Majestic Living

An "Osho" Moment

2011-03-11T22:53:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone!

I know it's been a long time since I last posted (10 months, in fact!)... however I have not forgotten about you. Instead, I will say that I've been having an "Osho" moment. My energies and attentions have just been focused elsewhere, however there has been a recent change in the tides, and I'm coming back to writing and sharing with you!

As it's very late, this one will be a quickie.

This past year, my focus has not really been centered on business, but instead on family, laying roots, building foundations and what it means to be myself in the world we're in. ...All very fascinating and important subjects!...

And then, tonight, the question came up, "Have I wasted these past months by not focusing on growing my business or by not spending my time on financially ambitious endeavors?"

The answer came while I was doing the dishes. I was feeling the sensation of the warm water flowing over my fingers- the soap suds bubbling and gliding on my skin- and then I remembered: there is nothing more Tantric or meditative than THIS moment, right here right now. There was nothing else I was "supposed" to be doing, or anywhere else I was "supposed" to be, but right there at the sink washing some dishes.

This moment led me to think about you. Because, I know that if you're anything like me, every now and again you may get caught up in the 'how' and 'when' and 'why' things are supposed to be done. My question is this: what would life be like if we stopped wondering whether or not we're wasting time on a particular job, career path or relationship, wishing we had a different bodies, different life circumstances, or didn't have to do chores (like the dishes! =P ), etc... and instead, became completely present and soaked in all the delightful magic from the moment we're in- whatever it may be? What a life that would be! =)

The funny thing here is that Osho totally had it right in his meditation series. His advice for focusing your mind during meditation was to just let the mind wander when it wants to- and bring it back to the task at hand when it remembers to. By doing it this way, you're not forcing your brain into something it's not ready for, and you're also allowing yourself to become used to taking in maximum pleasure in the present moment.

May you each be discovering utter and sheer delight during all the 'moment-to-moments' in your days!

Life is scrumptious.

Until next time,

Cindy

Igniting Your Passion (Part 2)

2010-05-10T15:38:00.000-07:00

The post today is going to be very brief and to the point. So here it goes:

Your assignment in the first part of Igniting Your Passion was to write out any ideas/fantasies that made you feel sensual and passionate. [Remember, these don't have to be sexual fantasies. They are just supposed to be things that sound lovely to you! Some examples could be: taking a lovely bubble bath/ swimming naked in the ocean/ making a chocolate mould of your body, to be painted and sumptuously eaten/ etc...]

So, today, I'm asking you to pick one item off of your list, and do your best to accomplish it! (Even if you'll feel ridiculous doing it.)

For instance, last week, I wrote about how one of the passionate moments I would love to experience is swimming naked in a swimming pool full of chocolate. Mmmhhhhhhh! How Fabulous! :) And, while, I probably can't actually create that specific experience today... can I cover myself in melted chocolate, wrap up in a piece of plastic, and enjoy the experience? ABSOLUTELY!

The key here is that you're not just talking and thinking about getting into your passion.... you're using what you've got and actually doing it.

So may you have fun, feel a little silly, and get out of your box!

And, until next time...

Cindy Neder Highfield
Life Coach, Tantra Counselor
Majestic Living, LLC.
www.majesticlivingnow.com
cindy@majesticlivingnow.com
(646) 202-1782

Let the journey begin...

Inner Mojo Step #6: Ignite Your Passion!

2010-05-05T12:14:00.000-07:00

To ignite your passion! Spark your ardor! To set your feelings alight! Fan the flames of your desire! ...

There are so many ways to say it... however the key to your passion is to not just talk about it. You have to really mean it, and then ACT!

In step #5, we talked about how to discover what you really (Really) want- and good thing we did- because today we're going to use those results to really drive home today's post!

Ok, so here's the quick and gritty:

If you are crystal clear on what you want, but are lacking passion, motivation, drive, etc... or your intentions are muddled- then it doesn't matter one iota how badly you want something, because you will not get it.

Here's an example: More than anything else in the world, you want Chicken Ala King for dinner. Even thinking about it get's your mouth watering. You've never been so certain of anything before... dinner must be Chicken Ala King. However, there are a few obstacles to overcome on the road to this goal. First of all, you need to to have a general understanding and talent for cooking. You will also need a recipe, and a trip to the grocery store. Lastly, you must actually cook the meal. What if you lacked the passion or motivation to complete just one of the steps? There would be a kink in the Ala King chain... and you would not accomplish your goal. Perhaps you would abandon your dinner vision and just order pizza instead. You would have failed.

I know it may sound harsh, but without guidance or a well-lit fire under your butt- you are essentially setting yourself up for failure.

...And I want you to succeed. BIG TIME! :)

So, if you know what you want, but you're lacking the motivation and drive to see those visions become reality- here's the first step of what I recommend my clients do!

First of all, I highly suggest bringing something to mind that is an easy passion-connection for you. For instance, not everyone knows what it feels like to get passionate over accomplishing a goal, or writing a book... but almost everyone can relate to a memory of a passionate, steamy experience!

So let's use that!

On a sheet of paper, write out 5 fantasies that make you feel sensual and passionate!(Don't worry... they don't have to be sexual fantasies, although it's best if they are sensual).

There are no limits on this exercise. The only rule is: if you start to feel silly... don't back off- use it! :)

Just as an example, I will share one of my own.

I would LOVE to fill a swimming pool with warm melted chocolate, and swim naked in it.
That would be absolutely DeLightful!

What is it for you? Whether it's taking a luxurious bubble bath, or laying on the beach, soaking in sun and feeling fantastic- I want to know about it!

Just keep your imagination open, and give this a try! Go ahead and try this out soon and stay tuned in, because in a day or two I'll be posting the the next step to furthering the process of reawakening your passion.

