— Ayurveda may be the world's oldest continuously practiced health system, dating up to five thousand years ago Ayurveda can be loosely translated as the “science of life.” The word comes from combining "Ayur," meaning life, and "Veda,” meaning knowledge. So Ayurveda literally means "the knowledge of life" —  how to  live in the best possible way.

Ayurveda is a very basic, simple, natural approach to living. It is a beautiful combination of oral and written instruction, spirituality, philosophy, mythology, AND  SCIENTIFIC knowledge that has been around for over 5000 years.

It is rooted in the oldest spiritual texts of India called the Vedas. These texts (some of which date back to 450-1500 BCE.) are widely considered to be the most ancient  science and address ALL aspects of healing and well-being for both body  and mind.

Ayurveda, even though it originated in India, gained traction  and prestige in Sri Lanka, China, Tibet, and Nepal, influencing these  various philosophies and healing traditions. There was a point when Western medicine denounced Ayurveda as inferior when India was  colonized. However, it continued to be practiced under the radar of  colonists in rural areas and monasteries.

Ayurveda is making a huge  comeback in India, North America, and other Western countries. We are  now looking to combine the science and technology of traditional Western  medicine with Ayurveda's holistic, preventative healing art. With the  emphasis on prevention and empowering people to have more control over  their health via the choices they make in their everyday lives, Ayurveda  has become a holistic wellness system that is infiltrating the  mainstream, unbeknownst to many. For instance, Kaizer Permanente is  displaying billboards around LA referencing circadian rhythms - how  crazy fantastic is that? Costco did a 2-page layout last summer on  Ayurveda and holistic health. And yes.....they called it by its real name!

 Ayurveda and Self-Care go hand and hand!  

Valeria interviews Paula Pister  — She is an Ayurvedic Health and Life Coach, Yoga teacher, and busy mom.

Her journey began as a young model and actress, where she struggled with self-worth and body image issues. In her 20s, becoming a certified yoga teacher helped Paula appreciate and love her body more, leading her to explore Ayurveda, yoga's sister science.

Now, Paula teaches midlife women simple daily and seasonal self-care tools rooted in ancient wisdom and modern habit change science. She is a strong advocate for self-care, aiming to help women overcome the belief that prioritizing themselves is selfish or to feel “guilty about."

In Ayurveda, our energy reserves are called “Ojas." Paula emphasizes that without replenishment, this energy depletes, leaving women vulnerable to mental, emotional, and physical imbalances. Having experienced burnout herself, she understands the challenges faced by busy women juggling multiple responsibilities.

Growing up in a generation where real self-care wasn’t always modeled well, Paula learned its importance later in life. Now in her 50s, she is committed to being an exemplary model for her children and helping other midlife women reshape outdated beliefs about self-care, listening to their intuition, and reclaiming control of habits that are life-depleting not life-enhancing. Because self-care does NOT come in a one-size-fits-all box, a bottle, or from Amazon. It takes committing to yourself and deeper desires, being gentle and kind to yourself, and understanding that this is a journey. Every step along the path is an opportunity for growth, deeper insight, and a chance to connect with your inner wisdom (which is ALWAYS guiding you.)

Paula stresses that self-care starts with self-worth, setting boundaries, and learning to say “No” (nicely and guilt-free). She believes this approach is not selfish but essential, as a healthy, vibrant, and happy individual better equipped to care for others and show up in the world as your best and most vibrant self. 

To learn more about Paula Pister and her work, please visit:

https://www.mindbodybright.com/

To learn about the 21-Day Fall Reset and receive a 20% discount use the code: QUEST20

https://www.mindbodybright.com/fallcleanse

— Susan Keller wrote Mostly Sober: A Love Story and a Road Trip to help readers find peace with reduced alcohol consumption. And, to show them how they can moderate, or even eliminate, cravings for alcohol. Reduced cravings lead to a lot less drinking and improved health for our minds and bodies. “Mostly Sober” takes place in 1983. This was a time when there was little help available to the person who wanted to change their drinking. It was AA or not much else. But not all of us who drink are candidates for AA. We can learn to drink moderately or minimally. Today, there is a lot of help to do that. Susan’s intention is that readers find common ground with her protagonist and her journey to accept herself, resolve her own misplaced guilt, and understand that the trauma she experienced as a child was not her fault.

Valeria interviews Susan Keller — She is the author of  “Mostly Sober: A Love Story and a Road Trip” and “Blood Brother: A Memoir.” 

After earning a degree in Public Health and Immunology, Susan enjoyed a 30-year career as an award-winning medical writer. Additionally, her poetry won prizes in regional and national contests. This background in science and poetry gives her writing credibility as well as lyricism.

Susan’s experience overcoming a rare and frequently fatal lymphoma inspired her to write Blood Brother: A Memoir. The subhead: Johnny’s bone marrow could save my life, but he’d vanished 30 years ago.

Her second book Mostly Sober: A Love Story and a Road Trip, is a genre-blend of romance and self-help. It is a deeply human narrative centered around the sober-curious movement and will help and resonate with the millions of Americans determined to moderate or minimize alcohol consumption.

Susan lives in the Bay Area with her husband, Daniel. She and Daniel have both reduced their alcohol consumption from 60 drinks a month to 6 or 8. Her mission is to help all of her readers find peace and improved physical and mental health with reduced alcohol consumption.

To learn more about Susan Keller and her work, please visit: https://susankeller.com/

— Intergenerational family trauma (aka intergenerational trauma) refers to a broad spectrum of symptoms, dynamics, and genetics resulting from the traumatic experiences of an individual or family, which are later passed down to the next generation of the family. The research on intergenerational trauma has predominantly focused on specific ethnic or cultural groups, like Jewish descendants of Holocaust survivors and African-American descendants of American chattel slaves. Researchers found that many descendants show unique characteristics that resembled the PTSD of the trauma survivors (their ancestors) themselves (Van Steenwyk et al. 2018). While this field of study is relatively new and rather sparse, the findings have been consistent and undeniable: intergenerational trauma is a real thing. If you have experienced significant family stress and trauma, if your parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents experienced traumas at various points, Dr. Ernest’s work should be helpful for you as valuable guidance toward a thriving life!

Valeria interviews Dr. Ernest Ellender  — He is the author of  “This Is How We Heal from Painful Childhoods: A Practical Guide for Healing Past Intergenerational Stress and Trauma.”

Ernest Ellender worked in the fields of psychology, life coaching, and martial arts for over 25 years, culminating in his book entitled “This Is How We Heal From Painful Childhoods: A Practical Guide for Healing Past Intergenerational Stress and Trauma”. After earning his doctorate in clinical psychology (2007), Ernest focused heavily on application of research and theory to provide therapy and life coaching to community-based clients. He also taught at Nicholls State University before retiring from clinical psychology in 2022. He is a 3rd degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and runs his martial arts school in his hometown of Houma, Louisiana while additionally offering Life Coaching services to ambitious clients. His advanced martial arts training lent unique insights into the process of developing precise, complex skills. Ernest combined the best of both psychology and martial arts training into an empowering curriculum for healing from childhood and family struggles. The rich Cajun heritage of south Louisiana where Ernest grew up includes amazing, close-knit communities that celebrate family life and a close connection to the land (hunting, fishing, farming, food), as well as a long history of cultural traumas that persist today. This offered fertile grounds for refining his curriculum before offering it to the world in his new book. Known affectionately in his hometown as “Waffle”, Ernest keeps busy spending time with family and friends and significant other, working out at his brother’s CrossFit gym, learning new skills (freediving, dancing), or planning his next vacation to experience new cultures and adventures.

To learn more about Dr. Ernest Ellender and his work, please visit: healfromchildhood.com

— We all desire to be more confident, but self-doubt and fear of failure often hamper our ability to build confidence. It is possible to unlock your true potential and build unwavering confidence by adopting a growth mindset. By embracing a growth mindset, you can develop greater confidence and lead a more fulfilling life. In order to unlock your true potential and overcome self-doubt, you must change your perspective on challenges, failures, and effort. Let a growth mindset propel you to success and personal growth as you watch your confidence soar. Cultivating a growth mindset is a continuous process, that with dedication and self-compassion, you can nurture the seeds of confidence within yourself and prosper in all aspects of your life.

Valeria interviews Heidi Siegal Kogon  — She is a highly experienced leadership and career coach with a passion for guiding emotionally intelligent, highly sensitive, critical thinkers towards confidence and fulfillment in both their professional and personal lives.

With over 25 years of leadership experience in various functions, Heidi combines her extensive background with an MBA from Boston University and certified coach training to provide her clients with a results-oriented approach to achieving their goals. Her clients often come to her feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling with imposter syndrome and overthinking. Heidi works closely with them to break free from these barriers, fostering greater self-belief, recognizing their innate strengths, and discovering their authentic leadership voice. Whether her clients aim to advance within their current roles or seek new opportunities that align with their values and passions, Heidi's guidance and strategies help them find greater satisfaction and success. With a coaching certification from the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC), an MBA from Boston University, and a BA in Business from Simmons University, Heidi possesses a diverse and robust skill set. Her dedication to empowering others has earned her certifications as an ACC Certified Coach from the ICF Coaching Federation and an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner. Heidi credits her success to her unwavering focus, drive, and perseverance. She eagerly anticipates connecting with likeminded professionals who are seeking to thrive in their careers and personal lives, leveraging her expertise to make a positive impact on their journeys.

To learn more about Heidi Siegal Kogon and her work, please visit: https://www.kogoncoaching.com/

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life through the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well. 

Valeria interviews Austin Bollinger.

He is the founder of Daily New Year’s, a blog and podcast dedicated to helping people ditch their old, tired resolutions, and instead, achieve massive success in their lives through the power of daily goal setting. Austin blog led him to write his first book, Crush Your Goals!, in 2019. After a year of hard work, it was released in February of 2020 and hit Amazon’s Best Sellers list in just 10 days.

Austin is on a mission to build a community of Goal Getters—a group of people who are focused on becoming Better Every day and living life to the fullest. His aim is to help inspire people around the world to take massive action towards their dreams every day, not just for a few weeks at the beginning of each year.

Austin lives in Missouri with his best friend and high school sweetheart, Callie, and their two dogs, Rosie and Lily. He is an aspiring entrepreneur, speaker, coach, and is looking forward to authoring several more books in the future.

To learn more about Austin Bollinger and his work please visit: https://www.dailynewyears.com/ and https://crushyourgoalsbook.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Those who have had near-death experiences open a window to what exists after death for those of us who have not yet had a glimpse of it. The sill widens to allow us new insight and an infusion of light.

One of the remarkable things Tricia Barker has learned through her research of near-death experiences and those in coma is that often the most compromised of physical bodies have the most transcendental experiences.

Imagine your back completely crushed in a car crash, so forcefully that you are constrained by a body cast for months. Tricia Barker shares with us how, in moments after an accident, she was touched by a profound radiance. Its presence imbues her storytelling and her life.

“The two angels sent waves of intense light, which transferred many messages to me all at once. The light emitted from the eyes of the angels flowed directly into my spirit body, allowing me to access information faster than the fastest possible broadband speed. Messages were given in the form of completed thoughts and feelings, not individual words. The knowledge they sent into my spirit form not only felt comforting, but it also altered the way I viewed everything about my life.”

Light is central to the accounts of people who have had near-death experiences, so much so that books about the topic often include the word in the title: Transformed by the Light, Lessons from the Light, Divine Light, and The Light Beyond. Tricia describes her experience of the light:

“Light seemed to contain both healing power and knowledge... A large part of me never wanted to leave the safety of that place. I felt no stress and more love than I ever imagined possible. I felt more joy and contentment than even the brightest moments this life ever provided, and I did not want to return to my body. No person had ever shown me a love like this love. I had no idea it was possible to feel this good. If a soul could smile, then my soul smiled, and I drowsed comfortably without worry.”

