Nowadays it seems that we often spend most of our time cooped up, going from home to the car, and then to work and back again. The cold days keep us wanting to stay inside, and the warm days just pass us by, because we’ve built up the habit of not enjoying fresh air.

The thing is, though, fresh air and nature should be mainstays in our everyday, regardless of the outside temperature. There is, of course, the matter of oxygen– instead of the aromas and carbon dioxide we inhale inside. Our slouching habits also sometimes cause us to forget that our lungs crave fresh air, and they also crave the ability to fill up to the max (at least a few times a day).

So… once a day when you’re outside anyway or when you are doing something that could be accomplished outdoors as well, pause for a moment and take in the fresh air. Get away from the hubbub of modernity and close your eyes to just experience the sensations around you…
Forget everything but the moment and breathe in. Allow your lungs to fill with fresh oxygen and enjoy the nature sounds around you.

There truly is magic in the natural world around us, even though we’ve built up metropolises and gotten wrapped up in man-made splendors. And it’s truly a gift to remember what things exist in the trees and grass and sky when we have the desire and resolve to see them.

Just a friendly reminder to enjoy the bountiful nature around, and also to allow your body to reap its benefits. Just a suggestion to look up more often, examine the clouds, and name their shapes. And maybe even walk around barefoot in some grass and connect more with the magic in our world. Any way that seems right to you is perfect, just make an effort to practice these experiences for at least two minutes every day. The real-life and tangible magic it’ll infuse into your life is truly priceless…

Yours in Calmness,
Reverend Michelle

The concept of communication seems like a given, but it appears that nowadays it takes a backseat when it should actually be a main topic. As a skill it’s unrivaled when it comes to its applicability to daily life. We’re constantly communicating with others in various forms and perhaps we take it for granted sometimes…

Instead of just waiting for our turn to speak it’s important to actually listen to others and internalize the information they’re trying to convey. Communication is the crux of all successful relationships, and I feel that sometimes people forget to show they’re truly listening. Putting an effort into having a dialogue with someone, without judgment, can even be the basis for (or continuation of) an unexpected partnership. And, of course, two (or more) heads are much better than one. Effective problem-solving can only occur when people genuinely respect the ideas of others, and communication is the key to any successful collaboration.

If we look back in history, most of the unlikely rising stars we still hear about today had the communication skill down. They used effective speaking to convey their ideas, and they simplified their big ideas into smaller actionable ones so that others could carry on their legacies. To carry on their example, it’s important to recognize that not everyone is as talented or as smart as you are…. often people require you to extrapolate on your ideas before they can internalize and run with them as intended. I don’t mean that as a jab at the average individual, I just feel it’s important to know you’re unique (as are your thoughts) and respecting others at their level is just another aspect of effective communicating. You don’t need to talk down to them, necessarily, it’s just helpful to be your own mediator between thoughts and expected results.

Arthur Schopenhauer (a German philosopher from the early 1800s) stated that, “talent hits a target no one else can hit; Genius hits a target no one else can see.” When we combine talent, genius, and communication skills we become a truly unstoppable force! When it comes down to it, the ability to communicate advanced topics to others is what determines how much these topics are truly grasped. What I mean is, effective communication is essential to developing and pursuing genius.

Effective leadership requires communication, but so does any relationship!
A romantic (or even familial) relationship also flourishes when communication is present, and when mutual respect is in place to help both partners feel their statements and feelings matter.

So, in your own life, consider putting down your electronic devices for a bit and actually engaging your world. Show your respect for those that matter and make eye contact when they’re talking to you. Express your understanding and appreciation for what they say by responding in a timely manner without tuning them out. Ram Dass says “wherever you are, be all there,” and I think that’s a perfect summary for getting better with your communication skills. Of course, everything requires practice and communicating is no exception – the only way to improve is to use it as often as possible in varying degrees.

It’s easy to get immersed in chores, and projects, and even in our own thoughts. But when we extrapolate advanced concepts and engage our surrounding world at the same time, we can truly experience the beauty that is.

Thanks for reading!!!

Yours in Calmness,
Reverend Michelle

Reverend Michelle is a Wellness Scientist and healer with over 15 years’ experience. Her unique healing solutions blend proven techniques with a strong scientific influence.
This is cutting edge, because for over 6 years Rev. Michelle has literally been fusing science with metaphysics!
Stay In Touch via FB for special deals, AND doses of inspirational positivity ~ Facebook.com/coastallilacs.

