Discover sun-charged water therapy used in Ayurveda and ancient civilizations

What's sun-charged water therapy?

Sun-charged water, also called solarized color water therapy, offers many incredible health benefits for the mind and body. 

It’s simply done by placing filtered water in colored glass bottles and letting the water become purified by the sun’s energy during the day. And then, you drink the water, to reap all the amazing benefits. 

Fundamentally, sun-charged color water can heal and re-activate a person’s major chakras, or energy centers. 

Did you know this practice dates back to ancient China, Egypt, and Hawaiian spiritual traditions? And, of course, it can be traced back to Ayurvedic teachings from India. Sun-charged water therapy is still widely used today as a healing modality in many parts of the world.

What are the benefits of this type of therapy?

Sun-charged water therapy offers many distinct grounding and healing benefits. For example, it can help with cellular and wound repair, reduced inflammation, improved digestion and blood circulation. Sun-charged water therapy has also been proven to reduce allergies and improve skin conditions. The healing benefits for the body are astounding and scientifically proven. 

For stimulating mental and emotional health, drinking sun-charged water offers many benefits. For example, drinking this water from a blue bottle clears the mind, reduces anxiety, promotes relaxation and peace of mind. Pretty cool, huh?

Want to learn more about sun-charged water therapy?

To read more, check out this article, Sun and Colored Charged Water and your Chakras. 

And, if you’re inspired to buy some colored glass water bottles, get them on Amazon. And also check your local dollar store.

Have fun trying them out!  I’d love to hear your feedback, contact me anytime. 

Dealing with a break-up? Use the HEAL technique to ground and mend your relationship

Have you recently experienced the breakdown of a relationship? 

Maybe it’s one with your spouse, your mom or dad, your adult child, sibling or a long-time friend. 

Well, you wouldn’t be the only one dealing with a relationship that’s gone south. The pandemic has affected everyone’s relationships, including my own. Oh, it can be very painful, especially if you were blindsided. 

Perhaps you both suddenly stopped communicating after a heated argument. How do you resolve the conflict, if you feel the relationship can be salvaged?

Otherwise, how do you move forward with a peaceful heart if you simply agree to disagree?

If you’re grieving the loss of a relationship, it will naturally affect how you show up in the world each day. 

Are you angry, resentful, sad, bitter, anxious, irritable or confused? 

Of course, you wouldn’t be human if you didn’t feel one or more of these emotions. Any of them can leave you feeling unsettled and ungrounded. 

Not good!

 

Try the HEAL technique to mend your relationship

HEAL stands for: 

Hear the other person and validate their concerns 

Empathize with them and really hone into the other person’s feelings 

Act to address concerns in the relationship and follow through, and 

Love with an open heart (this is often the absolute hardest thing to do!).

 The HEAL technique can actually help you find your calm and feel grounded with specific steps, and eventually mend that special relationship. 

Read more about the HEAL technique and how to use it in this article from Psychology Today. 

Looking for some more tools to help you process a relationship breakdown? The HEAL approach will likely not work if you’re involved with a narcissist. Contact me to explore specific strategies for your situation.

coaching session with me can bring clarity to your relationship and guide you towards finding inner peace. I’ll show you how to ditch negative emotions that might be weighing you down and harmful to your health, and how to move forward with a healthy mind and heart. 

Book a free discovery call with me here

Got Pain? Try Mindful Grounding for Physical Discomfort

Are you dealing with any pain or discomfort in your body today? Well, if you answered Yes, you might want to read this post. So, let’s explore the mind-body connection in finding physical relief.  

How can mindful grounding help with pain relief?

