Open public doors (like at the Post Office) with the bottom of my shirt
If my face itches, wipe it with my shirt sleeve or neck of my shirt
Wipe my fingers on my clothing after touching anything in public, especially after inputting my PIN during checkout process
Bag my own groceries
Do breathwork, especially after going out in public
Breathe out forcefully (through my nose) several times immediately after leaving a store
Use hand sanitizer immediately upon getting back into the car
Wash my hands thoroughly (when I get home) before doing anything else after going out—thanks to nurse Trina Felber, creator of Primal Life Organics for her informative hand washing video!
Shine my Photonic Health 660nm red light up my nose, in ears, and on my head and neck especially after going out
Use Primal Life Organics’ copper tongue scraper (and drink water out of a copper cup once a day—I believe in the health benefits of copper!
Sing (Self tuning Sound Therapy!)
Move my body often: Pilates, Qigong, Yoga, walk, dance, Yamuna (thanks to ongoing encouragement of my former teachers via their texts, podcast episodes, Facebook groups, and Live videos!)
Log my food and water intake (been doing that for 2+ years)
Weigh in each morning (since 9/19/20) thanks to Florida Blue’s Omada weight management program
Hug my body in new ways
Use self acupressure (nightly routine to beat the nighttime snacking habit and kick it to the curb!)
Hug my husband
Hug my son, his girlfriend, and our neighbors
Strengthen bonds with friends
Stay busy, but take time to rest and relax
Be “Present” MORE
Bring my WHOLE self into my work
Learn new things (Living “Off Grid” has been quite challenging!)
Take cold showers (thanks to Wim Hof and our new “Off Grid” pioneer-like lifestyle)
Released the COVID lockdown weight (thanks to the Omada program and Primal Life Organics weight loss supplements!)
Mood
Yes, I had gained 20 pounds in 3 months due to being stressed and depressed—mood can trigger all kinds of hormonal changes… plus, all the self sabotaging-thoughts like, “we’re all gonna die, so I’ll eat what I want” that seem to crop up when all you hear is doom and freaking gloom crap! But, thankfully, when I got my head back on straight, I released all 20 pounds in about 4.5 months.
Now, I feel so accomplished and motivated to lose the rest of the excess weight I’ve carried on my body for over 20 years! —Read more about what I’m doing here: https://sheilamurrey.net/2020/12/20/integration-diet/
Little things add up!
A bit about me:
Personal Energy teacher with a brand new, 4-week, small group, self-coaching transformational program called, Integrated Spiral. All about transformative daily practices that apply what we have and bring us back into balance: mind, body, spirit, and soul. We expand our perspectives to diffuse tension (within ourselves) and empower (and improve) our relationships—even the ones we think we’ve lost.
An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon.
2020 Year in Review: Challenging, Adjusting, and Healing
I was sooo very fortunate to go on a Yoga cruise (facilitated by Cindy Bartz of Tampa, Florida) in January, just after my birthday. Yep. A self-care gift to ME!
Two of my girlfriends went with me and we had a blast! One brought another friend, so the four of us could pal around. It was aWEsOMe! Little did I know then how much I was going to need Yoga, breathwork, and every tip I picked up there during the days, weeks, and months to come.
In Cozumel Mexico Jan 2020
2020 has been an emotionally turbulent year for me. Physically, we moved from Merritt Island, Florida on Feb. 29th, and then, days later, the emotional rollercoaster of the COVID-19 virus began (with all of its associated fear mongering, misinformation, disinformation, judgmental attitudes, lockdowns, etc. And we don’t even watch the news!), but I hear enough from my own circles of influence.
We had all kinds of plans for 2020. But most got canceled or postponed, and we couldn’t even explore our new area either. And that all set me up for depression, weight gain (and thankfully now, weight loss), along with some extremely tense and emotional days (as we fumbled with adjusting to off grid living).
Minding My Energy became like a cosmic joke—played on ME! (This is a t-shirt design I made in 2019, way before I knew I would have to literally manage our energy when we moved “off grid”!
In hindsight, we shouldn’t have tackled moving off the grid this year, but we really had NO IDEA how cRaZy challenging it would be, or that something called COVID would occur.
My son on the roof of our 5th wheel to cut tree branches so “we’d fit” into our RV off grid spot.
On the other hand, we’re now, considered “preppers,” and fairly self-contained (and ready) to handle whatever comes our way! Haha!
Awakening
I did manage to make it to emcee the Awakening Into the Sun outdoor yoga and music festival the first weekend in March (it’s an annual event). But even that weekend presented issues for me.
Crystal Bay hotel in St. Pete (where we usually stay), was booked solid, so I chose a different hotel near the park and I could walk to the event. That turned out to be the wrong choice for me, because between the downtown traffic, and the fact that it got cold that night and the window wouldn’t close in the hotel room bathroom, I was cold and couldn’t sleep. And though I complained to the front desk, no one came to fix the window.
I love doing emcee work, and the festival was aWEsOMe, but only two of my friends showed up, and there seemed a somber tone hanging over the crowd. We were at a new park this year, much larger, so I remember thinking that was all it was, but just 3 days later we would all become acutely aware of what was going on.
Awakening is such a good word to use to describe all of the challenges I was to experience this year as I managed my own Energy (in myriad ways), and dove into my shadow to shake up the things within me that needed clearing, healing, and balancing.
And while I’m getting there (working my own Integrated Spiral program), I am not as fine tuned as I desire—yet. Maybe I never will be, but that is my work and mission for the rest of my life.
Canceled travel plans
This year, what with all the Stay Home orders, and our secluded living arrangement (though we are camping on the same property as my son), the announcement about COVID, the closing of restaurants and shops, and cancellation of our travel plans, took a toll on my psyche.
My son shaved my head about a month into our living here. No way could I deal with wearing a mask (and not have the rubber bands from in tangle in all my naturally curly hair)! Plus, I felt like I wanted to hang in solidarity with two friends who had lost their hair due to chemo treatments to treat cancer. A show of gratitude and support for them.
