The Old Soul Millennial Podcast: Recent Episodes
Kristen Kennedy Smith
The Old Soul Millennial Podcast is a place where we discuss what it means to be an Old Soul in this new age of technology. We will cover topics including holistic health and wellness, empowerment, purpose, and building community.
If you have big dreams, this is the episode for you. Listen in to my conversation with Patience Noah of Patience Noah Insurance to learn unknown tips and benefits about Life Insurance!
In this week's episode we also discuss the importance of healthy living and habits to avoid burnout as an entrepreneur or career-oriented individual, focusing on the unique journey of the female entrepreneur.
This is an episode you do not want to miss!
You can find more information about Patience Noah Insurance, or simply schedule a time to chat with Patience to learn more about life insurance, by following her at @patience_noah1 on Instagram.
These gorgeous souls are on a mission to raise awareness about trauma-informed yoga and its role in the yoga industry!
As a current A&I ModiYoga Instructor and soon to be certified ModiYoga instructor, Charmaine and Zephyr are both passionate about providing a safe space for those who have experienced trauma and may be triggered by traditional yoga poses or settings.
In this week's episode we discuss their "why" stories and begin to dive into a conversation about developing an environment that empowers, holds space for, and encourages those who have experienced trauma to heal and feel comforted.
Are you on a healing journey and navigating motherhood at the same time? This is is the episode for you! In this week's episode we speak with Charmaine Houck of Wildly Aligned Wellness and a ModiYoga instructor with the A&I Virtual Yoga Studio!
We discuss the healing journey, trusting ourselves, and also embracing uniqueness even when we are in environments where we may feel tempted to "dim to fit in", such as the school PTA for parents.
You do not want to miss this opportunity to get to know Charmaine and her mission in this lifetime!
You can follow Charmaine on Instagram @charmaine.n.houck!
In this organic conversation, Thomas Noah of 3G System Fitness and I discuss our vision and passion for growing heart-centered wellness businesses that are accessible to all. This was not planned as a podcast but the content is just too good not to share! Thomas and I started our businesses at the same time and have started to grow and scale our businesses, even amid the shifting culture of 2020.
If you love inspiration and hearing people talk about their passion projects with excitement and enthusiasm, this is an episode for you!
You can follow Thomas Noah on Instagram @3Gsystemfitness and @3G_athletics or visit www.3gsystemfitness.com
This week we speak with Gabrielle Booth, founder and CEO of Peer.Amid and co-creator of UPstruct live. Kristen and Gabrielle discuss finding our voice, trusting ourselves, and using our knowledge to empower and guide others. If you are experiencing imposter syndrome or a fear of starting a new career or endeavor, this is the episode for you!
If you would like to learn more about UPstruct Live, head over to our sister website, www.eduvolv.online and click on "UPstruct Live". You can register for an information session to learn more about UPstruct Live Airtime. It is our goal to encourage you to find new streams of income by sharing your voice or event with the world, and we will help you get there with our system and online platform.
Interested in connecting with our guest, Gabrielle Booth of Peer.Amid? Head over to https://peeramid.studio/ or follow them on Instagram @peer.amid.
Music:
Track: Horizons Artist: Bloome Instagram: @bloomeofficial SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/bloomeofficial/horizons
Track: Dream Away — INOSSI
Free Download / Stream: hypeddit.com/link/0jv0d4
Track: Fade Out Artist: LiQWYD YOUTUBE: Music by LiQWYD Free download: bit.ly/fade-out-free-download Instagram: Music by @LiQWYD
In this week's episode we speak with the face behind "Merlot with the Flow" on Instagram, Kjirsten Seiler! Kjirsten is a former dance and a higher education professional who is pursuing her A&I 200 Hour ModiYoga Level 1 Certification. She resonates with other "9-to-5-ers" and commuters who are typically very busy and limited on time for self care and balance.
In this episode Kjirsten shares her personal experience overcoming perfectionism in yoga and recognizing that modifications and adjustments can be your best friend, even if you are competitive in nature.
Kjirsten's goal for her studies and as an instructor is to meet the needs of working moms and commuters who are in need of some down-time that is relatable and realistic for their busy lives. She also has a strong love and passion for wine and seeks to combine these two loves to form community within her Instagram platform and in the virtual yoga studio.
You can follow Kjirsten on Instagram at @merlotwiththeflow!
This is a transformative time and with transformation comes the invitation to do inner work or to ignore and suppress emotions
In this episode, Kristen encourages listeners to look within and recognize, name, and adjust any emotions, insecurities, fears, or worries that are showing up during this time of international crisis and equality revolutions.
It is not always easy to take the small steps when the mountain feels so tall or daunting, but Kristen emphasizes the benefits of aligned action in order to more fully embrace change and transformation. It is time to reassess and to grow.
Are you with us? We look forward to sharing this week's episode with you.
Do you follow us on Instagram? Check us out! @affirmations_innovations
Interested in a Reiki healing session? Visit our website, https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki-old-soul-lightworker.html to learn more and book a session! You can also learn more about our Full Moon and group distance Reiki offerings there! Follow @old.soul.lightworker for more resources and tips!
Curious and want to learn more about Ayurveda? Visit https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/ayurveda-old-soul-veda-ayurvedic-wellness.html or follow us on Instagram at @old.soul.veda .
Are you looking to try yoga online? Visit https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/yoga-ai-yoga.html to join our next Online LIVE Yoga session or to get online resources for inclusive yoga! You can also follow our yoga Instagram for some short sequences you can try at home! Follow @a.i.yoga
Music:
Track: Horizons Artist: Bloome Instagram: @bloomeofficial SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/bloomeofficial/horizons
Track: Dream Away — INOSSI
Free Download / Stream: hypeddit.com/link/0jv0d4
Track: Fade Out Artist: LiQWYD YOUTUBE: Music by LiQWYD Free download: bit.ly/fade-out-free-download Instagram: Music by @LiQWYD
This is an episode that Kristen channeled directly from source without any pre-planning or theme in place. The theme that came through was "Be Here Now" which was engulfed in the Vedic concept of "The Gap" and steeped in the concept of "Pivoting" and embracing our Lion/Lioness totem.
This is an episode that brings wisdom and personal experience laced with channeled messages that are timely for the state of the world today. Be here now, with us, take a listen.
Do you follow us on Instagram? Check us out! @affirmations_innovations
Interested in a Reiki healing session? Visit our website, https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki-old-soul-lightworker.html to learn more and book a session! You can also learn more about our Full Moon and group distance Reiki offerings there! Follow @old.soul.lightworker for more resources and tips!
Curious and want to learn more about Ayurveda? Visit https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/ayurveda-old-soul-veda-ayurvedic-wellness.html or follow us on Instagram at @old.soul.veda .
