Sheila “Spiral Sister” Murrey Body, Connections, Education, Soul

Patting myself on the back

My biggest takeaway from 2021, was to give myself a physical pat on the back for accomplishing sooo much—though I had multiple obstacles and challenges.

Think patting yourself on the back for your accomplishments is bad? That could be a limiting belief.

If you don’t pat yourself on the back, it’s doubtful that anyone else will.

Patting yourself on the back is NOT arrogant or egotistical! You work hard. You are studious. Resilient. And you’re flexible. Adaptable. Look yourself in the eyes (in a mirror) and SMILE!

My husband has this saying, “He who tooteth not his own horn, the same shall not be tooted”! Haha! What do you think of that?

Plan for success

I keep a variety of notes around me, from little sticky notes, to journals, to poster drawings of my spiral method, to notes and research on my laptop and in my iPhone.

“The spiral of energy is akin to layers of an onion. And each layer of that onion, using reductionist thinking, could be sold as truth—as the only part of the onion that exists.”
Sheila “Spiral Sister” Murrey

When inspiration comes, I jot it down and sometimes I post these on Facebook or Instagram. The ones that really resonate with me, I put on a shirt, mug, or such:

See all designs at: https://www.teepublic.com/user/takeituponyourself?utm_source=designer&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=GcgLVtV76Y8
The Presence of God is EVERYWHERE ❤️🦋🌀〰️
Most people have had God’s unconditional love, conditioned right out of them.

Create success

To create my success, I set my sights on accomplishing the my top 5 goals by believing in myself, my brain and body, and in my voice. My daily practices include:

  • Gratitude Flow (IntegratedSpiral.com)
  • Meditation
  • Singing (to feel good)
  • Moving (to burn cortisol), Qigong / Yoga, Dancing
  • Acupressure
  • Doing Energy work: EFT Tapping, Eden Method, etc.
  • Writing

To elaborate

Dancing adds JOY into each day and helps me burn calories.

My Integrated Spiral™ Gratitude F-L-O-W keeps me grounded and in touch with my ancestors and relations in the Grand Beyond. Yes, We Are All Connected. 💙🦋🌀〰️

Meeting with Clubhouse groups (keeps my mindset UP).

Staying in touch with family and friends keeps me accountable (and strengthens my integrity.

Tracking my steps, weighing in, and measuring my body weekly, helps me stay focused on my health.

Posting something everyday on social media builds my following. I love sharing my perspective on reality in hopes that it uplifts others (and their businesses), though I acknowledge “shadow” too, because I believe in yin and yang, and balance. ☯️

With a little help from my friends

Take It Upon Yourself and strengthen the unseen “fabric” that connects us ALL.

I’ve been thrilled to sit in circle with Patti Stevens. And be a part of her Women’s Soul Journey group on Facebook. I met Patti on a yoga cruise in January of 2020, and had an instant soul Connection with her.

Shout out to Robin Quinn Keehn!

Robin runs her own business called, Quitting Culture and has been one of my cheerleaders throughout 2020 and 2021. She’s super confident and full of integrity! I highly recommend her if you’re just starting out in business.

As well, Marilen Crump runs the Phenomenal Female Business Network and has been running business masterminds groups for women for many years. I’m in a couple of her groups and I have actually partnered with fantastic entrepreneurs via these groups! My tip: When networking online (especially in Facebook groups), simply be your helpful self and you’ll attract your authentic tribe who wants to work with you. ❤️😉

Queen Kimmie Tyson is another one of my cheerleaders who runs a thriving business and podcast with her musical husband, Shawn7. Queen Kimmie got me into Clubhouse and I have made incredible friends with several through sharing unscripted there from the depths of my soul. Connect with me there by searching my name or “Spiral Sister” to join our calls.

I’m telling you, it’s so encouraging and motivating to have a group of fantastic business mentors on your side.

My TOP 5 goals for 2021 were:

  1. Integration of my Spirit and Soul into ALL I am and do DAILY, to help me stay balanced and Connected
  2. Take Joy in running Integrated Spiral (a transformational, small group, self-coaching DE-program)
  3. Close open loops within the week and celebrate to reinforce that habit
  4. Market our music while promoting others (as I have been doing on N1M)
  5. Continue writing (metaphysical novel in progress), created a course on Communing with TREES, blogging, creating t-shirt designs and more, and generating ideas for a Vlog or podcast

Forward progress is continuing.

Many blessings to you in ALL ways. ❤️🦋🌀🎼☯️🙏☮️

A bit about me, your Spiral Sister

I would love to speak at your bookstore, crystal shop, acupuncture / chiropractor office, or other holistic / natural fair or festival. I support healthy lifestyle businesses. For information on both of my books, visit my Amazon author’s page — Click here.

An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. 

Plus, my holistic health book that details how I naturally reversed asthma, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, is available now. Buy it here. 

Be the best version of who you want to be. 

Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.

Follow me on Twitter at: TakeOnYourself

Sheila “Spiral Sister” Murrey Body, Coaching, Consciousness, Education, Mind, Soul, Spirit

Integration Diet

Integration Diet

Intro

Right from the start, let me tell you that I’ve been gently releasing the excess weight I’d gained during the COVID lockdown, by eating all different kinds of foods and challenging my former thoughts about what foods I should eat. It has really surprised me! And those “surprises” challenged me to analyze what was going on and how I could sustain ongoing weight loss (as I’d been overweight, technically obese), BEFORE the lockdowns.

Food History

I’d lost 20 pounds during 2019 with the help of a modified Keto diet as suggested by my chiropractor, restricting certain foods, and dining out less, (and scrutinizing food ingredients when we did go out). Mostly, I went out to socialize with my husband and not even eat a meal. I had taken a lot of supplements too, to help balance my hormones. But during the summer of 2020, I regained those 20 pounds (mostly due to COVID lockdown depression).