Shaving my head also gave me one less thing to think about, as my workload doubled through the summer months too, which didn’t help my stress levels.
List of plans that were canceled or postponed:
Alania’s Gainesville retreat (prepaid)
SoulTreat (prepaid / postponed to Oct 2021)
Rock Your Gift (ticket had been included in price of coaching package – cancelled)
40th High School reunion
Trip to my home state to lay my parent’s remains to rest (which was to occur the week I went home for my HS reunion).
2020: Challenging, Adjusting, and Healing
Family comes to Florida
We were lucky to get to see my husband’s sister and her husband this year! So many people decided not to travel. And many campgrounds closed for awhile, which made those who thought about traveling wary (and weary)!
They booked their camping trip within a 30-45 minute drive from our place, and finding it wasn’t easy, but we made it there, and enjoyed our visit immensely. They also camped at another campground outside of St. Augustine, and we drove over there too for an early evening and dinner. That was a lovely park (and much easier to find than the first one had been. Dang GPS that only lead to a back entrance, which was gated and locked with no attendant).
As well, my husband’s twin brothers decided to drive down to see us for a few days this summer, so that was nice too! And though we couldn’t find much to do (one of the botanical gardens we visited had most of their trails closed), at least we got to sit and visit, eat a few meals together, and watch Animusic on DVD in our RV.
Visitingfriends in Florida
When professional offices reopened, we took a road trip to Merritt Island, so I could have oral surgery on one of my front teeth (which I had put off for more than a year—more about that here).
We were so starved for social interaction (and missed good friends there), that even with my gums bleeding, we gathered with several friends for two nights out at our old favorite hangout.
Later in the year, in December, we took a short road trip to attend one of my best friends Christmas party. I really needed the emotional reassurance by then. But that was it, as far as travel was concerned for us this year.
Making new friends
I was almost remiss in mentioning that we made new friends this year—our neighbors Aaron and Abby! And as well, my son’s girlfriend—who hung out with us most weekends! Rachael really kept me sane, I think!
And we often hung out by a bonfire on weekend evenings, which helped us let go of the stress from the work week. ❤️😉
🔥 Bonfire 🔥
Sacred Celtic Journey
We are sure glad we went to Ireland, England, and Scotland last year! I doubt we’ll be flying anywhere ever again from all the restrictions that may be put in place. For more about our incredible 2019 trip, read all 3 parts, beginning here.
I am also so thankful when I look back on my winning an ENTRY into the neolithic burial tomb Newgrange chamber for the 2019 Winter Solstice sunrise on Dec 18th!!! Because no one was allowed in the tomb this Winter Solstice! That means, I was one of 60 people (picked from 30,861 applications) to be IN that incredible chamber for the last Winter Solstice (hopefully it will reopen to guests soon).
Here’s to a better 2021! My Newgrange triple spiral pendant from Ireland, hanging on my mom’s gold chain with my butterfly 🦋 from my bestie since grade school, Doris.
I joked with a friend recently, that if I didn’t know better, I would think I brought COVID back to the USA from Ireland because I had a cRaZy flu days after returning from Ireland last year!
Looking back, I feel the Winter Solstice that didn’t shine sunbeams into the chamber was meant to warn me of the tumultuous year ahead. And that I would be working on my shadow self this year—and I have. ☯️
Seeing my girls
One of the outings I missed the most this year, was my annual trip to see my daughter and granddaughters in New Hampshire. I love them sooo much! And I miss hugging them, taking the oldest to painting sessions, playing games and dolls, and simply smelling their hair (it’s a mommy and grandma thing, I bet)!
Due to COVID, my daughter and I made the mutual decision it would be best for us not to travel and visit. (Mostly due to her wanting to protect me, since I have had a history of asthma—cleared since 2005, and to safeguard my husband, who’s over age 65). But, PROTECT is still a word I meditate on, because I don’t believe one can protect themselves or anyone from everything. Not really. I mean, Life is terminal. If we aren’t living it, what’s it for anyway? ❤️🦋🌀
Thankfully, I get to video chat with my granddaughters often (the eldest one—almost daily), though not getting together with them this year has greatly impacted me emotionally.
Online classes
Because we’ve been staying home, I’ve had more time to participate in online groups and programs. I’ll share a few next:
I am currently participating in VShred and Activ5 exercise routines. I have been sooo impressed about both of these programs, in particular because of their associated smartphone apps. Read more about that here.
I completed my one year business coaching program that I had bought into last December for my husband and I to figure out how we could work together to showcase his original music, travel, and combine his genius talent, experience, and education with mine. We setup MurreyMakers.com and I include his soft guitar playing within my Integrated Spiral self-coaching, small group transformational program too.
Since I gained weight during the COVID lockdowns, I was offered a really effective diet program through my health insurance. It’s called Omada, and it’s helped me walk more, eat less, improve my mindset and do better with intermittent fasting too! No more counting calories!
Experimenting to find what works
From sitting and gaining weight (going down the rabbit hole, emotional spiral, and my own shadow), I discovered (or uncovered) methods that helped me beat nighttime snacking (hint: essential oils, homemade tinctures and tonics, Activ5, doing my nails and applying Color Street polish, as well as working on creative hobbies); begin and maintain a daily habit of walking outside; and improve my mindset (Everything Resolves to Gratitude).
Winning!
Mid year, I began to think my winning streak was over, but then I won again! It may not sound like much, but I won a $50 gift certificate from author JJ Virgin and stocked up on healthy foods from her website: https://jjvirgin.com
Then, I participated in my Robin’s weeklong Facebook challenge, The CLEPTO Code™ Challenge (her group is called, Overdoers Anonymous), to pick up some new strategies on how to not overcommit.
And get this! The grand prize winner of that challenge, Miles Eddy, gifted me with part of his prize! A $100 gift card! What a complete surprise! We all got so much out of her challenge (aside from the prizes), and I know it’s going to give each of us a boost of confidence to grow and shine in 2021!
You can be a winner too!
