Blissed Out or Stressed Out?

As Christmas approaches, our schedules are quickly filling up with Holiday parties and family get togethers. We search for the perfect gift, the perfect recipe and glitzty outfit to suit our festive mood. It is a time to be joyful and celebrate the goodness present in our lives!

While most people are glowing with cheer, others may not feel the bliss. Some may be separated from their families because of distance. Others may have lost loved ones this year or in the past and are feeling the loss. And others may be struggling with issues in their lives that are triggered by the holiday season, like bunking up with stress invoking family members.

2009 blessed me with a new family: a baby daughter and a loving husband. I have a lot to celebrate this year! Including Skype!

What?

Video conferencing has kept my family connected since May. Yes, it has been many months since we have physically seen each other including my husband holding his new daughter. Our situation isn’t ideal but we are making it work and it is! We often comment that our story will make a beautiful love story for Isabella one day.

During your holiday, if the winter blues are creeping in, consider your perspective, acknowledging that you have a choice in the way you perceive a situation. Somewhere in the "darkness" of the situation, there is something to hold on to – keep looking and focus on this lightness.

So no matter if you are blissed out, stressed out or joyfully glitzed out, I wish for you some peace and awareness of your power to choose.

Much love, Kelly

What did you learn about yourself in 2009?

What did you learn about yourself in 2009?

We often underestimate our skills and abilities or accomplish something and then move on to the next task quickly. Instead let's pause & celebrate!

What greatness did you exhibit this year?

Did you try something new? Repair a relationship? Did you do something special for yourself or for your family and friends or community?

How are you different than 2008?

Quick Exercise ~

- Take one minute and write out all of your thoughts.

- Think of one way to recognize all of your accomplishments today.

- Call a friend, dance, take the afternoon off or plan something more grand like a getaway!

Whatever you decide to do, celebrate your accomplishments for the year – you deserve it!

Embrace Your Life

One month already!

Where has the time gone? Isabella is already one month old! And what a month it has been!!!

In those cherished peaceful moments, (yes, there really are some) I am acutely aware of just how special this time is and how fast she will grow.

I reflect on where I was and where I am now in my life; all because I followed my heart and pursued my dreams, my dream has come true - I am a Mom and am blessed in so many ways!

Thank you so much for all of your loving messages! Wishing you peaceful moments too :)

Embrace Your Life!

Love Kelly

email anytime - kelly@embraceyourlife.ca

Baby Announcement: Only 4 More Days!

Aligned with the theme of this blog "Embrace Your Life Transition", I am compelled to share a bit of my personal experience with each of you.

As I embrace these last few days before my daughter's arrival, I have been overwhelmed with a range of emotions. Mostly of gratitude and joy because people have been so generous in sharing their support and love! And also, because I have dreamed of this moment for so long - I am excited about being a Mom!

Throughout my pregnancy I maintained my regular routine: yoga, close contact with friends and family, morning walks, prayer, meditation and as a result enjoyed an abundance of energy and happiness.

However, when I found out that my baby was in a breech position and I was abruptly booked for a c-section, fear and panic quickly set it. I felt out of control! This is not how I wanted things to happen! And, I was so disappointed.

Ah, gotta love change! My plans of natural childbirth were changed to the opposite scenario: a planned caesarean.

With tears running steadily down my cheeks, I heard my own coaching words echoing through my mind, "What is this situation entering into your life to teach you?"

I pondered, reflected, dug deeper and wrote it all out, and then I remembered the quote and smiled:

"If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans." - Woody Allen

So here I am, 4 days away from Isabella's arrival and have come to a place of acceptance and peace with this change in plans.

By letting go and surrendering to change (with my my feet up), I am free to focus on embracing these last few days of feeling her fluttering and shifting movements and rest up for what is to come next!! Including more change and more lessons!!

"Happiness can only exist in acceptance." Denis de Rougamont

On a side note, a special thank you for all of your gifts and thoughtful messages over these last few months! I am very blessed! Stay tuned soon for photos!

Embrace Your Life!

Kelly McIntyre M.Sc.

Life/Career Coach
www.embraceyourlife.ca/

Choose Peace & Be in the Moment!

I remember a moment in early January many years ago, standing in a crowd at my grandfather’s funeral on a cold and windy grey day in Canada. Everyone’s heads were bowed and I felt the sun on my hair. I looked up and took the scene in. I remember taking a deep breath, closing my eyes and feeling the wind and loud howl of it whip around me.

