“You feel connected to something greater than yourself when you are aware of your inner stillness”

I have been blessed, yet again, with an awesome group of women at my very latest Rest and Rejuvenation retreat in Bali. My intention was to create – a space where deep rest and stillness could be experienced by all participants, with minimum effort on their part.

Daily hand selected Balinese body massages and special Ayurvedic treatments (such as chakra dhara, crown massage and kati basti).  Coupled with morning relaxation sessions of restorative yoga (such as legs up the wall), mindful breathing, deep muscle relaxation, chanting and evening sessions of yoga nidra, all melted together to allow participants to let go, unwind, relax and feel peaceful on the inside again.  It was an absolute joy to witness.  We were one bunch of happy chilled out women.

Photo by split yarn:

Finding your inner stillness:

“I feel still.  I feel rested”

The simple act of finding the still spot inside of you (we all have one, no matter how tiny or well hidden it may be) creates the space for a more balanced feeling to fill up inside of you.   The more you become aware, feel and tap into your inner stillness the greater clarity and greater peacefulness you will feel.  Your life will flow with more ease and less agitation.

Of course you don’t need to go on my Rejuvenation Retreats to find your inner stillness.   15 minutes of daily restorative yoga is one of the easiest ways to connect with your inner stillness or perhaps you may be more attracted towards walking meditation. Walk leisurely and peacefully, with soft eyes and gentle belly breaths.  Inhale for 3 steps.  Exhale for 3 steps.  Of course just sitting quietly un-distracted for a few moments may be enough (for you) to become aware of your inner stillness.

So, as my recent Rejuvenation Retreat has now finished  – I felt it timely to share with you my personal realizations that I have experienced when I feel, breathe into, and then rest with my inner stillness.

The many gifts of tuning into your inner stillness:

In case you were wondering my inner stillness has a location.  Its in and around my stomach area.  Some days it may be well hidden but, after a little deep breathing I can soon sense it.  Once I sense or feel it, I simply continue to focus and breath into it, and then any one of the following things may happen.

1: Stillness is the quiet place inside where the mind doesn’t interfere, argue or confuse you.  Decisions are easy.  You have clarity.

2: Stillness brings you back to your true centre.  You are fully present with yourself.

3: Simple solutions often arise easily when you rest with your inner stillness

4: Being with your inner stillness allows you to digest life

5: You can tap into your inner stillness anywhere, anytime and any place

6: Stillness helps you trust in the flow of your life.

7: Feeling your inner stillness helps you “let go” of worry

8: Stillness offers a clear connection to your intuition, your gut feelings. You have a calm knowing.

9: Stillness allows big problems all of a sudden seem small

10: Your inner stillness acts as a buffer between you and the busyness of the world around you

11: Stillness gives your body breathing space to release stress, worry and agitation

12: You feel connected to something greater than yourself when experiencing stillness

13: You learn the valuable skill of letting go by resting in stillness

14: Stillness teaches you that you have the strength for any situation

15: Being with your inner stillness gives you the time and space to digest life

16: Stillness puts a healthy distance between you and the external stimulation of a busy world

17: Your body will quickly start to replenish itself as the immune system and nervous system are nourished by focusing on the feeling of stillness

18: There is a feeling of being totally safe and protected when you feel your inner stillness

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“We can change our lives. We can do, have, and be exactly what we wish”  Tony Robbins

Any new moon is the perfect time to release your monthly wishes out into the universe.  Astrologically it carries a strong energy for giving birth to new ideas, habits or projects.

To give my wishes the special attention they deserve, I send them on their merry way with a simple, yet meaningful ritual.  Rituals needn’t be complicated, time consuming or confusing.  In fact mine are around 3 – 5 minutes.

Firstly, I become still and arrive fully into the moment.  I want my whole body, mind and breath to participate.  Secondly, I connect with the four elements of nature, after all they nourish us all on a daily basis and we certainly couldn’t survive without them.   Then, and only then, do I feel connected and prepared to release my wishes out into the big wide world.

Photo by bekah stargazer

Next new moon 14th May – 12th June 2010:

For me rituals are deeply satisfying and fuel my soul.   They create a feeling that something special, magical is happening, and the whole universe is involved.  Rituals are nothing short of inspiring and uplifting.

So, if the idea of a new moon wish ritual appeals to you, I’ve shared the simple steps (below) for one of my favourite new moon rituals.

Friday 14th May 11.05 a.m will be the next new moon for Queensland, Australia.  This gives you plenty of time to buy some sage, a special candle and get clear with your wish or wishes for next month.  Depending on where you live it may be a good idea to check the next new moon times for your part of the world.

Remember if you need any help with your ritual, don’t be shy, I’m here to help in whatever small way I can.

Acknowledge the start of your ritual:

Light a candle to signify the start of the ritual – giving thanks and gratitude. You can even open with a little blessing or prayer if that feels right for you.

Arrive fully at the ritual:

Give 100% of your whole self when releasing your wishes by arriving fully into the moment.  Involve your mind fully,  breath fully, body fully and your soul fully.

Feel and become aware of  your body (feet, toes, fingers, legs, arms etc), shake and move your body if you need too.

Feel and become aware of your breath, follow it as it moves through your body.  It is your breath and words that will give energy to your wishes.

Feel and become aware of your thoughts – do not follow your thoughts just notice them and your mind will soon arrive without getting distracted.

Feel and sense the energy of your heart, the core of your being, the essence of who you are.

Now, pay closer attention to the environment around you. Tap into your senses.  What can you see, smell, taste, touch or hear?

If you need help arriving, then you might like to read my article called the 3 arrivals.  A simple Buddhist practice that encourages you to arrive fully into the here and now.

Connect with the elements of nature:

To connect with the essence of the universe you need to acknowledge the four main elements of nature.  Fire – water – earth – water.  You can do this by feeling, sensing or having a physical representation for each of the elements.

Earth: go barefoot and feel the earth beneath your feet.  If you can’t go outside you may prefer to wear or hold a crystal, be close to a plant or vase of flowers. Breathe the earths energy up through your feet.  Feel the connection.

Fire: the burning candle signifies fire – feel or sense the cleansing properties of the fire, and the energy it is fueling your wishes with.

Air: light a piece of dried white sage or sage smudge stick (as shown in the picture above).  The smoke represents air. Let the smoke fill the air around you.

Water: have a bowl of water with a small handful of rock salt. This connects you to the ocean and all water on this planet. Add essences, flowers , crystals or infuse your water with sunshine – if this feels right for you.

Write and cleanse your wishes:

Write your wishes down on a piece of paper and then cleanse away unseen obstacles and energy blocks with the smoke from your sage smudge stick (Shown in the photo above).  Continue cleansing until you feel a lighter energy around your written wishes.

I have used dried white sage (either loose or as a smudge stick) for over 20 years and strongly believe in its cleansing and purification properties.  Burning sage is almost a daily occurrence in my home.  If you can find organic, then all the better.

Release your wishes:

The first part of releasing your wishes is writing them down.  The second part is saying them out aloud as if you are speaking in person to the universe.  Feel or sense the words of your wishes in your breath, in your exhale as they leave your body. Release them with love and grace.

Close ritual:

Finish your new moon wish ritual by blowing out your candle and giving thanks and gratitude. Close your eyes and spend a few special moments in silence – feeling whatever you need to feel.  I usually get a feeling of my wishes flying out into all corners of the world.

You may  keep your written wishes under your pillow, next to your favourite crystal,  on your bedside table, in your wish bowl, on your altar or bury them in the ground for the next month.  You may even prefer to keep a visual image or picture that represents your monthly wish.  Alternately read your monthly wish/wishes just before you go to bed.   Do whatever feels right for you. Trust and be guided your intuition.

In case you are wondering what my monthly wish is – it’s to complete my first e-book “Unwind” and become an author.   Wish me luck.  May all our wishes come true, easily and effortlessly.

Upcoming new moons:

12th June 2010

11th July 2010

10th August 2010

8th September 2010

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“Inspiration is my favourite feeling”

In case you don’ know, I also facilitate  Rest and Rejuvenation retreats in Ubud, Bali and have done so for six years.  I feel very blessed and grateful that my retreats continue to be popular.

My retreats at a glance – there is daily ayurvedic/Balinese massages ( yes daily ), restful therapeutic yoga, meditation, mindful breathing, chakra medicine and many more ancient rest and rejuvenation practices.

Photo by Ben Bieske:

A typical day:

My Balinese retreats are for 5 days and 6 nights and come with one rule.   You must promise to put yourself first - 24 hours a day for the 6 days.  You’ll experience a continuous flow of nurturing experiences to improve your energy levels, quieten the mind, strengthen your immune system and cool and calm your nervous system.  Your five senses will be awakened and feel deeply nourished.

Your mantra for the Balinese Rest and Rejuvenation Retreat is “Its all about me”.

Mornings:

In the mornings I facilitate the rest and rejuvenation circles and draw on both knowledge and intuition.  You’ll be treated to a series of ancient restful practices.

One of the key pratices is restorative yoga.  It is very gentle and deeply calming.  No experience of yoga is needed whatsoever.  Props are used such as chairs, bolsters, blankets and yoga eye pillows to ensure your body is supported and is able to release, let go and enjoy deep rest.

Added to restorative yoga will be mindful breathing practices such as pranayama (alternate nostril breathing) sound medicine (chanting OM or other sacred sounds  to use the vibration of the sound to clear the mind and open up the energy channels, hand mudra’s, chakra balancing, individual reiki and a very special releasing ceremony.

As additional support I may use  Australian bush flower essences, crystals, essential oils, along with individual reiki and angel oracle cards. I also dowse your aura and chakra’s for any imbalances.

Middle of the day:

Most days between 12  Noon and 3-00 pm is free time.  You can choose to do whattever you feel like.   Most participants either, shop, sleep, read, go on an adventure or take a swim in the pool.  This time has been created to enjoy some alone time, if that is what is needed.

Afternoons:

Each afternoon we meet at 3.00 o’clock in the foyer of our retreat venue.  It’s time for pampering and extra special nurturing  with specialized hand selected massages and body treatments.  You’ll be driven to a different spa each day.  Each location has been carefully chosen to offer you, what I believe to be the most beneficial treatments to encourage rejuvenation, improve energy flow throughout the body, calm the mind and release blockages.

Early evening  Yoga Nidra:

After your afternoon massage I finish each day back in our marbled meditation/yoga room with one of the deepest forms of rest you can experience – yoga nidra.  In fact they say 30 minutes of yoga nidra is similar to 3 – 4 hours quality sleep.  This will allow your body and mind to integrate the energy practices and treatments for the day and to prepare you for a great nights sleep.

Photo by Lululemon:

Evenings free:

Most evenings are free except for the first and last nights which are the welcome and closing dinners.

Daily massage and specialized Ayurvedic treatments:

Much thought and care goes into hand selecting the very best body treatments in and around Ubud.  And not everyone will get the same massages at the same time.  There will be variations depending on your individual needs.

