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10 Signs You’re An Old Soul

Do you feel older than you really are? You could be an old soul.

About 10% of the world’s population is made up of them. And, if you aren’t an old soul yourself, you’ve most likely met one.  An old soul emanates warmth and enlightenment, using their wisdom and patience to teach the lessons that were passed down through the ages.  They present themselves as special types of people in our world. They see through ancient eyes and understand through an ancient heart.

An old soul’s outlook on life is far different and more mature than many others. They are vital to the evolution of our collective consciousness.  Old souls have experienced lifetime after lifetime, and have refined their inner wisdom through their dealings with Karma.  As a result, the old soul lives life internally, following a solitary path while illuminating a path for others at the same time.

If you’ve been told that you’re wise beyond your years, you may be an old soul, but if you’re not sure whether your soul is “old” or not, these 10 signs will tell you:

10 Signs You May be an Old Soul

“You have to grow from the inside out. None can teach you, none can make you spiritual. There is no other teacher but your own soul.” – Swami Vivekananda

1.  You travel an independent path.

Because old souls are disinterested in the pursuits and interests of people in their age groups, they find it difficult to make friends with people they can’t relate to. This can turn into a potential problem, as an old soul may find themselves alone often. But, many old souls see the true value of their own company. This introverted nature doesn’t really come from a social preference or temperament – it’s simply a sign of having an old soul.

2. You thirst for knowledge, wisdom, and truth.

The old soul is naturally attracted to intellect, wisdom, and philosophy.   To an old soul, frivolous, superficial lifestyles have little or no meaning or value. That’s because their own path toward enlightenment comes through wisdom, happiness, and truth.

3. You are spiritually inclined.

The old soul has been finely tuned into their intuition and greater guides.  This can have the effect of creating heightened senses both spiritually and emotionally as they realize their place in life.  An old soul prefers this life however, knowing that it is most fulfilling for them to pursue love, enlightenment, and peace.

4. You didn’t “fit in” with children your age.

If you got along with adults as a child more than you did other children, you may very well be an old soul. An old soul isn’t as absorbed in the interests of others in their age group and therefore find it more difficult to make friends with them, which can sometimes be problematic for them because they can feel like an outsider.

Others often misunderstand these folks.  For instance, adults may have just considered you to be shy or awkward with other children your age. However, your inquisitive, mature, and intelligent nature attracted you toward people older than you that display more intelligence and wisdom than those in your age group.

And if you are a parent of a child who responds better when around adults, you may come to realize that they too are an old soul.

5. You reflect often on your inner thoughts and feelings.

Old souls have learned many lessons through their spirit cycle that they often take time to reflect on their actions and the actions of people around them.  This ability serves as a great teacher in their life, and in turn, makes them clearly perceptive of their surroundings.

“The soul is placed in the body like a rough diamond, and must be polished, or the luster of it will never appear” – Daniel Defoe

6. You see the bigger picture.

Like a small cog in a big machine, old souls realize that they are a small, but integral part of life.  They see from a higher perspective when approaching life, realizing that they are one with all that is as they aim to align themselves, and their actions, with that of the highest good.  As troubles confront the old soul, they simply see each as a passing cloud that will only reveal the sun once more.  This helps lead them through life with a placid nature.

7. You act as a voice for humankind.

Old souls often act as a representative for mankind through their own creative expression.  They depict the mental activities of society through the liberal arts, giving a voice to the thoughts of culture as a whole.  Throughout history, many sages have connected us through a depiction of their visualization in the most creative ways.

The old soul finds fulfillment in this self-expression. Their creativity, knowledge, and intuitive nature make an impact on those they meet and ripple through humankind.

8. You understand that life is short.

An old soul always finds itself being reminded of mortality, that this physical realm is only temporary. They make the most of each moment. Although this can drive the old soul into withdrawal, they receive clarity from inner solitude and increasing detachment. They feel the inner desire to be a prophetic voice teaching others to respect and value their time.

9. You aren’t materialistic.

The old soul focuses more on the beauty and value that life naturally provides rather than the short-lived joys of material possessions.  They respect Mother Earth and strive to get by with only what they need for fulfillment. For them, what nature provides is far more valuable than any social status, the latest trends, or any unearthly matter.

10. You just “feel” old.

As you quietly walk your path seeking fulfillment, you may find yourself having little energy compared to the younger souls around you.  Much like a person who is old in age, your old soul has already experienced a lot and is not excited by the trivial things in life. To an old soul, relaxing in a calm, quiet setting is about as good as it gets.

Are you an old soul? 

Share how this list relates to your life in the discussion below.

