Mama Says Namaste Podcast: Recent Episodes
Ashley & Nathan Logsdon
Looking for input to shift your family from chaos and reaction to a life with intention? Ashley's audio blog series is theme-focused with binge-worthy content on how to create the family and lifestyle you love to come home to. She's a fulltime RVing, location independent, unschooling mama of three, focused on authenticity, awareness, personality styles and embracing love in the present moment.
Our lives have seasons, and it's time for a hiatus from the podcast and a focus on family as we welcome many new shifts this summer.
Join us for our last podcast for a while where we leave you with some questions to ponder and to determine what season you are in, and what might be time to pull back from as you give more elsewhere.
Are you seeking a plan to create a life you truly love and don't want to escape from? Do you want to dive deep into the essence of what you provide for your family and develop the tools to cultivate a flourishing life?
Join us in this episode where we discuss group coaching and the 7-week Flourishing Life Blueprint I'm launching in June. We'll cover self-discovery, creating a family vision, discovering your personal vision statement, and aligning with the DISCovering You course.
We'll explore awareness, integrating work and life, developing an entrepreneurial spirit, and servant leadership. Let's support one another in designing the lives we love. I'd love for you to join me! https://www.48dayseagles.com/flourish
Love without ownership - can you love someone and let go of the outcome?
In this episode, we discuss the concept of love without ownership and recognizing the impact of our actions on others. When it comes to navigating relationships with people or animals, we talk about the importance of the abundance mentality and letting go.
What, truly, is compassionate love, and how can it impact our lives and relationships?
From saying "yes" or "no" to our children to recognizing the influence of others on our loved ones, we explore the beauty of letting go and allowing love to simply be.
Join us on this journey from chaos to clarity, and discover how love without ownership can transform your family dynamic.
I get asked this question a lot as a relationships coach who specializes in helping people understand their personality styles. And the answer isn't a simple yes or no.
It's a lesson in self-awareness and evolution, and this week Nathan and I dig into my mentor's blog post on the "The Lifecycles of Strength" and the many stages we go through as we grow and develop - not only into who we are, but who we want to become.
Listen in, and share with a friend! (Get the full blog post that goes along with it here): https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/does-your-personality-change-over-time-episode-341/
In this episode, Nathan and I dive deep into exploring the balance between knowing what you like and being open to what's working for you. We share our perspectives on the delicate dance of embracing our likes while also being open to new opportunities for growth and connection.
What happens when we get stuck in our ways, and how can we navigate this in our relationships? We discuss how rigid thinking can limit us and how embracing flexibility can open up new doors in our lives and relationships. We talk about Joshua Becker's blog post on Becoming Minimalist.
We challenge you to shift your conversations and ask yourself and those around you, "What's working for you?" This simple question can lead to powerful insights and tools for personal and relational growth. Join us as we explore the beauty of openness and the ways it can strengthen and deepen our connections.
Tune in to discover how this shift in perspective can lead to grace, growth, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and those we love.
https://www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/what-i-like-is-first-step-thinking-episode-340
I was 34 years old and at my wit's end with a 3, 6, and 9-year-old, trying to navigate juggling work and motherhood at the same time. I wrote a blog post then, and, looking back at it now, my heart goes out to that mama I was 8 years ago!
So I updated the blog post and asked Nathan to come on and do an episode now, in hindsight, about working from home and how to navigate it.
So is it overrated and you shouldn't do it? Or...can you find your flow?
Get the full blog post that goes along with it here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/working-from-home-is-so-overrated/
*Bonus - transcript added!
Back in 2018, I wrote a blog post about my perspective on learning together as a family that transcends all educational models and is simply a lifestyle approach. Today, we reflect back on how much this model of "Functional Education" has served us well over the years, and break down the acronym of "FUNCTION" to dig into what it really looks like. Read the corresponding blog post here: Why I Believe In Functional Education...And What That Really Is
If you haven't ever discussed what "home" looks and feels like to you, how will you know when you're there?
We spend a lot of time in business looking at things like a vision statement, team meetings, and showing up in our best light. Yet how often do we give this same intention at home?
We dive into our foundational post on "family vision" that we did eight years ago, reminiscing on the steps we took with young children as well as looking back now at other approaches that would work.
Not everyone is going to get excited about a family vision any more than going to yet another office meeting. Yet each shift toward intention makes an easier flow for everyone to thrive in their own way.
So check out these tips on creating a family vision and why it's important - and let us know what you come up with!
In today's episode, we're diving into the three steps of "showing up" in your relationships - whether it's with your partner, your kids, your family, or your friends. Are you willing to embrace who you are right now, to own your past, and realize it doesn't have to dictate your future?
We explore the first step - "looking inward" - and discuss the importance of giving yourself love, accepting responsibility for your actions, and aligning them with your intentions for how you want to show up in this world.
Then, we uncover the significance of "looking forward" and why it's essential to start acting in the direction of your desires, even if you're not yet fully there.
Finally, we tackle "looking together" - where we communicate, share our intentions, and operate as a team in our relationships. We emphasize the profound vulnerability and the crucial role of communication in truly understanding and supporting each other.
We also shed light on the delicate balance of grace and gratitude in navigating life's messiness and cultivating growth together.
So, are you ready to step into who you want to be and show up in your relationships fully? Tune in to uncover practical insights and strategies for thriving together, embracing growth, and fostering deep connection.
Join us in Episode 335 as Nathan and I delve into the power of setting intentions and our word of the year for 2024.
We explore the shift from traditional goal setting to focusing on the feelings we want to achieve and the people we want to become.
We go over our words and intentions from the past decade with true examples of how it's impacted our growth, and dig into the deeper meaning and desires around a goal when life is always handing us curveballs.
This week we dig into a listener question - how do you navigate judging others - especially when you see poor parenting decisions being made that affect the kids?
We hit on 3 tools to help you navigate judgment and shift the focus to the ripple effect of your impact as we share about the lasting legacy inspired by my father's and my favorite quote.
In our latest episode of Mama Says Namaste, my husband Nathan and I open up about navigating life's unexpected seasons as a family, and the impact of a recent family diagnosis. We share how we find strength and solace during difficult times, along with the importance of family connections in facing challenges head-on.
Here are a few teasers about what we cover:
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How our family is navigating through these unexpected and challenging times.
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The profound impact of Dan Miller's legacy and how it's shaping our outlook on life and relationships.
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Tips on creating a life you don't want to escape from and fostering unique family dynamics.
We'd love for you to tune in and join us for this candid conversation about family, legacy, and navigating life with intention and awareness. It's a raw and heartfelt episode that we hope will resonate with you. You can read the post and see Dad's tribute page here. https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/my-fathers-legacy-navigating-grief-and-walking-him-home-episode-333/
If the holiday season feels like overwhelm, stress and obligation, this is the episode for you. Yes, so often you can do so much more when you simplify and focus on what your true desires are for this season. We share some tips on how to get the most out of the holidays while recognizing this time is just an amplification of the crazy that can hit us any time of year.
Yes, what we do in December definitely rolls over into the new year - and it can be about so much more than just trying to catch up from the stress of the season.
In this episode of Mama Says Namaste, Nathan and I dive deep into understanding personality styles and the perfect gifts for each one. Do you struggle with striking the right chord with your gift-giving?
We lay out gifts for every personality style, and some creative and out-of-the-box ideas. Plus, we keep in mind the impact - on the people AND the environment. If you're looking for a gift with meaning, with a story, and/or with a nod to sustainability, listen in for ideas.
And be sure to check out the blog post that goes along with it! MamaSaysNamaste.com/eco-friendly-gifting-match-sustainable-gifts-with-disc-personality-styles-episode-331
Nathan and I dive deep into the power of emotional currency beyond financial wealth. We discuss our experiences with finding purpose and worth outside of traditional roles, the challenges of being a stay-at-home parent, and the importance of perspective shifts in overcoming feeling stuck.
We answer listener questions about being a stay-at-home parent and feeling the need to bring in income...and similar desires even as an empty-nester.
Join us as we explore the true richness that comes from the non-monetary legacies we leave behind, and be sure to check out the blog to dig deeper and to ask YOUR question for us to answer on the podcast!
This is the first of a new series I'd love to get rolling, called "Two Questions (2Q): You Ask, We Answer".
I kicked this off with a little help from AI, and we addressed two questions on the podcast this week:
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How can we create a structured and supportive learning environment for our children outside of traditional schooling?
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What strategies can we implement to involve our children in our entrepreneurial ventures and cultivate their entrepreneurial spirit?
The focus is on the kids this week, yet, as always, it goes back to you, mamas and papas, to create the environment and be the example you desire for them.
Check out our answers on the podcast (and the blog that goes along with it), and let us know what YOU want to hear us answer next!
This week on Mama Says Namaste, we're diving deep into the seemingly invisible load of managing a home.
I was inspired by another Instagram post on the topic of chores and children. Based on Sam Kelly World's post, we discuss the concept of "notice and do," where we're empowering our children to take ownership of their responsibilities without resorting to the traditional chore list.
We discuss tips and techniques for setting our kids up for success, breaking down tasks into achievable steps, and fostering a family environment where everyone notices what needs to be done and takes initiative.
It's all about empowering our children (and partners), building family unity, and nurturing responsible, proactive adults for the future.
Pay attention this week on what all you "notice and do" at home, and how equipped your family is with the awareness to even know how to help.
In a world filled with constant busyness and overwhelm, it can be easy to overlook the importance of rest and relaxation.
However, here's the thing - rest is not just about taking a vacation or sitting on the couch all day. It's about intentional and purposeful self-care in all areas of our lives.
From my inspiration by an Instagram post, we dig deep into the many facets of "rest" - from emotional and sensory to spiritual and ecological.
Get ready to discover practical tips and real-life experiences that will inspire you to create more restful moments in your day-to-day life. So grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and get ready to embrace the beauty of rest on this episode of Mama Says Namaste. Let's dive in!
Hello, and welcome to Mama Says Namaste! I'm Ashley Logsdon, your co-host and the founder of this podcast. Today, Nathan and I are diving deep into the topic of gender roles and relationships at home.
In this episode, we open up about our own experiences and how our roles within our relationship have evolved over time. We share our initial expectations of traditional roles, how they shifted, and the valuable lessons we've learned along the way.
We also discuss the importance of trust, having fierce conversations, and setting a clear family vision.
Here's the twist - our roles and dynamics may not be what you would expect! We'll reveal how our family went through a major transformation and how it changed everything, from who became the primary breadwinner to who took on household responsibilities.
Through all of this, we've come to understand that relationships are not about rigid roles, but rather about finding ways to blend our strengths and passions to create a balanced and happy home.
If you're curious to learn more about shifting gender roles and how they can positively impact your relationships, then this episode is for you. So join us as we navigate the sometimes unpredictable journey of family dynamics and find clarity amidst the chaos. Mama says namaste!
Join us on today's episode of Mama Says Namaste as I, Ashley, dive deep into the powerful concept of fierce conversations. Inspired by Susan Scott's thought-provoking book, Fierce Conversations, Nathan and I discuss how these principles can revolutionize our relationships at home.
We break down the importance of honest and clear communication, both in the workplace and with our loved ones. We explore why the "compliment sandwich" approach may not be as effective as we think and how addressing concerns head-on can lead to growth and understanding.
We take it a step further and apply these principles within our own homes. Nathan and I share personal stories of navigating tough conversations with our children and each other. We discuss the compromises necessary to cultivate a peaceful and supportive environment for everyone involved.
Through Susan Scott's "Mineral Rights" approach, we learn the four essential steps in having a fierce conversation. We delve into the power of feeling heard and the importance of creating understanding and harmony in our relationships every day.
We don't shy away from the tough topics - we address the emotional burden children can carry in a tense household and the impact it has on their well-being. We challenge the notion of staying in an unhappy relationship for the sake of the kids, emphasizing the significance of commitment and showing up authentically every day.
So, grab your earbuds, lean in, and prepare to ignite change in your relationships. Join us on Mama Says Namaste as we explore the transformative nature of fierce conversations and how they can guide us toward intention, growth, and connection in our homes and beyond.
How trustworthy is your home? Yes, your whole home. Not just the kids...how about you? Are your children guilty until proven innocent? Are you micromanaging or fearful for their safety? Time to tune in.
This week we cover 3 tips for fostering trust with your children, and it's not all on them. Hear some of our personal stories as well as ideas to build more trust in your home in a way that creates a safe environment for everyone, imperfections, mess-ups and all.
And be sure to check out the blog that goes along with this for all we covered on this episode! https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/embracing-openness-fostering-trust-episode-324/
Welcome to Mama Says Namaste, the podcast where we dive into the messy realities of family life and explore ways to find clarity and connection amidst the chaos!
In today's episode, Nathan and I share a personal story that sparked a powerful realization about embracing our imperfections and moving forward with self-acceptance. Join us as we discuss the topic of warts, both literal and metaphorical, and how they can affect our lives and relationships.
We'll explore the struggles we faced as kids with embarrassing warts and the lengths we went to in order to get rid of them. From cutting them out to freezing them off, we've tried it all. But what we discovered is that sometimes, the more we obsess over our flaws, the more they seem to stay with us.
Our journey with warts didn't end with our childhood. We'll share how our own children, Ellie, Jules, and Clara, had their own experiences with warts and the valuable lessons we learned from their insights.
Ellie's profound realization will make you think differently about how we approach our imperfections and those frustrations that seem to feel like a thorn in our side, or...a wart.
And don't worry, we're not advocating for toxic positivity or ignoring the challenges we face. Letting go and toxic positivity can be a big theme, and I challenge both of them in this episode.
We believe in acknowledging our reality and allowing ourselves to feel the emotions that come with it. It's about finding that balance between acceptance and growth.
So, if you're ready to dive deep into the topic of warts and discover how shifting your mindset can lead to freedom, growth, and stronger relationships, then tune in to this episode of Mama Says Namaste.
It's time to let go of the shame and step into a world where warts and all can be catalysts for personal transformation.
Read the blog that goes with this here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/the-wart-effect-how-shifting-your-mindset-can-help-you-conquer-lifes-obstacles-episode-323/
Nope, we're not talking about being grounded to our rooms as punishment - there is a whole other world of grounding that isn't a punishment at all - it's the most rewarding gift you can give yourself, actually!
This week we're looking at the concept of grounding - and not just grounding physically. We address the mind, body, and soul of grounding, with little tips on how you can be more connected in all of these areas.
Tune in and see how aligned you are. If you're feeling frazzled and like time is flying without your control, try a whole new time warp with grounding and being fully present. While time may still fly, it's a whole other experience, and we talk about it in this episode!
Welcome back to another episode of Mama Says Namaste! In today's episode, we're diving into four valuable tips that are sure to bring success and joy to your family life.
As parents, we often find ourselves focusing solely on the distant horizon of retirement, but what about the here and now? Is it possible to find fulfillment and happiness in the present moment instead of solely relying on future plans?
We'll explore the idea that waiting until retirement to relax and enjoy life can leave us feeling lost and uncertain. We want to instill positive habits and cultivate a love for our current lives, even as we look forward to the future. To help us on this journey of family success, we have four powerful questions to ask yourself at the beginning of the day and to reflect on at the end of the day.
We also want to teach our children how to give back and be contributing members of our household and society. They're not just future adults; they're roommates in the present. We'll explore ways to encourage their contributions, even if they're still in the early stages of maturity. Trust me, it's never too early to instill a sense of responsibility and respect within our children.
Speaking of responsibilities, let's talk about our relationship with money and how it impacts our overall family vision. We'll discuss the importance of open communication and aligning our financial decisions with our values. It's about finding true wealth beyond the dollars and cents.
So grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and get ready for some valuable insights and practical tips to create a successful and fulfilling family life. Let's make each day count, right here, right now, on Mama Says Namaste. Let's dive in!
Welcome back to Mama Says Namaste! In today's episode, we're diving into the world of co-parenting. We've received a listener question from Willow about how to feel supported by your partner and co-parent in a way that shows up as a unified front.
Last week, we tackled the first part of her question and explored the importance of supporting each other as partners. But now, it's time to take it to the next level and discover the secrets to successful co-parenting.
Join hosts Ashley and Nathan Logsdon as they share their own experiences and insights on this topic. They'll guide you on a journey from chaos to clarity and help you bring awareness and intention into your home. Whether you're in an intimate relationship or navigating co-parenting after separation or divorce, these tips are relevant for everyone.
Learn how to make decisions together, avoid getting played by your kids, and create a strong, consistent front as parents. Ashley and Nathan will share some practical strategies and personal stories to help you navigate the complexities of co-parenting. So take a deep breath, get ready to strengthen those family connections, and let's dive into this episode of Mama Says Namaste!
When it comes to your most intimate relationship, there is more to distinguish it from others than simply in the bedroom. How intentional are you about supporting one another? Have you considered a mind, body, and soul approach?
This week Nathan and I dig into tips for mind, body and soul connections with our partners, along with that as-always reminder: it starts within first.
Here are some tips on intentional connections for a more "functional" model, and how this is one place multitasking can really work to your advantage!
Yes, in our home, our kids learned very quickly that one of my favorite reminders is, 'Every action has a consequence." And those can be both positive and negative! We can get intentional about reaping what we sow, and it's our charge as parents to help equip our kids with the tools to navigate their own personal responsibility.
Here are six tips for how to have effective consequences that move you and your kids forward vs. repeating cycles of punishment so that you end up bankrupting your kids and losing learning opportunities.
What have been some natural consequences in your home? Get some ideas for creative connections in this episode.
Yes, it can feel scary when your child is a late reader, or just continues to resist reading when you just know it's such an important part of their learning!
I was an avid bookworm who started reading early and thrived on books, so it was pretty hard for me when all three of my children lacked my same enthusiasm.
My thirteen-year-old daughter, Ellie, suggested we discuss this topic, and she shared her top three tips that shifted her from being a very resistant late reader at ten to now absolutely loving reading.
If you have a late reader or a child who is just resisting books, check this out. What book opened the door to enjoying reading for you? How about your child?
Have you ever heard of the 54321 exercise to engage the senses? It's a great way to reset and find appreciation even amidst the craziness around us.
We always have control of what we want to focus on - and we've found with more intention so often comes more gratitude.
Join Juliet and me this week as we go through a quick exercise you can do alone and with your family to cultivate gratitude, calm, and awareness this week.
This week I have financial therapist Celia Roberts Hughes on to share what this even means. I've known Celia since I was 14, and it's been fascinating seeing her uncover this whole new world of financial therapy.
We talk about getting to the root of our relationship with money, what "life math" is, and why we say to NOT think about money first when you're in survival mode.
Check out the blog that goes along with this, and look at what questions she poses. Do you feel like you have achieved good financial health, or is now a time to dig a little deeper?
Is your home loud and chaotic? That's not necessarily a bad thing. There is a time for lots of noise and fun! However, learning how to bring more awareness and quiet in your home can allow for the bandwidth to recharge and recover, truly making your home a sanctuary.
In this episode, we share the lessons learned from our "Quiet Experiment" when our children were 4, 6 & 9, and what guidelines we set for bringing more awareness and peace in our home.
7,650 days - that's the number of days you have your child before they turn 18 and are considered a legal adult...whether they are ready for it or not.
Instead of "flipping the switch" to adulthood, look at it more as the turning of a dial - that will continue to go up a notch with every life lesson and experience we have.
Nathan and I talk about our insights from my interview with Nellie Harden last week, and we share why discipline is important....and most likely not what you're thinking here. You'll have to listen to find out!
I'm back with a guest, and a lot of talk about those teenage years! Nellie Harden is a wife, mother, family life and leadership writer, author, and speaker who is passionate about helping parents raise the next generation with a strong foundation of worth, esteem, and confidence. Her own journey of lacking these qualities when she left home led her down dark and difficult paths.
Nellie believes that parenting is like being an architect, where the responsibility is to plan, design, and build the beginning of someone else's life. Drawing from her previous experience working with animals and their clear purpose of preparing them for life, Nellie approaches parenting with the intention of raising adults rather than just kids. She is determined to make the highest impact possible in her own daughters' lives by instilling in them a foundation of worth, esteem, and confidence to launch them into the world.
Tune in to hear about fostering 3 foundational elements in your children (and yourself), the 5 needs we all have, and some simple steps to repair relationships and foster deeper connections in your home. Full blog digging deeper and video here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/nellie-harden-teens
I'm back with my 10-year-old daughter Juliet to talk about facing fears and taking action.
We've both faced our fair share of fears, like debating on scuba diving and auditioning for a performance.
But we've also learned a lot about how to overcome our fears.
Jules wanted to share her top 5 tips for facing her fears, and I can't wait for you to hear them.
So if you're feeling afraid, don't give up! Take action and face your fears head-on...unless...(you'll have to listen to find out).
You'll be surprised at how strong you really are.
Thanks for listening, and Juliet and I hope you have a great day!
Want to hear the 10 steps to awaken your financial genius? Each is a superpower I definitely believe you need to truly be "wealthy". This week on the podcast Nathan and I dig into our review of the book, Rich Dad, Poor Dad, by Robert Kiyosaki, and lay out these 10 steps and how to apply them not only in your business - but your overall family and life, including how to create a legacy of financial literacy in your home.
What is your "why" for being wealthy? (Be sure to hop over to the blog this week as it gives more insights to what we share on the podcast!)
Rules - are they too extreme, or necessary in a home? This week we share an acronym of RULES that addresses the parameters to make a home thrive. We like to call them guardrails - and everyone is a part of making them - not just the parents.
This isn't about authoritarian parenting. How is your whole family accountable to working together so your house is one you find sanctuary in and love to come home to?
Have you considered how you lead in the home? We can be effective parents and raise children to adulthood...yet have you ever thought about consideration as a key component of leadership? We break down five considerations to keep in mind to lead - and parent - in a way that empowers and engages your family.
The Hero's Journey involves stepping stones that aren't always easy...or even intended. Yet our growth opportunities can take us to another level.
This week my guest is 10-year-old Juliet, and she asks some powerful questions on how to move forward and not get stuck in the process. We delve into the concept of finding your ultimate goal or purpose (Z) and using that as motivation to reach shorter-term goals along the way.
Embrace struggles and challenges as opportunities for growth, and see what may happen. Tune in to discover insights on building competence and breaking down larger goals into smaller steps to achieve success.
This episode was inspired by a social media thread that was shared titled, "8 Fights Worth Picking With Your Kids". While we aren't quite fans of picking fights with anyone, we agree with the 8 components he shared as a battleground worth standing on.
So here is our take - shifting the fights to nudges, and calling out us as parents to model what we want to see in our kids. From food fights to reading to battling boredom, some things are life skills that aren't simply a kid battle, but a recipe for the batter of life, and the beautiful cake you want to produce.
What are your biggest desires to impart to your children?
I know how hard it can be to balance work and family time. Life gets messy, and we can get overwhelmed quickly.
In this episode we share how we found solutions by prioritizing intentional family time, waking up early, and taking breaks to rejuvenate. We share about "big rocks" and grace for seasons, and ten key tips to make your day as fulfilling as it is eventful.
How do you create the days you look forward to instead of simply enduring them?
Read the blog that goes along with this here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/podcast-from-mess-to-masterpiece-10-tips-for-a-fulfilling-day-episode-305/
On this episode, we have repeat guests Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo, authors of the book Six Pillars of Intimacy: Conflict Resolution: The Secret to Breaking the Conflict Cycle in Your Marriage.
They share insights into navigating conflicts between spouses and breaking negative cycles. We discussed the 5 stages in the conflict cycle, and how, even when you go through them all, it doesn't always mean a healthy resolution.
Understanding conflict resolution frameworks shaped by our family of origin, as well as being intentional in identifying triggers and needs during escalations, can help manage conflicts proactively. And, we talk about intimacy and play (the last two episodes) and how healthy relationships can have a positive ripple effect on all aspects of life.
We all deal with conflict. Do you have the tools for it to not stay in a repeat pattern in your life?
At one point, Nathan and I handled many disagreements with "rock, paper, scissors." It lightened the mood and helped us put what we disagreed on in perspective on whether it was worth the relationship. How about you?
On this episode of Mama Says Namaste, we dive deep into the importance of physical touch in relationships.
We know there is scientific evidence supporting the claim that physical connection improves patience and overall connection. We challenge listeners to examine their physical and sexual intimacy with their partner, noting how finding out what kind of touch their partner likes is crucial.
We emphasize the importance of carving out intentional time for physical touch and suggest ways to connect physically even during busy seasons of life.
We also discuss the significance of sexual intimacy in relationships and offer tips on how to make it a daily habit.
Finally, we present several challenges to take action and start today on your most intimate relationship. Join us as we explore how physical touch can enhance emotional and relationship health, leading to a deeper level of vulnerability and connection that can impact all aspects of life.
"It's hard to remain emotionally distant when you physically connect on a daily basis."
In this episode of Mama Says Namaste, we delve into the importance of play and fun in relationships.
Our habits are formed during dating and can persist throughout our relationships, but it's important to create new ones to connect with each other.
Breaking negative cycles and adding fun and discovery to your relationship can positively impact all your relationships. We discuss the role that playfulness and humor play in creating a successful partnership.
Join us as we explore the benefits of play and the tools to improve all our relationships, not just our marriage.
In this episode of Mama Says Namaste, the topic is all about relationships and learning how to deconstruct preconceived notions. Nathan and Ashley take us through a variety of examples, including insights from author Merrick Rosenberg on how to treat others in a way that brings out the best in them.
Along the way, we see how pride can sometimes be a hindrance to communication and how recognizing and utilizing our unique strengths can help build strong relationships.
Ashley shares personal stories, including her experience balancing traditional gender roles and the importance of being vulnerable in admitting one's mistakes.
In short, this episode is all about recognizing strengths and weaknesses, and being open to growth and change in order to cultivate healthy and fulfilling relationships beyond an expectation or traditional role.
"When you've done something wrong, admit it and be sorry. No one in history has ever choked to death from swallowing his pride."
We've officially launched our 300th podcast episode! We've summarized some of the biggest lessons learned for relationships, and bring you six powerful lessons - for yourself, your most intimate relationship, parenting, and beyond.
Be sure to go to MamaSaysNamaste.com/6-lessons-for-every-relationship to dig deeper into this episode and access the audio clip and video I reference. What lessons have you learned that you'd add? What would you like to hear on the Mama Says Namaste podcast next?
This week I bring back trauma healing practitioner Lenora Edwards, who I've had as a guest before on the podcast talking about speech therapy. We went a bit deeper into the healing she discovered during her "side hustle", and how baking, two root canals, and some YouTube videos sent her down a path of healing that has opened doors for a whole new way she helps others.
Lenora and I discuss trauma, HMR, and pathways to healing that go beyond "self-help" to truly helping yourself.
We review the book, The Chameleon: Life-Changing Wisdom For Anyone Who Has A Personality Or Knows Someone Who Does by Merrick Rosenberg. We cover 7 essential principles we gleaned from the book.
We highly recommend this book, not just for adults, but the whole family - with 22 little bird-focused parables, it's an easy and fun read and really helps you connect the dots on how you can connect with others and speak their language while still being authentic to who you are.
Ah, the language of empathy - how do you connect with others where you both feel heard and affirmed? How do you get what you want from others while not being forceful or manipulative?
It's by meeting them where they are, and, as much as we can, being willing to step into their shoes and see from their perspective. It's learning to speak their language. It doesn't discount your own "native tongue"; it simply equips you with the tools to better communicate.
Dig into some communication tips on how to connect with the language of empathy so you can truly experience how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us.
I'm back with my daughter Juliet as we share her list of the 4 pros and cons of travel. This was a fun one, as I had her write a list and then us do a podcast with me completely blind to what she wrote.
So these are true pros and cons learned from a ten-year-old who has been traveling the states since she just turned 4.
I love her perspective and how she's not only laid out the ups and downs of travel life, but how we've sought solutions to make things really flow for our family.
As we dig into the "10 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Hitting the Road", we share how we were able to hit the road full-time in our RV, and, we address how these key questions are important for you to address for ANY new adventure you're about to embark on.
Go through these questions and get clear on what you're ready to put a date on!
Dreaming of travel, yet aren't sure where to start? Nathan and I share my friend Holly's five questions to ask yourself before any big life decision, and then we share our acronymn for full time RV travel - and how it translates to all kinds of travel.
Start with these questions, and break down the details so you're fully ready to enjoy the trip.
What do you do when you can't afford a vacation? Or maybe you can't afford NOT to take a break. Nathan and I share our top tips for vacationing on a budget, and looking outside the box of what a vacation can look and feel like.
Have you really looked at how - or what - you're co-creating with your partner? How about your kids? Oftentimes we look at co-creation being collaboration with two or more people...yet there are two other aspects of co-creation we want to address that are important to keep in mind as you're looking forward together.
Conversations with my 10-yr-old daughter about drive, being multi-passionate, and the beautiful grace of growth and discovery.
Nathan and I share about the book, The Go-Giver Marriage: A Little Story About The 5 Secrets To Lasting Love. As we break down the 5 secrets and how to apply them, we share the real challenge to making a marriage to work...and it may have nothing to do with your partner.
We're in a time of "what's your pronoun", and it can be hard to navigate roles, labels and expectations in our homes.
Nathan and I cover a LOT in 25 minutes! We're not here to give you "the answer"; we want to dig deep with the questions for you to gain clarity and confidence...even in the gray areas of life.
Because there is a lot of gray, and that's part of this life! Maybe, instead of forcing something, we simply allow that color to exist in our lives as well?
Boredom is the plague you hope doesn't enter your home...or maybe you want it? While a kid saying "I'm booooooooorrrrrreeeedddd" can sound like fingers on a chalkboard, it's a great launchpad for amazing innovation and creativity.
In this quick episode, we break down the B-O-R-E-D acronym and some quick tools to redirect your kids and get out of the way while they expand their minds.
Popularity seems to be a desired commodity for kids, yet what does it really mean to be popular? It makes me think of that song from the musical, Wicked...Popular, I wanna be pop-u-lar... Join 10-year-old Juliet and Ashley as we discuss 3 key things to keep in mind to really be popular in a way that lives on beyond high school.
This week Nathan and I discuss the book, The Danish Way of Parenting, and what the PARENT acronym stands for, as well as the importance of hygge (as well as how to pronounce it!)
Goals, words of the year...what do they really do for you? Do they inspire you or intimidate you? Is it freeing and exciting, or stifling? We'll walk you through what goals mean for us, what words and mantras we've focused on over the past 8 years, and what we're focusing on this year, along with a different twist on it all we invite you to explore for your own family.
This week I talked with the Chief Knowledge Officer of Better Speech, Lenora Edwards, to hear about what they offer and tips for navigating speech, food and processing issues with kids. We talk about speech therapy, who all it helps, and how to support our kids at any level.
Join me this week as I talk to Laura Hernandez, mama of ten and creator of Mama Systems, as she shares how to keep your sanity even with a busy household, special needs, or any other exceptions that are causing chaos in your home. Hop over to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-mama-systems-laura to get the corresponding blog post and access her free self-care guide.
Joy. Just Own it Yourself. Can you? Or are you so focused on making or bringing joy to others that you've sabotaged it with your own stress overload? In this short and sweet episode we help you with reframing so you keep your sanity and actually enjoy the upcoming weeks, as well as a few ideas where we've let go of tradition and added more simplicity and ease.
As we're nearing Christmas, we want to share four quick tips that will help you navigate the holidays - and beyond - with an attitude of abundance and gratitude. What do drop? What's on your "don't do" list? What do you fill, and what do you accept? Check out the blog post and podcast episode - what is something that helps keep you calm and enjoying the holidays?
Not sure what to gift? Here are ideas that make a positive impact, as well as take into account the different personality styles in your life! I've added to a previous gift guide with even more ideas, and Nathan and I share about the gifts with meaning that truly leave a ripple effect of positivity vs. clutter.
Is a wall always a brick wall of negativity? Or is there a chance to put clear boundaries around the life you want to create? As we've moved from our RV into a stationary house for the next six months or so, it's an opportunity for us to reflect on what we've created - and the walls we "kiss" - and what we choose to bring awareness and gratitude to. What might you be missing in the rush of your life? How are you teaching others to treat you? As we discuss boundaries, awareness and gratitude, we share stories from our experience and a challenge for and your family. What have you cultivated and created in your home? Are you instilling true sanctuary at home, both in the walls you do reinforce and in the awareness and gratitude of the present moment?
It's the week of Thanksgiving. While we don't celebrate the history that caused pain to so many, we do focus on what true thanksgiving is. Gather your family around to hear what we're grateful for, and follow along with our ten-year-old, Juliette, as she leads on a meditation of gratitude!
Are you healthy...really? Does this include all aspects of mind, body, and soul? We've compiled 12 tenets for wellness to open the door for health in all three areas - mind/body/soul.
Are you reinforcing the LIFE you want to live, or the death you want to avoid? Let me know which of these 12 tenets come easy for you, and what might be a struggle.
Have you considered you're the narrator of your life? What story are you telling yourself? Is it one that is fueling you forward, or affirming what you wish would actually change? This week Nathan and I talk about the books we've been reading, and boy are they deep. So what do Dr. Bernie Siegel, Viktor Frankl, Nathan and Ashley all agree on? What, truly is the meaning of life? How do we write the stories on our own realities? And how to they manifest and check us in the process?
Struggling with sleep in your home? I used to believe "you can sleep when you die"...and I see now how that can be a recipe for a much sooner death. As we're digging into what people are tolerating in their homes, lack of sleep was another one stated - and not just because of littles!
Having TWO teenagers now in my own home, I know sleeptime can be a struggle for any age, and we're huge advocates of keeping it sacred.
This week we share three myths we used to live by that we've thrown out the window - and tips for your family for better sleep - and why.
So how about you - do you feel you get enough sleep?
You know that old saying about how to eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Well that's definitely the case for clutter. It can get out of hand, and then you're hit with way too much and not sure where to start. Well look no further. Let's take it a "bite" at a time and see how clutter can be curbed, and your home can be a place of joy.
I've asked a question in the Mama Says Namaste communities - "What are you tolerating that you'd like to change at home?"
While I'm still gathering responses, this week lays the foundation of what to ask yourself if you're in this "stuck" point of tolerating (or, even worse, resenting) the life you're in.
Here are three questions to ask yourself if you're feeling trapped in a life you're tolerating. And, if you can share your story with me, I'd love to share it on an upcoming podcast - you can read the blog and comment at MamaSaysNamaste.com/family-trap
This is the Mama Says Namaste podcast...so what does that mean for our home life? Are we all zen and "namaste" all the time...and what does namaste really mean?