Tumeric body scrubs, papaya body wraps, sea salt scrub, sea weed body scrub, ayurvedic crown massage, chakra dhara, shirodara, mandi lulur and flower baths, just to name a few.  All you need to remember as a retreat participant is that you get a massage or body treatment every day.

One Auruvedic body treatment worth giving a special mention to is Chakra Dhara.  It is a new addition to our Rest and Rejuvenation retreats.  Warm herb oil is dripped onto each of your chakra points. It is an ancient oil ritual to balance energy flow, and purify the mind, body and spirit.  It removes toxins promotes circulation, increases flexibility and relieves pain and stiffness.

Hope this article helps shine a little insight into my retreats and what else happens in my life, other than writing the Rejuvenation Lounge.

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To find out more about my Balinese Retreats please click here.

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“It is virtually impossible to write a journal and not discover more about yourself” Stephanie Dowrick

Journal writing can cleverly bring clarity to a confusing or overly emotional situation.   It can spring clean the corners of your mind making way for new fresh thoughts.  A good dose of journal therapy is like a great friend that supports you all the way, and never judges.  Hooray for journal writing.

Journaling is the perfect partner when you need to connect more intimately with your true self.   A little alone time with your journal can often reveal exactly whats needed.   Whose knows,  journal therapy may be just the sort of  medicine you need right now.  I know it certainly is for me.

Photo by pigstubs

Journal writing can be whatever you want it to be.  It can be short or long. For daily reflection, to record specific memories (new baby) to release stress, to find out what you really think, to vent, and vent, and vent, focus on an area of life that needs your attention, gain clarity, fine tune your goals, explore your emotions or ask for divine guidance.

It is for all these reasons I personally find journaling quite revealing and incredibly satisfying.  Your spelling can be bad, writing messy, page filled with swear words (if you feel that way inclined) – either way it’s the one place where you can be the least inhibited, totally open and explore what you feel needs to be explored.

For the past decade journal writing has cleverly known exactly when to re-appear back in my life. It has recently shown up (yet again) and will stay for as long as it needs too;  a few weeks, a month or even longer.  For this I am truly grateful, as great insights always follow.

Journal to reveal:

At the moment I’m asking my journal one question each morning “What is it I need to know today?” Sometimes the answers are short and sweet such as spend more time with your boys, drink more water, clear more clutter or go for a walk in nature.   Three minutes and its all done.

Other times it is lengthy as the words on my page do their best to bring depth and insight into an area of my life that needs attention.  These type of journal sessions usually take at least twenty minutes or longer.  I do my best to stop my thinking (getting in the way), and simply let my pen write, and write and write.

My hand seems to know when to stop.  I’m impressed.  What I read back is a revealing intimate conversation with the deepest part of me and of course a higher guidance.  I can’t help but discover more about myself.

As Stephanie Dowrick shares in her book Creative Journal Writing: The Art and Heart of Reflection “It is virtually impossible to write a journal and not discover more about yourself”

Journal prompts especially for you:

If the above question doesn’t appeal to you then you may be drawn towards starting your journal writing session with a different prompt.  I listed a few below which I have gathered over the years from a collection of books and writers.

I feel most in tune with life and myself when ……………..

The reason I feel rushed is …………..

I don’t want to write about …………

Why I want to journal ……….

I remember ……………..

What can I do about ……………

What should I concentrate on in the coming years ………………..

Why am I confused ……………………..

My attitude to money comes from …………………

If you are already a journal lover please share your unique connection with journaling.   You might be a follower of Julia Cameron’s morning pages I’d love to hear your insight and stories.

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“Every cell in my body is loved and healthy”

Your aura is simply an extension of you.   When strong it acts as a protective shield.  When fragile or damaged it can leave you drained, unwell and feeling disconnected from yourself.

Think of your aura as your own personal body guard (in the form of a giant bubble) that simply “flicks off” anything stressful, disturbing or potentially draining that you may be sensitive too.

Tom’s photo’s

I’m a firm believer in cleansing and nurturing the aura for the overall integrity of our health and well being.    Particularly, when many ancient cultures from around the world believe, that illness first starts with a weakness in our auric field.

Years ago I completed a crystal healing practitioner course, and discovered how relatively easy and inexpensive it was to repair and strengthen an aura, by simply wearing or even just holding certain crystals.

However if crystals are not your “thing” then I have shared with you below, a collection of aura cleansing and strengthening remedies that I have gathered and used (at some stage) over the past 20 years.

Please feel free to share your own aura strengthening remedies that you have successfully used the past, I’d love to hear them.

12 great ways to strengthen your aura:

1: Yogic cleansing bath:

This recipe helps removes chemicals from your physical body and negativity from your aura.  Soak for 20 minutes each day and repeat for 7 days.

If you start to feel dizzy or a little weird leave bath immediately as you have successfully loosened and removed enough toxins and negativity for one day.

• 1 lb Baking soda
• 1 cup Sea salt

* Six special bath recipes for sleep, relaxation and healing:

2: Sage smudge stick:

The smoke from white sage is known by the North American Indians to be very cleansing.   I love white sage and have used it successfully for many years to remove negative vibes that I sense in my home or around me.    Sage emits negative ions which is the good stuff you find in the air just after a storm or at the ocean.

To cleanse your aura, simply light your sage smudge stick and use your hand to direct the smoke over your head, face, front/sides of your body, under your feet, around your hands and arms, and as much of your back as you can reach.

Here is what a Sage Smudge Stick looks like:

3: Let the sun feed your aura:

Lots of lovely sunshine is known to feed and expand the aura.  Spending time outside amongst nature is incredibly healthy for your body, mind and soul.

The sun fuels you with energy, optimism and loads of vitamin D whilst nature nourishes your senses and grounds you.

4:  Sea salt:

Swimming in the ocean or soaking in a salt water bath greatly helps to cleanse the aura and draw out stress.

The sun expands and feeds your aura whilst the sea carries away the negativity.

If you don’t have a bath, and not near the ocean, simply give your body a sea salt scrub before taking a shower.  Grab a handful of sea salt and rub it all over your skin before showering.  It helps remove dead skin cells, refreshes your aura and draws out toxins.

5: Cold shower:

Cold showers have the ability to clear away negativity in your auric field, remove toxins, improve circulation and draw out tension from your body.

I have personally put the cold shower theory to the test for a whole 3 months (over summer a few years ago).  The results were amazing.

My thoughts were clearer, I felt lighter, more energy and things which normally bothered me and hung around my thoughts for days – came and went with ease.  I didn’t hold onto negative stuff like I had done before.  It helped me greatly through a very difficult time in my life.

* 12 essential reasons to take cold showers:

6: Sound medicine:

Sound is recognized by many ancient cultures as a healing tool.  The sound from Tibetan singing bowls and crystal bowls are well known for their ability to dissolve negativity and clean your energies.  Listening to their sounds before going to sleep is an easy way to support your overall well-being.

Alternately chanting the sound   “Om” is an incredibly fast and efficient way to shift stuck, stagnant or negativity energy from your aura and physical body.

Click here and you will find the Tibetan Singing bowls in the relaxation link.

7: Labradorite (crystal) :

This crystal is worth a special mention.

Labradorite has been shown by Kirilian photography to heal tears in the auric field by preventing leakage.  Holding a labradorite crystal for 20 minutes will last for about 12 hours after the stone is no longer worn.

It is dubbed the “healers” stone and is widely used as protection by body workers, teachers, childcare workers and nurses.  It’s a great crystal to wear as a bracelet.

8: Reduce your exposure to electrical stuff:

The radiation and frequencies which are emitted from electrical gadgets, I believe, can interfere with our bodies own natural rhythms, cycles and well-being.  Spending too long, at close range, to these man made frequencies can build up static in your auric field and can cause disturbances.

Make your bedroom a priority to be as electrical free as possible.  Charge all your gadgets away from your bedroom or at the very least away from your head when sleeping.

Lepidolite is a fabulous crystal to have as a protective field of energy between you and your electrical gadgets. At home I place piece near our TV, beside the beds and near the computer.   You will notice over time, the lepidolite eventually becomes paper thin as it absorbs the radiation. It’s quite amazing.

9:  Vetiver (an essential oil):

A few drops applied to your belly button at night with help you from taking on too much of other people’s junk.  Vetiver is very grounding, and particularly balancing when feeling spacey after long sessions in front of a screen.

It’s excellent essential oil for calming and grounding and one of my favourite essential oils to use at home.

Vetiver also has a special relationship with your chakras and helps to bring them into alignment.  Your chakra’s are directly connected to your aura.

10:  Black Tourmaline (crystal):

Great for deflecting radiation and is well known for transmuting negative energy from the aura.  It’s a protective stone that can also help you with negative thinking.  Its the perfect crystal to carry in your handbag.

Crystals have been used for thousands of years for healing and protection.  Smoky quartz on your desk or near the phone will protect you from other people’s stresses and negativity.  Amber is an excellent stone to help strengthen your aura. Kunzite will detach unpleasant thoughts.

I can highly recommend wearing an ametrine (amethyst and citrine) bracelet for around 3 – 6  months to heal tears and holes in your auric field that may have appeared from surgery, child birth or extreme stress.

11: Flower essences: Fringed violet and Angelsword:

Angelsword repairs and Fringed violet helps heal damaged or distressed auric fields. Take orally or dab 7 drops of each onto your solar plexus (just below your belly button) before going to bed.

Both these flower essences come from the Australian Bush Flower essence range.   If you don’t live in Australia I recommend buying the equivalent flower essences from your own country.

One overseas essence that I can recommend is the Guardian spray from Alaskan essences.  I have personally used this spray many times.  It is known to create a powerful force field of protection in your aura.

12: Be mindful of people and places that zap your energy:

Notice which places, people or situations leave you consistently feeling zapped or drained.  Limit yourself to these situations or at the very least wear a protective crystal to prevent your energy being leached.

Labrodrite would be a good crystal to start with.

* Attract more positive energy

I really appreciate the time you’ve taken to read my article, Carole.

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More articles from the Rejuvenation Lounge:

Let go of your emotional clutter:

Boost your energy:

The 12 instant benefits of humming daily:

15 clever things to know about your breathing:

“I am progressing on my spiritual path at a pace that is just right for me” Louise Hay

As my next Womens Rejuvenation Retreat in Bali is coming up at this end of September, I feel its perfect timing to share with you my love of Bali. Particularly Ubud and the amazing things this wonderful town has to offer your physical and spiritual health, and overall well being.

Something quite special and very magical happens to me, each and every time I visit Ubud.   I instantly feel at home.  Strange but true.  I begin to slow down, seem happier (I smile a lot more, you can’t help it in Bali, everyone smiles) and start to feel more connected, to my spiritual self, nature and life.

Photo by Sektordua:

Things that worried me beforehand no longer seem important. Stress and tension in my body starts to dissolve, and my sleeps are very deep and restful. My senses awaken as they are stimulated beyond belief with amazing smells, sounds and tastes of Bali.  I feel more, and more alive, as each day passes.  Ubud, once again has worked its magic.