Relationships sometimes are “acute stressors…[or] chronic stressors,” and this type of stress causes “changes in endocrine functioning” which can affect immune system function, and (ultimately) overall health. While it’s a study of marriage in particular, it shows that differences in how men and women react to aggression effect immune function and health/quality of life way down the road.
[Above paragraph paraphrased from This Study .]

Don’t allow yourself to get caught in a jar so to speak; your surroundings everyday determine your overall enjoyment of life. So are you happy and fulfilled…? Do you smile upon awakening for a brand new day?

Or are you sullen, depressed, sometimes reaching for a momentary escape from your daily circumstances???

Now, sometimes that’s the way you’re telling yourself that something should be changed…. and it’s definitely worth considering if you feel down often and fantasize about remedying things.
But, the flip-side is that it’s also possible your overall engaging of your life’s moments is what’s determining how situations turn out.

What are some ways to feel more fulfilled, even without leaving a job or a spouse?

The short answer is to work more on yourself, and tend to your innermost needs. Often other people (or circumstances or inebriants) aren’t the answer to what you seek to feel….
In my experience the most effective and swift method to feeling uplifted is to change the individual’s perception of the outside world.
So, for a little bit, or as a last-ditch effort, or even just for the sake of experimentation:
Perform the same daily functions for a while but with renewed vision. Use every opportunity to grow as a person and as a mature member of the worldwide social interaction network. And I don’t mean the internet – I mean the social interactions you have every single day with other people face-to-face, or with the various elements of life going on around you.
The more involved answer is: Drink in life, enjoy the tiny fleeting moments, find the utmost pleasure in little happiness-es. Shed any negative baggage you’ve held onto for no one’s benefit. Allow any negativities you encounter daily to just wash away and dissipate from your being, leaving you always feeling simple contentment at your core.

Yours in Calmness,
Reverend Michelle
Calmness.com

Reverend Michelle is a Wellness Scientist and healer with over 15 years’ experience. Her unique healing solutions blend proven techniques with a strong scientific influence.
This is cutting edge, because for over 6 years Rev. Michelle has literally been fusing science with metaphysics!
Stay In Touch via FB for special deals, AND doses of inspirational positivity ~ Facebook.com/coastallilacs.

Happy Groundhog Day!

Some people brush off the concept of consideration, thinking it has little bearing on daily life. The truth of the matter is that being considerate (aka thoughtful, kind, caring, and respectful) of others is one of the most wonderful and rewarding things you can do. The rewards are endless, because not only does a considerate attitude warm others to you, but it generally also improves your own quality of life from moment-to-moment.
Consideration is more than just getting along with others, attempting to jive with them, or just being nice. It’s niceness, but expanded further to think outside the box and at times foresee the needs of others.

So what makes considerate people stand out?

Of course, thoughtful and nice people are often working on their empathy and always expanding their worldview. They are compassionate for the world and people around them, and it shows in small actions. A strongly considerate person might perceive the opposite of this behavior to be selfishness, simply because of someone’s lack of empathy and compassion.

Kind and considerate people are thoughtful of others’ needs and desires. They have developed an intuitive understanding and often find themselves anticipating people’s requests or wants, before they are asked. The reason for this is that they’re in-tune with the world around them and also are always putting themselves in others’ shoes, so the little things are just a matter of logic. Considerate people have very strong extrapolation skills, as they are constantly using them to be nicer to those around.

Courteous people are often smiling, because they know positivity’s power! They smile at themselves in the mirror at various points in the day, but they are also always grinning at people just to brighten others’ day. They realize that something as simple as a smile (even when given to a stranger) is one of the strongest and easiest ways to improve multiple people’s day. This is one of the most basic principles of the consideration concept.

Thoughtful and respectful people utilize their manners and attempt to handle every situation with class. They are polite, which means NOT just listening to speak. They DO actually make eye contact when others are talking and truly pay attention to communications and the speakers’ underlying message. They also find themselves living by the ‘golden rule’ pretty much always, since the way they’d like to be treated is the perfect gauge for a polite way to treat others.

Just by being considerate, a person inherently practices selflessness. This means putting others first, but not always, because balance is the ultimate way to live life to the fullest. You can’t be treating others like gold and yourself like bronze! You must remain positive and continuously appreciate your own moment-to-moment in order to practice meaningful kindnesses.

The powers of being kind and considerate are many, as the energy you put out into the world always finds its way back to you.

