Guiding Lights : New Beginnings

09/30/2024

Introducing: Coaching for Growth – 11 Ways to Be Your Best Self! 🌟

Are you ready to take control of your life and step into the best version of yourself?

Coaching for Growth is a powerful self-paced program designed to help you thrive in today’s fast-paced world. Whether you're looking to build resilience, master your time, or strengthen your relationships, this 11-step program gives you the practical tools you need to succeed.

In the program, you’ll discover:

How to define success on your own terms

The power of positive self-talk to shift your mindset

Techniques for building emotional intelligence for better relationships

Strategies to overcome procrastination and manage time like a pro

And much more!

Want to take it at your own pace? We’re offering a self-paced eBook packed with exercises, worksheets, and journal prompts so you can start your personal growth journey right away!

What you'll get:

Step-by-step guidance through each module

Easy-to-follow exercises and templates for real results

Reflection prompts to help you apply what you’ve learned

Get the eBook today and start growing NOW! Whether you’re on a personal growth journey or looking to improve your professional life, this program is designed to empower you.

Ready to get started? Comment “I’m in!” below or send me a message to get your copy of the eBook!
Unlock Your Potential with Coaching for Growth!

Here’s a Sneak Peek of What You’ll Learn
Define Your Own Success
Forget what everyone else says—what does success mean to YOU? Discover how to create a life that feels successful by YOUR standards.

Master the Power of Positive Thinking
Rewire your brain to turn negative thoughts into positive actions. Your mindset is the key to unlocking endless possibilities!

Emotional Intelligence for Better Relationships
Ever wonder how some people manage stress with grace? Learn the secrets to managing emotions and improving every relationship in your life.

Say No with Confidence
Tired of saying yes to things that drain your energy? We’ll teach you how to set healthy boundaries without guilt.

Time Management That Actually Works
Struggling to find time for what matters? Get tools to manage your day better so you can finally have time for YOU.

Build Resilience to Overcome Life's Challenges
Life is full of obstacles, but they don't have to slow you down. Learn how to bounce back stronger every time life gets tough.

Adopt a Growth Mindset
See every challenge as an opportunity for growth. This simple mindset shift will change the way you approach everything!

Break Free from Procrastination
Stop putting things off and start achieving your goals with our easy-to-follow steps for overcoming procrastination.

Cultivate Self-Discipline
Ever wonder how successful people stay consistent? We’ll show you how to build discipline, one small habit at a time.

Communicate for Success
Improve your communication skills so you can speak clearly, resolve conflicts, and build stronger connections.

Gratitude & Abundance
Embrace the power of gratitude to invite more positivity and success into your life.

Want to learn more? The full Coaching for Growth program is packed with actionable steps, reflection exercises, and powerful techniques to help you thrive in today’s world. Whether you’re looking to improve your relationships, boost your career, or simply feel more fulfilled, this program has something for YOU.

Get Started Today and discover what’s possible when you invest in yourself.

Comment “I’m ready” below or send me a message .

09/29/2024

Exciting News from New Beginnings!

Hi everyone! It’s been a while since I’ve been active here, and I wanted to take a moment to share why. Over the past few months, I’ve faced some personal health challenges that required me to step back and focus on my well-being. During this time, I leaned heavily on the principles I’ve always taught, but I also discovered something powerful that I’m excited to share with you today.

I’m thrilled to introduce Mind Shifting, a fresh approach I’m integrating into my life coaching program. This concept is all about changing how we approach the challenges and tasks in our daily lives—shifting our mindset and transforming what feels like a burden into an opportunity for growth.

Think about those days when you’re overwhelmed by to-do lists, chores, or difficult conversations. By shifting your perspective, you can transform those tasks! For example:
Cleaning the house: Instead of feeling weighed down, shift your focus to gratitude. Cleaning becomes a way to care for and appreciate the home you’re fortunate to have.
Handling tough work projects: Instead of seeing them as overwhelming, see them as opportunities to develop new skills or showcase your abilities.
Navigating difficult relationships: Rather than focusing on frustration, shift to understanding and empathy, creating space for healing and better communication.
These simple shifts in thinking can completely change how you feel about daily life, just as they helped me navigate the challenges of illness. It’s not always about changing the task—it’s about changing how we see it.
I’ve seen firsthand how powerful mind-shifting can be, and I’m excited to share these techniques with you so you can reclaim control over stress, self-doubt, and negative thinking. It’s time to start approaching life’s obstacles as opportunities.
What can you shift today? Whether it’s a challenging work deadline, a stressful family situation, or even the everyday tasks that feel endless, I invite you to explore how a change in mindset can change everything.
I’m now offering Mind Shifting coaching sessions and workshops designed to help you:

Reprogram negative self-talk
Find gratitude in the mundane
Transform difficult tasks into personal growth moments
Create healthier habits that stick
Ready to get started?
I invite you to book a discovery call or join an upcoming workshop where we’ll dive deeper into these concepts and help you shift your life into a new beginning.