To begin, mindful grounding, a practice that brings your focus to the present moment can break the cycle of distress and encourage healing from within. Here’s how it’s done:

 

  • Acknowledge the sensations: notice your pain, embrace the discomfort without judgment, and allow your body to relax and release tension. For example, if you are prone to getting headaches, instead of habitually popping some Tylenol, notice which part of your head is hurting. Close your eyes and hone in to the pain to actually feel it. Perhaps the pain is a message you’re being asked to pay attention to, so try to tap into it. Place your hands on it to feel the throbbing. Stay with the discomfort and listen to it, and even talk to it. And then gently invite it to leave. 
  • Use your breath as an anchor: your breath is a powerful tool that can ground your mind in the present moment, promoting relaxation. In combination with any of these tips, noticing your breath will amplify how effectively you’re able to move out of any form of physical discomfort.
  • Try a body scan meditation: practice a meditation where you scan your body to identify areas of discomfort or tension, which fosters healing naturally when you notice them. And also practice gratitude for the body parts that are working well and are pain-free.
  • Try a visualization technique: activate your imagination to guide your mind away from discomfort. For example, if you’re dealing with a migraine and can’t lift your head, picture yourself on top of the world. Quite literally, visualize yourself standing on top of a big mountain in the expansive outdoors surrounded by fresh, invigorating fresh air and sunshine. Basically, stay with the visualization for a few minutes and breathe into it. In essence, a visualization exercise like this shifts your mental state and promotes calmness and tranquility.
  • Let go of control: surrender to the present moment, release the need for control and accept what is. By letting go, you are creating space for healing.
  • Try some mind-body activities like yoga, tai chi or qi gong for relaxation and present moment awareness. 
  • Rest and slow down. Sometimes, pain and discomfort requires some rest to move out of your body. So, just listen to the cues your body is sending you. Pain is often a reminder we need to take some time for self-care, rest and relaxation. 

To summarize, incorporating mindful grounding can empower you to better cope with physical discomfort. And you can naturally find your way back into a pain-free, healthy groove. For even better results, try any of these activities outdoors. Simply sitting outside in fresh air and sunshine and then easing into these activities can make you feel entirely different about your physical discomfort.  

Skeptical? Why not embrace the mind-body connection and see for yourself its amazing ability to soothe discomfort naturally. If you want to learn more,, here’s a great article from PubMed Central on the effects of grounding on pain and the immune response.

Overall, consistency and patience are key along the way. That is, pick a couple of these activities and stick with them daily until you begin to see the pain shift and eventually ease its way out of your body This too shall pass is a good motto to remember. 

You can discover and tap into the incredible healing power that resides within you to find inner calm amid physical discomfort. And remember, a calm mind leads to a calm body and it begins with mindful grounding. 

Curious about learning more about mindful grounding techniques to help cope more effectively with pain management? Book a free discovery call with me today.

Grounding your Addiction Recovery: The Power of Yoga, Meditation and Breathwork

Do you know someone trying to recover from a drug or alcohol addiction? Without a doubt, it’s not an easy road to travel. Often overlooked as part of the treatment approach are ancient Eastern practices that can help you or a loved one on this journey. For example, yoga, meditation and breathwork are three transformative practices that can become your steadfast allies on your healing journey. Discover how these powerful modalities can help you ground yourself and find inner strength on the path to addiction and recovery. 

The healing synergy of yoga, meditation and breathwork

Yoga, meditation and breathwork can work effectively and harmoniously for addiction recovery. Each practice offers unique benefits and when combined, their synergy becomes a powerful force for healing and transformation.

Yoga: Finding balance in body and mind

As many people mistakenly believe, yoga is not just a form of physical exercise. Actually, it’s a holistic practice that unites the mind, body and spirit dating back over 5,000 years. Some scholars believe yoga’s origins can be traced to northern India as far as 10,000 years ago in Vedic literature, the sacred scriptures that are the foundation of the Hindu faith. For thousands of years, yoga has helped heal the human body by restoring vitality and strength that negative forces have depleted, such as modern-day common addictions. Through gentle stretches and poses, tension is released, flexibility improves and overall well-being is nurtured.

Beyond the physical benefits, yoga cultivates mindfulness. As you move through asanas (poses), you learn to observe thoughts and emotions without judgment. This self-awareness and self-compassion are vital for breaking free from the chains of addiction.

Meditation: Embrace stillness amidst turmoil

Quite often, in the tumult of addiction, finding stillness can seem impossible. Meditation offers a sanctuary of finding peace within. As I often say to my clients, meditation is not about silencing your thoughts, rather it’s about developing a peaceful relationship with them. Simply notice your thoughts and gently let them go.