The only additional advice I have as you pursue the expansion of your version of Consideration, is this: Always maintain your self-respect. It’s important to be considerate of/to yourself, and this means never becoming a doormat. Just as with anything, moderation is key because not everyone deserves to be treated like diamonds and everything nice! Sometimes people are too far-gone into negativity, but that’s their battle. Even with them, just keep on smiling! Positivity is proven to be infectious. 🙂

Reverend Michelle is a Wellness Scientist and healer with over 15 years’ experience. Her unique healing solutions blend proven techniques with a strong scientific influence.
This is cutting edge, because for over 6 years Rev. Michelle has literally been fusing science with metaphysics!
Stay In Touch via FB for special deals, AND doses of inspirational positivity ~ Facebook.com/coastallilacs.

Yours in Calmness,
Reverend Michelle
Calmness.com

When we make little statements to ourselves or others about our well-being, monetary situation, or life circumstances we’re also communicating with our subconscious mind and that makes a lasting impression! Negative self-talk has bad ramifications that go far beyond what your imagination could convey.
Have you ever noticed yourself making seemingly inoffensive statements like: “I don’t have money to do…”; “I’m broke”; “I’m so stupid…”; “I’m being retarded right now”; “I’m boring”; or “I feel lousy”…???
Ever noticed yourself uttering ANYTHING along those lines?

Even though it might seem like an ice-breaker with certain people, or perhaps you believe you deserve to label yourself at certain times it is still a very unhealthy habit.
The truth is that these sorts of statements are self-fulfilling prophecies.
Perhaps you feel poor at certain times, or maybe you even feel silly for behaving a certain way. That’s perfectly normal, and every single person has experienced those same feelings at some point. The important part is to not be defined by these moments, because the first step to improving is to stop speaking to/about yourself in this way!

Feeling confident and attractive, as well as dancing with abundance are all qualities we seek to enjoy on a daily basis.
So how do we break down these self-made verbal barriers, and keep our eyes on the prize???

Here are a few tips for changing this self-talk into positive statements, and experiencing the beauty and fulfillment you deserve:

1) Become aware of any negative statements you succumb to. Begin to pay attention to the EXACT wording that you use, and categorize every phrase (in regards to yourself and your situations) as positive or negative. When you come across a negative one, immediately say “erase, erase, erase” and purposely word the sentence differently. Even if you don’t do this at a noise level others can hear, it’s beneficial to you to formulate a re-wording. For example: let’s say you caught yourself saying “I’m broke right now”. A great re-wording would be to acknowledge that you work hard for your money and all your bills are paid, at the moment you just don’t have the funds to do something frivolous. Another re-wording might be that all the funds you need are available to you exactly when you need them, and you’re full of gratitude for how the universe takes care of you.

2) Utilize every opportunity you can to be thankful for your inherent abundance. Realize that as you pay more attention to your self-talk you become more powerful in regards to your deserving and positive destiny, and ABUNDANCE in every form is already on its way to you. Say “thank you” often, even if it’s just a whisper to yourself. This is a constant encouragement to this bountiful abundance that’s traveling towards you, and you’ll find you access it more often as a result.

3) Utilize every opportunity to be thankful for your overarching health. One of the richest things we can own in healthiness, and one of the most lovely things to realize is how much of it we truly have. Sure, sometimes you may feel under the weather or perhaps you catch a form of the flu; maybe you’ll even experience a more severe illness for a bit. The important part through it all is being thankful you’re around to breathe, to feel life’s natural highs, to appreciate all the complex inner workings of your body that keep you going every single second. Tune in to these wonderful truths and find your overall health always increasing, as you love to take care of (and cherish) the gift of everyday.

4) Sometimes the people around us can be negative influences in regards to self-talk. And sometimes it’s easy to have grown so accustomed to these negative handouts that they invade our space without any protective net to stop them. If this is the case, begin every day with a protective energetic shield of positive energy. The easiest way to accomplish this is to close your eyes and imagine the beautiful celestial light from above covering you (and enveloping you) from head to toe. It’s a positive and pleasant energy-force that anyone can access for themselves, to keep the often-negative world around us at bay. When you’re wearing this shield you’ll still be able to communicate with the outside world in the same manner, but you’ll be able to fend off any negativity people try to fling at you and it’ll fade away instead of being absorbed into your positive aura.

Hopefully these tips will help you progress on your journey to being more abundant, healthy, and FREE!!!!

