tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27452934794194013702024-03-05T07:24:46.851-05:00Between DreamsAllie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.comBlogger232125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-92159257068485623812016-03-01T08:30:00.000-05:002016-03-01T08:30:13.259-05:00NEW BEGINNINGS + AN INVITATIONHey there & welcome!<br />
<br />
Between Dreams began as a creative outlet and since then evolved into a mash-up of inspiration, soulful conversations, and rock-solid wisdom... but of course, the evolution continues.<br />
<br />
Take this as your official invitation to my new online space <a href="http://allietymo.com/">allietymo.com</a> - an empowering online space full of resources & wisdom for people who want to feel... free. Really, truly free. For people who want to feel wildly inspired, radiant, and filled with joy. Who want real, radical change in their life, and want to live on their terms.<br />
<br />
For people who want to create a phenomenal life.<br />
<br />
If you'd like to stay up to date on my latest articles, programs and happenings, come on over to <a href="http://allietymo.com/">allietymo.com</a> and share the journey with me.<br />
<br />
I'll be there with open arms xx<br />
<br />
You can also enter your details below to stay in touch - which includes newsletter-only inspiration & insider access that you won't get anywhere else.<br />
<br />
<!-- Begin MailChimp Signup Form -->
<style type="text/css">
body p, .sqs-layout .sqs-block.html-block p {
text-align: left !important;
}
h2 {
color:#b263a4;
}
#optin { margin: 0 auto 2em; overflow: hidden; text-align: left}
#optin input {
background: #fff url(images/input.png) repeat-x bottom;
border: 1px solid #ccc;
float: center;
font-size: 14px;
margin: 0 10px 10px 0;
padding: 8px 10px;
width: 200px;
border-radius: 3px;
-moz-border-radius: 3px;
-webkit-border-radius: 3px;
box-shadow: 0 2px 2px #ddd;
-moz-box-shadow: 0 2px 2px #ddd;
-webkit-box-shadow: 0 2px 2px #fff
}
#optin input.name { background: #fff no-repeat 10px center; color: #666666; padding-left: 10px }
#optin input.email { background: #fff url no-repeat 10px center; color: #666666; padding-left: 10px }
#optin input[type="submit"] {
background: #b263a4 repeat-x top;
border: 1px solid #b263a4;
color: #fff;
cursor: pointer;
font-size: 14px;
font-weight: bold;
font-colour: #b263a4
padding: 3px 5px;
text-transform: uppercase;
width: auto
}
#optin input[type="submit"]:hover { color: #002B45 }
#optin span { background: no-repeat center left; float: center; margin-left: 15px; padding-left: 20px }
</style>
<br />
<div id="optin">
<form action="//blogspot.us3.list-manage.com/subscribe/post?u=bd1d874c8207c3030a88e9914&id=b10a200c2c" class="validate" id="mc-embedded-subscribe-form" method="post" name="mc-embedded-subscribe-form" novalidate="" target="_blank">
<div>
<div>
</div>
<h2>
GET YOUR WEEKLY DOSE OF INSPIRATION</h2>
<div>
</div>
<input class="name" id="mce-FNAME" name="FNAME" onblur="if(this.value==" onfocus="if(this.value==this.defaultValue)this.value=" size="30" this.value="this.defaultValue;" type="text" value="Name:" />
<input class="required email" id="mce-EMAIL" name="EMAIL" onblur="if(this.value==" onfocus="if(this.value==this.defaultValue)this.value=" size="”30″" this.value="this.defaultValue;" type="email" value="Email:" />
<input class="button" id="mc-embedded-subscribe" name="subscribe" type="submit" value="Get It!" />
</div>
</form>
</div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b>>>> <a href="http://allietymo.com/">TAKE ME TO ALLIETYMO.COM</a> <<<</b></h3>
<br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/allietymo">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-84437730045003606482014-07-29T11:45:00.001-04:002014-07-29T11:45:29.019-04:00Kick Start: One Question... (FREE Desktop Wallpaper)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28Gu0gAfGDTQJYKXHfyTj0cJ6dF5d07fcfigQvRpsuW2ipKWVUESxAqMKblqsAkeqD7If3As7E_nggBEL5blNbPfHyZ7flGd_RIb8TlD06ZSQpaPFYxkVXT8bs6Z-VxJiYuT_y73c9QM/s1600/soul-awakens-allie-tymo-preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28Gu0gAfGDTQJYKXHfyTj0cJ6dF5d07fcfigQvRpsuW2ipKWVUESxAqMKblqsAkeqD7If3As7E_nggBEL5blNbPfHyZ7flGd_RIb8TlD06ZSQpaPFYxkVXT8bs6Z-VxJiYuT_y73c9QM/s1600/soul-awakens-allie-tymo-preview.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Time has a funny way of kicking it into high gear during these summer months - as each day goes by, I'm reminded again and again how quickly it passes, and how one day, sooner than I realize, this summer will become another memory that I'll look back on and smile. That as much as I want to look into the future, it's all about marinating in this beautiful space, coming back to here, now,<i> this moment.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While you're scanning through these words, I want you to bring awareness to your breath. Was your breathing shallow? Were you holding your breath? Consciously come back to full, deep breaths, as you inhale and exhale.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Feel a sense of calm fill your body.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Let go of the chatter in your mind.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Release your expectations - for this moment, for this day.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Breathe.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Ask yourself this one simple question:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>What do you need right now?</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Take action.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<div style="line-height: 18px;">
<b><span style="color: #cc6666;"><a href="http://ge.tt/api/1/files/8050Kdp1/0/blob?download" style="color: #cc6666; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE WALLPAPER</span></a></span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<em style="text-align: -webkit-left;">As always, if this resonated with you, I'd be so appreciative if you shared it with your friends and spread the love x</em></div>
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-12839459124892317692014-07-25T10:23:00.004-04:002014-07-25T10:23:55.081-04:00How To Navigate Change With Ease<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzop_DKO36IRbvvKq7zE5UWyoYQtIyeX1X1nLTi_OwGEPlP8nPPWK-NA5LLGE7EtsnvDshgXMIzV4odY1XL3CLWRmKzOvSomfjTGCZGwraRJMjuiNorDrxtWu4ju11ka-rW8rwe-ZR-34/s1600/How-to-navigate-change-with-ease.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzop_DKO36IRbvvKq7zE5UWyoYQtIyeX1X1nLTi_OwGEPlP8nPPWK-NA5LLGE7EtsnvDshgXMIzV4odY1XL3CLWRmKzOvSomfjTGCZGwraRJMjuiNorDrxtWu4ju11ka-rW8rwe-ZR-34/s1600/How-to-navigate-change-with-ease.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Do you feel like you're on the cusp of change? Like, there's a shift in energy swirling in the air and there you are, smack in the middle? <i>Yeah, I'm feelin' it too.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I can quite put my finger on it, but it's as if I'm standing on the edge of a cliff side, waiting for the sign to jump off. It's this awkward space of the unknown, wondering what's to come <i>and</i> practising presence, <i>being</i> in this moment, fully.<br />
<br />
If you're anything like me, that type of feeling - the wondering, the waiting, the unknown - gives you ants in your pants, sending you on a hunt for answers as impatience bubbles up to the surface, your mind unsettled and racing. Focusing on the task at hand? Distraction-city. Drifting to sleep at night? Damn near impossible.<br />
<br />
Uncertainty and the unknown are a given when it comes to these periods of change and transformation, but there's one thing I do know: <i style="font-weight: bold;">we have a choice in how we show up in the world. </i>The<i> in-between </i>doesn't have to be full of stress and struggle, we can learn to approach change from a space of ease and grace.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #cc6666; font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;">GET GROUNDED</span></h3>
When our focus is entirely outside of us, relying on the external world, and replaying all the <i>what-ifs</i> in our minds, we get knocked off our feet in a hurry. When we become grounded, connected and present to our internal world, we take our power back, and can use that beautiful energy for unwavering support.<br />
<br />
<i>Inhale.</i><br />
<i>Exhale.</i><br />
<br />
Take your attention off of what's happening around you, and create a solid foundation that nourishes and supports you. Set aside time for practices that allow you to slow down and awaken awareness and presence. When we create a calm internal world, we become less reactive and enter into a space of flow, creating shifts in the world around you.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #cc6666; font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;">TRUST, WHOLE-HEARTEDLY</span></h3>
Without a doubt, the best thing we can do is go with flow. As they say, <i>resistance is futile. </i><br />
<br />
Throw your expectations out the window, let go of the desire to control, and quit the struggle, it will only send your stress-levels through the roof. Instead, enter into a space of acceptance and practise trust, knowing that it's out of your hands and will unfold all in divine timing.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">We don't need to know why or how - we need to trust that it's a done deal.<a href="http://ctt.ec/1c3KO"> </a></span><a href="http://ctt.ec/1c3KO">(Tweet this!)</a></i><br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #cc6666; font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;">BE OPEN TO GUIDANCE</span></h3>
<br />
Releasing the need to figure it all out opens a forum to dig a little deeper and discover the hidden lessons behind what's happening - how are <i>you</i> showing up? How can <i>you</i> learn? How can<i> you</i> grow?<br />
<br />
Tune in and allow guidance to come to you. Quick tip? Grab your journal, setting the intention for guidance, and ask for supportive wisdom as you sit with a specific challenge, question, or situation and see what comes up.<br />
<br />
<b>Even if you don't feel like you're being guided, trust that you will be. You might find it through a conversation, a hunch that you need to take a certain class or pick up a book, or you might stumble across a blog that gives you exactly what you need.</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
BONUS: With the new moon tomorrow, it's an ideal time to light a candle, break out your journal, and scribble down your intentions to set your heartfelt desires into motion by launching them into manifestation-mode! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>What changes are you moving through at the moment and what practices will you be putting into place that will nourish and support you? Shoot me a line in the comments, I'd love to hear all about it! x </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-34942256165465718102014-07-18T08:00:00.000-04:002014-07-18T08:57:01.339-04:005 Quick Tips for Dealing with Negative People<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWqy1Tth8h35GQrspbS4h0RAegsf5aUYsnkO5XPo7g2rDj8yk1jANPhapfo2NdqG6n7Ipg1kuP29FxhEbx-yv60_77WgTCPjVnb2zKen5lKEXwgMAXbGPkOz1_EycHCeIv1BfZb5Fa3SY/s1600/you-decide-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWqy1Tth8h35GQrspbS4h0RAegsf5aUYsnkO5XPo7g2rDj8yk1jANPhapfo2NdqG6n7Ipg1kuP29FxhEbx-yv60_77WgTCPjVnb2zKen5lKEXwgMAXbGPkOz1_EycHCeIv1BfZb5Fa3SY/s1600/you-decide-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
We all know those kinds of people, wrapped up in drama and negativity, complaining endlessly, consumed by gossip. The Negative Nancys of the world who devote their time to feeding their cynicism and doubting the intentions of everyone around them.<br />
<br />
If you've ever been in the presence of this kind of negativity, then you know it's not a pleasant experience. It can take you from the top of the world to crashing down in the throes of your own negativity, draining you of all energy, leaving you with a bad taste in your mouth.<br />
<br />
Not too long ago, I experienced this type of feeling first-hand, after meeting up with a friend for dinner where the conversation quickly switched from catching up to an endless string of complaints, and I became completely absorbed by her negativity. I left the restaurant feeling drained and exhausted, and slightly confused on how I could allow her to bring me down and affect me like that.<br />
<br />
<b>So - what type of action can you take?</b><br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
DROP THE JUDGMENTS</h3>
When I first started diving into my own personal-growth journey, it felt like my eyes had been opened to an entirely new world. The thoughts that were running through my mind, <i>my entire way of being </i>was transforming, and it felt incredibly liberating. You know the feeling when you discover something so freaking awesome and you just want to shout it from the rooftops?<br />
<br />
Then you come face-to-face with another person, who is wrapped up in their own story or crippled with negativity and you kind of... want to shake them and shout, <i>"Life doesn't have to be so hard! You're doing it wrong!"</i><br />
<br />
Simply put? We all have our own struggles, stories, and heartbreak, and we will never (ever, ever) know exactly what somebody else is going through. We are all trudging down our own path, the lessons unfolding in front of us uniquely as we need them.<br />
<br />
You may <i>think </i>you're more spiritually evolved or that they are a disastrous mess, but that is only your projection of them, and it's not the truth.<br />
<br />
<b>You are not better than or superior to <i>anyone.</i></b><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Judge less, love more. </span><a href="http://ctt.ec/vfUUW">(Tweet this!)</a></i><br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
MEET THEM WHERE THEY ARE</h3>
It might be tempting to pull-out all your problem-solving tricks when somebody comes to you with their issues and complaints. We'll brainstorm like crazy, just wanting to make somebody feel better. We'll pump out our best pick-me-up's, dish out a hearty dish of positivity, and pour our energy into brightening their day.<br />
<br />
I'm going to suggest something a little different: Instead of resisting their negativity, allow it to flow freely.<br />
<br />
We can spend all of our time trying to 'block' their negative energy from entering our psyche, but what happens when we just let it be? When we create a loving container for a good ol' rant session?<br />
<br />
When we meet them where they are and put ourselves in their shoes, we choose to love a little deeper:<br />
<br />
"I can't imagine having to deal with that, that must be really hard for you."<br />
<br />
"I can see how difficult your life must be right now."<br />
<br />
When we enter that space <i>with</i> them, reinforcing and becoming a mirror of their negativity, they can release that energy and move past their negativity.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Release > Suppression.</i></span><br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
OWN YOUR ENERGY</h3>
Have you ever heard of the term "energy vampires"? It's, essentially, negative people who "suck" the energy from you, draining and depleting you.<br />
<br />
<b>As Kate of <a href="http://www.yourcourageouslife.com/">Your Courageous Life </a>puts it, "They don't exist. That’s just a way to put blame on something external–that thing, out there, over there…that’s the cause. Not me. Not my choices."</b><br />
<br />
<i>(Read Kate's <a href="http://www.yourcourageouslife.com/2010/11/25/energy-vampires-are-bullshit/">spot-on article on how energy vampires are bullshit here.</a>)</i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Nobody can make you feel a certain way without your permission first.</i></span><br />
<br />
Examine the ways where you're giving your power away.<br />
<br />
Own your energy.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
SHINE THE SPOTLIGHT ON YOU</h3>
Every moment that's presented before us is an opportunity for growth. To shift your perspective. See things in a different light. Stretch our hearts open a little wider.<br />
<br />
Instead of becoming reactive, ask, <i>"What can I learn from this person?"</i><br />
<br />
<i>"The qualities I see in them, where do I see them in myself?"</i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Expand your capacity for love and compassion. </i></span><br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
FLEX YOUR 'FREE-WILL' MUSCLE</h3>
We all have a choice.<br />
<br />
We choose who we spend our time with.<br />
We choose the lens that we view life through.<br />
We can choose to judge, complain, and blame.<br />
We can choose to step inside someone else's shoes.<br />
We can choose compassion, empathy, and love.<br />
We can choose to hang on or we can choose to let go.<br />
We can choose to become present, learn, and grow.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">When we know it's all a choice, we enter a space where we're free to make different choices.</span><a href="http://ctt.ec/fepc0"> (Tweet this!)</a></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS: Have you ever dealt with someone like this? How do you handle negative people and situations? Hop on over to the comments - I can't wait to hear how this resonated with you and listen to your point of view.<br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-90231357366599892882014-07-11T08:38:00.000-04:002014-07-11T09:07:21.795-04:00My Writing Process<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWokhIuVGC7e8D3pVTRcmhsnIRcbtRI-G6D0QD_d8h4xZ6qdJfuNthu0Mx3SJdJyyoV5Lm1V-f-VDoVfJ69LBoceTzBMPMf4bXU846RXxif2utJbz1EvQ7xZLBteKfQvoDzSvQ19ov7ho/s1600/8124978888_72a0358158_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWokhIuVGC7e8D3pVTRcmhsnIRcbtRI-G6D0QD_d8h4xZ6qdJfuNthu0Mx3SJdJyyoV5Lm1V-f-VDoVfJ69LBoceTzBMPMf4bXU846RXxif2utJbz1EvQ7xZLBteKfQvoDzSvQ19ov7ho/s1600/8124978888_72a0358158_b.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Blogging. It's a funny thing, don't you think? A funny, beautiful, ever-evolving thing.<br />
<br />
I realized that I've never shared my experience with blogging or how it all came to life, and to be honest, it's been a huge part of my own journey of self-discovery. So when <a href="http://allthingseblog.com/writing-process">Erika</a> asked me to participate in The Writing Process blog tour, I was pretty stoked about the idea of peeling back the curtains and sharing a little of what goes on behind the scenes.<br />
<br />
Three years ago, I was sitting in a cubicle working a job that made me feel depleted, unfulfilled, and flat-out bored. Countless minutes and hours were spent staring at the clock waiting for time to pass, and it seemed like every waking moment the same thought would whirl around in my mind, <i>"There has to be something more than this."</i><br />
<br />
My creative spirit was lying dormant and I was looking for a way to express myself, to just do anything that made me feel like <i>me.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I didn't have a plan of action, I just knew I had this love of writing that I'd been neglecting, and so, <i>a blog was born.</i><br />
<br />
Since that time, what you see now doesn't at all resemble what this space once was. In the beginning, I wrote for the sake of writing, wrote about topics I didn't care about, posted for the sake of <i>'getting something out there'</i>, I've been sucked into the world of blogging <i>do's </i>and <i>don'ts</i>, subjected myself to major blog-guilt, and I rarely (if ever) knew what I was doing. I've changed the name of this blog three times, redesigned the look on more than a few occasions, deleted countless posts, and decided to <i>create</i> on my own terms.<br />
<br />
In the three years that I've been coming back to this space, I've quite literally found myself in the process. I shifted my focus from sticking to rules, trying to get as much traffic as possible, and kicking myself because I didn't have thousands of followers to making my own rules, creating quality content that feels damn good to write, and being extremely grateful for every single person that I have had the honour of connecting with through this space.<br />
<br />
It's easy to get sucked into the world of comparison, focusing on the numbers game, and wishing, hoping, striving, and pushing for results. It's easy to fall in line, and despite your best intentions, wind up going in a direction that doesn't entirely suit who you are, and before you know it, your blog doesn't feel like your blog at all, and you take a step back and realize you'd rather burn everything you've ever written.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="color: #cc6666; font-size: x-large;">What I've come to realize is that there are no mistakes, it's all part of the evolution of our spirits.</span> <a href="http://ctt.ec/01AE8">(Tweet this!)</a></i><br />
<br />
<b><i>If you want to take the flame to your archives, redesign your entire look and feel, you can, because the only rules are the ones you choose to go by.</i></b><br />
<br />
These days, those rules are a lot more light-hearted for me.<br />
<br />
It's about sitting down to a blank screen or page, and asking,<i> "What wants to be written?"</i><br />
<br />
It's following the direction of my energy, and allowing myself to be moved by the ebbs and flows of life. Never forcing, never pushing. Inviting in more space and ease. Always trusting that the words will come when they're ready.<br />
<br />
<b>It's shifting the perspective of what connection means to me and instead of thinking about Google Analytics, my reach, and number of followers, thinking, <i>"How can I connect deeper to my creativity?"</i> Leading with my intuition, always.</b><br />
<br />
<b>It's redefining what success means to me with these questions: <i>How can I bring joy? How can I provide value? How can I be more generous?</i></b><br />
<br />
Leading with my heart, always.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
What are you working on right now? </h3>
With a grateful heart, I'm completely overjoyed to say that over the past couple of months, I've been dipping my toes into the world of coaching, and have had the amazing opportunity to coach some incredible woman, who continue to inspire me daily. Connecting on a deep, soul level and diving into this work is something I'm beyond passionate about, and I can't wait to witness how this journey will continue to unfold.<br />
<br />
I'm also incredibly excited to announce that I'm working on an e-book! In the coming days, I'll be hiding away in my creative cave and letting this idea of mine come to life. I can't wait for the day when I can share it with you. Keep your eyes on this space!<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
How does your work differ from others of its genre?</h3>
It's written by yours truly!<br />
<br />
I believe that there is no such thing as competition, that there's room for all of us. We all have a unique voice and every single one of us has a story to tell... we just have to be courageous enough to do it. It's not always easy, but there's one thing I know for sure: If you show up authentically and embrace who you are (shaky boots and all), you <i>will</i> move mountains.<br />
<br />
<b>When I look outside of myself and start to compare, I diminish my own worth. When I live by the mantra <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2014/02/kick-start-honour-yourself.html#.U788h5RdUSk">"Just do you"</a> - I allow myself to expand, learn, and grow. I'm filled with curiosity and wonder. Life<i> flows.</i></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>It's much more interesting that way.</b><br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Why do you write what you do?</h3>
<i>What a question!</i><br />
<br />
I write to discover. I write simply to see the words spill out of my heart and onto the page. I write to make sense of the thoughts that are bouncing around in my mind. I write to make sense of it all. I write to connect with myself on a deeper level.<br />
<br />
What I write about sends shivers down my spine. It's opened up my heart in ways I never thought were possible, and continues to do so.<br />
<br />
<b>When I sit down and ask, <i>"What wants to be written?"</i> I listen - because it pushes me, challenges me, gets me outside of the box, and ignites this sense of curiosity that makes me never want to stop exploring and discovering. I believe that we are so much more than what's on the surface and when we begin to dig deep beneath those superficial levels, we are met with the truth of who we are.</b><br />
<br />
<i>And that's a beautiful thing.</i><br />
<br />
I write what I do because it moves me -<i> because I'm called to.</i><br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
How does your writing process work?
