Rainbows are Circles: Waking up to Wonder

What opens up for us when we release perfection and follow our intuitive nudges? An update on why I stopped podcasting and how the release of perfection allowed the energy to flow again. Enjoy! www.rainbowsarecircles.com

Have you ever asked yourself why you love what you love? Are you yearning to express yourself creatively? Need tips on developing discipline to support your passions? JoAnneh Nagler is a multi-talented artist who expresses herself through music, writing, painting, and teaching yoga. What I love most about JoAnneh is how freely and effectively she explores various forms of art and defines her own version of success in art and life. In our interview, we explore: how everyone is creative, and that creativity is simply making something that didn't exist before the importance of creating dedicated time for the activities that are most important to you (JoAnneh inspired me to start prioritizing and honoring my creative endeavors, instead of just "getting around to them" when I found the time) how to discover your unique form of art/joy/creativity; how are you wired? what are you drawn to? what sparks your joy?  Your life is your creation, your very own masterpiece. Let it be a reflection of your heart, your happiness and your unique essence.  Check out JoAnneh at anartistrylife.com or find her on FB + IG @anartistrygirl Learn more about Rainbows are Circles at rainbowsarecircles.com!

This is a deeply soothing 15 min practice designed to settle your nervous system and nourish you from the inside out.  We will explore:  What arises when you are fully relaxed and present in your body?  How can you tend to yourself and practice self-care?  Do you receive inner guidance when you take time to relax and connect within?  Write down any insights that arise. When I did this practice recently, I realized what I have been craving in my life is support. Not support from other people, but from myself. I have to give to myself the things that I've always longed to hear from others: "I am proud of you. You are more than enough. I love you so much. You have so much value to offer this world. You don't have to try so hard. You are so good at what you do. You are incredibly intelligent. You offer unique gifts that are needed in this world." I hadn't realized how much I was still seeking approval from others, and how self-critical I can be.  Now that I'm aware of what I need right now, I am speaking kind words to myself and supporting myself like crazy! I even treated myself to a pair of earrings I love and took myself on a dinner date (I usually only eat at restaurants when I'm with other people). It felt really nice and I ended up having an unexpectedly fun evening that included meeting new friends and singing karaoke :P It's funny the experiences we attract when we are kind and loving to ourselves. I invite you to use this practice whenever you feel called. Notice how you feel afterwards and write down anything interesting that arises. 

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to feel rushed and stressed, even when doing mundane things.   In this episode, we explore the importance of pausing, slowing down, and becoming aware of our surroundings.  Even taking one deep breath is a powerful way to manage stress and anxiety because it creates space for us to notice how we're feeling. Once we're aware, we then can make a choice about how to proceed. We can continue rushing and feeling stressed, or we can pause and do something to shift our state. As you listen to this episode, I invite you to go through the breathing and mindfulness practice with me.  Breathe slowly and deeply. Become aware of your surroundings. Notice what you can appreciate. Notice how you feel. Acknowledge that you just created a shift in yourself, simply by taking a minute to pause, breathe and become more present. Continue with your day from this grounded state, rather from a stressed-out state. Notice any effects. Do you make better decisions? Does your day flow more smoothly? What else can you do to create a joyful pause in your day? Perhaps eating lunch outside in the fresh air, without your phone or computer; taking a walk; journaling or reading; exercising... what activities make you feel good, calm and relaxed? Make time for them, prioritize them, and do them more often.

Do you want to start something new (project/hobby/language/etc.), but are scared to begin because you don't want to suck?   This 12 min episode reminds us that it's ok to not be good at something, especially when we're new. We have to develop our skills over time. Be ok with sucking. And keep showing up, developing our backbone, doing the work, and focusing on our incremental progress. In this 12 min episode, I share a quote from Ira Glass, producer and host of This American Life which begins, "Nobody tells this to people who are beginners, I wish someone had told me." (You'll have to listen to the episode to get the full quote. Trust me, it's a good one.) Key takeaways: When beginning a new habit, start so small that you can't fail. In order to get good at something, we have to keep at it, and do it a lot. Focus on "progress, not perfection" - Marie Forleo "Comparison is the thief of joy." - Theodore Roosevelt www.rainbowsarecircles.com

In this 13-min episode, you'll experience a grounding tea ritual that feels like a meditation in motion. I trust that this relaxing practice, along with the journaling prompts, will help you to feel more calm, present, and help you tune into what you need today. You'll notice I'm trying out a different format this month: shorter weekly episodes where I share the most impactful things that I've learned (and continue to learn!) self-care practices inspirational quotes personal development tips  It's my hope that these tools are as helpful for you as they are for me!

