If you've been following my antics on social media, you'll have no doubt seen a theme unfolding in the form of pink feathered friends everywhere. Since recently opening the national WiRE conference in flamingo dress, hair and shoes, I've acquired myself a new nickname of "The flamingo lady", which, as I absolutely love flamingos I'm more than happy with. Not least as I'm aware of the medicine that Flamingo brings.

From Totem talk:
Flamingo teaches how to maintain balance and movement through the emotions. He aids in intuitive filtering and spiritual discernment.  Flamingo helps in bringing colour and vivacity into ones life along with increasing community activities.It signals a time to bring new life; concepts, ideas, thoughts or people into ones life. A time to discern if to work alone or with groups. Flamingo will show how to maneuver slowly and gracefully with care.

Flamingo Teaches Fear-less-ness From Within The Flock.

Flamingo is striking, gorgeous, preening and sensual—a strong symbol of flirtatiousness and sexuality. Pink represents the heart, compassion and connection. Flamingo’s pink colouring comes from diet. Without a proper diet, Flamingo pales to white. For you this means that you must nourish your heart, your compassion and your connection—to your Self and to others in the flock. Without proper nourishment, your heart will pale.
Flamingo’s commitment to flock-living does not mean “following the herd” (we’re talking Flamingo, not sheep!) or being boring. In fact, Flamingo teaches that you can be true to your Self while still being loyal to the flock. Being One with others does not have to mean losing your Self.
Flamingo’s long legs mean that it can wade into deeper waters while still touching the bottom. Remember that water is a symbol of emotions. So Flamingo models staying grounded even while wading into deeper emotions.

Wow, what powerful teaching Flamingo brings!

In my opening speech at the conference I really wanted those present to appreciate the power of being a flamingo in a flock of pigeons. After all why blend in when you were born to shine bright?

It's our duty to be the full version of ourselves, the magnificent, unique, the quirky, the unusual the ... well the bits that make you, you!

 I mean, why play it small when you can live fearlessly as the perfect beautiful soul that is you?

As a child I'm sure just like me you had dreams and imaginative musings. I could spend hours imagining and creating stories of the future. I would play with farm yard fuzzy felt making pictures of great vistas out onto the horizon, with rolling hills as far as my minds eye could take me, with bright sunshine and rainbows..... I love rainbows as much as flamingos truth be known, as for me they represent the balance of everything ( a rainbow mirrors the colours of the chakras, or energy centres in the body) and the idea of "As above, so below" or creating  heaven on Earth.

I wonder then what were your childhood dreams? as they hold the keys to something much more than the creativity and childlike wonder. They hold the clues to your true purpose. How are you bringing those dreams to life now? or have they long since been forgotten?

Here's the thing..... there is only one you in the whole universe. Think about that for a moment. Wow, no one can ever be quite like you ( even if you're a twin) nobody can occupy the space that is you. Your unique code if you like, can never be duplicated ( until science finds a way to clone people and not just sheep).

There has never before and there will never be again any human that is you. Wow you're awesome.... that makes you priceless like a one off  work of art.

At the conference I was addressing women entrepreneurs, I shared with them the 5 key ingredients to create their own success , but you know, this doesn't just apply for business, it applies for life!

I think we've already started to establish just what it mean to be you, you're one of a kind. And of course that's pretty unique in itself.

Often in life we have a need to be a part of the tribe, to fit in, to be part of the flock. And as a human being we need to belong , to be connected. Flamingo teaches us that we can be part of the flock, but also stand out as ourselves with all of our own gifts. To be connected without blending in so that we loose ourselves, and forget who we are, what we dream of and what purpose we fulfill in the world.

Our authenticity is like a beacon, when we shine bright our truth, it allows other to do the same.As a result we all grow.

I see so many times when working in large corporate businesses, that unique, authentic individuals are recruited into "the tribe" because they bring something different, something to add value, gifts to share. And then after a short month or so, these same individuals get sucked into what is considered an acceptable norm, a way of being that keeps everyone small.... like clones of one another. Of course rarely is that the intent or desire of the company, it an unwritten, imaginary rule book that is followed to the letter, that doesn't even exist... of fitting in, blending in, not standing out from the crowd. It's so sad. I always say... Be you.... Do you.... the 100% full version of you without exception.... and the World will love you for it.

Communicating from a heartfelt place, who we truly are at heart is the most engaging and inspiring way to be. Speaking with loving kindness, even when you don't agree with someone else's view of the World is so powerful. It allows for learning, understanding and growth.

When you openly share whats in your heart, it cannot be denied. No one else can ever experience life from within you, only you. Unless you share that wonder, you are denying the human race a view that only you can have. How wonderful that I might gain a glimpse  of the World through your eyes and from your heart.

Share, be heartfelt in your interactions. Be completely present with what's in your heart from moment to moment.

I love this next ingredient. Enthusiasm - from the Greek word of enthios, roughly translated as "Spirit light within". We all have a spark within us, our spirit, a spark of the greater whole. When we shine that spirit light bright we truly light up the others around us, we infect them with our enthusiasm. When you're around that energy it gives you a real buzz... it zaps you, energises you. It magnifies the energy and wow what a feeling that is. Imagine you are like a conductor of energy, you can light up a room.... or more... imagine if your enthusiasm breeds more enthusiasm... and that breeds more and more... on and on... it could light up the whole World!

The final ingredient I'm going to share with you today is passion.
There's so much I could say about passion, its the fuel, its sets the temperature. In a business sense, passion passed through people produces results. ... and the same can be said for relationships, families, life in general.

I'm going to leave you today with some wise words about passion from a wonderful young entrepreneur .

JR Alli is a 19 year old filmmaker from Toronto, Canada.
Starting young, he was always surrounded by cameras and his fascination grew from just a hobby to a full time passion.

YouTube and the internet was his escape and outlet, it allowed him to focus his energy on something he loved and become better at  film making, photography and editing.

Everything that he’s created and continues to create has been the product of hands on work and learning things on his own, no books, school or teachings.

He dropped out of film school after a single term when realised that he’d rather spend money on experiences and living life.

This is his mantra and translates to his work, everything he makes , he puts his heart and soul into.

“Even if only one person watches something I create,
 even if my work only reaches or touches a single person in some way,
then it was worth making in the end”.  JR Alli

Simply click  HERE  or on the video below

Did you know that today, 21st November, 2017 is the 45th annual World Hello Day?

It was begun in response to the conflict between Egypt and Israel in the Autumn of 1973.  Since then, World Hello Day has been observed by people in 180 countries.

Anyone can participate in World Hello Day simply by greeting ten people.
This demonstrates the importance of personal communication for preserving peace.
People around the world use the occasion of World Hello Day as an opportunity to express their concern for world peace.  Beginning with a simple greeting on World Hello Day, their activities send a message to leaders, encouraging them to use communication rather than force to settle conflicts.

For those of you who have read my book, you'll know that I wrote about the power of a simple hello, here's an excerpt :

Namaste, Shalom, Aloha
Last Friday I was blessed to run another Get a Life workshop.This time it was “Create your vision – manifest your best life!”. It was a beautiful sunny day on Friday, the venue was the tranquil
Welland Enterprise offices, which nestle in the Lincolnshire countryside, certainly a far fling from the hustle and bustle of most daily lives.

Again, as always on my workshops, I was blessed by being surrounded by an amazing group of participants for the day, the energy amongst the group was fantastic. Each one open,caring and sharing with one another on their journey.It was as a result of a discussion during one of the exercises on Friday that I thought about the topic for today’s chapter.

During the session we discussed life as a journey...considering if we were “hurtling along a motorway or meandering along a wooded lane...”

Were we taking the opportunity to savour every juicy moment or were we just rushing to the destination, without enjoying the scenery along the way?
Did we stop and “Gather the rose buds will ye may?”
Did we take the opportunity to connect and re-connect with those who shared the road?

I urge you to consider this:
How many people do you connect with, no matter how briefly throughout your day?
Are you truly present with each? Or are you in a hurry to move on and on along your motorway?
What would happen if you took the opportunity to slow down just enough to really connect or in truth re-connect with those other souls?

I say re-connect because I don’t believe there really is a such a distance between us all, right at the very heart of us we’re not so very different are we?
We may have lots of variations but we’re human beings, trying not to be just human doings!

How do you greet those along your path?
Do you stop long enough to share the gifts you may have for one another?
What nuggets and gems do you miss each day by rushing on past?

You may have seen the greeting/salutation “Namaste” used by myself and others...this simple word captures so much of what I’m talking about here:
NAMASTE – one translation of this ancient Sanskrit word is– “I honour the place in you in which the entire Universe dwells, I honour the place in you which is of Love, of Integrity, of Wisdom and of Peace. When you are in that place in you, and I am in that place in me, we are One.”

Other cultures have similar greetings:
SHALOM – The Hebrew word SHALOM is understood around the world to mean peace. But peace is only one small part of the meaning of the word SHALOM, it also expresses completeness, wholeness, health, welfare, safety ,soundness, tranquillity, prosperity, perfectness, fullness, rest, harmony, the absence of agitation or discord. So by using this greeting/salutation we are showing the intent of this expression
to the receiver.

ALOHA – Aloha is an Hawaiian greeting, it has an essence of love weaved within it. Aloha is a way of being and of living...its true meaning is better captured here:
Aloha is being a part of all, and all being a part of me. When there is pain – it is my pain. When there is joy – it is also mine. I respect all that is as part of the Creator and part of me. I will not willfully harm anyone or anything. When food is needed I will take only my need and explain why it is being taken. The earth, the sky, the sea are mine to care for, to cherish and to protect – this is Aloha!

When you stop to consider the depth of meaning contained within these greetings. It makes you consider what an amazing gift they bring between two souls. The simple act of greeting another has profound energy and effect.

HELLO may not, on the face of it hold such significant meaning when shared, however the intent of hello is to acknowledge another, that in itself shows care, respect and recognition.

Exercise: Hello!
So today as you walk along your journey, I urge you slow down enough to connect with the other souls walking alongside you, no matter if your greeting is Namaste, Shalom, Aloha or a simple hello, don’t miss the opportunity to connect and share.

It’s the enjoyment of the journey that counts, moment to moment...

So I urge you today to take the opportunity to celebrate #worldhelloday. It's your chance to make a difference by being connected in our shared humanness, instead of the illusion of disconnection that our perceived differences may bring.
For further information visit: http://www.worldhelloday.org

Until next time,
make every moment count.
Lisa xxx

I have Emma Eaton- Knight to thank for today's blog offering. Now I haven't seen Emma for a number of years ( apart from virtually remaining connected through Facebook of course) that is until today. It was so lovely to catch up and hear of her life's journey since we last met.