We address how we create a namaste vibe in our home by using an acronym of NAMASTE for open communication. And nope, we're not zen masters -we have plenty of high emotions with a tween and two teen daughters (not to mention strong personality styles to begin with).
If we can do it, so can you. It's not eliminating the crazy as much as it's shifting your focus. How do you add more namaste vibe in your home?
Hurricane Ian has come and gone through our country and the aftermath is still happening. The flooding and destruction will be a long haul of recovery. As we share about our experience over the past week, and what all we saw, it opens the door to what this makes possible.
It can seem pretty bleak when you're hit with something catastrophic. Yet there can be so much that can come from a "clean slate" and starting over. While we can't go back, we can move forward, and we encourage you to listen in and take on our challenge this week to convert this hurricane to a new headline for the life you want to create.
Well, we're recording this today, Wednesday, September 28th, 2022, as we're waiting for Hurricane Ian to make landfall here in Florida. We've been evacuated from where we were volunteering down in the Florida Keys and are at another campground watching the weather, and bracing for how hard of a hit our house in Venice, Florida is going to get.
As friends and family come out of the woodwork from all over asking us how things are going for us, we figured we'd give a real-time update of the ups and downs of the past few days as we've evacuated a campground and prepped for a hurricane.
Now, we're going to wait to worry...
As we near Juliette's birthday, we asked her to reflect on what ten things she might want to share on the podcast. She came up with ten things she's grateful for, and I absolutely loved her answers.
Join us to hear Juliette's gratitude list of the top ten things she's grateful for as she completes her first decade of life - and see what it sparks in you.
What are you grateful for? What are your children grateful for...and aware of? This is an insightful way to learn so much about your children, and we invite you to do the same with your own children.
How do you discipline your child so they aren't just punished, but they learn other options for navigating this world on their own? Here are 6 tips to help them feel what they feel, bring awareness to what they don't see, and cultivate options in their toolbox to navigate life in a healthy way.
Nathan and I share examples of "natural consequences" and how we help our children learn best choices without just punishing them for immaturity or lack of knowledge.
We reap what we sow in this world, and our kids know that "every action has a consequence" - whether that's one they enjoy or not is often up to them!
In this guest conversation, I talk with Kimball Lewis of Empowering Parents a second time (first was episode 252) about a specific behavior: lying.
He shares how to navigate it in your home as well as the keys to effective consequences. This episode is up on video as well as a blog post.
As we address why it happens and what you can do about it, he shares several key elements to ensure you create a culture of honesty and integrity in your home.
Lying isn't just reserved for children - we can be guilty of it throughout our lives. And my first tip for parents with any behavior they don't like in their home is to first look in the mirror.
Nathan had a beautiful insight this past week on rage and how to shift into more grace in our lives. Moving from rage to grace can be tricky when it's become a part of our identity. We share three tips on how to shift your perspective and reset, especially as parents.
Climate change can be scary and overwhelming...and that's not counting the weather in your own internal climate! How are you weathering...from within?
This week Nathan and I share a bit about how we're learning about ways to support our planet with our kids, as well as sharing the three Ps to navigate the climate we're bringing to our families, and beyond!
Do you feel a sense of personal responsibility, pride and purpose that creates a "climate of possibility" in your home, as Sir Ken Robinson says?
I'd love to hear how you and your children are creating an impact beyond yourselves - as we work on our own personal excellence, we're also learning about how we can take our strengths to go beyond our home to a greater impact on our planet.
Climate change can be scary and overwhelming...and that's not counting the weather in your own internal climate! How are you weathering...from within?
This week Nathan and I share a bit about how we're learning about ways to support our planet with our kids, as well as sharing the three Ps to navigate the climate we're bringing to our families, and beyond!
Do you feel a sense of personal responsibility, pride and purpose that creates a "climate of possibility" in your home, as Sir Ken Robinson says?
I'd love to hear how you and your children are creating an impact beyond yourselves - as we work on our own personal excellence, we're also learning about how we can take our strengths to go beyond our home to a greater impact on our planet.
If you're maxed out with your family and building more resentment and overwhelm than joy, this is the episode for you. We go through four simple steps that can help you truly dance in life (and you have to listen in to hear the analogy we share).
We have complete control over our own perspective - how you are viewing your life?
Have you gotten stuck in a rut of the same old thing every night with your family? Have screens taken over so it seems like that's everyone's "go-to" for down time? Maybe it's time to look for other opportunities to connect as a family vs. a side-by-side family movie night.
We share 3 ways we replace tech time with together time in our home, and I'd love to hear what you do in yours!
Are your children following your advice...or your example? How are you processing things mentally, physically and emotionally in your own life? How are your children learning to navigate life like you do? Are you okay with them copying your actions, opinions, habits and values? Maybe it's time to check yourself.
Life has a lot of variables, and disappointment is par for the course. Have you struggled with disappointing your kids? Is that cringe-worthy moment something you want to desperately avoid at all costs, or do you see it as a valuable part of living life together?
Nathan and I have no issues with navigating disappointment with our kids, and can attest to the benefit of emotional resilience as one of the most powerful things you can foster in a child's life "toolkit". We'll share how we do it in this week's episode.
Life has a lot of variables, and disappointment is par for the course. Have you struggled with disappointing your kids? Is that cringe-worthy moment something you want to desperately avoid at all costs, or do you see it as a valuable part of living life together?
Nathan and I have no issues with navigating disappointment with our kids, and can attest to the benefit of emotional resilience as one of the most powerful things you can foster in a child's life "toolkit". We'll share how we do it in this week's episode.
Sometimes in our desire to support our children, we let the world revolve around them. And then, at some point, they have to recognize their impact.
This week we're building on the conversation about expectations last week and setting clear boundaries in your home. As Dr. Henry Cloud says, "you get what you tolerate." We talk about oceans, rebellion, and how to course-correct.
We want our children to feel safe and secure. That also means trusting that you as the parent will call them out on the behaviors that will push others away. What is the ripple effect coming out of your home?
Do you have high expectations and end up disappointed when things don't go your way? Are you disillusioned by the "experts" who aren't really helping you and don't really have it all together?
We all have expectations - yet a simple reframing of what we hold onto and how we communicate it can make a drastic shift in your joy and accomplishment.
What do you expect? Start with no expectation. Listen in. And then tell me what you've learned.
In a country of "united" states, it seems there is division everywhere. It's hard to know what to do, and getting even harder to simply stay silent. So this week, Nathan and I have a raw and unfiltered conversation about what we're seeing and experiencing here in the US - and our first focus on what we're doing to make a difference.
There are so many ways to make an impact - and this is the first step for every single one of them.
Who is truly writing your story? Are you proactively creating it, or is the author the pains of your past, your dreams of the future, or someone else's voice entirely?
As we address the past, present and future, we look for how to move forward regardless of the trauma we've experienced. In a time where trauma seems to be the word of the moment, we discuss the impact of it and the seeds of hope you have already within you. These are the raw parts of who we are, and it's time to handle them with the care and respect they deserve.
Are smartphones the enemy? Are your kids begging, and you're not sure what to do about it? This week we add our 12-year-old daughter, Elle, to the mix to share about how she went from begging for a smartphone to being a-okay without one.
What is the reality around smartphone usage? What have we learned? And what can you do about it in your home? Listen in.
I was that mother who said I'd "never" have a snake in my home. And here we are, five snakes in, and I'm singing a different tune. What are your children interested in that has warranted an immediate shutdown from you? Is it based on a true fear, or simply what is unknown?
This week Nathan and I invited our 15-year-old daughter, Clara, to join us and educate us a bit on snakes and moving past our fears to continue learning throughout our lives.
Are you keeping things from your children in order to "protect" them? We have a "no secrets" policy, yet still believe keeping children's innocence. It can be dicey to navigate, yet in our information-overload world, our kids are being bombarded with the same news we are. We can't just hope they don't notice.
Our world seems to be reeling from so much right now, and it's heavy on our hearts. Join us for 11 minutes - of reflecting and holding space for those who are grieving loss in so many ways.
Struggling with what to do when your child acts out, or why they are? This guest interview with Kimball Lewis is truly eye-opening. Learn why our kids act out, how to course correct, and how to keep it from happening to begin with.
What type of learning style is your child? There are four styles of childhood learning, and knowing all four is key in unlocking the best way to connect. Your child doesn't fit into a perfect mold; yet these tips are powerful for better understanding on how to motivate in a way that works for your unique child.
How do you react to your children as a parent? Are you aware of how you are in full-on reaction mode? Check out these four types of parents, and pay attention to how you're creating synergy in your home vs. competing agendas.
I'm a parent, not a teacher! Well, actually, you're both. The instant you become a parent, you are teaching and influencing your child more than anyone else. We all "homeschool" in some ways. Yes you are credible, and no, you're not just a teacher. You're an awakener. Check out how to awaken more within your child and yourself in this episode.
How do you get your kid to "think like an unschooler"? How can you motivate your kids and spark their curiosity, regardless of where they go to school? How in the world do you navigate boredom and lack of drive?
This week, 9-year-old Juliette joins us to discuss this topic, and I have to say, I was pretty impressed with her perspective on boredom - I'd love to hear what you think!
I was inspired by a video shared in our unschooling community all about igniting curiousity in our kids. I loved Ruth's approach for reframing our communication with our kids, and share her 4 points for motivating kids through curiosity in this episode and blog post. Additionally, Nathan and I dig in yet again to screen issues and how to navigate them in your home! Remember there is a full blog post to go along with each Mama Says Namaste Episode!
Regardless of where your child is attending "school", our concept of education is in serious need of revamping. In this episode and blog post, we lay out some of the key components kids truly need to learn, why creativity is important, and the one constant in life you absolutely MUST help your children learn to navigate.
Can your child easily interact and talk with people of all ages and perspectives? As we talk about how to build a thriving family, it's important that we address how our children are interacting with the rest of the world...beyond just their small bubble of understanding.
Join 9-year-old Juliette for a short musing on navigating change, embracing the struggle, and learning through it.
Get all her mindful minutes at MamaSaysNamaste.com/meditations
Like it or not, your children are learning a ton from you. So it helps to be a bit intentional so you aren't stuck in repairing mode. Regardless of where or how your child does "school", this episode and blog post is for you. Head over to MamaSaysNamaste.com to see all the blogs that go with our episodes!
Yes, you can engage all the senses and reframe travel as not just a destination for your body, but for your soul. Get some new ideas for your family that don't break the bank (or your sanity), and add some adventure, even if you don't leave your home.
This week 9-year-old Juliette joins us on the podcast to share about the impact travel has had in her life - she's known the nomad life since age four, and we loved having her join us!
Travel isn't just a reward where you turn your brain off. It's opening up to new ways of living, thinking and perceiving the world. When was the last time you opened up to a culture or perspective that was unlike your own, and learned about something new?
Maybe it's living in an RV. Maybe it's downsizing to a smaller home. Maybe it's a family trip where routines are off and you're more on top of each other. How do you keep the peace when everyone is on top of each other? Tune in to this episode, and check out the complementary blog at Mama Says Namaste!
Spring break is upon us, people want vacation, and yet we have a lot of volatility in the world. Travel is limited for many. With finances, heavy workloads, stress overload and more, how can you even think vacation? Yet we feel it's important, and it's not as "frivolous" as you might think. You might be surprised where you will find your "vacation" after this episode.
You may not think about intimacy with finances, yet in our last week of our month-long focus on our most important intimate relationship, this is the biggie.
Finances play a huge factor in marital discord and stress, and the more separte you are as a couple in this arena, the more shaky your whole foundation stands.
We share how to create, calculate and communicate to build the relationship and life where you both are working together to create the world you thrive in.
We have the pleasure of sitting down this week with Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo of the One Extraordinary Marriage show for a beautiful conversation about love and intimacy. We talk about how their podcast impacted our marriage, and what these six pillars of intimacy are that are so critical to having an extraordinary marriage. Get this in video form and the bonus blog post at MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-pillars-of-intimacy
In celebration of Valentine's day, our 9-year-old daughter Juliette has put together a 12-minute guided meditation on love. So gather your family around and soak in the goodness of a moment to breathe deeply, and remember you are loved.
There are many tension points that cause couples to argue. Yet you can disagree without conflict, fighting and discord. The first step is taking personal responsibility, and recognizing you are on the same team. Here are some tips to keep conflict to a minimum, and see disagreements for the growth opportunities they can be.
Marriage looks quite a bit different than ages past, and it can be more complex than ever. This week, we break down what marriage is today, and what you can do now to move forward. Like every other relationship, it's nuanced and individual. We don't have the one right way for everyone, yet we know some essential components that will get you on the same page to start with! We dig into how "tribes" and our concept of marriage has changed over the years, and some essential components to create a powerful intimate relationship.
Instead of the perfect schedule, try a few hacks that give you a breather and also allow for some grace along the way. This isn't your big fat easy button; it's a realistic way to not just survive parenthood, but enjoy it along the way. Get the podcast and the complementary blog at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-time-management
Get yourself out of survival mode as you listen to this incredible interview where Elyssa Smith breaks down what truly is "survival mode" and how to hack it.
We address what is so often the core of overwhelm and stress, 3 steps to step out of survival mode, and the science behind our processing that allows us to move shame out of the way and awareness and action take precedence. Check it out on audio, video, AND a full blog at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-survival
Goals, intentions, words of the year...there is a lot of pressure around it all and declaring how we have our act together and what all we'll accomplish at the first of every year.
And yet, there is a different way to look at goal-setting that goes deeper with your why, your desires...and allows grace for growth. Remember to hop over to the website for the blog post that goes along with this episode!
We've been going through the top ten podcast episodes listened to of all time, since our beginning in 2017. This week we hit on the top five most listened to episodes (and hot topics) you listeners have been paying attention to.
I also share about the new book that is my next pivotal game-changer as far as rocking my world, and our perspectives now, looking back at when I first launched Mama Says Namaste as a business, and as a podcast. Check it out, and be sure to fill out our survey to get access to Juliette's 12-minute guided meditation on gratitude! www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/survey.
Over the next two weeks, Nathan and I go through our top ten podcast episodes, sharing the cliff's notes version and our current take on it all.
Not only that, you'll hear a piece from our daughter Juliet with an extra special gift for you!
This week I sit down with 9-year-old Juliet again to share all about what Christmas means for us, how we navigate any stress/anxiety, and our hopes for the new year. Enjoy with your family, and then share your own answers together!
What do we really want our children to learn in school? What do we truly want them to learn in life? Well...who is teaching that? As we looked at comments from teachers, we had to ask...have parents forgotten their role? Not as provider, chauffeur, or chef...but as a parent?
We're seeing a serious breakdown of trust in humanity in our world, and, while we might not be able to make a global impact immediately, we can start right in our own homes.
Are you covered over in holiday stress and obligation? Did you realize you can be a rockstar by actually doing less? Pull back - remember what you're doing all of this for. What is your real goal here? Can you give yourself a break and allow others to shine as well?
Get the full show notes, including links to our favorite book about Santa and some real stories on when letting go was truly magical here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/podcast-holiday-stress-and-obligation/
How to you have meaningful conversations in your home? In light of the past two years, especially, there has been plenty of opportunity for heavy topics that can be a bit overwhelming or intimidating to navigate with your children.
This week, Ashley talked with Bright Littles founder, Tara Miko, about the incredible conversation cards she created to help her navigate these tough conversations with her four-year-old. We hit on the hard topics and how to address them in a way that can work for everyone.
Seth Godin has a beautiful quote that says, "Instead of wondering when your next vacation will be, why not create a life you don't want to escape from?"
In this episode, Nathan and Ashley lay out how they created their own story they thrive in, and how you can stop waiting for vacations and create some beautiful life shifts even without lifting a finger. It sounds too good to be true, and the reason is in the mindset. If you want a new perspective, listen in.
This is part 3 in our "DISCovering You" series - moving from basic communication to true connection with yourself and others. As we highlight all that is our new course by the same name, we're sharing highlights on understanding all the different behavioral reactions we can have in life.
First, we addressed differing perspectives on episode 223. Then, we dealt with those high energy styles in 224. This week, we address the high-processing personality styles that may tend to be lower in energy, yet that doesn't mean they can't get so much accomplished!
Learn about the majority of the population this week, with tips and insights to better understand and truly connect with them. Be sure to hop over to the website for the bonus blog post that goes along with this week's episode!
Are you surrounded by high energy personalities that are wearing you down? Or do you feel like you're dragging others along? As we dive into understanding who you are and how you tick, we want to address all the varieties of approaches toward life.
This week, we're looking at high energy styles, and how to harness it in a way that brings forth your best self...or helps you better navigate those around you.
We are drawn to people for many different reasons - and what attracts one person may push another away. When it comes to what is truly attractive, it can be relative to each individual.
This week we dig into the concept of "the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us", and how differing perspectives create a broader (and way more beautiful) world view.
We're digging deeper than the surface of attraction here, and how people connect and relate. As we dig more into "DISCovering You," this is the first step - recognizing the multitude of perspectives we bring to the table.
This is part 4 in our series on a "Recipe for a Light-Hearted Relationship". We started with our fears and triggers, then all the ways we can love, then the essential ingredients needed...and now we move forward with our instructions for intention.
A soulmate doesn't just happen - it's created through consistently showing up for one another. The intention of action is that critical element to loving that can keep up the momentum for a light-hearted and healthy relationship.
What step is the easiest for you? What about the hardest?
As we've been brewing on what the ingredients were for a light-hearted relationship, we started with some foundational elements. In Episode 219, we talked about those things that trigger us into reactive behavior, oftentimes those moments when we struggle to see beyond our own fear. In episode 220, we went into the many languages of love and how we can connect with people in a variety of ways. Now, as we start to lay down specific "ingredients" to a light-hearted relationship batter, these 5 key things are what we believe are essential. This week, we share the top five requirements for a light-hearted relationship with your most intimate partner. Your homework is to go shopping and ensure each of them are qualities you are actively stepping into in your relationship. And next week, we'll wrap it up with the instructions to make it sing.
As we build up to our Recipe for a Lasting and Light-Hearted Relationship, we're stepping into Part 2: the language of love!
We dig into Gary Chapman's Five Love Languages, and share how we believe you not only use them all, but there is more to it than the surface.
What lightens your heart vs. hardening it? Have you looked at what relationship triggers may be setting you off into reaction mode, or not bringing out your best self at home?
Even beyond the house - we have different triggers that will impact how we respond and react in life, and this week we dig into the element of these triggers as our first step in a new series: Recipe for a Light-Hearted Relationship.
Pay attention to where you're triggered, and see what tools may help you flip the script from negativity to ownership and positivity.
Which is more important - your skillset, or your mindset? While you probably know the answer to this already, we share three key strategies to position yourself for the ultimate success.
Minimalism isn't just eliminating toys - that isn't the point. It's filtering out the "noise" in our lives to focus on what is truly important. And "noise" can be things, but can also be over-scheduled, maxed out living.
We share five tips for minimalist parenting - five things we ask you to do less of...in order to invite MORE into your life.
And before you think this is an episode for the bedroom, it's way beyond that. Even a quick, intentional connection can have a lasting effect, and the more we can get comfortable with short bursts of joy in life, the more recharged we are for the long haul!
In this episode, we talk about social "quickies" vs. long, drawn-out playdates that are more stressful than anything, yet parents are longing for a social outlet. Learn some tips for quick social bursts of connection...beyond the bedroom.
In our world of unschooling, we believe in delight-led learning, and the functional education model of learning as we live life together. So what if our kids want to just watch TV and eat chips all day? Do we allow it? Do we force our kids to step it up, or just cross our fingers and hope they muster up some work ethic on their own?
Remember that Kenny Rogers song, The Gambler? In your family...do you know how to hold 'em, know how to fold 'em, know when to walk away, and when to run?
Are you simply a cheerleader for your child, or are you coaching them through life? Coaching them means not telling them the answers but bringing to their awareness the tools they can use to help them navigate what comes their way. And that means navigating not just the awesomeness of life, but bringing awareness and understanding to when things don't always go as we hoped.
Navigating disappointment, sadness, messing up and anger are realities of life we will all face. Is your child prepared with tools to cope and move forward?
Do you really talk with your family, or are you more likely to talk at, over or for them? How do you really talk to kids in a way that equips them with the tools to find their own voice vs. being an echo of ours?
Do you remember the scene in the Gladiator, where, completely exasperated, Russel Crowe asks, "are you not entertained??" Have you had those moments where your kids come up to you and say the dreaded words, "I'm bored", and you're looking at all of the things to entertain them all around?
We've been there, and have gone from the struggle of constant entertainment and stimulation overload to being able to rock a 6 hour trip six times in the last month with no "entertainment" in the car other than our own minds. How do we do it?
Learn the BORED acronym and all about fasting beyond food in this week's episode.
When we've talked about our goals as unschooling parents, we ultimately boil it down to "raising good humans". Not that humans are good or bad, but raising up humans who can see the good in the world - those things that light us up, lift us up, and support one another.
We break down four powerful tenets to being a successful leader, and ultimately, just being a decent human being in our podcast this week.
Last week we talked about toxic behavior we all navigate in our lives. This week we take it a step further - if everything around you stinks...maybe it's time to check under your own nose first! There are often three ways we can approach life - fight, flight, or freeze. Yet I believe there are two others variables that can occur more frequently - our ability to flow... or fester. Let's dig into our different approaches, and why it may be important to check ourselves before we get too frustrated with others!
Do you have any "prickly" people in your life? Maybe it's not about a horribly toxic person as much as it is that there are people in your life that can exhibit toxic behavior, sit in negativity and cynicism, or just have a bad attitude about life.
Our most downloaded episode continues to be on navigating toxic behavior, so we're bringing up the topic again - not how to avoid it, but how to navigate the reality of what is. Sometimes it is what it is, and we will be with people who don't see life from the same perspective we do. So how do you keep up your own positivity? We'll share 5 tips for keeping your zen and shifting the energy around you.
This week we bring the whole family on to discuss what all we've been learning while volunteering with the Florida State Parks in the Keys.
We're giving you a taste of our unschooling experience over the past few months as we've soaked in so much volunteering - so listen with the whole family and learn about this area and the life skills that are valuable regardless of where you're located! Kick it unschool with our crew in this family-friendly episode!
My sister-in-law used to say, "take a break from the ones you love, so you can love them better", and was a big fan of "mommy sabbaticals". How often do we allow for space to recharge? Well, we think it needs to happen daily, and we'll share why AND how. We'll cover three steps to allow you the space to fully show up in life - for your family and yourself. Check out the blog post and podcast in the comments below!
Oh the fun analogies Nathan can come up with. As we discuss teenagers - and our relationship with them - this week, we dig into more than just teens as we address labeling our children and the importance of genuine likability.
As always, along with the podcast is a fully developed blog post that will also link to bonus topics with this subject - just hop over to the home page of MamaSaysNamaste.com to see the latest blog post that relates to this episode!
In our super connected world, screens can be a love/hate relationship for sure. How does your family manage screen time at home...or does it manage you?
We share some tips for "dummy-proofing" ourselves, things beyond screens, and our own personal stories of both eliminating screens and also using them as something that adds to a home life we all thrive in.
You'll have to hear the podcast to determine how crab ankles may sneak into your home. ;-)
In this episode, we dig into this listener question -
How do we navigate as empowered, inventional parents the decisions that are "BEST" for our children while listening to them and what they need, while pushing them to do what might be harder?
There was so much to unpack, this week's blog post that goes along with it leads you to multiple other blogs and episodes to dig deeper into the topics of natural consequences, emotional resilience, "adulting" and more.
And...we tackle a biggie for us as parents to release...and something else to retain.
Think you've heard it all when it comes to exercise? Well we want to talk about a specific type of yoga, actually, and it's not what you may think. Relationship yoga - the balance, the stretch and the pause. How do you exercise your relationships so they stay healthy and thriving?
This past week we introduced a game that, ironically, was a "game-changer" in our life. It was a powerful game that shifted our perspective and made one pivotal shift in both semantics and mindset in our lives.
Creating financial literacy at home - helping your children understand about investments, liabilities, assets and more - is something we see as a critical life skill.
Do you - and your children - know how to make money work for the life you want to live? Do you know how to manage it so it doesn't manage you? Listen in.
Wow, 201 episodes in, and this is a day to celebrate! 4 years ago today, the Mama Says Namaste podcast was created. 5 years ago today, Mama Says Namaste was officially launched as a business. And 40 years ago today, I was born!
In this episode we look back over the last decade and the crazy shifts we made to get to where we are at this point. Not only do we share more about the mindset and actual shifts in our own lives, but we lay the four essential steps we chose to take to get there.
This episode is truly in response to the many questions we got in this week from our "lessons learned" episode 200! Remember you can always go to MamaSaysNamaste.com to see the latest blog post that goes along with each episode.
If these are resonating with you, my birthday request is that you spread the love and share it with someone else. We speak our hearts each week to give any inspiration and insight we can to help others create the joy in their lives that we are so glad to experience. It's not pure luck. It's very focused intention. If you want it, we're confident you can create it.
Wow - we've hit our 200th episode!! That is 200 weeks straight of delivering you content to help you - and your family - thrive together, where the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us!
In this episode, Nathan and I (Ashley) share our biggest lessons learned over the past four years in each of the subjects we've had a podcast series on - personality styles, marriage, parenting, unschooling, minimalism/decluttering, and family travel.
Hop over to the blog post to get all the downloads I share about in this episode, and celebrate with us by sharing this episode and leaving a review!
This week is another interview with decluttering expert, Tracy McCubbin! With a super in-depth blog post in addition to this episode, we cover all about why it's important to be clutter-free, as well as how that doesn't mean you have to be a minimalist, where you can donate beyond Goodwill, and how to manage the clutter with toys and family members who aren't quite as tidy.
My co-host may be a Logsdon this week, but she's a wee bit shorter than her Daddy! Joining me on the podcast is our youngest daughter, Juliet, who share her perspectives from being unschooled her whole life, AND all of her school years full-time RVing the States and learning as we grow.
It's a pretty awesome thing to have your own children impress you, and I'm thrilled to share this episode - the insights out of the mouths of babes can be pretty profound.
Sometimes the best way to ease our fears is to listen to people who have been through it - so this week I wanted to not only talk about my experience as an unschooling parent, but to make space for you to hear from our child's perspective who has only known this lifestyle.
Don't complicate things. Start with getting to know each other - and build an authentic relationship where you live that growth mindset together.
Have you ever considered full-time RVing for your family? It can seem like a pretty daunting thing, yet...it's possible. Oh so possible. We're living proof that not only can you do it, you can thrive and really have a blast!
It's not that everything is easy, though. Let's dig in on the biggies you need to consider before you hit the road.
Ah, codependency - is it clearly identified, or a buzzword we can't quite grasp? Nathan and I are pretty much together 24/7 and definitely weigh in with each other on making decisions. Yet how do you tow the line from just being connected to an unhealthy codependency?
We break it down in this week's podcast, not to trivialize or negate the true complexity of this, but to simply open the door to exploring it more for yourself, and whether this is an area you can work on more in your life.
And, we share a bit about the power of the struggle, body checks, and questions to ask yourself to explore your own worth.
This week we're getting to the core of what "namaste" really means to us, as well as how we put the "om" in hOMe. This is a frequently visited page on our website, as some, especially in the West, are still new to these concepts.
What do these words mean to you? We'll share about the symbol breakdown of the word "om", my definition of "namaste", as well as sharing about a fascinating experiment, and how the movie Avatar relates.
Are you feeling that wonderful sense of "om" in your life?
With all of the shifts in education over the past year, many of you are re-evaluating what it looks like in your home. We believe a growth mindset is the most important aspect here, and that is a family approach. So how do we live as unschooling parents? How do you parent unschoolers - or ANY kids - with a growth mindset who continues to embrace learning throughout their life? Check out the podcast and blog post this week, and learn how you can be an unschooling parent.
Ashley talks with yogi Tatyana Souza on parenting, yoga, and the importance of mindfulness as a parent. She shares insights into how to set clear boundaries and make it happen, and why it's so important.
Watch the full video on YouTube, listen to the podcast wherever you tune in to podcasts, and/or check out the corresponding blog post at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-tatyana-souza-mindfulness
I've talked often about how we can use our words to communicate, but it takes way more to truly connect. It's knowing our personality styles and how to speak to each other in a way where everyone is heard...and it's in the nonverbal cues that speak so loudly.
We go over five nonverbal cues this week that are like shifting from song lyrics to a full musical performance. It's more than simply words - what is left unsaid that is showing up in your life?
Do you have a full life...or a busy one? Sometimes we wear our "busy" as a badge of honor; yet is that really the life you want to live? Is that the excuse you want to give?
Sometimes there IS a season for being busy and really hustling hard. But the term "busy" vs. having a full life...there is a different mindset around these.
Do you adjust to the world or do you demand that the world adjust to you? Crazy enough, everyone isn’t just sitting around waiting to cater to your needs. And, unfortunately, drama doesn’t always make an appointment to show up in our lives. So how do you deal with it? When do you flow and adapt, and when do you stand your ground?
What do you do when you have a dream that is out of reach, or you feel like your life isn’t quite where you want it to be? What do you do when you see all this opportunity out there, but it seems way too insurmountable to tackle because of the life you’re already living in?
How do you handle pursuing your dreams when you have a mountain of responsibility at your door?
How do you move forward? Do you live in the pain, or do you create a plan?
While we often look for what we need to add in to get back on track, sometimes, it much, much important to let things go. We cover the 3 biggies on what keeps you stuck in this week's episode.
Change is inevitable in our lives…yet it can be scary and overwhelming. How are you navigating change? In your home, your work…your life? Sometimes we’re navigating change that is unwanted or unexpected, like the weather or, let’s say, 2020 as a whole.
But then again, sometimes the changes are those aches and pains of unrest, resentment, frustration and more, and they will continue to pester us until we proactively incite a change in our lives.
So what are you doing to navigate change? Weigh in with this podcast and blog post here: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-navigating-change
Are you recognizing that what you thought marriage would be...isn't what is happening in your home? Are you avoiding - or starting to face - that there are some cracks in your marriage that are starting to look a bit more like a chasm?
Nathan and Ashley address how to handle these realizations:
We don't talk anymore.
We don't touch anymore.
We don't date anymore.
We address the big scary aspects of having real and raw conversations about ensuring you both have the common goal to begin with, and stepping stones to course-correct and come back to a marriage with both people stepping up and having their space to shine.
Money gets you...what? Happiness? Sunshine all the time? Stress and more responsibility and obligation than you need or want? What, really, is the deeper desire behind money that would help you truly be happy?
We dig into this once again on the podcast as we look at our purpose for money and hash out some amazing money quotes to help you reframe your perspective about what it can do for you.
Get the full show notes, as always, at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-money-goals
How do you navigate the muddy post-covid waters of the educational world? How has homeschooling become like religion, nuanced and personal while also trying to be labeled and identified?
We hash out three big questions about unschooling and share a bit more about why de-schooling is so, so important.
If you're concerned about socialization, how to lead your child's educational journey, or if you'll know all the answers, check out this episode. And, as always, the meat of the content and all the awesome links are in the show notes here.
This is the final in our series, "The Birds and the Bees: Navigating Powerful Conversations for Lasting Legacies with Our Children".
I'm back with another interview with Moon Daughters founder Jessica Connelly, and it's another jam-packed session with insights for everyone.
Even if you don't have children, these past two episodes with Jessica are important for us all.
Get all the scoop in the in-depth show notes here.
This is the second in a 3-part series on sex and sexuality...and this isn't just for parents broaching the subject with their kids!
This is a powerful interview with Jessica Connelly of Moon Daughters, and she really breaks down the scientific backing around our physical and intuitive connection to our natural world.
We dig deep into claiming our own inner power, and how we need to lay the groundwork within before we ever have these conversations with our children or anyone else.
Check out the corresponding blog post this week where I lay out all the concepts covered in a readable format - and please, spread the word about this series, it may only be available as a free podcast for a limited time - it's that good!
Oh yes, we're going there. Have you had "The Talk" with your kids...or are you dreading the inevitable? This is the series for you. We're introducing a 3-part series on the birds and the bees over the next 3 weeks.
This week, Nathan and I share our perspective as well as the resources and insights that may help you navigate these conversations (mind you, that's plural) that you'll have with your own children. Be sure to check out the corresponding blog for all the books we talk about, plus more! www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-birds-and-bees
This week's episode is a special guest interview with author and speaker Michael Arterberry. Not only is it in podcast form, but the video interview has also been compiled into a full blog post. So video, audio and written text are covered!
Hear his story of overcoming, as well as how he instills a growth mindset and empowers people across the country to "shake off the dirt" and be encouraged about the future.
Get all the info at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-michael-arterberry
Do you do a word of the year? Maybe it's a phrase or mantra. Or maybe, you're feeling all the pressure to have that perfect word of the year and you have no clue! Is it even important to have? I"ll say this - your mantra, phrase or word of the year is not the dealbreaker for success in life. Yet having a clear intention for what you want to focus on can be a powerful game-changer for your life.
Hear why we DO believe in choosing a word or theme for the year, and plenty of examples from others on what intentions are going out for 2021. Get the corresponding blog post at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-word-of-the-year
Feeling in a bit of a funk lately? Are you questioning if there is any end in sight? Well there are life seasons just as much as there are seasons in nature. Way back on episode we discussed this topic, and we addressed how we can have seasons even within a single day! We break down how relevant seasons are to daily recovery, in your life, and even in your relationships. What season are you in? Dig deeper and take the challenge this week. www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-life-season
Have you had the discussion with your children yet? Do they know the wonderful truth about Santa? This week we tackle this question, and share about a sweet little book we used to discuss this with our girls.
And the biggie? It's not just a one and done conversation. None of these elements of growing up are. So we keep the door open, and it's beautiful what all can happen.
Listen to the podcast, and be sure to hop over to the blog post to see all kinds of interesting history, folklore and mythology around Christmas! www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-truth-about-Santa
On the podcast this week, and even more in-depth in the corresponding blog post, we lay out 14 creative celebration ideas to honor the loved ones in your life.
Complete with links and insights beyond the traditional gift, check out some out-of-the-box ideas to take gift-giving a whole new route...and get inspired about creating a spirit of giving...beyond under the Christmas tree.
You definitely want the show notes for links on this one: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-minimalist-gifts
You know those people, and I swear they come out in droves during the holidays! It's the ones you try to avoid, the people you can discuss certain things with, and the time when the holidays rear every obligatory head.