When I say I am not unfamiliar with diets, it’s true. I’ve done so many different diets over the course of twenty years, it’s not funny. It’s actually kinda sad. I didn’t even learn (throughout all of the time I spent on various diets), how to tell when I was hungry—until I was ravenous (belly gurgling with hunger pangs)! I learned the particular diet, but I didn’t align my MIND-BODY, and integrate these aspects and LISTEN to my body and analyze what changes I needed to make in order to experience RESULTS. (I am in alignment, Now.)

So, what I’m about to share may shock you. It has, and continues to shock me!

Food List

Here’s a list of some of the foods I’ve eaten and seen the number on the scale DROP the next morning, foods I wouldn’t have eaten a year ago:

  • Steak
  • Barbecue sauce (I found one brand that works for me. Yes, ONE.)
  • Cheese (I found a couple types that work for me.)
  • Half and half
  • Canned soup (I drink an extra cup of water after to help flush out excess salt.)
  • Rice (rinsed very well before cooking)
  • Soy sauce (always thought it was a no-no)
  • Pasta (egg or veggie noodles)
  • Potatoes (even tater tots, and potato chips! Gasp! Small portion, but yes. Shocking!)
  • Dark Chocolate (small portion, on a fancy plate)
  • Margaritas (homemade, no sugary mixer)
  • Red wine (limited to 8 ounces a night, though depending on my meal, I’ve had more)
  • Universal Yums (a monthly subscription of snacks from around the world-tiny servings—added this because we’re foodies and love trying new foods from other countries! Since we can’t travel currently, this monthly fun box supports our mental health and Connects us ALL.)

UPDATE: About fats

UPDATE: Integration Diet: The Sacred Science 7 week Herbal Detox

UPDATE: Integration Diet: 4 weeks into the 7 week Herbal Detox

Tracking

What started it all? I credit a pillar of my weight loss success to the Omada program (that was offered to me by my health insurance program: Florida Blue), because they sent me a free scale that communicates back to their app and diet coach, via blue tooth technology (so, I am held accountable). Accountability is KEY!

I weigh in every morning, nude, and before drinking any water and after going to the restroom. I’ve also integrated this into my morning meditation ritual which includes a brief gratitude ritual (along with some Yoga postures and Energy building Qigong activity) to release any gas in my body, strengthen my immune system, and release stress. And this was the impetus for developing Integrated Spiral!

Tying these activities together has been a huge advance in my ability to stick with the weigh ins and track my journey. In the first three months, I released 15 pounds, but UPDATE: By March 24, 2021 I lost a total of 32 pounds (which included another 17 pounds lost during my time of participating in a 7 week Herbal Detox with KP Khalsa and The Sacred Science)!

I’ve communicated with my coach on the days I gained a pound or so, and worked through the mental hoops and associated feelings. I’ve also incorporated small celebratory actions that do not involve food, as a new way to thank my body for following through on my desire to lose weight.

The Omada program also came with an app, which has helped me focus on the size and health of my meals, rather than the calories of the food (as I’d tracked before in the LoseIt! app). Now, I watch for the trends of how many veggies I’m eating in a week, and what I’ve eaten the day before I see the number go up or down on the scale. It’s a pretty cool bio feedback loop and is definitely working for me.

NOTE: If you’re not in the Omada program, you can still do the weight loss portion of my Integrated Spiral program, because I have found even better blue tooth scales that measure 17 health markers! I’m gonna get one if and when my Omada scale fails. 😉

Supplements

Aside from the liquid supplement that both my husband and I consume daily, when we moved off grid, I pretty much quit taking any other supplements, except Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc, and Magnesium. But when I first stepped on the Omada scale and saw how much I had gained from February to September, I started looking into anything and everything I could take to support my weight loss journey. For the first time in a long time, I felt desperate.

I tried a few supplements and I could tell what didn’t work by how I felt and that I’d gain ounces the day or so after taking them. I think my body is so sensitive, that I gain a bit of weight anytime I introduce something new to it. That’s a theory I am tracking via my food and weight log (which, circles back to why tracking is sooo important)!

There are few supplements (weight loss aids) that have helped me, and I’ll be writing reviews on those products on Being Wholly Vibrant.

I’m not including any supplements in my Integration Diet per se, because I don’t want you to feel that you have to take certain supplements in order to participate in this program. Take It Upon Yourself, as I always say, to do what works best for you. Plus, I’m attempting to keep all product reviews on my other blog. 🧐

Portions and measuring

I’ve found that my 1/2 C measuring cup has become my best friend in the kitchen. I scoop out chili and soup with it, and measure rice and pasta with it too. If I am in doubt, I measure. And I don’t just “trust” my eyes and brain with that “eyeball” method of measuring food, because that has been known to fail me.

The limit I set for myself on these kinds of foods is 1 C at a time. If for some reason I absolutely find that I need or want more, I go back for 1/2 C more. But, in three months, that’s only happened twice.

You gotta serve somebody. Just include yourSelf!

Timing

One trend I’ve noticed is that when I stop eating anything by 6pm, the number on the scale goes down the next morning.

I’m a big fan of intermittent fasting, but for it to work for me, I’ve observed that I need to go to bed on an empty stomach. I’ve tried all the other ways to do intermittent fasting, and no other combination works for me except going to be feeling hunger pangs. (This became less and less the longer I stayed committed to this program.) For me to practice intermittent fasting long term, well, it takes a real commitment and mindset. I’ve haven’t always been successful, but somehow, I feel this time, I will reach my ultimate goal weight.

Another trend I’ve noticed is that if I abstain from night time snacking, I can eat the same snack midday the next day (after lunch), and it doesn’t make the numbers on the scale go up, like it would have done, had I consumed it at 9pm. Weird, but that’s what I’ve observed as true for my body.

Creating the habit

All of this has been about helping me establish good habits that I can maintain for life. I know walking daily, or not, is a choice.

And honestly, the number on the scale has gone down on the morning after I didn’t walk and I’m not sure why. Maybe it’s because I need to rest and allow my body time to repair and reduce the inflammation that came from my walking the day before. I don’t know. I’m continuing to monitor that.