Are you looking to try yoga online? Visit https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/yoga-ai-yoga.html to join our next Online LIVE Yoga session or to get online resources for inclusive yoga! You can also follow our yoga Instagram for some short sequences you can try at home! Follow @a.i.yoga
Music:
Track: Horizons Artist: Bloome Instagram: @bloomeofficial SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/bloomeofficial/horizons
Track: Dream Away — INOSSI
Free Download / Stream: hypeddit.com/link/0jv0d4
Track: Fade Out Artist: LiQWYD YOUTUBE: Music by LiQWYD Free download: bit.ly/fade-out-free-download Instagram: Music by @LiQWYD
Do you often feel ALL THE THINGS, even if they aren't YOUR things directly? Do you sometimes notice that you are highly sensitive to things and also notice more than others do about a person, environment or situation? You may be a natural empath.
Being empathic is extremely valuable, but sometimes you may need extra tools in your toolbox to reset and redefine what belongs to you and what does not. In this episode, Kristen provides some practice tips and tricks to help you during this time of quarantine, or any time thereafter, to help you feel more balanced when you feel ALL THE THINGS.
Do you follow us on Instagram? Check us out! @affirmations_innovations
Interested in a Reiki healing session? Visit our website, https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki-old-soul-lightworker.html to learn more and book a session! You can also learn more about our Full Moon and group distance Reiki offerings there! Follow @old.soul.lightworker for more resources and tips!
Curious and want to learn more about Ayurveda? Visit https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/ayurveda-old-soul-veda-ayurvedic-wellness.html or follow us on Instagram at @old.soul.veda .
Are you looking to try yoga online? Visit https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/yoga-ai-yoga.html to join our next Online LIVE Yoga session or to get online resources for inclusive yoga! You can also follow our yoga Instagram for some short sequences you can try at home! Follow @a.i.yoga
Music:
Track: Horizons Artist: Bloome Instagram: @bloomeofficial SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/bloomeofficial/horizons
Track: Dream Away — INOSSI
Free Download / Stream: hypeddit.com/link/0jv0d4
Track: Fade Out Artist: LiQWYD YOUTUBE: Music by LiQWYD Free download: bit.ly/fade-out-free-download Instagram: Music by @LiQWYD
We are in a state of transition and it is sometimes difficult to feel empowered when in a state of uncertainty, quarantine, and confusion. However, this is a time of healing, reflection, and transformation. This episode is encouraging as we seek to empower those around us.
In this episode we speak with Dr. Michelle Snow, an Arizona native, outdoor enthusiast, health coach and Chiropractor, and truly an old soul! She’s passionate about helping individuals take control of their health and build lives they really love... oh and laughing her way through life is a must!
Interested in connecting with Michelle?
You can follow her business on instagram, @ascendchiro and her personal instagram, @snowfit.az. You can also listen to Michelle's podcast, The Real Ascent, on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
I am here for you. This podcast is a mini episode to share my support and to remind you that you have an invitation to feel any way you need to during this time of uncertainty and quarantine. This episode has tips and recommendations for working through your experiences with the new reality we are all facing.
Do you follow us on Instagram? Check us out! @the.old.soul.millennial @affirmations_innovations
Interested in a Reiki healing session? Visit our website, https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki-old-soul-lightworker.html to learn more and book a session! You can also learn more about our Full Moon and group distance Reiki offerings there! Follow @old.soul.lightworker for more resources and tips!
Curious and want to learn more about Ayurveda? Visit https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/ayurveda-old-soul-veda-ayurvedic-wellness.html or follow us on Instagram at @old.soul.veda .
Are you looking to try yoga online? Visit https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/yoga-ai-yoga.html to join our next Online LIVE Yoga session or to get online resources for inclusive yoga! You can also follow our yoga Instagram for some short sequences you can try at home! Follow @a.i.yoga
Music:
Track: Horizons Artist: Bloome Instagram: @bloomeofficial SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/bloomeofficial/horizons
Track: Dream Away — INOSSI
Free Download / Stream: hypeddit.com/link/0jv0d4
Track: Fade Out Artist: LiQWYD YOUTUBE: Music by LiQWYD Free download: bit.ly/fade-out-free-download Instagram: Music by @LiQWYD
Occupational Therapy (OT) is a practical form of therapy that provides solutions to integrate and participate in everyday life functions and activities. During times of change, it is important to come back to our mindset and our physical body to become more grounded. OT is one way we can do so! Take a listen and learn some practical, simple ways you can reduce stimulation overload and find some peace of mind.
In this episode, we speak with Michelle Denison-Darragh who is a registered and licensed Occupational Therapist who specializes in Sensory Integration Therapy. She has spent time working in pediatric mental health settings and most recently in a Sensory Integration Occupational Therapy clinic. She has pursued additional training in the areas of Trauma and Attachment, Therapeutic Listening, and mindfulness-based approaches. Michelle has a passion for working with children and their families to help children develop the skills needed to be successful in their everyday lives using creative, fun approaches.
Do you follow us on Instagram? Check us out! @the.old.soul.millennial @affirmations_innovations
Interested in a Reiki healing session? Visit our website, https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki-old-soul-lightworker.html to learn more and book a session! You can also learn more about our Full Moon and group distance Reiki offerings there! Follow @old.soul.lightworker for more resources and tips!
Curious and want to learn more about Ayurveda? Visit https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/ayurveda-old-soul-veda-ayurvedic-wellness.html or follow us on Instagram at @old.soul.veda .
Are you looking to try yoga online? Visit https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/yoga-ai-yoga.html to join our next Online LIVE Yoga session or to get online resources for inclusive yoga! You can also follow our yoga Instagram for some short sequences you can try at home! Follow @a.i.yoga
Music:
Track: Horizons Artist: Bloome Instagram: @bloomeofficial SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/bloomeofficial/horizons
Track: Dream Away — INOSSI
Free Download / Stream: hypeddit.com/link/0jv0d4
Track: Fade Out Artist: LiQWYD YOUTUBE: Music by LiQWYD Free download: bit.ly/fade-out-free-download Instagram: Music by @LiQWYD
This new call to action looks different; it is guided action. Intention, mindset, purpose, and flow are shining through right now and it is time to allow inspiration to flow through us.
With the world changing before our eyes, it is time to change the way we live our daily lives, as well. In this solo-cast, Kristen offers recommendations from Ayurveda, Yoga, and Reiki to come back to yourself and find balance throughout this change and shift.
Do you follow us on Instagram? Check us out! @the.old.soul.millennial @affirmations_innovations
Interested in a Reiki healing session? Visit our website, www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki to learn more and book a session! You can also learn more about our Full Moon and group distance Reiki offerings there! Follow @old.soul.lightworker for more resources and tips!
Curious and want to learn more about Ayurveda? Visit https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/ayurveda-old-soul-veda-ayurvedic-wellness.html or follow us on Instagram at @old.soul.veda .
