Serenity Now: Holistic Approaches to Health & Happiness

Enjoy this guided meditation and body scan for relaxation and stress reduction by Danielle Ratliff, founder of Joyful Rising, LLC. Website: www.joyfulrising.com Email: danielle@joyfulrising.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook: www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle

Are you addicted to busyness? In epidsode (my first recording in 11 weeks), I challenge you to think about whether or not you are “addicted to busy” like me. I know I was and I wore it like a badge of honor. It was part of my identity. I’ve made a lot of changes over the last year in regards to work-life balance. I stopped networking and saying yes to every social invite at the end of 2018. In June, I stepped back from my role as a weekly talk radio show/podcast host and only recorded new shows sporadically as I felt inspired. But it wasn’t until I stepped back from my role as a massage therapist here to just run Serenity Now as an owner that my work hours decreased to a traditional 40-hour work week. And as I suddenly had more time for myself, there was an epiphany moment … I was unconsciously using my busyness as an avoidance strategy. Underneath everything, there were buried emotions I didn’t want to acknowledge. And as long as I was busy, there was no time to feel those things. Slowing down and creating space allowed my repressed anger and insecurity to bubbled up. It wasn’t pretty and it wasn’t fun, but I needed to feel those not so pleasant emotions to release them. Are you unconsciously avoiding something with busyness, too? Allowing yourself to acknowledge and feel the things you hide from the world (and yourself) is a beautiful thing – because then you can move forward. You transition into a better version of yourself. There wasn’t a script or outline for this episode. And while the perfectionist in me thinks it would have been more polished if I’d followed a plan like I used to, it’s raw and real. Just me and the mic and my thoughts on how I began the process of undoing my addiction to busyness. How I began releasing my repressed anger and insecurities. If you think you might be “addicted to busy,” I hope you’ll give it a listen and start creating space in your life to release whatever lies buried beneath the surface. Sponsored by Serenity Now Massage Therapy in Cornelius, NC where we help people struggling with stress and chronic pain get a great massage so they can relax and find holistic, long-term relief. You can book your massage with easy online booking at www.serenitynowcornelius.com/schedule or call 704-465-5527. Email Danielle: danielle@joyfulrising.com Danielle’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Danielle’s Facebook: www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle

Sandra Stewart is a national board certified naturopath with 20 years of experience. She explained homotoxicology and the concept of allowing our bodies express and release toxicities instead of simply covering up symptoms. Sandra also shared some practical tips for anxiety including how to do a “vagus nerve reset." Sponsored by Serenity Now Massage Therapy in Cornelius, NC where we help people struggling with stress and chronic pain get a great massage so they can relax and find holistic, long-term relief. You can book your massage with easy online booking at www.serenitynowcornelius.com/schedule or call 704-465-5527. Sandra Stewart’s naturopathic practice, Life-Thyme Solutions, is a safe space in Cornelius, NC designed to help and support a wide variety of life traumas both physical and mental, through natural and holistic methods. Sandra will be offering $75 off of an initial consultation with the code SERENITY from now until 9/30/19. In-person and long-distance virtual consultations and appointments can be made online at www.Life-Thyme.com, and her "Be The Healer" online course and free morning routine courses are available through her website as well. Email Danielle: danielle@joyfulrising.com Danielle’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Danielle’s Facebook: www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle How to Complete a Vagus Nerve Reset for Anxiety - When you are feeling an anxious you can lay down with your hands behind your head and look straight at the ceiling. Without moving your head having your eyes move all the way to the right as far as they can and hold for 30 seconds. Look back to the ceiling and then take your eyes all the way to the left and hold for 30 seconds. Your eye muscles may shake a little or have a difficult time holding but do the best you can. With your hands you can feel a muscular movement on the base of your skull each time you move your eyes to the left or right. This movement helps to reset the Vagus nerve. If you’re in a meeting and can’t lay on the floor, simply close your eyes for a moment, keep your head straight and move the eyes to the left and right while they are closed.

