May Newsletter

Hey Beautiful Soul!
Can you feel it? Summer is almost here, bringing longer days filled with sunshine and possibility! This month, I'm so excited to dive into something we ALL need more of: deep, restorative relaxation that pulls us out of survival mode and into thriving.
Let me ask you something... When was the last time you truly relaxed? Not the "scrolling on your phone while half-watching Netflix" kind of relaxation, but the kind where your shoulders drop, your breath deepens, and you feel your entire nervous system reset? If you're struggling to remember, you're not alone, and this newsletter is especially for you.
🌿 EDUCATIONAL CORNER: STEP OUT OF SURVIVAL MODE
Here's the truth—your body doesn't know the difference between being chased by a tiger and being chased by your to-do list. Both trigger the same survival response. But you weren't meant to live in survival mode 24/7, beautiful.
From my book "From Simply Surviving to Radically Thriving," here are three powerful relaxation techniques that will help you break the cycle:
1. Box Breathing (4-Square Breath)
Box breathing is a powerful technique used by Navy SEALs and mindfulness practitioners to enhance focus, reduce stress, and create calm. It helps regulate your nervous system by balancing your breath.
How to practice: Inhale through your nose for a count of 4, hold your breath for a count of 4, exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of 4, then hold again for a count of 4. Repeat for 4-5 minutes. With each cycle, you're sending a signal to your body that you are safe.
2. Sacred Space Creatio
Your environment directly impacts your nervous system. As I share in Chapter 2, create a small sanctuary in your home—even if it's just a corner—with objects that soothe your senses. Include something beautiful to look at, something with a calming scent, a soft texture to touch, and perhaps a small sound instrument like a singing bowl. Spend just 5 minutes here each morning before the world rushes in. This simple ritual signals to your body that it's safe to relax.
3. The 90-Second Reset
When you feel overwhelmed or anxious, remember that any emotion, when fully felt, only lasts about 90 seconds in your body. As I explain in Chapter 1, try this: Set a timer for 90 seconds. Close your eyes. Place one hand on your heart and one on your belly. Breathe deeply and say to yourself, "I am safe. I am here. This will pass." Allow whatever you're feeling to simply be there without judgment. Notice how the intensity shifts when you stop fighting it.
Remember: Relaxation isn't luxury—it's essential medicine for your mind, body, and spirit.
💕 MAY SELF-LOVE TUNE-UP RECAP
Thank you to everyone who joined our May Self-Love Tune-Up calls! These sessions have been truly heart-opening experiences.
Highlights from May 3rd Circle with Dr. Ellen
I only recorded the meditation from this event, but we had such a powerful discussion about releasing what no longer serves our highest good.
To continue the healing work we began:

• Reflect on what you can let go of to create greater flow in your life
• Implement daily small practices to maintain openness
• Journal about any insights from our meditation using these prompts:
  • What aspect of self-love feels most challenging right now?
  • How might releasing your identified burden create more space for self-love?
  • What is one small act of self-care you can commit to this week?

Highlights From Our May 14th Circle featuring guest Elisabeth White
Elisabeth took us on a transformative journey from cluttered spaces to conscious living. We explored:

• How physical decluttering creates room for emotional and spiritual expansion
• The role of planet and frog medicine to help us release stuck energy and thoughts
• The fascinating connection between dopamine, shopping habits, and finding deeper fulfillment
• Practical Feng Shui principles to enhance your home's energy flow
• Creating sacred spaces that serve YOUR joy, not others' expectations
  

Our guided meditation helped us visualize releasing what no longer serves us—making space for what truly nourishes our souls.
Missed these sessions? No worries! When you register for June's calls, just mention you'd like access to the May recordings, and I'll happily share them with you.



FREE RESOURCES TO SUPPORT YOUR JOURNEY
Colorful Graphics from the Book Download these three inspiring graphics from "From Simply Surviving to Radically Thriving" to place on your mirror, refrigerator, or desk. They serve as powerful visual reminders that:

• You are worthy exactly as you are
  
• Self-care and self-love are the foundation for thriving
  
• Your journey to radiance starts with small, consistent steps

These visual anchors can transform your environment and keep you connected to your intention to thrive, not just survive. Get it here: https://bookme.name/Lightness1all/5-steps-to-radically-thriving-handout



✨ INSPIRATION FOR YOUR JOURNEY
​"When you recognize that your symptoms aren't character flaws but adaptive responses, you can begin to work with your nervous system rather than against it. This understanding becomes the foundation for moving from surviving to thriving, from constant vigilance to genuine peace." — From "From Simply Surviving to Radically Thriving"
Until next month, remember that you are held in love—always and in all ways.
Shining with you,
Dr. Ellen