real point of this post shall we? :-)

Bee Pollen. What is it?

Bee pollen, which is sold in natural granule form, is considered a very beneficial and nutritionally complete food. It is made when bees collect and naturally process the stamen from wild flowers, bringing it back to the hive where it is collected and packed, sealing in the goodness for human consumption.

Why is it good for you?

The buzz around bee pollen is warranted. Rich in vitamins (A, C, D, E and K), minerals (zinc, iron), antioxidants and protein, amongst many other important building blocks of a healthy diet. More specifically,

- Bee Pollen is extremely high in antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals in the body caused by oxidation. A research article published in Food Chemistry analysed a whole range of different pollens for antioxidants. The researchers concluded that "the antioxidative capacity of bee pollen was very high" (Leja, et al. 2007). - Bee pollen fosters brain health. Used for centuries to rejuvenate the brain and help with concentration and memory, scientists believe that many neurological issues are due to inflammation can be benefited by bee pollen. A study conducted in 2012 by the Ohio State University found that Bee Pollen could be used to treat neurological diseases due to being extremely high in flavonoids and due to its anti-inflammatory properties (Farooqui & Farooqui. 2012).

A note on hay fever and allergies. Some people take Bee Pollen to reduce the severity of hay fever. This is best done by beginning to take Bee Pollen for 6 weeks before Spring begins. If you have allergies to bees it is important to note that if you have sensitivity to bees or bee byproducts, or suffer from severe allergies, you should talk to a doctor before incorporating bee pollen into your diet.

How to eat it.

Try blending a tablespoon of bee pollen into smoothies, sprinkle it on mueslis or as a stand alone snack (mixed with nuts and seeds is nice). Bee pollen is also available in capsule form.

Where to buy it.

Forest Superfoods stocks bee pollen sourced from Western Australia, it really is important to know where your superfoods are coming from. You can purchase bee pollen and a range of other superfoods online here. The markets and your local health food store would also be a good port of call.

[thehealingkind]

The things you need to stop putting yourself through.

Control what you can control. For everything else, LET. IT. GO.

Many people put themselves through a jolly lot of unnecessary pain. I see every day in my CTC therapy practise. So many unhealthy thoughts, so many limiting beliefs, so much self imposed stress. Over time these behaviours become so ingrained that they don't even realise they're living such a life anymore... and that, sadly, negativity has become their norm.

YOU, and only you are in control of you. You are the centre of your own, amazing and wondrous universe. The thoughts you think, the words you speak, the beliefs you hold - they are all you. The thing is, they set the tone for how people treat you, and how life in general treats us.

"The words you speak become the house you live in" - Hafiz.

If you want kindness, be kind. If you want greater happiness, you have to stop doing the things that cause you pain and suffering.

With these sentiments in mind, clear your heart, your mind and your life of everything that does not serve you... RIGHT NOW. This is where I think you should start: 1. Stop believing your limitations.

There are NO limits. You can achieve ANYTHING, if you believe it. I want you to take this one moment and identify the one thing, that one very special thing that you would love to be or do. You CAN actually do it, can't you. Stop thinking so small.

2. Stop waiting for the future.

Life is the journey, not the destination. And let me tell you, you will never get there. Wherever "there" is. Because whenever you "arrive" there will be something else unfinished waiting. Stop waiting til you've lost 5 kilos, stop waiting to have enough money, stop waiting until you have kids, or the kids leave home, stop waiting til you find a man, or until Friday night, or for someone to bring you flowers. Stop waiting for summer. Stop waiting to live.

3. Stop surrounding yourself with people that don't lift you higher.

You might have heard the expression: You become like the 5 people you associate most with. Can you identify your five people? Write them down for me now. Are they lifting you up? Are they pushing you to achieve your dreams? Is your life enriched by their company? If not, you know where they can go. Toxic people not only bring you down emotionally, but after time, you end up mirroring their behaviour too. Is that the direction you want to go?

4. Stop complaining.

If you don't like it, change it.

Change the problem, change your attitude or change your perception of the situation. Change the way you see things and the ver things you see change. Whatever you have to do, change it.

5. Stop telling yourself that you’re not good enough.

“Be careful how you are talking to yourself because you are listening”. Tell yourself that you are not pretty enough, not smart enough, not wealthy enough, not worthy and you will manifest these things rather than working through them. There is so much power in positivity. And life really does want to love you. What do you need to stop doing to lift yourself higher?

[thehealingkind]

Energising Daily Greens Bliss Balls

I live with a cyclist who trains hard and is on a constant mission to find snacks that deliver lots of energy.  The alternative is often handful after handful of nuts which are both highly moorish and not so sustaining for him. I'm hoping these Daily Greens Bliss Balls will serve a purpose both on a ride and for daily snacks.

They are certainly both high energy and nutrition - full of gut and skin loving collagen, maca powder, good fats, fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals - quite the powerful little super ball!