I'm sending you all love, and
until next time...

Cindy Neder Highfield
Life Coach, Tantra Counselor
Majestic Living, LLC.
www.majesticlivingnow.com
cindy@majesticlivingnow.com
(646) 202-1782

Let the journey begin...

Inner Mojo Step #5, Discover what you really (Really) want!

2010-04-27T13:14:00.000-07:00

This is probably my favorite step we will cover in the 9 Step System.

I LOVE it. :)

Because this is, in many ways, the crux of the whole plan. It requires you to become absolutely certain of your priorities and live to that end...(no-shit-no-kidding).

If you don't know what motivates you, how can you know where to devote your time and energies?

And, if you're not moving from your knowing (with courage and clarity) then I do believe you are missing the whole point of life!

Without love and divinely guided passion, life can be just a series of endless days bumping into each other. We become products of life... just waiting for it to end. Some days speed by, others seem to crawl... but all in all the odds are pretty good that life may become this vast expanse of dense depression.

And that turns you from an "Active Participant" of Life... into a "victim".

Let me be clear- what motivates each person is completely unique. There's no "right" way to do it- it all depends on how you feel about your life.

For instance, some people feel full of purpose and motivated when they pray, or meditate. For others it's singing. Or traveling. Or spending time with their families. Or building the success of their business.

What is it for you?

I think Lady Godiva makes a great example of this exact idea. No, truly! She was clear on her priorities. She knew what she wanted and was committed to getting it at any cost. She knew her husband was bullying his subjects into paying ridiculously high taxes, and wanted to take a stand. She was so committed to this end that she was willing to ride her horse, stark naked, through the city so Lord Godiva would finally lower the taxes. W-O-W. :)

If you're not feeling very connected to your inner 'Lady Godiva', or not sure where to start...why not try this exercise!

1. Get a piece of paper and draw a line down the middle of the page- creating 2
columns.

2. At the top of the first column, write the word, "NO", and at the top of the
second column write the word, "YES!".

3. In the "YES!" column, write down everything you really Really want
(regardless of the time it would actually take to get it, or the financial resources it would require.) Go crazy here! Write everything you can think of-
even if it sounds silly or ridiculous. It can be a physical thing that you
want, or a state of mind, or something more emotional, etc...
The only requirement is that everything in this column must make you so excited that your palms sweat and you get butterflies in the pit of your stomach when you think about it! :)

4. If you're not sure of what you want, then begin with the "NO" column.
Sometimes when you have the opportunity to get clear on what you don't want,
you can deduce what you do. Fill out this column until what you do
want starts to become clearer!

That's it for today, my dear friends! So until next time, I send you all a big embrace, and much love!

Cindy Neder Highfield
Life Coach, Tantra Counselor
Majestic Living, LLC.
www.majesticlivingnow.com
cindy@majesticlivingnow.com
(646) 202-1782

Let the journey begin...

Inner Mojo Step #4: Re-Write Unhealthy Habit Patterns

2010-04-06T20:05:00.000-07:00

Everyone experiences negative emotions at one time or another. For some, those emotions are temporary and they can clear them almost as quickly as they came up. For others of us, though, negative emotions are a part of our habitual thinking patterns.

When you take the time to release negative emotions, you've done yourself a huge favor. But the work doesn't end there.

If you've ever wondered why you just can't seem to switch out of pessimistic thinking, did you ever think it could be because your thought processes are actually attributed to unhealthy subconscious habit patterns?

That's right. About 80% the choices we make daily aren't based on free choice. They're based on previously programmed experiences.

Think of your brain as a series of computer programs. Most of them are programmed in place during our childhoods- like the ones that tell us what is true about relationships, work ethic, morals and spiritual beliefs. These programs become the basis for our actions. Our actions feed our thoughts. Our thoughts are directly related to our emotions. So on and so forth. Can you see how this all comes together?

If you identify a habit pattern in your life that is no longer serving you, and you're ready to change- there are 2 different roads to take. The first involves much time and painstaking attention. Let's say that a person's habit is always having pessimistic thoughts. Every time someone says something positive, this person always has an equally negative counter thought in their mind. They never allow themselves to dream or hope too big. And, they don't call themselves pessimists- they are realists.

If this person was ready to change, and wanted to take the first road, here is what I would recommend they do: every time a negative thought entered their mind- they'd think the exact opposite of it. They would write out their want/wish list and practice small random acts of kindness (like putting money in a parking meter that isn't theirs, or buying the person behind them at the deli a cup of coffee). It might be weeks, or even months, of this constant attention until they'd begin to notice a long-lasting change in their thoughts.

If this same person wanted to accomplish that same outcome in half the time, I would recommend they try subconscious meditations (just like the ones I use with many of my clients). They are relatively simple, easy to remember, and very effective.

Whichever road you choose to take- just remember that no matter what your habit is or how long you've had it... you can always change it. It's never too late. With intention, and just a little time and persistence you can begin feeling like a whole new person-- right away! :)

Inner Mojo Step #3, Release Negative Emotions

2010-03-23T13:18:00.000-07:00

As you read the title, were you facetiously thinking, "Just suddenly release all of my negative emotions? Why didn't I think of that!?" ;)

But it does sound nice in theory, doesn't it? And here's the kicker.

It Is Possible.

So often, when it comes to unpleasant emotions and memories, the instinct is to bury them- to make tracks and put so much space between us and them that we can just forget about them! However, we all know that this method doesn't really work- right?

Even if we do successfully forget about whatever-it-is for a brief period, it doesn't take long until they've festered and built up strength and come back to kick our asses.

This is because the key isn't to deny these feelings and emotions. It's to embrace them. I know this might seem counter intuitive -AND- if you want to release and heal these negative emotions and memories so much faster and experience long term results then this is the route you want to take.