</h3>
I've spoken briefly about the kind of energy I bring into my writing - and when I start to feel like I'm forcing it, pushing to get it done, or feeling guilty, I take that as a clear sign that I need to step away. Get outside, flip upside down into a handstand, crank up the music and dance it out.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When it comes to actually "getting shit done", normally that means setting aside definite "do not disturb" time, awesome music playing in the background <i>(anything from meditative tracks to chill indie tunes to make you wanna get up and dance kinda music)</i>, no distractions from social media, and patience. It means getting past the blank screen staring back at me and just writing that first sentence, <i>even if it's total rubbish.</i></span><br />
<br />
<b>One of my core desired feelings is <i>freedom</i>, so more often than not, I resist structure and perfectly laid out plans. I'm more of a <i>fly-by-the-seat-of-her-pants</i> type of girl.</b><br />
<br />
It might mean candlelight flickering in the corner of my eye, grabbing a last-minute crystal just because (rose quartz, flourite, and citrine are go-to's), listening to the bird's chirping in the background, getting my hands on the closest computer/ notebook and just going for it, or a couple of hops on my trampoline in-between paragraphs. Chilling on the couch in the living room, laying in bed, sitting at my desk, or outside on the patio. Whatever feels right.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thank you so much for being here - I really hope you enjoyed digging into this one as much as I loved writing it! And another big high five to <a href="http://allthingseblog.com/writing-process/">Erika</a> for passing over the baton :) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">YOUR TURN: Why do you do what you do? All the juicy details - spill it! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Image via <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cassodayann/8124978888/in/photostream/">cassoday harder</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-22024808145249764312014-07-04T10:35:00.000-04:002014-07-04T10:35:30.377-04:00My Top 8 Songs for the SoulYou know those moments when you crank up the dial on the volume, close your eyes, and just let the music completely absorb you? Over the past few months, I've been drawn to music in a different kind of way. Rather than flipping on a random playlist, I've opted instead for intentional listening.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>(Which was only amplified during my retreat where an entire group of us lounged around on pillows on the floor, sipping herbal tea, listening to track after track, just to see what would happen when the beat started to play.)</i><br />
<br />
The kind of songs that take your breath away, resonate deep into the core of your body, support you through dark moments in your life, that perfect soundtrack that makes you want to belt out all of the words. The kind of songs where you just can't help but close your eyes, listen more deeply, and feel the beat pulsate throughout every cell, memorizing each note, lyric, and rhythm along the way.<br />
<br />
<i>...that hit you right where you need it while lying in savasana on your yoga mat...</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>...that fill your body as you move your body around the room, letting your energy flow freely...</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>...that send you to places you never knew were possible while deep in meditation...</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>...that soothe your soul.</i><br />
<br />
Here are my favourites right now:<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
HEY NOW - London Grammar</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="411" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/nMEHJPuggHQ" width="730"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
*<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prikL6FsJhc">This live version</a> is killer.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
GODDESS - Banks</h3>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="411" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/S98Q11zhS-g" width="730"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
STARALFUR - Sigur Ros</h3>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="411" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/SQuki_8COXs" width="730"></iframe>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<br /></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
FLIGHT FACILITIES - Clair De Lune (feat. Christine Hoberg)
</h3>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="411" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Jcu1AHaTchM" width="730"></iframe><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<br /></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
STAY ALIVE - José González</h3>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="411" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/NucJk8TxyRg" width="730"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
BREATHE - Télépopmusik</h3>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="548" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/vyut3GyQtn0" width="730"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
LET GO - RAC ft. Kele, MNDR
</h3>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="411" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/SeXBiXcEBkY" width="730"></iframe>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<br /></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
THE READ ALL ABOUT IT BOOTLEG - Stefan Biniak</h3>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="411" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Y4n8cLkHifY" width="730"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
If you want to listen to more of my picks, I set up an account on <a href="http://grooveshark.com/#!/allietymo">Grooveshark</a> (does anyone use that site? I feel like it's a Canadian thing, haha!). My original plan was to create a solid playlist, but I've found that I still need to work past my perfectionist tendencies because it just never feels complete - so I'll keep adding as I go! ;)<br />
<br />
This was such a joy to put together for you guys!<br />
<br />
<b>Let me know your favourites in the comments - I'd love to keep adding to my collection!</b><br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-36739573815748241522014-06-30T08:00:00.000-04:002014-06-30T08:00:00.865-04:00Kick Start: Claim What's Yours<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1sk5nqZD-azGKcpFqY5iHxIKYz7d6IWnWiSvnwy3pUFeAmuFVuV_xiY_fVhSqSBRpnOB0ie7_UFBHE0dK1Ya4qri94jNSv9W1wi9m6lHOLzjSm-Tp0CW65q2ScxnNZir_QSe2kirqiQ/s1600/infinite-wisdom-allie-tymo-preview.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1sk5nqZD-azGKcpFqY5iHxIKYz7d6IWnWiSvnwy3pUFeAmuFVuV_xiY_fVhSqSBRpnOB0ie7_UFBHE0dK1Ya4qri94jNSv9W1wi9m6lHOLzjSm-Tp0CW65q2ScxnNZir_QSe2kirqiQ/s1600/infinite-wisdom-allie-tymo-preview.jpg.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Below you'll find an excerpt from one of my love notes from the exclusive <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">Between Dreams mailing list,</a> which at the moment, is sent straight to your inbox every other Thursday. This is an awesome way for us to connect in a more personal way - I share a lot of my personal reflections/ experiences, invite you to think outside the box, send out a call to action to explore, and some insights for the soul.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I hope this inspires you...</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
There's something about the energy in the air right now.<br />
<br />
The windows are wide open as I listen to the rain gently falling outside, candle light has filled the room, and it's just me and you. Right here, in this moment. <i>It's electric. </i><br />
<br />
I've been thinking a lot about you lately. <b><i>And I want you to know that I see you.</i> </b><br />
<br />
I see your courage, strength, and unwavering passion for this beautiful thing we call <i>LIFE </i>and I believe in you.<br />
<br />
That said, I have a message for you. Yes, it's a little bold but I'm just going to throw it out there, knowing that it's coming from my heart to yours...<br />
<br />
I want you to chase down those little whispers, the nudges, the inklings, your gut feelings, the pull towards what's been calling your name. To get deeply, deeply curious about them and really listen when you ask, <i>"What do they have to say? Why?" </i><br />
<br />
<b>I want you to answer the call. </b><br />
<br />
I want you to break down the walls of fear - with sweaty palms, as your heart is <i>thump-thump-thumping </i>in your chest. I want to see you grow, stretch, and expand in your capacity to love, to dream a little bigger, to claim what's rightfully yours.<br />
<br />
I want you to trust. Trust that the Universe has your back, that you will be continually supported and guided along the way. And that fear? It's just a sign of the growth + expansion you're seeking.<br />
<br />
<b>I want you to stop searching outside of you and turn your gaze inwards. </b><br />
<br />
I want to see your face light up when you come to the realization that everything you could ever need or want is already inside of you. The infinite wisdom of the Cosmos, the spark of inspiration, complete unbridled joy, unconditional love + acceptance, it's all there, woven into your soul.<br />
<br />
I want you to know this isn't about adding stuff on top of you - <i>another skill, a new language, the words from the latest book, a different way of being </i>- it's coming home to who you already are. It's stripping away the layers that you no longer need, that are no longer serving you, and that cover you - <i>the real you</i> - up.<br />
<br />
<b>I want you to honour yourself. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Because I see you. I believe in you. </b><br />
<br />
Are you going to claim what's yours?<br />
<br />
<i>Now's the time.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i>
Here's what people are saying about it:<br />
<br />
<b><i>"Thursday's are my favourite day of the week because Thursday's mean I receive a little bit of Allie love and guidance right to my inbox - and it inspires me in so many more ways than I could describe." - Amy L. </i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>"I LOVE receiving your newsletters, your words are always exactly what I need to hear!" - Sarah </i></b><br />
<br />
Want more? All you have to do is sign up below... <i>it's completely free!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">SPARKLING INSPIRATION + SOULFUL CONTEMPLATION... STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX</span></b></h3>
<div id="mc_embed_signup">
<form action="http://allietymo.us3.list-manage.com/subscribe/post?u=bd1d874c8207c3030a88e9914&id=b10a200c2c" class="validate" id="mc-embedded-subscribe-form" method="post" name="mc-embedded-subscribe-form" novalidate="" target="_blank">
<div class="mc-field-group">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<label for="mce-EMAIL"><span style="color: #cc6666;">Email Address</span> </label>
<input class="required email" id="mce-EMAIL" name="EMAIL" type="email" value="" />
</div>
</div>
<div class="mc-field-group">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<label for="mce-FNAME"><span style="color: #cc6666;">First Name </span></label>
<input class="required" id="mce-FNAME" name="FNAME" type="text" value="" /></div>
</div>
<div class="clear" id="mce-responses">
<div class="response" id="mce-error-response" style="display: none;">
</div>
<div class="response" id="mce-success-response" style="display: none;">
</div>
</div>
<!-- real people should not fill this in and expect good things - do not remove this or risk form bot signups-->
<br />
<div style="left: -5000px; position: absolute;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="b_bd1d874c8207c3030a88e9914_b10a200c2c" type="text" value="" /></div>
</div>
<div class="clear">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<input class="button" id="mc-embedded-subscribe" name="subscribe" type="submit" value="Subscribe" /></div>
</div>
</form>
</div>
<script type="text/javascript">
var fnames = new Array();var ftypes = new Array();fnames[0]='EMAIL';ftypes[0]='email';fnames[1]='FNAME';ftypes[1]='text';
try {
var jqueryLoaded=jQuery;
jqueryLoaded=true;
} catch(err) {
var jqueryLoaded=false;
}
var head= document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0];
if (!jqueryLoaded) {
var script = document.createElement('script');
script.type = 'text/javascript';
script.src = '//ajax.googleapis.com/ajax/libs/jquery/1.4.4/jquery.min.js';
head.appendChild(script);
if (script.readyState && script.onload!==null){
script.onreadystatechange= function () {
if (this.readyState == 'complete') mce_preload_check();
}
}
}
var err_style = '';
try{
err_style = mc_custom_error_style;
} catch(e){
err_style = '#mc_embed_signup input.mce_inline_error{border-color:#6B0505;} #mc_embed_signup div.mce_inline_error{margin: 0 0 1em 0; padding: 5px 10px; background-color:#6B0505; font-weight: bold; z-index: 1; color:#fff;}';
}
var head= document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0];
var style= document.createElement('style');
style.type= 'text/css';
if (style.styleSheet) {
style.styleSheet.cssText = err_style;
} else {
style.appendChild(document.createTextNode(err_style));
}
head.appendChild(style);
setTimeout('mce_preload_check();', 250);
var mce_preload_checks = 0;
function mce_preload_check(){
if (mce_preload_checks>40) return;
mce_preload_checks++;
try {
var jqueryLoaded=jQuery;
} catch(err) {
setTimeout('mce_preload_check();', 250);
return;
}
var script = document.createElement('script');
script.type = 'text/javascript';
script.src = 'http://downloads.mailchimp.com/js/jquery.form-n-validate.js';
head.appendChild(script);
try {
var validatorLoaded=jQuery("#fake-form").validate({});
} catch(err) {
setTimeout('mce_preload_check();', 250);
return;
}
mce_init_form();
}
function mce_init_form(){
jQuery(document).ready( function($) {
var options = { errorClass: 'mce_inline_error', errorElement: 'div', onkeyup: function(){}, onfocusout:function(){}, onblur:function(){} };
var mce_validator = $("#mc-embedded-subscribe-form").validate(options);
$("#mc-embedded-subscribe-form").unbind('submit');//remove the validator so we can get into beforeSubmit on the ajaxform, which then calls the validator
options = { url: 'http://allietymo.us3.list-manage.com/subscribe/post-json?u=bd1d874c8207c3030a88e9914&id=b10a200c2c&c=?', type: 'GET', dataType: 'json', contentType: "application/json; charset=utf-8",
beforeSubmit: function(){
$('#mce_tmp_error_msg').remove();
$('.datefield','#mc_embed_signup').each(
function(){
var txt = 'filled';
var fields = new Array();
var i = 0;
$(':text', this).each(
function(){
fields[i] = this;
i++;
});
$(':hidden', this).each(
function(){
var bday = false;
if (fields.length == 2){
bday = true;
fields[2] = {'value':1970};//trick birthdays into having years
}
if ( fields[0].value=='MM' && fields[1].value=='DD' && (fields[2].value=='YYYY' || (bday && fields[2].value==1970) ) ){
this.value = '';
} else if ( fields[0].value=='' && fields[1].value=='' && (fields[2].value=='' || (bday && fields[2].value==1970) ) ){
this.value = '';
} else {
if (/\[day\]/.test(fields[0].name)){
this.value = fields[1].value+'/'+fields[0].value+'/'+fields[2].value;
} else {
this.value = fields[0].value+'/'+fields[1].value+'/'+fields[2].value;
}
}
});
});
$('.phonefield-us','#mc_embed_signup').each(
function(){
var fields = new Array();
var i = 0;
$(':text', this).each(
function(){
fields[i] = this;
i++;
});
$(':hidden', this).each(
function(){
if ( fields[0].value.length != 3 || fields[1].value.length!=3 || fields[2].value.length!=4 ){
this.value = '';
} else {
this.value = 'filled';
}
});
});
return mce_validator.form();
},
success: mce_success_cb
};
$('#mc-embedded-subscribe-form').ajaxForm(options);
});
}
function mce_success_cb(resp){
$('#mce-success-response').hide();
$('#mce-error-response').hide();
if (resp.result=="success"){
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').show();
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').html(resp.msg);
$('#mc-embedded-subscribe-form').each(function(){
this.reset();
});
} else {
var index = -1;
var msg;
try {
var parts = resp.msg.split(' - ',2);
if (parts[1]==undefined){
msg = resp.msg;
} else {
i = parseInt(parts[0]);
if (i.toString() == parts[0]){
index = parts[0];
msg = parts[1];
} else {
index = -1;
msg = resp.msg;
}
}
} catch(e){
index = -1;
msg = resp.msg;
}
try{
if (index== -1){
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').show();
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').html(msg);
} else {
err_id = 'mce_tmp_error_msg';
html = '<div id="'+err_id+'" style="'+err_style+'">
'+msg+'</div>
';
var input_id = '#mc_embed_signup';
var f = $(input_id);
if (ftypes[index]=='address'){
input_id = '#mce-'+fnames[index]+'-addr1';
f = $(input_id).parent().parent().get(0);
} else if (ftypes[index]=='date'){
input_id = '#mce-'+fnames[index]+'-month';
f = $(input_id).parent().parent().get(0);
} else {
input_id = '#mce-'+fnames[index];
f = $().parent(input_id).get(0);
}
if (f){
$(f).append(html);
$(input_id).focus();
} else {
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').show();
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').html(msg);
}
}
} catch(e){
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').show();
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').html(msg);
}
}
}
</script>
<!--End mc_embed_signup-->
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #cc6666; font-size: 23px; margin: 0px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-transform: uppercase;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: small; text-transform: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Plus, make sure to grab this week's desktop wallpaper:</span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<div style="line-height: 18px;">
<b><span style="color: #cc6666; font-size: small;"><a href="http://ge.tt/api/1/files/1sqINSm1/0/blob?download" style="color: #cc6666; text-decoration: none;">DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE WALLPAPER</a></span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<em style="text-align: -webkit-left;">As always, if this resonated with you, I'd be so appreciative if you shared it with your friends and spread the love x</em></div>
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-39984202013912117482014-06-18T07:30:00.000-04:002014-06-18T07:30:00.335-04:00Riding the Waves of EmotionThe grand human experience, with its winding roads, hills and valleys. The lightness and warmth from the glowing sun, and the darkness that sweeps overhead at dusk. The richness of joy that pours from our heart, the spark of inspiration that pulses through our veins, and the depth of sadness that can swallow us whole. The all encompassing raw, human emotion.<br />
<br />
<i>Love, joy, laughter, expansion, passion, ecstasy.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Sadness, grief, pain, sorrow, fear.</i><br />
<br />
These emotions are engrained into our DNA, etched into our cells, and arise naturally in our bodies.<br />
<br />
Yet, somehow, we stick labels on them - good and bad. Right and wrong.<br />
<br />
<b>The pursuit of happiness continues and along with it, the dismissal of any emotion that isn't aligned with what we've defined as good. We sweep our emotions under the rug, cover them up with positive affirmations, and deny our right to feel what comes most natural to us.<i> We've become downright uncomfortable when it means listening to our bodies and feeling how we feel.</i></b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6m-Sb31lkXSsfiH_rG0BbOafUuk3ehPH01Ocu6WMJIdCPuj15dNp3fshCnCs0Ndv8ykquteh5CR5xsId8p6Xc8xY9dnrro0zHGTl-tt21IcpnTMqBIB9wVPmSQB6CqponEkA8iHiVTKE/s1600/20120325-01-a139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6m-Sb31lkXSsfiH_rG0BbOafUuk3ehPH01Ocu6WMJIdCPuj15dNp3fshCnCs0Ndv8ykquteh5CR5xsId8p6Xc8xY9dnrro0zHGTl-tt21IcpnTMqBIB9wVPmSQB6CqponEkA8iHiVTKE/s1600/20120325-01-a139.jpg" /></a>During my retreat, I participated in breathwork sessions that can most easily be described as a form of meditation that were around three hours in length. In a session, your inner wisdom brings you unique experiences that can include a combination of aspects of your personal history, transpersonal interconnections, and a connection to the greater spiritual reality. Think of like an inner journey into your psyche.<br />
<br />
As I laid down on my mat - with the tremble of fear rising from the pit of my belly - I surrendered, bringing my presence to that moment, opening up to whatever was about to arise, embracing the unknown.<br />
<br />
