Author: Lifestyle-by-designs

Hello, I'm Cheryl, your professional cleaner and organizer. Are you frustrated with your cluttered and messy home or office? I'm here to help you declutter and organize your space so you can finally relax and enjoy life. With my keen eye for spatial awareness and unwavering commitment to order, I can transform your space into a functional and stylish haven. Are you eager to simplify your life and create a space you love? Let's collaborate and bring your vision of an organized and efficient environment to life. I'm ready to assist you in turning your dream space into a reality.
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Wisdom To Know When To Surrender

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Wisdom To Know When To Surrender

Fighting against something often strengthens it by giving it more attention and energy.

You know that feeling when something’s bugging you, and no matter how hard you try to ignore it, avoid it, or run away from it, it just won’t leave you alone? It’s like you think you can eliminate it by pushing it away, but it always comes right back. It’s like there’s some law of nature or something that says the more you resist something, the more it persists.

Fighting against something makes it stronger. It’s like giving it more attention and energy. Plus, when you’re resisting something, you’re not open to learning more about it. To understand something, you must be willing to take it in, even if it’s not what you want to hear. Otherwise, you’ll never learn from it.

Do you know that Tibetan story about a monk who went to meditate in a cave and got swarmed by demons? Well, this monk tried everything to get rid of them—he chased them, fought them, and even hid from them. But nothing worked until he finally decided to surrender. He just let the demons do whatever they wanted and poof! They vanished.

So, we’ve got this wisdom, but what do we do with it? We’re not meant to go around getting hurt, right? This story isn’t just about physical injuries, though. It’s also about the things that go on in our heads that bug us and won’t leave us alone. Those things have a way of showing up in our lives as people, events, and problems that seem like they’re out of our control.

Our outer appearances tell a lot about our inner selves. So, to truly conquer our fears and dislikes, we need to look deep within ourselves. It might be scary at first, and you’ll probably face a lot of resistance as you start to open up to your fears. But trust me, the more you let go and surrender, the more those demons that haunt you will fade away. And guess what? You’ll become braver and stronger in the process.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Summer 2024

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Don’t Worry Be Happy . . .

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. . . Who remembers that tune? It may have been a silly song but it carries a serious message.

Worrying is being scared, and it can make the things you don’t want happen more often

Certainly, we have all experienced moments of intense worry about various matters. Some individuals possess a natural tendency toward worry, and they often recognize themselves in such situations. Additionally, we are all familiar with someone who seems perpetually troubled by a multitude of concerns. Worrying shares a close relationship with fear and can have a profound impact on our well-being.

My mother had a saying: “Worrying is like a rocking chair it gives you something to do but you don’t get anywhere”

Worrying entails conjuring up negative scenarios that haven’t materialized yet. It’s like crafting an elaborate drama of fear in the mind. Despite its lack of foundation in reality, many of us still engage in this unnecessary practice of worry.

Our anxiety stems from the perceived lack of control over certain situations, doesn’t it? For example, when a loved one is driving home during inclement weather, we feel helpless, and unable to ensure their safety. Despite this, our worries persist until we know they’ve arrived home safe and sound. It’s as if worrying gives us a sense of agency and prevents us from feeling completely helpless.

Here’s the reality: worry is like an annoying friend who barges in and refuses to leave, and it’s not doing you any favors. It weighs down your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. But there’s a surprising twist! You have the power to transform this worrying energy into something that serves you. Since worry harnesses your imagination, why not redirect it to create something positive instead?

When anxiety strikes, don’t dwell on worst-case scenarios. Instead, envision the most favorable outcome. Picture your loved ones bathed in a safe and radiant white light, traveling toward their destination. Imagine angels or guides accompanying them on their journey. This positive visualization will replace nervousness and worry with a sense of peace and tranquility. Trust me, it’s a powerful technique that works wonders.

Have you ever had that nagging feeling of something pending, like a lingering parking ticket, an approaching exam, or a friend drama swirling in your thoughts? Instead of letting it weigh you down, the most effective solution is to acknowledge your concerns and take proactive steps. Imagine the relief once you confront the situation head-on. By taking charge, you free yourself from the burden of constant worry.

Peace ♥ Harmony, Cheryl

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𝓟𝓸𝓻𝓽𝓪𝓫𝓵𝓮 𝓟𝓲𝔃𝓪𝔃𝔃 . . . 

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Growing up in a military family, our entire life was characterized by “portable panache.” My mother and I would meticulously select DIY projects from Better Homes & Gardens magazines and inject our unique touches. We transformed ordinary items into purposeful and functional pieces that adorned our apartments, townhouses, or navy housing. The collection of dolls will be a topic for another discussion. 😉

Portable Pizazz”: In rental spaces, this entails incorporating visually captivating, functional, and easily transportable features to elevate the overall ambiance for tenants.