Have a wonderful week. 🙂

Reverend Michelle is a Wellness Scientist and healer with over 15 years’ experience. Her unique healing solutions blend proven techniques with a strong scientific influence.
This is cutting edge, because for over five years Rev. Michelle has literally been fusing science with metaphysics!
Stay In Touch via FB for special deals, AND doses of inspirational positivity ~ Facebook.com/coastallilacs.

Yours in Calmness,
Reverend Michelle
Calmness.com

In this day and age years often pass without much second thought; time goes by and one year turns into another as though it was just another day.
But this year why not make it special? Why not close out 2015 with meaning, and manifest a truly meaningful new year?

There are a few things you can do that will really close this year out strong, and bring about the motivation and revitalization you seek.

First of all, tie loose ends. Finish unfinished business and set yourself straight with anything that’s been lingering. The ending year is the perfect time to get rid of enduring baggage and set the slate clean. Often there are simple things that have stayed on the to-do list for weeks (or months) that would be a sigh of relief to finally finish. Put aside some time in the next day or two to cross these things off the list!

Secondly, be of service. Volunteer somehow and gift your time (or resources) to those less fortunate. Sometimes it really doesn’t take much, but the positive ramifications can echo for a long time! Maybe you’ll even learn something along the way… If you’re at a loss for ideas, look up local nursing homes, homeless (or battered peoples’) shelters; perhaps even meals on wheels or a similar venture. A few hours spent gifting your time to people will go a long way and also increase your personal feelings of self-worth!!!

Third, go outside and visit with nature! Mental processes that have been whirling around and goals you have set for the coming months are strengthened by time outside. Put away your technology (or better still, turn it off) and just be with nature. Perhaps you have yet to truly set your goals for the coming year, and seek some guidance. Being outside, taking a walk, and allowing nature to communicate with you can be very helpful in these endeavors. Take some deep breaths and feel the energy that emboldens you filling your lungs. Allow the crisp air to bring you strength and motivation for charting the path to your goals.

Fourth, get in touch with your spiritual or religious roots. It doesn’t matter which religions or spiritual avenues ring loudest with you… All that matters is that you’re in touch with them. Some cultures have a gratitude ceremony for major turning points in the year, and if it feels right to you then incorporate that into your practice as well! I mention the strength of ‘thank you’ often, and another wonderful time to feel those benefits is when closing out one year and beginning the adventures of a new year! Learn some new things that have to do with your spiritual or religious beliefs, and allow this information to revitalize your meaningful connections.

When it comes time for 11:59 to turn into midnight and beyond on Thursday night, perhaps you won’t be around a lot of people, or even partying at all. Know that’s perfectly fine, because ultimately it’s the motivation and energy that you feel that matters. Touch base with your base feelings and stride into the New Year with confidence, since this one will be the best yet!

Thank you for reading, and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Reverend Michelle is a Wellness Scientist and healer with over 15 years’ experience. Her unique healing solutions blend proven techniques with a strong scientific influence.
This is cutting edge, because for the last five years Rev. Michelle has literally been fusing science with metaphysics!
Stay In Touch via FB for special deals, AND doses of inspirational positivity ~ Facebook.com/coastallilacs.

Yours in Calmness,
Rev. Michelle
Calmness.com

Studies have shown time and again how helpful it is to be thankful. An attitude of gratitude helps elevate a person’s self-worth and appreciation of life. That, in turn, helps this person to permeate joy and happiness and share these positive feelings with those around them.

On Thanksgiving Eve this year, there is a full moon that the Native Americans dubbed Beaver Full Moon. The significance of this one is related to either beavers being around preparing for winter, or to let people know to put out traps so they could catch some for furs.
This year it just so happens to fall on the eve of a holiday that asks us to reflect on all the wonderful things in life.

I feel as though the timing is perfect, because when you’re grateful and positive you attract more positivity. And in this lovely full-moon time-frame, your thoughts and attractions will be stronger.

So in the next few days, do yourself a favor! Take just five or ten minutes and reflect on all the beauty and bounty in your life. Write a list if you like, or just mentally picture all the wonderful things.
Close your eyes for just a moment and feel the thankfull-ness in all of your body! If some of the things you listed were people, tell them they’re appreciated. It might make their day! 🙂

Thank you for all the beauty you bring to the world!!! May this Thanksgiving be a lovely holiday for you (and yours) this year, ushering in even more positivity and joy that compounds every day!

Thanks for reading, and have a wonderful week!

Yours in Calmness,
Rev. Michelle
Calmness.com