March 2018 Growth

Reflections: Growth
Events, workshops, and your individual Dare to Blossom Quest Experience

Reflections: Growth

This month I have left writing this until the very last minute, so, although I should get this out on 28th February, by the time you read this it may already be March. Here in the UK, even in normally mild Cornwall, we are just entering a very cold spell. This often happens in March, though not for a few years now. Some years back it was below freezing for about ten days. The fountain in our pond, which we left on to aerate the water for the fish, created an amazing ice sculpture as the water gushing from the top froze around it and a frozen cascade grew and grew. It must have been a while ago as it was before I had a digital camera, so I have no photos at hand to show you.

The subject for these reflections - growth - will, I hope, be a chance to reflect on green shoots, rather than ice accumulating. It is also the theme for the last week of the 'Peace' Mastermind group (in the Stepping into Your Power programme) that has been running through the month of February. This has been the first of five in-depth months as we journey through the year together. In April we unfurl the 'Purpose' petal together.

The chance for you to apply to join the Mastermind group will be opening soon, just as soon, in fact, as I can get the information ready. February has been a wonderfully busy month, culminating in a trip to Surrey to exhibit at the Holistic and Mystic Show at Dorking. I was also invited to be a speaker on the talks programme there, and I was delighted to share a little of the Dare to Blossom story with those who joined me, along with offering each person their own Rediscovery Card to take away with them. For those of you not able to visit, here is the interview I did for their blog.

I was lucky enough to be taken to some scenic spots - we had lunch in the village of Forest Row, I loved this building - it was actually a pizza restaurant, but I think I managed to get a shot without any signs to distract you from the beautiful architecture.



So, back to 'Growth'. In spite of the occasional cold spell, I love this time of year. The first signs of spring are well-evident now: my miniature daffodils in the pots outside my office in the garden are in full bloom, the first starry white flowers of blackthorn are out in the hedgerows, and the blush of swelling buds is misting the trees with a touch of colour.

For me, it feels as if nature is pausing to take a deep breath, maybe even welcoming the pause of the cold setting back the pace of growth just a little. And once this has passed, then the buds will burst and the green leaves appear; more and more flowers will blossom, the birds will be nesting and spring will truly be here.



In personal terms, where is growth taking place for you? It may not be showing itself yet. Maybe you are experiencing 'growing pains' as you work through a process of change. Or perhaps, the time is not quite right yet - like those buds pausing in the cold weather and suspending their opening until the temperature rises again.

For you, for your journal, meditations or artwork:

What does growth mean for you?
Do you feel that your are frozen into inaction just now?
Where is the potential for you in this pause?
When the thaw comes, how will you choose to grow and blossom?

Events, workshops, and your individual Dare to Blossom Quest Experience

The next workshop here in Cornwall, on 17th March, is on the theme of 'Purpose - Reaching'. What do you want to achieve, what is your gift to share with the world?



While I am preparing the details for the April 'Stepping into Your Power' Mastermind group, here is the general information. Before anyone joins the group I offer you a complimentary consultation so you can ask any questions you may have, and we can get to know each other a little.



Booking is open now for your Dare to Blossom Quest Experience. Will you choose a specific focus? Maybe Peace, Purpose, Passion, Power or Progress, or maybe a theme personal to you. The first step is a complimentary consultation, then once you book there is another hour call to start the process - though in reality, that begins as soon as you make that commitment to yourself, as Sheryl describes so eloquently in her video reflections.



When would you like to come to the magical land of Cornwall? Maybe you would like to plan a very special visit around your Quest Experience? I can help with suggestions for places to visit and to stay. Maybe you are coming anyway on a family holiday and will be able to negotiate with them to take a day out just for you? Maybe, like me, you live here and will simply need to find a convenient date. 
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As always, please feel free to comment below with your thoughts and comments.

If you would like to own a set of Dare to Blossom Rediscovery cards to explore their power for yourself please visit the dedicated page.

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

Until next time,

with love,
Mary

February 2018 Peace

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

Reflections: Peace
Events, workshops, and your individual Dare to Blossom Quest Experience

Reflections: Peace

Today, as I write a week before you will receive this,  I was able to get out for a walk for the first time for a while. The weather has been - well, what you would expect in a Cornish winter - wet, drizzly, windy, with hardly any sunshine.  Today the forecast was at least dry, and I wanted some time out in nature to reflect, to begin this piece for you.

I chose the title 'Peace' as it fits with where I am in my cycle of the year. Last Saturday was the first workshop of the six planned for this year at the Blue Lotus Therapy Centre. A beautiful morning spent together exploring Peace. Ending with an unexpected and delightful singsong!

So, a walk to reflect, on this very windy beach, at Constantine Bay, near Padstow and St Merryn, here on the Atlantic coast. This was far from a peaceful experience - the big ocean waves were crashing and the wind was blowing, and it was wonderful. Full of the energy of nature - and that is one place I find my peace, whatever the conditions are at the time.



So different from the same beach, also on a winter's day:



Both days helped me connect with my inner peace, in different ways. And so did being in the workshop, even though I was responsible for making the experience a good one for everyone else, there was peace for me there too.

For you, for your journal, meditations or artwork:

What does peace mean for you?
Where do you find it?
How can you connect with your inner peace in the midst of noise and bustle and busyness?