Clearing the static from our Energy Body.

Sustaining habits or subconscious practice

So far, I’ve had the best outcome from tying two or more tasks or practices together. This is why I formed my Integrated Spiral transformational, small group, self-coaching program.

I know in order for me to make the commitment to a healthy, whole, and vibrant body means I must be held accountable. By serving others, I will serve myself. And in Bob Dylan’s famous words, “You gotta serve somebody.”

I know spiritual types that aren’t in touch with their bodies. And I know body conscious types who want to learn more about Spirituality. I think (and feel), I can serve both.

Learn more about my Integrated Spiral program here:

Integrated Spiral transformational coaching 

A bit about me, your Spiral Sister

I would love to speak at your bookstore, crystal shop, acupuncture / chiropractor office, or other holistic / natural fair or festival. I support healthy lifestyle businesses. For information on both of my books, visit my Amazon author’s page — Click here.

An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. 

Plus, my holistic health book that details how I naturally reversed asthma, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, is available now. Buy it here. 

Be the best version of who you want to be. 

Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.

Follow me on Twitter at: TakeOnYourself

Sheila “Spiral Sister” Murrey Connections, Consciousness, Education, Holism, Mind

Law of attraction

Law of attraction

We all know that anything that has ever been created in the world first came as a thought, a concept, first. Therefore, thoughts materialize!

Read my previous article, https://sheilamurrey.net/2017/05/07/got-problems-opposites-attract

Mind your business

Your chattering mind may be telling you that negative, wrong, or hurtful things seem to happen to innocent people (and children). But dear heart, we don’t know why they came to live at this time in history, or the lessons they are here to learn. As well, other people’s problems aren’t really our business—unless of course, they ask for your help.

As well, when you get pulled DOWN by such thinking (about others), that is the law at work. Balancing ALL. ❤️🦋🌀

Now is the time

We are living in such awakened and conscious times! Yes! And we can look back and see the historical suffering that has occurred and learn from it. We are the ones we have been waiting for! We are the healers and light bringers. We can raise the vibration of the ALL!

True help

When you look at others who are confused or hurting, you desire to help. But true help, their growth—is an inside job (for them). You can be kind to them and offer them compassion, and comfort, but often growing can be painful.

Racists can be kind.

Meditate. Go within yourself to ease and clear your old patterns. This will expand the consciousness of those around you, as a ripple emanating in the water as a stone is dropped in. Those with lower vibratory tendencies will shape up, or ship out (and away from you)! You’ll know this is true as you begin to lighten up, and notice many around you, in your sphere of influence, living a lighter life.

Reach out

Reach out to me if what I have said resonates with you. I am in your circle ready to share tips and practices with you as you step up your inner game.

I’ve been where you are, doubting the law of attraction and that the path of least resistance is real. I’ve valued my intellect over my intuition too. But no more. Now, I observe detached from problems and focus on self compassion, play breaks, and time basking in meditation. I was one they said was “so serious.” I’ve lightened up and know you can too.

Light workers don’t hate

Lastly, you may consider yourself a light worker. But here is a big truth. Light workers don’t hate.

So, if you are struggling with that or find yourself questioning this truth, please reach out. I would love to offer some wisdom (and a whole lot of unconditional love), I feel will offer you freedom from some of the heavier thoughts you may be thinking.

❤️🦋🌀🙏☀️💦🌱

A bit about us:

My husband is an award-winning illustrator, plus he is a seasoned guitarist, bass player, and songwriter (of over 400 original songs). You can view some of his artwork and listen to all of his songs at: http://listen4music.com

Here’s us: https://vimeo.com/416711742?ref=fb-share

A bit about me, your Spiral Sister

I would love to speak at your bookstore, crystal shop, acupuncture / chiropractor office, or other holistic / natural fair or festival. I support healthy lifestyle businesses. For information on both of my books, visit my Amazon author’s page — Click here.

An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. 

Plus, my holistic health book that details how I naturally reversed asthma, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, is available now. Buy it here. 

Be the best version of who you want to be. 

Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.

Sheila “Spiral Sister” Murrey Art, Connections, Consciousness, Holism, Mind

Thank you for helping me choose a better feeling thought!

Thank you for helping me choose a better feeling thought!

I don’t know if I’ve ever (publicly) explained this before, but I absorb, and tolerate, even accept ”upset“ to a point, but after kindly expressing my concerns or frustrations (to one or more people), and not being heard, I then speak in a firm, perhaps demanding ”tone” or get loud.

At some point, my emotions boil over. And it only seems people hear me then. Ugh!

Either you want people to share, or you don’t. I am not shy, nor boastful. I am nice. I am kind.

The stream of consciousness, when cut, will come out in another way. Because Life ALLways finds a way.

Have you been belittled, or picked last?

In my 58 years on this planet, I’ve learned that
I’m typically too nice, overly sensitive, and emotional. But, I am not a victim, and certainly do not wallow in victimhood.

I’m a deep and careful listener, loyal friend, and strong advocate (especially for the underdogs, misunderstood, misfits, and those who create a healthier world for us all—beyond the next 7 generations). I am a critical thinker. And embrace individuality. I love the freedom I find in BEing independent.

I have a profound knowing that We Are All Connected. And that we’re only as strong as our weakest link.

We can pull together, or we can pull apart.

Notice the separation of the colors of the rainbow 🌈? What does it make you appreciate?

Even the rainbow’s colors are separated. But, by what? Though the colors are separate, we love the rainbow.

I listen first

I sit and I listen, gratefully with as much compassion as I have access to with mySelf, as others talk, often sharing too much of the current discord.

Then I speak.

But, it doesn’t feel good to me, when my voice gets “put in the back of the bus” by someone.

I only speak when I feel a strong urge. When I am compelled to share. I am propelled by Omniscience. And when my voice is cut off while I am sending love, what shall I do? This physically hurts me. I care deeply. But because of my complexion, my pain doesn’t matter? We ALL have a message, but here I go again, having to write it through my tears because SOMEONE felt they needed to hear from their more important “in that moment” others.