The meaning of Ubud:

Ubud means medicine in the Balinese language and it is widely believed that it offers medicinal healing to its visitors. These special healing qualities are said to have been discovered in a vision, centuries ago during a global quest by a holy man from India, called Rsi Markandya.  You will often see people meditating on this site near the Champuan river, in the gorge where it is believed his vision took place.

Marvelous Ubud:

Ubud, which is about an hour from the airport and near the centre of the island, is fast becoming the ideal place re-boot your health and well-being.  It has a very peaceful gentle feel and is surrounded by rice fields and lush tropical vegetation.

There are lots of yoga classes, meditation classes, raw cafes, organic cafes, amazing health practitioners, lots of music and art classes, fabulous Balinese healers, exotic flower baths, endless Balinese massages, not to mention the absolutely beautiful Balinese people and their daily spiritual practices.

If you don’t have lots of spare cash (like me, being a mother of 3 boys) then Bali is a fabulous destination where you can live like a queen or king on very little a day. Of course, whatever your budget there’s a price range of accommodation, food and spa treatments to match.

Whether you are taking US dollars or Australian dollars you get great value for your money.

10 great ways to bring out your inner hippy in Ubud, Bali

1: Eat at Bali Buddha:

If you really want to find your inner hippy and meet lots of travelers then this is the place to go.  Great menu, eat organic, vegan, raw, whatever you want.  You are welcome to spend hours lounging around playing board games, reading a book or simply enjoying the atmosphere.  It’s even got free Wi-fi.  It’s a great place to start de-toxing by eating and drinking healthfully.

Start with a dosha balancing drink of banana, almond and dates or a Macao (organic raw cacao, maca, honey and soy milk)

And if you haven’t got time to stay then visit their health food store next door and buy some goodies to take back to your homestay.

Bali Buddha Cafe

2: Papaya body wrap:

After enjoying a 60 minute Balinese massage your body is then covered in a blended fresh papaya body mask and wrapped in a blanket for 15 minutes to marinate.  Finish with a very special flower petal bath.

Papaya energetically helps you when feeling overwhelmed, improves your digestion and supports you to let go of the past.

You can find this gem of body treatment as Sedona spa in Ubud.   Alternately you may opt for the sea salt scrub to remove dead skin cells and impurities along with any negativity that may be lingering in your auric field.

Or for the ultimate of body treatments experience the duo massage where two therapists work on your body at once.  OMG!

3:  Take a yoga class or two:

Ubud is the place to be if you are into yoga, and not just every day yoga.  In fact Yoga barn offers so many different styles of yoga  – Dao Yin Chinese yoga, Vinyasa flow, Hatha flow Japanese, yin yang yoga, restorative yoga plus some wonderful other classes such as drumming, meditation, movement meditations, kirtan and acro kids.

Alternately just on the outskirts of Ubud in Penestanan are Balinese yoga classes with Made Sumantra, or yoga pranala with Linda Mandini’s She offers a fabulous class for those wishing to get re-acquainted with their body no matter what age and includes yoga asana’s, pranayama (alternate nostril breathing), meditation and yoga nidra (deep rest).

4: Visit a traditional Balinese healer – Balian:

Ni Wayan Nurisah comes from  family of Balinese healers and has been practicing for 14 years.  She is well versed in Chinese medicine and Balinese medicinal plants and massage. Wayan has a traditional Balinese healing centre at Jl. Jembawan near the post office and across the road from Bali Buddha. How handy is that. Wayan is also the herbal healer from Eat, Pray, Love fame.

5: Bali Bike Tour:

Start with breakfast overlooking Mountain Baturs active volcano then cycle down hill for the next 2 1/2 hours. A wonderful way to feel alive, mix with the locals, connect with your body and nature. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate the sheer beauty of the lush tropical Balinese countryside and its terraced rice fields whilst being eco-friendly.

Bali Bike tour

6: Check out the noticeboard at Bali Buddha:

The noticeboard out the front of Bali Buddha cafe is the place to find accommodation, workshops, healers, music classes, batik workshop, yoga classes or whatever else you are into.  It’s one of the first places I visit to find out the latest “happenings” in Ubud.

7: Jalan, Jalan (walk, walk) through the rice fields:

When was the last time you walked through rice fields?   The only way to get to know the rice fields and locals is to walk the very narrow tiny tracks through water filled rice fields (all within walking distance of Ubud).   In fact you’ll find some great stops along the way such as an old man selling coconut water (incredibly healthy for you) or hidden massage huts amongst the rice fields. I’ve had some of the best massages in the most unlikely spots in Bali.

After all the walking, walking, grab yourself a foot massage at one of Kenko reflexology outlets.

8:   Grab a foot reflexology treatment:

Kenko reflexology have two outlets in Ubud, one across the road from the Ubud market and the other down monkey forest road.  It’s a wonderful therapeutic treatment that is perfect for tired feet that have been  jalan jalan all day long.  No oil is used just a blended power mixture and the price is super cheap.

Reflexology in case you don’t know is a wonderful therapeutic treatment that works on improving the health of your organs and internal body, simply by pressing and massaging certain parts of your foot.

9: Excite your taste buds with a cooking class:

I love, love, love Balinese food.

The Casa Luna Cooking school is fabulous cooking school run by the awesome Janet DeNeefe (an Australian who married a Balinese and has lived in Bali for around 25 years)  Her book Fragrant Rice (which I can highly recommend)  is part cook book and part her journey marrying a Balinese, having four children and living in Ubud.

Fragrant Rice: My Continuing Love Affair with Bali

Excite your taste buds with a lavish Balinese feast, along with class notes you can take home.  Explore the spiritual aspect of food in Bali and get to know the Balinese food gods.  There is a cooking class every day with some days including a market tour.

You start your class by sipping on iced chrysanthemum tea and finish with coconut green crepes or black rice pudding. I always include these cooking classes as part of my Womens Rejuvenation Retreats.

10:  Eat Pizza or have another massage or another flower bath:

Yes, you can certainly get great pizza in Ubud.  Pizza Bagus located Jl.Raya Pengosekan, the best part is they even do home delivery. Every Saturday morning out the front you can expect a fabulous organic farmers market.  When my children are craving something other than mie goreng this is where I take them.

Alternately, grab yourself another Balinese massage in the form of a mandi lalur scrub followed by a flower bath.  Imagine, laying in a bath filled with 3 cups of tropical flowers and essential oils whilst your head is being massaged.  Divine.  There are little hundreds wonderful body treatments to choose from in Ubud with prices starting from as little at $4 US,  yes Bali can be a very inexpensive place to holiday.

Questions about Ubud:

If you have any questions about Ubud, Bali I am more than happy to help you out if I can. I always travel there with my children, and can highly recommend it as a family holiday destination.

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Thanks so much for reading my article, Carole.

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Easy 1 minute daily detox rituals:

10 hugging tips to grab on the run:

Teach yourself walking meditation:

Boost your energy now:

I was lying in bed this morning when the thought, “you need to listen more” popped into my head.  For some reason this didn’t seem like an ordinary, everyday thought.

It had the feeling of being important, and quite special.  So, I allowed this thought to linger longer, giving it the opportunity to reveal itself.  The end result, after 5 minutes, was a list of not so obvious ways that I could be listening to my life.

Photo by Carolyn Coles:

I now plan to shift my listening focus to the more subtle sounds/messages that are happening in, and around me.   The majority of my listening attention will no longer be going to those sounds that yell, scream and demand my attention.

My first priority will be to truly listen to my children more closely, followed by listening to my body and my breath as much as I can.

Experience your life differently:

I do hope the list of suggestions below inspires you (even if its only for one day) to listen to things that you might not normally pay attention too.  Your thoughts and comments are always welcome.  Enjoy.

20 Inspiring Ways To Listen Differently To Your Life:

1: Listen to your life with your eyes closed

2: Listen to your words before you speak them

3: Listen to what you want - more of – in life

4: Listen to the sound of your breath, then relax it

5: Listen to your intuition. It’s always trying to grab your attention

6: Listen to what your body needs, right now. Put your thumbs in your ears, cover your eyes with your fingers and then listen

7: Listen thankfully to the sounds of nature

8: Listen for the wisdom in your problems

9: Listen more, talk less

10: Listen to your thoughts in slow motion. Are they bringing you closer to your dreams or taking you further away?

11: Listen to your life without the sound of technology and machines (no phone, TV, ipod etc)

12: Listen to silence

13: Listen to your favourite music

14: Listen, really listen to your children, family and friends

15: Listen to how many sounds are actually happening around you right now

16: Listen to the calming sounds of the ocean by cupping your hands over your ears and turning your awareness inwards

17: Listen to the sound of your favourite food cooking

18: Listen to your heart – What is it saying?

19: Listen to the sound of your feet when walking

20: Listen to the appreciation of your body after eating something healthy

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What I’m loving at the moment:

Reading Agni – Building a strong digestion fire.  It’s an Ayurvedic food and lifestyle course/book by Nadia Marshall.

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Bali Rest and Rejuvenation Retreats for 2012

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Click here for all the relaxing, restful and restorative details.

“I rest well.  I sleep peacefully, and I awaken with joy”  Louise Hay

Your nose is exceptionally clever. Simply by practising a few rounds of alternate nostril breathing (pranayama) for a few minutes each day, you can help restore any imbalances in your brain.  You can improve sleep, encourage a calmer emotional state, boost your thinking power and soothe your nervous system. How impressive is that!

Another interesting fact about your nostrils, is that you don’t breathe through them equally all the time.  Right now, you will be favouring either your left nostril or your right nostril.

Left nostril for calming – right nostril for energy:

Your nose is directly linked to your brain and nervous system. The Indian yogis believe that many diseases can be linked to disturbed nasal breathing which, I’m guessing, is why they perfected pranayama breathing thousands of year ago.

Breathing in, only through your left nostril, will access the right “feeling” hemisphere of your brain, and breathing in, only through your right nostril, will access the left “thinking” hemisphere of your brain.  Consciously alternating your breath between either nostril will  allow you to activate and access your whole brain.

Yogic breathing, the perfect relaxation tool:

Alternate nostril breathing is something I first learnt about through yoga, many years ago, and then from Ayurvedic medicine. It is one of the simplest and most user friendly relaxation techniques that I share at my Rest and Rejuvenation Retreats.  It helps greatly to cool a busy mind and calm an overstimulated nervous system.

12 benefits of alternate nostril breathing:

1: Revitalizes you:

A few rounds of alternate nostril breathing is a quick pick me up if you are feeling flat, tired or even stressed. It provides your body with a much needed dose of extra energy.

2: Improves brain function:

When you mind is dull – concentration and clarity is poor.  Alternate nostril breathing brings equal amounts of oxygen to both sides of the brain for improved brain function.  Five minutes of alternate nostril breathing before an exam or interview is a great way to access your whole brain for improved performance.

3: Cleanses your lungs:

A daily five minute practice morning and night of alternate nostril breathing is great way to remove stale air and impurities from the bottom of your lungs.

It wasn’t until I started reading the The Tao of Natural Breathing by Dennis Lewis that I discovered something I did not know. 70% of our body’s waste products are eliminated via our lungs.