The sun glowed through a thin area of cloud and I accepted its warmth. I kept my eyes closed and my head tilted back slowing my breath. I continued to listen to the service and was aware of the clouds moving by, the sound of the leaves of the trees. I heard sounds of crying and the feeling of tension and loss and grief that also stood among us in the crowd. Yet, I felt peace spread through me.

Another time, I found myself on a busy street and a crowd of people were pushing passed me. I became captivated by this artist who was on the other side of the street. I slowly made my way through the crowd and stood there to his left watching how he created this beautiful landscape right there on that dirty loud street. The artist and the crowd around him were oblivious to the noise and outside contact. It was extraordinary.

What I have learned from these two examples is that being present is about detaching from what we want or wish we were getting from the moment. That it is about accepting and finding peace with what is and not struggling with what isn’t or begging for answers about why something is not.

Being present is about using all of your senses to gather information about the moment. It is about getting quiet even when faced with a challenge or chaotic situation. It is about breathing and listening and finding love, harmony and gratitude in whatever situation that is presented. It is about embracing the moment fully in its perfection.

"Peace is its own reward." -- Mahatma Gandhi

Wishing you peace today and fulfilling moments!

Embrace your Life!

Kelly McIntyre M.Sc.
Life/Career Coach
www.embraceyourlife.ca

How to Find Love After the End of a Relationship

You can do this!

So here you are, single again and ready to recreate a life you love!

You are in transition! You are letting go of elements of your shared life while simultaneously shaping a different present and future just for you!! In your relationship, you likely made many compromises and forgot a little or a lot of who you are in the process; now is a time to reconnect and become self-aware!

This is your personal life journey, you are the author, and you have choices!

Use this time to develop the best you so when you are ready, you will share the best you in the best relationship possible!

Remember, this is a time to throw yourself into ALL things and relationships that feel good, that bring you pleasure, and that are truthfully aligned with your wants and needs! So go for it! You can join a volleyball team, a book club, and a theatre group!

Imagine pursuing ALL the things that bring you joy starting today!

You may be feeling extremely vulnerable and like you don’t have a lot to give, but this is exactly when you most need to connect with other people.

Surround yourself only with people that support you. People do not have to agree with your decisions, but they need to respect you.

This is the time to let go of old beliefs and open to challenges and growth possibilities. Face some fears and consider that the beliefs and customs you hold may no longer jive with who you have become to be in the world. It might be time to let go of all of these old definitions.

Being single is a time to explore all parts of you and embrace the individual who surfaces. Really see yourself without the shadow of another person. Sexual energy will surface—don’t hide or push it away, embrace it!

Follow these 10 steps to get back out there and create a life you love:

1 - Find an impartial confidant! Lean on your support system!
2 - Get out your dancing shoes! And a friend to go with you!
3 - Get a hobby and throw yourself into it!
4 - Get a journal and write, write, write and write!
5 – Volunteer and get involved!
6 - Get fit! Listen to and feed your body what it needs to get healthy!
7 - Develop clear and mindful boundaries!
8 - Get financially independent or at least get a plan!
9 - Rev up your sexual energy!
10 - Be gentle and loving, let go, and be harmonious in life!

You never lose by loving. You always lose by holding back.” Barbara De Angelis

Open, trust and follow your heart!

To order the complete Girls’ Guide to Life Change: Launching in a Different Direction after the end of a Relationship visit http://www.embraceyourlife.ca/ebooks.html

Embrace Your Life!

Kelly McIntyre M.Sc.

Life Coach

http://www.embraceyourlife.ca/

Pamper Tip #2 ~ Can anyone say MASSAGE?

Yep, having a massage is my number one way to pamper and treat myself fabulously! I have been going for years and have been blessed to have been worked on by some gifted hands!

One of my ultimate favourite massage therapists at our first appointment, opened up these huge double doors, stood there with dim light twinkling all around him and introduced himself, “Kelly? Hello, my name is Moses. Welcome.” I was in awe; he was divine.

I take my massage therapy very serious. I need to have a connection with someone at a spiritual level. One time, I went to a highly recommended massage therapist in a new city I was living in but the ambiance was lacking; she played the local radio station, furniture ads and all... She was great but the experience lacked depth.

Here are some tips to get the most from your massage treatment.

· If your massage therapist is located at a spa, ask if there is a whirlpool or other water treatment that you can add to your treatment while you wait for your appointment.

· If these services are not available, arrive a little early, bring your favourite book or if this is the only time you indulge in fashion magazines, make sure you have enough time to get the scoop!