With this already being the year of complete upheaval, why not approach it a bit differently? Dig into our four steps to navigate around toxic behavior and take control of YOUR outcome.
Get the full blog post that goes along with this at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-toxic-behavior
Author Gemma Hartley caused quite a stir with a Vanity Fair article about the "emotional labor" a woman goes through in running a household that goes way beyond the errands list.
This week, Nathan and Ashley dig into the four critical components to carrying the emotional labor load together for the family, and working together toward a common goal. From their perspectives of having experienced both sides of the fence, gender roles may be fuzzy, but strength roles for each individual reigns supreme.
Get the links to the articles, video clips and more at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-emotional-labor
This week I have a special guest interview (both video and on the podcast) with Jodi Chaffee, host of the Family Culture Movement podcast. This interview is jam-packed with awesome insights into things like false boundaries (vs. true ones) and finite vs infinite players in life...as well as how to navigate the holidays when you've created a culture in your home that may differ from who you're spending the holidays with.
Check it out and see the full video at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-family-culture
I invite you to enjoy a little behind the scenes of a week of mishaps, bad weather and even worse internet, and shocking changes and big events.
And, along the way, a few ways our "confirmation bias" has helped us out. You can even check out our video and a sneak peek of the biggies we talk about on the podcast here: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-hurricane
What is the distinction between feeling good and feeling fulfilled? Oftentimes our pursuit of feeling good can miss that very big element of fulfillment that we're all ultimately seeking in life.
True fulfillment isn't external - it's an inward-looking process. We share four anchors for finding fulfillment, as well as a perfect kid analogy for mindset and expectations. Get the full show notes and bonus links at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-fullfilment
If election week doesn't make you anxious enough, we could just pile on COVID, politics in general, protests, or all of 2020 to throw us for a loop. Or, remember back in 2019 or 2000 when we had anxiety and we didn't even have a concept of the craziness this year would bring!
This week we tackle those anxious feelings and how to get a handle on them with 4 strategies to combat anxiety, as well as how to reset the mental roadblocks that hold us back and focus, instead, on what we can control.
Get the full show notes and additional related episodes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-feeling-anxious
Last week we dug into the food battles that can go on at home, from picky eaters to being maxed out and running out of time and food ideas. This week we expanded a bit more to address the sugar overload we know many of you will be getting this week with Halloween, as well as how to navigate eating out with kids in a way that doesn't make you lose your mind or throw money down the drain.
Learn 2 hacks for Halloween as well as 7 tips to make sugar and eating out a wee less stressful. Check out the full accompanying blog post at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-sugar-overload
When you think of food and your family, does it stress you out? Maybe it's the food battles with the kids, the lack of planning, or just being lost on what to do? This is the episode for you. We share some tips and tricks, and why hunger and grace is a-okay.
Get the corresponding blog post at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-food-for-the-family
Are you trying to keep afloat in a child-centered home? When you think of your family, do you consider them a team, all working together, or everyone beating to the rhythm of their own drum? Can you actually support individualism while establishing yourself as a family team? We address 3 steps to creating a family team on this episode, and break down expectations to those you can clearly communicate and work together on. Check out the full blog post that goes along with it at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-family-team.
How do I bond with my child? This is the first in our new monthly 'Ask Us Anything' Episode where we dig into a listener question. Remember that any question we address on the air is eligible to win a family pack of Namaste Personality Snapshots! This week we address the question of bonding with your children, and dig into how you can connect, the importance of non-verbal cues, and our experience with screentime in our home. Reach out with your burning parenting/family questions for us to address on the air, and share the episode with the ones you know will benefit from it! Get the full show notes and bonus video at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-how-do-I-bond-with-my-child
Why did we do a family road trip...and how has it lasted almost four years already?! As we lay out our new "Ask Us Anything" series, we answer some of the common questions we get about traveling together full time in an RV like we do. Check out the full podcast episode wherever you listen to podcasts, subscribe, and be sure to share! (and props to our 10-year-old videographer today for our bonus video in the show notes today) ;-) MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-family-road-trip
Jules may be young, but there is a lot of wisdom packed into her! Juliet turns 8 this week, and she has some insights to share.
On the Mama Says Namaste podcast this week, we bring our daughter Juliet on as a special guest to talk about what she does when she's mad, sad, or scared, and how she works through it.
Here, she shares some of what we talk about. Head over to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-juliet-talks-feelings for the full episode and a video of Juliet!
Have you bought into the myth that you need life balance, and yet you are feeling a bit more like you're always underwater? Have you really looked at how you are recharging on a weekly and even daily basis, or do you just wait for that vacation?
Author Seth Godin says, “Instead of wondering when your next vacation will be, why not create a life you don’t want to escape from?”
Check out our tips to recharge...and why we see life more like a song than a see-saw.
Get the full show notes and expanded blog post at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-recharge
Are you truly listening to others around you, or are you simply hearing sound? There is a difference, and the art of active listening is oftentimes something you have to develop and implement as new habits in order to really become an effective listener.
In this episode, we share 6 critical questions to ask, as well as the ultimate secret to really, truly listening well.
Get the accompanying blog post and show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-active-listening
Are you eager to talk with your loved ones, but they have the attention span of a kitten, or they have a tunnel focus on one interest?
Last week we shared three steps for a connected conversation, and this week we added to this by elaborating on how to make it flow even if you're talking to a small child with a short attention span. We dig into how to elaborate on a tunnel-vision focus for a conversation that could go anywhere, and even how part of the connection isn't with words at all.
Check out the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-strawberry-ice-cream
How do you talk to your children? Do you talk with them...to them, or at them? Yes, having a connected conversation has some specific protocols - 3, to be exact.
Listen in as we discuss the top three steps to having a truly connected conversation - in your home and beyond.
Get the corresponding blog post here: MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-connected-conversation
Feeling a bit frazzled lately? As we embark on the fall and the school year, there are more and more families struggling to figure out how this is going to work, and how in the world they'll get anything accomplished with everyone at home.
It's hard to create a "new normal" when any sense of normalcy has gone out the window, and all plans are written in sand. So this week we share five tips on keeping yourself - and your family - focused and on tasks to ensure you not only survive this crazy season of figuring all things out, but that you can have a bit of fun and truly LIVE in the process.
Check out www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-focus for the full show notes, and be sure to subscribe and share with a friend!
Not sure how to get your kids to respect you, and fearful that if you lay down the law, they won't like you? This is the episode for you. Get some tips on how to do a reset for the whole family, where respect goes all around.
Tune in at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-kid-respect to access the printable and all the extra resources we reference this week!
Have you heard about the Socratic Method of questioning to learn? It's a fascinating concept we utilize often in our home, and this week I have a special guest to speak on this subject - Samantha Jansky, co-founder of Ascent Academy, where there are no teachers, only Socratic Guides.
Learn more about the Socratic style of learning, how there is no right or wrong, and how you can make some simple shifts in your family to open the door to powerful growth and curiosity for everyone.
If you want take it a step further, hop over to the show notes for links, details, and the whole interview on video! https://www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-socratic
Peer pressure gets a bad reputation, and rightfully so. Shaming and "should"ing on people doesn't really make for warm fuzzies.
However, sometimes some peer pressure can be just what is needed to spur you on. We share stories about two seven-year-old best friends who used each other for some "productive influence" in their lives.
Get some tips for how to fuel pressure in a positive way - for your kids, and for yourself. Read the supporting blog and additional links at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-peer-pressure
I swapped my hubby out with my dear friend Sarrah Lombardo, another fulltime traveling mama who had no interest in homeschooling and yet is now in her second year of it.
We share about lessons learned, what has worked, and some insights for those of you unsure about what to do next.
Get all the links we discuss on the podcast at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-homeschooling
It's nearing August, and heavy on many parent's minds is what the heck they are going to do with their children this fall. With social distancing, some schools opting for virtual, and lots of unknowns, now is a time that many are re-evaluating what they want school to look like in their homes.
Nathan and Ashley share about their own educational journeys growing up in this week's podcast, and share 4 key tips for deciding what to do about school that works for yourfamily.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-school
Why are there so many snakes in our home? If you've been following our family instagram, you've been seeing a LOT of snake pictures and videos. And there have been way too many comments from parents saying there is no way they could do that.
Well, I was NOT a snake person, and never ever wanted that in my home. Yet when my daughter Clara started down this path, I jumped in with her to learn alongside her own discovery. And THAT was a huge factor in what is now in our home.
In this special episode, Nathan and I bring our 13-year-old, Clara, on to share about her snake interest and talk about how this unschooling journey has exploded to so much goodness! See some pictures and read more of the story at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-snakes
Is your marriage struggling? Are your marriage woes mounting as you've gotten stuck in a rut of reaction and resentment? In this podcast episode, we talk about how quickly we can spiral downward, and share some key steps in course correction that gets you on a path where your whole family thrives.
Get the full blog post as well at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-marriage-isnt-working
Self-love can be hard to do, yet we can sabotage the process when we're wrapped up in procrastination, justification, comparisons and more.
Add in the intricacies of every personality style, and it's easy to see how we can really spiral to a place where we're looking to everyone BUT us for our own self-love.
Check out this podcast episode where we talk about how we self-sabotage, as well as some personal stories about my own self-love and hurt feelings this week.
Check out the podcast episode and blog post at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-self-love
Do you struggle with over commitment and saying no? This podcast episode is for you - on how to not over commit, why you should say no, and what it allows you to say YES to.
Get the full show notes and all the comments here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/podcast-over-commitment/
The term "emotional resilience" refers to the ability to adapt to stressful situations or crises. It's that ability to "bounce back" or make it through adversity, and is a critical component of having a growth mindset. So how do you foster emotional resilience in your home, and ensure all emotions are processed in a positive way? How do you build emotional resilience when you're struggling to simply handle all the emotions at once?
Here are some tips and strategies for building emotional resilience - for yourself, and your home. Listen to the podcast episode and get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-emotional-resilience
After a brutal weekend of riots and more country upheaval, there is a demand to speak up against the violence. Yet, with so many voices, who is listening? Let's dig into the meaning behind "namaste" and how we can work to truly be heard...and to hear.
Dig into deeper connection on this week's podcast episode: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-namaste
Managing expectations and agendas can be hard, especially when we get stuck if they don't go our way. This week we talk about money and emotions, and how to determine what is REALLY worth holding onto.
Learn more about how to navigate this as a family on this Mama Says Namaste podcast episode: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-managing-expectations
Making decisions as a family can always be tricky, especially the bigger the family (and the more opinions) you have to navigate! In this week's podcast episode, Nathan and I share about three big family decisions we've navigated through in our own home, and what tips we can share with you for handling decisions in yours.
Get the full show notes and resources at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-decisions
How do you handle criticism? Do you immediately go on the defensive or take it as a blast to your fragile ego?
In this podcast episode and blog post, we go over six key tips for handling criticism, toxicity, and fragile egos. Check out all the notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-criticism-6-tips
This week I give my co-host the day off and sit down for a candid interview with my mother, Joanne Miller! We share the top five pillars for what respect means to us, and how it was reinforced in my own upbringing as well as how we both coach families now.
Not only is this a special interview, there is a chance to win, AND get some pretty cool Mother's Day bonuses. Be sure to hop over to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-Joanne-Miller-Respect for the additional resources we talked about, and to see this full episode on video!
Well, there is only so long you can go on pause before you need to move forward again. So, how do you move forward and plan when everything is up in the air? Instead of focusing on any limitations, today we’re going to address the things you CAN do today and plan for in the future.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-plan-pause
It’s time to talk money. And no, not from yet another data analyst, financial expert or business perspective. It’s time to talk about money and the role it plays in your whole life.
What is this energy around money, and how critical is it in our lives? Does our work define us? As we navigate big changes across the globe, and especially here in the US, where our whole economy is being disrupted and is shifting, maybe now is the time to go back to the bigger picture.
The picture beyond money, beyond work, beyond your to-dos, and take a step back.How much impact do your finances have on your happiness?
The latest Mama Says Namaste podcast episode is up, and it's not about how to make more money, but looking at the life you want to create.
What does success really look like to you?
How much do you carry your emotions around with you, or force them away? How do you process - and then let go of - what emotions are rolling through you?
And how in the world do you shift your focus to what you DO want in your life?
We dig into it all in this week's Mama Says Namaste podcast episode, from looking at who's boat you're on, creative ways to funnel anger, and a child's view of the Law of Attraction: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-law-of-attraction
Although this time right now may seem completely extreme for many, the truth is, we have a myriad of emotions hitting us all the time, regardless of whether it's known to the world or only us.
So...how are you doing...really?
Are you taking care of your mental and emotional health, or have you run to crisis and fix mode, and these emotions are bubbling under the surface?
We dive deep into navigating emotions, talk about that wonderful movie "Inside Out", and give some pointers for taking care of your and your family's mental and emotional health in this week's post and episode with Mama Says Namaste.
Get the full scoop at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-feel-the-feels
Quarantine boredom has set in, parents are getting frustrated, and...your kids are learning anyway, even without a strict schedule. What can they learn that helps everyone?
We share some strategies and insights in our podcast this week. https://www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-quarantine-boredom
Let me speak to you parents who are overwhelmed with having children 24/7 right now, much less trying to figure out schooling.
Let me tell you what is most important to do THIS WEEK with your family.
Get the full scoop at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-let-them-play
It's truth that something of this magnitude will change us forever. It's truth that what we knew last week is not what we know now. Yes, it's the end of the world...as we knew it. And yet, there's hope.
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, we need hope and resilience to navigate it. We share insights and our take in this week's podcast.
Get all the links we discuss and more at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-coronavirus-hope
How do you respond to expectations? From your partner, your boss, even your parents? It’s amazing how our behavioral tendencies can shape so much, including our perspectives and our ability to connect with others.
Let’s dig in to the four tendencies Gretchen Rubin lays out, as well as going to the core of our tagline – truly seeing how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us.
Get the full blog post and listen to the podcast episode at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-tendancies
Do you serve your spouse? The last two episodes we dug deep into what can lead to divorce, as well as navigating blended families. This week we want to focus in on one powerful thing that can get pretty misconstrued in our girl-power world – serving your spouse.
Get the full blog post and listen to the episode at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-serving-your-spouse
Are you navigating a blended family? Let’s be clear – this isn’t just about when they are young – this is for families navigating divorce, period. This affects the whole family regardless of when it happens, and this week we’ll talk about some strategies to keep the peace when the issue of exes and step parents are in the equation.
Get the full blog post and resources links at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-blended-family
I recently read an article that laid out 6 traits that can lead to divorce. Nathan and I had our own opinions on it and share not only what the traits are, but how we safeguard our marriage to ensure these don't creep in.
Get the full show notes along with links to the other articles I reference at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-divorce
Have you had those moments, maybe during the holidays, when you were entertaining, hosting, and generally being “on” for an extended period of time? Maybe the thought of having company now fills you with dread, or you feel trapped in the obligation of making everyone happy. We just came off of a long stretch of company, and we invite you to listen in on our unscripted conversation about how we not only survived, but were able to have clear boundaries, recharge, and truly enjoy all the hubbub around us.
Read the blog post and listen to the episode here: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-company
This week I had three different people ask me about our trip to Costa Rica, wanting to know tips and ideas for where to go, what to do, and how to do it. So...here you go!
Nathan and I sat down right before this episode and went through all our pictures with the girls, and then we lay out the why, the how, and the what of our month in Costa Rica.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-costa-rica
What is the best piece of advice you've ever gotten? Do you love giving it, or are you seeking it right now? Well, how exactly do you best give or receive advice? We'll share some top advice from listeners, what impacted us, and why you should throw the word "advice" out the window.
Get the full blog post and show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-advice
Especially when there are changes in your life, how do you communicate effectively to others? At work and at home, lack of communication can signal not only confusion and chaos, but a lack of respect for the impact it makes on others.
We'll dig into this on these weeks' podcast episode and blog post - get the full notes here: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-communicate-effectively
Did you know most people drop their New Year's resolutions by January 12th? Let's get back to the BASICS of goal-setting and make your goals attainable.
Nathan and Ashley break down goals by using the acronym of BASICS to make it manageable so you stick with it. Get the full show notes and read the blog at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-basics
What is your word for the year? Do you have one? Do you care? Have you really communicated with your family on it? This week it's a quick one - look for your "reticular activator" that becomes the rudder for this year...and learn more about it at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-word-for-the-year
2019 is now in the books. And, sometimes it's good to take a quick look back to see what you've done before moving forward. In this episode, the FieldTripGypsies give you an inside look into how 2019 rolled out for us...and you hear me rattle off these adventures as my family hears it all for the first time!
Listen to the podcast episode with our whole family and hear their reactions, and check out blog with all the pictures! www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-lots-of-2019
Now that the hoopla of Christmas has arrived and today is that magical day, many of you parents are getting hit with that dreaded question, "Mama, is Santa really REAL?" Well, how do you answer that?
This week we read aloud, "The Wonderful Truth About Santa" for a quick discussion on what you can choose to focus on as your children navigate magic and whimsy as they grow and mature. Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-Santa
Are you stuck in a negative mindset? Last week we talked about 3 steps you can take to shift that mindset and get you where you want to be. In this episode, we break it down to the five senses, and how each sense can feed your positivity...or negativity.
Get some quick insights with all five senses to foster a positive environment for your whole family! Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-mindset-5-senses
Feeling stuck in a negative mindset, or have a "limiting belief" that is keeping you from moving forward, at home or at work? What are those things that keep cropping up that weigh you down? We'll share three essential steps you have to take in order to shift that mindset in this week's episode.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-limiting-beliefs
What makes a marriage truly great? I read a quick blog post by Dr. Laura Berman and it prompted this podcast episode. We talk about the 2 essential qualities studies show makes a successful marriage, as well as what we would personally add to it.
Get the full show notes, including a link to Dr. Laura's blog plus tons more marriage content at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-dr-laura-berman
It’s the week of gratitude, so it’s all about the feel-goods, right? Well this week we’ll have you join us in a little Logsdon Family "Virtual Campfire Chat” to just share some stories of gratitude and craziness we’ve had along our 3 year RVing adventures!
And of course, I've shared pictures from all we talked about over in the show notes: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-thanksgiving-gratitude
Are you held back by fear, or just don’t feel like you can squeeze in any of your own awesomeness when you are raising a family and simply reacting to the chaos? Well, Ruth Soukup says it’s time to “do it scared”.
This week I break down what she means by this. Get the full show notes and all the awesome resources at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-do-it-scared
Maybe you’ve dreamed of building your own business or starting a “side hustle”. You have this vision, yet…you’re a parent of young children. It’s hard enough to find time to go to the bathroom on your own, much less launch a business! How do you make it work when you’re overwhelmed and busy all the time?
This week, we launch into not just entrepreneurship, but what this means for families, especially those with young children. Get the full show notes with all the links we talk about at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast/sidehustle
When you talk about bucket list dreams and goal, what does that mean? Oftentimes we hear the word "freedom"...but how do you experience that? What does it really feel like to be free?
In this week's episode we share about our visit to the founding Acton Academy and talking with youth under ten about their bucket list dreams and goals. We look at freedom when it comes to mindset as well as when it comes to finances.
And we'd love to hear from you on not only what freedom means to you, but how it really feels. Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-freedom
We all have standards we live by that help us determine how to best navigate this life. In this episode, we discuss the Five Agreements created by don Miguel Ruiz and don Jose Ruiz. Learn to respect your dream as well as that of others.
Get the full notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-five-agreements
It’s Special Guest Time!
This week, we celebrate Elizabeth Rose, who made her entrance with a bang ten years ago on October 22, 2009. Ellie has been such a light in our lives, and has definitely helped us in learning about patience and channeling our energy. So with a decade of wisdom under her belt, here are some important lessons gleaned from Ellie Rose.
Get the full show notes, see some of Ellie’s videos, and more at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-ellie
Should you encourage your children to go to college or not? With the mounting college debt load many students walk away with, plus no guarantee of work once you get that slip of paper, is it really worth it?
We share some shocking statistics on the college debt load here in America, as well as look beyond the box of ideas as well as discuss what will really determine whether your child will succeed or not.
Get the full show notes plus extras at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-college-debt
What does “unhurried spaciousness” mean to you? Do you allow for serendipity in your life, or do you schedule every second? Do you have room in your life for the space that demands no timelines? Are there times where you slow down? It’s so important to allow for some blank space on a regular basis, not just saving up your vacation time!
Get the full show notes and see more of the awesome Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-serendipity
Has your marriage taken a backseat to the children? No matter what age they are, it seems they can always be the excuse. But it doesn't need to be that way, and Nathan and Ashley law down the LAW with some come-to-Jesus talks as to why you need to prioritize your marriage. Because, just like a car without a driver, you're bound to crash if you don't listen up.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-backseat-marriage
We have had our share of ups and downs, and this week, in the midst of a move, we know very well the potential tensions that can rise up in a relationship.
In this episode, we cover John Gottman's "Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse" - the surefire ways to break a relationship down. Plus, the consistent steps that keep a relationship healthy.
Get the full show notes and all the links at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-john-gottman
What’s going on in the Logsdon world lately? It’s been a while since we’ve shared about our travels, and Juliet, Nathan and I share a bit about where we are now. In this episode, we dig into a new concept we’ve leaned into as a family – a “compassionate heart philosophy”.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-compassionate-heart-philosophy
Not sure if you're cut out for entrepreneurship? Check out these 6 tips and get some entrepreneur inspiration for your next steps. Plus, get some valuable resources for all things entrepreneurship in the show notes this week - there are some big things happening just this week only!
Full podcast episode and show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-entrepreneur-tips
Looking for more natural remedies to use in your home, and aren't sure where to start? We lay out exactly what holistic home remedies we use and share a little about the healing properties...including touching on that oh-so-wonderful "placebo effect".
Get the full show notes and multiple links and resources at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-natural-remedies
Did you know that fewer toys could actually benefit your kids? Sometimes in our desire to provide for our children, we end up with toy overload in our homes! But maybe toy overload isn’t the solution. Of course you know that – but do you know WHY it’s so important to pull back on the toys? We break it down according to Joshua Becker’s “Becoming Minimalist” report.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-toy-overload
Help - my kid is lying! What do you do when your child starts lying, stealing or cheating? We never want to imagine our precious children being deceptive, yet it’s way more common than you’d hope.
Deceptive behavior in kids - how do you handle when our children personify our fears and do things that we believe are morally wrong?
We dive into the science behind the developmental process, why kids lie, and 5 tips on what to do about it. Learn more at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-lying
There is so much pressure for us as parents to "get it right" - but with each child being so unique, there just flat isn't a cookie cutter approach that will work. How in the world do you build life skills in your kids? How do you move past the naysayers and critics who knock you down and judge you for your parenting style?
Get the full notes along with bonus video and all the goodness at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-life-skills
Your mindset is the backbone of every action you take. Does it hold you back and weigh you down, or do you surround yourself with the positivity and encouragement you need to pursue your one-day dreams and actually enjoy this life?
Join Ashley this week as she has a talk with her traveling bestie, Jill Griesing-Murschel of Let's Travel Family, about mindset, illness, and surrounding yourself with positivity.
Get the full show notes and Jill's mindset download here: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-mindset
Do you struggle with being “just” a stay at home parent? For those of you who are a stay-at-home mom or stay at home dad, this episode is for you. How do you own this with confidence and recognize your worth?
Get the full blog and podcast at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-stay-at-home-parent
Are you dreaming of having the "it takes a village" mindset around raising your kids, and yet grandparents - and others - are always so busy you feel like you're on this parenting island alone with no support? How do you get family members and others to step up and engage with your kids? How do you create community around educating your children? We tackle this listener question and share some valuable tips for how to make this actually happen in our episode this week. Get the FULL show notes along with all kinds of other resources (including a powerful video) on our show notes page here: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-grandparents-homeschooling
As we are sharing all about the Smart Travel Super Bundle this week, it was a perfect time to talk about what lessons we've learned looking back on our travels, and what we would say to those who are fearful of taking the leap. Is family travel really worth it? Looking back at our top 10 lessons learned we can confidently say, "why yes. Yes, it is."
Get the FULL show notes with all their goodness over at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-travel-lessons-learned
Are you an authoritative parent, an attachment parent, authoritarian or permissive parent? What are all the styles out there, the pros and cons, and how do you figure out what style works for you?
Nathan and Ashley hash out the research-backed parenting styles and address their situational vs. lifestyle approach of simply creating a family-centered home.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-parenting-styles
What is the difference between a counselor and a coach? Why would I need this for my family? Ashley breaks down when you need either, and some powerful questions to ask yourself about where your family is headed.
Get the full show notes complete with all the links at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-relationships-coach
This week we celebrate 100 episodes with "100 Ways To Happy" - we're joined by our three daughters, ages 6,9 & 12 to talk about how we shift out of negativity and choose happiness as a verb in our lives.
We share multiple resources and more in the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-choose-happy
As I have moved beyond the stage of having babies of my own, I've loved the amazing opportunities of being there for new parents as they navigate those first years of being a parent. Beyond the basic advice, there came a time where a dear friend mentioned, "how fun it would be to write a letter to my pregnant self!"
This podcast episode (and the blog post that accompanies it) are letters from four mamas, along with my own input, on what we would say looking back as we embarked on parenthood.
Get the full show notes and so much more at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-pregnant-letter
This week we're highlighting a previous recording that was one of our top-downloaded episodes.
Marriage isn’t a one-time commitment, but a daily practice. It’s a choice to love and connect, each and every day. It’s a beautiful habit you create.
Get the full show notes here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/podcast-my-marriage-sucks/
Do you have a countercultural child who struggles with fitting in? How do you support a child that comes out as queer or makes a lifestyle choice that differs from what your family follows? It's a tough thing to navigate, and we answer a listeners question in this weeks' episode.
Get the full notes and resources at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-countercultural-child
In our final wrap up to this True Parent Struggles series, we address the other issues our listeners have shared with us - all about kids copping an attitude, not listening, and just struggling with basic life skills.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-attitude
Bedtime struggles in your home? Unfortunately, it's not like you can "fix" it once and your children will sleep like saints forevermore. So how do you navigate when schedules constantly change and your child's sleep changes as well? We hash it out in this week's episode on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast.
Check out the full show notes here: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-bedtime-struggles
Tired of food battles with kids? Ready to have a different perspective on mealtime and how to navigate picky eaters? Look no further.
Check out this podcast episode and full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-food-battles-with-kids
In this "True Parent Struggles" episode, we dig into the Golden Rule. How do you teach your children how to treat others? What can we impart to them to help them understand their impact?
Listen to the episode and get the full notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-how-to-treat-others
Struggling with transitions with kids in your home? Transitions for preschoolers is tough enough, but really, transitions in life are simply something we all have to learn how to navigate. From personal experience, I will tell you transitions are MUCH easier to navigate when you know the personality style of the person going through them. Learn more in this episode on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-transitions-with-kids
Boredom - that horrid mindset that enters into all our homes uninvited. What do you do when your child is bored? If you listened to our True Parent Struggles: Screentime episode, you know that boredom is a sure follower of cutting out screens in your home! So what can you do? We tackle it in today's episode.
Check out the full show notes and bonus content at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-boredom
Introducing a new series! We dubbed this "the 7 deadly sins of parenting..." and then decided it's more a struggle than a sin! Over the next few episodes, we're going to address some of the biggies - and today, it's all about screen time!
How do you navigate it in your home? Is it taking over? Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-screentime
Not sure how to help your child transition into adulthood? Check out this podcast on how to equip your teen to "adult" - complete with resources and challenges to ensure they CAN live independently. Go to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-navigating-adulthood for the full show notes!
Ever wonder it what it would be like to be a spy? This week we talk all about our former CIA friends who are “Everyday Espionage” - taking crazy spy tactics back to the “normal world” for more intentional, powerful, and connected relationships.
Safety and deliberate dialogue are the key points for this episode - check it out!
Read the FULL show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-everydayspy
Community - it’s that desire to find yourself and your “tribe” - to feel connected and secure in who you are and who those people are that support and connect with you.
It’s a fear so many have when it comes to venturing out to a traveling, entrepreneurial or homeschooling lifestyle - “how will I find community?” This episode, we discuss building community and engagement. There are three key things that community - and my coaching business - is all about.
Read the full show notes and resources at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-create-community
Do opposites attract? HOW do opposites attract? And how in the world do I handle them? February’s episode is all about love and the ups and downs of living with your opposite.
In many respects, it’s harder to have the SAME personality styles than it is to have your opposite. Two of the same styles may end up never accomplishing anything, or constantly trying to fight for who is in charge.
Oftentimes the biggest struggles in opposite couples is the desire to have the other person view things like you do. When you push for your partner to be/do/think the same as you and that’s not their natural behavior, it can be a slippery slope of disappointment and frustration.
Head over to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-opposites for the FULL show notes!
Do you have a word for the year? We’ve done this over the past several years, choosing a word or theme to help us set our intention for the year. We’ve explored Awe, One Day, and Focus…so what is our word this year…and how do you identify yours?
Check out the FULL show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-unhurried-spaciousness
Welcome to episode 84! We hope you had a very merry Christmas! This week we’re going to give a quick update into how our Christmas went down, and share with you a bit about our thoughts moving forward.
Get the full notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-crafty-christmas
How do you stick to what is important to you - the diets, schedules and more that you have in your family - during the holidays? It’s easy to stay in routine when you’re in your own safe family bubble, yet adding in visitors and celebrations can make all your routines go out the window! Check out the full episode notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-setting-expectations
How do navigate those conversations you don’t want to have with the people you may not choose to be around except for those “special” occasions? We’re discussing boundaries today, and getting back to what is most important for you, and what you actually can control. We all know those toxic relationships that rear their ugly heads, and, guess what. You actually have the power to steer the ship. Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-difficult-people
During the holidays, it's all about abundance...and yet we can get stressed out and maxed out and lose sight of what we dream the holidays SHOULD look like. Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-4-tips-abundance
Ah, the holidays - a time to connect with friends and family, spend a ton of money, stress about gifts, and get a bunch of STUFF you don’t need.
Or maybe not! In this episode, we’re going to share our top tips for gift-giving that means more than a dollar store trinket, and even help you figure out unique things based on personality style!
Get the FULL show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-gift-ideas-for-every-personality-style
The holidays can be a stressful time for some, and for others, it's that buildup to a break - a time to relax, indulge, connect and show gratitude. Maybe the "hallmark holiday" is too big of a buildup for something that really shouldn't even be celebrated.
But why can't we carry this holiday mindset year-round? We've found that as we add a bit of celebration into our daily lives, the pressure of the holidays seems less and less.
In this episode, we share about how we don't really celebrate the holiday, but focus on having an attitude of gratitude year-round.
People dream of grand adventures and all of the fun they’ll have “one day.” Yet so often, that dreaded word “work” holds us back. Is your work drudgery that you are forced to do to “be a responsible adult”? Are you stressed and exhausted and wishing there were a better way? A location independent lifestyle isn’t just confined for those who want to be an entrepreneur - and it’s not just about travel. There are mindset shifts that will help you take ownership of the life you want to live, no matter what you do. Check out this blog and listen to the podcast for 3 perspective shifts and 9 tips on income generation beyond the norm. www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/location-independent-income
Are you feeling stuck in negativity and complacency? Are you hitting a wall and not seeing any hope? This is the episode for you. There are times that require a bit MORE than a course correction. It may be time for a serious shift and redirect. And that’s what this episode is all about. Click through for the full show notes and extra resources at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-feeling-stuck
Sometimes life is not perfect, and things don’t go as planned. We all have those parenting struggles: we’re tired, sick, and overwhelmed. Whether it’s your great intentions for blissful bedtimes or a broader realization that your life is not what you hoped it to be, this isn’t a time to throw in the towel.
It’s time to course-correct, and we’ll share with you what that means in this weeks’ episode on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast!
Get the full show notes with all the goodness at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-parenting-struggles
Looking for community on the road, and not sure how you can manage organized sports and activities while RVing full-time with your family? You CAN make it work...it just takes a different mindset! Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-community-on-the-road
What are your non-negotiables? We believe in a family centered home - one person can shift the whole dynamic in a home, so what do you have as foundational “rules” in your home? We’ve whittled it down to nine powerful non-negotiables that help our family thrive. Get the FULL show notes and all the awesomeness at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-non-negotiables
Looking for insights but overwhelmed with where to start? This week we dive into four hot topics for parents - connecting with our kids, dealing with overwhelm, navigating screen time and parenting kids with challenges. We’ll share our thoughts as well as info on The Mom Conference! Get the full notes and see videos on the Mom Conference here: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-mom
Last week we started to dig into the question "how did you take the plunge into full time travel?" We've been RVing the States full-time for almost two years now, and just recently celebrated landing in our 48th state!
Last week we addressed the "why" - the personality styles in our home and the relationships we hold so dear. This week, we laid out the process that got us to this point - assessing schooling options, minimalism, and finally hitting the road.
"What caused you to take the leap?"
Our “why” goes beyond “one day” and desire for travel. It’s about being an intentional family. As we tackle the question “what prompted you to take the leap”, we go beyond family travel to sharing our journey of how we got to now - how the path of intention started by simply having the desire to know ourselves - and each other - fully.
Get the FULL show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-why
We've made it to our 48th state! In this episode, we bring in some very special guests to share some of the highlights of our travels they enjoyed. Are you dreaming of adventure? Get the full show notes, hear about our highlights, and check out the resources we have to create your own family adventure: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-48-states
Dealing with heavy emotions can be hard, yet carrying that weight around can limit our light in so many ways. It’s not just the light we want to shine from within, but the lightness of the load we carry. We can have a beautifully minimalist lifestyle from all outward appearances…yet if we don’t address the clutter of the heart, we can feel like a boulder in a sea of emptiness.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-dealing-with-heavy-emotions
"My kids won't go to bed" tends to be the complaint I hear repeatedly from parents, and it's not just the infant stage. Bedtime battles can be the bane of families throughout parenting, and it's so important for us to get a handle on it. Because let's face it - this is not going to go away. It's this crazy thing that happens every. single. night.
Hopefully this isn’t what you’re thinking. But if it is, check out this podcast. Marriage isn’t a one-time commitment, but a daily practice. It’s a choice to love and connect, each and every day. It’s a beautiful habit you create. Don’t think “what do I have to do today?” It’s, “what do I choose to prioritize today?”
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-my-marriage-sucks
What is on your bucket list? Hitting all the state parks in your own state, visiting every state in the US, explore Nova Scotia, traveling abroad to Holland, New Zealand, Greece or Bali…these are all dreams I’ve heard recently. So how do you make your bucket list happen?! We’re going to share four simple tips to make your dream a reality!