4: Calms an agitated mind:

I’m prone to worrying.  A few minutes of focused alternate nostril breathing is helpful (for me) in calming my  “over thinking” mind.   The ancient yogis believe that if you can regulate your breath, then you can control your mind.

5: Merges the left “thinking” brain and right “feeling brain:

Alternate nostril breathing optimizes both sides of your brain so you can access your whole brain, and all the benefits that go with it.

The flip side of course is, single nostril breathing can be used to activate, just the left”thinking” or just right “feeling” side of your brain for specific situations.

Try it out next time you need to drive your car.  Cover your left nostril with your thumb and breathe only through your right nostril for one minute.  This should keep you more alert when driving.

6: Encourage a calmer emotional state:

In times of emotional distress and upset, a few rounds of mindful nostril breathing will soften the intensity of over reactive emotional states.  The longer you practice, the more stable your thinking, and the calmer your emotions will become.

7: Improves sleep:

If you can’t sleep at night lay on your right hand side, gently close your right nostril with your right thumb and breath through your left nostril.  This will activate your parasympathetic nervous system which will calm you down and slow your heart rate.

* Calming yoga pose for insomnia:

8: Great preparation for meditation:

Alternate nostril breathing is a simple little trick that can be practiced for a few minutes before you begin your meditation practice.  It’s a very easy way to help you find your meditation groove.

9: Soothes your nervous system:

By focusing on your breath and deepening it, your brain will register this message and trigger the parasympathetic nervous system.  You have effectively switched your nervous system from a stressed response, into a relaxation response.   Single left nostril breathing (by closing your right nostril) will direct the flow of oxygen and energy to the right hemisphere of your brain, allowing once again, for the parasympathetic nervous system to be switched on.  Gosh, your breath and nose is very clever.

10: Regulates  the cooling and warming cycles of the body:

Left nostril is feminine, nurturing, calm and cooling.  Right nostril is masculine, heat, competitive and force.  Favouring one nostril more than the other can effect the heat or coolness of your body.

11: Clears and boosts your energy channels:

Slightly forced alternate nostril breathing improves and directs the flow of energy throughout your body – preventing sluggishness.  It oxygenates your blood and allows the energy (prana) in your body to be strong and flowing.

12: Enhances rest and relaxation:

A restless mind cannot relax.  Alternate nostril breathing melts away an imbalances between the right and left hemisphere of your brain and calms your thinking.  This is perfect for helping you access rest and relaxation far more efficiently.

An alternate nostril breathing exercise – purifying breath:

Step one: Use right thumb to close off right nostril.

Step two: Inhale slowly through left nostril

Step three: Pause for a second

Step four: Now close left nostril with ring finger and release thumb off right nostril

Step five: Exhale through your right nostril

Step six: Now, inhale through right nostril

Step seven: Pause

Step eight: Use thumb to close of right nostril

Step nine: Breathe out through left nostril

Step ten: This is one round. Start slowly with 1 or 2 rounds and gradually increase.Never force.Sit quietly for a few moments after you have finished.

There are many, many different techniques of pranayama such as inhaling for 4, holding for 4 and exhaling for 4.

Caution:

Do not hold your breath if you have high blood pressure.  More advanced methods of pranayama (alternate nostril breathing) need to be practiced with an experienced practitioner.  practicing on an empty stomach is preferred.

* 15 clever things to know about your breathing:

* How to breathe better:

* Live more in the moment with the 3 arrivals:

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What I’m loving at the moment:

Sarah Wilson, health practitioner, writer and TV presenter quit sugar as an experiment to support the health of her auto-immune disease. She noticed such a huge change with her health and mood that she wrote an e-book about it.

Click here to visit Sarah Wilson.

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“Change one thing in your life, and it effects all your life”

To celebrate the success of my blogs Facebook Fan Page I thought I’d share 100 of  rejuvenation tips, that I have posted over there all in one article.

Facebook is a lovely way to connect with you on a more personal level.  So please do drop by anytime to say hello, have a chat, read the rejuvenation tips or even become a fan.  It’s all about encouraging to make small changes so you can feel better naturally.

Photo by carf’s

100 wise tips to feel better naturally:

1: Give your intuition a louder voice: Don’t let other people’s opinions and judgments drown out your own voice.   Stay true to you and strengthen your connection to your inner wise voice.

* 8 ways to strengthen your intuition:

2: De-stress: Place both hands on your heart. Breath in and out from your heart for 10 seconds. This will get you out of your head and back into your body and allow you to come back to your center.

3: My personal top 5 health tips: Breath into your belly, drink plenty of water, move, eat for energy and meditate.

4: Yoga detox tea: 1/4 tsp coriander seeds, 1/4 tsp of cummin seeds and 1/4tsp of fennel seeds. Mix with 1.5 litres of hot water.  Sip throughout the day. (Note: This recipe was given to me by my Ayurvedic practitioner. I make this tea in my thermos each morning, so I can carry it everywhere with me)

5: Focus on relaxing all  parts of your head: It will trigger the rest of your body to follow.  Soften and relax your forehead, eyeballs, teeth, cheek muscles, tongue and jaw.  Read: The lazy way to dissolve your fatigue

6: Cancel a complaining thought: Each time you catch yourself complaining, spend thirty seconds focusing on the opposite and increase your ratio between helpful and unhelpful thoughts.

7: Sleep Better: Let your bedroom breathe. Simplify with less busyness, less furniture, less storage, less ornaments & less nick knacks

8: A natural de-stressor:

“Chew your vegetables.  It releases four times more serotonin”  David Wolfe

9: Slow yourself down: Start listening to your thoughts in slow motion.

10: Stop wasting energy on other people’s business: Remember Byron Katie’s rule – There are 3 types of business. Your business, other peoples business and god’s business. Stick to your own business.

11: Sip hot water: It removes toxins, has a hormone balancing effect and warms your digestive organs.

12: Tension buster: Take a deep breath in, open your mouth, stick out your tongue, now ‘let it all go” by saying aaaah! Feel the release from your jaw, neck and face muscles.

13: Take a chill pill: Close and soften your eyes, relax your tongue, unlock your jaw, now cup your hands over your ears, and listen to the sounds of the ocean playing inside your head.

14:  Sedate your nerves with music: Dr. Emoto shares, that by listening to the Blue Danube, it will nourish your central nervous system:  Read more about it here: http://tinyurl.com/5uz4gf

15: Soak your tension away: Treat yourself to a healing bath: I cup of Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) added to your bath water will relax your nervous system, draw out toxins, relax muscles and even reduce swelling.

16: Un-hunch shoulders: Hunched shoulders block the flow of blood to your brain, hold in stress and can restrict your breathing. Un-hunch your shoulders and feel your neck and spine lengthen.

17: Stop holding stress in your face: Are you frowning, squinting, clenching teeth or have a tense jaw?  Then smile, and let all that worry, stress and tension go.

18: Headache buster: Hold this finger yoga posture for 3 – 6 minutes. Join the tips of your thumb, index and middle finger. Fold your ring finger into the base of your thumb. Extend your little finger. Relax hands on top of your knees.

19: De-stress your eyes: Try some Chinese acupressure.  Place your thumb and first finger, either side of the top of your nose, where your eye brows start. Close your eyes and hold firm pressure for a few minutes.

20: Calm yourself before bed: Dab the essential oil “vetiver’ onto the souls of your feet. Vetiver has a grounding and soothing effect on your nervous system.

21:  Eat your water: Fruit is 90% water.  Grapes and oranges can be as high as 98%  water content.

22: Natures sports drink: Watermelon, cucumber, honeydew and cantaloupe are an excellent sources of water, sugar and electrolytes.  Alternately here’s a  homemade organic sports drink recipe from Dr Nicole Sundene

23: Add a slice of lemon: In case you get bored with the taste of water add a slice of lemon or lime. Studies have shown that children drink 45% more water when flavoured.

24:  Is your stuff draining your energy? Your stuff can be a burden, suck your time, money, energy and consume your focus (more than you think). Less is best.

25: Check in with your body: If you are too busy living “in your head” you can easily forget about the basic needs of your body.  Stop, breath and ask your body if its thirty, hungry, needs a stretch or walk.

26: Dehydration facts: A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy thinking. Lack of water is the number one reason for day time fatigue.

27: The power of water: Water is essential for carrying waste material out of the body. It’s involved in nearly every bodily process including digestion, absorption, circulation and excretion.  It’s vital in transporting nutrients throughout the body.

28: Boost the Qi in your home: Cleanse arguments, sickness and stagnant energy with a sage smudge stick. (Note: I have personally used white sage now successfully for over 20 years)

29: Suffering from overeating. Kneel in-between your heels with hands on your lap for 10 minutes. This yoga pose is called virasana. Use a blanket to sit on or for your knees, if you need too.

30: Carry a water bottle: One of the simplest ways to keep a fresh supply of water flowing throughout your muscles, blood, brain and bones is to carry a water bottle everywhere with you.

31: A Simple Meditation: Breath in through your nose and tell your mind to stay focused on your breath.

32: Is your back aching? Try  a yoga pose called, legs-up-wall, for 10 minutes. Its also great if you have been standing for too long: http://tinyurl.com/5b8rma

33: Lose the frown: All it takes is less than 30 seconds to turn a frown into a smile.

34:  Touch is healing: Ayurvedic medicine believes a daily self massage offers many well-being benefits to your body and mind.  Read more: You deserve a daily self massage.

35:  Start with an easy meditation style: Try the very enjoyable walking meditation.

36: Tests have shown that meditation can be more effective than a nap in improving performance and concentration.

37: Strengthen Your Focus: A daily meditation break, sharpens your concentration powers. Focus on your breath, a word or mantra for 5 minutes and notice the difference.

38: Remember to breath: On an average we have 26,000 breaths a day. How many are you aware of ?

39: “Time a stick of incense. Once you know how long it takes to burn, you can use it to determine the lengths of your meditation sessions” Helen Tworkov

40: Chinese acupressure tip for constipation: Massage your index finger from its tip right down to the base. If you have diarrhea then massage from its base up to the tip: (Note:You are stimulating the meridans by using your fingers. A positive effect should be felt after several minutes)

41: Try the Bon Jovi Yoga chant: Sanskrit chants are awesome but this one is so full of joy and fun http://tinyurl…

42: Have your feet touched grass today? Many people feeling scattered have not touched any grass, earth or sand in days with their feet – only concrete and floors.

43. Strengthen your immune system: Laughter really is the best medicine. Visit the Mumbai yoga laughter club just for a minute. http://tinyurl.com/3a9bkq

44. Flick off other peoples stresses: Carry a piece of the crystal smoky quartz in your pocket or handbag. It will help absorb negativity.

45. Hand Yoga for Patience: Place the tip of the middle finger onto the tip of the thumb. It creates a flow of energy which promotes patience.