Own your negative emotions. Embrace them. Make love to them. Surrender to them. And then you will be free to let them go. Have you ever heard the phrase, "The only way out is through,"? Let this become your new mantra for releasing and healing negative emotions.

By owning your negative emotions and painful memories- you are Accepting Personal Responsibility for them. Is this starting to sound familiar? Are you able to see how the steps are weaving together now?

Bring a negative emotion to mind (one that is fresh for you), and own the way you feel. For instance, if you feel sad then say out loud,

"I feel sad."

If you are depressed then say it out loud,

"I feel depressed."

And then notice the relief you feel wash over you as you surrender to that emotion, instead of fighting to deny it. Now you are free to let it go, and choose to feel a different way, instead.

This is certainly not the only step in completely healing and releasing negative emotions, but it is a Huge first step that will make an immediate difference in how you feel.

A first step you can feel immensely proud of!

That's it for today, so until next time...
I'm sending you love and respect.

Cindy

Cindy Neder Highfield
Life Coach, Tantra Counselor
Majestic Living, LLC.
www.majesticlivingnow.com
cindy@majesticlivingnow.com
(646) 202-1782

Let the journey begin...

Spring is in the Air! [Nutrition Wisdom from Deborah C. Smith]

2010-03-19T17:56:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the air!

As we approach the Vernal Equinox, we can feel our bodies’ subtle (or not so subtle) cries for balance. The time has come to shed winter layers and come out of the darkness into the light! We feel an energy building inside us to connect with that sensation of potential energy surrounding us: the snow melting, the days getting longer and the first signs of new green peeking up at us from the earth. Buds on trees are preparing to burst into new life and flowers are pushing themselves up through the soil. In no time we will be basking in the warmth of the sun again!

What does your body need at this exciting time of transition?

Are you anxious to get moving and feel your muscles toning and slimming again?

Have you noticed any particular cravings at this time of year?

Have you ever considered a Spring cleaning for your body to mirror the one you will probably do for your home or closet?

Spring is a wonderful time to cleanse away toxins and impurities that have been

taking up valuable real estate in your body throughout the winter months. There are wonderful health benefits to cleansing including relieving stress on many of your vital organs, increased energy, clearing out toxins that can lead to discomfort and disease in the body, and more time to accomplish your goals. A cleanse can range from a gentle stepping back from your normal diet to remove

chemicals and processed foods, to a full on fruit and vegetable juice only diet.

As a part of your cleanse you may choose to include a trip to the bath house for sauna or massage, a colonic, or a specific yoga regimen. Cleanses can be done solo or in a group for support and can be altered to suit your personal schedule or dietary needs. A cleanse doesn't have to be something that you suffer through either! It can be fun and full of activities and education that set you on a path for maximum overall health leading into the warm weather seasons.

What are you letting go of at this time of year?

During any transition, it is a valuable process to check in with the needs of the physical self and find systems of support to help us maximize our energy and make the most of every day. If you are considering a Spring cleanse for the first time, make sure to do so with the support of a health professional or nutritionist who can guide you in making the strongest choices for your body.

For information about a Guided Spring Detox & Cleanse Program, please visit Deborah’s Holistic Nutrition website.

YES Becomes So Much Easier When You Prioritize!

2010-03-15T18:27:00.000-07:00

So! You've been living in your YES for 5 days now, and I'm so excited for you. :)

Right around this point in your journey, many people experience a similar bump in the road. I'd like to share a quick tip to help you smoothly transition over this bump (if it is/or becomes true for you at any future point). And that is: What do you do when you and your partner's Yes' are not in alignment? Take the proper time to prioritize.

You'd be surprised how often I hear the question: "But what do I do when it's not in my partner's Yes to help take care of the kids/house work/etc...? What do we do then?"
My answer? Prioritize!

When you get clear on what your priorities are, suddenly the big Yes' fall into place.

If you feel like you and your partner are on separate pages about a particular issue, I recommend sitting down together and talking about what's really important to you as individuals, and as a couple. Chances are, you'll find some common ground together.

Before you know it, you'll realize that even though it's not in your Yes to do chores everyday when you get home-- it is in your YES to assist your partner in feeling happy, supported and loved. Or, the Beloved who loves going out every night with their friends instead of helping out with the kids may realize that in the bigger picture, having a family and being spending quality parenting time with their kids is more in their Yes than going out each night.

note: (Please don't misunderstand me. I am definitely using rather extreme examples here to make a point. My intention is not to judge or condone any behavior, but merely offer another perspective and some helpful hints. I'm not advocating that you shouldn't go out with your friends again, or that you need to turn yourself into a daily cleaning machine. Because I want you to be exactly who you are! And, on the flip side, hanging out with friends when your partner is willing to put the kid's to bed can be a great way to get some much needed re-juicing time and in my opinion, is an important priority, too! A great guide in every situation is balance. :) )

And there you have it! May you and your partner always enjoy being in your YES- just remember the true keys are prioritizing and staying balanced.

I'm sending you love and respect.
And, until next time... keep your eyes on the Big Picture!

Cindy

Cindy Neder Highfield
Life Coach, Tantra Counselor
Majestic Living, LLC.
www.majesticlivingnow.com
cindy@majesticlivingnow.com
(646) 202-1782

Let the journey begin...

Inner Mojo Step #2: Be In Your Yes!

2010-03-09T14:59:00.000-08:00

This is the one step I really see change people's attitudes and lives right there in our session. I love working with someone and seeing their "light bulbs" go off. :)
... And, this step definitely has, what I call, the light bulb effect! ...

Ok, so let's get to the down and dirty because this step is a quick one.

