Ask Neila Today
Thursday, November 24, 2011
get grateful
today i am grateful. different than any other day? not in my opinion. but today is a holiday where millions of people focus on being grateful and they feel warm and fuzzy inside. stuffing themselves with all the fixins. waving at their neighbors with a cheerful smile. hugging quite a few people in one day is always a good thing. there's a warm feeling in the air, despite the chilly temperature. the explanation is the energy, and the kindness people seem to think is reserved for once or twice a year. nobody is nice 100% of the time, but it would be interesting to see how the world would be if everyone, everywhere were grateful, kind, loving, thankful, harmonious, and united... every day. i understand we get side tracked, or distracted in our busy, hectic lives. but if we slow down each and every day to focus our energy and perspective on getting grateful and take some nice deep breaths, our quality of life will be so much richer. hugging each other, laughing, holding doors open for someone, is something we can do every day. appreciate yourself. be grateful. i woke up today hundreds and even thousands of miles away from some people that i would really love to see. just like every day, i miss them. but i am so grateful for this day we all share from our different spots on this planet. i am grateful for hope, and deep in my heart knowing i will see them again very soon. they're with me in spirit, and in love. and that is really what i'm grateful for today. peace, love, and light
Sunday, November 20, 2011
faith
in life
it helps to have faith
faith isn't a label
faith isn't owned by any one religion
faith is an act of trust
the universe knows
to let go
let it unfold
come from love
sit back and enjoy the ride
love yourself
the world
your day
day to day
fresh start
let it go
breathe
in faith
knowing
everything is divine.
it helps to have faith
faith isn't a label
faith isn't owned by any one religion
faith is an act of trust
the universe knows
to let go
let it unfold
come from love
sit back and enjoy the ride
love yourself
the world
your day
day to day
fresh start
let it go
breathe
in faith
knowing
everything is divine.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Unplug!
Meditate and take time to appreciate nature. Make quiet time in your life. That means, leave your phone at home, go sit in the forest, the beach, anywhere actually you can let your mind go. Let your thoughts ramble on, and don't judge them.
I learned form one of my favorite yoga instructors, Krishna Prema, to say, "That's an interesting thought, I wonder what other interesting thoughts there are...". Acknowledging the thoughts, let them go, eventually the mind will be quiet, and rest. It is interesting, being there in a space of quiet inner calmness and clarity. When there are no longer thoughts streaming chaotically through your mind. You will be at a place to think on life, and anything you feel that would be beneficial. Listen to your your soul.
Your soul knows what's good for you. I personally believe, body, mind, and soul are one. I am a complete being, and I need to take time to pull it all in, tie it together. Grounding, and balancing one's self is empowering. I have learned and am always in the process of learning.
I don't consider myself a guru or anything. But I write to anyone, searching or wondering how to do maybe what I have experienced. I realize that it is an ongoing process of life learning experiences. I know it seems at first, it is hard (why?!) to "unplug". We all need a break from technology and noise. People can wait, business can wait. Bottom line, nothing catastrophic will happen if you don't answer the phone for 1/2 an hour. But, you will reap the benefits of taking care of yourself first.
I learned form one of my favorite yoga instructors, Krishna Prema, to say, "That's an interesting thought, I wonder what other interesting thoughts there are...". Acknowledging the thoughts, let them go, eventually the mind will be quiet, and rest. It is interesting, being there in a space of quiet inner calmness and clarity. When there are no longer thoughts streaming chaotically through your mind. You will be at a place to think on life, and anything you feel that would be beneficial. Listen to your your soul.
Your soul knows what's good for you. I personally believe, body, mind, and soul are one. I am a complete being, and I need to take time to pull it all in, tie it together. Grounding, and balancing one's self is empowering. I have learned and am always in the process of learning.
I don't consider myself a guru or anything. But I write to anyone, searching or wondering how to do maybe what I have experienced. I realize that it is an ongoing process of life learning experiences. I know it seems at first, it is hard (why?!) to "unplug". We all need a break from technology and noise. People can wait, business can wait. Bottom line, nothing catastrophic will happen if you don't answer the phone for 1/2 an hour. But, you will reap the benefits of taking care of yourself first.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Rise Up in Joy
For those wondering how it's possible to be happy every day, I have created a rough draft list of some things that I do. I will be adding to it as I see room to improve and grow a list such as this.
1. Wake up happy. Choose to feel grateful when you open your eyes. Think of the wonderful experiences that are just waiting for you.
2. Open the curtains or blinds. Sun is vital to your mood. If there is no sun out, or you are confined in a dark office, I would suggest a couple nice desk lights and plants to brighten the spirit.
