Connecting Women in Business & Life
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Vol. 1/No. 3 FALL ISSUE
LAS VEGAS EDITION
A Lesson In Leadership! 5 Tips To Choosing A Pre-School Feng Shui And Scholastic Achievement The New Era Of Bullying
Back to School In Business and Life
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- VOL. 1 • ISSUE 3
PUBLISHER Kathlyn Eversole-Jaramillo
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Andria Smith GUEST EDITOR Elyse Hughes EXECUTIVE VP OF MARKETING JR Jaramillo SALES & MARKETING Susan Sprague CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS & GUEST WRITERS Elizabeth Earl Jacqui Simpson Leslie A. Stein Linda Tallon Lori Knight Patricia Beckstead, B.S., D.C. Patti Stewart Peppy Caccavale Ronna Timpa Solange Mikucki Toni T. Ellis
COVER PHOTOGRAPHER McKenzi Taylor Taylored Photo Memories COVER CREDITS: Clothing, Maryanne Miller, Ruby Ribbon Black Wrap Dress & Cheetah Full Support Cami Jewelry, Calli Soresman, Bititi Boutique Buddha Bracelets & GemStone Necklace Location: The Crepe in Tivoli Village
PUBLISHER’S PEARLS By Kathlyn Eversole-Jaramillo Learning something new is an everyday process. We awaken each day with the notion that we have much to accomplish and do. However, as we navigate that day it becomes abundantly clear that the lessons of life and business are there for the receiving. What are you and I doing with the learning? It is easy to be on task, but do we allow ourselves precious moments of wide-eyed wonderment at the world around us? My favorite grade in school was 5th grade. I loved my teachers and the girl-friendships were so solid then, before we all discovered boys! Sometimes, as I look out the window of my office at the trees and sunshine, I reminisce about those days of innocence and lessons about a girl’s life. What if we looked at life that way, just for a moment, learned something new, owned it and shared it with delight in our sisterhood? These pages are filled with inspirational and quite practical lessons in life, thoughts you maybe hadn’t considered before. I invite to let your mind embrace these new thoughts and ideas, explore the impact it may have on your current situation whether business or life. One thing I know is the beautiful women who have contributed to this issue have done their homework. They have learned their lessons well and are now sharing it with us to all of our delight! ♥
- Kathlyn 4
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Contents
In This Issue 6 | Kats Summer Picks!
By Kathlyn Jaramillo
8 | A Lesson In Leadership
By Leslie Stein
10 | Ask Jacqui ... Spiritually Guided Advice, Answers, and Direction By Jacqui Simpson
12 | 5 Tips For Finding the Right Preschool For Your Child
By Lori Knight
13 | Feng Shui and Scholastic Achievement By Solange Mikucki
15 | A New Era Eara Of Bullying By Patti Stewart
16 | Unexpected Environments For Growth and Graduation
By Elizabeth Earl
18 | Fall Fashion For Everyone! By Posh Daisie Pop Up Shop
20 | Energy, Balance & Healing: Intro To The 7 Chakras By Peppy Caccavale
23 | See Me! — Exclusions Is An Invisible Disease
By Ronna Timpa
24 | 5 Top Educational Tips To Spice Things Up... By Linda Tallon
27 | Words: The Middle Ground To Success By Toni T. Ellis
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28 | What Every Woman Should Know About Her Hormones
I Wish You Bliss!
By Dr. Patricia Beckstead, B.S., D.C.
By Kathlyn Jaramillo
Disclaimer: Questions and feedback: Phone: 877.502.8928 Fax: 877. 279.0105 E-mail Publisher: Kathlyn@definingwomenmagazine.com Online: www.definingwomenmagazine.com Reasonable care is taken to ensure that defining:WOMEN Magazine
articles and other information on the web site are up-to-date and accurate as possible, at the time of publication, however, no responsibility can be taken by defining:WOMEN Magazine for any errors or omissions contained herein. Furthermore, responsibility for any losses, damages or distress resulting from adherence to any information made available through the website or in print is not the responsibility of defining:WOMEN Magazine. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of defining:WOMEN Magazine. Comments are welcome. DefiningWomenMagazine.com
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Kat's Fall Picks! By Kathlyn Jaramillo
In the dry southwest we don’t get much of a Fall Season, nonetheless, it is OUR Fall and I’ll take it! It is also a perfect time to freshen up the wardrobe and give some much needed attention to that post-summer skin! My picks for FALL will have you feeling great from the inside out! First, smooth and hydrate your tired, dry summer skin with Beauty Kitchen Body Butters. This all natural, organic and luxurious butter takes a hiatus during the hot summer months due to the heat, however, just around the corner you will find scents like Frosted Snowdrops, Cranberry Fig and one of my favorites, Cashmere! Deliciousness for your body and senses! YUM! Check out these goodies on at www. HeatherMarianna.TV. While you are there grab a monthly Beauty Box for yourself and be pampered on a regular basis with all the new skin loving beauty essentials com-
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ing for the seasons! Next, one word…Foundation! Not for your face but for your body. Women over the years have forgotten that proper fitting and smoothing undergarments go a long way to boost confidence and have you looking your best! No one wants to see lumps and bumps peeking through those fall fashions or over the top of your jeans or jeggings. Ruby Ribbon is a softer, kinder and colorful shapewear that you can get on and off easily all while feeling your body is covered and smoothed. From Full Support Cami’s in Cheetah (no bra necessary) to high waist thigh slimmers and full smoothing & shaping slips, Ruby Ribbon has you covered. They also have amazing, fashionable layers that come with and without shapewear in them. The beautiful Black Wrap Dress I wore in the cover shoot is from Ruby Ribbon, soft comfortable and great on every body style! Move over Spanx, there is a new gentler, yet seriously shaping, lady in town! Check out w w w.R u byR i b b on. com and contact Maryanne Miller at 702.271.4207 for your personal trunk show. Finally, after you have put yourself
together in your new fall fashions, remember to top it all off with a little or a lot of my new favorite layering jewelry line, Bititi Boutique! The name itself, Bi-ti-ti is Swahili for “Strong Woman.” Started by a Mom/Daughter duo, Bititi Boutique features modern, eclectic and powerful pieces that are structured with that little bit extra to heighten our emotions. Most pieces come with a little card describing their gems meaning and the purpose of the jewels in the design. I love them, Mom, Daughter and the Jewels! Great for gifts and especially for yourself, check out these beauties with Co-Founder Calli Soresman at www.facebook.com/bititiboutique , like the page and reach out for a personal showroom tour or Calli will come to you! Enjoy these picks and make it your best Fall season ever! ♥
Defining: Your Life
A LESSON IN LEADERSHIP By Leslie Stein
I have a confession to make. I’m obsessed with adventure. There’s something about setting out on a journey of the unknown that makes me come alive. Alive with anticipation, curiosity, creativity, and yes … a healthy dose of fear. Will I be able to do this thing I so badly to achieve? Will I have what it takes to beat the odds, tackle the unknown and come out on the other side victorious? These questions have been leading me on adventures since I was a teenager, making my life a seemingly endless series of adventures, from spending 4 years as a cadet at West Point, to flying cargo helicopters in the Army, to running endurance races like marathons, half Iron Mans, & ultra-Marathons, to trapeze lessons and starting my own business It’s a recent adventure that made me realize for every outer journey we take, there is an even more important INNER journey that’s really driving us. A few months ago, I signed up at the last minute to take a 200-hour yoga teacher training program. Makes perfect sense for a helicopter flying, marathonrunning, trapeze artist-slash-entrepreneur, right?! No. Of course it doesn’t. But it was an adventure, so how could I say no? While I expected to be challenged physically (perfecting yoga poses, strengthening new muscles, 8
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improving flexibility) and even mentally (learning Sanskrit & studying yoga philosophy), I had no idea how challenged I would be emotionally. But, it also wasn’t a completely unfamiliar feeling either. I believe each of us is on some kind of journey in life. While the outer journey may dictate what others think of us, the INNER journey determines what we think of ourselves. How many people do you know or stories have you heard about people who have it all — fame, fortune, romance, money … you name it — but despite having conquered every challenge & achieving every possible success … they just aren’t happy. I want to share what I’ve discovered about the inner journey of LEADERSHIP and how shifting one simple belief can change EVERYTHING. It’s the belief that as a leader, the environment needs to be SAFE before you can speak up. Oh, and I should mention that in my world if you’re breathing, you’re leading. Being alive as a human on this planet makes you a leader. You may not have known that before today. YOU are a leader. Your perspective matters. Your insight matters. YOU matter. Too many of us sit on the sidelines holding valuable information & insights because we haven’t been given the title of “leader.”
