January 2020: Standing in the Doorway

January 2020

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter 
It seems strange not to have written a December newsletter, as you may know I was travelling at the time I would normally have sent that out to you. So here we are looking ahead to 2020, as well as celebrating all that has happened over the last year.

Reflections: Standing in the Doorway
New Year Coaching Special Offer
Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Reflections: Standing in the Doorway

Welcome to the first missive of 2020, all being well you will be reading this just before New Year. Sitting to reflect over the last few days, it has taken me a while to find a focus for this piece. So much has happened this year. So much has happened since I last wrote to you, before my magical journey to New Zealand began at the end of November. I feel as if I am literally standing in the doorway between the old year and the new, watching the stars wheel overhead as the year turns. Standing in that liminal space in between, taking a moment to pause, to reflect.

I returned from New Zealand on 6th December, having been away from home for less than three weeks, and in that time having travelled thousands of miles around the globe and back. Some of you joined me in the "Aotearoa Quest" group - it was a huge honour to have the company of a big group of travellers in spirit with me, thank you, thank you.

There were so many levels to my experience of journeying: the physical travel, and the excitement of seeing new places and revisiting familiar ones; the joy of being reunited with my sister and all her wonderfully large family of three daughters, their husbands and the seven children. Not to mention a new group of animal friends: cats, dogs, horses.

This picture, taken from the plane as we flew over the Southern Alps as we arrived, is one of my favourites. Each time I see it I am brought again to that place of wonder and anticipation.




Underpinning all those precious aspects, there is a deeper  journey, my own quest of reconnection with the land of New Zealand, of Aotearoa. A land where I have only lived briefly, the longest period being for about nine months, and yet a land for which  I feel a deep, deep love. It is so different in some ways to my home part of the planet, here in Cornwall, and yet we are all connected through the oceans and our sharing of this precious home world. Much more is emerging as I reflect and write, this piece contains just a few snippets about my journey.

The initial catalyst for my visit was an invitation to speak at the HerStory conference in Wellington. The whole experience of the event was one of ups and downs. The high points for me were meeting so many online friends and making new friends in person at the event. Sandy B Simmons, one of those online friends, from Melbourne, filmed this on my phone for me while I was giving my talk.  As I prepare to send this out to you all, I am hesitating over including the link to the video. I am - as many people are - very critical of myself. I know that another time I would have spoken differently, maybe more slowly, maybe using different words. Watching it with my sister (who I know will read this too) - was a prompt for conversation. I now know that she too likes quiet time to recharge. It is interesting that throughout my growing-up years I saw her, my 'big sister', as confident, glamorous and out-going, and assumed as I spoke in this talk, that she would see herself as an extrovert. Of course, as I said, we are all different, each of us on a scale, not easily  categorised, not fitting neatly into a box. 

Before and after those few days in Wellington my family and I went on many trips together. It was moving and poignant to visit the beautiful city of Christchurch - so changed by the devastating earthquakes.



Here are the ruins of the cathedral, and below the 'transition' cathedral, also known as the cardboard cathedral as it is literally made of huge cardboard tubes.



The resilience of the people of Christchurch brings me back to reflecting on the doorway that we are all about to step through. None of us can know what the future holds. When we step forward with a smile and with the confidence that we too have the resilience brought by knowing that we can get through each day as it comes, we can overcome the fear that we may feel. . And knowing that we can ask for help when we need to, and know that it will arrive. Memories of a tragic time, yet one it is important to remember, and to celebrate those who were lost, and those who came through and are still rebuilding their lives.



This photo was taken on our whale watching trip out from Kaikoura. Many of you will know that I received a powerful message from a whale in the spirit realm while I was in hospital in August under-going a lumbar puncture. I saw that whale as a humpback. We did not see one of those whales on this trip, yet the boat we travelled on, one of five in the fleet, 'just happened' to be the one named Paikea, the Maori name for the humpback whale. I loved the thought that I was metaphorically riding on a whale as we journeyed out to sea.

The whale in the photo above, which I think was taken by my sister, one of many pictures we took between us, is a sperm whale. They dive for up to an hour, deep, deep down into the ocean. Then they surface and spend around 15 minutes re-oxygenating: breathing in, and spouting out, with just a tiny part of their huge body showing above the waves. If you click on the link above it will take you to the Whale Watch company website where there is information, and an illustration of the real size of the sperm whales. I was lucky enough to catch a very brief video as this whale dived. Later we found a huge pod of dusky dolphins and everyone on board rejoiced with them as they played around the boat in our bow wave.

