Losing balance, Update on Diet and Loving the Now

Sunday, August 18, 2013 - 9:30 PM

Wishing everyone love and light.

I started this blog as a way to share how I use "living stress free" techniques to navigate my busy, complicated life. My life has become so busy this month I haven't even been able to blog:(

Red Flag! My balance is off.
Solution? Look at the Eight Areas of Life and start paying more attention to the ones I'm ignoring.
Balance is the key to inner peace.
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Update on my diet:

The protein/vegetables/legumes are working.
I feel great with no bloating. I'm slowly losing a couple pounds.
Here are some of the foods I've been eating:

• Grilled turkey, chicken, eggs, salmon, haddock, sardines, nitrate free cold-cuts
• Great northern beans, red kidney beans, edamame beans, garbanzo beans
• Spinach, stir fry with bokchoy/summer squash/celery/scallion, peppers, mushrooms
• Oatmeal, Quinoa
• Hemp protein powder with soy milk and blueberries for breakfast
• Almond butter and raw honey when I need dessert

Pretty good!
_____________________________________________________________________________

My Living Stress Free Tip for tonight is to Love the Now.

See my latest video Mindfulness and Love

One way to help bring the state of pure being into

all aspects of life is to love the now.

Whatever you are doing, open your awareness to love and gratitude for that moment. There is always something to love about every moment if you can open your awareness

to perceive it.

Love is a state of being.

Experiencing mindfulness is a state of being.

The more we can live from our core state of being

instead of from our thinking mind, the easier it is to flow through each day stress-free.

______________________________________________________________________________

There is still time to sign up for our Weekend Mindfulness Meditation Retreat.
Early registration prices were extended until midnight 8/23
I would love to meet you! Consider a weekend away from regular routine to reconnect with your inner self.

That's all for now.

warm regards and best wishes for a wonderful week - Marilyn

Mindfulness Meditation for Emotional Wellness

Saturday, August 3, 2013 - 10:00 P.M.

Mindfulness Meditation for Emotional Wellness


Warm regards,
Marilyn

A new diet to try, a mini trampoline and WATER

Monday, July 22, 2013 - 9:00 P.M.

Greetings friends who want to Live Stress Free!

I want to talk about stress free physical health today.

I'm still working on my goal to lose 10 pounds. I gave up the alternate day fasting. It is just too difficult to work my full time job and work on my business with such little food intake. I needed more substance.

So, my latest attempt is the Tim Ferriss slow-carb diet - SCD

Basically its lean protein, vegetables and legumes with lots of water.
AND, you can take one day off a week!

Here's his rules:


Rule #1: Avoid “white” starchy carbohydrates (or those that can be white). This means all bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, and grains. If you have to ask, don’t eat it.
Rule #2: Eat the same few meals over and over again, especially for breakfast and lunch. You already do this; you’re just picking new default meals.
Rule #3: Don’t drink calories. Exception: 1-2 glasses of dry red wine per night is allowed.
Rule #4: Don’t eat fruit. (Fructose –> glycerol phosphate –> more bodyfat, more or less.) Avocado and tomatoes are excepted.
Rule #5: Take one day off per week and go nuts. I choose and recommend Saturday.

I am increasing my water intake to a gallon a day.
Now, I know that sounds like a lot, but ... one glass of water each hour = one gallon during waking hours. That's not that difficult!

AND, I bought a mini-trampoline:)))
I put on a Stones concert on DVD and jumped/jogged on my trampoline for exercise today.

These are some of my strategies. I'll keep you posted!

Warm regards,
Marilyn

What is Nada Yoga?

Wednesday, July 17, 2013 9:00 PM


Nada Yoga means "union through sound." It is the ancient spiritual art and science of inner transformation through sound and tone. Meditation on sound is one universal path to Self Realization, accessible to anyone, and appropriate for people of any religion or spiritual aspiration.

Everything in this universe has it's opposite. Light could not exist if there wasn't darkness. Heat cannot exist without cold. There is no attraction without aversion, no pleasure without pain, no affluence without poverty. In the same way, there is no sound without silence.

How can you use music to meditate?

READ MY LATEST ARTICLE

peace, love and light,
Marilyn

Two Suggestions to have a more Satisfaction, Peace and Joy

Sunday, July 14, 2013 - 7:30 PM

Greetings friends!

I've had a strange week with interesting challenges, but I've been practicing being in the moment as often as possible. One of my challenges was an ocular migraine. Anyone ever had one? Weird.

I noticed that it's much easier to be fully present when you can sit for 10-20 minutes in mindfulness meditation practice daily. I have not been consistent with my sitting practice and I really noticed the difference! I'm back to my routine tomorrow.

Suggestion #1: Sit everyday and practice mindfulness. Come to our website for instructions:

I also noticed if you listen to music while performing tasks it is much easier to be fully present. I was cleaning my aviary Saturday and had my iPod shuffle playing - it was a truly enjoyable experience. I wasn't thinking about anything; just enjoying my task and singing.