Imperfect action

In my humble opinion, promoting or monetizing poor behavior—is of a low vibration. And it serves to perpetuate one-sided, dense thinking. And yes, I know how that sounds. I am well aware that is a judgment, and obviously, others see nothing wrong with it to further their “cause.”
We never really know who (or how) others, no matter their complexion or ethnicity, have been persecuted.

Learning all the time

Do you believe as I, that life is a school? And that Everything, in particular, every experience we have is presented to us for learning?

Do you often wish you would respond to each challenge with your best response?
Perhaps people use bullying tactics to feel empowered. Perhaps bullying is their way of standing in their power. But, to the one in their way, it feels as though they are preying on the vulnerable or weak person.

I write a lot about the power of words, and tone. And tone can be expressed in writing, as well as when spoken. Thus, I thought I had grown to a place where words couldn’t hurt me.
But, I believe that we all mirror each other to some degree.

Mirror work

I don’t want to mirror someone’s dark side, so I often walk away, and simply stop arguing or fighting. I realize that “sending them love” would be my highest vibrational response, yet I am not always emotionally strong enough. At times, I have pushed back and been direct, only for the situation to escalate—even to the point of physical abuse.

An example:

This brings me to relate a recent situation:
I was emotionally triggered by a response (that looked and felt quite rude), to a comment made by one of my longest and dearest friends on my group, We Are All Connected. My dear friend had expressed her deeply religious comment (based on her belief) to a beautiful photo I had shared. The problem was that an acquaintance didn’t like my friends’ comment and felt offended by it because he is an atheist.

Initially, when I read his comment I felt it in my body. And the feeling wasn’t good. My gut wrenched because I felt like I had been punched! I wanted to spare my friends feelings, and as the admin, I removed HIS comment. That set off more back and forth from him because he felt I was choosing sides. And I was. Not because I don’t like him, or dislike atheists, or because I like her more, and approve of her religious beliefs, but simply to FEEL BETTER. (And he clearly broke the group rules anyway—he was not kind.)

Second example:

I have taken a lot of being talked down to, even in the business coaching program I am currently in. I often receive criticism, push back, month after month. Though we are encouraged to think big, and come up with a program worthy of a $10k price-tag, MY ideas are often dismissed as either “fantasy,” “unrealistic,” or that we may not be UP TO delivering what we want to offer.

So, I had one of those “last straw” moments in a group the other day. And unfortunately that moment coincided with other personal stressors (which I had tried to explain to my coach the day before, but was ushered to focus on our objective for efficiency’s sake).

Either you want people to share, or you don’t. I thought the point of a small group discussion was to speak our heart?

Of course I honor everyone on our intimate group calls. But, they had been quiet and I felt the inspiration to speak, so I broke through any thoughts about being misunderstood, and I opened my mouth to speak healing.

I will never know, now, what the last sentence would have been (it was only one more sentence), because our coach felt he needed to hear from others in our group (whom had not spoken in 8 minutes, and no one knew why). And thankfully, I had gotten to share a few thoughts, a few minutes earlier. I think my grandmother may have been speaking through me. And it’s sad her words were not allowed to be heard. I think she wanted us to realize that we never know who or how others, no matter their complexion or ethnicity, have been persecuted. But apparently, that was not the time (to speak that knowledge aloud).

Empowerment Coaching

I can find value in Everything. And I can turn, turn, turn, to the next best feeling.

All that to say, as a writer, and spiritually open-minded, caring, empathic, and such, I came abruptly, face-to-face with my own fallibility. I am human. I am not perfect. So how can I be an empowering coach?

By teaching you this?
Thank YOU (in appreciation of whomever is challenging me in any moment), for helping me make a better choice.

Ponder

Maybe we need to start by changing the way we think about these words:

black and dark, white and light.

Look deeper.

Consider this:

  • People for whatever reason, even as children, are afraid of the dark.
  • Light complexion people tend to call anyone with a darker complexion, black.
  • Black in the light spectrum is the absorption of all the other colors.
  • Others?

Let’s ponder this.

At some point, in the spiral of time, humanity will learn to appreciate, honor, and even revere, the CONTRAST that brings about Creation.

ALLways remember:

You are worthy.

Your inner YOU is L-I-M-I-T-L-E-S-S

As ALLways, thank YOU for helping me make a better choice.

❤️🦋🌀🙏☀️🌱

A bit about me, your Spiral Sister

I would love to speak at your bookstore, crystal shop, acupuncture / chiropractor office, or other holistic / natural fair or festival. I support healthy lifestyle businesses. For information on both of my books, visit my Amazon author’s page — Click here.

An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. 

Plus, my holistic health book that details how I naturally reversed asthma, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, is available now. Buy it here. 

Be the best version of who you want to be. 

Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.

Follow me on Twitter at: TakeOnYourself

Sheila “Spiral Sister” Murrey Body, Mind, Spirit

Juicing, Paleo, No-Grain Diet, Mostly Vegetarian – Who needs labels?

Many diets. Who needs labels?

I am finally ready to reveal my new diet. I have been doing this for several months now and it’s working. It’s really working. I have lost weight effortlessly. Gained vitality. Renewed my body Temple. And increased the frequency with which, I feel connected to Source Creator God, and all of you. We Are All Connected.

We Are All One. Yes, yes, and yahoo… YES!

Many diets. Who needs labels?
Many diets. Who needs labels?

We are what we eat and absorb.

Here’s the deal about diet for life (lifestyle) change:

I drink raw vegetable juice — everyday. At least one 16 ounce raw veggie juice, often 32 ounces. Plus water. Monday through Friday–I only juice during the day. And if I don’t have time to juice for myself,

I buy juices from a raw vegan cafe; thank you Ionie’s Cafe! Ionie’s vacuum seal the juice in glass mason jars.