Are you looking to try yoga online? Visit www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/yoga to join our next Online LIVE Yoga session or to get online resources for inclusive yoga! You can also follow our yoga Instagram for some short sequences you can try at home! Follow @a.i.yoga
Music:
Track: Horizons Artist: Bloome Instagram: @bloomeofficial SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/bloomeofficial/horizons
Track: Dream Away — INOSSI
Free Download / Stream: hypeddit.com/link/0jv0d4
Track: Fade Out Artist: LiQWYD YOUTUBE: Music by LiQWYD Free download: bit.ly/fade-out-free-download Instagram: Music by @LiQWYD
Being an Ally is more important than ever in this time of challenge, frustration, and confusion. It is time to remove the confusion around what it means to truly be an ally, specifically for people of color, if you are a white person in America.
People of color should not be expected to educate white people about their experience or mere existence; it is the responsibility of white people to listen, to guide each other through the process of recognizing the impacts of privilege, and to move forward to learn and grow as become allies.
This week we spoke to Rebecca Toner on this topic. Rebecca is a Trauma and Boundaries Coach and founder of The Nest Center for Coaching as well as a Licensed Processional Counselor in the state of Connecticut where she owns and practices out of Mental Health Counseling and Consultation Services. Rebecca specializes in helping people who are trying to stop identifying with long standing trauma.
Visit Rebecca’s websites to learn more about her offerings:
http://www.mhccholistichealth.org/
www.nestcoaching.org
You can find Rebecca on Instagram at @nestcoaching or by email Rebecca@nestcoaching.org
If you are interested in learning more about the topic of becoming an ally for people of color, here are some of our recommended resources.
Recommended Resources:
Instagram Accounts to Follow:
@exhaustedtoempowered -great for BIPOC who feel as though they have some racial trauma to recover from! She can help you find your voice! (full website at mariverano.com)
@nowhitesaviors
@laylafsaad
@aly.leone
@fromprivtoprogress
@sonyareneetaylor
@amandaseales
Coaches to help unpack your privilege:
@fromprivtoprogress
@exhaustedtoempowered
@aly.leone
@sarahecarey
Books:
“Me and White Supremacy” by Layla F. Sa’ad favorite resource!
“White Fragility”
“Unpacking the White Knapsack”
“Why Are All The Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria”
“Unapologetic”
“Occupying Privilege”
“Just Mercy” by Bryan Stephenson (also a movie)
“The Sun Does Shine”
“The Body Is Not An Apology” by Sonya Renee Taylor other favorite resource
Any of Brene Brown’s books
Dr. Kimberly Crenshaw
“The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk
“Becoming” by Michelle Obama
Podcasts:
“The Good Ancestor” Layla F. Sa’ad
“No White Saviors”
“Oprah’s Super Soul Conversations"
Authors/Poets:
Nikita Gill
Nayyirah Waheed
RobinDeAngelo
Links:
http://www.guidetoallyship.com
In this week's episode I am interviewed on "Divine Human Podcast", hosted by Maria Martinez, a classmate of mine in my Ayurveda Master program. We go into conversations regarding 2020 and our insights, trends we have seen through our clients, and conversations regarding business and entrepreneurship!
Maria Martinez: Wealth Consciousness and Human Potential Activator, Energy Alchemist and Quantum Energy Master Healer, Clear Divine Chanel, Author, Speaker and Host of "Divine Human and Consciouspreneurs Creating Global Impact" podcasts Maria helps entrepreneurs, healers, coaches, influencers, leaders step fully into their greatness. She has the keen ability to see, feel, hear, know, what is clearly in their way and how to break through and attract more success, abundance, prosperity, balance, freedom, peace, and fulfillment. Maria can hear their unconscious thoughts, beliefs, fears, pain and unresolved trauma. With her unique blend of abilities and gifts, Maria creates the space for transformation at all levels, dimensions, timelines, and fields of existence. Her clients experience powerful life-changing healing, especially when embracing the inner-child, bringing light to the imposter, victim, ego. Clearing karma, soul contracts, entities, and past lives. Finding peace in letting go and loving forgiveness so that they can access their full potential, manifest unlimited abundance, and live life by design. Do you follow us on Instagram? Check us out! @affirmations_innovations
Interested in a Reiki healing session? Visit our website, www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki to learn more and book a session! You can also learn more about our Full Moon and New Moon group distance Reiki here, as well!
Are you an athlete or fitness enthusiast who also practices yoga? Consider taking our affordable, entirely online Yoga Teacher Certification and become an inclusive yoga teacher for every body! Register today for our 02/02/2020 start date: https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/200-hour-ytt.html
Music:
Track: Horizons Artist: Bloome Instagram: @bloomeofficial SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/bloomeofficial/horizons
Track: Dream Away — INOSSI
Free Download / Stream: hypeddit.com/link/0jv0d4
Track: Fade Out Artist: LiQWYD YOUTUBE: Music by LiQWYD Free download: bit.ly/fade-out-free-download Instagram: Music by @LiQWYD
Ayurveda is based on ancient wisdom and tradition rooted in the Vedas. It includes a deep-rooted, simple and tangible approach to health and wellness based on balance. As we enter the new year, it is tempting to create a new set of goals to achieve within the span of 12 months. Before we embark on setting and striving towards our goals, Kristen urges listeners to slow down and reflect on our current state of balance and connection to Atma, the self. If we are out of balance with the self, then we are not able to strive toward goals that are in full alignment with our dharma, or purpose. First, we can come home to our soul signature and recognize what brings us balance so that we can fully achieve balance and achieve our goals.
Do you follow us on Instagram? Check us out! @affirmations_innovations
Interested in a Reiki healing session? Visit our website, www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki to learn more and book a session! You can also learn more about our Full Moon and New Moon group distance Reiki here, as well!
Are you an athlete or fitness enthusiast who also practices yoga? Consider taking our affordable, entirely online Yoga Teacher Certification and become an inclusive yoga teacher for every body! Register today for our 02/02/2020 start date: https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/200-hour-ytt.html
The world does not need a "New You" in 2020, we just want the authentic, true version of you. There can be a lot of pressure to start fresh, to create a vision board, or to do something different in the new year/decade, but Kristen challenges listeners to own who they are right now and simply fine tune how they show up in the world.
This episode provides some practical suggestions for embracing, loving, and embodying who you are at your core RIGHT NOW. The world needs you to be yourself so that we can all be inspired and encouraged to be our full selves, as well.
Do you follow us on Instagram? Check us out! @affirmations_innovations
Interested in a Reiki healing session? Visit our website, www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki to learn more and book a session! You can also learn more about our Full Moon and New Moon group distance Reiki here, as well!
Are you an athlete or fitness enthusiast who also practices yoga? Consider taking our affordable, entirely online Yoga Teacher Certification and become an inclusive yoga teacher for every body! Sign up for our waitlist today: https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/200-hour-ytt.html
Has nature been calling your name? Get ready to feel inspired to combine your interests and spend some time outside! We love Chanel Mazzone for her enthusiasm and she does not disappoint in this uplifting, inspiring, and fun episode of The Old Soul Millennial Podcast.