Comment on this post to receive a complimentary gift from me to participate in my new transformational self-coaching program!
This small group program helps one find emotional balance and help foster better relationships via improving communication skills. Read more about it here.
I put this new program together to help others find balance because I’m an empath. But, here’s the thing. I thought, until very recently, that I had to fix or save others in order to ease the pain I felt. Not true. I have to process, clear, and lighten my feelings first! Ha! ❤️🦋🌀🎼☯️🙏☮️
First come, first serve. Normally $181 for 4 weeks of small group work (to include individual messages and group calls on Zoom).
A bit about me, your Spiral Sister
An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, both available on Amazon.
I would love to speak at your bookstore, crystal shop, acupuncture / chiropractor office, or other holistic / natural fair or festival. I support healthy lifestyle businesses. For information on both of my books, visit my Amazon author’s page — Click here.
There is this one little physical thing you can do (that a massage therapist taught me years ago), when you are wanting to meditate, but feel that you can’t because your mind is racing.
I learned this one move, and have taught it to many other since, that helped me in the beginning when I couldn’t seem to meditate because my mind was always ON.
Try the following procedure and let me know if it helps.
Trouble meditating?
The procedure
Start by closing your eyes and rubbing two fingers (of each hand), up the bridge of both sides of your nose, and while maintaining the same pressure, move your fingers over and above your eye brows to make circles around yours eyes.
You can do this several times, and even go in reverse circles, lightening the pressure as you go.
As you notice your thoughts slowing down, you can stop this motion and relax your hands to your sides and then simply focus on your breathing.
The outcome
This one move really can ease the mind racing or mind chatter, especially when one begins learning meditation. Namaste. OM ❤️🦋🌀
Reach out
If you would like some help learning more about simple living, independent thinking, meditation, social media marketing, naturally attracting your best life (and dream clients), comment below.
And here is a morning meditation audio that may help you:
A bit about us:
My husband is an award-winning illustrator, plus he is a seasoned guitarist, bass player, and songwriter (of over 400 original songs). You can view some of his artwork and listen to all of his songs on http://RichardMurrey.com or check out his latest 24 songs here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53E21F-JlTW2iQmPcEIWkQ
I’m an Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. Plus, I’ve written a new book (in the making for 13 years), Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, that’s now available for online sale and distribution (PDF format). Buy it here.
Natural fiber clothing review of Synergy Organic Clothing
Originally published on Examiner(dot)com, November 23, 2014
Wow! What a fantastic organic clothing line! Synergy Organic Clothing is aWEsOMe, sexy, chic, and sizzling hot! I felt like a million bucks while wearing a Synergy dress and walking down the red carpet, during the launch of my first co-authored book. Confident to the max!
Wears like a breeze
I have purchased several Synergy Organic Clothing ladies tops, dresses, and other items for myself to replace some non-organic and other non-natural fiber items in my wardrobe. And I love how the Synergy clothing wears.
Synergy tissue light weight shirts are Cruise perfect! Hamsa design. Here’s a bit more of the design, close up.Moon phase Synergy tissue weight is perfect as a cover top.Better view of the moon phase design.Synergy T-shirt. Love the longer length of the short shirt sleeves.These Synergy Organic tops packed so well, I took several with me when we went to Ireland, England, and Scotland in June-July 2019, and even to layer when we went back to Ireland in December 2019!
Here’s how my review stacks up:
Yes two thumbs way up – Synergy Organic Clothing is so wonderfully comfortable and soft, it FEELS great!
Yes two thumbs way up – Synergy Organic Clothing collections are versatile, SEXY, and sizzling hot! (I heard nothing but rave reviews of this dress on book launch night!)
Yes two thumbs way up – Synergy Organic Clothing styles are perfect for living the yoga lifestyle – or even if you’re just into healthy natural fiber comfortable clothing!
Yes thumbs up – Synergy Organic Clothing is now available in more stores and of course ONLINE so it’s now getting easier to find and buy!
Yes – the Synergy Organic Clothing company is becoming a LEADER in ladies organic cotton, yoga, and health mindset clothing!
Yes – the team at Synergy Organic Clothing company is SUPER helpful and FUN to work with!
Sizing
I reached out to Synergy Organic Clothing about writing some blog posts of their fantastic clothes but told them that the French Terry Isis dress I had ordered (size: XL) was too small and that I had planned to wear it to my book launch for Transform Your Life! Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice. The kind folks at Synergy Organic Clothing offered me options, one being that I could choose another dress from one of their other lines that may fit better for my blog review – they assured me that they wanted me to FEEL confident at my book launch – and I did!
To make things a bit easier for them (knowing I may not get my first pick) I selected two styles and mentioned two colors, thinking that if they only had an XXL or such of one of those styles, it would be easier for them to send me one and I was ecstatic to receive one! But the sweet and gracious team over at Synergy Organic Clothing didn’t send me one dress, they sent TWO! One of each style and color! And to ensure that at least one of the dresses fit they sent a size larger and indeed, after I’d attempted to lose weight for three weeks to fit into the first dress I bought (they didn’t know that), the larger size was no problem at all! Both dresses are super cute and fit loose!
The French Terry Isis dress is made from a bit heavier material, so the XL size of that dress fit me more like a ladies size 8-10 dress would fit from a big box store. Just something to know when you’re ordering, you may want to buy a size larger than you normally would, if you’re choosing from the Fall collection.
I am enjoying wearing many other pieces in my existing wardrobe due to losing about ten pounds, and also, I’ve ordered more tops and items from Synergy Organic Clothing due to their kindness and also because I love the look and feel of these clothes! I also love the soft feel of the cashmere poncho and scarf!
Some of their clothing comes in different fabric with a little more stretch and that’s what they sent me. I did order now from one of their previous collections (and they’re on sale) where their sizing goes through XXL. The Summer Plus line is also great if you’re a size 14 or 16 and would like extra wiggle room in your clothes. The Melissa Tie in charcoal is the dress I am wearing in the photos. It was super comfortable, soft, yet chic, and loose fitting. The flow of this dress was fantastic. XXL would have worked but this was a plus size. The Piper Dress in aqua (check it out on their website) in XXL will fit you well (and loose) if you wear a ladies size 12 in other dresses.