Suggestion #2: Don't forget to put music on to help you stay fully present.

If you'd like to saturate yourself in mindfulness practice for a weekend, consider coming to our Mindfulness Meditation Retreat in the gorgeous Finger Lakes of Upstate NY.

See details.

Enjoy, be well, be fully present,
Marilyn

Reconnecting with Yourself

Tuesday, July 9, 2013 - 9:00 PM

Are you feeling like you need a weekend to yourself for just relaxation, cultivating contentment and "me-time"?

See my video

Why not join me in the Finger Lakes region of upstate NY September 7-8?

It's all about reconnecting with yourself.

Warm regards,
Marilyn

Successful People Meditate

July 5, 2013 - 11:30 PM

I came across this great article from Huff Post:

The Daily Habit Of These Outrageously Successful People

Successful people meditate!

Want to learn?

It's easy and practical. 

My husband and I are offering a Mindfulness Meditation Retreat Sept 7-8, 2013.

We teach mindfulness - a secular, simple practice you can do both as a sitting ritual and in your daily activities.

Come visit our website for more info:

LivingStressFree

Warm regards,

Marilyn

Mindfulness Meditation Retreat

Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - 10:15 PM - Life Coaching Blog

Greetings!

I'm on vacation so I'm taking a break from daily blogging.

I did want to share great news for those of you who are interested in MIndfulness Meditation!

Living Stress Free is offering a Mindfulness Meditation Retreat September 7-8, 2013, in Canandaigua NY.

Here's the link for more information.

Enjoy your week/weekend,

Marilyn

Benefits of Drinking Water

Sunday, June 23, 2013 - 2:00 PM - Life Coaching Blog

My computer is running again, so I'm back to blogging:)))

It's very hot here in Rochester and the air conditioning doesn't work anymore in our house. So ... I'd like to talk about water today! Here are some random suggestions regarding water and how it can help you feel better and look better.

I drink 10-20 ounces of water as soon as I wake up. We all dehydrate during the night and need to replenish upon waking. If coffee is your first drink, it's dehydrating you more.

I drink 8-16 ounces of water before going to sleep, for the same reason - hydration.

Did you know if you drink 16-20 ounces of water before each meal it will help you lose weight?

Drinking lots of water in general will help you lose weight because it keeps everything flowing and moving on the inside.

I've heard experts say we should drink half our body weight in water everyday. I'm sure most of us don't, but that's how much would be good for us. Incredible!

Don't forget our bodies are 70% water so we need to change that water frequently! Imagine if you went swimming everyday in stagnant water? yuk:(((

I just read that drinking water after eating reduces the acid in your mouth by 61 percent, which will help prevent cavities!

If you want soft, supple skin and you moisturize it regularly you are only working on one side of your skin. Drinking lots of water will hydrate your skin on the inside. Better results.

And don't forget, if you enjoy alcoholic beverages, drink a glass of water in between each drink. There's a good chance you won't get drunk this way.

Make water your best friend.
Have a great Sunday!
Marilyn

Don't Take Thoughts Too Seriously

Sunday, June 17, 2013 - 9:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog

I've had a lot of challenges lately, but I learned something about my mind I want to share because we all have experienced this, I'm sure.

Just because I think something does not mean it will occur.
Just because I make a decision, after carefully weighing both sides of the decision, looking at the pros and cons, using my problem solving skills, what I decide means nothing in the end. There is a greater intelligence that makes decisions.

I made a firm decision about a difficult issue last week. I did a great job contemplating all sides.
However, the end result of the situation was not what I decided and I had no control over this course of events that decided it. Did I get mad? No. I found it fascinating.

My message? Don't take your thoughts too seriously.
They are helpful and necessary for many things, but attachment to anything we think can lead us astray.

My computer died today, so I'll send blogs as I'm able.

Cheers,
Marilyn

Mindful Sunbathing

Saturday, June 15, 2013 - 9:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog

Today I realized why I've always enjoyed sunbathing. It's a mindfulness practice. When I lay in the sun, I feel the warmth on my skin, I feel the breeze on my body, I listen to the birds singing. I can smell the fragrant air, I feel the chair beneath me, I surrender to nature's abundance. Most importantly, I do not think about anything. My mind rests. I experience my experience of surrendering to the sun.

The most fulfilling way to live life is to practice this in all activities.

Click Here for more on this subject

Warm regards,
Marilyn

Thoughts are the Music of the Mind

Thursday, June 13, 2013 - 10:45 PM - Life Coaching Blog


If you perceive the notes/melody/sound quality of music as the same matter and energy of thought, an interesting transformation happens.

The notes you hear in music are the same as the thoughts that arise in your mind.

When you listen to music, fully experience it.

The melody, lyrics, and rhythm are vibrations of energy.
Once you can experience music this way, transfer that knowledge to your mind.