Thank you for your patience and support during my absence. I’m so grateful for this community and excited to reconnect with all of you. Together, we can shift our minds, change our habits, and create a fresh life start!

Let’s create your new beginning today!
Cilene

11/23/2023

The holiday season can cast a poignant shadow for those navigating the terrain of grief. Amidst the festive cheer, the absence of a loved one can become an ache that intensifies. The twinkling lights and joyous gatherings often serve as stark reminders of the void left by their departure. In the midst of celebratory moments, there's a poignant longing for the familiar laughter and warmth that once defined these occasions.

As others revel in the festivities, those grieving may find themselves caught in a bittersweet dance between cherished memories and the stark reality of the present. The holiday traditions that once held comfort may now feel like poignant rituals of remembrance, each ornament and carol echoing the absence.

During this time, it's crucial to acknowledge and honor the complexity of emotions. Grief doesn't adhere to a holiday schedule, and the juxtaposition of sorrow amidst celebration can be overwhelming. Offering support, whether through a comforting presence, a shared reminiscence, or even a quiet acknowledgment of the pain, becomes a valuable gift.

In the silent spaces between joy and sorrow, there lies an opportunity for empathy and understanding. As we navigate the delicate dance of the holidays, extending compassion to those grieving can help create a space where both the light and shadows of memory are embraced, allowing the healing journey to unfold at its own pace.

11/10/2023

Join us for a 7 week FREE ZOOM supportive group.
ZOOM link at end of this message...

During the Holidays grief has a way of appearing or reappearing and this is a great opportunity for anyone who has lost a loved one to join a community of others who understand the feeling that Grief brings with it.

While the group has been established on meetup.com it is open to anyone looking to learn more about grief and how to find resilience and new meaning after a loss.

Topis to be covered

The Nature of Grief
Types of Grief: Loss of a Loved One, Relationships, and Life Changes
Acknowledging the Impact of Grief on Our Lives
The Importance of Self-Compassion and Acceptance

Embracing Self-Compassion
The Power of Accepting Your Grief
Recognizing Common Barriers to Self-Acceptance

Identifying Emotions in Grief
The Spectrum of Grief Emotions
Exploring Feelings of Sadness and Loss

Dealing with Anger, Guilt, and Regret
Healing Techniques for Grief
The Role of Mindfulness in Grief Healing
Meditation for Inner Peace and Clarity

The Therapeutic Power of Journaling
Creativity and Expressive Arts in Grief Therapy
Inner Reflection and Self-Analysis

Exploring Past Experiences and Traumas
Understanding How Past Events Influence Present Emotions
Recognizing Patterns and Limiting Beliefs

Cultivating Resilience and Coping Strategies
Building Resilience in the Face of Grief
Healthy Coping Mechanisms for Grief
Seeking Support and Connecting with Others

Finding Meaning and Purpose in Grief
Seeking Meaning Amidst Loss
The Journey of Growth and Transformation
Incorporating Lessons Learned into Your

This grief support group program is designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment for individuals coping with various forms of loss. Over the course of seven weeks, participants will engage in supportive discussions, interactive activities, and guided reflections, facilitated by a compassionate and understanding leader.

If you interested, please reply or inbox to receive the zoom link!
You can also go to meetup.com to join the group to stay connected and receive all notifications.