3 Ways to Stay Positive (Even When it Feels Like Everything’s Falling Apart)

There are times in life when everything comes crashing down around you.  But there is one thing inside you that can maintain a steady course, and that’s your attitude. In fact, this is when you need to stay positive, no matter what.

It may sound easier said than done, but it’s critical to stay positive – even when it feels like everything is falling apart.  The ability to stay positive during difficult times can not only help you find a solution for your difficulty but help you bounce back better than you ever have before.

“The struggle you’re in today is developing the strength you need tomorrow.” ~Robert Tew

Use these 3 tips to stay positive when you feel like giving up:

 

1 – Focus on your end goal

You’ve got to remember where you’re going if you want to get there.   Your past, no matter how difficult, has only created life up to now.  Remember your end goal and re-focus to bring clarity back to your vision.

Even if you’ve found yourself in a hole you can dig your way out no matter how deep. But first, you’ve got to make the decision to pick up your shovel and dig. Your potential is far beyond where you are right now. Write down a few small steps you can take action on this week, it will bring you closer to where you want to be (essentially making you feel better).

2 – Affirm gratitude

When life gives you a losing hand, remember how wonderful it is to still be sitting at the card table.  There is always, always, always something to be grateful for, even if it’s the fact that you’re breathing and reading this.

When you express what you’re grateful for, the things you’re grateful for will grow.  Your thankful attitude is responding to life and bringing more of what you want. Only a gracious, grateful heart will attract more and even better opportunities.

3 – “Refrain and release” your negative energy

Negative energy can be tough to tame when it’s hitting you full force.  Irritability can occur as you go through the venting process, and sometimes you feel like projecting negativity onto others.  It’s important to remember that they probably didn’t cause your situation. Even if they did, forgiveness is an important lesson to learn in life.  Refrain from spreading negative energy around you and try to help maintain positivity, even if it’s outside your own experience.

Don’t crop-dust people with your dilemma when you’re working through it either.  Remember that everyone is fighting some kind of battle, and they may have a hard time being able to handle the load.  There will be people to support you in your process, but it’s important to ask for that support first. It’ also important to remember that when an issues arises, consult your very best therapist – your inner voice – your intuition. Here you can vent and explore options that will lead to a solution.

stay positive

What tip do you use to stay positive when you feel like giving up?

5 Ways to Effectively Deal With Criticism

Not everyone will understand your journey. That’s okay. It’s not their journey. It’s yours. Embrace your freedom. Your true purpose is not to be here to please others. Life is about embracing who you are and following where your passions and desires lead!

If you live to serve others to avoid judgment and criticism – doing what makes them happy –  you will become very unhappy. That unhappiness will lead to depression. It’s a sign that you are putting off what your soul yearns for you to do. You limit your full potential and disconnect yourself from your true self. Advice is great, but most people (even close loved ones) don’t understand your journey. So, the only person who truly knows what is best for you is… well… you!

Anyway, in most cases, others opinions and criticisms are not about you, it’s about them.  It’s coming from their limited perspective, worries, and fears. Instead of taking their judgment personal or getting into an argument, there are many positive action steps you can take to move forward.

Here Are Our Top 5 Ways to Effectively Deal with Criticism:

1. Take a deep breath (or a few).

The best thing to do is to not react right away. Take a deep breath, or a few, if you need. There’s actually a very good reason for this. When we feel criticized, we sometimes go into a fight or flight mode. Taking a deep breath allows oxygen to continue, it lowers our heart rate, and it allows for our response to be more calm and reasonable.

If you immediately react and feel threatened you are taking the defense. This brings unneeded stress to your body. Remind yourself that they are not you, they have not walked a day in your shoes and you are doing just fine.

What is the other person’s true intention? If there’s a bit of truth to what they are saying, consider it later when you have a clear mind. A perfect response would be, “Thanks. Let me take some time to think about that.”

If the criticism is a borderline insult, don’t reply at all. Take a few deep breaths and just leave the conversation. You never want to react harshly and regret it later.

2. Don’t take it personal.

In most cases, criticism has very little to do with you and more to do with the person and their perspective of the world. If someone offends you, it’s usually because they feel that way about themselves or their abilities.

They are advising you based on how they feel. If you highly respect and trust this person, the next tip will help you. If you don’t, then definitely don’t take it personally at all! Let it go in one ear and just as quickly out the other.

3. Look for the truth.

Remember, there is always a small degree of truth in everything. Statements that may feel like criticism can actually just be gentle, loving reminders. In fact, we may take a strong offense towards it because there is some truth in it and our Ego freaks out. Yep… that’s right! It seems crazy, but it’s true.