3. Music. What music bring joy to your heart? Play it. No time to waste get on youtube, turn on your radio, turn on some HAPPY music. Something that will spark positive emotions and chemicals in your brain.
4 Eat right. I start my morning with a shot of Body Balance. It has a bunch of good stuff: Sea Veggies, Aloe Vera, Phyto-nutrients and Minerals. Whatever you choose to be good for you is fine, as long as it nourishes and nurtures your body and soul.
5. Laugh! Watch a comedy on Netflix, Listen to a funny CD, or simply find a silly video. A good one that makes me laugh every time is "Charlie bit my finger". I have many funny videos I can go to if I need to laugh. Another one of my favorites is "Double Rainbow". You can view both of these on youtube. Laughter is the best medicine!
6. Look up. Literally, look up. Look at the sky, the stars, the clouds, the birds. What do you notice? I notice that my little world and life is part of a bigger picture. There are people out there right now, just like me. My life will look up, when I see the birds flying free, they don't worry, they live in the present moment. They don't worry about bills, and jobs, and drama. They simply live.
7. Smile. Smiling will make you happier. I know you might say to yourself, "I don't have a reason to smile." But we both know that can't be true. Whether you're happy about a loved one, a rainbow, a chocolate cupcake. There HAS to be something to smile about. Authentic happiness can be created by our perception of things. When we look at the big picture and "Get Grateful", we can't help but smile. "I woke up today!" (Cue big smile)
8. Compliment yourself. Give yourself a pat on the back. Give yourself a hug. Massage yourself. We tend to be very hard on ourselves, and by giving our own self empathy and compassion we can really turn our day around. For instance, I might look in the mirror into my own eyes, and see the little girl I still am inside. I feel for her, she's been though a lot. And I say to myself, "You're gonna be just fine. You're strong, and you're gonna make it." It can be anything. Just keep it positive and true, and make yourself believe it, even if it's hard at first it will get easier with practice.
9. Compliment others or even just a smile & hello. We're all making it along in this world we all have our trials and experiences. Think about how you feel good when someone gives you an authentic compliment. It can make a difference in many people's lives, just by giving one person a thoughtful, friendly, or positive compliment. I was in the coffee shop yesterday, and noticed a girl who works there often and she is so quick and friendly and smiles to people. I said to her, "Thank you. You're good, and friendly. People really appreciate that." She was very happy, and the lady next to me chimed in, "That was a nice comment." I felt good to acknowledge someone else who is trying to be positive in this world.
10. Give to others and help others. These can be one in the same a lot of the time. I look for ways to help people. I want to help lighten someone's burden. Whether it is to hold the door open for someone, let someone in traffic go ahead of me, help an elderly person pick up their spilled groceries, visit the school for the disabled, cook a meal for a friend, bring someone juice or soup when they're ill... you get the idea. Helping and giving are ways I can instantly feel better about my life.
11. Move! Walk, Dance, Jump, Sing, Run, Swim, Stretch, Climb, Skate, Surf, Hike, Spin, Ride, Garden, do something, anything, that gets your blood and energy flowing. It is extremely important. Think of your body as a "Body of water". Would you rather be a lake or a river? I would rather be a river. Keeping the flow, will keep yourself fresh and healthy. Lakes are great and all, but the water tends to get murky, dirty, or stale. We want it to be the opposite of that. It could be a personal challenge, but there is always something you can do everyday, to move your body. You will feel better, because your brain in turn will reward you with a flow of endorphins, and you will feel alive, energetic, and grateful for another day in the life. Your life.
12. Animals and Pets. I have two little dogs, and it's hard to be depressed when I look at their sweet loving little faces. Their unconditional love and authentic joy is refreshing. They love me no matter what. If you can't have pets of your own, you can pet someone else's dog. Go visit the horse stables, get a fish, or take a visit to a pet store. Research shows people with pets are happier and calmer. And petting your animal is soothing, and actually releases those 'happy chemicals" that our brains produce naturally. Animals are kind, and they need love too. It's nice to be needed and adored. I love my pets.
Take care of yourself. Be understanding with yourself. We're soft beings in a pretty hard world. Literally, not just metaphorically. Whether I'm recognized for my deeds or not by others is irrelevant. I do it because my hearts feels full of love & joy when I do. I really thrive on living and appreciate myself for the unique person I am. I hope this list helps you find some ideas that might make your life even more wonderful. Chin up, hang in there, we're all in this together! Until next time friend, Peace and Love.