Author and TYA coach Deborah Wilson shares her story of transformation and getting "unstuck" when her marriage of 19 years comes to an abrupt end while walking the 500-mile Camino de Santiago (an ancient pilgrimage route in Europe).  Deborah shares how this experience helped her to: recognize the limiting beliefs that kept her stuck in an unhealthy relationship forgive and appreciate her relationship for the ways it helped her to grow develop a loving relationship with herself If you are feeling "stuck" in some aspect of your life and you know you need to make a change (but are afraid to do so), this will be an inspiring episode for you!

Intuitive energy healer Wendy de Rosa shares how empaths can set boundaries, clear their energy, hold power for themselves, and walk through the world with more confidence, strength and radiance!

Throughout history, the goddess appears in many forms and represents various aspects of the divine feminine. When we develop relationships with goddesses, we are bolstered by their unique magics and begin to embody their grace, power and divinity. In this episode, Anna Dorian shares how the goddess can support us through challenging times and awaken us to a life of divinity, community and empowerment.  Learn more about Anna and her new circle The Goddess and Me at https://vibrantreiki.com/ Listen to more episodes at www.rainbowsarecircles.com Have a magical day!

Wondering how the law of attraction really works? Learn how to effectively manifest the life you desire in this interview with David Strickel and The Stream! Learn more about David at https://thestreamofdavid.com/ Listen to more episodes at www.rainbowsarecircles.com Have a magical day!

Learn how affirmations can reprogram our thoughts and create tangible life change with Priestess Sadee Brathwaite! www.rainbowsarecircles.com

Build confidence and self-love with writer and spiritual coach Rachel Strivelli! The person that you spend the most time with in the whole entire world is... yourself! 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for your entire life. You’re literally with yourself all the time. So have you ever thought about how your relationship with yourself is going? Are you supportive and kind to yourself? Or are you constantly judging and criticizing yourself?  Rachel will teach us how to develop a healthy and loving relationship with ourselves so we can shine brightly and move through the world with self-confidence! Connect with Rachel Strivelli at www.soulpioneer.com Listen to more episodes at www.rainbowsarecircles.com

What do Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, and Oprah Winfrey have in common? They all attribute their extraordinary success to the same thing - intuition!     In this episode, Kim Chestney, author of Radical Intuition and founder of Intuition Lab, explains what intuition really is, how to develop it, and why following our intuition is essential to living our most inspired and authentic lives.    Get 25% off Kim's Intuition Lab courses by joining our Patreon membership here!   Kim's website: www.kimchestney.com Kim's intuition school: www.Intuition-lab.com More episodes: www.rainbowsarecircles.com  

Today we’re discussing core wounds, and why it’s so important to acknowledge and heal painful experiences from our past. Intuitive healer, author and Priestess Charlotte Eléa discusses the core wounds of separation and unworthiness, and what it truly means to heal. Heart-opening meditation:  At minute 34:30,  Charlotte guides us through a soothing, healing, heart-opening meditation. Get your self-love on! Connect with Charlotte at https://www.the1heart.org/ Show notes and more episodes at https://rainbowsarecircles.com/ Thanks for tuning in and have a magical day!

Evolutionary astrologer Eileen Mello discusses recent astrological shifts and what we can expect in 2021 - think social reform, tech advancements, and collective spiritual growth! She'll also give us helpful tools on how to stay grounded and navigate this rapidly changing world.  Read the show notes and listen to more episodes at www.rainbowsarecircles.com

Learn about the incredible healing power of sound with Susan Susan Vichik-Johnson - a sound Practitioner, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Reiki Master and Energy Radiator. During her healing sessions, Susan connects with your energy centers and combines sound therapy, Reiki energy and her intuitive gifts to help you clear energy blockages, connect with your creativity and align with your inner peace and Divine Essence.

Troy Williams, who spent 18 years in San Quentin State Prison, reminds us that the mistakes we make do not have to define us, and that every day is a new opportunity to make a positive impact.  In this episode, Troy shares the life events that led to his incarceration, what it was like to be in prison, the people that inspired him, the challenges he faced after his release, the tools that keep him grounded, and the legacy of good that he’s now leaving behind.