The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of my Daily Greens Blend which is flavoured with lemon and lime, so the result is quite a refreshing, tangy flavour.

Makes 18 balls.1 cup shredded coconut

2 heaped cups medjool dates (I used 18 to be precise!)

1/2 cup raw cashews

1/2 cup cashew flour

2 tablespoons

unflavoured collagen

2 heaped tablespoons

Daily Greens

2 tablespoons coconut oil

1 tablespoon hemp seeds

1 tablespoon maca powder

1 pinch sea salt

Put all the ingredients into a high power blender and blend until sticky. The dry ingredients will be very drying (especially the coconut flour) so this may take longer than usual. Add more dates and/or coconut oil if it doesn't easily come together in a ball. Roll into balls and if you choose, into desiccated coconut.

Store in the fridge for a week, or the freezer for a couple of months.

If you'd like more bliss ball inspiration, have a look through these recipes and see what your pantry allows for. For those looking in particular for energy boosting / hormone balancing recipes - have a look at the recipes on my site that contain maca powder - there's plenty to choose from!

[thehealingkind]

The 5 step kick your butt manifesto for the dreamers and the doers.

Got a dream in that wondrous head of yours? Surely as we approach 2016 it's time to start thinking about turning into a reality. There are far too many amazing ideas floating around in great minds like yours, just waiting in limbo. Waiting for a time where there is time. Let me tell you now though. Time doesn't wait, and it certainly won't wait for you. So, go out and define your idea of success, decide you are going to OWN IT, and then...

1. Start. Start where you are. Use what you have. The reality is, none of just know what the hell we are doing. Figure it out as you go.

2. Truth. Live it. Live it so fiercely that is scares others into following your lead. Authenticity is the best way to separate yourself from the herd. Stay true to you. 3. Journey. Take a left turn. It's ok to switch it up. Be reactive, monitor the market, what do people want? Ultimately trust your gut, go with what feels right. Know that directions change and that's ok! 4. Work. Do it. There are no shortcuts in life. The way from A to B is not found in a magic pill. Do the work. Head down, bum up folks! 5. Luck. It has nothing to do with it. Decide what you want and make it happen. It is on YOU. Now, go take a holiday, reignite your energy and your passion. Then, print this out and read it every day as you burst into 2016 with gusto. Make your life HAPPEN.

[thehealingkind]

When you don't have all the answers, perhaps it's a sign to just stop thinking.

Today I pen this note from Coles Bay on the incredibly picturesque East Coast of Tasmania, where I'm ever so fortunate to spend my family Christmas holidays. This photo was taken on one of my morning walks; it's a hill I love to hike of a morning in the knowledge that it'll just be me, a chorus of kookaburras (or 'riot' depending who you ask) and Wilson (my 4 legged friend). Coles Bay holidays bring plenty of time and space to think and as I sat atop this hill - pondering, questioning, wondering - it occurred to me that maybe the answer was to stop thinking altogether. Let me explain.

If you asked me a multitude of questions right now, in reference perhaps to the next 12 months and beyond, there's every chance I'd reply with the same answer: "I don't know". Because the truth of the matter is, I simply don't. Usually I do, lately however, I don't.

I don't know what next year has in store for me. I don't know if I'll be living in the same lovely neighbourhood or if I'll finally pick up and move to the sea. I don't know if I'll start a new project and if I did what it might look like. I don't know if I'll change tact at work, study more or travel to places I've never seen. I don't know if I'll be a better friend/daughter/human (although I sure hope I will be). I don't know if I'll finally learn to say no to the third square of dark chocolate (or if it even matters) or the occasional 2nd coffee that tips me over the 'edge'. I don't know if I'll keep growing my hair or crop it all off. I don't know if I'll be a better money saver, though what I do know is that I'll continue to spend less.

You see? I don't know much.

As 2015 comes to a close I've felt this ever brewing pressure to need to decide, about all of this; to have a plan of attack, a specific direction in all that I do.

Every which way I turn there's talk of resolutions and new beginnings; folks discussing weight loss and exercise plans, monthly and quarterly work goals. There's industry colleagues launching inspiring New Year programs and initiatives, sharing tips for resolutions and things to let go of in the exciting New Year.

Yet today I had my own revelation..

I decided to draw a line in my thinking, and to simply start trusting.

You see, I've done this very successfully before but just lately I guess, I've slipped. A little over three years ago I had absolutely no idea what I was going to do with my life. I was very unwell (and was subsequently living with my parents). Eighteen years of recruitment experience was all I knew. Reclaiming my health and my independence, I returned to Melbourne with an amazing sense that everything would work out, that as long as I put one foot in front of another in a direction that felt right, I would be ok. And I was. Within 3 short months, The Holistic Ingredient was formed, my new life unfolding before my eyes.

There was no business plan, there wasn't a goal in site. All there was was faith.

Often when we instill pressure to have to do, to learn, to reinvent, to evolve, to uphold expectations, we can infact simply build resistance. Our loss of faith and inability to trust prohibits the natural flow of life. Our fear builds walls around us; we become blind to subliminal messages in our environments, in the people that we meet and the experiences we share. You see, it is indeed true that what we think, say or feel becomes our reality and I see this every day in my CTC therapy practise; clients desperate to know how it'll all work out, terrified of living with regret, of never finding their greatness.

So, as the year comes to a close I'm going to practise what I preach and do what I've done before. My commitment is simply this; to let go of the need to know, to enjoy every moment in each passing day and to let my world unfold around me, exactly as it should. I'm going to embrace the uncertainty and the anticipation that this brings in the knowledge that it is ok when sometimes, you really just don't know.

But right now? I'm going fishing..

So tell me, what does this bring up for you? What if you too quit wondering, pondering, thinking? How does the idea of simply trusting and having faith make you feel?

[thehealingkind]

The one simple trick that can rid you of anxiety and fear.

Your body language shapes who you are.

This is the title of a TED Talk I viewed last night. It has become one of the most watched TED talks of all time. Within the talk, professor Amy Cuddy, a social psychologist of Harvard University states that by standing within certain poses, even if we can only visualise it, we can give ourselves an instant boost of self esteem, even when we do not feel truly confident on the outside. It's the notion of faking it until you make it.

Amy's research highlights the power of "thinking yourself big". By holding this thought about your posture for just two minutes we can change our brains and our thoughts, making us more assertive and less anxious. It's all in the science. After two minutes of assuming this positive thought about your posture, testosterone levels increase by 20%, while cortisol levels decrease by 25%. And studies show that great leaders show trends of having high levels of testosterone and low levels of cortisol. So, what is a powerful pose? One that portrays confidence. Compare a hand on your hips stance to that of a person who is hunched over, arms crossed. You know which portrays confidence without me even having to tell you. Professor Cuddy's study shows that by standing in certain body positions, we can make ourselves not only appear more confident to others but also feel this way. In other words, we can change who we are.

Our brain's chemistry would change, literally. And therefore, over time, our personality would as well.

So, I want to broach an idea with you. Do you think smiling can make you feel happier? What about if you really don't feel like smiling? Do you think that by faking it you could turn your mood around?

Professor Cuddy seems to think so: "If we convince ourselves that we are happy and smile often, or that we are confident and fearless and start acting this way, over time, we do become happier and more confident".

The power of the mind is a wonderful thing, but there is not much in this world that is more powerful than a smile.

[thehealingkind]

Organic skin care. Is it always what it's cracked up to be?

The word organic is simply a labelling term. It indicates that the agricultural product has been produced via biological, mechanical and cultural methods that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance and conserve biodiversity. In other words, it means 'grown without the use of chemicals'.

But did you know that many cosmetic companies use the term 'organic' with reference to its chemistry definition - meaning a compound that contains carbon? Carbon is found in any being that has ever lived. So when the cosmetic industry uses this definition of organic, they can encompass far more nasties than one would assume. Case in point, we could say that a toxic petrochemical preservative such as methyl paraben is 'organic' because if you trace it, it was created by leaves that have decomposed over thousands of years to form oil, which is then used to make this chemical preservative. So, the 'organic' term can be slightly misleading, wouldn't you agree? It is for this reason that you must look for 'certified organic' in order to be assured of the authenticity and integrity of the 'organic' claim. For certified organically processed products, minimal processing is permitted, with a limited number of non-agricultural but natural or traditional ingredients allowed. Hence no synthetic chemicals, unnatural dyes, colouring, flavourings or other additives are allowed.

If in Australia, look for the logo of the Australian Certified Organic certifying body.

2 further points to note: If an ingredient is listed in brackets within the ingredients list it means that it is a derivative of the natural ingredient and so is a synthetic version, produced using a non organic process. For example, think about how vanilla can be listed as both a natural ingredient from pure vanilla beans, or a man made synthetic scent. If the ingredient has a long list of chemical names it is a good tell tale sign that it is not an organic product. Many beauty products contain ingredients ending in 'eth', for example Sodium Laureth Sulfate. Steer clear of these.

[thehealingkind]

Are you ignoring the red flags in your relationship?

“When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” - Maya Angelou.

We've all been in that relationship. The one where we try with all our might to see the good in the other. Try to mirror the good we see in ourselves in them. That relationship where there are second chances, and third, and fourth, and many more. Relationships that are filled with so much stress and suffering. Maybe I shouldn't put this in writing but once, many moons ago, I broke up/got back together with Mr Ex nine times. Yep, I said 9.

Why do we stay?

Well I think it can be a combination of factors. I know that from the outset I tend to look for the good in people, to see the boundless potential in them. I want to see the happier/more fulfilled/healthier/emotionally available person they truly could be, with my help if that is what it takes, or with the help of others. I truly want greatness for these people - I want to help them, to listen, support and pep them up. Then, there's the therapist bit. It's what I do, essentially for a living. I clear away other people's 'stuff'. It's hard not to want to do that in a relationship too.

Then there's the matter of expectations. Oh that dreaded word. Those dangerous expectations you set for others, beastly ignorant they remain of course, because you've perhaps never made them clear in the first place.

Then... there's that not-so-small matter of self worth, isn't there. That "this is probably all I deserve/the best I can get/better than nothing at all" thing. Indeed it was my lack of self worth that saw me return to Mr Ex 9 times. Ouch.

In relationships I've seen many a red flag, but my ego has failed to let me let it go. That or I've not been in touch with my intuition, that inner voice screaming at me to just walk away, the voice I ignored for fear of making the wrong decision.

Friends, colleagues, family have been know to warn me: 'Aims, he doesn't seem right for you, why are you putting up with this", or "Aims, that behaviour is not ok, not for you or anyone". Actually, if truth be known it's what the friends and family don't say (when they say nothing at all) that makes me realise this is quite possibly a 'red flag' situation.

But so often I'd push on. The ups and downs, the tumultuous nature of an unhealthy relationship slowly but surely wearing me out, making me sick.

Eventually I realised that it's just not up to me.

Eventually I came to understand that everyone is on their own path, their own journey, and sometimes their soul just isn't in line with mine. It can be as simple as that. Or maybe it's just not our time. Finally, I truly believe each and every one of these relationships, as challenging as they may have been, have come about for a reason, to teach me more about myself and what I do or do not need in a relationship.

We need to listen to the red flags, often beating as they do, right in our faces. For the sake of our health and our happiness, we must listen. Whilst we lose power to a relationship that is very clearly not serving us, are we not closing our hearts to other more amazing, life enhancing partnerships?

When was the last time you made an excuse for someone's behaviour? Are you listening to the red flags?

[thehealingkind]

10 suggestions for putting yourself first.

Putting yourself first on occasion is not a matter of adopting selfish habits. It's a matter of nourishing yourself to allow you to operate at your optimum, to be the happiest version of you; for the sake of your mental, spiritual and physical health and for the sake of loved ones around you. How often do you berate yourself for getting easily irritated with loved ones because you're so worn out? How often do you berate yourself for eating rubbish during the week because you've nothing in the fridge? Do you have a perpetual feeling of running on empty? Perhaps it's time to start getting a little stricter on yourself and your busy schedule, by always ensuring there is adequate YOU TIME in the diary each week.

With that, here are...

10 suggestions for putting yourself first :

1. Use your calendar Seems simple enough, but actively scheduling your down time can become a pivotal move in the quest for de-stress. How often do you just barrel through your day bouncing from one meeting/engagement to the next. What if 'you time" WAS one of your meetings? If you're a 9-5'er, consider popping a park stop and book in your diary once a week (assuming summer climes of course). 2. Learn to say no For what purpose are all your 'yes's' serving you? Are they enriching your life, or merely stretching you too thin? You don't need to feel as though your value will decrease or people will like you less if you back away from certain tasks or engagements at times. What's more, it is ok to just say no - no explanation of 'why' necessary. In the interests of maintaining my energy (and knowing now what my limits are), I have a self imposed rule as to how many mid week evenings I'll go out and I plan them so that they are never back to back. I do the same in business. I will very comfortably say no to an opportunity if it means stretching myself (and my health) too thin.

3. Always have an extended break booked. The mere thought of something to look forward to is exciting and energising. The momentary daydream of the escape to come is like a trip in itself - refreshing. Do you have a trip planned? It need not be expensive if you don't have lots of extra cash, weekends away camping come summer are a great option. 4. Schedule weekend down time for yourself. A Sunday afternoon nap, some time on the couch with a book; it's important to consciously take time to reset before another week starts. Back to back social engagements can be fun but exhausting and heading into a Monday leaving you playing catch ups for the week is never ideal. So when do you find time to take a breath? Another self imposed rule for me is at least one weekend morning sleep in, where I don't have to get up to go anywhere - no racing out the door to meet someone, just me in my own relaxed pace, taking it easy (and to the parents out there, I'm sorry, I appreciate this is quite the luxury!). Whatever the case, let's refer to number 1 here and schedule it. 5. Weekly breakfast in a cafe. The smallest moments can be luxurious and it is that feeling of luxury that is rejuvenating. Go in search of this feeling. Take a book to your favourite cafe and take five (or an hour) once a week. A simple treat. 6. Monthly massage or facial. The traditional definition of putting yourself first for sure. Why? Because it works. It's nourishing, it leaves you feeling really good, primed for the rest of your week. If you are Melbourne based, my recommendation is Joanna Beecher of Still Beauty, a mobile masseuse (with magic hands). Once a month Jo arrives at my door - it's a recurring appointment that doesn't get moved for anything else. It's me time and it's golden. 7. Sunday baking and food prep. Fail to plan, plan to fail - spend some time ensuring you'll nourish your body for the week ahead! You ought to find a recipe or two on this site to help you in that department! 8. Personal admin. How much better do you feel when your personal finances are in order? Your bills are paid? Your hair is cut? Your car is clean? Oh how I loathe sitting down to a hectic working space - it leaves me feeling cluttered and disorganised. Personal admin is not a 'chore' I leave to my weekend. Admittedly, it's easier working for yourself to pick and choose your tasks, but if you're self employed, you ought to consider doing this too. I consider Friday afternoons a great time for this. My weekends are for down time, unwinding, not for pesky tasks.

9. Early morning space. This is all about having the TIME in the morning to set your intentions for the day. A rushed morning ends up with no such thing, and sometimes a super rushed morning leaves you feeling flustered for the whole day - you never recover! So, what do you need to do to create some morning space? Prepare the kids lunches the night before? Get up an hour earlier? Teach the kids to perform one of your morning tasks? I've long learnt that a rushed morning reeks havoc with my energy so for me it's always the same. Up at 6.00am for a morning meditation, followed by an hour walk with Wilson and a relaxed breakfast with a cuppa before hitting my desk at 9am (rarely before). And again, apologies to the parents without such flexibility. 10. End of day ritual. Repeatedly signalling the end of the day with a certain activity can prompt your body into relax mode. A bath, a book, a cup of tea, whatever you need; try thinking about creating a repetitive ritual that is easy enough to incorporate into your day. My end of day activity is a 30 minute walk with Wilson, always before dark, typically around 5pm. Post walk there is never any work on the agenda, and that's that!

[thehealingkind]

Stop waiting for someone to bring you flowers.

I saw this beautiful quote yesterday and it seemed timely. Lately it feels, this has been a common theme in my CTC therapy practise; the sense that so many are waiting to get happy, convinced that this goal is only attainable once 'boxes', often external to themselves, are ticked. In fact, it's very much a recurring theme, I've written about this before. How many of the following statements resonate with you? "I'll be happy once... "

I find my soul mate I lose the last 3, 5, 10, 20 kg's I earn more money I've paid off my mortgage I've bought a house I've got a ring on my finger I've started my business I've found my true passion My skin clears up Have you stopped to consider that you are exactly where you are meant to be, at this very moment in time? That this life, this journey, every step of it, is yours to enjoy in this very moment; that regardless of the 'boxes' you tick along the way, you'll never find true happiness until you find it within? It's time to give up this wait, to focus instead on those activities that make you feel happy right now. Learn to love yourself, every imperfect bit of you, just the way you are - your aloneness, your curves, each of those foibles that make you uniquely you (because dare I ask what happens if he/she never arrives/the weight never drops off/your income doesn't build?). If I could touch on one more related and consistent theme in my therapy room, it's that need to know how it's all going to work out. My advice? Let it go. Just Let. It. Go. Because you know what? You have no idea how it's going to work out, and you never will. Beyond this single moment, the present that we are living in right now, we have no control over the next. Perhaps now is the perfect time to 'plant your own gardens and decorate your soul'.

[thehealingkind]

This journal should always be by your side.

Imagine yourself healthy, happy, living the life you’ve always dreamed of – the life you’ve always known was meant for you. You sleep soundly each night and wake in the morning, refreshed and excited at the possibilities of the day ahead of you. Your friends and family enrich your life. They’re lucky to have you, and you them. Even your career is a source of joy, with a clear future and a sense of accomplishment at the end of each day. You know what you want in life, and you know that you can handle the curves life throws you. You say “yes” when you mean it and “no” when you want to, leaving you more time for the things that matter – including yourself. You’re focused. You’re motivated. You’re empowered. Sounds like a dream... But this could be your reality. It won’t happen overnight – this is no quick fix – and you’ll have to put in the work, but this dream life is a lot closer than you think.

These are the words from the team at Wellineux, the authors of Journey of Me, a book written for people just like you. The Journey of Me (JOM) is a self guided, eight month journey to wellness. A journey that extends far beyond just food and exercise. It is an accessible way to start building the best version of your life, a resource you can revisit at any time. In those times when you're feeling lost or overwhelmed the JOM can be there, with daily inspiration and guidance.

This is not a 10-step checklist.

The JOM, at its core, is your very own journey of discovery.

No two people are the same, and so no two paths will be the same. I comment on such thoughts regularly with regard to food - the notion of bio-individuality. Wellineux takes it one step further, incorporating all areas of wellness pictured in the image below.

As you work through the inspiring JOM you'll begin to identify a clearer vision for your life and your future, accompanied by an intimate knowledge of the steps you can take along the way to bring your reality into better alignment with your desires. The JOM will teach you how to tune into your intuition and your own innate wisdom, simultaneously providing tools to tune out the noise and complexities of everyday life that often cloud our goals and vision. The changes you will make are simple and sustainable. Ultimately this will leave you living a happier life. Your best life.

The JOM is a beautifully presented, personal reminder that allows us to continuously shine our light for all to see. Where will your Journey of Me lead? Everyone deserves wellness, are you ready to claim it for yourself? If so, you can purchase your very own JOM here.

Hear me speak...

Ok, so whilst I have you! I wanted to let you know about Wellineux's Journey of Me inspired breakfast event series 'Atelier'. I am speaking at the first one and it is tomorrow (Tuesday 28th July)! The theme is 'Discovery', which aligns with the first chapter of the JOM and I'll be detailing my own journey, and providing you with some tips and tricks to assist you with your own.

The event is to be held at The Duke on Flinders Street in Melbourne at 7am. Last minute tickets are still available, so if you have no plans and would like to hear me speak, all the while dining on a nourishing breakfast I'd love to meet you. You'll receive your very own JOM, along with a gorgeous vision board inspired gift box to take home. Giveaways galore too, it's going to be fun.

[thehealingkind]

10 things to do before 10am.

You get approximately 25 thousand mornings in your adult life, 25,000 opportunities to start your day in the best possible way, in a manner that can help build positivity and productivity. Good habits are easily formed with a little patience; perhaps it's time to assess whether you're best utilising this precious time?  So with positivity and productivity in mind, here are 10 things you might consider doing before 10am:

1. Upon waking, give yourself at least an hour before checking your phone.

Checking your phone for messages and emails as soon as you wake up puts your mind in reaction mode. When you're constantly checking your phone it can lead to increased stress; you become increasingly reactive to the demands of others and over stimulation can be exhausting. Before you know it, you've lost control of your day. Instead of letting others dictate your priorities, why not give yourself at least an hour to wake up without external distractions. Consider putting your phone on airplane mode while you sleep so you aren't tempted to check it as soon as you wake. In fact, consider not taking it to your bedroom at all (and in case you missed it, here's a few reasons why!). 2. Set your daily intention and read your goals aloud.

We don't need to highlight the importance of setting goals, but having them close by and reading them daily helps ensure they don't fall by the wayside. Reading your goals and intentions aloud is a very direct reminder of what you are working towards, it is the perfect way to hardwire your brain for success. What do you want to achieve today?

3. Meditate and be grateful.

Start your day by reflecting on what you are grateful for. A consistent practice of gratitude in the mornings will increase your awareness of gratitude throughout your day. It will also make you more resilient when challenges occur and help you put drama in perspective. 4. Drink water. Your body awakens dehydrated, so it is very important to hydrate first thing in the morning. It has been suggested that you could aim to drink half of your entire daily water intake by mid-morning. Doing so will flush your system of toxins, leave you feeling less hungry and reduce headaches throughout the day. I like to add raw apple cider vinegar to warm water every single morning. You can read about the benefits here.

5. Stretch.

Many people wake up feeling a bit stiff, and it isn’t always easy to incorporate exercise into a morning routine. If you were going to choose one thing, the American Journal of Sports Medicine suggests adding a short muscle-stretching sequence of exercises to your morning schedule. Studies show that consistent stretching in the morning can increase flexibility, improve circulation, reduce stress throughout your day and improve posture. There are many gentle stretch and yoga outlines available if you search online, all of which you can do in your own home.

6. Listen to some music. Starting your day with upbeat and fun music will not only wake you up but it will fill you with positive energy for your day. Music makes you feel good and the two most important benefits of listening to music are “mood regulation” and “self-awareness.” Not only has music been shown to improve your mood but it can end up increasing motivation, performance and lead to a better night’s sleep too. Why not consider spending time of a weekend creating a morning wellbeing playlist? 7. Clean up after yourself. Life is busy and morning routines can be a bit rushed. It can be very tempting when you are running behind to leave your clothes on the floor, dishes in the sink or leave the trash until later. Don't! Procrastination around cleaning up after yourself can prevent you from realising our highest potential and best work. It also allows you to relax fully upon returning home. 8. Claim your space.

Just as much as you don't want to run out the door leaving your home in a mess, don't work in a mess either. It's simple, you get more done in a tidy workspace - your thoughts are in order and distractions are kept to a minimum. Clear your desk, create order before you start your day's work. Perhaps have a read of this great article about rewiring your brain for peak performance and happiness, including the removal of clutter in all forms.

9. Don't check your emails. Once you're at work, leave it until 10am before opening your inbox. This will allow your morning productivity to skyrocket. Plan the day before which task it is that needs to be ticked off in this 9am-10am hour of power and get it done! Don't be distracted by the workload others place on you. Just for this one hour, set your tasks for yourself. 10. Get your hardest task done first.

It might seem enticing to get a bunch of easy things checked off your to-do list, but it has been shown that doing your hardest task first leads to a more productive and happier day. You are more likely to remember the day as being a good one when your day gets better and is easier over time. The bonus: it helps stop procrastination over the things we like to do the least. What do you do before 10am that leads to a productive and positive day?

[thehealingkind]

8 ways to raise your vibration (your positive energy)

There's a common theme in my therapy practise of late. These words from a client sum it up : "I look at others around me and things just seem to work for them, things fall into place, they just seem to have so much luck. I don't appear to have that same luck."

My personal opinion is that in most instances, it is not about luck. It is about energy, our personal power, our ability to attract into our life that which we manifest, that we deserve and feel worthy of.

A few years ago my vibration was so low I was flat on the floor (with CFS). I felt totally and utterly stuck with no idea how to move forward. I was filled with a whole host of limiting beliefs that were holding me back no end. I seemed to be attracting people into my life who often left me feeling anxious, who felt 'toxic' if you like.

Fast forward a few years (and a life transforming CTC treatment) and I have my health back; I have an amazing new career doing a bit of everything I love; I have freed myself of the fear and limiting beliefs (freeing myself of the fear of public speaking was one of the most exciting 'releases') ; and I've a whole host of new and amazing friendships. All of this because not only did I manage to raise my vibration, but I also learnt how to keep it up 'there'.

Quite fundamentally, I learnt to let go of the need to know how it'd work out, I simply trusted that it would.

What is 'vibration'?

As described by Cassandra Sturdy*; "Your ‘vibration’ is a fancy way of describing your overall state of being. Everything in the universe is made up of energy vibrating at different frequencies. Even things that look solid are made up of vibrational energy fields at the quantum level. This includes you."

From a scientific and metaphysical perspective, Sturdy further explains that we are a ‘being’ that is made up of different energy levels: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Each of these levels has a vibrational frequency, which combine to create your overall vibration of being.

All vibrations operate at high and low frequencies, within us and around us. If your vibration is low it will be evident; it's simply a matter of bringing awareness to your situation and then working on rectifying it. Perhaps money no longer flows, your health is poor or you feel surrounded by negative people. When your vibration is high however, this is that beautiful sense of living in the flow. Here you may be inviting inspiring people into life, jumping out of bed each day full of optimism, things may be progressing particularly well in business, perhaps your bank balance has never looked so good!

To others it may appear that you have all the luck in the world, when in actual fact you've invited it all in on your own.

It is helpful to be aware that like energy attracts energy. For example, I know when my vibration has dropped because all areas of my life are impacted in some way. My energy might be poor or my health dodgy, sales for my eBook may drop, money may not be flowing as it should.  If however your vibration is high, you are more likely to attract those positive, motivating people into your life that you desire; you are probably bouncing with energy; that job promotion you hoped for just landed; opportunities seem to fall in your lap.

So how do we raise our vibration? I know it sounds complex but I'm here to tell you, it's the simplest of activities!  Read on to learn how you can start attracting more abundance in your life, so you too can be perceived as the "lucky one"!

8 ways to raise your vibration.

1. Become conscious of your thoughts. Everything you think, say or feel becomes your reality. Every single thought that comes into your head has an impact on you. For example, I spent most years of my life saying "I have to have 8 hours sleep every night or I'll become a rabbit in headlights". I had that (limiting) belief cleared during a CTC session and hey presto! As long as I get minimum 6.5 hours I ain't no rabbit! When you change those thoughts for the positive, your reality is likely to become positive too.

Easier said than done in the face of adversity though right? How 'bout this, the next time a negative thought shows up in your head, take the time to acknowledge it, thank it for showing up, and then dismiss it and turn it around for the positive.

2. Find something beautiful and appreciate it. Beauty is all around us, yet so often we walk around with our blinkers on. Stop rushing for a moment and take the time to stand in the sun and appreciate your surroundings.

3. Be conscious of the foods you eat. Some foods vibrate at high frequencies, and some lower (broccoli has a high vibration as do blueberries; Big Macs don't vibrate at all ;-). If you are consuming foods covered in chemicals and pesticides, or foods found within plastic packaging, it will leave you vibrating lower. Conversely, consume good quality organic produce, food as nature intended it, and feel the high vibrations disseminate throughout your body. Most importantly, pay attention to how eating certain foods make your body feel.

4. Drink water. Always ensure you drink plenty of water (filtered is best) to assist your body to flush out toxicity day to day. Toxicity has a marked impact on our vibration so we must do what we can to reduce it's impact within us and around us.

5. Meditate. Sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes and breath in and out. Too often we rush through our days with a scattered brain leaving us in a state of anxiety and stress. Meditation helps to calm your spirit down and put you in a peaceful state of mind. Just 10 minutes of meditation a day can change your life forever.