46. Eating water is better than drinking it: Water content of most fruit and vegetables is over 90%. Grapes and oranges can be as high as 98%

47. Stress Relief: It’s proven scientifically, playing the Blue Danube will nourish your central nervous system:http://tinyurl…

48. Conscious Breathing: Breathing in “I am calm”, breathing out “I soften” Repeat to the rhythm of your breath.

49. Instant Chilling Out: Inhale for 3-5 seconds then exhale for 3-5 seconds through your nose. Drop your shoulders then open your heart. Allow.

50. Enter your day consciously while still lying in bed and set the tone for your day.  Try some wake up yoga in bed:http://tinyurl.com/5z6m9s

51: Reduce caffeine intake: Swap one cup of tea or coffee a day for a delicious mug of miso soup. It is highly nutritious and can be made in an instant.

52: “Life is like a mirror, you get the best results when you smile at it” Unknown

53: Strengthen your boundaries: Love yourself enough to say no to others’ demands on your time and energy. Stop, step back & reassess the situation.

54: Appreciate your hands: Your hands are a mirror for your body. Massage your fingers, joints, palms and back of hand for 5 minutes and your organs and body will benefit.

55: It’s time to turn your back to the world: Rest your heart, dissolve your worries and calm your nervous system with this simple yoga pose. http://tinyurl.com/6gcegc

56: Deep breathers tend to live longer: They are generally healthier and more relaxed. Take three deep, gentle slow breaths right now. Never force.

57: Breath is the movement of thought: Relaxed breathing equals calm thoughts.  Short quick breathing equals busy thoughts.

58: Four great reasons to eat kiwi fruit: More potassium than a banana, 240% of daily recommended intake of Vitamin C, potent source of Vitamin E and low in fat

59: There are 11 different kinds of breathing: Noisy/quiet, fast/slow, regular/irregular, jerky/smooth, deep/shallow, mouth/nose, forced/effortless, high/middle/low etc.

60. Be kinder to yourself: Think kinder thoughts about yourself.  Eat foods that are kinder to your body.  Allow yourself to rest.

61. Invite serenity: Make a fist with your hands, wrap fingers over thumbs. The tighter you squeeze your thumbs the deeper & calmer your breath will be and the quieter your mind will become.

62. ” Smile, breathe and go slowly” by Thich Nhat Hanh

63. Breathing wisdom: Don’t pull your stomach in when you inhale as it reduces your oxygen intake. Your abdomen should expand and soften with each inhale.

64. “Everything has its beauty but not everyone sees it” Confucius

65. Is the way you are breathing making you sick or stealing your energy? Take a free breathing test now:

66. Quality belly breathing: Gently place hands on your belly. You should be able to feel it soften, rise and expand with each inhale.

67. Improve your sleep: Clear the clutter from under your bed, remove all electrical gadgets, computers, exercise equipment and work papers.

68. Inspirational quote: “Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life” Confucius

69. Smile into your organs. It’s very healing to smile into your heart, then smile into your liver, kidneys and lungs.

70. Dissolve anger: Breathe into your liver and feel the anger dissolve anger with each exhale.

71:  Adjust the speed of your day: Take some time out and notice if you are rushing. Go for a walk or use your breath to slow yourself down.

72: Do nothing for 30 seconds. Put some space between you and your hectic schedule

73: Tranquilize yourself: Slow your breathing down.  Breathing deeply into your belly, through your nose will calm your nervous system.  Your breath is a great tool for relaxation:

74: Zen eating: Enjoy the benefits of eating sitting down in a quiet space.. Walk away from your computer, turn off the TV and don’t read or talk.  Feel the difference.

75: Stop regularly and notice the bigger picture of life. Pause, breath, feel your body and observe what you see, hear, touch, taste and smell around you.

76: Reward your body: Five minutes in a relaxing and very easy yoga pose will reduce fatigue, tension and lower blood pressure: http://tinyurl.com/54v6t3 All you need is a floor, blanket and an eye bag

77: Calm yourself down: Close your eyes. The eyes are linked to your nervous system. By softening your eyes you can trigger the relaxation of your entire body.

78: Push away negativity and stress: Spend longer on your exhales and give yourself some much needed space.

79: Swap the butter on your toast for tahini, avocado or nut paste. I mix my tahini with local bush honey. Tahini is sesame seed paste packed with lots of good stuff

80: Are you stressed? Check your face. Are you frowning, squinting, clenching teeth, jaw or pursing lips? Smile, breath and relax your face muscles.

81: Start 3 green habits today: Switch your plastic coat hangers to bamboo, switch plastic storage containers for glass and  switch plastic pegs for wooden.

82: Push away the flu: Repeat the mantra: “Every cell in my body is loved and healthy”.  Feed your body with healthy thoughts not fear.

83: Have you been way too serious lately? Go ahead, be spontaneous? Start skipping, eat ice cream for breakfast or hug the next person you see.

84: Notice your full breath cycle: Experience the slight pause at the end of each exhale and before your next inhale begins.

85: Be kinder to your sleep. Your bedroom is not a multi purpose room. Calm, relax and de-stress its energy  http://tinyurl.com/5t9qlq

86: Be kinder to your nervous system: Calm your nervous system regular by allowing 2 minute “priority you” time every hour.  Stop, breath and rest.

87: Be kinder to your eyes: Don’t stare for hours at a screen. Give your eyes healthy doses of natural light, sunshine and movement(other than staring). Also treat your eyes to deep rest with a yoga eye pillow.

88: Stop holding your breath: It reduces oxygen flow to your body and tightens your chest, face, jaw and throat. Remember to breath.

89: Invite more pleasure: Treat yourself to a chocolate facial.  Organic cacao powder is extremely high in magnesium which an excellent stress protector.

90: Protect yourself from other people’s stresses:  Pop a piece of smoky quartz or black tourmaline in your bra: http://tinyurl.com/5be5gt

91: Hug therapy: 4 hugs a day for survival, 8 hugs a day for maintenance, 12 hugs a day for growth:

92: Toe hugs are “in”. Whilst at your computer, grab your foot & place your fingers in between your toes. Now hug, stretch and wiggle your toes and foot.

93: Get unstuck: Always keep a copy of your favorite inspirational book close by. Open randomly and read a few paragraphs to bring relief to your current situation

94: Hug wisdom: Hugs lasting over 20 seconds create more trust.

95: Slow yourself down: Focus your mind on just one thing/object for the next 30 seconds. A calm mind can focus, a rushed mind cannot.

96: Avoid toxic people: Do your best to limit yourself to people who love drama and gossip, particularly when you are feeling fragile and exhausted.

97: Lift your worries with a Buddhist kindness prayer: “May I be free of worry, May I be well, May I feel safe and at ease, May I be at peace”

98: Linger longer in a hug. A hug fuels your heart with all the good stuff and nourishes your sense of touch. Feel the healing power of a hug.

99: Buy a tongue scraper: Scrape tongue 6 times first thing in the morning  to remove the toxins and bacteria that has formed on your tongue overnight.

100: “T he more man meditates upon good thoughts, the better will be his world and the world at large.”  Confucius

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I use and love Ananga’s guided meditations and music

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“You haven’t lost your smile, its right there under your nose. You just forgot” Unknown

Smiling is a very impressive function of the human body, that, when used often, can trigger a huge range of well-being benefits for your body, mind and soul.  The best part is its absolutely contagious.  Simply take a look at the photo below, and if that doesn’t bring a smile to your face nothing will.

Photo by Ferdinand Reus:

Increase your daily quota of smiles:

It’s very hard to feel stressed, angry or worried when you are smiling – even if you are faking it.  Research shows that a smile can change your mood, release tension (particularly in your jaw and neck), help you stay positive, boost your immune system, comfort another person, help you relax and even make you look younger.

I’m super keen to enroll in an upcoming Laughter Yoga workshop, which is what inspired me in the first place to go off and research the benefits of smiling and laughter.  When you think about it, life is meant to be simple, and you can’t get any simpler than smiling and laughing more often to improve your over all well-being.

So, to inspire you to smile more often, whilst keeping it simple, here’s some fabulous quotes on smiling that I’m trusting will encourage you to increase your daily quota of smiles.

14 quotes on smiling to lift your spirits:

My favourite is from William Shakespeare  “A smile cures the wounding of a frown”

1: “Smile! If you can’t lift the corners, let the middle sag” Unknown

2: “The world always looks brighter from behind a smile”  Unknown

3: “Wrinkles merely indicate where smiles have been” Mark Twain

4: “Everyone smiles in the same language” Unknown

5: “The shortest distance between two people is a smile”  Unknown

6: “A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks” Charles Gordy

7: “A smile is something you can’t give away, it always comes back to you ” Unknown

8: “It takes a lot of work from the face to let out a smile, but just think of all the good a smile can bring to the most important muscle of your body – the heart”  Unknown

9: Deepak Chopra says “The healthiest response to life is laughter”

10: “Before you put on a frown, make absolutely sure there are no smiles available” Jim Beggs

11: “Life is like a mirror, we get the best results when we smile at it” Unknown

12: “Wear a smile and have friends, wear a scowl and have wrinkles” by George Eliot

13: He who smiles rather than rages is always the stronger” Japanese Proverb

14: “A smile cures the wounding of a frown”  William Shakespeare

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“Only when we are no longer afraid, do we begin to live” by Dorothy Thompson

I came across a great article this weekend that I knew I was meant to read.  (I’m sure you know that feeling.) It expressed everything that I felt to be true in my heart about life. It was simple yet concise, and I instantly knew I  needed to share it with you.  Fingers crossed you find it as illuminating and reassuring as I did.

“Life is just a chance to grow a soul” by Powell Davies

Enjoy, and let me know what you think.   Rule number nine is my favourite.  What’s yours?

11 rules for being a human being:

Rule 1: You will receive a body:

You m

Rule 2: You will learn lessons:

You are enrolled in a full-time informal school called life.  Each day in this school you will have the opportunity to learn lessons.  You may like the lessons or think them irrelevant or stupid.

Rule 3: There are no mistakes, only lessons:

Growth is a process of trial and error: experimentation.  The “failed” experiments are as much a part of the process as the experiment that ultimately “works”.

Rule 4: A lesson is repeated until learned:

A lesson will be presented to you in various forms until you have learned it.  When you have learned it, you can then go on to the next lesson.

Rule 5: Learning lessons does not end:

There is no part of Life that does not contain its lessons. If you are alive, there are lessons to be learned.

Rule 6: “There” is no better than “here”

When your “there” has become a “here”, you will simply obtain another “there” that will again look better than “here”.

Rule 7: Others are merely mirrors of you:

You cannot love or hate something about another person unless it reflects something you love or hate about yourself.

Rule 8: What you make of your life is up to you:

You have the tools and resources you need.  What you do with them is up to you.  The choice is yours.

Rule 9: Your answers lie inside you:

The answers to life’s questions lie inside you.  All you need to do is look, listen and trust.

Rule 10: You will forget all this:

Rule 11: You can remember whenever you want.