If you are feeling exhausted and wondering if you’re experiencing burnout, I encourage you to listen to this week’s show. I discuss some of the signs of burnout, share practical tips for overcoming it and reveal how I have implemented the same tips to find better work-life balance. The ironic thing is that as I was preparing for this show topic, I realized that I am still working through a bit of burnout myself and needed to continue scaling back my commitments for my own work-life balance. So, I made a big decision. While I have loved being an on-air radio host with WSIC, I am stepping down and will be producing the Serenity Now show on my own as a podcast instead … from my closet because that’s the only place I can hide from my cats so they don’t meow mid-taping. Seriously. My closet seemed to work just fine though. Email: danielle@joyfulrising.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook: www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Sponsored by Serenity Now Massage Therapy in Cornelius, NC where we help people struggling with stress and chronic pain get a great massage so they can relax and find holistic, long-term relief. You can book your massage with easy online booking at www.serenitynowcornelius.com/schedule.

I learned about Safe Alliance five or six years ago and was immediately drawn to their mission because of my own history as a sexual assault survivor. They are doing wonderful things in the Lake Norman and Charlotte, North Carolina community for individuals impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault, and I knew that I wanted to feature them as my last charity spotlight before transitioning 100% to practical tips and topics related to stress and overwhelm. Tenille Banner, Director of Volunteer Relations discusses Safe Alliance’s mission, services provided and tips for those who have been impacted by trauma. Most importantly, she provides a reminder that survivors are not alone and there is hope for healing. To learn more about volunteering or donating, visit www.safealliance.org. Their confidential Greater Charlotte Hope Line is available 24/7 for info on parenting, domestic violence and sexual assault at (980) 771-4673. Follow Danielle’s Journey of Rising Above the Anxiety & Overwhelm Cycle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy (Cornelius, NC): Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

I used to say yes to almost everything because I thought I should. I had wrapped my identity in people pleasing and being an over-achieving workaholic. It turns out that's not so great for one's mental and physical health - it's a recipe for stress and overwhelm. In this this week's show, I elaborate on how I realized saying no was necessary for my physical and mental health. I also share the practical steps I used to navigate this new concept of saying no and honoring my own needs first. I am thrilled to say that I've since learned how to say no to the things that don't propel me towards my goals or bring me joy, that I'm much happier AND my physical and mental health is at an all time high. You have the power to make these changes too if it's something you struggle with. ⠀ Follow Danielle’s Mental Health Journey: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Today's technology is amazing, but I believe the constant distraction of texts, emails, and social media can sometimes prevent us from connecting with ourselves and others. This week's radio show is a deep dive into my how my phone and laptop were affecting my mental and physical health in not so pleasant ways. I also share some practical tips that have allowed me to create disconnection time for myself and that may help if you are feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated by your devices. If you are struggling with chronic pain and stress and in the local Lake Norman area, book your next massage at Serenity Now Massage Therapy in Cornelius, NC with easy online booking at www.serenitynowcornelius.com/schedule. Follow Danielle’s Journey of Rising Above the Anxiety & Overwhelm Cycle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy (Cornelius, NC): Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Dr. Lexi Lain is a Naturopathic Doctor, Owner of Summit Vitality in Davidson, North Carolina and my personal naturopath. She explained what naturopathic medicine entails and we discussed the relationship between our gut, adrenals and thyroid as they relate to mental health. Dr. Lain also provided some practical holistic tips for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression and insomnia. To learn more about Dr. Lain, visit www.summitvitality.com and be sure to schedule your free 30 Minute Discovery Session if you are curious if naturopathic medicine may be beneficial to you. You can also follow her on social media at www.facebook.com/summitvitalitydavidson and www.instagram.com/drlexilain. If you are struggling with chronic pain and stress and in the local Lake Norman area, book your next massage at Serenity Now Massage Therapy in Cornelius, NC with easy online booking at www.serenitynowcornelius.com/schedule. Follow Danielle’s Journey of Rising Above the Stress & Overwhelm Cycle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Are you tossing and turning most nights? Are you waking up exhausted every day? Sleep is a foundation of health, so maybe it’s time to up level your sleep hygiene game. Greg Law, owner of Sweet Dreams Mattress & Furniture in Cornelius, North Carolina explains his game plan for better sleep. He shares some great tips including using the right bed gear, creating the right sleep environment, and the importance of limiting screen time, especially in the evening. Learn more about up leveling your sleep game with Sweet Dreams Mattress & Furniture at www.shopsweetdreams.com. Text SERENITYNOW directly through their website to claim your free travel pillow (limit of one free travel pillow per person, per household, per family) and 30% off any custom pillow (includes a personalized fitting in store). Get a great massage and find serenity today at Serenity Now Massage Therapy in Cornelius, North Carolina with easy online booking at www.serenitynowcornelius.com/schedule. Social Media Links: Danielle: www.instagram.com/joyfulrising and www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Serenity Now Massage Therapy: www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN and www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Are you curious about leading a more holistic lifestyle? Have you felt overwhelmed when trying to make changes to improve your health and given up in the past? As someone with a six-year career as a Registered Dietitian prior to becoming a massage therapist and owner of Serenity Now Massage Therapy, I have always cared about health. Over the years, I have been able to transition away from processed foods and choose mostly organic foods most of the time. Of course, I still eat out at restaurants on occasion and do have days where I eat an entire bar of dark chocolate in one sitting. But I noticed in general, that as I fueled my body and mind with higher quality, non-processed foods, my cravings for the processed stuff mostly disappeared and I felt better physically. This week's radio show features T McLeod or "Farmer T," owner of McLeod Organics within The Bradford Store, an organic grocery store and urban farm located in Huntersville, North Carolina. We discussed why natural foods and products are often healthier for us, how our food starts in the soil and the importance of us learning to enjoy the simple things in life. He also shared some practical tips for individuals looking to switch to a more holistic lifestyle without becoming overwhelmed in the process. Visit The Bradford Store at 15915 Davidson Concord Highway in Huntersville, North Carolina for your organic & local grocery and gardening needs and be sure follow along on social media at www.instagram.com/thebradfordstore and https://www.facebook.com/The-Bradford-Store-141739866152/ for information on future classes and holistic lifestyle tips. Follow Danielle’s Journey of Rising Above Anxiety & Overwhelm: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