For the full show notes and all the goodness, head over to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-bucket-list
How do you raise a free-spirited child who isn't a holy terror? How can you foster awareness and respect without crushing their spirit? Tune in this week as we discuss the impact of training with your children, as well as lessons on perspective from our week in Yellowstone.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-free-spirited-child
If you want to talk about empowering kids, get to know how they tick first. Some people ease into life on their own time. They think three times and speak once. They hone in the details, they thrive on the deeper relationships, and they are what we call our Ss and Cs. We'll share insights on how to navigate your strengths to truly thrive, as well as insights into how to motivate and communicate with your S and C children. Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-empowering-kids
We are going to dive into who we are - understanding your own personality style and those of your families. If you have two Ds in the family, what are some tips for helping them lead the way...and not taking over? We're going to explore those high-energy styles of the D and I personality style - and how to navigate these types in your family...and the 7 seconds that will completely change your communication with others. Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-7-seconds
"But what about socialization? How will you meet all requirements? How will they get into college?" If you homeschool in any variation, you've most likely heard these questions. Here is the podcast episode full of homeschooling rebuttals to make anyone question the past and look for the future. Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-homeschooling-rebuttals
"I'm all on board with minimalism, but no one in my family is!" How do you keep up with the clutter when, as soon as you clear it out, more gifts come pouring in? Minimalism with kids can be tough, but it's not impossible! Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-minimalism-with-kids
It can be overwhelming enough just to face the reality that you are going to bring a baby into this world. How do you navigate all the advice and figure out what the "right" way is? Well, we have some important advice here, and it may not be what you think. Check out the full show notes with all the resources at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-new-parent
Nathan shares his story of coming up face-to-face with a mountain lion in Washington, and we tackle the biggest mountain in marriage - finances. Come over to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-finances for the full scoop!
How do you manage the unhealthy relationships in your life, and how do you ensure you can love them without letting their reality become yours?
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-toxic-relationships
How do you manage the unhealthy relationships in your life, and how do you ensure you can love them without letting their reality become yours?
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-toxic-relationships
How do you navigate gender roles in marriage? So often the first question people ask is:
"What do you do?"
But, how do you identify yourself when your work does not bring in a paycheck? Is there an antagonist in your life that is creating pain - or that define what your social expectations are?
Let's explore gender roles, and why we don't believe they are as clear-cut as the 1920s mindset.
Get the full notes here: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-gender-roles
You know what? we have a lot of THINGS - but travel - adventure - is about so much more than accumulating more stuff. I asked my 5 year old what we should talk about as our final wrap up for this "Seek Adventure Together" series, and she said "I know! Let's talk about love, and friendship!" So in this final wrap-up, we're going to address the issue of stuff bogging us down as well as Juliet's favorite subjects, love and friendship! We'll tackle questions like: I don't know what to bring - I have too much stuff! How do you make time for intimacy on the road? What about rainy days? How do you handle sibling spats and tension? How do you plan for everything? For the full show notes with all the awesome links, go to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-less-stuff
What are some of the logistics of travel on the road? We've had many questions about this, like what you need to plot out before you leave, what does a travel day look like, and who does what. We're going to share a bit about travel days in our home, as well as set-up/breakdown logistics for RVing.
For the full show notes, go to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-travel-day
When you are planning a trip, travel expenses can loom large over you. But it doesn't have to be that way. Listen to the Mama Says Namaste Podcast to learn how you can pay for the party.
We live at our max income. We tend to live at full expense and it takes up all our time.
Many people take no care of their money until they come nearly to the end of it. And others do just the same with their time." Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, (born August 28, 1749, Frankfurt am Main [Germany]—died March 22, 1832, Weimar, Saxe-Weimar), German poet, playwright, novelist, scientist, statesman, theatre director, critic, and amateur artist, considered the greatest German literary figure of the modern era.
It goes back to the mindset piece. People work with their heads down, banking on the time they will have "one day." Others are incapable of planning, simply having life just happen to them without any intention whatsoever. Go back to the story of the Mexican Fisherman -
How to Create the Ultimate Family Road Trip...without going broke or crazy: www.90DayFamilyRoadTrip.com/webinar
Ways to leverage your income:
AirBnB your home - are you okay with someone having sex in your bed?
Think outside of the box on how you may pay for something -
What can you downsize? Sell on Craigslist, Amazon, Facebook, etc, swap out kids clothes on consignment, have a yard sale.
Volunteer, Workkamp, Woofing
What commodities do you have you can sell? Your services or your things?
This is a great opportunity to explore something on the side - your "side hustle" or expounding on your hobby and selling it.
www.48Days.com - Ashley's father, Dan Miller. He writes/speaks/podcasts on planning your work around the live you want. Check out 48 Low or No Cost Business Ideas: https://store.48days.com/products/48-low-or-no-cost-business-ideas
What can you create into a recurring income - you produce it once and it continues to create money for you.
Explore a rideshare - can you pick up Lyft/Uber to do on the side? This is a great chance to meet people, potentially expand your business, and allow for some side income.
Don't just shoot it down as "I can't afford it." Start with the mindset - look at what emotions you want to feel. Start looking right now at what opportunities might be right under your nose.
Involve your kids in this process - let them know the expenses and brainstorm together on how EVERYONE can be invested in the process. Let this be a learning opportunity. Put up a chart on the wall to track your progress. Get excited together.
Money is only a limitation if you allow it to be. Speak your successes into a reality. It's amazing when you start to speak it into your life, how much it opens up the opportunities to make it happen. Calculate the cost and do steps back to see how much you need to save a week
Check out Robert Kiyosaki's book, "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" https://amzn.to/2LmkCzd - and while you're at it, explore the Cashflow game as well. http://amzn.to/2zLA6XO
Don't be your own limiting belief. There is such power in perspective and what "rich" means to you. Create your own happiness and choose to keep it at the forefront.
Speak the Law of Attraction on a regular basis. It's not "we can't afford that," it's "how can we make this happen?" Look at "is this a worthwhile investment?"
Your challenge - look at what you're dreaming of doing, and get down to the finances. Don't say, "I can't afford it", but, "is this a worthwhile investment?" Adventure starts with a mindset.
When does your adventure start? Are you ready for vacation? I have a secret- it's not about where you go. It starts, my friends, between your own two ears. Adventure is a mindset.
The Power of Perspective 1. Check Your Approach
Pay attention to your expectations, your perspective, and your attitude. If you are tense and frustrated and not communicating well, it doesn't really matter where you are - it's going to be a stressful vacation. Check out this guided meditation to help you get in the right mindset.Check Your Approach
- Simplify Pull out the big dream. Look at your family vision and think about your bucket list items as well as the feelings behind the trip you're imagining. Look at the big vacations, and explore the tiny "staycations."
Get your mind right - your great experience is between your own two ears.
Determine what feeling you want to create to clarify why
Once you have this mindset in place, determine what you want to accomplish and work backwards from there. Reduce it down to what one thing you can do today to make this happen.
Dumb it down to something you can do immediately to pick away at it.
- Look for your own Acres of Diamonds Check out the Acres of Diamonds story.
Plan an adventure in your own hometown. Check out Lets Travel Family for some great ideas to get you started.
Plan a vacation and share what you are doing!
Remember, Wednesday is the final day for getting your Family Snapshots for 40% off! Just use the coupon code "mamaste" to get your deal.
What happens when your adventures go awry? If you've ever dealt with breakdowns, sickness, and absolute meltdowns, you know what I'm talking about. Nothing can spoil a vacation like one of these curveballs, and we dig into the details of how to cope in this weeks' episode.
Get the full show notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-adventure-mishaps
If you're looking at long trips with toddlers, this may be the episode for you. Figuring out how to navigate public transportation or long car rides can be difficult, especially when you have multiple children with different attention spans in the car. Here are our tips to make transportation a bit easier...
Be open - whatever mode you choose that transports your family on an adventure together. Adventure is a mindset.
Here are tips from the podcast:
Ways to get there with your family: There are many different modes of transportation: car, RV, train, bus, plane, boat, biking, hiking
Know your family's personality styles so you are prepared for what they need to thrive.
In order to get out the door, make sure you: * Always go to the bathroom first. * Hair combed, clean clothes, shoes on. * Have a spare outfit complete with shoes in the car.
Tips for driving in the car with kids: * To make car travel easier communicate how long our trip will be. Share it in how many hours/minutes left, or how many miles. * Plot out your stops before you go - like every hour we'll take a break, or you'll stop for lunch halfway through, etc.
Tips to entertain kids while traveling: * Audio books * People-Watching * License plate/ABC games * "Busy Bag" - layer the toys so they aren't delivered all at once * Silencing headphones for those kids who need silence to concentrate (or sleep)
Traveling with kids on public transit: * Silent observation - prepare before to have kids people-watch and soak in what they see without saying anything - debrief AFTER * This may be a great time to have your kids plugged in to technology - keeps their hands off of other things. Make this the exception, not the norm.
Traveling with kids on a plane: * "Busy Bag" complete with gum, rare toys/entertainment, blanket/lovey * Separation between parents helps - a resting row and a playing row. * Get to know your neighbors! Break the ice before your child breaks it for you in a less than friendly way.
Your Challenge This Week: Plan a simple adventure with your family for next week - one afternoon, day, etc to explore in your hometown.
And check out the free webinar - click the graphic below!
Expectations -
- Set your intention for your concept of
- family | marriage | trip
- Set a family vision that reflects your values
- www.mamasaysnamaste/family-vision
- Put a Date on it!
- This creates a sense of urgency and an end date to your goal
- Protect your Priorities
- Know what is important to you and protect it fiercely
Get more goodness here: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/podcast-expectations
Do you seek adventure together as a family, or are you banking on being able to get to that "one day"? Listen to the podcast on this new "Seek Adventure Together" season, and let us know your biggest questions! Read the full podcast notes with all the links and goodness at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-seek-adventure-together
Do you seek adventure together as a family, or are you banking on being able to get to that "one day"? Listen to the podcast on this new "Seek Adventure Together" season, and let us know your biggest questions! Read the full podcast notes with all the links and goodness at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-seek-adventure-together
What opportunities for learning have you introduced in your home? Do they stray from the conventional "kid-friendly" approaches to something different, like a distillery or a rest stop? What can you find even in your own back yard? How are we building up our kids and opening the door for life-long learning?
Find out all this and more in this week's podcast, and be sure to check out all the pictures and notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-opportunity
This week we dig more into personality styles - steady, loyal, precise, factual...do any of these describe you or your child? The saying "Think three times, speak only once" resonates with people who would rather sit back and observe, processing through their thoughts before acting on them. The more you know these personality styles, the more you gain respect and understanding for how they tick.
Get the full show notes and bonus content at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-think
This week we dive deep into the D and I personality styles - what that means, why we care, and how to bring out the strengths of these personalities vs. triggering that negative reaction people want to move away from. We're moving into these snapshots of how we think, tick, and respond - going deeper than the surface to uncover the beautiful portrait of what makes you - and your child - so important in this world. Read the full notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-bossy
How are we internally motivated? True learning comes from that desire and hunger to acquire a skill or knowledge based on an area of interest or need to know. As we dig into the concept of delight-led learning, it's looking at how we are internally motivated that is the best fuel for true growth and comprehension. There is a little something for everyone here...if you like to read, your blog post is below. If you're more visual, check out my video! And for those of you who listen to podcasts online, all the great show notes are added in here as well! Every week we address this... where are we? This week we're in Blythe County Regional Park in Brunswick, Georgia, enjoying family, nature, and lots and lots of bunnies! And what are we doing? Connecting - with each other, with nature, and learning about this beautiful world we live in.
What Is Your Genius? What is the peculiar bent of your own genius? Marie Forleo puts it well by her closing tagline, "the world needs that little something that only you have." Do you give room to explore what lies within? In this week's podcast, we address how we focus on delight-led learning and being inspired. It has to do with being internally motivated, and following your passions to learn new things.
But What About Screen Time? Special Screen Time Resources For You: A Free Printable Highlighting the "11 Family Guidelines for Screen Use" PLUS The Logsdon Family's Favorite Technology Resources Click here to subscribe
Share your thoughts about Screen Time: What does screen time look like for your family? What are your favorite ways to engage with technology? Hop over to the Unschooling Families Community and share!
Save Save It can be hard to shut down things your children love. However, there are times we have no choice. If wi-fi is suddenly gone, we have to make do. If the video player is broken, it's not always an instant fix. And somehow, somehow, our children still survive. So if something is sucking up all their time and energy to the determinant of them exploring something else, maybe it's time to take a break.
Screens are One Way...What are Others? There are more ways to take in information and learn beyond simply observing a screen. The more interaction, the better. Life is interactive and hands-on, so get out and explore! Some ways to pursue delight-led learning:
- Start out with a curiosity board - grab magazines with different areas of interest, get out drawing materials or paints. Create a Pinterest board.
- Watch Ted Talks and documentaries
- Shadow or apprentice someone in that profession
- Take field trips - go to the library, nature centers, community centers, playgrounds, museums, hikes, plays, concerts and more.
- Interview individuals who are doing something in your area of interest. Have a conversation with them about what they love about their job.
- Create. Have a full creativity day with materials but no agenda. See what develops.
What If I'm Scared To Dream? Life is a constant period of growth. Try new things. It doesn't mean you have to commit to it for the rest of your life. Allow for variables. Keep your constant as love and connection, not a certain curriculum or routine. As we grow, our interests and needs will change. Sometimes we are hesitant to pursue our dreams for fear it's a lifelong commitment. Be open to learning and growing and how that evolves. Sometimes a natural evolution happens that morphs them from an original dream to something completely new and undiscovered.
How Are You Internally Motivated? If you want to have children inspired to learn, let them see you light up with your own growth. Create accountability partners with your children. Ask them to help you be the life-long learner you want to be. It empowers them and earns you the right to push them to do the same. How did you learn how to...use the internet, do a podcast show, sell real estate or drive a car? When we are internally motivated we do what we need to do to learn something new. [caption id="attachment_6383" align="aligncenter" width="561"] Who knows what stories they will come up with? In our cousin time this week, they had a lineup to discuss this topic: "What is your superpower?" The answers were amazing![/caption] Your Challenge this week - create a curiosity board - all of you. What are common interests? What are those random curiosities that may light up that "bent of genius" in your family? Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have regarding education/school in your home. Ask in the Mama Says Namaste or Unschooling Families Facebook groups. If we reference you on the podcast, we will also send you a free “Mamaste” shirt – fresh off the presses! And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you! • Subscribe, rate and review on whatever platform you listen • Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community • Reach out and talk to us!
Which path is right for me? Am I missing the mark? How do I inspire a "Life Long Learner"? How do I navigate all the overwhelming choices out there for educating my child? What type of thinker are they, and does that matter? How in the world do I motivate my kid (or myself) to learn new things?
First, It's All About Sales It's so important to build relationships - and the sales model we speak on in business also works with families.
- 40% - Developing rapport and trust
- 30% - Identifying need
- 20% - Product Knowledge
- 10% - Gaining commitment
How can you apply this in your home, you ask? How easy is it to demand compliance in your home? When you walk in and bark orders, how does that energy feel? If you build trust and rapport; if you earn the right to request, it's a whole different ballgame. When we barrel through and make demands, just like in high-pressure sales, it can turn your family off and shut them down. It's important to go through this process of sales even in your own home. We have to get out of the mindset of sales being a bad thing and consider it with a different context - serving. When you believe in something and are excited about how it can help others, you can become an expert salesperson. You aren't limited by "sales", but empowered by how you can serve. With our children, this model is powerful when it comes to getting them to try new things, learn difficult concepts, etc. This week I'm trying out a hodge-podge of goodness. A little bit of blog, a little bit of podcast, and a little bit of video. Let me know what you think! On Tuesdays at 10 Central, I'm doing FaceBook Live events on different topics - and, when applicable, I'll add them into the blog. This one definitely is - check it out!
Here are the resources mentioned: The Lifelong Learner Snapshots to discover your child's (or your) learning style and what motivates their learning -- for ages 10+ For children under 10, the best place to start is with the Littles Snapshot Check out the "Functional Education" blog post Carol Dweck's "Growth Mindset" - a "not yet" instead of an "F":
Ready to dig deep into what type of thinker each of your family is? Here is the Season 5, Episode 43: What Type of Life Long Learner Is Your Child?
Listen to this episode on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Spotify or your RSS Feed
In the podcast, we dig deep into the Life Long Learner Snapshot - it's amazing what insights you can get out of this, and how you can motivate...or "sell" your child, partner, etc in a way that really resonates with them. Before information can be retained, you need to recognize how you perceive it. It is your perception of the information that helps you soak it in - not your level of intelligence, but how you are taking it in.
Are you an auditory, visual or kinesthetic learner? Auditory Learning Styles
Use their voices and ears as the primary mode for learning. They remember best what they have heard and what they themselves expressed verbally.
Visual Learning Styles
Like to see words in written form, an illustration in graphic form, or assignments clearly described in written form. They like to follow instructor’s lessons visually with handouts, graphs, and graphics.
Kinesthetic Learning Styles
Learn better when they touch or are physically involved with what they are studying. These learners want to use trial and error in order to remember and comprehend concepts.
How do you think? Literal Thinkers * Practical in their thought * Likes organization
L = These people are organized, direct, practical, factual, and efficient. We call them Literal Thinkers.
Intuitive Thinkers * Sensitive in their thought * Cares about feelings
I = These people are imaginative, sentimental, perceptive, and adaptable. We call them Intuitive Thinkers.
Theoretical Thinkers * Thorough in their thought * Does the research
T = These people are analytical, logical, deliberate, and thorough. We call them Theoretical Thinkers.
Experiential Thinkers * Original in their thought * Takes risks
E = These people are curious, realistic, innovative, and challenging. We call them Experiential Thinkers.
Adjust the way you are teaching to fit your child's need. Your challenge this week - share your story! Hop over to the Mama Says Namaste FB group, the Unschooling Families group, or send us a note. How does your family learn?
Credibility - do you really feel comfortable teaching your children? No matter what type of "school" they are in, like it or not, you are your child's teacher. And even more crazy, you are a teacher to everyone you meet! We have the opportunity to learn from everyone - and this week we shift the terminology from "teacher" to "guide" to "lead explorer". Let's have fun on this journey with a big dose of grace and flexibility and see what happens.
Read the full notes at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-credibility
Is failure a tattoo or simply a bruise? Can you allow your children to struggle and be uncomfortable? This week we talk about the importance of the struggle in developing our own little butterflies. It may be hard, yet it's so important in fostering resilience with our children.
Listen to this episode on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, YouTube, iHeartRadio or your RSS Feed
The Mama Says Namaste Podcast song has arrived! For the full version of cuteness, I recommend you hop over to our YouTube channel and watch this video of us singing it live! Where are we? Orlando, Florida…right down the road from Disneyworld, not land. See our pictures and follow our adventures on Instagram as @FieldTripGypsies You cannot control what your children are exposed to; you can only influence the way they perceive it. Ask questions instead of simply filling in the gaps. New way to lose…and everything to gain: The importance of “failure” in our lives – and how to step back from being your child’s savior. Read the full summary on Functional Education here. Not sure what personality style your child is? Check out the Namaste Snapshot for kids! The documentary we watched on Netflix about birth and differences was “9 Months That Made You” - it was fascinating!
3 Ways To Allow The Struggle 1. Be the Guide: help your child prepare for their own independence. Coach/practice in order to allow them to do it on their own. You stay by their side through the practice portion, but the actual performance is all on the child. 2. Be the Pusher: allow them to butt up against the edge of their own limitations. Don't force, but nudge them beyond what they believe they are capable of (for example, swimming and holding breath underwater). 1. Challenge them beyond their fear. Get uncomfortable/scared/nervous and bump against that to help build your comfort zone even more. Go past the boundary and expand. 2. Marie Forleo’s video on the comfort zone and the growth zone: Are you afraid of taking your business to a whole new level? 3. Step out of the way: allow your children to experience anger, pain, loss/grief, frustration, loneliness, etc. Let them hash it out on their own and come to their own conclusions, or feel the impact of the negative feeling. Oftentimes this is what is needed for the lesson to be learned.
“By trying to protect children from disappointment, we protect them from hoping, striving, dreaming and sometimes from achieving their dreams.” Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish (How to Talk so Kids Will Listen & Listen so Kids Will Talk.) We cannot feel the triumph of success when we don't allow for the defeat of a perceived failure. Your challenge this week: Step out of the way. Don't swoop in or interpret every step with your children. Pay attention to your own struggles and model it for your children. Unpack your own experience for building resilience and allow the struggle, just like a butterfly in a cocoon. Next week, we’ll talk about credibility - what qualifies you as a teacher…or are you comfortable with being a guide? What does that mean? What type of parent - and guide are you?
Allow for space to struggle this week. Push a little further than you believe is possible - for you, and for your children. And celebrate the struggle, and the opportunity for growth, as one more step in recognizing how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us.
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have regarding education/school in your home. Ask in the Mama Says Namaste or Unschooling Families Facebook groups. Share with us your thoughts - where have you struggled and feared failure? how have you grown from it and become a better person because of it?
If we reference you on the podcast, we will also send you a free “Mamaste” shirt – fresh off the presses!
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
• Subscribe, rate and review on whatever platform you listen
• Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
• Reach out and talk to us!
Deschooling - The Education of Letting Go So you want a new perspective on education? It may be that your first step isn't school at all, but "deschooling". In this episode we debunk the myths of what we deem as "successful education" and talk about going back to the root of what you desire with your kids. This blog post on "Functional Education" lays out the outline of what all we will be covering on the podcast. Functional education is a “whole mind” approach to learning. It’s taking learning beyond individual subjects and timelines to a full life-long learning approach.
Go to http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/podcast-deschooling/ for the full show notes!
We may beat to the beat of a different drummer. So what expectations do you have surrounding education in your home? It's intimidating to take responsibility for our children's education. But then again...is this something you simply want to hand over to someone else and hope it just works out? No matter what decision you make for schooling for your child, this series is for you. It's not simply unschooling as the answer; but raising life-long learners. Are you yourself teachable, and are you ready to learn alongside them?
Listen to this episode on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, YouTube, or your RSS Feed
Here are our podcast song lyrics all written up fancy on a paper plate...
The Mama Says Namaste Podcast song has arrived! For the full version of cuteness, I recommend you hop over to our YouTube channel and watch this video of us singing it live! This week we find ourselves in Lutz, Florida. Not our most favorite area, but within an hour of some of our top places to see - Nokomis and Siesta Key beaches and Weeki Wachi Springs, to name a few! See our pictures and follow our adventures on Instagram as @FieldTripGypsies
How to get started as a Life Long Learner: As you start to venture down this bunny trail of overwhelm, understand that this is going to be more exploration then structure. There are thousands of paths for an unconventional education, and just like steering a ship - there will be times where you will adjust, rewrite your course or throw out your boat and jump on another one. For so many this can be such on overwhelming undertaking that you don’t know where to begin or what is the best path. You are taking a journey you haven’t explored before - allow for grace and compassion both for your children and for you! The most important step in moving forward is your first one - moving in a direction. Only then will you be able to soundly decide what works and what doesn't.
Expectations Lay Out Your Expectation: What do you imagine education is? Is it strictly book time, no technology, or being in the wild outdoors? Do you see education outside of the classroom? Define Your Feelings: How do you as parents want this to feel like? What feelings are around your desires for teaching your children on your own, or collaborating with an institution? Define Success: What does success look like? Is it a perfect score on a test, a diploma, or simply a love for learning? How will you put parameters around it to measure it? Quick definition of unschooling: Unschooling is a term that the late John Holt coined in the late ‘70's to describe learning that is based on a child's interests and needs. Unschooling does not begin with a parent's notion of what is important to learn and then turn the choices of how to learn the content over to a child. Rather, it begins with the child's natural curiosity and expands from there. Unschooling is not "instruction free" learning. If a child wants to learn to read, an unschooling parent may offer instruction by providing help with decoding, reading to the child, and giving the child ample opportunity to encounter words. If the child is uninterested in these supports, the parent backs off until the child asks for help. The most important thing about the unschooling process is that the child is in charge of the learning, not the adult. Unschoolers often do no traditional school work, yet they do learn traditional subject matter. They learn it as a natural extension of exploring their own personal interests.
You don't have to sign your life away Red Light - Green Light your strategy - as you prepare for your first step- approach your tactics with a Red Light - Green Light method. Before investing your time and energy into a grand educational plan, choose a direction and have an end point to check in BEFORE moving forward. We recommend a weekly check in to ensure everyone is excited and enjoying the process. Not only is this less intimidating, it allows for an understanding of fluidity. Committing to a path, inspecting the “success” of that path, and redirecting as needed will open up more opportunities for success rather then drudgery.
Timeline Commitment - 30 days - 60 days - 90 days -Before you pull your kids out of school, quit your job and move into an RV... of course if that interests you, be sure to check out 90 Day Family Road Trip! Have a time period of exploration. Perhaps during summer vacations or portions of a weekend. Look for opportunities to start practicing. Don’t let your agenda get in the way of their creativity. Nicole at www.FamilyADDventures.com listed this con of homeschooling: The cost of an online curriculum and student platform is about $1200, even more for specific arts and technology courses. Plus the taxes we pay, anyway, for living in our expensive neighborhood with good public schools. Also, I have to drop my salary by another 20% in order to be home during the school day so I can facilitate B’s learning. Be sure to look at laws for your area - HSLDA is where to go: Home School Legal Defense Association is a national advocacy organization that supports the right of parents to educate their children at home. We are dedicated to protecting the legality of your homeschool while equipping you to successfully teach your children.
Connect first...let learning come after Recognize that deep connection opens up creative opportunities. Don’t underestimate the importance and the empowerment that can take place when relationship building is your foundation.
I wrote a blog on Functional Education where I laid out the details for this podcast series - check it out and learn more about this concept.
37 Days of Different: A Guide to Break Out of Your Boring Routine and Start Changing Your Life
Don’t underestimate the value of down time. Your challenge this week: Ask your spouse, your children...yourself - how do you like to learn? What are some unconventional ways where you've learned something valuable? Life is a process of growth and refinement. Assess how things are going. Look for opportunities for you to adjust - simply little tweaks that help guide the direction in a way where everyone thrives. Don't invest so much in something that you feel stuck and cannot escape. This doesn't have to be an all or nothing. Your relationship with learning will take different forms along the way - same goes for your children.
Check out the Lifelong Learner Snapshot - it gives you in-depth insights not only to your strengths, how you communicate and what motivates you, but also if you are visual, kinesthetic or auditory learner, and if you are more intuitive, analytical, etc in your processing. It's a super thorough report that gives you a lot to go on. Plus, it comes with a free eBook on understanding all the personality styles of your children! Learn more here. When are you happiest in your learning and growing? What does that look like? Ask your children, "What are you curious about? What do you want to learn more of? Is there anything we can explore together?"
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! If we reference you on the podcast, we will also send you a free "Mamaste" shirt - fresh off the presses! And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you! • Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes • Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community • Reach out and talk to us!
There is so much awesomeness going on right now we felt it was important to take a step back and talk about what all is up with the Mama Says Namaste world. Take on our challenge this week to put a date on it - and learn about the 90 Day Family Road Trip that's launching today!
Listen to this episode on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, YouTube or your RSS Feed
Have you used the share button in iTunes? You can share the episode and text it to a friend who needs to hear it!
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast!
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly
With our new season being all about learning and growth, I’d love to share a bit about the growth that has happened in our own lives with this business.
Go back to Episode 000 for a recap as to how we got to where we are with RVing the States full-time.
I tried (and failed) to turn my family into a tribe - fatherly.com article we discussed about how difficult it an be to do the tribe mentality when we aren’t all in community.
Blogging from the heart…moved to coaching others, moved to challenge to build a business.
I help growing families understand their unique gifts so they can go from chaos to intention and create the family life they love to come home to.
“As you speak it, it becomes your reality.”
Recap on how the Mama Says Namaste business was born - here is a blog post from when I got started: It’s My Birthday, And My Business Is Born!
Here is my guest spot on the Entrepreneur On Fire podcast with John Lee Dumas
Now, the newest big endeavor - 90 Day Family Road Trip!
www.90DayFamilyRoadTrip.com - This is not simply a course on RV how-to. This is a lifestyle how-to. It's how to logistically make it work as well as how to thrive in it.
You may dream of traveling as a family - but you have to learn how to live in community and connection - how to ensure everyone thrives and you are truly embracing the moment - and the journey.
Shifting to a location-independent lifestyle takes you beyond the destination and forces you to focus on the present.
How do you take it all in - the sights, the experiences...and afford to keep on going? How do you live in a tiny home without everyone going crazy? There are so many questions that surround it all beyond the DIY how-to videos you find on YouTube.
This course tackles the hard ones to empower you with confidence to create a lifestyle you all thrive in.
This isn't just a road trip. This is an intentional shift for your family.
It's 90 days to explore - your environment and who each of you are. It's to create vision, intention, and to write your own family story.
90 Days is an awesome way to get started as a first step instead of it being an all or nothing. It may be that 90 days is more of a "family sabbatical" to allow families to reconnect...and then learn that staying exactly where they are is the best...but they come back with a whole new perspective and connection to make things run with intention and not just reaction.
The top 5 things people regret doing before they die - don’t look back with regret.
“Life is not an either/or. Look for more ‘and’ in your life.”
Your challenge - if you are dreaming of “one day” - if you have those bucket list items…what is holding you back from pursuing it? I challenge you to say it out loud this week. Each one of you in your family - share what you would like to “one day” do. I would LOVE for you to share this in the Mama says Namaste FB group as well.
And once you’ve voiced it….put a date on it. Check out the Family Adventure Podcast - here is our guest interview episode!
Each of you have your own dreams and desires. And when you come together and create a plan that includes everyone, you are one step closer to really being able to embrace how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us.
###### Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover “Put a Little Love In Your Heart” by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Does your family actually play together, or even know how? Understanding what motivates each of us allows for you to connect and play where everyone has fun...including the parents!
Listen to this episode on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, YouTube, Spreaker or your RSS Feed
Play is the highest form of research. Albert Einstein
What are we able to do as human beings that can not be replaced by artificial intelligence? It’s the soft skills that are critical - bringing forth teamwork, compassion and creativity - those skills that make us human and set us apart from AI. Here is the video we watched: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TFSSCP/permalink/1431369760318752/
In our analysis of learning and education, sometimes it’s more about helping the older generation - the parents - re-frame what “learning” can look like. We’re training the parent on what they really think school and education “should” be.
Understanding Personality Snapshots Go back to Season 1: The DISC recap - MamaSaysNamaste.com/personality-snapshots - helps to bring awareness to how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us. This is a chance to see your family in another light - to go deeper than an actual snapshot into who you are under the surface.
D - Driven, assertive, visionary, results-oriented. Lion or Eagle
I - Outgoing, gregarious, story-teller, life of the party. Peacock or Otter
S - Steadfast, loyal, great listener. Golden Retriever or Dove
C - Analytical, logical, systematic, detailed. Owl or Beaver
We all have a little of every personality tendency. We are a beautiful melting pot of intricacies. However, we tend to gravitate toward one or two styles that really highlight our strengths.
Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning. Mr. Rogers
For a high D or C, they are task-focused. So play may be more about the project. For a D, it’s about the end result - a competition, something to achieve. A C would be looking for something to complete. Finishing a project or task, and seeing the instant feedback of completion - winning the game, completing the puzzle, etc.
For an I or S, it’s all about the people, engaging and connecting with others. For a high I, it’s all about having fun. It’s not so much about the competition but just having fun during the process. For an S, it’s about connection and relationships.
Understand the personality styles of those who are playing. Meet them where they are and pay attention to what motivates them.
Remember Your Family Vision In these “10 Essential Lessons for Life”, so much goes back to what we decided was our family vision. Go back and explore your own family vision, or create one:
Family Vision - mamasaysnamaste.com/family-vision
Our vision is Explore - Respect - Listen - Connect - Learn - Love
It is a happy talent to know how to play. Ralph Waldo Emerson
Your challenge this week - go play. Have fun and put your inhibitions down. The sillier, the better. It’s okay to just let loose and be a kid.
Flashback to the blog post I did on play…and climbing in tunnels: Remember To Play
In this season, we’ve covered:
- Have an attitude of gratitude
- Fostering independence
- Natural Consequences
- Having the abundance mentality
- No secrets
- Empathy
- Pick your battles
- Quality time
- and now, remembering to play.
Coming up next week…
Life Long learners -
We’ve had so many people ask us about our unschooling journey…and it’s so much more than that. It’s not simply unschooling, but life-long learning. We are going to dive deep into this over the next few weeks in our new season. It’s a doozy, and we’ll dive into how we all have the opportunity to learn and grow, and the more we understand, the more we have grace for others and recognize how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us.
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
• Subscribe, rate and review on whatever platform you're listening through
• Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
• Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover “Put a Little Love In Your Heart” by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
How many times do we try to coax our children out of their raging emotions simply because it doesn’t work in our own schedule? As we talk about building resilience, it’s important to recognize that in order to bounce back, you have to be able to fall. You can’t navigate emotions you aren’t allowed to feel.
Season 4, Episode 36: Building Resilience Listen to this episode on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, YouTube, Spreaker or your RSS Feed
This week’s episode is brought to you by the Namaste Snapshots - if you are looking for powerful insights into how someone in your life ticks, gift them the beauty of a Namaste Snapshot. When we dive deeper than the surface and identify our best selves, it’s amazing how it brings people closer, and helps us all recognize how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us. Don’t wait - go ahead and grab one!
We talk about all the Facebook awesomeness - The Mama Says Namaste Facebook Page
To join the community, hop over to the MSN Facebook Group or the Unschooling Families Facebook Group and introduce yourself!
The definition of resilience means we are able to bounce back – but that means we have to feel the fall first. Remember empathy. You may not feel the same extreme response, and it may be insignificant to you, but it’s not for your child.
Go back to Episode 33 for more of a refresher on Empathy.
Allow for Space Give your children space to process and navigate through what they are feeling, without rushing in to their aide right away.
Resilience doesn’t come when we don’t allow our children to process. If you want your child to be resilient, you have to allow them the opportunity to experience the emotion and get through it.
CLICK TO TWEET
When your child falls, how do you respond? Do you rush to scoop them up and “fix” it? Do you give them space to figure out their own reaction?
Jules knew I wouldn’t leave her. I don’t play that game. She knew I was watching out for her – that’s why she was working it so hard. But the attention she got was pity from strangers. This did her no good, and, quite honestly, really pissed her off. Her angst turned to anger as others tried to make her smile. She wasn’t ready to smile, and she didn’t appreciate being told how to feel (hmm, can you relate?)