Events, workshops, and your individual Dare to Blossom Quest Experience

You will find details of all the events by clicking here or on the flower image below, all are on the theme of 'Stepping into Your Power'. All will be looking at Peace, the centre of the Dare to Blossom Power Flower.

Here is a comment made on Facebook after the last workshop, in reply to someone who said they had an amazing time:

"It was indeed amazing, wonderful, inspirational, beautiful, supportive, relaxing and energising. Oh, great fun in good company too. Thank you everyone for sharing, trusting and adding to it and Mary for enabling it to happen. See you in two months. Let the Magic continue."

In the Mastermind Circle beginning on 5th February you can join us from anywhere in the world. Booking at the introductory price closes on 1st February. I am sending this newsletter early to give you a day or so to consider if you would like to join us.

In London, we will spend a whole day, beginning with grounding in Peace and then unfurling each of the petals through the day.

And, if you decide to join me here, on the beaches and cliffs of north Cornwall on your own Dare to Blossom Quest - I will be your guide and companion while you explore your Peace within and all those other aspects: Purpose, Passion, Power, Progress - and returning back to peace.

Finally, the next workshop here in Cornwall, on 17th March, is building on Peace and expanding into the theme of 'Purpose - Reaching'. What do you want to achieve, what is your gift to share with the world?

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As always, please feel free to comment below with your thoughts and comments.

If you would like to own a set of Dare to Blossom Rediscovery cards to explore their power for yourself please visit the dedicated page.

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

Until next time,

with love,
Mary

January 2018 Simply Reflections

Happy New Year - may 2018 be an amazing year for you. 

Reflections: Simply Reflections
2018 Dare to Blossom Mastermind programme: Stepping into Your Power
Workshops in London and Cornwall
New Year wishes to you

Reflections: Simply Reflections

Usually, the 'Reflections' piece here has a title, a subject, a theme. This time it is simply.... reflections.

One of the suggested 'words for the year' with the My Word Goddess Reading that I receive from Amy Palko each year is 'Orientation'. I have been trying that on for size and it hasn't quite felt the perfect fit.

Then my mind went to 'Flow' and someone in a group I belong to, where we were discussing our words, said this: ""Mary, I have this picture of you swimming in a vast ocean with goggles on and a compass in your hand trying to orient yourself to land." and then asked me if I felt adrift.

My reply was, not so much adrift as sitting with the feeling that things are about to become crystal clear next year, and maybe in unexpected ways. So, that is where I am just now. And, then I was drawn to look back on the ten years of writing these newsletters - I began in March 2007.

So, my first ever reflections for a New Year were in January 2008. Reading again I see a snapshot of my life then, linking in with my memories of that time. What was happening then? In my business I had workshops planned for 2008 in Cornwall, Covent Garden in London, and in York.

I did not know that the following year I was to be made redundant from the part time job at a local college I had been in for six, nearly seven years. But, that was all in the future when I wrote these words:

Reflections: Endings, continuations and new beginnings

Reflecting on the end of 2007 and the New Year about to start is a time to pause, take stock, and look forward to the coming twelve months.

I have just worked through the ‘New Inspiration’ sheet I sent to you all with Christmas wishes.  It is an interesting experience reflecting on a whole year, such a lot has happened.  Some things have changed considerably over that time, some not at all.  Some are still significant, some I can hardly remember why they seemed such a ‘big thing’ at the time.

I don’t feel it is just ‘hindsight’ – in other words being able to see what I could have done differently after an event.  I think it is also about perspective, about being able to take a different view, perhaps a number of views, by looking back at something instead of forwards.  By metaphorically walking all round it, considering various angles and viewpoints, I am able to see things differently.

Overall, for me, it has been an immensely satisfying and fulfilling year.  I have met many wonderful people, in person and via online networking sites.  I have almost finished my latest book (‘Dare to Blossom: Coaching and Creativity) and it will be available very soon.  I have two workshops coming up in February (and more planned later in 2008).

For you:
As well as using the ‘New Inspiration’ worksheet, you might like to reflect and write about these questions:

What has ended over the last year?
Have I recognised and marked these endings?  (There may be a celebration, or a memorial ceremony that would feel appropriate to mark them.)  Are they happy or sad?  Is there anything that should have ended but is dragging on?  Should it be ‘laid to rest’?

What began afresh this year?
Where have/are these new beginnings taking me?  Are they continuing into 2008?  Do I want them to continue?

What new beginnings to you want to make happen for yourself?  What actions can you take to achieve this?

So, you may like to sit with these questions, with your journal or in meditation. I have checked that I still have the "New Inspirations" worksheet - if you would like a copy please contact me and I will send it over to you.

My personal thoughts now are that I am in the perfect place to begin a new 'trip around the sun', a new cycle, a new turn of the spiral of my life. I have some plans, dates for workshops and events, as you will see below. And, I love that I have lots of space for the new to arrive without me placing too many expections just now on what that 'new' might look like.

As some of you may know, I am, as I was in 2007, working on a book. It is not as far advanced as that title was - and that is fine too. I know it will emerge and evolve as the year continues on, as the seasons turn, as my work takes me to new places and ideas.