When practiced consistently, meditation helps you befriend your mind, guiding it away from negative patterns towards clarity and serenity. As you sit in quiet contemplation, the root causes of addiction can be explored with a compassionate heart.

Moreover, meditation supports emotional regulation, providing the tools to navigate the ups and downs of recovery while building mental and emotional resilience. 

Breathwork: The gateway to inner calm

Have you noticed we never really pause to think about the powerful force of our breath? Without it, you wouldn’t be alive and it’s definitely something we take for granted. When you begin to pay attention to your breath, you’ll discover it’s actually a bridge between the conscious and subconscious mind. Breathwork practices, like pranayama in yoga or Holotropic breathwork offer the ability to explore emotions and traumas that may have contributed to the addiction.

By using your breath intentionally through the practice of breathwork, emotional baggage can be released, anxiety can be reduced and you can move into a state of relaxation. Developing a harmonious relationship with your breath can become an anchor of calmness during times of temptation or distress. That is, once you learn some proven breathing techniques and practice them regularly, you’ll be able to center yourself fast and effortlessly just by using your breath whenever temptation creeps into your mind. And that’s super powerful!

The role of grounding in addiction recovery

Grounding is fundamental in addiction recovery, as it fosters stability and balance during the healing process. Yoga, meditation and breathwork are all grounding practices that connect you with the present moment and the world around you.

More specifically, in yoga, the physical connection to the earth through your feet and hands in various poses promotes a sense of grounding and feeling rooted. Meditation brings you into the present moment, helping you anchor your thoughts and emotions in the now, and detaching from the past or future. Breathwork encourages mindfulness by focusing on your breath; it stimulates cellular regeneration with every inhale/exhale and invigorates your life force energy to help you move past and heal from addictions.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can build a solid foundation for addiction recovery, find stability amidst your life’s challenges and discover a beautiful path to healing. 

Embrace the journey

As you embark on your addiction recovery journey, remember that it’s not a linear path. It takes a lot of hard work. There may be ups and downs, moments of doubt and triumph. But within you lies the inner strength to overcome anything not serving you. Within the practices of yoga, meditation and breathwork, lies the support to guide you on your wellness journey.

With these practices, know that you are laying the groundwork for transformation and healing. Be gentle with yourself, celebrate your progress and embrace the unfolding journey.

Know that you’re not alone in this quest for healing. As countless others have found solace in these ancient practices, so too shall you. With yoga as your sanctuary, meditation as your guide and breathwork as your anchor, you possess the tools to navigate the path to recovery – one breath, one pose and one moment at a time.

Looking for some support?

Check out the Recovery Village at Palmer Lake, Colorado and their holistic approach to treating addictions and mental health disorders. Here’s a great read from their site: 5 Ways Yoga Supports Addiction Recovery

Feel free to contact me to explore other addiction centers offering a holistic approach. 

Remember, you’ve got this!

Do these three things now to instantly ground yourself

Feeling stressed and scattered right now? Stop what you’re doing and read on. It’s time to find a few minutes of inner peace and grounding to recalibrate your mind, body and spirit. Here are three simple and effective techniques you can try now:

Take a deep breath and exhale stress away

When life throws a curveball your way, it’s easy to get swept up in whirlwind of anxiety and tension. But guess what? You hold the key to unlock calmness within. It starts with your breath. Deep breathing is one of the simplest yet most effective grounding technique.

How do you do it? Find a comfortable spot for a few minutes, even 5 minutes will help. Take a seat or stand tall. Close your eyes if it feels right. Now, inhale deeply through your nose, filling your lungs like a balloon. Feel your abdomen rise and expand with every breath. Hold it for a few seconds, and then release your breath, all the stress and worries as you exhale slowly through your mouth.

 

Why does it work? Deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. In fact, Harvard Medical School recently recommended during the pandemic that regular deep breathing can help manage anxiety and improve your overall well-being. 

Put on your best smile. Your soul will thank you.

Smiling may seem really simple but it has a profound impact on your emotional state. According to Psychology Today, research suggests that smiling triggers the release of feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine, endorphins and serotonin, lifting your mood and reducing stress levels. Check out the many incredible health benefits associated with giving off an authentic smile here.

Get moving and feel the earth beneath your feet.