Thoughts are just vibrations of energy that form rhythmic patterns, fascinating melodies and interesting lyrics.
However, they rise and fall just as music is listened to and released.

Thoughts are the music of the mind.

The critical awareness is that all music has rests ... pauses ... silence.

Our mind contains "thought music" with many rests. To live stress free. cultivate the rests.

Love and light to you,
Marilyn

One of the most helpful things you can do for others

Wednesday, June 12. 2013 - 10:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog

One of the most helpful things you can do for others is listen to them - listen to them completely, without judgment.
Do not divide your attention while listening.
Listen with your heart.

A natural response will arise without thinking or planning it.

Trust.

Warmly,
Marilyn

The Inner Flame

Tuesday, June 11, 2013 - 8:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog

We choose to overwork, over stress, over parent, over think .. and our inner flame diminishes.

To keep our inner flame shining brightly, we must honor it, nurture it and protect it by spending time with it.

Practice meditation. Go inside. Stop doing and practice being.

Marilyn

This stuff really works!

Monday, June 10, 2013 - 10:15 PM - Life Coaching Blog

Hi guys!

I've been in a whirlwind of activity lately.  My job has me excessively busy, I'm inspired in all new directions on the website, I went to an amazing wedding Saturday and my husband Lou and I celebrated our 17th anniversary. However, I'm also overwhelmed with all that has to be done and not sure where to begin.

When pondering what piece of advice I can share with you tonight, I keep returning to the simple mindfulness practice of feeling the air go in and out of your nose. I've been doing this in the midst of the activities just mentioned, and it helps me stay grounded. I also can change my energy level and mood within 20 minutes just by sitting for mindfulness meditation.

This stuff really works!!!

Take time in your life to be mindful. Try learning a mindful meditation technique and practice a few minutes a day. Living Stress Free would love to help you learn the ancient method of mindfulness and support your journey. Contact me for more info.

Peace,
Marilyn

Why do we fidget?

Thursday, June 6, 2013 - 10:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog

Did you know that every fidget is a gesture to move out of being fully in the moment?

Watch yourself throughout the day. If you are completely at peace with the moment it is rare that you would be restless, antsy, fidgety, moving without reason.

If you notice you are fidgety, try to discover why. Was it too much coffee or are you uncomfortable with the topic of conversation, the company, the temperature in the room, etc.

Awareness is half the battle. The other half is to embrace the moment, even with the imperfections, frustrations and discomfort.

May peace find you always,
Marilyn

Rest

Wednesday, June 5, 2013 - 10:15 PM - Life coaching Blog


Rest, the most underrated and significant factor to staying young, vibrant and beautiful.
Rest, the easiest and most effective way to counteract stress.
Rest, the obvious opposite of how most of us spend our days, and the perfect tool to balance our life.
Prioritize rest. Take rest breaks when possible, but at least three times per day. If you have to, use a timer! When the alarm goes off, make yourself rest. I had to do that, and it works.
Rest = Success

Warmest regards,
Marilyn

Experiencing a Prosperous Life

Tuesday, June 4, 2013 - 10:00 PM - Life Coaching Blog


Experiencing
a Prosperous Life


1. Practice contentment and satisfaction for what you already have.

2. Instead of looking for miracles, realize this moment right now is a miracle.

3. Cultivate gratitude and appreciation for everybody and everything, everyday.

4. "Stop the leak" - become more aware of unecessary output in any area of life whether it be money, energy, indulgence or worry. Live wisely.

5. Practice being fully present in this moment - mindfulness.


Wishing you the best of everything,
Marilyn

Mindfulness Weekend Retreats

Monday, June 3, 2013 - 10:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog


"When we are mindful, we show up for our lives; we don't miss them in being distracted or in wishing for things to be different. Instead, if something needs to be changed we are present enough to understand what needs to be done. Being mindful is not a substitute for actually participating in our lives and taking care of our own and others' needs. In fact, the more mindful we are, the more skillful we can be in compassionate action." - Karen Kissel Wegela, Ph.D. - The Courage to Be Present

My husband and I (Living Stress Free, Inc) are in the planning stages of our first weekend Mindfulness Retreat!
It is tentatively scheduled for September 7-8, 2013 in Canandaigua, NY, in the beautiful Finger Lakes region.

We would love for you to join us, or at least stay in touch with our Mindfulness Training opportunities.

CLICK HERE to SIGN UP for email notifications about this opportunity and our additional upcoming Mindfulness Training and Retreats.

Warm regards,
Marilyn

How to Keep Up With it All?

Sunday, June 2, 2013 - 10:00 PM - Life Coaching Blog


I'm starting to figure out how to live in a fulfilling way.

My work weeks are packed with total productivity and busyness, both for my full time job as a therapist and my Living Stress Free business. I try to squeeze in workouts, house cleaning tasks and numerous errands.