Be sure and check out their Plus size line for yourself or anyone on your gift list!
Improving lives
I love the story of how the Synergy Organic Clothing items are made and how many women’s lives are improved by making these clothes.
Synergy Organic Clothing company makes their clothing using Certified Organic Cotton and other eco-friendly fibers. Organic cotton and eco-friendly fibers greatly and directly help our environment by reducing pesticides, lessening damage to fresh water resources, and cutting down the health risks for global farming communities.
We know about 1/5th (17-20%) of industrial water pollution comes from textile dyeing and treatment. Synergy uses low impact dyes and plays down finishes, which decreases water pollution before, during, and after garment production.
Why natural fiber clothing? I am a firm believer in possible health benefits we can achieve by wearing organic fiber (and natural dye) clothing. Great things come to those willing to do the right thing.
Aside from the soft and comfy feel of the garments you only have to go as far as the natural skincare aisle at Whole Foods, or other health food stores to see that people are becoming more aware that what they put on their skin matters. Healthy clothing – yes it exists when manufacturers choose natural fibers! I continue to read about the many health benefits we can achieve by wearing organic fiber (and natural dye) clothing. Wearing organic natural fiber clothing is a must if you live in hot and humid climates or sweat a lot- think about the entertainer Liberace and the ill he suffered once from the dry cleaning solution people had been using to clean his performance attire! When the pores of our skin are open we are more at risk to absorb chemicals from “killer clothes”.
If you are suffering from a chronic disease you seriously need to consider wearing only natural fiber clothing to aid your body’s natural wellness abilities. Countless people with allergies do not even consider that it could be the rayon, nylon, elastic, and polyester they’re wearing that is contributing to the problem.
For a deeper explanation about why synthetic and chemical laden fiber clothing is bad for us – check out my previous article:
My award-winning artist husband and I help small business owners, movement makers, and entrepreneurs to identify the highest vibrational words to craft the content to reach their ideal clients in fun, engaging, and mindful ways, while raising our collective consciousness! Reach out to me if you need a branding boost, or a design reboot, to attract your dream clients and you back in charge of YOUR well-being.
Be the best version of who you want to be and let us promote you!
As a (mind, body, spirit, and soul) holistic health researcher, I can point you to life-enhancing alternative health methods too! So, if you’ve beat a chronic health challenge by alternative, integrative, or other natural remedy I’d love to hear about it. Send me an email and keep in touch.
NEWS! I’ve finished writing my health book, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life!
Well, actually, I published the book nearly two years ago. But, somehow I think now is the best time for it to gain massive exposure.
I painstakingly wrote, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, to open a door to the abundance of holistic health options that most either aren’t aware of, or might have one or more mental blocks about trying.
In the book, I talk about cancer, rebuilding the immune system, improving memory and mental clarity, easing pain, and more. I present information about healing asthma and allergies, breathing better, and reversing chronic diseases.
Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life focuses on all the options people have that their doctors may not tell them about (even if they know of them). The book provides 50+ questions you can use as a starting point to have a more thorough conversation with your doctor. It’s about taking your power back, taking ownership and personal responsibility for your health. It’s about doing what you can naturally, using holistic health and wellness methods to live vibrantly.
I survived pharmaceuticals! My original design for t-shirts, mugs, and such, because it’s true!
Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life offers a thought bridge from the world of Western mainstream medicine to the varied and extensive ease and flow of the balancing Eastern healing arts. It is a gentle introduction to multiple natural paths to wholeness and mind-body wellness. Connecting us with spirit, it raises hope. With ease and grace, it soothes the soul.
If you suffer from chronic dis-ease, you may find this book offers you a path back to wholeness that can be fully embraced (by the mind, body, and spirit) and easily integrated into daily life.
My book cover: Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life!
Target audience
Adults over 18. Anyone struggling with chronic health issues, such as: asthma, allergies, back pain, cancer, immune challenges, joint pain, memory impairment, or simply experiencing low energy and vitality.
A bit about me
An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, both available on Amazon.
I can come to your bookstore, crystal shop, acupuncture / chiropractor office, or other holistic / natural healthy lifestyle business for books signings and lectures. For information on both of my books, visit my Amazon author’s page — Click here.
So, after working out for 12 sessions with a personal trainer, Michael Slotin, I figured out several ways to get my workouts done at home. Good thing too, because we’ll be moving in a few weeks and I will lose my “in person” access to my trainer anyway.
Lifting 200 pounds!
Thank you, Michael Slotin at Fitness Therapy in Cocoa Beach, Florida!
Plus, after visiting another gym, I am not comfortable going to a place full of fit people or highly muscular types. I know how that sounds, and while I am sure they are all wonderful and nice people, I am in my late 50s and don’t feel like I connect. Please feel free to comment and help me improve my mindset about that, as I don’t want to think age limits any of us!
Anyway, here’s the list I have put together for my home workouts, and maybe it will help someone else too!
The list
Remember to speak (verbally or mentally) to the body while working out because the cells listen to us. Also, visualize the movements and outcome you desire pre-workout.
Use Energy Medicine techniques first, to prepare the body for movement.
Walking (swing the arms with the elbow bent)
Yoga
Qigong
Yamuna stretching
Calf raises on a stair or other solid and stable object
Leg curls laying with belly on the floor while wearing ankle weights and gripping resistance bands (though I was up to 160 lbs of weight for these on the MedX machine and I doubt I could find ankle weights of that weight! Haha!)
Leg extensions using Pilates techniques while wearing the same ankle weights and holding a resistance band, though again, I was up to 200 lbs for this exercise on the MedX machine. As an alternate way to get this leg work in, a timed slow standing squat, counting to 10 on the way up, and counting to 5 on the way down for 2 minutes is working well for me!
Standing hamstring stretch by crossing the feet and bending at the waist til head reaches the front knee. Place chair in front for balance. Keep knees straight.