How many times do we try to coax our children out of their raging emotions simply because it doesn’t work into our own schedule?
CLICK TO TWEET
Instead of feeling resentment about the time it's taking up, set a simple timer. Just having five minutes to process can be plenty of time for a child to come full circle. And when you put it into perspective that it's only five minutes, it's not as big of a deal for you to make space for that.
When Do We Allow Big Emotion? There is definitely a time and a place for a meltdown…and yet, when do we assure our kids that yes, right now is when they can absolutely lose their cool and collapse? Most likely that doesn’t happen. We see raging emotions and we nip it in the bud.
Don’t cry. Don’t rage. You’re okay. That didn’t hurt. You are resilient.
When I’m coaching, there are times I work with families who have never experienced actually going through those big emotions. They’ve rushed to support to the point that a child doesn’t know how to navigate anything on their own. Or a parent has stifled their own emotions for so long they aren’t sure how to model resilience. Other times, it may be that the big emotions are so large that there is no getting off of it, and the whole family is getting seasick from the constant waves of large emotions.
What is big in their world may seem insignificant to you, but to them…it’s everything.
If It’s Important To You… My mother has a plaque she created to go with her “Creating a Haven of Peace” book that says “If it’s important to you, it’s important to me.” This was a big thing for me growing up. She validated me in my emotions no matter how ridiculous they may have appeared. She met me where I was and helped me ride out the storm.
So Jules was upset. In her world, this burden of walking on her own two legs was just too much for her to carry. I could have forced her to “buck up” and put a smile on her face. But how easy is it for you to force a change in emotions just like that? This kiddo was four.
So she sulked. She moped, acted out the most extreme of sadness and rejection, dragged her feet and lagged further and further behind.
And I stood strong. I had eyes on her, alright, but I made it clear that I was going to move forward and get that shopping done, and that I’d love for her to join me when she was ready. She’s resilient. I knew she’d come to me when she was ready.
Compare it to riding a pony - they have to ride it with respect and not let it get out of control or it's dangerous. Can they do that with their emotions? We'll reference getting back on that pony and riding it - because it's a beautiful ride. Allow for grace as well - point out when someone is having an emotional meltdown and look for where you feel empathy. We all have our ups and downs.
The Sun Will Shine Again Allow your children to weather their own storms.
Give them a safe place to process, and help them navigate how to handle their emotions in an effective way. Letting children
feel and process doesn’t mean you have to tolerate a temper tantrum every five minutes.
It’s a lot easier to try and control anger and sadness when it’s something we deem as petty. Not being carried or getting a toy is no big deal in our world. But how do we have those same children “buck up” when parents divorce, or their dog is hit by a car? These are legitimate emotions that we can’t just take away or erase. They have to be able to navigate through them. And the best way to do it is to learn in those seemingly “petty” situations.
Helpful Tips For Big Emotions: Here are some tips we’ve used:
• It’s okay to be angry or sad – but if that anger and sadness escalates to screams that make people cringe, that’s not okay. You can feel your feelings – but do not force it on others. (reminder – what you do impacts others – respect their ears). Click here for our family vision.
• Angry Scribbles: When you are angry, create an angry scribble drawing. This is fun for kids of all ages – just scribble it all out – bright colors, harsh lines…it helps!
• Journal – write out every emotion in a big brain dump. It’s better to get it out than keep it in. *Do NOT send a letter/text/email in the intensity of anger. It takes away so many elements to just have the written word, and it can come back to haunt you.
• Take some alone time. Sit with your feelings. Go for a walk (or a run). Give space.
• Listen to music – find a song that fits your feeling. Then find a different song and see how that makes you feel.
• Pay attention to others – what emotion are they feeling? How are they handling it? Observe what others do.
• Practice makes “perfect.” None of us are ever going to be truly perfect. But the more we practice navigating our emotions, the more we are able to weather the ups and downs of life.
Emotions are a significant part of who we are. ALL emotions are valid, and they all have their place in this complex brain that makes us human. So let your children feel, experience, process and move on. Allow them to learn how to be resilient.
How do you foster resilience in your children?
Read all of Juliet’s story in this blog post: Foster Resilience
Your Challenge This Week: The next time your child has an extreme emotion, take that teachable moment - not just for them, but for you. Step back and see how they shine. See if they can comfort themselves, resolve that fight, or shift that attitude on their own, when given the space to do so. You may learn your child is much more resilient than you give them credit for.
Next week’s podcast is on Play - how do you play with your family? Share in the MSN Community on Facebook
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
• Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
• Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
• Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover “Put a Little Love In Your Heart” by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Season 4, Episode 35: Quality Over Quantity
This life lesson may be something we all know we need already, but when you have children, that lesson is very in your face, especially when you are working from home. So how do you keep your sanity, free yourself from obligation, and yet still have that precious “quality time” with your family?
Listen to this episode on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, YouTube, Spreaker or your RSS Feed
Where are we? Fort Myers Beach, Florida! Check out the awesome work being done at Crow Clinic, who just celebrated their 50th anniversary.
Meet our awesome new friends, www.LetsTravelFamily.com and over on Instagram as @letstravelfamily
It’s about Quality Time, not Quantity Maybe you’ve rolled your eyes at the cliche “quality over quantity” a time or two. I have, too. Trying to rate what is truly “quality” can be tough, especially when you’re stressing about the “quantity” of time you actually don’t have!
Life Doesn’t Fit Into Perfectly Closed Boxes As an entrepreneur, I have to say there are times that I can look with envy at the person with the traditional job who clocks in, works their shift, clocks out and completely leaves work at the office. When you have your own business, freelance, or any other variation of entrepreneurism, it’s hard to draw that clear line in the sand.
Work and play can seriously overlap. This is a double edged sword, but can also be pretty freakin awesome, since my work is scheduled around the life I want instead of the other way around.
There Are Days… I struggle with the fact that I’m working from home and juggling two jobs. I feel pulled when I see all of the family playing together and I’m behind a computer screen. But I’ve figured out something super important: working from home is so overrated.
Let me first say that working from home does not guarantee that you will get to spend more time with your family. Sometimes, it is more a slap in the face of your family that you are there but not focused on them. Because, of course, the whole entire world revolves around your tiny little angels, right?
Those Self-Centered Children To a child, they are the whole world. Try to just empathize with them – they are experiencing a whole new world on a daily basis. The first five years of life – think of all you learn and start to do! The next five…adding in the realization that there are others out there who have their own emotions and perspectives on the world. And then the next five…figuring out how to mesh those two together and learn and go in harmony with others!
That’s a broad generalization, and this is clearly a rant I’ve run down – but this will get me back around to my point. Young children simply live the life of wonder and awe that happens when you are experiencing something that could be the best – or the worst- on the whole world on a regular basis.
Quantity Is The Issue! So getting back to working from home. In all their innocence and wonder, small children, especially, are completely oblivious that their parents may actually have something to do that does not involve entertaining them. So they barge in and you:
-
Shout “not now – I’m working!” and shove them out the door
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Stop and listen and then get caught up in helping them that you lose the rest of the day and don’t get whatever you needed to do accomplished.
Again, two broad brush strokes, but essentially the extreme to a common them:
Multitasking can result in you being a 'jack of all trades, master of none.'
CLICK TO TWEET
Now you are stretched for time, your patience is thin, and you haven’t really accomplished anything.
Focused Time = Quality Time block. That’s it. That’s my solution, and that’s what I highly recommend to each and every one of you. It is much, much better to be the parent who is looking into their child’s eyes than sitting next to them on the phone going through your emails while you “hang out”.
I’m the first to admit that it’s hard, especially when, sometimes, it’s flat out boring or annoying jumping into their play (oh yes, I did just say that, and you aren’t the only one who doesn’t really want to “play” all the time).
Here are our top tips to navigate time with your children so it truly IS quality time:
- Bookend your day. We’ve said this time and time again. Be prepared. Create systems and habits you can implement that makes it all much easier. Pre-make your coffee, breakfast, set out clothes, etc. Talk with each other about what is coming up the next day so everyone is on the same page. Inspect what you expect - allow for time to assess if what you are doing is actually working!
- Build your list. Clear your head. Dump out the list of to-dos in your mind. Write off the things you need to get, to do, to accomplish. Clearly communicate what needs to be done.
- Time block. When you really need to work, literally separate yourself from all distractions. When you work, work. One hour of focused, undistracted time may allow for two hours of time to be with your children. When it makes sense, include your kids, sure. But if you have a looming list of tasks, you can spend more focused time with them if you separate it out. When you block off specific time, you help to prevent living in reaction.
- Shut down the notifications. Turn off your phone, your iMessages, and any other alerts. Close yourself off – shut the door, go somewhere. Don’t be around your children, unless you are willing and able to handle interruptions. With notifications, when you see it, your mind immediately goes there, and not on the present. The world will not fall apart if you set times to check notifications vs. reacting whenever they crop up.
- If you are pressed, put parameters on your time together. Even taking 5-10 minutes to stop what you’re doing and connect with your child may fill their bucket enough that they are able to then play for a stretch without you. If you are an “I like to finish what I start” person, you definitely need to practice letting things go. Blocking off a few minutes can make all the difference in the world. It’s not always the time-suck you think it is. If you aren’t sure what your personality style is, check out the Namaste Snapshots.
- When you do focus on your kids, make it valuable for both of you. Stepping into their world can be beautiful. But just because your child loves to play “cheetah” and run on all fours through the house for hours doesn’t mean you have to fake enjoyment in that to connect with them. CLICK TO TWEET Find things that are mutually rewarding. Take a walk together. Cook together. Do a project. Sometimes we feel forced to play only in a 3-year-old’s world, and they would jump at the chance to do something “grown up” with you. Open up the creative aspect by combining a little of something you both enjoy…create “princess golf” or crayons plus watercolor.
- Quality time doesn’t mean only loose play time. It can be 1-1 talks in the car. Sometimes it’s reading a book or running errands together. It’s focused attention on your child, where they know you are truly present. You can still accomplish grabbing that item from Target, but maybe it’s couched in a date with your daughter and you spend time browsing the toy aisle with her just for fun, and grab a hot cocoa from Starbucks on your way out. I’ve had some pretty fun shopping experiences with the kids where I may have tackled the errands, but we spent a lot of time giggling and trying on clothes, checking out toys and simply exploring a store together.
- Just hang. There are times when a plan and a focus is awesome. And, there are times when no plan is the best. Give yourself permission to not be “on” all the time with your children. Allow for boredom - it spurs on so much creativity.
If you are looking for a conversation starter, we're only half way through our 30-Day Get the Conversation Started Challenge, so be sure to ask your kids, your spouse, your friends or even share your own answer to one (or all) of our daily questions.
Not only will you get the value of starting a fun conversation with a loved one, you'll also be entered to win a free personality snapshot.
There is no perfect equal balance in life - it’s a give and take and constant navigation.
What are you doing in your home to instill that quality time?
How are you balancing work and family?
Be intentional about your time, and look for opportunities to simply invest in your children. Some days are better than others. Kids are resilient and can be very forgiving. But it takes some deposits in their own lives to establish that security in your relationship. Then they can allow you your space to get things done. They know you place a priority on them and they will have their time with you as well.
Your action step this week: Try “Talkie Time” with your children. Set a timer for 5 minutes and just have a focused conversation where you let your child lead it. You don’t have to make a big announcement, just sit with them and let them know the attention is all on them. Five minutes is longer than you think, and it’s amazing where that path may lead. My kids love “talkie time” as their special chance to be fully heard and connect on a daily basis.
You don’t have to title it or state what is happening. Simply sit down alongside your children. Observe. See what they are doing and they are focused on. Sometimes the best way to connect with another is side-by-side, not head on confrontation.
Get yourself in the right mindset this morning. Listen to my guided meditation from last week: Breath In, Breath Out
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
• Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
• Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
• Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover “Put a Little Love In Your Heart” by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Breathe in. Breathe out. Breathe in. Breathe out. Today we meditate to create. We focus on intention to create the life we want, instead of simply hoping it will fall in our lap. I've been diving into meditation this year, and as our family has listened to so many guided meditations, I decided to create some of our own. Listen to this to start out your day. Grab 15 minutes of silence, or play your favorite meditation music in the background as you listen to the spoken words. Below is the full transcript, yet I encourage you to close your eyes and only listen.
Breathe in, breathe out. It's a new year, it's a new day, it's a new life... Did you know that you can actually wake up every day and say this? We hold so much anticipation for the new year - that THIS is when you make your resolutions, lay out your goals, and make a change in your life. Yet we have the beautiful opportunity to do this each and every day. We don't have to wait until January 1st to begin. As I'm recording this, we're ten days in, and some of you are already beating yourselves up for what you haven't actually done. Those great intentions of a daily run have been completely nixed as temperatures have plummeted outside. There are still too many great leftovers in the kitchen to really start that healthy eating plan. And the kids are still reeling from the sugar rush and weeks of excess, so you're now considering a completely different kind of bootcamp just to get your sanity back.
Remember, today is a new day. Today is the day you sit down and write the script for your future. You set the intention for today. Because this is a beautiful moment, and it's yours completely.
Get into a comfortable position. Lying down may mean you fall asleep. But then again, if you fall asleep, it may be that rest is what your body needs. So lie down, sit crosslegged, or even hang out in child's pose - it's a great way to really turn inward with your face down.
Breathe in. Breathe out. Soak in what is happening right now. Pay attention to your body. How do you feel? What is it telling you? Start at the crown of your head and feel it. Have you ever just stopped and paid attention to the way your head feels? Simply putting your attention on each part - your scalp, your temples, your forehead, around your eyes, the back of your head...take a deep breath in. Feel that breath going down through your body. As you exhale, tilt your head down and feel the beautiful stretch in your neck.
Focus your thoughts on the point where your neck and your head meet. Although your head may not be the heaviest part of your body, there is a lot of weight here - that heaviness in your mind - those thoughts of all the things you need to do, frustrations from the day, and feelings about who you are...or wish you could be...deep breath in. Gather it all up. All the heavy weight and emotion. Grab it up in a big bear hug and release it. Exhale and let it free. Send love to your mind. Light, airy, filled with grace. Feel your head get lighter and that spot where your head and neck meet get stronger as it has been released.
Move down to your shoulders. We're going to do a mental massage here. With your mind, feel the release of your shoulders just like someone rubbing the muscles - from the center of your spine out, over each shoulder, squeezing and massaging. Feel the tension ease out. Pay attention to what is left, and the strength in your body. Work down from your shoulders, and focus on your spine. As you work your way down the spine, imaging your back parting like the Red Sea - a flowing wave of water, with your muscles being eased and pushed outward from the spine as you scan all the way down it. Breathe in. Breathe out. Breathe in. Breathe out.
As the waves flow out, feel your arms. Let the ripple of release course through your fingertips. Feel how your body lets go of the tension, the tightness and pressure, simply by placing intentional focus on it. Your mind is a powerful thing. Shining light on those areas of your body where you hold tension immediately allows your body to assess...is this true? Is this helpful to my body? Is this something I want to hold on to? Breathe in. Breathe out.
You make this choice. We can be held victims of our own pain simply by allowing it to run us. Yet we have a choice. Focusing our attention on the tightness and acknowledging it, we give it respect. We acknowledge that it's there, and we assess what may be going on deeper. Pain, tension, stress and anger don't like force. Sometimes we try to fight it out. We say pain, be gone! When all pain wants is to be acknowledged; for you to stop movement and recognize its place in your body. Do that, and release it go. Send love with every ounce of being to that feeling of stress, tension or anger in you.
Release it. Love it.
At this point we are halfway through your body. You have a wave of love that is gently washing over the heaviness and you are starting to feel a lot lighter. Send your focus to the hips. Imagine hands on each side of your hips bringing down your muscles from your hips down your thighs, pushing out any tension and tightness. Sink your hips deeper into your relaxing position. Let go of any weight you've been holding in and allow for a full release. Feel all the way down your legs, again that wave of love washing over you. Breathe in. On your breath out, allow love and calm to flow all the way through your body again. Breathe in. Breathe out.
There is so much more to us than simply this body. We are surrounded by energy, and that energy flows around and within us. Above you, there is a bright white light. Visualize it pouring over you like a waterfall of warm water, warming your head, your neck, your shoulders, your back. Your hips, your legs, and shooting that heat, that calming heat, all the way out your toes. In your mind's eye, imagine your whole body now glowing with white light. You are airy, calm, and full of peace. This is where you create your intention.
You've been completely focused, calm, and allowing flow within your body. At the same time, I've spoken intention and you've visualized and created these feelings through your body. You have the power to do this all throughout the day. As you go about your day today, keep this same focus. Before reacting, simply observe. Notice your surroundings, what's going on, without attaching any emotion to it.
Shine your light of focus, and create the intention for how you want to approach it. Not dictating how everyone else should act, but how YOU will respond. You write the script for your reaction. Breathe in. Breathe out. Breathe in. Breathe out.
Today, as you are surrounded by your children, make it a point to stop, get at your child's level, and see them exactly as they are in that moment. Take that bright light of love that is glowing in you, and pass it to your child. Visualize it flowing out of you and through your child's crown - on the top of their head, all through their body. Breathe in. Breathe out.
Today, look your partner in their eyes. Pause and simply look at each other and hold the gaze. Share your light with them, and send it through your eyes into theirs. Touch them. Go even further and touch them like this meditation touched you, moving over their body in a way to send love and help them to release. Your cup is full, and you are able to fully give and connect with your partner. Breathe in. Breathe out.
Today is your opportunity to approach everything and everyone with love, peace, and kindness. As you go about your day, approach every stressful moment with observation, and the knowledge that you have a choice. Will this run you, ruin you, or control your reaction? Or can you simply observe and choose love. Love yourself. Love this moment. Love what is. Breathe in. Breathe out.
Don't map out every second. Free your agenda and expectations to take the day off. Today you are love. Today you are present. Today, at this moment, you have lightness within and around you. May you be safe. May you be happy. May you be healthy. May you live with ease. Breathe in. Breathe out.
This is the happiness mantra. Repeat this with me. May I be safe. May I be happy. May I be healthy. May I live with ease. May I be safe. May I be happy. May I be healthy. May I live with ease. May I be safe. May I be happy. May I be healthy. May I live with ease.
Don't get so focused on the "idea" of what has to be, and simply set the intention for today. For each day is viewed through our own lens, and we get to adjust the focus. My soul recognizes your soul. I honor the light, love, beauty, truth and kindness because it is also within me. We are all interconnected. We are love. Namaste.
Needing more of this? Click the graphic below and take the quiz to see how your family is doing, and get free access to resources that help you all reach that deeper connection.
You may hear "pick your battles," but how easy is it to do that in the heat of the moment, when you're frustrated, tense, and have no patience left? In this podcast, our daughter Clara joins us and we share about a crazy utopian society, how to pick your battles, and 4 powerful tips to diffuse the fight before it starts.
Where we have been - Koreshan State Park -
The Koreshan Unity was a communal utopia formed by Cyrus Teed, - The Koreshan Unity started in the 1870s in New York, where Teed started preaching his beliefs - Eventually, Teed took his followers to Estero, Florida, to form his "New Jerusalem" in 1894. (and no, “voluptuous” in no way means an 18” waist, Nathan!)
The community was at its peak 1903-1908, when it had over 250 residents - In 1908 Teed got in a skirmish with a local Marshal over preaching their beliefs and was beat down After Teed died in 1908 the group went into decline.
Follow www.Instagram.com/FieldTripGypsies to see all our pictures of this place
Pick your battles. You don’t have to show up to every argument you’re invited to. Mandy Hale
Episode 9 - Fighting Toward a win-win (discussion is not a monologue)
“Practice being kind rather than being right.” Go back to “what is your goal” in this.
Be careful about going down the long road of fighting a battle that may just not be worth fighting. It’s okay to be human and recognize when a battle has gotten bigger than your relationship. Step out of it. Don’t die on that hill. Your relationship is worth more than that.
• Where is my tension? Do a body scan – where are you feeling your anger? Are you going to simply react out of anger?
Point this out in your children - “is your chest really tight?” “Are your fists clenched?” A thief doesn’t like to have a light shined on them - bring light to the negative feeling in your - or your child’s - body. Notice it, and watch how it can dissipate.
• Ask yourself, “is this more about my convenience or their needs?” Which is more important at that moment?
Patience - we are given opportunities for it. And although it might take forever, when I’ve held back, the kids work it out on their own. For example, potty time. It takes forever.
• Take a perspective check and determine the urgency of the situation
What will I lose if I let go of my expectation in this moment?
For parking lot drama or a late airplane flight - take over and move them out on. Shoes on just-so before a walk…we wait.
• Take a deep breath, and count to seven. This helps to re-set and cool you down, and allows your child to process and think about their part in it all.
Taking a breather can be helpful - kill two birds with one stone with the pull-up bar. Let kids see us give ourselves a time out. Shake off all that negative energy. Check out Dr. Laura Bergman’s Quantum Love series.
It can take 7 seconds for an S or C personality to process, while it’s 3 seconds for a D or I. Learn about your style with a Namaste Snapshot.
Check out this scenario, on the case of the teddy bear outfit: Pick Your Battles
Reminder of the thriving/surviving quiz:
Want to skip straight to the free video email series for bedtime
battles? Go here!
30 Day Challenge: 30 questions to ask your children…like,
I love this one because I captured the girls’ response on video: If you could ask a wild animal any question, what would you ask them?
“What’s your super hero name and what powers do you have?”
"My superhero name is Rosette. I have powers to love and powers to be who I am. And I'm a bucket filler." Juliet, age 5
Or - you’re at the beach, what’s the first thing you do? Debbie Anderson and Lindsay Black both said take off their shoes -
If you want more proof that grounding works, check out this article.
Your challenge this week: Ground yourself. Before you react, assess. Feel the earth at your feet and determine how much you’re battle really matters.
That stance someone else takes may not be about winning or losing, but about a different perspective, and it’s one more step in understanding how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us.
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
• Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
• Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
• Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
When we cultivate empathy, we build the bridge of connection. We don’t take away the emotion or experience another is going through; we simply sit there with them. Join us as we discuss where we are, our goals for the new year, and how to build empathy and connection in your home.
Listen to this episode on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, YouTube, or your RSS Feed
Where are we: The Everglades! Learn more about this fascinating area here. And check out our Shark Valley bike ride (and gators) here.
Brené Brown’s talk on Empathy - check out the video in my blog post here.
4 Qualities of Empathy:
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- Perspective Taking
- Staying out of judgement
- Recognizing emotion in others
- Communicating that emotion
In order to connect with someone, you have to find something in your life that creates that feeling. It’s not “silver lining” it and saying “at least…”
Rarely does a response make something better; it’s that connection.
“Empathy is about finding echoes of another person in yourself.” Mohsin Hamid
Don’t move, fix, or correct the emotion of another. Simply meet them where they are.
Sitting with and experiencing emotion is so important for us to learn how to navigate through it. There is function in emotion - it’s not just something to barrel through.
What NOT to say to your children:
- “You’re okay” - what someone else is going through is not yours to own or take away. When your child feels pain, hurt, anger, etc, it’s their emotion. We can’t force our kids’ emotions away. They have to navigate through it. Jumping in with them and helping them recognize the power of their own mind equips them with the tools to recognize their own capabilities and the power of their mind to move through the emotion. Comfort first - connect through touch and sharing the emotion of what they are going through. Before shifting, meet them where they are.
Don’t deny the emotion, own it and navigate through.
- “You need to…/I told you…/See…”
The word listen contains the same letters as the word silent. Alfred Brindel
Being told something vs. experiencing the opportunity to navigate it on their own really allows them to grasp a concept on a much deeper level. When you are driven, you retain it. Desire is such an important part of learning. Nothing drives love for what you do like a true desire. Letting your children discover that on their own empowers them to really grasp it. Sometimes less is more - give your child the opportunity to figure things out. People go to therapy - they pay someone else to just listen to them. What if we actually stopped and simply listened to others and gave them the space to process through with the support of someone else’s presence. If you want to truly help/teach your children, be the example. “Preach…and if necessary, use words.” St. Francis of Assisi.
- “It’s not a big deal.” Don’t squash what they feel in the moment. It’s not yours to negate. This is a powerful time for you to be able to hold them through an emotion. Don’t be the signpost for your kids just telling them “life goes this way.” We all need to discover our own paths. Empathize, don’t tell them how to feel it.
Empathy is the bridge of connection between two souls.
Your challenge: Meet your children where they are. Get down on their level. No matter what age, comfort and listen first. Act only if necessary. Sometimes it’s just knowing they aren’t alone is all that is needed and they can navigate the rest on their own.
Additional blog posts on empathy:
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- 10 Essential Lessons For Life: Empathy * Chaos of the Heart: Rawness Equals Connection
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Next up: Pick Your Battles! Hit us with any questions, comments and stories you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Check out the new “Thriving Families” quiz on the website! Go straight to it here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/thriving-families-quiz/
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
• Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
• Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
• Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Season 4, Episode 32
Secrets, secrets are no fun. Secrets, secrets hurt someone! Most everyone has heard this at some point in their lives, and typically it’s about kids keeping secrets from each other. But wow, I have heard story after story of how secrets, lies and deception have just ripped families apart. Our lesson today is an important one, and one that can be a pretty touchy subject.
Listen to this episode on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, YouTube, Spreaker or your RSS Feed
We shifted our Christmas a bit this year - spacing gifts out over the week vs. a big dump Christmas morning. It was nice to really give attention and focus to each present as we opened one a day.
What shifts did you make this Christmas? What have you explored doing differently so you can focus on what is most important? Have you experimented with any of your old traditions and tried anything new this year? Share it with us in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook group!
No Secrets We are up-front and honest with our children 100% of the time. This does NOT mean we tell them every detail of everything. This doesn’t mean they need to know every piece of news and heaviness in the world.
When a child asks a poignant question that has depth to it, they deserve the respect to give them an answer. It doesn’t mean they have to be told every little fact and detail - but they should be heard and answered.
Sometimes kids are ready to hear a truth, and other times, they can chose not to. Sometimes, they can simply choose to “believe in magic.”
A lot of times we are the ones placing the high expectations on a topic and giving it a lot more weight than what is needed.
Setting Boundaries There are conversations we have with each other where children want to know all the details. I can respect their curiosity, give them a “cliffs notes” version of what we’re talking about, and explain to them that this is a conversation that doesn’t relate or apply to them. There are times where it’s simply not their business, or they are too young for the topic.
No Secrets Does Not Mean A News Brief
No subject is taboo in our home. Everything is open to discussion. But this does not mean I sit my children down and give them a news brief every morning.
Our children don’t need to know everything. They don’t need the weight of the darkness and sadness in the world on their shoulders. I want to protect them from the pain as much as I can, but sooner or later, our children are going to see pain and hurt and the darker side of the world. I want them to always know the door is open for us to talk with them about anything. No topic is off limits, and we want to remain a safe haven to learn and ask questions.
Why Is This So Important? No secrets promotes teamwork. When you keep secrets from your children, you’re supporting a hierarchy of who is “in the know.” Kids can sniff out lies easier than we give them credit for. We have to keep in mind that it’s not just our words, but our energy and unspoken body language that our children see. The heavy stuff – our “skeletons in the closet,” can run deep.
I have friends and family who grew up with secrets. The missing pieces – “Why did Daddy leave?” or “Where did the money go?” created confusion in kids. We are naturally inquisitive as humans. We want to know how things tick and why x + y = z. Missing gaps don’t go unnoticed. I don’t need to inform my children of every thing going on in my life, but when it affects my temperament; when my brain is elsewhere and I’m processing something heavy on my heart, the kids notice.
Allow Your Children To See Your Pain If it’s affecting you, your children deserve to know what’s going on. When we have emotional turmoil, this makes a big impact in our energy and how we are with everyone, including our children. To hide or compartmentalize our “issues” simply means we are choosing not to deal with them at the moment, and they will inevitably crop up down the road. Young children, especially, are egocentric. They typically believe most of life revolves around them. When a child sees a parent having a hard time, the first thought is “what did I do?”
You perpetuate unhealthy emotion management when you hide and suppress. Use those moments of pain as a time to process and teach about a powerful way to deal with the emotions you are processing. You don’t have to hand off the pain, but you can be open about what you’re going through.
Don’t Avoid The Hot Topics It’s not just about pain, however. There are many topics that end up being taboo in a household. It may be about sex, drugs, or religion. Maybe it’s the “because I said so” discussion regarding curfew or why you are anti-whatever. Controversial issues in the world – the ones that are highly opinionated and much discussed – are going to present themselves to your children.
Be careful about delaying conversations that allow an opportunity for growth.
When you avoid controversial topics, it simply tells your children that your door is closed, and they need to go elsewhere to learn.
Keep An Open Door The only tension we feel is our own - our need to answer and be “right.”
This is how they learn. Your children are sponges. They are soaking everything up – both things said and unsaid. In our household, we have an open door policy. It’s not just about dumping everything on them, but we want to set the precedent that they can come to us with anything. A few tips for keeping an open door and not having secrets:
Download the PDF of 7 Tips for Family Honesty
Your Action Item for this week – Your children are going to ask you questions this week. Make it a point to be truthful with your answer, even if it’s simply “I don’t know” or “I’m not quite ready to talk about that with you.” The point is to be honest with where you are at – not simply pulling out every skeleton. Just start setting the precedent that your home has an open door for conversation.
No secrets doesn’t mean baring all and shoving it in people’s faces. It means being authentic and true to who and where you are at this moment - even if it’s simply saying, “I’m not ready to talk about it.”
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
• Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
• Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
• Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Have an abundance mindset. How can you life in a way that recognizes the Law of Attraction, and raise your children to be generous in life?
Listen to this episode on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, YouTube, Spreaker or your RSS Feed
Where are the @FieldTripGypsies this week? Rockin it in Miami after a few weeks in the Florida Keys!
Wanna check out Nathan’s orb spider? Here you go
“If you want love and abundance in your life, give it away.” Mark Twain
This quote pulls the focus off of the individual and puts it on the world. Give freely and abundantly, and it’s amazing what comes back to you.
This is a daily practice - not just one and done. It’s regular emotional tithing.
Here is last weeks’ blog post:
"Natural Consequences, Discipline…or Punishment"
Are you asking for a kush life, but not recognizing the opportunities that develop your perspective?
Expectations are premeditated resentments. Be open to the opportunities that may be around you that you don’t expect.
There are little signposts - or alerts - along the way that can affirm your path.
Original Post on abundance: 10 Essential Lessons For Life: The Abundance Mentality
“I can play country…but I’m hippie at heart.” Nathan Logsdon
If you want more coming in, open yourself up to invest in others.
When we only look at the surface, we lose. Look deeper for true connection.
If you haven’t checked it out yet, explore the Namaste Personality Snapshots for your family.
Want to visit Nashville? Well, here is our house on AirBnB
Co-Creating At It’s Best - Dr. Wayne Dyer, Esther Hicks, and Abraham:
“Use whatever excuse you can to vibrate in harmony with those things you’ve been saying you want. And when you do, those things that are a vibrational equivalent flow into your experience in abundance. Not because you deserve it, but because it’s the natural consequence of the Law of Attraction. That which is like unto itself is drawn.” Esther Hicks
You follow your fears. If you are stuck living in the fear of losing something, or something horrible happening…or living in the past pains…switching this script makes a huge impact on what your future will hold.
Once you are able to love yourself, you are able to love people beyond what you dreamed possible. It boils down to accepting that you are who you are, and you have a purpose in this life.
The kid’s station on Pandora is the “It’s A Hard Knock Life Radio”
Sometimes we gain wealth only to “Ebeneezer Scrooge” it. (Nathan)
Flip the script. Change your perspective and point of view.
And for your children, don’t let your fears get in the way of them embracing life. Don’t fill them with a world of “can’t”. There is a world of “can.”
Sometimes we can get so lost in our own misery that we forget there are others out there. Everybody has a story.
Have You Filled a Bucket series
Want a full gift guide of books for kids? Check this out: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/book-gift-ideas-kids/
“Where your focus goes, energy flows.” Tony Robbins
We choose “Logsdon Love Day” every day. Every day is an opportunity to celebrate what we have. To be grateful. Not just an obligatory holiday feel-good.
As you pour into others, its amazing how rich you will feel.
It doesn’t mean you have to hold onto every gift out of obligation. Pay it forward.
And when you give, give and let go. Don’t hold on to the expectations of how it will be received.
Help each other. Love each other. Love yourself, and give grace.
Your challenge - Pick someone every day to give to. No agenda, no reciprocity, no reason. Give randomly and generously just because.
Give anonymously. This is a wonderful little book to share with the girls about Santa when they start to question it all. I love that what it highlights is that yes, Santa is real, and it's a name for people who give in secret. The focus isn't in the person, but what being "Santa" is really about. It's about being secretive because the real gift of giving is the joy it gives to others. It states "Saint Nicholas was the first Santa Clause, but anyone who shares the SPIRIT of the holiday through giving is a Santa”. Check out “The Wonderful Truth About Santa”
Four key areas we discussed:
- Drop your expectations. Abundance may come in a different way than you anticipated.
- Don’t have a scarcity mentality. Don’t attract your greatest fears.
- Fill people’s buckets. Look for how you can give and invest in others.
- Accept giving with gratitude. Not just for what the gift is, but that someone else thought of you - be a gracious receiver.
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
• Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
• Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
• Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Season 4, Episode 30
Listen to this episode on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, YouTube, Spreaker or your RSS Feed
Podcast Title: Every Action Has A Consequence
Summary: In this episode on the "10 Essential Lessons for Life," we discuss the hard truths of natural consequences, and how this exactly what we as adults deal with on a regular basis. Learn three tips to ensure you are using natural consequences correctly in your life, and your children's. www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-natural-consequences
Podcast Notes -
In Season 4, “10 Essential Lessons For Life,” we give you a series of insights that will hopefully motivate and inspire you with your own family. These core lessons and values are the foundation of our family. We will continue to grow throughout our lifetime, and there is no way we can teach our children everything. Yet these lessons are the pinnacle of what we believe in. It’s not just us parents teaching our children, either. The first five lessons are what we’ve imparted to our daughters. The last five are the valuable lessons they’ve taught us.
Links Referenced in the Podcast: Be sure to check out the blog from last week: www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/purpose-for-money
Do you have a clear vision for your family? Check out www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/family-vision for a refresher on this.
Remember - unspoken expectations are premeditated resentments! Clearly communicate with one another - this is so huge for a thriving family.