When weekends come, I balance this out with lots of "down-time". I am with my husband constantly. We go shopping together at the public market, choosing delicious foods. We come home and enjoy antipasta (meats, cheeses, olives, fruits, etc) and wine. We do some needed tasks for either the house or the business and cook a meal together. Sundays are more of the same, usually with a nature walk. If we have a fun place to go and have the money - we go! It's a nice way to live:))

This is a shift. I can't tell you how many years I felt guilty for not getting more done on weekends. Plus, there are sooooo many things that need to be done....

However, the fact remains - nobody can keep up with it all - NOBODY.

So, you might as well enjoy each day the best you can because we are only here in this life for a short time. What needs to get done will get done. Just get one thing done a day and be happy with that. If you can do more, do more. But if not - it's OK!

On that note, I'm going to have some ice cream;)

Best wishes,
Marilyn

What to do if you are sick and tired of something

Thursday, May 30, 2013 - 9:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog


If you are sick and tired of something in your life that needs to change here is an important truism to be aware of:

Anything you have an aversion to is bringing you out of the "now". The secret to happiness, contentment and success is embracing the now. You accept the is-ness of the moment -  the circumstance, the present reality. Do not resist it.
Full acceptance leads to change. Change starts to come naturally when resistance is dropped.

Example:

I don't want to go to work one day; I focus on all the frustrations of my job, wishing I could be working independently; I don't know why my business won't take off ... this is aversion, this is resistance.

This type of thinking will perpetuate the current circumstance.

The more I embrace my job, the faster the karma will be exhausted and my new opportunities will thrive.

Namaste,
Marilyn

How to Experience Life

Tuesday, May 28, 2013 - 7:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog

I have realized after much contemplation, meditation, and life experiences, this is true:

The more you let go of your ideas about life, the more you will enjoy the experience of living

MG

Enjoy your evening,
Marilyn

Five Tips to help you Recreate!

Monday, May 27, 2013 - 9:00 PM - Life Coaching Blog

Hope you enjoyed your Sunday, yesterday:)) I took a day off from blogging. I was recreating ...

Let's talk RECREATION!


Here are Five Tips to prioritize Recreation:

1.  Most people who work hard do not have time for much recreation in their life. Part of this is understandable and part of this is an excuse because it is not prioritized. The only way to "re-create" the ability of the mind and body to function well is to "recreate". It's time to make the time.

2.  When people make the time for recreation, many feel guilty because they think about all the things they still have to do. This is the most challenging hurdle to honoring this part of life. If we stay in the moment and enjoy the activity we will not fall into the trap of guilt.

3.  Many people don't fully understand what recreation is. It is something you don't have to do, that you choose to do, because it is enjoyable. That's it. This includes sports, games, hobbies, artistic endeavors, crafts, creating new things, spending time doing things with others, scenic drives, etc. It does not mean sleeping! lol. It requires action.

4.  Some people have spent so many years busy with their work, their challenges and their difficulties that they don't know what to do to recreate. The best way to remedy this is to go back in time and remember something that was enjoyable in the past and revive this activity. Or, notice if a newspaper article, a commercial, a magazine photo, a story from a coworker, etc., peaks interest. Maybe it's something YOU can try?

5.  Imagine yourself having fun. What is it that you are doing? Intentionally bring this into your life.


Memorial Day Weekend in the US is the unofficial beginning of summer; and summer = recreation.

I struggle with #2 the most and then #1. The other three I've got covered;)
How about you?

Wishing you well,
Marilyn

Being the best YOU that you can be!

Saturday, May 25, 2013 - 7:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog


Don't resist any of your natural tendencies.

This is a common theme in Taoist, Buddhist and Yogic traditions. I am experiencing it to be true in my life on a daily basis. I can also see it's true with the people I work with.
The more you stop "doing" constantly, and spend time "being" the more you gain wisdom into how life REALLY works.

What is one of the truisms of life?

Resistance causes a multitude of problems.

Do not resist who you authentically are. And do not judge it. You are the way you are for a reason. Be the best YOU that you can be.

It's all about surrendering to what is.

In this surrender and allowing yourself to be who you are, change will naturally occur if it needs to. Trust the wisdom of nature - it's on your side;)


Warm regards,
Marilyn

Be Aware of Awareness

Thursday, May 23, 2013 - 9:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog

I've been teaching a Mindfulness Class at the University of Rochester, working with students who have the same frustration - "I can't stop my thoughts".

I would imagine this is a common problem for many people.

The secret is to not try and stop your thoughts. There is a fundamental difference between thoughts and thinking. Mindfulness practice works with the "thinking" not the thoughts.

The best way to let go of the frustration about thoughts is to just let them be and become identified with the awareness of the thoughts. Become aware of awareness itself. That is the true secret to mindfulness practice.