Allowing yourself to be open-minded to what you hear doesn’t mean you have to believe it or act upon it. It just means if you find something you can learn from, by all means, do it! Sometimes others can help us see things that we cannot grow and improve.

4. When the going gets tough, get TOUGHER!

Exactly! Even if you are a sensitive person, you’re going to have to toughen up and build a tolerance to criticism. It’s easy to be a critic, so most people are. It takes strength and courage to be who you truly are and live your own life.

You’ve got to get tough, because the truth is, you’ll meet critics your whole life. However, the good news is… the less attention you give to criticism, the less you’ll experience it.

The best “Get Tougher Tool” is self-esteem and deep inner confidence. So, if you feel defeated when judgment and criticism arise focus and develop your own inner love and confidence. Personal growth stems from these challenges.

When you know who you are and why you are here, you’re unstoppable.

5. Always be true to yourself!

This is the most important tip of them all – be true to yourself! Other people don’t have to understand your journey or even accept it. When you are true to yourself and who you are life is magical. Doors of opportunity open at every corner. Solutions are endless and life is fun and exciting.

Living a life that others accept or want for you is limiting your birthright of FREE WILL.  It’s not their life. It’s yours. Make the most of it! 🙂

criticism

How do you deal with criticism?

6 Telling Signs You’re in the Right Relationship

With breakups and divorce rates at an all-time high, it can be hard to stay confident that “The One” is really out there.  And if you’re in a relationship, finding the right advice can be just as challenging.

Many people believe that we don’t choose our partners, and destiny puts us together. Whether that is true or not, it’s important to know if you’re in a healthy relationship.

So, how do you know if you’re in the right relationship?

Here are our tips to help you understand if you’re in the “right relationship” or understand and correctly steer your “wrong relationship”.

6 Telling Signs You’re in the Right Relationship

right relationship

1. Communication is kind, open, and honest.

You know you’re in the right relationship when your words towards each other are kind and loving (more often than not). Of course, you’ll have your ups and downs, but if kind communication is consistent you have a winning formula.

Of course, not only do you want to speak kindly to each other but also be open and honest. In the right relationship, you can tell your partner ANYTHING without being judged or criticized. Likewise, you can be honest and expect understanding and love. If you feel like you cannot be open and honest, that’s a problem.

Likewise, you want to be sure you are receiving the open and honest truth from your partner. The truth is, we humans aren’t always perfect. So, if you catch your partner in a little white lie, don’t immediately send them off with packed bags.

Forgive, and encourage the importance of honesty. You deserve nothing less than kind, open and honest communication, so be sure that’s a cornerstone in your relationship.

2. You and your partner understand exactly how to make the other feel truly loved.

We all have different preferences when it comes to receiving love. In the right relationship, both partners understand the needs of the other and want to care for them in the best way possible.  From as small as a cup of coffee in the morning or a warm dinner at night to a romantic mountain getaway for your anniversary, the right partner knows exactly what makes your heart swoon.

This is effectively done through the right communication. You don’t expect the other to read your mind. You learn, get to know your partner, and act in a way that makes them fall in love with you even more.

3. You keep conflict and fights “on the down-low”.

Conflict in any relationship is expected. No matter how perfect you are for each other, you will not agree on everything. Disagreements are natural and healthy because you are speaking your mind and standing up for yourself.   It’s better to talk and find out how the other feels than to hide it and let it creep out even uglier later.

The key to disagreements is to listen without defending and speak without offending.  You want to keep fighting at bay and just between you two. When you call up a close friend or family member and get them involved that is childish and inappropriate. The key to a happy, healthy relationship is to talk about your disagreements and if you have to, agree to disagree.

If you plan on staying together for a long time, you’ll have to master this tip. If you don’t, you may have many more battles ahead of you (or worse an end to your relationship).

4. Your trusted friends and family approve.

Your close friends and family know you better than you know yourself sometimes. When you fall in love, you may forget to take your brain with you. It’s easy to fall in love, especially if your partner has those smooth moves. 😉 The people who care about you have opinions that matter. If the consensus is positive about your relationship, GREAT.

If it’s not. . . ask questions. Find out “Why?”

Contrary to your young rebellious beliefs, their opinion matters. It doesn’t mean to do what they say. Sometimes other people have opinions with their own motives behind them. But, it’s important to look for truth in what they are saying.

5. There is a healthy blend of time together (and time apart).

When you fall in love, you may want to do nothing but be wrapped up like John Lennon and Yoko Ono, not leaving each other for days on end.  But when you have time apart, it gives you insight into how valuable your relationship really is.  Seeing someone after time apart yields an extra special feeling that can not be replicated.

It’s also a great way for each of you to do something you love, that the other may not take much of an interest in. Understand the right balance and keep it going. This blend is different for each couple.  Find your own that works for both of you.

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6.  You see service above self.

In the right relationship, it’s important for you to be happy, but there’s nothing wrong with going the extra mile to outwardly show your love for your significant other.

Now I’m not talking about abandoning self-care or waiting on them hand over foot, I’m talking about making them feel warm and fuzzy inside.  Not only will the right partner appreciate the show of grace, but they will want to do the same for you.

Are you in the right relationship?  Join the Conversation.

6 Things Optimists do Differently

Optimists seem happier, but why?

How?

What do they do differently?

Being an optimist can help a huge range of issues from managing stress to overcoming an illness and everything in between. It’s no wonder they are so happy. It may seem like luck, but there are a few things optimists do differently to create their happy attitudes, even in the midst of challenges.

Here’s a great list to help you get started . . .

6 Things Optimists do Differently

A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity;
an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.
– Winston Churchill

1. Optimists let things go.

Optimists rarely over think events, situations, and people. They habitually let things go and put their time and focus on what matters most. Dwelling on the past and looking too far into something rarely brings a positive outcome. It usually brings negative assumptions and future pain and miscommunication.

TIP: When you feel the urge to look too deep into something, simply take a deep breath, tell yourself it doesn’t really matter and let it go. Move forward focusing on something more appealing to you.

2. Optimists embrace the roller coaster of life.

A misconception is that optimists have perfect, lucky lives and that’s why they are happy. On the contrary, optimists have ups and downs too. They are not immune to negativity, mistakes or challenges. Optimists have learned how to go with the flow and bounce back harder and faster from a defeat.

TIP: Next time a challenge arises and you are tempted to get upset and dwell with negative emotions, be open to finding the good in the situation. When you open yourself up and allow for a solution, one always arrives and at the perfect time. But the key is to believe, ask and await the solution. 😉

3. Optimists take chances.

Most people would take more chances if they didn’t have to fear or worry about the outcome. Optimists go with the flow and follow what feels good. They cast out worries and fears quickly. That’s not to say they don’t exists, but they release them as quickly as they arise because they understand that even if it doesn’t work out you can always learn from your mistakes.

TIP: Taking more chances can completely change your life. You no longer allow fear to hold you back from exploring what this beautiful planet and its people have to offer. Next time you want to do something but find a fear creeping up, cast it out by taking immediate action and just do it! 😉 You will feel so liberated!

4. Optimists are thankful (a lot!).

It’s very important to practice the power of being thankful. Typically, it’s very easy to focus on what is going wrong instead of what is going right. Research shows, again and again, that people who practice gratitude on a daily basis are healthier, happier, and more effective.

That’s why it’s an essential habit for optimists to practice daily. It’s like second nature to them, they live their life internally and verbally thanking others.

TIP: Throughout the day, intentionally look for things to be thankful for. If you really want to fully embrace this optimistic habit, create a list of five or ten things that you are grateful for and commit to that practice daily.

5. Optimists are flexible.

When plans change optimists are calm, cool and collected.  They’re focus is . . . “What’s next?”

To an optimist, change of plans just means a change in an adventure. No matter where an optimist is, they will find a way to enjoy themselves. They take things as they come. For example, a canceled event due to bad weather would never be a “ruined day”. To an optimist, what’s meant to be will be.

TIP: Practicing staying open to new ideas. When plans change, consciously observe your behavior. If you find it difficult to stay cool, create a plan A, plan B or even plan c if you have to. 😉

6. Optimists smile and laugh often.

A positive attitude is contagious. To an optimist, nothing can truly ruin their day. They will always find something that will make them smile, laugh or give them hope. They understand that a negative attitude will just bring a negative whirlwind of issues with it for the future. Who wants that?

Optimists enjoy smiling and laughing often. It keeps the mood light and the vibrations high. Even if the optimist doesn’t have something cheery to celebrate themselves, they seek it out for other people. An optimist can be your best cheerleader. They can turn an average day into a celebration!

TIP: Find reasons to smile, even if it’s making another person’s day. Find reasons to laugh, even if it’s at your own mistakes. 🙂

Anyone can be an optimist. It just takes conscious practiced habits. For more tips and help along your positive thinking journey we recommend reading >>Learned Optimism and >>The Bounce Back Book.

5 Reasons to Drink Fresh Juice Daily

We all know that what we eat and drink affects our health, but this is almost too simplistic in today’s society to be practical. In fact, simple can be better; and juice is as simple as it gets.  Juicing has been around for some time, but it’s only recently become more mainstream due to being featured by TV hosts like Dr. Oz.