Defining: Your Life We talk ourselves out of what we KNOW is needed in the moment because we don’t have approval. No one else has validated our instincts and said, “Yep … you’re 100% off the hook if this doesn’t go well.” And we haven’t had enough conversations with bosses, colleagues, or clients to create a level of trust that allows us to feel safe taking risks. The conversations have to start internally. They start with trusting YOURSELF. With believing you are an asset with a unique perspective no one else can provide. If you don’t say what you know … it will be lost forever.
like strength … but are least likely to show because it feels like weakness. You know you’re on the right track if you feel nervous about sharing what it is you have to say. 3. You must be willing to get it wrong sometimes. Because you will. And it will suck. But when you get it right … ohhhh … when you get it right … there is NO better feeling on the planet. Don’t wait for permission to be brilliant. Don’t wait for approval to be great. The world is hungry for authentic honesty. It’s hungry for people to step into who they really are, stand for what they believe and make a difference. So this is it, your official invitation to say what needs to be said. To create the safety you need inside to be the leader the world needs you to be on the outside. My hope is for you to realize there is no way to make the environment 100% safe. But when you authentically act in service of other people, the environment is very forgiving. Remember, YOU are an asset... and when you are ready to speak up, the world will adapt. ♥
We talk ourselves out of what we KNOW is needed in the moment because we don’t have approval. No one else has validated our instincts and said, “Yep … you’re 100% off the hook if this doesn’t go well.” Now, on the off chance you’re like me and take 16 years to learn a lesson, I want to give you a little something to accelerate your learning with a checklist that will help you play with your inner leader in a new way. 1. What you have to say must be of service. It may help increase awareness, advance a dialogue, provide never before shared insight...you have to decide what that is. Leaders serve. People, environments, products, processes. What are you serving by sharing what you know? 2. It will not be easy. In fact, what you have to say may feel extremely vulnerable. Brene Brown’s research shows that vulnerability is the quality most people desire to see in their leaders because it looks
Leslie Stein is a West Point graduate & former U.S. Army helicopter pilot. She is an internationally known speaker, facilitator, & life enthusiast. Leslie redefines leadership as a personal journey, including happiness & wellness as key components. Her humor, storytelling, & creativity produce a dynamic audience experience...redefining what you thought you knew about life & leadership. Please reach out to Leslie with your questions or comments at: Leslie@LeslieStein.com or visit her website at www.LeslieStein.com
Sniff Yourto Way to A Happier You! The Inner Journey Vanilla Leadership Calms Nerves! Jasmine Improves Coordination! Sandalwood Stops the Clock! Leslie Stein | TEDx FremontEastWomen Relaxing compounds found in vanilla beans send signals to the brain to stop releasing stress hormones!
The fragrance of jasmine enhances dexterity and improves hand-eye coordination!
A new German study shows that sandalwood stimulates receptors in your skin that cause the cells to regenerate faster!
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Defining: Your Spirit Why is this happening?
Where did I go wrong?
How can I find peace?
What can I do?
Why me?
Ask Jacqui … Spiritually guided advice, answers & direction By Jacqui Simpson
Are you looking for answers that can’t be found on Google? Inquiring souls, want to know. What is my... Life path? Spiritual calling? Road to Health & Happiness? Do you have questions? How do I let go? Draw forth inspiration? Create passion? Embrace beauty & wonder in my life? Yes! All the answers are available to us by tapping into the universal knowledge of the spiritual realm. As a channel of Divine Wisdom, Jacqui pulls forth the answers to your questions. Just Ask Jacqui! Dear Jacqui,
I have been very hurt emotionally by my husband’s attitude and negativity for a couple of years. He was a very happy person with a huge heart but, something has changed in him. He has become very difficult and even sad. He tells me he doesn’t love me or want to be with me but I know this is not true because my heart doesn’t tell me this. We have been married for 17 beautiful years and have 3 beautiful children. There is no communication from him. I don’t suspect any infidelity. It just seems that he is bothered by my presence. I am usually a very happy and loving person, trying to be positive daily. It has gotten to the point that I can’t concentrate and enjoy life like 10
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I wish to. I am blessed and happy to have found you. What can I expect during a healing & do you need a picture of us? I am very grateful for your help and really appreciate your loving healing blessings. Thanks, Hurting Wife Dear Hurting Wife,
You have called upon spiritual guidance to help you and your loving family. I am here to provide that help. Angels and other spirit guides are ALWAYS available to help; however, they need a human to channel their energies of healing and knowledge to get them into the human embodied realm. I do not need a picture, what I need is allowance. This is where you have stepped in and said my family needs help, please bring it forward. You will notice nothing OR you may see, hear, feel different vibrations, pictures colors, etc. The experience is always different, as we are each unique, especially in our spiritual/ soul body. What you have asked is simple...”please, remove what does not work and infuse with divine love.” However it is not always easy & may take some time. Your family has old energy of emotions or thoughts that are interfering with your NOW. How that shows up in your or his actions is the story we
write around the pain. Once we get rid of the trapped emotions, thoughts, etc., the actions improve into a layer of love. Once you reached out to me and to the Divine in joint effort, the healing has started. Every moment, we are being showered with love, as we remove the “overcoat” of trapped negative experiences, the light can be felt more directly and true healing takes place. You are a bless-ed being. I know it does not feel that way with this disruption in your family life. Please know you are loved. I am working as a divine channel to fill your family with the divine energy, which has been promised to all of us...relax God is on your side...loving and honoring and believing in you. Blessings & Peace for all, Jacqui Dear Jacqui,
I’m not doing so great this morning. Yesterday we lost our doggie she was a mini dachshund that had been with us 12 beautiful years since she was 1 month old :) Honestly I’ve been having a hard time and so are my children. My husband is hurting too but tries to be strong for us. We are all just torn after our goodbyes yesterday, so I can’t stop the tears. My heart feels like there is a hole in it. My house feels empty without her. If there is a
way for you to communicate with her can you please, please, please ask her spirit and our angels to send us comfort and strength we really miss her. Blessings and lots of love for you and hugs, A Crying Family Dear Crying Family,
Yes! I will send loving prayers to her and ask your guides to send comfort to you. We know our pets choose us and in so choosing they often return to us in the form of another pet. Ask her to give you a picture or statement in your dreamtime of who she will be when that doggie spirit returns to earth so that you can know her again as your pet or even a good friend’s pet. They usually return as the same animal, dog=dog, cat=cat, UNLESS, they need to return differently for a human reason. For instance, I was speaking to one little living dog who explained that she had been a cat previously, but returned as a dog because her ‘Mommy-Owner’ had developed an allergy to kitties. Your sweet doggie is watching over your family, as always. Once she ‘settles in’, which usually takes a few days, she will be able and eager to communicate. Simply ask her to bring the information and comfort to all of you in your dreamtime. It is natural for us to grieve such a loss, grieve hard, but short, because she wants you to carry her memory of happiness. Peace will fill your hearts in a bit. Blessings & Peace for all, Jacqui Dear Jacqui,
I am going through a hard time with my little boy. His first day of school was wonderful but ever since the second day, he cries so much and tells me he doesn’t want to go back. He is so upset that he wants to vomit and his teachers have to pull him out for me. It’s so heartbreaking Jacqui I don’t know what to do. I’m heartbroken because he suffers so much. He is having trouble with sleeping at night, because he is so worried about the next day in school. He keeps saying
he is afraid that mommy isn’t going to pick him up. I just don’t know what to do. It makes me so sad, just to see him so hurt and emotional :( I talked to his teacher and she says he cries on and off during school. I am not sure what to do. Mama Dear Sweet mama!