I invite you to read my latest article on my website:

Mindfulness Explained

Have a lovely evening,
Marilyn

Dissolving Resentment

Wednesday, May 22, 2013 - 8:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog


I was having a discussion about "financial woes" with friends recently. The discussion was helpful in that we needed to "vent" about how expensive routine necessities have become, but the discussion inevitably shifted to comparing our situation to others who may not have to pay the same amount for the same things. This resulted in a bit of resentment and "us-and-them" thinking.

I pondered this natural, human reaction. Society seems to be based on comparison which breeds judgmental attitudes. Resentment and frustration leads to stress, which results in dissatisfaction and a lack of effectiveness. My pondering led to a solution ...

Read full article here

This is a sample of my weekly tips for LSF Life Coaching.
If you are interested in receiving these free weekly emails, visit my website and sign up on the left column - "Areas of Interest"

Click here for website 

Have a great night!
Marilyn

The Is-Ness of Everything

Tuesday, May 21, 2013 - 9:30 PM - Life Coaching Blog


“In this moment, there is plenty of time.
In this moment, you are precisely as you should be.
In this moment, there is infinite possibility. ”
― Victoria Moran, Younger by the Day: 365 Ways to Rejuvenate Your Body and Revitalize Your Spirit

It's all perfect in its imperfection.

Cheers to the "is-ness" of everything.

Warm regards,

Marilyn

Rest = Success

Monday, May 20, 2013 - 8:15 PM - Life Coaching Blog

I want to remind everyone of an essential aspect of life that is not usually prioritized:

REST


Rest, the most underrated and significant factor to staying young, vibrant and beautiful.

Rest, the easiest and most effective way to counteract stress.

Rest, the obvious opposite of how most of us spend our days, and the perfect tool to balance our life.

Prioritize rest. Take rest breaks when possible, but at least three times per day. If you have to, use a timer! When the alarm goes off, make yourself rest. I had to do that, and it works.

Rest = Success

Hope you're loving life,
Marilyn

Want to make God laugh?

Sunday, May 19, 2013 - 9:15 PM - Life Coaching Blog

Well, I was able to go 54 days straight with uninterrupted blog postings until Friday night. Exhaustion set in and all my usual routines had to be set aside. This continued through Saturday.

I practiced a "golden rule" that I teach anyone I coach - even if you make a solid commitment to do something every day, you must allow for the inevitable changes in routine that can and will occur.

Remember that old saying: "Want to make God laugh? Tell him/her your plans ..."

So NEVER feel bad, guilty, disappointed, frustrated, upset, hopeless, apathetic or nervous if you disrupt your consistency. Guess what? You are human.

I took some time to focus on other areas of life besides contribution and LSF! And my balance returned:)

Here is a helpful article I forgot I had on my website!

Ten Reminders to Reduce your Stress Right Now

Enjoy!

Catch you tomorrow,
Marilyn

Flexibility

Thursday, May 16, 2013 - 10:15 PM - Day 54 of Life Coaching Blog

Another lesson in flexibility today. I decided to take a break from my focus on the website tonight, and go to our local spring festival - the Lilac Festival - to see a free concert of Rusted Root, one of my favorite bands. I had to work a full day and didn't leave for the concert until 6:00 PM (it started at 7:00)

Well, it took 1 1/2 hours to get close to the park due to traffic, and then there was no parking at all!
We could have kept looking for a place to park, but would have missed the concert.

We ended up at a wonderful French-style restaurant called The Cure. We had a lovely light meal and made the best of the evening.

I guess you never know for sure what you are supposed to do on any given day or night.

Namaste,
Marilyn

A Few Words about Relationships

Wednesday, May 15, 2013 - 10:15 PM - Day 53 of Life Coaching Blog

Thinking about relationships today...
An ever-changing aspect of life that is incredibly fulfilling at the same time.


Helpful Tips for Improving Relationships:

1. Pretend that every being you come across throughout your day was sent to you for a helpful reason. What reason? To learn, to grow and to progress in our life. Be open to the fact that others can improve your existence if you are aware of what they are offering you - positive or negative. This will prevent aversion to others and help improve all relationships in your life.

2. When you find yourself thinking about those in your life who you are experiencing dissonance with, or are unable to see anymore, shift your attention to the NOW. Focus your attention on those who come into your space in the present. Honor everyone who you come in contact with in present reality. The other relationships are only in your mind at this moment, and they are draining your energy.

3. Use positive visualization and the law of attraction: If all relationships in your life were positive, fulfilling and enriching, what would that look like? How would you communicate with your spouse or significant other?  How would you relate to your family? Imagine yourself contacting and connecting with your friends. Picture positive interactions with professionals who assist you such as doctors, accountants, lawyers or teachers. How would you act toward your coworkers? How about neighbors, acquaintances, fellow church members or other students in your class? Picture these interactions being fulfilling and enriching. Also, don’t forget strangers - how would you act toward people you do not know? Lastly, imagine your non-human relationships with pets, wildlife and nature. How do you imagine honoring them? Each day imagine all your relationships being perfect for that day.