1. Wake up happy. Choose to feel grateful when you open your eyes. Think of the wonderful experiences that are just waiting for you.
2. Open the curtains or blinds. Sun is vital to your mood. If there is no sun out, or you are confined in a dark office, I would suggest a couple nice desk lights and plants to brighten the spirit.
3. Music. What music bring joy to your heart? Play it. No time to waste get on youtube, turn on your radio, turn on some HAPPY music. Something that will spark positive emotions and chemicals in your brain.
4 Eat right. I start my morning with a shot of Body Balance. It has a bunch of good stuff: Sea Veggies, Aloe Vera, Phyto-nutrients and Minerals. Whatever you choose to be good for you is fine, as long as it nourishes and nurtures your body and soul.
5. Laugh! Watch a comedy on Netflix, Listen to a funny CD, or simply find a silly video. A good one that makes me laugh every time is "Charlie bit my finger". I have many funny videos I can go to if I need to laugh. Another one of my favorites is "Double Rainbow". You can view both of these on youtube. Laughter is the best medicine!
6. Look up. Literally, look up. Look at the sky, the stars, the clouds, the birds. What do you notice? I notice that my little world and life is part of a bigger picture. There are people out there right now, just like me. My life will look up, when I see the birds flying free, they don't worry, they live in the present moment. They don't worry about bills, and jobs, and drama. They simply live.
7. Smile. Smiling will make you happier. I know you might say to yourself, "I don't have a reason to smile." But we both know that can't be true. Whether you're happy about a loved one, a rainbow, a chocolate cupcake. There HAS to be something to smile about. Authentic happiness can be created by our perception of things. When we look at the big picture and "Get Grateful", we can't help but smile. "I woke up today!" (Cue big smile)
8. Compliment yourself. Give yourself a pat on the back. Give yourself a hug. Massage yourself. We tend to be very hard on ourselves, and by giving our own self empathy and compassion we can really turn our day around. For instance, I might look in the mirror into my own eyes, and see the little girl I still am inside. I feel for her, she's been though a lot. And I say to myself, "You're gonna be just fine. You're strong, and you're gonna make it." It can be anything. Just keep it positive and true, and make yourself believe it, even if it's hard at first it will get easier with practice.
9. Compliment others or even just a smile & hello. We're all making it along in this world we all have our trials and experiences. Think about how you feel good when someone gives you an authentic compliment. It can make a difference in many people's lives, just by giving one person a thoughtful, friendly, or positive compliment. I was in the coffee shop yesterday, and noticed a girl who works there often and she is so quick and friendly and smiles to people. I said to her, "Thank you. You're good, and friendly. People really appreciate that." She was very happy, and the lady next to me chimed in, "That was a nice comment." I felt good to acknowledge someone else who is trying to be positive in this world.
10. Give to others and help others. These can be one in the same a lot of the time. I look for ways to help people. I want to help lighten someone's burden. Whether it is to hold the door open for someone, let someone in traffic go ahead of me, help an elderly person pick up their spilled groceries, visit the school for the disabled, cook a meal for a friend, bring someone juice or soup when they're ill... you get the idea. Helping and giving are ways I can instantly feel better about my life.
11. Move! Walk, Dance, Jump, Sing, Run, Swim, Stretch, Climb, Skate, Surf, Hike, Spin, Ride, Garden, do something, anything, that gets your blood and energy flowing. It is extremely important. Think of your body as a "Body of water". Would you rather be a lake or a river? I would rather be a river. Keeping the flow, will keep yourself fresh and healthy. Lakes are great and all, but the water tends to get murky, dirty, or stale. We want it to be the opposite of that. It could be a personal challenge, but there is always something you can do everyday, to move your body. You will feel better, because your brain in turn will reward you with a flow of endorphins, and you will feel alive, energetic, and grateful for another day in the life. Your life.
12. Animals and Pets. I have two little dogs, and it's hard to be depressed when I look at their sweet loving little faces. Their unconditional love and authentic joy is refreshing. They love me no matter what. If you can't have pets of your own, you can pet someone else's dog. Go visit the horse stables, get a fish, or take a visit to a pet store. Research shows people with pets are happier and calmer. And petting your animal is soothing, and actually releases those 'happy chemicals" that our brains produce naturally. Animals are kind, and they need love too. It's nice to be needed and adored. I love my pets.