Let's face it: when we were kids, and we asked our parents for something... there were 3 possible answers:

Yes. No. or Maybe.

And I knew that if I heard "maybe"... in most cases I could ware my parents down to a "yes" by the end of the week.

However, we are no longer children, and we don't have to seek anyone else's permission these days. Unfortunately... many people still do tell themselves "maybe" quite a lot.

Every time you tell yourself maybe- you are settling. When you are living in maybe- you are living in complacency.
So often we wonder why we feel passionless, bored and worn down... but all the choices we are making on a daily basis are "settling" choices- instead of ones that support us in feeling passionate and delicious!

Is this starting to make sense? Can you see where in your life you've been settling instead of taking a stand for yourself?... And how you feel each time you settle?

If you're ready to stop settling- here's what I propose!

From now on the only answers to any given question are:

Yes, or No.

There is no Maybe. Get rid of it- don't let it exist anymore.

This means that only a 100% Yes is a Yes. Anything less is a No.

For example, a 68% Yes = No. ... A 99.9% Yes = No.

I know this may sound a little extreme, but until this practice becomes 2nd nature to you, and it is an easy, healthy part of your life- I definitely recommend taking a no-excuses/no-shit-no-kidding approach.

And, through doing this exercise, I am positive you are going to love your results and the new way you start to feel immediately.

I am confident that you're going to love living in your Yes! so much that you'll never revert back to your old ways of "settling" again.

I send you all love and respect, and
Until next time...

Cindy

Cindy Neder Highfield
Life Coach, Tantra Counselor
Majestic Living, LLC.
www.majesticlivingnow.com
cindy@majesticlivingnow.com
(646) 202-1782

Let the journey begin...

Inner Mojo Step #1: Accepting Personal Responsibility

2010-03-04T11:57:00.000-08:00

For the readers out there who are wondering: what on Earth are The 9 Steps to Re-Claiming Your Inner Mojo(TM)? First of all I say, "Welcome!"

I am so glad you are here. :)

The 9 Steps to Re-Claiming Your Inner Mojo(TM) are the actual guidelines I've created over the last 2 years- based on the work I do with my own clients. These are the steps I guide them through in our coaching programs.

The 9 Steps have been designed to support you in loving yourself up, and making positive transformational life changes- when you're ready for them. It's effective, quick, easy, fun- and best of all, at the end of the process- most people feel so good you need to scrape them off the ceiling!

Before I sink my teeth into the first step of Re-Claiming Your Inner Mojo, I'd like to put a suggestion out to you. Now, obviously, you have not hired me as your coach, and these 9 Steps are my personal gift to you. However, you have the potential to really take them and make a significant difference in your life right now. With that in mind- just do me a favor and try out every exercise, tip, trick, and step we cover. Seriously- you're not paying for this content... so you have nothing to lose. But just think if it really works out as well as I know it can! How cool would that be?

Alright, so here we go!

Inner Mojo Step #1:
ACCEPT PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY.

Now, I know that this first step may sound simplistic and self-explanatory, but before you poo-poo it just think about it. How many people- yourself included- do you know who REALLY accept full responsibility for themselves?

I'm not just talking about the big ones... like showing up to work everyday, being a good parent, or making your bills on time every month (which are SO important). I'm talking about the seemingly little things, too!

For instance: have you ever been late for a date or appointment, and made excuses for yourself? ...(even if they were really Really good ones)? Or, have you ever found yourself in the heat of an argument and saying, "You make me SO _(mad/sad/angry/frustrated/etc...)_!" or "I hate it when you always ____(fill in the blank)___!" Those two statements are examples of not accepting Emotional Responsibility for yourself.

Let's take a closer look at the first statement:

"You make me SO..."

In this example, the speaker is not owning their own emotions... instead they're blaming someone else for how they feel. When you think about it- doesn't that just sound silly? I mean- who really has the power to control your emotions? YOU. That's right... you are in control of the experience you're having right now, and you are the only one who can change it. In fact- if you don't like how you're feeling at any given moment, or the results you're getting... it is your responsibility to change it (because no one else will).

It sounds great, right? Change the way you feel and you'll change the results you're getting. For those of you out there who are wondering 'how do I go about doing that'?- I've got a couple great tips to start you on the journey of accepting personal responsibility that you can put into practice today.

1. Stop blaming and making excuses. No exceptions. (I know it may sound a little harsh, however my intention is to make a strong point.) When you're late for a date or an appointment- even by a minute or 2... what you're silently saying to the person you're meeting is that your time is more important than theirs. So, instead of making an excuse and validating that your reason for being late is more important than your commitment to them- just simply acknowledge your lateness, and apologize. It's as simple as that. Let them know that you care, and you're sorry to have wasted their time. When people know you genuinely care about them- you'll go a lot farther with them, and they'll be more inclined to trust you sooner.

2. Take responsibility for your emotions. The next time you feel like someone has caused you anger, pain, frustration, embarrassment, etc... try changing how you communicate your feelings. Let's say, for example, that your partner leaves their dirty socks on the kitchen table after you've just cleaned it, and you're mad because they just saw you clean the table! Instead of blaming, take this marvelous sentence and fill in the blanks.

"Hunny, when you put your dirty socks on the table, I feel mad."

See how that works? All of a sudden you're making a statement about what you're partner did... and letting them know how you feel because of their behavior. You're not blaming... you're not arguing.... and now the door is open for you to make a reasonable request!

3. At the end of each day, right before you go to bed, make a quick mental note of your whole day... and begin to take 100% responsibility for all of your emotions that day. For instance, say to yourself, "At breakfast today I chose to feel happy. On my way to work I chose to feel stressed out and rushed. At work I chose to feel distracted. At lunch I chose to feel giddy and silly. Etc..."