Sleep well,
Marilyn

My Life Coaching Style

Tuesday, May 14, 2013 - 10:00 PM - Day 52 of Life Coaching Blog

I am so focused on my Living Stress Free® duties I can barely get to anything else. It's funny how that happens. I'm riding the wave of the spring energy. Can you feel it.

At the risk of being self indulgent, humor me in viewing my updated description of Life Coaching, LSF style ...


"Living Stress Free® Life Coaching helps you achieve happiness, health and success in your life by living spherically - in many directions, honoring all parts of our life, in a balanced way. LSF Life Coaching is unique in that it teaches you how to cultivate internal changes that spontaneously lead to external results. The coaching is a "no stress, no strain" approach. Methods include mentoring, psychological counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, time management and conflict resolution, using the principles and techniques of Living Stress Free® tailored to your individual needs.

Living Stress Free® Life Coaching is not therapy. It's something more!

The focus is on the "now" not on the past. You will learn how to "love the now", as we say in LSF."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO


Have a pleasant night,
Marilyn

Prioritize your Priorities

Monday, May 13, 2013 - 10:30 PM - Day 51 of Life Coaching Blog

As I've mentioned before, it's not easy working full time, managing a household with 5 pets, spending time with my husband/soulmate, taking care of myself and trying to help my business thrive.

Tonight I had to redo the shopping cart on my website. I created new product lists. It reads much easier now! Feels good.

Here's the link to my website if you'd like to see what I've updated under "products".

My suggestion for tonight is this. If you have a priority that must be completed - just do it.

Cheers!
Marilyn

Mother's Day Greetings

Sunday, May 12, 2013 - 8:30 PM - Day 50 of Life Coaching Blog

Wishing all the Moms a very Happy Mother's Day!


"A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie."  ~Tenneva Jordan

I'm sending all the Moms reading this as much pie as you want!

LSF tip for today:

After you make sure others are happy, do a little something special to make YOU happy.

Best wishes for a stress free holiday. Celebrate as long as you can!

Marilyn

Update on Goal to Lose Weight

Saturday, May 11, 2013 - 9:15 PM - Day 49 of Life Coaching Blog

I want to share how my alternate-day-fasting is going.

I am getting used to knowing what foods are good to eat to stay in the 400 calorie range on fasting days. I basically have a soy protein shake for breakfast, raw vegetables and broth for lunch and something light for dinner such as a small piece of smoked salmon, or a couple spoonfuls of ricotta cheese and berries, for example.

However, I am not doing this every other day. I'm doing this about 3x per week. Weekends are not easy to fast! My husband and I go to the public market for farm fresh produce, meats, cheeses, etc and prepare gourmet meals based on what we buy at the farmer's market. It's a lot of fun and our "family tradition" so I am not going to spoil it by fasting. I am still making progress with my goal to lose 10-15 pounds.

Besides the fasting, I'm using green coffee bean extract and exercising.

My advice to anyone working on losing weight: do it within reason. Do not put a burden on family traditions. Find your way given your lifestyle.

Peace,
Marilyn

Finding Peace Despite Your Thoughts

Friday, May 10, 2013 - 7:00 PM - Day 48 of Life Coaching Blog


Someone recently wrote "I am powerless over my thoughts. They just happen, like breathing."

I explained "there is a place beyond thought within everyone. Go there instead of staying in the boxing ring"

It's really true. We battle with our relentless thoughts like two boxers in a ring. This can be exhausting.

As Einstein once said, you can't solve a problem on the level of the problem. So, we cannot find a solution to our powerlessness over thoughts on the level of our thinking mind. We must go deeper.

To arrive at the place beyond thought there are many techniques.
I'd like to share my favorite one.
This technique comes from the Vijnana Bhairava, an ancient yogic text from India.


AWARENESS OF THE SPACE BETWEEN THE BREATH

Sit comfortably. Close your eyes. Relax your body.

Breathe naturally, with ease. Do not force your breathing.

Begin to notice the breath as it goes in and out of your nose.
After a few breaths, notice the pause that occurs after you exhale, before you inhale. There is a moment of rest; a space.

Then, notice the pause that occurs after you inhale before you exhale. Once again there is a space.

If you cannot notice the rests and pauses, just notice the "turn-around" of your breath. Eventually the pause will happen.

This space between the breath is the gateway to the inner stillness beyond the mind; beyond thinking.

Sit for 10-20 minutes a day noticing this space between the breath.
Each breath you take is a new opportunity to find this space.
If thoughts arise while you practice this technique allow them to be there but keep focusing on the space between the breath, In time the thoughts will not distract you.

Let me know how this works for you!