Such joyful memories to step into 2020 with, at the same time allowing for the unknown to be present and welcoming the new that will be arriving. Looking back as I do so, reflecting on how much has happened during 2019, that I could not possibly have predicted. I wonder what this new year will bring?

For you, suggestions for your journal reflections or meditations:

• What are the gifts of 2019 for you? 
• Visualise the doorway connecting 2019 and 2020, how does it appear to you right now?
• Imagine yourself stepping through. Who is there to help you? Who would you like to invite to be with you?
• What is the scene spread in front of you?
• Do you create a Vision Board each year? These suggestions may add perfectly to that ritual, or you could doodle, flow-write, draw or collage a vision of the year ahead. Simply play and have fun.

New Year Coaching Special Offer
One to One Coaching: For January, I have a special offer for you:  the chance to experience the six session 'Compass Rose' programme at half the regular price. You can choose thirty minute or one hour calls on Zoom video-conferencing. Take a look here, and contact me for a complimentary consultation if you would like to explore if this is for you. Remember you will pay just 50% of the prices on the website (either for the package or 'pay as you go)'  - as long as you are one of the first six people to contact me. Simply reply to this email to book or to discuss if this may be your opportunity to follow. You need to contact me before the end of January, and have your first session (or have it booked) during that month, after that you can allow the process to unfold at the speed that is right for you. Some people go right around the Compass Rose in six weeks, others take six months, or a year.

 
Alternatively,you can join the group coaching programme that begins on 31st January - for you as regular readers here, the price is £80 per month. If it would help you, contact me to discuss paying by instalments. Or, to be sure of your place right through the year, you may like to book the full programme. More details below, and on the website.

Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Cornwall Workshops: The first event of 2020 is on Saturday 25th January, from 10 am to 1 pm, at the Blue Lotus Therapy Centre as usual. We open the new cycle around the year, around the Compass Rose, with 'Centre Point - Peace: Grounding, Balancing'.  

2020 Programmes: "The Power of Your Compass Rose" The new programmes are on the website and the Global Online Circle  begins on 31 January for the February group. Book now if you are keen to reserve your place. As always, if you have any questions, simply email or contact me here.
 

Thank you dear friends for visiting with me again this month and sharing my musings.

Until next time,

with love,
Mary

Find 'Dare to Blossom Life Coaching' on Facebook, @daretoblossom on Twitter

November 2019: The Powerful Voice of the Quiet Ones

November 2019

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter 
This is coming to you a week early this month, and will be the last newsletter until some way into December. I return from my travels on the 6th, so I suspect it may take me a little time to settle back in and write to you here.

Who knows, maybe a missive will come your way before then. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy the thoughts shared here.

Time Sensitive: still time to book your 'ticket' to journey with me in spirit
Reflections: The Powerful Voice of the Quiet Ones
Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Time Sensitive: still time to book your 'ticket' to journey with me in spirit

In case you have yet to see this, I am offering you an opportunity to metaphorically stow away in my suitcase as I travel to New Zealand. Or, at least, a card with your name on will travel with me, to represent you in spirit as I journey around the world. Bookings close on 3 November, then I will take some special time to write your card and place it with all the others who are journeying with me, in a safe pouch in my bag. I will also draw four Rediscovery Cards for you, one for each point of the Compass, and put them in an envelope with your name and address upon it, ready to add your well-travelled card on my return and send them to you through the 'real' mail.



Click on the photo for more details and to book your ticket. For those of you who are happy on Facebook, I will be opening a private group there for everyone who is travelling in spirit with me.

Reflections: The Powerful Voice of the Quiet Ones

The catalyst for my visit to New Zealand, as well as a wonderful opportunity for a long-overdue visit to my family, was an invitation to speak at the HerStory Circle Conference in Wellington. The title of my talk is the theme of these reflections, the powerful voice of the quiet ones.

Reflecting,as I wrote the chapter that each speaker has been invited to submit for the anthology of stories for the conference, was an interesting experience. You will be able to read the full piece after the book is published. It was at first a big challenge to write 5,000 - 10,000 words. Most of the books to which I have been a contributing author, such as the 365 series, have presented the opposite challenge, of sharing an inspiring story in 300 words. (The very last in this series, "365 Soulful Messages" will be published in November. I have also contributed to "365 Moments of Grace", and "365 Life Shifts".)