2018 Dare to Blossom Mastermind Circle programme



What does this bring for you? The thought of stepping into your power? All this last twelve months I have been exploring the concept of 'power'. Seeing where I, and others, resist the thought of the sort of power that controls, dominates, has 'power over' others. I have spoken to so many people, men as well as women, who feel strongly in their hearts that there is another way. A way of bringing forward gentle power, maybe a feminine power to balance the masculine within each of us.

You may like to watch this TED Talk where a man, Justin Baldoni, gives his perspective on this. This reminds me to mention that men are welcome in my groups as well as women - I know a number of men who would fit in perfectly to our circles, whether in person or online. As Justin Baldoni says in his TED talk, we need to get everyone involved, men and women, in order for society to change.

During 2017 the workshops and groups I have led have explored the unfurling of this power, using the format of the 'Dare to Blossom Power Flower' with which many of you are familiar. Now it is time for me, and for you if you care to join me, to step firmly into our power.



In November, four people joined me to work through a trial run of a Dare to Blossom Mastermind Circle. The five of us worked together on weekly prompts and topics, shared in a private Facebook group and met once a week for a live meeting on Zoom video-conferencing. As it was a small group, I was able to take part in the same way as everyone else, as well as holding a quiet safe space for everyone to be heard and witnessed, and to hear themselves think.

The others present will be sharing some thoughts when the festive season is over and they have had time to reflect. In the mean time I think I can speak for all of us when I  say that none of us had imagined how powerful the Circle would be. Usiing my tried and tested processes, working with the Rediscovery Cards and the Magic Carpet Ride Guided Visualisations, brought forth inspiration, insights, new ideas, realisations. Each person was supported by the others in the group in a non-judgemental, peaceful way. And the laughter was often full-bellied and boisterous; the occasional tears were healing and honoured by us all.

We followed the ups and downs of each other's lives and the most common comment at the end of the month was 'I don't want this to end!' And it hasn't, we are meeting again for a reuniion call soon, and maybe some of those people wll join one or more of the new Circles in 2018. Each will be different, with a mix of people, backgrounds and locations. (In November we circled the globe with three of us at different spots in the UK, one in the USA, and one in Australia.)

The groups will be kept small as I know that is how the trust is built and the strength of the group lies in that firm grounding. If you are a Point of Focus Membership subscriber, you will be eligible for a 10% discount, make sure you contact me as soon as possible to secure your place.

There is an outline of the whole programme, which begins in February on the website under 'Workshops and Events.' Along with full details of the February Circle 'Peace'. We are following the flow that has worked so well through the year in 2017 in the workshops at the Blue Lotus at Scorrier, (see below for the 2018 proramme there), using the unfurling of the Dare to Blossom Power Flower.

As you will see on the website, there are two free Zoom video-conferencing calls scheduled for you to experience a little of the process for yourself and to ask any questions you may have before deciding if the Mastermind programme is for you. You do not need to be on Facebook to attend these, nor to take part in the Mastermind Circles - though you would miss much of the interaction that takes place there. If you would like to discuss with me in private, just book a complimentary twenty minute consultation. If you don't like on line groups you may find that one to one coaching suits you, all those details are here on the Rediscovery Coaching pages.

Workshops

Stepping into Your Power 2018 Programme Scorrier Cornwall The first workshop is on 20th January, at the usual time 10-1, with a big discount (one third reduction) for 'frequent flyers' who would like to book the year-long programme of six.

London 24th February Stepping into Your Power Following on the success of the event last August, another full day to dive in and explore together in a small group.

I am still looking out for other venues in Cornwall and Devon, so if you know anywhere or would like to host a workshop in your home or invite me to speak to a group you are involved with, please do get in touch.

New Year wishes to you

Finally, thank you so much to each of you reading this, I am so grateful for your support, often over many years. If you feel you no longer wish to receive these emails, please feel free to unsubscribe using the link at the bottom of the page, although I would be sad to see you go, you won't offend me - I know very well the need to 'declutter' my in-box at regular intervals.

I hope this won't be the case though, and that we'll be in touch throughout the new year ahead. Who knows where the year wiill take us? Maybe I will meet more of you in person, that is such a joy when itis possible. Coffee, cake and conversation; walk and talk - is always such a deep pleasure. Each of you feels like an old friend even though we may not yet have met in person.

Here is a photo I took a while ago at the Eden Project here in Cornwall, with love and gratitude from me to you - oh, and a Happy New Year too.



As always, please feel free to comment below with your thoughts and comments.

If you would like to own a set of Dare to Blossom Rediscovery cards to explore their power for yourself please visit the dedicated page.

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

Until next time,

with love,
Mary

December 2017 Questions

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

This is coming to you a little later than usual - for a very good reason. The 29th November was the launch of Susie Mackie's book Women of Spirit. I am proud to be one of the contributors to what is not simply a book full of moving and inspiring stories, but the start of a movement. More details below.

December! Still time to buy Dare to Blossom Rediscovery Cards - a perfect gift that will be enjoyed every day of the year. If you feel time is running away with you - why not ask me to gift wrap them, include a personal greeting from you, and send them direct? Just ask me when ordering (please make sure it is before the last posting date wherever you wish them to travel in the world.)

Reflections: Questions
Events: summary and links
What else is there?
Women of Spirit launch event
My Silver Tent Radio Show

Reflections: Questions

As we move into December, I intended to have  a full programme of offerings for you. As I write this piece now, on 27th November, some are already in place, and at the same time others are still floating out there somewhere in the creative soup. Not ready to be pinned down just yet. 'More questions than answers' as the saying goes.

What is out there in the distance? Beyond that cloud obscuring part of the blue sky and the landscape beyond?



I do not yet know. And so, what can I share now, today? What is ready to be told? What else is there that needs to be given more time? Time to germinate; to grow a strong root system; to produce green shoots that will withstand the buffeting of the weather in the outside world; and to produce buds, flower and form fruit.

Maybe in the same way that it is possible to change the conditions so that seeds germinate more quickly, here are some projects I can speed up. But only to a certain degree, once I reach that point I find that once again I am faced with questions. Questions I cannot yet see the answers for clearly. Sometimes the natural order, whether for seeds or for our own creative projects, just cannot be hurried. Certain things need to slot into place before others can come clearly into focus.
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For you, to reflect upon in your journal, your meditations, your art work:
- What does this word - "questions" bring for you? What questions arise?
- Reflecting on 'questions about questions' has proved a challenge for me - instead of using words, maybe you'd like to try doodling, drawing, painting, using collage work instead?
- Or putting on your favourite music and dancing.
- Or getting outdoors and walking, running, swimming - whatever works best for you to access your creative mind and allow the questions time to germinate.

Events: Summary and links

Stepping into Your Power 2018 Programme Scorrier Cornwall The first workshop, is on 20th January, usual time 10-1, with a big discount for 'frequent flyers' who would like to book the year-long programme of six.

London 24th February Stepping into Your Power Following on the success of the event in August, another full day to dive in and explore together in a small group.

What else is there?
These are events already planned - over the next few weeks I will have more to share once the answers to those questions become clear.

Some of you have shared with me a deep and powerful experience in the first Dare to Blossom Point of Focus Mastermind Group during November - I can only speak for myself just now but as we draw that to a close it has been far more, far more in every way than I could possibly have envisaged.

This beautiful candle-holder - there was one on each table in The Mexican where my husband and I enjoyed a meal recently - this image illustrates how I feel at the end of this group. (Not that it will end, we are connected in our circle as long as we wish to be).



Once we have all had time to reflect and I have drawn everything I have learned into a coherent plan, then the 2018 programme will be announced. At present I see that beginning in February, and I may well be in touch before Christmas with news for those of you who like to plan ahead. If you would like to be among the first to receive an invitation to consider joining us in what may be called the Dare to Blossom Power Circle during 2018, contact me here to join the priority list.

Another trial of deep significance for me was the Dare to Blossom Quest Day that Sheryl Andrews chose to book on 4 November. Cornwall in the autumn at her wild and wonderful best.



I am so grateful for the chance to really experience for myself how powerful the Power Flower process is when someone works through it, literally stepping into their power as we step through the ancient and dramatic landscape of this special place.

A note here: No apologies for the repeated use of that word 'Power'. Feminine power, gentle power, power of community - all these ways of looking at a word that for so long, for many of us, has had connotations of fear, control, domination - this has brought me so many conversations this year. With men as well as women. People who care deeply about the future for us all, for our children and grandchildren and all living things we share this earth with - all these people are joining in moving into a different way of being.

So, to return to the magical day that Sheryl and I shared. The wind was strong and we had to keep the cards from flying away as Sheryl drew them for each point on the flower as we moved location during the day.

 

Sheryl has offered to share some reflections with us in the next newsletter, thank you in advance and for the whole experience. I am very grateful also to Mark who took the photographs and held the space so perfectly for the magic to happen during the day.



So, if you are feeling you'd like to join me here in north Cornwall for a Dare to Blossom Quest Day in 2018, look out for future announcements, or contact me direct  

Women of Spirit launch event

So, what can I say about such an amazing event? The launch took place at Barton Court, at Colwall, near Malvern. (A stunning wedding and celebration venue if you are looking for one). A group of people gathered, first to support those speaking to practice their words; and to make lunch and share; to prepare for the guests arriving in the evening. All flowed beautifully - many hands achieving what needed to be done.

As we gathered later, in our party outfits, welcoming people as they arrived, hugging old friends and new; joining in conversations and then listening to the so powerful stories - my overwhelming feeling was of the power of community. Most of us had only met on-line before then, if at all. The feeling of each of us using our experiences to celebrate the resilience of the human spirit and to help others know they are not alone in whatever it is they are going through - that is the power that can make the world a better place. To borrow Susie's words - we are all like pebbles in a pool: we set the ripples in motion through our actions and who knows where they will reach. Click on the link to buy the book from Amazon UK, or use your favourite bookseller (my preference is for Abe Books).



You may notice that this book is Volume One - if you would like to be included in future volumes, link up with the Women of Spirit website or Facebook group. 

My Silver Tent Radio Show

The Silver Tent is a conscious, creative and collaborative community supportig women over fifty. In just over twelve months the Facebook community has gown to 3422 members (by the time you read this there will be more) - and already extraordinary things are happening. In a breath-takingly short time we have between us created a calendar for 2018 and set up Silver Tent Radio - you can find a wide selection of shows here.

As always, please feel free to comment below with your thoughts and comments. 

If you would like to own a set of Dare to Blossom Rediscovery cards to explore their power for yourself please visit the dedicated page.

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

Until next time,

with love,
Mary

November 2017: Settling

Reflections: Settling

When being prompted for a title for this newsletter for November the word 'Settling' came to mind, I am not sure why - and that is what I will explore in a moment through some flow writing.

First, I went to the dictionary, as I often do - and I find it is a fascinating word, with many meanings. Some of these are: to agree, to make comfortable, to live, to move lower, to pay, to become quiet and calm. One of the suggested origins of the word is "Old English setlan ‘to seat, place’, from settle."

The suggestion I tuned into is "to relax into a comfortable position....." This feels perfect for today, and for the act of writing this to you. Not to see it as simply an item on my to-do list, or a chore - but rather a relaxation. A settling in as if in a comfortable chair, sitting opposite you - my dear friend. Opening a conversation - and many of you do write back to me with your thoughts and comments and I so treasure those exchanges.

'Settling' also chimes, for me, with this time of year - tonight, 28th October, here in the UK, British Summer Time ends, and we return to GMT, Greenwich Mean Time. Signaling the beginning of darker evenings and mornings, cooler weather, a drawing inwards.

Last Saturday a group of women shared a beautiful day, the Mellow October Workshop - a one-day retreat that Melanie and I collaborated on together. On the day it was anything but mellow outside, with a severe gale raging, the trees thrashing around, heavy showers passing by and lashing down with rain. Every so often the clouds cleared and we saw a glimpse of sunshine.



Inside we were warm and cosy, tucked up - settled into a safe cocoon together. We are planning more events in the future, it was a joy to work together in this way. Here are some photos of the day:

Here are the cards laid out and the fire lit before everyone arrived....


Part way through...


Wonderfully messy creative play....


My corner of our 'altar' laid out around the carpet, at the end....


During the day we shared meditations, healing circles, conversation, insights, laughter and a few tears. Plus the delicious lunch that Melanie prepared for us - not to mention the lemon drizzle cake.



Such a beautiful way to spend a day, thank you so much to everyone who joined us.
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So, settling - what does this word bring for you?

For you, to reflect upon in your journal, your meditations, your art work:
- What are you settling for?
- What would you like to settle into?
- Do you need to 'settle up' with someone? With yourself?
- How would you like to settle into a comfortable position?
- What is 'comfortable' for you?

Events: Summary and links
There is a lot in my calendar this month, and I am aware that giving full details of a big list of events is not helpful for everyone.

So, this month I will simply list each event and link them to my website, or to an external page if that is relevant (as in my talk on 6th November). I will be interested to hear whether you prefer this format, do let me know please. If you would like to know more and would like to talk, just book a twenty-minute complimentary consultation call through my calendar here, and we can chat over a cuppa, wherever you are in the world. As always, my one-to-one coaching programmes are available at any time.

November Online Mastermind Circle: Point Of Focus - Our relationship with money - from lack to abundance. From 1st November for four weeks. A trial circle for an in-depth exploration of many other aspects of daring to blossom during 2018.
"What's age got to do with it? Insights from a lifetime in business": 6th November 12-2, free event, talk for the Plymouth Women in Business group.
8th November, Holsworthy : Dare to Blossom, stepping into your power, an introduction, 10-2.30 - a full programme will run in 2018 if there is interest here.
18 November Scorrier, Cornwall: A Magic Carpet Ride, Unleash Your Power Within. Progress - Harvesting, 10-1, the last event of the year in our series.
Stepping into Your Power 2018 Programme Scorrier Cornwall: The first workshop, is on 20th January, usual time 10-1, with a big discount for 'frequent flyers' who would like to book the year-long programme of six.
London 24th February Stepping into your power: following on the success of the event in August.


As always, please feel free to comment below with your thoughts and comments. 

If you would like to own a set of Dare to Blossom Rediscovery cards to explore their power for yourself please visit the dedicated page.

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

Until next time,

with love,
Mary

October 2017: the space between ripening and harvest

Reflections: The space between ripening and harvest..... power and progress
Two free calls this week: on Zoom 28/9 and 29/9
Events: Point of Focus online group coaching programmes, plus workshop news

Reflections: The space between ripening and harvest..... power and progress

I began writing this for you sitting in the late September sunshine in a sheltered spot in my garden. Reflecting on a number of things I have let go, some for ever, and some for now at least. Many of the plans I shared with you in my last newsletter have either been canceled or postponed.

It seems I needed to make space. Space to sit with the questions, to be comfortable living the questions, in the words from Rainer Maria Rilke:

“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.”

This year of unfolding, unfurling, the petals of the Power Flower with groups of women at the workshops here in Cornwall has been a joy. The slow pace, flowing with the seasons, has felt a luxury of allowing, or living the questions.



Recently, on 9th September, we arrived at the penultimate petal for this revolution, this round of unfurling: Power "Ripening" in my choice of word. In November we move on to the final petal of this cycle - Progress "Harvesting". As the year turns, the cycle of growth will begin again. Another six dates are already booked at the Blue Lotus - and details of how that series will look in 2018 are still merging for me - like the new buds that lie seemingly dormant for a long time.



For me, now, sitting it seems in a space between Ripening and Harvesting, it feels appropriate that that I have come to a pausing point. It is not possible in nature to hurry the ripening of the fruit, the crops, the grain. Harvest has to wait until just the right time, when everything is as perfect as possible.

We have recently been harvesting some of our apples, choosing the perfect moment - a warm dry day, a gentle breeze. The fruit too has to be just ready - ready for that moment when the apples release from the stalk into the hand with only the gentlest twist.

And so, for me, the releasing of the old plans feels as if I have allowed the new to emerge, naturally. Those ideas put to one side are not wasted - they may serve as compost, as a growing medium for the new. They may produce the shoots of fresh growth themselves, given time.

The other part of this has been that reminder to use my own tools. To return to the tried and tested processes. So, I drew a Rediscovery Card for myself: Surrender, dark green.



Yes - I have needed to do that - and to allow the ways of nature to work, to connect with that dark, rich green.

A little later the same morning I hosted one of my occasional Facebook Live calls, and during that I drew two more cards for us to focus on as a group in that moment, and for people to reflect on if they watched the recording later. First Daring, bright fresh green colour. Surrender into daring, daring to surrender.



And then Clarity - a strong warm orange colour, a perfect counter-balance to the two shades of green. Ha! Surrender, then a little daring - leading to clarity.



Here are the three cards together:



While I was on that live call I announced the new programme, an addition to the Point of Focus membership. (You don't have to be a member to take part, but you will receive a discount if you are signed up. See below for more details).

For you, to reflect upon in your journal, your meditations, your art work:
- Which part of my words here resonates with you?
- Do you tend to try and hurry the 'ripening' of your ideas and plans?
- How would it be to pause, to let nature's pace be right for you?
- How do you react to each of the words, and the colours?
- Surrender? Daring? Clarity? Dark green? Bright green? Orange?
- The three together?

Two free calls this week: on Zoom 28/9 and 29/9

So, in connection with the Point of Focus group coaching programme, you are invited to join a Zoom video-conferencing group this week - either at 9.30 am on Thursday 28th September, or at 7.30 pm on Friday 29th September. These times are UK time and we are currently on British Summer Time.

The purpose is for a group discussion where you can learn more about the programme and ask any questions you may have about coaching in general. And to link up with others around the world and experience a little of the magic of these live groups.

The calls will be recorded and shared with anyone who registers. The easiest way to connect if you are on Facebook is to visit the Dare to Blossom Life Coaching Events page.

If you prefer not to use Facebook, you can join in by using these links. Please let me know if you are intending to join us.

Thursday 28th September call - click here at just before 9.30 am UK time  If you haven't used Zoom before there is a short set up procedure, and you need to allow the use of your microphone so we can hear you, and your camera if you would like to be seen too. (each of these are under your control and can be turned off and on as you wish)

Friday 29th September call - click here just before 7.30 pm UK time.

Point of Focus Coaching Group Circle One: 'Money: from Lack to Abundance'

This was an easy choice for the first topic following a poll I conducted on what the burning issues are for people. In this month-long programme we will look at how you can reduce anxiety, bring your 'money-monster' at least a little more under control, and appreciate the abundance in your life. I can't promise to make us all suddenly financially wealthy (even if you should want that) - but I can promise that practising changing your thoughts and choices can have profound effects.

Key details:

Timing: The programme will run for four weeks during November, with two live group calls a week (recordings will be shared if you are unable to attend or wish to listen again), and a private Facebook group where I will post ideas and exercises and where you can visit to share and discuss your experiences.

Price: Each month of group coaching will be priced individually: for this first run the investment is £40, with a 10% reduction if you are a Point of Focus member. (Click there for more details).

If you have any questions simply ask, and if you would like to discuss this or anything else about my services and how they could help you, book a complimentary consultation here.

Workshop News

*New Event* Mellow October - a one day retreat for women
Saturday 21st October at Polmorla, near Wadebridge, full details here
10 am - 4.30 pm
Price £45
A special event in collaboration with Melanie of Camel Estuary Counselling. We are offering our unique mix of experience, wisdom and skills to provide a day of sharing and reflection in a beautuful location, with refreshments and lunch included.

Progress - Harvesting
Saturday 18th November at the Blue Lotus Therapy Centre, Scorrier
10 am - 1 pm
Price: £45 (see here for full details and 'frequent flyer' discount.

As always, please feel free to comment  with your thoughts and comments. 

If you would like to own a set of Dare to Blossom Rediscovery cards to explore their power for yourself please visit the dedicated page.

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

Until next time,

with love,
Mary

September 2017 - A Quest, and an invitation to join me + some offers expiring on 1st September

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

There is a lot in this issue - new ideas, thoughts, and some notices and details, so do look through first and see if any of the offers that expire on 1st September are of interest to you, I am sending this out before the end of the month to give you a little more time.

Reflections: A Quest, and an invitation to join me
Events: Global Autumn Magic Carpet Ride, plus workshops in Cornwall and London
Notices: price changes

Reflections: A Quest, and an invitation to join me

This autumn, I am embarking on a quest, a journey to the edge of the land, where new horizons are visible - or maybe hidden just beyond the curvature of the earth. The literal edge, for me is exemplified by the place I sit so often, on the cliffs near my home here in north Cornwall.



Out there, beyond the horizon, is Wales, and Ireland. Looking in another direction, beyond Trevose Head, is the Atlantic Ocean, and North America.



As you, know, if you are a regular reader, I wrote about this last month. Since then something has shifted for me. In some ways plans have become more clear. In other ways the emergence of this new focus has slowed down. Ha! The phrase 'to a walking pace' appeared in my mind - yes, of course.

