Nature’s Power With Inflammation

An article was brought to my attention today about “Cannabis May Reduce Deadly Covid-19 Lung Inflammation: Researchers Explain Why.” This article caught my attention, not so much because its cannabis, but because its “natural” and the mention of inflammation instantly got my attention because this is what I have worked at for years to reduce in my own body, and honestly didn’t realize it until after why I was so much more comfortable.

So first, what is inflammation? How do you know if you have inflammation in your body?

From the above tagged article, Understanding Inflammation, they have listed some common symptoms:

  • body pain
  • constant fatigue and insomnia
  • depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders
  • gastrointestinal issues, like constipation, diarrhea, and acid reflux
  • weight gain
  • frequent infections

There is also more specific listed symptoms for things like rheumatoid arthritis, IBS, MS.

Inflammation in our bodies can be caused by these illnesses, as well as others, but also by “common” ingredients in our foods and drinks. Such as:

  • sugar
  • refined carbohydrates
  • alcohol
  • processed meats
  • trans fats
    Source – Healthline

Common ingredients that our government allows to be in our foods and drinks… and not to sound like a hypocrite (like our government) yes I do enjoy alcohol in moderation. As my health has drastically improved over the past few years I am careful what I enjoy, how much and the ingredients. For example sugar, my body now recognizes pretty much instantly, I get this feeling in my mouth and head even before a “sugar rush”. Restless legs also can result from any of the above.

I do however also drink Turmeric everyday. Take high quality supplements of minerals, vitamins, omegas which truly was a catalyst in my drastic health improvement. I regularly also use Frankincense, I also have Copaiba (very similar to CBD) beside my bed.

If you have been reading along on my journey, you will know that with PCOS inflammation is also a concern, as well as with IBS, endometriosis can also be affected and can also contribute to thyroid issues. Are you connecting more dots here?

Ive previously posted about how I completely transformed my life and health by going natural. Yup thats it. Nothing drastic. I eat A LOT at times ;) I love food. But I shifted my fuel to healthy options. As much as those deep fried fries and chicken fingers taste – I was in PAIN after eating them, among other things.

In the article, researchers explain that “recent reports have suggested that acute infection is associated with a cytokine superstorm, which contributes to the symptoms of fever, cough, muscle pain.” These extreme instances of inflammation can lead to severe pneumonia which clog up the lungs, make breathing difficult or impossible. So, one of the important strategies  that scientists are studying in the fight against COVID-19 is reducing inflammation.

What do we KNOW helps with inflammation? I can personally attest to these options below:

My own health has completely changed by ME living an empowered health life. Something I highly recommend for EVERYONE to be doing, especially now.

I also highly recommend, read, research, everyone’s bodies are all different. Find something that works for YOU, just like I did for me! If you are curious about the power of plants, I am more than happy to chat, because I know first hand how powerful they really are :) <3 Especially when our physical AND mental health are so intertwined!

Curious… start by researching somethings:

  • Gut Health and Brain Health
  • Pub Med you can research many essential oils
  • Chakra Energy
  • Various food/drink ingredients and their effects on the human body
  • Chemicals and toxins in our cleaning and body products

But MOST IMPORTANT, in my opinion, HOW DO YOU FEEL!?

If you are taking a pill, medication, eating a food, drink, using products in your home – pay attention to HOW YOU FEEL. When you get in touch, I mean really get in touch… you will know exactly how you feel and begin to be able to relate those feelings to the outside influences ;) I promise!

What is even more fun… these essential oils have very real emotional benefits, unique to each oil and blend! Check out Turmeric’s Emotional Benefits below. This oil is a beautiful powerhouse for our emotional and physical health! 🙌 I 💛 my turmeric tea! 🥰

Where Do I Begin…

It’s an honor when someone genuinely asks about my health journey. Especially when I used to be ashamed of my body and health!

A common question is where do I begin… the truth of that is within your own power. Just like it was for me!

I love sharing my story, but also empowering to do what resonates with your own heart!

Below is a simplified list to help you jump start your journey…

  • Be open to energy work to assist your physical and emotional body to process feelings and emotions.
  • What are you eating and drinking?
  • What products are you using in your home?
  • What products are you using on your body?
  • What outside influences do you allow in your life – people, social media, tv, music, books…
  • Does your body require supplemental nutrition with vitamins, minerals, omegas?
  • Are you comfortable with getting quiet, to hear your inner voice.

10 Affirmations For Growth

I felt inspired to write my own affirmations for growth.

During this time in the world, there is so much uncertainty, unknown, and unfortunately fear.

When we are able to align in love with our life, wherever that may be for each of us, we are able to live a much more prosperous, healthy and happy life – whoever we each are!

Pamela Zmija – 10 Affirmations for Growth

If these affirmations resonate with you, I urge you to get quiet, reflect on them and write you own. For each of us is truly on our own journey.