Cover your whole day that way... and leave nothing out!

And, last but not least:

4. Only say you're sorry when you're willing to not repeat the behavior you're apologizing for. I know this one may sound a little strident, however I find it is a good general guide. If you think about it- if you're doing something that you genuinely feel warrants an apology- you've hurt someone deeply. And so you apologize... then you repeat the behavior again and again and again--then in some ways the apology becomes the excuse that makes it OK for us to hurt the ones we care about.

Just by implementing these 4 simple tips into your daily life, I am confident that you will begin to, emotionally, feel so much clearer. What a relief to have less tension with your partner. And, how wonderful it feels to build rapport quickly with colleagues and friends!

I am so excited for you to let go of life skills and habits that aren't working for you- and embrace the ones that do. Perhaps for you that means beginning with these 4 tips!

Stay tuned in for step #2 of 9 this Tuesday! I look forward to seeing you then. :)

I'm sending you love and respect, and
Until next time...

Cindy

Cindy Neder Highfield
Life Coach, Tantra Counselor
Majestic Living, LLC.
www.majesticlivingnow.com
cindy@majesticlivingnow.com
(646) 202-1782

Let the journey begin...

9 Steps to Re-Claiming Your Inner Mojo

2010-02-15T16:43:00.000-08:00

If you've been feeling run down lately- maybe you're having a hard time finding the motivation to get through the day... not to mention pursuing your own dreams and goals- and you're definitely NOT living in your creativity and pleasure... then you're ready to Re-Claim Your Inner Mojo!

I say "RE-Claim" because I believe that we are each born with the innate knowledge and wisdom to absolutely live full and delicious lives. However, over time these natural instincts are trained, taught, and programmed out of us through society, friends, family, or perhaps our own mis-understandings of the world.
These "programs" might be telling us "what it means to be good men/women", or "to never be satisfied with what we have", or that "our sexuality is private and taboo- totally separate from the rest of our lives" [and something that brings a lot of shameful and guilt-ridden baggage with it, too]!
The great news is that when you're ready to re-claim your own inner truths- by using The 9 Steps you can remember them easily, and begin having a different life experience, right now.

I've been teaching these 9 Steps to clients for the past 2 years, however, a couple months ago I knew it was finally time to write down clear-cut, tangible content to share with you!

Today I'm going to tell you what the 9 Steps are, and then in the next couple days I will post again- going more in depth on the first step. Each week I will cover a new step, as well as share a couple exercises, tricks, and tips with you, too.

Ok, seat-belts fastened? 'Cause here we go!

The 9 Steps to Re-Claiming Your Inner Mojo (TM):

1. Accept Personal Responsibility

2. Be in your YES!
3. Release Negative Emotions
4. Re-Write Unhealthy Habit Patterns
5. Discover What You really(Really) Want
6. Ignite Your Passion
7. Cultivate the Keys of Tantra for a Sexier You
8. Program Your Future
9. Create Your Personal Declaration

And that's it! Pretty simple, right? Now we can get down to the nitty-gritty, and discover what all that actually means. :)

The 9 Steps to Re-Claiming Your Inner Mojo (TM) is a system I've created expressly for my coaching clients to get them back into living their lives with passion, joy and pleasure (in a very short period of time). I'm very excited to be sharing quite a few of my secrets with you over the next 9 weeks!

Until then,
I'm sending you Love and Respect.

Cindy

Cindy Neder Highfield
Life Coach, Tantra Counselor
Majestic Living, LLC
www.majesticlivingnow.com
cindy@majesticlivingnow.com
(646) 202-1782

Let the journey begin...

How to find the right Life Coach

2010-02-15T16:41:00.000-08:00

When you're ready to invite a Life Coach into your life- the task of finding the right one can seem quite daunting. How do you guarantee it's a coach you can trust? What results can you expect? What exactly is the role of a life coach? I'm going to share with you some of my personal insider information about finding a great Life Coach.

First of all, when there are thousands of coaches to choose from, it's easy to see how people become overwhelmed when choosing between them. And, of course, the downside of getting overwhelmed is that you might end up procrastinating and putting the choice off- which means that not only do you suffer by not having the right coach in your life, but your potential coach is also missing out on the incredible experience of having you for a client. It's Lose/Lose all the way around.

Because you have so many options when choosing between Life Coaches, I always recommend getting as clear as you can about certain qualities that are important to you. If you're not quite sure what you want in a coach, then see if you can narrow down what you Don't want. For instance, some coaches are certified, while others aren't but they have a lot of hands-on experience. Some work only with women or only with men, some coaches are more traditional in their approach, while others may be more spiritual. For instance, because of my background in Eastern Philosophy and Tantra, people often contact me when they are seeking creative and non-religious based spiritual support. They are not feeling like they're totally experiencing the joy and pleasure in their lives, and by visiting my website, they know that in coming to me, we will heal and uproot the past that is no longer working for them, so that they can live in the present and then move forward so much more easily and quickly. As a general rule of thumb, Life Coaches will work with you on improving your life, as a whole, moving forward.

Once you've decided what traits are important in your ideal coach, you've searched around online or by word of mouth, and you think you've found a coach looks like a good match.

So, what comes next?

Well, I know it may sound simplistic, but read their website. Read all of it. You'll learn a lot about that coach and how they work by reading their already posted content. I know it may be tempting to call up and talk to the coach in person, but do yourself a favor and read the website from top to bottom. The 3 most valuable segments of a coaches website that you can read (in my opinion) are: 1. the About Them page/ 2. the Client Testimonials/ and 3. the FAQ's.
When reading the testimonials, really take the time to notice what is being said by the previous clients. It might sound really great if a coach is "...Really nice- a great person! They felt just like a best friend. I loved spending time with them." ...but if that's the case- be wary! Notice how the testimonial said nothing about the Results they got from working with that particular coach. You already have friends in your life, and you're not paying your coach to be your friend. Chances are if the coach is really good you will come to feel close to them naturally- however it will be a professional relationship built on mutual trust and respect- and Results!