I pack my juice in a ThirtyOne bag (with ice) and enjoy at work. Then, for the evening meal… I eat a light meal or soup for dinner. That’s it.

If I feel the need to eat something, I will mix raw nuts and seeds, typically only a 1/2 cup or less and throw in my work bag. Mostly pumpkin and sunflower seeds, walnuts, pecans, almonds, and brazil nuts. I eat a bit more on the weekends, but nothing outrageous.

The weekday light meal? Primarily, a can of Amy’s Organic soup, or a salad with grilled or broiled fish. Now and then, I will have some other vegetable like broccoli, sweet potato, or asparagus, but rarely white potatoes. On occasion, I will get a beef patty (no bun), or a steak, but I suspect I will only do that once every two or three months. I have basically lost my desire to eat meat. I like turkey once in awhile too, but we always look for the less processed, organic variety when we buy it.

I am not eating any processed sugar — unless you count wine. I had some sugar over the holidays because my daughter makes (and ships) chocolate truffles from New Hampshire and I love supporting her, so I had a few of those (one a day, every other day). Yes I am attempting to be transparent here. This also keeps me humble and on track. I do not desire to cheat because that’s only cheating my Temple.

UPDATE 1/1/2016: No more truffles and a lot less wine.

Let go of diet labels

I am learning that I am a cross between a raw vegan and a paleo or no-grain eater. I am not a 100% raw vegan because I do still consume eggs, honey, fish, seafood, and very little meat. But I put into daily practice much of what I learned from being a raw vegan back in 2009-2010. I love raw vegan nut cheese instead of dairy cheese. Whenever I eat dairy cheese I can always tell the difference. I’ve also learned that my body does not digest raw tomatoes very well.

As for spiritual growth

As for the spirituality aspects of clean eating… the other night a lady asked if I go to church. I answered a triumphant… No. But then I thought, why would I when I believe my body is the Temple. Yes, with a capital T. And I believe all of your bodies are Temples too. I believe in God-made, vs. Man-made. I will always. That is a core belief of mine. Hmmm. I just misspelled belief as belife. Isn’t that interesting? I corrected it but now I am thinking be-life is actually better!

Fasting

I am finding that by fasting during the daytime on weekdays, it has heightened my spiritual awareness, including also a physical awareness of how much people around me EAT. The over consumption in America is disheartening. It’s not wonder so many of us are overweight and miserable. I highly suspect our bodies were never meant to be in this shape, and yes, round is a shape.

Focus

I am focused on learning more about energy medicine. By changing my focus from food: what to eat, how to make it, when to buy it, etc. I definitely have more time available for reading, sharing, and learning about energy, frequency, brain waves, intuition, etc.

Feeling good

Case in point, this week I took my first Jin Shin Jyutsu class. I am amazed how how wonderful I feel! I feel good, really good.

I mean, I always feel pretty good. Can’t complain. But on occasion I’ve experienced vertigo (ever since working at the Space Center, which I felt may have had something to do with it). The vertigo would come and go. I felt that I had to be watchful when it came to doing any task that might set it off. Laying on a massage table for a massage, at times, could cause me to experience vertigo. Forget about head down yoga postures!

So, the other day after 30 minutes of Jin Shin Jyutsu – both of my ears “opened”! I was ecstatic! Now I can flip my head over to put a towel on my head after getting out of the shower! Yay! Yahoo!

About faith, timing, and living life more abundantly

The Bible is full of stories about how God created us in His image and wants us to live life and have it more abundantly. To me, those understandings mean that He provides for us, in all ways, for our health, and for our needs. I think we’re the ones that think that means He will always answer our prayers and give us what we desire, but I do not think so. I believe our needs are always, in ALL WAYS, provided.

Sometimes God withholds some things, and some answers, for a later time for us, when we are prepared to handle those things. This is why I believe God’s timing is always perfect. And blessed assurance tells me that is why, when the student is ready, the teacher arrives.

Have faith. You know, faith – which is the opposite of worry. Faith IS the substance of things not yet seen. That said, worry is actually a sin because God tells us to have faith. Exercise your faith by taking care of yourself. The Bible also instructs us how to eat and move our bodies, but how many of us follow those instructions? I think it pleases God when we learn about those and practice those habits. Pork is not the other white meat. Pigs are dirty animals that have no sweat glands. Quit dishing on PETA people and take an honest look at what they have to say. Or talk to a pig farmer. Watch a documentary. Just don’t eat pork. Make it easy. Those parasites in pork, yeah they live through the cooking process. And really, the more crap you eat, the harder it will be for you to feel good. I’d bet it also shortens your life. And if you believe suicide is a sin then dying a slow death by eating stupid silly non-beneficial foods is a sin too.

Now, I am not preaching all this stuff to make you feel guilty. Just quit complaining about what other people do and think about what you do. Study to show thyself approved and make one small change at a time until you feel good. I am not above anyone. I am human and I fail. But God has been showing me some things. So, I am sharing what I learn in an effort to help you feel good. Nothing more. Be healthy. Live well.

What’s not needed

Quit running to doctors and putting your faith into what amounts to be medical witchcraft (Yes look up the history, especially all of you who are so fast to point a finger at anyone who believes in another religion). Those big pharmaceutical companies you love so much are a cog in the wheel of the beast. They do NOTHING to cure anyone. They may prolong life but in what state? They do not cure. They ease suffering perhaps. They mask symptoms so you never DO anything to heal your Temple. In my estimation, they are the liars. They are the ones who are selling you false hope. I am tired of hearing people’s excuses why they need this or that drug from a chronic illness. Your lifestyle, mostly the food you’re eating, that’s what’s chronic. 

Go to the doctor if you break a bone, but for asthma, digestive issues, migraines, back aches, arthritis, inflammation, and more… seek alternative advice. I am not a doctor, nor do I prescribe any treatments or solutions. I am shaking you awake! Take It Upon Yourself to live your best, most vital life!