Photo by the awesome alicepopkorn:

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My recent book recommendations:

Restful Yoga for Stressful Times by Judith Lassater

Chakra Foods for Optimum Health by Dr.  Deanna Minich

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Why not subscribe via email or rss feed and get free updates

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I use and love Ananga’s guided meditations and music

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“Insanity is to behave like someone you are not.  You are unique, do not repeat other peoples patterns” by Paulo Coehlo

Asking yourself the question “What do I really, really, really want?” rewards you with clarity.  It asks that you stop, dig deep and take some time out to get to know the real you all over again.

Photo by Squonks11

Book Cover: Just Ask the Right Questions to Get What You Want

I personally love journaling answers to this question, as they are always revealing, sometimes surprising and often a huge relief.

The only skill you need is trust.  A trust that what you are writing down, is coming from your inner wisdom and not from others peoples expectations of you.

Even though I feel I do know what I really, really, really want, I still believe its important to spend time each year giving my inner wisdom a louder voice, away from all the busyness of the world.

I really, really, really want to live more in the present moment and practice mindfulness as often as I can, with every task I do. I know this will help me be a better mother and even a better writer. If I’m more mindful then I won’t easily be distracted or get caught up in unnecessary over thinking, and that’s got to be a good thing. I also want to have a deeper sense of feeling stiller or more peaceful inside.  Mindfulness, I feel is the perfect tool to help me achieve this.

How To Paint A Picture Of Who You Really Are:

In a quiet moment (usually early morning) I grab my journal, pen and write What do I really, really, really want? across the top of my page.  I then simply let my pen answer with whatever it wants to write. The trick is, not to think too much or worry about neatness or spelling.

Sometimes the answers are short and sweet, other times lengthy.  Sometimes they are totally materialist and selfish and other times deep and meaningful.

Either way, over time (days or weeks), a common theme will begin appear on the pages, revealing what it is you really, really, really want.

Thank You Elizabeth Gilbert For This Life Changing Question:

I discovered this question when reading my favorite book for 2007 called Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert.

If you haven’t read this book, do yourself a favor and borrow or buy yourself a copy.  You will cry, you will laugh lots and above all you will be inspired to really, really, really live your life like never before.  Thank you Elizabeth.

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By Carole Fogarty

Editor Rejuvenation Lounge and facilitator of Women’s Rejuvenation Retreats:

Rejuvenate Your Soul: 

“If you can spend a perfectly useless afternoon in a perfectly useless manner, you have learned how to live”  Lin Yutang

I recently caught up with a girlfriend for a cuppa at our local beach cafe. Prior to meeting with her, I was hoping she would cancel at the last minute as my day was becoming extremely busy.  My mind was doing its best to convince me that I had far more urgent and important things to do.

 Photo by Riot Jane:

Lucky for me, my girlfriend didn’t cancel and once there, I began to “let go” and unwind.  I later returned to my home/office feeling refreshed and filled with a deeper appreciation for the rejuvenating qualities of sharing a cup of tea with a great friend.

It was this recent experience which inspired me for this weeks three simple self care tips.  I trust they encourage you to stop, breath and think more often about “giving back”  to your physical, emotional or spiritual self.

Self care reminders:

1: The Importance Of A Peaceful Morning And Afternoon Tea:

Make a point of taking time out to enjoy, taste and appreciate your morning and afternoons teas.  Always sit down, in a pleasant environment away from your desk or computer avoiding where possible excess noise and stimulation.

My Ayurvedic practitioner shared with me that eating and drinking in a pleasant environment invites warmth, calm and nourishment to your senses and body.

Eating and drinking in a stressful, busy environment can easily fuel your body with more agitation.

2:  True Friendship Rejuvenates:

Often a thoughtful, fun, happy, supportive or understanding ear can be the perfect ingredient to refresh and rejuvenate you.

Regularly catching up with a close friend can be a magical way to boost your level of self care.  Never underestimate the healing qualities and rewards that friendship has to offer.

3:  Treat Yourself To A Change Of Scenery:

In times of overwhelm, often a change of scenery is the best medicine.  Walking away and putting some healthy space between you and all the reminders of your deadlines, worries and busyness is a very wise and sensible thing to do.

Change the scenery around you and change how you are feeling.

Add a boost to the healing qualities of tea and friendship by treating yourself and your friend to a change of scenery.  A new cafe, new location, different people, smells and sights can be a fun and simple way to shake off any overwhelm and put things back into perspective again.

Thanks for reading my article. Carole.  

You are welcome to come back and visit my blog the Rejuvenation Lounge anytime, or grab daily rejuvenation tips over at twitter.

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By Carole Fogarty

Editor Rejuvenation Lounge and facilitator of Women’s Rejuvenation Retreats:

Rejuvenate Your Soul: 

There is no better time than now to be reminded how draining, depleted and powerless toxic people, places and situations can leave you feeling.  The tricky part is knowing when you are in the company of one, and leaving before you get zapped.

 Photo by Riot Jane:

An important part of self care is all about appreciating and protecting your own precious energy levels. This simply means being mindful of the people, places or situations that you choose to give your attention and energy too.

From my own observations, children can sometimes be draining. However the big difference between children and toxic people is,  children have the wonderful ability to fill us up again with hugs, smiles and love. Toxic people take and never give.  You may even have some friends like that, who are all takers with no giving. Now might be a good time to reassess your situation with those friends.

Limit Yourself To Toxic People and Places:

1: Limit Yourself To Toxic People:

Energy vampires are everywhere. They demand your attention and can suck the life force energy out of you in an instant.  Even a 5 minute phone conversation with one, can leave you feeling drained.

Toxic people come in all shapes, sizes and forms.  They are generally addicted to gossip, conflict and drama and add no sense of well being to your life whatsoever.

2:  Limit Yourself To Toxic Places:

Have you ever been drained by a crowded place, busy shopping complex or any indoor or outdoor environment?

I personally don’t like busy shopping complexes or supermarkets. The bright lights and excess stimulation can drain my energies all too easily.  The closer connected I am to nature the more grounded I feel.  Wherever possible I shop as local farmers markets, which are always outdoors and in the fresh air.  I keep supermarket shopping to a minimum and prefer to go early mornings when they are mostly empty.

3:  Practice The Power Of 30 Seconds:

Thirty seconds is all you need to decide if you are in the presence of a toxic person, place or situation.  Simply turn your awareness inwards for 30 seconds (with or without your eyes closed ) tune into your gut feelings and calmly decide if your energies are being drained, attacked or zapped.

If after 30 seconds the person, place or situation feels draining then quietly chose to remove yourself. There is no need to judge, criticize or talk about it to anyone, not even to yourself. I would simply say,  “It feels right to leave now”.   Don’t become toxic yourself by creating a drama around it.

If you don’t leave then you are saying to yourself that it is acceptable to have energy drains, gossip, drama and conflict in your life.

Thanks for reading my post.  Carole

You are welcome to come back and visit my blog the Rejuvenation Lounge anytime or treat yourself to one of my  Zen Rejuvenation Retreats in Bali, Australia or Italy:

 Subscribe To My Articles by Email – It’s free:

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“The way to health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage every day” Hippocrates Father Of Medicine:

You deserve to add a dash of magic and a good dose of therapeutic healing to your bath waters.  Bath recipes have been prescribed for thousands of years to detox, relax and nourish the body, mind and soul.  There are even bath recipes for manifesting, hang over cures and for steaming up your love life.

Seq’s photo’s

In the meantime, I’m sharing with you bath recipes to rejuvenate your physical, mental or emotional well being.

1. Calm your nerves bath recipe
2. Sleep like a baby bath recipe
3. Removing other peoples negativity bath recipe
4. A yogic cleansing bath recipe
5. Love yourself more bath recipe
6. Stop rushing bath recipe

Treat yourself tonight to a bath infused with herbs, oils, crystals, essences and ancient potions. It’s time to make a date with your body right now.

Six special bath recipes for sleep, relaxation and healing:

Over time I’ve gathered bath recipes from my womens rejuvenation retreats, energy healers, from workshops around the world and books. Back in the years when I taught Feng Shui, I’d often prescribe a bath recipe to my students to help cleanse and strengthen their energy fields.

I believe all ingredients  need to be as organic and natural as possible to support the healing process.

1 – Calm Your Nerves Bath Recipe:

Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) sedates your nervous system.  It relaxes your muscles, releases toxins and is probably best known for reducing swelling. Magnesium is a mineral your nervous system and adrenals need in order to relax.

• 1 cup of epsom salts
• 4 tea light candles

Repeat this wonderful mantra from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh whilst lying in your bath:

Breathe in:  “I calm my body” Breathe out:  “I smile”.

As my yoga teacher is always saying in class, there is no where to go and no where to be here except here, now in the present moment. Enjoy.

Optional extras: Soft, soothing music. My favourite music at the moment for calming my home and relaxing myself and the boys is The Essence by Deva Premal. Yes, my boys actually request that I play this as they drift off to sleep.

Note: A foot bath of epsom salts is great for tired aching feet and after sport.

2 – Sleep Like A Baby Bath Recipe:

This recipe is from Mary Muryn book Water Magic which I talk about below.

• A handful of chamomile flowers
• 2 warm chamomile tea bag for your eyes
• 1 cup of chamomile tea

Optional extra: homeopathy remedy of chamomile

Soak your fresh chamomile flowers in a bowl of hot water for 20 minutes.  Place your face over the bowl with a towel over your head. Enjoy inhaling the calming qualities of the chamomile for a few minutes.

Scoop off the flowers and pour the water into your bath. Place two warm chamomile tea bags over your eyes.  Make yourself a cup of chamomile tea.  If you really want to evoke the healing qualities of chamomile you can add a few pellets (or drops) of the homeopathic remedy chamomile.

Focus on your breathe and allow your body to surrender.

* 12 great reasons to start alternate nostril breathing:

3 – Removing Other Peoples Negativity Bath Recipe:

Sometimes we are effected by the negativity of other people, places or situations.

• A piece of black tourmaline crystal. Transmutes negative energies.
• A good handful of sea salt

Note: Place one piece of black tourmaline and labrodrite (also a crystal) under your pillow for a good nights sleep. Labrodrite prevents energy leaks and seals your auric field.

4 -Yogic Aura Cleansing Bath:

Cleanses negativity from your aura and removes chemicals from your physical body.  Mary suggests soaking for 20 minutes and repeating each day for 7 days.  If you start to feel dizzy or weird leave bath immediately as you have successfully loosened and removed some negativity from your physical and energetic bodies. I personally have not done this one for 7 days but a few of my friends have and all rave about how awesome it is.

• 1 lb Baking soda
• 1 cup Sea salt

Optional extra: Mary suggests playing harp music or Tibetan bells whilst soaking in your bath.

5 -Love Yourself More Bath:

When things aren’t going your way, some days all you need is love. Open your heart chakra and invite more love into your body. This bath will encourage you to think less from the head and more from the heart.

• A good piece of rose quartz crystal
• 6-8 drops of rose essential oil
• Rose water to spray onto your face

Mantra for you to repeat whilst soaking in the bath:  “Every cell in my body is loved and healthy”.