Take care of yourself. Be understanding with yourself. We're soft beings in a pretty hard world. Literally, not just metaphorically. Whether I'm recognized for my deeds or not by others is irrelevant. I do it because my hearts feels full of love & joy when I do. I really thrive on living and appreciate myself for the unique person I am. I hope this list helps you find some ideas that might make your life even more wonderful. Chin up, hang in there, we're all in this together! Until next time friend, Peace and Love.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Life
I applied for a job at the local radio station tonight. I have been in a slump. I go through it sometimes. It's brief, it's human, it's life. Though I do stay in perspective as far as being grateful for what I have: Life, Family, Friends, and more. Sometimes even positive people go through a funk, but it's what we do with it that brings you out stronger.
I find myself wanting to be patient. I feel there's something exciting right around the corner. My path is already heading right toward it. I can't see my future, but I know it has to be bright & positive. I know that because my faith is day by day focusing my intentions towards helping myself and others. By staying face forward and moving on without fear or worry. Trusting my wise and inner self to lead me where I want and need to be. I want to be appreciated and valued. I want to be like-able. I want to enhance and brighten the lives of the multitudes. Those are things we all need and deserve. We want a purpose in life. My point today is to find your purpose. Find your dream and make it come true. Sometimes being patient and waiting for 'the word', not knowing where to go or what to do, is the hardest part. Day by day tell yourself what you DO want, make steps forward, and believe in yourself. Sometimes it feels as if you're all you've got, but it can and will make you stronger and give you the confidence you desire. Peace.... until next time friends, <3 neila
I find myself wanting to be patient. I feel there's something exciting right around the corner. My path is already heading right toward it. I can't see my future, but I know it has to be bright & positive. I know that because my faith is day by day focusing my intentions towards helping myself and others. By staying face forward and moving on without fear or worry. Trusting my wise and inner self to lead me where I want and need to be. I want to be appreciated and valued. I want to be like-able. I want to enhance and brighten the lives of the multitudes. Those are things we all need and deserve. We want a purpose in life. My point today is to find your purpose. Find your dream and make it come true. Sometimes being patient and waiting for 'the word', not knowing where to go or what to do, is the hardest part. Day by day tell yourself what you DO want, make steps forward, and believe in yourself. Sometimes it feels as if you're all you've got, but it can and will make you stronger and give you the confidence you desire. Peace.... until next time friends, <3 neila
Friday, November 4, 2011
Creating Your Own Reality
How do you start your day? I have learned that my thoughts and perception of life will determine my satisfaction. I wake up every day, ready. Look in the mirror, smile. You're the only one of you. Play a song(s) that makes you super happy & pumped on life. Think of someone you love, and remember the happy & positive memories. These are ways of authentic happiness. I get grateful when I remind myself, "Some people don't have today. But I do, and I'm going to LIVE it!"
When life throws you a curve-ball, how do you respond? Everyone has moments of doubt, and fear. But the minute you go there, you lose perception of the big picture. The first thing to do is "Get Grateful". Sounds simple right? It is, but it's a matter of going to a place within yourself where you can reel it all in. Breathe, and get grateful. Remind yourself what matters.
A thought for instance might be, "Lame! I got a flat tire on my way to work, and it's going to make me late! This totally sucks. Of course, I should have known! Why me? This is going to be an extra crappy day." How will you feel after telling yourself this? Another example of a thought from the same situation might be, "Uh oh, A flat tire. OK, well, let's handle it. I'm surprised, because this is the first flat tire I've had in 5 years. I will call my boss to let her know I'll be late. Wow, it's a nice day out." How would you feel with this different viewpoint?
I have found that, by just slowing down, and realizing my thoughts, I began to make subtle changes in my perception. It really makes a huge difference. I focus on not letting "things" or other people determine how I react. Only YOU personally can determine the outcome satisfaction level of your own life.
Another thing I'd like to add is expectations. Having expectations is something we all do whether or not we're aware of it. Expectations set us up, with a picture in our mind of how an event will go. People also have expectations of others, which we'll talk more about later. I learned a while back that this was not beneficial to my happiness. One thing that comes to mind: Weddings. If I expect that my wedding will be perfect, I am setting myself up for disappointment. Why shouldn't it be perfect? Because perfection is an illusion. The cake is Chocolate, I ordered Vanilla. It starts to rain when forecast said Sunshine. The D.J. has technical difficulties, the catering company didn't bring the vegetarian menu, flowers are just a shade off the color the Florist promised.... you get the idea!
Any number of things can happen in this life. They're not bad, unless you make them bad. Acceptance, flexibility, and having a sense of humor are vital to handling life with more grace & ease. Of course, remember to Get Grateful! "Wow this sure is is an interesting day! I am so happy to be alive! This rain is something else. Grandma used to love the rain & she would have been tickled pink to see this. We'll never stop laughing about this- some day! Let's have a cake fight!" You get the idea. Turn it around. Life is SO good. The possibilities are infinite to practice this.