I honestly found inspiration to write these, though affirmations shared by someone else. After reading her list, I shifted to write affirmations that resonated with my heart! Thank you Kim Fitzpatrick for the inspiration!

We are always growing and learning! 💕🙏🥰

The Outside Influence

Who are we to judge one another, when we ourselves are not pure.

Every single one of us has sinned in their life, but we are all very different. I have made my mistakes, which I have learned from. We all can choose to learn vs continue inflicting pain on others.

We all also have our own life path, that leads us to where we need to be, at that point in our life.

My husband and I had a great talk last night. After celebrating his birthday. We chatted about how much we have overcome to get to where we currently are. Not rehashing or reliving but gratitude for the journey and pure contentment, gratitude and love for where we have been and continue to go! How the past year for us personally, professionally has been probably our happiest!

We are human. Life can be real and something takes me off guard.

Last week I was triggered, big time, by a man who spoke to me with the attitude that I am a woman in a “man’s business” and need to just be quiet and do what he says. Having been in an emotionally and verbally traumatic prior relationship, this can make me completely tense up.

Not even a week later, another similar experience. Coincidentally, both of these “men”, which I say loosely because being disrespectful doesn’t make you a man, were who I would class as in the baby boomer era…

What I have experienced in my many years of “working in a man’s business” is being confident in what I do know, being open to continuously learning – like all of us should be!, not being afraid to ASK! I am grateful for those I work with, within our business, externally through suppliers and customers. 99% are truly amazing!!!

But it’s so easy to judge, to perhaps relive the conversation in your head. Which keeps the focus on that person and/or issue that’s feeling like a challenge. To perhaps think its “easier” to bow down or step back.

When we know better we do better. We can begin to put up stronger boundaries, personally and in business.

Rather than dwelling on “what” happened… More importantly, HOW can I grow from here.

A few years ago we had a very rude customer come in, we had worked for him a few times and he was always short and rude to the women in our office. Yet remarkably polite to the men. One day, as he was pretty much harassing a co-worker I stepped in and asked him to leave. I also let him know we wouldn’t ever be doing work for him again and asked him to take his business elsewhere. This was pivotal in my leadership skills, in truly standing firm to this older man and his controversial beliefs that women are far less superior than man.

There are times when you need to put up boundaries, healthy limits, which can also be within as well.

When we allow outside influences in, we are saying someone else’s opinion matters more. We thrive when our energy is balanced, be aware of what “outside influences” we allow into our life.

Social media is a great example.

Can you really believe all of what you see? Does it feel genuine? Are you living in your most authentic way?

Allow yourself permission to possibilities.

Last week when that happened, it honestly completely depleted my energy. On a couple levels.

An old part of me would have wanted to stay in bed, reliving the conversation, worrying of the outcome, pissed off over words. Also lighting a spark in me. Of the pure importance of always being open to learning. It may be small one day, it may be unbelievable another.

Calm the outside influence by going within. Turning off distractions. Tonight the tv didn’t even come on, so no shows or music! Incredible conversation. When we know better, we do better. Everyone can!

Being a woman who greatly appreciates being honest, trust, authenticity, ethical values. That is what I must Align with. Holding people accountable. To their word. Male or female. Understanding that my own disappointment, anger, hurt from the words or actions of another person, is beyond my control. What is within my control is allowing myself to move forward. I may not receive an apology or the desired results, however that too is out of my control.

Being 100% content, happy and satisfied with MY life, WHO I am and realizing the outside influences really do not matter. My strength and love does!

Always learning…

This is a time that more women especially, need to wake up, find their voices and be strong. The world is shifting and we can be a part of an integral energy shift, one that I know is going to change many lives.

Without the outside influences… 💕

What Is Really Happening

It’s amazing how when we tune into ourselves we begin to get in touch with our intuition, our inner being, the part of us that we feel in our gut or heart when something isn’t right…

Given my own health experiences, for the past 6-10 years I’ve been questioning a LOT more. We HAVE to. Our health, is ours, individually, to ensure we FEEL good, and if we don’t, it’s up to us to live an empowered life and take the steps to do whatever it takes to FEEL good!

As this “pandemic” has gone on, I’ve been MUCH more open to possibilities of WHY?! Questions everyone should be asking.

This weekend… a few more things have come to light that are worth sharing to help others who may be also wondering why, unsure about “rocking the boat”! Afterall, we aren’t all in the same boat, BUT we are in the same storm!

