May 2019 Presence

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

Reflections: Presence
Interview: with Jo Dodds, on the Power to Live More Podcast
Book recommendations
Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Reflections: Presence

Being present, being in the moment, simply being - these are all ways in which I focus in order to feel I am truly connecting with my life, and with the people around me in each moment. As the saying goes, the past has gone, the future may never come, all we have is this, this moment.

In a recent coaching session with Amy Palko, part of the conversation was about purpose. I work with this concept with many of my own coaching clients, and with people in the groups I support. I often say, to them and to myself, what if my purpose is simply to be, to be me?

Amy suggested looking at purpose as 'presence'. Reflecting on this, a memory returned from when I was young. At one time I somehow believed that when I was not physically visible to people they would forget me. Maybe many children experience this? Maybe that is part of what 'attention-seeking' could be about, a need to be seen, to be reassured they are not forgotten by their parents?

I think I soon learned that my parents wouldn't forget me, yet the feeling persisted later in life, when I would be surprised when someone I had met once remembered me. As an illustration of how the opposite can be true, last year I was told by an ex-colleague that she found it hard to believe we hadn't seen each other for two years, 'when you seem such a strong presence.' That comment had a big impact on me, helping me to realise that my actions, my words, and simply being myself, can all have ripple effects that I will usually never know.

On a different, but relevant theme, marketing advice speaks of presence, as in 'social media presence'. In business terms I find this hard to judge, am I bombarding people with information or messages? Do my offerings slip from your mind in the plethora of other good things you may be presented with every day? And, how does this sort of presence translate into generating an income that will allow me to keep on supporting others?

Returning from these musings to the thought of my purpose being presence - the image of a lighthouse comes into my mind. Such a powerful metaphor, one that naturally arises often in coaching calls. A lighthouse doesn't run around the island trying to help everyone in many different ways. It's purpose is simply to be present, to be visible, to shine it's light to guide seafarers away from the danger of the rocks it stands on. To be consistent. To be reliable.



This is Trevose Head Lighthouse, on the North Cornwall coast, near where I live. The photo was taken on Easter Monday when I set out early and went for a long walk from the National Trust car park here at the headland to Treyarnon Bay and back. As many of you know, I love walking the cliffs and in the countryside. Walking to me is a type of meditation, when I am by myself, and sometimes with others when we walk in companionable silence.

The same week I took a walk in the bluebell woods, along the River Fowey from Respryn Bridge and up into the woods on the Lanhydrock estate.



I felt immersed in that glorious blue of the flowers, almost purple when they are 'en mass' like this And, individually they are stunning as well

.

For you, some suggestions for your meditations or journal:
- what does 'presence' mean to you?.
- how are you able to be present in your life, in each moment?.

Interview: with Jo Dodds, on the Power to Live More Podcast
I recently enjoyed a conversation with Jo Dodds, of The Power to Live More, here is a link to the podcast, on the theme of listening to our inner selves (what I call our inner wisdom)Book recommendations
I have two books to recommend this month, after not doing this for a while. If you would like to offer a review of a book you have enjoyed to be featured here, I would love to hear from you.

Nick Williams: Be Inspired. Be Inspiring. Be Yourself. Your power to draw the best out of yourself and others.

I have read many of Nick's books, beginning with his first (The Work You Were Born to Do) many years ago. His latest (the 16th, I think) is readable and full of thought-provoking ideas and practical exercises. I am just finishing my first read through, and my copy is festooned with bookmarks showing passages I intend to return to and work on in my journal. I am not yet ready to write a review as such, I can simply highly recommend this if it appeals to you. You can find out much more about the book and download a sample chapter on Nick's website here, where you can also order a copy direct.

Rose Diamond: Whole Mind - Whole World. The power of Wise Choices Creating a Future that Works for All

This book is published on Amazon on 1st May, as a Kindle e-book, and for the first ten days it will be available at 99p. Later it will be available in printed format. I can't send you a link as it hasn't been published yet. Here is the review I have written after reading a preview copy as one of the 'launch team' supporting Rose. I am looking forward to reading a print version as I always enjoy that more than reading on the screen, convenient as that can be.