It was as if I was floating along the surface of the ocean, arms spread wide open. The sun beating down on my face, warming my whole body, and complete darkness beneath me. I felt the sweetness of fresh air fill my lungs, and a gentle let go with every exhale. I let go of expectations, I let go of doing, I let go of fear and trusted that I was safe.<br />
<br />
Much like the ocean waves, emotion began rising and falling in my body.<br />
<br />
Bliss tingled its way through the crown of my head and down to my toes.<i> I revelled in it.</i> I became aware that I didn't want that feeling of peace to fade away.<br />
<br />
But, like everything in this world, <i>it passed.</i><br />
<br />
<b>Sorrow swept over my body and took hold. My body ached from pain. Tears ran down my face.</b><br />
<br />
<i>But, I revelled that too.</i><br />
<br />
I detached myself from the labels and accepted what was and allowed myself to fully feel every emotion.<br />
<br />
<i>I felt deeper, more intensely, and allowed the emotion to be released.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Suppressing the feelings we don't want to feel creates dis-ease in the body and wreaks havoc on our cells, as they hide away inside of us, waiting to bubble up to the surface. </i><i>When we suppress our emotions, we do more harm than good.</i></span><br />
<i><br /></i>
I discovered that it's not about good or bad, pain or pleasure, comfort or the unknown, it <i>all </i>leads to wholeness. And that's what it's all about, isn't it? Not happiness, but <i>wholeness.</i> Knowing that deep down, every experience is here to teach us what we need to know most. That the full embodiment of the human experience serves a greater, divine purpose. By picking and choosing the bits we like most and ignoring the rest, we're doing a disservice to the progression of our soul. We must live through <i>all</i> of it, open-hearted.<br />
<br />
<b><i style="font-size: x-large;">The darkness is just as transformative as the light.</i> </b><i><a href="http://ctt.ec/Uo2L_">(Tweet this!)</a></i><br />
<br />
Waves that form out of nowhere can rock us off our feet - but in those moments, we can choose to open our hearts wider, to feel more intensely, and know ourselves deeper. We can learn, grow, expand, and come back to the wholeness that is who we are.<br />
<br />
When we change the lens through which we view life, we see the beauty in <i>all</i> of it. There is no good or bad, there's only what is.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">Surrender, open your heart, ride the wave.</span></i></span><br />
<br />
How 'bout it? Let's get comfortable with emotion and ditch the idea that we need to label emotion as being good, bad, or otherwise - it's all energy - feel it and allow it to pass through you.<br />
<br />
<b>I'd love to hear from you</b> - what unwanted emotion is anchoring into you? How do you feel about bringing it to the surface, riding it out, then letting it float on by? Remember,<i> this too shall pass...</i><br />
<br />
Image via <a href="http://abeachcottage.com/2012/03/easy-like-beach-cottage-sundays.html">A Beach Cottage</a><br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-85856129103973593832014-06-11T12:18:00.002-04:002014-06-11T12:23:20.981-04:00The Love List: Life LatelyIt's been awhile since I popped in for a little life update.<br />
<br />
I've been doing a lot of thinking lately about the 'big picture' - examining all the areas of my life where I feel fully aligned, where things are a bit off, what needs to be adjusted, shifted, explored.<br />
<br />
I'm all for diving deep into self-exploration, asking questions, shedding light on areas that otherwise might stay in the dark. It wasn't until I started asking myself,<i> "What do I really want? How do I want to feel?"</i> That I realized I had been ignoring this part of myself who so badly wanted to be seen. It's not always comfortable, sometimes far from it - but it has a way of cracking your heart open in the best way.<br />
<br />
As we head closer and closer to that 'middle of the year' mark, I think it's important to do a little check-in to see how we're feeling in the areas in our lives. Reassess. Set new intentions. Reflect on the words we scribbled down at the beginning of the year and see where we're at, where we want to go. That might be an affirmation that we're on the right track, or maybe it means steering in another direction.<br />
<br />
Tony Robbins words keep rising up in my mind, <i>"Where focus goes, energy flows"</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Tracking my own energy flow has become my own little experiment. Becoming an observer of the emotions that show up in my body, what it feels like, what it means (or doesn't mean), and actively practising compassion towards myself (rather than trudging on forward).<br />
<br />
It allows me to take stock of my current state, and adjust accordingly.<br />
<br />
So maybe right now, before diving into this post, do a little body scan.<br />
<br />
<b>Close your eyes, scan your body from head to toe, breathing deeply and ask: How am I feeling? How does my body feel? <i>Tense/ sluggish/ sore/ worn out? Energized/ rested/ peaceful?</i></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Whether you're feeling frustrated, angry, sad, or peaceful and full of joy - can you make that feeling <i>bigger?</i> Can you feel it fully? </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Moving forward, what part of you needs a little more love today? How can apply that love liberally? </b><br />
<br />
This isn't about diving deeper into a story we've created, or judging what comes up, it's about being with what is and affirming, "This is how I feel and that's okay."<br />
<br />
<i>Now... the love list.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b>THE RETREAT</b></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiuYSF0UCnrEDf1rGUUt3hxN1CTg72GJejWKOpUZ1Em6g8sb85Ab3e5UPzM2aKRxdmN2itvvvu8EX2J3bFsQfA4SKLYTv6by4aiiyeZhA-2uV01Hqf0k4BHjN8tdYAjgbQ423vVEZz5DM/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiuYSF0UCnrEDf1rGUUt3hxN1CTg72GJejWKOpUZ1Em6g8sb85Ab3e5UPzM2aKRxdmN2itvvvu8EX2J3bFsQfA4SKLYTv6by4aiiyeZhA-2uV01Hqf0k4BHjN8tdYAjgbQ423vVEZz5DM/s1600/photo+4.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gRzQp_afKVNmBn5nKk_z9N3diuUG_Es9CO3oh23P2ZMevCElFV_3H9s1pIg0M57MDYES-RpYf6CPrLaIFo1ZDWmJfffKOgFnsWzj-A5d4PZrgS-NjkYlBon61IcxUXyU_KOkXIxpcUc/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gRzQp_afKVNmBn5nKk_z9N3diuUG_Es9CO3oh23P2ZMevCElFV_3H9s1pIg0M57MDYES-RpYf6CPrLaIFo1ZDWmJfffKOgFnsWzj-A5d4PZrgS-NjkYlBon61IcxUXyU_KOkXIxpcUc/s1600/photo+3.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
I still find myself searching for the words to sum up my retreat week. Let's just go for it:<br />
<br />
<i>HEART-EXPANDING. EMPOWERING. MASSIVE SHIFTS. OUTPOURING LOVE. SOUL NOURISHMENT. EMOTIONALLY EXHAUSTING. JOY, JOY, JOY. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
The week away was everything I never knew I needed, and everything I was yearning for. There were tears and so many more hugs.<br />
<br />
I was speaking with a new friend who described it as leaving the retreat with a little sprout. Something has shifted, changed, grown. I feel <i>different.</i> It's something subtle yet profound all rolled into one - but I have to feed it, give it sunlight, and let it grow into something more.<br />
<br />
I journalled more than I ever have before and I've come away with golden nuggets a'plenty, new insights, perspective shifts... and I can't wait to explore those deeper with you.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIfgoZqMixG572narCH2Du9hVekSZTOCeqtIOv9wCSwX5mpJiIRxKQU2JDPucaCux4qG9z51SwyvpBWgWA2WvNTvNGECJ9FX2VVhFcFZB6jbbvCx9U0zZKIuHLWMD2cv5U1omZDI8zShY/s1600/retreat-week-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIfgoZqMixG572narCH2Du9hVekSZTOCeqtIOv9wCSwX5mpJiIRxKQU2JDPucaCux4qG9z51SwyvpBWgWA2WvNTvNGECJ9FX2VVhFcFZB6jbbvCx9U0zZKIuHLWMD2cv5U1omZDI8zShY/s1600/retreat-week-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
P.S. The retreat was spent Upstate New York in the Catskill Mountains at the beautiful Menla Mountain Retreat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b>WEEKEND IN THE WOODS</b></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fs4VTlfAQAE3GwojSfCccbGMupWk7G-9pQtdGqNwQi7BuFLjEuAHXGgPUMk-bCaL-vbidKkVqZWm1BIFSyXeQoed186d902harImihtZlK0BgBSTs4REPbxq5a5iXmVSTkpLz-qZMX0/s1600/allie-tymo-algonquin-park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fs4VTlfAQAE3GwojSfCccbGMupWk7G-9pQtdGqNwQi7BuFLjEuAHXGgPUMk-bCaL-vbidKkVqZWm1BIFSyXeQoed186d902harImihtZlK0BgBSTs4REPbxq5a5iXmVSTkpLz-qZMX0/s1600/allie-tymo-algonquin-park.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last week<a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2014/06/five-super-actionable-ways-to-be-gentle.html"> I mentioned</a> that coming home wasn't the easiest adjustment, and as I mentioned at the beginning of this post, I'm listening to my body, observing my energy flow, and honouring what my body (and soul) needs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cue the escape from the city. We loaded up the car, headed for Algonquin Park in Northern Ontario, and spent the weekend hiking, camping, and soaking up the outdoors.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKu6NwaXOh8X5NkI51SqzGulGG7YhcBTzJqvo5Lfqb0i31FR6fRPa50NkUN4HXXh7EWWdhB9uAdJhuI4dDosngygwgbm8XJ868N_pu4218g2ayxlEwhjYfUJaj3RYEGkqe8qtGIKyaQ3c/s1600/algonquin-park-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKu6NwaXOh8X5NkI51SqzGulGG7YhcBTzJqvo5Lfqb0i31FR6fRPa50NkUN4HXXh7EWWdhB9uAdJhuI4dDosngygwgbm8XJ868N_pu4218g2ayxlEwhjYfUJaj3RYEGkqe8qtGIKyaQ3c/s1600/algonquin-park-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Both of us were pretty proud of our little car upgrade (just traded in our car for this bad boy a couple of months ago) and look! The best part is... no tent set-up! *Applause!*<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlo9cAiK92Ct_ZiSQgrO28lXovWJfQPxtIPUxBq7XK54Up-hJLe4S2B14iZMSxsJ8D0xgDGXym2KMnHOU7VJP4Gl5slwnKn1Mn3d_YuRMDNTxReMwN42-I6dmiRm2MH0LsD7WHd9YqAs/s1600/photo+3+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlo9cAiK92Ct_ZiSQgrO28lXovWJfQPxtIPUxBq7XK54Up-hJLe4S2B14iZMSxsJ8D0xgDGXym2KMnHOU7VJP4Gl5slwnKn1Mn3d_YuRMDNTxReMwN42-I6dmiRm2MH0LsD7WHd9YqAs/s1600/photo+3+(2).JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Plus, impromptu yoga and dance-offs in the woods:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcU4zRmHqh-8eHHow3iB9vV9Zs3gkzolbuVKHoHF_s5GLUvnBPukuXHAYUc2z_BhiVN-5zNGxr835TMJ1NBoA81NylanCdoVKQmMzO6mF3kkwJkyo4GF1jHJXDklqZzLqe-p9E_OncsEA/s1600/impromptu-yoga-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcU4zRmHqh-8eHHow3iB9vV9Zs3gkzolbuVKHoHF_s5GLUvnBPukuXHAYUc2z_BhiVN-5zNGxr835TMJ1NBoA81NylanCdoVKQmMzO6mF3kkwJkyo4GF1jHJXDklqZzLqe-p9E_OncsEA/s1600/impromptu-yoga-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8VI514fPxIsiS59Vm6NBWYlzpN3H6Euai8JKOpJEGO6upJI2U3q1CCwIfiQIPDqg5cdk3bBsxZno5nlyZ77mIWsmlrwerx2JPGjFPjP7TuYunJ-CumdvD3nYFe1MSk_AeDc3z9CJUMyY/s1600/allie-tymo-dancing-in-algonquin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8VI514fPxIsiS59Vm6NBWYlzpN3H6Euai8JKOpJEGO6upJI2U3q1CCwIfiQIPDqg5cdk3bBsxZno5nlyZ77mIWsmlrwerx2JPGjFPjP7TuYunJ-CumdvD3nYFe1MSk_AeDc3z9CJUMyY/s1600/allie-tymo-dancing-in-algonquin.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Two of my favourite shots from the weekend:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNqU0VZbZ9wmJdAotj7UWdwIBXtUsS-_Cla4Vo8n5kA9Rs2JZ3P9Rlcjd-J0h3YYsp5NSbIgX7MDJb1Hem1B9vV29gIUnR_HIRIeoZsYPSBYWg1dStGfiATRp-JpvGHMIUHYFD5naOgw/s1600/where-the-trees-meet-water-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNqU0VZbZ9wmJdAotj7UWdwIBXtUsS-_Cla4Vo8n5kA9Rs2JZ3P9Rlcjd-J0h3YYsp5NSbIgX7MDJb1Hem1B9vV29gIUnR_HIRIeoZsYPSBYWg1dStGfiATRp-JpvGHMIUHYFD5naOgw/s1600/where-the-trees-meet-water-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A little perspective shift from above, where the trees meet the water.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGYycnAH_qTPX4EHhKViQQ2hAcBdUWzAqQT0VRfsjkd_lpB0LMl1AV1CQpRWCnVfeVztqZ5evDn2bkoeZdbxewxpsQizmezg-lcJibb83EIyf7OiL6RqImK67JiiTLBcfhK3IRpA1WQg/s1600/starry-sky-algonquin-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGYycnAH_qTPX4EHhKViQQ2hAcBdUWzAqQT0VRfsjkd_lpB0LMl1AV1CQpRWCnVfeVztqZ5evDn2bkoeZdbxewxpsQizmezg-lcJibb83EIyf7OiL6RqImK67JiiTLBcfhK3IRpA1WQg/s1600/starry-sky-algonquin-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Infinite bursts of light that fill the sky... there's something about star gazing that has a way of bringing you right back to the here and now. No place to be but under the stars, staring up in amazement at the vastness of the sky, admiring these little pinholes up above that burn so brightly, they reach our eyes from light years away.<br />
<br />
And here we are, one teeny tiny planet in this Universe, revelling in it all. How lucky are we.<br />
<br />
Has a way of putting it all into perspective, don't you think?<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
LOVE NOTES - FROM ME TO YOU</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3-0Ujbg_wBzGriG0IQZwfAJtRIygdrpTto4KH9C4ApyWovku8tM2k8IvkmVERQr5_cUctAhoQjWGCtyfzZEd6Wl79M03nMGyhBJ0xZp3tpQ1aBv5XM9SDIy2Y9H_eWvO_2A1Mi-EOZE/s1600/join-the-list.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3-0Ujbg_wBzGriG0IQZwfAJtRIygdrpTto4KH9C4ApyWovku8tM2k8IvkmVERQr5_cUctAhoQjWGCtyfzZEd6Wl79M03nMGyhBJ0xZp3tpQ1aBv5XM9SDIy2Y9H_eWvO_2A1Mi-EOZE/s1600/join-the-list.jpg" /></a></div>
<i>THIS! x 100000000000000</i><br />
<br />
I've never formally announced my newsletter on the blog, and I'm absolutely elated that so many of you have hopped on the list. <i>Thank you, thank you, thank you.</i><br />
<br />
<b>If you haven't signed up yet, here's what you can expect: love, encouragement, community, personal musings, heart to hearts, raw honesty, insider scoops, exclusive content, something extra special I'm cooking up just for this special tribe, and beyond!</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
I gotta say, connecting in this way lights me up, up, up! And I would LOVE to have you on the list, just enter your details in the sidebar, or click here:<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">GET ME ON THE LIST</a></h3>
<b><br /></b>
I aim to send a note to you every other Thursday - so you'll have one hitting your inbox tomorrow AM!<b> </b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #cc6666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #cc6666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px;">Makin' me grateful: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="color: #666666;">the small things - hangin' on the patio, bbq'ing up a storm, bike rides, sleep-ins, mini-adventures away from the city, late night chats, remembering to be silly no matter what, waking up to the sound of rain, unwavering support, unconditional love, and community. I tell you, community is where it's at, so I really want to know:</span></span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>What's goin' on in your world? What are you grateful for?</i></span></b><br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-10365708178845003542014-06-06T10:55:00.000-04:002014-06-06T11:03:32.376-04:00Five (Super Actionable) Ways To Be Gentle with Yourself<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhhtoVgfsgVoGIZArF915le0x_xNTnO9uO9UvjTm9gEcRwTtx6WqlzveZom74-fd7kIggngfOe79qftqOgo_luhcIJ8LzmewjpyEabBGpHdzDT4xRHqw5ulrggj-b5Mq7EUMO4X_0Slz0/s1600/be-gentle-with-yourself.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhhtoVgfsgVoGIZArF915le0x_xNTnO9uO9UvjTm9gEcRwTtx6WqlzveZom74-fd7kIggngfOe79qftqOgo_luhcIJ8LzmewjpyEabBGpHdzDT4xRHqw5ulrggj-b5Mq7EUMO4X_0Slz0/s1600/be-gentle-with-yourself.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
In all transparency, since coming home after spending<a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2014/05/kick-start-disconnect-to-reconnect.html"> a week away in retreat</a>, I've spent a lot of time thinking about how to put it into words. Thoughts whizzing around in my head on how I can provide value to <i>you</i> by sharing my own experiences. The week was a <i>biggie.</i> (As far as understatements go, that just may be the very definition.)<br />
<br />
There's so much to share, but the truth is that I'm still processing it all - and diving back into reality hasn't been the easiest feat for me. I feel emotionally drained, my mind has wandered off to an undisclosed location, and my feet are just barely touching the ground.<br />
<br />
Right now, I need to walk my talk. How can I trudge forward when everything in my body is telling me to slow down? To listen to my body? To pay attention to the cues that life is sending my way? <b>If the situation were reversed, and you were in front of me, I'd tell you to slow down. That sometimes the most beneficial thing to do is to do nothing at all. Be gentle. Be compassionate. One small step at a time.</b><br />
<br />
I've felt these hints of guilt come up, surrounding the blog and how less-than-present I've been this week, but I know that deep down, I need to honour myself so that I can show up fully for you.<br />
<br />
<b>Today, I'm diggin' up the archives, maybe you missed this one, or maybe you need the reminder, like me.</b><br />
<br />
<i>Remember: follow the rhythms of your body, the voice of your inner guide, and be gentle with yourself. Much love xo</i><br />
<br />
***<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Do you believe you're the creator of your days? The architect of All Things? That ultimately, you choose the way you feel? You've got dreams. </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Big ones. </i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Goals. Bucket Lists. Resolutions. Intentions. To-do lists. Watch out world, things are happenin'.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><i>Uh- oh, road block.</i></b><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Doubt starts to trickle in, and that voice in the back of your head pipes up, playing the same old stories. </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Can I really do this? What if I fail? What's the point? I mean, who am I kidding, really?</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> Those limiting stories are now running wild in your mind, giving you a play-by-play of how it's all going to play out. </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Yep, I knew it.</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> Never gonna work. I'll never get the dream gig/ meet the right man/ hit those targets/ experience true joy.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">The ultimate self-sabotage: doubt, depleting inner-criticism, resistance. We're all faced with the same issues, no matter what the big dream is. Our biggest challenge is getting out of our own way, allowing us to truly thrive. But how? What's the starting point?</b><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">It's the one thing that has completely revolutionized the way I approach each day and how I live my life. More than anything else out there, this has had the most impact:</span><b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> being gentle with myself.</b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><br /></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"></span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Let's dive in a little further, shall we?</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> (You </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">know</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> I love digging deeper:)</span><br />
<br />
<h3 style="background-color: white; color: #cc6666; font-family: Oswald, sans-serif; font-size: 23px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-transform: uppercase;">