What stimulated today's musings  however was in fact, a beautiful tattoo that Emma herself had designed and had done on her left foot. A colourful sprinkling of autumnal leaves with the words "Change is growth" underneath.

Now personally I don't have any tattoos, but as many of those who do will tell you, there's always deep meaning... a story.... a moment in time that each represents for that person. Of course I'm sure the same goes for Emma, but of course that's not what I'm here to share with you today..... just the thoughts that it stimulated in me, the observer.

I did say to her before she left that her tattoo had stimulated a desire to write about the stories it conjured up for me, it's perhaps a topic I've covered before, but was prompted to reflect on the message again.

It reminded me that when it comes time for the trees to let go of their leaves, they don't try to resist the change, the transformation... they simply surrender and let go, knowing that from that they will replenish, go back to their deeply held roots and await the new, the growth that just like the seasons is guaranteed to come.

"Trust to Transform. LET GO, like a Caterpillar that eventually turns into a beautiful Butterfly".

I wonder then, why it is as human beings we resist change so often?

If we could just surrender and trust in the beautiful design of life unfolding just a little more.... how much more growth, beauty and abundance we could allow?

All around us in nature we see this metamorphosis taking place, without fear or doubt. Be it the caterpillar to the butterfly, or the frogspawn to the frog. Nature doesn't resist... it allows... even in the difficult struggle from a shiny chrysalis, breaking free to fly with butterfly wings... becoming more..... blossoming into full glorious beauty.

Nobody said all change is without pain.... but the gift is often immeasurable in comparison.

No Work so great, but what admits decay,
No Act so glorious, but must fade away...
Old things must yield to New, Common to Strange,
Perpetual Motion, brings perpetual Change.
~James Miller

Perhaps it's when we are in the midst of that painful stage of transformation we can be held in a space of fear... the energy of which is limiting, stuck and stagnant.

Or as I often say ( and I cannot remember from whom I first heard this statement) When one door closes, another opens, but it can be damn uncomfortable whilst you're stood in the hall!

There's one thing I know for sure, without all doubt.... one thing in life is absolutely certain, you can rely on it as an absolute.... and that is CHANGE.

Every breath we take, every moment that passes by change is happening in and around us... its a paradox I know... but change is a certainty.

When you are through changing, you are through. ~Bruce Barton

Why not embrace it? Flow with it?

After all resistance is futile!

Change always comes bearing gifts. ~Price Pritchett

In every change their is a gift, a rebirth. It may not be apparent at first, but in hindsight you will have 20/20 vision on how and why change occurred.... and guess what? You'll already be in change right then... and now... and now...

So today I urge you to consider...

Where are you in resistance?
Where could you simply surrender, let go and flow?
Where could you allow life's magical wonder to unfold, in perfect timing?

Life is change. ~Heraclitus of Ephesus

Until next time,
Make every moment count,
Lisa xx

Well I know I've been a little quiet over the past few months on my blog, you see I've been a little busy in one way or another, and certainly planning our wedding has been a joyful time consumer!

I feel truly blessed to now be Mrs Lisa Davies.... for those who know me I know you're thinking ... took him long enough !!!

Well it was worth the wait. We had the most amazing day and a stunning honeymoon in the very romantic Sorrento.

Ours has been a love story written about many times, with synchronicity and much universal and spiritual intervention throughout.  It was simply meant to be. And the universe made sure it came to be.

We were surrounded by our family and friends and supported by my wonderful bridesmaids, page boy and flower girl as well as Jon's Groomsmen.... of course must give mention to the most amazing suppliers. Who could have asked for a more  stunning backdrop than Stoke Rochford Hall.

So back to work and married life......
Time to get writing again, do pop back soon for musings on life and living on purpose!

With much love,
Until next time make every moment count!
Lisa xxx

A little mention for the suppliers:

Stoke Rochford Hall
Jdezire Bridal Boutique
Flower Barn
Samantha Hook Photography
Amy L Wilkinson MUA
Sophie Kitson Freelance Hair Design
Amiee Roisin Cleaver Videography
David Fox Magician
Sue Palmer Cake Maker ( contact me for details)
Chapel Hill Duo
Piper Major William Campbell (contact through Chapel Hill Duo)
Make My Day Venue Dressing
The Northampton Male Voice Choir
Printhub Grantham
The Simon Faulkner Band
Ben Jammin Sax ( Ben Smith)
Periodic Events
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria
Ender Legard
Hazel Patricia Faichnie Seamstress
Deja Vu
Marilyn Voisey Engraving

Now there's a blast from the past..... myself and Jon happily and safely traveling in a tuk tuk in Thailand back back in 2012.

You may be wondering how the title of today's blog "PINK tuk tuk power" has anything to do with the quite clearly blue tuk tuk pictured above..... Let me explain.

Last night I was blessed to hear Mary Storrie of the Rosie May Foundation speak at our WiRE network group. Interestingly, I used to live just around the corner from Mary about 24 or 25 years ago, we didn't really know one another, maybe just by sight , as you do in a rural village. I do recall though with great sadness, the tragedy that befell their family, during the Christmas of 2003. As Mary and her husband Graham state on the charity's website

 As a mother I can't comprehend what that must feel like for both sets of parents. Two families completely torn apart and the ultimate loss..... a little girl gone forever.

Thankfully such cases are rare.
When such losses do occur of course, it makes headline news. Mary told us donations started to pour in from all over the World and at that point they really didn't have any idea of what to do with it. (Of course the seed was set for the Rosie May memorial fund, which is now the Rosie May foundation).

Fast forward a year and the family couldn't face being at home for Christmas, so they took a trip to Sri Lanka for the festive period.

Of course we all know what happened next on boxing day 2004.

From the charity's website:
On Christmas day in South East Asia a tiny palm tree was planted by Rosie’s family in memory of their beautiful little girl. On Boxing Day their paradise island in the Indian Ocean was engulfed by the 2004 Asian Tsunami.
“We were told that we were ‘lucky’ to escape unharmed however we knew that Rosie May was watching over us and had kept us safe. Miraculously the little palm tree stood untouched, perfect, as debris swirled around it”.

“We were humbled by the bravery of the Sri Lankan people… the enormity of death, devastation and destruction touched everyone’s lives. Our personal experience of witnessing this tragedy inspired the Rosie May Home for Tsunami Orphans and abandoned girls”.

Mary shared with us what happens to children in Sri Lanka when they are placed in an orphanage. Children are segregated by gender and age, meaning that families are split and may never make contact ever again. Small babies have no bonding or connection with anyone.

Many children are placed in orphanages, when they aren't even an orphan. Often there is a parent alive, sometimes the father but more often a single mother, for financial reasons they simply cannot keep their children.

The Rosie May home is changing that.

The charity's mantra of a "Hand up, not a hand out" is supporting women to become entrepreneurs, giving them micro loans to start incense making businesses to sell at the local market among other projects. Meaning mothers can support them selves and their families and even join a group saving scheme.

I can't even begin to convey the depth of knowledge and information Mary shared  with us about the work that this amazing little charity is doing both in Sri Lanka and Nepal. It's quite astounding what a difference they are making in the World.

The one statistic that  Mary shared with us that sticks in my mind, is that in Sri Lanka 74% of women reported that they had been sexually harassed or abused on public transport. Imagine sending your daughter to school, or take your goods to market to sell as a new  "Woman in rural enterprise" ( in the very true sense of the word)  fearing that its very likely that you might have endure sexual abuse in order to do so.

There's always an answer..... its all about the quality of the question.

Whilst contemplating this question... Mary Storrie was in Dubai, where female taxi drivers wear pink and drive taxi's with a pink roof. Denoting that its a safe taxi for a female to use.

If they can do it in Dubai.... it can be done in Sri Lanka was Mary's response.

And set about the next project for this little charity with a big vision!

The pink tuk tuk project.

Tuk tuk driving in Sri Lanka is almost exclusively a male business ( Mary states there's probably only two females that they've heard of in the whole of the country).

So they set about finding someone to teach three women to drive tuk tuks (Mary tells us its not as easy as it looks having tried it herself) But of course they were met with huge resistance, none of the men were prepared to teach the women.... until eventually they found one man who was prepared to teach them in return for pay and all repairs to his tuk tuk... ( apparently they women have bumped it once or twice.... )

The plan is to have three pink tuk tuks to start with, which the charity will fund in order to rent them to the women so they can start their "Pink powered tuk tuk service". ( funnily enough none of the men would rent them a tuk tuk either) So the charity will rent them out at a lower fee too!

Each tuk tuk costs around £3000..... so inspired were the WiRE Notts ladies ( women in rural enterprise)
that Daksha one of the group said, well I'm sure between all of the members we could raise the money to buy a tuk tuk.... and so that's what we intend to do.

Women in rural enterprise, supporting women in rural enterprise..... on the other side of the World!
Now that's what I call meaningful networking!

If you would like to support the WiRE Notts ladies in raising the £3000 it takes to purchase a pink tuk tuk please visit our Go Fund Me page : https://www.gofundme.com/wire-notts-pink-tuk-tuk-campaign

Of course if you're interested to learn more about how you can support this little charity with a massive heart please visit : http://www.rosie-may.com/index.html

Did you know that today is "Work your proper hours day"?

Work Your Proper Hours Day (24 Feb 2017) is the day when the average person who does unpaid overtime finishes the unpaid days they do every year, and starts earning for themselves.

From the TUC website:

"Over five million people at work in the UK regularly do unpaid overtime, giving their employers £33.6 billion of free work last year. If you're one, why not take some time to reflect on how well (or badly) you're balancing your life?

This is one day in the year to make the most of your own time. Take a proper lunch break and leave work on time to enjoy your Friday evening - You deserve it!

Long hours are not good for us; they cause stress; they're bad for our health; they wreck relationships; they make caring for children or dependents more difficult; and tired, burnt-out staff are bad for business.

We’re not saying Britain should turn into a nation of clock watchers. Few people mind putting in extra effort from time to time when it is needed, but it is too easy for extra time to be taken for granted and expected day in day out. Catch up with a friend, go to the movies, take a stroll down the park or surprise your family by getting home early. Make the most of your own time!

So what might unpaid overtime be costing YOU?