— Valeria interviews Tricia Barker.

She experienced a profound near-death experience during her senior year of college, and this experience guided her to teach overseas, in public schools, and at the college level.  Her near-death experience story has been featured on I Survived:  Beyond and Back, National Geographic Magazine, Simple Grace Magazine, an article in Women’s World Magazine, and featured on The Doctor Oz Show .

Tricia’s memoir, Angels in the OR: What Dying Taught Me About Healing, Survival, and Transformation  tells a story of her near-death experience, teaching mission, and eventual triumph over trauma in her past. The book also focuses on the importance being of service to the world and the healing power of giving unconditional love to others. She believes that joy, humor, and healing is available to everyone through a deeper connection to divinity. 

Tricia Barker and a long-time writer for Hallmark have recently completed a screenplay based on her book.

Tricia is a graduate of The University of Texas. She also received her MFA in Creative Writing from Goddard College. Currently, she teaches English and Creative Writing at a beautiful community college in Fort Worth, Texas. She interviews other near-death experiencers, researchers, healers, spiritual teachers, and mediums on her YouTube Channel. Her poetry and essays have been published in several publications.

To learn more about Tricia Barker please visit his website: https://triciabarkernde.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

Valeria interviews Tina Zion.

Tina is a fourth generation psychic medium and specializes in teaching medical intuition and mediumship. She has taught her medical intuition workshop in Australia, New Zealand, UK, Europe, Canada, Mexico and throughout the USA. Both of her medical intuitive books have won first place awards. Become a Medical Intuitive won 1st Place Gold from the Body Mind Spirit Book Awards in 2019 and Advanced Medical Intuition won the 2020 COVR Visionary Award. Tina is a faculty member at the Omega Institute of Holistic Studies in New York, 1440 Multiversity in California and Fellowships of the Spirit in New York. 

She is a registered nurse, graduating from Purdue University and holds a national board specialty certification in mental health nursing from the American Nurses Credentialing Association. Tina is a Gestalt trained mental health counselor, graduating from the Indianapolis Gestalt Institute in 1997. She received her certification in clinical hypnotherapy from the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners in 1985, specializing in past life regressions and certified through the Michael Newton Institute in Life Between Lives regression. She studied Reiki since 1991 and has taught hundreds of students over the years. Tina is a worldwide best-selling author of four books:  Become a Medical Intuitive: The Complete Developmental Course, Advanced Medical Intuition-6 Underlying Causes of Illness and Unique Healing Methods, The Reiki Teacher’s Manual and Reiki and Your Intuition: A Union of Healing and Wisdom.

She is also a contributing author in Michael Newton’s book, Memories of the Afterlife.  Tina’s current private practice now focuses completely on teaching intuition and specializing in medical intuitive instruction. She now teaches all over the world as well as offering individual mentoring sessions. 

To learn more about Tina Zion and her work please visit: https://tinazion.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Leslie Herhold, the author of Self-Confidence Strategies for Women: Essential Tools to Increase Self-Esteem and Achieve Your True Potential

With so much uncertainty in the world, learning to love yourself and march out of your comfort zone can feel daunting. Leslie’s work on self-confidence strategies for women, offers simple tools based on proven therapy principles to help you achieve greater confidence, stronger relationships, increased motivation, and a more positive outlook on life.

Learn how your thoughts and behavior influence your self-esteem, and find expert advice for changing negative patterns. You’ll practice identifying your strengths and values, quieting doubt, and approaching intimidating situations with conviction. Increase your confidence in yourself and your abilities with easy and effective exercises that you can apply to everything you do.

Leslie T. Herhold, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C is an author and therapist specializing in women’s mental health. Originally from south Louisiana, she now resides in south Alabama and has a clinical practice in Fairhope. Her first book, Self Confidence Strategies for Women, is now available for purchase at various online retailers.

To learn more about Leslie Herhold and her work please visit: https://leslietherholdlcsw.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Andy Marmion the author of Your Angels Healing Words To Guide: A Spiritual Life Book of Meditation and Awakening

This spiritual angel work is comprised of some of the verses from Andy’s own card deck. These angel prayers will act as an angel detox for our soul and work angel miracles in our lives so that we experience heaven on earth. The power of angels is amazing and they can help us raise our spiritual vibration or frequency through the use of their words.

Andy Marmion is a psychiatric nurse of 30 years of experience. He’s also an angel coach and content marketer.

As an angel coach, he helps people connect with their guardian angels so as they find self-empowerment and healing. One of the ways the angels help is by addressing negative thought patterns and substituting them for a healthy way of thinking.

Andy has also written another book: Angelic Thinking: Your Angels’ Help With Positive Thinking

To learn more about Andy Marmion and his work please visit: https://wisewriting.org/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Sandy Peckinpah.

For over two decades Sandy worked behind the scenes developing stories with her husband, a successful television writer, and producer.

Her secret dream was to create her own body of work, but she doubted her abilities. One day, her calling became greater than her fear when her daughter was born with a facial defect. Sandy wrote a fairy tale to raise awareness about birth defects and the book was well-received by hospitals, clinics, libraries, and schools. It was recorded by Little House on the Prairie actress, Melissa Gilbert, music by the Moscow Symphony Orchestra, and was nominated for a Grammy in 2009. Sandy's most recent book, How to Survive the Worst that Can Happen, has won 8 awards, including the Readers' Favorite Book Award. Her articles are featured in Thrive Global, Medium.com, and Huffington Post.

Sandy is a former radio show host on AM talk radio in Northern California, and a frequent broadcaster, sharing her passion for helping women rise up through life’s difficult times.  Today, Sandy loves helping women bridge the gap between a desire to write and actually doing it. She teaches a 5-step creative process that has helped numerous women finally achieve the dream of writing and publishing their own stories of resilience.

One of her clients wrote, “I didn’t know how important my life events were until Sandy gave me a new perspective. Through writing my book, I realized I have a legacy that needs to be shared.”

To learn more about Sandy Peckinpah and her work please visit: https://www.sandypeckinpah.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Cathy Domoney, the author of The Magic Is Inside You: Powerful & Positive Thinking For Confident Kids and DEAR BULLY... :Promoting Healing, Harmony, and Friendship. Positive Mindset For Kids Series.

Transformational Leader Cathy Domoney, she is the founder of Miracle-Ready Mindset,  an inspirational author, teacher, course-creator, and professional mentor. She firmly believes in the power of the right mindset combined with the law of attraction and the profound impact it has on catapulting her clients to next-level success.

Cathy began her journey as a teacher, where she quickly became passionate about self-esteem and confidence work, both with her adult and children clients alike. She holds Diplomas in Hypnotherapy and Counselling, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and diplomas in Life Coaching. During her early teaching years, Cathy came to realise how important one’s view of themselves can be when it comes to academic attainment, as well as behaviour and happiness. Through experience, she found out that positive thinking can have a significant impact on children’s experiences in the world, boosting their confidence and helping them realise their full potential.

Today, Cathy’s mission is to contribute to a happier, more well-rounded generation one child at a time. She brings her positive attitude, professional background, and genuine passion for helping others to guide children and help them reach their full potential with the help of storytelling.

To learn more about Cathy Domoney and her work please visit: https://cathydomoney.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Mariette Jansen. She is a life coach, psychotherapist, meditation teacher, blogger, and speaker.

She obtained a PhD in Communication Science in The Netherlands and worked in corporate organizations. Mariette retrained after the birth of her eldest son, when she qualified as a psychotherapist, a counselling tutor and a meditation teacher. After ten years, she decided to focus her client work more on action and goals and has worked since 2011 as a successful life coach.

Mariette always knew that something was wrong, but couldn’t find what it was. Her parents kept on telling her she was the one who was wrong. But, Mariette knew it couldn’t be just her.

Growing up in a dysfunctional family took its toll. One of Mariette reactions to her situation was to develop an eating disorder, Bulimia Nervosa, which lasted 22 years.

Although Mariette now realizes that she grew up in a narcissistic family she only started to understand the full extent of her situation in her late 50’s. Her mother, her main narcissist, was the most important person in her life and most of her actions were inspired by the wish to please her and be on the receiving end of love, acceptance and respect. It never happened.

As a result of her own realization, Mariette discovered narcissism and how it plays out. It was an eye-opener and a sanity-saver.

All of a sudden, clarity hit and life made sense. It got easier to understand how to deal with it all and apply the behaviors that would support her on-going happiness and well-being.

To learn more about Mariette Jansen and her work please visit: https://drdestress.co.uk/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Ilona Ciunaite, the author of Liberation Unleashed.

Ilona was born in Lithuania. Always interested in the mind and how it works, she has a degree in psychology and a mind-set to focus on freedom for herself and those who find her.

Ilona's search for truth started in 2002 when for the first time she experienced silence of the thinking mind, a sweet sense of being, peace that felt like home. In 2010 she discovered Jed McKenna's books, which were a shock to her belief system and moved her to question all that she believed about the nature of reality. Once the initial deconstruction was done, after months of painful self-inquiry, the last step was taken and the separate self was seen to be an illusion.

She started writing a blog, Marked, Eternal, where she shared thoughts about this newfound freedom and invited readers to look for themselves in their own experience.

In September 2011, the Liberation Unleashed website and forum was launched. Liberation Unleashed is a global community of guides helping seekers to see through the illusion of a separate self, free of charge.

Ilona’s main focus and work is inviting seekers to question their fundamental assumptions and look at their own experience. In this way, a seeker may see what is going on for themselves and resolve their own questions which leads to recognition of beingness. Ciunaite holds live and online meetings, she works with groups and privately.

Liberation Unleashed book was published in 2016 by New Harbinger publications and it is a lively, fresh, and moving account of the author’s own searching, liberation, and transformation, woven together with the stories of fellow seekers and a clear exposition of the simple, focused tools you can use to go through the “gateless gate.” With its conversational tone, provocative questions, and the presentation of the seven steps this book serves as a manual, demonstrating how to use self-inquiry at home and realize a blissful oneness.

So many of us go through life feeling isolated, searching for ourselves, or seeking a more authentic reality through religion, spirituality, or other, more unconventional means of expanding consciousness. Now, with this book and its guiding principles, you’ll learn how to look deeply into what is arising in the moment; meet the fears, mental blocks, and reservations that can arise in self-inquiry; and find what your heart is truly longing for.

To learn more about Ilona Ciunaite and her work please visit:

http://ilonaciunaite.com/

http://www.liberationunleashed.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLcPVrShTYx35n4vmHwLWBg

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Mandi Briggs, the author of Love + Gratitude Journal: A 20-Week Guide To Shifting Your Inner Dialogue.

Mandi Briggs is a life coach, yogi, and avid storyteller whose work inspires women across the globe to live a bold, brave, and authentic life. After 13+ years in corporate America, she set off on a brave adventure to transform her own life.

The adventure found her divorcing her husband, quitting her cushy job, and selling every possession she owned to travel solo around the world.

Her latest piece - love + gratitude journal - was inspired by her own transformational journey. Through published works, workshops, retreats, yoga classes, and individual coaching, she helps women gain clarity and confidence to take inspired action toward the life they desire. Helping people discover more joy and peace while realizing all that is possible lights her up! Mandi lives and works in Edmond, OK.

To learn more about Mandi Briggs and her work please visit: https://www.simplymandi.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

— “I learned how to transform my anger, resentment, and anxiety that was fueled by my own fear of what other people would think if they knew all of our story.  I started to lean into my emotions and stopped using my never ending To-Do lists to avoid feeling my anxiety.  I acknowledged and began asking for what I needed. I admitted to myself and others that neither my family nor I was perfect, and guess what…the more I leaned into discomfort, the more freedom from anxiety I felt.”