How can we overcome adversity so that, instead of being consumed by painful experiences, we can be empowered by them? In this episode, motivational speaker Michael Arterberry shares his story of turning hardship and struggle into success and purpose. Not only did Michael rise above challenging life circumstances - he now dedicates his life to helping others do the same. WE WILL EXPLORE Why we need to make time for self-reflection Why it’s important to feel and process our emotions - instead of bottling them up What it takes to move beyond life’s obstacles so that we can “shake off the dirt” and create a successful life Why quarantine is a blessing in disguise What it’s like to be a black man in America  How we can process our emotions and support racial equality

Do you ever wonder why you're here on this planet? Are you searching for fulfillment and your life purpose? Do you believe that everyone has unique gifts that we're meant to express and share with the world? If so, you're gonna love today's episode. We're speaking with Sherwin Ng about the art of inner transformation. Sherwin is a teacher of spiritual alchemy, author of Life on Earth Mastery, and founder and Principal Healer of House of Kite, an energy healing space in Kuala Lumpur.  WE WILL EXPLORE Why spiritual work shouldn't be free What it really takes to fulfill one's destiny Why quarantine time is a gift that is here to help us evolve, become self-empowered and reinvent ourselves Let's wake up to alchemical wonder with Sherwin Ng! Connect with Sherwin Ng at https://www.facebook.com/houseofkite/ Listen to more episodes! www.rainbowsarecircles.com

Do you ever wonder why you're here on this planet? Are you searching for fulfillment and your life purpose? Do you believe that everyone has unique gifts that we're meant to express and share with the world? If so, you're gonna love today's episode. We're speaking with Sherwin Ng about the art of inner transformation. Sherwin is a teacher of spiritual alchemy, author of Life on Earth Mastery, and founder and Principal Healer of House of Kite, an energy healing space in Kuala Lumpur.  WE WILL EXPLORE How can we use this quarantine time to learn about ourselves and connect with our purpose? What practical steps can we can take to fulfill our destiny? Why we shouldn’t be afraid of making “wrong” decisions  How to claim your worth so others aren’t deciding it for you Let's wake up to alchemical wonder with Sherwin Ng! Connect with Sherwin Ng at https://www.facebook.com/houseofkite/ Listen to more episodes! www.rainbowsarecircles.com

In this episode we will explore: what it means to be a witch, a brief history of witches (and what the witch hunt was really about), what is magic and how can we use spells to manifest our desires. Our guest is Casey Zabala, an artist, tarot reader, intuitive mystic, and the founder of Modern Witches Confluence in San Francisco.  Casey has been studying the tarot and giving readings for 17 years and she also created the Wanderer’s Tarot and Wyrd Sisters Oracle decks. Practical tool: At the end of the episode (minute 26:20), Casey will guide us through a deeply grounding meditation to help us connect to mother Earth in a heartfelt way. Casey Zabala www.wandererstarot.com Listen to more episodes! www.rainbowsarecircles.com

The recent coronavirus outbreak has created a lot of fear, uncertainty and pain for human beings - and understandably so. We are experiencing a global pandemic unlike anything we've seen in this lifetime. It's natural that much of our attention is focusing on the negative effects that the coronavirus is having on human affairs. However, I don't feel the need to focus on those issues because this is what most of the media is focusing on. In this episode, I want to explore the coronavirus outbreak from a different, non-human perspective - what if we see this situation from nature's perspective? Since humans have been forced indoors due to the 'shelter in place' orders, the reduced impact of human behavior on the rest of the world has created positive changes for the environment and the other creatures on this Earth. What if this outbreak and quarantine is exactly what the planet needs right now to bring itself back into balance?  Let’s explore the coronavirus outbreak from nature’s perspective and also discuss how we can make the most of our time sheltering in place. We will finish with a 10 minute guided visualization to help us relieve anxiety, see this situation from a new perspective, and feel a connection to other beings on this planet. www.rainbowsarecircles.com

Did you know that plants have intelligence, personality and the ability to communicate with us - if we only take the time to slow down and listen? Plant specialist Anna Bazarnaya shares the beautiful story of her deep connection with plants, her ability to communicate with plants, and how she shares translates the language of plants into healing remedies for her clients and herself.   We will explore: How does one communicate with plants? What are the benefits of spending time in nature? Why should we pay attention to moon cycles and harvest plants at their peak? What can plants teach us about living in harmony? How can plants assist us during the Coronavirus outbreak? PRACTICAL TOOL: Anna will teach us how to connect with the plants in our own backyard! Explore Anna's beautiful services and therapeutic plant formulas at maitriverde.com Listen to more episodes at rainbowsarecircles.com  

