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Question- “How do I find stillness?” The answer:
Apr 25th, 2013 by Nicola Jones
The truth about Evil
Apr 16th, 2013 by Nicola Jones
Evil is a real and tangible force in this world. It exists, it persists and we must deal with it’s terror and distortion of our true purpose. When unfathomable tragedy strikes, when we witness senseless suffering inflicted by another we are tested.
At first it feels as though our collective heart stops beating. Then- almost instantly the miraculous happens: our heart rapidly expands. In moments of deep sadness and loss, humanity’s heart takes over from the mind… and that is when divine action unfolds. We see in an instant there are more helpers and healers than harmers. At once, humanity races like a legion of charging bulls towards the insanity – driven to help, determined to overwhelm the darkness with heroic acts of compassion.
I do wish -like you that I could wipe out evil and cast away darkness forever. Until that day I rest in this knowledge…
The truth: The light will always overtake the dark. The vast majority seek to bring it and and there will always be more who seek the light than those who commit to spreading darkness.
Today, with every step you and your children are blessed to take… commit to bringing peace and hope. Shine brighter today, stare down hateful acts with love and know that it is a choice- make the right one today and always.
Blessings to Boston and those who are suffering.
Nicola Jones
Tags: How to handle evil, Tribute to Boston marathon Victims
Animals – Secret Sages and Gurus?
Mar 26th, 2013 by Nicola Jones
Today I did something completely out of the ordinary…I watched a YouTube video featuring cheeky baby lambs-
EIGHT TIMES.
Ya I know, that is a little koo-koo and maybe even a time-waster in someone’s eyes.
But today, I did not care. After laughing alone every time, I then decided to share it on Facebook, then play it for my son and okay yes..my dog (we wanted to to see what he would do). At this point you may be thinking I have lost it a little…
Perhaps I have gone all rainbow/sparkles with a side of unicorn and pixie dust?
You know why I watched those bouncy little bundles of lamb cuteness??
It brought me JOY.
You know what doesn’t bring you JOY? Reliving the same drama or victim story over and over again. Or obsessing about your weight…cleaning grout stains…shaving your legs or gossiping on the phone while your kids sitting in the grocery cart waiting for you to notice them. You know what those leaping lambs reminded me of today?
Animals are a doorway to peace.
Animals know how to really live- when we let them. They express themselves with such integrity and abandon, transcending the need for language they connect us to spirit. These perceptive beings help us recover who we really are through our relationships with them.
Find any great spiritual teacher and you’ll certainly find at minimum a pet-lover or even an animal advocate. We may ignore or even abuse them, but animals are astonishingly patient and forgiving. Look at our pets. Relentlessly they try to get us to wake up even after we ignore them for days. When we finally acknowledge them- the respond with a resounding YES!! They are thrilled we have agreed to join them and play in the only moment that really exists: the present.
Recognising our connection to all sentient beings is part of waking up to the insanity humans have been part of for decades. Who hasn’t looked into the eyes of a pig on a transport truck bound for slaughter and felt a wave of grief? Are we going about our survival the right way?
As I write this, my Golden Retriever Blue is intently looking out the window. Eagerly watching the would-be squirrel bandits who dart across our fence line (surely plotting something). Just seeing him there makes me smile. All my dogs have been adoptions from various pounds or rescue organizations and each has taught me how to be a more compassionate and aware being. I feel deeply honoured to have had these 9 years with my boy Blue and his influence on my son is immeasurable.
He has been his faithful confidant, soft place to fall and watchful friend.
My son has a deep love of animals thanks to what our Blue has shown him and not what any adult could have “taught” him.
All animals have something to teach us if we could just be still and listen for a while. They are so much more than a meat source, in fact that is the least of their value. Sometimes I catch myself in an unconscious pattern of rushing from one thought or chore to the next. When I become aware of that, I often look down to see Blue watching and patiently waiting- for my return to the present moment.
Allow yourself the pleasure and honour of an animal’s company today. It may just be a changing day in your life.