As for exercise, meditation, and Jin Shin Jyutsu

Jin Shin Jyutsu is an energy medicine art that I have decided to focus on this year. I am learning (thanks to reader comments and friends), that it’s best to meditate, then perform Jin Shin Jyutsu, then do my daily stair climbing. That makes sense to me. But I am always trying to maximize what little spare time I have. I work full-time. So, I do the stair climbing when I need a break at work. Thankfully I am able to take a 10-15 minute break twice a day, and my stair climbing has improved so much that I can climb 8 flights safely, and return, within that time. Much less actually.

Exercise works the body, and meditation dedicates the mind. I will learn transcendental meditation (TM) at some point.

The pulsing, or vibration that I feel when I practice Jin Shin Jyutsu is simply amazing! I feel God bumps when I talk about it! I need nothing outside of myself to validate anything for me.

I am connected to my breath, I am enjoying all the self-care I have learned about this past year. I am excited and hopeful about the future. All really is well.

A bit about me:

An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon.

Plus, my holistic health book that details how I naturally reversed asthma, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, is available now. Buy it here.

Be the best version of who you want to be.

Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.

Follow me on Twitter at: TakeOnYourself

Sheila “Spiral Sister” Murrey Body, Mind

Decision Making, Risk Taking, and Accepting Responsibility for Choices

Decision Making, Risk Taking, and Accepting Responsibility

Yes, I know the title is long. I haven’t posted anything in my self analysis section in awhile because I’ve been busy. Went to Connecticut to visit my beautiful one year old granddaughter. Left a job. Began a new job. Got involved with “another” multi-level marketing (MLM) business.

Excuses?

These sound like excuses don’t they? Maybe they are or maybe they’re valid reasons. In either case, it’s me, explaining myself to you. But why? I don’t owe anyone an explanation especially since this is my blog and I write for the love of writing. That’s the point – people tend to “explain” themselves to everyone all the time.

Explanations

Explaining. We all do this to some degree or another – every day. We typically explain ourselves even to people who really aren’t all that important in our lives. What a waste of energy!

Energy drain

Do you know that when we explain our choices we drain ourselves of energy? Most of us “explainers” are strong “people-pleasers”. We often care more about what others think of us, than we think of ourselves. We do this out of a need to feel ACCEPTED.

Beliefs

We believe we can’t be happy (accept ourselves) unless a) we make others happy, or b) we need others to make us happy. And that’s simply not true. We can CHOOSE to BE – HAPPY. All on our own. No one else needs to DO anything for us, nor do we need to do anything for anyone else.

What a concept!

Do you know where your true JOY comes from?

Being happy with yourself. Accept yourself. Be happy with your life – your journey. If you’re not happy perhaps you’ve made some wrong choices or put yourself in a situation you’d rather not be in. I say “wrong choices” only because ultimately your choices didn’t make you happy! But you learned life lessons. Perhaps you’re feeling sorry for yourself. Give yourself credit for who you are NOW.

Learn and Choose

Choice

You can make a very powerful choice. You can choose to be happy amidst whatever circumstances you find yourself in or you can choose to make different choices.

Sit still – right where you are… for a few minutes and just – BE.

Think of all of the good things in your life. Times when you made wonderful choices. You have every reason in the world to be happy!

There have been times in my life when my supervisor or manager at work wondered why I didn’t make decisions. Typically it was because I was waiting on something or someone to do something first. When I read this article it perfectly explained that situation. I didn’t make certain work decisions because I was waiting for someone’s approval. All that waiting was so draining. And it also seemed that sometimes I’d make a decision only to be criticized (sometimes severely). It put me in the vicious cycle of never being able to win. We’ve all heard people say, “no matter what I do – I can’t win” or “you can’t please everyone”. And that was me – until now.

I make work decisions based upon a risk taking matrix. In the most basic terms it goes something like this:

  • Is this decision in my best interest? (You sacrifice yourself and your happiness if whatever decision your making is for someone, anyone else.)
  • Is this choice best for the company? (This includes considering all ethics, laws, etc.)
  • In 20, 50, or 100 years will this matter?
  • What is the worst that could happen?

I recognize and accept responsibility. Making a wrong decision almost always can be reversed – if the need is great enough. And I do not work in a field where lives depend upon my decisions. Point is, if the decision is mine to make – I must make it with the best information I understand at the time not necessarily by considering “the need to please others”. There is a time and place for building consensus among team members but this is not the focus of this post.

It’s no wonder people-pleasers have a hard time trusting their own intuition. They’ve been waiting on someone else to do something – anything to relieve them of the need to “make a decision.” I have actually known people who cannot decide upon what restaurant to eat at, or even what item to order once they get there!

A former manager I worked with a few years ago told me one of the traits he looks for in those he promotes is the ability to make a decision! His statement still rings in my ears.

Fear

How many people are scared to make a decision?

We must learn to become risk takers and accept responsibility for our choices if we ever hope to become enlightened and be our best most joyous self.

Blocks

I have blocked my own energy and creative power in the past by feeling a deep need to always explain myself. I am now learning to be much more aware and when I feel the need to explain I think for a moment and reason it out.

I begin to think different thoughts.

Happy thoughts.

It sounds easy enough as I write this, but I tell you – in the moment it’s not so easy.

I almost have to force myself to smile first, before I can guide my thoughts to something happy. People that aren’t “explainers” probably would have no idea what I’m talking about.

In control

The other day a person said something to me in front of others that I didn’t like. I felt the need to explain my side but I didn’t. I felt all of the emotions (due to my thoughts) about the experience well up inside me, my face grew hot, and though I didn’t look in a mirror I knew my chest and neck were probably red, but by gradually and systematically changing my thoughts (changing my focus) within less than five minutes I felt back in control. Empowered. No need to explain. No need to get angry. No need to do anything.

Think about what is most important in your life. Who is most important in your life. Put yourself and how you feel – with the goal to be happy – first. Notice the better you feel – the better you feel. Why? To feel better! In turn, you and those you love will feel better too. People around you pick up on your energy. We Are All Connected whether you realize it or not.