SPEAK WITH LOVE</h3>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Get to know your inner-critic, and separate yourself from it. Eradicating negative thoughts forever isn't realistic, but arming yourself with the right tools to handle them </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">is </i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">possible.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Your inner critic is fear. It's role is to play small and keep you right smack in the middle of your comfort zone. It's not </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">you.</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> The criticism and backtalk isn't true, so don't believe it. One way I separate myself from this voice, is something I learned from my beautiful friend </span><a href="http://achievetheimpossible.ca/" style="background-color: white; color: #cc6666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-decoration: none;">Natalia:</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">name your fear.</b><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Give your inner critic a name that resonates. The key is to try to pick something loving, rather than something negative, like "stupid", "monster", or "evil bitch", which really just defeats the purpose :) Give it a persona, is it male/ female? What's her personality like? What is she </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">really </i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">afraid of? How does she react when something scary pops up? I've named my fear </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">"Little One"</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">. Although she's trying to protect me (from failing, embarrassment, etc.), she likes to keep me small.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Once you separate yourself from your Fear, it'll become easier to stop identifying with and buying into those limiting stories. The next time you start to run that play-by-play of your sure-to-be next biggest failure, catch yourself, and simply say, "</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Oh</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">, that's just Fear talking. It's okay, I got this."</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Key point: don't get down on yourself for thinking negativity, simply charge ahead with your two greatest tools: <i>acceptance and love. </i></b><br />
<br />
<h3 style="background-color: white; color: #cc6666; font-family: Oswald, sans-serif; font-size: 23px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-transform: uppercase;">
FEEL YOUR FEELINGS</h3>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">We all have our off-days, don't ignore them. Instead of charging through and ignoring your feelings, take it as a sign to treat yourself to some extra self-care. Give yourself a break, read a book, play some relaxing tunes, get outside, hit up a yoga class, disconnect, indulge in a bubble bath - complete with music, candles, epsom salts, the whole lot. Whatever lights you up, makes you happy, feeling rejuvenated... do </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">that.</i><br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<b>"Affirmations are like screaming that you’re okay in order to overcome this whisper that you’re not. That’s a big contrast to actually uncovering the whisper, realizing that it’s a passing memory, and moving closer to all those fears and all those edgy feelings that maybe you’re not okay. Well, no big deal. None of us is okay and all of us are fine. It’s not just one way. We are walking, talking paradoxes." | Pema Chödrön</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<h3 style="background-color: white; color: #cc6666; font-family: Oswald, sans-serif; font-size: 23px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-transform: uppercase;">
SMALL STEPS TURN INTO QUANTUM LEAPS</h3>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Instead of wanting to be the Master of All The Things, scale it back. Breaking goals down into small, actionable steps will actually make everything feel a lot less overwhelming. What </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">one thing</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> can you do each day to get you closer to where you want to be? Set mini-milestones to hit. Instead of "I need to lose X amount of weight." shift to "I will work out 3 times this week to do something awesome for my body, ramp up my energy, and feel </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">damn</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> good about myself."</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Sounds way less intimidating, doesn't it?</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> While we're on the subject, let me just throw this in here: </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">ditch forcing it. If it doesn't feel good, <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2013/05/my-stop-doing-list.html" style="color: #cc6666; text-decoration: none;">stop doing it.</a></b><br />
<br />
<h3 style="background-color: white; color: #cc6666; font-family: Oswald, sans-serif; font-size: 23px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-transform: uppercase;">
EMBRACE THE MOMENT</h3>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Also see: </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Quit trying to control everything. </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">There's only so much planning/ mapping/ brainstorming you can do. You do </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">need to prove, strive, or improve. </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">You have everything that you need.</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> Each time you tell yourself, "I will only be happy once X happens", you close the door on the possibility of the unexpected. You close the door on </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">other </i><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">ways that you could be filled with joy.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;"><b>Keeping your head in the future robs you from experiencing the happiness in <i>this </i>moment - from living fully, being present - wherever you are, whoever you're with, and with whatever you have.</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"></span>
<h3 style="background-color: white; color: #cc6666; font-family: Oswald, sans-serif; font-size: 23px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-transform: uppercase;">
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS</h3>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">
Practising gratitude invites in more gratitude. More beauty. More simplicity. It brings you back into the moment and allows you to appreciate what's around you. Your perspective shifts, your world expands.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">
For starters, give this a go: Write down 1-5 things each day that you're truly grateful for. <i>Bonus points:</i> Express your gratitude to the people around you. See how you feel. (Chances are:<i> insanely</i> better.)<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>“In the end, though, maybe we must all give up trying to pay back the people in this world who sustain our lives. In the end, maybe it’s wiser to surrender before the miraculous scope of human generosity and to just keep saying thank you, forever and sincerely, for as long as we have voices.” | Elizabeth Gilbert</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>Over to you, maestro: What's the biggest thing you've taken away from this post? </b>I'd absolutely LOVE to hear your thoughts, so please, let's move this chat over to the comments x</div>
</div>
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-40845342243834632782014-05-28T08:00:00.000-04:002014-05-28T08:00:02.783-04:00The Curse of Comparison<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oPArewS0hNSKfhAbTv4EQYsTCqD-iPClLUnEl-zU4OBHUHBW_rpvHY01PcWsvuWXDXDByOCScN20rMaMtZ849K8o3Ee6wVRwbciYZ_NU4R0sbJ3G_k9X3-MEe7zbLlKjeRDPW21LH2I/s1600/curse-of-comparison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oPArewS0hNSKfhAbTv4EQYsTCqD-iPClLUnEl-zU4OBHUHBW_rpvHY01PcWsvuWXDXDByOCScN20rMaMtZ849K8o3Ee6wVRwbciYZ_NU4R0sbJ3G_k9X3-MEe7zbLlKjeRDPW21LH2I/s1600/curse-of-comparison.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>This was a piece I wrote that originally appeared on <a href="http://allthingseblog.com/curse-comparison/">All Things E</a> and I would love to share it with you, in case you missed it...</i><br />
<br />
In the throes of comparison, the weight of the world rests heavily on your shoulders. It's depleting. Exhausting. Draining every bit of energy from your body. You desperately reach out hoping to clutch onto one small grain of inspiration that will shift you back on track. You're searching for the answers, sizing up the competition, and your focus is everywhere but on you. You fill your lungs, taking a deep, skeptical inhale. You're on shaky ground and struggling to keep up in someone else's path.<br />
<br />
There's a voice on repeat in your mind and it's saying, "I'm not good enough.", "I should be fitter/ healthier/ better/ happier/ more committed.", "I'll never be as good as ___________." and even a doubtful, "No way, I could never do that."<br />
<br />
We've all caught comparisonitis one time or another. It barges through in a fury and slaps us upside the head, sending us into a world of scarcity and lack. It can last for days, often leaving us full of doubt, feeling lost, alone, not enough, and ultimately, guilty for feeling that way in the first place.<br />
<br />
Now, tell me, what would it feel like <i>not</i> to go down the slippery slope of comparison? What would it feel like to dissolve jealousy in an instant? What would it feel like to trust yourself? Let's get to it.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">PAUSE + REFLECT</span></span></b><br />
You're scrolling through Instagram (or Facebook/ a blog/ business/ relationship), past all the 'perfect' bodies, epic yoga moves, drool-worthy recipes, motivational pick-me-ups, and your mind starts chattering. <i>They've figured it out, and you haven't.</i> In an instant, you're sucked in.<br />
<br />
<b>Newsflash: Your mind is not your friend.</b> Get still (meditation, a few deep breaths, or catching some fresh air should do it) and create a sense of awareness over what's happening and take a big step back: <i>What's really going on here? What caused this onslaught of anxiety/ hopelessness/ doubt?</i><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">REFRAME YOUR PERSPECTIVE</span></span></b><br />
Beneath the surface, there's an actual human you're looking at. With their own set of fears and insecurities who's faced their own hardships/ struggles/ failures and <i>yes,</i> who has felt the very same feelings that you're feeling. Even though it might feel like you're alone in this, we are all made of the same matter and energy, and everything you've felt,<i> it's Universal.</i><br />
<br />
<b>We feel drawn to certain people because it's a reflection of what's possible for us. What we desire in certain people or situations is <i>already</i> within us. </b>We see our future success in theirs and we're merely stepping up to the same energy they're giving off. Ask yourself, <i>what did this person do to get to where they are? What can I learn from them? <a href="http://ctt.ec/9344C">(Click to tweet!)</a></i><br />
<br />
Release the notion of competition and shift the focus back on you. What's <i>your </i>mission? What lights <i>you</i> up?<br />
<br />
Declare it here and now, "I'm willing and ready." <br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">CELEBRATE + TRUST</span></span></b><br />
<b>You <i>are</i> enough. You have enough. </b>There is enough time in the world and nothing is quite as urgent as you believe it to be. You will get there, you just have to keep going. Your very DNA, every fibre and cell in your body is unique to you, and you alone. <b>Your only task in this world is to be you. What a privilege it is, to be <i>you.</i> To live your truth. To follow your bliss. To radiate your special brand of magic.</b><br />
<br />
Press the brakes for a moment and<a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2013/10/kick-start-look-how-far-youve-come.html"> celebrate how far you've come</a> (because we don't do that enough).<br />
<br />
Above all else, <i>trust.</i> Trust in the process of divine timing and know that your dreams and desires have already been met, ten-fold. Trust that it's a done deal. (Literally, envision it. Feel it in your bones.)<br />
<br />
Whenever you mind takes over, close your eyes, drop back into your body, and come back to this feeling.<br />
<br />
It's a done deal, all you have to do is shine your light.<br />
<br />
<b>Let's declare it today: I choose to let go of (comparing my journey to someone else's/ feeling like I don't measure up/ smothering my joy by comparing my success to _________) and by doing so, I honour myself and my unique gifts <i>(so I can rock on with my bad self)</i>. </b><br />
<br />
Get as specific as you'd like about what you're ready to let go of and the action steps you're going to follow up with - think, contacting someone who seems 'out of reach', deleting social media apps from your phone, or choosing gratitude for what you have rather than zoning in on someone's 'highlight reel'. Get creative!<br />
<br />
<i>Can't wait to read your insights x</i><br />
<br />
Image: <a href="http://allthingseblog.com/">All Things E</a><br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://pinterest.com/allietymo/">pinterest</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="mailto:allie.betweendreams@gmail.com">email</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-2321255681847520552014-05-26T08:00:00.000-04:002014-05-26T08:00:00.876-04:00Kick Start: Disconnect to Reconnect<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIfZFIKVe5DmIag0MGv1Az3_01UWZb0MCE5yTxDnlqEpJahLtpOF0MuR_-UOToyhJ4c2RPK-Uti-0AiYqIKfOU0-dptC4B-JXrHM4fq8BWU1xH7_HWnAl7EmNpmajHlAMvhTJ-LizyQy0/s1600/disconnect-to-reconnect-allie-tymo-preview.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIfZFIKVe5DmIag0MGv1Az3_01UWZb0MCE5yTxDnlqEpJahLtpOF0MuR_-UOToyhJ4c2RPK-Uti-0AiYqIKfOU0-dptC4B-JXrHM4fq8BWU1xH7_HWnAl7EmNpmajHlAMvhTJ-LizyQy0/s1600/disconnect-to-reconnect-allie-tymo-preview.png.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Are you caught up in the trap of <i>busy?</i> Jaw clenched, brows furrowed, white-knuckling your way along? Are you <i>here</i>, right now, or has your mind wandered off to somewhere else? Are you future-tripping about the possibility of falling behind? Worried about failure or not measuring up? Maybe you're beating yourself up over how much you <i>haven't </i>accomplished?<br />
<br />
We celebrate the momentum of busyness, full schedules, constant motivation, and smashing goal after goal but we forget to revel in the space between it all. The spaciousness where we come back to <i>ourselves</i>, where we can breathe that much deeper, and think that much clearer.<br />
<br />
It's in that space where we remember our why behind what we do and how we show up in the world. The stretch of calm where we become totally in sync with the flow of life. The zone where inspiration stirs, cracks, and explodes.<br />
<br />
<b><i>The point of this post? To give you permission to slow down.</i></b><br />
<br />
To refuel.<br />
<br />
Recharge.<br />
<br />
Reignite.<br />
<br />
To listen to the cycles of your body - <i>it's so much wiser than our minds.</i><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">While the seduction of busy is alluring, it's the space between that's satisfyingly juicy.</span><a href="http://ctt.ec/aO15b"> (Click to tweet!)</a></i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<div style="color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you're subscribed to <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">my newsletter,</a> you already know that I packed up my bags, grabbed my passport, and took off to the mountains - <i>solo.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I've heard the call - and I'm listening. I knew deep in my heart that I needed to take time to retreat, ground myself into nature, and connect to my soul. I've left the expectations at the door, and I'm standing, arms (and heart) open, ready for what's in store, trusting that I'll be guided and supported along the way.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Are you hearing the call too?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm here, cheering you on.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>***</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>While I'll be offline over the next few days, I've scheduled another post coming your way later this week. I hope you enjoy the gift I made for you! The words are taken from a previous post from last year, after I escaped into the wilderness and refreshed my spirit - because sometimes, you need to run away to the mountains.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Can't wait to chat once I'm back! x </i></div>
<div style="color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<b><span style="color: #cc6666; font-size: medium; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://ge.tt/api/1/files/9QEqCnh1/0/blob?download" style="color: #cc6666; text-decoration: none;">DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE WALLPAPER</a></span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<em style="text-align: -webkit-left;">As always, if this resonated with you, I'd be so appreciative if you shared it with your friends and spread the love x</em></div>
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-17287121434962130932014-05-23T08:00:00.000-04:002014-05-23T08:00:01.514-04:00A Lesson On Pain & Joy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rq4YqHg80OgAoCPHYkT0Cjn6yWpy3mViajUEzwRV1YbIMIYozaxfM9XiI8h96v3fg1yUBKm7dtBTO7mddJ22Kgj96fBqFtsbjyXpKeMRqm_7-mi9N-kGsT75O-e5JHOp0YCNE4hcIac/s1600/lessons-on-pain-and-joy-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rq4YqHg80OgAoCPHYkT0Cjn6yWpy3mViajUEzwRV1YbIMIYozaxfM9XiI8h96v3fg1yUBKm7dtBTO7mddJ22Kgj96fBqFtsbjyXpKeMRqm_7-mi9N-kGsT75O-e5JHOp0YCNE4hcIac/s1600/lessons-on-pain-and-joy-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Looks like 'joy' might be the theme 'round here this week! We touched on some ways to<a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2014/05/is-joy-daily-priority-6-tips-for.html"> cultivate joy and make it a daily priority</a>, and I wanted to hone in on one thing: <i>giving yourself permission to feel joy.</i> I'm taking a page out of my own book and sharing a lesson I've recently learned...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The back story</i>:</span> years ago, I suffered from a pulmonary embolism - multiple blood clots had formed in both of my lungs. The pain was crippling and it was weeks before doctors figured it out. My life could have easily been taken away, and in many ways, it’s a miracle that it wasn't.<br />
<br />
Since then, the pain would pop up every now and again. At times, landing me back in the emerg, tears streaming down my face, searching for answers. Test after test after test, there wasn’t any. The doctors hadn’t a clue as to why I was in such great pain. With time, I learned to accept that this unexplainable pain was a fact of my life now. These ‘episodes’ were random - at times the pain would happen frequently, other times I’d go months without feeling a thing.<br />
<br />
Over the past few weeks, this pain has been coming up again for me. A sharp stab in my chest, a dull ache in my heart. There’s been moments when I’d grab my chest, wincing in pain or hours, feeling my heart tighten and contract.<br />
<br />
Modern medicine only brought up more questions than answers (not to mention a bout of frustration) and I booked a session with a kinesologist, who taught me a tapping technique that would ease the pain - and it worked. Each time the pain would come up, I’d tap and the pain would disappear.<br />
<br />
I'd tap-tap-tap, and I became acutely aware of how often I would feel this way. Tapping wasn’t the be-all-end-all solution that would ‘cure’ me indefinitely - it was a band-aid.<i> Instead of allowing frustration or fear to wash over me, curiosity pulled me closer.</i><br />
<br />
<b>I heard a question rise up from my belly: What if I started looking at my pain in a different light? </b><br />
<br />
You know when people talk about lightbulb moments? The big A-HA realization? <i>This</i> one was of them.<br />
<br />
<b>What if, instead of accepting pain as a fact of life, I explored what it might mean? What if it’s not random? What if my body is actually trying to tell me something? Most of all: what if this is a sign that my body is blocking off the flow of positive energy in my life? What could it be preventing? What am I not opening myself up to?</b><br />
<br />
<i>I noticed that whenever the pain arose, my energy shifted with it.</i><br />
<br />
I’d grab my chest, trying to remember to breathe deeply and think, “What is wrong with me? Why is this happening to me?” I was assuming the victim role. Mornings when I’d wake up feeling energized and inspired, and out of nowhere, the tug at my chest. Immediately, thoughts would flash through my mind, “Something is wrong here. I can’t focus like this, I should probably just take it easy and rest.” I allowing this feeling to take control and prevent me from diving into my own creativity.<br />
<br />
Until, one day, I heard a voice inside me that said, <i>“Something else is going on here.”</i><br />
<br />
I meditated on it.
What came up, clear as day, was that it wasn’t a sign to stop, it was a sign to keep going.