These two pieces of information I found yesterday morning and evening while doing some research. Also sandwiched around a VERY successful day at our home, also with family. Seriously guys, focus on you, your living spaces and what means the most to you! Now IS that time! 🥰

Do you see what this public post says? Anyone who dies WITH covid-19, but not because of Covid-19, are included in the death counts… 🤔

It gets better…

“A positive test result shows you might have antibodies from an infection with the virus that causes COVID-19. However, there is a chance a positive result means that you have antibodies from an infection with a virus from the same family of viruses (called coronaviruses), such as the one that causes the common cold.”
Source 👉 https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/serology-overview.html

So let me unpack that for a moment… people are being told to stay away from others, we must wear masks, stay 6 feet apart, the absolute ultimate fear being put into the entire world that they could die and the numbers are astronomical…

The numbers are lying and so are the test results. I personally know someone whose relative was tested for covid-19, in Ontario Canada. The nurse told this person it didn’t matter if he tested ➕ or ➖ he would be marked down as having Covid-19 😲🤯!

What the actual fuck!?

A friend, lost her soul friend, the father of her two young daughters because his pacemaker surgery, an essential surgery for his life, was cancelled due to Covid-19 and deemed as a “non-essential” surgery. Something that probably would have saved his life. This is health care THAT WE PAY FOR and have the right to, in Canada.

Anyone who needs medical care (medical at a dr or hospital or even dental) are NOT ALLOWED to have anyone with them for appointments, or follow up or to even see someone who is kept over night in the hospital. I have recently heard one hospital is allowing every other day. This is a MASSIVE concern and honestly something people should not be accepting. Isolation at its best… especially given the above information. It could even be classed as elder abuse, seniors being kept away from all family. I know for a fact there are nursing homes that people are paying for their loved ones to be cared for, are not being cared for and a family member or 3rd party needs to be brought in to ensure they are actually receiving proper care – eg not choking while eating or food being given to a dementia patient who is unable to properly feed themselves. Are seniors being cleaned or changed properly. I mention this because I KNOW it has been happening. Now with no one allowed to see their elderly family members… how frigging scary!!! For the family and for the resident.

Our children who literally had their life pulled out from under them. School abruptly ended and has not returned. The fear pushed into our children can only be described as abusive. If this virus potentially tests positive if you have had the common cold… which lets be real for a second, yes can kill people. Knowing the symptoms of what has been described I have a very good feeling that both my son and I had this virus. There is a very good chance my husband did as well. Back the end of Feb begin of March – approx I had something I had a harder time kicking. Something in me told me to get Vitamin C, I already drink Turmeric everyday, use my oils (I got better at using them), I used my On Guard + soft gels to boost my immune system with nature, as well as my TriEase softgels of Lemon, Lavender and Peppermint which help with seasonal discomforts. These things my friends are what HAS kept my family healthy the past 6 years. These things, in combination with sleep, lots of water is what helped. I also made up a throat spray as my son had a sore throat and fever, the weekend of the week before March break, he began feeling better towards the end of the week but his lymph nodes were still tender on Thursday so I kept him home. That’s the day it was announced schools would be closed for… 2 weeks. Nature works, our body knows and recognizes it. Our bodies thrive with nature.

Do you still think the government, who, lets just remember, everyone that makes all these laws, tells us what we can and canont do… we all pay for… Do you still think they are looking out for us?!

I can admit, I was very naive, I was grateful that in Canada we get maternity leave, which we also pay for, some for many years and we have not used it ever again. Yet what we ultimately get, isn’t anywhere near what we actually make.

My inner soul keeps telling me to lean in, simplify, unplug. Focus on whats really important.

This morning’s diffuser blend was Blue Tansy – 2, Cardamom – 3 and Lemon – 2.

Blue Tansy – The Oil of Inspired Action

Cardamon – The Oil of Objectivity

Lemon – The Oil of Focus

I was looking back through my planner this morning, as this weekend was my 6 month reflection. I looked back to January and found this blend at the top of the month pages. Cleansing energy.

Look at the emotional uses of these oils… think of the time we are in. Friends… its time to lean in. Its time for an awakening for EVERYONE. For yourself, your family, your health, your home, your “circle” (who you are around or spend time/energy with/on).

If you are unsure where to start. Spend 30 min in nature. Whether its sitting on your deck, laying in the grass in your backyard, going for a walk in nature. Without your phone or the news on tv. Create a joy list, I mentioned this the other day. What are things you enjoy. If you have a hard time getting quiet and sitting in quiet. Let your hand be busy with writing. Let your creative juices flow. Get physical and move your body.

Be authentic to you. Its so important to follow your heart. Listen to those little whispers.

“Skinny” or Healthy

Ive received many comments lately about how “skinny” I am. My initial response was, ‘Thank you’ and lately right after I said that I thought WTF NO… I am not “skinny” I am HEALTHY – there is a BIG difference! When I heard this comment again yesterday, this was my response, “I am healthy!!!”.

The current world we are living in is giving us all an opportunity to take a REALLY good look at our health, happiness, and homes.

I live with multiple auto-immune diseases. Which can make it easy for people to latch on to “having a disease” and their thinking changes, not to how can I fix this but going to the doctor and relying on a doctor to “fix them” or tell them what to do or just not caring at all and doing nothing.