Chanel spends most weekends outdoors, which she does not take for granted as a privilege, but certainly makes the most of every opportunity. Chanel is a hiker, a skier, a snowboarder, and she spends time painting and practicing yoga outside. Not to mention, Chanel is also a 3 time Marathon runner, having completed the Boston, Providence and Chicago Marathons. It is easy to see that Chanel is an inspiring human and her bubbly, magnetic personality makes you want to follow her lead.
If you would like to connect with Chanel, head over to her instagram: @chanelmarie151 or send her an email: chanel.mazzone@gmail.com to ask questions or learn more about outdoor groups and communities!
If you would like to book Chanel to teach yoga for your business, event, or fitness center reach out to Kristen@affirmationsandinnovations.com
Interested in a Reiki healing session? Visit our website, www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki to learn more and book a session! You can also learn more about our Full Moon and New Moon group distance Reiki here, as well!
Are you an athlete or fitness enthusiast who also practices yoga? Consider taking our affordable, entirely online Yoga Teacher Certification and become an inclusive yoga teacher for every body! Sign up for our waitlist today: https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/200-hour-ytt.html
Do you feel disconnected to Western medicine and wish there was a way to integrate Eastern and Western practices? Today we discuss this very topic with the beautiful soul, Deepa Patel, MD.
Deepa is a physician who focuses on rare diseases and oncology as well as an Ayurverdic Wellness Consultant, Registered Yoga Teacher, Certified Metabolic Balancing and Lifestyle Coach. Deepa gained her knowledge of Ayurveda from My Guru and a renowned Ayurvedic Physician Shri Maa Anantanand Tirth from India. She has completed her Health Professional Certification from Maharishi Ayurveda Association of Americas with Stuart Rothenberg, MD, and Nancy Lonsdorf, MD, two of the most experienced Maharishi Integrative Ayurveda clinicians in the world. Integrating everything I have learned from Yoga, Ayurveda, and real-world experience I offer a unique and down to earth, practical way to incorporate spiritual fulfillment.
If this episode resonated with you, consider reaching out to Deepa via text or Email. Text: (732) 397-3298 Email: dpatel.22@gmail.com
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If you would like to learn more about our Ayurvedic Wellness coaching, head over to www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/ayurvedic-wellness-consulting.html
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Interested in trying a Reiki energy healing session with Kristen or trying our Full Moon Group Distance Reiki? Head over to https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki.html to learn more!
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Do you practice yoga and other athletics and wish to teach athlete-specific yoga? Sign up for our Online 200 Hour A&I Yoga Certification waitlist today! Go to https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/200-hour-ytt.html to sign up now!
Holistic health and wellness has so many traditions, theories, and uses when it comes to herbalism. On this week's episode we interviewed Kelsey Gordon regarding her knowledge, experience, and expertise with herbalism from both Eastern and Western theories and approaches. This episode is a casual conversation that just barely touches the surface of this vast and fascinating topic.
Kelsey's background in public health, her apprenticeship with a shaman approach to herbalism, and current study of Ayurvedic Eastern herbs all come through in her knowledge and wisdom of these healing herbs. Kelsey is currently working to produce a resource that compares and explains the uses and qualities of the herbs across a variety of theories. Kelsey will be available soon via Facebook, email and a fresh herbal website soon, we will keep you posted so stay tuned!
Kristen reflects on her studies at Maharishi University in Fairfield, IA where she is pursuing her M.S. in Ayurveda, Traditional Indian Medicine. This University is SO MUCH MORE than a college campus; it is also the home of Transcendental Meditation and advanced meditators who are making an impact on the greater community, the country, and ultimately the world.
This energetic hub of consciousness was a moving experience and working with clients, learning from esteemed Ayurvedic doctors (Vaidya's) and understanding the simplicity and wisdom involved in this extensive holistic medicine all contributed to growth and learning.
If you would like to learn more about Maharishi University, the Transcendental Meditation Studies, or Ayurveda, reach out to Kristen via email Kristen@affirmationsandinnovations.com or on instagram in the DM's @affirmations_innovations.
Please follow, subscribe, review, and provide a 5 star rating of this podcast! If you do, take a screenshot before you submit the review and I will do an oracle card pull for you, sending you a video explaining what the card means!
Do you have a routine? It is one of the key aspects of living a successful, purposeful life and it does not need to be restrictive or stifling. A routine is merely time to set your intentions, to energize yourself or set yourself up for success!
In this episode, Kristen provides suggestions for a healthy routine, loosely based on Ayurvedic routines, that will help you step into your true self and purpose by taking out the things that limit your full potential.
If you would like to learn more about Reiki, head over to www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki today!
To download our Chakra 101 Guide or watch our Chakra Webinar, follow us on Insgatram, @affirmations_innovations and check out the link in our bio!
Do you forget who you are at your soul's core sometimes? Is it hard to distinguish your own inner voice and that of society or others who influence your life?
This episode will provide actionable steps to come home to yourself in a realistic, meaningful, and authentic way. Kristen discusses her own process for stepping back into herself and explains examples of how she takes actionable steps to make decisions based on her soul's unique signature.
If you would like to learn more about Reiki, head over to www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/reiki today!
To download our Chakra 101 Guide or watch our Chakra Webinar, follow us on Insgatram, @affirmations_innovations and check out the link in our bio!
You may be familiar with holistic health, but have you heard of Ayurveda? This is Traditional Indian medicine and is a multi-modality approach to health and wellness. Kristen studies Ayurveda at Maharishi University of Management and is an Ayurvedic Wellness Consultant. In this episode, we dive into the Doshas, categorizations within Ayurveda, and Kristen provides practical explanations of each Dosha, cycles of each Dosha and routines that benefit each Dosha. This is content that is often provided in Kristen's workshops and she is sharing it here with you today as a free look into Ayurveda! ENJOY!
Interested in learning more about Ayurveda? Book a private consultation with Kristen or stay tuned for more information about workshops in the Phoenix area at https://www.affirmationsandinnovations.com/ayurvedic-wellness-consulting.html
In this episode Kristen encourages listeners to "do it anyway" when the going seems tough and it seems as though you are walking through mud. There are times when we experience the external as if it were separate from the internal; it is not. The self is always learning and growing, but it is important to recognize that we must work from within first. It is easy to cast blame on others, but they are merely a projection of our inner reality coming out. Kristen encourages listeners to peel back just one layer at a time and notice how we are showing up in this world and how we can teach others about ourselves and how we can trust ourselves, little by little.
For more information about Kristen or Affirmations & Innovations, visit www.affirmationsandinnovations.com today!
Kristen discusses her lack of courage and confidence to form meaningful female community growing up and how that has made her passionate about inclusion and building sustainable, supportive community. She also discusses how she never fit inside a practical box but had to build community before she could embrace her unique life path.