Be well, watch the video- : )
Nicola
Tags: Animal Magnetism
Working on your CORE
Feb 3rd, 2013 by Nicola Jones
Having a solid core is something we hear a variety of health practitioners, trainers and athletes refer to often these days. When we have a weak core …our bodies do not function at their best and we develop deficiencies or injuries in other areas. When we do not strengthen our core the whole structure is compromised. When my low back is out or my abs weaken… all sorts of wonky things happen and my efforts are diluted.
The same concepts apply to your CORE VALUES. When we don’t know who we are, when we don’t establish our core values and act from them- our efforts are often scattered, ineffective and the results may not reflect your true desires. This can be true in your personal, professional and family life. For the past 4 weeks I have been hosting an intensive Vision Board series with group of dedicated and open individuals and families. They are willing to do the work on their CORE and I am proud of their commitment and focus.
Read this Harvard Business Review article on how elite businesses like Hewlett-Packard, 3M, Johnson & Johnson, Procter & Gamble, Merck, Sony, Motorola, and Nordstrom ensured their long-term success through establishing solid core values. “BUILDING YOUR COMPANY’S VISION”
Be well,
Nicola Jones
Creature Comforts
Jan 15th, 2013 by Nicola Jones
My winter relief: Ecco Bella Herbal Body Lotion- www.eccobella.com
I was chatting with my Make up artist Deepa Berar this morning about skin and hair issues and I was again raving about the incredible effects I have witnessed by juicing daily. Juicing can help to heal skin and reduce inflammation among many other benefits. I am at almost a month of juicing now- never missed a day and so glad I started! Another life-changing discovery for me this winter was Ecco Bella’s Herbal body lotion. This ultra rich/ ultra luxurious lotion has been like a salve for my dry, flaky and eczema-prone skin. it is 70% Organic and has no preservatives. I love both the Lavender and Vanilla scents- a lot of lotions are too perfumey for me. I am reading the ingredients list right now...Aloe, Sunflower oil, Sesame oil, Chamomile – even vitamin E. It really IS my winter barrier and such a relief for my sensitive skin. Sadly I am not one of those girls who can go with out moisturizer- been wearing it for 30 years. Oh let me tell ya, I have spent a fortune trying to find the right fix … that lasts.
Yes- I know how frustrating it can be to waste money on products that are not effective and cost a fortune. Ecco Bella is not only affordable but cruelty free. You can baste yourself in it knowing neither your wallet or our animals and environment were harmed for your comfort! Enjoy the skin you are in!
Be wee- feel well!
Nicola Jones
RENOVATE MY LIFE! The lucky 13 for a fabulous 2013!
Jan 4th, 2013 by Nicola Jones
Pause to plan 2013
I love doing a life audit and this year I need to. A lot will be changing for me in the New Year and I want to make sure with the “Structural” changes I am making are supported by healthy and exciting Life changes.I often help people RENOVATE their life and I wouldn’t be true to my own calling if I did not do the same for mine.
We are all in this together, infinitely connected. Won’t you join me in taking steps towards a more conscious and powerful life? Here are some helpful ways you can make 2013 lucky and limitless!
1. Juicing up
I bought a fantastic Juicer for myself this Christmas and I have been revving it up once to twice a day ever since. The change in my skin is nothing short of miraculous. Do your own research but I do it first thing in the morning in addition to a healthy diet and not as a meal substitute.
2. Be kinder- explore more vegetarian options
This year more than ever I plan on making “Kinder” food choices. Kinder towards other living beings and kinder to my body. I now wear exclusively cruelty free and organic skin and cosmetics by Ecco Bella (www.eccobella.com) and I am always on the look out for sustainable fashion. Part of becoming more conscious requires making more responsible choices. How will you live kinder?
3. Reduce alcohol to weekends only and coffee to occasional.
I may go a little loopy for a few weeks but I like a challenge. I’m drinking half- caff organic coffee these days and now that the holidays are over I am committing to weekend wine sipping only. (whoa boy) I really enjoy wine- but alcohol and caffeine are skin irritants so I am cutting back. (Balance works better than Banishment for me- I don’t think deprivation is good for my soul).