Do you count yourself as a 'quiet one'?  Or are you the life and soul of the party? Or, maybe both, at different times? I am sure when we are small babies we are all well able to make our voices heard, to make a noise when we are uncomfortable in some way. As a child I was told it was 'good' to be quiet.

Some years ago I began to learn about introversion and extroversion. All of us would be somewhere on the scale, and I don't believe it is fixed. However, the simple distinction I read about helped me understand myself more. Introverts tend to recharge their batteries by being alone: out in nature, reading, painting, writing, meditating. Extroverts tend to gain their energy by being with people, the centre of a crowd, maybe at a party, dancing, playing team sports, sharing all sorts of activities. These distinctions are simplified: we all probably enjoy being alone at times, and at other times in a lively place with lots of friends.

So, for me, it means for example that when I go to a big event, such as a conference, I need to have a place to retreat to, ideally the room where I am staying is close by. And places where I can sit with one or two people and enjoy in-depth conversations. Failing that, you may see me retreat into my own thoughts even in a crowd, as illustrated by this photo taken without my knowledge at a conference a few years ago.



So, how do you regain your powerful voice as a 'quiet one'? I can only reflect on my own experience, my journey, and hope you will find some resonance with your own experience. It took me a while to come to understand that being powerful did not mean 'loud'. Certainly not for me, nor I suspect, for many others. I learned through being a trainer and giving talks to quite large and lively groups, that standing silently can be a more powerful way of bringing attention to the fact that you are ready to speak than shouting. Sometimes I would raise my arm, as we used to do in school when I was small, others soon notice and do the same - the quietness spreads. 

Being heard is not about having a loud voice, although in some circumstances it is about learning to project your voice, and to speak slowly and clearly, something I learned through training and experience. In other situations there can be all sorts of emotional barriers to being heard. And to speaking clearly, to stepping away from emotion for a moment at least.

Writing helped me: writing for myself initially. I began doing that on the day I was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 1994. I bought a journal and began writing. I recorded everything: what the doctors said, questions I had, feelings, experiences, frustrations. My journal became a friend and a safe haven. Somewhere I could place all the things I couldn't, or didn't want to, share with my family and friends. Later I discovered how common it is for the person with the illness, especially something like cancer, to feel they need to be strong, to protect family and friends by not sharing their true feelings. Later my journal was the starting point for my compilation of women's stories, published in 1998 as 'Flying in the Face of Fear'.

Moving on through the years, when I chose to return to running Dare to Blossom Life Coaching full time in 2015, after 12 years of enjoying employed roles as a business coach and trainer, I found the concept of 'power' arising frequently.

Many of us are afraid of the very idea of power. We may associate it with the old paradigm of power over people, control by fear, keeping people down so you can rise to the top. No wonder we reject that idea. The power I have been exploring for myself and in so many coaching conversations since, is collaborative, sharing, 'together we rise'. A more gentle, even quiet, feminine power. Many people I know, men and women, yearn for more balance, for more of the feminine alongside the masculine. A power with others.

From those reflections and conversations, grew the programmes I have been running since then, and which are changing and evolving each year. The 2020 version is called "The Power of Your Compass Rose". This has also emerged as the title of the book that will now be completed after my trip to New Zealand.  I know in my heart now that this journey is for me a necessary part of that writing, a reason for the book not being ready to be finished earlier. A journey of reunions with my family, and with the land of that magical country, and then a journey home with those new experiences, a journey home to myself - this will add the completion to the book I had been searching for without knowing what it was before.

For you, suggestions for your journal reflections or meditations:

• How do you see yourself on the scale between introvert and extrovert? You may like to reflect in your journal about how you behave in different situations.
• What is your first response to the word 'power'?
• What else is there? And, what else?
• Do you have something you would like more people to hear? If so, explore your preferred way of communicating. Is it through the spoken word? In writing? One-to-one or in a larger group?
• If you feel strongly about your message, choose the most comfortable way and ... just begin.

This poem, a blessing, by John O'Donohue, has great significance for me:

“To Come Home to Yourself”

“May all that is unforgiven in you be released, may your fears yield their deepest tranquilities, may all that is unlived in you blossom into a future graced with love.”

Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

One to One Coaching: I will be opening booking for coaching again in January 2020. If this is something you would like to explore, we can share a conversation on Zoom during an initial complimentary consultation before then. Here is the link to my scheduler. Apart from when I am away travelling, I would always say that if you can't find a convenient time (especially if we are in different time zones), just ask, as it is always possible to find a mutually convenient time.

Cornwall Workshops: The last event of 2019 is on Saturday 16th November, from 10 am to 1 pm, at the Blue Lotus Therapy Centre as usual. We complete the circle, the cycle around the year, around the Compass Rose, with 'Return to Peace'.  The first event of 2020 is on Saturday 25th January.

2020 Programmes: "The Power of Your Compass Rose" The new programmes are on the website and the Global Online Circle is open for booking now if you are keen to reserve your place. As always, if you have any questions, simply email or contact me here.

Thank you dear friends for visiting with me again this month and sharing my musings.

Until next time,

with love,
Mary

Find 'Dare to Blossom Life Coaching' on Facebook, @daretoblossom on Twitter

October 2019: Journeys

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

Reflections: Journeys
An invitation: Your Aotearoa Quest
Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Reflections: Journeys

It is intriguing that this title for my reflections came to me, this month. I am not leaving on my journey to New Zealand until November, so it may have been logical to for this subject to appear for the next newsletter.

However, appear it has, so I will follow where it takes me today. I have made many journeys in my life, literal and metaphorical. One of those was my 'journey' with cancer as many of you know - which began in 1994. My great good fortune was that the surgery removed the cancer and it has not returned. My experience has been one of coping with chronic pain, and that is lessening and changing as the years pass.

A memory pops up of a funny, and very moving talk at a conference for people affected by cancer I attended regularly for many years in Manchester. The speaker queried that metaphor of a 'cancer journey'. As he said, who chooses to set out on that sort of journey? And what type of journey has no known destination, no way of following your route on a map, no stops, no stations or airports along the way, no discernible means of travel. A one-way journey, one from which you may 'return' yet not as the same person whatever the outcome. A journey you have to travel alone, no one can truly be with you, however much family and friends, and professional supporters try to be with you.

My memories of that conference, and all the others, are - and this can be surprising to people who have not experienced this sort of 'journey' - that they were times of so much laughter. Laughter, and tears, and above all hugs. Everyone hugged, with unconditional love for each other (and asking permission first). I remember it being really quite hard not to hug people in the street when we left the sheltered bubble of the university campus. The conference always ended with a song about hugs (sadly I can't find a recording of it just now), which saw 300 people hugging as many people as they could before we all went our separate ways.

Many of us travel through our lives encountering health challenges of one sort or another. They seem to be part of being in a human body on this earth. Other sorts of journeys come to mind: that of growing up, from a child into a teenager and then the various phases of adulthood. One where we often wish we could go back in time and give our younger selves some encouragement. Although, as I read somewhere recently, our younger selves would most likely have ignored the advice from a strange person claiming to be themselves visiting from the future.

Then there are those regular roads we travel that become a habit: to school, to work, to the shops. How often do we fail to notice the sights and sounds along our way? They become so familiar as to be invisible to us. The photo below always make me look twice, even though I took it.... the eye is deceived by the stark blackness of the shadow. Can you see what it is?



For me that is one of the gifts of going away from home travelling. When I return I will see my familiar surroundings with fresh eyes, with a new perspective. When I am walking my favourite path on the cliffs a few miles drive from my home, I make it a practice to truly look around and notice everything, and yet even then, I am sure that much will seem new upon my return.

(Oh yes, the photo is a rock passage cut through a small rock promontory. The story is that the reason was to let the tide and waves flow more easily to protect the boats that used to berth in the cove beyond unloading pilchards.)

For you, suggestions for your journal reflections or meditations:

• Flow-write about significant journeys in your life.
• Draw a timeline of your life on a large roll of paper, or several sheets that you can lay out on the floor. Use symbols, drawings, colours.
• What do you see when you step back and look at your timeline from a different angle?
• Take an inner journey using meditation, or a guided visualisation. (Here is a link to an introductory Magic Carpet Ride visualisation*).
• Journal about your experiences. 

*I notice that I recorded this version three years ago. It has changed considerably since then, into a the one I use regularly now. I may record a new one at some stage. For now, this reminder of how many times I have spoken a version of these words, one that in truth, changes every time, feels perfect.
 

An invitation: Your Aotearoa Quest

Your Aotearoa Quest: Travel in spirit with me around the Compass Rose to New Zealand and back.

On 18th November I will be leaving England to travel to New Zealand. First I will fly East to Singapore. Then South to Christchurch. I leave there on 5th December, first North to Singapore again and then West to England (and further west still from Heathrow Airport to Cornwall).

So, yes, this description of the compass directions is wildly approximate as a means of navigating the surface of the earth – and yet for me it is significant as a metaphor for the journey I will be embarking upon.

So many people have said how much they would love to come with me: “Can I stow away in your suitcase?!” And then: “I’ll be with you in spirit.” – that those comments sparked an idea for a special offering for those of you who love following the metaphor of the Compass Rose. (If you are unfamiliar with my meditation poem, you can read or listen here).

For each person who books their place on the Quest I will scribe your name on a card. That card will represent you, and yes, you will travel in my suitcase around to the opposite side of the world. I do not yet know exactly where my journey within New Zealand will take me, mostly in the South Island around Christchurch where my sister and her family all live.

Definitely over the mountains to the wild West coast. Maybe up the East coast and out to sea on a whale-watching trip. Maybe to Wellington at the southern tip of the North Island where I hope to be speaking at the HerStory conference.

Your card, the representation of you in spirit, will travel with me. You will be present as I write in my journal (a beautiful new one bought especially for the journey). You, your card, will share in the things I experience.

Click on the photo of the cards to read more. You can also contact me with any questions, (or simply reply to this email), and we can always chat on Zoom.

I do not know yet how much Wi-Fi access I will have to share with you during my travels, I hope I will be able to share some photos with everyone as I usually do at home.

For anyone who is feeling the call to join in, to accept that this invitation is to enter the unknown of a new journey with me, I cannot right now tell you exactly what you will receive on my return.

I know that you will one day find an envelope in the post. It will contain your card, the one with your time scribed upon it. The one that has travelled with my on the Quest to Aotearoa. The card that will hold a special magic for you. I will also draw four Rediscovery cards for you on my return, one for each point of the compass. I will also send those.

In addition, I will compile a pdf document that you will receive electronically with messages that are for us all, and maybe some nuggets for you personally.

Are you with me? Are you happy to book your place, pay the fee of £22, and allow the process to unfold without knowing what it may bring?

I will be closing bookings on 3rd November, which, by coincidence is my birthday, so I will have two weeks before I pack and leave Cornwall. Two weeks to prepare your card and all the others to travel with me. Two weeks to allow the magic that will connect us all to begin working.

This will therefore be a slow process, one that I know will be deep and rich for each of us. I cannot yet say when you will receive your card in the post, or your pdf. I do not know how long it will be upon my return before I accomplish those things. I know that they will all be achieved in perfect timing, sometime around the turn of the year. Maybe before Christmas, maybe afterwards, maybe the travelling card and your for cards for the points of the compass via real mail first, followed by your electronic document.

You may wish to share a conversation with me to dive into the magic more deeply, to book a one to one on Zoom. You can sign up for that now if you wish by using the drop-down menu on the PayPal button on the website. Alternatively, you can wait and see how you feel, that additional offer will be open into 2020.

Compass Rose Speaks'

I am your Compass Rose. My centre point is Peace. Balancing, grounding.

Look up! Look North, to your Guiding Star. Your Purpose.

From the East comes the rising sun. Passion, potential.

South is the source of nature's powers. The flowing rivers, the rising tides, the ever-changing oceans. The wind that shapes the land. The power that is arising in you.

West is the land of the setting sun. Progressing forwards into the night. Anticipating the promise of a new day. Return your attention to your centre point, Peace. Balanced, grounded.

I am your Compass Rose. 

© Mary Lunnen 2018

Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

This month I have simplified this list as I am focusing on m trip away from mid-November.
All the usual one-to-one offerings are available, fitting around that time, so if you are interested  click here for details and contact me to book your complimentary consultation. Here are the key events before I leave:

Dare to Blossom October Mastermind Circle: Return to Peace. During October we return to the centre point of the Compass Rose, the end of one cycle and the beginning of the next.

As I often say, it makes no difference at what point you join the process, some people in the group have been here all year (and some for a second year), others have entered in more recently. Each part is connected back through the centre point, through Peace, to every other part.

Contact me if you would like to join us in October, there are three spaces left, or maybe two when you read this, and there will be a discount for newsletter subscribers in gratitude for your support.


Cornwall Workshops: The next event is on Saturday 16th November, from 10 am to 1 pm. The theme is 'Return to Peace', the same as the on-line Circle. If you are able to join us in person here in Cornwall, we meet in a beautiful room at the Blue Lotus Therapy Centre.in Scorrier. 
 

Thank you dear friends for visiting with me again this month and sharing my musings.

Until next time,

with love,
Mary

September 2019: Deep and slow

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

Reflections: Deep and slow
Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Reflections: Deep and slow

For the whole of August I have been - I hesitate to say unwell - feeling different to usual. It began with waking one night with an excruciating headache and even when that cleared I felt dizzy or light-headed and with numbness around my lips and face.

You don't need to hear all the details, and as I write to you now I am feeling almost back to my normal self physically. On another level I feel there.have been profound insights.

I wrote these words on 2nd August 

“Yesterday, as I was lying on a hospital bed, about to have a lumbar puncture to double check that I had not had a bleed in the brain, I decided to call on Source, and specifically my connection with the ocean.

I immediately received a wonderful sense of being supported. I heard the sound of the song of the humpback whales, and saw images of them floating in the water between the ocean depths and the surface. So graceful and such huge creatures.
I had my eyes shut and the sun light was streaming through the window so the colour through my eyelids was red/orange. And - I saw a huge whale's eye looking at me with such love and tenderness.”

Interestingly, the day I was at the hospital, there was a humpback whale spotted off the coast of Cornwall, not that far from where I was. This is not uncommon, but rare to get photos and video. Here is a link to the 'Lone Kayaker' blog.

All the tests were negative and I was discharged the same day. Since then I have experienced the side-effects from the lumbar puncture I was warned about, especially terrible headaches (ironic as the doctor said), which are only eased by lying flat. I have been communing with the whales while doing that and received a message: “Deep and slow.”

"Deep and slow" has needed to be my mantra for this month as I have felt the need for lots of rest, and to literally slow down, to do less, to choose carefully. I have done very little writing, although I feel that this experience will be part of my book, a key section in fact. I have been deliberating whether to push ahead and aim for publication in November as I have planned. Or whether to wait a while, take my time, allow the deep and slow process to continue some more.

Deep and slow. Deep and slow. The whales, along with dolphins and porpoises, are often present around our coast here in Cornwall. And yet, they are rarely seen. Knowing the whales are there somewhere in the depths, and knowing how far they travel around the world, is humbling for me. My journey down with the whales has been - and continues to be - a meditation. Another type of magic carpet ride, a visualisation journey. The difference for me in this recent experience has been that the images arose so unexpectedly, from the depths of my subconscious maybe, as I lay there asking for help.



Many of us receive messages when we are out in nature. On that same day, after the procedure had been completed and the doctor had left me to rest in the quiet room, I gazed out of the window. I could see some sky, and trees in the background. In the foreground the building I was in was covered in scaffolding. Around the scaffolding were fluttering several  pairs of butterflies. Red admirals I think, although it was hard to see with the sunlight streaming in the window. I lay and watched their dance for a long time. So beautiful, yet they were simply going about the 'business' of their short lives.

The time when I most needed to rest coincided with a period of bad weather. More recently I have been able to walk on the cliffs again. One of the first times I went out to Porthmisson Bridge, the rock formation near Trevone, close to where I live, the wind was so strong I could hardly stand. It was a joy watching the fulmars wheeling and circling, appearing to be playing in the wind, surfing the strong air currents, showing off their skill and prowess. If you click on the photo below you will be taken to a very short video I managed to take of a fulmar. (If that doesn't work, click here instead.)



I wondered if they had a message for me: "Go with the flow," I heard, "Use the uplift." Adding this to "Deep and slow" feels, for me, like a way forward. A way to regain a different sort of momentum. Sometimes I find goals and action plans useful, essential even. Right now, in this time of rest and reflection, I feel more in a place of allowing. My inner critic calls that procrastination, lack of dedication, laziness. I choose to move beyond that critic.

Right now I am in a place of acceptance of all that is, all that is unfolding. I know, I trust, that my flow of writing for the book will resume when the time is right. In fact the words I have written here for you are part of that. If I allow the process to be deep and slow; if I go with the flow and then use the uplift when it comes; then the finished result will be richer, more rounded, more complete - and may mean more to those who decide to read those words.

There has also been a lot emerging for me about stepping up, into the light - into the spotlight indeed. For that to happen the time needs to be right. This book deserves to be given the right amount of time, and for the literal timing of the launch to be considered. I find it interesting that we use that word, 'launch' for books, and for ships. Another thought now arises: when a ship is launched, she is then taken for fitting out and sea trials. Likewise, I can 'launch' this book in stages too if I wish. It simply has to be 'water tight' first. For me that means that the structure works, is sound, makes sense, has no 'leaks'.

Mmmmm... a lot to ponder on there for me.

For you, suggestions for your journal reflections or meditations:

• Have you ever received any messages from nature?
• Do you choose to ask for help, and then listen to the insights you receive?
• What do the words 'deep and slow' mean for you?
• 'Go with the flow'?
• 'Use the uplift'?

Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Dare to Blossom September Mastermind Circle: Progress. During September we are unfurling the 'Progress; petal of the power flower, following the west-pointing arm of the Compass Rose: "West is the land of the setting sun, progressing forward into the night, anticipating the promise of a new day."

It makes no difference at what point you join the process, some people in the group have been here all year (and some for a second year), others have entered in more recently. Each part is connected back through the centre point, through Peace, to every other part.

Contact me if you would like to join us in September, there will be a discount for newsletter subscribers in gratitude for your support.

One-to-one coaching : I currently have spaces for three new clients. Whether you have worked with me before or not, you are very welcome to book a complimentary consultation to chat about what your aim would be for enrolling in one of my coaching programmes and how we can make it work for you. Please ask if the regular price is not within your budget right now. I am well aware that just when people would most benefit from coaching may be when they can least afford it. And, it is also true that unless people are committed to investing in themselves: in time, and in money, then maybe that true change they desire may never happen.

Three Card Listenings These are continuing to be popular with people who want a snapshot of insight for themselves. 

Cornwall Workshops: The next event is on Saturday 14th September, from 10 am to 1 pm. This time we will be exploring Progress, this time in person in a beautiful room together at the Blue Lotus Therapy Centre.in Scorrier. September is a beautiful time of year to visit Cornwall, so you could combine joining us at this event with a short break exploring the coastline, beaches, moors, and gardens of this wonderful place. Let me know if I can help suggest where to visit or to stay. You could also combine this with your personal one-to-one Quest Experience with me as your companion and guide.

The Dare to Blossom Quest Experience: this is the in-depth VIP programme for you to truly step into your power within. The journey begins with a free consultation, where you can find out is this is for you, and book a date. Next we share a one hour video coaching session to explore exactly what you would like to achieve when you join me here in Cornwall on the majestic cliffs to connect with your Compass Rose, your inner guidance system, your wisdom within. On the day itself I will have planned various options according to your wishes and to allow us to adapt to whatever the weather has in store for us. We will travel through the landscape, considering each of the five parts of the Compass Rose. (Read more here, where you can also watch a video by someone who has experienced this for themselves) After your Quest there is another one hour video session to follow up and look at what next for you.

Root and Branch Listenings are available at any time as a one-off, or as a quarterly 'Four Seasons' subscription. If you choose to subscribe,  you will receive your personal Listening four times a year. The next issue will be in September for the Autumn Equinox (or Spring if you are south of the equator)..



Point of Focus Membership: if you prefer a monthly timescale with Dare to Blossom Cards drawn for you to reflect upon, with the option of adding on one-to-one coaching calls with me, the Point of Focus subscription may be for you. Some people find subscribing to these and the 'Root and Branch Listenings' together a valuable source of support.
 

Thank you dear friends for visiting with me again this month and sharing my musings.

Until next time,

with love,
Mary

August 2019: Appreciation

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

Reflections: Appreciation
Dare to Blossom Art Summer Sale
Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Reflections: Appreciation

For me, appreciation seems to add even more depth to gratitude. Listing the things I am grateful for is a beautiful practice. When I add exactly why I am grateful for those things, it encourages me to think more deeply. To think about exactly what it is that I appreciate about them.

I appreciate the beauty of these extraordinary flowers. I took the photo at the Eden Project a year or so ago. When I shared it on my Facebook page people told me what they were known as (spider lilies), and some friends have them growing in their gardens in Australia. Knowing these facts and sharing with others, helped me to appreciate them even more deeply.



Appreciating the wonders of nature all around is extremely important to me. In the past, there have been times when I was working in stressful situations, with lots of other pressures in my personal life, not to mention living with chronic pain. I can remember eventually realising that I had stopped even being truly aware of what was around me, let alone appreciating the beauty of what I was seeing. This pattern recurred several times, in different jobs, before I eventually fully received the message and made changes.

Now I am fortunate to be able to choose how I spend my time, and I walk on the cliffs near my home as often as I am able, even if just for ten minutes. The fresh sea air, the sound of the waves, the calling of the sea birds nesting on the cliff ledges, the colours of the different flowers throughout the year, the feel of the rocky ground, and then the springy turf, beneath my feet - I appreciate every moment.



Appreciation is even more powerful when applied to our interactions with people. "Thank you for doing (or being)...." ..has more impact than simply "Thank you". And thanking someone for the particular way in which they did something, even more so. Being precise is of course a well-recognised way of giving feedback, whether in personal or professional situations.

Finally, how often do you appreciate yourself? I was asked this question by a wise friend recently, who suggested I write myself a card and post it to myself. I have written it - I did that straight away - and I decided to leave it a while so I would forget the words of the message to myself. Maybe I will simply hide it amongst my stash of beautiful cards I keep to write for others. Then I will come across it at some time in the future and see it is for me. Or maybe I will post it when I decide the time is right.

For you, suggestions for your journal reflections or meditations:

• What does 'appreciation' mean to you? 
• Choose to appreciate everyone and everything around you. Write about what things come to your appreciative attention right now. What can you see right under your nose?
• Write cards for friends and family telling them what you appreciate about them.
• Write one for a work colleague or your boss.
• Write one for yourself.

Dare to Blossom Art Summer Sale

Many of you are familiar with the encaustic art (wax painting) that I enjoy creating. I have just announced a summer sale, which runs until 28th August. The offer is 20% reduction on the original mounted or framed paintings. If anything catches your eye, contact me before buying to receive the discount as I have not changed the prices on the website. Also, if you are outside the UK, I will need to check postage costs for you. Click on the image below to view the gallery.



Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Dare to Blossom Taster Circle On 9th August at 10.00 am UK time there is a chance to experience the magic of a live Zoom call with a small group. The link takes you to the Facebook event, if you prefer not to use that, simply reply to this email and ask me to send you the link.
Dare to Blossom September Mastermind Circle: Progress. During September we are unfurling the 'Progress; petal of the power flower, following the west-pointing arm of the Compass Rose: "West is the land of the setting sun, progressing forward into the night, anticipating the promise of a new day."

It makes no difference at what point you join the process, some people in the group have been here all year (and some for a second year), others have entered in more recently. Each part is connected back through the centre point, through Peace, to every other part.

Contact me if you would like to join us in September, there will be a discount for newsletter subscribers in gratitude for your support.

One-to-one coaching : I currently have spaces for two new clients. Whether you have worked with me before or not, you are very welcome to book a complimentary consultation to chat about what your aim would be for enrolling in one of my coaching programmes and how we can make it work for you. Please ask if the regular price is not within your budget right now. I am well aware that just when people would most benefit from coaching may be when they can least afford it. And, it is also true that unless people are committed to investing in themselves: in time, and in money, then maybe that true change they desire may never happen.

Three Card Listenings These are continuing to be popular with people who want a snapshot of insight for themselves. 

Cornwall Workshops: The next event is on Saturday 14th September, from 10 am to 1 pm. This time we will be exploring Progress, this time in person in a beautiful room together at the Blue Lotus Therapy Centre.in Scorrier. September is a beautiful time of year to visit Cornwall, so you could combine joining us at this event with a short break exploring the coastline, beaches, moors, and gardens of this wonderful place. Let me know if I can help suggest where to visit or to stay. You could also combine this with your personal one-to-one Quest Experience with me as your companion and guide.

The Dare to Blossom Quest Experience: this is the in-depth VIP programme for you to truly step into your power within. The journey begins with a free consultation, where you can find out is this is for you, and book a date. Next we share a one hour video coaching session to explore exactly what you would like to achieve when you join me here in Cornwall on the majestic cliffs to connect with your Compass Rose, your inner guidance system, your wisdom within. On the day itself I will have planned various options according to your wishes and to allow us to adapt to whatever the weather has in store for us. We will travel through the landscape, considering each of the five parts of the Compass Rose. (Read more here, where you can also watch a video by someone who has experienced this for themselves) After your Quest there is another one hour video session to follow up and look at what next for you.

Root and Branch Listenings are available at any time as a one-off, or as a quarterly 'Four Seasons' subscription. If you choose to subscribe,  you will receive your personal Listening four times a year. The next issue will be in September for the Autumn Equinox (or Spring if you are south of the equator)..



Point of Focus Membership: if you prefer a monthly timescale with Dare to Blossom Cards drawn for you to reflect upon, with the option of adding on one-to-one coaching calls with me, the Point of Focus subscription may be for you. Some people find subscribing to these and the 'Root and Branch Listenings' together a valuable source of support.
 

Thank you dear friends for visiting with me again this month and sharing my musings.

Until next time,

with love,
Mary