Can you relate?
How can we grow and progress as a society with our technology while embracing and growing positive community? It is time to step up and build community so that we can feel heard, included, and validated in our skills and talents without the need to fit into a box or to fulfill the popular societal dreams or interpretations of success.
For more information inspiration or content around this topic, check out Affirmations & Innovations on Instagram!
It is time to build each other up so that together we may rise. This episode encourages listeners to find ways to mentor fellow women, to build community, and to empower others along your journey. Kristen explains her Powerlifting journey and how there is so much good that can come when healthy feminine and masculine energy work together to empower females. How can you challenge yourself and build up others around you today?
My name is Kristen and I was born with privilege I did not earn. This episode of The Old Soul Millennial Podcast steps deeper into the Throat Chakra and discusses a topic that is very important to me and my growth as a person in this lifetime. I share my personal experiences, perspectives, and perceptions of my privilege as a white female who grew up in the upper middle class and the unconventional path I took outside of the box that society told me I could live in. It is time to start holding space and I hope that this authentic expression reaches you at your core in some way that I could never imagine. I am here to hold space and to facilitate change; this episode will explain why.
Stepping into your fierce, fiery self can be intimidating, but not if you step into the doors of Fit 6-7-8! Raquel makes confidence the standard at this welcoming and inclusive fitness environment! Kristen and Raquel discuss the power of embracing strong feminine energy and how this can benefit everyone. If you are ready to dive into a fun, bubbly, energized discussion this is the episode for you! Sit down with some friends, pour some coffee or or tea, and let's let the sacral and solar plexus energy flow in this uplifting episode!
Follow Fit-6-7-8 on Instagram @fit.6.7.8 or go to their Website to book a class or schedule a private group party!
Anxiety is such a common experience that is often misunderstood. In this episode, we connect with Jen Rimes of Holistic Hope, who works with women who experience debilitating anxiety that impacts their daily lives. We discuss her personal story with anxiety, her insight on the experience of anxiety, and some advice and wisdom for allies and partners of those who experience debilitating anxiety. This episode is uplifting and positive, providing insight and a holistic perspective on anxiety!
If you would like to learn more about Holistic Hope's program, head over to their Facebook Page or email Jen@holistichope.ca.
Archetypes are Kristen's JAM and she loves to feel a sense of self when associating with them. In this episode, Kristen brings up archetypes that can exist within the Chakras! This episode is so relatable and helps to break down the confusion around the Chakra system, making it more practical and brings the topic closer to home: ourselves! You may leave this episode with a greater understanding of the Chakras and feel like you are #teamsacralchakra or #teamcrownchakra by the end!
If you would like to download the free Chakra 101 guide, click here!
Affirmations are a huge part of our mission and this episode will leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and excited to start your own Affirmation practice! This episode is a stream of consciousness that came through to me while I was out and about and I feel that it is worth sharing with all of you! The affirmations are real, raw, silly, goofy, and everything in between. Put this ish on repeat and take in all of the good vibes that this Throat Chakra expression sends out!
In this episode, Kristen discusses her Reiki practice and discusses the connection between Reiki and the Chakras. If you have heard about Reiki, either from Affirmations & Innovations or somewhere else, and have been curious about learning more, this is the episode for you! This long awaited discussion dives deep into the ins and outs of a Reiki session, what it is and what it is not, and how it can help you feel better about releasing that which is no longer serving you and accepting that which is for your higher good. If you would like to receive a Reiki session, visit our website. As always, rate, review, and like this episode if you found it useful!
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We all love the amazing feeling of eating delicious food, but did you know that it can also be medicine? In this episode Kristen continues the conversation with Caroline of Five Roots as they discuss Traditional Chinese Medicine Nutrition. Grab your notebook for this one!
You can follow Caroline on Instagram @five.roots , on Facebook by searching Five Roots Health Coaching or on her website www.five-roots.com. She is now accepting new clients, do not miss out on this opportunity!
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Have you ever thought about the connection between food and your Chakras? We met up with Caroline Suhadolnik of Five Roots to talk about just that! There are so many ways that we can balance our Chakras, but food is a fantastic way to incorporate this into our daily life. Caroline is a health coach, utilizing Traditional Chinese Medical Theory to guide her clients to a more balanced state of health. In this episode we also cover other topics under Chinese Nutritional Theory, so listen in and grab a notebook!
You can follow Caroline on Instagram @five.roots , on Facebook by searching Five Roots Health Coaching or on her website www.five-roots.com. She is now accepting new clients, do not miss out on this opportunity!
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Do you ever feel caught in a pattern of a cycle? Challenges can keep popping up in your life that are familiar but under new circumstances. These are lessons that we have not fully learned in the past that are cycling through until we decide to do something different to break the cycle. In this episode, Kristen discusses what it means to recognize these cycles, how we can start to move beyond them, and what this means for our overall growth.
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Have you heard of Ayurveda? It is the sister science to Yoga and is an ancient form of holistic, natural medicine in Indian tradition. This system of medicine includes a categorization system called the Doshas. In this episode Kristen describes the Doshas in a very casual way so that you can begin considering your Prakriti, or natural born constitution! We hope to share more information about the benefits of Ayurveda over time, as it is a wonderful way to achieve a healthy lifestyle.
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When was the last time you played a game? Not for competition, not to win, not because you were begged to play by a child. When was the last time you played for FUN? We are in a society that thrives on stress and exhaustion. The number of cups of coffee we drank and hours we slept are our badges of honor. What if we, instead, bragged about how much fun we had after work or how we rested and feel so rejuvenated after the weekend? There are so many opportunities to rest and play outside of our responsibilities, even just for 5 minutes at a time, and we are learning this lesson right along with you! It is so easy to keep working, especially when the work does not stop, but this podcast episode encourages you to slow down, play and rest.
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Sometimes we forget why we are going along this journey and how we got where we are today. Stress, overworking, and focusing on what comes next can make us feel as though we are running on a never ending hamster wheel. Stepping back and remembering why we are on this path and how we got here can help us remain conscious of the present and recognize our purpose. This episode takes place in a different location, outside, that is out of the ordinary, because Kristen is doing just this! This is the time for you to recognize your purpose and to identify how you can remain creative, excited, and encouraged to continue along this journey to fulfill your purpose!
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Ever see repeating numbers? Do colors pop up in your mind or are you drawn to certain colors naturally? Have you ever recognized animals as you walk down the road or when you are at the park? These, along with others, may be messages that are intended for you and are there for you to interpret. In this episode, Kristen discusses her own experiences with messages in the form of colors, numbers, birds, and music. She encourages listeners to start their own journey with messages and to connect to the world around them more intentionally.