A quest is at walking pace. The joy, the journey, the learning - is in those paces: one foot in front of the other; one step at a time, whether this is literal or metaphorical. My quest is towards a new version of what I do, what I have always done. In some ways I already feel I have made huge leaps forward, maybe this process is, for me, a means of grounding those leaps into reality.

Over the last year so much has changed for me, and at the same time some things have been constant: the Dare to Blossom Rediscovery Cards, developed over five years ago,  have been working their powerful magic with more and more people around the world. The Magic Carpet Ride workshops, which I began running under that title in 2015 (building on work I have been doing for about 15 years) - have continued with various different themes. The unfurling of the Dare to Blossom 'Power Flower', has evolved to guide people into deeper and deeper work for themselves and to take that out into the world.

All these are tools I use for myself almost daily: and with people one-to-one in coaching, as well as in groups. Finally, the 'Point of Focus' membership is proving, as I hoped, to be literally that - a monthly point for you to check in with yourself with the help of three cards and some thoughts and prompts. Plus the option to upgrade to one-to-one time with me to support you.

As you will see below under 'Events' - some plans have already emerged: for the new Global Autumn Magic Carpet Ride - an on-line circle, which will be both similar, and quite different, to previous ones. The workshops in Cornwall are continuing - completing the year-long unfurling our Power Flower.together with the final two petals - Power on 9th September, and Progress on 18th November.

The invitation mentioned earlier is for those events of course - and for the next phase. The stepping up, the emergence into a more powerful (even more powerful) stage - for me, and for you. I already know - for myself, and because those of you I work directly with tell me - that this process is transformational.

And there is more to come, a deeper, bigger, grander level  to be unleashed and explored - of me, and of You. So, my friends, are you ready to step up, to raise your hand to accept this invitation?

A quest of your own?
First - here in Cornwall. If you would love to spend a day on your own quest on the magical cliffs and beaches of Cornwall, I have three places for brave and willing explorers of potential. This will be for a pre-launch trial - there will be a cost, and this will be a fraction of the price when the premium 'VIP day experience" is launched in 2018.  We will walk and talk and unfurl your personal Power Flower as we go.(stopping of course at magical places along the way, and for coffee and lunch). Contact me if you'd like to know more.

Second - three places on a deep-dive day where we connect several times throughout one day via Zoom video-conferencing. In between those conversations you will undertake your own Quest activities. These may be meditations, writing, painting, collaging, walking, photography - whatever we put together for your individually tailored day.

For both the in-person day, and the on-line one there will be an initial conversation and a follow-up call so you are well-supported on your explorations. If you would like to raise your hand for either of these, email me here, and we will arrange to talk. We need to be sure it will work for each of us, so it is the delicious, challenging, and magical experience that I know is potentially there for you.

I think those of you prepared to dive in will already have experienced how I work - and if you have not you can book a complimentary consultation call, a one-off Rediscovery 'Power Boost' Session, or the new "Unleash. You." coaching programme here.

Back to my reflections....... I am reading "Crossing the Unknown Sea" by David Whyte, sub-titled "Work and the Shaping of Identity.". So much there is triggering thoughts for me, and connecting dots.

I remember writing about energy in my 2008 book  "Dare to Blossom: Coaching and Creativity" and discovering that the root of the word is in the Greek for 'work'. I wrote then:

"It is interesting that the word “energy” derives from the word for “work”. We tend to think of work as “using” energy, not as “being" energy. Perhaps if we look at it this way it can change our perception of work as something difficult, hard, dull, and as using up energy. The most satisfying types of work are those that do energise us, help us feel full of life and enthusiasm and the joy of living. Those activities that help us grow and evolve and develop to our highest potential."



This, this is what I intend to achieve, for myself, and for you through the "Quest to Unleash You" - finding those activities - the ones that help us grow and evolve and develop to our highest potential.

Maybe the edge, the horizon, holds those gifts for us? David Whyte says: "...I looked out, feeling a kind of magnetism to that far windswept ocean, as if aware of the forces in my future that would draw me into my work, whatever form it would take, over the horizons and unknown seas...." I have spent time on those cliffs at Trevone, many times over the years, beginning as a small girl of around seven - feeling that magnetism, feeling that pull that still draws me on. Knowing I have more to share, more to offer.

Will you join me to explore? Whether literally or figuratively, we can cross unknown seas together, maybe I can be a companion for a part of your journey?

For you: in your meditation or journal:
- what horizons are opening up for you?
- if you cannot 'see' them, as often we can't - explore if there is a way of clearing the mist, raising your vantage point, obtaining a telescope..... whichever metaphor resonated for you - to help you.
- try a visualisation you can journey (maybe on a magic carpet) - to discover what may lie beyond those unknown seas?

Events: Global Autumn Magic Carpet Ride, plus workshops in Cornwall and advance notice for 2018 London & Cornwall

Unleash Your Power Within
As mentioned earlier, there are two final dates this year here in Cornwall. This has been a programme continuing steadily throughout this year, unfurling one petal of the Power Flower each time - and they also will bring great insights for you as a stand-alone event if you have not attended one before.

Power: ripening - Saturday 9th September
Progress - harvesting - Saturday 18th November

Both are at the Blue Lotus Therapy Centre in Scorrier, and will run from 10 am - 1pm, The price is rising from 1st September, so you will need to be quick to book - though if you are a regular already I am freezing the price for these last two events of 2017 for you.

In addition, with thanks for your support through subscribing to this newsletter, I am happy to offer you the current price of £25, even if you have not had an opportunity to join us before - if you find the link shows the price as £45, just contact me direct by replying to this email.

Global Autumn Magic Carpet Ride

Join us on a Magic Carpet Ride, as summer ripens into autumn, as the children go back to school. Here in Cornwall, I can almost feel the land herself breathing as the weight, the literal, physical weight, of thousands of tourists and their cars and caravans is lifted.

Join us for a sweet and simple journey together over 21 days, a chance to catch your breath, a time to hear yourself think. All the practical details are below, if you have any questions, just ask.

There is a free group call on Zoom on Tuesday 5th September at 7.30 pm, UK time, where you can ask questions and experience a little of how the process will work. Here is a link to Facebook to book to join that call, or contact me for the direct link to the Zoom meeting

One query that often arises I can answer now - if your location around the globe means that the coming season is not autumn for you (or even fall, as in N America) - the process will still work for you. If it is spring you will connect with the unfolding of that time of year.

We begin on Monday 18th September and share 21 days together with a daily email prompt containing a Dare to Blossom Card drawn for us as a group. There will be weekly calls on Zoom video-conferencing, three during the 21 days and a closing call after the circle has ended. The calls are on Tuesdays at 7.30 pm UK time, and will be recorded in case you are not able to join us. Once our circle has gathered we can discuss if other times would work better for you.

This programme will be self-contained if you prefer not to connect on Facebook, the daily emails and weekly calls will provide you with a rich experience. On Facebook, there will be a private group, which will open on 11th September for us to start connecting and settle in.

Advance notice of 2018 dates:
I am hoping to add more dates and maybe locations to this list, if you would like to host a workshop in your home or invite me to talk to a group you are involved with - please contact me for a discussion.

For now this is what is in my diary, maybe you would like to pencil them into yours too? Full details to follow.

Workshops
Half day workshops at the Blue Lotus Therapy Centre, Scorrier - all Saturdays, 10 am - 1pm:
20^th January, 17^th March, 19^th May, 7^th July, 15^th September, 17^th November

Full day workshop in Greenford, NW London: Saturday 24th February.

Talks and shows
Saturday 2nd September: Health, Beauty and Wellbeing Fair, St Austell Arts Centre, 11-3. I will be exhibiting and giving a short talk.
Monday 6th November: Plymouth Women in Business Networking Group The Treasury, Royal Parade, Plymouth. I attend most months, in November I will be the guest speaker - working title: "What's age got to do with it? Insights from a life in business." (with apologies to Tina Turner.) Free to attend, book tickets via Eventbrite.

And finally, for events:  another special workshop hosted by my friend Anna: 
SACRED CHOCOLATE 
Women’s Empowerment Workshop 

Join alchemical chocolate practitioner, and shaman, Amanda Waring, in this workshop using  ceremonial cacao and unique shamanic practices to open your heart and ground your gifts. Feel empowered and welcomed as a woman. During this workshop we will initiate with the power of raw cacao, absorbing it in sacred ceremony together to allow the alchemy of the cacao deva as a spiritual ally to guide us.

Sacred Chocolate helps us integrate our dark and light side so that we can embody and share all of our gifts in this lifetime, to live your passion and let your passion live. The workshop will include cacao meditations, sacred drumming and the drinking of ceremonial chocolate. There will be moments for deep rest and reflection. Sacred cacao is needed right here, right now, to help us grow and evolve and to shift humanity into greater depths of compassion and awareness and Love.

When we transform ourselves, we transform the world.

Date: Sunday, 10th September 2017
Time: 10am - 4pm. Arrival from 9.30am, for tea
Venue: 77 Elton Avenue, Greenford, Middlesex UB6 0PP
Catering: A variety of hot drinks and snacks will be provided, but bring anything specific you need to enable you to be comfortable (such as a specific tea or type of milk). Lunch will be 'bring and share' - 'breaking bread' together is an integral part of the day. Please let me know it you have special dietary requirements.
Price: £60 per person
Booking: As space will be limited, please contact me by email, or telephone (0208 422 8306 or 07783 366904) to confirm your place. Payment will be made directly to AMANDA, and I will give you her bank details for BACS payment, OR you may pay her cash on the day.

There is more information about Amanda and her work on her website: www.amandawaring.com

Notices: price changes from 1st September

The Dare to Blossom Rediscovery Cards will be £15 per pack, plus packing and postage to where you live. Each will contain a personal note from me. If you are a coach or a therapist and would like to purchase six or more packs as gifts or to sell to your clients - contact me to discuss discounts. The packages with the books will change also.

Dare to Blossom Workshops: the half day events in Cornwall will be £45 per person. If you are a regular 'magic carpet rider' the last two events this year are at the previous price for you (and of course if you are joining us for the first time, just book before 1st to save £20.)

As always, please feel free to comment below with your thoughts and comments. 

If you would like to own a set of Dare to Blossom Rediscovery cards to explore their power for yourself please visit the dedicated page.

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

Until next time,

with love,
Mary