We've built a calculator that shows you how much your salary would work out if you got paid your contracted rate for all the hours you actually put in. Give it a go and you might get a shock!"

Try the calculator now!

It's sadly a pattern I see with many businesses I interact with, long hours over and above those contracted, no breaks, working lunches at best and this is kind of expected, taking proper breaks or going home on time is culturally frowned upon.

I often find when both executive coaching or seeing clients in my private one to one therapy sessions that many people are showing signs of unhealthy stress levels that if left unchecked have the potential to lead to serious ill health, both physically, emotionally and mentally.... let alone spiritually.

This coupled with poor eating habits, too much caffeine and nicotine leads to poor cognitive function, fatigue, impaired emotional response and the inability to make balance decisions.

Certainly in coaching sessions one of the very first invitations I give my coachees is to work their proper hours, eat breakfast, cut out caffeine, reduce nicotine ( or stop ), drink more water, take a lunch break away from their desk and to take just 5 minutes a days to practice mindful breathing.

The mindful breathing alone I'm told, time and time again by my coaching clients is nothing short of miraculous..... ( its generally at this point they start thinking I'm some sort of spooky witch) As they cant believe that such a simple practice daily can be life changing. Add in healthy eating, taking breaks and working more reasonable hours.... seems to stretch time.... allowing for greater creativity , productivity, engagement and a better work life balance. They begin to enjoy their work more and their relationships and family life becomes more fulfilling and happy.

Maybe this is the  perfect opportunity to mention working at home in the evening... you know checking work emails on your phone when you really should be giving your full attention to your partner, spouse or children.

How many hours of work are you racking up right there?
And at what cost? To your relationships, to your parenting ( Bink and those little humans giggling and laughing, longing to share their day or play with you, will be grown up and gone... flown the nest... in the blink of an eye)

And if you're self employed, there's no clocking on and clocking off... the lines of proper work hours can very easily become blurred.  In some ways it can be even more of a challenge.

I hope today's blog has given you a little nudge.... reminded you to get the balance right.

Never get so busy making a living, that you forget to make a life!

Happy "Work your proper hours day!"
When you are at the big end, looking back over your life, It won't be that night you stayed up late answering work emails, or staying late at the office to prepare some report that you'll remember... it will be your children's smiles, your partners cuddles of the sofa, the great time you spent with friends and the memories you built that will be recalled.


Until next time,
Make every moment count.
Lisa xxx

So you may have noticed that #blog365 has been ... well... absent for quite a few days. Not because the well of words ran dry.... but the reality of life kicked in.

Have you ever done that?
Set off on a journey, all your ducks in a row, with the greatest of intentions, energy high... you set off at a pace and then.... not all goes to plan.

As I began this fresh new year that is 2017 I had; as you will know if you have read my earlier #blog365 entries, had some time on the sofa with the lurgy, following on from time off for the festive break. My awareness of time, where long days when nobody needed me,when I could just bumble along.. in my jammies .... lulled me into a fantasy World where I actually believed I could in fact write a blog a day for 365 days!!!

After all... I love writing, I have endless subjects that catch my attention to write about, I have the forum on which to write, access to my blog wherever I am ( as long as my trusty smartphone is by my side)..... but then there's life, there's family time, work ( although I use the term lightly as all of my work is pure joy and very often I have to pinch myself as I can't quite believe I get to do what I love every day)

The bottom line is all of life's activities takes time.

I could of course have forced myself to stick to the plan 'come hell or high water', I could have thought well I've failed... may as well just give up... or as I have recognised... I could regroup, realising that I  have the gift of feedback that I can choose to consider.

I haven't failed... it's just feedback. I realise that I write through absolute joy. If I then start putting pressures and timescales in the mix it fades a bit of the joy from around the edges and before long it could most certainly have become a chore.

My intent was to share joyfully and to get back to writing and reading books more than I did in 2016
(when both, pretty much went out of the window) It was never to demand of myself, to berate myself if I didn't achieve.

I wonder do you ever do that?
Set such challenges for yourself you fall at the first hurdle, never to get back up?

I'm not saying we shouldn't challenge ourselves, set intents and big goals that stir the blood and move us into our magnificence.... I'm saying do that... only when it makes your heart sing and spirit soar.... and if it doesn't..... it wasn't right for you in the first place.

I'm recognising as I write this, I'm not a lightweight , I'm not failing... I'm checking in with my heart, my intent and my goal and saying does it maybe need a little tweak?

I've noticed my energy has flowed in other areas, by designing my workshop schedule for the year, even adding some new ones into the mix. So the creative energy is still abounding, just some has been redirected in the Universal postal system.

So if your own new years resolutions are fading,and you feel like throwing in the towel , just check in with yourself first and see if they still hold meaning for you ,if so .... do they just need a little  tweak?

So it's R.I.P #blog365 and hello #blogwheneveritmakesmyheartsingandspiritsoar

Until next time,
Make every moment count.
Lisa xxx

Day 13 of my #blog365
OK, I'm a day behind again... so two blog offerings required this evening.... But I'm not worrying.... not at all. You see today I have been in my bliss zone. It's a zone I find myself in each and every time I teach the Japanese healing art of Reiki. Today I've been sharing this teaching with two wonderful women, who are becoming Reiki Masters. Meaning they are learning the skills to be able to pass on the teaching of this beautiful system of energy healing to others. It's an absolute joy and never fails to centre me and connect me at a deep level to my purpose.

This morning as I took the ladies through a guided meditation; in perfect timing to the script I read from, the sun streamed in through the window, and in that very moment I was in complete awe of the majesty, beauty  and perfection of nature.

Yes, extreme weather warnings abounded yesterday (on Friday the 13th ) but today the bright blue skies and glorious sunshine was a million miles away from the forecasted weather. It was simply stunning. Inside my treatment room it was warm and cosy and the space was brightly lit by the winter sunshine.

I know, it all sounds beautifully perfect and a romantic notion of life.... I get that life may not always present itself in that way... there were high tides and storm surges yesterday for sure, but that just adds to the contrast and nature of life. It's such a great metaphor for life; the highs , the lows, the storms and the stillness.

Every part is an aspect of life and maybe if we could cultivate the ability to
allow and observe rather than resist, life would be such an enlightening experience.

I'm reminded today of the Reiki principles, the daily practice of living within the Reiki way. I thought it may be useful to share them with you here. You don't have to be attuned to Reiki, or in fact remotely interested in it to apply these five life changing principles.

1- Just for today, I will not be angry.
Carrying anger at others or yourself , creates serious blockages in your energy. Causing dis-ease and illness in the body. Letting go of anger. brings Peace into the mind.

"Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned". ~ Buddha

2 - Just for today, I will not worry.

While anger deals with past and present events, worry deals with future ones. Although worry is not always negative, endless worries may fill your head, and each one creates imbalance in your body and soul. Letting go of worry, brings healing into the Body.

“Worry is a thin stream of fear trickling through the mind. If encouraged, it cuts a channel into which all other thoughts are drained.”
– Arthur Somers Roche

3 - Just for today, I will give thanks for my many blessings.

Cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Be grateful from your heart. Simple things, such as noticing the smallest things in your day, from a smile, to kind words....... even if the only thing you can notice to be grateful for is matching socks, it's a start. The more you notice to be grateful for your focus will grow and the more and more blessings will be bought into your awareness. Being thankful brings Joy into the Spirit.

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend".  ~ Melody Beattie


4- Just for today, I will do my work honestly.

Support yourself and your family respectably, without harming others. Be present, no matter if you're cooking, washing, serving others..... be there, be completely there, not time traveling elsewhere in your mind. Doing your work honestly is not just about not being dishonest, it about being fully present and not cheating yourself and others of your full attention. Working Honestly brings Abundance into the Soul.

"Goodness is about character - integrity, honesty, kindness, generosity, moral courage, and the like. More than anything else, it is about how we treat other people".  ~ Dennis Prager

5- Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing.

Honour your parents, honour your teachers, honour your elders. Honour those who frustrate you, anger you ( see principle number 1) and who challenge you... for they are your greatest teachers... they give you a beautiful gift, if only you can be aware of it. Being kind brings Love into the Will.

"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted".  ~ Aesop

The beautiful thing about the Reiki principles is that they are always prefixed with "Just for today"..

They are not saying "forever", they are not unrealistic..... they simply ask us to have the intention "Just for today" and then again the next day simply ask us to hold the intention "Just for today" and so it continues....... Somehow living by these very simple but powerful principles a day at a time, becomes so "Do-able".

They recognise that we are human.... that we slip up... from time to time we get angry, we worry, we forget how blessed we are, we are distracted by our thoughts and agendas and drift away from being fully present, we can say and do unkind things..... and that's OK.... that's human.... and so again the next day we can go back to following the principles, making a difference one day at a time.

Wow, how blessed are we... that no matter what... we can press the reset button.... and simply remember that we are in a wonderful World!

Day 11 of my #blog365...... from my desk in "Ice station Zebra".... Yes, that's right you guessed it.... The heating boiler has gone phut just as the arctic weather is headed our way.

​Typical hey, it always seems to happen when it's least needed. Now for those of you who have visited Holly House, you'll know it dates from circa 1740 in parts, which could give the idea of a cosy old farmhouse... and you wouldn't be wrong.... most of the time. Right now however, It's probably fair to say that's it's a tad warmer to stand outside looking up at the silvery light of the full moon, than it is inside. In fact I could be forgiven for howling at the moon just to keep warm!

​Scenes from East is East come to mind, maybe if I was to sit here in my parka zipped up to the top I might stop my teeth chattering.

But you know what, I'm blissfully happy, despite the baltic conditions.

The reason for this..... New sparkly shoes.

​Yes, I returned home from Stratford upon Avon to a neatly wrapped package delivered by our friendly postie. A impulsive purchase online has resulted in the sparkliest pair of converse type pumps a girl could ever dream of.

I will admit at this point as I dance around the office in front of Jon as he tries to write a report, singing "Sparkly Shooooes" He has just confirmed that I am in fact just as "Bat shit" crazy as he had always suspected. He does love me all the same and as it goes, if a £5 pair of sparkly pumps can bring me so much blissful joy then all is well in the World.

​Of course I have to do the "Facetube" thing ( what our house call facebook live) and Whatsapp my daughter Sarah to also sing the "Sparkly shooooes" song and accompanying demonstrative video, just to prove without any doubt just how the sparkles catch the light.

I know, I know you're thinking, you're very easily pleased Lisa, but why on Earth are you telling us this.... get to the point!

And I will.