When you engage in any kind of physical activity, it helps release pent-up energy, improves circulation and boosts your overall vitality. Studies have also shown daily physical activity improves balance, coordination, metabolism, overall health and sleep.

It’s time to pick an activity and get moving! It could be as simple as a brisk daily walk, climbing some stairs, doing some light exercises like yoga or tai chi or anything else. Just do it, beginning now. Break the mental pattern of stress by dropping everything troubling your mind and just go for a brisk five-minute walk.

BONUS Tip:

So, here’s where the real magic happens – combine all three techniques into one glorious grounding ritual! Find a serene spot outdoors. Take those deep breaths and feel your worries melt away with every exhale. As you do this, put on your best, biggest smile and embrace the beauty of nature around you. Then, let your body flow and move with the rhythm of the great outdoors. Feel the grass beneath your bare feet, the wind brushing against your skin, the warmth of the sun, and let the earth’s energy envelop you as you begin walking in nature’s playground.

By doing all three practices outdoors, you’re amplifying their effects
and immersing yourself in the rejuvenating power of nature and reigniting your innate sense of balance. You’re tapping into the essence of being grounded: feeling connected to yourself, to others and to the earth.

To summarize, you don’t need to live each day stressed out. It takes just a few minutes each day to ground yourself. You can find instant solace by taking deep breaths, smiling and moving your body outdoors. Make it a daily habit and watch how you begin to live in balance each day with the universe, just as nature intended. 

Looking for more quick grounding tips? Check out my book, The Little Book of Grounding: 75+ simple ways to restore balance to your mind, body, spirit using ancient Ayurvedic teachings for today’s world. Buy it on Amazon now. 

5 Ways your Smartphone is Making you Dumb

Ah, but we LOVE our darn phones so much!

Unquestionably, smartphones are beloved extensions of our fingertips. 

We simply cannot go anywhere or do anything without them. 

Of course, they provide infinite conveniences, boost productivity and provide endless entertainment. 

But, we also know they are addictive and any addiction by definition is harmful to your health, including your brain health.

How much time do you spend on your phone daily?

Seriously, have you really thought about it? 

And how do you generally feel – anxious, scattered, overwhelmed, burned out, maybe even depressed about life? Do you feel like you’re on autopilot 24/7, almost robot-like? Hmmm. I know I do at times. Just pause and tally up how much time you’ve been spending each day on your phone and see how you really feel about it.

Ok, so where's the proof that my smartphone is making me dumb?

To start with, smartphones make us lazy.  That’s the precursor to becoming dumb. I know, no one wants to hear that. 

But factually speaking, we definitely don’t need to use our brains like we did before (at least those of us who are old enough remember memorizing phone numbers and doing basic mathematical calculations in our head). 

If you don’t use it, you lose it, as the saying goes and this applies to your brain’s neuroplasticity. 

Secondly, we’ve developed shorter attention spans. 

On average, we click on to the next site within 8-10 seconds of scanning something. I do it, and you know you do it too. 

Do you feel like you need information NOW? And, if it’s not received instantly, does your anxiety begins to build? Well, you’re not alone.

And, it’s that constant feeling of anxiousness and being on edge that wears your mind and body down over time. Eventually, this leads to burn out, physical health problems and a very dull, low functioning brain. 

Moreover, when our mental faculties decline, we make poor decisions. In fact, we are less able to think critically or objectively for our best interests. Over time, we  can become less content, apathetic and even depressed, angry and disgruntled. Just pause and reflect for a moment if this sounds like you. 

5 ways your smartphone is making you dumb

So, here are five ways our smartphones are actually making us dumb. And I would add probably dumber than past generations that did not have technology at their fingertips:

 

Social media apps.

How much time do you spend (i.e. waste) on them posting, reposting, sharing, getting likes and arguing with complete strangers online? Does spending time on these apps deplete your energy? Does it raise your blood pressure and cause you angst? Or maybe some days you feel like your head is going to explode. 

 

With information, disinformation and misinformation being thrown at us 24/7, our brains have become oversaturated. As a result, we are unable to think clearly, rationally or critically.