In this episode we will explore the healing effects of breathing and sound with our guest Inbal, a Breathwork Meditation and Sound Healing Practitioner based in the Bay Area. Inbal created SONOPRANA, an immersive & transformative experience based on a unique blend of breathwork, vibration and resonance. Her guided workshops help people to alleviate stress, stagnant energy and emotional pain in the body, enabling  access to greater clarity, focus, intuition, and capacity for self-healing. We will explore: What causes stress and trauma, and how does energy get stuck in our bodies? How can we use breathwork to release stress from the body to facilitate healing?  How can the voice be used as an instrument to move energy in the body to bring about balance and well-being? What is a mantra and how can we use one to tap into our heart’s deepest desires so we can live in line with our highest self? (Spoiler alert: Inbal will guide us through a practice that will help you to create your own empowering mantra!) Let’s wake up to Sonoprana wonder with Inbal! Learn more about Inbal's offerings at sonoprana.com Listen to more episodes at www.rainbowsarecircles.com

Today we’re diving back into the fascinating world of astrology with Michele de la Menardiere! Astrology is the study of the relationship between the planetary bodies (the sun, moon & planets) and their influence on us human beings. In order to understand how the planetary bodies are influencing you, it’s important to look at your natal chart (aka birth chart), which reveals where the planetary bodies were in the sky at the time of your birth.  When we spoke with evolutionary astrologer Eileen Mello in Episode #5, we talked about how astrology can help us to understand ourselves better and how the planets can provide guidance to us as we move through our life journey here on Earth. In this episode, we build on our knowledge of astrology with Michele de la Menardiere, an incredibly talented Bay Area artist and designer who has been passionately studying astrology and reading charts ever since she was a young girl. We will explore: How do you read a horoscope, or astrological chart? What are the characteristics of the 12 astrological signs? What are the elemental qualities of the different signs? What is the trifecta and how does it provide a more complete understanding of your astrology (versus just looking at your sun sign, which you might find in newspaper horoscope)? How does knowledge of astrology help us to appreciate the differences in people and help us to have more compassion for ourselves and others? After we’ve learned about astrology, Michele will guide us through a celebrity’s chart and we’ll guess who it is based on the information from the chart! And now, let’s wake to cosmic wonder with Michele de la Menardiere! Listen to more episodes at www.rainbowsarecircles.com

In this episode, shamanic & reiki teacher Anna Dorian introduces us to the ancient healing tradition of shamanism. We will explore: What is shamanism and how can shamanic practices help to guide us through life? What is a shamanic journey? How and why would someone take a shamanic journey? What are power animals? How do we connect with them and what are the benefits of working with our power animals? What are some healing tools & techniques that a shamanic practitioner uses? How can shamanic practices help us cultivate a deeper connection with nature, the spirit world and our own inner knowing? Explore all this & more as we wake up to wonder with Anna Dorian! www.rainbowsarecircles.com www.vibrantreiki.com  

In today’s episode, we’re discussing Energy Psychology, a holistic approach to treating mental health conditions that recognizes everything as energy, and the mind-body-spirit as inextricably connected. Energy Psychology uses a variety of modalities including psychotherapy, coaching, integrative medicine and other healing practices to help clear limiting energetic patterns and improve human functioning.  We’re speaking with Dr. Adriana Popescu who, as a licensed clinical psychologist and empowerment coach with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, has found that Energy Psychology provides incredibly powerful tools to identify and eliminate the deep-rooted causes of suffering and distress.  Dr. Popescu is a certified hypnotherapist, Access Consciousness® Facilitator, and Neuro Emotional Technique (NET) Practitioner. She facilitates transformational and empowering workshops to help people overcome their perceived limitations, release their self-judgments, and discover the brilliance within – creating a life of infinite possibilities. We will explore: What does it mean to look at health in a holistic way?  Self sabotage: How can our subconscious beliefs block us from receiving what we truly want? What is NET (Neuromuscular Testing) and how can a weak muscle test reveal unresolved issues or trauma? How does judgement create suffering? How can false core beliefs that we formed as children limit our potential as adults? Your ability to create life change begins with your willingness to change Practical tools that we can use to create positive change, such as mantras & visualizations How asking questions expands energy and creates infinite possibilities What is Access Consciousness and how does it work? Explore all this and more as we wake up to wonder with Dr. Adriana Popescu! www.rainbowsarecircles.com https://adrianapopescu.org/

Have you ever reflected on the quality of your conversations? Are they full of surface-level small talk and gossip? Or do you often have valuable conversations that uplift and nourish you? In this episode we speak with Jan Keck about how meaningful conversations lead to more fulfilling relationships. Jan is the creator of the Ask Deep Questions cards - a simple yet powerful deck with 48 questions that invite people to have more meaningful and vulnerable conversations. His mission? To help people feel less alone through the art of conversation and human connection. In this episode, Jan reveals that the key to connection lies in the vulnerability of our conversations and the quality of the questions we ask. Let's dive in deeper as we wake up to wonder with Jan Keck! www.rainbowsarecircles.com