Warm regards,
Marilyn

Buddha Quote

Thursday, May 9, 2013 - 11:00 PM - Day 47 of Life Coaching Blog


"The master of the art of living makes little distinction between his work and his play, his labor and his leisure, his mind and his body, his education and his recreation, his love and his religion. He hardly knows which is which; he simply pursues his vision of excellence in whatever he does, leaving others to decide whether he is working or playing. To him he is always doing both."
Buddha

Marilyn

Go to the Park for Exercising

Wednesday, May 8, 2013 - 8:30 PM - Day 46 of Life Coaching Blog

Exercise tip: Instead of walking/jogging around your neighborhood or running a track, why not exercise at your local park? The scenery is more picturesque, it is quieter, and you feel like you are on a mini vacation!

Now that the weather is warmer, I only go to the gym on rainy days. If the weather is good I have 5 different parks I take turns going to. It only takes a few minutes to drive to the park, but the exercise experience is definitely enhanced.

Here's a photo of my walk at Durand-Eastman Park in Rochester/Irondequoit yesterday.

Wishing you good health and abundant happiness,
Marilyn

How I Honored the 8 Essential Areas of Life Today

Tuesday, May 7, 2013 - 9:30 PM - Day 45 of Life Coaching Blog

Perfectly balanced day!

Here is why:

I took the day off and spontaneously honored all 8 areas of my life.

Here are the 8 Areas as we present them in Living Stress Free®

Mental Health - Had a day off, meditated, took a break from my job duties

Physical Health - Walked 3 miles, ate healthy food, pampered myself

Prosperity - Planned budget, deposited money in different banks, kept on top of $

Education - Learned new things by exploring the internet, learned new things talking to a client on the phone

Spirituality - Meditation, prayer, communing with nature

Recreation - Walked along Lake Ontario, prepared a special dinner, watched a movie, listened to music

Contribution - Did some cleaning in the house, worked on marketing the business

Relationships - reconnected with an old client, kept in touch with husband all day, took care of pets


I wanted to share how I used the "8 Areas" as an example of what YOU can do!

Be well, be happy,

Marilyn

The Obsessed Mind and Externalization

Monday, May 6, 2013 - 10:00 PM - Day 44 of Life Coaching Blog

I was working with a client today and we discovered a couple interesting tendencies the mind falls into if unchecked.

The first is about getting obsessed. If there is a pattern in your life to become overly focused on a person, a thing, an activity, to the extent you become fixated or dependent, it is usually a sign you are distracting yourself from something else that is a bigger stressor. Acknowledge and confront the big issue and the obsessive tendency has a chance to dissolve.

The second mental tendency is the need to look for external comfort and support instead of focusing internally. We all have the ability to nurture and support ourselves with healthy habits, calming techniques and feelings of accomplishment. If you find yourself exclusively searching for the approval or acknowledgement of others instead of focusing on yourself, you will experience pain and disappointment. Look within and help yourself feel fulfillment.

I like to share themes that may be of help to others in my work with clients.
Hope you find this useful.

Marilyn

Harnessing that Spring Energy!

Sunday, May 5, 2013 - 10:30 PM - Day 43 of Life Coaching Blog

Spring energy can really help motivate people. Can you feel it?
I have felt more inspired, more energized, more active this past month than I did since last October!

It's been great to exercise, wake up earlier, make longer to-do lists ...

However, beware of getting overwhelmed.

It is easy to get overwhelmed with all the things that have to be done and not enough time to do them. The body and mind have more energy but there are only so many active hours in the day. This can cause frustration and confusion.

Choose one area to focus on whenever there is time to accomplish a task. Stick with that one area.

This narrows the inspiration-field to lessen confusion.

My task right now? Time to sleep.

Good night;)

Marilyn

Why Listening is the Best Thing for Others

Saturday, May 4, 2013 - 9:30 PM - Day 42 of Life Coaching Blog

One of the biggest mistakes people make is giving too much advice to others.

9 out of 10 times, most people just want someone to listen to them.
Listening without judgment, listening openly with empathy, listening attentively is the best a person can do for another.

Most people feel validated and supported by a good listener. This brings them inner strength to create solutions to their problems on their own.

In addition, many problems will solve themselves if left alone to the wisdom of nature.

I have devoted my entire career to effective listening. I recommend it highly:))

Warm regards,
Marilyn

Musicians are GREAT listeners!

Friday, May 3, 2013 - 10:15 PM - Day 41 of Life Coaching Blog

"Music is the shorthand of emotion," said Leo Tolstoy. Which helps to explain why playing a musical instrument makes you significantly better at picking up on how other people are really feeling -- the upshot of a study published by the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. Researchers discovered that musicians (novices included) have sharper and more sensitive neural tuning than non-musicians, which helps them hear more emotion in the pitch and timbre of human voices. This may translate into superior mind-reading skills -- like knowing how genuine your neighbor is when she chirps hello or whether your crying baby (or partner) is hungry, angry or just has gas."
(From HuffPost)

I guess that's why I've been successful in my job all these years ...

If you or anyone you know is looking for a life-coach, please contact me.

Have a great weekend - TGIF!

Marilyn

How Do You Wake Up?