Standing thigh stretch holding each foot (one at a time) with the same hand (right hand on the right foot) and pulsing back 10 times while standing by our kitchen island for balance support.
Figure 8 thigh raises to loosen hips and increase hip flexibility.
Tricep and bicep arm work using 20 pound weight dumbbells.
Inner thigh squeezes, seated, with one Yamuna ball between the knees.
Inner arm squeezes using one Yamuna ball between elbows.
Crunches on my back while squeezing both Yamuna balls between knees and elbows.
Hip raises while lying on back on the floor.
Note: Squeeze the pelvic floor muscles while lifting any weights and doing the hip raises.
Timing
Lift weights up to the point of muscle exhaustion every other day (for the same muscle), so as not to overtrain.
Note: See Adam’s comment in the comments section.
Will continuous participation in physical activities promote longevity?
Regular exercise will slow the aging process down without spending much money. A good exercise program you follow regularly is one of the best ways to lose weight, reduce muscle loss, spare bone density, and prevent or slow any form of heart and cholesterol-related disease.
Recovery
Drink 2 ounces of ASEA post workout to aid faster muscle recovery, improve performance, and reduce soreness.
Drink plenty of pure water after working out. Aim for half your body weight in total ounces of pure water, (or unsweetened tea or clear broth) each day to flush fat and toxins from the body. Remember, that there’s water in fresh raw vegetables too!
And get at least 7-8 hours of sleep.
An invitation
If you are a health coach, or are into the healing arts, please join my private group!
As we are on our individual health journey, we are not alone. This private group is a place to ask questions, and exchange open and honest feedback.
Most of us are healers, health practitioners, researchers, writers, or health coaches. We are here to help.
I am grateful for your participation.
You can invite anyone to the group who is seeking better health. But especially those who are people open to believe in miracles. ❤️🙏
Some of the leaders we learn from in this group are:
Nathan Crane
“One of the weakest areas in most American’s bodies is their core, which leads to all kinds of back pain and poor movement patterns. Since I started @crossfitconjugate I now do multiple core workouts every week which I subconsciously avoided before just because it’s not always fun😂😊☹️. Even 10-15 mins a day can change your life for the better. This is a good one. Accumulate 2mins parallette hold above 3×45# plates.” Nathan Crane
Focused on holistic health and wellness since 2005, I continue to practice all the methods and use all the protocols that made a difference to improve my health and life. The bottom line is that when we help our cells repair and rejuvenate, the rest elegantly falls into place. Would you eat toxic, synthetic food? Not knowingly I bet. That’s why I promote non-toxic products, both for internal and external use.
I am available to come to your bookstore, crystal shop, acupuncture / chiropractor office, or other holistic / natural healthy lifestyle business for books signings and lectures.
I am an Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books:“Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice”and“Energy of Receiving”,both available now.
Concept Wordsmith | Entertaining Speaker & Educator : Profoundly raising consciousness to ease us into living a Wholly Vibrant Life!
My husband is an award-winning illustrator, plus he is a seasoned guitarist, bass player, and songwriter (of over 400 original songs). You can view some of his artwork and listen to all of his songs on RichardMurrey.com or check out his latest 24 songs here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53E21F-JlTW2iQmPcEIWkQ
I’m an Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books:“Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice”and“Energy of Receiving”,available on Amazon. Plus, I’ve written a new book (in the making for 13 years),Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, that’s now available for online sale and distribution (PDF format). Buy ithere.
We help small business owners, movement makers, and entrepreneurs to identify the highest vibrational words to craft the content to reach their ideal clients in fun, engaging, and mindful ways, while raising our collective consciousness! Reach out to me if you need a branding boost, or a design reboot, to attract your dream clients and you back in charge of YOUR well-being.
Bethe best version of who you want tobeand let us promote you!
As a (mind, body, spirit, and soul) holistic health researcher, I can point you to life-enhancing alternative health methods too! So, if you’ve beat a chronic health challenge by alternative, integrative, or other natural remedy I’d love to hear about it. Send me anemailand keep in touch.
Are you suffering from a chronic health situation?
Do you feel hopeless or confused by conflicting health information or advice?
Stress and anxiety depresses the immune system, but why?
What does it mean to “stay open”, or “go inward”?
Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life introduces the basic concepts of health and wellness from the holistic perspective. After 13 years of researching alternative medicine healing modalities, self experimentation and much trial and error, this practical guide was written to help you flow with your Soul essence and live a wholly vibrant life.
The information available to you in, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, will help you:
Manage stress (Mind-Body methods)
Breathe more fully (Pranayama breathing)
Establish a well-rounded and more informed health team of professionals
Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life is inspiring, offering you:
Suggestions and tips on natural and common sense ways of maneuvering through health issues.
50+ questions you can use (or modify) when you need to visit any health professionals, to get the best attention and care you deserve.
Simple and practical advice you can incorporate into your daily routine, and others, that you can try before you head to a doctor’s office.
Learn ideas and suggestions to relieve stress, and find the benefits of mental balance and clarity. Discover the benefits that daily physical and flexible actions bring. Gain a rich understanding of the many options available to you by way of alternative, complementary, and integrative medicine modalities.
Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life shines a light on the information you need to enhance your personal life and those members of your family whom you offer support and assistance.
Printed copies are not available. We want to save trees though, right?
This is the book Sheila has been writing for 13 years. The manuscript was completed 8/6/2018. Then, additional editing was completed, along with getting the book placed into the artful layout by Sheila’s husband, Richard Murrey (who is a professional graphics artist for NASA).
Sheila has been told that she’s a BRIDGE to the lay person (nonprofessional or inexperienced) who may be going to traditional MDs and not able to resolve their issues or understand where they come from (root cause/s), my book is an introduction to many natural and holistic health options and most importantly, offers HOPE!
#holistichealth #HolisticHealthInFlorida
Be the best version of who you want to be.
Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.