Some of the most important facts that the FAQ should be able to tell you (and if it doesn't I highly recommend asking these questions anyway) are: What is that particular coach's working style? Who do they work best with? And, what would be expected of you, as their client?

If you're still interested in the coach- sign up for a "Getting Acquainted session" if they offer it (or their equivalent).

I know that price might be a big consideration for you. And, to be honest, you may spend anywhere from $100/month up to thousands a month depending on the coach and type of session package you choose, however truth be told that if you find the perfect coach for you- they will be worth Every Penny. Truly- I have turned my life around through working with some coaches of my own- and I know some of the incredible results that my clients have gotten just by working with me. If money is a concern for you, though, I think you'll be surprised to learn that often times coaches offer different packages to meet every budget. For instance, I offer 3 different packages to my clients- so that they can be empowered to make the right choice for them.

At the end of the day, the most important things to remember are that the very best coach will help grow the light inside yourself to shine even brighter. They are the perfect compliment to who you are: the gravy to your potatoes... the syrup to your pancakes. You're not broken- you certainly don't need to be fixed by a Life Coach. And, coaches certainly aren't miracle-makers, either. However, when you find the right Life Coach, and you put your ALL into working with them... seemingly a little magic can happen. Above all else, remember that you only get out what you put in. So, show up and "play the coaching game at 100%", trust the process, enjoy the ride- and reap the incredibly abundant benefits!

Happy coaching to you all, and until next time...

To learn more about Life Coach, Cindy Neder Highfield, Majestic Living, or any programs, classes, and sessions offered through Majestic Living, Click Here!

New Year's Exercise

2010-01-02T12:45:00.000-08:00

Here's an awesome exercise to help you ring in the New Year!

You can give this one a try by yourself, with a partner, or with a group of your friends.

Get 2 pieces of paper. On the first sheet write out everything you want to let go of from last year (2009). Any emotions, thoughts, grudges you may be still holding on to, and are not supporting you in being your absolute healthiest and happiest in this present moment. Let it all go- on that piece of paper. When you're ready (and on a fire-safe surface) burn the paper. As it burns, feel all of those old thoughts and feelings leave your body, too.

Now take that 2nd sheet of paper, and on it write everything in 2010 that you want to create and accomplish. Any goals you have in mind, places you want to travel to, relationships you'd like to create, etc... and keep that piece of paper in a very special place. It should be somewhere you will see it and remember it often.

At the end of 2010, I bet you'll be surprised how many items on your list have come to fruition!

Happy New Year to you all, and may this year be the start (or continuation) of something fantastic!

Until next time,

Cindy

5 Breaths To A More Relaxed You

2009-12-02T17:57:00.000-08:00

Did you know that your breath does a lot more than just let you know that you're alive? It is also a gauge for letting you know what your body's experiencing. When you're excited- your breathing changes. When you're scared- your breathing changes. When you're relaxed- your breathing changes.

And, you know what's really cool? Your breathing will change even before your brain registers that anything's different. That's right. In fact... the natural changing of your breath is what allows your brain to register that something is up.

This means that if you can catch your breath right when it changes and slow it back down to a slow and steady pace, then you are going to significantly reduce the emotional impact you're about to experience- thereby reducing your stress!

The next time that you find yourself facing a potentially stressful situation, (as the Holidays tend to be for many) for instance:
Your relatives are mere minutes away from being on your doorstep, you're still prepping food, you haven't showered, and you just heard a crash in the other room that most likely indicates one of your children has destroyed the Christmas tree.....
OR... You're getting ready to go into the biggest meeting of your career. In fact, you future is riding on the impression you will make in the next 20 minutes and you're starting to feel a little queasy...
...before you panic...
try this quick and simple exercise!

It's called the Four-Sided Breath, and here's how it works. Each breath is made up of 4 segments that represent the 4 Elements (Fire, Air, Water, and Earth). Fire represents your physical side, Air is your mental and intellectual side, Water is your emotions, and Earth is your spirit. There are hundreds of different breath combinations, however the one I'm going to give you now is specifically to help diffuse and relieve stress.

All you have to do is begin to count your breath. You will Inhale for a [steady] count of 4. Hold that breath for a steady count of 4. Exhale for a steady count of 4. And Hold that last exhale for a steady count of 8. Try this breath [at least] five times before you go back to your normal breathing, and at the end you will notice how different you feel!
**(A great tip for counting your breath without getting lost, is to count on your fingers. Begin with your pinky, and count each time your fingers touch your thumb. [eg: pinky= 1, ring finger=2, middle finger=3, and index finger=4])**

And that's it! Who knew you were just 5 breaths a way to a more relaxed and easy you. =)

Be well,
and we hope that this helps your lives this holiday [and everyday] to be more joyous, fun, and relaxed!

Until next time,

Cindy
Personal Life Coach, Reiki & MCT Practitioner
Majestic Living
www.majesticlivingnow.com

Pleasure In The Underground

2009-10-16T08:47:00.000-07:00

I'd like to take a moment and share a personal story with you.

The other day I was riding riding the Subway home. I was on the 6 train, and coming from quite a long morning of work. And even though I was tired and hungry, I noticed that my body felt relaxed.

Really relaxed.

My body felt the maple-syrupy warm and mushy type of relaxed. Which took me by surprise because, to be entirely honest, the subway was loud, crowded, and the man next to me smelled distinctly of Jerk chicken... and yet my body felt like I'd just had a full body massage.