Here are some “Tips & Tricks”  to consider:

  1. Modular Furniture: Invest in versatile furniture that can be easily rearranged to suit different layouts and purposes. This allows renters to customize the space to their liking.

Modular at its best!

  1. Accent Lighting: Use portable floor lamps, string lights, or LED strips to add ambiance and personality to the space. Consider smart lighting options for customizable color schemes.

Accent Lighting (Wayfair)

  1. Art and Decor: Hang artwork, mirrors, and decor items that are lightweight and can be easily repositioned. This adds character to the space and allows renters to personalize it.

Mirrors (flea markets, antiques shops)

  1. Textiles and Cushions: Provide a selection of cushions, throws, and rugs that can be used to add color and texture to the space. These items can be easily switched out to create different moods.
  2. Room Dividers: Use screens, curtains, or shelving units to create distinct areas within a larger space. This gives renters flexibility in how they utilize the space.

Modular Cubes (Target)

  1. Portable Bars and Counters: Offer movable bar carts or counters for entertaining. These can be easily wheeled into different areas of the space to create a focal point for social gatherings.

Bar Cart (Wayfair)

  1. Plants and Greenery: Incorporate potted plants or vertical gardens to bring nature indoors. These elements add freshness and vibrancy to any space and can be moved around as needed.

Bring in Nature! (Amazon)

  1. Flexible Storage Solutions: Provide shelves, cabinets, or storage units on wheels that can be rearranged to accommodate different storage needs.
  2. Modular Wall Systems: Consider using modular panels or boards that can be easily adjusted to create a dynamic and changeable wall space for art, shelving, or displays.

A Temporary Wall

  1. Interactive Features: Integrate elements like whiteboards, corkboards, or chalkboards that allow renters to engage creatively with the space.
  2. Projection Screens: Install a retractable or portable projection screen for presentations, movie nights, or immersive visual experiences.

DIY portable projection screen

  1. Thematic Decor Packs: Offer themed decor packs that renters can choose from, allowing them to quickly transform the space for events or special occasions.
  2. Flexible Seating Options: Provide a mix of chairs, stools, and floor cushions that can be easily moved to create different seating arrangements.
  3. Technology Integration: Include portable speakers, smart home devices, or charging stations that enhance the functionality and entertainment options of the space.
  4. DIY Kits and Crafting Supplies: Offer kits for DIY projects or crafting supplies for renters looking to add their personal touch to the space.

Removable Wall Decals

Remember to balance aesthetics with functionality and ensure all elements are easy to move and arrange. This way, renters can truly make the space their own, and you can attract a wider range of clientele seeking a dynamic and customizable environment.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

If you’re looking for more help than what I can provide here, my personalized coaching programs might be just what you need. Book a free consultation to chat about what’s holding you back and how I can help you achieve organized spaces in your lifestyle. I look forward to working with you!

NEW PHONE # 860-941-8630

A TEXT  gets to me faster: Name, Issue, the Best time to call

Email: ccamacho@lifestyle-by-designs.com

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Staycation!

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Mystic CT ~

Staycation This Summer

If you can’t get away . . . Plan A Stayca!

Throughout our lives, we’ve been taught that true relaxation can only happen when we’re not at home. So, we eagerly wait for week-long vacations, forgetting about the free time we have regularly. But guess what? You can get that same deep relaxation you feel on vacation right in your own cozy home.

The peacefulness you feel on vacation isn’t just because you’re somewhere new, it’s because you let yourself relax and recharge. If you can bring that same chill vibe to your everyday life, even when things are hectic, you’ll be a lot more relaxed and happy.

At home, distractions are like ninjas, always hiding and ready to strike. They come from all the chores we have to do just to survive. If you want to feel as peaceful as you do on vacation, you need to make your home a chill spot. Temporarily ignore the mess, but if there is an overwhelming amount, tidy up the space you’ll be using for your staycation first. Relaxing is just as important as eating. Next, set the mood.

Vibing to music that brings back memories of a vacation? It’s like your mind gets whisked away to that chill, carefree place all over again. The same goes for sipping on a tropical drink or chowing down on some delicious ethnic food – they’ve got the power to transport you to a more tranquil headspace. Instead of stressing over your to-do list, give yourself permission to kick back, relax, and do stuff that genuinely makes you happy. Your responsibilities can wait while you take some well-deserved time for yourself. So go ahead, unwind, and bask in that inner peace that only you can bring to yourself.