There is ONE person responsible for your health – that is YOU! Just like I am responsible for my own health.

Here is what is scary though… and why I feel its even more important now, in the current world we are living in. The way I shifted MY life, was moving away from TOXIC products that the government ALLOWS to be sold in and enter our country. I didn’t take a magic pill, do any drastic diets, have surgery…

I got healthy by going against the NORM. By FINALLY standing up for ME and saying NO that shit is NOT coming in my house. I started with replacing our over the counter med’s. Which, although health Canada has authorized natural health products in Canada they still do not want us to talk about it… why!? I used to rely on pain meds pretty much every single day of my life. Will I never take them again, never say never. There is a time and place for certain things, everyday isn’t an option I am comfortable with! But, I was very quiet about it back then. I suffered in silence. Like so many other people do. I took the pills the Dr’s kept prescribing and the over the counter meds they said I should take to be comfortable. I hadn’t yet realized that I was the one in control of my body, I deserved to feel good. Everyone does!

  1. I got healthy by removing toxins and chemicals from our home – cleaning supplies, body wash – soap – shampoo – conditioner, “air fresheners”, fragrance, dish washing soaps, a lot of processed foods, laundry detergent, fabric softener… the list honestly goes on. Start reading the labels and doing your research. Pay attention to how your body feels. Stop using chemicals to clean for a month and then smell your previous cleaner (I avoid that aisle at the grocery store)! Yes some things cost a little bit more. WHAT IS YOUR HEALTH WORTH?
  2. I completed my Reiki Certification Level 1 (Nov 2016) – if energy cannot properly flow throughout our body we get blockages, these blockages can and do cause physical pain and illness. During my certification (which I kept fairly quiet because I was “worried” what people would say about me, but no longer give a F..) I received and gave multiple Reiki treatments. I have since, in January of this year received my Reiki Certification Level 2.
  3. I did a cleanse and restore of my digestive system – I did not “have the shits” while doing this. This was a very natural and easy cleanse to help remove build up and toxins from my digestive system and replace with good bacteria. During this time is when I shifted my diet away from processed foods. I also supported my body with high quality vitamins, minerals and omega supplements. It was a family household shift.
  4. I started doing Yoga, meditating, journaling.
  5. I started listening to ME, my body, what it was telling me. That it was ok to have ME time. Being a full time working mom with two little ones less than 18 months apart, my own health issues, life in general… my health got worse before it could get better. I can admit now, there was a time I was floundering. Self care is SO important for every single one of us and it’s so simple. Write a list of things you enjoy doing. Now do something on the list. Find enjoyment in “everyday mundane things”, like washing dishes, the perfect opportunity to listen to a podcast or crank the tunes! When you get quiet, your body will communicate with you. Trust in Divine timing.

THIS above is what I did to “get skinny”. I took control of MY health and shifted it. To be honest, I didn’t think it could happen. I was that angry with my body. I was tired of feeling sick and tired. I was coming home after work/school and having zero energy to do anything with my kids and husband. I received a LOT of flack for making this shift, a lot of criticism, a lot of questioning and that I didn’t know what I was doing and should trust the doctors…

The truth of the matter IN MY SITUATION for my health was the doctors wanted me on pills. There was zero follow up, unless I called them, just renewed prescriptions. When I QUESTIONED why I still felt awful and had no energy, I was told I was “in the normal range”. The normal range is bullshit, straight up. Every single one of us is different. I quite frankly do not care if a group of scientists decided that within this “range” people are “fine”. If you do not FEEL fine, you are not fine!

Honestly, I find a lot of health comfort with my essential oils, emotional and physical health and sometimes when things are right in front of us we can overlook them… in various areas of life. With another beautiful reminder to continue leaning in, of not listening to the messages… to trust in me. You know you best. I know me best. I encourage you make the healthiest, honest choices for you! No judgment. We deserve a government, who is already being paid by the tax payers, to make better decisions of the products available and standards within our country. If we truly want to make a difference with our health, the government needs a complete over haul on their standards. But it starts with each of us. We all individually DO hold a lot of power in what we buy, in what we choose to not believe when we learn and know better. When we know better, we do better.

So lets bring this to current… the government at all levels is pushing massive fear into the public which I have been not only against but questioning since the beginning. Below are two links to things I read today that really got me thinking!

Dawna Toews – in her post on FB talks about the truth of this pandemic and how for a very long time people have been dying from the flu/influenza, among other illnesses and health conditions and yet fear was not spread to this severity. People’s mental and physical health have been drastically affected during this pandemic and all the government keeps pushing is to stay home, stay away from people, wear a mask etc… Please take the time to read this post and digest all of the info.