Go to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast and ASK US ANYTHING! Share your thoughts and feedback. We love hearing from you!
https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/natural-consequences/
“My actions are my only true belongings.” Tich Nhat Hanh
Natural consequences are simply a reaction to your behavior.
In nature there are neither rewards or punishments; there are consequences.
Have You Filled A Bucket Book Series: These books are super sweet and help kids see the importance of sharing love and kindness with others - my girls really responded well to these. This whole series helps children understand about deposits and withdrawals in our emotional bank account (or emptying/filling the bucket). I was surprised that even my then 2-year-old quickly grasped the concept and looked for ways to "fill a bucket”. http://amzn.to/2xrHES7
We only have so much energy every day. We need to make sure we aren’t “on” as parents 24/7. Parenting is not a sprint; it’s an ongoing marathon - so pace yourself.
Are you robbing your children of them having natural consequences due to your own fears of them falling…or failing?
Food doesn’t always have to be readily available. Sometimes things aren’t in season…both in nature, and what is offered at the dinner table. It’s okay to draw a line on food battles and allow your children to feel the natural consequence of a hungry belly.
Be careful about passing your fears onto your children. Or your pickiness. You are their example for how to navigate this world. And them seeing you experience the natural consequences of life is a powerful lesson for them.
When you show your own brokenness to your children, it allows them to see you as human and not simply on a pedestal…which can be a long fall down when they actually DO realize you’re human.
Do you need that outside perspective in your own life? Do you need someone to help you be accountable to your dreams, to affirm you and support you, and to challenge you to grow and not simply wait for “one day”? Check out www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/coaching. Email me at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com with any questions you may have.
Look at mistakes, challenges…negativity - as “what does this make possible?”
Natural Consequences: Is it reasonable, related, and respectful? https://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/positive/disciplining-with-natural-consequences/
If you want your children to respect you…respect them.
Every action has a consequence. Weigh what you are willing to do and accept the consequence. What will you risk? Your children are watching.
There is always an impact that happens when decisions are made. People are impacted by the decisions you - and your children - make.
The decisions we make - and the actions we take are our only actions in this world.
Your challenge - share a story with someone younger than you about a natural consequence you experienced in your own life.
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Summary:
In Season 4, “10 Essential Lessons For Life,” we give you a series of insights that will hopefully motivate and inspire you with your own family. These core lessons and values are the foundation of our family. We will continue to grow throughout our lifetime, and there is no way we can teach our children everything. Yet these lessons are the pinnacle of what we believe in. It’s not just us parents teaching our children, either.
The first five lessons are what we’ve imparted to our daughters. The last five are the valuable lessons they’ve taught us.
In our second lesson, we talk about fostering independence…not only in our children, but in ourselves as well. What is holding you back from freedom? What would it take to truly make you feel free? www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-foster-independence
What’s holding you back from freedom?
www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/no-excuses - it will always stay “one day” until you speak it into reality and create plans to make it happen.
What does financial independence look like to you?
What is the bare minimum you need to live by? How much money do you really need?
“There are two lasting gifts we can give our children. One is roots, the other, wings.”
You need the confidence to step out…and the competence to identify when you need to really ask for help.
https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/life-lessons-independence/
10 Underrated Parenting Milestones: http://crappypictures.com/ten-underrated-parenting-milestones/
Every action has a consequence.
Allow your children to earn the right for their independence.
Give your children grace… and space to fail. To fall. And, to get back on. This is a powerful lesson for all of us. Give yourself grace to fail.
Give your children safety in boundaries that are broad enough it allows them to truly explore.
Love the growth and the process instead of simply trying to hold on to the past.
Your Challenge This Week:
Here is your challenge for the week. Let go of one thing you are doing for your children. It may be wiping their hiney, combing their hair, or cooking breakfast for them. What can you give your children that adds to their life skills while also lessening your to-do list for the day?
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Summary: In this new season, we address the 10 Essential Lessons for Life. The first one here is on attitude - that powerful thing only we can control. There are four critical components philosopher William James lays out, and we tackle them on this episode. Check out the full show notes with links at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/podcast-attitude
Podcast Notes - It’s About That…Attitude
Links Referenced in the Podcast:
Digital Nomad Summit: Juggling business and family while on the road: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5B-TAj_uvOw&feature=youtu.be
William James: The greatest discovery of any generation is that a human being can alter his life by changing his attitude. http://www.pursuit-of-happiness.org/history-of-happiness/william-james/
My Previous Blog Post: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/life-lessons-attitude/
Book Recommendations:
Wisdom Meets Passion: This was written by my father and brother and it's pretty incredible if I do say so myself! Think beyond what you know and challenge the norms - be educated in what you are going to do to make an impact on the world! http://amzn.to/2fV1UR6
37 Days of Different: If you're stuck in sameness and don't know how to get it, this sweet and easy little read is a perfect first step. Pick one and do it daily! http://amzn.to/2xqKsz5
Man’s Search for Meaning: This is one of those heavy, pivotal books that shapes the way you perceive the world. Written by a holocaust survivor, Victor Frankl explores how his attitude got him through the concentration camps, and what really kept survivors alive through the darkness. http://amzn.to/2BtYhuD
Four Main Ingredients for a Happy Life:
From what has been said, we can abstract four main ingredients for a happy life, according to James:
Happiness requires Choice: the world in itself is a neutral flux of “booming blooming confusion,” hence it is entirely up to us whether to view it as positive, negative, or as absent of all meaning.
Happiness requires Active Risk-taking: happiness is not produced merely by thinking or by resigning oneself to life’s circumstances, but rather by taking bold risks and acting on possibilities that come from the “heart’s center,” the Real Self within.
Happiness involves “As-if” thinking: while we cannot prove rationally that freewill exists or that life is meaningful, acting “as if” we are free or “as if” there is an ultimate meaning in life will through that very activity produce a free and meaningful life.
Happiness often comes after a Crisis of Meaning: throughout history, the happiest people often record going through a deep depression caused by a sense of the loss of meaning…these events should not be repudiated but welcomed since only through them is the “Twice-born” sense of renewal possible.
Your challenge this week:
Own your emotions - let them roll through you. But don’t become a victim. Choose happiness. Choose to move forward. Ask yourself what you can learn from this, and be the example for your children. Have them watch you do an “attitude adjustment”.
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Season 3, Episode 27
Here come the Holidays…and Relationship Drama
Do you feel the relationships in your life are what makes it all worthwhile, or are you stuck in the feeling of dread and obligation dealing with toxicity and resentment?
This is the final wrap-up for Season Three on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast. In this series, my husband Nathan and I focused on how to clear the clutter not just from your home, but also your head and your heart to create that space for clarity and connection.
Join us and dive in to "The Minimalist To-Do List!”
Let’s talk about family time. We’re headed into the holidays, and this oftentimes means you’re surrounded by family… Are you excited about that, or dreading it?
It’s okay to not be in love with your family all the time.
First, let’s get one thing clear - no family is perfect. Even for us, as we speak to and coach families on living with intention, love and connection, it doesn’t mean every aspect of our family life is perfect. And, like everyone else out there listening, we have family we don’t quite jive with. They aren’t RVing the states with us full-time, either!
Holly said: And as far as crazy families go, I think it's an important thing to acknowledge. So many people go around trying to build this perfect persona and it's alienating. Part of connecting is sharing our imperfections. We make the best of what we have. We learn the lessons that are given to us. And we use that to help others work through their own struggles. It just takes one interaction to change someone's life.
We aren’t all perfect. And sometimes it doesn’t even have anything to do with someone being toxic…it’s just not someone you can relate to for any other reason than simply a blood relation.
So in this podcast, we’re going to discuss those three types of people you may not be the most excited about through the holidays.
- Uncle Vibe - and it’s not your vibe
- Grandma Nancy - negative Nancy/Debbie downer
- The Storm - Toxicity at it’s best
Here are some solutions for navigating the holidays:
How to navigate your passive aggressive relatives:
https://www.fatherly.com/love-money/how-to-navigate-your-passive-aggressive-relatives/?utm_source=postup&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=3636&recip_id=51812
Be proactive in your conversations - you lead the way
Be careful of your surroundings
Don’t engage in the negativity
Treat them like they are your kids
Check out the header at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com
Set the expectation - with your partner and with your children - what is your exit strategy? What is expected of your kids to take personal responsibility?
On that note, this isn’t a time to micromanage your children: https://www.fatherly.com/love-money/how-to-deal-with-those-inevitable-parenting-power-struggles-this-holiday-season/
Defrag after the event - talk about what worked, what didn’t, and what you learned for next time. Do this with the whole family.
Don’t try to change them, enlighten them, or move mountains. It’s their journey.
Let it go. Don’t internalize.
These are the people you weather the seasons with, and although you don’t choose to spend a lifetime by their side, they come in and out of your life, and you get to determine how much they affect you and your family.
Then, there is the storm - these are the extremely toxic people who, for some reason or other, are still present in your life.
The Storm - Toxicity at it’s best
What does toxic behavior really look like?
But what good does a toxic relationship do – in this life or beyond? Do we take it with us? Do we take any of this stuff on Earth with us?
There are people we all know that we hold on to, and my challenge to you is to look at what it is doing for your own organic growth.
Do they lift you up?
Do they motivate and inspire you?
Are they creating a positive energy for mutual growth, or do they bring you down?
Are they simply blood-related so you force a relationship because they have a specific title, like mother or brother?
Look at the relationship free from all titles, agendas, expectations and obligations. Look at what you provide for each other. If there is good you have to offer one another, let it thrive. Don’t force it. Don’t push an agenda.
Organic growth: Allow the seeds to grow and provide the environment to foster a beautiful human being, made better because of your positive relationship. But if it is pulling you down, creating shadows over your light, robbing you of nutrients in the soil, or taking you out of your own present moment, step back a bit. Let it go.
That doesn’t mean you shun and cut off all ties with people who are a negative drain or energy zapper. It simply means you create clear boundaries – you separate yourself and spend your focused time in the light, growing and thriving so that you can spread the love while not being in the shadows.
Don’t run from negative relationships. I’m not telling you that every bad seed dies off or every negative connection is one to avoid. Author Jim Rohn says “you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” I’m simply saying to use your time wisely. To grow organically you need to protect yourself from that which zaps your own growth. So don’t allow toxic relationships to creep in. Don’t stew on an agenda for what this relationship should look like. Love. Live. Let go.
Want to ensure YOU are not the toxic person? If you’d like to learn more about your beautiful strengths and potential weaknesses and triggers for toxicity, read more about the Namaste Personality Snapshots here.
Season 4 - what to expect: coming up…the 10 Essential Lessons for Life!
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Are your life tasks completely dragging you down, where you feel like your life is more running errands and admin tasks instead of really enjoying your family or having a social life? Life tasks can engulf your life. Yet, our perspective and what we prioritize can make a dramatic shift in how those tasks are incorporated into the life we want to live.
Welcome to Season Three on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast. In this series, my husband Nathan and I focus on how to clear the clutter not just from your home, but also your head and your heart to create that space for clarity and connection.
Join us and dive in to "The Minimalist To-Do List!”
Life Tasks
Do your tasks drain you or sustain you?
Here is the curve ball. With everything else – career, finances, family, personal development, etc, you can see how this is a compartment of your life. Then we get to this one – life tasks? What is this, you ask? This is everything. Updating your website, cleaning your house, taking your child to the dentist, fixing dinner, budgeting and planning, wiping butts and noses, checking in on grandma, and putting gas in the car.
These are the essentials – the daily living tasks that take up time and may be tedious. However, they are necessary parts of your life. Tasks are the never-ending to-do lists that come from living, and they are required to maintain your lifestyle. You can’t ignore paying the mortgage or getting groceries, yet we don’t really set aside one area of our lives to devote to these crazy “honey-do” lists. This is the epitome of where life bleeds into every compartment and shows that we can’t just box up each area of our lives and keep them perfectly separated. We run errands and everything happens at once.
No compartments; tasks make it flow!
• Make time for space in your schedule
Allow for a reboot - create a blank slate in your life
schedule rest time for everyone in your family - not just the kids
Add in aspects of your life on your errands - park the furthest from the store and walk the parking lot. Lug all the groceries as your “weight-lifting”. Find your zen as you take a deep breath with your kid who’s having a meltdown. Look up from your phone. Look people in the eyes and acknowledge them as an interesting human being.
You have the power of choice on how you perceive every aspect of your life.
Clearly communicate those necessary things that stress you out - it may be that your partner is more than happy to take it over (ie grocery shopping).
“How Confirmation Bias Kills Marriages”: https://www.fatherly.com/love-money/how-confirmation-bias-marriage-fights-arguments/
The doors we open and close each day decide the lives we live. Flora Whittemore
Life Tasks Bring It All Together
Those little tasks can drain us…or sustain us. Our to-dos can be something we dread, or a necessary part of life that allows us to incorporate all the areas that really are essential. Instead of muscling through tasks, change your perspective on them. Remember how to let go of the overwhelming feeling of having too much on your plate. Break it down. Remember, then, that as you go about the necessary to-dos, you have the opportunity to incorporate so much of your life to them. Be aware of the moment and what you can capture. You can grow emotionally, mentally, socially, physically – all through embracing the moment – and the task – as it comes.
Enjoy this life. Don’t let it be a chore or always a challenge. Make space for fun in your life. Play and connect with others, and focus on truly living.
The love, joy, kindness and peace in my soul sees, honors, respects and adores the love, joy, kindness and peace in yours. Namaste.
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Season 3, Episode 25
It’s not a habit - it’s intimacy
Don’t create habits. Create something positive that is missed in your routine when it’s absent. Get intimate - with your connection to your own body, with your partner, and making connections with friends that feed your soul.
Welcome to Season Three on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast. In this series, we will focus on how to clear the clutter not just from your home, but also your head and your heart to create that space for clarity and connection.
Join me and dive in to "The Minimalist To-Do List!”
Tasks: They Are Taking Over My Life!
Life Is Messy, and Tasks are Always Present
Just to reiterate, if I were to break life up into different components, it would go something like what follows. Yet even in separating this out, you will see that life simply is. In our unschooling world, we don’t split subjects up into math, English and science; we incorporate it all into life skills that blend them together.
Think of this concept as we dive in – here are the areas of our lives again that I brought up last week:
• Work
• Finances
• Family
• Spiritual/Emotional
• Personal Development
• Physical
• Social
• Life Tasks
Picking up where we left off…
Physical
So…in the midst of wrangling children, getting work done, and the endless to-do list, let me guess: working out is pushed to the back burner. I completely feel you. I have been there, and with my workaholic tendencies, I am guilty of sitting in one spot and realizing I haven’t eaten, much less worked out, all day.
What does exercise give us? Many of us completely dread it. But guess what – there are a gazillion and one ways to be physically active, and many have nothing to do with hitting the gym. It’s not about doing a traditional workout. When I say “physical” is important, it’s the fact that with TVs, computers, cars and more, we have the ability to set on our butts day in and day out – and what does it give us?
• Weight Gain
• Fatigue
• Depression/Moodiness
• Low Self-Esteem
• Higher likelihood of injuries (unused muscles/bones mean more likely to get hurt)
• I could go on and on with a list of negatives, but that’s not my style
Instead, let’s get to the why and the how. You know all the perks of being physical – getting more energy, feeling great about yourself, being healthier because you are aware of and taking care of your body, etc.
Own this and make it fun
This is not drudgery. It isn’t something that you have to have animosity toward. This is your body; your beautiful shell that holds all the magnificence inside. It’s your piece of art that you can decorate any way you want. Getting out and getting physical does so much for your own confidence and energy, plus it’s an excellent way to connect with others. Here are some ideas on how to get physical outside of the traditional gym model. Add these in to life. You don’t have to carve out two hours for the gym. Set a timer on your phone or calendar alerts to go off every hour or two, and add in the little energy boosts to get your heart rate up. Do squats while you brush your teeth. Pushups while the coffee brews. Push yourself to not simply observe your kids playing tag, but to join them.
Stop, drop, and give me twenty. Nathan and I do 100 pushups a day. Insane? Possibly. But when you set breaks throughout the day to stop and do 15-20 at a time, you not only allow your brain a break and your body an energy boost, but you can accomplish something much bigger by the end of the day. It is so important to allow for those breaks in your day. A shift in focus from work – or kids – to something that makes you feel strong, energized and motivated can be what gets you over that midday hump.
Shift your mindset - love your body and embrace the effort you put into it instead of beating yourself up.
Sex is as essential as exercise. Sex and physical touch is just as critical to your intimate relationship as exercise is to your relationship with your body.
Don’t create habits. Create something positive that is missed in your routine when it’s absent.
Social:
There are a lot of interesting people who are waiting to be invited. Don’t sit back and wait. Invite them.
Ah, the black hole of nothingness for parents of young children. No matter how social you are, adding in a new baby or a toddler going through yet another “phase”, and you have a recipe for all baby, no social life. Babysitters are expensive – you can end up spending $100 simply by being out of the house for a few hours, not counting the restaurant and movie tickets.
I know how impossible it can be to maintain a social life when you are feeding a little human every two hours. There are times in our lives where we do go into a bit of survival mode. There is only so much of us to go around, and sleep deprivation plus just the overall neediness of kids can take a lot out of you.
This is important, though. Our social circles have shrunk immensely. We’re having less children and families are spread further apart (the “cousin connections” of the past isn’t so common, as families spread out across the country). We have longer commutes, more and more screen time to entertain us, and the overwhelming tasks of this information-overloaded society to keep up with with.
Entrepreneur Jim Rohn says:
You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.
There is power in a pack. We are pack animals and community makes us stronger. When surrounded by positive relationships, studies have shown time and time again how a person’s well-being increases in direct proportion to the connection with others who lift them up. There are cognitive studies showing a direct correlation between a person’s well-being and their friend’s – if your friends are healthy, you tend to be, too. If they are positive and upbeat, so are you. Who they are becomes a part of us.
I grew up having a select few close friends. The older I got, the more broad my friend circle grew – I had my larger social network, and my core group of powerful friendships. I stopped finding “friends of convenience” – simply pursuing relationships with anyone who may come into my life – and I’ve been intentional about finding community I thrive in. I’ve learned to be selective about my friendships and social life and not simply do everything that’s out there. I don’t attend a ton of social events. However, I cherish the friendships I do have, and believe each one is significant in my life right now.
Friends come and go, and that’s okay!
Friends don’t have to stay in your life forever. Some of my best friendships aren’t the longest, but the ones where we deeply connected at a time we both needed it. There are seasons of life that will bring forth different friendships, but the point of this is that we need to be surrounded by people who encourage us, pick us up, challenge us, and make us laugh. Life needs to stay fun – otherwise, what’s the point of living it? Remember to play, have fun, and connect with others for no other intention than to simply find joy and connection.
It’s only what it was…when it was.
You are exposed to new worlds, new perspectives, and the fun of play with friendships. No matter what age or stage in life, friends help us along the way and are a critical part of our lives. Remember community, and remain social – this is just as important as the other areas of life.
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Welcome to Season Three on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast. In this series, my husband Nathan and I focus on how to clear the clutter not just from your home, but also your head and your heart to create that space for clarity and connection.
Join me and dive in to "The Minimalist To-Do List!”
Family
Ah, here is where the riches lie – it’s all about the family, right? And, if you have children – especially young ones – you know they can suck every bit of life and energy out of you. It can be hard enough to keep things straight with one person – add in a family members and this is beyond a full-time job, and it can be super intense. How do you set aside time to enjoy family when you can’t take a breath from working just to support the family? (Working from home can be a bit overrated – have you heard about the myth of multitasking?) How can you take the time to play and cuddle – you have to keep the family afloat!
Simply put, how can you not? The people under your roof – the ones you have chosen to be in communion with day in and day out – they are the human connection. Part of life is human connection – it is essential to our well-being. We can’t ignore this part of our lives – we must invest in it. What is your family vision? How are you being intentional about the relationships in your life?
Prioritize your family as your VIPs
How can you make your family a priority when you are living in reaction to what life is throwing your way? Our relationships suffer when we push quality family aside for the to-do list consistently. I wrote about having your Family VIPs with some tools on how to prioritize your family. Know that this part of your life is critical.
You can spend all your time working and focusing on the money. You’ll end up hoping that “one day” you’ll have the time to relax and play with your family. When you finally think you’re ready, your children are grown and gone. Or, it may be that the distance between you and your spouse has become irreparable. Spoiler alert – you’ll never be perfectly ready, no more than you are “ready” for having a child. Life is a constant curveball. This is not a compartmentalized component of your life. Your family is your fuel for connection, and that is where we thrive.
Emotional/Spiritual
We can’t disregard the need for peace. Taking care of yourself emotionally and spiritually is essential. We can’t fake our way through lives, and if we have divine discontent at a soul level, we are simply a shell with no heart. How do you keep your emotional and spiritual soul alive? Are you allowing for rest, recuperation, and self-love? Every relationship you have can suffer when you are empty and depleted. Clear the clutter in your heart and soul to give way for love and regeneration.
We can get the work stuff rolling, our finances straight, and our family in sync and happy – but if you are an empty shell of depression, anxiety, anger, etc. all the rest just pales in comparison. There are legitimate issues you have to deal with, and I am a firm believe in body/mind/spirit connection. You cannot disregard the emotional, mental and spiritual aspect of your life. This is not narrowed to a religion or an exact belief you have to adhere to. It has to do with recognizing your own self worth, your significance in this world, and how much your energy impacts all around you, not limited to your own physical health. If you are emotionally distant, none of the surface even matters.
If you are looking to promote religious literacy with your children, check out Wendy Thomas Russel’s book “Relax, it’s just God. How and Why To Talk To Your Children About Religion When You’re Not Religious” (http://amzn.to/2y90T1G)
Personal Development
In the same lines of the heart/soul component, challenging and pushing yourself in personal development is an important part of life. My education did not stop when I got my diploma. I am a life-long learner, and need to invest in this process to keep from becoming stagnant, complacent, and small-minded. There is so much growth everyday in all of nature. You can see it as a flower blooms and a toddler transforms into a teen – but it is a part of all of us. I am so thankful I don’t think and live the same way I did when I was eighteen. As we get older, we tend to set this on the back burner, or choose for the doom and gloom of the news media to be our way to grow and learn about what’s going on.
Be intentional about what you put into your mind, and what you choose to push you in learning new things. Go beyond the negative sensationalism and look for the help to shift your mindset. Focus on abundance, love, and that amazing connection with those people that make this life worthwhile.
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Work and money - they run everything, right? What part of life is really sucking you in, and what is sucking you down? Maybe it’s not just about work and money. You know there is more to it than that. So how do you manage this…and shift this mindset?
Welcome to Season Three on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast. In this series, we will focus on how to clear the clutter not just from your home, but also your head and your heart to create that space for clarity and connection.
Join me and dive in to "The Minimalist To-Do List!”
Our week - full of awesomeness filming for Ashley’s new “90 Day Road Trip” course. Learn more about the upcoming course and some tips for your own family adventure by going to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/familyadventure
“Never get so busy living that you forget to make a life.”
What part of life is sucking you in, and what part is sucking you down?
Anxiety merely draws your attention to an illusion.
Life has a lot of moving parts
If I were to break life up into different components, it would go something like what follows. Yet even in separating this out, you will see that life simply is. In our unschooling world, we don’t split subjects up into math, English and science; we incorporate it all into life skills that blend them together.
Think of this concept as we dive in – here are the areas of our lives again that I brought up last week:
• Work
• Finances
• Family
• Spiritual/Emotional
• Personal Development
• Physical
• Social
• Life Tasks
Work
Let’s cut straight to the chase – this is the big kahuna that seems to dictate our lives. Work sucks all our energy. I’m talking about what pays the bills and keeps the lights on. This area of our lives can dominate everything else, especially when it’s lacking. When work is sucking the life out of you, and when you are struggling to make ends meet, this can become the focus of everything.
Yikes. We can’t ignore this and only set aside a tiny bit of energy to work – work needs to go beyond paying the bills and give you some pleasure as well. My father’s business mission statement is to “release dreams into purposeful and profitable work…in 48 Days” – his whole business is around finding work you truly love, and planning your work around the life you want, not the other way around.
The best way to predict your future is to create it.
Find work you love -this sounds simplistic, but for something that is the fuel to get your basic needs met, don’t let it suck all the life out of you. You are your own boss regardless of what job you have – take responsibility for this and make sure this aspect of your life isn’t soul-sucking. If you need help finding – or creating – the work you love, my other role is within 48Days.com, where my father has written books and created valuable resources and coaching around helping people find work they thrive in.
This takes up a large portion of people’s lives – even if you are a stay at home parent, this affects you – it affects your spouse who is working, and it affects the dynamics at home.
Work is an exchange of energy. Is that exchange of energy worth what you are getting out of it?
This isn’t the exact commercial Nathan was talking about, but conveys the same message, and is perfect as we prepare for the holidays: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQ3ePGr8Q7k
Which wolf are you feeding? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__cdpyF5nLk
Bracket your time with work so you can manage and control it. The goals and ideas aren’t going to just stop and wrap themselves up into a tidy bow. You have to learn to draw the line. Time block. Manage and communicate what is important to you.
If you need community to lift you up, check out www.48DaysEagles.com
Finances
Finances are stressful – add in debt and you can feel like your life is ruled by it. You become a slave to work simply to keep your head above water. It’s easy to fall into the mindset of every time you see a dollar sign, it becomes a “can I afford it” scenario.
I’ve experienced the fear of finances, feeling like there were expenses everywhere and I couldn’t afford to really enjoy anything. I know what it’s like to be a slave to work and stress about how we’re going to pay for everything. We got intentional with our money and we worked to get out of the hole. The biggest shift, however, came from a simple game that changed my way of thinking.
As Nathan got into the world of real estate, his mentors and coaches invited us to play this game with them, and I had a huge paradigm shift. Cashflow is an intimidating game, especially if you aren’t a realtor. In the game, you switch from being in the “rat race” to being an investor, and the light bulb went off as I went from “can I afford this” to “is this a worthwhile investment?” When I shifted my perspective to that of abundance vs. simply what I could afford, I viewed it differently and created a different concept of money being my friend vs. my enemy.
Here is Cashflow for adults (http://amzn.to/2zLA6XO), and Cashflow for kids (http://amzn.to/2y2LDQs)
Give from a full cup – be abundant in your life and your mindset
Money doesn’t have to be our downfall. We don’t have to make it an acrimonious relationship. Money can be a tool to allow you more time, energy, and resources to give back and serve. My father has an incredible analogy here on giving from a full cup:
How to Give From A Full Cup (https://vimeo.com/152632600)
Get out of debt. Easier said than done, especially with a growing family. More mouths to feed (that oh my gosh get hungrier and hungrier as they grow), more and more day-to-day living expenses. When you don’t have the surplus, it can be very difficult to move to a feeling of abundance in this area. My friend Derek Olsen has some excellent resources and advice on getting out of debt over at his site How Do I Money. It is essential to get out of the “can I afford it” mentality and look, instead, at what is a worthwhile investment. Come to this with a feeling of abundance, and remember that riches go way beyond just your income.
Nothing bleeds over into every area as much as finances. It affects our work and our feeling a slave to it, it affects our relationships, it affects our overall mentality on life. Finances are the least compartmentalized out of everything because of it’s ability to dictate our psyche for every other aspect of our lives. Let’s switch the perspective on it and get on top of it. Let’s switch to abundant thinking and living, and be stewards of our finances in a way that allows us to do more, be more, and give so, so much more to others – beyond the finances to the time and energy it affords us as well.
Picture of our broken drive shaft day: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10105505900348455&set=a.10101045871556905.2751335.9407091&type=3
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Welcome to Season Three on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast. In this series, we will focus on how to clear the clutter not just from your home, but also your head and your heart to create that space for clarity and connection.
Join me and dive in to "The Minimalist To-Do List!”
Learn more about our upcoming course and some tips for your own family adventure by going to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/familyadventure
Educational apps and games we’ve been playing at home:
- Reading Eggs (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/homer-kids-learn-to-read-app/id601437586?mt=8&at=1000lqxe)
- Kahn Academy (www.KahnAcademy.org)
- Homer (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/homer-kids-learn-to-read-app/id601437586?mt=8&at=1000lqxe)
- Uno (http://amzn.to/2yfNJzT)
- Dutch Blitz (http://amzn.to/2gulLqX)
- Clara’s website is www.ClaraLogsdon.com “Creativity CLARAfied"
Have you felt like this?
“This morning I realized that I can no longer recall a time in my adult life that I wasn’t behind on all the things I needed/wanted to do. I don’t remember getting to a point where I felt like I had caught up and could safely do nothing. Even if I get caught up on the immediate needs like housework or work goals, there are always self-improvement or home-improvement projects, things I’ve been wanting to do with my family, career related study, etc. Every day it feels like I wake up behind in the race.
That’s not to say I’m always doing something productive. But at the times I’m doing nothing productive, I’m choosing to do nothing over doing something, whether it’s because I’m exhausted or unmotivated or whatever. But I always have to actively decide to be unproductive over all the things I “should” be doing, and that usually comes with guilt.
This is not healthy. Anybody have any books or talks or tips on how to change this mindset?”
Of course, immediately he started getting responses. These were not solutions, however, but affirmations that this was not just him, but so many of us that feel the same way.
It’s the allowing that is the flow of the river…and that’s how you get cruising.
“I would love to flow like the river flows, carried by the surprise of its own unfolding.” John O’Donahue
We have multiple areas of our lives that have to be assessed:
• Work/Finance
• Family
• Emotional/Spiritual
• Personal Development
• Physical
• Social
• Life Tasks
Those “life tasks” at the end are all of the housekeeping to-dos, repairs, errands, day-to-day life requirements that eat up a ton of time and energy. Everyone dreams of a personal assistant because this one area alone could easily eat up your whole day, every day.
So how do we keep from just having that feeling of overwhelm all the time?
Six Tips to Eliminate Overwhelm
Here are the biggies for me, to ensure you don’t feel behind all the time.
1: Prioritize
Recommended Read: The One Thing by Gary Keller (http://amzn.to/2xrsRSt)
Stop multi-tasking and do one thing with excellence. It’s amazing what you can accomplish with that incredible focus
Create Your Priorities – look at what REALLY has to be done. Sometimes, we create a to-do list of so many things, and then we realize that it may not all be necessary. I’ve stressed out looking at a full day of errands, and the more I break it down, realize that there was only ONE of the many things on my to-do list that really needed to be done that day. Breaking it down into bite-size pieces and asking myself, “is it necessary at this moment?” Really helped.
2: Obliterate Obligation
Okay, there is a time and place for obligation. Sometimes going out of your way for someone you love is worth it to see the happiness on their face, even if it’s not your favorite thing. Some obligation is okay. But when obligation takes over, you can twist down into a spiral of people-pleasing that is a bottomless pit. If you start to notice that everything you do all day is based on making someone else happy, it’s time to seriously check yourself. You are not in charge of anyone else’s happiness – that is their’s to own. Spread love, fill some buckets, but ensure you are looking at what is critical for you to move forward beyond just meeting everyone else’s needs. My mother swears by the book “When Pleasing Others is Hurting You” (http://amzn.to/2xyfzJ2)
3: Underpromise, Overdeliver
Be careful what you commit to, and ensure you can really follow through. If you can’t show up on time, don’t say you can. Don’t accept a project if your plate is already full. Don’t commit to a deadline that is going to require you to forfeit eating and sleeping to meet it.
“I have a commitment”. Don’t feel pressure to respond immediately - say “let me check my schedule and get back with you” so you aren’t making a decision under pressure.
It’s okay to say no - provide another resource so it’s not just no, but you offer a solution.
4: Wiggle Room
Allow for wiggle room. Don’t overcommit your day so there is no down time. We all need rest and we need time to create, process, and think. Don’t jam pack your day where it’s a marathon. That is a sure-fire way to create burnout. Don’t live for that one day when you can rest again. Intentionally allow that down time every day so you aren’t running on fumes.
On that whole “productive” concept. Let me get one thing straight: Rest IS productive.
Don’t negate your down time. It’s critical to your health, both mentally and physically. Give yourself grace to veg.
Recommended Read: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert (http://amzn.to/2yy1Lhx) Give your creativity a name and spend time with it. Invite it into your life, and sit with it every day.
Creating a Haven of Peace: When Your Feeling Down, Finances Are Flat, and Tempers Are Rising by Joanne Miller (http://amzn.to/2xpQyzv) This is Ashley’s family story written by her mother, with great insights in creating that haven of peace in your home.
5: Timeblock
Schedule the fire out of your day. We’ve found flex time during the middle of the day is fine, but the morning and the evening have such a huge impact on how our days can get away from us.
Do you want to be a human “being” or a human “doing”?
Recommended Read: The Power of Full Engagement by Jim Loehr. This is such an incredible book to ensure you are really performing at your peak by being fully present in what you are doing at that moment.
The bane of many entrepreneurs is our ability to work anytime we want…which means we are always working and doing “just one more thing.” Those “just one more things”: checking facebook, answering another email, doing one more edit, etc are all areas where the day can get away from us. Your “one thing” can take you down a four hour bunny trail.
Schedule your work time, and your play time. Do these with the same priority level. My nightly date with Nathan is just as important as my podcast interview. Don’t negate the importance of life beyond work. We want to really live, not simply trudge through. Enjoy this life, and make that a critical component of your day.
6: Bookend Your Day
On that note, bookending our day has been huge. We prep our coffee in the evenings so it’s ready to go. Our family agrees on what we are going to have for breakfast so it’s no shock in the morning. Nathan and I discuss the night before what we need to accomplish the next morning.
Set your goals based on the feeling behind them, not just the lofty goal. What is the emotion behind it all?
Recommended Read: The Fire Starter Sessions by Danielle LaPorte (http://amzn.to/2kxSjoi). This book rocked me with the concept of one thing: “What is the feeling behind the goal you set?” This is fabulous in writing or audio, and was a pivotal book in directing my life of travel.
Your Life Is Your Responsibility
Like I’ve written so many times, we are in charge of our lives. We have the power to create with intention, or live in reaction.
When we are consistent and stick to a schedule, we find we feel way more in control of our lives – living with intention and not just reacting as life passes us by.
Care for some Q&A? Hit us with any questions you have, and we’ll send you a personal email response back and may address it on a future podcast! Simply email Ashley directly at Ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Share below what things help you gather your thoughts, or why you think this won’t work for you. Let’s dive in! If you are overwhelmed, the first step is to identify what is overwhelming, and then look for those little things you can do to move forward. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and I’ll respond to every one.