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When it comes to our passions and interests, we often leave these things on the sideline. We become so caught up in the never ending race of life and believe we do not have time to pursue our thoughts, ideas, passions, and aspirations. However, as Kristen explains in this episode, manifesting our ideas and bringing them to life could impact others on a larger scale and it is our responsibility to use our talents and gifts to make the world a better place. This episode ties episodes 1-10 together and helps us take ownership of our passions and Kristen encourages us to ignite the flame within ourselves to truly step forward and into our purpose.
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Do you have people in your life with whom you connect on a deep, soul level? Do you often experience challenges with this relationship? Soul level relationships can be loving, supportive and filled with communication, but they can also be challenging so that we grow and become better, higher versions of ourselves. In this episode, Kristen discusses how she has made her way through challenges with her now husband and touches on how we can grow our romantic, friend, and family soul relationships so that we do experience, love, support, trust, and comfort.
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When we start reaching for our higher purpose and start embodying our higher self, we will start attracting soul level friends who will help us grow and evolve. However, we also have a responsibility to be there and to show up for these friends because, if they are truly high vibe, then they will appreciate the support and presence more than you know. Being reliable and leaning in when people need you is such a valuable quality in a soul level friendship. This episode is all about managing soul level friendships and allowing ourselves to honor both the feminine and masculine in our friendships and simply allow ourselves to align with those who are there to serve our highest good.
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Kristen gets personal in this episode and empowers listeners to step into their purpose and to be receptive to the messages you are receiving. When you do the work to transition out of your survival mode and into a state of self worth, confidence, love, truth, and authenticity, you can truly manifest the dreams that you are seeking and follow the path to success. This episode also discusses spirit guides and guidance from those who are here to help you.
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In this episode Kristen discusses how you can stop playing small and start playing big with your dreams, goals, aspirations, and ultimately your life's purpose. Step out of the comfort zone, which usually ends up being a zone of massive discomfort when we are not working towards our life purpose, and step into who you are meant to be. Each of us has the potential to achieve success and abundance while making a lasting impact on the world around us.
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Intuition is categorized under feminine, hippie, lacking logic, and sometimes even as ignorant. Recently we have stepped into a time where intuition is valued beyond proof and logic. We are starting to step into our empowerment and notice that the signs we see, the feelings we experience, and the thoughts we have are all pointing us in the right direction if we merely trust our intuition. This episode discusses how we can ignite this intuition and maintain the confidence to trust it. Stop ignoring those red notifications popping up in your head, stomach, or heart and start reading them and taking action based on their message!
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Dharma is a Sanskrit word for purpose. "Do your dharma" loosely translates to “do your job" in today's terms. This is a term that dates back to ancient India and has modern prominence in Yogic tradition and Ayurvedic medicine. Dharma is slightly different than a calling or a vocation; it is something that was intended for us before we could even discern decisions for ourselves. As humans, we have the choice to do our dharma in this life or not; however, life becomes a heck of a lot more difficult when we choose the latter.
Doing your dharma does not just mean that we select a job or occupation and do it well. It does not mean that we step into our responsibilities and show up for our families and friends; it is much more complex than this. These are all examples of living a life of honor, dignity, morality, and good intention; however, we each have a very specific purpose for our lives and we are in this exact moment, in our exact situation for a reason. We experience everything that we do in this life so that we have the tools that we need to do our dharma and fulfill our purpose for this lifetime. Some of us can recognize our dharma based on our personality traits, our interests, our passions, our goals, or our strengths. We may recognize that we have confidence in performing certain tasks or we easily understand specific topics. These are all clues to recognizing our true dharma, but we must dig deeper than these to truly recognize our path.
The path to recognizing your true calling in this life is to integrate all of the information you take in on a daily basis and combine this with the interests you have and your innate strengths and gifts. These gifts are those that make you unique and of service to others. Each person possesses abundant ability to develop into the highest evolvement of themselves in this lifetime. Many of us decide to ignore our gifts out of fear, insecurity, or pursuit of the ego. The ego is another term that is thrown around quite frequently these days. The ego is the part of the self that seeks achievement, recognition, praise, pleasure, or other self-indulgent, external rewards. The ego teaches us a lot about ourselves but, in order to do our dharma, we must put the ego aside and make choices that are for the betterment of human kind.
Once we decide to put the ego aside and to step into our highest self, taking our skills, gifts and intentions in the direction of our life’s purpose, we have the potential to make a lasting impact on this world. There are many socially acceptable forms of purpose or life calling. Many people who are dogmatically religious seek priesthood in the form of an ordained, trained position within their religion. Others may become a priest or priestess for a particular topic, reaching a magnitude of people to bring a widespread message and to guide others. There are archetypes that define this and other types of natural born constitution. For example, a person’s priestess dharma could be to educate others on the importance of taking care of Mother Nature, so that we return to our ancient respect for her, by educating others on the importance of clean soil. Still, others’ dharma may be to work on a smaller scale and create change in the world by listening to and counseling those who are not heard, empowering them and breaking down systems of injustice and power in this world. Both forms of dharma are meaningful, but each requires a unique set of skills, gifts, and intention to make a true impact.
Dharma is also recognized when we are in a state of flow. When we are doing our dharma, we do not face the same frustration, confusion, low self-esteem, low vibration feelings that arise when we are out of alignment. When we are in alignment with our true purpose, everything seems to align in a state of flow. Flow means that we are able to think clearly, we do not feel anxiety or depression, we exist at a high level of presence and consciousness, and we are able to receive messages to guide our path with ease.
Conversely, when we are not doing our dharma, we experience setbacks, frustration, anger, confusion, low self-esteem, exhaustion, and overall imbalance. Such imbalance creates anxiety, depression, and overall dissatisfaction or disappointment. When we ignore the messages or are simply too foggy-minded to recognize them, we are not able to progress and develop. We also have minimal impact on the world when we try to force a path that does not align with the higher self. We may even experience significant fear if we do recognize the signs and the path to doing our dharma because the path may appear treacherous, out of our comfort zone, or just straight up weird.
This fear resides in the root Chakra, located at the base of the spine and the legs on the physical body, and keeps us from moving forward. When we live in fear we are operating in a state of survival and scarcity. We are constantly in fight or flight mode, prompting even more anxiety and depression, and we are not able to move into higher vibrations or states of consciousness. Here, consciousness relates to a state of being when we are in the present and are aware of how our mind, body and spirit feel at all times, as well as aware of that which is occurring around us. When we are able to move beyond this fear, we can clear any presence that resides in the root chakra and we can move into a state of pleasure, joy, and abundance.
Recognizing that we do not need to run and hide or stand up and fight moves us closer to our dharma because we will not be working just to put food on the table and to pay the bills; we will not fear that our shelter or food will be gone or that we will be under attack. Moving into the sacral chakra, which is located at the hips on the physical body, we can start recognizing that which makes us happy, gives us pleasure. Here, we can start to experience abundance. Abundance in this context means that we have more than we need and no longer need to live in a state of fear or scarcity. When we have abundance, we can explore our interests and we do not feel guilty utilizing our skills to pursue activities outside of work. These activities teach us more about ourselves and allow us to develop our confidence.