 

Over time, your brain becomes numb, desensitized and apathy sets in. All of the noise called “information” begins to blur together. Eventually, you begin to lose your ability to discern what’s relevant or true.

 

Constant push notifications. 

They keep you on edge in a perpetual state of hyper vigilance and addiction which fuels anxiety, mental stress and physical stress (think: my darn headaches!) 

 

Every time your phone pings, you’re automatically distracted from whatever you were doing. Without a doubt, you probably already know that your productivity is impacted. That is, your ability to concentrate on a single task declines. One study indicated the average American receives up to 80 push notifications daily; this number is probably actually higher for younger people who tend to have more apps.

 

 

Addiction to your smartphone is very real. In fact, it’s like being addicted to crack or any harmful substance and withdrawal symptoms are just as real. Any addiction is fundamentally toxic and damaging to brain health.

 

Overreliance on apps. 

Did you know that apps like Google maps, fitness trackers, even calculators have dulled our ability to think the old-fashioned way?

 

Basically, we’ve stopped exercising our mental faculties for everyday tasks.

If you’re middle-aged like me, you probably have noticed that young cashier who couldn’t count change when you paid for something with cash. It’s sad that as a society, we’ve forgotten how to add, subtract, multiply and divide.

Overall, using our phones for elementary school math has put our brains to sleep. 

 

And, have you noticed how very few people wear old-fashioned watches now?

When was the last time you used a physical map for directions?

Our minds have become very lazy!

 

Apps like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are setting you up for digital state surveillance and tracking.

Big tech is working actively with governments and banks worldwide to build the digital prison. In fact, many people would argue we’re already in it.

That is, we pay for everything digitally for the most part. You know, credit or debit card swipes, Apple Pay, Venmo, and electronic transfers have become easy, convenient ways to pay rather than using cash.

 

If you’ve noticed, banks, governments and big tech have been installing the digital matrix for a social credit system and a universal digital ID around the world for quite some time now.

 

Essentially, every transaction you’re making using any wallet app is tracked. That is, your data is being fed to a big tech company to build your unique Chinese-style social credit score.

 

Now, if you think about how much you’ve been participating in digital transactions (rather than cash ones), you’re actually giving away your sovereign power over your finances to multiple third parties. And right there that’s a dumb thing to do.

 

Remember, cash is king. Use cash to keep your transactions private. 

 

Do you really want the government, your bank and a tech firm knowing how many times you went to Starbucks last week? Moreover, what if, one fine day, the authorities decided to put a limit on your purchases for the greater good? Or for your own good? How would you feel about that? 

 

So, the bottom line recommendation is this: don’t use your phone’s apps for every day purchases! Use cash as much as possible. Because if you don’t eventually your ability to use cash will be removed.

 

 

Electromagnetic frequency (EMF) and 5G have affected our brain health too. 

Countless studies have shown these invisible waves affect not only our cognition but also cause cancer. Of course, there are an equal number of studies that refute this claim. The truth lies somewhere in the middle and by how you feel. 

 

The point is, be mindful that your cellphone and 5G technology can affect your brain’s cognitive ability and long-term health. 

 

For a deeper dive on this topic, sign up for my newsletter now and you’ll instantly receive my free guide called Get Grounded: 10+ Easy Ways to Ditch your Cellphone to Reduce EMF Exposure and Find Vibrant Health.

 

So, how do we revert to becoming “smart” again? Well, it begins with ditching your smartphone in small steps and becoming more mindful of how it’s been controlling you and your mind

Begin with being kind to your mind

To begin, give yourself a break from your smartphone every day. Just a few minutes of downtime from technology gives your mind a rest and the opportunity to recharge and find balance with your environment. 


Here are some easy ways to build in cellphone downtime:


When you wake up each day, spend time on yourself before checking your cellphone. Go for a morning walk, get in a workout, eat your breakfast and enjoy your coffee free from technology. Essentially, a regular morning self-care sets the stage for your brain to be more alert and productive for the day.


Put your phone’s notifications on silent when you need to work so you’re not constantly distracted. This will help improve productivity and can reduce anxiety and stress levels.  


Spend time outdoors each day grounding and connecting with nature, irrespective of the weather. Leave your phone at home or turn it off. And then, notice the beauty of nature. Quite simply, notice the birds chirping, the scent of freshly mowed grass, the clouds drifting away in the sky, or the flowers in bloom.