​I just thought about all the little juicy moments of joy in my day today, from Suzuki delegates on today's coaching course participating in the Get the Edge race ( pop over to the facebook page to take a look, it will make you smile) From Steve Robbo, my GTE colleague singing and story telling...lots of moments to make me smile... all of which could have been erased by the igloo type conditions ( in fact I'm sure an igloo would be cosier ) I returned home to.

In fact there's another little smile moment to share, as I get into bed.... which too is absolutely freezing, even with double quilt power.... I remember I had suggested that going to the Ice Hotel was on my bucket list..... I realised in this very moment that maybe I wasn't designed for such trips and that even if dressed as Nanouk of the North I probably shouldn't ever put myself in the postion where it could be that cold, as in truth, I'd more than likely be grumpy..... very, very grumpy!

​So I digress..... my point today is how many times do you save up "Joy" for the big things, holidays, the weekend, anniversaries, birthday's, Christmas.... and not savour the golden nuggets of joy every single day?

​Today I urge you to just revisit your day ( a little bit Like the film About time... great film if you haven't seen it by the way) and notice all the moments of absolute joy there have been. That's where life is happening, right there in those juicy moments.

​And then as you go about your day every day be in those moments and absolutely turn up the joy!

Day 10 of my #blog365 ... I've only gone and done it again Doh!
I was traveling yesterday ready for delivering Coaching training today and missed blogging ... so I'll be offering two blogs in the series this evening. I even had a reminder on the wall of my bedroom last night, the framed pictures next to my bed were of handwriting ( I suppose it was to represent Shakespeare, with a feather quill and a wax seal... pretty cool in fact... but a universal nudge that I hadn't written! oh dear... the Universe is always there with signs and symbols if only we notice)

Great news is, on my way home earlier this evening from Stratford upon Avon, (home of the Bard himself) I heard "Express yourself"... how apt hey?

I love the lyrics .... "Whatever you do, do it good....Express yourself! It's not what you look like when you do what you do, Express yourself"

Which reminds me of another couple of quotes you may have heard before:

“You’ve gotta dance like there’s nobody watching,  Love like you’ll never be hurt, Sing like there’s nobody listening, And live like it’s heaven on earth.” ~ William W. Purkey

“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.” ~ Bernard M. Baruch

I guess what I'm trying to say is this, many people play it small, don't say what they really deeply desire to from the bottom of their heart, holding in their magnificence for fear of ridicule, mistakes, rejection..... of being different.

You know it's healthy for us as human beings to express ourselves.

Holding in our creative spark, dumbing down our brilliance and stifling our potential blocks our energy.... which in turn over a long period of time manifests in the body physically, as illness.

Maybe you feel it's just easier not to stand out from the crowd, to have your own souls longing realised?

Do the World a favour step into your miraculous self... Your family, friends, work colleagues will love you for it.(Of course it goes without saying, it's important to express yourself with loving intent and not to hurt others in the process)

Imagine if Shakespeare hadn't expressed himself? Or Van Gogh? Or Beethoven?...... Or Labrinth?
( You wouldn't be singing and bopping along to the video above.... oops sorry, is that just me then?)

I believe everyone has a song within them, or a book for that matter. I urge you, don't come to the end of the conveyor belt of life and look back over your life and say... what if? When you have no what if's left.

To Paraphrase the late, great Dr Wayne Dyer ....Don't die with your song ( Or book ) still in you. Express yourself.

So today I challenge you to remember "whatever you do, do it good". Don't worry about how you look when you do what you do, just express yourself. Dance around your front room, paint the town red,Kick up your heels, sing at the top of your voice in the shower, write a poem, tell a story......

but most of all.... BE YOU. DO YOU!

Day 9 of my #blog365 and it's been an illuminating day.

With both parents visiting hospital this morning for health issues it would be all too easy to feel the weight of worry and concern.
But what energy does that put out into the universe?
Is it helpful to them, or to me? Not at all.

And so instead I was absolutely certain in my heart that all would work out well. It must be something they've both instilled in me, as their energy too was one of positive and bright outlook.

As you will have read many times in my writing, what we focus on grows, the energy we put out into the world is reflected back to us. ( It's a universal law after all).

I was also witness today, to changes in a team of people I've worked with closely over the past 3 years, uncomfortable changes for many of them, again I could hold worry and concern for them, or I could hold positive hope for them, whatever their choices.

Strangely enough, holding a light heart and hope for them was more of a challenge for me than I'd expected if I'm honest, This really did make me think.... what's going on within me that caused chinks in my positive outlook ? And I have reflected this evening that I need to really break out of that pattern as It's holding the situation and them in a pattern that's unhelpful, for them and for me. (You might remember me mentioning this before along with the practice of Ho'po pono pono)

It's not always easy to hold light, bright energy when faced with challenges. But we always have the choice. Always.

Sometimes we just need to notice what responses we're having and check in with our feelings and emotions.(Sometimes we're attaching old memories and experiences with no relevance to the current scenario too).

By the way all emotions if used  effectively have a useful intent. Even Anger for example.... as if used and channeled wisely and resourcefully can give us all the  energy and determination to move forward and make changes.

So If you're faced with challenges, take a moment to check in with your feelings about the situation. Not just in your head, but in your 3 centres of intelligence, head, heart and belly.

Instead of intelligence being only in the mind, we actually have three Centers of Intelligence: the Mental (Intellectual) Center, the Heart (Emotional) Center, and the Body (Physical) Center. To be whole, integrated and conscious, to be alive, awake and centered, and to be less ego-fixated and more conscious requires our being able to access all three Centers and to use all three in productive integrated ways.

We have so much wisdom in these 3 centres.

I suggest you take a few moments to yourself, take  some deep breaths, allow your eyes to close and then check in with your mind; your head and notice what thoughts, words maybe pictures show up when you consider the challenge. Then drop into your heart and again check in with any feelings, sensations, words, pictures that arise. And finally drop into your belly and reapeat the same process again.

Why not try it?

It may be interesting to check in with your 3 centres as this may allow for greater illumination and maybe even different answers. And this may be the key to lifting your energy and your vibration
(after all this is what goes out into the World and then is reflected back to you) and choose a new response, or a new action.

Out of all challenges and even adversity, just like the pheonix rising from the ashes there can be new birth and new growth.

Out of what may first appear as disappointments, challenges and frustrations, may actually illuminate a blessing that would never have otherwise been realised.

If you've read the forward to Get a Life the guide book, you'll know what I'm talking about.

 So today O urge you to be the lighthouse, shine bright, check in with your own inner bright spark... is it a flickering pilot light or is it a burning flame of brightness?

If you light a lamp for someone else, it will also brighten your path. ~ Buddha.

Shine bright beautiful souls!

(Credit: AP)
"I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring".
David Bowie

Day 8 of my #blog365 no debate over the topic for today, hands down it had to be in loving memory of the genius David Bowie who would have celebrated his 70th birthday today.

He sadly left this Earthly life two days after his 69th birthday last year, I have to admit it's the first time I have really felt grief for the loss of a famous person, someone I never met, but who had made his mark on my life none the less. I was heart broken and cried unashamedly. I'd never really been able to understand how people got so upset of the death of famous people until that moment.

I was first introduced to his music as a very young child, my dad was a fan, as was one of his very good friends David Lound (sadly David is no longer with us either, life simply got too hard for him to bare many years ago, he had been such a fun loving person, but that hid a deep depression and sadness that eventually engulfed him and he chose to emigrate to heaven at far too young an age)

You see I have so many memories with Bowie soundtracks, especially "Let's dance" which marks out a key era of my life. As a teenager the theme tune to cruising around in a brown allegro estate car ( XTE 193V I think it was) with my then boyfriend (who would go on to become my first husband )
The soundtrack was always Bowie.

Dancing to "The port of Amsterdam" at each 18th and 21st birthday party of my circle of friends, as well as "Queen bitch" we'd own the dance floor ( or so we thought ) it was our party piece. I remember being gutted that my ex got tickets to see his "Serious moonlight tour" and took his friend and not me!

Who could forget his moving role in one of my favourite films of all time "Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence" I can still be moved to tears right now just recalling it. Or dancing around to "Magic Dance" from Labyrinth... you may have noticed it featured in my "Happy tunes" playlist from my previous #blog365. My daughter loves it too.

So you see, whatever was happening in my life David Bowie was a constant. Always there, always playing a part. I even have "Let's dance" as my telephone ringtone today ( how old school).

I think the thing that really attracted me to Bowie was his quirky approach to life. He was way ahead of his time, he would go out on a limb and challenge what was possible at every turn.

"I always had a repulsive need to be something more than human".
David Bowie

I believe he is a true Icon of our time. He never stopped stretching those boundaries in his art right up until he drew his last breath. What a legacy he leaves us.

"I wanted to prove the sustaining power of music".
David Bowie

I've heard he has planned out music releases way out into the future as well as planning his investments way ahead for his family.

"I'm not a prophet or a stone aged man, just a mortal with potential of a superman. I'm living on".
David Bowie

(credit to original photographer and The source website)

Day 7 of my #blog365
In truth my second blog today, but who's paying that much close attention anyway hey?

I was wondering what else I could write about today when a lovely lady Lois Unwin posted in our Women in rural enterprise Nottinghamshire networking group on facebook ( if you're a women in business in the Notts, lincs, Leics area do feel free to join) and then I pulled the "Love your body" card from "The answer is simple" oracle deck. So if I needed any sign of what to write, it was pretty obvious from  there on in.

Lois is drumming up momentum to screen "Embrace" a documentary made by Taryn Brumfitt In Newark on the 6th February . In order to screen it  locally she needs a minimum of 58 people ( why not book your ticket?)

I urge you to take a moment to watch the trailer to this groundbreaking and powerful film.

 Now this isn't the first time that I've covered this topic on my blog, see "Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes" ( back in 2010)  or my interview with Catherine Delves (in 2014).

It is something  I feel very passionate about. Beauty really does come in all shapes and sizes. Blimey in some cultures if you're skinny it's considered unattractive, if you don't have a long neck then you're not marriage material... I could go on...

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, it shines from the inside. Which reminds me of a series I've been following recently " The real marigold hotel"

I was so moved when Miriam Margolyes, who stars in this fly on the wall type escapade , said how people have told her she's the ugliest woman on television (I've paraphrased here) But Miriam said she didn't take any notice, because she believed she is beautiful. Good for you Miriam, you are absolutely beautiful ( Trumps and all... you'll understand if you're following the show)

What a limited view of beauty we have in our society.