When we step into our confidence, we are able to experience joy and feel comfortable investing in ourselves because we recognize our self worth. This confidence and self-worth reside in the solar plexus chakra, which resides in the stomach on the physical body. When we are able to step into our confidence we own and accept our abilities, skills, interests, bodies, minds, and make these a part of our identity. Such an identity empowers us and makes us less likely to be persuaded, controlled, or convinced that we need to do a certain job, follow a certain path, or pursue popular interests. We are ready to step up and claim that which makes us unique and brings us joy. We are then ready to share this with others!
Sharing our unique gifts and talents with the world is just one step towards pursuing our dharma. When we accept our abilities and are filled with joy, we can’t help but share these with those that we love, such as our family or friends, or those to whom we easily relate. Using our gifts, skills, abilities, and talents to help others brings us into the heart chakra, which is located in, you guessed it, the chest region on the physical body. The heart chakra is responsible healing and caring for others. In our society it is related to love. When we work from the heart, we can do great things and take a step closer towards doing our dharma. However, we can still work from the heart and be on the wrong path. Someone who goes into nursing or teaching but faces great frustration, challenge, roadblocks, anger, or other forms of alignment is not doing their dharma. Their heart may be in the right place because they seek to help others, but their higher self may not be on this earth to be in a position of authority, to work twelve-hour workdays, or to work under someone else. Therefore, doing your dharma goes beyond this point of evolvement, too. We must be able to live our truth and live in a way that resonates with who we are at our core, as well.
When we are true to ourselves we speak our truth in several ways. Each person expresses thoughts, emotions, ideas, concept or opinions in a unique way; some people enjoy writing, others prefer speech, while some prefer to use body language or expressive movement, such as dance. Each form of expression comes from the throat chakra, which is located at the throat and neck on the physical body. When we can fully and enthusiastically speak our truth and step into who we truly are, our quirks and all, we take a step closer to our dharma. Remember, our dharma is uniquely ours, nobody else on this planet can fulfill your dharma but you. Therefore, speaking your truth and expressing yourself honestly and fully is an essential step to doing your dharma. However, if we are not receiving guidance and listening to the messages being sent our way, then we may allow the ego to step into the throat chakra instead.
Listening to messages and guidance is fairly simple. We must exist in a state of awareness and consciousness; we cannot be thinking in the past or worrying about the future if we wish to receive these messages. Receiving messages is a process that occurs using the third eye chakra, which is located on the forehead between the physical eyes. If you are a spiritual person, you may receive these messages during prayer or meditation. If you are an earthy person, you may see these messages in nature among animals, plants, or weather. If you are someone who relates to the stars and astrology, then you may see these messages based on a horoscope or astrological forecast. Each one of us receives messages differently and we must be open to receiving these messages in order to make decisions and recognize opportunities that guide us to doing our dharma. It is not until we receive these messages that we can truly understand that which is our dharma.
Pure knowledge and understanding the higher self allows us to recognize our dharma and step into flow. This pure state of awareness and acceptance allows us to move beyond the ego and fully pursue our purpose on this planet. This state of knowledge and understanding resides in the crown chakra, located at the top of the head. This is where we are closest to our highest self, to source (otherwise known as God, Goddess, the Universe, etc.). In this state, we can enter a state of knowing and can receive important information that we will use to bring important messages that must be communicated to the world in our own unique way. Your dharma is necessary and important. You have your own audience, no matter how big or small it seems, and you possess all of the skills required to fully step into this role and make an impact on and for others. There is no person on this earth who cannot live out her dharma. Need we go through the steps from root to crown consciously to fulfill our dharma? Absolutely not. Do some of us benefit from going through this process on a literal and conscious level? Absolutely. Each person is unique. Some people are born automatically owning their dharma and know exactly why they are here. Others benefit from the growth process of moving through the phases and this process is necessary so that they are prepared to do their dharma here.
Hold no judgment regarding your individual process or that of others, for we are all intended to go along our own path. Is it possible that some of us do not ever recognize our dharma and pursue our dharma? Absolutely. We are beings who make choices. It is easy to recognize a person who is not pursuing their dharma because they are not on the path to contentment, peace, and flow. They are those who are constantly in a state of stress, frustration, and misalignment. This is not something to judge, we cannot force anyone to do anything and it is not our job or role to think that we know their dharma. We can be messengers and can help them along their path, but that is ultimately their choice.
When you are able to step into your dharma you will not tote your achievements or feel driven by external rewards. You will more than likely possess such achievements or external rewards, but these will not mean the same thing to you as they once did. Your only contentment will come from doing your dharma and fully living out your life’s purpose. This state of being is so euphoric that no low vibrations, judgment or disapproval will influence or affect you. Stepping into your dharma is a process, but there are resources to help you along your path. Even though this is your path and yours alone, do not hesitate to seek out guides, healers, mentors, teachers, and others who can help you progress along the path more smoothly. I am here as a resource, as well, and hope that you feel a sense of excitement and contentment moving forward.
With Light.
Kristen
Releasing emotions, tension, feelings and memories is such a cathartic experience and one that everyone can practice regularly. In this episode, Kristen discusses a wide variety of techniques for releasing that are practical, relatable, and accessible to everyone! She also discusses her own experiences with release as an Old Soul Millennial and shares stories around her personal releases.
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In this episode Kristen discusses the connection between Yoga and Power Lifting and how the two compliment one another on a physical, mental and soul level. Kristen goes into the history of yoga and how it is beneficial for male athletes. She also discusses how weight lifting can be empowering to women and how women are bring powerful feminine energy into Power Lifting. This episode is also about connecting our dualities and recognizing the balance that they provide. How can your variety of interests combine to create a powerful balance in your life?
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In this episode we discuss messages that we receive to guide us and help us. Kristen goes into detail about what these messages may look like, sound like, feel like and how being present allows us to truly open up to and receive these messages.
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Confidence is a beautiful thing and something that everyone is capable of attaining. It is not one single character trait; rather, it comes in many forms and is a reflection of your true personality. Each of you deserves to be confident with who you are, accepting your unique gifts, talents, skills, personality, interests and passions! In this episode we discuss owning, accepting, and loving who you are and growing your own confidence.
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In this episode we go deep into stepping up to our authority and empowerment. We discuss setting healthy boundaries so that we gain respect from others and teach others how to treat us.
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Healthy boundaries are often misunderstood. They are like the second cousin of personal bubbles, once removed, in our culture. It takes confidence and authority to set up healthy boundaries and some of us, okay most of us, lack the confidence to set them. We are afraid of what others will think of us, we fear that we will let someone down, we are scared that the other person will walk out of our lives, and we are most of all shying away from the discomfort. You are allowed to feel these things. However, from experience, I have learned that establishing healthy boundaries truly saved me from anxiety, be it social or random, and from being a serial people pleaser; you know, the kind that are always going along with what others want them to do because they are afraid to stand up for themselves.