I have been chatting with his angels and they have a few things to convey to you: First of all YOU are doing nothing wrong. Someone put it in his head that you are not returning. Maybe a TV show, or a random comment by a relative...all kinds of junk gets stuck in our minds. It is not his emotional body that needs help but rather his mental body. For example: Remember when we played peek-a-boo with the babies? They were so young that they didn’t understand that mommy was not gone; she was simply hiding, for a moment. Your little guy has not been (in his head) away from you to learn that you always come back. So, his angels removed old tapes of negativity from his head. There was a small black nugget from a past life too. The past life stone wasn’t really an issue of feeling abandoned, rather it was an issue of being left behind, as if forgotten. Anyway the details are not too important, EXCEPT that you know it was a past life issue, which will become resolved over the next few days, as he gets used to not fearing being forgotten. Keep being the wonderful, warm mom you are. IF he asks you, “are you sure you will pick me up?”, or such, stand firm and say YES. No matter how many times he asks don’t waver, just know that “YES mom will be there.” Approach each day and school week with a sense of excitement and fun. Blessings & Peace for all, Jacqui Do you have questions for Jacqui? We invite you to email your questions to: Jacqui@thehealingtrinity. com. The names & perhaps a few of the details will be changed to provide you with complete confidentiality. ♥ DefiningWomenMagazine.com
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Defining: Your Kids Five Tips for Finding the Right Preschool for Your Child By Lori Knight
Finding the right preschool for your little one can be a very tough decision to make. There are so many options that the task can be overwhelming. The best place to start is by doing some research on what schools are near to your work or home. Schedule a few tours or just stop by some of the schools you are interested in having your child attend. The morning hours between 9:00 and 11:00 are usually good times to check out a preschool. Bring these questions with you and come up with some additional ones to ask that are meaningful to you and your family. Always remember to trust your instinct. You know what is best for your child.
The top priorities for finding the right preschool should be safety and cleanliness. These two go hand-in-hand. Does the school have any security features such as a locked front door or surveillance cameras? What are the procedures for drop-off and pick-up? Many schools have a system where only approved adults have access codes to enter the building. As you tour a facility, look around the classroom to see if items are picked up and put in their appropriate places. Is there excessive dirt on the furniture or floor? Are the bathrooms clean? How is food served? What procedures are used when changing a diaper? Find out more information about the teachers. Are they required to have a background check? Have they taken CPR and First Aid classes? Are they required to complete yearly training on caring for and teaching young children? While on a tour, ask the director if it would be possible to talk to a lead teacher. Find out how long they have been at the school, if they enjoy their job and what they like most about teaching the age group they are working with. Observe how the adults interact with the children. Are the teacher/student ratios at or below the state ratios? What type of curriculum does the school offer? Some of the educational philosophies include: the Montessori Method, the Reggio Emilia Approach, the Waldorf Approach, the High/Scope Approach, faith-based as well as many others. I highly recommend you choose a program that offers some degree of educational experience for your child. Children are sponges and are anxious to learn. Do some research and decide what educational philosophy falls in line with your family’s values.
Parent communication is a vital aspect of a quality early learning facility. Does the program have ongoing parent com-
munication on what is happening on a daily and monthly basis? For very young children, are daily reports sent home with what the child ate, when they slept and when they were changed? Are you able to view pictures of your child to see what they are learning throughout the day? 12
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Many schools offer parent communication applications, such as ParentPost, to allow parents to stay connected to their child and what is happening while they are at school. The more communication you can receive about your child, the better informed you will be.
Ask around in your community for recommendations on local preschools. You can get first-hand information from other parents or grandparents whose children attend preschool. They will be able to tell you what they like or dislike about particular schools. You can also contact the local childcarelicensing agency. They can tell you if the preschool has had any health or safety violations or if there are numerous parent complaints. I wish you the best of luck in your journey to finding the right preschool for your child! ♼ Lori Knight is the Owner of SpringStone Montessori Preshool in Las Vegas. She is available to answer your questions or guide you to a preschool solution ideal for your child. Lori can be contacted at lori@springstonekids. com if you have further questions. You may also visit the website at www. springstonekids.com
Defining: Your Environment
FENG SHUI AND SCHOLASTIC ACHIEVEMENT By Solange Mikucki, Feng Shui Master
M
ost Chinese families emphasized education to their children for a life of excellence. By placing a high priority on education they encouraged them to adopt a mature attitude toward higher learning at a very young age. I think we all agree that “Knowledge is Power” With these values in mind, Feng Shui can play a very important role in enhancing the education and studies of your children. The Chinese have used the science of Feng Shui for thousands of years for their children with great success to improve studies, concentration, and exam results. According to Feng Shui principles and the, Ba-Gua aka (8 Trigrams) the Trigram for Education and Knowledge is located in the Northeast sector, and represented by the Trigram Ken. This Trigram is the symbol of the Mountain and the Earth element, the colors are brown and yellow and represents the Mountain. This Trigram also represent a period of determination, contemplation, acquiring spiritual inner knowledge and developing the mind. It is therefore a very important sector to activate when undertaking training for specific skills or profession. Objects associated with the Earth or Fire elements are activators. In the Productive Cycles of the elements Earth supports Earth while Fire produces Earth. Therefore to activate the Earth element of the Northeast here are a few tips to follow. 1. Using a compass find the Northeast sector of the house or the Northeast area of the bedroom of the scholar. 2. Now that you have located the Northeast sector
place objects such as clay, ceramic urns, natural or man-made crystals. These are excellent energizers to promote concentration and studies. 3. Add a red accent, a table lamp or light representing the Fire element to boost the energy of the Earth and attract QI to inspire and motivate the student. 4. Avoid metallic objects and sharp, angular shapes. Live plants should be avoided as well as they weaken the Earth. 5. Place the desk of the student in the Northeast corner of the room or the Northeast sector of the residence. 6. Make sure that the student is not sitting with their back to the door or sharp and piercing objects are directed towards him. 7. It is best to place the student with his back against the wall, in the corner directly opposite the door 8. It is best not to have your child sit in front of the window or between two opposite windows or the child will experience a lack of concentration. 9. Avoid beams over the bed and desk as the compressed “QI” could result in a lack of concentration, illness or accidents. 10. Finally it is best to keep the study/bedroom in neutral colors. According to the “Eight Mansions System” each person has four lucky and unlucky directions and one is specific to personal achievement. I will address this system in a future article. If you are interested in optimizing your environment for yourself or your family please reach out to Solange at 702-838-5838 or e-mail your questions to solange@fengshuiplus.com. ♥
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Defining: Your Family
The New Era of Bullying By Patti Stewart
Bullying has changed significantly over the years. With each generation comes a new type of bully. From the kid that picked on you in grade school to frat boys in college, we have seen them all, or have we? Growing up one could typically tell who was going to be picked on; they tended to have a stereotype. In some circumstances some of us felt we might get bullied and it was a rite of passage, until it went too far. According to the National Center for Crime Prevention, “Young people say that bullying is one of the biggest problems they face. In fact, 52 percent of students report seeing bullying at least once a week.” In today’s society our kids won’t just be bullied on the bus, in the locker rooms and occasionally in school hall ways, our kids will be bullied right under our noises. From Facebook to cell phones, we are connected 24/7 which is great for communication with our kids; however, according to StopBullying.gov, “Children who are cyber bullied are more likely to: Use alcohol and drugs, skip school, experience in-person bullying, be unwilling to attend school, receive poor grades, have lower self-esteem, and have more health problems.” Most of us have even seen reports of suicide. So what exactly is Cyber Bullying? Cyber Bullying is any type of bullying conducted through technology. From messages as simple as ‘you suck’, to threats of harm and slandering the victim, sadly, cyber bullying is on the rise. Here are 5 ways to keep your kids safe online Talk to your kids about bullying & cyber bullying. You would be surprised how many kids do not actually know what a true form of bullying is. TV has played it up to be getting stuffed into a locker or a trashcan your freshman year, it is more much than that. Just like many other uncomfortable topics, communication is the key. Have that talk even if you think your kids are safe. Teach self-respect and respecting others. As we teach our kids at a young age to respect themselves and to respect others, we can be confident that we have done a great job as parents and it will help our kids in the long run. Find out what the school policies are about bullying and cyber bullying. Cyber bullying is still a taboo subject in
many places; however we need to change this. If your child understands the signs and symptoms, as well as, the consequences they will be less likely to be a bully or get bullied. Set boundaries. Statistically speaking the bullying is by someone you know. Let your child know what is and is not acceptable for them, you, the school and in other activities they may be involved in. Often times things start as fun and can turn ugly quickly. Setting boundaries will help. Monitor your kid’s technology. Did you know kids can hide pictures on an Xbox or there are programs to hide what they are doing on their phone? While most kids are just being sneaky because they can, there is also the risk of getting bullied or having pornography on their phones. There are many programs out there to help you manage your kid’s technology without being a pain in the rear parent. Check out Digital Damsel by Damsel in Defense a full proof way to keep your kids safe online. Watch the video about Digital Defense at www.VegasDamsel.com You may ask, “If I find something, what do I do?” The good part about the internet is what is posted is never really gone. The bad part about the internet is what is posted is never really gone! When any form of cyber bullying happens big or small, screen shot it. Teach your kids to tell you about everything. Block the bully and report it. If it is not reported there is nothing that can be done to change the behavior of the bully. ♥ For more information visit www.stopbullying.gov or www.ncpc.org Patti Stewart is a Self-Defense Trainer and Expert in personal protection. She is available to answer your questions and has useful information to support you in protecting you and your family against digital and physical threats. Please reach out to her with any questions at Patti@VegasDamsel.com. DefiningWomenMagazine.com
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Defining: Your Kids
Unexpected Environments for Growth & Graduation By Elizabeth Earl
We went camping this summer with family. It was a large group with about 20 kids between the ages of 4 and 18. For the first time, my 13 year old son opted to hang out and play cards with the teenagers rather than hunt for snakes in the river with the boys. One of my sisters commented on the fact that David had “graduated” to teenager. She also noted that his 13 year old cousin, who has always been his best friend at family gatherings, was still in the river leading the pack of younger boys. For
the younger children in a game of tag, for example. As they get a little older they slowly transition into being the followers in the activities the oldest students have organized. It’s an organic progression, with some back and forth for a time before the transition is complete. Then eventually they are among the leaders of the oldest group, and the whole school as well. One of my favorite memories from our weekly park trips was the day our oldest 8th grader gathered the entire school together for a game of “duck, duck, goose.” No one Do 6th and 7th graders have anything to learn asked him to do it. He just thought from hearing Strega Nona being read to the it sounded like fun and our kindergartners couldn’t have agreed more! kindergartners? They do! Are the 2nd graders The benefits of multi-aged classgleaning anything from the discussion of the Civil rooms aren’t limited to the social War the 5th and 6th graders are having? Some skills developed by interacting with of them are. Because it’s all going on in the same peers of varying ages. There is a classroom, their interests will naturally be caught by great academic benefit as well. While the teacher gives a short lesthe concepts they are ready to learn. son on basic math concepts with the younger children, the middle whatever reason, Alex opted to stay a kid this year. and older students are getting a good review. They Chances are by next summer he will “graduate” as also have the chance to come to the rescue when well and the younger boys will find a new leader. none of the younger children know the answer. Graduation and the choosing of a new leader hap- Later as the teacher transitions to more difficult conpen naturally as children grow and mature. Because cepts for the middle and older students the younger of the informal family setting David didn’t have to ones are being exposed to principles they wouldn’t ask for permission to hang out with the teenagers. be taught for several years in a single grade class. Nor will anyone have to tell Alex it’s time to move Some days those lessons go over their heads; but on. They decide when they’re ready. It happens for not always. One night my 5th grader told me that he different kids at different ages and usually the tranknew why √9=3. Another day a third grader proudly sition is so gradual that we barely notice. explained negative numbers to his parents. They At our school, because we have small multi-aged were amazed when he explained he had learned it classrooms, our students follow a similar pattern. by paying attention to the older kid’s math lesson The children instinctively break up into smaller that day. groups during their free time each day. These This principle applies in every academic subgroups correlate roughly to their ages. Younger chilject. Do 6th and 7th graders have anything to learn dren tend to choose more active and energetic activ- from hearing Strega Nona being read to the kinderities while the older children organize games that gartners? They do! Are the 2nd graders gleaning require more thinking, imagination and discussion. anything from the discussion of the Civil War the The children in the middle will often choose to lead 5th and 6th graders are having? Some of them are. 16
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Defining: Your Kids Because it’s all going on in the same classroom, their interests will naturally be caught by the concepts they are ready to learn. Our attentive teachers notice when it’s time to advance a child to the next level, which can happen at any point in the year. Yet another advantage of the fluid nature of our leveling, with transitions happening according to each child’s readiness, is there’s no expectation of advancement or stigma when it doesn’t happen “on time.” Of course, most students advance to the next grade at the advent of the new school year. However, the work they are being assigned isn’t dictated by their age or the grade level on their report card. Instead it’s determined by teachers who have taken the time to watch and listen, test and try, challenge and assess until they find the right level of work that will lead to each child’s maximum potential for growth. Soon enough, it will be that child’s next “graduation” date, which often comes, with little fanfare, as easily on the first of March as the first of September. Elizabeth Earl is the Founder & Director of the West Charleston Enrichment Academy and has a passion for educating kids in an environment that serves them. Contact Elizabeth and arrange for a tour at Elizabeth@WCEnrichmentAcademy.com. Also see her ad on this page.