Due to zoom only providing a 45 min max for FREE, I am attaching 2 separate zoom link. So PLEASE be sure to rejoin when we end the 1st half so we can continue sharing our grief stories. I would ask that you please reply to this message that you are joining us tonight. Thank you so much and I look forward to seeing, meeting ( you virtually) and hearing your stories as we begin this Journey into Healing together. llo Everyone. I hope you are all doing well? Here are the links
1st meeting link
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86989045693?pwd=8nMd7TxiVWMa2Bn57noY4YaRo5jZAy.1

2nd meeting
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/87665988034?pwd=fJxK5YMAALAGh9KKTnovdUCNnBX8wc.1

Welcome to our online grief support group, where we come together as a compassionate Community to navigate the complexities of grief and embark on a transformative Journey towards healing and resilience. Whether you are grappling with the loss of a loved one, experiencing the aftermath of a life-alt

09/30/2023

Grief Yoga: 10 Healing Poses for Coping with Loss and Mending Broken Hearts

Grief is a natural and often painful response to loss, whether it's the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a job, or even a dream. While grief is a deeply personal journey, it can be helpful to explore healing practices that promote emotional and physical well-being. Grief yoga is one such practice that combines the healing power of yoga with mindfulness and meditation techniques to help individuals cope with grief and mend their broken hearts. In this article, we'll explore ten grief yoga poses that can aid in the healing process.

1. Child's Pose (Balasana):
Begin your grief yoga practice with Child's Pose. Kneel on the floor, bring your big toes together, and sit back on your heels. Stretch your arms forward, lowering your chest to the ground. This gentle pose provides a sense of security and comfort, allowing you to connect with your emotions and release tension.

2. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana):
Bridge Pose is great for opening the heart and releasing stored emotions. Lie on your back, bend your knees, and place your feet hip-width apart. Lift your hips and chest off the ground, creating an arch with your spine. Breathe deeply and focus on letting go of grief as you lift and lower your hips.

3. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana):
This dynamic pose helps to release tension in the spine and promote emotional release. Start on your hands and knees, inhale as you arch your back (Cow Pose), and exhale as you round your back (Cat Pose). Flow between these two positions, syncing your breath with movement.

4. Extended Puppy Pose (Uttana Shishosana):
Extended Puppy Pose is a gentle heart opener that also provides a calming effect. Begin in a tabletop position, then walk your hands forward, lowering your chest and forehead to the ground. Relax in this pose, allowing your heart to open and your grief to flow.

5. Heart-Opening Pose (Anahatasana):
As the name suggests, this pose focuses on opening the heart. Start in a tabletop position, lower your chest towards the ground, and extend your arms forward with your palms facing down. Rest your forehead on the mat and breathe deeply into your heart center.

6. Legs Up the Wall Pose (Viparita Karani):
This restorative inversion pose can help alleviate anxiety and grief-related stress. Sit with your side against a wall, then swing your legs up the wall while lying on your back. Relax in this position, allowing the healing energy to flow through your body.

7. Reclined Bound Angle Pose (Supta Baddha Konasana):
Lie on your back with the soles of your feet touching and your knees falling to the sides. Place your hands on your heart and take deep, soothing breaths. This pose encourages emotional release and self-compassion.

8. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana):
Sit with your legs extended in front of you, and as you inhale, reach your arms overhead. Exhale and fold forward, reaching for your toes or ankles. This pose promotes introspection and can help you connect with your feelings.

9. Supported Fish Pose (Matsyasana):
Lie on your back with a yoga block or cushion placed under your upper back and shoulders. Allow your heart to open, and focus on releasing grief and sorrow. This pose is deeply restorative and heart-healing.

10. Savasana (Co**se Pose):
End your grief yoga practice with Savasana. Lie on your back, relax your body completely, and allow your grief to subside as you surrender to the present moment. Focus on the peace and stillness within.

Conclusion:
Grief yoga can be a powerful tool for healing emotional wounds and mending broken hearts. These ten poses are a starting point for your grief yoga practice but remember that the journey through grief is unique to each individual. Listen to your body, breathe deeply, and practice self-compassion as you navigate the path to healing and recovery.

09/08/2023

Unveiling Hidden Truths: The Revelation of Secrets After the Death of a Spouse

The human experience is replete with mysteries, and among the most enigmatic are the secrets we keep from those closest to us. In the context of a marriage, the idea of harboring secrets may seem incongruent with the notion of complete trust and openness. However, the reality is that secrets can often find a hiding place within the sacred confines of a marriage. It is only after the death of a spouse that these secrets sometimes come to light, casting a complex and bittersweet shadow over the grieving process. This article explores the intricate dynamics surrounding the revelation of secrets following the demise of a spouse.

1. The Burden of Hidden Truths:
Marriages are built upon a foundation of trust and intimacy, and the sharing of secrets can be a test of that trust. Secrets, in this context, may range from undisclosed personal experiences and emotions to financial matters or even hidden relationships. The reasons for concealing these truths vary widely, from fear of judgment to a desire to protect the other person. However, living with these secrets can be emotionally taxing for both spouses, creating a unique form of emotional burden.