It’s been laid on my heart from some recent experiences that it was time to do a solo show and share my thoughts on the masks and walls we put up as protective mechanisms. Sometimes these "protectors" can ultimately block the love and good in our lives. I discuss the importance of letting our guards down with the right people and some tips on how to let others in. I also took some time to share my vision for the show moving forward as it is transitioning into a platform for weekly tangible tips to empower you to rise above the anxiety & overwhelm cycle and lower your stress levels holistically. Follow Danielle’s mental health journey: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy (Cornelius, North Carolina): Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Do you find yourself waking up each morning and jumping immediately into stressful thoughts and to-do lists? Are you living your life from a reactionary state versus being intentional about your mindset? Maybe it's time to shift your morning routines. Mike Mooney is the author of Reputation Shift and a Sports Engagement Veteran with multiple senior executive motorsports positions. He has successfully transitioned into the entrepreneurial world of keynote speaking, leadership workshops, and branding and didn’t pull his hair out in the process. Mike shares how he sets himself up for success with a morning routine of intention setting and meditation. The takeaway message is that mindset and consistency are key and that there is no "right" way to meditate. Learn more about Mike: www.mikemooney.com Follow Danielle for more mental health tips: www.instagram.com/joyfulrising or www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy for more holistic health tips and studio updates: www.instagram.com/serenitynowlkn or www.facebook.com/serenitynowlkn