Healthy Snack Recipe!
Ingredients Kids need to eat 1 cup old-fashioned oats healthy to keep 1 cup dried cranberry their bodies and 1/2 cup almond butter brains working! Try 1/4 cup raw honey this yummy after 1/2 cup almonds, crushed school snack! 1/2 cup pistachios, crushed Directions
In a medium mixing bowl combine all ingredients. Shape dough into 1 1/2-inch balls. Store in the fridge until ready to eat.
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Fall Fashion
Defining: Your Style
Brought to you by Posh Daisie Pop Up Shop
Cardigans, Cardigans, Cardigans!
Baby It’s Cold Outside!
You can never have enough cardigans! This cardigan is a light weight sweater material with a gorgeous lace bottom. Toss on your favorite jeans and throw this cardigan over a tank and your outfit is made!
Keep warm with this adorable hat and infinity scarf! This hat has a cute little faux fur ball on top for that adorable snow bunny look.
Get Your Calypso On! Get your fall groove on with the ever popular Calypso pants! Light weight and freeflowing, these pants offer a luxurious look with comfort in mind. Pair them with a neutral top and a fun colored scarf and you’re all set! Pair your Calypso pants with a fringe bag for a fun, comfortable, and fashionable outfit!
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n for Everyone!
Defining: Your Style
Calling All Boot Lovers!
What makes your favorite pair of boots even more adorable? These amazing, light weight, lace boot socks! Get them in a variety of colors to accompany any outfit. Complete your look with this brown fringe bag!
Pretty Ponchos!
Nails Need Lovin’, Too!
Pump up your style with this gorgeous fringe poncho! Made from a soft sweater material, this poncho will warm you up on even the coldest days! Pair with this gorgeous grey fringe bag to complete your look!
Treat your nails to one of these beautiful new colors from Essie! Dark and daring, these nail colors are a hit this fall!
A new way to shop. Interested in hosting your own Posh Daisie Pop Up Shop for you and your friends? Email Mary@PoshDaisie.com for more details. DefiningWomenMagazine.com
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Defining: Your Energy ENERGY, BALANCE & HEALING: INTRO TO THE 7 CHAKRAS By Master Reiki Practitioner, Peppy Caccavale
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nside each one of us are powerful little vortexes of energy, called Chakras. These mighty, mini energy centers help us bring balance into our lives. They welcome in or block us from all that’s available to us in the universe. The word ‘Chakra’ is derived from the Sanskit word cakra meaning wheel or disk and is sometimes described as a spinning wheel of colorful light. These wheels of energy, Chakras, sit along our spinal column, each with a different color, vibration and speed. Each Chakra is also associated with a particular part of the body, as well as, connection to emotions and life circumstances. Imagine tuning a radio (an old school one). As you move the dial, you hear sounds coming in and out, some scuffled and hard to decipher. When you come to a station and stop, the sound comes through clearly. Similarly, this is how our Chakras tune into the universal energies surrounding us. While learning about the energy in us and around us is helpful, it is more important to tap into that energy and see where balance or healing is needed. As I describe the 7 major chakras, I suggest you get quiet and imagine the chakra being described. Notice what you see and feel. Answer the questions posed. Remember there is no right or wrong answer, simply an opportunity to learn about yourself and what is possible. The 7 Major Chakras The First Chakra is the Root Chakra, located at the base
of the spine. The color is red. The emotions are basic needs, primal instinct and security. The life association relates to issues of physical security and is affected by your thoughts and feelings about: • Careers/Financial: making enough money, benefits, promotions, layoffs, thoughts about the future • Home: moving, feelings of safety, maintaining your home, paying the bills • Personal needs: having enough to eat and sufficient clothing for you and your family • Fears related to having your physical needs met can create feelings of lack and limitations, as if there’s never enough to go around vs. thoughts of abundance and having enough. What are your thoughts like? Do you feel desperate, like there’s not enough? Are things 20
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scarce or abundant? The Second Chakra is the Sacral Chakra, located below the belly button. The color is orange. The emotions are desire, sexuality and creativity. The life association relates to issues of: cravings, addictions and your body. • Cravings for physical pleasures: food, drink, sex or thrill-seeking • Addictions: drugs, alcohol, food and other substances • Your body: exercise habits, sleep patterns, weight, health and thoughts about your appearance If you are worried or stressed about any issue concerning your body, you may experience fatigue or listlessness as a result. On the other hand, if you are obsessed with your body, you may be emotionally explosive or have difficulty relating to others in a friendly way. The Third Chakra is the Solar Plexus Chakra, located above the belly button. The color is yellow. The emotions are passion, anger, self-esteem and ego. The life association relates to issues of: inner strength/power and selfcontrol: • Inner Strength/Power: the fear of being or desire to be a powerful person. Fear of authority figures. This can relate to past experiences when you felt overpowered by another person, in which you gave your inner power away. • Self Control: fear of being controlled by others, fear of losing control, desire for control over yourself, situations or other people. This can relate to current or past experiences when you felt controlled or out of control. Do you worry about what others think? Do you lack confidence or are you depressed? As this is your center of transformation and personal power, balancing in this chakra is essential to living life to the full. The Fourth Chakra is the Heart Chakra, located in the middle of the chest. The color is green. The emotions are love compassion and healing. The life association relates to issues of love (relationships), people attachments, forgiveness or un-forgiveness and connects body, mind and spirit: • Relationships: with mother, father, step-parents, grandparents, siblings and other family members; past lovers or spouses; friends; co-workers; employers, teachers; strangers and peers • People attachments: co-dependency, dysfunctional
Defining: Your Energy relationships, addictions or obsessions about a person • Forgiveness or un-forgiveness: toward yourself or another person (living or deceased) • Ability to love: yourself or others and to give and receive love An unclear heart chakra will prevent you from experiencing the deep bliss of true love. Just about everyone dreams of or fears experiencing true intimacy with another person. To prevent the pain, barriers are created in the heart chakra. Are you open to love? Open your heart chakra! The Fifth Chakra is the Throat Chakra, located in the neck. The color is blue. The emotion is the power of communication and self-expression. The life association relates to speaking your truth, communication projects and asking for your needs to be met: • Speaking your truth to: yourself, your loved ones, acquaintances, your clients and customers, co-workers and employers and your audiences • Communication projects: involving singing, writing, speaking, artistic works and teaching other people • Asking for your needs to be met: by asking your loved ones, your employers and co-workers and yourself If you have any fears about communicating your thoughts and/or feeling it will often create physical discomfort in the throat area. Do you have difficulty asking for support or expressing yourself? Do you keep your thoughts and feelings to yourself or do you easily speak your truth? The Sixth Chakra is the Third Eye Chakra, located between the eyebrows. The color is indigo. The emotions are intuition and extra sensory perception. The life association relates to your intuition, insights and psychic awareness. Your third eye records a movie of our entire life, including everything you think, feel and do. It also records all of the emotions felt by everyone with whom you come in contact with. The third eye chakra is affected by thoughts and feelings relating to: • Intuition: do you follow your gut feeling, or do you listen to that little voice within? • Psychic awareness: Some are born with it; others study to master the skill. Some are too afraid to use it.
• Spiritual beliefs: your desire to see or fear of seeing angels When your third eye is opened you will see the eye of your higher-self looking at you. If you see an eyelid over the third eye, this means your third eye is shut down or could have a screen over it, blocking full spiritual vision. Do you follow your intuition? The Seventh Chakra is the Crown Chakra, located at the top of the head. The color is white/violet. The emotions are divinity, peace and enlightenment. The life association relates to higher consciousness, enlightenment, divine guidance and spirituality. This chakra “crowns” the chakras within our bodies. It is essential to receive thoughts, information, and ideas from the Divine mind. The crown chakra is affected by thoughts and feelings relating to: • God: whether you feel close, estranged from, indifferent to or angry at your Creator • Religion or Spirituality: If you have had negative experiences with formal religion, your anger or unforgiveness can clog your crown chakra. • Divine guidance: Some people are threatened by the idea of “someone” telling them what to do, even if this someone is God, the Creator or the collective unconscious. How do you feel about your God, Spirituality or Universal Source? Where do your answers come from? Do you have migraines or an inability to learn? Do you lack joy? What did these questions bring up for you? What did you learn about yourself? Balancing your chakras is a form of self-healing and will support the work you have come here to do. Keeping your chakras balanced, not overactive or under-utilized is the best for energetic wellbeing. As a Reiki (Ray-Kee) Master, I am excited to support you in learning more about your chakras, energy and yourself. Should you have any questions or want to set up a Reiki appointment to start clearing your chakras, please call me at 702-219-9217 and together we can start your healing journey. Use the coupon below for a discount off of your introductory visit! ♥
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Defining: Your Relationships SEE ME! – EXCLUSION IS AN INVISIBLE DISEASE By Ronna Timpa
Exclusion is a problem everywhere, at every age – at work, at home, with friends. Maybe your coworkers didn’t include you on a big project that made the department look good. Or maybe in meetings you feel like what you say doesn’t matter – like you’re invisible. One definition of exclusion that I really like is “the blocking of an entrance”. Anyone feeling excluded is silently yelling, LET ME IN! What I want for you is to understand how you make people feel every single day…. I would like you to possess the mindset and some ideas for creating a culture of inclusion for people in your world. There are delusions that occur when trying to be more inclusive. There is something that I call the Delusional Loop. The first delusion is that we have to love everybody. The second delusion is everyone must ALWAYS be happy and satisfied! The last delusion in this loop is that friendship and inclusion are the same things. Guess what? They are not. Friendship grows organically between people. We can include those around us without being best friends! In order to get OUT of this delusional loop of exclusion, we have to BREAK this pattern of delusion!
Maybe your coworkers didn’t include you on a big project that made the department look good. Or maybe in meetings you feel like what you say doesn’t matter – like you’re invisible. Can the effects of exclusion be measured? Quantified? Is there scientific proof that exclusion actually harms us? Matthew Lieberman, UCLA Neuroscientist, suggests that Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory may have been wrong. As you probably remember, Maslow proposed that people tend to satisfy their needs in sequence, starting with physical survival, and moving up the latter towards self-actualization at the top. So in this hierarchy, social needs sit in the middle, but many studies now show that the brain equates social needs
with survival because being hungry and being ostracized activates similar neural responses. Exclusion isn’t only bad socially; it’s also really bad for business. MGM Resorts International, a world-renowned hospitality company intentionally fosters a culture of inclusion across approximately 62,000 employees because they realize that when employees feel included, it improves the customer experience. There are some simple ways we can practice inclusion in your business and life: • Listen with intent • When you say something, mean it • Be genuinely interested in other people • Make people feel that they belong AND are simultaneously unique We don’t always see exclusion, but we FEEL it! If you simply take 30 seconds to include, compliment or acknowledge someone, that act alone could ripple and impact so many more people. Together, let’s make a commitment to prevent the spread of exclusion by listening with intent, by meaning what you say, by being genuinely interested in other people, and by making people feel like they belong AND are unique. ♥ Ronna Timpa is the Founder & Chief Motivator of Workplace ESL Solutions an award-winning language communications firm headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada with bicoastal satellite offices. A language training pioneer and champion of workplace inclusion, Ronna has been busting stereotypes and empowering English Language learners in the workplace for a quarter-century. A multitime author and internationally renowned speaker, Ronna combines her groundbreaking best practices, empathetic insight, and snappy wit to transform and inspire audiences across the world. Ronna can be reached for questions or comments at ronna@workplaceesl.com or visit her website at www.workplaceesl.com. DefiningWomenMagazine.com
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Defining: Your Sensuality
5 Top Educational Tips to Spice Things Up… By Our Resident Sex Specialist, Linda Tallon
In my 35 years as a Romance Specialist, I’ve sometimes felt like a sex therapist, guidance counselor and marriage counselor all in one. As a Sexual Wellness Coach and Romance Enhancement Specialist, my mission is to Empower, Educate and Entertain hostesses and guests through an in-home party plan. Our parties aren’t like other parties. While the most important thing is FUN, we tackle some taboo issues that universally affect us as women. We have a private shopping room for ordering, and in that room . . . we address the best parts of being women and the most misunderstood. I invite you to this exclusive women’s party while I share some of the sexiest issues and offerings we dish inside the room. 1. Preparation. There’s nothing that gets you more in the mood than feeling and smelling sexy everywhere. We’ve got some of the best bath and beauty products. Hands down, one of the bestselling items in that category is Coochy, a shave cream that actual24
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ly gets rid of the pesky red bumps! What about a soft-scented spray for your sheets? For us desert dwellers, Body Dew will leave your skin feeling great without feeling greasy. And if you constantly find yourself on the go and in and out of the car, you have to try Kiss, a light body splash with an alluring scent, Kiss will have you feeling sexy and rejuvenated all day long. 2. Orgasms. According to Time Magazine, women should be having at least 200 orgasms a year. We all know sex and orgasms are two different things. When you have an orgasm, you release endorphins into your system. You are happier, healthier and you handle stress better. When you have an orgasm, you produce greater amounts of estrogen, making hair shinier and skin smoother! It also cleanses your pores and makes your skin glow. It stretches and tones just about every muscle in the body and you don’t need special sneakers to do it! I am sure you’ve heard the saying, “Use it or Lose it.” This can be very true when it comes to orgasms
and sex. If a woman goes too long without using her sexual muscles or being sexually active (either with a partner or on her own) her vaginal walls can literally collapse. This can cause pain and an inability to become aroused or even have an orgasm! There are many reasons why issues like these occur. We change, relationships change, sex changes. If you are at the point where sex can be painful, here are a few suggestions to ease you back into a pleasurable experience. One thing we recommend is using a vaginal moisturizer 2-3 times a week. Pure Pleasure is perfect for that! We also recommend Kegel exercising to give those vaginal walls a workout. You can also try products that help strengthen the vaginal wall like Ben Wa Balls and Exercise-Her. By keeping your muscles in great shape, you’ll have stronger orgasms and more of them! 3. Lubricant. The number one reason women use lubricants is comfort. If you’re stressed, you won’t lubricate properly and if you are not having enough sex, you might be
Defining: Your Sensuality stressed. Lubricants decrease friction and increase sensitivity. When you have sex and there is too much friction, it causes micro-tears in the vaginal wall. Those micro-tears heal, leaving scar tissue. A lot of scar tissue results in loss of sensitivity (and less pleasure). The most important thing you can do for yourself? Get a great lubricant! We carry the best, of course. It’s called Just Like Me! 4. Just going through the motions? Not in the mood anymore? Does desire come first? Or does it happen after you “set things in motion.” Does it have to do with the “M” word (Menopause)? Maybe you “can’t find the time”, between running children everywhere, work, traffic . . . Who has the energy for SEX? YOU are not the only one! There are libido killers everywhere, i.e. fatigue, a cluttered bedroom, even your medicine cabinet. With “enhancement” options for both women and men who are experiencing a lack of desire there is hope. Let’s start with stimulating
the gateway to awesome orgasm, the clitoris. The clitoris has over 8,000 nerve endings. It’s a pleasure center you’re meant to be using and loving every minute of. Don’t let it go to waste! Try a little Boost. Flavored, with a cooling effect, it contains an ingredient exclusive to Pure Romance, TriPlex Tingle. The ‘tingle’ stimulates the area, creating arousal and warmth. As you heat up so does Boost. Dab a little on your clitoris before bed and see if that gets you in the mood! You can be an active participant in your sex life. Remember, it is good for you! 5. Toys. Inside the party room when I hear, “We don’t need toys,” I know I have NOT done my job! It has nothing to do with need! 85% of couples today have toys in their bedrooms. It’s like adding whipped cream to strawberry shortcake! The strawberry shortcake is great on its own . . . but WOW adding whipped cream makes it the real deal. Inside the party, we teach you how to
introduce toys into your bedroom. We teach you how to use them together as a couple. Men are very visual. They like to see things. When he is using a toy on you, he can see your reaction and your orgasm. This drives men wild with excitement! If you, or your man, are nervous about toys, try our Put a Ring On It. Small and mighty, it’s incredibly subtle and pleasurable for both women and men! Talking about sex isn’t always easy. It is, however, part of life and one of the most fulfilling if we can laugh about it, learn about it and explore the many ways to enhance our pleasure! I invite you to begin a new conversation for yourself and your relationship. If you would like a FREE private consult, please call me at 702-5928405 or email gypsylsb@aol.com. For more ideas to spice it up in the bedroom, or to see some of the goodies I described in this article, visit PureRomanceByLinda.com. ♥
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Defining: Your Words WORDS: THE MIDDLE GROUND TO SUCCESS By Toni T. Ellis
s a former middle school teacher and guidance counselor to sixth-graders, I understand all too well the mindset of those who suddenly find themselves suspended in the in between. They are not quite elementary school students any longer, but also not yet considered teenagers. The preteen mind is simply all over the place. Experiencing puberty at hyper speeds, yet unable to think as clearly as needed in order to make sound decisions independently. The transition from fifth grade to sixth grade is quite frankly an abrupt culture shock that rattles them at the core. Imagine leaving one setting as the kings and queens on campus only to end up a pion in the land of giants. Seventh graders are happy to pass the torch, while the eighth graders look down on your inexperienced and awkward gait in search of a locker in the crowded halls of junior high. Last week while speaking with a fellow educator back east I learned that the sixth graders in her school district start school a couple of days before seventh and eighth graders join them on campus. They do this to allow former fifth graders a chance to get acclimated to the campus before the others arrive. During the absence of older students the new kids on the block learn the rules, the expectations and the layout. The staff is very careful to affirm and reassure them of their inherent abilities to succeed as they prepare for the next level of their educational journey. Apparently, it’s been quite successful and beneficial for positioning the youngsters for a smoother transition. It would be great to have a training ground for entrepreneurs on the rise, not quite major corporations yet, but well past the novice of first-year business owners. We, as entrepreneurs, can sometimes find ourselves stuck in the middle. Much like the middle school student, many of us have our share of basic experience in our industry. However, when it comes to going to that next level in business during a rapid growth spurt we find ourselves suspended between what was and what could be. We know what we know, but when the season changes the shifting of the mindset takes time, careful guidance and daily affirmations asserting that we are ready for what’s next. Time eventually passes and we learn the best business practices by either making major mistakes or stumbling
upon success, ultimately trial and error. For the proactive individual, hiring a business coach or finding a gracious and wildly successful mentor can make all the difference in the world. But what do you do when your budget is limited and you cannot afford to hire a coach or you have no mentors willing to lift you as you climb? How do you get unstuck from the middle? I am a firm believer that everything begins with your thoughts and ends with your actions. But between the thinking and the doing is the speaking. Your words are the middle ground for your success and your failure. Seeds are planted with our thoughts and watered with our words, which ultimately act as a catalyst for growing our actions. Thoughts are communication that begins within and if our internal self-talk is out of alignment with what we say we want, we must challenge ourselves to change. The change starts when we replace self-defeating vocabulary with power words. We set the tone of the day with our words. We build up or tear down simply be opening our mouths and releasing sound. Are you stuck in the middle? Check your vocabulary. Are you experiencing a lull in motivation? Examine your speech. Are you finding it difficult to be positive about the future professionally or personally? Regulate your selftalk. Speak words of wisdom. Speak words of encouragement. Be empowered by whispering your hearts desires into your own ears. Declare confidence. Decree freedom from limiting beliefs through the use of powerful and hopeful language. Embrace a new conversation that liberates you from the middle! Let’s get moving! ♥
The change starts when we replace self-defeating vocabulary with power words.
Toni T. Ellis is a Clarity Coach and Creator of Soul Sparking™. Her specialty is assisting others with overcoming adversity. She takes pride in sparking others to SOAR in life. To SOAR is to consistently show-up, own-up, and positively act-up in order to rise-up. Toni is available to assist you with living the life you dream of. Contact her via email at: Toni@soulsparking.com. DefiningWomenMagazine.com
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Defining: Your Health What Every Woman Should Know About Her Hormones by Dr. Patricia Beckstead, B.S., D.C.