Valeria interviews Gina Nelson  — She is the author of  “Combating Teen Anxiety: Teen-Parent Communication Journal.”

Gina has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 2 decades and has spent the past 25 years of her career helping individuals and families learn to adapt and cope with difficult life transitions.

She is the creator of Combating Teen Anxiety; her proven 10-step method to reduce teen anxiety and give teens the skills to manage their emotions so that they can succeed in their future goals.  She created this parent and teen communication journal designed to give teens the language and tools to express themselves with their parents when conversations are difficult to discuss in person.

In addition to this journal and working with people in her private practice through online training programs, virtual coaching nationwide, and in person and online psychotherapy in California and Idaho, she also offers corporate workshops and keynote speaking. Her expertise is in teaching teens and adults to catch their anxiety before it gets out of control, and to practice owning, speaking, and releasing their emotions in a more productive way.

As a Certified EMDR Therapist, her specialized training helps decrease client’s negative beliefs that fuel their anxiety, and provide them with a new perspective. Her experience as a Certified Daring Way Facilitator™ encourages clients to embrace vulnerability as a necessary step for shame resilience and connection. 

Gina’s clinical expertise combined with her personal journey raising 3 kids through their challenges and her son’s gender transition, is what really helps her connect on a deeper level and transform the lives of her clients. When she’s not helping others, Gina loves adventuring in the great outdoors with family and friends.

To learn more about Gina Nelson and her work, please visit:  https://combatingteenanxiety.com/ and https://www.authenticgains.com/

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life through the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well. 

Valeria interviews Diann Higbee, the author of Clutter Free Living: The Complete Guide to Killing the Chaos, Organizing Your Space, and Simplifying Your life

Diann Higbee is also a speaker, and a transformational mentor who helps people live better lives by decluttering and organizing. 

Her book Clutter Free Living is an international best seller in 6 categories. She is currently in the process of launching her online program. The Secret Guide to Clutter Free Living.  She has helped hundreds of people find the value of beautifully decluttered and open spaces.

Diann is the Founder and CEO of Clutter Free Living. She is the insightful creator of the Blissful Home program. A unique and different 6-step program. An approach designed to get you through the decluttering process from start to finish, and more importantly to keep it organized.

She is also Co-Author of the book Limitless. She is a certified Belief Breakthrough Mentor helping people work through their limiting beliefs about physical, mental, and emotional clutter.

Diann and her husband Brent are the parents of nine amazing children and twenty grandchildren. They live in a beautiful home that at one time had a basement full of every kind of clutter.  After years of shuffling stuff, she developed a system that enabled her to declutter her basement and has been decluttering homes ever since. 

Diann has spent over 20 years as a Realtor and has seen hundreds of homes in every condition; from beautifully organized to chronically cluttered.  The organized homes sell quickly, and the cluttered ones do not sell. 

Diann is a professionally certified member of NAPO (National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals-) she is a member of the NAPO Virtual Chapter.  And (Utah Professional Organizers).

Personally, Diann enjoys being creative. She is an accomplished Oil, Pastel and Watercolor artist. She also welds creatively with metal and has a beautiful Water Gardening. But she is careful not to schedule too much at one time so as not to clutter her schedule and her ability to love her life.

To learn more about Diann Higbee please visit her website: https://www.clutterfreeliving.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Doug Garland, the author of The Tall Poppy Syndrome.

What do you think Tiger Woods, Benjamin Franklin, and Martha Stewart have in common?

The Tall Poppy Syndrome reveals much about a little known aspect of human nature.  TPS explains why so many of our hero's ultimately fall from grace.

Doug Garland has been studying the phenomenon for over 10 years after he experienced it firsthand in his own career. His work brings awareness and clarity to a hidden and often misunderstood human condition. Using both recent examples and case studies through history we can begin to better understand the emotional damage and challenges Tall Poppies face.

In this episode, you'll learn more about the Tall Poppy Syndrome and how it relates to bullying, jealousy, envy, resentment and schadenfreude.

Dr. Douglas Garland practiced orthopedic surgery for 37 years in Southern California. In addition to serving as Medical Director of a Total Joint Service for five years, he also served as chief of four service units including spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury at a nationally renowned rehabilitation center. Doug was also a Clinical Professor of Orthopedics at the University of Southern California.

To learn more about Doug Garland, please visit her website: https://douggarland.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Lisa Eve.

Lisa Eve is a powerful, multi-dimensional master healer, intuitive mentor, and spiritual teacher who has a passion for love, happiness, and travel. Having discovered her Spiritual connections and abilities while very young, she has embraced and nurtured them throughout her life.

Her first book, The Love Channel: Finding Your Way to Happiness, will help you answer these ageless questions: Who am I? Why am I here? What is my purpose in life?

Lisa Eve is the creator of The Happy Channel, a community for people to engage in activities and experiences that inspire. Inside this community, she shares resources related to her passions, including her love of writing, shopping, and adventure.

The Happy Channel Community inspired Lisa Eve to create a marketplace, RUBY8WEAVER, with unique, happy, and uplifting gifts.

To learn more about Lisa Eve and her work please visit: https://lisaeve.com/

https://www.Ruby8Weaver.com

https://thehappychannel.com/ 

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Dani Antman, the author of Wired for God: Adventures of a Jewish Yogi.

When the Judaism of her childhood doesn't satisfy Dani Antman's yearning for spiritual awakening, she embarks on a quest for a spiritual path. Dani finds herself immersed in the world of yoga, energy healing, and Kabbalah but her journey of inner transformation has only just begun.

A healing crisis, misplaced trust and a failed marriage, intensify her desire for a teacher who can lead her to self-realization. Her prayers are answered in the form of a realized adept, a Swami from the faraway shores of Rishikesh, India, who initiates her in his lineage of Kundalini Science, the study of the Divine force within every human being that is the initiator of spiritual growth

And so begins an incredible inner journey as Dani dedicates herself to a spiritual practice aimed at the redirection and completion of a challenging Kundalini process related to her Jewish past. Paradoxically, with the completion of her process she experiences a triumphant return to the religion of her birth.

Wired for God is the candid and compelling memoir of Dani Antman's spiritual journey from mystical Judaism through Kundalini Science and back again, told in a conversational and informal style. Her story gives inspiration and hope to all sincere seekers looking to make real spiritual progress and find their own unique spiritual path.

As an internationally known energy healer and interfaith minister in Santa Barbara, CA, Dani Antman has been at the forefront of energy medicine and healing since 1992, when she graduated from the Barbara Brennan School of Healing.  Dani was a senior teacher at The School for Nondual Healing and Awakening for over nine years, and has led workshops at the Esalen Institute, La Casa de Maria, and The Lionheart Institute for Transpersonal Energy Healing. Dani has advanced training in working with PTSD and trauma. Dani is the author of Wired for God, Adventures of a Jewish Yogi, a memoir of spiritual awakening. She is also dedicated to helping others progress on their spiritual path, and currently offers Spiritual Awakening Support Groups via Zoom.

To learn more about Dani Antman and her work please visit: https://daniantman.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Julianna Quijano.

Julianna Quijano plays many roles in this life as a multidimensional empathic being, a mother, a wife, a woman of many nationalities and a TRANSFORMATIONAL GUIDE who lovingly assists and empowers others emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually. She incorporates various tools, tips and techniques that organically guide individuals to re-ascend their consciousness and support their inner landscape to Awareness.

Her transformational techniques reawaken our natural abilities to sensate and integrate energies and emotions in soft, gentle frequencies. Julianna embodies a love for nature that is creatively integrated in her transformations. She considers her sessions to be experiential, bringing about a playful, light - hearted energy in intimate supportive group and private settings. The entire experience is filled with curiosity and joy as she guides individuals to discover deeper breath, existence, consciousness and the reemergence of our true DIVINE ESSENCE.

Julianna's offerings nurture the whole being with SELF LOVE and a compassionate heart core essence. She openly shares her challenges and obstacles in childhood and adulthood that ultimately led to her unique gifts of transformation.

For more than 20 years, Julianna has been exploring the infinite potentials of the metaphysical, spiritual and holistic health industries. She is rediscovering the art and magic of shamanism, angelic energy healing, crystals, DNA and cellular reprogramming, light language, Reiki, yoga, meditation, and more.

She chooses to observe life with a wide-open compassionate heart and expansive awareness.

Julianna's highest intent is to transform and reintegrate the purest version of CONSCIOUSNESS while energetically balancing and harmonizing LIFE IN ITS INFINITE FLOW FOR ALL.

To learn more about Julianna Quijano and her work please visit: https://juliannaquijano.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Natalie Hoerner, the author of Gratitude: A Journal of the Heart.

In the creation of her journal, Natalie discovered firsthand how gratitude plays a major role in creating a happier and healthier life.

Her Journal of the Heart is a wonderful way to capture the incredible gift gratitude brings into our lives. By recognizing all we are grateful for, our senses open up to appreciate the fullness and beauty of life, even in the hardest of times. This is a special invitation to let the miracles unfold!

Natalie Hoerner is the founder of Gifts of Gratitude. Natalie has come to understand and appreciate what it means to live a life of passion and purpose through her professional training and life experiences.

She's a certified and licensed in Positive Psychology, the study of what makes people happy, through the Whole Being Institute. Natalie studied under renowned Harvard Professor, Tal Ben-Sharar, and is licensed in facilitating the Inspire Your Ideal Workshop. 

She also received training at the Sedona Women’s Institute to facilitate workshops and retreats for women.

Her mission is for her efforts to serve as a beacon of light, hope, love and peace in the world.

To learn more about Natalie Hoerner and her work please visit: https://www.gifts-of-gratitude.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Leonard Jacobson, the author of Journey into Now: Clear Guidance on the Path of Spiritual Awakening

Mystic, author and teacher, Leonard Jacobson, is deeply committed to helping others break through to the joyous experience of living in the Now. For almost 40 years, he has been sharing a direct path to Awakening, which is infused with love, compassion, and truth.

Leonard teaches how to become fundamentally present and awaken into the truth of who you are, the truth of life, the truth of love and the truth of Oneness. His teaching is about coming back to yourself in a full and complete way, so that you no longer lose yourself in others, or in your story. It's about coming into right relationship with every aspect of who you have become.

Leonard is the founder of The Conscious Living Foundation, a registered non-profit organization. In 2005, he was awarded the Peace Prize by Religious Science International, although he is not affiliated or associated with any religion or church. His teaching is both inclusive of, and transcendent of, all religions and spiritual traditions. It is for all those genuinely seeking to awaken, and for all those who want to overcome the pain and limitations of the past, and open into a more loving and abundant world.

Leonard is the author of five books, Words from Silence, Journey into Now, Embracing the Present, Bridging Heaven & Earth and In Search of the Light, a winner of the Indie Children’s book award. Journey into Now has been translated into eight different languages.

He lives Wayzata, Minnesota and offers regular teaching sessions, workshops, and longer residential retreats in the United States, Europe, Australia and Asia.

To learn more about Leonard Jacobson please visit hiswebsite: https://www.leonardjacobson.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Michele Rae the author of Living from the Center Within: Co-creating Who You are Becoming.

Living From the Center Within is a highly engaging, interactive, informative and accessible journey toward higher consciousness. Moving from personal pain and lacking to abundance and wholeness is possible. Living From the Center Within helps readers center, quiet and open the mind-body-heart. Using the wisdom of ancient teaching and modern science, invitations to daily transformative practice and reflection questions, Rae walks with readers through three levels of human consciousness. Expanding awareness, focusing attention and clarifying intention brings people to their center within.