Optional extras: Organic dark chocolate, fresh rose petals if you happen to have a rose bush or treat yourself to a bunch. Love songs on your ipod

6 – Can’t Stop Rushing Bath Recipe:

Brings your scattered energies back into your body. Grounds and centres you.

• 6 drops Ylang Ylang
• 4 drops Vetiver is great for burnout and depression. Has a grounding and tranquil effect
• Yoga eye pillow

Optional extras: Any black crystals like obsidian or black tourmaline have a very grounding effect.  Place a piece in your bath.

Water Magic:

If you happen to be a bath lover like me then I know you will absolutely love a book I discovered about 7 years ago called Water Magic: Healing Bath Recipes for the Body, Spirit, and Soul written by Mary Muryn.  I’ve included a few of Mary’s bath recipes above. Thank you Mary, wherever you are in the world.

Water Magic: Healing Bath Recipes for the Body, Spirit, and Soul

Great tips for getting the most from your bath recipe:

• Keep bathroom darkish with only a few candles.
• Baths shouldn’t be too hot otherwise they will tire you out.
• Self massage before your bath. It is one of the most healing and soothing rituals you can give your body. I personally do it daily.
• Wear ear plugs to block out any household noise or listen to your ipod.
• Add an oil burner to your bathroom.  Choose essential oils that you feel drawn to.  Jennifer Jefferies serenity blend of frankincense, germanium, lavender and ylang ylang I can highly recommend for creating a calmer enviornment. Here’s the link to her site www.jenniferjefferies.com
• If your eyes are particularly tired place a yoga eye pillow over them whilst lying in the bath.

Thanks so much for reading my article, Carole.

Return anytime to the Rejuvenation Lounge or connect with me on facebook

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Here’s a radical thought.  Why not practice random acts of kindness on yourself every day for a whole month.  Your whole being will simply feel loved and repay you with less stress, more energy and a greater sense of well being. You deserve more genuine moments kindness.

Photo by iujaz’s

This month I’m daring you and myself to consciously become aware of where we could be kinder to ourselves as we flow through our day. Perhaps we could spend longer enjoying breakfast, spend 5 minutes lying gently in bed before getting up, treat our bodies to a daily self massage, eat at least one wholesome meal a day or indulge in a massage.

20 ways to practice kindness on yourself:

1.  Be kinder to your intuition. Too many times I hear of people not trusting their gut feeling or intuition, only to realize – when it’s too late, that they were right in the first place.  Be kind to your spiritual well being by trusting that little voice inside.

2.  Slow down your thoughts: Over-thinking creates tension and stress in your body.  The speed of your breathe measures the speed of your thinking.  Slow your breathing down by breathing into your belly.  Try some fabulous yoga – child yoga pose -  hand yoga – walking meditation – legs up wall: Cup your hands over your ears, close your eyes, breathe into your belly, now listen to the sounds of your body.You might even be able to hear the ocean.

How to focus on one thing at a time:

Shake off your afternoon slump:

3.  Be kinder to your digestion: Don’t re-direct your energies away from digestion by multi tasking. Get maximum nourishment out of all your meals by promising yourself to never eat whilst walking, standing up or doing something else at the same time. Avoid multi tasking while you eat.

The yoga of eating:

4. Be kinder to your largest organ. Treat your skin to a daily body brush to improve the removal of waste from your body. Use only natural or organic products.  Feed your skin with regular doses of vitamin D – exposure your skin to the sun daily.

5. Treat yourself to a massage. You know you deserve it. Touch is one of the most healing and nurturing gestures you can offer your body. Be kind to your body.

6. Pause before driving: Before rushing off in your car, sit quietly for 60 seconds, take a few deep breathes and ground yourself. Be kind to your thoughts and actions as you drive. Don’t get caught up in driving stress. Create breathing space between you, stress and the traffic before you leave your drive way.

7. Be kind to your ears. Turn off the artificial noise. Let your ears hear the peaceful sound of silence.  Give your ears a rest and switch off all the man made sounds from your phones, TV and mobiles.

8. Be kinder to your nervous system. Stop rushing through your day on full throttle.  Add pockets of down time to give your body a chance to unwind, de-stress and settle.  Create 2 minutes of “priority you” time every hour.

100 wise tips to feel better fast:

An awesome shake that soothes your nerves:

9. Be kinder to your feet. Go barefoot.  Give your feet the freedom and space they deserve. Wear comfortable shoes, take a relaxing foot bath or massage the souls of your feet before bed with a little oil therapy.  Exercise your feet, whilst sitting at your desk by rotating your ankles, taking off your shoes and allowing your toes to wiggle.  Alternately go grab a small ball and roll the arch of your foot over the ball, then give your toes a toe hug by spreading your fingers in-between each of your toes and wiggle them all about.

10. Be kinder to yourself. Monitor your thoughts and reduce the negative chit chat you may have about yourself. Grab yourself an affirmation to replace your negative conversation with “I am happy healthy and whole” A Louise Hay affirmation. My personal favourite at the moment, “Every cell in my body is loved and healthy”

11.  Make your morning teas simple acts of kindness. Enjoy your cuppa or drink away from your desk, the phone or  TV.  Make sure you throw away that chipped mug and enjoy your cuppa from a mug or cup that you love to look at, touch and sip from.

The importance of tea and friendship:

12. Be kinder to your sleep. Keep your bedroom free from electrical appliances, clear the clutter from under your bed and remove the triggers that may cause over-thinking such as computer, work papers and TV.

Clever tips for a great nights sleep:

9 ways to soften yourself up for a great nights sleep:

13.  Take care of your lungs: Breathe to oxygenate your body. Breathe to detox.  Breathe to empty to your lungs.  Breathe to slow your thinking down.  Relax your shoulders, unhunch your shoulders and invite space into your body by inhaling fully into your lungs. Let your body inhale fresh air and sunshine.

15 clever things to know about your breathing:

14. Be kinder to your sense of smell. For me personally I love putting  4 drops of pure essential rose oil each morning on my face.  The smell is nothing short of divine. Better still fill your home or office with smells that uplift your spirits.

Burn essential oils or incense to enhance the sense of smell in any room.

15. Be kinder to your sense of touch: It’s time to hug more often, hug loud, hug well and hug longer. In fact experts say that we need at least 4 hugs a day minimum for survival and 8 hugs a day for maintenance. A hug supports our emotional well being and releases lots of little happy vibes into your body.

10 hugging tips to grab on the run:

16. Be kinder to your eyes.  Don’t stare for hours at a screen, treat your eyes to natural light, circular movement or rest by closing them.

Relax and unwind with a yoga eye pillow:

17. Fuel your body well: Make time throughout your day to eat well and stay hydrated. Avoid angers foods, and drink plenty of water.

Snack happy with bliss balls:

18. Ground yourself: Take your shoes off and let your feet feel the ground, soil, grass, sand or mud. Hug a tree, sit on the grass and breathe into your feet.  Connecting to nature is a wonderful way to bring more kindness and well being back into your body. Your body relaxes in nature, it doesn’t relax fully in a concrete jungle.

19. Be kind to your body by moving it more. Go for a walk, enrol in a yoga class, grab a belly dancing dvd, try walking meditation, buy a push bike or dance like no one is looking when you clean your home.

20.  Be kinder to your smile. Laugh more. Don’t take life too seriously. Laughing is great for your health, it’s one of the easiest and cheapest ways to relax your body. Laughter helps you feel young again, they even say its anti-angeing.

Laugh your way to a healthier you:

14 quotes on smiling to lift your spirits:

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Thanks for reading my article. Carole.

You are welcome to come back and visit my blog the Rejuvenation Lounge anytime

Subscribe To My Articles by Email – It’s free:

By Carole Fogarty,

Editor of  Rejuvenation Lounge and facilitator of Women’s Rejuvenation Retreats:

Nourish The Truth Of Your Soul:

I just knew something exciting was about to happen to me. I could sense it, so I remained open, was patient (well most of the time) and trusted. Now the exciting shift that I could sense has arrived.  It certainly didn’t happen over night. It started with a feeling that grew day by day until it rang true for my entire body. As of today, I know with absolute certainty what I need to be doing with my life. I am about to enter a wonderful new chapter and I am excited.

Slack12′s photo:

I Acted On My Intuition:

I first sensed changed was coming late last year which is why I took a year sabbatical away from teaching my Feng Shui programs and workshops.  My plan, although not financially very clever, was to trust my intuition and follow my love of writing (hence this blog). In hindsight I can now honestly say that writing has got to be one of the most therapeutic healing tools we have.

It was while watching the inspirational video of Steve Jobs at Stanford University that I fell in love with his dot theory.  Steve Jobs explains life is about connecting the dots in hindsight. Obviously you can’t connect the dots into your future  but you can easily connect the dots when looking back.  So as I look back and connect my dots and acknowledge all the different healing modalities that I have studied over the past 20 years and the experiences life has given me,  I now know for certain what the next chapter of my life is to be. I now know what my purpose is.

Rejuvenation. Offer Rejuvenation to the world via writing and retreats.

Now this may not seem terribly exciting for you but for me it is.  Why? Because there are not too many times in my life where I have been absolutely crystal clear as to what my passionate purpose in life is.

Trust, Timing and Patience:

I must thank blog as we are a great team and thank you my readers for guiding me on this journey with your comments and support.  My number of subscribers continues to grow each week.  Whilst my blog may have started off being called The Healthy Living Lounge I am now keen to call it the Rejuvenation Lounge.  After all that’s what the majority of my articles are about. My writing has led me (unknowingly at first) straight into my passion for rejuvenation. Let’s face it, no matter how clever we think we are we all need ongoing doses of rejuvenation.

Four years ago I started my Womens Rejuvenation Retreats in Bali. I offered them once a year never thinking that rejuvenation retreats, rejuvenation workshops, rejuvenation blog and rejuvenation circles would eventually become my new focus in life.

But there you have it.  A simple journey in trusting your inner guiding voice, taking action, waiting patiently and then when the timing is right my truth was revealed.  Yeah!

Womens Rejuvenation Retreats In Bali And Australia:

Over the past weeks everything seems to have fallen into place effortlessly.  I am now offering monthly rejuvenation circles right here on the Gold Coast, starting the first week of October.  I have organised a mini one day workhsop on rejuvenation in September which booked out in the first few days.

I will be faciliating my first weekend Rejuvenation Retreat on the Sunshine Coast, Australia: October 25th and 26th, 2008 (which as of today is now open for bookings) and have added an extra Balinese Womens Rejuvenation Retreat to the 2009 schedule.  I’ve updated my page on rejuvenation retreats, printed rejuvenation postcards (just ask me if you want one mailed to you) and feel very drawn to add an extra retreat in Italy next year, as I’ve found the most awesome venue.

All of this, to me, simply means when life flows effortlessly then I must be on the right track, and for that I am truely grateful.

I also know that once you make a strong connection to your passion as I have just done when obstacles and setbacks arise they will be resolved with calm as my higher truth will always keep me focused.

So watch out world, I’m about to add a good dose of rejuvenation to you.

