Finding Your Purpose

Hey Love,

Are you questioning what you are here to do, what you are meant to share and offer this world? So many of us have been taught to seek some massive, change-the-world definition of living a "purposeful life". It can be exhausting, frustrating, and downright disheartening to feel like you aren’t living up to some societal measure of meaning.

While I know that you possess so many beautiful traits, gifts and qualities, when our culture (or community) has us constantly searching for bigger-better-more, it can be easy to ignore or miss them altogether. What if the pressure to find your purpose has caused you to overlook some of your hidden gold? After hundreds of sessions, here are some common misconceptions clients have shared about purpose:

• It needs to be a skill or craft you’ve worked hard to learn. Nope! Often, the things we are best at are the things that come the easiest and most naturally. Sometimes we can’t even really explain why or how we know how to do them, but that doesn't make them less worthwhile. Don't let the absence of years of formal training or uncessary program certificates get in the way of pursuing your passion and sharing your gifts.

• It needs to be special or innovative. Not really! It should go without saying that you already are a unique individual, so whatever you offer or do will have your own spin on it. We all bring our own ideas, perspective and life experience to everything we do, so stop putting pressure on yourself to come up with some never-seen-before version and just be you!

• It needs to be flashy or for mass appeal. Not true! Some of the most popular and enduring successes are because of their "basic" human traits - kindness, compassion, love, empathy, communication. Just because your natural abiltiies aren’t tiktok trending, doesn’t mean they aren’t valuable and desperately needed in this world. 

Learning more about ourselves is an empowering step to take on the journey to a more purpose-filled life. If you'd like a fresh perspective on your innate gifts, special talents and natural energy flow, my Rooted Energy offering is an incredible resource. Designed to provide clarity, direction and/or reassurance about a specific question or area of focus, these sessions are done remotely. You receive an audio file and written transcript directly to your inbox, so you can listen (and read!) multiple times and integrate your unique messages at your own pace. 

For a little sample of what can come through in a reading, check out my latest podcast episode here. You can also read some of the incredible testimonials and get more information on how to book. As always, please reach out for a free connection call to chat or reply to this email!

To redefining purpose,
Lauren

Asking For Help

Hey Love,

Do you have a difficult time asking for or receiving help? If so, you are not alone! In fact, feeling like you can’t or shouldn’t ask for help is a frequently-held limiting belief. While there are lots of things that can cause this to be a challenge for us, here are some of the most common reasons that help has become a four-letter word.

You were raised to highly value independence. This has been a big element in my personal struggle with letting others provide help. Raised as an only child with busy working parents, I learned at an early age to be self-sufficient. While it’s natural to feel pride in our ability to do things on our own, it can quickly take over as part of our ego-identity, creating a major block on asking for help. 

You’ve been surrounded by people who make everything a crisis. Many of us have experienced this kind of non-stop drama firsthand, and it can be stressful and frustrating. It’s no wonder that you wouldn't want to be perceived as someone who is overly needy. But the way others' handle being overwhelmed (whether feigned or not) does not need to prevent your very real need for assistance.  

You don’t feel worthy of support. Feeling unentitled to get help, even when you know you need it most, can stem from an underlying lack of self-esteem. Empowering yourself to ask for help is one of the strongest things you can do and a huge expression of self-love. Remember, we ALL deserve to receive support. 

Whether it’s from good friends when I’ve been under the weather or professionally when I realize I need mentorship or new training, it has been scary to put my hand up and ask for help. And while I’m much better at it now, it’s something I continue to remind myself of. 

If it's finally time for you to ask for and receive help, some nature-led guidance might be just what you need. My new Rooted Energy offering is designed to provide clarity, a new perspective or reassurance. These connection sessions are done remotely, with an audio file and written transcript sent directly to your inbox, so you can listen (and read!) multiple times and integrate your unique messages at your own pace.

"Thank you for these beautiful messages. It has been a tough week for me and this was so so helpful and reassuring to me. It was exactly what I needed and helped me gain so much clarity and acceptance for where I am currently. Your message helped me to see that I am enough just as I am in this moment and that I am blossoming (like the rose) unto myself at my own pace and to accept that pace and to enjoy the ride. Thank you so much." - T.W. 

Click here to see all the incredible testimonials and get more information on how to book. As always, please reach out for a free connection call to chat or reply to this email!

To getting all the help we need,
Lauren

Fall Equinox Energy: Letting Go

Hey Love,

Today is the Fall Equinox, when the sun shines on the Northern and Southern hemisphere equally, before shifting the Earth into new seasons. Above the equator that means welcoming cooler weather, harvest-inspired events and pumpkin spice everything.

Before long, the leaves will change colors and drop, which brings to mind a popular quote by an unknown author, “Autumn shows us how beautiful it is to let things go.” Inspired by these incredible cycles of nature, it’s the perfect time to take stock of what you want to change in your life. These are some of the things that I am ready to let go of; maybe some will resonate with you too:

Other People’s Problems: While I will continue to be a loyal and empathetic friend, I know that I don't have to take on the responsibility for fixing all that's broken or wrong. Holding strong on energetic boundaries is a true act of compassion, for ourselves and others, allowing us to be present, patient, and neutral observers. When we can see the situation from this clearer, calmer perspective, we can better empower others to advocate and problem solve for themselves.

Playing Small: I’ve put others' needs and comfort above my own for most of my life and I am more than ready to step further into the fullest version of myself, regardless of any potential fall-out. I know how much we have to offer this world and if that makes other people gossip or feel uncomfortable, that’s not our business. We are meant to live our biggest, brightest lives, sharing our special gifts loud and proud!

Mindless Distractions: While I've made some good progress with this, I’m still way too attracted to text notifications and FB group drama. If we don’t set clear intentions for how we want to spend our precious time, than it's easy to let the day slip away from us, along with our motivation and goal-getting. If it’s not directly leading to our happiness or success, it’s a time suck, plain and simple.

If you need clarity or confirmation on what you can be letting go of this season, it might be the perfect time for some nature-led insight. My new Rooted Energy offering is designed to provide guidance, a new perspective and/or needed reassurance. These connection sessions are done remotely, with an audio file and written transcript sent directly to your inbox, so you can listen (and read!) multiple times and integrate at your own pace.

"I wanted to tell you this is the most unique beautiful reading I’ve ever had. It all resonates and makes perfect sense. The visual descriptions provided helped piece the messages together. Thank you so much for this." - NV

Click here to see all the incredible testimonials and get more information on how to book. As always, please reach out for a free connection call to chat or reply to this email!

To letting go with ease,
Lauren

Learning to Use the Four Elements of Nature

Hey Love,

If you are feeling out of balance, the long holiday weekend is the perfect opportunity to realign your energy. One of the most beautiful and accessible ways to do this is by leaning into the four elements of nature. Whether you are adventure traveling or lounging at home, intentionally engaging with each of the elements can help return you to a state of calm, with more clarity and a deeper connection to self.

Water: If you are staying near the water this weekend, utilize that perfect natural resource to wash over you, cleansing your energy and allowing you to feel rejuvenated and relaxed. If you are having a staycation, taking an extra long shower or bath can give you the same sense of restorative peace.

Fire: The power of fire to transform energy is incredible. You can create a simple, but powerful ritual by writing down something that you want to release or change and then tossing that paper into your bonfire or bbq. Lighting a candle and stating your desires or intentions out loud is also a beautiful practice to harness the fire element.

Earth: The grounding energy of Earth is something always available to us, whether you are walking in your neighborhood or through a forest. For an extra special connection, place your bare feet on the grass, dirt, sand or other natural surface, wiggle your toes and walk slowly, knowing you are firmly rooted and supported by the ground.

Air: Whether in wide open spaces or in the comfort of your backyard, bringing the air element into your energy is super easy and playful. Spend some time to feel the wind against your skin, watch the leaves dance or just take ten deep, slow breaths. Just as the clouds pass, remember too how temporary all thoughts and feelings are.

There is a reason the four elements have been celebrated as essential forms of holistic healing for thousands of years. And while today's world may be driven by technology, a return to our natural world is a gift beyond measure.

If you need guidance with a specific question or area of focus, some nature-led insight might be just what you need. My new Rooted Earth offering is designed to provide clarity, a new perspective and/or needed reassurance. These connection sessions are done remotely, with an audio file and written transcript sent directly to your inbox, so you can listen (and read!) multiple times and integrate at your own pace.

"I did this offering with Lauren and it was so magical! It's like a special, nurturing guidance from Earth and the wisdom earth can offer to support you. This is so beautiful, unique and generous - I love it! There was so so much that resonated! Wild. So good. Thank you so much, this was the best part of my day!" - BC

Click here to see all the incredible testimonials and get more information on how to book. As always, please reach out for a free connection call to chat or reply to this email!

To balance and realignment,
Lauren

How to Connect to Your Intuition

Hey Love,

A common theme that’s been coming up in my recent client sessions is the feeling of being lost and unsure of the “right” next move. With our comparison culture that pushes external validation and vanity measures of success, it makes total sense to want to see what others are doing, rather than turning inward to find our own truth. But as we well know, what you see on social media is far from the full story and even if it’s all true, it doesn’t mean it’s the best path for you.

We all want to feel more connected to ourselves and have a stronger sense of trust and confidence. Luckily, the answers are always inside of us, we just have to learn to tune-in and listen. Here are some of the best ways I’ve found to build my intuitive abilities:

• Journaling: Whether you write one sentence a day that sums up how you are feeling or keep a robust diary, there is something magical that happens when we write words on paper. It’s an act of release, to clear the mental mess away and not have to keep it all inside. It’s also empowering to open up your communication channel, knowing your thoughts and feelings are worthy of documenting.

• Meditation: If you want to connect more deeply with your intuition, you’ll have to take some steps to quiet the outside noise. Sitting silently for even 5 minutes a day is a powerful practice to tune-in to your inner compass. Pay attention to words, images, sensations that come up. Coupled with some intentional breathing, you will be amazed at how much calmer and clearer you feel.

• Movement: When our minds are in overdrive, there is nothing better than intentional movement to get back into the body. Whether you prefer gentle stretching and slow walks or powerlifting and Peloton rides, physical activity engages our feel good hormones and releases stress. It also allows us to tap into our deeper, authentic truths without the ego-mind trying to run the show.

We all have the ability to access our intuition and inner wisdom, it just takes some practice! Of course, there will always be times when we could benefit from outside counsel and it’s such an honor to help my clients by guiding them on how to reconnect with their own inner voice. If this is something you are looking for, please reach out for a free connection call to get more information.

Sometimes we just need a little clarity, perspective or reassurance and my new offering is designed to do just that! If you need help with a specific question or area of focus, some intuitive insight might be just what you need. These connection sessions are done remotely, with an audio file and written transcript sent directly to your inbox, so you can listen on your own schedule and take all the time you need. Click here to see all the incredible testimonials and get more information on how to book.

To our inner wisdom,
Lauren

Stop "Shoulding" on Yourself; Learning to say NO

Hey Love,

With the school year either underway or fast approaching, ‘tis the season for all the asks to ramp back up. From PTA and sports coaching to neighborhood associations, religious groups and charitable organizations - there are endless opportunities to serve. And whether driven by your altruistic heart, a desire to belong or just plain guilt, the need to please is a real issue.

I know it might feel good to do good, but if you always answer the call for help, you can easily end up overwhelmed, burned out and resentful. You wouldn’t advise your kid or best friend to continually over-extend and leave no time for themselves, so why are you allowing so much access to your time and energy?

Here are a few ways, based on Human Design, to make sure you are saying YES only to things that you actually want to.

• Talk it out. Ask a partner or good friend about an open volunteer spot before you commit. They may help you see the wider perspective of all the things you’ve already said about your level of availability. But it’s not just their feedback you are looking for. Oftentimes hearing our own words out loud can bring needed clarity and understanding.

• Give it time. For many of us, taking our time with decisions is the best way to go. When asked to pitch in or offered a role, it’s okay to say that you need some time to look at your other obligations before saying yes. This extra day or week will give you some much needed space to feel through the highs and lows before committing to a long-term project.

• Listen to your gut. Looking back at all the things you’ve said "Yes" to, I bet you remember the ones you knew you should not have agreed to. Whether you feel it in your core or just have a flash of inner knowing, don’t ignore that intuition that’s whispering (or screaming) “No, No, No”. That connection to your body’s innate wisdom is invaluable and can save you from many a frustration.

Remember, “No” is not a four letter word. Saying no is a way to keep yourself sane and safe. It also allows other people the chance to be involved or step into a role that they may be better suited for and have more interest in.

If you'd like to find out which is the best way for you to make decisions, check out one of my Human Design sessions. In addition to learning your decision-making style, you'll get incredible insights into your natural energy flow, best ways to work, how to find ease, define success, understand your special gifts and protect yourself from energy drains (and more!) Reach out for a free connection call to get more information.

To saying yes to yourself,
Lauren

Grounding Techniques

Hey Love,

What a year this week has been! School started for us (yes already!) and with the combination of earlier wake-times, a resetting of routines and the loss of summer freedom...emotions are running high.

Even if you aren’t affected by the back-to-school blues, there are always life events that can cause us to seemingly ride one emotional roller coaster after another. Here are some of my favorite mindfulness techniques for grounding down, releasing stress and coming back to a place of neutral:

Visualize a Sacred Space: Envision a space that evokes a special feeling of peace for you. Maybe it’s your childhood home, a favorite sandy shore or dreamy mountain adventure. What does it look like, sound like, smell like? Fill in as many details as possible to really give you an all-senses experience and ease your way back to calm.

Call on Plant Power: Lean on the supportive energy of our natural allies. Head to your favorite plant or flower shop and slowly walk through as you “listen” for any botanical beauty that seems to be calling to you. Put your new find in a special, quiet spot in your home and enjoy your mini retreat space.

Reinforce Calm with Colors: While we might gravitate towards favorite colors to wear, there are certain hues that lend themselves to more restorative, calming sensations. Pay attention to how you feel around bright, bold primary colors as compared to softer pastels or shades found in nature. Then make some easy color changes like adding a pillow or poster to ensure you have a space that’s most supportive to you.

Feel the Magic of Music: There’s a reason people have used sound therapy in healing practices since ancient times. Whether it’s the rhythm of a drumbeat, soft melody of a harp or rump-shaking of 90s pop, there is nothing like immersing yourself in music to change up your energy. Freebie apps like Spotify and Pandora offer endless playlists for you to explore, so get moving!

I've heard the misconception that mindfulness means staying calm at all times, never feeling upset or experiencing a high/low swing, which is definitely not true! But when you practice grounding techniques like these, it does help you to have a shorter time in the valley and a broader perspective about whatever challenge you may come across.

If you'd like more of this energy in your life, I’m here to help! I have an entire toolbox of skills and techniques to help you live authentically, with more mindfulness and intention. Check out my 1:1 sessions to explore more of what's possible for you. After just 90 minutes you'll feel more inspired, empowered and ready to step into your future vision. Reach out for a free connection call to get more information.

To smoother times,
Lauren

Working through a Transition

Hey Love,

If you haven’t been feeling like yourself lately, you are in good company. After the collective trauma we’ve endured during the past 2 ½ years, many people are beginning to experience a release or “come down” as they attempt a full return to their pre-pandemic life. But unlike the after-effects of missing your flight or cramming to meet a deadline, this adrenaline crash is leading to a whole new set of unfamiliar challenges.

You may be feeling an increased sensitivity to people, places, stuff or ideas. You might get overwhelmed more easily or feel a new level of exhaustion. So many people are feeling lost, wanting to spend more time alone, reevaluating their values and priorities.

So what can you do to find ease during this not-so-easy transition period?

Know that you aren’t alone. Whether you choose to talk about it with others or not, take solace in the fact that millions of people around the world are feeling exactly the same way.

Stop passing judgment on yourself. Let go of any self-imposed shame or guilt for not being “over it” and instead give yourself the same love and compassion you would extend to a best friend.

Don’t ignore or minimize what you are experiencing. This collective release is 100% real and it may take a while to find your new footing, so try to honor where you are in the process.

The truth for many of us is that the old life we’ve returned to doesn’t fit quite right anymore. And while it might be unsettling, it's not bad or wrong to feel this kind of change. In fact, there is a whole new way of living that is opening to you, if you let it.

If any of this resonates, I’d love to offer my assistance. Throughout this entire period, I’ve continued to work on my toolbox of skills and techniques to help you live authentically, with more mindfulness and intention. Check out my 1:1 sessions to explore more of what's possible for you. After just 90 minutes you'll feel more inspired, empowered and ready to step into your future vision. Reach out for a free connection call to get more information.

To finding your new way,
Lauren

When it's Okay to Surrender

Hey Love,

The word surrender has a range of connotations. Most people focus on its definition portraying weakness; to give up or quit when you just can’t fight the battle anymore. But, it can also mean to accept or allow; to let go of resistance in favor of going with the flow.

It’s this idea of acceptance in the present moment that I’ve been exploring lately. At times it seems completely at odds with our hyper-achieving, goal-setting culture. The question that keeps rolling around my mind is, how do you balance the need to achieve with the ease of allowing? Here’s what I’m leaning into when it comes to striving versus surrender:

It all comes back to gratitude. No matter what new self-help concept is going viral, it’s guaranteed there is a gratitude element included. Being aware and appreciative of what we have, is a timeless trick to immediately feeling like we have more. And maybe that helps us realize we already have everything we need.

Perfection only exists in the present moment. The more time we spend looking backward, the more inclined we are to feel dissatisfied and want a do-over. The more time we spend looking forward, the more likely we are to create anxiety and unrealistic expectations. In the practice of coming into presence, we can enjoy peace, acceptance and even deep satisfaction with our status-quo.

Goals are road maps, not final destinations. Having goals is great. They can keep you grounded, focused, moving on the path of your best-self vision. But they aren't the only (or best) measure of your current success or future potential. In all our goal-getting, it’s just as important to know when to take a break, pivot, or even throw out the rulebook from time-to-time.

When you increase your ability to surrender, you will be able to see each new experience for what it truly is: a gift, lesson, reminder, contrast, opportunity. I know it won’t be an immediate change, but I’m committing to this new practice: being at peace exactly where I am. And I hope you’ll join me!

If you are looking to soften into your existing world, I’d love to help! Check out my 1:1 sessions to explore more of what's possible for you. After just 90 minutes you'll feel more inspired, empowered and ready to step into your future vision. Reach out for a free connection call to get more information.

To finding surrender,
Lauren

Showing Up, Even When You Don't Feel Like It

Hey Love,

Change can feel like an elusive thing. Sometimes we are blessed with a transformative experience and it’s as if a switch flips. We are gifted with a new way of looking at things and are forever different from that moment forward. But more often, growth can appear achingly slow and be really subtle. We can feel stuck, trapped in a seemingly endless loop, just waiting for some sign of progress.

Fortunately, one of our greatest strengths as humans, is our ability to always change, evolve, transform. While you might not be able to see it right now, that possibility of a different future is always there.

Here is some inspiration to help you keep showing up and doing the work, even when you (really) don’t feel like it:

Nothing feels better than action: While getting started can feel torturous, the sense of pride, joy and even relief that comes with accomplishment is so worth it. If you want to instantly improve your outlook on just about anything, take action, no matter how small, and let that mood booster kick-start your momentum.

The journey is the jewel: We can be so goal-oriented and future-focused that we completely miss all the goodness that lays in the journey. So much can be gained by shifting your mindset and approaching whatever you are facing with curiosity, excitement and appreciation for the entire experience, not just keeping focused on the end.

Consistency creates change: Whether you can commit to 5 minutes or 50, just sitting down to do the thing, on a regular basis, is what truly super-boosts change. One of the top “secrets” the most successful people say helped them achieve their dreams is simply putting in the time, day after day, even when they got no likes, views or sales.

It takes resilience and fortitude to keep showing up, but these are qualities I know you have. Keep in mind too that along the way, your goals might change and you might end up wanting something completely different. So allow yourself that opportunity to flow and continue evolving as you go.

If you’d like to explore more of what’s possible for you, check out my 1:1 sessions. Whether you want to start a side-hustle, makeover your existing business, or get clear on your career opportunities, after just 90 minutes you'll feel more inspired, empowered and ready to step into your future vision. Reach out for a free connection call if you have any questions!

To showing up,
Lauren