That feeling in my heart just pain because of some unfortunate event from my past, it was resistance.<br />
<br />
My body was resisting the expansion of joy.<br />
<br />
My body was resisting exploring creativity.<br />
<br />
My body was resisting deepening the connection with myself.<br />
<br />
<i>It had reached it’s limit.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Coming face to face with resistance might not feel like physical pain, but emotional, as we manifest feelings of doubt, worry, anxiety, and even depression.<br />
<br />
The moments when you're experiencing unbridled joy and you escape the moment, pondering all the different ways it could be better. When we distinguish our joy. When we dampen our successes. When we compare ourselves to others. Future trip. Doubt. Shrink. Self-sabotage.<br />
<br />
Instead, shine a light on your shadow side...<br />
<br />
<i>What am I resisting right now? What's the fear behind my resistance? What story am I playing out?</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>How can I crack my heart riiight open? How can I expand? How can I step beyond my limits? How can I break the rules and push the envelope? </i><br />
<br />
<b>Call yourself out. Look through a different lens. Dare to rebel. Bust down barriers and smash through fear.</b><br />
<br />
What happens next? You begin to expand your capacity for love and joy. Witness your own brilliance. You become a beacon of light - and radiate that energy back out into the world.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
+++</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What do you think? Did this resonate with you? I'd love for you to share your own experiences + insight and take this conversation deeper in the comments x</div>
<br />
Image via<a href="http://shellsonthebeach.tumblr.com/image/25013471499"> Shells on the beach</a>, edited by me.<br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-17227201835088925002014-05-21T08:00:00.000-04:002014-05-21T08:07:33.000-04:00Is Joy a Daily Priority? 6 Tips for Cultivating Joy Today<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0YqpBGlKRGq41gmUtfqkov22YIzpCzbBsX64xr6npi_GIbPigkkf9_CCsTvyFFU6ZKTmg4h0JYM0Ll9YJpDuB6MrNEPRPh1TpUsWgdu1vaOF6gf70POXU_gTdsBaU4iZuvw0dzoCWaSo/s1600/allie-laughing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0YqpBGlKRGq41gmUtfqkov22YIzpCzbBsX64xr6npi_GIbPigkkf9_CCsTvyFFU6ZKTmg4h0JYM0Ll9YJpDuB6MrNEPRPh1TpUsWgdu1vaOF6gf70POXU_gTdsBaU4iZuvw0dzoCWaSo/s1600/allie-laughing.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It's easy to get caught up in the seriousness of life, with our ever-growing to-do lists, rooms to clean, dishes to wash, clothes to fold, meals to make, blog posts to write - on top of the work that we do, keeping up with our social calendars, being present in our relationships, and trying to maintain our sanity. Squeeze in your workouts, meditations, self-care practices, and 5236238693 other tasks and well, life's lookin' pretty <i>f-u-l-l. </i><br />
<br />
<i>Phew.</i> I'm already out of the breath.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Tell me, do you make joy a daily priority?</span></i><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO FEEL JOY</span></span></b><br />
Just how happy do you want to be? How much joy do you want to feel?<br />
<br />
Often, it's in those moments where we're experiencing sheer joy and happiness when doubt and worry sneak their way into our thoughts. Everything is <i>clicking</i>, we're in the flow, and we think, "This is too good to be true," and out of nowhere, <i>"What if this were taken away from me?"</i><br />
<br />
Visions of worst case scenarios dance in our heads, and we play them out, over and over again, as if to say, "Life, you are <i>not </i>going to pull a fast one on me. I'm going to be prepared for whatever comes my way."<br />
<br />
In reality, we've reached the edge of what we've (subconsciously) decided as the limit of how much joy we're willing to experience and we've set up roadblocks on just how good we will feel. As Gay Hendricks says, you've hit your upper limit. So what are you going to do to push through and get to the other side?<br />
<br />
This next step <i>really</i> works:<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">EXPRESS GRATITUDE</span></span></b><br />
Without a doubt, gratitude is the most transformational tool you can use, if practised intentionally. Whip out a gratitude journal, set an alarm on your phone reminding you to say 5 things you're grateful for, grab the pen and paper and write thank you notes.<br />
<br />
In those moments where you've hit your resistance and start sabotaging your joy? Take it as a sign to turn back to gratitude, and repeat: <i>thank you, thank you, thank you.</i><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">SWITCH YOUR STORY</span></span></b><br />
How many times have you criticized yourself for making a mistake? Blamed yourself for something that was actually out of your control? Given yourself an internal smack-down? Decided you'll be happy when X happens, but only then? What about the moments when you've secretly judged someone else? Said something out loud that you wished you could take back?<br />
<br />
<i>What's the story you've been playing out in your mind? </i>Comparison is a big one that comes up often. It's easy to look at somebody else and think, "That kind of success only happens to other people." or, "Sure, if I looked like that/ worked from home/ had that job/ didn't have kids/ had a bigger bank account/ were married, I could do that too. But I can't."<br />
<br />
Maybe you've been putting conditions on your happiness. Once you achieve the goal, then you'll be free to chase your dreams. Once you take the course/ buy the program/ lose the weight/ get the guy/ quit the job, then you'll finally be happy.<br />
<br />
Happiness is an inside job, it doesn't come from chasing anything in the external world.<br />
<br />
<b>Be brave enough to challenge your current belief systems.</b><a href="http://ctt.ec/8freY"> <i>(Click to tweet!)</i></a><br />
<br />
Adopt a curious mind. Ask questions: <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2014/04/are-you-run-by-love-or-fear.html">am I run by love or fear?</a><br />
<br />
This Don Miguel Ruiz quote from The Four Agreements is the perfect guidepost:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Be impeccable with your word. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.”</i></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">PLAY, LAUGH, BE SILLY</span></span></b><br />
<i>Free your inner child.</i><br />
<br />
Quick story, picture this: I was <a href="http://instagram.com/p/berwoRyFu5/">sitting in</a> <a href="http://instagram.com/p/fQhNwqSFmz/">my favourite spot</a>, typing away on my laptop, listening to the laughter of kids playing outside. As I glanced out the window, I saw kids running around, swinging on swings, climbing on the jungle gym. They were so full of joy it made my heart leap. I smiled to myself, admiring their sense of play and adventure.<br />
<br />
In the next moment, I picked up my phone and clicked 'compose new tweet', attempting to formulate 140 characters about how joyful it felt to be there, writing in my favourite spot, sun shining, listening to kids laughing, and seeing them play.<br />
<br />
I'm not quite sure what did it, but just typing that out seemed absurd. I deleted my words and typed <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo/status/455391491889037312">this instead</a>:<i> "Writing + looking out the window to see kids swinging on swings, laughing up a storm... think I'll go join 'em for a bit."</i><br />
<br />
I shut my laptop closed, went downstairs, turned to my husband and said, <i>"Hey, wanna go play on the swing-set?" </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>And my heart was full.</i><br />
<br />
Often we ignore our inner child in the name of 'responsibility' and 'acting like an adult', but when we listen to our desire for playfulness, joy, and adventure, we connect more deeply to our own truth.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">LET YOUR CREATIVE SPIRIT SHINE</span></span></b><br />
There is no such thing as a creative and a non-creative person - we are all creative beings. Every single one of us. <i><a href="http://ctt.ec/da6Bp">(Click to tweet!)</a></i><br />
<br />
Yet - there are so many things (or, ahem, <i>excuses</i>) that stop us from being creative (myself included!). If you're a blogger, you certainly flex your creative muscle, creating content, styling photos, expressing yourself through the written word. The problem there is that sometimes that type of creation turns into another item on our to-do lists, and for some, another source of income.<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>When's the last time you wrote simply to scribble the words down on the page? The last time you prepared a gourmet meal for the sole purpose of savouring every bite? Grabbed a paint brush, canvas, and channelled your inner Picasso? Built something with your own hands? Knit a sweater? Got busy with your scrapbookin' self?</i></b><br />
<br />
The point is, it doesn't have to be perfect and you certainly don't have to be good at it. Low vibe thoughts like, <i>"Being creative just isn't my thing."</i>, <i>"I'll leave that up to the pros"</i>, and <i>"I'm no good at that."</i> don't fly around here.<br />
<br />
<b>The intention is to <i>play</i>, to get creative for the sake of being creative, and most of all, to have fun with it.</b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">TAKE A LEAP OF FAITH</span></span></b><br />
Walk to the edges of your comfort zone, and go for it - take a few steps further. Then another couple of steps, and just keep going. Push through resistance just to see what's on the other side. Regardless of whether or not you have all the answers or the possibility of failure.<br />
<br />
<b>Decide who you want to be. Do you want to be the person who wondered what was possible? Or do you want to be the person who tested the limits of possibility? Who - step by step, little by little - chased an extraordinary dream? The dream of living life to the absolute fullest?</b><br />
<br />
Trust that you'll be supported along the way.<i> (You will.)</i><br />
<br />
And do it with joy in your heart.<br />
<br />
<b>Over to you, creative one! Head on over to the comments and share <i>three things</i> that your inner child is longing for - and what action steps you're going to take to answer the call. </b><br />
<br />
P.S. If you haven't already, read this:<a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2014/01/3-things-you-need-to-let-go-of.html"> Three Things You Need to Let Go Of, Right Now.</a><br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-81573949828362593542014-05-14T09:30:00.002-04:002014-05-14T13:32:26.702-04:00How To Have A Perfect Relationship<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW8G_l_fz4xhnE7hcdlYZMHGfQjblIs4gKOcPQHrj9fhF4E-KeRMkkeptO9-FD9l2V995WHxTLCeFvB-m5tXMvB2-V89liN0aL3a1CFVG1eKqrEn-TI4oj77jPxsuRMGOdPa5rzm1Qok0/s1600/how-to-have-the-perfect-relationship-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW8G_l_fz4xhnE7hcdlYZMHGfQjblIs4gKOcPQHrj9fhF4E-KeRMkkeptO9-FD9l2V995WHxTLCeFvB-m5tXMvB2-V89liN0aL3a1CFVG1eKqrEn-TI4oj77jPxsuRMGOdPa5rzm1Qok0/s1600/how-to-have-the-perfect-relationship-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
In my own life, I've faced some serious ups and downs when it comes to relationships - while I don't think I'm necessarily an expert in the realm of relationships, I've learnt a thing or two. Before getting down to the nitty gritty of what works and what doesn't, there is<i> one key ingredient</i> to having fulfilling, healthy relationships. Today, I'm spilling the big (not-so) secret.<br />
<br />
But first, a story (and a rant.) The other day, I was scrolling through Pinterest, and we all know that I'm a complete <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.com/2013/07/65-soul-stirring-quotes-that-will.html">sucker for quotes</a> and I stumbled across this one:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>"A relationship works best when both people</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i> believe they have gotten better than they deserve."</i></span></div>
<br />
Excuse my French, but <i>what in the actual fuck?</i><br />
<br />
The low-down: When we place people on a pedestal above ourselves, we crush our spirit and diminish our self-worth. Believing that you've gotten better than what you deserve is really just another way of saying, "I'm not worthy of this kind of love." It sends a message that shouts, "I don't deserve to feel loved."<br />
<br />
<b><i>When we get to the core of it all, there it is, in glowing, neon lights that could spread across the whole sky: I'm not good enough.</i></b><br />
<br />
That's just not good breeding ground for love. Trust. Growth. Deep connection. And I <i>know </i>that's not the kind of life you're here to live.<br />
<br />
That type of inner-dialogue keeps us trapped in<a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.com/2013/06/letting-go-of-toxic-relationships.html"> toxic relationships.</a><i> It happened to me.</i> I didn't believe I was worth more or that I deserved to be treated better. My self-worth was so depleted and it took me <i>years</i> of inner work to mend the relationship with myself.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">So, how do you have a perfect relationship?</span></span></i><br />
<br />
First, let's just debunk the 'perfect relationship' myth - <i>it doesn't exist. </i><br />
<br />
At some point in our lives, we believe that love should be like the kind of romance we see depicted in movies, television, and novels. We feel that relationships need to fit our criteria of perfection and we need to find our prince that will sweep us off our feet, have our happily-ever-after, and it's just not realistic.<br />
<br />
<i>Would we really want it to be?</i><br />
<br />
Let's step away from the moving target of 'perfection' and lean towards intimacy - <i>real, connected, vulnerable intimacy. </i>It can be messy, silly, and at times, scary. But it's real, pure love - and that should never try to fix into a box of what perfection 'should' look like - it needs space to roam, room to grow, and to be free from all limits so it can expand.<br />
<br />
Before I get too far ahead of myself, let's just take a moment to reel it all back in.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Before all that, there's one key ingredient for relationship magic to happen... </i></b><br />
<br />
...and I want you to believe this to your very core: <i>You are so much more than enough.</i><br />
<br />
You are worthy of love. To be loved. To feel loved. There is no container that could ever hold the love you beam out to the world - or the love you will receive. You deserve the kind of love that makes your heart skip a beat. The kind of love that expands more than you ever thought was possible. Actually, that kind of love is your birthright. Claim it.<br />
<br />
Treat yourself with care, respect, kindness, and extend the love that you give to others to yourself. Watch your capacity for love expand before your eyes knowing that true love can only exist when you love yourself first.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">"Love is not something we give or get; it is something that we nurture and grow, a connection that can only be cultivated between two people when it exists within each one of them –<b> we can only love others as much as we love ourselves.</b></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Shame, blame, disrespect, betrayal, and the withholding of affection damage the roots from which love grows. Love can only survive these injuries if they are acknowledged, healed and rare.” | Brené Brown</span></i></div>
<br />
<b>Let your heart expand, heal the relationship with yourself, and let yourself be seen. See the love you radiate multiply and manifest back into your life. Embrace (and accept) imperfection. Choose courage. Be <i>all</i> in. <i>That's</i> where the magic's at. </b><a href="http://ctt.ec/1a40k">(Click to tweet!)</a><br />
<b><br /></b>Before you jet out, let's make space for some soulful contemplation. Feel free to whip out your journal, share in the comments, or mindfully think about your answers to these questions.<br />
<br />
1. Where are you currently holding back? Is there anything in your life that you've been putting off or ignoring?<br />
<br />
2. What can you do today to embrace vulnerability and practice courage? Resistance <i>is </i>going to pop up around this one, and I trust that you will have a clear answer and know what you need to do - <i>we resist what is most important to our soul. </i><br />
<br />
Thank you, as always, for being here x<br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-69659030376712848312014-05-09T10:11:00.000-04:002014-05-09T14:51:32.043-04:00When To Give Up On Your Dream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXYeagHZAM5o4LIoLHVBiVfhi6lq8KoIqze35nRg_sKnbBbtuU3-CPujYJ7RzQ_65TDPmZzu-0xUgikZywJAYoYmYf5E42Clcx6tEfRjiJjUQg-fsAiz0lhPhDqVsT2vEayRPovjH9mq0/s1600/when-to-give-up-on-your-dream-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXYeagHZAM5o4LIoLHVBiVfhi6lq8KoIqze35nRg_sKnbBbtuU3-CPujYJ7RzQ_65TDPmZzu-0xUgikZywJAYoYmYf5E42Clcx6tEfRjiJjUQg-fsAiz0lhPhDqVsT2vEayRPovjH9mq0/s1600/when-to-give-up-on-your-dream-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Have you ever given up on a dream?<i> I have.</i><br />
<br />
Expressing myself creatively has always been a passion of mine, but knowing how? For years, it was a struggle. Growing up, the weighty question of, <i>'what the hell do I want to do when I grow up?'</i> plagued me - and actually felt like a two-tonne weight sitting right on my chest.<br />
<br />
I scrambled. Changed my mind. Gave up. Settled. Then I started asking questions, I wanted to 'figure it all out.'<br />
<br />
For as long as I could remember, having a camera in my hands and seeing the world through a (literal) lens felt right. And so I dreamt. I dreamt of living life as a photographer. I invested in a camera, lens, and courses. I spent hours upon hours playing around, snapping photos...<br />
<br />
Then I gave up. And I was struck with guilt. Until I had this profound realization:<br />
<br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes, it's okay to give up on your dreams.</span></b></i><br />
<br />
I know what you're thinking - <i>doesn't that make me a failure? Doesn't that make me weak? Doesn't that mean I'm a quitter? Shouldn't I put my nose to the ground and just do what needs to be done? </i><br />
<br />
We've become overachievers, wearing 'busy' like a badge. We want to hit <i>every</i> ball out of the park, we want to do it all, do it perfectly, look good while we're doing it, and please everybody else at the same time. <b>What would life look like if we made the transition from pleasing others, doing what we think we "should" do, to pleasing<i> ourselves</i> instead?</b><br />
<br />
<i style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ditch the dream when it doesn't feel right. Period.</span></i><i><b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b><a href="http://ctt.ec/JpG5D">(Click to Tweet!)</a></i><br />
<br />
At one point, every bone in your body was committed. Just thinking about living out that dream sparked passion and excitement. The thought of <i>not</i> making it happen just wasn't a possibility - this was <i>it.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Then that little voice speaks up that says, "This doesn't feel right, this isn't what I want."<br />
<br />
<i>Often, we push through.</i><br />
<br />
It's what we've been programmed to do. <i>Giving up? No way. I've already committed, I've already spread the word, I'm accountable, I can't walk away now.</i><br />
<br />
Or maybe you're <i>living your dream</i>, but it's just not meshing. <i>Quit now? I couldn't. That would mean I'm a failure, and I'm NOT a failure. Besides, what would everyone think of me then? I can't admit defeat.</i><br />
<br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Why are you chasing a dream that you don't really want anyway?</span></i></b><br />
<br />
Personally, I still <i>love</i> photography. I love being behind the camera, I love capturing life's little moments, and I still get lost in the work of my favourite photographers, captivated by their vision. It was the moments when I thought about launching a <i>business </i>and the long list of what that would entail, where I thought, "I just can't picture myself doing it." When I got really honest with myself, it wasn't what I really wanted. The truth was, at the time, I didn't know what I wanted. Not a clue.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>When you let go of what you don't want, you make space for more of what you do.</b></i></span><br />
<br />
We all want to live a life that's aligned with who we are - to be happy and live fully.<br />
<br />
Commit to living that life - <i>your</i> life.<br />
Stand up for what you really want.<br />
Liberate yourself.<br />
Say no more often.<br />
Know that there will always be more.<br />
<br />
<i>And don't look back - the future is always brighter and more exciting than the past.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
What are you doing in your life that doesn't light you up? Maybe take the time to step back and re-assess... what feels like an obligation? What are you doing out of habit or fear of the alternative? What can you cut back (or cut out completely)? <i>Snip, snip, snip... let's make more space today, shall we?</i><br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-62504051510460741322014-05-05T08:00:00.000-04:002014-05-05T08:00:01.858-04:00Kick Start: Feel Good, Right Now<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRFcl16L_SFVALhixaRK58WuntmaCehgJaS0fn9vMkbaoz6BbR0MmL4dzqkBUMIfVeyYX7khLyUOWOlSfW2-7kpFFJx27b162EjfKKk0p_4o7qkiqwdntyUsKuw6oquvQa2vVpxW05rs/s1600/our-intention-creates-allie-tymo-preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRFcl16L_SFVALhixaRK58WuntmaCehgJaS0fn9vMkbaoz6BbR0MmL4dzqkBUMIfVeyYX7khLyUOWOlSfW2-7kpFFJx27b162EjfKKk0p_4o7qkiqwdntyUsKuw6oquvQa2vVpxW05rs/s1600/our-intention-creates-allie-tymo-preview.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