There is reason to believe that the Nova Scotia shooter who went on a shooting rampage killing 22 people, was an agent of some kind. On May 1st, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today announced the ban of over 1,500 models and variants of assault-style firearms. These models represent nine categories of firearms and two types identified by characteristic. Some of their components are also prohibited. I will be honest, I am NOT a gun person at all. However that being said my husband was in the military and was trained to use some very big guns (see not a gun person…). Something about all of this seems very fishy… WHY would someone going on a shooting spree get $475,000 in CASH… Something is very off and someone or some people in government know about this! This makes me question our government even more.

2020 has been quite the year. Its brought fear, illness, uncertainty… BUT and especially after my distance Reiki session with Krystal last night, I am feeling more aligned with myself again. I realize these comments about being “skinny” felt like a trigger for me. Triggers are our teachers. Don’t get me wrong the people making the comments weren’t being rude. It actually highlighted the fact that I changed my life because of MY choices to say NO to products the government says is OK… and yet is hurting us.

Our lives have been all drastically changed. I’m thankful for the additional evening and weekend time we have had as a family in our home. I am grateful for what we are accomplishing. I am thankful I took the leap and chose healthy.

What is your health worth?

I am thankful for this reminder, of how far I have come and also the importance of everyone being authentic and not afraid of sharing their story and lifestyle. Everyone is different and we ought to embrace our uniqueness and all thrive in health and happiness!

“I am now trading pain for peace”

Trust Your Inner Self

If 2020 will teach me anything it’s to trust my inner self without a doubt, 100% of the time!

A couple weeks ago, give or take a day, someone I follow on social media made a very significant announcement. This person, I initially had a hard time aligning with, but eventually “gave in” to buying the (at the time) best selling book because it had become ‘all the rave’… I’ve even heard her speak in person and found her message inspiring and motivating. The last few months, I’ve slowly lost interest, wasn’t checking out her posts anymore, just didn’t feel in alignment again.

It’s interesting how our lives can unfold, especially where social media is involved and the pure fakeness that can easily be spread…

In 2020 I’ve been much more aware of my social media use, who I “follow”, which honestly I have issues with that word… let’s re-phrase that, who I choose to connect with!

Around June 9 or 10th I opened insta and her post was at the top of my feed. I honestly hadn’t seen many posts in a while, that totally happens with social algorithms (what the platform wants you to see…), something in me said stop and read this…

The post was absolutely shocking.

I have purposely been more aware of any judgment that may slip into my mind or out of my mouth, and call myself on it. We learn and grow every single day.

“What the fuck?!” Is exactly what fell out of my mouth in that moment and I felt zero shame or feeling like I was judging.

This person, who provides coaching classes, courses, books, on living your best life with businesses and relationships… who also on April 30th published a podcast about “Keeping Your Relationship Strong During Quarantine” and talks about a recent interview where she also talked about their relationship and how especially now it’s so important to work together blah blah blah…

June 8th she posted that her and her husband have decided to end their marriage and that the past month has been the hardest for them.

39 days after publishing their “keeping your relationship strong during quarantine” podcast?!

WTF! 😯😕😣

I’m being completely honest here, that was my initial reaction. Followed by, wow I was completely duped. My soul resisted for a very long time, so many within my “social (media) circle” were reading her books, book clubs, hell I was even in a book club…

FAKE!

Honestly I’m not even going to mention the name, I’m not about shaming, what I am about is FOLLOWING YOUR GUT, HEART AND SOUL!

These people were/are profiting off real people, many of whom genuinely want to better their life and appreciate REAL people as examples.

Except when the people aren’t real. They are living and promoting a completely fake image, while profiting from people. I read through some comments, because honestly this was my real initial gut feelings. There were SO many congratulating her for being so “brave” and “vulnerable”… and equally as many also questioning.

2020 is THE year we all learn to question more. Think of how children learn, they continually ask “why?!”. As annoying as that can be at times, thinking more so of the toddler stage 🤣, this is how they learn and process things. We WANT our children, our next generation to question, as you learn you do better, however that is. I regularly tell my kids, we learn every single day, no matter the age!

This blog isn’t to point fingers, but rather bring attention to the fact that it is SO important for every single one of us to trust ourself and our own intuition FIRST! Always!

Honestly, I get it, many people write books and movies that are not true, many are so far sideways there is no possible way they can be true, some people like that, aliens, robots etc. That’s totally fine. My soul has always reminded me during movies or books “this isn’t even possible”, which perhaps “ruins” the enjoyment, but for me when I have a hard time aligning with someone or something, I do not get much enjoyment out of it anyway.

My inspiration for this beautiful Saturday morning is to spread love and joy on being exactly who we each are. Completely separate to what anyone else says or does. Aligning with REAL people who can admit they are not perfect but, honestly who the fuck is!

This has truthfully shifted my world views even more. Interesting how a couple can do this, who weren’t being real themselves. To help people rise up from someone else’s story, that’s not true!!! To lean in even more to me. To my journals. To my family. To my trust worthy friends.

Life isn’t a competition, it’s not a game. There is no prize for being perfect or portraying an image of perfection. This is where people falsely believe that money and status is key… it’s not.

Do you choose to do something because you want/need to and have done the research yourself or is it because “everyone else is doing it”…

Think about it, even when you go to a therapist, it’s not the therapist who “fixes” you or your life. They direct the conversation, ask questions, offer suggestions… its YOU who does the work, if you choose.

You will know the feeling, when reading or hearing something, how do you feel? Really sink into that… If there is resistance, why? The only person who truly knows you, is you. Although this, for many, is the most challenging fact.

I truly believe this is why energy work has become a part of many of our lives. There are a lot more people waking up to their inner self and being. The importance of the effects on our mental and physical health. It’s all related.

Get quiet daily, be aligned with your own personal ethics and values. Follow your heart… it truly does know the way!

Stay In Faith

Ive always thought of myself as a spiritual being, more so than religious of any kind.

Over the years, and experiences this has solidified within me to be true to myself and listen to my intuition. In times of sorrow or happiness.

A beautiful reminder today.

As I sat earlier today and had my lunch, I knew I wanted to listen to something, but distancing from social media at this time, I purposely did not want to pick up my phone and scroll (when staying in faith this can be a huge energy and time waster). Then it hit me. Joel Osteen.

Near the beginning of my essential oil journey my mentor and friend directed me to Joel Osteen. A non-denominational spiritual speaker. Since then he has regularly filled our home with messages of hope, love and surrender.

Anytime I listen to Joel, there is always a message that can somehow resonate with my life.

Its no coincidence that I thought of Joel today, as I was thinking of my friend who recently lost a loved one. Someone who both my husband and I had also gotten to know through our oil journey and had the opportunity to call him a friend.

This friend unfortunately experienced life threatening health issues and was on a waiting list for heart surgery, actually he had a surgery booked for a pace maker and because of Covid-19, all surgeries, including life threatening ones, were cancelled. Just over 2 weeks ago he had a heart attack, just over a week ago he passed.

Although he wasn’t a close friend, he was such a nice person and a pleasure to be around. Had two beautiful daughters who now are without a father. Although we have had a few other highs and lows happening over the past month, this one really hit us. I could feel my bitterness towards our current “way of life” growing. He was the same age as my husband.

There is not alot that I honestly understand about decisions that have been made during the past 3 months. This being the perfect example. I understand the seriousness of this virus, however when no cases were present, this just simply did not make sense. Understandably, when the announcement came out about mandatory masks, this simply added fuel to the fire and I became an even bigger critic of the government and their processes and understanding why.

All the while a close loved one is fighting the C word, again, which we found out just before our friend.

Its been some real life reminders to stay in faith in all that we do. Especially for me being a strong believer in “everything happens for a reason” even at this time I am struggling with this, trying to understand, but realizing its something I may not ever actually “understand”.

During times like this it can be too easy to get pulled in, especially with strong emotions. Being an empath, this is my reality, which is Ok, I honestly love being an empath, and Ive learned to be my best self means allowing myself space and time to process.

We can ALL be a difference maker when you shift in your favour ~! Regardless of our situation. Stepping in. Enjoying silence. Allowing peace to flow in our life. Surrendering when we don’t necessarily know what the next step is. Spiritually, when I lean in, when I honor my feelings, I am better able to rise up.

2020 certainly is a year of propelling every single one of us to step into our faith, whatever that means for each of us.

Another “stay in faith” resource I would love to share is binaural beats. My same friend who introduced me to Joel Osteen also shared about binaural beats to help shift energy. Honestly… energy work right now just might be the MOST important work you can be doing for and on yourself. Everyone is capable of shifting their own energy, it requires getting more in touch with yourself and allowing silence in your life. As many of us have been used to living a “hectic busy” lifestyle, this is one thing that I am thankful for. The worldwide collective pause to bring even more to light. Be proud to shine light, as a mentor reminded me yesterday. Shine your light as bright as you can, the light will always bring out the darkness! XO

Flip The Switch

These past few months has been a real test of my emotional health. A time when we have still been living through a massive renovation to our home and yet I was able to give myself permission to lean into me.

The past 3 months have had more than our share of ups and downs. The last 2-3 weeks has really tugged on me and my emotions. I leaned in more.

I leaned in and tonight it hit me… Flip the fucking switch!

The past few weeks have all been external, things completely outside of my control. Literally nothing I can do to change it. As much as I wanted.

So what can I do? How can I make a difference. How can I move through these feelings, which I will admit the past week have been fueled with bitterness and anger.

Be ME!

Lean into me, encourage my kids to do the same by being themselves.

Ita crazy wasy to get pulled into the negativity. Yup 2020 in general is… hmmm how best to describe this shit show that the world is currently. Yup bittersweet truth.

So flip that switch!

I am SO thankful that I’ve learned how to naturally improve my health and in doing so, ripple effect on my husband and kids.

Do I agree with what’s being pushed? Nope. I am a firm believer (now) in being empowered in your life. Not based on stats based on how you FEEL! This is SO key! For years my health suffered, I also suffered in silence for most of it. I thought this was how I was supposed to feel, part of “being a woman”… until I challenged that narrative.

Exactly what shifted my health, then and now.

It’s not a “comfortable” atmosphere to “run downtown”… so I’ve become very comfortable within our home and property. Amongst the renos of course… again what’s within my control?!

This weekend, I felt even more validated, as much as “this sucks”, I’ve shifted my perspective on alot. Amongst the highs and lows I’ve learned more about me, my kids, my husband. We have slowed life down to a beautiful pace. To truly ENJOY our space. A blessing.

Also a strong voice who can share on how I continue to strengthen myself up and its actually so simple!

Tonight while enjoying the fresh air and sun on the deck, listening to music snuggled up with my girl, planning our homemade dinner we were going to create together. I was reminded it wasn’t that long ago that we were rushing before and after school/work. Many evenings we didn’t have a chance to reconnect together before the next day began rolling in.

It wasn’t that long ago, 3.5 years when I decided, amongst a “busy” season in our life (Janaury… husband is a heating tech, we both work full time, kids in hockey, skating) to shift our healthy practices and eating. I grew up with home cooking, although each of us kids had 1 “thing” for each of us, it seemed like a bit slower lifestyle than today. Obviously technology has helped shift that.

My husband commented this weekend how we have been eating really good. We have. Because the majority of our food has been created at home and not from a box. Yes the first few weeks I grabbed the kids some KD and naturals hot dogs. As a “treat”, their lives had just been turned upside down. We have ordered take out the odd Wednesday nights too, a nice break. But other than that we have been home and cooking. Alot of times in the kitchen together, the kid will join us, get the tunes on or hanging on the deck grilling. We have enjoyed SO many meals out here it’s been awesome.

It also reminded me what an awesome opportunity EVERYONE has right now!

Our gut health affects our mental health in a very big way! It’s very true that “you are what you eat”!

So tonight, as much as it annoyed me to have to cover my face to go in the grocery store, I’m allowed to feel that way, I reminded myself it was a very short moment in my day, to get back home and enjoy time on the deck with my loves. Flip that switch.

What do I have control over? What I buy, how I spend my time, the products we allow in our home. Falling back in love with my passions, people and place! Each one of us is unique, take a break from social and rediscover the true you, outside of other influences! It’s ironic, how everything falls into place.

So oil up, you and your diffuser! We’ve got Wild Orange, Frankincense and Ginger in the diffuser tonight! I love walking into our kitchen and smelling a beautiful breath of fresh air, chemically free! A major part of our living and what contributes to our health!

I am excited to share more of some of my FAV tips for shifting my life… use this time, no use this year to be the true shift that your life was missing!✌

A Faceless Society

This week Wellington Dufferin Guelph Public Health Unit issued an “order”.

Dr. Nicola Mercer has issued an order under Section 22 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act requiring face coverings be worn in commercial establishments

I have had a challenge accepting this order, 3 months in when our numbers have continued to decline. There are presently 15 Covid-19 cases in Wellington County. Yet this order was issued making it mandatory to wear a face mask in any “commercial establishment”. I called public health to get further clarification on this order as it stated everyone within the establishment must wear masks at all times.

I received a phone call back, thankfully. I asked about having to wear masks, everyone, all day if in a commercial establishment. He told me that was correct. I ask him about my own specific situation where 6 of us worked in the building, all more than 6 feet apart, he said yes we would all have to wear masks.

Businesses were also told if they did not follow this new order they could face a $5,000 fine PER day for not complying. I asked about this, he told me it would be handled like any by-law someone would have to make a complaint.

I asked about people with breathing issues, anxiety, being claustrophobic, and any other health issue that a mask would present challenges for. I was told they did not have to wear a mask and the county hoped it wouldn’t cause any altercations at businesses. I asked him what people needed to “prove” they didn’t have to wear anything. He told me nothing. They did not have to prove to anyone because their health is their own private business.

Yet the fear that has been pushed on people IS having customers turned away.

I have seen over the course of the past 3 months many people wearing masks and more not. It used to be a personal choice. With socially distancing required, completely understandable. Actually it made grocery shopping so much more enjoyable. Having time to pack my groceries vs another order coming down and feeling very rushed. My only complaint about the hygiene requirements put on businesses is the massive amounts of bleach and chemical cleaners being used. By the time I pack my groceries, my eyes are burning. I feel for the teens and adults working in these situations and breathing that in.