I have always struggled with boundaries and setting limits. It is no coincidence that I have also experienced difficulties with my digestion and that my stomach hurt 95% of the time. The stomach is our power center. It is where we assert our confidence, empowerment, courage, self-esteem, pride, and, you guessed it, it is where we set boundaries.
The stomach is also known as the Solar Plexus Chakra. A year ago, I had never even heard of a 'Solar Plexus' and now I think I mention it at least once a week, sometimes ten. This Chakra holds confidence, power, joy, excitement, anxiety, and nerves. There are so many emotions that move through the stomach and they impact how we digest food and how we feel physically. Do you ever get a sharp pain in your stomach when you feel stressed? Do you often feel bloated when you are feeling insecure? Do you ever experience nausea when you are trying to make a decision? These are all common signs of a Solar Plexus imbalance. One of the many reasons we experience this imbalance is because we are not honoring our time, our choices, and our thoughts. When we are not respecting ourselves in this way, we are often giving so much without stepping back to consider what we want, need, and think.
Setting boundaries is intimidating. In our heads, we may picture it as a wall that we are putting up, or, we may be worried that we are running away from our problems. However, this is not the case. Setting a boundary is simply saying to others that you respect yourself enough to remove yourself from situations that are not in your best interest. You are teaching them how to respect you. It is cliché, but we can choose to receive the respect we think we deserve.
Setting boundaries does not mean that you need to be mean or bitchy in any way. If this is not part of your personality, then I advise that you avoid taking on those qualities because this is how we grow a culture of respect. Be an example for others by restricting them to boundaries. If a conversation does not align with your values or if you feel attacked in any way, say so! If that is not respected, calmly explain that you are going to leave if the conversation continues. And, the most important step of all, if the conversation continues, then you need to follow through and create a physical boundary between yourself and those who are disrespecting the verbal boundary you laid.
You may be thinking, “Well, that just sounds rude. My family and friends would never accept that behavior from me. However, they will respect it if you continue to demonstrate such confidence and poise. They will respect you and will learn how to act around you because you are showing them how and you are educating them about you and your values. If you feel as though a conversation or experience is not safe for you, either physically or mentally, then setting a boundary is the best way to show that person that their behavior will not be accepted and that you are strong enough to forge your own path.
Creating a healthy Solar Plexus is one of the most effective ways to assert such authority and confidence. Pay attention to how your stomach feels in certain situations or if there is a pattern to when you get stomach aches, bloating or nausea. If you are not aware of the subtle attacks consciously, your body may be taking on the discomfort subconsciously. Naming and recognizing the imbalances as they arise will help you determine situations that need boundaries.
If you are anything like me, you may like to practice to gain confidence. When I started asserting healthy boundaries, I decided to practice how I would verbally set a boundary because I recognized that in uncomfortable situations I would either run away, shut down, or get overly emotional and lose my authority. When I was prepared with a phrase or a posture while setting a boundary, I could enter discussions or conversations that were difficult for me with greater confidence. Another important part of my Solar Plexus development was using affirmations to grow my self-esteem. The more I told myself I am worthy of receiving respect form others and that I deserve to be heard, the more I actually believed it! Using 'I am' statements, looking in the mirror, holding my right hand on my stomach, and speaking through my diaphragm really helped me grow and develop my ability to set boundaries!
If this resonates with you, consider using a journal to make notes of things that cross your boundary and make you feel uncomfortable. You can also make notes of when you experience stomach issues and if you notice a trigger for this discomfort. Comment below if you have can relate or if you have any questions about setting healthy boundaries, I would love to hear from you!
With Light,
Kristen Isaiah Rustad
Devin Avery eLearning is a term well known in the corporate and military sectors, but is emerging at a rapid rate in the spiritual and holistic health spheres. Healers around the world are recognizing their potential reach beyond the yoga studio and treatment room by taking their wisdom to the World Wide Web.
As a millennial, I grew up in a unique time. Our generation was born just before smart phones were invented and social media existed. We saw the progression from dial-up to Wi-Fi, from MySpace to Facebook, and even Twitter to Instagram. We understand how to use this technology and have a firm grasp on how we can use it to communicate globally. Being a millennial is a unique position as a holistic healer; we have the knowledge and expertise to apply our online skills to reach more people than we could ever see in a private, or even group, session.
Historically, holistic wisdom and teachings are passed down to family or community members by word of mouth, by means of apprenticeship, or by written text. Recently, the digital age and the wave of the Internet entirely shifted the way information is passed along to others. Instead of waiting to receive sacred texts or wisdom from elders, those seeking holistic wisdom and teaching can simply search for articles, follow healers on social media, or even participate in online courses.
With this shift to eLearning brings a challenge for healers and holistic health coaches to create quality courses for their clients and students. Many of these healers are not educators by trade and do not have experience in online instructional design. There are many online courses that are simply “page-turners with primarily text or videos and limited interaction or problem solving integrated into the courses. As an instructional designer and a holistic health practitioner, I understand how vital it is to integrate such student engagement with this new age of online learning. The information healers are passing along should reach as many people as possible to continue the healing process. However, this information will create a lasting, meaningful impression on students and clients if they can also relate the lesson to an experience, as if they are in person for a training or session.
Traditional eLearning mirrors traditional classroom learning: I talk; you listen. However, the new generation of learning demands and expects more. We are a tactile society, used to touch screens and interactively gaining knowledge. Therefore, our eLearning should reflect this desire for interactive digital activity. Imparting knowledge is a tradition of the past that should be held sacred, but today’s holistic healing humans are interested in experiential learning, as well.
As a holistic healer who wishes to develop meaningful, valuable, and relevant online courses, I seek to learn from those currently in the field and to also apply my skills as a professional educator. I hope to make the learning come alive by applying best practices and utilizing the instructional design theories that I studied.
The ancient wisdom and teaching that are resurfacing in the 21st Century have a large audience of conscious-minded learners, ready to meditate, stretch, balance, and develop as the best versions of themselves. They are learning to trust themselves as their own gurus, selecting the teachings and traditions that work for and resonate with them. We are no longer limited to the lessons from our immediate, physical community; rather, we can learn from anyone, anywhere in the world. Such freedom and accessibility provide ample opportunity for building community, sharing, applying problem solving, and creating a cultural shift.
The future of online, holistic health courses moves beyond reading articles and watching webinars. Integrating community discussion, problem solving, application of skills, interactivity, virtual reality, augmented reality, and gamification have great potential to open the doors of communication for modernized, ancient wisdom and teachings to come to life. The goal is to create an authentic learning experience, as if the students are experiencing an in-person session. The first step to achieving this goal is to recognize how we can best serve the online learners in a way that makes a lasting impact.
How will you contribute to this movement?
Comment below with your reactions and responses. I would love to hear your ideas and opinions!