I have to say, I can't wait to see this film, its such an important message for women everywhere.

I wonder just what we are teaching our young women, We're feeding our children with the endless wall to wall images of unobtainable and unrealistic images splattered across  billboards, on TV and in magazines.

It may or may not surpise you to realise that these images simply aren't even real, they're in many cases not even the models real image, just a production of Photoshop.

That coupled with the increasing pressures on young women and teenage girls through social media the 24 hour, 7 day a week, 365 days a year constant from this medium to be something that is completely fiction, is unrelenting. That's without mention of the sexualisation of girls at a younger and younger age and young boys having free access to material of an XXX adult nature at the touch of a button on their phones,all leads to an increasing time bomb of disaster that is unprecedented.

Sorry, I'm getting all very serious here I know.... it is a serious concern. I'm a mother and a step mother, I'm a perimenopausal women, who's marrying in the Summer for the second time. Do I feel the pressure.... In all honesty, damn right I do!

I do want to look beautiful (whatever that is?) and I don't think there's anything wrong with wanting to feel good in yourself by the way... I'm not a burn your bra, wear no make-up, go-grey hair is best kinda gal.... although there's absolutely nothing wrong with that either. I love pretty things, getting on some lippy and dressing up like a princess ... of course I do. But at the tender age of 49 on the 21st of this month I am becoming increasingly aware of the effects of nature.

I'm proud of my laughter lines.... they're testament to the joy I've had in my life. I'm less enamoured by the midlife acne breakouts as my hormones go wild and the once perky(ish) boobs that need more and more upholstery to keep things up North. But all in all I'm happy with me.

What I hope is that society will catch up, that more people will view this film,and that beauty will be appreciated ( even when it's not pretty to coin a phrase from one of my favourite poems and books)

It really is time to stand up against the media pressure, the stereotyping and the unrealistic expectations and to see the beauty.... the real beauty that resides in each and every one of us.

So why not come along on the 6th February in Newark, or look out for opportunities to host a viewing in your area. This I feel could just be the film to make the difference.

Day 6 of #blog365 .... Ok Ok... I know, technically that was yesterday on the 6th January and we're now on the 7th.... but I'm figuring you might not really notice and I can write two blogs today to make up for running behind myself yesterday!

I was considering what to write about today and pulled out a card from my trusty "The answer is simple" deck.... a bit like reading and idiot's guide to the universal nudges when I'm simply not noticing the messages.

The card that came out was the "Start anew" card which depicts a caterpillar and butterflies.

Symbolic caterpillar meaning deals with pure potential. It has to do with the promise of new life indwelling their bodies. Eventually, that caterpillar is going to go into cocooning stage, after which it will birth into an entirely new creature (moth or butterfly).

What is the symbolism of the butterfly?
This animal is primarily associated with symbolism of change and transformation.

• Powerful transformation, metamorphosis in your life, personality
• Moving through different life cycles
• Renewal, rebirth
• Lightness of being, playfulness
• Elevation from earthly matters, tuning into emotional or spiritual
• The world of the soul, the psyche

A secondary meaning of the butterfly is about finding joy in life and lightness of being.

This card is so relevant for many reasons right now for many people. Firstly, of course most obviously we're at the start of a new year. A time when many of us make resolutions to detox, to loose weight, to get fit..... to make changes... you get the idea.

Secondly, for me I'm aware of changes going on around me for my friends and family, in businesses we work with and for myself to as our wedding approaches.

In truth of course we're in constant change, in fact one of the true constants of life is change.

Often change is though our own choice,  generally to feel better in some way, but just like the  caterpillar there is a price to pay to make that transformation. Whilst the end may be beautiful, as the late , great Dr Wayne Dyer mentions in the quote above, in order to transform we have to go beyond our current form, our beliefs about ourselves and what is... and isn't possible... to go beyond our comfort zone.
And that can be uncomfortable, it can be challenging, it can be painful.

"What the caterpillar calls the end of the world the master calls a butterfly".
Richard Bach

Unlike us humans, the caterpillar doesn't think , you know what this is just too damn painful, I'm going to give up. No.... it keeps with the process, it let's it's old body die and fall away .. and in that moment it  transcends all that it could have been into something more beautiful, more free that it could ever have imagined... it even sprouts wings for goodness sake!

• Of course we don't always choose change... sometimes it's thrust upon us.
• Someone dies (science tells us energy cannot be destroyed it can only change form, therefore as we are energy, it follows that just like the death of the caterpillar gives birth to the butterfly... death allows a new form...)
• A relationship ends (releasing us to find a new way of being, and in time a new relationship perhaps)
• We get made redundant (the gift from the universe of release, possibly with funds, to dream a new dream, to step into a new career perhaps, start your own business, find your dream job)
• The business we work in gets bought out ( allowing us to experience new ways of doing things, new  ideas, or to recognise just how far we've come and how we have a choice to feel the discomfort of transformation, with a hope of the new, or to take a new route, a new journey, to start an exciting adventure to new shores)

But we didn't choose it... it's a transformation that's thrust upon us. How then does it feel to work through the struggle.. to appreciate the journey.... to let go of the old and allow the new... as the  caterpillar into the butterfly?

"Everybody knows what a caterpillar is, and it doesn't look anything like a butterfly".
Lynn Margulis

No matter if you're setting out to make changes, or change has been thrust upon you, there is always a gift. there is always something beautiful awaiting new birth.

So my questions for you today:
What is the gift that is unfolding in your life?
Where is there need to push on through to get to the beauty of transformation?

Day 5 of #blog365 and I've been pondering what to write about today.

I've already written a "businessy" type blog earlier today, that created lots of discussion, so I wondered could I extend this topic a little wider.

I was contemplating why some business leaders choose to treat their employees like robots or machines, preferring them to leave their heart and brain at the door, when they could be engaging their hearts and minds in their business. ( that's the very short version, but if you want to read more you can do here)

From a more universal, or spiritual standpoint I wondered what makes people choose one way of leading others over another?

Could it be their mindset... I mean are they in fear of lack? Feeling that the world is a hostile place where you have to dominate, where you have to fight and battle?

Or, conversely, a mindset of abundance, believing that the world is an abundant place, filled to the brim with opportunity.

These questions were raised for a couple of reasons; hearing of a business take over, where an abundant mindset and culture had been healthy, to then be replaced with new owners that have a fear, limited mindset, where nobody is to be trusted and therefore are ruling with iron glove and fearful heart full of lack .

The second was a post I read on facebook, earlier today. A business owner had posted in a networking forum asking for advice. Another business owner had popped into his own group and posted an event... his words were that he was a direct competitor and how should he handle this as he felt it was wrong
( I've paraphrased there).

Now if you held an abundant mindset, perhaps you would encourage the other business owner, support them, not berate them, give with a servant's heart, so to speak?

If you held a mindset of lack, you would be fearful of the other business owner, seeing them as a threat, that they may take the small amount of business that was out there to be won.

I find that mindset hard to understand.

If you know me, then you'll know I support and act as an advocate for other, therapists, trainers, writers, coaches.... the list could go on. ( you'll notice that in both yesterday's and today's blog in fact).

As I know; without any doubt, that I live in an abundant universe. That there is more than enough to go around ( hopefully one day this will count for food and water and we will be able to bring this mindset to everyone in the World... but I'm a dreamer... thank god for the dreamers... in fact I'm sure there's a lovely quote about that, I digress... I'll search for that in a moment)

I know without doubt the people for whom I'm the right person to work with will be drawn to me and then other people will be drawn to my colleagues ( see I did it again, I don't see them as competitors, I see them as colleagues) There's a right fit in all of these things.

If we live our life through lack,  otherwise drilling down to the basic emotion of FEAR, then guess what will show up in our lives... you got it FEAR and more lack.

If we live our life through the mindset of abundance.... drilling down to LOVE... then that too will be our experience.

Lets take it back to business and leaders for a moment..... I've also just started another book... I know multi tasking.... The new leadership paradigm by Richard Barrett

Which looks at the seven levels of consciousness in alignment with values statements and behaviours of leaders. ( and so much more)

The following diagram describes the Seven Stages of Psychological Development. (all credits to The Barrett Values Centre )

What's interesting is that this is not so very different from the spiritual understanding of the 7 levels  of consciousness and you'll note the correspondence with the chakra energy system as depicted by the colours down the left hand side. (A vast subject that I could write about for hours, maybe for another series of blogs at a future date)

( All credits for this diagram to The consciousness paradigm )

I do love it when the pieces fit together......

If we take that a step further then and take a look at how this plays out in people, leaders shall we say , in business.... then maybe we can start to understand what's really going on... I mean at a much deeper level, in terms of their own psychological and spiritual development in terms of their consciousness. ( again all credits to The Barrett Values Centre  for this diagram)

Maybe some leaders are simply just not getting to number 4 or further.. or THE ANAHATA

(Anahata (Sanskrit: अनाहत, IAST: Anāhata, English: "unstruck") or heart chakra is the fourth primary chakra, according to Hindu Yogic, Shakta and Buddhist Tantric traditions. In Sanskrit, anahata means "unhurt, unstruck, and unbeaten". 

Or more simply put....the heartfelt  aspect of leadership, which in turns allows for the development to cover the whole spectrum.

So..... it's been a deep and meaningful one today..... as I've pondered the thought of why do some people have a mindset of lack and some abundance.

I urge you to consider today.... which do you hold?

LOVE or FEAR
ABUNDANCE or LACK

As what you focus on grows....

Oh and before I leave you for this evening.... that quote:

“Blessed are the weird people:
poets, misfits, writers
mystics, painters, troubadours
for they teach us to see the world through different eyes.”

― Jacob Nordby, Pearls of Wisdom: 30 Inspirational Ideas to live your best life now

I Was reflecting on this time 6 years ago when  may beautiful daughter Sarah Louise was planning her great escape from the stroke ward of Grantham hospital.

A challenging yet life affirming experience when you consider the statistics for someone with a congenital heart defect (hole in the heart between the bottom chambers) develops bacterial endocarditis:

Death rate of about 50 percent. Among patients who survive the infection, approximately half will have a stroke due to the damage from the aggressive infection of the heart valves.
Thankfully 6 years on she's here to tell the tale and for some reason, as a mother elective heart surgery a year later seemed even more scary ( God only knows why).

I recall the lead up to her emergency admission to hospital with absolute horror in hindsight. At the time I guess you just get on with what's happening. It was a long 3 months whilst she remained on the stroke ward and although some of those days were very challenging, there are some heart moving moments of joy to be remembered too.