Millions of women are in search of menopausal relief while their younger counterparts struggle with PMS. Confusion about the safety of available treatments for their symptoms often keeps women from getting any help at all. After the Women’s Health Initiative Study released its findings about the dangers of synthetic hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in July 2002, many doctors abandoned women’s hormone health for misinformation, confusion, antidepressants and birth control pills. Due to special interest groups, mainstream medicine offers no alternatives to traditional HRT. Instead, they continue to ignore the needs of these women even after years of research and countless medical studies have shown USP Progesterone and other bio-identical hormones to be safe and effective. Menopause and PMS relief does not have to come from potentially dangerous synthetic hormone replacement drugs anymore! “The Truth about Hormone Therapy,” an article published in the Wall Street Journal, delivered a slap to the face of mainstream medicine by pointing out their archaic hormone replacement therapy practices. The article made reference to the dangers of synthetic HRT and the fact that natural USP progesterone (produced from yams or soy plants) and other bio-identical hormones are the safe alternative to traditional HRT. Natural bio-identical hormones are now available over-the-counter at health food stores and online. In addition, compounding pharmacies across the country offer prescription required bio-identical hormone preparations. The days of ignorance and confusion are over. Physicians should be recommending safe and effective bio-identical alternatives instead of opting for the new look of an outdated therapy (lower dosages of the same old dangerous drugs). Natural bio-identical hormones have a chemical structure that is identical to the hormones naturally produced by our bodies. Synthetic hormones such as Premarin (estrogen made from a pregnant horse’s urine), Provera 28
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(progestin), or Prempro (estrogen plus progestin) have similar but not identical structures, often resulting in unpleasant and dangerous side effects. The Women’s Health Initiative Study found Prempro posed unacceptable risks of breast cancer, heart attack, stroke and blood clots. Several major studies have confirmed the WHI findings and more ongoing studies are vigorously being conducted every day. Hormones are our bodies’ chemical messengers. They travel through the bloodstream to trigger certain activities or changes in the body. Hormones work by binding to specialized areas of cells known as receptor sites. There they initiate a chain of events in specific cells, organs and systems. The body produces many hormones, but the most significant hormones related to the female cycle are estrogen, and progesterone. Estrogen is a female sex hormone. Women produce greatest amounts in the ovaries, adrenal glands and fat tissue. It is the dominant hormone during the first part of the cycle causing the uterine lining to thicken and at mid cycle causes ovulation. Estrogen contributes to bone and cardiac health, vaginal lubrication and many other physical and emotional aspects of health. At one time low estrogen was blamed for all of the discomfort associated with menopause, but current medical research has led to the discovery that it is a lack of progesterone that is not only responsible for many symptoms of menopause but PMS as well. Like estrogen, progesterone is a female sex hormone. It is also produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands, and during pregnancy in the placenta. During the reproductive years, progesterone prepares the uterine lining for pregnancy. Each month, progesterone levels rise following ovulation and then gradually fall to trigger a monthly menstrual period. Progesterone balances the effects of estrogen and when not enough progesterone is present can lead to PMS and/or menopausal symptoms. USP (United States Pharmacopeia) grade progesterone
Defining: Your Health is most often prescribed for peri-menopausal women to counteract the effects of “estrogen dominance.” Estrogen dominance occurs when a woman’s body produces smaller amounts of progesterone than normal (relative to estrogen levels) creating a hormonal “imbalance”. However, USP progesterone studies have shown that symptoms of PMS and menopause respond quite favorably to progesterone therapy. The benefits of natural bioidentical USP progesterone have been shown to include: Protects the breast from cancer by counteracting the effects of estrogen Reduces bloating and weight gain Reduces carbohydrate and sugar cravings Produces a calming, anti-anxiety effect Reduces mood swings Regulates menstrual flow Decreases cramping and miscarriage Reduces uterine fibroids and fibrocystic breast disease Decreases hot flashes Promotes vaginal lubrication Increases libido Reduces dry skin Lowers cholesterol Improves memory Reduces chronic fatigue Reduces migraine headaches Reduces insomnia Reduces hair loss
In addition to the symptom relieving benefits of USP progesterone, post-menopausal women can take advantage of its protective benefits. They can feel confident knowing they are helping to protect themselves from breast cancer and many of the chronic diseases associated with the post-menopausal years such as osteoporosis, heart disease and stroke. USP progesterone is currently available in a cream that is rubbed into the skin. The absorption rate of certain medications can be increased when delivered through the skin instead of the stomach. The cream is made up of tiny, fat-soluble molecules that easily cross the skin barrier and can quick be absorbed. This allows for up to 90 percent absorption and utilization by the body and is thought to be the delivery system of the future. Over-the-counter USP progesterone cream can be purchased without a prescription or can be ordered by a physician and prepared as a cream or suppository by a compounding pharmacy. Dr. Patricia Beckstead, B.S.,D.C. is a holistic physician and graduate of the National University of Health Sciences in Lombard, IL. She is the founder of Balancing Hormones Naturally® www.BalancingHormonesNaturally. com. She is a published author, speaker, and expert in holistic healthcare issues for women. She also founded and was CEO of the Wellness Institute of Nevada, one of the leading multidisciplinary wellness clinics in Nevada for many years. Most importantly, she is a wife, mother and grandmother.
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Defining: Life Lessons
I Wish You Bliss! By Kathlyn Jaramillo
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hese past few weeks have marked the return to school for kids and some adults everywhere. The act of returning to or starting school for the first time energetically prepares our minds for learning; however, it is my belief that waking up every day is a continuation of life school and if we are in tune and receptive there is much to learn. What is it that we will learn today? We also may need to UNLEARN a few things. You may be thinking HUH? Unlearn what? Just about everything we have learned so far about how to live and be was taught to us from somewhere and frankly, some of what we have learned is simply NOT working for us! Why not unlearn a few things about yourself and approach this life school a bit differently? Here are some ideas to get started! First, let go of judgment, it never really serves anyone, the judge or the judged. Instead replace your judgment with open curiosity. Get curious and open your mind to possibilities from
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another perspective. Opportunities are missed every day because of judgment! Next, own 100% responsibility for your life and start living it. You do not need to take anyone’s word for it or wait for someone to do it for you or with you. You have this one life. You get to say what it looks like and choose how you will show up! Which leads to the last suggestion, BE clear about what it is you want to learn in your life. Is there something that is keeping you from feeling happy or joy filled? Do you find yourself saying, “I don’t know how?” Or “I can’t.” I promise if you make time each day, whether for five minutes or one hour of school, you can study a book, YouTube or Google just about any topic imaginable. You can learn or unlearn anything! Get out there and start living and learning! Life gives us lessons. My wish is that each of us develops a sense of blissfilled anticipation about what each new day brings and that we set aside all we thought we knew to make way for the richness and beauty of new life lessons! ♠ Photos Courtesy of McKenzi Taylor, Taylored Photo Memories Location: The Crepe in Tivoli Village Jewelry: Bititi Boutique Dress and Cheetah Camisole: Ruby Ribbon
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