When the subway stopped at 28th St., the doors opened, and I felt a rush of fresh cool air. Suddenly, I had shivers and chills all up and down my spine-- my body just felt so good!

And that's when I noticed... That's right. Right there in the underground of New York, on a crowded, loud, dirty subway car next to the man that smelled of Jerk chicken-- I was incredibly, undeniably, hot-and-bothered-ly Turned On. And I'm vegetarian!

While riding that (and I apologize in advance for this one) pleasure wave, I just had to give a hardy laugh.

This experience is a part of what I've been teaching people about. What all the books and teachings talk about, but can seem so inaccessible to put into practice. How walking the dog, doing the dishes, and even riding the subway home(!) can become an "orgasmic experience". This is a part of what I believe is meant by the phrase, "living an Orgasmic Life".

It's not that suddenly you're different, or that you're daily activities change to become more erotic... but it's how you're availability to open up and experience them shifts! When you give yourself the permission to become turned on at any moment, not only will you feel like you've got a secret super power in your back pocket, but you may also notice that the most insignificant parts of your day are actually a huge turn on!

Osho Zen Tarot Card of The Week

2009-09-03T19:59:00.000-07:00

THE OUTSIDER:

The image for this card is very incredibly powerful. Even just looking at it, I feel an immediate emotional response. Let's take a moment to really get a closer look.

The first thing we see, obviously, is a little child clutching the bars of a chained gate, standing on the outside. He or she is clearly the "outsider" here. Upon second look, we can see the child is looking in on a beautiful rainbow... wanting to be let in to this seemingly beautiful scene. And on last look, we discover that the padlock is actually open. Unlocked. If the child would just take a moment to set aside his/her own story and loneliness, he/she would notice that he/she is in his/her own way- keeping him/her from the rainbow on the inside.

The message this card carries today is truly pivotal because it sends 2 main messages. The first is that sometimes we are so wrapped up in our own stories and perspectives, that we actually miss the truth, and the second is that separateness is just an illusion.

If you are feeling either one of these aspects in your life right now- worry not! You are not alone. Luckily, things are not always as they seem.

That said- you have an opportunity to quit crying over feeling excluded, and allow your inner child to find some healing. Take a moment. Take a breath and a step back. And see that you are the only one stopping you from being where you want to be right now.

The second message... the reminder of the illusion of separateness... is also a wonderful opportunity, and a wake up call! Yes, we are cut from our mothers at birth, and we will experience many made and broken relationships in our lives. Numerous beginnings and endings. And at the end of each relationship- chances are we will feel a sense of loneliness.
The illusion this card is speaking of is much bigger than that.

Zen says we are never truly alone, because beyond our skin and brains- we are all connected. In spirit and being, we can never be separated. We are all interconnected so deeply and strongly that those bonds (while we can't see them with our eyes) will never be broken. A great example of this is looking at a forest. While the trees all seem to be individual trees, with their own stories and lives... underneath the ground their root systems are interconnected! As a human, you are like a tree in that forest. And if you are feeling left out, or on the outside- it's only because of your own inner story.

Remember: Stories are not the truth. They are just that: stories. They are not any more or less important than anyone else's, however this week you are being asked to set aside your story and look for the truth. It is time to step into personal responsibility for your life, and connectivity with others.

You are the only one keeping you separate from others and the world around you. And only you can realize the gate is already unlocked-- are you ready to join the Party?

Osho Zen Tarot Card of The Week

2009-08-19T10:26:00.001-07:00

INTENSITY:

It's time to find your own. Hold your own. Embrace the adventure as you seek and discover for yourself in this Present moment!

The element of this card is Fire, and it's message for you this week is intensity! He is the Knight of Fire, and his shape is that of an arrow: drawn with great and intense focus. He is moving so quickly that he appears to be almost pure energy.

Do not mistake the energy and message behind this card! His intensity is not the kind that bowls people over, or chaotically and manically barrels from one place to the next. This arrow is not horizontal, but vertical! And the message is to show up here and now in this present moment. With purpose and a magnified understanding of self.

This card also reminds us that while it is important to learn from the wisdom of others, and to honor and respect our teachers, it is more important to honor and respect out own inner voices. In fact... Zen says to to avoid those past teachings and wisdom as if they were your "deadly enemy" because it is time to find your own source, and not give a hoot what anyone else has to say about it!
You are a one of a kind individual, not a copy of someone or something else. So dare to be original!

You already know what you've been taught. Now your challenge is to discover what no other person can teach you: who you are at the very core of your being.

This week, you are called on to be courageous! Bravely set out to discover who you are and what you are about- moment by moment- and then show up without apology or apprehension! You already are pure Energy, and Intensity. Now is your opportunity to embrace that knowledge and be present with it.

"When you act with the intensity of the Knight of Fire it is likely to create ripples in the waters around you. Some will feel uplifted and refreshed by your presence, others may feel threatened or annoyed. But the opinions of others matter little; nothing can hold you back now."
~Osho

Osho Zen Tarot Card of The Week

2009-08-12T08:53:00.000-07:00

Flowering:

The time of abundance and plenty has arrived! It is time to rejoice in your sensual, joyful nature... and play with child-like, whole-hearted conviction.

Now is not the time to hold back or doubt yourself. If you've been doing so up till now, you're getting the message to show up, and finally arrive at the party.

This card brings us the reminder that life is about living fully, in our joy and abundance... letting our love and bliss overflow! Allowing ourselves to experience an "Orgasmic Life", so to speak.

The Flowering Goddess also speaks to the giving of ourselves, unconditionally. And through this giving, we shall receive in return. Picture a seed you've just planted in the soil... and it's just been waiting to take root. You are that seed. And until you fully allow yourself to sprout, take root, grow, flower, blossom, and bear fruit [for yourself and others], you will be missing out on one of the best parts of being a flower!