I asked the man from public health if he was wearing a mask, because it didnt sound like it. He told me he wasn’t, because their office was exempt, they could all socially distance. I reminded him of my previous question, about our office, that we all were more than 6 feet away. He said that didn’t matter, we would have to follow the rules in the order or face a potential $5,000 fine.

I politely thanked him for calling and advised I would need to end the phone call.

Thursday the order was updated to say that “employee only” areas where you could socially distance would not be required to wear masks.

A day later they make this switch. Makes sense, we have been working the entire 3 months and are all healthy, thankfully.

Friday they updated the order again with more FAQ. To include the places where you do not need to wear a mask… ironically a good portion of the list are government run… interesting and does not make sense!

Yet Ontario Public Health stated that masks were not effective outside of a non-healthcare setting. See key point 1st bullet point. I asked the man from public health who I spoke with about this and he said he couldn’t comment.

We will continue supporting our local stores because our community needs us right now. I purposely did my running around on Thursday at lunch and after work.

I personally do not like this “order”. We have been adhering to the socially distancing in stores, only going when we need to, shopping local (so important). Having masks now mandated will give people a false sense of safety and many masks I have seen being worn in the past couple days aren’t being worn “properly” or are being fiddled with while being worn. Given what Ontario Public Health put out, as a recommendation, but that it’s not beneficial in non-healthcare settings, makes sense. If you choose to wear one, that’s your choice, if you don’t and still socially distance, also your choice. Threatening businesses with a significant fine of $5,000 per day isn’t fair at all, especially now. Its putting businesses in a very tough position when in my opinion, our businesses around here have been doing an awesome job at limiting customers, hand washing/sanitizer, encouraging socially distancing.

All of which has increased costs for businesses as well. I mentioned this to the man from public health. He didn’t feel businesses should be experiencing any “increased costs” for meeting the government requirements?! Seriously?! Many of the businesses have to have a dedicated person or people at the doors. Additional PPE for employees and customers.

My other genuine concern, that I truly feel in my heart is being a faceless society. No more smiling faces with everyone in masks.

This honestly makes me sad. We have been doing well for 3 months to keep numbers low, majority using common sense, working together as a community. Many say this is the “new norm” which I honestly hope not. Yes our health is important but so is our mental health, going out and seeing people, smiling, chatting that is part of any community. I truly hope this is not our new “norm” and genuinely worry it could become that way if everyone just goes along because the government says so?! Remember when you were a child, children question EVERYTHING! It’s how they learn. It’s how everyone learns. Many adults stop asking questions, just go with the flow, do not want to “rock the boat” or question the narrative.

Why?!

Do we not have a right as citizens living in this free country to voice our opinions, expect answers and facts. We totally do. Especially with how many times the WHO and CDC have changed their stances on Covid-19, how its spread, if you can get it from hard surfaces, which was changed after 2 months of pushing massive fear into people.

Grey county has recommended, KW I read has recommended and doesn’t feel it’s fair to threaten fines. I worry this will hurt our local businesses even more and could potentially hurt people’s mental and physical health while also creating alot of unnecessary garbage. Yes there are reusable masks but if they arent washed after every single use, they are contaminated. Same with touching your mask while wearing it. I agree with previous comments, false sense of security.

If we had massively high numbers here, perhaps I may feel differently, but we do not thank God. We have been working, thankfully, and shopping in our community the past 3 months and thankfully are healthy. The first month, honestly took a tole on my mental health. Going into stores and seeing so many masks, gloves, no one talking to each other, it was pure fear. As an empath I feel this fearful energy and it was too much.

I would love to hear the government supporting people in healthier living options/suggestions. Pushing masks, bleaching everything numerous times and hand sanitizer can have negative effects on our health.

There has been SO much judgment over the past few days. People turning against each other for their OPINION. Which everyone is entitled to. Feeling like if you do not agree with what the government says you have no opinion. It’s been horribly negative. That if people do not or can not wear a mask that theybare choosing to put other people at risk, that they are selfish, and feel entitled.

I for some reason, feel like I am preaching when I speak of my health. However that’s my real life experience, which I transformed myself. I am grateful for what the medical system in Canada is able to do for us, when needed. It’s also SO important, now more than ever to advocate for our own health and literally take that into our own hands. The reality is, the government pushes things through and can later retract, or not, but that’s ok?! Many products being sold are detrimental to our health, I know this because I experienced this. This is exactly why I am PROUD to question. Why I know I MUST question. Had I previously just listened to what I was being told, my health would still be at risk, probably worse than ever.

I literally took a chance and stepped into my own journey. It’s an individual choice everyone must make. We have even shifted our parenting style as well.

Lean in and be ok with questioning. Anyone who judges you or speaks negative of you for doing, that’s their own internal battle they must face on their own. Focus on you, stay in your own lane. It can be lonely at times, but are you here to please everyone else!? No!!! we must take care of and love ourselves first!

Your Life As Art Photography by Pam

Artist & Intuitive | Pamela Zmija

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