Such as her dressing up and making the whole ward laugh, the singing nurse who was previously a postman (clearly still singing his way through his rounds).

The husband and wife who had their beds wheeled together as they both finished up on the same male and female stroke wards at the same time.

The 21st party of the son of one of the other ladies on the ward, with pizza and cake in the nurses rest room.

The little old chap with dementia who was always waiting for the bus at the end of Sarah's ward and the kindness she and others showed to him.

The little old lady that Sarah sat up with all night so she wouldn't be alone in her final hours until her family could make it to say there final goodbyes.

The list could go on and on....

Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit. Napoleon Hill

Whilst it was a testing time for a young woman to go through, I believe it has made Sarah the kind, loving woman she is today.

She is a blessing and an inspiration to me every day. She is smart, funny, beautiful and quirky
(I have no idea where she gets that from???)

She has grown into a wonderful woman who is also my best friend. There isn't a day goes by when we don't speak on the phone. And we never miss a moment to say how much we love one another.

Things could have been so very different.

I posted on facebook yesterday my thoughts about "kindness day" and thought it worth mentioning here too:

Always be kind, it costs nothing.
You never know what someone is going through in their life.
Share a smile , you never know what joy it may bring to another.
When times are tough, be even kinder .... what you put out to the world comes back to you.
You never know what will happen tomorrow so be always be kind today.

Even on  the most difficult of day's it's a stark reminder that whilst ever the world is still turning and nobody died .... its a great day on planet earth!

Until next time,
make every moment count,
Lisa xx

Day 4 of #blog365 and I feel priviledged to say I have much in common with the queen today!

I'd also love to say I look as glamorous as my photo above, but if I tell you I just cleared the aisle of people in Collingham Co-op earlier, you might  be able to conjure up an image that may come slightly closer to how I really look in person right now.

Firstly, sorry I'm getting way ahead of myself...

How did you get on with yesterday's challenge of "Pennies from heaven"? 
Well I think the universe missed the memo in my case, as i've not spotted one, mind you I've not been anywhere and when I did pop to the shop... well its was like a parting of the seas, as women and children threw themselves out of my way of my runny nose and sneezes!

I guess the universe works in mysterious ways and will allow the pennies to manifest when I'm back on form. I'll keep you posted.

So back to today and my empathy with her Maj!

Bless her heart, I can quite understand why she's given the whole Christmas and New Year ceremonies a miss, at 90 this nasty cold can really knock you right off your feet I'm sure.

Thankfully I have some natural remedies up my sleeve, they may not be curing my runny nose, but they are most certainly taking the edge off the symptoms.

I myself, just like the royals  in fact, am a fan of homeopathic remedies, not only do I have a huge passion and interest myself, I also  have my own homeopath Wendy Jackson who is the most amazing therapist. I also am blessed to be surrounded by lots of other therapy colleagues, I'll mention Sue McFarlane ( Nutritional & Massage therapist ) and Sunita Passi (Ayurvedic therapist ) here as well for reference, with thanks for tips on everything from chewing raw garlic... yes really ( thanks for that one Sue) and Turmeric a traditional Ayurvedic herb for the cold and flu season. As well as Chris Millbank for his suggestion of a Vitamin C detox flush!

With the numerous posts and suggestions I've received, I thought today I would share some of the top tips for treating colds and flu naturally with the help and advice of not only my own toolkit but the great advice of my therapy colleagues!

So firstly how about some key homeopathic remedies:

Aconite
When the attack comes on suddenly after an exposure to a cold, dry wind, with chilliness, followed by fever, Aconite will be the remedy.

Arsenicum
is especially useful in winter colds where there is a thin, watery discharge from the nostrils which makes the upper lip sore, yet inspite of this fluent discharge the nose feels bunged up. There is a dull, throbbing frontal headache and sneezing.

Allium cepa
One of our best remedies for a head cold The discharge is profuse, thin and acrid, with great smarting in the nose and eyes.

Euphrasia
Here the upper part only of the respiratory mucous membrane is affected. Like Allium cepa it has a copious, fluent discharge from nose.

Gelsemium
A great remedy for colds with flu-like symptoms of chills and aching. 

And how about some natural remedies:

Manuka honey
Manuka honey, produced in New Zealand by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush, is one of the most unique and beneficial forms of  honey in the world. There are many Manuka honey uses that range from healing sore throats to curing Staph infections.

Garlic
Is an all round health boosting herb.Raw garlic can also be added to honey water. Honey has both antibiotic and antiviral properties. Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to 6-8 ounces of water and stir. Or if you're really brave chew it raw as suggested by Sue.

Turmeric
A cup of warm milk with a teaspoon of turmeric powder can fight flu, colds and cough. In Indian cuisine, turmeric, ginger and garlic are added to most recipes to fight against infections during the fu season or simply to warm the body. Turmeric is considered a natural antibiotic in Ayurvedic medicine.

That's just a snap shot of some of the great advice and tips I've been given, along with healing vibes, Reiki and virtual hugs.... and an offer to host the WiRE Notts group for me this evening by my good friend Jill Brown, I am  now able to rest up and heal!

I am truly blessed.

So day 3 of #blog365 and what a combination to open with !

Despite my best efforts of rest and recuperation, I was rudely awoken in the night thinking that surely I'd swallowed a razor blade in my sleep and that a tap had inadvertently been switched on in my head causing my nose to run like an overflow pipe.

As the day has progressed it would seem Rudolph has arrived late at Holly House, red nose glowing brightly, out shinning even the most ardent of neighbours still insistent on observing the twelfth night rule with their twinkling Christmas lights adorning their fences, trees, hedges and guttering.....

No it has to be said......they have absolutely nothing on my Rudolphian ( I just made that pretty cool word up) appearance right now, as I type this.

I am in truth sporting a somewhat groovy combination of Bagpuss meets Rudolph, with my warm fluffy Bagpuss fleece ( it is actually like Bagpuss's coat) hence you most certainly won't find me going facebook "live" or posting anything like a selfie today! It's really not a good look.But it is no the less comfy and reassuringly like a hug in a hoodie ( it's not strictly speaking got a hood, but you get the gist)

Funny though, this has not deterred the continuation of my E3 experiments . On the list for today ( or within 72 hours) I was to be aware  of the universe providing a list of random items including....

A childhood toy
A beach ball

I do have to admit I did doubt the beach ball request....

Middle of winter, cold Tuesday, in Swinderby = highly unlikely (otherwise translated in my head to where the hell am I going to spot one of those?)

Ah but as the old saying goes ... "Ask and it is given" ....

So as I'm briefly working with Jon in the office preparing for a training session we're running next Monday.... I suggest we need some active exercises to include... fun activities to add into the learning process... to which Jon prints out a team energiser relevant to the topic..... featuring... yes you guessed it " An inflatable beach ball" ... I actually laughed out loud.... Jon a bit perturbed by my response asked "what's so funny, is it not a good idea?"..... To which I replied, "It's perfect... absolutely perfect"!

I did of course explain the E3 challenge afterward.

I was still awaiting the arrival of the childhood toy though.

Now I may be blonde ( by choice I may add)... but even I didn't crack on at first that I had in fact been wearing said reference to childhood toy all day... that was until I started to think of a title for today's musings.... You really could make it up. The universe truly does work in mysterious ways...

Which incidentally was another item on the list.... A joke from the universe!

I just love this game, it's certainly taking my mind off the streaming cold... well almost.

So on to manifesting pennies.... yes you read that correctly... as in pennies from heaven...

Many, many years ago when I first discovered the law of attraction, a friend of mine did the same with elastic bands... you know just to "see if this shit works" kind of thing... and I remember her recounting tales of finding elastic bands everywhere..... culminating in being given a full box of them!

So lets see what we can manifest hey? Will you play along just for fun?

After all pennies are easy, right?

So for the next 24hours bring your focus and attention to noticing pennies, on the floor, on the pavement, on the bus, in pockets, where ever they miraculously show up.

You know just to "see if this shit works".....

Don't worry I won't think you've lost the plot.... well why be constrained by the plot anyway?
It's not the only truth in the universe after all ;)

I bet you're hoping a pick a serious business book to challenge you with next month. Or an intellectual, mind expanding subject to debate and discuss on my #blog365..... well you'll just have to keep following to find out !

So here we are, day 2 of 2017.... a book a month, a blog a day challenge.

So far so good, although I've nearly finished my January book so a little ahead of myself on that one!
For those of you reading yesterday you'll know I've picked Pam Grout's E3 for my first book of the year and I've  already got on with the fun exercises.

Pam suggests for the first 5 minutes of the day you play a song from a series of uplifting tunes as listed in the book , whilst fist pumping the air 5 times and shuffling or moon walking to the bathroom
(I know very American for some UK tastes, but in for a penny, in for a pound).

I found myself taking it a step further and choosing my own energy lifting TUUUUNES first thing today, no mean feat when I'm still flirting with Jon's virus that he's kindly shared ( we share in this house). But I'm grateful for that (another exercise from the book, just be thankful for everything..... everything...) as I've always suggested to my readers, there's always a gift... sometimes it takes a little longer to spot, but it will be there somewhere.

Well in this case, being under the poorly blanket has given me permission; as if I really needed it, to take it easy, read more of my book and basically just relax.

So back to the job in hand, I started to think about all the great music that uplifts my soul and before I knew it I was in fact dancing to the bathroom, around the bathroom, still singing and dancing whilst I ran a bath ( thank god the neighbours couldn't see, that's all I'm saying)..... and do you know what?.... It works! I did feel more positive, despite achy limbs, croaky throat and tickly cough!

So to keep the ball rolling, I decided to make my own playlist with my very own "Happy tunes" those songs that have been the backing track to my life at different times, the ones that make me smile a mile wide and get me up and moving.

I don't know about you, but music plays a huge part in my life. If you've read "Get a Life! the guide book" you'll know I often get universal nudges in the form of song lyrics, you may well have noticed that there are one or two to be spotted in my musings one might say.

Feel free to join me..... listen along, maybe dance around your living room.... don't forget to throw in some fist pumping the air for good measure..... let me know how it makes you feel!

Why not make up your own "Happy playlist" to listen to every morning as you're geeting ready for your day, or play it on your drive to work, or taking the children on the school run..... the opportunities are endless for this feel good vibe.