Soren Kierkegaard said, “The most common form of despair is not being who you are." Pam shared some thoughts on how we can be true to ourselves while still considering the feelings of others at the same time. This "outward mindset" does not mean we have to betray ourselves in the process, it simply means doing our best to act out of love and realizing each one of us is human. To learn more about Pam and Sanctuary Women in Ministry, visit https://sanctuarywomen.org/. Follow Danielle’s mental health journey: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Finding community is the theme this week on “Serenity Now: Holistic Approached to Health & Happiness,”as I interviewed Stacey Rosenthal, owner of FIT4MOM Lake Norman. She shared her story of overcoming post-partum depression following the birth of her second child and how connecting with like-minded individuals helped her through that difficult time. We discussed how movement and physical activity can improve mental health and Stacey explained what the FIT4MOM fitness community has to offer local Lake Norman moms. To learn more about Fit4Mom Lake Norman, visit https://lakenorman.fit4mom.com/. Follow Danielle's mental health journey: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Darius “Olvr…” Oliver is an upcoming musician and survivor of childhood molestation who shared his powerful story publicly for the first time during this interview. We discussed the perception that sexual assault doesn’t happen in the African American male community, and he shared how he is giving back to Freedom 4/24, a human trafficking non-profit. We also discussed his future in music and ended the show with one of his original songs, Overdrive, from his EP Clarity. To learn more about Olvr… and his journey, follow along at www.instagram.com/olvr_official or at www.twitter.com/Olvr15. To learn more about Freedom 4/24, visit www.freedom424.org. Follow Danielle’s mental health journey: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Hope is the theme as I interview Debbie O’Handley, Executive Director of the Hope House Foundation. They are a local non-profit that provides housing and support services for women and children experiencing situational homelessness. We discussed the common denominator of pain among these women and how the resources and support provided by Hope House allows them to transition into a new mentality of hope and opportunity. To learn more about the Hope House Foundation and how you can get involved or donate, visit https://www.hopehousefoundation.org/. Follow Danielle’s mental health journey: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Tambry Harris is a survivor of childhood sexual assault, a life coach, spiritual director, speaker and founder of Going Forward: Survivors to Thrivers. She shared her backstory and we discussed how limiting beliefs and low self-worth can play out in our life decisions. To learn more about Tambry, visit www.tambryharris.com Follow Danielle’s Mental Health Journey: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Mamie Neely is a Chron’s Disease Patient Advocate and Mental Health Advocate who has risen above her struggles with chronic autoimmune illness, anxiety and depression. She openly shares her story and we discuss the importance of choosing joy and gratitude, even during difficult times. Counseling and meditation were helpful tools to Mamie and meditation continues to keep her on track mentally. To learn more about Mamie, visit https://mamielneely.wixsite.com/website or follow her on Instagram at www.instagram.com/mamie_neely1. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Michelle Simmons is a Mental Health Advocate, blogger, and women’s support group leader. She shared her story of being bullied as a child and her experience with anxiety, post-partum depression and multiple suicide attempts. In April of 2018, she made some big life changes that have positively impacted her mental health. We talked about ways we show ourselves love and support and hope that everyone listening will prioritize self-care as well. To learn more about Michelle and her women’s support group based out of Mooresville, North Carolina, visit www.awovenmind.com/. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

I learned about Autism After 18, this month's charity spotlight, through a local networking group, Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC). Brett Metcalf discussed BLOC and then Margaret Neelson, a chairperson from Autism After 18, explained their mission of unlocking life’s potential for adults with autism. Her son has autism and she had a vision of creating a support network where he could make friends and learn life skills. That vision has certainly come to fruition over the past few years and they have a big vision of creating chapters across the country. To learn more about BLOC, visit www.businessleadersofcharlotte.com or attend their next after hours event Wed, Feb 27 at 5:30pm at Slate Billiards. To learn more about Autism After 18, visit https://autismafter18.org/ or email Margaret at mneelsen@autismafter18.org. They host regular events for adults with autism and their next fundraising event "Dollar for a Scholar" in support of World Autism Month in April (details will be posted online by the end of March). Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Dr. Catherine Browne is a Doctor of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine, Professionally Registered Herbalist, and Licensed Acupuncturist with a private practice, In Harmony Wellness, located in Statesville, NC. She is also the author of the book, Natural Therapies for Overcoming Opioid Dependency. Dr. Browne shared how her family was personally touched by addiction when their son overdosed after becoming addicted to pain pills. We discussed how current research studies and the FDA are now supporting holistic options like acupuncture and massage as effective options for pain management. To learn more about Dr. Browne, visit www.inharmonywellnessclinic.com. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Stephanie McPherson is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Behaviors and Motivators High Performance Life Coach and Creator and Host of the Cooking Show, De Fa Rekin Licious. She was definitely one of my most animated guests to date and there were points in this interview where the WSIC sound expert couldn't help but laugh along with us. We discussed the importance of mindset and focusing on your “why” so healthy lifestyle changes stick. To learn more about Stephanie, visit www.defarekinlicious.com or www.facebook.com/defarekinlicious. Claim your free 75 Minute Healthy Life Strategy with Stephanie session by emailing defreakinlicious@gmail.com with subject line #serenitynow. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Camille Wilson is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Coach with a private practice, Full Journey Counseling & Wellness, located in Davidson, NC. She shared how her own mental health struggles led her to pursue a career counseling. We discussed trends she sees in clients who have experienced trauma or who are going through life transitions in addition to reasons why people are afraid to seek counseling. To learn more about Camille, visit www.fulljourney.org and to schedule your free 30 min consultation for show listeners, call 704-980-9599 or email Camille@FullJourney.org. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