Michele Rae is a Transformational Coach and Spiritual Teacher. She is the founder of The Center Within, LLC, author of Living From the Center Within: Co-Creating Who You Are Becoming, and graduate faculty at the University of Minnesota in 3 colleges. As an intuitive, Michele provides guidance navigating the transformative shift we are individually and collectively engaged in as we expand our access to higher consciousness. Her passion is supporting individuals and service groups choosing timelines that have the most positive outcomes for themselves and the greater collective. She delights as clients and students step more fully into their power and release what no longer serves while creating a life they love personally and professionally.

To learn more about Michele or for questions, please email her at Michele@CenterWithin.com, call her 612-465-9775 or visit: https://centerwithin.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Growth comes from letting go of what is not you. So much of what you seek can be acquired by actively removing those things that no longer serve you.

Are you mindful of what keeps you anchored in your past? Are you resilient to life, so you can continue to be you regardless of what is happening?

Happiness comes from peace. Bliss and joy come from being who you are. If you want to float in the joy of life, cut away those things that weigh you down. By weeding your garden, you’ll find the flowers that were always there. – says Alfred Ricci

Valeria interviews Alfred.

Rising from the ashes and harnessing the power of his early years — living in shelters, a group home, and a foster home while attending six high schools in four years — Alfred Ricci knows how even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.

Alfred made a conscious choice not to let his past dictate who he became. A double major in economics and business led to a MBA from the University of California and a career in international banking. Alfred used mindfulness and resilience practices to conquer suicidal thoughts while managing the massive stress of corporate work in over 20 countries. His mission is to share the necessary skills to thrive in traumatic work environments.

Alfred Ricci has 10+ years of teaching personal development workshops, including methods to release severe stress.

To learn more about Alfred Ricci and his work please visit: https://www.alfredricci.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Andrew G. Marshall a marital therapist and author who offers straightforward advice for creating successful and fulfilling relationships. Getting the most out of love needs skills and the good news is that these skills can be taught.

If there is a critical voice in your head which not only runs you down but makes it hard to accept praise from work colleagues, friends, or family, Andrew’s work will help you make peace with yourself and the world around you. Unlike many programs for boosting self-esteem, Andrew not just treat the symptoms but go to the root causes of your negative messages and show how to make peace with the past.

In this way, you will not only learn how to challenge that little voice in your head but replace it with something kinder, more understanding, and loving. Most importantly, by improving your relationship with yourself, you will improve all your relationships. So that if you’re looking for love, you will start attracting people who’ll treat you better (rather than play games) and if you’re in a loving relationship, it will become more equal and balanced.

It is a common piece of advice - you’ve heard it a million times on T.V. talk shows and from friends and family: ‘You’ve got to love yourself before you can love anybody else.’ There are also variations on this theme like ‘If you don’t hold yourself in high regard nobody else will’ and ‘Loving yourself is the greatest love of all.’

In fact, we’ve heard this basic idea packaged in so many ways, so many times that we tend to switch off and carry on as normal. But what would our lives be like if we did at least like ourselves? Wouldn’t everything be easier and certainly more enjoyable, if we weren’t so self-critical? We’d start standing up for ourselves, stop friends or work colleagues taking advantage. When looking for love, we’d make better choices or when we’d found a partner not let him or her walk all over us. Unlike a lot of other obvious truths, there is real nugget of wisdom in the idea of loving ourselves. So why haven’t we taken the advice on board?

From time to time, Andrew does meet people who seem to have a very high opinion of themselves. “I’m only been attracted to really handsome men,” said Charlotte, forty-two when she arrived in Andrew’s counseling office, ‘unfortunately they’ve all known just how gorgeous they were.’ As he took down her relationship history, Charlotte peppered her conversations with examples of just how much she loved herself - ‘I’m used to a lot of attention’ - or had been loved: ‘He absolutely adored me and would have done anything for me.’ Twenty-five years of counseling has taught me that how something appears on the surface and the reality underneath are often very different.

At first sight, Charlotte did seem confident and up-front. However, she felt a little brittle as if the slightest setback or anything beyond 100 percent approval, and she would start to crumble. She had come into counseling because despite being able to attract plenty of men, she could not keep any that she truly wanted (and did not seem to want the ones that wanted her). The more Andrew got to know Charlotte, the more he realized that she was swinging from high to low self-esteem - with nothing much in the middle.

Andrew G Marshall is a marital therapist and author of twenty self-help books on relationships. His most famous book are 'I love you but I'm not in love with you', 'How can I ever trust you again' and 'Learn to love yourself enough'. You can follow him on twitter at andrewgmarshall and like him on Facebook Andrew G Marshall - Therapy.  He is based in Berlin where he has a busy private practice and he leads a group of therapists based in London. 

To learn more about Andrew G. Marshall please visit his website: https://andrewgmarshall.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

Life is a gift...

Life is a test...

Life is temporary assignment.... 

~ Rick Warren author of The Purpose Driven Life

Valeria interviews Jason Erickson  — He currently works as a DOD Contractor and retired from the US Navy as a Master Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician after 25 years of service.

He is certified as a Pain Free Performance Instructor, National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Trainer.

He is the CEO of Warrior Swimwear a Veteran Owned swimwear company based out of Destin Florida and has a gym startup named Forge Gym. He also helps coaching clients through his IG account Jay Bone Fit. He coaches mindset, nutrition, and fitness.

To learn more about Jason Erickson and his work, please visit: https://warriorswim.co/ and https://www.instagram.com/jaybonefit/

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life through the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well. 

“A new paradigm is on our doorstep! Having the tools to navigate through the ‘new normal’ for a successful, fulfilling and prosperous life, is now possible with my practice of Connecting, the next level in self-help, the step beyond meditation.” Indira Dyal-Dominguez

Valeria interviews Indira!

For many years Indira’s mind was on a journey of it’s own, telling her that she couldn’t be who she wanted to be and keeping her from her own calling.  She went from job to job, stayed in relationships that didn’t serve her – all because she didn’t want to be alone, and continued to listen to what her mind was telling her she needed to do to be happy and satisfied and fulfilled. 

As a result, she lost herself and life had no meaning. With no where to go she finally turned towards the answers found from within the Self.

She began Connecting – Connect, Listen, Trust, Act – 4 steps that gave her direct access to her Self on demand. It was here that the answers and guidance, unique to her arose, unfolding a life that changed every aspect of her life. Relationships, career, health and wellbeing, living her purpose, experiencing each day from the ‘inner knowing’ of her BIG self.

With her 4 step Method of Connect, Listen, Trust, Act she eliminated stress, anxiety, concern, worry and fear as a way of living. Each day the actions that came from her Self, provided a pathway for what was needed, to move her life towards what brought her the most joy, real peace and a sense of inner contentment.

She discovered that in order to live our lives from a place of true purpose and fulfillment we must first place our faith in ourselves; most importantly - The Self.

We have entered a new paradigm, where everything we know about how to be successful has changed! From the Mind you will go down the same old pathways that you know hoping for different results. Discover the Power of the Self during these unprecedented times, in living with real freedom, as you release the mind to Connect, Listen, Trust, Act from your Self.  Indira

Her online programs and memberships are specifically designed to access this part of you, your Self, so that you can change any area of your life beyond what you thought was possible.

To learn more about Indira Dyal-Dominguez and her work please visit: https://indiralife.com/

Click here for her 30 day Free Trial #beyondmeditation Challenge, please visit: https://indiralife.com/beyond-meditation-challenge

Choose an area and in 30 days you’ll see the change you want for yourself

Watch Indira’s Beyond Meditation Video:

https://youtu.be/GLs-RJINh3c

BOOK LINK

https://rb.gy/komeor

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Julie Rayburn, the author of Peace in the Storms of Life: Devotional Encouragement for Women.

Have you ever felt as though the waves of life are crashing over you? I have. In those deep valleys of desperation, my soul has cried out to the deep things of God. He has met me there and spoken truth to bring peace to my heart. It seems that my ears are more attuned to hear God when I am in the storms of life. In those deep places, He reveals spiritual truth.

Walking through trials and hardships is extremely difficult. Yet the storms in my life have proven to be pivotal times of spiritual growth as I have clung to the Lord for peace and strength. My desire is to pass on what the Lord has taught me in hopes that you also might be encouraged by God’s Word. These devotionals and questions reflect God’s challenges to my own heart. Unfortunately, some of my storms have been of my own making. As you meditate on scripture and reflect upon the questions after each devotional, I hope you will journal your thoughts and personal reflections. Go through this journal alone or with a group. Take your time as you cry out to Him from the depths of your soul. God will be faithful to meet you in those deep waters.

Julie Rayburn is a Christian author and speaker. Her passion is to encourage and inspire the application of biblical truth. Her last book, Be Still and Know: 365 Days of Hope and Encouragement for Women, was inspired by a journal that her mother kept the last year of her life. Peace in the Storms of Life was birthed from Julie’s own life experiences. Jesus was the calm in the center of her storms. As she called to Him from the depths of her soul, He answered. These devotionals are the spiritual insights she gleaned as she clung to biblical truth and listened to the Lord. She hopes that her readers will experience the peace that passes all understanding as they meditate on God’s Word in the storms of life.

Julie has served as teaching director and area director for Community Bible Study (CBS). Currently, she and her husband, Scott, are serving as CBS ambassadors to Nepal. She is also on the CBS Board of Trustees. Julie is a retired surgical orthopedic nurse. She enjoys tennis, golf, and gardening. Scott and Julie have two grown children and four grandchildren. They reside in the Atlanta area.

To learn more about Julie Rayburn, please visit her website: https://julierayburn.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Annika Jende.

Annika has always been passionate about empowering others to live their highest potential, to express their unique gift and add their unique light to the world.

In order for people to be able to do this, they need to be healthy, and Annika was attracted to natural health from an early age. She graduated as a chiropractor in ‘95 and still practices chiropractic and applied kinesiology.

She has written the book “Passion to Thrive” and also offers both group and private sessions to release unhelpful subconscious beliefs and replace them with helpful ones – the one modality that has sustainably created change in her own life for the better.

Annika was born in Denmark, and has lived in Spain, Germany, England, Scotland and now lives in regional Australia with her husband and her dog.

To learn more about Annika Jende and her work please visit: https://www.annikajende.com.au/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Becoming Love is Nicola Van Dyke lifestyle choice. It is a way of living and loving. Loving yourself, others and this beautiful universe we exist within. Her aim is that through Becoming Love you will feel happier, more balanced and healthier. By learning to love yourself fully, you will allow more love into your life, have reverence for others and feel a sense of belonging in the world.

Becoming Love™ is a book and a gateway to an audio album of guided meditations. It leads us to a place of emotional peace. Becoming Love™ assists us in making profound changes to our feelings of happiness and belonging in the world. We experience how to find complete self-love, and through unlocking this treasure we find reverence for others. Each chapter guides us through a thought process and a call to action, using inspirational ideas and absorbing information. At each step, there are exercises to complete which allows us to address feelings and beliefs we might have.

The mentorship program supports those who want one-2-one interaction to access more self love, love for others or a more loving spiritual connection - or all of these. It includes personal sessions with me, continuous email support, guided meditations and exercises with my one-2-one guidance. The workshop is an intensive two day retreat style approach to assisting clients to find a deep divine love within them for themselves, humanity and to feel their sense of meaning and purpose on a spiritual level. It includes, group and individual exercises, discussions and meditation.

The bi-weekly radio show Becoming Love aims to inspire and offers you motivational and up-lifting ideas and stories. Each show  is interactive and I share guidance from the Becoming Love creative initiative. Each show may include group or one-2-one live healing sessions, meditations, discussions as well as information and inspirational ideas.

The online courses, of which the first, The Divine Art of Self-Love, is almost ready to launch, expand the ideas within the book to assist you in clear steps to find the love you are seeking and being able to receive it. Nicola is really excited about this arm of the creative initiative as it allows for people to go as profoundly deep as they choose to at their own pace with guidance.

Her aim for the whole Becoming Love project is that everyone could say with confidence:

''Here I stand. I see you. I see where you stand, and I love you.''

Valeria interviews Nicola Van Dyke.

Nicola Van Dyke is a life coach and mentor, an author and a presenter, and she specializes in the ThetaHealing technique to support people worldwide in making changes to their lives.

Nicola is committed to assisting people in becoming their authentic selves, and co-creating the life they wish for and deserve. She specializes in guiding people on a journey of self-acceptance, self-wisdom and Becoming Love™.

She is a personal mentor. She runs a number of specific mentorship programs as well as offering single sessions.

Nicola loves to work with people over time to witness miracles in their lives; to share their profound changes spiritually, physically, and emotionally. She is honored to have worked alongside each and every one of you.

Her journey to date has led me to creating Becoming Love. She truly believes that she came here to learn about complete love and to guide others to loving themselves, those around them, the network of humanity and our beautiful planet.

Nicola also hosts a radio show called Becoming Love™, which encompasses all of my ideology and through discussions, live readings & healings, guided meditations and practical advice, inspires and encourages a global audience.

She has a global client base and travel extensively teaching seminars and workshops around our wonderful planet. She love to coach. I am passionate about showing people how to love each other, themselves, their life and this beautiful universe we exist within.

Her educational background includes a First class honors degree (BSc) in Business from the University of Aston and a Post Graduate degree in Education with distinction from Southampton University.

Nicola is a professional life coach and intuitive healer. She has a Diploma in Life Coaching with distinction and she is a Certificate of Science ThetaHealing® Instructor. She is has been fortunate to have been trained by and to have assisted Vianna Stibal, the founder of the ThetaHealing® technique and to have trained with Christina High, creator of Crystal Viewing for the Soul.

To learn more about Nicola Van Dyke please visit his website: https://nicolavandyke.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

A question that Marianne Michaels is asked over and over again is, “Why in my time of need do I not feel the spirit of my loved one watching over me?” — Marianne’s answer is that your loved ones are watching over you and you can receive verification that they are trying to connect. Her focus is to allow you to receive their messages.

All souls have a spectrum of frequencies or what we call vibrations. Even while in the physical body, you can work on raising the frequency of your soul. As you raise the frequency of your soul, you will easily join with the higher frequency in which the spirit of your loved one dwells. How to raise your vibrational frequency? Have an open mind, a mind that is free from fear, judgment and, most of all, an agenda. Surrender in prayer. Stop trying to control what you believe the outcome should be. Fill your thoughts with trust, peace, joy, love and acceptance. Stop the mental fight and surrender the outcome to a higher power. As if you were drowning, stop struggling and allow yourself to float. And as you float, be grateful that the struggle is over, and in this state of bliss, the communication will happen. As you practice this form of surrender, not only your mind but your whole being will be filled with the essence of your loved one.

As your frequency starts to change, you will begin to see the world around you in an uplifting way, and you will attract people with the same vibration. Together you will become a support system of hope. When this happens, you will start to view the world as if you were viewing it from Spirit. The gates of communication will open, and you will truly know that you have connected with your loved one’s spirit.

When Marianne was writing her book Healing the Heart of Grief, she was fortunate to meet the spirit of a horse named Danny. Throughout the year he has given her many wonderful messages.

Here is one she shares: “As a horse in life, I experienced fear and confinement. Not that humans ever meant me harm, it was just their way to keep me safe. What I have learned in spirit from my wild Mustang brothers is that I had the choice to look at my confined box and my small, grassed area as my endless world. If only at that time I had had the wisdom of my wild brothers… but instead I learned only the constrictions of mere survival. As I now run free in my heavenly pastures, I realize this is what life was supposed to be. My pastures were always endless, and my joy and excitement were the search for my next blade of grass. Remember the teachings of the wild brothers and that you too can run free. When you open your mind, you will no longer be in that confined box.”

Valeria interviews Marianne.

Marianne Michaels' journey as a spiritual medium began at a young age. “Every time I told my mother that I was visited by someone in a dream, she made me go through the family photo album to see if I could recognize the person. My intuitive gift was accepted and nurtured in the home,” she writes.

The tragic death of her older brother when she was just five only confirmed her path.

In her latest book, Healing the Heart of Grief, Marianne draws on her lifetime of experience communicating with spirits to describe how it feels to die, who meets us, and what it is like on the other side. She gives us a new understanding of death, a realization that our loved ones are always near, and a guide to living.

To learn more about Marianne Michaels please visit his website: https://mariannemichaels.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

The Invitation

It doesn't interest me what you do for a living.

I want to know what you ache for,

and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing.

It doesn't interest me how old you are.

I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dreams, for the adventure of being alive.

It doesn't interest me what planets are squaring your moon.

I want to know if you have touched the center of your own sorrow, if you have been opened by life's betrayals

or have become shriveled and closed from fear of further pain.

I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own,

without moving to hide it or fade it, or fix it.

I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own,

if you can dance with wildness and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, to be realistic, to remember the limitations of being human.

It doesn't interest me if the story you are telling me is true.

I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself;

if you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul; If you can be faithless and therefore trustworthy.

I want to know if you can see beauty even when it's not pretty, every day, and if you can source your own life from its presence.

I want to know if you can live with failure, yours and mine, and still stand on the edge of the lake and shout to the silver of the full moon, "Yes!"

It doesn't interest me to know where you live or how much money you have.

I want to know if you can get up, after a night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone, and do what needs to be done to feed the children.

It doesn't interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the center of the fire with me and not shrink back.

It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied.

I want to know what sustains you, from the inside, when all else falls away.

I want to know if you can be alone with yourself

and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments.

— by Oriah from her book THE INVITATION.

Valeria interviews Lisa McCourt, the author of Juicy Joy: 7 Simple Steps to Your Glorious, Gutsy Self.

Lisa McCourt has taught a consciousness-raising tool called Clarity Presence for over two decades to thousands of seekers across the country. Incorporating the techniques she’s learned from studying with and writing for many of the biggest names in the transformation world, her group and private sessions provide the most effective, streamlined processes available for accessing and maintaining consistent, authentic joy and inner peace—processes backed by hundreds of scientific studies demonstrating substantial increases in health, cognitive function, self-esteem, stress-reduction, and emotional competence. Lisa founded The Love Shack, a live-event community of seekers and sharers of love-based wisdom, and she is also a bestselling author and ghostwriter specializing in the field of personal transformation. Her joyful passion for the power of words has propelled a diverse publishing career studded with industry awards, starred reviews, international honors, and mega-sales.

On the secret side of Lisa’s publishing path, she’s been the silent ghostwriter for many prominent thought-leaders, from New York Times bestselling authors to Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated Hollywood stars. Protected by ironclad confidentiality, her clients have appeared on Oprah, Good Morning America, Saturday Night Live, The Dr. Oz Show, ABC’s 20/20, The View, The TODAY Show, Dr. Phil, The Doctors, and The Nancy Grace Show, as well as on stages all over the world. Lisa has also penned over forty books in her own name, including I Love You, Stinky Face, the longstanding bestseller that Publisher’s Weekly called a “modern classic.” Together, her books have sold over eight million copies.

For over two decades, Lisa has shared her Clarity Presence technique on stages around the world. A former popular CBS Radio host and a frequent speaker at both writing conferences and self-growth events, she brings her passion and unique blend of skill-sets to an eclectic career path that is ever mysteriously unfolding, just the way she likes it.

To learn more about Lisa McCourt please visit her website: http://www.lisamccourt.com

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

Valeria interviews Dr. Laurie Mintz, the author of Becoming Cliterate: Why Orgasm Equality Matters--And How to Get It

In Becoming Cliterate, psychology professor and human sexuality expert Dr. Laurie Mintz exposes the broader cultural problem that's perpetuating this gap, and what we can do about it. Pulling together evidence from biology, sociology, linguistics, and sex therapy into one comprehensive, accessible, and prescriptive book, Becoming Cliterate features:

— Cultural & historical analysis of female orgasm (spoiler: the problem's been going on for ages)

— An anatomy section (it's all custom under the hood)

— Proven techniques for cliterate sex (it starts with training the sex organ between your ears)

— A comprehensive final chapter for men (because you don't have to have a clitoris to be cliterate)

By dispelling the lies, misunderstandings, and myths that have been holding us back, Becoming Cliterate tackles both personal and political problems and replaces them with updated outlooks and practical skills needed to change our collective perspective on sex. It's time to finally inform women and men on how to have satisfying experiences in bed that benefit both parties.

The revolution is cuming--and Becoming Cliterate offers a radical, simple solution to progress and pleasure for all.

Dr. Laurie Mintz is an award-winning college professor. She currently teaches Psychology of Human Sexuality to hundreds of students a year at the University of Florida and has had over 20 years of experience working with private clients on sexual issues.

Dr. Mintz has received numerous professional awards, and is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association. She has published over 50 research studies, writes a Psychology Today blog and has been quoted in many outlets, including Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, Prevention, Women’s Health, Men’s Health, CNN.com, Oprah.com and The Huffington Post.

To learn more about Dr. Laurie Mintz, please visit her website: https://www.drlauriemintz.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Love, no matter what.

All the way through.

Meet with courage

Storms and challenges

That strengthen you.

Rise in heavenly glories

And gentle winds

That lift your soul.

Love, no matter what,

Whether you are crowned and praised

By cheering crowds

Or stoned and hanged

On this world’s cross.

Love, no matter what,

Through gain and loss

In this life’s play,

For Love will make you shine.

You are that blazing light

In which no shadow can exist,

And Truth just is.

Love, no matter what,

For no reason

But for the sake of Love.

Your heart, beloved, is big enough! — Love, No Matter What poem by Nicola Amadora.

Valeria interviews Dr. Nicola, the author of Love Unleashed: How to rise in a World on the Edge

Dr. Nicola Amadora is a contemporary Spiritual Teacher, Author, Public Speaker, Psychologist and Founder of Living Connection. She guides spiritual retreats for groups, personal therapy and professional trainings for 30 years internationally. She is a frequent speaker at SAND and various conferences in the USA and Europe. Nicola provides a unique depth of experience, ability and knowledge for the spiritual path of awakening, healing, relating and embodiment to turn lives around and to make a difference in our world. She is the author of “Nothing but love” and her forthcoming book: “Love unleashed- How to rise in a world on the edge”.

To learn more about Dr. Nicola Amadora, please visit her website: https://www.nicolaamadora.com

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Sharon Butler, the author of Conquering Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Other Repetitive Strain Injuries: A Self-Care Program

Sharon’s work offers a complete self-care program for those at risk and those already suffering from one of the most common and most debilitating occupational injuries. Guided by symptom charts, you select the best exercises for the movement patterns required by your work and learn how to restore the range of motion to overworked hands and arms.

Sharon Butler and is a Certified Hellerwork Practitioner with over 32 years experience working with people suffering from all kinds of soft tissue injuries. She has always been fascinated by the structure of the human body and the injuries that develop as a result of poor posture or stressful movement habits.

Hellerwork emphasizes the body’s natural ability to heal itself when good posture and alignment is restored. During a Hellerwork session, the practitioner manually stretches adhered, tight and restricted connective tissue to restore it to a more normal state. Then, the client is taught how to maintain good posture through how they use their body, a form of ergonomics. Clients are also encouraged to discover how their attitudes, beliefs, and stress patterns affect their posture. Hellerwork is a terrific program of self discovery and healing.

In 1991, Sharon became injured with bilateral Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Because of her understanding of how the body works when it's injured, she was able to fully heal herself within a matter of weeks.

Based on Sharon’s Hellerwork background, she was determined to develop a system of effective stretches and other body awareness techniques so that anyone, anywhere could experience relief from their symptoms. Her ultimate goal was to create comprehensive and easy to follow programs that help RSI sufferers feel better fast, and make those programs accessible to anyone in the world.  

To learn more about Sharon Butler, please visit her website: https://www.selfcare4rsi.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

“I trust what my heart tells me because the essence of my life, the soul of me, is what never changes.”

There are certain things I want to tell my nieces and my grandnieces before I check out. Maybe they already know. They are all a lot smarter than I will ever be. But along with the title of “crazy old auntie” has come some wisdom. Okay, dear nieces, one and all, here is my list. Take note:

LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO HATE YOUR THIGHS. No one ever got smarter or kinder because of the size of their thighs. Please try to remember that you are a human being and not a chicken part.

LIFE IS NOT AIRBRUSHED. For about twenty seconds when you are nineteen years old, you have perfectly flawless skin and great hair. This is just before you start to age by advertis- ing standards. Screw advertising standards! The lines in your face and on your hands will tell you more about character and substance than unlined skin or silky hair. And trust me, only women in shampoo commercials have hair that silky. The rest of us either have mouse fur or horse manes that no amount of the right shampoo can change. But I digress, so I’ll repeat: life is not airbrushed. It’s not supposed to be. It’s full of flaws, imperfections, and messiness. If your life doesn’t contain these three elements, then you are not really living.

LIFE IS NOT NEARLY AS FUN, POLITE, OR SMILING AS WHAT’S POSTED ON FACEBOOK. Social media is not reality. No one smiles that way with their husband, their partner, their boss, or their friends all the time. In reality people sneer, stare, space out, and chew with their mouths open. Be real. Be vulnerable. Be authentic and be yourself . . . and don’t waste too much time on social media.

YOUR WEIGHT IS NOT A GAUGE OF YOUR WORTH, AND NEITHER IS YOUR BANK BALANCE. You are a lovable, pre- cious, beautiful woman, and it’s the contents of your heart that matters. Assess yourself and others by that single factor—the contents of heart—and you can never go wrong.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO SPEAK UP AND BE FIRST. You don’t always have to take the smallest portion or sit in the aisle seat instead of next to the window. Claim the drumstick at Thanksgiving. Don’t always tell people “It’s okay” when your feelings get hurt. Take the time for self-care. Believe me, your family will not starve or wither away because you took the time to nurture your own self. You don’t always have to come last.

NEVER STOP READING. Fill your head and your heart with adventures and history, with fantasy and tales. Learn some- thing new every day. It keeps us young.

DON’T FREAK OUT ABOUT GETTING OLD. It doesn’t have to be life’s buzzkill. Instead, make sure you eat well—yes, that means vegetables—and get outside and exercise every day. This is what really makes a difference when you push past the half-century mark.

BE A SISTER TO ALL WOMEN. We are alive in a country at a time when women’s rights can never be taken for granted. Let’s make sure that we always advocate for women’s empowerment and commit to helping other women, not judging them.

PRACTICE GRATITUDE EVERY DAY. Life is shorter than we think. We demonstrate that we love life by celebrating it. It’s a total cliché, but that’s because it’s so true: make the time to dance, sing, and, most of all, laugh.

KNOW THAT I LOVE YOU. May your life be rich with love and goodwill, and may you never forget your crazy old auntie. I will keep you close in my heart forever. — Writes Stephanie Raffelock in her book: A Delightful Little Book on Aging

Valeria interviews Stephanie Raffelock - A graduate of Naropa University’s program in Writing and Poetics, she has penned articles for numerous publications, including The Aspen Times, The Rogue Valley Messenger, Nexus Magazine, Omaha Lifestyles, Care2.com and SixtyandMe.com. A recent transplant to Austin, Texas Stephanie enjoys life with her husband, Dean and their Labrador retriever, Jeter (yes, named after the great Yankee shortstop).

To learn more about Stephanie Raffelock please visit her website: https://stephanieraffelock.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— “The first step required to change something is to bring awareness to it. Then we can bring some choice around how we act. There is a lot of unconscious shame around our ‘disavowed’ Feminine qualities and longing to reconnect to something we often can’t even name. By naming ‘it’, normalizing the experience and understanding that this is part of the heroine’s journey, we can start to release that shame and empower ourselves to take action to reclaim our ‘full’ femininity.”

Valeria interviews Nathalie Cordell — She is an accredited transformational coach with an MA in Psychosynthesis leadership and organizational coaching.

After a 20+-year successful career in a global pharmaceutical company, she now runs her own business (Cordell Coaching), as a coach and facilitator.

She is passionate about helping professional women in midlife reclaim their feminine wisdom and power so they can blossom into their full authentic self-expression.

Her thesis, ‘The wounded feminine’, explores how the imbalance we see in the world reflects our systematic devaluation of feminine qualities and how restoring the balance starts with doing our own inner work.

To learn more about Nathalie Cordell and her work, please visit: https://www.cordellcoaching.com/

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life through the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well. 

Dr. Carrie Freeman was widowed right before her thirtieth birthday, in 2001, just a few weeks after September 11th. She was married to a loving guy, Dave, who died during a stem-cell transplant at age thirty-one during his second bout with cancer—he first had bone cancer, followed by leukemia. They met in a kung fu class and were together in Florida for six years (married for two of them), and our only kids were cats.

While Dr. Carrie was mourning, she used every resource and tactic she could to help her cope: books, individual therapy, group therapy through hospice, friends, meditation and yoga, time in nature, exercise, uplifting music, funny movies, nutritious food, baths, tea, dark chocolate, and eventually antidepressants. She recommends we do it all; whatever it takes to help us.

Dr. Carrie also used journaling as a form of personal therapy and still do more than a dozen years later. The good thing about writing our thoughts in a journal is the privacy it offers – we can be completely candid with no one to judge us, and no one for us to bore, because we can choose to go over tedious or repetitious thoughts as many times as we want or need to. With a journal, we are free to express just how bad we really feel, without worrying our friends, family, and coworkers.

However, the point of Dr. Carrie Freeman’s work is not just to purge but to progress. The Widow’s Journal: Questions to Guide You through Grief and Life Planning after the Loss of a Partner is your comforting space for personal therapy and expression.

It’s also a guided planning process—a sanctuary for us to determine what we really care about, what we want, how we can bounce back to experience joy again, and what we should do to make our lives meaningful in this new and unexpected chapter after losing our life partner.

Unlike many books on grief, The Widow’s Journal doesn’t tell us what we should do or feel, and it isn’t a memoir or collection of other people’s stories. Instead, similar to a workbook, it asks you relevant, frank, and provoking questions so we can better clarify and understand what we are feeling. Sometimes it lets us wallow, but primarily it asks us how we can better cope and take care of yourself, how we want to interact with others (including potentially dating again), how we want to commemorate our loved one, how we want to live our new life, how we can find meaning and purpose by helping others, what we regret, and what we appreciate.

Valeria interviews Dr. Carrie P. Freeman — A lifelong journaler, she used her personal writing to help deal with the loss— and ultimately created The Widow’s Journal, a valuable tool for others experiencing the heartbreak of losing a partner. After being widowed, Dr. Freeman channeled her energy toward earning a Master’s in Media Studies from University of Georgia (2004), followed by a doctorate in Communication & Society from University of Oregon (2008). Studying media ethics, social movement advocacy, environmental communication, and animal media studies, she has presented her work at conferences worldwide and authored numerous scholarly journal articles and books as an Associate Professor of Communication at Georgia State University in Atlanta. She previously worked in human resources, focused on professional development and personal growth training in Florida (her native state). At the four universities she has been affiliated with, she has been active in animal protection student group leadership (and even in the founding of several of those groups). She has also volunteered for a decade as a radio host on Radio Free Georgia, producing weekly shows on animal and environmental protection topics at the community radio station down the block from her apartment in Atlanta, where she lives with her dog Elliott, surrounded by stacks of books, too many pillows, random antiques, and photos of her many travels prior to the pandemic. In her free time, she enjoys nature walks, dog parks, writing, travel photography, comedy programming, playing board games, and sketching tiny house and treehouse designs. From her porch, she and her dog both enjoy watching squirrels, birds, and chipmunks, but for different reasons.

To learn more about Dr. Carrie Freeman please visit her website: https://www.thewidowsjournal.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

Valeria interviews Mache Seibel, the author of The Estrogen Fix: The Breakthrough Guide to Being Healthy, Energized, and Hormonally Balanced.

With groundbreaking research and an exciting new theory that will change the way women look at hormone replacement therapy for years of substantially improved health, happiness, and quality of life, The Estrogen Fix is a must-have book for every woman over 40.

Dr. Mache Seibel, one of the leading doctors in women’s health and menopause, proves that every woman has an ideal time to more safely begin estrogen replacement. When administered at this time, referred to as “the estrogen window,” estrogen can lower your risk for breast cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, osteoporosis, and more while minimizing your symptoms.

Offering hope, expertise, and concrete solutions to a rectifiable problem, The Estrogen Fix is the definitive book on hormonal health for women. If estrogen has you confused or worried, if you are toughing it out because it seems too complicated to figure it out, if your doctors are reluctant to treat you and your symptoms are making your life a challenge, Dr. Seibel’s work is for you.

Dr. Mache Seibel is a leading expert who helps women in menopause feel better so they can have more control of their life, their work and their relationships. He is a member of the Harvard Medical Faculty, author of the best-selling book, The Estrogen Fix, and Editor of the #1 digital magazine for midlife women HotYearsMag.com. Before transitioning his carrier to focus on menopause, Dr. Mache was a leading expert in infertility, performed some of the first In vitro fertilization successes in the United States.

Dr. Mache has published over 200 scientific articles and 17 books for both professionals and consumers, and has received multiple national awards for patient education, research and innovation and for music. He is board certified in gynecology and reproductive medicine and a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner. In addition to seeing patients in his office, Dr. Mache is a sought-after speaker, consultant and menopause coach at MenopauseCoaching.com 

To learn more about Dr. Mache Seibel please visit his website: MenopauseCoaching.com 

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

Valeria interviews Dr. Anne Ruitberg Taylor, the author of 7 Ancient Rituals to Heal Modern High-Functioning Anxiety

Why is it that an overwhelming majority of doctor visits are due to stress (75-90%) and yet most of us are never taught how to manage the stressors in our lives? When stress becomes chronic it can manifest into high-functioning anxiety and stress-induced depression.

These are not clinical levels of disease; rather, a reaction to today’s modern world.

Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress and can serve us in challenging situations. Anxiety raises a “red flag” that something is wrong. It alerts us to dangers and helps us prepare to mobilize to safety. When this early warning system remains on high alert throughout the day we have a problem that affects our health, happiness, and well-being.

High-functioning anxiety is not a clinical condition, yet it’s exhausting and impacts your health and well-being. Anxiety is your body’s natural response to prolonged exposure to unmanaged stress. When you always feel like the other shoe is about to drop, your anxiety can be triggered.

What can we learn about stress and anxiety from Wisdom traditions that practiced Ancient Rituals? New paradigms in healing high-functioning anxiety will involve more than talk therapy, the body has to get into the healing act and Ancient Ritual practices do just that!

Dr. Anne Taylor’s current work resulted from an alchemical process combining her scientific background, mythological/depth psychological academic work, and applied consciousness of Kundalini yoga. As a and former Senior Director of Research and Development for an International cardiac monitoring device corporation, clinical chemist and hematology technology experience, with her academic research as a mythologist (emphasis on depth psychology) infused with Kundalini Yoga philosophy and teaching experience. Anne specializes in the psyche-somatic connection of the heart and brain and the technology of Kundalini Yoga as applied consciousness.

Anne holds a B.S. in Medical Biology from S.U.N.Y. and a Ph.D. in Mythological Studies with emphasis in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute. She is a member of the 3HO Global Foundation. 

To learn more about Dr. Anne Ruitberg Taylor, please visit her website: https://howtorelievestressnaturally.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Think about your most recent significant dream. You would probably agree that, as you think about it, you are outside of it. It is as if you are looking at something, appreciating it, remembering it, considering what it might mean. Now try something different—move inside it. Go right back into the dream, re-enter the scene. Feel the difference?

Here’s the question: is dreamwork more effective when done from the outside, or the inside? The evolution in my own dreamworking style and method over the past few years has resulted in working more and more from the inside. Having now worked in this way with a few thousand dreams I can say a few things with certainty:

Dreamwork done from the inside is faster and simpler, because it really has only one step: you re-enter your dream and try to get an embodied sense of what it wants (what is trying to happen? What do you want to do? What is it asking you for? Where is the energy trying to go?)

It is easier to facilitate others when working from the inside, because there is no burden on the facilitator to have any sense of what the dream might mean. Two major fears that plague dreamworkers are greatly reduced–the fear of getting lost, and the fear of being wrong. The facilitator’s job is relatively simple–to invite the dreamer to re-enter the dream, then help them get a sense of what wants to happen.

The goal is the same– to arrive at a resonant insight about how the dream connects to your life. When working from the inside I have found these insights tend to arise more spontaneously and organically. They are felt more in the body, less worked out through thinking and associating.

Inside dreamwork seems to work quite beautifully about 80% of the time in my experience. Sometimes it seems to get stalled because the dreamer cannot get an embodied feeling of what they want to do. At these times I have found it very effective to use one of the back-up techniques, most commonly the be-the-part technique (asking the dreamer to shift their identification from their own self to another dream figure).

Working from the inside is more dynamic (change-oriented). You are already changing yourself as soon as you re-enter your dream and allow something new to happen. In traditional dream interpretation understanding comes first and change may follow (or not). In inside dreamwork change comes first and understanding follows. I find this much more rewarding.

Working from the inside is more fun, and less tiring. Your brain doesn’t need to work nearly as hard. The energy is usually higher because you are working with something that is alive and changing. It’s less like analysis and more like theater.  — writer Dr. Christopher Sowton

Valeria interviews Dr. Christopher. He is a naturopath and a professional dreamworker based in Southern Ontario, Canada. He does online dreamworking sessions with clients all around the world, helping them gain deeper insight into their dreams. Since 2003 Christopher has been training health care practitioners of all kinds to integrate dreamwork into their practices. He is a member of the IASD (International Association for the Study of Dreams). He teaches dreamworking skills through a course of online training modules, and has published 2 books—Dreamworking–How to Listen to the Inner Guidance of Your Dreams (2017); and The Dreamworking Manual–A Guide to Using Dreams in Health Care (2013).

To learn more about Dr. Christopher Sowton please visit his website: https://www.christophersowton.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

As I grew up and remembered my drowning, I could never get away from the question, ‘How could I have seen my body lifeless if I was still alive?’ This experience made it clear to me that there was an existence beyond the body. Like the shell of a crab is an extension of the crab itself, our body is also but a shell, and when it is not needed it will fall away. Before I was three, I was gifted with knowing that I had existed for a very long time. In fact, I have come and gone in different realms many more times, wearing many different shells.” – writes Dr. Ingrid Honkala

Valeria interviews Dr. Ingrid. She is the author of “A Brightly Guided Life: How A Scientist Learned to Hear Her Inner Wisdom.

Dr. Ingrid Honkala was born in Bogota, Colombia, where she grew up with her parents and three sisters. From the moment she drowned in a tank of cold water at the age of nearly three, Ingrid was aware of other dimensions of life than those most of us normally experience. She was also gifted with the wise input of “Beings of Light” who gave her invaluable insights and assistance as she faced the challenges of growing up, falling in love, and finding her professional destiny as a research scientist and oceanographer. Despite many hardships she accomplished her dreams, becoming not just a successful marine scientist, world traveller, author, international speaker, and a mom, but also a mentor and a giver of light.

Through her compelling life adventure that journeys from her native Colombia to Europe and her eventual home in the United States — and from a deadly war zone to underwater explorations and a NASA research center — Ingrid reveals how any human experience can be illumined from within. If we are willing to pay attention to subtle signals, take our intuition seriously, and forgive our most challenging difficulties, anyone can experience a brightly guided life. Throughout her life Ingrid has been guided to meet and help many people on their journey to become aware of a deeper reality and reconnect with their inner wisdom.

When she was nineteen, the Beings of Light told her, “Someday your life experiences will talk for you and you will pass our teachings to others.” In her autobiography, “A Brightly Guided Life: How a Scientist Learned to Hear her Inner Wisdom,” Ingrid reveals how after having her near-death experience (NDE), the first glimpses of heaven were revealed to her and the doors that allow her to communicate with Beings of Light were opened. Since then a myriad of experiences that many could call as mystical and perhaps impossible have crossed her path. However the Beings of Light have made it clear to her that she is not here to convince anyone about anything but to be a giver of light.

To accomplish this purpose she has been guided through an amazing journey of unimaginable challenges, awakenings and miracles where along the way she became the vehicle to help others to rise up from some of the deepest states of hopelessness and bring them back to life. Through helping others she was also able to become aware of her own shadows and overcome them as well. For all of this she is forever grateful. So she wants to continue awakening, growing and giving anything she can to anyone that is open to listen.

To learn more about Dr. Ingrid Honkala please visit her website: https://www.ingridhonkala.com

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

‘Let’s take a look at the idea of “standing up” for someone or something.’

‘You’re at home one evening, and there’s a knock on the door, or a buzz on the buzzer or whatever; you open the door and there’s someone there asking you to sign a petition banning the opening of a fast-food place on your street; it’s part of a well-known food chain across the country.

Would you:

• Say yes, and sign
• Say no, and not sign
• Say I would like to know more before deciding
• ...or something else? ‘And why this choice?’

‘When you “stand up” for someone or something it means protecting or defending someone or something. Sometimes it might mean you getting hassled, or even putting yourself in some sort of danger. “Standing up” for something is a big idea, and perhaps an even bigger action. So let me ask you: What would you do in each of these three situations:

— You’re talking with friends and they start making fun of someone you all know and like, or so you thought, but who isn’t there at that moment...what do you do?

—What about if the person was there, what would you do?

— Okay. This time, you’re on your own. You’re at a place where lots of young people hang out, and you’re there having something to eat. There’s someone you don’t know sitting by themselves but sitting quite close to you. Two other young people come in and stand next to that person and it looks like they’re threatening them, asking for something...? What do you do?’  — passage from the book Frames.

— Valeria interviews Peter Slattery, the author of FRAMES: 12 fabulous ways of talking with young people

Many years ago, Peter did a B.A. in Social Science and an M.A. in Psychology. He says he thoroughly enjoyed his time at university and freely admits to having learned something. He also says that the past 30 plus years of working with young people, especially with those having a hard time of life, have taught him a lot more, and given him some ideas about how to make use of what he learned at university. Today, Peter works freelance across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, with occasional jaunts into Asia, North America, the U.K. and Europe. He continues working with young people in all the places you expect to find them; within all the school systems, as well as in youth refuges, rehab. centers, the many forms that youth programmers take and in juvenile justice settings. Having done this work for a long time now, Peter finds himself in demand as a trainer of workers, as a supervisor and mentor, and seems to be constantly invited to speak at conferences both within Australia and overseas. He has published extensively in both the E and the hard-copy worlds. He says he considers himself extremely lucky, and thinks of his work as an uplifting challenge, a privilege, a joy and often, just a lot of fun.

To learn more about Peter Slattery please visit his website: https://peterslattery.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

Valeria interviews Aura E Martinez, the author of Creating a Lifetime of Wellness: Start Having the Life You Deserve

So many of us are unaware of the way we are feeding ourselves mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. This lack of attention leads to a life that is far less than what we deserve. In Creating a Lifetime of Wellness, author Aura E. Martinez helps you gain the awareness you need to increase your well-being every day, starting now.

A wellness and life coach, Martinez covers different areas of your life that impact your well-being. She includes discussions on everything from body and soul, to finances, sleep, work, friendships, and more. Creating a Lifetime of Wellness motivates you to look at your life as a whole and then tear the picture into sections so you can assess each area and make improvements, changes, and adjustments as needed.

Martinez shows that well-being and happiness are within your reach. It's all about motivating you to create a lifetime of wellness by working on your goals each day and doing what you must do to claim your life and live it to the max.

Aura E. Martinez is a Self-Discovery and Empowerment Coach, helping the outer and inner travelers who seek greater well-being and personal fulfillment to discover themselves powerfully so that they can start living life to the max. As a person who has traveled the world as a Flight Attendant, the opportunity has helped her learn and see so much and she discovered the most fabulous place for us all to see that is truly the key to greater well-being and she shares that with others worldwide.

She is also the founder of Live to the Max™/Viva al máximo™ !

To learn more about Aura E Martinez, please visit her website: https://www.auraemartinez.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

As these hard and heartbreaking days of COVID-19 drag on and news outlets announce the numbers like the countdown to a rocket launch, life as we’ve known it has entirely changed.

We are forced to create new routines and new ways of being. We are reordering our lives with greater austerity in mind. The specter of illness, death and loss weighs upon the world and our souls. Many people are in isolation and longing for human comfort. Others are surrounded by family and longing for a break.

Some people have rediscovered quiet joys, like taking a walk, planting flowers, or doing a puzzle. Others go from screen to screen, working or seeking distraction, entertainment, community, news and solace.

Many are afraid to think about tomorrow. Will we escape the sickness? Will we have the financial means to get by? Will the economy rebound? What about the job market? What will become of the restaurants we enjoyed, the shops and small businesses we counted on?

At American Blossom, we employ dozens of people at our USA manufacturing plants in Georgia and South Carolina and our offices in Pennsylvania. Like people everywhere, our emotions today are mostly sad and worried. But we’ve chosen to lean into these difficult times and work harder than ever to earn your trust and your business.

There’s never been a greater need for ample sleep that restores the body and refreshes the mind. Sufficient sleep is essential for good health including a well-functioning immune system. Our crisp, organic cotton sheets will help you sink into a restful, beautiful sleep. And because they are made in the USA, you’ll be supporting farms, small business and jobs here at home. There has never been a better time or reason to invest in durable, comfortable, well-made sheets that are proven to fit all of the most popular mattress brands.

When worries keep me up at night or greet me in the morning, I actively practice the habit of gratitude. I think of a few things to appreciate in that moment in time and jot them down in a bedside journal. Even on the hardest days when it seems that every sphere of my life is imploding in some way, I always find something to be grateful for. Simple stuff like chocolate, music, and stinky kisses from my dog that make me laugh. Big stuff, like people I love. Employees I admire. Heroes who sacrifice to keep us healthy or free.

Although COVID-19 has changed the world at least for now, I choose to consider how much can still be good. I ask my children and grandchildren to appreciate their blessings—and literally to count them. I ask my coworkers to support each other through simple kindness, empathy, or humor. I ask my friends to support the small businesses that meet our needs and enrich our communities. And to our valued customers, my humble suggestions:  Be mindful, be playful and sleep beautifully. — writes Janet Wischnia

Valeria interviews Janet.

Janet Wischnia is the founder of American Blossom Linens and one of the owners of Thomaston Mills, the manufacturer of American Blossom Linens. Janet grew up in Elkins Park, PA and lives in the same neighborhood today. She attended the University of Pennsylvania and received her MBA from Drexel University.

Since she was 4 years old, Janet has been involved with the family business started by her grandfather, who opened their first storefront on South Street, Philadelphia in 1931!

Janet learned from the ground up about the textile industry, from manufacturing to marketing and even sweeping the floors. American Blossom provides linens for hospitals and hotels across the nation and now sells direct-to-consumer after Janet noticed the need for sustainable products, impeccably made in the USA. She’s dedicated to making eco-friendly products that last for years and never go out of style. American Blossom Linens are the ONLY providers of American-made 100% organic cotton sheets sold in the nation.

To learn more about Janet Wischnia please visit his website: https://americanblossomlinens.com/

OFFER: Use coupon code QUEST20 for 20% off of buyers’ first order!

For Intro-free episodes:  https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page:  https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Laurie Warren, the author of Wild World, Joyful Heart: Unlock Your Power to Create Health and Joy.

Our wild world is, in many ways, backward and upside down; we've created a culture that supports poor health, loneliness, stress, emotional angst, and polarity. But buckle your seatbelt. Laurie Warren is a change agent, kicking our limiting "common but not normal" cultural mores to the curb and working to shift both our personal and societal approach in favor of empowered well-being.

Wild World, Joyful Heart is both a rally cry and a guidebook for attaining the physical, emotional, and mental health that you deeply desire. Will you use your mind as a bridge or a barrier? This question is the thread that you'll follow through Laurie’s extensive research, clinical experience, and unique storytelling style to create better health and more joy in your everyday life. This book is an invitation to bravely inhabit your life in a whole new way—while your joy, contentment, and wholeness reverberate out to stitch up our wounded world.

Here are a few quick tips for health & joy in our wild world:

— Know that your actions, however small, matter. There’s a lot of change going on and many of us want to do our part. It can feel overwhelming. One small, consistent shift can create more change than a one-time event. Let’s keep the momentum going without burning ourselves out.

— Feeling emotional? FEEL the emotions and provide them with a release valve like crying, exercising or being out in nature. As discussed in WWJH, pent up emotions wind their roots into your physical and mental well-being.

— Take a technology/social media break. Daily technology fasts of 1-2 hours can be liberating and many are amazed at how good they feel with their personal technology devices in a drawer for a few hours. The great news is, you can release FOMO (fear of missing out) because all the info will still be there. Overstimulation can create feelings of jumpiness and irritation.

— BREATHE. Several times a day, stop and take 3 breaths, breathing deeply as your belly and ribs expand fully. This invokes the Relaxation Response and gives your fight-or-flight system a much-needed break.

— Prioritize self-care. It’s not selfish, it’s imperative for the health of you, and the health of society. Nourishing foods, movement, 7.5+ hours of restful sleep, and drinking plenty of water (80-120 oz/day). Mindfully seeking out positive input for your psyche like fun music, an up-beat podcast, or reading something that supports you in feeling positive, happy and can-do.

—— Laurie Warren MSN is a change agent for empowered well-being in body, mind, and spirit. She works as a corporate consultant, wellness clinician, sought-after speaker, and writer and is the author of Wild World, Joyful Heart: Unlock Your Power to Create Health and Joy.

Laurie holds a master's degree in integrative nutrition, with additional training in biochemistry, functional medicine, psychology, bioenergetics and herbalism. Her approach to health, healing, and joy is grounded in three foundational beliefs:

1. The body is a self-organizing organism that’s hard-wired for healing.
2. Our mind can be used as either a bridge or a barrier in our quest for well-being.
3. What matters most is WHO we are as we move through this world.

Laurie is also a regularly featured expert in the media. A Maine native, she lives in the Greater Boston area and enjoys her four children, her two grandchildren, and the gift of life.

To learn more about Laurie Warren please visit her website: http://www.LaurieWarren.com

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Grace Avalon, the author of Thank God I’m Crazy: My Journey to Sanity.

How is it possible to tell you that you are walking with the light of God in you? People travel to wonder at the mountains, the seas, the rivers, the stars, and yet they pass themselves by without wondering. Don’t put prophets on pedestals . . . look in the mirror.

When visions Grace Avalon experienced actually came true over twenty years, she was startled to discover that this journey called life, is merely waking up from our own insanity—and that God is in all things.  Wisdom comes in trusting life—not the illusion.  When we are in joy, we are in truth. 

At twenty-two, Grace left her body to be swept into luminous kaleidoscopic light-bearing images of places she’d never seen.  Escaping from her abusive life and marriage—in joyous laughter she surrendered to its beauty, and was briefly placed in a mental hospital by her husband. Coming out, Grace saw a world of betrayal, fear and war.  This was insanity.  The sanity was the love she came to know in the light.  In her memoir of surreal coincidences is also found a miraculous new level of forgiveness.  Life is a working, self-correcting dream, and a treasure hunt to uncover love’s sanity which leads us to a joyous awakening . . . and . . . teaches us how to lighten up!

With renewed vision, we can also see that everything in our seeming physical existence, things, places, objects, our bodies—are all symbolic inner-active reflections which are used by Spirit to guide us to awakening. “Symbols are a psychological mechanism that transforms meaning.”  Carl Jung.  Everyone has their own guiding symbols—their own inner voice—and the power of choice.

Grace’s path out of hell also becomes a demonstration of A Course in Miracles made practical.   Her memoir, Thank God I’m Crazy, includes pictures of places that actually occurred, as seen in her visions. 

Grace Avalon, a graduate of Hood College, Frederick, MD., BA in education, minor in psychology, is certified in Psychosynthesis, a body, mind, and spirit counseling program, and has taught A Course in Miracles for nine years. She has been interviewed on CBS and ABC TV.  Grace, author of Thank God I’m Crazy offers presentations to inspire others to know their own inner voice, and their own unique blueprint to life’s oneness . . . often reflected in their personal symbols.  A former educator, administrator, and businesswoman, Grace, also a relationship counselor, gives seminars and workshops for anyone whose known abuse, thought they were crazy, or wants to live a meaningful life.

Thank God I’m Crazy with Foreword by Gary Renard, international bestselling author of Disappearance of the Universe, is endorsed by Marianne Williamson, New York Times bestselling author of Return to Love, Lynn Andrews, New York Times, internationally bestselling author, whose book Medicine Woman became a virtual aspect of Grace’s journey, Beverly Hutchinson, founder, Miracle Distribution Center, Steven Halpern, Grammy-nominated composer and sound healer, and by Kyle Cease, famed comedian and transformational speaker. Thank God I’m Crazy, published by Waterfront Press, is available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble in digital and paperback.

To learn more about Grace Avalon, please visit her website: https://graceavalon.com

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

— What happens if one day, a doctor tells you, “ I’m sorry but you have cancer.” When you learn you have cancer, you may feel like your life has been turned upside down. It can seem overwhelming at first, but knowing what to expect may help you feel more at ease. Whichever way a person with cancer decides to move forward with their healing is completely valid, whether natural, integrative, or conventional. Through her cancer struggle, Katrina was frustrated and overwhelmed by all the contradictory information while facing the many challenges of finding answers. She didn’t know what to eat or who to turn to. Even in comparing sources of weight loss advice, she was presented with pure chaos in discerning what to do for lasting results.

If you’ve ever been frustrated with symptoms such as joint pain and weight gain that you can’t seem to get under control, there are potential root causes you probably have not heard about that may be hijacking your health. It’s not your fault. It’s just a lack of awareness.

Valeria interviews Katrina Foe — She is the author of  “Nutritional Pilates: Relieve Joint Pain, Lose Unwanted Weight, and Prevent Chronic Disease to Become Your Most Vibrant Self.”

Katrina Foe is a board-certified holistic nutritionist, who knows that when we look at health, we should be looking at the body as a whole.

After overcoming her own cancer 100% naturally, and driven by her core belief that the body can heal itself, Katrina went on to become board certified in holistic nutrition and trained to read functional labs. As a faculty member at Restorative Wellness Solutions, Katrina teaches practitioners to interpret functional labs and design individualized protocols.

Katrina is also a certified Metabolic Approach to Cancer practitioner, having been trained and mentored by Dr. Nasha Winters. Katrina’s approach to cancer addresses the root cause of the disease and empowers clients to keep it in remission without living in fear of recurrence.

In her international bestseller, Nutritional Pilates, Katrina offers a framework for whole body health that casts light on potential obstacles that can obstruct wellbeing, while providing proven strategies to sidestep chronic disease.

She is passionate about helping raise the next generation to understand how to care for their bodies through movement and nutrition.

To learn more about Katrina Foe and her work, please visit: https://www.cancerfreedom.com/ and https://personalizedpilates.com/

Click on the link below to access a free health assessment e-book: https://www.cancerfreedom.com/assessment-opt-in

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life through the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well. 

Valeria interviews Mindi K. Counts, the author of Everyday Chinese Medicine: Healing Remedies for Immunity, Vitality & Optimal Health — A friendly guide to a 2,000-year-old lineage of healing wisdom integrates both the Five Element theory and the practices of traditional Chinese medicine to uncover what your body needs for balance and optimal health.

Everyday Chinese Medicine demystifies, simplifies, and reveals patterns to help you take control of your own well-being from the comfort of your own home and kitchen. Mindi Counts—a holistic medical practitioner, acupuncturist, and herbalist—walks you through the seasons, elements, and organ systems to help you understand your unique constitution and how to achieve energetic and physical balance. With simple recipes, self-care practices, and time-tested herbal remedies, Everyday Chinese Medicine is the perfect companion on your path to complete wellness.

Mindi K. Counts is an integrative medical practitioner and Five-Element acupuncturist. Co-founder of the Inner Ocean Center for Healing, Mindi is a keynote speaker, retreat leader and teacher. She is the author of Everyday Chinese Medicine and a contributing author to the Trauma Toolkit and Singing Our Heart’s Song.

She is the founder of the international nonprofit Inner Ocean Empowerment Project, providing holistic healthcare and education through volunteer service missions to underserved populations around the world and in the U.S. She has been featured in several publications including Dr. Oz’s The Good Life magazine for her work in Indian slum communities, Burmese refugee clinics and earthquake-ravaged areas of Nepal.

Mindi is a graduate of Naropa University’s Contemplative Psychology program and holds a Master’s degree in Classical Five Element Acupuncture from the Institute of Taoist Education and Acupuncture. She lives with her family and rescued pit bulls in the foothills of Colorado.

To learn more about Mindi K. Counts, please visit her website: https://www.mindikcounts.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.

Valeria interviews Myia Cleggett, the author of Gratitude & Success Journal. It gives us an easy-to-follow, step-by-step, daily program that helps develop positive change.

The Gratitude & Success Journal is a guide to train the mind to:

Attract more wealth, health, happiness, love and success.

Create new positive energy and vibration.

Focus on, and appreciate all the magical things in life.

Form and develop new positive neural pathways.

Mindfully be in the moment and appreciate the abundance that surrounds us.

The chapters cover: Love, Career & Success, Happiness, Health & Wellness and Inspiration.

All the activities in the journal allow us to exercise our gratitude muscle' which in turn attracts more positive experiences into our world. One cannot feel gratitude AND anxiety at the same time.

Myia is the founder of Mind Motivation Coaching and is a Transformation & Abundance Coach.  She empowers clients in building confidence, career, wealth creation, health and wellness.  Myia is an expert in the principles of Rapid Transformational Therapy, Law of Attraction, Creative Visualization, Neuroscience and Quantum Physics.  Her mission is to globally create a ripple effect of inspiration, happiness, empowerment and transformation. 

Myia is a Rapid Transformational Therapist, Modern Psychologist, Master Clinical Hypnotherapist, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, Master NLP & Success Coach, Dip. Inner, Child Healing Therapy and Law of Attraction Expert.

To learn more about Myia Cleggett please visit her website: https://www.mindmotivationcoaching.com/

For Intro-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/aquestforwellbeingpodcast

Podcast Page: https://fitforjoy.org/podcast

— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life to the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.