If you think of life as a roller-coaster, and you know it's full of curves and bumps, and twists, it won't be so much of a shock. You hope for the best in life, and you can make it better with your attitude. Being on the ride of life, is a blast!
Breathing and putting everything into perspective for yourself will really change how you begin to process any and every situation. I have had some gnarly situations, and I made it through. I'm ready. I know I'm on a roller-coaster. I'm still here smiling, loving life, and using these tools to keep my own reality in perspective. Give yourself a hug! Talk to you soon!
When life throws you a curve-ball, how do you respond? Everyone has moments of doubt, and fear. But the minute you go there, you lose perception of the big picture. The first thing to do is "Get Grateful". Sounds simple right? It is, but it's a matter of going to a place within yourself where you can reel it all in. Breathe, and get grateful. Remind yourself what matters.
A thought for instance might be, "Lame! I got a flat tire on my way to work, and it's going to make me late! This totally sucks. Of course, I should have known! Why me? This is going to be an extra crappy day." How will you feel after telling yourself this? Another example of a thought from the same situation might be, "Uh oh, A flat tire. OK, well, let's handle it. I'm surprised, because this is the first flat tire I've had in 5 years. I will call my boss to let her know I'll be late. Wow, it's a nice day out." How would you feel with this different viewpoint?
I have found that, by just slowing down, and realizing my thoughts, I began to make subtle changes in my perception. It really makes a huge difference. I focus on not letting "things" or other people determine how I react. Only YOU personally can determine the outcome satisfaction level of your own life.
Another thing I'd like to add is expectations. Having expectations is something we all do whether or not we're aware of it. Expectations set us up, with a picture in our mind of how an event will go. People also have expectations of others, which we'll talk more about later. I learned a while back that this was not beneficial to my happiness. One thing that comes to mind: Weddings. If I expect that my wedding will be perfect, I am setting myself up for disappointment. Why shouldn't it be perfect? Because perfection is an illusion. The cake is Chocolate, I ordered Vanilla. It starts to rain when forecast said Sunshine. The D.J. has technical difficulties, the catering company didn't bring the vegetarian menu, flowers are just a shade off the color the Florist promised.... you get the idea!
Any number of things can happen in this life. They're not bad, unless you make them bad. Acceptance, flexibility, and having a sense of humor are vital to handling life with more grace & ease. Of course, remember to Get Grateful! "Wow this sure is is an interesting day! I am so happy to be alive! This rain is something else. Grandma used to love the rain & she would have been tickled pink to see this. We'll never stop laughing about this- some day! Let's have a cake fight!" You get the idea. Turn it around. Life is SO good. The possibilities are infinite to practice this.
If you think of life as a roller-coaster, and you know it's full of curves and bumps, and twists, it won't be so much of a shock. You hope for the best in life, and you can make it better with your attitude. Being on the ride of life, is a blast!
Breathing and putting everything into perspective for yourself will really change how you begin to process any and every situation. I have had some gnarly situations, and I made it through. I'm ready. I know I'm on a roller-coaster. I'm still here smiling, loving life, and using these tools to keep my own reality in perspective. Give yourself a hug! Talk to you soon!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Do what you love, and everything else will follow.
I am energy. It's been two weeks since I was freed from that tiny, stale, and dark office cubicle. What was confusing at first, is now really coming together and making so much more sense. I was NOT meant to be hidden in a dark office for 8+ hours a day! I was meant to be free, doing what I love, and living this life! I need to be out, helping, inspiring others, and flying high! It's amazing and reassuring to know that everything I have experienced and lived through up to this point, got me prepared for exactly what is coming next. What you ask? I don't know the details, but it is very exciting! Today is such a gift, and I am so grateful that I got to where I am now. My journey is nowhere near over, but has really just begun. Life is about to get even more interesting. One thing I know, nothing is secure. So... DO YOU! Live today like it's your last. Smile at a stranger, Wave to a passerby, Tell your loved ones how much they mean to you, and how much value they add to your life. We're never promised another day. But what I have now, is this moment. Sometimes I'm flowing with endless possibilities and I can't begin to write them all down. Others I sit in quiet reflection, staring into the distance, pondering my next moves. I know one thing: I AM VALUABLE and so are YOU! I am about to embark on a journey of freedom. I hope you will follow me, because it gets better & better, day by day.
Peace...
Peace...
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