Winners Of August Give-aways:

 Each month here on the Healthy Living Lounge I organise well being give-aways to you my valued reader.  This month we have two signed copies of Tea Wise – The Gentle Art Of Tea Leaf Reading by Lindel Barker Revell.

 And the winners are……drum roll please:

Katrina from South Australia

Megan from Imaginif

If you two gorgeous ladies could let me know your mailing address I’ll get a copy straight off to you. For those of you waiting on your yoga DVD’s, sorry for the delay, I have them in my hot little hands and will be heading off to the post office on Wednesday.

 Thanks so much for reading my article, Carole.

You are also welcome to come back and visit my blog anytime.  Rejuvenation Lounge  and explore the rejuvenation tool box which I have created just for you.

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“Children laugh over 300 times a day whereas adults laugh only 15 times”.  Dr. Kataria Laughter Yoga Specialist

Laughter really is the best medicine. So, if you are feeling flat, glum, irritable, grumpy or been way too serious lately, then this months dare is perfect for you.  As for me, I simply need to lighten up some more, and it was this very thought which lead me on a  fun journey, face to face, with laughter yoga.

The healing benefits are awesome so I’m super keen to enrol in the next upcoming laughter yoga training program down in New South Wales. It would be a perfect addition to my rejuvenation retreats. I’ve even discovered a laughter line created by Jackie Curran which you can call twice a week for a good belly laugh. What a fabulous idea. It’s time for us all to laugh more often, for absoutely no reason at all. I”ll laugh to that.

Ten Impressive Reasons To Laugh More Often:

1. Laughter is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to relax your body.
2. There is no right nor wrong way to laugh, anyone can do it. No skill required
3. Laugh to reduce your stress and tension. Laughter really is a release.
4. Laugh to feel young again. Yes, they say laughter is anti-ageing.
5. Laugh to strengthen your immune system. Yep, its been proven.Your immune system is boosted for at least 12 hours after watching a funny movie.
6. Laugh to let it go and move on. Literally laugh it off, you’ll feel better.
7. Laugh to invite play and joy into your life. Kids laugh 300 times a day. How about you?
8. Laugh to reduce depression. When you laugh your body releases endorphins so you actually start to feel better. Fake laughter works equally as well says Dr. Kataria.
9. Laugh because life is too precious to be filled with excess seriousness
10. A good belly laugh is great exercise – go figure. It works both the stomach and face muscles.

Did you know that Dr Norman Cousin has written a book sharing how you he laughed his way back to health (plus vitamin C) from an illness, in addition to discovering that 10 minutes of good laughter gave him 2 hours of a pain free body.

Grow Your Laughter Muscle:

Following are just a few ideas to get your “laughter ball” rolling.

• Find a laughter yoga club near you. Visit Dr. Kataria laughter yoga web site.
• Change your screen saver to something that brings a smile to your face.
• Put something funny beside your bed so its the first thing you see in the morning. Or simply have a photo with smiling faces.
• Draw smiley faces on “post it” notes and stick around your home and office. Laugh or even smile each time you see one.
• Download the sound of laughter onto your MP3 and laugh yourself silly whilst driving in your car.
• Watch funny movies, comedy shows and cartoons for at least a month
• Leave funny jokes for your children in their lunch boxes, for your family or work colleagues. Spread the laughter bug.
• Discover what makes you laugh. Learn more about your style of humour.
• Keep a journal and write all the funny things that happened to you each day
• Borrow joke books from the library to grow your laughter muscle
• Pull funny faces in the mirror first thing in the morning.
• Create your own laughter mantra. You can borrow mine. “The more I laugh the happier and healthier I become” by Carole Fogarty. Write it on a post it note and stick it on your tea cup or coffee mug.
• Laughter is contagious, visit friends that make you laugh
• Smile at everyone who looks at you, walks past you or catches your eye today

Thanks for reading my post.  Carole

You are welcome to come back and visit my blog the Rejuvenation Lounge anytime or treat yourself to one of my Women’s  Rejuvenation Retreats in Bali, Australia or Italy:

Subscribe To My Articles by Email – It’s free:

More posts:

14 quotes on smiling to lift your spirits:

15 essential things to know about your breathing:

How to focus on one thing at a time:

Clever tips for a great nights sleep:

Boost your energy now:

“Love yourself enough to say no to others’ demands on your time and energy.  Step back & reassess the situation”

I am encouraging you (and myself) to put yourself first for one whole month. It’s not about ignoring your family members or friends or becoming totally self absorbed.  It’s simply about making sure you are rejuvenating yourself sufficiently on a physical, emotional and spiritual level and not giving out more energy than you receive.

Photo by: jillhugins

This is an opportunity to:

• eat and drank well – you’d be nourished and hydrated
• be conscious of your breathing – oxygenate your body and use your exhale to release stress and worry
• daily intentional rest – getting a balance between busy and calm
• say no more often without feeling guilty – strong personal boundaries
• soften your thinking
• be kind to yourself more often
• seek silence and alone time
• add more simple pleasures
• spent more time outside in nature

It’s all about energy “in” and energy “out”

This month I encourage you to observe just how much time you spend on giving energy out compared to receiving energy in. The ultimate goal of course is to add more and more moments of receiving energy in; so you feel full, whole and complete rather than half empty, drained and depleted.

A more balanced and equal exchange of energy in and out is what we are all aiming for to rejuvenate ourselves naturally.

Here’s a couple of great article to get you started:  100 wise tips to feel better fast and boost your energy now or start a walking meditation or treat yourself to a chocolate facial

Start by focusing on your breath:

When your breathing is shallow and fast your thinking is hurried and fast. You talk fast, eat fast, drink fast, become anxious and work fast. It’s a classic symptom of stress.

By observing your breathe and becoming conscious of slower, deeper breathes you are sending quality, life giving oxygen into your body and brain. You greatly calm your mind and actions along with releasing stress and tension with each long slow exhale. All this and much more happens when you simply choose to put yourself first and focus on your breath.

You might also like to read:

Remember to pause and ground yourself

Its time to un-clench your body

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By Carole Fogarty

Editor of  Rejuvenation Lounge and facilitator of Women’s Rejuvenation Retreats:

Rejuvenate Your Habits:

I have always believed there is something magical about creating a meaningful start to your day. Whether it be 60 seconds or 30 minutes.

It’s simply, a quiet moment in time, between yourself and the universe before the busyness of your mind unfolds. It’s a moment for indulging in the calmness of clarity, whilst resting in stillness, as you enter your body and day consciously.

A meaningful early morning ritual rocks!

Upaya’s

Prayer is talking to the universe: Meditation is listening:

I’ve practiced many different early morning rituals over the past 20 years. Some manifested instant results whilst others were an exercise in patience, all made a difference.

One thing I know for sure, you will never, ever find me rushing out of bed on any given morning, even if I’m running late. The consequences are too great. You start off on the wrong foot, charge into your day, rush against the clock, ignore your bodily needs, throw aside your intuitive hunches and wonder why you are having such a bad day. You have filled your body with stress and anxiety. You are exhausted and too tired to think straight.

All could have been easily prevented by entering your day and body more consciously. Start with a meaningful sixty seconds, first thing in the morning while still lying in bed then expand on that.

Make a difference to the flow of your day while still lying in bed:

You are aiming for a wake up ritual that feels comfortable, meaningful and do-able ,whereby you can see and feel the difference to the flow of your day.

1: 60 meaningful seconds with yourself: Enter your body consciously.

You have no where to go and no where to be for the next 60 seconds.

Laying comfortably on your back place your hands on your belly. Now focus on your breath observing your belly rise and fall.

Bring your awareness and breath deeper into your whole body. Inhale into your toes then exhale out of your toes, feeling or sensing the extra space now filling your toes. Repeat for your feet, legs, stomach, back, arms, fingers, shoulders, neck and head.

Offer gratitude and appreciation to your whole beautiful body.

Whilst in this state of expanded awareness notice if there are any areas of your body needing extra attention. e.g perhaps you need to breathe more deeply into your neck to release an energy block or some stiffness in your leg. Trust in what comes up for you and follow through with the guidance of your breath.

As you finish ask your body what support it needs from you today; the answers will be simple like drink more, move more, think slower, eat sitting down, eat more slowly or spend more time laughing with your children. Your body is a wise intelligent field of energy. It knows what it needs. All you need to do is ask.

These sixty seconds spent focusing on your breath and physical needs can make all the difference to your energy levels and wellbeing throughout your day.

2: Three meaningful minutes with yourself: Visualize your day.

Upon waking bring your awareness fully into your body by focusing on your breath. In the calm peaceful three minutes that follow, run a movie in your head imagining how you want your day to flow.

See yourself getting showered and ready for the day with a relaxed calm energy around you, watch yourself eat and enjoy a healthy breakfast, then picture the amazing things that are going to unfold and manifest for you today.

Towards the end of the 3 minutes start to feel excited and very grateful, at just how easy your day has flowed. Linger in this feeling for a long as you like.

3: Five meaningful minutes with yourself: Journal for clarity and direction.

If you wake up tired and grumpy, journal to find out why. If you wake up angry, journal to find out why. If you wake up inspired and ready for anything, journal to find out what is the most important thing you need to do today.

Journaling first thing in the morning before the mind gets too active is my personal favourite at the moment.

As you wake, grab your pen and notebook, ask a question then let your hand write away.

Sometimes the answers will be simple and practical and other times inspiring or totally revealing. Trust in the process, then let go and write.

A great question to ask is “What do I really, really, really want”

The question I am asking myself each morning at the moment is “What is I need to know for my – rejuvenation circle workshops – to be even more inspiring and nourishing?”

4: Ten or more meaningful minutes with yourself: Meditating.

Just as you would tell a dog to sit, in meditation you are telling your mind to stay.

Meditation creates space in between your thoughts, allows your body to relax and unwind, opens up channels for creativity and inspiration and paves the way for a disciplined mind; you are in control and not your mind.

First meditation option, listen to your preferred guided meditation on your CD or MP3 player whilst still lying in bed. This is a fabulous way to wake up meaningfully. It sets the tone and flavour for your day. Chakra Clearing (Book & CD) by Doreen Virtue has been one of my favourites for the last 5 years, I always, always seem to come back to it.

Second meditation option, while lying in bed, focus on your own personal affirmation, mantra or word. Give it your whole focus and repeat meaningfully such as ‘Wherever I am, I see joy and laughter”. Your intention is to carry these thoughts with you throughout your day.

Third meditation option is simply to meditate in stillness observing your thoughts come and go, from a distance. If you are new to meditation start with an easy 3 minutes. The length of the meditation is not as important as the regular daily practice of it. You are simply wanting to tell your mind to sit and stay for 5 or more minutes each day.

Adjust your yin yang time clock and add a delightful flow to your day.

This was my second most popular article for 2007 and an article worth reading (at least I think so) about the benefits of waking up gently – Adjust your yin yang time clock and add a delightful flow to you day

Meaningful ways to wake up with your lap top in bed:

1 – Wake up yoga in bed:

2 – A beautiful visual meditation created Caroline Myss which enables you to enter your body and day very, very consciously

Thanks for reading my post.  Carole

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