If someone is consistently draining you of your energy you only have two choices. Let whatever they say roll off of you as easily as water rolls off a ducks back. Or let the person (or job) go – out of your life.

When someone dissatisfies me in any way, I tell myself, “thank you for helping me make a better decision.” If it happens to be because of some poor service in a restaurant I choose not to go back. If it’s a business situation, I end the association. I’ve quit going to particular service providers. Changed doctors. You name it.

There’s plenty of options out there and I’m not going to stick around someone or remain in a situation that’s not in my best interest. Why would I? I don’t want to come home and complain to my spouse about things I certainly am adult enough to change.

I am quite sure that my words may not teach you how to make decisions, take risks, or accept responsibility for your choices. You may choose to completely disagree with me and that’s okay. I won’t try to change you. 🙂

Sheila “Spiral Sister” Murrey Connections, Mind

Things I’ve Never Understood

Even at my ripe age of fifty, there’s still things in life (or at least in our culture and society) I don’t understand. I’ve started a list of those things. Because the mind likes to observe and catalog things. And because people like to explain things. It makes us comfortable when we can explain stuff.

  1. Insurance – Why do states (like Florida) have laws requiring people to buy auto insurance and insurance agencies encourage you also to pay for coverage that covers “uninsured motorists”? If it’s the law, then why doesn’t the state (Florida in my example) cover the uninsured? Or at least force the uninsured to pay for all accidents that are their fault? Which brings me to #2…
  2. No Fault Accidents – There’s no such thing. Someone is always at fault. I understand that it takes two to tango so to speak, or multiple people at fault but no one at fault? I’m not buying that logic unless you’re driving down the road and a tree falls over on your car.
  3. Late Fees – It seems this archaic situation penalizes the very people who CAN’T afford to pay. If the person had the money, they’d have paid the bill when it was due, duh!
  4. Credit Bureau’s – Okay, anyone who knows me, knows I’ve yammered about this subject for years. Credit bureau’s should be illegal and outlawed. Period. They are a private entity amassing too great of control over private individuals lives. They affect how much interest you to pay to a financial institution, whether you can rent certain apartments or homes, whether you can buy a home, and often as well (which really annoys me) influence a company’s decision whether to hire you or not. I say, if they want to remain in business fine, but each citizen should have control over what is released in the file. Oh I know you can “fight” errors on your reports but why is the burden of that fight on the individual? If you become a victim of identity theft you’ll find out real fast just how much power these behemoths wield over you.
  5. Science – People have said to me various times, “I’ll believe this or that when science proves it”. Well my friend you’ll be waiting a l-o-n-g time! Science is by definition, the observation and cataloging of particular things. And science evolves. It’s always changing. Scientists haven’t figured out all of the chemical make up of an apple, can’t tell you exactly how your brain works (granted daily they make great strides), nor can they define or better yet, agree, on how the universe works. Theories, all they have are observations, quantifications, and THEORIES.
  6. Schools of Thought – Adding to why I don’t understand #5, I learned a long time ago there are various “schools of thought” on every subject. So, why would you want to limit your thought to what science (someone else) has to say about your world, your body, or your mind? I say, find your true self, align with it, and be happy. There’s a different school of thought about what you should eat, “science” can prove or disprove it seems, just about every theory. I say check out who funds their studies.
  7. Free Speech – It seems we’ve lost our entitlement and right in this country to FREE SPEECH. Please stand up for free speech (whether you agree with what is being said or not). Seems like that should be a no-brainer but for lots of reasons people seem to want to control what people say. This came to a head for me when folks with a baby in a bar complained about us (two middle-aged educated folks sitting at the bar – the family was behind us at a table) saying a certain word a couple times that they disagreed with. First, we were in a bar, and second, who gives them the right? My husband and I were having a casual enlightened but FUN discourse going on between us, not being loud or brassy, and just happened to use this “word”. If those folks didn’t want their baby, and I do mean this was an infant, not to hear that word, they’d best move along. The bartender told us if we used that “word” any more we’d have to leave because we were in a “family bar”. What?!?! Kids are going to hear that word in a bar, a grocery store, Wal-mart, movie theater, walking in the mall, or coming from a car next to them in traffic. Get over it. Really?
  8. Source – In programming it all depends on who owns, controls, or has access to the source code. You can’t do anything very complex to the program without access to the source code. So, why let someone else, me or a doctor, tell you what’s wrong with your body (your source code). I don’t care how many degrees the person has, or how many years they went to school. They had to practice on someone (lets hope not on you)! No one knows you and your body, like YOU do. I’ve heard people say, “listen to your body” – and I’d believe that to be a good rule of thumb, except – there are exceptions. Sometimes our bodies are controlled by other forces. For example, if you have an addiction to something – that substance has set off certain cell receptors in the body to make you “think” you want whatever it is you’re addicted to, nicotine, sugar, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, all come to mind as examples. I once had a doctor tell someone in my presence that he couldn’t be physically addicted to marijuana – only mentally. Later it was determined (evolving science) that one CAN be physically addicted to the THC component in marijuana.

So I guess, it really doesn’t matter what you know, what you study, or what you do – who believes you anyway? There’s a phrase I’ve heard recently that seems to fit here. Familiarity breeds contempt. It’s why Jesus Christ had a problem getting those whom he had grown up with to follow him and why he had to travel to recruit the twelve disciples. Another thought comes to mind… isn’t it absolutely amazing what twelve people can accomplish – like start Christianity – when they all are of like-mind?

In this day and age of viral marketing, I’d like to see more great ideas “take off.” I’d like it if we could shed some of the things that hinder us. Wouldn’t it be nice?

For me, I’m trying not to take myself so seriously – no one else does.

Sheila “Spiral Sister” Murrey Body, Mind, Spirit

Have a Magical Day

It’s seems like a very little thing. But sometimes it’s the little things that count.