Put away your phone when you’re eating. Pay attention to the meal, have good conversation with others while you eat and savor each bite. When we eat a meal mindfully, your brain absorbs nutrients better. And so does your body.

  

Every evening, turn your phone off and keep it out of your bedroom. Basically speaking, push notifications and EMFs interfere with your ability to get a goodnight’s sleep. Most importantly, your mind needs to rest to rejuvenate itself!


If you found this post helpful, check out my book, The Little Book of Grounding: 75+ simple ways to restore balance to your mind, body and spirit using ancient Ayurvedic teachings for today’s world.

Feeling financially stressed? Find peace of mind with these 7 tips.

Managing finances has always been a challenging task. However, due to high inflation, job insecurity, buzz about the transition to central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), recent US bank failures, financial stresses have become painfully real for a lot of people. 

If you’re feeling financially stressed, you are not alone.

Financial wellness is a crucial aspect of everyone’s life, and it’s important to take steps to stay on top of  it during these challenging times. Here are some tips, starting with some of the most traditional strategies and ones more applicable for the crazy times we are living through:

1. Create a Budget: A budget is a crucial tool that helps you keep track of your income and expenses. In challenging times, it’s even more important to create a budget to manage your finances. You can easily create a budget by calculating your monthly income and subtracting your expenses, including bills, groceries, rent, and transportation costs. And it’s easier than you think to get started. Just create an Excel spreadsheet, find an app or do it the old-fashioned way with a pen and notebook. Once you have a budget, you can identify areas where you can cut back and save money.

2. Save Money: Irrespective of whether we are in a recession or in a period of economic growth, saving money will always help improve your financial wellness. Moreover, it’s important to save money because it can help you during times of uncertainty. To begin, set aside a certain amount of money each month to create an emergency fund. And try to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses in an emergency fund. Start small; a few dollars every week are drops in the bucket that fill up quickly over time.

3. Pay off Debts: Another important step to improve your financial wellness is to pay off your debts. Debts, such as credit cards, loans, and mortgages, can be a huge financial burden. To pay off debt, start by prioritizing high-interest debt first, and create a debt repayment plan. Making consistent payments towards your debt will help you reduce the amount you owe and improve your credit score over time. And you’ll sleep better at night!

4. Cut Back on Expenses: During challenging times, it’s important to evaluate your expenses and identify areas where you can reduce your spending. For example, you can cut back on dining out, shopping for non-essential items, or subscription services. Even skipping your daily Starbucks coffee will free up additional money that you can reallocate to a more urgent expenditure. Additionally, you can negotiate your phone, cable, or internet bill. Reducing your expenses is something everyone can do with a little bit of discipline.

5. Explore Alternative Investments: Many of us have already been contributing to retirement accounts like RRSP (in Canada) or 401(k) and IRAs (US). Are they the best retirement vehicles for the volatile economic times we are living through? Well, that’s up to your personal situation and your portfolio. Be sure to explore your options with a qualified financial advisor who isn’t just pushing products for a commission. Additionally, you might want to consider investing in stocks (commodities) or other alternative investment options like precious metals, precious metals-backed retirement accounts, or cryptocurrencies that align with your financial goals.

6. Bank with More than One Institution: If you’re spooked about the possibility of your bank collapsing, spread your deposits among trusted financial institutions or credit unions that offer FDIC or CDIC insurance. Check out your bank’s liquidity situation, ask questions and then move your deposits accordingly.

7. Keep some Cash Outside of the Banks: In the event your bank is unexpectedly closed, the ATM doesn’t work, or online banking is down for a number of days due to a system-wide outage (maybe in preparation for the roll-out of CBDCs), having some cash at home will allow you to transact the old-fashioned way until banking services are restored. Keep an amount of cash enough to cover one to three months of basic daily expenses if you can.

If you’re really stressed about your financial situation –  whether you’re concerned about your monthly cash flow or worried about the security of traditional investments or your bank’s digital banking agenda, it will eventually affect your mind-body health.