"This is a book full of impact and of insights for the reader. For me, that means it takes a while to read as I like to pause and reflect. The author encourages this, offering many prompts for ‘inquiry’ throughout the book. Her own story – an extraordinary one of inner and outer journeys – is interwoven with conversations with others, and with teaching to help the reader benefit from her discoveries."


Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Dare to Blossom Mastermind Group June The flow through the year following the Compass Rose brings us to the East pointing petal of the Power Flower in June. In the words of the poem: "From the East comes the rising sun: passion, potential."



There are three spaces not yet taken, maybe one of them is for you? It matters not at all where in the year you join the process for the first time, or even if you drop in for one Circle and come back later whenever you feel the time is again right for you. Contact me if you would like to know more. There is also a free taster call on Zoom at 10.00 am (UK time) on Friday 10th May - again contact me for details of that if you would like to join us and experience the gently powerful process for yourself before you decide. If you are a Facebook person you can link to the event here.
One-to-one coaching : I currently have spaces for four 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 11th May, from 10 am to 1 pm. This time we will be exploring Passion.

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 June for the Summer Solstice, or you can still book a spring Listening now.



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

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

April 2019: Celebration

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

Reflections: Celebration
Last Call for the April Dare to Blossom Mastermind Circle: Purpose
Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Reflections: Celebration

There are lots of things to celebrate in my life. This last week I have been enjoying the arrival of spring here in Cornwall. After what seemed like weeks of grey, cold weather with rain and gales, the sun has been shining. The air has been cold, with frost at night in some areas, and the sun pleasantly warm during the day. The wild flowers on the cliffs are beginning to blossom - the white bladder campion, and just a few of the pink of the thrift that will soon be in full glorious bloom.



The birds are singing their hearts out in our garden, and the buzzards are calling as they wheel overhead in the blue sky. On the cliffs the sky larks are serenading, and the seabirds are nesting.  The blackthorn has been lighting up the hedgerows for a while and now i is joined by green leaves on the smaller trees.

The sea is blue and calm, with the tidelines snaking across the bay like shot silk. Down low near the water I think I saw a puffin flying today, though the cliffs are too high here to see it clearly without binoculars.

Yesterday was the 'grand gala ceremony' for the Venus Awards Devon and Cornwall, and as some of you know, I was one of three finalists in the Lifetime Achievement Category. . I planned a lovely day ahead of the big evening event at St Mellion Golf Course and Hotel, near Saltash, on the border between Cornwall and Devon (just in Cornwall, in fact).

After a leisurely start, I visited Lanhydrock House and Gardens, a National Trust property. I. enjoyed a beautiful walk: the huge magnolia trees are in full bloom as are the rhododendrons and camellias.  I treated myself to lunch at the cafe there, and found a relatively quiet bench to sit in the spring sunshine for a while out of the cool breeze. Even though it was understandably busy with other people visiting at this time of year it was peaceful and restorative for me.





Then I travelled on so I could check in to the hotel early and relax before getting ready for the photos before the event, which were scheduled for 6 pm.

Naturally I hoped to be telling you I was the winner of the Award - I was not. And yet, I have been celebrating ever since I was nominated back in November last year. That is the true prize, knowing that I have had such an impact on someone's life that they took time and trouble to fill out a form to nominate me. They did so anonymously so I do not know who that person was. I do have an idea, but she is not saying, so I may be wrong.

I wrote these reflections this morning soon after I arrived home after my overnight stay.

"Back home from the Venus Awards and beginning to enjoy some quiet time to reflect (with my cat Evie on my lap  ) After so much noise, music, bright lights, cameras, applause, conversation, excitement, plus that mixture of disappointment and pride that two out of three of we finalists were feeling - what next?

What is ‘Lifetime Achievement’? For me it is made up of lots of little quiet things. If I had had the chance to stand on that stage and speak, I was planning to refer to my interview with Siobhan A Riordan for Silver Tent TV. ‘The Powerful Voice of the Quiet Ones’.

As I unpacked my ‘powerful purple’ outfit, I noticed for the first time how similar the colours are to the cover I chose for my first book, ‘Flying in the Face of Fear’, published in 1998. At the time, I just knew it had to be that colour, the publisher, Melissa Hardie of the Patten Press was quite surprised I think.

I need to reflect further before I find out where that thought is taking me....

My next book is about power, that quiet power within (rather than ‘power over’) - and I feel I will soon be returning to some new writing."

Here is one of the photos taken at the beginning of the event, by the talented Poppy Jakes (here is her website if you are anywhere in the south of England and need the services of an excellent photographer). And one that I took when I came home, of my dress with the book Flying in the Face of Fear.



It is interesting to me that those reflections took me back to my first writing, which was prompted by what was an awful experience, a diagnosis and treatment for cancer, but I was able to use to help both myself and others.


 

For you, some suggestions for your meditations or journal:
- how do you celebrate?.
- what do you choose to celebrate?.
- do you wait until something 'big' happens, or do you choose to celebrate the little highlight every day?
(If I had waited to celebrate until I won that award, I would still be waiting, why not choose to enjoy the feeling now?)


Last Call for the April Dare to Blossom Mastermind Circle: Purpose

In the words of my meditation poem "Compass Rose Speaks":

"Look up, look North. To your guiding star, your purpose."

We begin on 1st April, and people can still join within the first week - so I am sharing this here in case this resonates with you today. Our theme this month will be Purpose. Do you have one? Do you need one? Is simply 'being' purpose enough?

We will explore these questions and many more. We have space for three more people to join us - is one of those yours?

Reply to this email if you feel called to join us, or if you are simply curious to know more. There are more details in this email, and on the website 

When you join you will be invited in to the private Facebook group. If you prefer not to use Facebook you are very welcome to take part, I will email you the prompts and exercises. The weekly group calls take place on Zoom video-conferencing, totally separate to any social media channel.

However you choose to participate, you will receive information about the flow of the Circle through the weeks and through the month; the links for our weekly group gatherings live on Zoom; and (in the Facebook group, if not, then by email) your own personal Magic Carpet space. That is where you will see me post photos of the cards I draw from the Rediscovery Cards each week for you (even if you are not able to join us live), and we can each share our thoughts and support each other.

Contact me to book your place, or to chat on Zoom to find out if this is right for you. It could be just what you are looking for, why miss the chance?

Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

One-to-one coaching : I currently have spaces for four 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. Although the special offer ends on 31st March, 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 11th May, from 10 am to 1 pm. This time we will be exploring Passion.

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 June for the Summer Solstice, or you can still book a spring Listening now.



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

March 2019: Visibility

March 2019

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter
Coming to you nice and early for March

Reflections: Visibility
News: Finalist in the Venus Awards for Women
April Dare to Blossom Mastermind Circle: Purpose
Subscriber half-price coaching offer
Cornwall Business Show
Silver Tent TV Interview
Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Reflections: Visibility

With all that has been happening for me recently, this was a word that popped into my mind  when choosing a topic for my reflections this month. As I often do, I chose to visit the Oxford Dictionary for a definition: it is very simple "The state of being able to see or be seen."

As I began to reflect looked at images first, and I chose these two very different photos from my library as, for me, they illustrate aspects of 'visibility' that are quite difficult to put into words.The very pale datura flower (also known as 'angels' trumpets' ) shines out, even on a dull day or at dusk.



The sunlight streaming through a gap in the clouds over the sea off the North Devon coast, illuminates the surroundings.



"The state of being able to see or be seen." There seems to be so much more tied up in this, certainly for me, and, I know, for many of the people I work with in coaching and at my workshops. As a natural introvert (see more on this in my Silver Tent interview, link below), I have often felt more comfortable not being seen, not being visible. When I was a child I was often told to be quiet, and I think I may have felt the easiest way was to hide away so I couldn't be seen either.

Yet we human beings are complicated, aren't we? I also remember times, as a teenager and as a young woman, when I felt that people might forget that I existed when they couldn't see me. I was often truly surprised when someone I had met once or twice recognised me. Also, I enjoyed recognition when I had done well, perhaps in a test or assignment at school. Having said that, there was a period of time when I was bullied as a young teenager, just because I was reasonably clever, and did my homework. And I liked being alone. 

This range of diverse feelings is illustrated by a memory I have: I was about twelve, maybe thirteen. The grammar school I went to at that time was very small, only about 150 pupils, and in a small old-fashioned building. I loved the Library, a wood-paneled room full of books. One lunch time I was there reading 'Lord of the Rings' when the headmaster came in. I was surprised that he knew my name (now I am sure he made sure he knew everyone), and we had a conversation about books. I felt very comfortable talking to him. I don't remember if he asked me why I was there by myself, he may have done. I don't know if I would have said that I enjoyed it as a safe haven away from the bullies (some of whom became friends a few years later).

Moving on into adulthood, I somehow negotiated that teenage angst of wanting to be 'seen' by the boys, and also not wanting to be just seen for what my outward appearance may have been. And onward through business and employment where I had to speak out and be visible. My first business was making and selling crafts, so I had something to show people, for them to look at rather than at me.

Now that I am selling my services I have had to become comfortable with having to show people who I am, tell them what I can do. I have a few 'products' - books, art, and the Rediscovery Cards that speak for me. Mostly I have to simply be me. I know now, at last, that I don't need to try and please everyone. The way I deliver the message - which as a coach, is pretty much the same message as everyone else in the profession - the way I deliver the message, my particular way, will attract people who can only hear it the way I put it over. As is the case with many books, each of us may read the same ideas over and over, and yet we only truly hear them when there is that moment of connection. A way of speaking or a turn of phrase that makes that impact direct to the heart.

That is what I hope to achieve by being visible - that the people who I can truly help through my personal way of speaking and and writing will see me and be drawn to work with me. That is the key to successful marketing, and a key that is hard to find in practice - reaching those people and not dispersing my energy and efforts by attempting to appeal to 'everyone'.

One of my  friends, with whom I exchange coaching sessions, recently introduced me to an article by Jeff Goins 'I'm not busy, just focused', which I found very helpful. That is how I intend to be: focused on who I want to be, and on offering what I do to those who will hear me.

For you, some suggestions for your meditations or journal:
- write about what 'visibility' means to you.
- do any memories surface?
- are there any stories that you tell yourself about visibility?
- maybe draw, paint or collage to find other ways of expressing 'visibility' other than words.

A reminder seems appropriate here: some of these exercises may have a very deep impact, please do seek professional support from a counsellor or therapist if you find they raises feelings or memories that are hard to deal with on your own.

News: Finalist in the Venus Awards for Women

Thank you to everyone who has congratulated me on being nominated  for the Devon and Cornwall Region Venus Awards for Women. As I mentioned last month, the announcement of the final three women in each category took place on 8th February. Much to my surprise, I am one of the finalists in the 'Lifetime Achievement' category. Such an honour, and I have no idea how the sponsors can choose between all the inspiring women who have been nominated.



These two photos were taken by Poppy Jakes, the official photographer. She has huge technical ability, and such a knack for being very quick and getting natural shots. The first photo (or on the left, depending on how you are viewing this) was during the networking before the announcements, and the second, on the right, the posed one afterwards.

The next stage is a meeting with the sponsors so they can make their final decision. Then comes the grand gala 'red carpet' dinner - a different sort of challenge for me as my natural attire is jeans and wellies, so finding a comfortable and glamorous outfit for the evening is proving interesting. I think I am almost there, aiming at a relaxed 'Judy Dench on the red carpet' style, comfortable as well as appropriate for the occasion. While I have been writing this, I have been seeing pictures of Olivia Colman's Oscar dress style - I love her look too.

As I probably said in February, the true prize is being nominated, and I am simply enjoying the ride now, who knows what will happen on the night? I will let you know in April.

April Dare to Blossom Mastermind Circle: Purpose

In the words of my meditation poem "Compass Rose Speaks":

"Look up, look North. To your guiding star, your purpose."

We share in a private Facebook group where I post daily prompts for you - and you can take part by email if you prefer not to use Facebook - and meet live once a week on Fridays at 10.00 am UK time (a change from the 9.00 am time to make it easier for those in different time zones around the world). These gatherings are recorded so you can watch later if you cannot join us. You are always included even if you are not physically present on the call.

To find out more, or to book a place, so visit the website page here if you are interested, and contact me if you have any questions.



Subscriber half-price coaching offer

Twice a year I offer a special rate on one to one coaching sessions to you in gratitude for your being here with me and reading this every month. Some of you have been subscribers right from the beginning (which I think was in March 2007).

I am offering you as a subscriber a half-price package on either of my coaching programmes: Rediscovery Coaching - the six 30 or 60 minute coaching calls on Zoom, with a flexible structure for those of you who prefer to choose your own format. Whether your focus is business, health, relationships or life in general, simply contact me and book a free consultation here.

Alternatively, I am offering you a 50% discount on the 'Pathway to Power' package of six sessions. We will explore each part of the Compass Rose, beginning with Peace in the centre, progressing through Purpose, Passion, Power and Progress, and returning back to the centre point, to Peace in the final session.

You can choose half hour or one hour sessions, the details are all here, but contact me before booking so I can give you your discount.

Cornwall Business Show

Cornwall Business Show: As I mentioned last month, this is coming up, on 14th March at the Royal Cornwall Showground near Wadebridge. If you are in Cornwall or Devon, it is worth visiting. There is free entry, and you can pre-register by using the link. Come and say hello of Stand FG5.

Silver Tent TV Interview

Recently I was interviewed for the second time by Siobhan Riordan for Silver Tent TV. This time the subject was 'The Quiet Ones'. There are many other interviews on the Silver Tent YouTube channel for you watch too.

Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

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

Cornwall Workshops: The first workshop of 2019 at the Blue Lotus was a joy as always. The next is on Saturday 9th March, from 10 am to 1 pm. This time we will be exploring Purpose.

Root and Branch Listenings are available at any time as a one-off, or as a quarterly subscription. If you choose to subscribe,  you will receive your personal Listening four times a year. The next issue will be in March for the Spring Equinox so I will be starting work on those very soon, so book now if you would like to be sure of receiving yours before 21st March.



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

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

February 2019: Mystery

Reflections: Mystery
News: Semi-finalist in the Venus Awards for Women
February Dare to Blossom Mastermind Circle: Peace
Subscriber half-price coaching offer
Cornwall Business Show

Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Reflections: Mystery

As the first month of 2019 draws to a close, I choose to reflect again on my word for the year 'Mystery'. Do you choose a word, or words? I usually do, and some years I soon forget what they are. Maybe this year, this word will stay with me. 

Life is always a mystery. However much I may plan, how ever many arrangements I may put in place, I have no control over what happens during the year. Yes - often the arrangements come to fruition: the workshops go ahead on the dates planned. People arrive and take part.

Beyond that, the magic is in the unknown, in the mystery. Which particular people will arrive? What will they bring with them? How will they respond to the Dare to Blossom Cards that they pick? What roads will conversations lead us along?



I completed this painting some time ago, it is entitled 'Mystery'. It is one of my favourites. It is still for sale on my website so therefore the person who responds to this particular mix of colours, patterns, shapes, and textures (and who has the money and impulse to buy it) has yet to come along. Maybe it is for you?

It is one of my favourites, so I am not sorry it is still with me for now, as I write this, whilst knowing that I would love someone else to decide to give it a home. The photo doesn't show the full richness. The colours are soft and delicate, yet there is a strength and a vibrancy there. What do you see?

For you, some suggestions for your meditations or journal:
- write about what 'mystery' means to you
- explore the colours and shapes in the painting, where do they take you?

News: Semi-finalist in the Venus Awards for Women

I am not sure if I have mentioned here that I was nominated towards the end of last year for the Devon and Cornwall Region Venus Awards for Women? I was in two categories: 'Inspirational Woman' - for which there were over 75 nominations, and I was not successful, and 'Lifetime Achievement' - where I am one of the five semi-finalists.



Here I am with the other semi-finalists and the representative of the sponsor of our category, Atkins Ferrie Wealth Management. The announcement of the finalists in each category takes place at Pentillie Castle on Friday 8th February. I was going to invite you to book a ticket if you are in Cornwall or Devon and would like to join us for an afternoon and a cream tea - but I have just checked and they are sold out. I will let you know what happens.

February Dare to Blossom Mastermind Circle: Peace

The new year of unfurling the Power Flower - or following the Compass Rose as those two concepts are becoming one and the same - begins on 4th February, and there is an extra introductory group call on 1st February. If this calls to you, there is just time to join us.

In the words of my meditation poem "Compass Rose Speaks":

"My centre point is Peace, grounding, balancing."

This is how we begin the year, focusing over four weeks on what Peace means to you, how you can find it and remain in it in day-to-day life. We share in a private Facebook group where I post daily prompts for you - and you can take part by email if you prefer not to use Facebook - and meet live once a week on Fridays at 9.00 am UK time. These gatherings are recorded so you can watch later if you cannot join us. You are always included even if you are not physically present on the call.

There is still just time to book a place, so visit the website page here if you are interested, and contact me if you have any questions.



Subscriber half-price coaching offer

Twice a year I offer a special rate on one to one coaching sessions to you in gratitude for your being here with me and reading this every month. Some of you have been subscribers right from the beginning (which I think was in March 2007).

This time I am offering you a 50% discount on the 'Pathway to Power' package of six conversations on Zoom video-conferencing. We will explore each part of the Compass Rose, beginning with Peace in the centre, progressing through Purpose, Passion, Power and Progress, and returning back to the centre point, to Peace in the final session.

You can choose half hour or one hour sessions, the details are all here, but contact me before booking so I can give you your discount.

Cornwall Business Show

Cornwall Business Show: This is coming up, on 14th March at the Royal Cornwall Showground near Wadebridge. If you are in Cornwall or Devon, it is worth visiting. There is free entry, and you can pre-register by using the link. Come and say hello of Stand FG5.

Here I am on my stand a couple of years ago. The light was streaming in through a skylight overhead at the time.



Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

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

Cornwall Workshops: The first workshop of 2019 at the Blue Lotus was a joy as always. The next is on Saturday 9th March, from 10 am to 1 pm. This time we will be exploring Purpose.

Root and Branch Listenings are available at any time as a one-off, or as a quarterly subscription. If you choose to subscribe,  you will receive your personal Listening four times a year. The next issue will be in December for the Winter Solstice. I will be starting work on those very soon, so if you would like to be sure of receiving yours in time for the Solstice, buy yours now.



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

January 2019: Cycles and Changes

Reflections: Cycles and Changes

January Circle "Take off into 2019 on your Magic Carpet"
Events and ways to Dare to Blossom
A request for help for a friend

Welcome, welcome dear friends, welcome to the first newsletter for 2019, wishing you a wonderful year ahead

Reflections: Cycles and Changes

As the old year ends, and the new begins, I notice that some things repeat each year. Some cycles begin again: the seasons, the months, even some of the events I plan, such as the workshops at the Blue Lotus, here in Cornwall.

Other things change, for each of us is a year older than we were at the beginning of 2018. In truth, everything changes. Even as some things may seem to remain the same, they are subtly different each time around the wheel of the year.

As I pause to reflect on how to continue my thoughts here, I remember that December's 'Reflections' were entitled 'Full Cycle'. How interesting, though maybe not surprising, that in the closing month of the old year, and the opening month of the new, my mind is drawn to similar themes. (A note here: I have been experimenting with the layout - and I find that this looks good on my iPad, but not on the laptop, so my apologies if that is your experience too.)


This image was taken on a visit one year to Trewidden, one of the great gardens of Cornwall,. A sculpture, made of bronze I think, with no title or words of explanation. The next time we visited, it had gone.

For me this illustrates the concept of circles, cycles, a continuum of life. The bronze shape is not even or balanced, or even particularly circular. Yet it is powerful and moving.

The fact that a year or so later it was gone, when I think I expected it to be there forever, is about change.

Sometimes I expect things to remain the same, year after year. Maybe I celebrate Christmas in the same way, see the same people, spend time with my family as always. And yet, things are different. Maybe some people are missing who I somehow imagined would 'always' be there.

This can be sad to reflect upon in some ways, and yet, the cycles of life go on. Young people grow up, maybe have children of their own, even as the older members leave this life and are no longer physically present.

There are changes all around. As I prepare to begin a new year, some things I plan - to remain the same (or relatively so) or to change. Others will be different through forces I cannot control, and I will sit with those and allow them to unfold.

For you, in your journal or meditation. If you read last month's newsletter, you will recognise some of these questions, I have found them useful to revisit, I hope you will also:, 

• What is reaching full cycle for you?
• Will that cycle continue as the cycles of nature do? Or will something new come in to replace it? What would you like that to be?
• What changes have you planned?
• What changes do you know are on the way that you have no control over?
• What help would you like to ask for, and where can you go to receive this?

January Circle "Take off into 2019 on your Magic Carpet"

The January Dare to Blossom Mastermind Circle opens on 1st January with an open group call at 2 pm (UK time) for those of you who have already enrolled and for anyone keen to find out more before joining us. To join us via the Facebook event, click here, or to receive the Zoom video-conferencing link by email, contact me here.

At the same time I will be setting up the private Facebook group and will invite you to join us there when you book, in advance of the official start with the group circle on Zoom on Friday 4th January at 9 am UK time. We will be getting away from the tyranny of 'New Year resolutions', and seeing where the insights offered by the Magic Carpet process take us. Click this link for full details and to claim your place at the gift price of £50.

Following that Circle we will begin the full year of unfurling the Power Flower once again in a Mastermind group, starting with 'Peace' in February. Details of that are available here if you would like an advance look at what awaits you if you join us. Places are limited so it is worthwhile beginning to consider if this may be for you now.



Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Festive Season Three Card Listenings These have been very popular at the gift price of £10. This ends today, 31st December, and the price increases to £14. If you are a newsletter subscriber, just contact me direct, and I will be happy to extend the special price for you to the end of January.

Cornwall Workshops: The cycle begins again at the Blue Lotus on Saturday morning, 19th January, beginning with Peace

Root and Branch Listenings are available at any time as a one-off, or as a quarterly subscription. If you choose to subscribe,  you will receive your personal Listening four times a year. The next issue will be in December for the Winter Solstice. I will be starting work on those very soon, so if you would like to be sure of receiving yours in time for the Solstice, buy yours now.



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.

A request for help for a friend

During this time of year we are often drawn to reflection and dreaming.

That’s why my friend Lee Munch wants to use this very important time to speak with you for just 15 minutes, when it comes to the money in your business.

Lee is putting together a programme that will help business owners gain consistency and growth in their cash flow -without overwhelm.

Your voice matters for this market research project. In fact, Lee is on a mission to speak to 100 business owners to ensure the program fulfill on its promise.

I have already spent a little time helping Lee, and I found that thinking about her questions helped me reflect on where my business is now. Here is Lee's photo so you can see who you will be speaking to before you book your spot.

Please click here, or on the photo to book an appointment in Lee's calendar.
Thanks

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

December 2018: Full Cycle

Welcome to the Dare to Blossom Newsletter

Season's greetings
Reflections: Full Cycle
Plans for 2019
Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Welcome, welcome dear friends, welcome to the newsletter for December

Season's Greetings

However you celebrate at this time of year, or if you choose not to at all, the ending of the calendar year has some significance for most of us.



Maybe you are reflecting on the end of an academic year if you are in New Zealand or Australia, looking forwards to the summer holidays. Maybe you are anticipating all the busy-ness and connections of Christmas with family and friends. Or, you may be alone, through choice or through circumstances. 

However you are spending December, I send you warm virtual hugs and greetings.

Reflections: Full Cycle



The full title of my last workshop in the 'Stepping into Your Power' series here in Cornwall, at the Blue Lotus Therapy Centre, was 'Full Cycle - Being You - Return to Peace'. As we had flowed through a whole year together, we focused on one part of the 'Dare to Blossom Power Flower' in each workshop. At the same time, I was aware of all the parts of the flower, supporting, holding the strength of the whole as we gathered together. 

As I hold these gatherings every other month, we had six of them, and so the last was an opportunity to return to our centre point, to peace.

In the words of 'Compass Rose Speaks', my poem that seems to be deepening and strengthening in power each time I speak the words, "Return your attention to your Centre Point, to Peace. Grounded, Balanced. I am your Compass Rose". Each time I end, I remind those listening, in person or on-line, that your Compass Rose is your inner wisdom. Not external to yourself, but truly the deep heart of you, the centre, the guiding star within.

By being the real you, the authentic you - the you who is the author of your life - you return to peace. From that centre point of peace you are strongly grounded and balanced and able to choose the path forward that is right and true for you.

For you, in your journal or meditation:

• What is reaching full cycle for you?
• Will that cycle continue as the cycles of nature do? Or will something new come in to replace it? What would you like that to be?
• Settle into your heart, your centre, allow your breath to slow and deepen, and listen to the voice of your Compass Rose. What is she telling you?

To read the full 'Compass Rose Speaks' poem, or to listen to me speaking the words, click here.

Plans for 2019

As I enter this process myself, I am feeling my way towards what wishes to emerge in 2019. Last month I told you about the Pathway to Power Coaching Programme. The full details are now available here.



At the beginning of December I am hosting two free group gatherings, through Zoom video-confereincing, on Tuesday 4th December at 2.30 pm, and on Friday 7th December at 11.00 am (all times are UK time, GMT). The details are on Facebook through the Dare to Blossom business page (just look under Events), or if you prefer not to use Facebook, simply reply to this email if you would like to join us.

During those calls I will draw cards for each person (one, two, or three, depending on how many people join us), and offer you the chance to share a Magic Carpet Ride guided visualisation. The calls are an introduction to the January Dare to Blossom Mastermind Circle: "Take off into 2019 on your Magic Carpet". We will be getting away from the tyranny of 'New Year resolutions', and seeing where the insights offered by the Magic Carpet process take us. Click the link for full details and to claim your space.

Following that Circle we will begin the full year of unfurling the Power Flower once again in a Mastermind group. Details of that will be available very soon.

Events and ways to Dare to Blossom

Cornwall Workshops: The cycle begins again at the Blue Lotus on Saturday morning, 19th January, beginning with Peace

Root and Branch Listenings are available at any time as a one-off, or as a quarterly subscription. If you choose to subscribe,  you will receive your personal Listening four times a year. The next issue will be in December for the Winter Solstice. I will be starting work on those very soon, so if you would like to be sure of receiving yours in time for the Solstice, buy yours now.



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