· During the massage, casually mention to the therapist that you are so looking forward to some peace and quiet – avoid talking as much as possible and really connect with your muscles and sensations in your body, letting go and relaxing.

· After your massage, don’t book a big evening out. Your hair is likely going to be oily so go home and take an Epsom salt bath. Again grab a book or light candles or both and drink loads of water. Cuddle yourself in a cushy bath towel or robe and go to bed early! Mmmmmm... sounds good?

It is actually one of my personal goals to have the lifestyle that allows for a 1.5 hour massage per week. Heaven!! I publicly set this as my intention. I am open to receive!!

Enjoy and Embrace Your Life!



Kelly McIntyre M.Sc.
Life/Career Coach
http://www.embraceyourlife.ca/
Kelly@embraceyourlife.ca

Pamper Tip #1 - Don't wait for someone to buy you flowers!

There is no time like the present to drop into the florist or floral counter at the market and pick up a gorgeous bouquet of flowers - for yourself!
Take your time and browse, be selective and enjoy the process. Heck, smell a few roses!

However, when you search for the perfect bouquet; don’t just say, “I am treating myself to some flowers, I deserve them.”

Really feel it ~ walk into the florist or in the garden or field, consciously intending to indulge yourself, carefully choosing a combination of flowers that expresses your uniqueness, all while recognizing your worth and celebrating all of the goodness in your life!

Flowers are great reflections of the beauty in our life! Enjoy & Embrace Your Life!

Kelly McIntyre M.Sc.

http://www.embraceyourlife.ca/
kelly@embraceyourlife.ca

Summer is over... so, what's next?

Now that we have used many of our cherished vacation days over the summer, we are back at work feeling rested but maybe a little sad and stunned that all of the fun is over. But it doesn’t have to be...

Even if we aren’t students returning to school, September has a feeling of new beginnings. There are so many new programs and groups starting and so many options are available! With the end of 2009 in sight, now is a great time to review our goals.

Think back to January and what you set out for yourself for 2009, have you taken any steps to move you closer to your dreams yet? If not, there is still time – Join In!

“Life is not about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” -- Source unknown

And, if your job isn’t meeting all of your heart’s desires – start your job search! Or make a plan! Either way, Take Action!

When I was 22, I was introduced to Reality Therapy and Choice Theory by Dr. William Glasser and it changed my life!!

Specifically, the catchy phrase "No CBCs!" stuck with me from that point on.

What are the CBCs ? No complaining, blaming or criticizing!

Activity:

• Just try it for one day - Avoid the CBCs: No complaining, blaming or criticizing!


• Quietly become aware of just how many times you spend time in one day complaining, blaming or criticizing and then stop.

Read more about Choice Theory and other elements of Glasser’s message.

“The only person whose behavior we can control is our own.” –Dr. William Glasser

Enjoy and Embrace Your Life!

Kelly McIntyre M.Sc.

Life/Career Coach

http://www.embraceyourlife.ca/

Follow Your Heart & Let Your Intuition Lead You!

"The way to choose happiness is to follow whats right and real and the truth for you. You can never be happy living some else's dream. Live your own! And you will for sure know the meaning of happiness"

--Oprah Winfrey

Set an intention today to follow your heart and let your intuition lead you toward your true potential!

Read more at http://www.intent.com/!

Embrace Your Life!

Kelly McIntyre M.Sc.
Life/Career Coach

http://www.embraceyourlife.ca/

Searching for a Solution?

How do we know if we are listening and following our intuition? When goodness and abundance flows naturally into our lives.

When we find ourselves unhappy, desperate and full of despair struggling to get centred again and find happiness we likely are not listening to our intuition.

We stay too long in relationships or mourning old friendships that have taken their course; we may stay in unsatisfying jobs all because we don't trust that inner voice that says "It is time to let go and move on."

Furthermore, if we are highly self-aware, we may even recognize that we ignored warning signs about getting into these relationships and jobs at the very beginning!

These warning signs can be a gnawing feeling in your stomach, a clear message, or just a general uneasiness about a situation or person.

Are you faced with a decision that is creating anxiety in your life right now? Maybe you are thinking of changing careers; or getting out of a relationship or planning a big move or even a little one? Use your intuition to help guide you.

The first thing we must do is quiet our mind and increase our self-awareness. Check out this great article on "4 Ways to Tap Into Your Intuition" 4 Ways to Tap Into Your Intuition"

Once we begin to get quiet, listen and then follow our intuition, we become aligned and attract new opportunities, people and situations that bring us closer to our dreams! All is possible!