Imagine that..... feeling pumped up and positive beyond belief every morning, just at the touch of a button all those juicy chain reactions going from you brain to your feet, boosting those feel good chemicals, pulsing through your body, not only lifting your spirit, but boosting your health in the process.

I've a feeling you're going to be unstoppable!!!
Groovy baby ;)

So I start 2017, flirting with the cold bug that my gorgeous man has been nursing since Christmas.... just when I thought I'd gotten away with it.... dosing up on multi vitamins ..... what a gift though, just as Jon had been hurtling towards the end of the year and his body made him stop.... mine has pretty much done the same... not in equal measure in fairness, but no the less caused an enforced sofa day.

As is the custom in our house every New Year's day, Mr Davies writes his reflections in his journal, he carries out this ritual every year as he has year upon year.

It got me to thinking and reflecting too. I'm in a 5 personal year numerologically speaking and this is all about FREEDOM, in my case to do those things I want to do and say no to those I don't, and to take time out , to have time to spend with family and friends and to travel.

I've also been reflecting on balance, that I'm fully aware that work has been all encompassing and that even I,( who should definitely know better) needs more downtime, to create, to write and to grow.

It's far too long since I blogged or wrote an article something I absolutely adore,I even set out to write another book at the beginning of 2016, that I haven't had the time and or head space to write.

So today I've made a commitment... one I may later find somewhat of a challenge considering it's going to be a fairly packed year  including our wedding and honeymoon!

I've said it out loud and I've now I'm writing it down...... I intend to read a book a month and write a blog a day. ( I even considered deleting the facebook app from my smart phone so it was less accessible but I'm not quite ready to go cold turkey on that just yet ha ha)

So with this in mind I picked up the nearest book I'd previously started and not finished and began again.... Pam Grout's E3..... Nine more energy experiments that prove manifesting magic and miracles is your full-time gig.

It's some time since I read E2 which I found great fun, I even got Jon and his dad involved by spotting beige cars and purple feathers....

So I'm setting out on the first of the experiments today:
#Experiment 1 - The boogie-woogie collary ( or the importance of not being earnest)

Which opens with the fabulous John Lennon Quote:

This first experiment talks of charging rhino's, the trajectory of your thoughts and turning your one-way fun channel into a superhighway.

Why not pop back tomorrow to see how I get along? Or if you feel so inclined get yourself a copy of the book and join in, its great to join in with a group when doing these experiments... there are a couple of  rules Pam sets out  ...

1. Commit to discussing only what's going right  (there's millions of the population focusing on what's going wrong so no need to add to that)
2. Commit to having fun

So there we go.... day one of 365 of a blog a day and book of the month commenced!

I was recently blessed to attend a week long retreat.... well I say retreat , as that's exactly what it felt like.... otherwise disguised as training, with the wonderful Sunita Passi, founder of Tri Dosha
(and now also the brainchild behind the new "Neem" range to be found on high streets up and down the country in branches of Superdrug).

Sunita and I have been connected for some years now, mainly virtually, but occasionally bumping into one another through writing ( Sunita was formally a journalist) and our shared love of all things mind, body and spirit. You may recall we both interviewed Dr Eric Pearl at the Hay House "I can Do It" event in the Autumn last year. Sunita has recently moved back to Nottingham, which is great news as now we're a stones throw away from one another!

​I have to admit here, that my knowledge of Ayurveda was pretty ..... shall we say, limited, before setting foot into the cocoon of our training room in a Nottingham hotel. I had what could be loosely termed as a keen interest, which had been stimulated over the years , but certainly perhaps boosted by conversations with my friend Linda, who had studied with Deepak Chopra in America a few years ago. Her  calm manner and talk of "Dosha's" intrigued me for sure, but up until this point , I'd really only done a little reading and googling on the subject.

​So I find myself among a wonderful group of women, therapists and yoga teachers, some new to Ayurveda and some already well versed in the subject matter. All with a passion for holistic approaches to health and wellbeing. Little did I know that I was embarking on an intensive and cathartic week long adventure ( and even longer cleansing experience).

So where to begin....

So just what is Ayurveda?

"Ayurveda is the knowledge of what is appropriate and inappropriate for creation, for life itself and the measure of life".

Ayurveda is a sanskrit word, which translates means "the science or knowledge of life" It originated more than 4000 years ago when legend has it 52 Indian sages or wise men left their villages and traveled to the foot hills of the Himalayas, where they meditated together and through this acquired the knowledge of  what we know know as Ayurveda.

This ancient system is an holistic approach to life encompassing the mind, body and spirit.

Ayurvedic principles recognise that each person has a particular pattern of energy, in an individual combination of physical, mental and emotional characteristics known as their constitution or dosha.

By understanding how to create harmony of mind body and spirit according to a person's dosha, ayurveda can benefit the individual holistically.

What I found was that Ayurveda is a complex weave of ancient wisdom, spirituality and practical application. It teaches us that human beings are made up of the same stuff  as everything that surrounds us. That is, we are made of the 5 elements of ether, air, fire, water and earth. We are in constant interaction with the energy around us and within us and this interaction determines the state of our health and wellbeing.

The 3 doshas
Whilst the structural aspect of the body is made up of the 5 elements, the functional aspect is governed by 3 body types known as doshas.

Vata    Ether & Air
Pitta    Fire & Water
Kapha  Water & Earth

Each of these main doshas has distinctive characteristics, and in turn when out of balance can give way to specific health concerns and dis-ease in the body. Learn more here

The 6 areas of Ayurveda
Ayurveda is split into 6 areas of specialism, ( each having originated from different parts of India, along with the regions from where the afore mentioned 52 sages had come).

• Massage and therapies
• Yoga and meditation
• Herbal medicine
• Diet and nutrition
• Spiritual practice
• Panchakarma

The Tri Dosha course
I have to  start by saying  Sunita led us through a pretty mind blowing and enlightening 6 days. It was what I can only describe as a journey, personal to each and everyone of us.

Aside from learning the fascinating history, including the manifestation of creation. We covered all of the following:

• The qualities of nature ( encompassing the 5 elements as mentioned above)
• The 3 doshas
• The dhatus ( the 7 supporting tissues of the body)
• The chakras ( energy centres of the body)
  
• The nadis ( the network of 14 subtle nerves that run through the chakras to various points in the body) 
• The marma points ( pressure / energy points in the body)
• The Ayurveda consultation process
• Use of appropriate oils, treatments and  even the type of massage techniques and pressures to be applied

Wow! .....and that's not the half of it.... It's really no wonder then ....I walked in and out of our little cocoon in somewhat of a daze each day.

During my 6 days I covered the following therapies with theory, practice and dare I say it ... tests!

• Head/neck/arm treatment (shirobhyanga)
• Full body massage with marma [vital] points (marma abhyanga)
• Lower leg & foot treatment (padabhyanga)
• Face massage with marma [vital] points (mukhabhyanga)
• Warm oil poured onto the third eye (shirodhara)
• Herbal compress massage (pinda sweda)
• Detox scrub (udvartana)
• Tri-Dosha holistic glow facial (skin rejuvenation and wellbeing)
• Tri-Dosha supreme results (anti-ageing)
  

No surprise then that I've been clearing and cleansing ever since..... I did see Sunita just this week at the WiRE Notts networking group I lead .. mentioning my own "Panchakarma".....

*Panchakarma is the ultimate mind-body healing experience for detoxifying the body, strengthening the immune system, and restoring balance and well-being. It is one the most effective healing modalities in Ayurvedic Medicine. It promotes Detoxification and Rejuvenation. It is recommended on a seasonal basis, as well as when an individual feels out of balance or is experiencing illness.

I guess I have to be thankful we don't use leeches here in the UK as part of the mind, body and spirit cleansing practice ( although I'm assured this does still happen in parts of India)

Reflections on my experience
Looking back on my experience I still can't tell you how on Earth Sunita packs in so much into a week. She shares her passion and knowledge for Ayurveda in such an amazingly easy to digest way that all of a sudden you find that you have gained a whole new sphere of understanding into life and how we live it, in harmony.. or disharmony. By applying the ancient knowledge of Ayurveda I am in no doubt we can all live a more healthful, joyful and fulfilling life.

I feel I've opened a whole new chapter of learning possibilities.... and I've certainly been bitten by the Ayurveda bug... but thankfully not by any leeches!

Click to learn more about Sunita's work
Or for information on training and wonderful product ranges then visit :
http://tri-dosha.co.uk/

I wanted to share news of an amazing new film project - The Game.
The Game continues where The Secret left off. It’s an empowering, intimate cinematic experience that gears people for change.

Focusing on at high achievers throughout history combined with honest short interviews with current visionaries that have used these methods and techniques, the viewer is given tried and tested methods, skills and strategy which allow them to begin to make changes.The Game is a ground-breaking, life changing format that gives answers to The Game of life which we all play on a daily basis.

By understanding the hardship and obstacles these people have faced, they present their learnings to you in the hope that you will short circuit the route to your own ultimate happiness in life.

Love the trailer ? Want to get involved?

Support the project:
If you've enjoyed the teaser trailer and want to unlock the rule book to life then you can still help the production by donating a small amount of money via the following secure payment system.
 
EVERY PERSON WHO DONATES WILL BE PUT ONTO THE CREDITS OF THE FINAL FILM.

Donate here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-game-continues-where-the-secret-left-off#/

Not In A Position To Donate?
If you aren't in a position to assist the production on a financial basis you can still help more than you might think.

Share this link to the website http://www.thegameiscoming.com/ on social media using the hashtag #thegameiscoming or use the in-built social media tools to spread the word.

Could you be a visionary?

Cast your mind back to the 2006 smash hit, The Secret, a film which received international praise in over 25 countries and gained a cult following, worldwide.
 
What would you have given to have been involved in that production?

If you meet the following criteria and are prepared to make a small investment into the production of 'the game', then the creators would like to hear from you...

Visionary Criteria
DO YOU FEEL YOU HAVE OVERCOME BARRIERS IN LIFE?
ARE YOU OVER THE AGE OF 25 AND HAPPY TO APPEAR ON CAMERA?
ARE YOU ESTABLISHED IN YOUR INDUSTRY FIELD?
ARE YOU PREPARED TO INVEST INTO THE PRODUCTION?
 
For more details of how to be considered please visit : http://www.thegameiscoming.com/#!become-a-visionary/fodyi

About Darren Stanton - Creator of "The Game"

After being involved in the personal development industry for over 20 years, carving a career as a television presenter , author and public speaker. 
As someone who has always been passionate about the empowerment of others, Darren has created The game, which refers to the The game of life we are all playing. 