Anxiety and stress can manifest into a chronic disease if ignored over time. In addition to these strategies, a regular meditation practice and simple breathwork can help you manage daily stress levels. Financial wellness is a crucial part of your overall wellness. It’s never too late to start working towards financial wellness, and taking any of these small steps can make a big difference over time.

If you’d like to learn more about my coaching services that can help you achieve mind, body and financial wellness, contact me to schedule a free initial discovery call.

Why Junk Silver isn’t junk

As a mid-life investor, you may have heard of the term ‘Junk Silver’. Maybe you thought it had something to do with outdated, useless currency. 

Or maybe you never really knew what junk silver really was. 

Whatever your notions are about junk silver, they’re likely to be wrong.  

Despite its name, ‘junk’ silver is actually an interesting investment option for anyone in search of affordable precious metals. With increased volatility in the global markets, more people are flocking to silver, gold and other precious metals. The idea is that precious metals are like a safe haven for your wealth during these precarious times.  

Unlike modern-day silver coins, junk silver coins are older coins that were minted in the United States and under past government regulation. They are called “junk silver” as they do not hold any numismatic value. That is, this is the value that coins derive from their rarity, significance, or historical context. Therefore, these coins can be purchased at a lower price than numismatic coins. And this makes them an affordable investment vehicle for the average investor.

Junk silver coins are usually sold in bulk and categorized by bags and rolls. They are made up of 90% silver. Typically, they and are commonly found in dimes, quarters, and half dollars that were minted pre-1965. The coins have a total of 0.715 ounces of silver content, with each dime containing 0.0723 ounces of silver, each quarter containing 0.1808 ounces of silver, and each half dollar containing 0.3617 ounces of silver. Because of their inherent value, they are a reliable way to invest in silver.

The importance of investing in these types of coins isn’t just because its price is lower than other precious metals. They are a tangible asset with real value. These older coins can protect your wealth from inflation, economic downturns or a bigger financial crisis. And, importantly, they are a reliable and secure option to hold as they have been in circulation for decades. Moreover, their value remains consistent.

Another added advantage of junk silver is that they are easily recognizable. This makes them easier to sell than other types of silver or gold investments. 

Moreover, these silver coins offer an important practical benefit that’s hard to find with other precious metals investments. For instance, old US coins can be used for everyday transactions. So, in an emergency situation, you could use your coins as an alternative currency when banks and digital transactions are unavailable. 

Additionally, buying and selling these types of coins is a fun way to explore history while also making an investment.

So, while junk silver might not have the flashy appeal of modern silver, it’s an affordable and wise investment option worth considering.

To summarize, investing in these coins has many benefits. These include their affordability, inherent value, liquidity, and practical use. They are an excellent option to consider when diversifying your investment portfolio. 

As always, it is essential to do your research and understand the risks involved before making any investment. However, if you’re looking for a practical way to gain exposure to silver, then junk silver may be the right investment choice for you.

Please note this post does not represent financial advice. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

If you want to learn more about precious metals and where to buy them, consider buying my book: Get Financially Grounded with Gold and Silver, available on Amazon worldwide. Or contact me for a 20-minute free discovery call to get started. 

Worried about your bank collapsing? Here’s what to do now.

So, the question on a lot of people’s minds is this: could your money vanish from your bank account overnight?

Well, it could happen. And it just happened.

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and two other banks last week has the financial markets in turmoil. Rightfully so, there are lots of nervous depositors. 

Did you know that these bank failures have been the second largest in US history? Well, the world is noticing and continues to react this week. Ordinary Bob and Jane investors like you and me need to seriously think about asset protection and risk mitigation strategies. Let’s discuss them in this post.

So, most of us have sensed for a while now (going back to 2008) that our financial institutions lack full transparency. Remember the collapse of Lehman Brothers? Yet instead you’re the one who’s made to feel like a criminal when you try to withdraw more than a couple thousand dollars.

 What I mean is this: you’re asked why you’re withdrawing your money. And for what purpose. And then the teller records your response. Well, excuse me – “it’s my money, and it should really be none of your business”. This has been my irritated response. Without a doubt, it probably bugs you too. So, why are banks doing this exactly?