As your eyes scan across these words, fill your lungs with air, inhaling through your nose starting with your belly, filling it up, feeling your chest rise, and your collarbones expand.<br />
<br />
Begin to exhale slowly, your chest relaxes, as you feel the cool air escape you, your stomach softens, until you've exhaled your entire breath.<br />
<br />
Repeat.<br />
<br />
<i>How do you feel?</i><br />
<br />
How do you <i>want </i>to feel?<br />
<br />
Intentions are a powerful, powerful thing. The days when I set crystal-clear intentions are when I feel most aligned, connected, and the most at ease. There's less chasing, struggle, and overwhelm. Life no longer happens "at" you, you move with it. As Wayne Dyer puts it, "Our intention creates our reality."<br />
<br />
On a more cellular level, when we check in and ask ourselves how we feel, how we want to feel, and how we're going cultivate our desires into our lives today, in<i> this</i> moment, we deepen the connection with our intuition. We practice the art of<i> listening</i> rather than just <i>doing.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">By listening to the answers that arise within us, we take inspired action. If we don't, we're dishonouring ourselves.</span></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Maybe you intend to feel strong by challenging yourself at a yoga class.<br />
<i><br /></i>
Maybe you intend to feel peace throughout your fully-packed day by setting reminders on your phone between meetings/ appointments to take a few deep breaths.<br />
<br />
Maybe you intend to feel beautiful by smiling at yourself each time you look in the mirror. Or by wearing the sexy underwear, even if nobody sees it but you.<br />
<br />
Maybe you intend to feel connected to your soul by sitting down for a meditation, or reflecting in your journal, free-flow style.<br />
<br />
Maybe you intend to feel joy by taking a few minutes to crank up the tunes, and dance wildly on the spot, balls-to-the-wall, no inhibitions. (Werk it!)<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">When we feel the way we want to feel, we become a magnet for more of that good-stuff. Give yourself permission to feel that, to revel in it, to blow it up to cosmic proportions. Who else is going to if not you?</span></i><br />
<br />
<b><i>Tell me, beautiful: what's your one-word intention? And what are you going to do to feel that way? </i></b><br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<div style="line-height: 18px;">
<b><a href="http://ge.tt/api/1/files/6JloPfe1/0/blob?download" style="color: #cc6666; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE WALLPAPER</span></a></b></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<em style="text-align: -webkit-left;">If this resonated with you, I'd love for you to share it using the buttons below (super easy!) and spread the love xx</em></div>
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-88933014006644303892014-05-02T08:00:00.000-04:002014-05-02T09:11:35.208-04:00Self-Care: For The Soul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPtrxVh6LxDhlZgL4VZEGp18lZWaDePjCvZ-JrV_hoHgSQbBVBpHqoB9-ZtODGLGu49cHM0UsQUqcIWtSJO2cazcwg-o73OpvvcwySIPc-Htba0bKnDhEacZJGNyrZ1u6Ww88PxXI9VM/s1600/self-care-for-the-soul-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPtrxVh6LxDhlZgL4VZEGp18lZWaDePjCvZ-JrV_hoHgSQbBVBpHqoB9-ZtODGLGu49cHM0UsQUqcIWtSJO2cazcwg-o73OpvvcwySIPc-Htba0bKnDhEacZJGNyrZ1u6Ww88PxXI9VM/s1600/self-care-for-the-soul-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Today we're taking a deeper look into some of the rituals and practices that I've cultivated - which in many ways feels like I'm baring my soul a lot more than usual. Truth is, I've been procrastinating and putting writing this off for quite some time now, for a couple reasons...<br />
<br />
... Deepening my spiritual practices has been a deeply personal journey for me. It's intimate. An exploration of the soul that very much feels like coming back home to myself. My core. My light. It's a sacred process that's very close to my heart - it <i>is </i>my heart. And it's one that I'll tweak, change, adjust, and deepen as I continue to evolve and grow. (That is to say - it's never-ending.)<br />
<br />
... Cultivating ritual in your own life is a unique experience. These are just some of the ways that I turn inwards, connect, and ground myself - they might resonate with you and they might not. That's okay. We are all different, and this is merely a snapshot of my own experience, in hopes to shed some light and possibly inspire you to deepen the ways you connect to yourself.<br />
<br />
... In many ways, I feel like I'm coming out of the 'woo-woo' closet! Sometimes certain aspects of spirituality are deemed as being air-fairy, out there, and dare I say a bit weird! While some of this may be outside of the realm of mainstream, I ask that you consider this: <i>weird can feel really, really good.</i><br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
CONNECTING ON A SOUL-LEVEL:</h3>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5Hxw-3qmgE77LomZGKDAvPLpQuCeu7-fcLSecaLqkOt2cJMcZHBlfyGwNUXW_PhZsXgwThfhnma5RwHCx4dYRb6Kgek8LJFga43f82BrZBHBrdecSleGvN2w8VNU6-oQEjhu5uXEuNU/s1600/soul-self-care-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5Hxw-3qmgE77LomZGKDAvPLpQuCeu7-fcLSecaLqkOt2cJMcZHBlfyGwNUXW_PhZsXgwThfhnma5RwHCx4dYRb6Kgek8LJFga43f82BrZBHBrdecSleGvN2w8VNU6-oQEjhu5uXEuNU/s1600/soul-self-care-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc6666;">CREATE SOUL-LOVING RITUALS</span></b><br />
Making the space for ritual is a beautiful way to tune in to your wise inner guide, ground yourself, and connect back to your truth. For me, it's a way to take time to turn inward, re-focus my intentions, and clear the clutter in my mind. Let's dive into some of these practices:<br />
<br />
<b>+ Set your intentions.</b> At the beginning of the year, <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2014/01/a-declaration-for-2014.html">my guiding word was vibrant</a> - but I often like to choose a word for each day, week, or month. As soon as I wake up, I consciously check in with myself: How do I feel right now? How do I <i>want</i> to feel? What do I need right now?<br />
<br />
<b>+ Keep a gratitude journal.</b> When you're consciously taking stock of what you're grateful for, you radiate that energy, and it reflects back at you, ten-fold.<br />
<br />
<b>+ Create a sacred space.</b> Whether I'm meditating, writing, or doing yoga, I like to surround myself with candles, crystals, incense, and anything else that I'm feeling drawn to. By doing this (and I have little areas all throughout the house, or I'll just carry certain items from room-to-room as I go!), it immediately sets the tone and promotes a sense of peace.<br />
<br />
<b>+ Seek Stillness. </b>Whether I'm feeling overwhelmed/ frustrated/ lacking clarity or at peace/ filled with joy, meditation is my go-to for turning inward, simply to see what comes up. No expectation, no stress, just... remaining <i>open.</i> Sometimes that looks like sitting down for a longer medi sesh, other times it might mean turning the radio off in my car and practising deep breathing <i>(while paying attention to my surroundings, of course!)</i>. It's amazing what even 5 minutes of meditation will do - refreshed, radiant, and centred all come to mind.<br />
<br />
<b>+ Ask for guidance.</b> The more I dive into my spiritual practice, the more I feel connected to something bigger than myself. When I first picked up a deck of oracle cards, my interest was definitely peaked. I'll dive into the "how" below, but all I can say is: spot on guidance, every single time. <i>(And ahem, mind blown.)</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b><i>+ </i>Honour yourself.</b> The biggest hug you can give to your soul is <i>listening to it.</i> We all have an endless well-spring of wisdom within us, that will provide <i>clear</i> direction as long as we're open and connected to it. When we follow through on that, shifts happen. <i>Life flows.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjijSb-H4wxVqjk_IpZ5LtBt2oGaiSB4a_KusPpiX7vCUnG1gBmbwqv18vOtr0okhCyhP4b2a1CplOd6LIk-QJQopQxsYWRIWnXJp-aQFSGVQxLi7K0y7YACzwgINjGNqDdcUIEvuKnlY8/s1600/self-care-soul-essences-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjijSb-H4wxVqjk_IpZ5LtBt2oGaiSB4a_KusPpiX7vCUnG1gBmbwqv18vOtr0okhCyhP4b2a1CplOd6LIk-QJQopQxsYWRIWnXJp-aQFSGVQxLi7K0y7YACzwgINjGNqDdcUIEvuKnlY8/s1600/self-care-soul-essences-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: #cc6666;">ESSENCES + OILS + REMEDIES</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Calm & Clear Essence:</b> For winding down, relaxing, and seeking peace. If I'm feelin' particularly scattered or know I have a huge list of things to do throughout the day, I'll grab this bottle o' goodness.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Lavender Essential Oil:</b> My all-time favourite way to fall asleep! Just put 3-4 drops on your hands, rub 'em together, then rub your hands on your pillow. Not only will you fall asleep in 2 seconds flat - it's the most divine scent to fall asleep to. You can also add a few drops to a warm bath! <i>Divine.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Rescue Remedy:</b> For those anxious bunnies out there. After using this on my own wedding day, I'm also convinced it should be in every bride's purse.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwrDDprrMaH8IdhYblJBpkoBwdLqXiCZzbhSqvwXikGDPXJWajFkiET9SjSo5HJdJGVsnS-1ZEf9nVvriVUkb_HkqzO8Jr7wsrFMIorYJhS7DF36qmEzdp0n621K17zowhr655bws7K8/s1600/self-care-soul-crystals-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwrDDprrMaH8IdhYblJBpkoBwdLqXiCZzbhSqvwXikGDPXJWajFkiET9SjSo5HJdJGVsnS-1ZEf9nVvriVUkb_HkqzO8Jr7wsrFMIorYJhS7DF36qmEzdp0n621K17zowhr655bws7K8/s1600/self-care-soul-crystals-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: #cc6666;">CRYSTALS</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Confession: I have a <i>total</i> love affair with crystals.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yes, they're <i>gorgeous</i> - but there's also<i> thousands</i> of varieties, all with different properties, meanings, and intentions. They can also remind you of your own intentions and what you're seeking. To give you an idea of what I'm talking about, let's say, you're battling with your inner-critic and you want to welcome a more loving perspective into your life. You might want to carry some rose quartz <i>(the stone of the heart, directly relating to love, compassion, and peace)</i> in your pocket, and give it a squeeze any time you find your critic pops up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>The crystals pictured are...</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Citrine:</b> for prosperity, abundance, joy, and manifestation of your visions.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Amethyst: </b>for spirituality, meditation, creativity, and restful sleep.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Rose Quartz:</b> opens the heart to give and receive love.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Flourite:</b> for harmony, balance, meditation, and bringing order to chaos.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Black Tourmaline: </b>for protection against negativity, radiation and external influences, promotes relaxation and sleep.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Clear Quartz:</b> known as the 'master healer', magnifies energy/ intentions.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The best way to choose your crystal is to follow your intuition. How I go about it is by browsing around and seeing what catches my eye or what I'm drawn to, and I'll stick with that. Later on, when I'm reading up on the crystal I picked out, it always turns out to be exactly what I need in that moment. <i>Simply trust that you'll be guided to what you need.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh43dFtBy0Ya8-Y14HsYjS0D9CIACyI2gPHOgmDtT-d-uuOyKbAQcmhDl-OWfh6LGDXSbqNt5ilXZo_ey49hFG0ZVUk1vj_g3wicaSn5HYxWzcylQx6wLfXNRsMVwKzXJ8osOLxYqikEVU/s1600/self-care-archangel-oracle-cards-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh43dFtBy0Ya8-Y14HsYjS0D9CIACyI2gPHOgmDtT-d-uuOyKbAQcmhDl-OWfh6LGDXSbqNt5ilXZo_ey49hFG0ZVUk1vj_g3wicaSn5HYxWzcylQx6wLfXNRsMVwKzXJ8osOLxYqikEVU/s1600/self-care-archangel-oracle-cards-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc6666;">ORACLE CARDS</span></b><br />
<b><i>Woo-woo alert: Things are about to get interesting... </i></b><br />
<br />
I've fallen head over heels for Doreen Virtue's oracle cards - which are essentially a direct-line to connect to the archangels - powerful, wise, and loving guides who can motivate, uplift, heal, and inspire us.<br />
<br />
How I approach these cards, is that often, I'll ask (after saying a little prayer): <i>What do I need to know, right now?</i><br />
<br />
I'll shuffle the cards, letting my intuition guide me, and stop when I feel compelled to. I'll either pull one or three cards, depending on how I'm feeling, and the guidance is always BANG on. True story: I've pulled cards and failed to listen to the message, only to continually pull the same card, over and over again. <i>Yep, okay! Got the message, loud and clear!</i><br />
<br />
This is simply another way to receive divine guidance, connect on a deeper level, and create ritual in our every day lives. Sometimes I'll pull a card first thing in the morning, post-meditation, or sometimes, I'll randomly feel pulled to ask a specific question, only to receive the answer I needed to hear.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Before snapping the above picture, I set the intention to send a message to you, whoever would be reading this, asking to send a message that you might need to hear, and this is what came up:</i></b><br />
<br />
<b>Divine Order</b><br />
<i>"Everything is how it needs to be right now. Look past the illusion, and see underlying order."</i><br />
<br />
"A win-win situation is brewing, one with solutions that are fair to everyone involved. This requires you to have blind faith that Heaven is working behind the scenes to extract the highest good for all. Ask me to buoy your faith if it wavers. Use positive affirmations and prayers to keep your spirits high. Above all, make sure that your conversations about this situation involve positive and optimistic words and phrases. You're so powerful that your positive thoughts can speed the resolution along even quicker."<br />
<br />
***<br />
<b>TELL ME: Do you have any rituals that you practice? Is there anything you'd like to learn more about? <i>Just holler at me in the comments, soulful seeker! </i></b><br />
<br />
P.S. You may want to check out: <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2014/03/self-care-beauty-essentials-for-face.html">SELF-CARE: FOR THE BODY</a> | <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2014/03/self-care-8-ways-to-liberate-your-mind.html">SELF-CARE: FOR THE MIND</a><br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-77320003868600141662014-04-30T08:00:00.000-04:002014-04-30T08:00:00.504-04:00Are You Run By Love or Fear?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFDLjiogYTtEhLBsTEmNvn-sg-F1thHVv5fu3pHWoZ3gkKw2zfMSIuxTOaRxQPij0i1DCykog-IH4BAHlL4Oqie05YHeXFx2F0QocTsOBO9ejLuf93Nj8X_FePuwti9axTj-KI2j2XmOM/s1600/MMfearoprahwinfrey_quote2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFDLjiogYTtEhLBsTEmNvn-sg-F1thHVv5fu3pHWoZ3gkKw2zfMSIuxTOaRxQPij0i1DCykog-IH4BAHlL4Oqie05YHeXFx2F0QocTsOBO9ejLuf93Nj8X_FePuwti9axTj-KI2j2XmOM/s1600/MMfearoprahwinfrey_quote2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Have you ever pressed the 'pause' button on your thoughts and examined them with curiosity? If you're keen on discovering your fullest potential, tapping into your own brilliance, and living a full, authentic life (And I'd bet that's one BIG resounding YES!), you've got to dig deep into your own psyche. As you explore, it might look a bit messy, feelings will rush through your body, and it<i> will</i> open your eyes.<br />
<br />
Creating space around your thoughts is confronting, to say the least. It's easy to switch on the 'auto-pilot' setting in our minds, and let our thoughts run our lives, feelings, and emotions. It takes courage to declare that you're ready to take the wheel and steer the ship that is your life.<br />
<br />
Sera Beak sums it up, beautifully:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"We, as individual spiritual beings, are solely responsible for much of how our life plays out, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>because our thoughts and beliefs create our reality. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>In other words, it’s not my experiences in the world that define me but, rather, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>my thoughts about my experiences that create and define the experience."</i></div>
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">So, what does "creating space around your thoughts" mean?</span></span></i><br />
<br />
On any given day, at any given moment, there's a inner dialogue playing in our minds. These thoughts can lift us up, bring us down, make us feel confident, psyche ourselves out, empower us, or drag us deeper into our own sadness. <b>To put it simply: our thoughts are either run by love or they're run by fear.</b><br />
<br />
To create space around our thoughts means bringing a new-found awareness to them. When you take one big step back and become aware of your thoughts, you can then consciously shift from<i> fear</i> to <i>love.</i> You begin to make a profound choice to improve the way you live by letting go of depleting, negative thoughts and invite in positive, empowering thoughts.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">What You'll Discover...</span></i></span><br />
<br />
It's often said that we're own worst critics, and holy shit, this realization is amplified once we actually begin to pay attention to our monkey minds. What you may discover is that instead of speaking to yourself with compassion, you're constantly picking apart, scrutinizing, criticizing, and putting down.<br />
<br />
Instead of continuing to criticize yourself for criticizing yourself (do you see how silly that sounds?), become grateful for the awareness over your thoughts. <b>You cannot beat your inner critic with more fear. </b>Be grateful that you now have the power to consciously step away from fear and into love.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">How To Move Forward...</span></i></span><br />
<br />
<b>The beautiful thing about curiosity is that it doesn't come with judgement or scrutiny, it's becoming wildly interested in what's possible and true.</b> <b><i>Adapt a curious mind, become a seeker, ask questions, and go ahead and label yourself an adventurer of the soul.</i></b><br />
<br />
<i>When your inner critic pops up, ask, </i>"Am I really not good enough? How do I know I won't succeed? How do I know I <i>can't</i> do that? Is it really true? Where is the proof? Would I speak to a friend (or anyone) this way?"<br />
<br />
<i>If you're in a toxic relationship, ask,</i> "Do I really deserve to be treated this way? Do I actually need this person in order to feel happy? What would it feel like to remove them from my life?"<br />
<br />
<i>If you're surrounded by negativity, ask,</i> "Do I really want to get sucked into this? Is this the message I want to send? What would it feel like not to take this personally/ leave the situation/ choose happiness?"<br />
<br />
<i>If you're being negative, ask,</i> "Does this really matter? Is this really the energy I want to be sending out into the world? What would it feel like to let go of this?"<br />
<br />
<b>The more you practice creating space, inviting in awareness, and shifting your thoughts, the more naturally it becomes. For most of us, it's years of conditioning, limiting beliefs, and negative thoughts that we're releasing and it will take time. Be patient, and most of all, be grateful.</b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The more space you create in your mind, the more freedom you create in your heart.</i></span><br />
<br />
<b>YOUR TURN: I'd love for you to share a time when you were faced with a fearful or negative thought and you chose to overcome it. Maybe you chose to treat yourself with extra compassion, or faced a big fear of yours... and if this resonated with you in any way, I'd love for you to share your thoughts. As always, sending you big love x</b><br />
<br />
Image via <a href="http://www.movenourishbelieve.com/monday-motivation/monday-motivation-love-over-fear/">Move Nourish Believe</a><br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-53811419690259915052014-04-21T08:46:00.001-04:002014-04-21T08:46:38.197-04:00Kick Start: Excite Your Spirit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlb7Wo0MaL9AcjV3dZgdKSU7b9aFuvOQYqNxj2_FMPHi-Qx1SzsK7EaKluq9UdLP2lP_wHIRsSosUg3vGM734V-HxWYDqj3bT4U_dUX01BS61IIzQseTBYR1xj2535IhMmWPWdrzAcPio/s1600/rumi-quote-excite-your-spirit-preview-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlb7Wo0MaL9AcjV3dZgdKSU7b9aFuvOQYqNxj2_FMPHi-Qx1SzsK7EaKluq9UdLP2lP_wHIRsSosUg3vGM734V-HxWYDqj3bT4U_dUX01BS61IIzQseTBYR1xj2535IhMmWPWdrzAcPio/s1600/rumi-quote-excite-your-spirit-preview-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Ah...</i> Rumi wisdom:<br />
<br />
<i>“There is a community of the spirit. Join it, and feel the delight of walking in the noisy street, and being the noise. Drink all your passion, and be a disgrace. <b>Close both eyes to see with the other eye. </b>Open your hands, if you want to be held. Sit down in this circle. Quit acting like a wolf, and feel the shepherd’s love filling you. At night, your beloved wanders. Don’t accept consolations. Close your mouth against food. Taste the lover’s mouth in yours. You moan, “She left me.”"He left me.” Twenty more will come. Be empty of worrying. Think of who created thought! <b>Why do you stay in prison when the door is so wide open? </b>Move outside the tangle of fear-thinking. Live in silence. Flow down and down in always widening rings of being.”