2. The Catalyst of Loss:
The death of a spouse is a profound and life-altering event. It is during this time of mourning and reflection that the revelation of long-held secrets can occur. Grief often triggers introspection, leading the surviving spouse to reevaluate their own life, choices, and the dynamics of the relationship. This self-reflection can culminate in a willingness to unveil the hidden truths, as the weight of secrets may become unbearable when faced with the harsh reality of mortality.

3. The Mix of Emotions:
The disclosure of secrets following the death of a spouse can evoke a complex and sometimes conflicting range of emotions. For the surviving spouse, there may be feelings of shock, anger, betrayal, or relief. Learning that one's partner had concealed significant aspects of their life can be deeply unsettling. At the same time, it may bring a sense of closure, as the surviving spouse gains a deeper understanding of their partner's struggles and motivations.

4. Impact on Grief and Healing:
Revealing secrets after a spouse's death can influence the grieving process in profound ways. It may alter the narrative of the relationship, reshaping memories and leaving the surviving spouse grappling with questions about what was real and what was concealed. Coping with these revelations can add an extra layer of complexity to the already challenging process of grief and healing.

5. The Importance of Compassion and Support:
In these moments of vulnerability, it is essential for friends, family, and professionals to offer support and understanding. The surviving spouse may need help navigating the emotional turmoil that accompanies the revelation of secrets. Compassion and empathy can be crucial in helping them process their feelings and find a path toward healing.

Conclusion:
The revelation of secrets after the death of a spouse is a delicate and often tumultuous journey. It sheds light on the complexity of human relationships, the power of grief, and the intricate ways in which secrets can shape our lives. While it may introduce new challenges to the grieving process, it also offers an opportunity for growth, understanding, and ultimately, acceptance. In this vulnerable space, both the departed and the living are given the chance to find a form of closure, allowing the healing process to begin, albeit in the shadow of newfound truths.

09/05/2023

Let's address triggers today:
Psychological triggers can have a significant impact on grief. Grief is a complex and individualized emotional response to loss, and triggers can intensify or reawaken the grief experience. Here's a closer look at psychological triggers and their effects on grief:

1. **Anniversaries and Special Dates:** Significant dates, such as the anniversary of a loved one's death or their birthday, can act as powerful triggers. These days may bring back intense emotions, memories, and a sense of loss, often amplifying grief.

2. **Sights and Sounds:** Certain sights and sounds, like a song, a place, or an object associated with the deceased, can evoke strong emotional reactions. For example, hearing a favorite song of the deceased can trigger sadness or longing.

3. **Smells:** Our sense of smell is closely linked to memory and emotion. The smell of a loved one's perfume or a familiar scent can bring back vivid memories and intensify grief.

4. **Social Interactions:** Seeing friends or family members who remind us of the person we've lost can be both comforting and triggering. Conversations and interactions may lead to discussions or memories related to the deceased, stirring up grief.

5. **Media and Entertainment:** Movies, TV shows, or news stories that deal with themes of loss or death can serve as triggers. They may resonate with your own experience of grief and bring up strong emotions.

6. **Personal Milestones:** Achieving personal milestones or witnessing others achieve them, such as graduations, weddings, or the birth of a child, can be bittersweet triggers. They can highlight the absence of the person you're grieving.

7. **Dreams and Nightmares:** Dreams can be powerful triggers, as they often tap into our subconscious and bring our deepest emotions to the surface. Dreams about the deceased can be emotionally charged and affect your mood upon waking.

8. **Isolation and Loneliness:** Feeling isolated or lonely can trigger grief because it may intensify the sense of loss and longing for the person who is no longer with you.

9. **Unexpected Reminders:** Sometimes, triggers can be entirely unexpected. You may come across a random photo, a note, or an item that belonged to the deceased, and it can catch you off guard and intensify your grief.

10. **Stress and Trauma:** High-stress situations or traumatic events can reawaken grief, as they may lead to a flood of emotions and make you long for the support and presence of the person you've lost.

Managing these triggers and their impact on grief can be challenging. It's essential to allow yourself to feel and process your emotions, seek support from friends, family, or a therapist, and develop coping strategies that work for you. Grief is a highly individual experience, and what triggers one person may not affect another in the same way. Being patient with yourself and seeking help when needed can be crucial in navigating the journey of grief.