Thursday, May 2, 2013 - 10:00 PM - Day 40 of Life Coaching Blog

I've been paying attention to something interesting for quite some time now:

How you feel when you wake up in the morning is very telling!

A healthy, balanced person will feel good upon waking. Their mood will be calm and happy, thoughts clear, ready to start the day. Even if the night before was problematic, they will still wake up this way.

If a person wakes up depressed or angry it is a telltale sign there is a deeper problem that needs to be addressed and resolved.

The same is true for our body. We should wake up feeling refreshed and energized.

If we wake up exhausted, as if we didn't sleep, something is off. Maybe we are fighting a cold, maybe we overdid the exercise, or maybe there is a medical issue.
And - the most obvious - if we wake up "half dead";) more sleep is needed!

This may seem obvious to some people, but the important aspect of my sharing this realization is chronic morning fatigue and/or depressed/angry mood will lead to major problems later. Guaranteed.

Prevention is always better that a cure!

Sleep well,
Marilyn

Knowing when NOT to Exercise

Wednesday, May 1, 2013 - 9:00 PM - Day 39 of Life Coaching Blog

I've been dropping my plans and ideas of how often to exercise each week. I hope to exercise at least every other day. However, my energy level is not up to par. I pulled a muscle which is complicating my walk/run. Sometimes you have to skip the exercise and just go home and rest.

I want to encourage you to not feel bad if you don't exercise the way you planned. There is a greater intelligence beyond the mind and its ideas. If we listen to our body it will always tell us what it needs when we are in balance. Trust your inner intelligence. Trust nature.

Namaste

Marilyn

Taking Care of the Basics

Tuesday, April 30, 2013 - 9:30 PM - Day 38 of Life Coaching Blog

I was in session with some of my therapy clients today and I had an interesting realization. Those who are struggling with the symptoms of their mental illness in the midst of stressful life circumstances tend to resist prioritizing the basics: nutrition, rest and exercise. No matter what is going on in life, the problems can be solved easier if a person is getting proper rest, adequate exercise and healthy nutrition.

I took this realization to my life. The past few days I have felt frustrated with not being able to get enough done. My to-do list is long (and getting longer) with very little crossed out. However, I realized I am taking care of getting rest, exercise and proper nutrition. No wonder each day is an adventure instead of a challenge!

I'm sharing this as a reminder ... take care of the basics first.

Warm regards,
Marilyn

Music Bath

Monday, April 29, 2013 - 11:00 PM - DAy 37 of Life Coaching Blog


Take a “Music Bath”

Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down, free from distractions.

Adjust the lighting so it is soothing to the eyes. You can use lamps or candles.

Choose calming music on your mp3 player, CD player, tape player, turntable or any other music device. The music needs to be instrumental so that the lyrics do not activate the mind to think.

Give yourself at least 20 minutes of listening exclusively to the music, allowing your attention to rest on the sound instead of your thoughts.

Close your eyes, relax your muscles, breathe effortlessly and immerse yourself in the music.

Take care,
Marilyn

Meaning of Aloha

Sunday, April 28, 2013 - 8:00 PM - Day 36 of Life Coaching Blog

I shared the meaning of "Aloha" in my weekly email tips for Spirituality and Healing.
I found the meaning of this beautiful word interesting so I wanted to share it with you.

Click Here:
Aloha

It's been a relaxing weekend with lots of down-time.

I think I needed that with the amount of energy output I go through during the week.

Have a lovely evening.
Aloha

Marilyn

Spreading Positivity

Saturday, April 27, 2013 - 9:00 PM - Day 35 of Life Coaching Blog

I was at the hair stylist this morning getting my routine highlights and trim.

I was amazed at how positive everyone was in the salon!

Sometimes, when you're just sitting there watching others it can be an interesting experience observing humanity. Every person that came in was complimenting their hair stylist and every hair stylist was complimenting their customer. It was so happy and friendly! I fully enjoyed watching the moment.

Positivity is contagious. It does not take any extra energy to say something nice than it does to gripe, complain and be critical.

Being in that happy environment just reinforced my own intention of spreading positivity wherever I go.

One of my spiritual teachers, Meher Baba, always taught to keep your thoughts cheerful and loving at all times. I make this my intention every single morning after I meditate and pray.

So I'm sending warm wishes and happy thoughts to all of you Blogger readers out there.
Love you guys!

Marilyn:)))

Harmonizing Life

Friday, April 26, 2013 - 9:30 PM - Day 34 of Life Coaching Blog

Enjoyed a night out to dinner. My husband and I had a date;)
Today was benign.

I am sharing a quote from a great Sufi mystic for my blog today:


“There are two aspects of individual harmony: the harmony between body and soul, and the harmony between individuals. All the tragedy in the world, in the individual and in the multitude, comes from lack of harmony. And harmony is the best given by producing harmony in one's own life. ”
― Hazrat Inayat Khan

I am feeling my harmony:))

How about you?

Marilyn