I picked up a new tag line for my email signature space. I thanked the coworker (whom I’d copied it from) and let him know that I had decided to use it as well. Instead of “Regards”, or “Sincerely”, it was, “Create a Pleasant Day.” I used it for both for personal and business emails. Then, after accepting a role at Walt Disney World I changed it to, “Create a Magical Day” which, just played on the “Have a Magical Day” Disney slogan. They use it around the parks and we always ended conference calls with that phrase. I always thought it was lovely.

During a children’s program, that happened to be on TV while I was sitting with my grand baby, I heard the actors say something about magic words. Before that time, I’d just been thinking some random thoughts about how we really do create our days based on what we focus on. As the words “hocus pocus” were spoken I thought, Aha! Hocus pocus rhymes with FOCUS!

I’d been focusing on taking my daughter and grand baby back to the airport – they live in New Hampshire – and I knew I shouldn’t be spending any time thinking about that when I only had a few more hours to play with Jennie. Maybe indeed something magical was hidden in the words hocus pocus – were they guideposts to remind us that what we focus on, we give power to, thus we create?

What we focus on – that’s like something I recall from a lot of self help reading, “what we think about, we bring about” I believe is how it goes. And while studying energy work I’ve learned that where thoughts go, energy flows. It’s what’s behind ALL the intention talk.

So, when I sign off my emails, don’t think that I’m being all Disney, Harry Potter, or whatever. It’s just a way for me to remind myself (and maybe others too) that if we want to have a pleasant day, a day of pleasing and being pleased, a day full of joy or bit of bliss – then take few moments and focus on the positive. Think about what you’d like to happen, what might be nice if it worked out, instead of all the other seemingly endless things to nag or complain about. You know what you’re missing and I know what I’m missing but we don’t need to focus on what’s missing. Focus on what we have. Ah, that’s like living in gratitude, isn’t it?

World knows we all have plenty to be down about but what good does that really do? Thinking more pleasant magical thoughts makes me happier – and when I’m happier I bet there’s at least a few people around me who are happier too.

A bit about me:

An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon.

Plus, my holistic health book that details how I naturally reversed asthma, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, is available now. Buy it here.

Be the best version of who you want to be.

Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.

Follow me on Twitter at: TakeOnYourself

Sheila “Spiral Sister” Murrey Body, Spirit

About My Blog Name

Take It Upon Yourself is about accepting responsibility for yourself. Your health. Your dreams. Your talents. Your passions and desires. It’s about knowing who YOU are.

TakeItUponYourself

Who are you? Have you asked yourself this question? Have you said, “Self, who am I”?

Take a look in the mirror – go ahead, take a good look. Do you know who you are? I realize I may err on being a bit annoying here. But I just wonder how many of us really examine ourselves – and ask ourselves this question. How well do we know our own unique person… mind, body, and soul (or spirit if you’re so inclined to believe in a spiritual self). Each of us have a unique set of fingerprints to remind us that we’re all different, particular, specific individuals.

I’ve been asking myself who I am since turning fifty (50) years of age. I am on a journey of self discovery. I can describe attributes and characteristics of myself, but who am I?

I have discovered that I am Energy, focused in a physical body. I am the sum total of my previous choices and experiences.

I’ve accomplished many things that I never thought I would. I’ve been given everything I have ever wanted. Along the way I did some things I would not do again – but I learned lessons from those experiences. I can’t explain why I did some of the things I did, but I think I had good reasons at the time. I think most people act on the best information they understand at the time.

So, I can’t condemn my former self since I acknowledge that my past choices taught me lessons and turned me into the person I accept as my self today. I believe love is a choice. Life, humility, gratitude, sanity – all are choices.

I have also come to an awareness that beliefs are just thoughts we keep thinking over and over – we always have the power within us to think different (better) thoughts and change ourselves if we don’t like what we see in the mirror. Me? I’m always changing!

So, who am I? LOL

I accept responsibility, fully, for who I am. And I deeply love and accept myself for who I am.

I am a mother, a new grandmother, and wife. I’m a highly responsible individual. I take it upon myself to feel better and make healthy choices everyday. I’m fabulous. 🙂 And I bet you’re fabulous too!

I am more than my mind, body, and soul / spirit. I am the culmination of everything I’ve experienced. And I stand on GREAT shoulders. Strong, loyal, God-loving, parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and so on.

I have also had great mentors and teachers along the way too! Thankfully, God gave me one in particular who proved the value of higher education to me many years ago (because I couldn’t wait to finish high school and had never wanted to go to college). She proved me wrong. Obtaining two degrees kept me gainfully employed on my career path!

Some of my ancestors were persecuted for their beliefs, religion, and even their race, which knowing this – keeps me grounded and humble. I believe that also is the reason, or at least one reason, why I am an empath. I am strong. A survivor of hurt, pains, and traumas. A survivor of former marriages, of loves lost.

I look in the mirror and see a woman who’s changed – a lot!

I now eat foods that I didn’t eat five (5) years ago. I beat asthma. I’m a creative and technical career woman. I’ve co-written songs (with my talented soul-mate hubby), and tried all sorts of alternative health modalities that most of my family and friends haven’t yet explored. I’ve gained weight, but I’ve lost it too! I consider myself somewhat of a renaissance woman. Forging ahead and leading my daughter and granddaughter down new trails.

Taking it upon myself, I want something better for them, an easier path perhaps, than what I had. And I know a lot of people who feel the same way. They want to give their kids more than they had – not material things exactly – but knowledge!

Knowledge is power. An explored, informed, due diligence done, and educated response to life – wow! Just imagine the time I’ll save them, and maybe some pain too.

I heard it once said that a wise person learns not from experience, but from the experiences of others.

I’d like to go down that road less traveled. So, I invite you to… take it upon yourself.

Imagine who you want to be. Won’t you?

A bit about me:

An Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon.

Plus, my holistic health book that details how I naturally reversed asthma, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, is available now. Buy it here.

Be the best version of who you want to be.

Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.

Follow me on Twitter at: TakeOnYourself