When you feel like going back to your crazy-busy lifestyle, remember that chilling out should be at the top of your to-do list. Even when life’s got you running around like the Duracell bunny, you need to take some time for yourself and do things that make you feel good. You might not always be able to take a Stayca!, but even small acts of self-care can help you find your inner peace and make your brain feel refreshed.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

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Fight or Flight?

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Fight or Flight?

The past Coronavirus pandemic has impacted all of our lives and for many of us caused increased amounts of stress in various areas of our lives. 

Managing stress is paramount due to its impact on physical and mental well-being. Fortunately, techniques exist to help us cope with stress, promote healing, alleviate pain, and regulate our nervous system, leading to a reduced stress response.

Have you ever encountered the concept of “fight or flight”? When faced with abrupt and intense stress, our bodies naturally activate this response to prepare for either escaping the scenario or confronting it. However, in our daily encounters with stress, we often lack the option to flee or physically combat the stressful situation. Unlike facing a tiger on the street, most of our stressors are not as tangible or easily avoidable.

When enduring prolonged periods of intense stress, the body remains in a heightened state, persistently releasing stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol into the system. This ongoing stress response takes a toll on both physical and mental well-being, potentially leading to various health issues over time. Chronic pain, anxiety, emotional instability, gut inflammation, and numerous other health problems can manifest as a result of this chronic high-stress state.

Our bodies possess a remarkable superpower, the vagus nerve system, which can counteract the fight or flight response and promote relaxation. This nerve connects the brain to various parts of the body, playing a vital role in our overall function. Without it, our bodies would struggle to perform basic tasks. By stimulating the vagus nerve, we can unlock numerous health benefits.

To promote the optimal functioning of the vagus nerve, deep, slow belly breathing is a key strategy. Through breathing exercises, you can shift your attention away from stressors or discomfort. The human mind operates linearly, processing one piece of information at a time. If you concentrate on the rhythm of your breathing, the stressor becomes less prominent in your awareness.

The moment we anticipate stress in any form, most of us tend to stop breathing and hold our breath. Breath-holding activates the fight/flight/freeze response; it tends to increase the sensation of pain, stiffness, anxiety, or fear. 

To practice deep breathing inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth remember to:

  • Breathe more slowly (aim for six breaths per minute).
  • Breathe more deeply, from the belly. Think about expanding your abdomen and widening your rib cage as you inhale.
  • Exhale longer than you inhale. It’s the exhale that triggers the relaxation response.

Additional techniques for stimulating the vagus nerve include:

Loud gargling with water or loud singing activates our vocal cords which in turn stimulates the vagus nerve.

Foot massage: A gentle or firm touch can assist in stimulating the vagus nerve.

Cold water face immersion: immerse your forehead eyes and at least 2/3 of both cheeks into cold water. This elicits the vagus nerve, decreases heart rate, stimulates the intestines, and turns on the immune system – My Favorite!

Eating fiber stimulates vagus impulses to the brain slowing the gut movements and making us feel fuller after meals

Laughter: having a good laugh lifts your mood, boosts your immune system, and stimulates the vagus nerve. Another Favorite . . .

We don’t always have to let stressful situations negatively our minds and bodies. We can stimulate our vagus nerve to send a message to our bodies that it’s time to relax and de-stress, which leads to long-term improvements in mood, pain management, well-being, and resilience.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

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Emotional Cleansing

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Emotional Cleansing . . . 

Engaging in the arduous process of emotional healing can leave us feeling exhausted and depleted but rest assured, this challenging phase too shall pass.

During detoxification or ascension journeys, it’s typical to experience bodily aches and flu-like symptoms. These sensations, along with fatigue and sadness, are common side effects of deep inner work and cleansing processes. It’s important to recognize that these symptoms are natural and often accompany profound transformations within the body and mind.

As we embark on a journey of introspection, delving into our emotions and beliefs, we encounter profound internal transformations and external shifts. Amidst these changes, our physical bodies may experience fatigue, sending us signals to prioritize rest and rejuvenation. Recognizing these signs, it is imperative to embrace self-compassion and temporarily halt our relentless pursuit of progress. Honoring our bodies and attuning to their needs is an integral part of cultivating greater consciousness and balance.

Upon experiencing any signs of discomfort, prioritize your well-being by increasing your sleep duration. This can be achieved by either retiring to bed earlier than customary or incorporating naps into your daily schedule. Additionally, bolster your body’s natural defenses through a wholesome diet rich in nutrients, ample hydration with water and herbal teas, and the judicious use of vitamins.