Welcome to Season Three on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast. In this series, we will focus on how to clear the clutter not just from your home, but also your head and your heart to create that space for clarity and connection.
Join me and dive in to "The Minimalist To-Do List!”
Be sure to check out the Personality Snapshots for the whole family. http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/personality-snapshots/
Imagine putting an end to toddler meltdowns, bedtime battles, temper tantrums, power struggles and angsty teens…not by demanding it stop, but by having a deeper understanding of the root of what’s going on with your child.
Special bonus - if you order before Wednesday, October 11, 2017, you will get a personalized video from yours truly on the top three things that will help to motivate and encourage your child based on their unique personality style.
It’s our 1 year “nomadiversary”! Learn more about our travels at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/familyadventure
Announcing winners! Get involved! When you review our podcast, share a blog post or podcast, or comment and engage on Facebook on the Mama Says Namaste page (https://www.facebook.com/MamaSaysNamaste/), group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/MamaSaysNamaste/), or Unschooling Families group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/UnschoolingFamilies/), you always have the chance to potentially win some goodies.
Our Quiet Experiment: Refer back to last week’s post, www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/senses under the “sound” section - there is a podcast episode on “Quiet” - go back and check it out.
Lessons learned:
- A child embraces the quiet and mimics the silence
- Two others filled the space with their own words.
- How often do we feel the pressure to answer/respond to every single thing? Sometimes kids ask questions just to talk, but don’t really care. Or they ask a question and they can figure out the answer on their own. Not responding to every single comment/question with your child allows the opportunity for them to process out loud and figure out their own conclusions. Allow space for processing.
- It got much quieter - the kids immediately started whispering more. The next morning, it was super chill. Less fighting, way less demands, and more quiet play.
- Less is more - there was a lot of talking done that was unnecessary. Hold back more and not dive into a lecture.
- Encourage silence and connection in other ways.
- Conversation is such a deep way of connecting…yet…holding back and observing - to be quiet, aware, and notice before plunging forward…can make such an impact on what all you soak in.
- It helped us to be more intentional about what was said. What was worth voicing, fighting for, pointing out?
- It was hard not talking as a couple after the kids went to bed - we went back to the Pillow Play app (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pillow-couples-intimacy/id1060044689?mt=8&at=1000lqxe ) - one of the first episodes we did was simply looking into one another’s eyes for an extended period of time.
Take a quiet walk and use “Scatter Vision” - The Way of the Scout: A Native American Path to Finding Spiritual Meaning in a Physical World (http://amzn.to/2gs7kDy) - Nathan has been reading this to the girls and they love learning how to live in nature and really be one with it.
Positive non-sexual touch - touch your children. Help them to learn what positive touch is that has no sexual agenda. They learn how to differentiate what is okay…and not okay.
Awareness at home:
“Be aware of your surroundings.”
Here are some tips for bringing awareness into your home:
• When you walk into a room, come in silently. Observe what is going on around you. If someone is talking, wait until they are finished before you speak.
• Take turns – for every story you tell, comment you have to make, etc., allow the chance for someone else to give back to you with their own voice. Don’t compete…complete.
• For every complaint, come up with five positives that you are grateful for right at this very moment. Check out Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No-Good, Very Bad Day (http://amzn.to/2yaikxj). The more you speak it, the more it becomes your reality. Remember the law of attraction.
• You have the right to feel any and every emotion. Voice it and get it out. But don’t dwell on it. Don’t allow it to become you – create the energy you want to have, and allow that to direct your day, instead of the reaction to a negative energy. The last thing we need in the midst of our struggle is shame for being human (Brené Brown). Don’t bring someone else down - what good does it do for anyone?
• Be open to learning new things from anyone you meet. When hard times hit, ask “what does this make possible?” What can you learn - you have the opportunity to learn something from everyone.
• Take in the moments. Be present. Stop planning for the future or dwelling in the past. What’s done is done, and what is tomorrow can wait until tomorrow. Be present in the second that is right now. Close your eyes and take it in. Wait to worry.
Anxiety merely draws your attention to an illusion. You are HERE. You are PRESENT. You are HOME.
• Before you dive into dinner as a family, observe a moment of silence. Regardless of your religion (or lack thereof), taking a moment of silence before you eat allows you to reflect on your life with gratitude, listen to the peace and calm that begins your evening, and resets and recharges everyone with an equal energy of meditation. I was amazed at how simple this was and what a difference it made in our dinnertimes. We started with just ten seconds of silence and are building it up to potentially 2 minutes. They forget what they were complaining about or acting crazy about, and simply soak in the silence. It’s magical.
A lot of these have been inspiration from different books I’m reading lately – check out my recommendations on my book list – I’ve been reading/listening to a ton this year that have really rocked my world. For an excellent parenting book, check out Simplicity Parenting (http://amzn.to/2g2AaNZ)
Beware of signposts - it’s not the destination. It simply states what is coming, but our experiences with it will all be very different. Don’t throw it all out if one part doesn’t resonate. Learn through your own filter, and look for the lesson in everything.
CONTEST: This week we’re having fun with memes on FB - I’m a sucker for them, and we’ll be picking 1 winner to get a free audible download of Simplicity Parenting. Hop over to the Mama Says Namaste Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/MamaSaysNamaste/) and share yours!
Weekly Challenge: What are some rules for your household? Not things like “no jumping on the couch” – I’m talking principles to live by to become the people you want to be!
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Clutter confines us - so much more than just the actual space, but the energy it brings. Can your should really breathe? Does your home feel light or heavy? Feng Shui isn’t the only answer - how can you engage all the senses to allow for your save haven in your home?
Welcome to Season Three on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast. In this series, we will focus on how to clear the clutter not just from your home, but also your head and your heart to create that space for clarity and connection.
Join me and dive in to "The Minimalist To-Do List!"
Implement and Act: Engaging the senses and building feng shui – how to create a house that is light and lifts you up.
Real Artists Don’t Starve - Jeff Goins book - what scene are you creating around you? And how much does your location feed in to your sense of home? Find and create a scene that fits you and who you are. http://amzn.to/2g3GjpV
Click here to get a great overall summary of Feng Shui: https://www.thespruce.com/what-is-feng-shui-1275060
Check out this week’s blog post and get your free printable for engaging the senses. Grab this free printable and put it up as the wallpaper on your computer, save to your phone, or print it off and put it up. www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/senses
Sight - LED candles, real candles - set the vibe. Look at how you display your food - the presentation of meals and snacks sitting out.
Allow for a rainbow of color in your life. Bring it in through your food, natural elements, etc. Be creative and make things visually pleasing to the eyes. Ask your kids, “Is this a rainbow meal?”
Sound - pay attention to nature. Play music - different themes. But also remember the importance of silence.
Listen to the blank spaces between people’s words - how does that add into it? It makes you pay attention to what they’re doing and who they are in a different way.
Waterfalls, windchimes, adding bird feeders to bring the birds in to sing. (We love these Corinthian Bell wind chimes: http://amzn.to/2xU5Prj)
Nathan’s “spirit animal” must be the owl - it comes up time and time again! http://www.spiritanimal.info/owl-spirit-animal/
And, learn more about the cool Barred Owl here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Barred_Owl/id
Smell - your sense of smell is a real memory bank for you. Experiment and play with that and see what memories you can recreate, or how it can create a vibe of togetherness.
Taste - how does a tea or cappuccino affect your mood? Healthy snacks to keep up your energy.
With your kids - have healthy options available. Make the healthy stuff easy access. Our kids eat healthy simply because that is what is available. We don’t want to say no to our kids all the time. Surround them with good and healthy food. Sometimes pure, natural flavor to their pure, natural palettes will surprise you - so allow them to really experience all kinds of food.
Taste - what feels good to you - the power of personal touch as well as the physical things in your home. Soft blankets, clothes, etc.
Intuition - is the energy in your home heavy, or light? Soothing, or cold? Sometimes this is overshadowed by what our society tells us is “clarity”, but that may have nothing that works for us. What does our intuition say? What makes you feel comfortable, creative, focused?
How can you make your life lighter? How can you allow it to flow? It’s okay to let things go.
Try completely clearing an area. Feel it empty. Be very intentional about what you put back in to it.
With every thing, simply ask yourself why are you keeping it?
• What is it’s significance?
• Can you hold the memory without the item?
• Is there someone else who would enjoy it?
• What would you be without this in your life? (hint – if the answer is, it doesn’t matter in the slightest, then chances are you should purge it).
It’s amazing how much clutter can affect your mood. I am all about sweet things that make a house feel like home – but sometimes less is so much more.
It allows your soul to breathe.
Weekly challenge: Allow yourself open spaces where your spirit can soar. Start in the bedroom and see how you are engaging the senses. Focus on a room at a time and see what you can awaken. Get the “Engage the Senses” printable at www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/senses and post your pictures of your space and ideas in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook group!
Where is your most peaceful place in your own home?
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Let’s get to the nitty-gritty of what most people think of with minimalism - clearing out that clutter from your house! We focus on clear actionable steps you can take now to reduce the mess and allow for space. We talk about how to clear it out…and KEEP it out so you have the blank space for your soul to breathe.
Welcome to Season Three on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast. In this series, we will focus on how to clear the clutter not just from your home, but also your head and your heart to create that space for clarity and connection.
Join me and dive in to "The Minimalist To-Do List!"
First off, check out the Family Adventure Podcast and our guest interview! And if you want to hop over to our page with all kinds of resources (including this interview, go to www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/familyadventure
We aren’t looking for this perfect ideal of blank space where we bring nothing in. It’s okay to have things that bring you joy, and to hold on to things for a time. But like the quote says, make a decision and put a time limit on it. If you hold on to something for “one day” and years go by, it’s not happening. Do an annual assessment of what you’re holding on to.
The 80/20 rule. Don’t be such a die-hard that it stresses you out and you can allow for no flexibility. So 80% of the time, stay true with what lines up for you - being vegan, a minimalist, whatever. And 20% of the time, it’s okay to change that up a bit - don’t be so strict in your rules that you won’t bend to accommodate another. Especially when it comes to what brings someone else joy, like gift-giving.
On the topic of gift-giving, look beyond a physical gift and think about experiences or consumables that don’t take up space.
Trim your clutter back to what is needed and used - do you really need the WHOLE cooking set? Five spatulas? Do you need to hold on to items that are a gadget that is used only once a year? How many things take up space in our house for the sake of saving a few minutes in the preparation process?
Start small. Start with the junk drawer. Do you really need to hold on to every screw and electronic cord? How expensive is it in the “one day” event that you may need it?
Completely clean the area - make it all bare. Start with a clean slate. Then only put out what is essential. If it’s something you don’t use frequently, you don’t need to have it all out on display. Allow for some blank space for your eyes to rest - the same as reading a book.
Contest - free Family VIPs printable for anyone who writes a review on iTunes this week!
Who are your VIPs? Are you holding on to fancy items waiting for who is “worthy” of you using them?
It’s okay to keep the sentimental things - but how many do you really need? A great way to remember without accumulating a ton is to take a picture. Try out ChatBooks (get code)
Sort your things into:
- Keep - you use it regularly, it brings great joy to someone in your family.
- Trash - take a picture if it’s special, and that may be nicer than holding on to a glitter-laden huge poster.
- Thrift - practical, but not necessary…like having 5 spatulas.
- Gift - maybe it’s something someone has admired in your home or it has a good story - and it’s even more special because it came from your home that you cherished. It’s even okay to (gasp) re-gift. Pass it on to people who really enjoy them. That doesn’t mean you just turn around and get rid of things, but sometimes they stay with you for a season and then it’s time to pass it on.
Finally - go on a spending freeze! Once your space is clean, don’t use this as permission to go out and bring more in. Ask yourself “what it the goal for that item? What will it bring back in to my life?” When you bring one thing in, maybe that’s when you eliminate 2-3 items you already have.
Don’t let things limit your experience. If your children’s clothes make you stressed for them to play and explore, are you holding them back from free play? It can be so fun to play dress-up. But when they are so fancy you have to sit prim and proper, it can truly limit you. Or you have so many outfits, your mind is spent just making a decision on what to wear.
The Power of Full Engagement - the more you trim choices down, the more clear and vibrant your decision-making will be.
Sleep on your decision-making. If you don’t touch it in six months, give it to someone else who would enjoy it. Sell quality items to save up money for the events you could do instead.
Check out even more here: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/the-minimalist-to-do-list/
Look for ways to clear clutter, and focus more on one another.
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
In this episode we discuss Marie Kondo’s book - and what is missing. It’s not just about your happiness, clearing the clutter, and fixing what’s in front of you. Join Nathan and Ashley and hear their perspective on minimalism - taking into account the ones you love, what “home” means, and how to get to the root of the issue. Does this really bring fulfillment in any way?
Welcome to Season Three on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast. In this series, we will focus on how to clear the clutter not just from your home, but also your head and your heart to create that space for clarity and connection.
Join me and dive in to "The Minimalist To-Do List!"
Home isn’t something you’re running from. It’s something you’re running towards.
Minimalism is so much more than Ikea - read the full blog here: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/minimalism/
Share what you want to hear about for this series over on the Mama Says Namaste FB page: https://www.facebook.com/MamaSaysNamaste/
What is minimalism? The minimalists have great definitions on it: http://www.theminimalists.com/
Marie Kondo’s book, “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up”(http://amzn.to/2wtlM8n) - top question: Does this spark joy?
This article: “Does It Spark Joy?” Is The Wrong Decluttering Question is an excellent challenge to Kondo’s book.
https://www.becomingminimalist.com/does-it-spark-joy-is-the-wrong-decluttering-question
In the article, Becker lays out three critical points:
- Its’ not just about what makes YOU happy - take into account others as well. How can you spread love and joy - share that spark with others?
Nathan used the analogy of the trolls in the movie Frozen to personify and give life to the rocks on the beach - snatching them all up and taking them away from their family. May be fun for the girls, but it isn’t just about their joy.
The only possessions we really have in this world are our actions.
Don’t force your kids to eliminate, but paint a picture of perspective. We can’t take every rock with us - in the scope of life, it doesn’t really matter. They belong there on the beach of Lake Superior.
2. It’s not just about owning less. It’s about wanting less and acquiring less as well.
Mama Says Namaste Mission:
3. What’s the meaning behind it all? What’s the purpose? What is your “why” for holding on to something, or wanting more?
So when you’re holding one of your possessions in your hands, ask yourself, Does it help me fulfill my purpose? Does it help me craft a lifestyle in which I am able to build relationships and care for others, or might I be able to use my time, money, and energy in better ways?
What does this bring in to our life? What does this change/make better? Can you live without it?
Can you feed into someone else’s life instead?
Check out Scott Harrison’s story - the founder of Charity:Water - http://www.charitywater.org/about/scott-harrison-story/
What makes a good life? Lessons from a life-long study of happiness - Ted Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/robert_waldinger_what_makes_a_good_life_lessons_from_the_longest_study_on_happiness
I want to take a minute again to share with you a bit about the music we have on the podcast - it’s a band with kids music the whole family loves! If you haven’t checked them out, check out Renee & Jeremy - I love their “A Little Love” album, and their cover of the Red Hot Chili Peppers song was what first turned me on to them! Check out http://reneeandjeremy.com/ to hear more of their goodness.
And, on that note, it’s time for a contest! I’d love for you to share this podcast with your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest friends! If you share the Mama Says Namaste podcast and tag @MamaSaysNamaste, I’m going to pick one person to get a free copy of it - sent either digital or physical.
Check out the framework for this series and a deeper definition of Minimalism here: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/minimalism/
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Welcome to Season Three on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast. In this series, we will focus on how to clear the clutter not just from your home, but also your head and your heart to create that space for clarity and connection.
Join me and dive in to "The Minimalist To-Do List!"
“Home isn’t about the place where you are born. It’s about the place where you find yourself.” Pico Iyer
Full Time Families - Learn more about this group and how to get connected here: http://fulltimefamilies.com/joinftf/benefits/?ap_id=ashley
Where were we? Mattawa, Canada, at Sid Turcotte Park: http://www.sidturcottepark.com/
What is home? Clara’s answer: “Home is where you fill an invisible river of love, filled with adventures and salamanders, and even though it’s stormy, you feel safe. The lightening is like a fire with marshmallows and the thunder is like singing in the rain.
Home. It’s the place where your story begins, right? It’s not a house or simply where you lay your head. Home is something so much more.
Home, to me, is my comfort, my security, where I feel belonging and connection. I don’t see it as a location, but a feeling.
Home is about stepping into your own skin; discovering new things about yourself and unleashing creativity in new ways.
It’s about appreciating the little things and stepping into the present.
Before we start to minimize and declutter, what does it really mean to you? What does family mean? Ask again, “what is your goal?”
What are you doing in your house that is creating a home-like atmosphere now…and where do you feel out of sync?
What is the intention of home - what do you want it to be?
We make ourselves one beautiful cup of cappuccino with our little espresso maker and $3 frother from Ikea, and sit down with a book. No cell phone updates with texts, facebook, and the latest news rumblings – just us, the quiet, a luxurious drink and our minds opening up to new insights from a book with no other distractions.
I knock out any work first thing in the morning so I can be with the family, being intentional about prioritizing my time on what is most critical to get accomplished, and shutting out other distractions. I can really struggle with distractions and doing ten things at once – but with limited time and internet access, I’ve had to be very focused on how I spend my time. And, of course, in this, I’ve been very productive and gotten a lot accomplished within a small amount of time.
Take a shower in the evening to wash the day away. Let your to-do lists wash down the drain and simply feel the heat run over your body. Showers are amazing places for epiphanies, ideas, and literally soaking in what is around you. Try meditating in the shower and focusing on nothing but the water. Clear the clutter from your mind. Stay simple and just focus on the hot water hitting you and the sensation it gives you.
Embrace the moment. Simply be. Allow time to stand still and to just soak in the present. Distractions will always crop up. My to-do list will never completely go away. There is always something on the agenda. When we minimize our homes, we don’t eliminate everything – we chose to be intentional about what remains, and make sure it serves a purpose – whether in it’s function, or the emotion it stirs in our heart.
“Home” is not distraction and reaction.
When we “minimize” our head, don’t try to shut out everything. You don’t empty a room of everything in it, you create a space you want to remain in. With your mind, meditate – shift the focus to your breath, to the moment, to simply being. Trying to shut or block out life and it’s distractions creates a war within your mind; a desperate feeling you are fighting a losing battle, as every swing to focus causes that much more distraction. You can become like a frantic pendulum, trying to stay all “zenned out” yet your mind is berating you for not being zen enough.
Life is crazy. It’s frantic and we are more like ants than sloths. Everything screams at us all the time, and the bustle of the city can be numbing. But imagine even in that scenario – look at a busy ant mound and notice what your eye is attracted to. It’s typically wherever one ant is standing still.
It’s the lack of movement in the chaos that we zone in on when everything else is crazy. Life isn’t still – but we can find moments of stillness when we are intentional about it. Those moments of stillness give us energy, shift the energy to calm, and allow us to be fully present. Those moments of pure presence take us to a deeper level of awareness and give us the fuel to carry on about our days.
Take time today to soak in the little things. Really take a shower and cleanse not just your body, but your mind and your soul. Allow the stillness to clear the clutter and move forward with a clear head and heart to truly embrace today. Namaste.
Challenge this week: What is home to you? Write down descriptor words. Then just observe - nothing changing - just reflect back at the end of the day and see how many of those words you actually felt each day.
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
Podcast music by the awesome* Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon**. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
The final wrap-up to this series - what is your intention for your relationships?
This is the second series on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast with my most favorite guest (and partner for life), Nathan Logsdon. In this series, we dig deep into the critical components that create a healthy and happy intimate relationship - join us as we discuss
Laughter, Humble Pie, and Lots of Sex!
They say love is the best investment. The more you give, the more you get in return. Audrey Hepburn
In our summary podcast, here are all the things we’ve dug into in this season:
Communication is such an important foundation - being able to have an honest conversation with your partner and not simply walk on eggshells.
How to navigate disagreements - you cannot hide tension in your home - that energy will permeate and create a heavy cloud in your home.
Here is my mother’s book - for insights into my own childhood as well as the foundation of peace we have carried in to our own home: Creating a Haven of Peace: When You're Feeling Down, Finances Are Flat, and Tempers are Rising (http://amzn.to/2vGN9GR)
Respect and teamwork - we are a united front - what is your ultimate goal?
Growability - say “I’m sorry” and take ownership/responsibility for your part. Ask “What am I missing? How can I make this better?”
Be a lifelong learner - there is always something more to learn about and discover with one another - if you are both growing and changing every day, there is always something new to talk about and explore.
Laughter and play - take time to reset. Step away and have fun. Allow for laughter and happiness just in the present moment.
Time management - set clear boundaries and be intentional about what you want to focus on. Vocalize your priorities and commit to making them happen.
Sexual intimacy - what is your love language? How are you connecting and spending focused time investing in one another? Are you speaking in a way that resonates with them, or simply you?
What do you want this life to be?
Challenge - just reach out and connect. Go back to the basics. Find your main focus to get you started. Remember love.
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
This is the second series on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast with my most favorite guest (and partner for life), Nathan Logsdon. In this series, we dig deep into the critical components that create a healthy and happy intimate relationship - join us as we discuss
Laughter, Humble Pie, and Lots of Sex!
Saying yes feels good. But a great relationship is one where you can say no and everyone is totally okay with it. Dr. Henry Cloud
You get what you tolerate - Dr. Henry Cloud
How do you create a routine with your children where saying “no” is okay?
7-7 Rule - from 7pm to 7am, our kids knew this was “mommy/daddy time” - time for us to connect and have our own downtime. The key is we communicated this clearly - not that they were ousted out, but why it was important to us and how it helped our whole family.
Newsflash for our children - the world does not revolved around them. How can we help them understand this before they are “thrown to the wolves” of the outside world? We can help by setting clear boundaries in our home that aren’t all child-focused.
Have you filled a bucket today? (amzn.to/2xtM07A) Great children’s book - a whole series - to help children understand about deposits and withdrawals in our emotional bank account (or emptying/filling the bucket).
Curious about how to give from a full cup and what that looks like? Here is a great analogy from my father, Dan Miller: On Giving From A Full Cup (https://vimeo.com/152632600)
Setting clear boundaries allows you to give more, be more, love more, invest more in others because you are pouring from a full cup.
The part that keeps our family together starts with our relationship - keep your relationship a priority.
Bathtub Boundaries with an Ocean of Love (http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/bathtub-boundaries-with-an-ocean-of-love/) - how can you give them the world but in a way that gives them support and security?
We chose to keep our bedroom our safe haven - we kept it kid-free. If you chose to co-sleep, that’s fine - but create a sacred space somewhere. Create a place and a time that is for you two and your relationship - not revolving around the children.
What are you portraying to your children? Are you living for them only, or are you capable to stand on your own ? Are you a thriving, confident, independent person…what you want your children to become?
Don’t be afraid to lay clear boundaries - this doesn’t break a relationship; it makes it more secure because there is clear communication.
Allow for a reset. Be intentional and create a game plan for how to get out of the rut. It may mean cracking down and being super diligent for a short time, but the long term payoff is so, so worth it.
Key Takeaways:
- You cannot give from an empty cup.
- Be sure you are intentional in what you need.
- Set clear boundaries.
- Clearly communicate what your boundaries are.
- Be consistent and follow through.
Challenge:
How will you invest in your family this week? What boundary needs to be set? Limit screen time, 1-1 focused time with kids, time to reconnect with your spouse - what is your intention to make a positive change in your home life this week?
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
This is the second series on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast with my most favorite guest (and partner for life), Nathan Logsdon. In this series, we dig deep into the critical components that create a healthy and happy intimate relationship - join us as we discuss
Laughter, Humble Pie, and Lots of Sex!
Sex is emotion in motion. - Mae West
You know that look on a woman’s face when she wants sex? Me neither. - Steve Martin
It’s hard to stay emotionally distant when you are physically connected.
We created the habit of physical touch on a daily basis - it became a habit like meditation/yoga - a critical component for our marital health.
The Five Love Languages:
- Physical Touch
- Words of Affirmation
- Acts of Service
- Receiving Gifts
- Quality Time
The curve ball of children - our intimate relationships can easily slip to the back burner.
Pain happens to everyone. But do we carry it around like a weight that prevents us from moving forward? Does it become so much a part of our identity that it becomes larger than the present moment?
Therapy is a process of letting go. It’s not allowing it to fester as a core component of your identity, but allowing yourself to acknowledge that pain, process it, and set it down. Seeing a counselor is one way. Journalling, running, art, music…these are all ways to help release pain and process through it.
What story do you want to create for the future? Put your past story down and think about what you want to pick back up again.
Ease into love. Start with conversation. Move to massage, bathing together, and building trust and confidence in your relationship.
Set aside time for this. Don’t wait for it to organically happen. If you are trying to write a story, you have to be intentional. Don’t hope it will just “happen” - create it. Make it an important component of your day.
Love builds on itself. If you want love, BE love. Reflect the love you want to receive.
Check out Dr. Laura Bergman’s “Quantum Love” series: We have really learned a lot and have experienced “quantum love” at a whole new level. I highly recommend it! (http://hhafftrk.com/?a=6271&c=2500&p=r&s1=)
Ways to build a connected relationship - look at the 5 love languages and take the quiz (http://www.5lovelanguages.com/profile/couples/)
Go back to the personality styles - can you affirm them, create a safe place, allow control and confidence in an area (like leading a massage, for example)?
The Talmud tractate on marriage contracts states that the righteous couple should make love every Friday night. It's part of observing and enjoying the Sabbath - of honoring each other.
Eliminate the guessing game - go ahead and assign days to each other. Who takes the lead? This can help so much in allowing one person to experience simply receiving love, and learning more about each other’s bodies, etc.
Pillow Play - This is an awesome little app to build sexual intimacy - meditations, exercises and challenges to help you grow closer together beyond just the act of making love. (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pillow-intimate-sensual-adventures/id1060044689?at=1000lqxe)
Even if you don’t “like” them in the moment, don’t shut down the physical. Reach out and touch and affirm that the commitment to love is still there even if you aren’t seeing eye to eye on something. Don’t go to bed angry and distant.
Your challenge this week: Reach out and touch your partner and connect at least once a day. Hug, caress, embrace, kiss…make love. Bulletproof it so you commit to the intentional time to connect.
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Get a free eBook to learn more about YOUR family style here: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/opt-page/
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
If our time is a reflection of what is most important to us, what does it say about you?
This is the second series on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast with my most favorite guest (and partner for life), Nathan Logsdon. In this series, we dig deep into the critical components that create a healthy and happy intimate relationship - join us as we discuss
Laughter, Humble Pie, and Lots of Sex!
“Time management is really a misnomer - the challenge is not to manage time, but manage ourselves. They key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.” - Stephen Covey
As you may have guessed, we juggle a lot - and the essence of it is that life fills up quickly, no matter what your day-to-day appears.
Either you run the day or the day runs you. - Jim Rohn
I’ve heard this issue come up time and time again with couples - they want to have time for their relationship, but by the time they take care of work, the house, and deal with the constant demands from the kids, they are flat too wiped out.
Do a time inventory - where is your time going? Check out www.toggl.com as a way to track yourself.
Scale back your screen time. Don’t just go off cold-turkey, but take an inventory on how much time it’s consuming of your day…and away from your relationships.
Shift the way you mandate things. Instead of “NO MORE TV!” - switch it around and simply let the ones you love know that you prioritize them and you want to spend time with them, not a screen.
Want to know the results of our screen time study in the unschooling families group? Check it out here: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/get-results
The One Thing by Gary Keller (http://amzn.to/2vGO4J2). We have no problems dropping it all to zone out for a movie - but how often do we block out everything and devote that same amount of time to just connecting with our spouse or our children?
Turn off notifications. Don’t let them hit you whenever they happen. Schedule a time in to address them instead. Set aside time to devote to the notifications and alerts - guilt-free. And shut it down at other times.
Show your family respect enough that you are willing to set things down.
5am wakeup - yes, it's early and brutal at first. But when we get up between 5-5:30, it allows us to have some refreshing time in the morning to just connect and talk - to lay out our day and just have some time before kids wake up. Check out the book Miracle Morning (http://amzn.to/2vGznWk)
If you are a night owl, figure out how you can time block so you can have that creative energy at the end of the night - but make sure you don’t spring up so late that you are set in reaction-mode for the rest of the day.
Time block. You only have so much sauce to make so many decisions during the day. The less decisions you have to make, the better. So what can you reduce down and simplify?
“Dummyproof” your day - prep your morning the night before so you you don’t have to use up that first morning energy deciding what to wear, what to eat, fumbling around making noise prepping breakfast, etc.
Have at-home date nights. As soon as it's lights out for your kids, it's "lights on" for the two of you. You can create as elaborate of a date as you want. Here is the kicker - these are sacred date nights. This means it's a romantic date to enjoy each other. Keep the dirty laundry out of it and keep the focus for these on having fun and being together.
Some ideas:
- Keep it simple and comfortable - veg and watch a movie or show together.
- Feed your children dinner and you two just snack to tide yourselves over - and then you create a fabulous feast just for the two of you to enjoy after they’re in bed.
- Get yourselves all cleaned up for each other - take showers or baths (bonus if it's together) and then, if you want, even go through the process to dress up a bit. Fix a fancy drink or dessert and have a fancy night 'in'.
- Pull out a game and play it together.
- Work on things together. What projects can you do side-by-side, or collaborate on?
- A sex schedule - when your husband is just tired and wants to chill, I have to say, nothing may perk him up more (um, literally) than knowing he's gettin' some. ;-) So schedule it in. Maybe you have sex once, twice, three times a week. What does it look like? Maybe you shower first and hop in bed naked. Maybe you add in massage. For us, we went a bit extreme - we typically have sex every night - so there is a big motivator for connection and also ending the day with a very pleasant bang. (ha - I'm full of punny jokes, aren't I).
- Have his, hers and ours nights - we would alternate who had the focus. On our night, we called the shots. We may choose a movie, or a massage where the full focus is on us. Knowing there was a night devoted just to one of us and then one together eliminated the dancing game of who initiates what.
- We made sure to add in a chill/veg night so it's not that we're always "on." However, although we have "permission" to chill, most of the time we opt for connecting and having our us time even on the nights we watch a movie.
- You both have to make a commitment to step it up. Make space for airing the dirty laundry several times a week so it doesn't crop up on your "date" time. And then allow for your times together to really be focused on what you love about the other person. Highlight it. Look into his eyes. Tell him what you love about him. Send him little love texts or hide a note in his pants pocket (and yes, risqué is fun, too). Do some little things to keep the spark alive.
Dirty Laundry - create a space for it. For us, when we were back in Nashville, our DL conversations happened on the back porch. We didn't bring that energy into our home. After kids went to bed, we'd go out on the back porch to talk and discuss the day - this got us out of the house so the kids weren't privy to the convo and could sleep with no distraction, and it kept any negative energy outside. We would allow for time to discuss, and leave it outside. Put a time limit on it - for us, it was 9pm at the latest. After that, it was time to wrap up and get ready for bed - no more dirty laundry, only clean and comforting as we settled in to our peaceful haven. (Listen to Podcast Episode 0009: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/episode-009-fighting-toward-a-win-win/ )
Let it go, and let it flow: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/lighten-one-love-get-play/
“Don’t wait for opportunities. Seize common occasions and make them great.” Orison Swett Martin
Make connection mandatory.
Your challenge this week - time block yourself. Lay out what is important to you for every day - that includes work appointments and kid appointments, but it also includes things like meditation, time to connect with your spouse, and 1-1 time with your children.
Be intentional about where your time goes, and remember, the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us!
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
This is the second series on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast with my most favorite guest (and partner for life), Nathan Logsdon. In this series, we dig deep into the critical components that create a healthy and happy intimate relationship - join us as we discuss
Laughter, Humble Pie, and Lots of Sex!
Link to the FB posts of Timothy Lake and add picture of boulders
We love the beauty of unstructured play. Sometimes we can get stuck in this need for stimulation for our children. We make sure they have toys and programs to entertain. But there is so much just within the imagination! Our criteria for an awesome time boils down to water, trees, and large rocks.
Check out William Gillette’s Castle in East Haddum, CT
You can see some of our pictures and videos over the last few weeks if you search #FieldTripGypsies on Instagram/Facebook
“Clear communication. Respect. A lot of laughter. And a lot of orgasms. That’s what makes a marriage work. “ Dr. Dre
Is your mission in life just to pay bills and be unhappy? Most of us don’t strive for that, yet we can get stuck in a rut of doing just that. How can you bring happiness and joy into your life?
How often do you take time to play? Have a good time and lighten the mood -every day.
A view of Finland’s Education System
You know you want to get the “O Brother Where Art Thou” soundtrack…
Your challenge this week: Go and play! Do something random and fun and completely out of the blue. Go to a park, a trampoline park, roller skating, etc.
GIVE YOURSELF GRACE TO HAVE A GOOD TIME.
Have a good laugh. Be silly. Be goofy. Flirt, tease, and tickle each other. Act like a kid and chase each other around. One night recently the kids were shocked to sneak out of their beds and find us out jumping on the trampoline, laughing and trying to see who could bounce higher. It was a stressful day and we just needed to be silly. They actually ended up jumping with us, and while we didn’t win any awards for consistent discipline that night, we created a really special family memory full of cuddling and giggling and genuinely loving on each other.
I have a tendency to take life way too seriously. If I could narrow down one key thing Nathan does for me on a regular basis, it’s that he makes me laugh. He reminds me that life can be fun – to take in the moment and just enjoy it. And if it gets to heavy, let go and simply laugh. Laughter really is the best medicine in so many situations.
Go further with my blog post on this topic: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/laughter-humble-pie-and-lots-of-sex-part-3/
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Your Voice In The Symphony of Marriage This is the second series on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast with my most favorite guest (and partner for life), Nathan Logsdon. In this series, we dig deep into the critical components that create a healthy and happy intimate relationship - join us as we discuss Laughter, Humble Pie, and Lots of Sex! [clickToTweet tweet="“No one can whistle a symphony alone - it takes a whole orchestra to play it” - HE Luccock" quote="“No one can whistle a symphony alone - it takes a whole orchestra to play it” - HE Luccock"]
Behind the scenes footage -
Want to know what it’s really like recording a podcast in a camper? We improvise! In this episode, we had to do a long pause because our dog, Harley, was pacing the floor and trying to scoot into her bed underneath our couch. We also had the door open, and as the sun set, the crickets came out in full force - it was loud enough I had to shut the door because it was drowning us out!