</i><br />
<br />
<b>Let's talk passion + excitement: What lights <i>you </i>up? What are you forever day-dreaming about? When do you feel your most radiant? Most electric? Wildly <i>ALIVE?</i> Share your top three dreams that, once achieved, you <i>know</i> you will have really <i>lived</i> this life.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<i>KA-POW! </i>GO <b>B-I-G</b> in the comments and amp up the energy on your dreams!<br />
Beyond excited to get to know this part of who you are x<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<div style="line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b><a href="http://ge.tt/api/1/files/1D2jHSc1/0/blob?download" style="color: #cc6666; text-decoration: none;">DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE WALLPAPER</a></b></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<em style="text-align: -webkit-left;">If this resonated with you, I'd love for you to share it using the buttons below (super easy!) and spread the love xx</em></div>
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-65463418458481994672014-04-16T07:50:00.000-04:002014-04-16T07:50:00.315-04:00Are You Holding Onto Anger?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6ekqui88lbYHaOc-PS8Yi2zA3T8P5TsIKZjiODrz173-UPv6ZR8B6lKkDPl6h6SDh4L5Zds4hllblRsfmqZ-42Ajm6PMC_bHHmEzVYADvgzY-Q4MVt76SG-mvB4O9retftb6lcDyfxs/s1600/leonard-cohen-quote-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6ekqui88lbYHaOc-PS8Yi2zA3T8P5TsIKZjiODrz173-UPv6ZR8B6lKkDPl6h6SDh4L5Zds4hllblRsfmqZ-42Ajm6PMC_bHHmEzVYADvgzY-Q4MVt76SG-mvB4O9retftb6lcDyfxs/s1600/leonard-cohen-quote-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The other day, I woke up in a bit of a funk. Something was <i>off. </i>My mind was in another world, my emotions were ultra-sensitive, and I wanted to be left alone. I was like a ticking time bomb of emotion, and was set off. I over-analysed, let my emotions take hold of me, and then there I was, in a full-blown argument.<br />
<br />
<i>Before I knew it, I was filled with anger.</i><br />
<br />
My body was swirling in a sea of emotion, and I couldn't get a grip on anything. It felt like out of nowhere I was hit with a ton of bricks and calming myself down was an impossible feat. Everything was one massive struggle.<br />
<br />
The smallest thing set me off and I projected the emotions I woke up with onto my husband, creating an argument over something completely insignificant. I tried to pull myself together, because <i>what the hell was wrong with me?! </i>but as soon as he walked out the door, I cried. Not just any cry, but I <i>really, really</i> let it all out. The full-on sobbing, gasping for air, ugly cry.<br />
<br />
And you know what? In that moment, I didn't dive into a story over why I was upset, I didn't sit with my anger, letting it stew and grow. I didn't retrace what happened or search for answers over why I felt the way that I did. I cried for the sake of crying, because I <i>needed</i> to. I let it all out because I knew there was something inside of me that needed to be released.<br />
<br />
Even when I felt like I could 'pull it together' and 'suck it up', I cried some more.<br />
<br />
When my tears ran dry, I sat there, surrounded by tissues, with the weight lifted from my shoulders.<br />
<br />
<b>I felt my inner voice tug at my heart, <i>"This is where the work begins."</i> And I rolled out my mat for a Kundalini yoga class, specifically designed to help release inner anger and remove the inner conflicts that sap us of our vitality and sense of self. <i>Yep, sounds about right.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<i>Powerful breathwork, vigorous body movement, profound energy release, deep meditation...</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" /></a>Often we think that experiencing strong emotion means there's something fundamentally wrong with us or that being sensitive means that we're weak. That couldn't be further from the truth. It's how we <i>view</i> our emotions that's backwards.<br />
<br />
<b>When your body is shaking from anger or your lips are quivering from sadness, it's simply a build up of energy that needs to be released. Bottling it up, turning a blind eye, and shoving it away only creates havoc over time as it bubbles to the surface. Diving into the depths of the <i>why</i> and <i>how</i> of negative emotion by picking it apart only results in even more frustration and despair. It's best to release and let go.</b><br />
<br />
<i>Let go of the burden you've been carrying with you and let the tears stream down your face, let the words flow recklessly onto the page, move your body with intention...</i><br />
<br />
In this place of vulnerability, fear rears its ugly head and it can feel like we're going to be swallowed up whole by how we're feeling. It won't. I'm not going to bullshit you and tell you it feels good, because it doesn't, but the alternative of <i>not </i>feeling is way, <i>way</i> worse. Suppressed feelings act like energy blocks that prevent you from living authentically, and accessing the true nature of who you are.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>What I will tell you is this - the release, the sublime feeling in letting go of what you've been holding onto and damn-near white-knuckling, is euphoric. It's transcendent. It brings you back home to yourself.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Just...<i> feel.</i></span><br />
<br />
In all honesty, for me, putting on a mask, hiding my emotions, and "toughening it out" became second-nature, and it's in the practice of breaking free of that habit that I've found true solace.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>It's my hope that you received some value from this post, and if this resonated with you, I'd love for you to share your insights in the comments and let me know how this spoke to you.</b> (And of course, feel free to share around the web using the buttons below. Thank you so, so much x)<br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-35204380253354331152014-04-14T08:00:00.000-04:002014-04-14T08:00:00.470-04:00Kick Start: Seek Truth (New Desktop Wallpaper For You!) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdXPhfEqElGA8xEe7CCr84Gfbz8CrOKkpekAsGEUBaBZ-0fdHVNQIy3UHyQ-KwdsnB6JBJOuihr3hZ4-nPtM2yXLk4IX0wzMqcHTR_alUgGSkA8HxpcRnHOtnlBsphoG0s5F3SCMX8N0/s1600/truth-osho-allie-tymo-preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdXPhfEqElGA8xEe7CCr84Gfbz8CrOKkpekAsGEUBaBZ-0fdHVNQIy3UHyQ-KwdsnB6JBJOuihr3hZ4-nPtM2yXLk4IX0wzMqcHTR_alUgGSkA8HxpcRnHOtnlBsphoG0s5F3SCMX8N0/s1600/truth-osho-allie-tymo-preview.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Often we place our gaze outside our windows, hoping for better days.<br />
<br />
A grand adventure, a career that lights us up, a relationship that makes us weak in the knees...<br />
<br />
We want that new pair of shoes, to get the degree, upgrade our computer, lose the weight, sign for the mortgage, make the deal, hit that target, get x amount of followers, thousands of page views, sign on the dotted line... <i>then</i> we'll be happy. Then we'll feel like we've really made it.<br />
<br />
We seek external approval to validate ourselves. Our success. Our worth.<br />
<br />
Then one day, you're <i>there </i>but you realize what you thought you wanted wasn't what you wanted at all. The goals, the due dates, the 5 year plans - all the chasing, pushing, striving... what was that for?<br />
<br />
<b>Feeling how you want to feel, discovering who you were born to be, living how you want to live doesn't come from discovering something <i>'out there'</i>... it comes from being courageous enough to explore within.</b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Creating a life you love is an inside job.</i></span><br />
<br />
Be brave. Be vulnerable. Seek truth.<br />
<br />
<b>TELL ME: What would it <i>feel</i> like to ditch the limiting belief of <i>"I'll be happy when I... (get the guy/ get hired for the job/ achieve_____/ buy ______/ learn _____)</i>? What would it <i>feel</i> like to choose happiness and be grateful <i>right now? </i>For fun, share <i>three</i> small things you could do this week! Can't wait to chat in the comments.</b><br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<div style="line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://ge.tt/api/1/files/70tLDvY1/0/blob?download" style="color: #cc6666; text-decoration: none;">DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE WALLPAPER</a></b></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<em style="text-align: -webkit-left;">If this resonated with you, I'd love for you to share it using the buttons below (super easy!) and spread the love xx</em></div>
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-7580331756372374472014-04-02T08:00:00.000-04:002014-04-02T08:00:02.029-04:00Books That'll Inspire: 21 Radical Reads<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Getting lost in a good read for hours on end.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Endless wisdom, unwavering support, soulful musings...</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Ah-HA! moments a plenty.</i><br />
<br />
It's no secret that digging my nose into a book is a favourite of mine. There's something so incredibly powerful and potent about the written word. Books - and I'm talking <i>great </i>books that will motivate, inspire, uplift, and quite possibly change your life.<br />
<br />
I've compiled the best of my bookshelf - some of my absolute favourites<i> (mostly of the non-fiction variety)</i> that have inspired me when I've felt lost, shifted my mindset, opened my eyes, inspired and supported me - in hopes that it will serve as a great resource for you to bookmark and come back to whenever you need something new to dig into.<br />
<br />
Enjoy + Happy Reading!<i> (And comment with some of your own favourites! I might be a bit of a book hoarder.)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
SELF-EMPOWERMENT + TRANSFORMATION</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDhUpxwc4eZgygAwxZv9ik5G4xHfnePwhThs6kOlg4Eue0hG-T3Cth6jQA4VCKMA1c1Xg_m1_rrQQujjXAwn5_vF2tneH-DEQ0wGOXvW4HRPVfVtLp4IVPviDJuPIpmoNIhG4aJKftEzc/s1600/book-recs-1-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDhUpxwc4eZgygAwxZv9ik5G4xHfnePwhThs6kOlg4Eue0hG-T3Cth6jQA4VCKMA1c1Xg_m1_rrQQujjXAwn5_vF2tneH-DEQ0wGOXvW4HRPVfVtLp4IVPviDJuPIpmoNIhG4aJKftEzc/s1600/book-recs-1-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Untethered-Soul-Journey-Beyond-Yourself/dp/1572245379/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1392685110&sr=1-1&keywords=the+untethered+soul"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">The Untethered Soul</span></i></a> by Michael A. Singer</b><br />
Profound. Expanding. Transformational. Cracks you wide-open, in the best possible ways. I'm endlessly recommending this to loved ones. It will change your life.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Desire-Map-Guide-Creating-Goals/dp/1622032519/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1392685341&sr=1-1&keywords=desire+map+danielle+laporte"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">The Desire Map</span></i></a> by Danielle LaPorte</b><br />
Soulful. Inspiring. Supportive. Unmasks your deepest desires right before your eyes and dives into the depths of who we are and how we want to live. Danielle just... gets it. In her own words, "This is about liberation. And pleasure. And self-determination. This is about doing much less proving, and way more living."<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Alchemist-Paulo-Coelho/dp/0061122416/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1392685154&sr=1-1&keywords=the+alchemist+paulo+coelho"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">The Alchemist</span></i></a> by Paulo Coelho</b><br />
Dive into the profound and moving lessons taught by this classic that needs a spot on everyone's bookshelves.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmCc35vhlztrK33CJZKrapy7j7ieXoGvdFHGKdgN3kL_hwCHbLJv-lvLpvs8J9OCuF4GM64cmGZ-lo7V0fkPuVjUG7lcWTDVHykHDWdbR3HfTrGXOWqtR_asosXF3fX6z1pkcuXtJ1KY/s1600/book-recs-2-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmCc35vhlztrK33CJZKrapy7j7ieXoGvdFHGKdgN3kL_hwCHbLJv-lvLpvs8J9OCuF4GM64cmGZ-lo7V0fkPuVjUG7lcWTDVHykHDWdbR3HfTrGXOWqtR_asosXF3fX6z1pkcuXtJ1KY/s1600/book-recs-2-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/New-Earth-Awakening-Purpose-Selection/dp/0452289963/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1392685406&sr=1-1&keywords=a+new+earth"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">A New Earth</span></i></a> by Eckhart Tolle</b><br />
This spiritual manifesto will open your eyes in a completely new way, awakening the presence of awareness that lives inside all of us. Shedding light on our ego - the inner saboteur - and how to create space around those thoughts so we can live fuller, more joyful lives.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>“You do not become good by trying to be good, but by finding the goodness that is already within you, and allowing that goodness to emerge. But it can only emerge if something fundamental changes in your state of consciousness.”</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Power-Now-Guide-Spiritual-Enlightenment/dp/1577314808/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396127972&sr=1-1&keywords=the+power+of+now"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">The Power of Now</span></i></a> by Eckhart Tolle</b><br />
Powerful teachings on living in the now (and what that means) and how we are the creators of our lives.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Heart-Thoughts-Treasury-Inner-Wisdom/dp/1401937209/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1392685281&sr=1-1&keywords=heart+thoughts"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">Heart Thoughts</span></i></a> by Louise Hay</b><br />
A stunning and beautifully illustrated book that's perfect for a quick pick-me-up when you need it. Soul-hugging affirmations on the spot by - keep this one nearby. One of my favourites:<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<em>"Release the emotional attachment</em></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<em>to beliefs from the past</em></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<em>so that they don't hurt you in the present.</em></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<em>If you live fully in the moment,</em></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<em>you cannot be hurt by the past,</em></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: center;">
<em>no matter what it was."</em></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9l5HToST7JUYLEh2iBOGLCU7nwxkcBvzcx4V3ow5n30SgxlkJpehOFKK3SfkhrrM0N8Z8RxkkLdNWvOMDxUueBVyIQpMp39mhxjVl7EgIWjTJkzPBM5KlkQrBE38NtDsZzkvHqoxVTv0/s1600/book-recs-3-allie-tymo.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9l5HToST7JUYLEh2iBOGLCU7nwxkcBvzcx4V3ow5n30SgxlkJpehOFKK3SfkhrrM0N8Z8RxkkLdNWvOMDxUueBVyIQpMp39mhxjVl7EgIWjTJkzPBM5KlkQrBE38NtDsZzkvHqoxVTv0/s1600/book-recs-3-allie-tymo.jpg.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Four-Agreements-Practical-Personal-Freedom/dp/1878424319/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1392685226&sr=1-1&keywords=the+four+agreements+by+don+miguel+ruiz"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">The Four Agreements</span></i></a> by Don Miguel Ruiz</b><br />
Simple + actionable wisdom that will touch, move, and inspire.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Visualization-Imagination-Create-Gawain/dp/1577312295"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">Creative Visualization</span></i></a> by Shakti Gawain</b><br />
Timeless meditations and affirmations that guide you and put the reins in your hands so you can (actively) create the life you truly want to live.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Side-Light-Chasers/dp/1594485259/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396128133&sr=1-1&keywords=the+light+of+the+dark+chasers"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">The Dark Side of the Light Chasers</span></i></a> by Debbie Ford</b><br />
<div>
Game-changer. Raw. Honest. Soul-stirring. Read all your affirmations but yearning to dive deeper? Are there a few skeletons in your closet or are you holding onto limiting beliefs that you just can't shake? The teachings that Debbie Ford brought into the world are like none other. Spirituality isn't just about accepting the 'pretty parts' in our lives, it's accepting our darkness too.<br />
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
WRITING + CREATIVITY</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2XLSF-Zzs0DwU7eGs_bHD6UghqANDh2oEc6uSJG_0sy1AgLBRmNssE_04AQtV33VzgFZKhwRkItEiFtaTM-UlHhzSgY2C1N97wh3O9BWB11ZapdjgpSvb3Gmk77yddwSbmpW4lrt4qM/s1600/book-recommendations-4-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2XLSF-Zzs0DwU7eGs_bHD6UghqANDh2oEc6uSJG_0sy1AgLBRmNssE_04AQtV33VzgFZKhwRkItEiFtaTM-UlHhzSgY2C1N97wh3O9BWB11ZapdjgpSvb3Gmk77yddwSbmpW4lrt4qM/s1600/book-recommendations-4-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Writing-Down-Bones-Freeing-Writer/dp/1590302613/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396128477&sr=1-1&keywords=writing+down+the+bones"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">Writing Down The Bones</span></i> </a>by Natalie Goldberg</b><br />
As Natalie Goldberg says, <i>"Writing is the act of discovery."</i><br />
This one's for all the writers (or aspiring writers) - chock-full of both clear lessons and exercises guaranteed to get your creative juices flowing.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><i><span style="color: #cc6666;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Writing-Down-Your-Soul-Extraordinary/dp/1573243566/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1392685814&sr=1-1&keywords=writing+down+your+soul">Writing Down Your Soul</a> </span></i>by Janet Conner</b><br />
Looking to cultivate a journalling practice in your own life? Discover just how powerful it can be for your life.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Through-Creative-Battles/dp/1936891026/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1392688357&sr=1-1&keywords=the+war+of+art"><span style="color: #cc6666;">The War of Art</span></a> </i>by Steven Pressfield</b><br />
Looking for that swift kick to get shit done? Turn pro with this fierce read. It's that good.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
PRODUCTIVITY + ENTREPRENEURSHIP </h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijTIveVx7_6hvF7ax5iiaeDBR423pZweBz5mfPP8oFyiuoiGAKS6mdDo8jjU9U_zddg8WFg3gIFf4J6U6-gFvr6skA5tox-Ubjd1lmnu1ZTDhT63ECuJJx7T7pZnGGDphlxcG89rR8hNI/s1600/book-to-read-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijTIveVx7_6hvF7ax5iiaeDBR423pZweBz5mfPP8oFyiuoiGAKS6mdDo8jjU9U_zddg8WFg3gIFf4J6U6-gFvr6skA5tox-Ubjd1lmnu1ZTDhT63ECuJJx7T7pZnGGDphlxcG89rR8hNI/s1600/book-to-read-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Eat-That-Frog-Great-Procrastinating/dp/1576754227/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1392685623&sr=1-1&keywords=eat+that+frog+brian+tracy"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">Eat That Frog</span></i></a> by Brian Tracy</b><br />
Simple but powerful nuggets information to beat procrastination, once and for all.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Start-Why-Leaders-Inspire-Everyone/dp/1591846447/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1392688325&sr=1-1&keywords=start+with+why"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">Start With Why</span></i></a> by Simon Sinek</b><br />
Everyone knows <i>what</i> they do, but do they know <i>why</i> they do it? A concept that will leave you thinking, "How didn't I think of that?" that you'll want to implement, straight away. (Also - <a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/simon_sinek_how_great_leaders_inspire_action">watch this.</a>)<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Making-Ideas-Happen-Overcoming-Obstacles/dp/1591844118/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396128694&sr=1-1&keywords=making+ideas+happen"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">Making Ideas Happen</span></i></a> by Scott Belsky</b><br />
Consider yourself spontaneous and creative? Have you set aside any elements of structure, organization, and time-management? While the words may not be ground-breaking, it hammers down the notion of one thing (and how to do it): if you want to make ideas happen, you have to take action.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiorLbXW3hyAj11E2HgzQn3oP2GgSSvZL8aiWSv75YeC27hhLC_SJ_NhjQmJZes911pw_xwVxFNap3eftxatkqfd07RWc4cpBT3Hvj2j40eDXII7vEFLkhW1w6iwtrFb6OfPwYjyrn9-3s/s1600/books-for-productivity-allie-tymo.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiorLbXW3hyAj11E2HgzQn3oP2GgSSvZL8aiWSv75YeC27hhLC_SJ_NhjQmJZes911pw_xwVxFNap3eftxatkqfd07RWc4cpBT3Hvj2j40eDXII7vEFLkhW1w6iwtrFb6OfPwYjyrn9-3s/s1600/books-for-productivity-allie-tymo.jpg.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dip-Little-Book-Teaches-Stick/dp/1591841666/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396128812&sr=1-1&keywords=the+dip"><span style="color: #cc6666;">The Dip: When to Quit (And When To Stick)</span></a> </i>by Seth Godin</b><br />