4. Mix fitness with fun and take the “work”… out of work-out!
I’m soo excited for some dance-tone classes I have registered for and I got a great dance DVD work out for Christmas that I plan to try with my little guy. I’ll be jogging to school to get my son more this year and hitting the trails with my dog too. What makes you smile, laugh or feel sexy? Can you get creative with the way you move and find YOUR groove this year?
5. Give the right amount to the right places
We often feel called to give but confused as to where or how. I’m the honorary chair of Food 4 Kids- an organization I love, I give often to the Food Bank and Oxfam but this year I need to cut back on giving away too much of my time. Before we say yes to requests, there is a simple way to be sure your generosity is well spent. Before responding to any invite or choosing an opportunity, ask yourself : “Can my presence create powerful change here or is it better spent somewhere else?
6. Grow the Entrepreneurial self
Put your creations on Etsy, write that book, draw up that business plan, blog or do some consulting on the side. Tapping into that entrepreneurial spirit does more than just multiply revenue streams…it is you expressing yourself and your ideas to the world! Weaken the grip of pay cheque addiction and discover new gifts and a little extra play money!
7. Read more offline than online
In the past few weeks I have cut back time on Facebook and Twitter which has made space for more important and enlightening reads. What books call to you but collect dust as you surf the web, pin -it it or tweet? Books are buddies that are bursting at the bindings with inspiration, insight and adventure…go on…just try a page, you’ll wonder what took you so long.
10. Make millions…of powerful thoughts, moments and yes dollars
Why not?
11. Discover a new Mentor
An author, a community member, some one you admire. Find successful examples and learn from the success patterns of others to help you get the results you desire. I love doing interviews for this reason. You would be surprised how much you can learn by just asking a question. Mentors are like signposts or maps pointing you in the right direction, receive the help and guidance that is available to you with gratitude and PAY IT FORWARD.
12. Cherry pick your pals and spit out the pits
Don’t go for the low hanging fruit, pick only the best. Friends can be even more influential than your family so choose them wisely. When you meet some one you really like, make an effort to spend more time around them. Choose to bring high vibrational people into your life and limit your exposure to those who drain you.
13. Say Yes to opportunities, ideas and life…say no to time suckers and wasters.
Are you saying an enthusiastic YES to life? Can you feel passionately engaged in something if not every hour at least every day? Don’t be a yes person…just live a YES life. Open your heart and soul to what life has to offer and choose to be engaged. No more numbing out, no more avoidance…get in the game and play to win- win yourself back.
Have a wonderful, magical and fun 2013!
Be really well,
Nicola Jones
STOOOOOOOOOP!
Dec 19th, 2012 by Nicola Jones
STOP LOOK LISTEN
Are you up to your earrings in B.S.? Feeling a little shaky on the heels and ready to reach for a scrunchie and some grubby sweats and hide?
Well don’t.
Don’t do it.
Don’t you dare collapse into a tangled heap of lipstick and Lycra to drown yourself in bad TV Movies. You are made of better stuff than this… and this feeling…the feeling that you are about to “breakdown”, has arrived to tell you something important. This feeling is directly tied to your reason for being here at all. Don’t let TRAGEDY derail your drive to make positive change. We need you to be a lantern in this world now more than ever.
You will not hear your calling if you are numbing out with distraction…however tempting that is. You must MUST sit still and observe your feelings. What are they telling you? What must change in order for you to feel Hopeful? Inspired and: GOOD ENOUGH?
Pain, fear, anger are messengers. Signals of change. Change you must not accept but actually initiate yourself.
You know the feeling when you are coming down with something like a flu? Achy, tired somewhat muddled and confused… Your soul shows similar symptoms when it is under siege.
This means it is time to STOP.
It is time to assess and determine the right treatment for healing and growth.
Don’t waste another year feeling angry at the way things are, spiritually bankrupt and physically frazzled. Make 2013 your year, the year of the BIGGER VERSION OF YOU.
Stand up and shine on.