Astrology the study of the relationship between the planetary bodies and their effects on human affairs. Many people feel skeptical about this topic. We may wonder, how can planets that are so far away possibly have an effect on me? It seems a bit far-fetched, until we consider the powerful effect that the moon has on our ocean tides. If the moon can make Earth’s huge bodies of water rise and fall, what effect might it have on us human beings (who are made of 60% water?!) In this fascinating episode, we speak with second-generation Evolutionary astrologer Eileen Mello to discuss how the alignment of the planets, at the time of your birth, has a powerful impact on your personality and life path. Do the planets really exude energies that provide guidance to us here on earth? And if so, how can we align with these cosmic energies so that we’re working with them to our best advantage? Explore all this and more as we wake up to wonder with Eileen Mello!

When was the last time you played for the sake of having fun? When you laughed like a kid and got lost in enjoying the moment? Many adults are extremely play-deprived and some of us have even lost touch with the things that make us happy. In this episode, we speak with Play Coach Jeff Harry about why it’s so important to play! How does play stimulate creativity and innovation? How can play lead us to more fulfilling careers? How can the act of playing, for the enjoyment of it, connect us with our happiness, purpose & passion? Find out in this episode! Do you want Jeff to help you play and find YOUR inner child? Check him out at: RediscoverYourPlay.com Learn more about this episode on our Show Notes here! Thanks for listening and have a magical day! www.rainbowsarecircles.com II FB II IG II Patreon

Reiki Part 2 of 2. In our last episode Reiki Part 1, we explore the definition and benefits of reiki energy healing and hear some fascinating stories that exemplify reiki power! In this episode, we dive into deeper reiki realms with Reiki Master Anna Dorian. We also explore the many different ways that healing can take place and consider what it means to "come alive" and live a magical life! We will discuss: What are the responsibilities and intentions of a reiki practitioner when offering a treatment? Is it possible that our souls agree to "spiritual contracts" before we take on human form? (for example, might we agree to experience a particular illness or challenge in order to grow and evolve spiritually?)  How can we find the "good" in every "bad" experience? How can doing so shift us from a victim mentality into an empowered one? How can this attitude make us stronger and more resilient? How can we find balance between surviving (working, paying rent, daily chores) and living with purpose and passion? What does it mean to "come alive" or be passionate about something? Homework: What are some things that make you "come alive"? The power of our words and the power of listening (like, really listening!) How can we live magical lives and open ourselves to miracles? To learn more about the podcast and this episode, check out the show notes here! Learn about Anna and her offerings at www.vibrantreiki.com Thanks for listening and have a magical day! www.rainbowsarecircles.com II FB II IG II Patreon

Reiki Part 1 of 2. Reiki is a Japanese healing modality that uses the laying on of hands to facilitate healing. Join us in this intriguing conversation with Reiki Master Anna Dorian as she shares insights, wisdom & fascinating (dare I say magical?!) stories that she's gathered over the past 16 years working with this powerful healing practice. Here are some of the questions we'll explore. Who is Anna & why did she feel called to practice reiki? What is energy & how does it move and flow within us? What is reiki and what are the benefits of a reiki treatment? What does reiki feel like and what can I expect during a treatment? Learn more about the podcast and this episode on the show notes here!  Learn about Anna and her offerings at www.vibrantreiki.com Thanks for listening and have a magical day! www.rainbowsarecircles.com II FB II IG II Patreon

Hello, you beautiful being! Are you a curious creature wanting to soak in the wonders of the world? Do you love personal development and want to be the best version of yourself? Are you curious about mystical phenomena and alternative health, but aren’t sure where to start? Do you believe in magic (or at least really want to?)  Well my soul friend, you’re in the right place! In this new podcast, we explore the wonders of this world with an open heart and open mind. We talk about personal development and how we can live up to our potential. We explore alternative health practices such as energy healing and sound therapy. We demystify the “mystical” to better understand how certain things work, such as crystals, astrology and tarot cards. A lot of what we discuss is not mainstream or scientifically proven - which is exactly why we approach the topics with openness, curiosity and a willingness to be guided by our own direct experiences. We don’t tell you what to believe, but rather present the wisdom of people that are passionate in their fields and encourage you to explore what’s true for you. Join me on this journey of personal development & life exploration! Learn more about this episode on the Show Notes here! Thanks for listening and have a magical day! www.rainbowsarecircles.com II FB II IG II Patreon