Vitamin C is like a superhero for your immune system. It’s like giving your body a power-up to help it fight off those pesky germs. Homeopathic remedies are like little helpers that can lend a hand when you’re feeling under the weather. Talking kindly to yourself and your body is like giving yourself a big hug. It can make a big difference. And let’s not forget the power of chillin’ out. Taking a break from thinking and just relaxing can do wonders for your recovery. If you’re looking for a little extra support, don’t be afraid to call on your spirit guides or angels. They’re always there to lend a helping hand.

It’s normal to experience periods of feeling unwell. Instead of stressing, embrace the opportunity for peaceful rest. Remember that these challenging times are temporary and part of the healing journey. With each passing day, you’ll emerge stronger, healthier, and further along in your path toward recovery.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

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It’s Right There In Front Of You . . .

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It’s Right There In Front Of You . . . 

You may be using a far-off dream as a way to avoid appreciating the good things you already have in your life.

You know how we always have this never-ending list of things we want? It’s like, no matter how many things we cross off that list, we just keep adding more to it. It’s like this endless cycle of wanting, getting, and then wanting again.

But, hey, that’s all part of the fun, right? The things we want are like the carrots dangling in front of us, keeping us motivated to get up and go after them. So, let’s embrace this dance of desire and keep chasing those carrots, my friend!

Because here’s the thing. We all have desires, right? But sometimes, we get so caught up in wanting something we can’t have that we forget about all the good stuff we already have. It’s like we’re using this desire as an excuse to avoid dealing with the blessings in front of us.

You know how sometimes it feels like we’re running around like headless chickens, wishing for things we already have? We can see it in other people but not ourselves. We hear our friends wishing they were different, but we can clearly see that they’re exactly what they want to be. And there are people with amazing partners who still envy yours. It’s like we need someone to knock some sense into us and show us that what we want is right in front of us.

Have you ever thought that we might be making the same mistake? You know, getting so caught up in “The Chasing” of what we want that we forget to enjoy what we already have? It’s like a kid who’s never satisfied with the toy in their hand and always wants the one they can’t reach.

Please, take a second today to think about all the amazing things you have right in front of you. How can you appreciate and enjoy them more? It’s like holding a precious treasure in your hand. Don’t let it slip away without savoring every moment.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

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Healing Gift For Yourself

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Indulge in a day of self-care, a precious gift dedicated solely to your well-being and renewal.

Rephrased, reworded, and reorganized Deep within us lies the potential for self-healing. Our choices have a profound impact on our well-being, yet we often delegate responsibility for our health to external sources. While seeking guidance from healers can be valuable, we possess the innate ability to initiate our healing process.

Devoting a day to holistic wellness can provide a nurturing and comfortable environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. The key to self-healing lies in a genuine desire to embrace our physical and spiritual potential. This openness allows healing energy to flow freely within us, facilitating a profound sense of balance and well-being.

A successful healing day should cater to the fundamental needs of the entire self while channeling healing energy where it is most required. Solitude plays a crucial role in this process, as does the ability to seek sanctuary in a serene and aesthetically pleasing space. Commence your healing journey by setting the intention that this time is dedicated solely to your self-restoration. Elements such as flowers, candlelight, incense, and music can guide our attention toward a more tranquil state of mind.

To enhance your meditation experience, immerse yourself in music through headphones, as it can help you disconnect from distractions and connect more deeply with your inner self. It is our responsibility to determine what we need to do to promote well-being in our lives. For some, it could involve spending time reflecting on their lives. Others may engage in calming activities that remind them of their purpose, such as writing in a journal, spending time in nature, or engaging in spiritual practices. Our healing process may also involve using elements such as color, sound, or crystals to help us find balance and grounding.

Ultimately, your wholesome intentions transform what might otherwise be a simple day of rest into a day of healing. Grant yourself permission to relax and savor the stillness. If you attune yourself to the calm around you, worldly distractions will be minimized and the unadulterated flow of your consciousness will reestablish itself in the forefront of your mind. 

As you delve into this journey of healing, the needs of your body, heart, and soul will gradually be unveiled. This revelation will bestow upon you the ability to harness the potent healing energy of the universe. The method you employ to channel this energy will adapt to your evolving requirements, making each day of healing a distinctive experience. Nevertheless, every day will serve to replenish you, enabling you to transform yourself into a radiant embodiment of health and vitality.

**The Next Full Strawberry Moon in the Capricorn is this coming Friday, June, 21st, aligning with the summer solstice highlights a time for the manifestation of Goals. Lean into the ambition and determination of this Full Moon.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl