• I listen dance music which makes me start dancing and feeling better!
• Exercise or thrift store shopping.
• yoga and meditation
• Good cry and chocolate – in any order!
• We turn to YOU Coach!
• i write.
• Exercise
• Pray and listen to uplifting and encouraging music
• I sit back have a chat n tell myself this to shall pass
• call my mom
• Read my bible.
• If we know the problem,it’s easy to fix it,but problem is when we don’t know what’s wrong in self. Acutally,all’s in brain matters,other version is mind matters:) *Take multi vitamines and drink some coke and more strong coffee etc. and drink FB:)
• Pray, eat chocolate, and drink tea!
• Ride my horse, spend time with friends, EAT CHOCOLATE
• I write if I can. Having always kept a journal I find it esp helpful when I’m feeling low. Sometimes it’s in the middle of the night and it seems to help to put all my concerns down on paper. A few years ago a group of us followed The Artist’s Way book which encouraged you to write at least 2 pages a day. Very illuminating and at times therapeutic
• Going for a nice long hike usually makes me feel so much better when I’m feeling down.
• Listen to upbeat music and dance like no one is watching! =)
• listen to music & dance !
• spend time with my 3 year old.. makes you look at life differently.
• I know this will sound crazy but I put on my ipod and start organizing closets and cleaning the things I put off and when its all done I am in a better mood. I know I told you I am nuts.. cleaning should make me feel worse but it doesnt.. lol
• Exercise, extreme exercise!
• just general find a friend to laugh with Extreme distress, go lock the bathroom door, take a hot bath and cry … then I am relaxed relieved and got to bed and sleep well for the night.
• I write down all of my intense repetitive thoughts and feelings so that they are kicked out of my ADD head and I can then attempt to move on from them…
• go for a walk!
• walk in nature ~ sit in silence ~ eat something chocolate
• play with my grand baby. )
• daughter says…sleep
• Sing
• I take many deep breaths, eat my favorite meal w/some dark chocolate afterwards, watch some comedies, take a hot relaxing bubble bath, listen to some good music, read, call a friend, vent to my husband, whatever!
• Treat yourself with good thoughts and laugh out loud….Literally LAUGH OUT LOUD!!!!!
• SHOP
• two chocolate truffles and a audrey hepburn movie
• watch a comedy and comfort food
• I soak in a nice hot bath and do some self-help Jin Shin Jyutsu ( a modality that I practice) on myself.
• Journal, workout, get some sunshine.
• Run..Run…Run..Run..

Comment on this question:

What do YOU do when you’re feeling blue?

Empowerment.  The middle of the word says it all:  POWER.

That power can be yours.  In fact, you already have it in your possession.  You just need someone to help you bring it to the surface.

Who is this mystery someone?

It’s you, your True Self.  The empowered, courageous, fearless version of you that is on the verge of a major breakthrough. She is in touch with your future, in tune with your confidence and in sync with your natural talents. And, she wants a word with you because, quite frankly, it’s long overdue that the two of you got together.

One simple way to get reconnected with your True Self is to practice mindful meditation where you quiet your mind, relax your body and simply breath. Giving yourself the gift of just a few precious moments like this each day will enable you to feel more calm and bit by bit your inner inspiration will begin to emerge. The voice of your True Self will become louder and you will begin to experience the confidence that comes when we are connected with our Inner Knowing.

I challenge you to commit to a week of practicing mindful meditation and then… ask yourself these 6 powerful questions…

1. What would I do with more empowerment?
2. What would I do if I had total control and freedom to make incredible positive changes in my life?
3. Where would I go?
4. How would I feel?
5. What would my surroundings look like in this new empowered world?
6. Who would I spend my time with?

Allow your answers to percolate from within you, without resistance and then write down what you discover.

Aspire fearlessly,

PS. I created a FREE empowerment video series to help you feel more confident and empowered in your life. You can find it here:

Passages to Empowerment Video Series

Every once in a while, usually when we’re by ourselves, we sit back and we contemplate some profound questions about who we are and what we’re all about.

The next time this moment comes along for you, here are 10 possible questions you could ask yourself:

1. Am I doing everything I can to improve myself?
2. Am I living to my fullest potential?
3. What do I really want right now?
4. What do I really want 5 years from now?
5. Why do I want these things?
6. What’s holding me back from achieving my heart’s desires?
7. What can I do, right now, to change things for the better?
8. Is there anyone who can help me make these changes?
9. What’s it going to take to get to where I truly want to be?
10. What will my life look like once I attain what I truly desire?

Pretty intense questions, don’t you think?

But they are necessary if you are to really take hold of your life and move it more forcefully into a dream-fulfilling direction.

Your answers to these questions will help you to get to know yourself better and to create a plan for creating more fulfillment in your life.

And, remember, you don’t have to do all of this alone! Today, consider the what support you need to get your life moving in a better direction… And, remember, I am here to help.

Aspire fearlessly,

Susan

PS. I created a FREE empowerment video series to help you feel more confident and empowered in your life. You can sign up for it here:

Passages to Empowerment Video Series

Are you someone who hardly ever does nice things for herself? Are you constantly on the go and under pressure? Do you often say bad things to yourself, about yourself? Do you rarely take action to reduce the stress in your life?

If you answered yes, yes, yes… Today, I want to support you to turn this around.

I don’t normally use scare tactics yet…

Here are some startling facts about stress that I hope will create a shift for you:

• Stress influences a lot of health conditions from headaches to cancer, insomnia to migraines.
• Stress causes us to feel irritable and rushed, which can have big consequences on our relationships.
• Long term stress affects our ability to make sound decisions, making it harder to feel accomplished and proud of ourselves.
• Heart disease is now one of the top killers of women. Stress is a big contributor to high blood pressure, heart palpitations, heart attacks and stroke.
• Stress and weight gain are intimately linked. Stress commonly causes us to over eat, eat fast foods, or eat emotionally.
• Under stress, we are less likely to engage in exercise.
• In response to stress, we are more likely to spend money to feel better… leading to buyers remorse and a hungry bank account.

It is more than worth it to take drastic measures to reduce our stress! Perhaps this includes a lifestyle change, a career change, a relationship change… I know that these measures can be scary. Yet, for me, it’s scarier to consider what may happen if I don’t.

From the bottom of my heart,

Susan

Comment on this question:

Armed with this new awareness, how are you willing to be good to YOU?

Here’s to Celebrating YOU this Valentine’s Day…

• Definitely to a spa.
• I go to the opera!
• a spa in Sedona, Arizona. PS – I ltake myself on local dates regularly and LOVE it!
• A incredible dinner near the ocean at sunset and a walk on the beach after with a vanilla latte in hand, loving the fresh air and ocean!! Maybe a movie after and then home by a fire!! Man!! I need to do that!!!
• Out to dinner where I’ve never been before and then go to the Chabot Observatory…capping off the evening with some star gazing and hot chocolate!
• Georgia Aquarium!
• a long drive in the country…..picnic by the river…
• Depends on my mood… either: camping; urban hiking; library; museum; outdoor concert; carnival; dinner; fair; …etc.
• fantasy-wise : Venice, Italy on one of those gondola rides w/hubby John . But reality-wise and more in tune with my budget – dinner at Red lobster and a movie! : ) (actually even Red lobster is stretching my budget alittle – lol!)
• the mental hospital
• to a nice quite romantic restaurant.
• Camping.
• Just hold’n the hand of my girl would be fine enough.
• A spa day, trip to the beach, & Cirque du Soleil!
• Going to Monterey for the day and enjoying the fresh ocean air …
• Badger or pinemarten watching lol
• A concert….with my hubby!!
• I’d put the top down on my car on a warm sunny day, drive to the beach, buy a sandwich and a cold beer, kick off my shoes, lay in the sand, smell the ocean, listen to the waves, close my eyes, and stay there all day. Wow, I can almost taste it. Thanks!
• I took my gal out to dinner last night and we had great time!
• Italy, at a small cafe in the village of Montepulciano drinking their house red wine & eating Pici!
• A spa, massage included ofcourse, light dinner and jump in bed early with my man to continue relaxing.
• Easy – out on a moonlight horseback trail ride during the full moon.
• A long walk with the dog then if still engaged perhaps a glass of wine somewhere. Simple and conversation focused.
• What’s a date???
• SPA DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Start with a Nature Hike, followed by a hot shower, steam room, Facial and of course a Message…. You know, just another day LOL
• I would make a fun dinner at home with wine and movies and just cuddle on the couch.
• A nice deep massage : )
• To a salsa dance club and then a spa to work out all of the dance-induced kinks.
• a lazy day where the scenery and air is pleasing , with someone who induces tranquility and happiness in my life.

Comment on this question:

When is the last time you took YOU out on a date?

You’ve probably heard that meditation is a very effective way to invite peace and relaxation into your world. It’s a method of quieting the mind and calming the “vibe” you unconsciously send to others. Some people think that meditation is something that can only be achieved by the Spiritually Enlightened, or that you must be alone, in the dark, repeating the sound “Ommm…” to meditate.

In fact, you can enjoy the benefits of this ancient practice by doing what is known as “active” or “walking” meditation. This can be accomplished at any time of day, no matter where you are.

Want to try it yourself? Start with this little exercise at home:

Take a leisurely walk around the house…

• Put your shoulders down and lift your chin skyward just a bit.
• Make your steps slow and deliberate, focusing on walking heel to toe.
• Breathe deeply as you do this.
• Consciously release all the tension from your body as you soften your mind and allow it to wander.
• Soften your gaze as well.

Once you get good at walking meditation in your home, try it in the “real world” as you go about your day. Notice how being in this state of mind affects your thoughts and actions.

• Do you feel calmer and more at peace?
• Are you becoming more mindful of what you’re saying and doing?
• Do you find that you’re more likely to think before you speak?
• Do people seem to treat you differently now that you exude this sense of calm?
• Do you feel more confident… alive, and aware of what’s happening both inside and outside of you?

Comment on this question:

What ways do you think active meditation might empower you in your daily life?

Valentine’s Day is coming, and love is in the air. Are you planning a romantic evening with your sweetie or some fun family time? What about you singles out there… do you have a night with friends scheduled?

Of course, the Day of Amour is about sharing our love with others… but it’s just as much about loving ourselves!

When was the last time you showed yourself some love? Surely you learned the many ways you can love yourself. It starts with being good to you. It’s about honoring who you are on the inside, nurturing your inner spirit, and treating yourself well.

Some ideas about how to love yourself…

• Cultivate your hobbies and interests… develop your talents and skills.
• Practice being good to your body and your soul, through healthy diet, exercise, and spiritual enrichment.
• Select friends who lift you up and support you through all sorts of challenges.

If you’re unattached at the moment… are you among those who scoff at Valentine’s Day? Maybe you view it as a worn-out, silly tradition. But if you look past the commercializing of the holiday, what’s so bad about wanting to celebrate love for ourselves and others?

And in the matter of finding real, lasting love… a wise person once said that before you can love another, you must learn to love yourself.

Now, what about once you’re IN a relationship? Do you still remember to love yourself? Or, are you so caught up in giving your all to your boyfriend, husband, children, or other family members, that you put yourself last and least on the list? Or worse… are you even ON the list?

The thing about loving yourself is this: it’s not supposed to stop once you commit to being with another person. Sure, if you’re a wife or mom, you know that self-sacrifice is part of the job description. A typical, loving mother finds that there are only a certain number of hours in the day, and she is lucky to find one or two of these to devote solely to her own needs.

But the truth is that we cannot fill the cup of others’ needs if our own well has run dry. And this is where self love comes in.

No matter how old we are, no matter how devoted to our partners or families… we MUST find time to love ourselves.

Valentine’s Day will soon be here, and I’ve got some ideas about how to bring back those loving feelings… for YOU! Sure, on February 14, you can hit the town with your honey… send your kids to school with love notes and little heart-shaped candies. But don’t forget to make some room in your schedule for self-love, too!

10 Ways to Love Yourself on Valentine’s Day (Or Any Day)

• Take time out for a hot soak in the tub. Add botanical oils and mineral salts for some scented soothing. You won’t believe how relaxed you’ll feel!

• Make a mix CD of your favorite love songs… play it in the car on your travels today!

• Schedule some professional pampering. Nothing like a great new haircut or manicure to help you reconnect with the Goddess within.

• Plan a “girls’ night in”. Pop popcorn, rent chick flicks, do each other’s hair and laugh the night away!

• Work in a workout. Whether it’s joining the gym or hitting the trails a couple of times a week, you’ll feel so much better once you finally commit to regular exercise. Love your body!

• Take a day off from dieting. So maybe you’re sick of salads and tired of the treadmill. Reward yourself for making such a great effort to be healthy. Indulge in a healthy decadent treat!

• Ask for what you need. Wow, pretty simple, huh? Whether it’s an oil change, a day off, or even just a hug… the best way to get something that helps you feel loved is to ask someone who loves you to give it to you.

• Take a class. Have you always wanted to cook Cantonese… sketch the human form… use a potter’s wheel? Why not indulge that delightful, childlike curiosity? Have a new experience, meet some new people, learn something.

• Get a massage. Pay a professional, or borrow a book from the library and have your Valentine perfect his technique on your back, neck and shoulders. Return the favor. Ahh… bliss…

It doesn’t matter if you’re single, dating, engaged, married, or whatever. Valentine’s Day is for love, and it all begins with loving yourself. Happy Valentine’s Day to you!

Comment on this question:

How do you show LOVE for YOU?

Comment on this question:

What do you think of the expression, “wearing your heart on your sleeve”?

Take a moment right now and consider how much you truly love yourself. This will certainly show up in your behaviors. Do you often rush around, always running late leaving yourself in a state of frenzy? Do you skip meals or not take potty breaks because you “just don’t feel like it?” Do you say bad things to yourself, about yourself through out your day? How often do you exercise? Choose healthy foods? Get enough sleep?

And, here’s the clincher… How much water have you drunk today?  Mmm, hmmm…

The truth out of the bag is that many of you aren’t likely taking great care of yourselves regularly. A reflection of your self love…? Not always. Yet a very good place to start when you know you could be caring for yourself yet you’re not.

Consider this, how would your body feel and how would you feel about yourself if you cared for yourself as you would a child? What if you took measures to ensure you were comfortable, well taken care of, created a schedule where playful moments were encouraged and others to actively engage your mind were too. What if you forgave yourself for all of your “failings” and allowed yourself to “learn from your lessons.” And what if you provided a shoulder to lean on for Yourself once in a while?

Powerful stuff, yes?

And, you know what? There isn’t a “love quota”. There is plenty of love to go around. By loving yourself, you aren’t depleting your “love” reserves. In fact, you are increasing them! The degree to which you love and care for yourself reflects the degree to which you can give love to others. And! It reflects the degree to which you can RECEIVE love from others too. Love begets love.

Everyone… Today, embrace the magic of your existence… breath in the miracle of You. Show your love of yourself by caring for your mind, body and spirit. You have nothing to prove, there is nothing more “to do” than to release yourself from expectations, listen to your body, and make the choice to love YOU.

Enjoy.

Comment on this question:

What does Self Love mean to you?

Here are your responses to the question, “If you could wave a magic wand, what would you wish for?”

• my own home instead of living with my parents at 45…
• and wisdom of how to start my life again….
• World peace and an end to hunger, poverty, oppression and social injustice!
• restful sleep. If I could sleep, my possibilities would be endless.
• equality for all…
• For everyone to live a conscience life, living in the now.
• Chocolate!
• your friendly and sweet smile (awe, thanks.)
• A quiet, uninterrupted month so I could finish writing my book…a house on a lake would be nice…but I am not really picky.
• A day between each day, and non-linear time Plus cleaning elves.
• Sure I’d wish a more powerful magic wand! Lol! Well, seriiously, I’d wish to be a “heart-healer” Life Coach.
• A cure for DSRCT (cancer) or to have my brother back living a healthy and happy life.
• Turn back time…and heal my past wounds…and take more chances, risks and find my voice. Have an endless supply of time and money…so I can do whatever my heart fancies.
• More time to learn the art of letting go, I would wish for a peaceful heart.
• I too lost my brother to cancer. I would give my right arm to have him back….healthy and happy ~
• For the doctors to be able to stop all the problems that are going with my husband. After surviving Leukemia, making it through a cord blood transplant, and cheating death a few times over the last four years. I just wish he could not be in pain and our family could have our life back.
• The end of cancer would be a good start, especially in children.
• Peace through One Global Heart
• to have a little more time at home…
• Wisdom!
• A great life for my son, Max.
• All my bills paid off & enough $$$ to live comfortably.
• world peace. and i’m not being cheeky…
• the cure to Autism for my son
• everyone to always tell the truth
• Financial security
• World peace
• A restoration of my youngest sons emotional and mental health!
• To start and run a non profit for the benefit of educating families and individuals in my community about proper nutrition and to provide healthy free of charge meals to people in need. All while earning or having enough resources to maintain my own family.
• Even though the process is part of the fun, I would like to have my business up and running to help families with eldercare issues. Guess I better get moving! (Note from Susan – Learn more about this wish here: http://www.theshiftingpath.com)
• An insanely large amount of cash right now, and a continual independent income stream thereafter. Money buys security, care, and the things that make you and your family&friends happy.
• safe places to live for all children and elders
• some peace and fortune for the poor people of Haiti.
• World peace! Cure Cancer! I could go on and on~How long do I get to hold that magic wand?!
• All the right answers to my 6 year old’s questions…that will help him
• a cure for Huntington’s Disease
• Right now, I would wish for the people of Haiti..rebuilding, finding their lost loved ones..a new beginning for them
• Shelter, food, and love for all.
• World peace and all the benefits that go with it, for all……

Comment on this question:

How does knowing what you really, really want inspire you?

World peace and an end to hunger, poverty, oppression and social injustice!World peace and an end to hunger, poverty, oppression and social injustice!
restful sleep. If I could sleep, my possibilities would be endless.
equality for all…
For everyone to live a conscience life, living in the now.
Chocolate!
your friendly and sweet smile (awe, thanks.)
A quiet, uninteruppted month so I could finish writing my book…a house on a lake would be nice…but I am not really picky.
A day between each day, and non-linear time Plus cleaning elves.
Sure I’d wish a more powerful magic wand! Lol! Well, seriiously, I’d wish to be a “heart-healer” Life Coach.
A cure for DSRCT (cancer) or to have my brother back living a healthy and happy life.
Turn back time…and heal my past wounds…and take more chances, risks and find my voice. Have an endless supply of time and money…so I can do whatever my heart fancies.
More time to learn the art of letting go, I would wish for a peaceful heart.
I too lost my brother to cancer. I would give my right arm to have him back….healthy and happy ~
For the doctors to be able to stop all the problems that are going with my husband. After surviving Leukemia, making it through a cord blood transplant, and cheating death a few times over the last four years. I just wish he could not be in pain and our family could have our life back.
The end of cancer would be a good start, especially in children.
Peace through One Global Heart
to have a little more time at home…
Wisdom!
my own home instead of living with my parents at 45…