Posts Tagged ‘Betsy Muller’

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Hildegard Comes Out in the Garden

Monday, April 29th, 2013

Hildegard comes out at Riverside

This past Saturday I indulged in a day of retreat, and it was splendid. A 2.25 hour drive to eastern Michigan brought me to Riverside, the lovely retreat center owned by my friend Susie Clemmer and her husband. The hassle-free drive was clearly part of the retreat too. This was precious time alone with my own thoughts, enriched by the interesting topics on National Public Radio.

Once at Riverside, organizer and friend Claudia Taller helped us to share a relaxing day in the Garden. We shared our favorite flowers and stories about gardens while we ate a delicious breakfast. We were entertained with dance and poetry by Mary Bodnar and participated in gentle yoga with Claudia. Joan Barris helped us to relax under the spell of meditative doodling with fine black pens and the principles of Zentangle. One of the nicest gifts of the day was a free hour to simply go outside, explore the property and bask in the sunshine.

I remembered that the costume I had made for my new St. Hildegard retreat program was in the car. It occurred to me that maybe it was time to reveal her for the first time in this garden to a few compassionate friends. Wearing a nun habit to play Hildegard is the part that is most unnatural and uncomfortable for me. Ever since I heard the voice urging me to “finish the outfit” on Feb. 2, 2013, followed by creating the sold-out seminar I’ll debut on May 17, I have been avoiding the chance to come out publicly as “the nun”. I almost did it when I was scheduled to speak to the My Women’s Business Network on April 19, but then chickened out. Deep inside I knew it was time, especially if I intended to lead seminars in character, I must fully embracing the role.

Before changing into costume, I pulled Susie aside and asked if she would be willing to snap a few photos of me in the habit as I explored the garden. Thank goodness she was eager to oblige. We found a few nice settings and each step made it a little easier to accept the costume. The fact that it is in my favorite color really helps.

After lunch, one of our retreat activities was to create a poem about a special companion. I chose to write this poem in honor of St. Hildegard and share it below:

To St. Hildegard
We meet at a time of despair and crazy doubt
Searching for a teacher and a path
You welcome us home to communion
Mother, healer, leader, and nature’s sister
Time travelers in different bodies
Sharing the experience of God’s love
Transformed from timid to giggling
Comforted by grace and connection
Assured that joy is most appropriate as we play in the garden
Our hardest work made light by a team of angels.

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Wise Words From Old Ladies

Monday, April 15th, 2013

Isn’t it interesting that little old ladies are stirring up my life lately. I spent most of Saturday with a large group of women as part of MetroHealth’s EveryWoman event. I challenged the audience to find a great older lady as a mentor and to develop a relationship with her to help your own aging process. I explained that my favorite feisty mentors are not related to me, but have a few things in common – they are widows, they stick to their values and they have put their fears aside. Widowhood is my worst-case scenario, and also a likely possibility when statistically women outlive their husbands by several years. Finding active and joyful widows like my mentors Judy and Margaret give me faith that my later years will be awesome no matter what. On Saturday it was heartwarming to be approached by so many happy widows who personally stopped at my book table for a hug and a kind word. More mentors for my team!

Many of my friends also know that I have been immersing myself in study of the life of the 12th Century German nun, Saint Hildegard of Bingen lately. I suppose this is another part of my obsession with older women. The more I read about Hildegard and the translation of her actual words, I feel as though she is a time traveler who visits me in spirit. We are so deeply connected it puzzles me how this could be so strong when we live in such radically different times. She has so much wisdom to share as I realize my journey with her has just begun. It is no accident that the Pope finally named Hildegard a Saint and Doctor of the Church on Oct. 8, 2012.

Yesterday I took a 4 mile run while listening to Hildegard’s music on my headphones. It was haunting, calming and so beautiful. As I returned to my desk, I found the following quote that gave me chills:

“But although I heard and saw these things, because of doubt and a low opinion (of myself) and because of the diverse sayings of men, I refused for a long time the call to write, not out of stubbornness but out of humility, until weighed down by the scourge of God, I fell onto a bed of sickness.”
(Scivias, Preface) – Hildegard of Bingen

Hildegard lived to be 81, although she is described in many historical accounts as having been a sickly person. She was considered sickly when she entered the Benedictine abbey at the age of 8 and had several near-death episodes throughout her long life. She admitted that her greatest times of illness came when she had mystical visions and messages from God, but failed to share that truth with others. When I read that quote, I thought to myself, “Me too!”