In 2005, when I began writing a holistic, natural health and wellness book, I set a Google alert for simply, “natural health and wellness.” And I’d get an email from the alert every few days with one or two results.
But yesterday, I realized the email often contains twenty or more results!
In the years I’ve been writing my book (and blog articles because everything changes so fast), the industry has taken off in a big way–and I’m seeing an even larger market for my book–it’s always been needed, but I didn’t think many people would be ready for it.
I am sure one of the reasons that I’ve lagged in finishing my book was due to a kind of lackluster interest. I mean, I’d talk with people about holistic health and they’d look at me like I had three eyes. Okay, I have a third eye–that has opened up in the last five years–but that’s another post for another day.
I’d try to give family or friends advice about the alternative treatments I’d been getting, the healthy organic food and clothing options, or herbal and homeopathic remedies for colds and flu, etc. Yet, most of my attempts to help were often frowned upon, sometimes I’d even be scolded! I learned to only offer suggestions when asked. And that asking wasn’t happening with any regular frequency, so I kinda gave up.
I threw my hands in the air and decided to let them spend their money on outrageously priced health insurance premiums and co-pays. After all, it was their choice.
I sat by while family and friends underwent painful medical procedures.
I read emails and Facebook posts from them. I did the best I could to remain compassionate and loving. But, I knew deep down, I had an understanding that could help, if they’d only listen.
And then today, something happened. I caught a glimmer of hope!
Awareness is E-X-P-A-N-D-I-N-G… for the general populace–about all kinds of things!
With the boomers talking about anti-aging (and how chemically-laden skin care costs a small fortune), solar energy getting easier to acquire and afford, the buzz words of green, eco-friendly, and sustainable being used all the more, the list of chronic ills growing larger by the minute (with obesity, diabetes, and heart disease seeming to lead the way), more people (college age or boomers) living in “tiny houses” or RVs full-time to downsize, live simply ,and save money, the March against Monsanto movement gaining a strong foothold (due to the multitude of bees dying), National Geographic highlighting the massive deforestation that’s been going on for some time–for all these reasons and more–masses of people are waking up!
And many of these awake and aware folks are now looking for natural health and wellness options to ease the rising tidal wave of humongous healthcare costs–better late than never in my humble opinion!
So, among other things on my daily alert, I found such things as articles on collagen peptides as a non-surgical solution to reduce facial wrinkles, how to throw a healthy dinner party, natural health trends, how many companies now make tea tree essential oil, whole body healing products like mats and pillows, and of course the latest in nutricosmetics–yes, I’d heard of nutriceuticals a few years ago and have written blog articles about some, but nutricosmetics made from natural elements was a new term for me!
When Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Jin Shin Jyutsu, and my 660nm red light therapy go mainstream, I’ll really hoot and holler!
I mean, natural health modalities of detoxification, organic food, physical therapy, hypnosis, yoga, meditation, Pilates, acupuncture, chiropractic, massage therapy, Kinesiology, colon hydrotherapy, and essential oils are fairly common now, with insurance covering acupuncture, chiropractic, and massage therapy for certain situations.
However, it may still take some time for raw vegan food, Reflexology, the Energy medicine modalities like Theta healing, Healing Touch, Reiki, Pranic healing, past life regression, and Pranayama breathing techniques to be accepted. And other more hands on or physical approaches to wellness of Feldenkrais, Cranio-Sacral, Tai Chi, Qigong, Yamuna, herbal and Bach flower remedies, biofeedback, oxygen, chelation, and stem cell therapies to become commonplace.
Note: March 21st, 2018 The Tomah, Wisconsin VA center is offering a new Tai Chi class to help veterans find relief! Yay!!
There really are (gasp–apparently), lots of people like me out there in the world who care about all this natural stuff! Haha! Yay, finally!
I knew I’d been able to buy a lot more organic food (produce, canned, and frozen items) at our local–non-health food type–grocery store, which has been especially time-saving! But, what I hadn’t realized was just how the whole “get healthy naturally” idea has blossomed!
Someday soon it seems, I may be able to buy some of the cottage industry clothing, skin care, organic recipe ingredients, and so on from our local grocery store. For now, I’ll continue to support (in alphabetical order):
Life’s sure amazing! And to think it wasn’t but just a couple of years ago that I was called a “crunchy mom”! (As in granola, not because of my scrunchy, curly hair). I guess I’d better get back to finishing my book.
I’ll leave you for now with this quote, “How blessed it truly is to stumble upon a Soul that wants nothing but smiles and sunshine for you, for the rest of your life.” Author unknown — (Please comment if you know who the name of the original author.)
FREE SHIPPING SITE WIDE On Orders Over $49 AtGaiam.com
UPDATE 9/12/2018:
The book I have been writing for 13 years was completed 8/6/2018. The artful layout production is now complete. The book, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, is available for online sale and distribution in PDF files that I can email to you.
On the topic of healing asthma, I wrote the following brief description to Oprah and Dr. Oz about how I became asymptomatic (meaning having no symptoms) of asthma. I sent it to them July 5th, 2014.
I reversed asthma in my body over thirteen years ago!
How?
By going for several acupuncture treatments over a period of several months, getting off of five (5) prescription medications, taking adaptagenic herbs (from my doctor of oriental medicine), removing dairy from my diet, adding garlic capsules (by the help of a certified holistic nutritionist) to cut mucous, going for massage sessions using therapeutic essential oils, and practicing several calming measures like prayer and yoga.
I am no longer chained to the healthcare system.
I have been writing a book about my experience and continue to live a holistic healthy life. If you, or someone you know has asthma, please follow this blog. You’ll be the first to know when this long-awaited book is complete and available for ordering.
I can breathe very deep and full. And I take NO medications, saving myself thousands of dollars in insurance premiums and co-pays!
I don’t care if I’m an anecdotal case. I am well and vital again!
At the heart of each of us, whatever our imperfections, there exists a silent pulse of perfect rhythm, which is absolutely individual and unique and yet which connects us to everything else. — George Leonard
We Are All Connected.