You are being called on now to live life to the fullest. Expand to your greatest potential, stretch to your maximum... allow yourself to overflow into every aspect of your life, until you are so in your bliss and ecstasy that you begin reaching others just by your being. Even strangers will benefit from your glow!

And as you turn your face to the Sun, enjoying the warmth, and sharing your light; open your petals and remember that this is your true nature. This is real Love.

"Welcome the bees, invite the birds to drink your nectar. Spread your joy around for all to share."
~Osho

Body Image...... and my issues with it.

2009-08-11T06:23:00.000-07:00

This whole week, for me, has been dedicated to working through some very old thought patterns. Big, bad, nasty ones that involve a little something called Body Image.... and my issues with it.

Quick Side Note:
[Old and deep-rooted thought patterns always take me by surprise when they come up, because I think I did such a good job uprooting them last time... that they must surely be gone this time. I am always reminding students of this- when it comes to restructuring habit patterns it takes awareness and persistence. But when it comes to me and my patterns....I have no patience whatsoever. I want it all right now. And, yes, even as a teacher and coach-- let me rephrase that.... especially as a teacher and coach, I am on a constant journey of learning new things all the time! ]

Negative body image is not just something that affects a certain type of person. There's no magic number on the scale, or certain features that determines whether or not your body image is one that honors you or doesn't. And, to tell the truth, while it can feel like a very lonely path to be on... you are not alone. I have yet to meet a person that has not, at some point or another, felt ashamed of, or wanted to change something about their body.

Unfortunately, most of the time instead of just loving up our bodies, and then making choices that support them in healthy change- we punish ourselves with our thoughts, words and actions. This abusive treatment can include: over or under eating, harsh thoughts, intolerance, etc... and does NOT, actually, assist the body in releasing the trauma that caused the negative image in the first place. In fact, it feeds it!

If we listen to what Tantra (as a philosophy) has to say about this... it says that there is nothing bad or wrong about having a negative body image, just as there is nothing right or good about having a positive one! What Tantra does say is, "Why not pick the one that feels delectable? Why not choose the option where you feel like a magnificent, ravishing angelic creature that smolders with passion and delights in life's every nanosecond?"

This magical world is one where wrinkles are the story of your life, told through your laughter and emotion. Sagging breasts weave an individual remarkable tale of nurturing and femininity... and in some cases, the story of a woman who allowed another human being to suckle life from her breasts. Our bodies are beautiful, and they deserve to be treated that way.

In a Survey done by the US a few years ago, it turned out that more than 50% of women were more afraid of becoming fat than they were of dying. Another survey revealed that individuals who used to be obese would prefer going blind or losing a limb rather than gaining that weight again. WOW. Do you see how comparison can become a dangerous opponent? There's no way to win against it. There will always be someone taller, poorer, thinner, blonder, fatter, younger, shorter, smarter, richer, etc... than you are. Always.

However...

there is no one else like you in the entire world. You are your own brand, and no one will ever be better, or less, than you.

Imagine you are in an immense forest with a thousand different types of trees. Each one making the forest even more diverse and beautiful than the last. Do you think the Aspen is ever jealous of Pine's dark bark? Or the Redwood feels superior to the Maple because her trunk is bigger? Of course not! And, our bodies are no different. Our bodies are a roadmap of each moment in our lives and choices we've made. They are individual to us, and Magnificent!

With the intention of supporting women everywhere in claiming a healthier body image, I propose this challenge to you, the reader (and, subsequently, myself):

Undress completely, and stand naked in front of a mirror. Take 5 minutes (or as long as it takes) to observe your body entirely: head to food. Get to know the "map" of your body. Now go along, one by one, and notice every freckle, mole, wrinkle, stretch mark, hair, vein, scar, etc... and pause for a moment at each mark to feel grateful and honor it as a part of your awesome body.

You might not be in your "ideal" body right now... and that's OK, because one of the points of this exercise is to begin accepting your body here and now... and not as it will be in the future. And, whenever you feel a harsh thought coming to mind about yourself or someone else....just counteract it with one positive thought, instead! Begin "re-writing" that need to punish yourself for being your Awesome self!

To move forward with positive change, and to experience different results, we must first accept where we are in this present moment.

May you celebrate your Sumptuous Body!

Until next time,

Cindy
Majestic Living

Welcome to Majestic Living!

2009-08-04T07:37:00.000-07:00

I think an appropriate first post on a brand new blog is one of Welcome and Salutations!

So:
Welcome to the new Majestic Living Blog! May you read and experience each new post in joy, juiciness and abundant whole-being health!

While this blog is for absolutely everyone to read and enjoy, it is also written with the specific intention of connecting women, of all ages and backgrounds, in even stronger relationship with themselves.

Men: not to worry! Every now and again we'll have a post for you, too! ;-) And you are still invited to enjoy and partake in this blog! For any man who would like to learn more about himself, or the women in their lives- how to communicate more effectively- or learn exercises to do by yourself or with your partner- this blog is for you!

Through reading our blog weekly, we hope to educate you about yourselves, others, and the world around you. We will share personal experiences, thoughts, stories, exercises, etc... that will be specifically geared to remind you of your own innate strength, wisdom, sensuality, power, intuition (and so much more) as a Woman.

We will have a new post every week, and in some cases we will post more often than that-- as we move and groove and feel so drawn, so make sure you check in often!

May you read each post in happiness, health, and abundance. And, may each day you come to discover a new.... and Juicier you!

Revel in the Journey,

Cindy
Majestic Living

If you'd like to learn more about Majestic Living and our offerings, then visit us online at:
www.majesticlivingnow.com