This week I spotlighted a local non-profit, The HD Life Foundation. I interviewed Debbie Dalton, who has experienced incredible tragedy. Her son, Hunter Dalton shockingly overdosed from recreational drugs laced with illicit fentanyl in 2016. She has since turned pain into purpose and now educates others about the dangers of recreational drug use through the HD Life Foundation. To learn more about The HD Life Foundation, visit https://thehdlife.org/. Debbie is available for group presentations of any size and they are currently seeking hole sponsors and raffle prizes for their upcoming golf tournament fundraiser, March 23rd. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Rob Bennett owns and operates a few lake related businesses and is beginning a journey in empowerment speaking and mentoring with his new company, Disputelogic based out of Davidson, North Carolina. We discussed New Year’s resolutions, vision boards, meditation, gratitude and the importance of determining your “why” of what drives you in life. To learn more about Rob and his endeavors visit www.facebook.com/disputelogic. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Dr. Russell Greenfield is the Medical Director of Novant Health's Integrative Medicine Clinic. He shared how integrative medicine has impacted him personally and explained this mind-body-spirit approach to health. Integrative medicine combines conventional western medicine with nutrition counseling, physical activity recommendations, mindfulness practices, and other complementary therapies like massage, traditional Chinese medicine, Tai Chi, acupuncture, and yoga therapy. If you are currently undergoing or have recently completed cancer treatment, call 704-316-5222 or visit www.novanthealth.org/integrativemedicine for more information on Novant Health’s Integrative Medicine Clinic. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Dr. Damon Silas is a Clinical Psychologist, Hypnotist, Wellness Coach, Author and Speaker based out of Cornelius, North Carolina. He shared his story of pursuing psychology after being impacted by the loss of his sister from homicide. We discussed current trends in trauma treatment, including movement towards natural interventions and mind-body connection. I share how CBD Oil (Hemp Oil) helped me wean off pharmaceuticals and Dr. Silas shares a bit about tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques). We also discuss how meditation, positive affirmations, and being present can help you get “unstuck” in life. Learn more about Dr. Damon Silas at https://damonsilaspsychology.com/, email damon@TippingPointWellnessLLC.com or call 704-781-7117. Social Media Links – Instagram: @DrSilas_Psychology & @DrSilas_Books; Facebook: @DamonSilasPsychology & @FromMourningtoAction Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Chris Villani is a Performance Strategist and Owner of Performance Coaching Unleashed based out of Charlotte, North Carolina. He specializes in working with athletes and business leaders. Listen in for Chris' take on life, failures, goal setting and how to move past common mental blocks. Learn more about Chris at https://www.performancecoachingunleashed.com/ or his LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisvillani/. You are also welcome to email him at info@chrisvillani.com or call 704-574-9443.

Hilary Porta is a Life Architect, Mindset Ninja, Disrupter, and CEO of H Porta Coaching & Consulting based out of Mooresville, North Carolina. While she coaches many high-level executives and entrepreneurs, her passion is helping women "rebuild, reinvent & reemerge" after divorce. I shared a bit about my two divorces and we discussed the importance of finding yourself outside of the identity of a relationship. Learn more about Hilary at www.HPorta.com, email her at hilary@hporta.com, or call 704-491-9161. Women experiencing separation or divorce are encouraged to check out her closed Facebook group "Life After Divorce" at https://www.facebook.com/groups/Reemerging/. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Margi Kyle is the North Carolina founder for Little Smiles, a local non-profit that gives kids the chance to be kids during difficult times. Nurses and social workers submit wish fulfillment and other requests to Little Smiles on behalf of kids in their care. Wishes come in all sizes, but Little Smiles never turns down a request, and at least 93% of funds donated are used for granting wishes to local children and their families. Visit https://littlesmilesnc.org/ or to learn more, volunteer, or to make a difference with a donation. You can also contact Margi directly at mkyle@littlesmiles.org or 704-661-5223.

Christine Williams is a Certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, Transformational Health & Life Coach, and Owner of Shine Wellness in Concord, North Carolina. We touched on the hormonal impact of stress and discussed how any lifestyle change requires a mindset shift. Perfectionism is one of mind games we play with ourselves but it does little to propel us towards positive change. Listen in for some self-care tips and then visit https://shine-wellness.com/ or call 704-634-8128 to learn more.

Geaneen Moore is a Licensed Professional Counselor based out of Matthews, North Carolina. She provides individual, family, and group counseling to those with mental health struggles. We discuss some of the misconceptions about therapy and the importance of self-care. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Drs. Landrus & Cepeda Carter, Owners & Chiropractors at Growing Tree Chiropractic in Mooresville, NC and I discuss how chiropractic adjustments can decrease chronic pain and improve your mental state. Fair warning though…we get a little nerdy discussing the science behind our parasympathetic (“rest & digest”) and sympathetic (“fight or flight”) nervous systems. For more information, visit https://www.growingtreechiro.com/, email gtcchiro@gmail.com or call 980-689-1893. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Samantha Leonard is the Owner & Yoga Therapist at Davidson Yoga Therapy located in Davidson, North Carolina. We discuss how many of us live in a constant state of “fight or flight” and how breathing, meditation and yoga therapy can bring you back to a calmer baseline. Her mission is to help you “master your pain, manage your condition and overcome the anxiety of powerlessness over your health and well-being.” Samantha offers free 30 min initial consultations for chronic pain, emotional well-being and neurological conditions. Watch her video “A Sheep in Every Breath” explaining guided breath (sheep counting) to ease anxiety and sleep better at www.vimeo.com/239589987. Visit www.davidsonyogatherapy.com/ to learn more about her services.

Kara Angell is a 15-year-old high school sophomore who is a self-proclaimed Teenage Mental Health Advocate. Kara bravely shares her story of her personal battles with anxiety and depression and how she is working on some mental health resources for teens. She is currently designing a mobile app and creating a non-profit organization called Ripple Life. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN

Lindsay Bierwert is the Owner and Acupuncturist at Sticks & Stones Acupuncture. Did you know that acupuncture needles are so small that 30 can fit into one hypodermic needle (like the ones used to draw blood)? We forgot to bring that fact up during the show, but we discussed a lot of other great information, like Chinese medicine, Tai Chi, cupping, and guasha.

Jennifer Shiley is the Founder & CEO of Young Elites, my October Charity Spotlight. Young Elites brings the best of the community together to support high school girls and prepare young women to be leaders. I have been involved with this confidence-building organization as a corporate sponsor, Summit speaker and mentor for a few years now and love their mission!

Wendie Lloyd is my personal counselor in additional to being a Transformational Life Coach, keynote speaker, author of the book "The Mindset Makeover" and an amazing human! Her company, Coaching What Matters, is based out of Huntersville, North Carolina.

My inaugural show, where I share my backstory, explain the word "holistic" and share my vision for future shows. While I am no mental health expert, I am a self-proclaimed mental health advocate. I have been through a lot of “stuff” in my 35 years. I have battled anxiety and depression since age 10 and struggled with emotional eating in my teens and early 20s. I was raped at age 27 and three months later, attempted suicide. I have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but have discovered how to rise above my mental health challenges, all while building a thriving therapeutic massage studio in Cornelius, North Carolina. Follow Danielle: Instagram - www.instagram.com/joyfulrising Facebook - www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingwithdanielle Follow Serenity Now Massage Therapy: Instagram - www.instagram.com/serenitynowLKN Facebook - www.facebook.com/serenitynowLKN