Enjoy & Embrace your Life!

"The power of intuitive understanding will protect you from harm until the end of your days."-- Lao-Tzu

"There is no instinct like that of the heart." --Lord Byron

"Instinct is the nose of the mind."-Madame de Girardin

Kelly McIntyre M.Sc.

Life/Career Coach
www.embraceyourlife.ca

kelly@embraceyourlife.ca

Create Your Own Retreat Space!

I am blessed to have a wonderful mother. My Mom is a Reflexologist, so over the last 11 years or so, I have been fortunate to get great treatment at a great price! But more important to getting free reflexology treatments, she has taught me the importance of creating a special space in your home where you can retreat and surround yourself with beauty.

The area where she works is energetically clear and soothing. Crystals surround a bubbling water fountain and others hang as pendants. Angel figurines and art envelope you as you sit safely in the cushy treatment chair. Her extensive spiritual library, inspirational cards and essential oils are all in this space as well. There is so much to look at but all is pleasing to the eye.

My own retreat space has two colourful vision boards and pictures of my family and other close loved ones. I buy myself flowers regularly celebrating their beauty every day and not waiting for someone to buy them for me.

I have also started my own collection of crystals and my own library of books is growing regularly during my life journey as well. I also have candles and soft blankets and pillows and writing journals and meditational cds too... I spend a lot of time there.

Surround yourself with things that lift, inspire and energize you while simultaneously restoring hope, faith and peace. Enjoy!!

Embrace Your Life!

Kelly McIntyre M.Sc.
kelly@embraceyourlife.ca

www.embraceyourlife.ca

Be Inspired by the Simple Moments

Yesterday, I walked to the end of my driveway to get into my car and stopped to watch as this little boy slowly rode past me on his bicycle.

His head bobbled a bit because of his helmet but it was his blissful smile that immediately caught my eye. I don’t think he even noticed me standing there watching him. He was eating a Popsicle and leaning back in his seat riding “no hands”. He easily balanced himself in his seat while he ate and smiled meandering down the street.

I stood there smiling and wondered what he was thinking. Isn’t that such an adult thing to ponder, “I wonder what he was thinking...?” He was very likely just enjoying his ride and his Popsicle. As adults, we are always judging, confirming, questioning.

I remember times when I would ride my bike home with my friend after our softball games, talking non-stop while chewing huge wads of bubble gum. Or the times I would walk with my sister to the corner store to get penny candy stuffing our faces as we walked home with our little hands dipping rapidly into the little brown bags filled with gummy worms, marshmallow strawberries or fun dipsticks.

Can you remember yourself as a little kid? Can you feel the feeling of simplicity, freedom and peace? We can retrieve these memories whenever we want and be soothed knowing that life can be this simple. Enjoy!

Embrace your life!

Kelly

Kelly@embraceyourlife.ca
www.embraceyourlife.ca

De-Stress! Let Go & Go with the Flow!

You CAN let Go of Negative Thoughts! Use this technique whenever you feel anxiety, fear, panic, in times of stress or nervousness etc.

You have the power to take yourself out of "that" place and bring your attention to this moment!


Follow these Steps:
1. Recognize when you are having a negative emotion
2. Recognize the thought that is stirring the emotions
3. Let go of the thought by coming back to the present moment

Try this exercise: Close your eyes, we are going to scan the room and our surroundings. Take a deep breath and slowly:

Listen – What do you hear?

Smell – What can you smell?

Touch - What do you feel your body touching? What are your feet touching? Feel where your body is having contact with the floor..

See - Open your eyes. What do you see? Just use one words to describe eg. Table. Blanket. Window. Etc.

Breathe - Take 2 deep breaths and smile.

Open your eyes, look around, you are here in this room - you are safe! There is nothing here that is going to harm you. In this moment, all is well, there is a natural flow and a quiet peace.

“Flow with whatever may happen and let your mind be free. Stay centered by accepting whatever you are doing. This is the ultimate.” -- Chuang Tzu

When we get out of our heads and let go of our negative thoughts, our breathing slows, the sense of urgency is released and we realize that everything is okay. We are surrounded by goodness and abundance in every moment.

Enjoy! Embrace your Life!

Kelly McIntyre M.Sc.
Life/Career Coach
http://www.embraceyourlife.ca/

I am.

"I am whole, perfect, strong, powerful, loving, harmonious and happy."

-- Charles Haanel ~ the Master Key System