And this - this is an image of our podcast setup this evening. When all else fails, find a watermelon to prop a mic on.
Mamas think they know it all - we know our children so well, that fathers can become second-fiddle.
Check out If You Want Daddy To Be Involved, GET OUT OF THE WAY
Just like a sports team, everyone has a role that is important…but not identical. Don’t try to duplicate a mother - look at what a father can be.
There are two sides to every story. And having a TEAM and an open line of communication helps to eliminate so many battles.
Sometimes the best tactic is to pull your own perspective out of it and just listen to where the other person is coming from.
"If you replace the “I” with “we”, even something like Illness can become WEllness." Malcolm X
When IS the right time to get married? Trick question! It’s when you decide to. It’s not based on age or commitment in the moment. It’s the conscious decision each and every day to love and make it work.
When I coach, we address the past only in relation to the future, and we work together to create a real deal feasible plan to be proactive in creating the life – and relationships – you truly desire. Coaches focus on creating the life you want, not simply processing the life you had. If you want to explore this further, hop on over to my coaching page and fill out the form at the bottom. I’ll connect with an individual coaching package just for you that fits your needs and your budget.
Your life is a reflection of what you care most about - where do you spend your time? What are you willing to invest in?
Hold hands and run hard. It means you have to really pay attention to what the other is doing. If you want your relationship to work, you are only as fast and as powerful as the team.
When you are struggling with something, ask for help! And then lay out how the other really can help you. Lay out the expectations so you CAN move forward and take action vs. there being an ambiguous “I can help you” statement that accomplishes nothing.
FORGIVE AND LET GO.
Our challenge this week: Practice loving yourself. Take 30 minutes in the morning and write down all the things you love about yourself. Love yourself first, because it’s a slap in the face to the one YOU love when you believe you’re unlovable. Give yourself grace, and remember that today is a new day.
Check out last week’s blog post on this topic: Pride Goeth Before A Fall: Can Your Marriage Hold Up?
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
This is the second series on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast with my most favorite guest (and partner for life), Nathan Logsdon. In this series, we dig deep into the critical components that create a healthy and happy intimate relationship - join us as we discuss
Laughter, Humble Pie, and Lots of Sex!
Congrats! We are in the double digits! You are listening to Season 2, Episode 10, and we’re diving deep into relationships with the topic of Laughter, Humble Pie & Lots of Sex. Joining me in this series is my fabulous husband of thirteen years, Nathan. This week we’re diving into that wonderful little element of ourselves that can stand in the way of a close and supportive relationship - pride and ego.
Before we get started, I have to say that, as a full-time RVing family, people always want to know where we are in the country and the latest happenings. Well, we’ve hit 29 states so far, and are taking on the northeast now.
If you hop over to the Mama Says Namaste Facebook group, you’ll see my daughter Clara listing all the places we’ve been.
Just this past week we’ve been in Maryland visiting Washington DC, Delaware, where we took a road trip to see the wild horses on Assateague Island National Seashore, and now New Jersey.
Our rule is, in order to put our state sticker on our map, we have to stay overnight in the state - out West we could spend a week in one place and never leave the state. Here in the East the girls are even more confused with where we are, as we hop from Delaware to Maryland and back to PA… Yet we’re staying consistent with at least spending the night at each place!
“Growability” is a Powerful Thing
We cultivate love when we allow our most vulnerable and powerful selves to be deeply seen and known. - Brené Brown
It may sound trite, but there are two parts to humility – admitting when you are wrong, and admitting when you are hurt. Don’t be a brick wall. Don’t deny the negative feelings any more than you do the positive. Humble yourself to learn something. Be vulnerable. It’s amazing what it does for opening up the lines of communication and trust in a relationship.
“You are always a genius…today.” Nathan Logsdon
“The last thing we need in the midst of our struggle is shame for being human” - Brené Brown
“The best life raft is humility.” - Nathan Logsdon
Read this week’s post, Tension Points That Cause Couples To Argue (www.mamasaysnamaste.com/argue/)
A good dose of humble pie makes for a healthy relationship. Make sure you never let your ego take precedence over your connection with others. We have the ability to learn so much – to be a better person, by being open to learn from those moments of disconnect and embracing the opportunity to learn to love better instead of having our ego shut it down.
What sticky spots of communication have doled you out some “humble pie”?
Read more on the first points in this series here: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/laughter-humble-pie-and-lots-of-sex-part-2/
Your challenge this week:
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
This is the second series on the Mama Says Namaste Podcast with my most favorite guest (and partner for life), Nathan Logsdon. In this series, we dig deep into the critical components that create a healthy and happy intimate relationship - join us as we discuss
Laughter, Humble Pie, and Lots of Sex!
“If they respect you, respect them. If they disrespect you, respect them still. Do not allow the actions of others to decrease your good manners, because you represent yourself, not others.” Mohammad Zayara
Teasing is an easy trap to get into the habit of, and it usually is at someone else’s expense. Ask “what is your goal” before you jab.
Abide by a “clean slate” rule - don’t hold grudges and resentment, or bring the past into the current situation. What’s in the past is done - so now address what you will do moving forward. Start with a clean slate and not a dark shadow.
Disagreements happen, and sometimes it’s a broken record of the same issue over and over. When you start to see a negative pattern, you want to address it as soon as you can so it doesn’t become a habit or lifestyle.
Read Ashley’s blog post “Discuss, But Never Argue” here:
http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/discuss-but-never-argue/
When you have a disagreement, it’s okay to take a break and NOT try to solve it all at once.
The root of all anger is not ‘out there’ but within your heart.
Every time you point a finger, there are three more pointing back at you. What is your expectation for your relationship, and what negative behaviors/habits are you contributing?
You have to have respect for yourself so you can then pass that on to the world. Sometimes we take others’ behavior even more personally because it’s a fault we have in our own lives.
Hear our daughter Ellie’s rendition of Daniel Tiger’s “When You Feel So Mad” here: http://www.byebyeiloveyou.com/when-you-feel-so-mad/
You are on the same team. Don’t let the issue become bigger than the relationship.
The past can carry some heavy baggage - be sure to speak in the present moment.
Own your feelings. It’s not “you did…” but “I feel…”
Share your own emotions without playing the “blame game”
Share it, let it out, and then drop it. Allow your partner to do the same - to share how they are feeling. Truly listen to one another without just plotting out your rebuttal.
Being on the defensive assumes you are on two separate teams. You are on the same team. Don’t jump to the defense.
Don’t carry the anger with you - it can fester and grow much larger than you ever intended, and you can lose sight of the ultimate goal - a loving relationship.
Give space for each other to think and process.
Take the accountability off of each other and put it in writing. Write out your plans and your goals so you can look to that paper for the accountability vs. your spouse looming over your shoulder shaking their finger.
“When you talk, you are only repeating what you already know. But if you listen, you may learn something new.” -Dalhai Lama
Hot topics/trigger points for couples, especially starting out:
Finances - come to an agreement on what is mutually beneficial for the family as whole. Does what you spend ADD to the family, or is it one more thing adding tension/clutter?
Extended family - you have to draw the line - you are not duplicating your family of origin. You are creating a new family entity. You may draw from the past, but not to the detriment of what is. Your family will be different, and that’s okay.
Give yourselves grace to practice. You aren’t going to get it right all the time. Allow for grace in your growth - as individuals, as a couple, and as a family.
What is your intention with your disagreement? Is it to truly find love in the relationship or get the upper hand?
Catch yourself when things get heated. Before you point that finger of blame or immediately fly to the defense, take a breath and remember who you are talking to. This is your heart and who you chose to take on this world with.
Read more on the first points in this series here: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/laughter-humble-pie-and-lots-of-sex/
And remember, if you’re liking what you hear, we want to hear from you!
- Subscribe, rate and review on iTunes
- Post your comments/questions in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook Community
- Email Ashley directly at ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
It’s time for a new series! We started this podcast digging deep into the foundation of our wiring, looking at a “family portrait” of showing your best strengths.
The “Be the Good, See the Good” series really laid out how we can live with intention by acknowledging how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us.
Introducing: Laughter, Humble Pie, and Lots of Sex!
“Expectation is premeditated resentment.” - Alcoholics Anonymous
Click here to see a video of Nathan and Ashley talking about their top six essentials for a happy marriage, as well as learn “37 Tips To Save Your Marriage”
(www.mamasaysnamaste.com/37-marriage-saving-tips/)
Create space for conversation - don’t let it fester.
Follow through and commit to one another to be a united front. Don’t compete, complete.
Heavy conversations don’t happen in the bedroom. Take the negative energy outside.
What is your common goal? Love deeply, challenge each other, and know it’s coming from a place of love.
Don’t attack - create a place of trust, calling out an action without accusing the person.
Address something as soon as it pops up - don’t let it fester.
Once you communicate it, let it go.
Own your emotions - “I feel…” vs. “you did…”
Change your attitude - it’s not about who is at fault, but “how can I change things to contribute and add to my life”
When you rebuild trust, allow the past to drop away. Sometimes we fixate on the drama of the past and carry that forward with everything we do. Let it go and create a clean slate.
Don’t use absolutes. Own your own feelings and address what is going on in the moment.
Click here to see the Nail in the Head video and weigh in with your thoughts!
(https://www.facebook.com/groups/MamaSaysNamaste/permalink/1898118367095686/)
Communicate how you’re feeling to those around you in a safe way - no blaming/finger-pointing.
Earn the right to communicate with love and honesty.
Every time you point a finger at someone else, there are three more pointing back at you.
Deposit in their lives with affirmation and positivity - so they feel loved and supported.
Address the situation at hand, not pulling in the whole past.
Questions/struggles in your marriage? Post in the Mama Says Namaste Facebook group or email ashley@MamaSaysNamaste.com.
Your challenge for this week is to communicate in a powerful and loving way to your significant other. Make deposits in your relationship.
It is hard to be emotionally distant when you physically connect.
Discuss the small things before they ever become the big things.
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
This is the seventh - and final - episode in the "Be The Good, See the Good" Series.
Today we wrap up how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us, and how we can work in our strengths and recognize that in others.
“It’s been my experience that you can nearly always enjoy things if you make up your mind firmly that you will.” L.M Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
Anne with an “E” on Netflix
Get a month free by going to www.Audible.com/namaste
Here is the Anne of Green Gables on Audible we are listening to right now
10 Essential Lessons for Life: Empathy
People sometimes have lives that are created in reaction to the pain they have experienced in their own lives.
How can you look for - and create - the world in which you thrive?
We aren’t looking for a band-aid approach or viewpoint on life. What is the deeper story that may be causing the pain and/or reaction?
We need to have grace and compassion for one another - we are all humans, and we all have those not-so-great moments of parenting, and just being!
We have the choice to step out of our reaction and choose how we are going to move forward. We don’t get it right every time, but that doesn’t mean we’ve failed forever.
“The last thing we need in the midst of our struggle is shame for being human.” -Brené Brown
If you want to dig deeper into learning more about your unique personality style, here are some resources for you:
- Join the Mama Says Namaste FaceBook Group
- The Mama Says Namaste Podcast on YouTube
- Personality Profiles (soon to be renamed “family portraits” - the Inner Lion Session here is switching to “Family Portrait Session” and is my first step for any coaching package).
- The Parent DISCovery PlayBook: The Ultimate How-To Guide on Understanding Your Tiny Humans
- Be sure to sign up for updates and get access to your free “DISC Family Quick Tips” eBook!
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
This is the sixth episode in the "Be The Good, See the Good" Series.
We will dive in to how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us, and learn how we can work in our strengths and recognize that in others.
“Your greatest powers is in the present moment. And, for the record, your cell phone is not the present moment.” -Ashley Logsdon
Check out the Mama Says Namaste FaceBook discussion on the wife with the nail in her head here: Don’t Try to Fix Me!
High D’s are all about the end result. Bullet point emails and cutting straight to the chase are well appreciated by a high D. Remember, though, when you are looking at the end result, ask yourself, “What is your goal?” and make sure it is in a positive space.
When a high D is stressed out, look for a way to gain control - sometimes simply doing a “brain dump” and getting the thoughts out of your head and onto paper instead. Make a list - get it all out. Then start to prioritize and pick one thing.
Don’t be the “jack of all trades, master of none.” The One Thing by Gary Keller
Is your life really reflecting what you care about?
No task or thing is as important as people and relationships.
Think three times, speak only once. Ready, fire, aim may mean you can take fast action, but that’s not always beneficial.
Practice being kind rather than being right.
Remain teachable and always take ownership of your own shortcomings.
Characteristics of a high D:
- Active
- Confident
- Courageous
- Decisive
- Fast-paced
- Intense
- Needs alone time
- Strong-willed
- Talkative
- Opinionated
- Challenges authority
- Competitive
- Determined
- Goal-oriented
- Hard worker
- High energy
- Fiercely independent
- Born leader
- Natural delegator/organizer
- Not easily discouraged
- Practical
- Productive
- Solution-oriented
Their Motivations:
- Give them a challenge
- Allow them to feel in control
- Give them a goal with a reward
What Upsets Them:
- Losing control
- Feeling they don’t have a choice
- Feeling under appreciated
To Help A High D Child Grow (or an adult, for that matter!):
- Be brief and to the point
- Don’t get into a power struggle
- Encourage them to talk about their feelings and how others might feel - stress empathy
- Teach them them how to really apologize (and the importance of doing so)
- Help them to learn the benefits of being part of a team
- Remind them that being kind can be more important than being right
- Help them to unwind and relax
- Identify ways for them to verbalize their frustration
- Help them with flexibility - their agendas and expectations can be very frustrating when not met
Encouraging Phrases:
- I like how you stand up for what you believe in
- I admire your courage
- your confidence is really strong and will help you be successful
- I like how you really stick to things and get things done
- I love when you inspire others to act by pushing them with LOVE and not force!
- I’m proud that you practice what you preach - you do a great job of acting on something and not just talking about it!
“Whenever you are pointing a finger at someone else, there are three more pointing back at you” Eleanor Coleman
Parent Tips
• As the parent, make sure you establish that you are in control, but give them authority over as much as is reasonable in their lives
• “There are two lasting things we can give our children - one is roots, the other, wings” - allow for independence, even if it’s easier to do it for them
• Help your D child establish goals
• Establish a responsibility chart so your child can see her progress and be encouraged by it
• If your D child breaks a rule, responding with a clear consequence is very important. “Every action has a consequence”
• “Relationships and people are always more important than things and tasks.” - teach them to say “I’m sorry” and to be humble enough to learn from their mistakes
• I feel strongly about this for every personality style, but especially with high D children, never “tattle” on them - talking about their faults to others in their presence. It’s a betrayal of trust for them and you can quickly become the enemy. Let them know you are on their side and they can trust you to stand with them.
The blog I posted on resilience with sweet Juliet’s angry face can be found here: 10 Essential Lessons for Life: Be Resilient
For more stories and insights, check out this blog post:
http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/make-me-feel-important-the-high-d-style/
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
This is the fifth in the "Be The Good, See the Good" Series.
We will dive in to how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us, and learn how we can work in our strengths and recognize that in others.
“Perfectionism is a twenty-ton shield that we lug around thinking it will protect us when, in fact, it’s the thing that’s really preventing us from taking flight.” -Brené Brown
Be careful not to live life in fast forward. Be intentional about taking the time to rest.
Want to check out those crazy tunnels we crawled through? This week’s blog post is on play, and you’ll see what I’m talking about: 10 Essential Lessons for Life: Remember to PLAY
My father, Dan Miller, of www.48Days.com, has the “48 Days To The Work You Love Podcast”
Cliff Ravenscraft is the genius behind podcasting that has helped both Dad and I get started. He’s the “Podcast Answerman” and has his own podcast, “The Cliff Ravenscraft Show: Learn How To Podcast”
The high-C photographer that captures the details is Frank Kendralla
My daughter Clara is working hard on updating her website and sharing more about what she loves and seeing the world through her eyes. Check it out at www.ClaraLogsdon.com
You can see her book (and even her reading it to her sisters) here: What If It Were Possible
Being educated is more than just retaining information - it is essential that you don’t just soak it in, but you live it out. Book knowledge is just that. It’s a stepping stone in the right direction, but facts are not the whole picture. Take into account faith and connection - relationships always involve an element of the unknown.
A C can have everything logically laid out, but they cannot compartmentalize the power of choice. So every human interaction is going to involve a potential curve ball, and it’s critical to remain open to that possibility, recognizing that no matter how it’s been proven in the past, life does not always go as planned.
Take one step away from perfectionism and a step closer toward human connection. And that is what it’s all about. Let go of the “rightness” of it all in a haphazard world, and keep that detailed focus on the balance of love and grace amidst imperfections.
Chatbooks: I love these little books!! For only $8/month, I get a new little 60-page flip book of all my instagram pictures. I go in and occasionally delete a few, but I really don’t do much at all. It’s an awesome little keepsake and the girls love flipping through them! You can also create your own little albums - like something for all those drawings! (Use the coupon code RGYCAMC3 for the first month free!)
Characteristics of a high C:
- Detailed
- Analytical
- Logical
- Systematic
- Introspective
- Large personal space
- Introverted
- Reserved
- Realistic
- Serious
- Purposeful
- Loves systems and details
- Precise and accurate
- Drained by people
- Can be perfectionistic
- Asks for lots of answers
- Rule-follower
- High standards
- Prefers routine
- Non-competitive
- Likes charges, facts and lists
- Schedule oriented
- Can procrastinate (paralysis by analysis)
Their Motivation:
- Praise for hard work or focus
- Creating order and analyzing details
What Upsets Them:
- Making mistakes
- Being criticized
To help a high C grow:
- Praise their high quality work
- Promote a balance between work and play
- Help them talk about their feelings
- Show them that mistakes are not failure
- Give them opportunities to learn about flexibility
- Enjoy life in the present moment
- Focus on the good and positive things
- Teach them to accept compliments
- Use humor
- Check to make sure it’s a good time to talk
- Slow down
- Allow them space
- Let them process things on their own time
Encouraging Phrases:
- You really worked hard on that picture - I love the details!
- Your discipline to get things done will be a skill that is important to your future success - great dedication
- Thank you for helping me see that - sometimes I miss the details
- I love to hear about what excites you
- I’m glad that you recognize when you need space - you do a great job of staying focused and getting your work done
Parent Tips :
• When he is disappointed after recognizing he made a mistake, help your child learn that mistakes take him closer to his ultimate success.
• Help your child understand that it is not her job to supervise everyone else’s work.
• Don’t push your children into the limelight. Once they establish trust, they will then let loose a
little more.
• Encourage your child’s creativity.
• For a child that naturally keeps to themselves, make sure to reach out and touch them.
Sometimes they can so easily stay in their personal bubble that it’s a shock to get a hug. Ask permission, and cuddle with your little one. When they are upset, don’t critique or fix - simply try hugging them in silence. Everyone needs human touch and connection, even when they don’t recognize it.
For more stories and insights, check out this blog post:
http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/dot-your-is-and-cross-your-ts-the-high-c-personality-style/
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
This is the fourth in the "Be The Good, See the Good" Series.
We will dive in to how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us, and learn how we can work in our strengths and recognize that in others.
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families! You can get your copy here (aff link)
Ashley featured on the Entrepreneur On Fire Podcast: https://www.eofire.com/podcast/ashleylogsdon/
Check out www.HollyScherer.com - she says “I created this community to help you REDISCOVER YOUR DREAMS and BUILD THE FOUNDATION to make them a reality. In 2011, my husband and I STOPPED WAITING FOR “SOMEDAY” and began building a FOUNDATION TO FREEDOM - we want to help you do the same.” How cool is that?
“When you talk, you are only repeating what you already know. But when you LISTEN, you may learn something new.” -Dalhai Llama
Greatest fear for a high I is rejection. Solitude, however, does not mean pure isolation. It’s a time to connect with yourself and find peace in the quiet. The more we can establish that being alone is not a negative thing, the more a high I will have confidence in that space.
“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Jim Rohn
To show love/affirmation for a high S or I, it goes back to the feeling and relationship. For a D or C, boil it down to the task and their accomplishment.
The brain physiology and DISC correlation relates back to Katherine Benziger’s work - a great summary of it all is here: http://www.businessballs.com/benzigerpersonalityassessment.htm D & I = Frontal L/R, S & C = Basal L/R
It takes 3 seconds for a high D and I to process things, it takes 7 seconds for an S or C.
I know you want to see a picture of Ellie’s “Sharpie Incident” - read the blog post here: http://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/high-i-style/
Characteristics of a High I Personality Style:
- Cheerful
- Creative
- Touchy-feely
- Friend to many
- Loud
- Outgoing
- Life of the Party
- Restless
- Impulsive
- High Energy
- Charismatic
- Warm and Approachable
- Compulsive Talker
- Class clown
- Daydreamer/can be unfocused
- Fast-paced
- Easily multitasks
- Great team player
- Not great at details
- At times, may not finish work
- Easily distracted
- Storyteller
What Motivates Them:
- feeling like they are a part of something
- allowing them space to entertain
- giving them your full attention
What upsets them:
- feeling isolated
- not being able to talk or express themselves; feeling stifled
Parenting Tips to Help Your Child (or you) Grow:
- Help them be aware of their surroundings
- Teach them to work independently
- Help them see the details
- Teach them the benefits of planning ahead
- Encourage improved listening skills
- Structure some things - try bookending your day so it doesn’t get away from you and get too chaotic
- Allow for variety and changing interests
- Let them entertain, and don’t hold back on laughter in fun and love
Encouraging Phrases for a high I:
- I like that you know how to have fun
- You make people feel good being around you
- Your enthusiasm is great!
- I like that you always see the bright side in life!
- You’re fun to be with
- Keep that light within you shining - it glows on others and spreads the love!
- I love your creativity and excitement.
Parent Tips
• Help your I child become more organized by teaching him how to effectively use charts or a chore list
• Help your I child to understand when to say no to friends and when it is important to be an individual. This is an important lesson for all styles, but requires a special emphasis for I children due to their natural need to be a part of a group.
• When your I child needs to do a task (like homework), make sure you set aside time beforehand for them to have some fun and get their wiggles out.
• If an I child misbehaves, the cold shoulder is just...cold. This feels like complete rejection to them. Instead, tell them what they did wrong, why it was wrong, and what the consequence will be. Alone time can be a teaching tool that isn’t just shunning them - but helping them to sit with their thoughts without the distractions of friends, and really comprehend what they did. Always allow them to right their wrongs, so they feel fully back in good graces, and reassure them that you love them and know they will make a better choice next time!
BONUS Material:
Want to see a high I yogi in action? I love “Yoga with Adrienne” and she is a great example of a fun-loving high I. Check out this beginner yoga video for back pain - and notice how her personality shines through: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phuS5VLQy8c
This is the third in the "Be The Good, See the Good" Series.
We will dive in to how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us, and learn how we can work in our strengths and recognize that in others.
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do.
We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” ~Marianne Williamson, A Return To Love
What kind of family life do you have? Do you walk on eggshells and cringe, waiting for the next bomb of conflict to drop in your home? Is this the family life you truly enjoy coming home to?
Ss are steady and stable. Reserved and yet people-focused. They listen and observe first, which definitely allows them to notice and be more aware of what is going on with others.
When you envision a dog, you think loyal, faithful, dependable and trustworthy. For a dove, you think of a peacemaker and love. Both of these are great descriptors for the S personality style. Of the Earth elements, Ds are fire, Is are air, and an S is water, with its smooth and steady flow.
“People will forget what you said. They will forget what you did. But they will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou
My mother, Joanne Miller, wrote “Creating a Haven of Peace: When Your Feeling Down, Finances are Flat and Tempers are Rising” - she lays out how she broke the cycle of disfunction in her family and intentionally created the “haven of peace” she wanted in her own home.
“Don’t ever mistake my silence for ignorance, my calmness for acceptance, or my kindness for weakness.” Carson Kolhoff
The Logsdon family countdown - I was juggling managing www.48Days.com, building www.MamaSaysNamaste.com, unschooling three children, getting the house ready for us to leave indefinitely, and prepping it to be an AirBnB. Nathan was in real estate and super busy with housing market in Nashville, TN.
With selling, sometimes it’s all about semantics. S’s don’t “sell,”, they “serve.” Simply switching the terminology from them “selling” to “serving” their client can make a very dynamic and successful salesperson, as they easily see things from other perspectives and can identify the need to truly serve their clients.
Are you really lazy and apathetic, or are you simply avoiding conflict and pressure? Maybe it’s more about security than personal lack of drive.
We had a marriage-centered home - our relationship took priority over our children, and they knew this. We enforced a “7-7 Rule”, which meant kids were in their beds by 7pm at night - even if they were older and didn’t need to sleep then. This time was sacred for Nathan and me to reconnect, hash out the day and process it all so we could be better parents for our children the next day. Having a marriage focused relationship does not mean kids suffer. I feel it makes children more secure knowing their parents are a united front.
We are very careful with the energy that comes into our home. Negative or difficult topics aren’t brushed under the rug; however, they are not what we bring into our house. Our back porch became our safe place to let it all out in the open air. We chose to bring love, peace and connection back under our roof.
A great book to help you with the baby steps to take action in your life is The One Thing by Gary Keller
For an S-style, there are many things being thrown their way, and sometimes complacency is the easiest way to get through. They are peacemakers and tend to be the go-to when teen drama erupts. It can be a lot of pressure to be the shoulder to cry on for every friend, and the stress of carrying everyone else’s burdens can be overwhelming. A coping mechanism may be to numb the emotions by TV, internet/video games, sleeping, drinking/smoking to dull the intensity to a more manageable level. When you see them start to shut down, look for ways to provide some security and consistency in an otherwise roller-coaster life. Not only are they steady, dependable and loyal, but they crave this - steadiness, dependability and loyalty - in their own lives.
Relationships have seasons. We shift from the parent/toddler relationship, to parent/child, tween, teen, young adult…and eventually the shift is where they are no longer just children but making parenting choices for their parents. All relationships have seasons, and that’s okay.
Love is a verb - it’s not something that just sits there.
It’s an action you do every day.
Make sure you communicate the small things before they become big things.
Practice positive self-talk and push yourself to get out of your comfort zone a bit.
Create consistency in your life, even when there are unknowns. Be intentional about creating steady habits that allow for some routine and predictability to help you manage the unpredictable chaos of life.
Characteristics of an S personality style:
- Loyal
- Kind
- Calm & Steady
- Low Energy
- Observant
- Reliable
- Non-confrontational
- Indecisive
- Competent
- Peacemaker
- Patient
- Follows through with tasks
- Sensitive
- Quiet but witty
- Respects authority
- Loves to serve and support others
- Resists change
- Resents being pushed and can shut down/become passive aggressive
- Easygoing
- Relaxed
They are motivated by:
- Deep connections with others
- Feeling needed (emphasize you need their help)
They are upset by:
- Feeling insecure and/or overwhelmed
To help foster the relationship:
- Help them to express their feelings (don’t wait until it’s a mountain - address the little molehills)
- Teach them how to make an informed decision so they have confidence in their ability
- Help them adapt to a faster pace when needed
- Teach them how to stand up for themselves: Kindness does not equal weakness!
- Practice positive self-talk
- Get involved in outside activities
- Encourage them to step outside their comfort zone - change can be positive!
- Give space, but don’t allow them to shut down
Encouraging phrases:
- I so appreciate your help
- I love your compassionate heart
- I love hearing what you have to say
- Thank you for being so patient with me.
- You really thought that through - that shows me how important it was to you
- I really am grateful for your support
Final Tips:
• If you are angry, tone it down. Strong aggressive approaches are too intimidating.
• Your tone of voice and body language immediately set the stage for whether your child is able
to listen or is retreating from conflict.
• Allow for some consistency and routine in your daily life so your S child has comfort in the
predictability.
• Give your S child some time to adapt to changes. If you know of some change coming, give
them advance notice so they can prepare and be able to think and talk through concerns.
• High Ss don’t care for surprises. They want time to plan and process.
• Ss, when hurt, can build up resentment and carry deep grudges. Work through ways to
process and let things go, and stress the importance of letting the negative emotions out instead of stuffing them in.
Best “cheat sheet” to find out personality style?
Ask this question:
“Tell me your story”
. A high S style will tell you about the relationships first. An adult will immediately tell you they are a mother, father, husband, wife, etc and tell about the family members. A kid will tell you about their pets, their siblings, and their friends. The first identifier for them will be the relationships they have.
Read more about the S Personality style in this blog post: Never Confuse Kindness for Weakness: The High S Style
Please remember to subscribe, rate and review this podcast! Your feedback helps me deliver more of what you want - it means a lot to me as I grow this. Thank you!
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
This is the second in the "Be The Good, See the Good" Series.
We will dive in to how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us, and learn how we can work in our strengths and recognize that in others.
It’s a quotation, not a quote.
“We must learn to love ourselves first, in all our glory and imperfection. If we cannot love ourselves, we cannot be fully open to our ability to love others, or to our potential to create. Evolution and all hopes for a better world rest in the fearlessness and openhearted vision of people who embrace life.” - John Lennon
“Whenever you point a finger at someone else, there are three others pointing back at you.” - Eleanor Coleman (Aunt Arger)
We can’t change everyone else, but we DO have the power to change ourselves.
A grocery day - four mamas go shopping (a story about personality styles)
D Wiring - People who score high in the intensity of the “D” styles factor take a very active stance in dealing with problems and challenges. Not afraid of confrontation, Ds are described as a born leader, independent and self sufficient, goal-oriented, “big picture” visionary, fast-paced and decisive.
I Wiring - People with high “I” scores influence others through their gift of entertainment. They are engaging storytellers and the life of the party. They are described as charismatic, magnetic, enthusiastic, persuasive, warm, demonstrative, trusting and optimistic.
S Wiring - People with high “S” scores are slower-paced, more easygoing, and are excellent listeners. High S people are supportive, calm, relaxed, patient, predictable, deliberate, stable and consistent.
C Wiring - People with high “C” styles are highly logical and love facts and statistics. They adhere to rules, regulations and structure. They like to do quality work and do it right the first time. High C people are analytical, careful, cautious, exacting, neat, systematic, diplomatic, accurate and detailed.
Sometimes we limit our thinking to just what affects us, and we miss out on the collaboration of life. Move away from the limiting view of “me” and move into the growth view of “we”.
We all have our own perspective on the world and the culture based on the location where we live..and then we have another culture within our family dynamics. Each affects the way we interpret the world. Understanding the different personality styles is an incredibly powerful way to decipher the best way to interpret or convey a message to someone.
Like yoga, communication is all about finding that perfect balance between your needs and theirs. You want to find that “sweet spot” of communication. We can rant and rave, pressure and cajole, and still not get the result we want. We can shut down and withdraw, but that doesn’t bring anyone closer together. What we need is that perfect balance between communicating the feelings that are within us in a way that another truly understands and can relate to.
Get the Parent DISCovery Playbook: The Ultimate How-To Guide to Understanding Your Tiny Humans
Get the full Mama Says Namaste Profile (complete with a video)
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
This is the first in the "Be The Good, See the Good" Series.
We will dive in to how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us, and learn how we can work in our strengths and recognize that in others.
"What we don’t need in the midst of our struggle is shame for being human." -Brené Brown
Don’t wait until you’re perfect to help another. This is where we can connect and relate and realize that we’re human - and that’s a beautiful thing.
If you want to connect with another, meet them where they are at. Don’t expect them to jump to your perspective just because that’s the way you see it.
When you take into account each child’s personality style, your ability to connect in a way that resonates with them is so much easier.
There are many variations of what "Namaste" really means, but the essence is "the peace within my soul recognizes the peace within yours." Wouldn’t it be nice if Americans greeted one another in such a meaningful way?
When people understand their personality style and lean into their own natural strengths, amazing results occur, and they begin to better understand their children at a deeper level.
The DISC we will be discussing is the four quadrant behavioral model based on the work of William Moulton Marston, Ph.D. (1893-1947) which he developed to examine the behavior of individuals in their environment or within a specific situation. DISC looks at an individuals’ behavioral styles and behavioral preferences. This is not to label people or put them in a category but rather to build a bridge to understanding strengths, needs, motivations and ultimately improved relationship.
Understanding DISC gives us a vocabulary to explain and relate to one another.
It does not give us an excuse or a label for a behavior.
Every person has a vantage point you can only experience through your connection with them.
Like a rainbow that has seven key colors, there are thousands of other shades of those seven, and they all are a blend of more than one color. These other factors, plus the four personality styles, are all going to blend to create your unique color that will be represented somewhere on the spectrum.
You don’t necessarily have a weakness as much as you have a negative reaction with one of your strengths.
Read more about this here: Personality Isn't Going Away: A Historical Intro
Get the Mama Says Namaste Newsletter and you'll receive a free DISC Quick Tips for Families eBook!
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!
Have you ever walked into your home and you felt there were a bunch of crazy aliens around you just flat didn't get?
I am an authenticity enthusiast.
I coach and educate families on understanding their personality styles and how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us.
Ashley takes families from surviving to thriving by helping them uncover how "the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us". She guides parents through identifying their strengths - and also their triggers - to live with intention and not simply reaction to the chaos of an ever-growing family.
Traveling, Unschooling mama of three, focused on authenticity, awareness, personality styles and embracing love in the present moment.
Find out more about Ashley and Mama Says Namaste
I referenced quite a few links and resources in this first blog, so I wanted to post them all here. And yes, if I have an affiliate link, I am using it - but I won’t share anything I don’t personally find benefit from!
Unschooling - if you want to learn all about it, including checking out the blog series that will be made into a podcast series, go to the Mama Says Namaste Education Page
Social Media Marketing World- the best conference for social media networking anywhere!
The Fire-Starter Sessions by Danielle LaPorte - a huge catalyst for positive change in my life, and where this blog post on my word, AWE, came from. (And my word for 2017: FOCUS)
My father’s business is www.48Days.com where “We release dreams into purposeful, and profitable work...in 48 days“
Our travels were started by our trip to Costa Rica. Here are our tips on “How To Travel When You Can’t Afford It”
The Facebook Group that really gave us our confidence to RV full-time was the FullTimeFamilies Group. It’s free to join, and then they have a paid membership which is where they host rallies, have discounted programs, and you really get to connect with friends.
I talked about being fearless, not reckless
And finally, here is the link to our AirBnB if you ever want to visit Nashville, TN!
*Podcast music by the awesome Renee & Jeremy who cover "Put a Little Love In Your Heart" by Jackie DeShannon. Props to both of them for this beautiful rendition that epitomizes what I want for families!