The game is a 90 minute documentary / film illustrating some of the worlds most successful peoples struggles to the top of their game. 
Darren has also sought of out some of the UK’s most prolific ‘visionaries ‘ 
These contributors are people that Darren believes have learnt how to play the game to an exceptional standard and they will be giving the viewer their learnings and advice on how to play the game. 

www.thegameiscoming.com

So I thought I'd take some time to write a new blog post today. I've had a blissful return to my roots this past weekend teaching Reiki first degree. When I say a return to my roots of course the Reiki principles are a way of being everyday, its never far from my thoughts, but I am aware that I have given much of my time and energy these past few months to my other hat as a trainer in the business World. Of course I've still been working with clients both therapeutically and in coaching, as well as teaching Reiki from time to time, but I haven't , if I'm honest given my full attention to this side of me in the way I have in previous years.

I love teaching Reiki. Each time I do I remember just how rewarding it is, I have been known to say I could do this every day! That said I do enjoy the variety of my work, just last week I was involved in delivering #InspireNewark which was a wonderful day for the local business community, which also raised much need funds for Beaumond House Community Hospice.

Having worked over the weekend I purposely booked in very little for today, just to give myself some time to contemplate. And so, here I am, thinking what shall I write about?

Yesterday was World happiness day, I could write about that.... but I have written about that in previous years....... I could write about Reiki, as It's so current in my awareness from the weekend..... but I've also written about that before too......

So as I sat down just a few short minutes ago I was blank..... call it writers block if you like....... searching for inspiration but nothing came.

So again, I went back to my roots... and pulled some cards to stimulate thought.

Now the thing that jumped out to me was the wise old guy on the middle card otherwise known as Laozi (also Lao-Tzu /ˈlaʊˈdzʌ/ or Lao-Tze, "Old Master") who was an ancient Chinese philosopher and writer. He is known as the reputed author of the Tao Te Ching and the founder of philosophical Taoism, and as a deity in religious Taoism and traditional Chinese religions.

He was also the guy who is quoted with writing the title of this blog.

"If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading".

Hmmm...... now that made me stop and sit up. Especially as he's showing up on the "Life Purpose" card, he's a writer and he's also got the sands of time running in front of him, a big clock behind him, you could be forgiven for translating that as THE TIME IS NOW and TIME IS PRECIOUS or even TIME IS RUNNING OUT.

That coupled with the babies appearing in both of the other two cards ( now I'm way past birthing real babies at 48) I see that as telling me I have a new baby as in a new project to nurture and take care of.

You may also notice that Laozi is writing..... I do have another book bubbling, but since the start of the year I've not made any progress on my initial ideas and discussions with potential contributors. You may also notice the open window... suggesting a open window of opportunity , with the timing being NOW!

There's a pretty strong message I'm being presented with here.... where am I putting my energy?
Have I drifted way off course and need to change direction, if I don't want to find myself miles away from my true purpose... Oh boy, something tells me I'd better take notice.

With Stork showing up as a totem; one of the most ancient and powerful symbols of birth.

Quoted from http://www.linsdomain.com

Stork reflects a connection to emotions and the creation sybology of Water.  Stork can help us understand our emotions.  It is sacred to the goddess Juno, who oversees home, children and family. It is good luck to have a stork totem. Stork is linked to the mysteries of sacred dance. This dance can awaken primal forces and energies.

Call on stork when you begin a new project, new relationship or new job. 
When you see a Stork, ask yourself if you need to go back to basics? 
Have you lost touch with your family roots? 
Are you taking time of birth the projects within your life?

And what about all that gold showing up? Quoted from http://www.empower-yourself-with-color-psychology.com/color-gold.html
The colour gold is the colour of success, achievement and triumph. Associated with abundance and prosperity.

This colour is linked to masculine energy and the power of the sun.

Optimistic and positive, gold adds richness and warmth to everything with which it is associated - it illuminates and enhances other things around it.
At the uppermost level, this is a colour which is associated with higher ideals, wisdom, understanding and enlightenment. It inspires knowledge, spirituality and a deep understanding of the self and the soul.

You may also notice the Winged heart above the Laozi. Quoted from http://cristinamcallister.blogspot.co.uk/2011/01/symbol-spotlight-winged-heart.html

The heart has long been a symbol for the soul, the seat of emotions, our inner selves.  It can mean sincerity, truthfulness, charity and mercy. It has also come to represent Love, both romantic and platonic.

Wings represent speed, freedom, elevation, aspiration, divinity and transcendence. They are also associated with mystical and magical beings – fairies, angels, dragons, Pegasus.  To the alchemists, wings connoted achievement of a higher state of being.  There is also the mythical theme of “earning one’s wings”, an achievement gained through heroic efforts or bravery, valor and service.

Combining these two powerful symbols, the winged heart represents the freedom to love, to feel, to courageously rise above the mundane and reach full potential. It is a sign of joyful optimism and a representation of the free spirit. 

It is the symbol of the Sufi religious movement, an Islamic sect dedicated to seeking truth and facilitating understanding among people.  They believe that the heart is the link between the body and the soul, hovering between the realms of matter and spirit.  The winged heart indicates the heart’s desire to rise toward heaven, borrowing the ancient Egyptian’s association between wings and spiritual transformation and transcendence.

It's a symbol that expresses the desire to uplift and inspire, to fulfill ones potential and live a life of freedom, filled with joy and love.

Some pretty strong messages showing up wouldn't you say?

I wonder how many of you reading this can resonate with some of these messages?

I wonder have you raised your head to look around and find you've drifted of course?

And if so..... where do you need to go back to basics, back to your roots?

What no longer serves you, what can you let go of?

And as I've said many times before, what you focus on grows.... so, I guess I like you perhaps, need to check my trajectory, realign my aims, and readjust me focus.


Until next time,
Make every moment count!

Lisa xx

I know.. the mention of chocolate and you stopped scrolling through posts. I'd be just the same, the mere mention of dark or raw chocolate, in my case and I'm right there. Although if your preference is of the milk variety that's all good too.
My point being is just that.... BEING and the words in the paragraph above RIGHT THERE... or more precisely RIGHT HERE NOW.

So now I've got you're attention....

I wonder ... are you a Dr Who? you know, a time lord... time traveler.... dwelling in the past or the future for the most part of your day, week... month .....LIFE!

Well this might come as a bit of a revelation.... come closer... I have something really important to say. LIFE IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW.

Or as the late, great John Lennon wisely said " Life is what's happening whilst we're busy doing other things" or words to that effect.

I wonder, are you deliberating over an important decision. Ruminating , pondering... perhaps? Or maybe you're in procrastination, in avoidance of being present, jumping in an out of your own personal Tardis, sonic screwdriver in hand, never actually reaching the NOW where its all going on. In a constant state of distraction , on a stress inducing treadmill of thoughts and unhelpful habits.

Well let me share something with you.....at the point of making any decision it's always; without exception, made in the moment, in the NOW. Yes, of course you might spend weeks, even months cogitating ,debating, hypothesising, but when it comes down to it ,all choices and decisions are made in the present moment.

How would it be then, if you had more clarity, calmness and presence in the now in order to make those choices?

If you were able to be a conscious decision-maker, able to take decisive action right now?

I'm hazarding a guess , that might just be to your advantage, right?

How about being more mindful?

I'm not talking mind full here... which is the constant state of most people in business, wouldn't you agree?

I'm talking mindfulness...

Mindfulness is both ‘a state of conscious awareness’ and ‘a practice’ that enables you to attain a calm, relaxed, confident and conscious state. These two meanings of the word are commonly used interchangeably. However, what’s important is that mindfulness is something that you do. The value of mindfulness as a movement, as a concept or set of ideas, is discovered through practice.

Mindfulness as a practice is an integrative set of principles and techniques that helps you change the way you think and feel about yourself, your experiences, and the world around you.
In essence, Mindfulness can be summed up, very simply, in the following way, ‘being aware of the present moment without wishing it were different’.

Whilst effective practice has many different aspects that enable individuals to find their own ways of embracing and embodying the benefits,the most fundamental principle of mindful practice is that of ‘The Forever Now’, which expresses the truth that the present moment is the only place where anything ever happens. All experience, decisions and actions take place now.
So....I know what you're thinking ....... what on Earth has this to do with chocolate?

Well why not find out for yourself?

Join us for #inspirenewark our "Inspire Day" where John Armitage will be unveiling the magic mixture of mindfulness and chocolate and experience for yourself the power of mindful leadership.

All details can be found here: https://billetto.co.uk/inspire-day-by-get-the-edge
Until next time, make every moment count.
Lisa :)

It's international women's day, so I started the day by sharing the late, great Maya Angelou's poem "Phenomenal woman" on facebook. It's one of my personal favourites, describing the absolute wonder of a woman.... Of women everywhere.

We are quite phenomenal us women to be fair, we as a rule, often wear many hats and juggle lots of job titles.....Business owner , leader, colleague, mother, sister, wife, girlfriend, lover ...  (not that the men folk aren't pretty marvelous too of course).

Many of you will know  I've done much of my work with women over the years and in the most part I've found there is a difference in the energy  between working with men and women.
That said I've often said I'm a supporter of people, regardless of gender, race, age, sexual orientation or faith. I am a supporter of fairness, in fact its one of my soul felt values.
So after all those years of campaigning for fairness, from the suffragette movement; at the turn of the century, to the  ford sewing machinists strike of 1968 in Dagenham.... you'd really expect parity between the sexes would you not?

I'm wondering then, why all the phenomenal women out there in the UK will earn potentially £300,000 less than men over their working life.

According to The Guardian in an article published yesterday:
Figures show a gap of £5,732, or 24%, in average full-time annual salaries between women and men – more than four decades after the Equal Pay Act of 1970 was introduced.
Over a career of 52 years, that gap translates into a lifetime earnings shortfall of £298,064 for female employees, according to the analysis by the recruitment company Robert Half.
I wonder how equal is equal?

Personally I've only once or twice in my working life come across inconsistencies in pay with my male colleagues. But sadly it seems the gap still exists.

So today as we recognise #internationalwomensday I hope we reach a time where we can celebrate the differences and the equality of all of the phenomenal women and men out there. We all deserve to be recognised for our gifts, be they the same, similar or different..... be we women, men or transgender...I think that such recognition of equality would be something to really celebrate don't you ?

And Ladies.... this is for you.....the beautiful words of Maya Angelou...

Until next time,
make every moment count.

Lisa xx