Nicola Jones
SALE STRATEGIES- HOW TO MAKE YOUR MONEY MATTER
Nov 23rd, 2012 by Nicola Jones
Some lovely home grown eggs some one special gave me.
Off to do some weekend shopping? Are you able to prioritize and do you feel like you manage money efficiently and effectively, getting the best for the best price? ? Hey- I have clipped a few coupons in my lifetime, rattled the sale racks and I do love a good deal…there is nothing wrong with saving money. Cash has enormous energy. Hold on to it too tightly and you block the flow of it… throw it away and it may not come back to you. How you treat money determines how it treats you- that is an ABSOLUTE FACT.
Here are my tips for keeping your head and avoiding overindulgence and excess when shopping the isles and racks for you or a friend.
1) Give only the best.
This applies to everything (time, words, food, gestures, objects) but especially gifts. Donate your favourite meal to the local Food Bank, not the old can of pie filling you did not use. When you carefully choose something of quality, even the smallest gesture becomes large in it’s meaning. Remember: More is actually Less. In fact, It can sometimes be wasteful and irresponsible. When you select carefully and give what you feel is the best- you feel good about giving it and often the receiver feels the sentiment of what you gift more deeply.
2) Buy from stores/companies/shops/ people you respect and show respect to what is important to you. (products sourced sustainably/reasonable warranties/excellent service)
Not only is the energy in the product cleaner and packed with greater intention- but you are telling retailers you demand better. 10 years ago you had to hunt and over-pay for organic, now it is so competitively priced and readily available! There is no need to buy a cheap plastic toy that will soon end up in a landfill…you can find beautiful handmade pieces at Church Christmas bazaars or buy 1 well made toy instead of 4 crappy quick-grabs.
3) Make a list and stick to it.
Nuff said.
4) THIS MAY SHOCK YOU:
Go ahead and buy something for you on your shop for them. If you really love it -do it. Really!! If you can afford it… and that cashmere throw calls out to you like a warm hug- treat yourself. By choosing to surround yourself with things that are useful and that make you feel fantastic- you will bring that energy to every part of your life. It is important to give to yourself from time to time- especially when it really calls to you.
5) Smile when you spend.
Each time you spend, every purchase you make…breath, smile and say thank you. Do not cringe inside- shoppers remorse is toxic. Until you can feel a deep appreciation for the riches in your life- do NOT dole out the dinero. Feel fortunate to be able to give and do so freely with-out regret …or do not do it at all.
6) Enjoy the process and be present for presents!
Shopping is not a competitive sport to be done in heels and under duress. Decide to be intentional and unaffected my the heavy marketing and mayhem around you. If it starts to get to you then- leave. You always have that choice …there is a difference between quitting and letting go!
Be well, spend well- enjoy the Season!
Nicola Jones
For the Sleepless, Restless and Worn
Nov 7th, 2012 by Nicola Jones
Plug in so you can check out
I get up at 4:00am every day and not by choice. I don’t do it so I can squeeze in a run or clean my house before the masses emerge… I do it… because I have to. Until I can figure out how to host a Morning Show at noon- this will be my life.
So as you can imagine I exist in a Parallel Universe where 1:00pm feels like 1:00am and dinner plans on a Friday night are about as appealing as frostbite, grey roots or soggy french fries.
Sleep is NOT a necessity in my world it is an obsession…and anyone who stands in my way- will get hurt. That is just one of the reasons Meditation has been such an important part of my life. I can not “wait” to fall asleep -but I am not one of those who snores before impact…I need help to make pillow time productive and restorative.
I need to be able to unwind as easily as possible and ensure that my down-time recharges me fully so I can be “on” when the lights are on me. I love my job but it is not the healthiest lifestyle and so my habits and rituals need to make up for that. I have learned how to release tension, let go of incessant thinking and fall asleep quickly out of necessity …but some days I am tested.
I know how the demands of this life are draining us all but we do have an infinite source of energy and peace available to us… NOW. Make the time and space to practice stillness and watch how your world blooms in new vibrant colour. Meditation is transformative and can take you out of chaos and into peace in an instant.
Be well,
Nicola Jones
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