You may already realise, I geek out over personal growth, self development and self care practices. It's because I want to continue to become the best version of myself, and I want to share that with others on this path. The more we grow, inspire and share in this way - the more we contibute to the human collective field of consciousness.
I have a holistic heart centred approach to this self-development, self-regulation, and integrated wellness. This approach helps us to get real clarity and refine our vision, find our center, stay grounded and get laser-focused to actually get the things done that we want to do (no just 'gonna' do, or never finish). Self regulation starts with knowing our bodies (and getting into them, and out of the cluttered mind).
Self Regulation is Self Mastery - and Biology. Let's talk hormones.
I used to be really familiar with Cortisol - released in response to stress and has really negative inflammatory effects on the body and brain if it is constantly elevated. However, when we engage in a healthy holistic lifestyle and daily practice, we can self regulate these pesky cortisol levels in the body.
One way I learned to reduce cortisol is not to hit the caffeine straight away in the morning, which is when we have a peak. Have water, and daylight instead.
Move the body. I was very stagnant in front of a screen all day. Exercise releases trapped emotions, and all the yummy endorphins which improve mood and reduce stress. Physical movement (this could be anything, for at least 20 minutes - dancing, shaking, yoga, walking, especially in nature or natural daylight) decreases inflammation and increases the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a rarely mentioned protein that supports the growth and survival of neurons in the brain (neurogenesis).
Meditation and deep conscious breathing is proven to support this neaurogenesis, reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and cognitive function. Dedicating some time each day (it's practice, not perfect) increases the production of oxytocin, associated with social bonding and trust. We lose trust so easily don't we?
We can change that - from within ourselves!
In addition to reducing cortisol levels, a healthy holistic lifestyle and daily physical practice can also increase testosterone - for increased energy, motivation, and confidence. Let's not leave out our favourite - the serotonin neurotransmitter associated happiness and well-being, regulation of mood, appetite, and sleep.
It's no secret a balanced diet has a positive impact on hormone production and essential gut health. A rainbow plate of fresh foods and less processed stuff. The nutrition value of plastic wrapped processed super market food may curb hunger, but it does not serve the body. Foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids are a fine example of dopamine increase, our other favourite hormone associated with motivation and pleasure. It doesn't just get a boost from your facebook feed.. but that's a whole other article.
Spirituality.
Is it ok to talk openly about this stuff now?
Yes.
In fact, it's essential we open up, and have these conversations - we are not witchy wizardy woo (we may be a little).
Magic is not secret.
We are spiritual light beings, in a body. Spirituality calls forth a power that is greater than I think I am, and yet it is part of me. It causes us to open our hearts and minds beyond the body and physical senses. It gives a sense of purpose and meaning in life, which is obviously beneficial for mental health and physical well-being. Invoking and bringing our essence and spirit online, and into our every day lives also reminds us of our centre, our core strength. It gives us a taste of the sacred. By creating this space for ourselves, we can love our way through fear and stress. It simplifies all that mond nonsense.
From the rather fascinating biohack perspestive, and how spirit and body align - a daily spiritual practice ignites parts of the brain and nervous system like the prefrontal cortex, for decision-making, self-control, and goal-setting. When the prefrontal cortex is activated, we are better able to regulate our emotions, trust our decision making process, and stay focused.
Spirituality opens our intuition so we know importantly - when the time is right - to make the move or decision. It offers a threshold to access that divine space. Where we can play in subtle subconscious dimensions to call forth our dreams. Through our spirit, we know where our centre is - which is also our creation station. When we know our vision, and trust our grounded centre - we can move into manifesting.
“Anything you really want, you can attain, if you really go after it.” – Dr. Wayne Dyer
The 90 day Process of Manifesting the Vision
We have read about it, we have tried it, we have failed, we have given up, and we have tried again.
And that's life right there isn't it?!
I've learned this sweet spot of 90 days, where you will suddenly realise everything has changed for you. Synchronicity's flow, and opportunities arise that you were blind to before, because you were too distracted and caught up the story of the day.
It takes 21 to 28 days to make or break a habit (the psychology of a ‘habit’ is automatic action triggered in response to something, like putting on a seatbelt when getting into the car).
It takes 90 days of repetition to hit the spot and create the auto response/new pathways.
When we commit to a goal for a month, we think we have cracked it, and this is when complacency kicks in. This is commonly where our motivation and attention starts to wane - we need to be brave and recieve support!
Step by step, day by day, we build our patience, self discipline, focus. Sustainable lifestyle changes are not rushed.
Being Rooted in Wellness is a long term, holistic lifestyle game, not a quick fix.
This is how I do it:
The first 30 days
You've started implementing new things gradually, there will be resistance and discomfort. This is great, you are growing - lean in, don't avoid! The reward starts to come by easing yourself through the sticky stuff - you will start to find your groove and get into the vibe. Vision, vision, vision in detail, specific detail (a guided meditation is perfect for this). What do you want? Feel into it, really start to feel good about it. We can only manifest from the feels. You will have a clear vision and know the steps you need to take to get there. You’ll be able to find your center and the structure and groundedness you've been looking for.
After 60 days
You will start to reap the rewards of committing to yourself. You'll be more self-aware, your confidence in your ability and decision-making will grow faster than you imagined. You'll start to listen to, and trust your intuition more and more, becoming less derailed by other people. You'll be more focused on your thing - implementing strategies like time-blocking techniques, scheduling and accountability that keep you on track.
When you hit 90 days
Do a happy dance, my loves!! You will have rewired your mindset, noticing that you just don't get triggered the way you used to. You'll feel less impatient and frustrated, trusting your intuition enough to see the opportunities and know when the time is right to say ‘yes.' You will have levelled up the game, your business, relationships and home will feel all shiny and abundant.
I will say - this takes commitment, practice, dedication and self discipline.
There is no rapid short cut, medicine or magic supplement that will do it for you quickly (not discounting any of this, it's another discussion).
YOU are the answer.
Your commitment, your devotion - to yourself.
But we are not meant to do it alone.
90 days of dedicated Deep Dive Focus Intensive
Vision - Focus - Accountability
My Deep Dive Focus Intensive 90 day Program is not just about achieving your goals. It is about engaging for life, in a long term healthy holistic lifestyle and daily practice that will benefit your body and brain on every level.
With self reflection and regulation through these practices, you will be significantly reducing (dare I say eliminaing) stress, balancing hormone production, activating the prefrontal cortex, pineal gland and parts of the brain you didn't have access to.
You will literally be making progress every day, able to achieve your goals with ease and grace - because you believe you can. And with a strong spiritual practice, you will have a sense of purpose and meaning that will navigate you through any challenge that comes your way.
Accountability, space holding and support are key to this, which is why I offer this 90 day intensive 1:1 container. We work together to find the practices that suit you are your life specifically. You'll be amazed when you get into the flow states and 'coincidences' start showing up for you.
If this resonates for you, grab a coffee or a herbal tea and let's chat about it all, I love to connect with like minded people, wherever it leads.
Download my e-book Rooted in Wellness for more self care tips and practices.