OM
To our feeling great, better health, and longevity,
Sheila Murrey
Your alternative health researcher, joyful wellness guinea pig, and mindful Spirit-Soul-Mind-Body guru! Reach out to me if you need a boost, or a boot, to get yourself back in charge of YOUR well-being.
An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, both available now.
I am available to come to your bookstore, crystal shop, acupuncture / chiropractor office, or other holistic / natural healthy lifestyle business for books signings and lectures. For information on both of my books, visit my Amazon author’s page — Click here.
If you’ve beat a chronic health challenge by alternative, integrative, or other natural remedy I’d love to hear about it.
I am interested in participating in any raw and living food’s festivals in Florida – if you would like to reach out to me to help you get that going!
The book that’s been in the making for 13 years, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, is now available for online sale and distribution (PDF format).
The year of 2016 has been a banner year of self discovery for me!! What a whirlwind of knowledge and experiential learning–and this is my review of such a productive and enlightening year:
After having completed Dr. Alison J Kay’s teleseries which had begun in Dec 2015, but wrapped up in January 2016–see more about that here, I believe it certainly set me up for quite a fantastic 2016! And I highly recommend Alison’s courses to everyone–especially if you want to have a banner year!
I began volunteering in January/February at Awakening Wellness center. I so loved meeting so many people there and being off service. Just the energy of being in a wellness center, where people could come for sessions and I could learn how to help, was such a joy! My heart warmed with each and every connection.
During this time, I met my naturopath and was urged to go back to a diet my husband and I had tried, but had given up years earlier–Dr. D’Adamo’s Eat Right 4 Your Blood Type. Two days after changing my diet, the stiffness in my ankles disappeared! Over the next few weeks I could think more clearly. As the months went on it became easier and easier to avoid the foods that Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo tells me are toxic to my body.
Then in February, I took Rev. Michael Beckwith’s six-week Master class online with Mind Valley. (Cost: About $300) I wrote a blog article especially about the program here.
The following is a brief summary of what I learned:
I learned and implemented the following thought: I cannot stop birds from flying around my head, but I can prevent them from nesting in my hair.
Affirmative and agenda-less prayer and meditation can always shift me back into Gratitude.
Faith, only as small as the size of a mustard seed, is all it takes to move the proverbial mountains in our life. Really.
Stay my attention on the changeless reality of my inner self, don’t look to the external world for fulfillment.
Silently converse with my own heart, commune with joy in my heart.
Meditate or affirm in prayer: I renounce any sense of being bound by personal history, habit, experience, or circumstance. I’m free as spirit is free.
In March, I volunteered and had the ultimate privilege to greet every vendor as they were setting up at our huge Awakening Into The Sun (a Zen festival) in downtown St. Petersburg. I had the utter joy of bringing in two vendors to the event too! Emily Stein and the Breakthrough group.
Throughout the two day event, I kept checking in with them–’cause that’s how I roll! I always want to ensure everyone’s ease and happiness while they’re at this fantastic event. We also bought concert tickets for, and attended, the Awakening pre-show. Both my husband and I immensely enjoyed the entertainers! They were all aWEsOMe!
Emily Stein (whom my husband and I took a class with) was one of the Awakening Into The Sun vendors. And I got to meet Emily’s mom! I love these powerful ladies! Such vibrancy! Beautiful spirits! I’m looking forward to spending more time with them in 2017.
Also that month, my daughter experienced a miscarriage. It was gut-wrenching. And since I’ve never been through it, I was truly at a loss for words. I felt helpless, without any way to offer her comfort. And since I had also signed up for, and was in the beginning of an eight-week class, though I wanted to grab a flight to New Hampshire to hug my daughter, I couldn’t get there until May. To ease the gap, and also to help my daughter in any small way that I could, I remembered that a friend of mine and hypnotherapist, had written a book on the subject of miscarriage. And it’s not a subject that very many people talk about!
So, I bought both of us a copy of Angel Babies and we read it together (via distance) and I believe that helped (at least a little bit) to ease my daughter’s mind, as well as, help myself–as the grandmother–to release my sad emotions and also feel and somehow relate a bit more to my mother’s feelings of loss–as she had lost five babies (my unborn siblings) when I was a child. You can find Patricia’s amazing book “Angel Babies” here. (Cost: Book: $15.95 or less on Amazon. Being able to offer comfort: Priceless)
As for that eight-week voice / energy class, I was able to continue, and I am sure it helped me too (to ease the sadness I was feeling for my daughter) with the Breakthrough Performance Workshop — and it did turn out to be a phenomenal experience!
Every week our little group of would-be singers were given a song to sing, sometimes a song we’d never heard of, and we would break through any mental barriers, stretch our voice, find our courage, and build our confidence by practicing the song at home, and then in front of the group at our next practice. Eventually, we videoed each other and learned what we liked, or didn’t like about each performance to build our stamina, poise, and performance ability.
When the night of our concert finally came, even with a pulled neck (which was my silly fault for trying to get into a way too tight garment) I got to do something I’d always dreamed of–to sing a solo with a live band! (Cost: $1200 plus)
After all of this amazing work, you must know how strong I was feeling, emotionally and physically. I’d been doing Pilates for about a year at this point, so on April 21 when I tripped over an ill placed box of printer paper, it really jolted me. I thought, “oh no, now here we go” and figured I might have really hurt one of my wrists, which I had landed on with nearly all of my body weight. But, to my joy and surprise, I didn’t break any bones and I healed quite quickly–only needed a couple of massages by my friend Tiffiny, and one acupuncture treatment. Read about Tiffiny’s massage therapy here.
(Cost over $200; and never got compensated from workman’s comp)
On May 5th, I was blessed to spend Mother’s Day in New Hampshire with my daughter and granddaughter. How much love! Like a sponge, every time we’re together I always soak in every moment. Lots of laughter, play, hugs, kisses, and singing! However, there was something or other in their hundred year old house that irritated my eyes and lungs, so once I returned home, I coughed for a couple of months and couldn’t sing for a long time.