Do you realize how much energy it requires to hide your authentic self and your truth when you fear that the rest of the world might not agree? All that hiding can make you sick. It has happened to me and through Hildegard’s time travel and mentorship, I too have learned that it has to stop.

I have been hiding a few things out of fear. There are things I know that you also need to know, but I haven’t shared them because I didn’t think you were ready to hear them. Hildegard tells me it is time to speak up anyway.

The power of health, healing, success and joy comes from the energy of love in the form of connection. This connection is possible with humans, ALL living things and also with what you might consider non-living matter. You have the capacity to build your energy by simply taking a micro-moment to stop, notice and appreciate what’s around you. You need not use your eyes, although eye contact sure makes it pop! Take time today to appreciate the world around you and especially those wonderful old ladies in your life. We all need the wisdom of a feisty woman to help us live in joyful authenticity.

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Adventures with Hildegard – The Story of the Nun Habit

Tuesday, March 19th, 2013

Hildegard of Bingen

If I told you that I spent the good part of the past week cooking with spelt, listening to chants in Latin, reading ancient translations and sewing a blue nun habit, would you be surprised?

I assure you that this is not a sudden infatuation. I am totally enchanted by Hildegard of Bingen, a Benedictine abbess who lived in 12th Century Germany. I have been in love with this little medieval nun for many years. A blog post about my connection to Hildegard written in 2008 titled “Grace, EFT and the Mystics” http://theindigoconnection.com/blog/?p=44 will give you some sense of how this all started.

Saint Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) was no ordinary nun. Undeniably one of the most astonishing female leaders who ever graced this earth, she was a mystic, naturalist, healer, visionary, poet, author, composer and artist. Through visions she received directly from God, she shared a wider vision of the world and helped humans to live in it more joyfully. Life in her abbey was FUN. Although she challenged the corruption of the church and was excommunicated during her lifetime, in October 2012 she was finally recognized as a Saint AND Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict. Better late than never!

My passion for Hildegard re-ignited when I learned of Matthew Fox’s new book HILDEGARD OF BINGEN: A Saint for Our Times (Oct. 2012). Going on Amazon led me to more fascinating resources – 2 films available on DVD, a cookbook based on foods Hildegard recommended for physical and emotional health, music recordings, ornate mandalas and wisdom on a variety of topics. I watched the films, listened to the music, read the books and cooked a few of her recipes.

As I marinated in all things Hildegard, some bold thoughts began to take shape. What if I could embody her as a character and share her wisdom with modern audiences? Her messages of mystical spirituality, faith, sustainability, peace and environmental stewardship are relevant today. A voice from the depths of my soul whispered “Finish the outfit” and I shuddered. I’m not even Catholic and here I am, considering taking on the role of a nun. Would this offend someone? What would I be getting into?

In spite of my hesitation, I set out to JoAnn Fabrics on a frigid Saturday in March. Once inside, I easily found a pattern, as well as a beautiful blue fabric that matched my blue purse. I was armed to create my first nun habit. (Note: you can refer to the previous blog post for the purse story, which involved faith and a few coupons.)

Now home, my first challenge was dusting off the sewing machine, which had been hibernating for over a decade in my basement. Pressing the pedal resulted in a muffled grinding noise, but no movement. Being a woman of faith, I said a prayer then scurried off to find some lubricant. Sure enough, a few sprays of WD-40 in strategic crannies got that baby moving. Praise God!

Now it was time to cut and sew the habit. Expecting that would be a piece of cake, I discovered that my trusty pincushion was nowhere to be found. I suspect my daughter stole it off to college, but lacked proof at the moment. What would McGuiver do now? I boldly scotch-taped the pattern to my fabric and used a few safety pins to hold things together. Not pretty, but thanks to this being a garment where fit was hardly critical, we would get by.

Once seated at the machine, the act of sewing became pure joy. Not many people know that I sewed most of my clothes back in high school. I could spend hours without food or breaks once involved in a fabric creation. The sounds, sensations and the delicious smell of pattern, fabric and sewing machine oil had collided to delivered pure bliss. Thank you Hildegard for returning me to a wonderful hobby ignored far too long.