6. Be grateful. Making a gratitude list shifts your vibrations from focusing on what you don't have to what is already abundant in your life. There is more to be grateful for than you could possibly imagine. For example, every night when I go to bed I write down (in a little gratitude journal) 5 things I am grateful for that day. It's such a beautiful exercise.

7. Practice acts of kindness. Giving to someone else (without expecting anything in return) shifts your thinking from “I don’t have enough" or "Woe is me", to "I have more than enough to give to others.” Abundance is a high vibration. In the same vein, being kind (as opposed to being mean) puts you at a high vibration. Gossip or treat others badly and your vibration will suffer.

8. Get your blood pumping. Vibration requires movement, the more you move the better your vibrations move. So Get Active! Dance! The happier you feel, the more you will draw happy experiences to yourself because you are operating at a different frequency.

Keen to get started? Simply start incorporating any number of these activities into your daily routine and witness the results. If you'd like support getting your energy back on track in a really transformational way, consider a 2 hour CTC therapy session - and let's really set you free. Read this for more information.

Do you have any points to add to our list above? What are the activities that leave you with a higher vibration?

[thehealingkind]

6 weeks to an elevated mind, body and spirit.

"True wellness is about healing and balancing all the different parts of yourself – body, mind, spirit, space and soul. In fact, until you do, you’ll never be able to find the magical sweet spot where life feels really good and everything just flows" - Cassie Mendoza Jones.

We talk often about this sense of flow here at THI. It's the idea of not pushing or pulling too hard, the idea that if things in your life are meant to be, they will just... be. This can come down to your state of physical health, your emotional well being, your career and your personal wealth. Do you feel like you are on track? Or are you pushing? Weight issues, depression, digestion issues, tired, stuck, burnt out or stressed? This eCourse designed by Elevate Vitality is a way to conquer these issues that are holding you back and elevate your vitality as you head into 2015.   As an example, maybe you are showing signs of adrenal fatigue (or perhaps you have already been diagnosed as such). This eCourse will help guide you through your recovery, helping you create your own plan with Cassie's support of course. Perhaps you have heard us (and others) speak about food allergies and intolerances? This course will educate you around the differences and how to identify them. Is digestion an issue for you? Here will you learn how to reduce digestive pain and bloating, to repair leaky gut and to reduce inflammation (naturally of course).

Today, I am re-blogging this post, because (due to such success last time) Cassie is running her transformational eCourse again. I'd like to recommend this eCourse to you for a number of reasons: 1. Time frame It is a 6-week online wellness program designed to address all the different parts of your wellbeing: your body, mind, spirit, space and life. The time frame makes the changes you will make to your life very manageable. Know that you will only need a few hours a week to complete this course and that you can take all the time you need (you can download and keep the content for as long as you wish). 2. Content & Community It contains a wide and varied range of well prepared and highly educational content (think PDFs, worksheets, videos, audios and interviews) and harnesses the power of community. What I particularly love is that all of this content is at your fingertips, in the one spot (so you're not having to chase your tail across hundreds of sites to find answers). You'll join a private Facebook group that will allow you to share your progress and questions with Cassie and other eCourse subscribers, to ensure you get the most out of the course and feel supported along the way. 3. Affordability The opportunity to tap into Cassie's wellness strategies and advice (think professional kinesiology, naturopathic and nutritional advice), without the one on one price tag. I believe this eCourse will change the way you view your body, mind and spirit and the way you look after yourself. It’s your chance to reconnect with your body, realign with your truth and reclaim your radiance - with the support of Cassie and other like-minded people. Course registrations close at 3pm Tuesday 1 September. If you'd like to sign up, or to find out more about the potential benefits you will receive, simply follow this link.

"Working with Cassie is always a soulful, bright-hearted experience. She has the ability to get deep with you, and allow you to find out what it is that needs to be added into your life so you can move forward with growth and expansion. For me, this eCourse has been a life changing experience. I now feel calmness and contentment in all areas of my life. I feel gratitude + love + support towards myself, and I feel that I radiate divine love to my entire being and the people around me. Cassie has guided me to open a gateway to my creativity towards life!" – Janette Brown, Kinesiologist & Founder of Inspire Freedom.

"After just finishing your Cleansed course, I can now say I am my most confident self. You have opened the door for me to really go out into the world and treat each day as it is: a special moment that will never be replicated. I loved learning about EFT, meditation, toxic friendships (which I didn’t think I had the power to say goodbye to, until now!), and the effect our spaces have on our emotional and physical wellbeing. I feel more confident in being who I am and I’m less frightened of what the future holds – in fact, I’m excited that I don’t know what will happen! I can’t wait to live chapter 6, the Cleansed Life." – Elizabeth Uhr, Canberra

*Do know that I am an affiliate for this eCourse and as such receive a small commission for every purchase made. Please know however that I would only ever recommend products and services that I believe will add value to the lives of our subscribers.