In May, I also joyfully became a Florida Notary Public. And performed my first official wedding for Jessica and Phillip Walling, May 21st, 2016 at a beautiful outdoor venue. If you know anyone getting married in the Central Florida area, Tampa Bay area, or eastern part of Florida, let me know! It thrills my soul to be able to officiate weddings! I love being able to bring two people together with love and harmony.
The most fantastic news came by June–my daughter had conceived again!! And the most aWEsOMe of news was that… she’s having TWINS!!!!
The summer seemed to keep me busy… I attended several different meetups and finished several books.
In September, instead of my usual pilgrimage to New Hampshire for my granddaughter’s birthday, I’d learned that my daughter’s father and his wife were going to visit. So, that freed up my schedule. And I took advantage of this for ME! I took a once in a lifetime trip to Sedona AZ.
Unlike any other vacation, this trip was just for my Self, with two facilitators I have met and worked with, along with twelve other like-minded ladies, most of whom were unknown to me before the journey, but most became friends! I was full of Energy the whole time I was in Arizona, and felt like a kid again while hiking and exploring!! You can read the blog article I wrote about my Sedona trip here.
The downside was that while I was away, my husband fell and broke his wrist and our fridge quit working. I came home to my hubby needing me to help him get out of a shirt, empty and clean out our fridge, wash dishes (which he normally does), and so on. Our joke was that I climbed five mountains in five days and didn’t even break a nail, but he fell coming into the RV and broke the first bone he’s ever broken in his life. We tried any way we could to make light of the situation, so that I wouldn’t feel bad about having taken my solo vacation, and to help him heal and not feel depressed about not being able to play guitar, and not feel guilty about not being able to do regular household tasks.
However, three days after I arrived home from Sedona, I began coughing. Eventually, and not soon enough, I went to see my naturopath, Maggie. If only I had went to see her sooner, I’d not have suffered for a month or more! I found some relief as soon as I took the first homeopathic remedy–which, I realize, sounds incredible!
Apparently, I’d had several different kinds of things going on. I had markers for viruses, mold, two kinds of flu, and mycoplasma. Physically, I was a hot mess. I made a vow to refocus my attention on getting well–and staying well!
In September, I met Dr. Ronald K. Porter at Miracles bookstore. Ronald teaches Pranayama breathing and yoga and this was a workshop that I definitely needed. (Cost: $10) A nagging nerve pain that I’d had in my right knee was healed during the workshop–only from my focus on learning the breathing techniques!! I was thrilled! I loved the class so much that I started going to Dr. Porter’s yoga classes at Metro and invited friends to join me! Also, when Ronald was teaching the Pranayama class at Miracles again, I invited my friend Karen to go with me–and we had a great time!
Also in September, I attended a free yoga movie night in Sarasota and bought six DVDs directly from the filmmaker ($100). At that event, I met a new friend and she invited to see Sadhguru (who would be in Sarasota a week later). As it turned out, I was given a promo ticket for writing a blog article about Sadhguru’s book launch event, and received a copy of his new book!) What’s really interesting about this, and totally synchronistic was that all of this occured just a week after finding Sadhguru on YouTube while searching for more videos on Pranayama breathing!
November brought more enlightening events. On the 9th I attended a healing workshop at Heatherhoney’s center in Brandon. There I met Veronica, who facilitated the event and used Young Living essential oils to raise our vibration. Now I have been a Young Living essential oils distributor for years, but I’ve only used the oils in my own self-care and to give as gifts when I meet someone in need. So I’m always happy to continue experiencing how I can share these healthy oils–this event gave me more ideas on sharing.
I arrived early to the meeting and talked with Veronica a bit about a friend of ours who is suffering with ALS. Veronica asked me if our friend would be open to Alternative treatments, and if I had heard of the Medical Medium. Anthony William, the Medical Medium, has millions of people listening to him. And now I am too. Naturally, I was super excited to learn that there might be other ways to help our friend, so I passed all of what I learned to our friend to potentially ease her suffering.
Mid November, I took six FREE meditation classes from BKTampa.org – Brahma Kumari’s on Saturday and Sunday mornings in Tampa. Yes, I had to make the effort to drive 20+ miles to attend, but it was so mind expanding! I am grateful that there are teachers who make themselves available to teach meditation to anyone who will take the time to learn.
In another synchronistic meeting, I was invited to, and attended a healing event at the beautiful and energy-filled Crystal Bay hotel in St Petersburg, where I received a word from Dr. Mark Tong about exercising and that I should continue doing so. How could he have known that I had ramped up my yoga and Pilates!! Wow! After the event ended, my friend Terri introduced me to Linda McCarthy. As Linda and I talked, I experienced God bumps, which always validates that a conversation is of utmost importance to me (or perhaps, to my Soul).
Linda and I talked outside of the hotel until nearly everyone had gone. She gave me the audiobook called, The Reconnection. This was only just a week after I had found Dr. Eric Pearl on YouTube!!!
As the year ended, it found me celebrating a full and robust year of learning and implementing many of the new found mind-body and spirit-filled tools, which have increased my confidence, health, and well-being to overflowing!
I continue daily to practice meditation, yoga, Pranayama breathing, Pilates (twice a week), and singing / chanting to reach a higher and deeper sense of self and spiritual connectivity with our Ever-Living, Filling-All-Space, LIMITLESS Creator. Oh what a profound and beautiful year it has been!
I send you all many blessings, in ALL ways for a brilliant and uplifting 2017! Happy New Year!
An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, both available now.
I am available to come to your bookstore, crystal shop, acupuncture / chiropractor office, or other holistic / natural healthy lifestyle business for books signings and lectures. For information on both of my books, visit my Amazon author’s page — Click here.
If you’ve beat a chronic health challenge by alternative, integrative, or other natural remedy I’d love to hear about it.
I am interested in participating in any raw and living food’s festivals in Florida – if you would like to reach out to me to help you get that going!
The book that’s been in the making for 13 years, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, is now available for online sale and distribution (PDF format).
Being Wholly Vibrant 