Practical. Potent. The truth about quitting: "Winners quit fast, quit often, and quit without guilt." So, when should you?<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fire-Starter-Sessions-Practical-Creating/dp/030795210X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1392685384&sr=1-1&keywords=firestarter+sessions+danielle+laporte"><span style="color: #cc6666;">The Firestarter Sessions</span></a></i> by Danielle LaPorte</b><br />
The ultimate guide to creating your purposeful, inspired, passionate success. In her own words, "The Fire Starter Sessions is the permission slip you’ve been waiting for – to fully want what you want and go for it, to expand your consciousness and your cash flow, to up the ante on your dreams, to be incredibly generous with your love."<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/168-Hours-Have-More-Think/dp/159184410X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396128874&sr=1-1&keywords=168+hours"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think</span></i></a> by Laura Vanderkam</b><br />
For the people who proclaim, <i>"I don't have enough time."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
MEMOIR + NOVELS</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvK8-5cD_JLRhx-u9b9cOPXUFSJ0cNB5W-nKTTQpPC3QZ1SJc3ElDm4Sr0IcMdQI97ga0Hu3-ahk1uk5vdQ_aYCMEhm1Hs01v0pO_yvK914oTD7aiMZ63__YhyphenhyphenMQ0OaSpk6xQccVN96LU/s1600/must-read-memoirs-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvK8-5cD_JLRhx-u9b9cOPXUFSJ0cNB5W-nKTTQpPC3QZ1SJc3ElDm4Sr0IcMdQI97ga0Hu3-ahk1uk5vdQ_aYCMEhm1Hs01v0pO_yvK914oTD7aiMZ63__YhyphenhyphenMQ0OaSpk6xQccVN96LU/s1600/must-read-memoirs-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wild-Found-Pacific-Crest-Vintage/dp/0307476073/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396129209&sr=1-1&keywords=wild"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail </span></i></a>by Cheryl Strayed</b><br />
Gripping. Wildly inspiring. Cheryl's own experience on the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail) will not only have you turning page after page, but wanderlusting over your next great adventure and lacing up your hiking boots in no time.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Love-Chance-Drowning-Torre-DeRoche/dp/1401341950/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396129272&sr=1-1&keywords=love+with+a+chance+of+drowning"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">Love with a Chance of Drowning</span></i></a> by Torre DeRoche</b><br />
Utterly gripping. Torre words read like poetry in this true story about falling for a man with big dreams and sailing down an adventure of a lifetime. With a mix of soul-bearing + hilarity + <i>"you just couldn't make this stuff up!"</i> moments, you'll be hooked.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tiny-Beautiful-Things-Advice-Sugar/dp/0307949338/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396129320&sr=1-1&keywords=tiny+beautiful+things"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">Tiny Beautiful Things</span></i></a> by Cheryl Strayed</b><br />
Raw. Honest. Touching. Wise. Compassionate. So very real. Sugar - once-anonymous advice columnist has now been revealed as Cheryl Strayed - offers up real-world advice for anything and everything that life throws us. It will leave you feeling endlessly supported, tears streaming down your face, and fiercely understood. I zipped through this breathtaking novel in no time, hardly ever setting it down.<br />
<br />
<b>OVER TO YOU: What books top your list of must-reads?</b><br />
<br />
<i>If you found this post useful + valuable, I would love if you would share with your friends using the buttons below! (Easy peasy!)</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-33116746158672482342014-03-31T08:30:00.000-04:002014-04-02T07:55:26.962-04:00Love Your Body On Your Own Terms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtgf80ImynlRqTDHqvK1jv087x7l7B-NOJSq4Q9OTLxPivdO3KOT4miUvC00YK_QSxJyFVKfE9BIk4E98f3HrGEVQ3AdS_2Su705jtVJyROUZx5DeCIVAf8Qki8jVSBxaJjB-62ePVBw/s1600/love-your-body-allie-tymo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtgf80ImynlRqTDHqvK1jv087x7l7B-NOJSq4Q9OTLxPivdO3KOT4miUvC00YK_QSxJyFVKfE9BIk4E98f3HrGEVQ3AdS_2Su705jtVJyROUZx5DeCIVAf8Qki8jVSBxaJjB-62ePVBw/s1600/love-your-body-allie-tymo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Today, I've got something special for you! Alicia from <a href="http://jaybirdblog.com/">JayBird</a> and Rachel from <a href="http://www.tossingthescript.com/">Tossing The Script</a> have asked a series of beautiful, thought-provoking questions (and I've thrown in an extra one for good measure!) as part of the <i><a href="http://jaybirdblog.com/love-your-body-link-up-1/">Love Your Body</a></i> link-up, and they got me thinking...<br />
<br />
<i>What does 'loving your body' really mean?</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Why is loving ourselves (and our bodies) a struggle?</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>How can we love ourselves, right now?</i><br />
<br />
Questions that I hope to have unearthed (or, at least, shed some light on):<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">How do you define confidence?</span></i></span><br />
<br />
Unapologetically accepting who you are - the light, the dark, and everything in between. Choosing love over fear. Deeply knowing who you are. Believing in your value + worth. Knowing what is true, listening to your intuition, and radiating that truth out into the world, without seeking external validation.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">Describe an experience that made you feel strong + connected to your body. Why was it so powerful?</span></i></span><br />
<br />
Movement ignites a strong connection to my body, always. It's more than having a workout routine, or slugging away at the gym looking for instantaneous physical results, movement has become a radical self-care practice. A way to lovingly practice compassion for myself and stir up stagnant energy within my body.<br />
<br />
Without a doubt, <i>nothing</i> has made me feel more strong and connected than yoga has. It is literally changing my life. A powerful statement, but true. I made a pact with myself and declared 2014 as the year that I would dedicate myself to developing a regular practice. Something in me shifted. There were weeks when I'd fall 'behind', but I would always come back, roll out my mat, surrender, and show up.<br />
<br />
Rather than looking at dedicated yogis and think, "Why can't I do that?" or "I'll never be that good/ flexible/ strong.", I became inspired and empowered.<i> I can do that. I'm going to get there. I am strong and dedicated and I am showing up. </i>Regardless of the fact that I was sitting at square one. I <i>would</i> get there.<br />
<br />
<i>Even if I couldn't move deeply into poses. Even if I struggled. Even if I fell right over. Even if tears dropped to the mat.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
There's something completely and totally invigorating about hopping into inversions. Headstands, forearm stands, handstands. I began rocky at best. If I felt frustrated, I'd quickly took that as a sign that I needed to drop back into my body and accept where I was. For weeks all I could do was hop.<a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo/status/433979520459091968"> The moment</a> when my body launched itself into a supported handstand, my heart practically leapt for joy.<br />
<br />
This weekend, I opted to give it a go without a wall to support me. I dropped into downward dog, slowed my breath, and visualized myself lifting my legs into a headstand. I got into position bringing complete awareness to my body.<i> Hop, hop, hop, fall.</i> (Epic falls, I might add.)<br />
<br />
Until I did it. And I did it again.<br />
<br />
<i>I am strong and connected to my body.</i> And bloody hell, that is one of the best feelings there is.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">What is one thing about your body that you love unconditionally or have worked to love over time?</span></i></span><br />
<br />
Moment-to-moment acceptance. <i>That </i>is what I practice. I spent hours (literally) working to love my body, logging in cardio hours, tallying steps taken, counting reps, increasing weight. My worth was tied up in how hard and how many hours I spent at the gym. Even at my fittest, I felt flawed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Getting caught up in what's happening 'out there' leaves us forcing, pushing, striving, and scrambling for results. We're left, vulnerable and exposed, feeling less-than, in a constant state of comparison, and often, energetically drained. We're chasing a target that we'll never hit - the elusive<a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.com/2014/03/kick-start-perfection-is-moving-target.html"> pull of perfection.</a></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJ58dFTy2R9Yil7s8uOBesHkpK_zoooW217CFjydhBqYAztulii1MGk_ndKdGD_p6ePNq_Y4RveVvv9P0g5GsTOj0HAa171TFFnVFNcj-YlIEQz6E1pq55z6acjSbAt6u9UfXg0FUFfU/s1600/allie-tymo-line.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
It's not until we do the inner work that life begins to unfold beautifully. That's not to say that movement and vibrant health are no longer a priority or that they don't matter so,<i> hey! Why not laze around on the couch all day stuffing our faces with potato chips?</i> It's setting the intention to <i>feel </i>the best that you can, and doing it from a place of compassion and acceptance.<br />
<br />
<b>It's standing tall, declaring, "I love and accept myself unconditionally, right now." The good and the bad.</b> (And while we're at it, why don't we just ditch those labels right now?! There really is no good or bad, there just <i>is</i>.)<br />
<br />
Like you, I'm human. This doesn't mean that I don't get caught up in my own reflection, picking this or that apart... it's a practice that doesn't always come with ease and grace. Each moment that I get caught up in my own story is one that I can use to dive deeper into my own body connection, re-frame my perspective, and connect back to my truth.<br />
<br />
In the words of <a href="http://vimeo.com/83722403">Beyoncé</a>, <i>"It's the soul that needs the surgery."</i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #cc6666;">What is the most important lesson you’ve learned about health, happiness and loving your body?</span></i></span><br />
<br />
It's an inside job. The road to vibrant health, unbridled happiness, and total acceptance begins at with one thing:<a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2013/11/the-catalyst-for-transforming-your-life.html"> a choice.</a> Your choice. A decision that you're committed to creating a life that is truly miraculous, and ultimately, a deep knowing that you are worthy of living the life of your dreams.<br />
<br />
Accepting that life is messy, chaotic, and downright unbearable at times and in those moments, let's lean a little deeper because<i> holy shit</i> - this is what transformation is made of. Oh, fear and resistance? Merely a sign that you are on the brink of something pretty damn magnificent.<br />
<br />
<b>PASSING OVER THE MIC: Tell me about your own path - what's worked and what hasn't - with as much detail as you'd like. And <i>thank you</i>, for reading and commenting! (And if you liked this post, I'd love for you to share it on the web or simply hit <i>'subscribe'</i> below! x) </b><br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2745293479419401370.post-66302065080174482032014-03-28T11:01:00.000-04:002014-04-10T20:40:10.454-04:00Self-Care: 8 Ways to Liberate Your MindDeveloping a beautiful self-care practice goes much deeper than the products stored away in the bottom of our purses or tucked away in the cupboards of the bathroom. There's no doubt <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2014/03/self-care-beauty-essentials-for-face.html">those beauty essentials</a> make me feel fresh, cared-for, and luxurious but if the focus is only fixated on the <i>external</i>, that feeling is fleeting.<br />
<br />
<i>There one day and gone the next.</i><br />
<br />
On any given day there are literally thousands of thoughts running through our mind, and at times, it can feel pretty overwhelming. So, how can we care<i> for our mind?</i><br />
<br />
What can we do:<br />
<br />
... to shift our mindset?<br />
<br />
... when we're overcome by our own inner critic?<br />
<br />
... to lessen the impact of every day stresses, emotions, and feelings?<br />
<br />
... when we feel depleted and overwhelmed?<br />
<br />
... when we're feeling creatively blocked and run by resistance?<br />
<br />
... to consciously let go of what no longer serves us?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7NGu3mtF4gp5WZDMhX-hYMT_mne8oiA_zxjA7P_ffG9D53pKDwhuCkT35QKjKk1VLdIpXcLDQYciC2XI5WU_lbn1JUjgJ5p6h4oCjUkR1P4gQJx6miYx7Kr_w_frlMADX5GcfoZA0ok/s1600/self-care-mind-surrender-allie-tymo.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7NGu3mtF4gp5WZDMhX-hYMT_mne8oiA_zxjA7P_ffG9D53pKDwhuCkT35QKjKk1VLdIpXcLDQYciC2XI5WU_lbn1JUjgJ5p6h4oCjUkR1P4gQJx6miYx7Kr_w_frlMADX5GcfoZA0ok/s1600/self-care-mind-surrender-allie-tymo.jpg.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">1. A FRESH MINDSET:</span> </span>If you're not open to a fresh mindset, new way of thinking, or a new set of belief systems, you can't receive it. You can't walk through a closed door. Chances are, if you're here, and you're reading this, you are a seeker. You want more out of life. You have a desire to unlock your own joy and freedom and deep down, even if you haven't admitted it yet, you <i>know</i> that you have the power within you to transform your life.<br />
<br />
<b>Surrender. Spread out your arms to the sky and be open to receiving. Become aware of your thoughts. Consciously release old, negative ways of thinking and invite in positive feelings. Bring clarity to what you want. When you feel your heart closing down, open it back up. </b><br />
<br />
It <i>is</i> a practice and it <i>does </i>take time. For most of us, we've carried around these old habits for <i>years</i>, so be patient and practice on a moment-to-moment basis.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc6666;"><span style="font-size: large;">2. BE GENTLE:</span><b> </b></span>I've said it before and it's worth saying it again: This has completely revolutionized the way I live. It's made me more compassionate. More responsive, rather than reactive. It brings me back to awareness. Everything feels... softer, lighter, more spacious. Less forcing, pushing, striving, proving. More <i>being.</i><br />
<br />
If you haven't read it already, check out <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2013/12/five-super-actionable-ways-to-be-gentle.html">5 (Super Actionable) Ways to be Gentle with Yourself.</a> It's simply the best way to dive into this meaty topic.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc6666; font-size: large;">3. CHECK-IN: </span>Get curious. When we get <i>curious</i> about our feelings and emotions, we're less likely to berate ourselves for feeling the way that we do. There's <i>nothing </i>wrong with our feelings.<br />
<br />
<b>Let me repeat that: There is nothing wrong with your feelings. There is nothing wrong with being sensitive. There is nothing wrong with being emotional.</b><br />
<br />
Instead, stop labelling certain feelings as "bad" or "good", and just bloody feel them. All it is, is energy vibrating in your body, nothing more, nothing less. When these feelings rise up, just check in with yourself.<br />
<br />
"What's the real reason behind my fear? Is there proof that _______ will happen?"<br />
<br />
"Why do I feel angry/ frustrated/ overwhelmed/ upset/ rejected right now?"<br />
<br />
And ultimately, "What would it feel like to <i>not</i> feel like this?"<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">4. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVITY:</span> </span>Specifically, surround yourself with positive <i>people</i>.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Is there anyone in your life who drains you? Makes you feel less-than? Who you feel doesn't value or appreciate you? Maybe they project their own limiting beliefs and fears onto you?</i></b><br />
<br />
There is something (huge!) to be said about being there, accepting them as they are, reaching out and saying, <i>"How can I support you, right now?"</i><br />
<br />
Other times, maybe this relationship (romantic or otherwise) has run its course and it's time to let go. <i>And that's okay too.</i><br />
<br />
<b>This post on <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2013/06/letting-go-of-toxic-relationships.html">letting go of toxic relationships</a> remains one of the most popular and searched-for that's been featured on this space, and if you feel like this could speak to you, please check it out. </b>(And if you know someone who it might resonate with, I would love for you to pass it along and share. Sometimes the best thing of all is to know that we're not alone.)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">5. DIGITAL DETOX:</span> </span>Delete some (or all) social media apps for your phone. Stop checking your feeds immediately after waking up. Turn off your phone for a weekend. <i>Disconnect.</i><br />
<br />
Last year, I went through this huge stage of just needing to retreat. As much as my mind was telling me to keep going, everything in my body was screaming, <i>"Stop! Slow down!"</i> I needed to connect back to my truth and get curious about what was happening. This resulted in a few digital detoxes. From <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2013/09/surprise-yourself.html">a weekend in nature</a> to <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2013/11/the-love-list.html">an at-home retreat.</a> Batteries = charged. Trust me on that one.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">6. GET INSPIRED:</span> </span>Throw away the tabloids, close down the gossip websites, and <i>get inspired.</i> Tune into <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/browse">TedTalks</a>, they will change your life. My favourites are <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability">here</a>, <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/elizabeth_gilbert_on_genius">here</a>, <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_listening_to_shame">here</a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=veEQQ-N9xWU">here</a>, to get you started.<br />
<br />
Next week, I'll be sharing a juicy post chock-full of my favourite reads, which I'll link to this post once it's live, so stay tuned and keep an eye on this space!<br />
<br />
<i>UPDATE: Check out my list of <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2014/04/books-thatll-inspire-21-radical-reads.html">21 Radical Reads</a> to get inspired.</i><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc6666; font-size: large;">7. WHIP OUT THE YOGA MAT:</span><b> </b>Yoga is not just an awesome workout, it can actually calm your monkey mind and bring you to another place of awareness. Whenever I roll out my mat, I know that the next 30/ 60/ 90 minutes is time to just surrender myself on the mat and be still. I give myself permission to stop thinking, <i>"But there's so much to do!"</i> And I'm <i>present.</i><br />
<br />
Often, when I'm feeling overwhelmed or creatively blocked, I'll settle in for a yoga sesh, or even quickly hop into a handstand and it's works wonders to get the juices flowing again.<br />
<br />
<i>Insider tip: For those of us who don't have cash to burn (those classes are expensive!) and would like to develop an at-home practice, I highly recommend checking out <a href="http://www.yogaglo.com/">YogaGlo.</a> It's amazing!</i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc6666;">8. LET GO:</span> </span>A gorgeous practice that I've started is when I'm laying in bed, ready to drift off to sleep, I consciously say to myself, <i>"I let go of all thoughts from today."</i> and picture myself opening a window, and seeing all of my thoughts float away. Even though my conscious mind is asleep throughout the night, my subconscious is wide awake. This way, I don't burden my subconscious with the 35932593725 things that popped into my mind earlier in the day.<br />
<br />
Another trick? <a href="http://betweendreamstheblog.blogspot.ca/2013/10/a-technique-for-letting-go-of-past.html">Burn 'em. </a><br />
<br />
<b>JOIN IN: What do you do when fear/ resistance/ overwhelm crops up? (Or, maybe, what would you <i>like </i>to do?) What are your non-negotiable self-care practices? I'd love to take this one step further and start a conversation over in the comments, see you there! </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<i>P.S. You may have noticed an option on the sidebar to sign up for inspiration straight to your inbox. If you're diggin' this post, I'd love for you to hit 'subscribe'. I've got something pretty special cookin' up behind the scenes that I can't wait to share with you, and it's all-exclusive for the mailing list tribe xo </i><br />
<br />
<div id="alliesignature">
<a href="http://facebook.com/betweendreamstheblog">facebook</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/allietymo">twitter</a> - <a href="http://instagram.com/allietymo">instagram</a> - <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4405239/between-dreams">bloglovin'</a> - <a href="http://eepurl.com/Po9TP">subscribe</a></div>
Allie Tymoczkohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04896845052574286723noreply@blogger.com0