Each piece of the costume came into being: first the dress, then the contrasting white head piece with collar, and finally the veil. I finished pressing the final seam with deep satisfaction thinking, “It doesn’t matter if I ever wear this habit”. The simple experience of sewing had already been enough.

I see Hildegard looking back at me from the mirror and can only thank her for allowing me to see that we are kindred spirits, travelers from different times. Sewing the habit gave me the courage and full vision for sharing her message more widely. I quickly jotted down the ideas and sent an invitation for a day retreat called How to Thrive as a Modern Mystic – Energy Makeover® Lessons from Saint Hildegard of Bingen to my email list. Within just a few minutes, 8 women had enrolled and paid in full. Given that the event wasn’t even happening until May 17, I was impressed at how the message of Hildegard had resonated with my friends and colleagues. More importantly, I know today’s Hildegard will bring a new spark of fun to her mystical message. I bet Hildegard would have adored email and social media if it were available in her day.

Not a single soul (besides me) has seen Betsy as a blue nun. Not even my husband, although he knew I was working on it and texted a simple “oooh baby”, then suggestively requested I sew him a Pope outfit. We’ll see about that later. Perhaps that will be our plan for Halloween.

Could YOU benefit from more stamina, courage and intuition? Here’s what Hildegard has promised for the May 17 group:
• Sample Hildegard’s “Foods of Joy”- Find out how they are also slimming and take home recipes to fuel joy
to your life.
• Experience mystical visions through meditation facilitated by Hildegard’s music and mandalas.
• Play in the Garden – Explore healing herbs, get grounded and quiet your soul through a planting activity.
• Capture your insights through journaling.
• Go deeper into understanding your unique gifts as a healer, mystic and leader.
• Experiment with your intuition among supportive friends.
• Develop an action plan for living as a mystic in YOUR life, home and business

You can go to the link below for details to join us on May 17. Four spots remain, however if you miss this event, I am happy to deliver this program to your group at a later time. I suspect Hildegard will enjoy meeting many people in her new outfit. Good thing she has a matching purse and shoes!

Here’s the link: http://modernmystic.eventbrite.com/#

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The Blue Purse – a Love Story

Tuesday, March 5th, 2013

The Blue Purse

Many months ago, I remember making a hasty trip to the mall for my annual eye exam. I am not a shopper or a “mall person”. When I go to the mall, I move swiftly past the displays and get right down to the business at hand.

On this particular afternoon, I parked outside of Macy’s because it offered parking closest to an entry door. This particular door took me into the accessory department. As I scurried in, my eyes were immediately distracted by a royal blue handbag on display. My beloved color! I froze in my tracks. Stepping closer for further inspection I found myself falling in love. It had gorgeous shining silver accents, impeccable stitching, perfectly placed compartments. Then….I dared to touch it. OHHHHHHHHHHHHhhhhhh. I felt myself get a bit light in the head. I was not expecting this sensation, soft as butter. Perfection. The purse of my dreams right in my hands. Should I dare to even look at the price tag?

I dared. Gingerly turning over the tag, my heart sank. As I suspected, this purse was out of my league. Chuckling to myself I wondered, “How could a silly purse make me feel so emotional?” Crushed but not defeated, at least now I knew the perfect purse existed. This purse was mine. We would find a way to be together someday. In the meantime, I promised to visit her often. I would come by to check on “my purse” every time life brought me to the mall.

Throughout the holiday season I visited the mall many times. It was automatic to park at Macy’s so that I might check on my purse. Each time, a smile would spring to my lips as spotted that unmistakable bright blue from a distance. Every visit included a chance to touch that gorgeous, soft bag. The price stayed out of my league. As I carefully placed her back on display, I would whisper “I love you. I’ll be back!”

When my husband asked for Christmas gift ideas, I never dared to mention that purse. The price was outrageous. My practical side could simply not justify such a thing.

In mid February, I found myself once again entering the mall through Macy’s. To my delight, the first thing that caught my eye was a sign that read “GIANT PURSE CLEARANCE”. Oh my! Could today be the day?

My eyes quickly scanned the department. Not a single spark of blue to catch my eye. RATS! Did someone else buy her? I headed to her normal display, but no blue purse! Discouraged, I kept looking, consoling myself with the thought that there might be another great purse on sale. As I completed a tour of the entire department, finally there she was, on a low shelf in a middle aisle. Now for the moment of truth – was she on sale? The sign said 25% off. My heart ached. That was still not enough to justify such luxury. Maybe another purse on sale could make me as happy? I surveyed the department again, making three full circles to conclude that there was only ONE purse worth my devotion. I picked up my purse once again and that softness took my breath away. It’s this one or nothing!

Immediately an idea surfaced. Remembering I had several Macy’s coupons and a gift card into my bag, I wondered if these could help. Pleased to find they had not expired, I picked up the purse and confidently walked to the register. The clerk smiled as our eyes met. I braced myself as I asked if she could tell me what the purse would cost if we applied the multiple coupons and gift card. She replied, “I’m not sure I can do that, but let’s give it a try.” One at a time, each of the discounts processed. They were cumulative! As the clerk scanned the gift card, she looked up and said, “Your total will be $20 plus tax.” My heart skipped a beat. The jubilant moment had arrived! Without hesitation, I grabbed cash from my bag and claimed ownership of MY PURSE.

I must admit that carrying this purse has been a most wonderful experience. The bright blue is the color of my brand and a conversation starter. Almost everywhere I go, I receive compliments and questions about where I found such a gorgeous bag. I invite them to experience it’s soft toucn. I love to share how special she is to me, not just because of her beauty, but because she teaches an important lesson.

When love is accompanied by patience and hope, the door remains open for a miracle.

Asking for what you want can open that door even wider. Remember, even something as insignificant as a blue purse, can brighten a day and teach this important lesson. I hope if you see me out and about, we can pause for a chat and a chance to meet my practical blue miracle for yourself. There’s a miracle waiting for you out there too.

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Gratitude for Another Year

Wednesday, February 27th, 2013

Today is my 54th birthday.

Several years ago I promised myself to never again celebrate my birthday in Ohio. I’m sad to report that the promise has been broken. I am spending this birthday in dreary, rainy and cold Ohio. On top of that it is a Wednesday which does not lend itself to parties or celebration.

This could be the start of a pity party; however I am choosing to celebrate all week long. Why not make this the best birthday yet? This day feels sunny because I choose to see it as bright and fun. Here’s what I love:

I love to awaken refreshed and ready for the day to begin. Sleeping in was not necessary today (although I could have)

I love that I had the energy to exercise first thing AND my previously disabled knee was strong and solid.

I love that I can still do 25 military pushups in a row in good form.

I love the sweet card my husband left on the kitchen table for me

I love my bullet blender and the delicious green drink it created for my birthday breakfast.

I love that I made time to read and write this morning in my chair by the fireplace

I love that I am meeting my parents for lunch today at a little French bistro. I already know I am going to order escargot.

I love all the cards, email and Facebook greeting that are coming my way today. How can I personally thank each one of you?

I love that my Artists Way/Awaken Creativity group meets today.

I love that I haven’t yet decided what I will choose do tonight to celebrate.

I love that the celebration continues with lunch on Friday with my sister Suzanne.

I love that George is taking me out to a special place this weekend and the fact that he is my very best friend.

I love that there is so much to live for. May your life be filled with love and joy too.

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Press Release: LAKESIDE RETREAT PROMISES TO RE-ENERGIZE WEARY WOMEN

Tuesday, February 26th, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Betsy Muller
440-238-4731
Betsy@theindigoconnection.com

LAKESIDE RETREAT PROMISES TO RE-ENERGIZE WEARY WOMEN
Registration now open for annual Indigo Women’s Retreat at Idlewyld B&B May 17-19

Strongsville, OH February 26, 2013 – As the blooms burst with new life this spring, a lucky group of women will realize a similar transformation – on the inside. From May 17-19, Indigo Connection will present its annual 7th Women’s Retreat “Let’s Pause and Play” at the Idlewyld Bed & Breakfast in Lakeside, Ohio just outside Marblehead on Lake Erie.

Hosted by Betsy Muller, best-selling author of Energy Makeover, professional speaker and coach based in Strongsville, the retreat will offer women the chance to take time out for themselves and create a positive transformation in their lives. In a charming atmosphere within walking distance of the lake, retreat goers will escape their busy lives to laugh, move, learn, eat healthy gourmet food, share stories and paint to find peace.

“My vision is to open up unlimited possibilities for each woman,” said Muller. “We draw women from 30 – 80 years of age who bond brilliantly in a short time. Each year this retreat exposes our participants to new ways to balance life and a buffet of options to build their energy and spirit. My goal is that they return home with a greater sense of their own light along with tools and support to keep it burning even stronger. ”

Featured presenters for 2013 include Gloria O’Neil-Savage Certified Aromatherapist, Roseann Heinrich- Angel Therapy Intuitive and T’ai Chi Chih instructor, Julie Norman -Registered Dietitian (RD), Registered Yoga Teacher and Bobbie Dorr- Award-winning Watercolor Artist and Painting Instructor. Our event chef, Amy Ryan will create our delicious meals with flexible options for dietary concerns.

2012 retreat attendees share the following testimonials:

“Come with open expectations. You will definitely find what you need”

“You will definitely walk away feeling refreshed, having learned so many new things.”

“Just come – it is indescribably marvelous!”

“This is so worth the time and money for renewal and growth.”

Early bird prices for the entire weekend, including food, activities and lodging are available now through March 1. The event is open to a maximum of 35 women and fills quickly. For more information and reservations, call 440-238-4731. Download a brochure with rates, presenters and daily schedule at http://tinyurl.com/ae9ahwv

About Indigo Connection and Betsy Muller
The Indigo Connection is committed to making personal growth education and resources widely available through affordable group learning opportunities, inspirational programs, wellness programs, coaching, collaborations with other educators and networking breakfast events held on the second Wednesday of each month.
For more information, visit www.theindigoconnection.com or call 440-238-4731.

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What’s Love Got to Do With It?

Monday, February 11th, 2013

Do you remember the lyrics to the popular Tina Turner song, What’s Love Got to Do With It? How dare she refer to love as a “second-hand emotion”!

As Valentine’s Day approaches, there is plenty of talk about love out there. How are the words about love falling on your ears? I found myself thinking of a friend who suddenly became a widow last month and wonder what it must be like having her first Valentine’s Day without him. Will friends reach out to her? Will she take steps to get out into the world to let us hug her and help her heal? Today also reminds me that this week can be rough for the singles who are not currently in relationships while the rest of the world seems to be paired up in bliss. Love or the lack of love has EVERYTHING to do with how they might be feeling.

How can each of us fill that empty love space and brighten a bleak February day? The only way to do that is to find the love in our lives right now. This need not be romantic love, but simply something that you thoroughly enjoy having in your life. This need not be expensive, elaborate or even material. The key to the delight is realizing you LOVE and appreciate something.

As I reflected on my own experience of love in today’s life experience, the following list surfaced in my journal:
• A soft chair in the sunroom
• A husband who does laundry
• Bird feeders filled with seed
• Blueberries in February
• Healthy houseplants
• Fresh cup of bold coffee
• Exercise before breakfast
• Evidence of bulbs sprouting outside my window
• Pure drinking water

I could probably go on and on with this list, but you get the idea. When you make this kind of list, it is a love-filled expression of gratitude sending positive energy out into the world around you. Having spent time reflecting on what you love, you become aligned with love.

What do you think you receive and experience when aligned with love? The answer is MORE to LOVE.

Are you a skeptic about this? Try making this kind of list daily for 10 days and let me know what happens. If you need help finding the love in your life right now, I’d be happy to help you. The love is there and your mission is to find it.

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Do People Really Get Results From Teleclasses and Online Coaching?

Monday, January 14th, 2013

Do you ever take a moment to think about how much change has occurred in the past few years? One of the changes you may have been part of is the emergence of teleclasses, group coaching calls, social media support groups, digital audios and YouTube videos. Five years ago if someone would have told me that this would be THE area where coaching clients would be having some amazing successes, I would have quickly volunteered my skepticism. I am a face-to-face person and I like being with real people. I wondered if people would experience the self-care practices and tips with the same intensity as they do in my office or live seminar settings. Fortunately, I am also open minded and was willing to give it a try.

Now that I have facilitated several hundred teleclasses and group calls and well and even more phone coaching sessions, I know these distance-coaching format works just as well as the in-person events. I know that because I have testimonials from live and virtual formats on identical content that I have facilitated during the same time period. A few details might be different from the delivery style, but the results came through and the same! If you are on the fence about enrolling in an online format with me, I also put doubts to rest by offering a guarantee that you will be satisfied.

The Obvious Benefits:
* Group programs serve more people per hour
* No expensive gasoline, winter driving or travel time is involved
* Digital recordings allow participants to get the information at the most convenient time
* Technology for teleclasses and digital coaching services are easy to use, reliable and low cost (sometimes even free!)
* A low per person investment for a high value offering so that everybody gets more for less time, effort and money

Want more proof?
It delights me to share just a few of the most recent comments that came through from participants in my December 2012 Waist Management Virtual Coaching Support Group, which included weekly live calls:

“The variety of support was a key piece for me. Email, Facebook, U Tube, phone conferencing, recorded calls for later play. All at MY convenience. Thank you.”

“The Waist Management program was a fun, supportive and informative program that helped me to be mindful of what I truly wanted to do over a very difficult food season, Christmas. Thank you.”

“I was very committed to this program because of the quality of Betsy’s work, sharing, suggestions and teaching tools that she used to help us achieve a better understanding of health and waist management. I will continue on with everything I’ve learned.”

“This program gave wonderful group support without leaving the comfort of my home. Interacting with others on Facebook and during the live calls was valuable for me. Tapping proved to be vital to my success for this month. A December without Christmas cookies? This is a first. Success is a direct result of a tapping exercise, my desires changed!”

“This was a great program. I loved it. The seed has definitely been planted for me to start fresh in January. If the program continues or there is another one, I want to be included.”

“You always do a great job being a facilitator, you are uplifting and fun with your classes and teleseminars.”

“Betsy’s humor, compassion, and optimism helped me to stay the course. Her program was affordable and offered the structure and daily reminders I needed to stay on my weight reduction plan. I lost 4 pounds in 25 days and have kept that weight off during the holidays.”

“Betsy has the uncanny ability to put her finger right on the issue at hand. With her gentle and kind approach, you feel like you can conquer any problem no matter how big or how small.”

“I found the advice to be practical, down to earth and easy to follow. There was no eccentric eating plans or changes to my lifestyle.”

“It is helpful to me when you mention your own struggles and how you work through them. This program helped though the holidays. I did not stay on track perfectly but to enjoy all the temptations of the holidays within reason was my goal. I liked the drink video. I decided to skip the wine at my next party for a few more cookies!”

“Although Betsy was leading the group, she was going through it & participating in the same way everyone else was. As a participant it is always more comforting to me to know that Betsy really understands our concerns & has shared them. She really lives what she is teaching us.”

Want to be in one of my upcoming groups so that you can enjoy support, coaching, new friends, EFT, live calls and more? I would love to serve you. Our Waist Management 6 Week Program starts up on Jan. 17, 2013. Learn more and enroll at http://2013waistmanagement.eventbrite.com/#

There is also a FREE introductory live call (with digital recording available) to the very popular – Awaken Your Creativity with EFT and The Artist’s Way which will be held Jan. 23, 2013 at 3PM EST. You can enroll for the FREE CALL at http://www.theindigoconnection.com/classreg.htm

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Groups Are The Solution: Get on Track and Stay the Course

Monday, December 31st, 2012

If you really want a high and consistent level of success in the New Year, you need the support of a group. People are often surprised to learn that I have been a lifetime member of Weight Watchers for over 21 years. They comment that I don’t need to lose weight. They are even more shocked when I tell them that I still attend the weekly meetings. “Why do you need to do that?” they’ll often say. My response is a simple one – It’s exactly how I have kept my weight in check all these years! I thrive with the support, accountability and resources a group offers.

It’s really easy to get off track when you go it alone. Most diets or change strategies will work for awhile, but then rules start bending, a sense of rebellion can set in or worse yet, a feeling of apathy can take over. It’s the same way for life and business changes too. Without that support, the great things that you accomplish can quickly become un-done.

Two of my most beloved groups to assemble are the Winning at Waist Management and Awaken Your Creativity (Artist’s Way with EFT) groups that have been convening for over 7 years. The early groups were small and met face to face in the Cleveland area. Technology and my courage to use it has now allowed me to offer both groups as teleconferences that include live sessions, YouTube video, audio and email support. What’s exciting to me is that people get results either way. Social media has made this even more exciting. Our December 2012 Waist Management group had members from Japan, Singapore, Australia and Brazil!

Here are just a few of the comments from participants:

Betsy’s humor, compassion, and optimism helped me to stay the course. Her program was affordable and offered the structure and daily reminders I needed to stay on my weight reduction plan. I lost 4 pounds in 25 days and have kept that weight off during the holidays.

Betsy has the uncanny ability to put her finger right on the issue at hand. With her gentle and kind approach, you feel like you can conquer any problem no matter how big or how small.

I found the advice to be practical, down to earth and easy to follow. There was no eccentric eating plans or changes to my lifestyle.

Although Betsy was leading the group, she was going through it & participating in the same way everyone else was. As a participant it is always more comforting to me to know that Betsy really understands our concerns & has shared them. She really lives what she is teaching us.

I was very committed to this program because of the quality of Betsy’s work, sharing, suggestions and teaching tools that she used to help us achieve a better understanding of health and waist management.

You always do a great job being a facilitator. You are uplifting and fun with your classes and teleseminars.

Maybe you have big dreams for 2013? If that’s the case, I urge you to find a group who shares some aspect of your dream and join. Whether it is a business mastermind group, business networking, weight loss, writer’s group, fitness class or a support group for a common challenge, you have a much greater likelihood of real and long-term change. You will also find that it feels like it takes less effort too.

Need help finding a group? I’ll be starting several new group coaching opportunities in the New Year. If you are in the Cleveland area, you can learn about women’s networking, mastermind and holistic business groups meeting soon by joining my mailing list at www.theindigoconnection.com or by becoming my friend on Facebook. You’ll also be excited to learn that a live seminar will take place this Friday Jan. 4 at 7PM where I will offer EFT demonstrations, tips for success at a variety of goals and some special deals for new programs.

Friends from around the globe will be happy to know there are several teleseminars beginning in January 2013 as well. Realizing how powerful group energy can be, it’s something I will always offer. Private coaching has a place when privacy and focus is needed; however groups offer a chance to meet new like-minded friends, to work on shared goals, to share frustrations and to heal pain that we have in common. Groups witness each other in the process, often pointing out the subtle things that need to be seen. Groups are energy and when energy work is added to groups, results are breathtaking.

It would be my honor to have you as a member of one of my groups in 2013. As a professional speaker, I enjoy inspiring existing groups who can benefit from energized new ideas. Need more information? Send me an email at Betsy@theindigoconnection.com.

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Posted in conscious business, Goals and Resolutions, Health & Wellness, Inspiration, Reflections on Life's Challenges, Uncategorized | 5 Comments »

Connecting With Others – Guest blog post by Amy Frost

Sunday, December 23rd, 2012

Today I am sharing a blog from my friend Amy Frost. In the article below, she shares a very worthy exercise you might consider trying before a family gathering, party or business function.

Connecting with Others is Key to YOUR Success
by Amy Frost on 12.18.12

I recently attended a tele-program on implementing The Practice of Working For Good with Jeff Klein. Jeff skillfully lead each session, beginning and ending with experiences of connection with our self and then with others. Then, we observed how we moved through our day and what changes this new way of thinking had brought about.
This program has caused me to be much more aware of my affect and impact on others as I go through my day and in my work. I believe that effective relationships are essential to being successful. I asked Jeff to share a tool for connection with us.

Jeff Klein, Author: Author: It’s Just Good Business
Social psychology and even neurobiology indicate that “half (or more) of who we are is other people.” As social animals, we are informed, even formed, by other people. How we act and who we are changes based on who we are with and how we respond to others. Recognizing the effect others have on us and the effect we have on others is essential to elevating our functioning in business and at work.

Reflection on Connection
Sit or stand in a comfortable position. If you’d like, close your eyes. Be aware of your feet on the floor. Notice the quality of your breath. Take a few deep, purposeful breaths, and as you exhale allow your shoulders to drop.
Now envision yourself moving through your day and encountering people you work with.

First picture yourself connecting with someone who you enjoy being around. Notice the ease of connection that you have with that person. Next, visualize that you encounter someone who is difficult or challenging. Observe your physical reaction in each scenario. Do you tighten up around the antagonizing individual and relax around your friend?

After you’re done, take the time to reflect on your experience. Recognizing how your body reacts can indicate how you relate to others, and the effect they have on you. And note how your awareness can support you to shift your experience.

We practice our physical skills for sports. We practice our presentation skills for an important talk What if we made effective communicate skills a practice? I believe our homes, schools and workplaces would be more successful on all counts! Your assignment is to do this practice every morning for a week. Reflect on what you learn and fine tune your ability to communicate as you go. Ready, Set, Connect!

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Posted in conscious business, Reflections on Life's Challenges, spirituality | Comments Off

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