This is huge for the health of our world because more and more people will be exposed to this amazing lifestyle. Eating fresh veggies and fruits aids in a positive lifestyle because it allows our bodies to get optimal nutrition.

Juicing all types of fruits and vegetables turns them into superfoods that are easily and optimally absorbed by the body. We recommend always including some type of green in your juice. You’ll be surprised at the flavor, and the health benefits are tremendous.

5 Reasons to Drink Juice Daily (+ A Yummy JUICE Recipe):

 

1. Heal and Detoxify

Juicing is one of the best ways to heal and detoxify the body; it’s also one of the quickest. Everyone knows the major benefits of getting enough fruits and veggies into our diet daily – juicing makes this even easier and more convenient.

Fresh juice is loaded with enzymes, vitamins and minerals that are easily digestible and quickly absorbed. Drinking a glass a day will boost your health, give you more energy, detoxify your body and increase recovery from an illness. Many people have even healed diseases with juicing.

In fact, a famous doctor, Max Gerson, MD, treated cancer patients using a juice therapy regimen with Ann Wigmore co-founder of the Hippocrates Health Institute. If you feel guided, read his story. He actually healed patients of cancer with his health regime. There is a well known book out about his teachings called The Gerson Therapy.

2. Weight Loss

When people first start “gettin’ juicy” (drinking juice everyday or even doing juice feasts) they get really excited because the immediately start releasing weight. They’re often thrilled at the initial weight loss and as time goes on they begin seeing even more benefits like a strengthened immune system, better digestion, fewer allergies, balanced hormones, and less disease and chronic illness.

Juice Fasting, or more positively referred to as Juice Feasting, is more popular today than ever. Most who begin, gladly report a 7-9 pound per week weight release. Typically, most people do a 3 to 7 day Juice Fast.

Many have even ventured down the path to a 90 day and beyond Juice Feast. Overall, Juice Fasting & Detoxification can be a great way to release weight as well as toxins and naturally health the body.

3. Vitamin Absorption

“…Imagine 900 seconds of every living cell in your body fist pumping to the beat of each chug…”

If you tried to eat every vegetable put into a simple smoothie recipe, it would take you longer, your body wouldn’t digest it or absorb the vitamins as well, and you’d probably be really full.  It’s good to eat the raw vegetables too, but juice is where it’s at when you know you’re in need of some serious vitamins and minerals.  Dehydrated? Celery. Tired?  Green with ginger or lemon.  It goes on and on. For every need, there’s a recipe to try.

Your body can digest fresh juice in about 15 minutes and assimilates most of the nutrients from it.  Imagine 900 seconds of every living cell in your body fist pumping to the beat of each chug.   You will literally feel your body give thanks for the healthy hydration.

4. Trace Minerals and Enzymes

When you squeeze fresh fruit or vegetables, it has naturally occurring trace minerals and enzymes in it that you won’t see in any bottled juice at the store.

Along with the momentum of the vitamins being absorbed, you’re further fortifying your soul’s fortress with pure, live foods.   The live enzymes in the smoothie are also a great aid to the digestion process.

5. Reduces Cravings

Everyone can relate to having a craving for some kind of food or snack.  The true beauty in juice is that you can curb so many.  If sugar is what you need, an apple or orange juice can take care of that.  The sugar that comes from fruits and vegetables is naturally occurring, and ultimately, better than processed sugars.

Herbs and spices can give your concoctions different flavors but if you’re in search of something specific, you’ll have to get really creative.   For instance, we’ve made a pizza (yes, we said pizza) juice before.  Tomatoes were thrown in the juicer with green pepper, basil, and oregano and we sipped slices through a straw!

If you already have a juicer, that’s fantastic – please try the juice recipe below and let us know what you think. Also, if you’ve had success with juicing we’d love to hear from you. You will inspire our community.

Likewise, if you are new to juicing, it’s okay too. You’ve got the knowledge now let’s make it effective and put it into action. If you aren’t ready to put a lot of money into a quality juicer you should try the Nutri Bullet, recommended by leading Health Ranger and raw food guru, David Wolfe. You get highly optimal nutrition, there is zero waste, and quick cleanup.

Here’s a great Green Juice Recipe:

  • 2 green apples, sliced
  • 4 stalks of celery
  • 1 cucumber
  • 6-8 leaves of kale
  • ½ lemon, peeled
  • One 1 inch piece of fresh ginger

Voila!  pour and serve 🙂

fresh-green-juice

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