Well, the minute you deposit your money with any bank, it gets treated as a loan made to them. Here’s a fact: the bank has legal title to the funds deposited and they can be mixed in with the bank’s other assets. Yes, all banks do this. As part of what’s known as the fractional reserve system, banks only hold about 10% of their deposits in reserves. And this is why there’s usually very limited amounts of cash on hand at the branch level, typically barely enough for withdrawals and transfers. In fact, that percentage is probably generous (with the legal requirement removed by the Federal Reserve in 2020). Essentially, banks simply don’t have enough cash on hand to match in-person withdrawals on a large scale. 

So, you can just imagine the chaos that could ensue if everyone showed up at their banks and began demanding their physical dollars. In reality, aka nation-wide bank runs. Clearly, it could happen if the bank collapse contagion continues.

But wait a minute. 

Our deposits are insured, correct? 

Yes, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)and CDIC (for Canadians) are supposed to insure your deposits up to $250,000 (and $100,000 if your deposits are in a Canadian financial institution). 

Sure, you would definitely be inconvenienced (to put it mildly) if you were unable to withdraw your money in a flash. For example, if there was a system outage, a privacy breach or a bank collapse leaving you with no ability to pay your bills. 

But the authorities have told you that your funds are insured under this amount, meaning you should be able to access your money at some point. 

And what about deposits more than the threshold? 

And if there are multiple bank failures all within a certain timeframe, how do we even know these limits will be honored by the banking system, FDIC/CDIC and government at all?

Well, we just don’t know.

If your spidey-sense is telling you to protect your hard-earned money, pay attention to it.

Here are a few things you can do relatively quickly to side-step the bank shit-show that seems to be unfolding at a rapid pace now:

  • Keep your money in more than one financial institution. Look at who the major depositors are with your banks, and check out their financials including liabilities. Pick larger banks as they will likely be covered by FDIC/CDIC, not regional ones. Consider putting some money in a credit union, which technically doesn’t offer you much more protection than a bank but it could be part of your diversification strategy. We all need to keep some money in the bank to cover our running expenses.
  • Only keep in the bank what you need to pay your bills. Keep bare are minimum amounts and look to other places to park and even grow your assets (read on). Keep some cash at home for an emergency banking scenario. Some people recommend one to three months’ worth of running expenses; use your own best judgment.
  • Consider opening a couple of bank accounts outside of your home country in different jurisdictions. Diversification of your cash is key so that whatever happens at home, you’re not financially locked out.
  • Put your dollars in US Treasury bills, short-term debt securities that mature within a year. Give yourself some time to park your money and explore alternative investment options. The Fed (and Bank of Canada) could likely resume interest rate hikes this spring to “quell” inflation, so this might be a good strategy for some people.
  • Invest in gold, silver and Bitcoin. Interesting how these bank collapses have had people running in droves to precious metals and Bitcoin.

So folks, buckle up and get ready for the ride! 

All signs are telling us that the financial markets are going to be crazy and unpredictable this year. 

Now is the perfect time to get financially grounded in gold and silver. 

Check out my new book, “Get Financially Grounded with Gold and Silver: Preserve Assets, Build Wealth, Escape the Matrix and Build Financial Freedom”.  

I also offer financial coaching sessions to help you explore strategies that work for you – and not the matrix. So, book a free discovery call at karensibal.com

Gold and Silver: Use God’s money to anchor yourself during turbulent economic times

You’ve probably noticed sky-high prices for everything: groceries, gasoline and pretty much anything else.

So, we’ve been hearing for a while now about how supply chain and energy shortages are getting worse. And this is thanks to the feds’ ongoing money printing spree. 

You’ve probably noticed people have been spending government cheques on things that were once abundantly produced. Now, a hyper-demand for goods has resulted in short supply. As a result, we are faced with soaring inflation numbers.  That is, 8.1% is the inflation rate in Canada, meaning that the actual numbers are likely higher.

What does this really mean?

Well, high inflation means your dollars are worth less.

And that’s not good news.

One way to protect your hard-earned money from erosion is to invest in precious metals like gold and silver. You know, like people did way back in the good ole’ days. Back then, gold and silver were considered God’s money.

Why? Because precious metals are real, tangible physical assets that have stood the financial test of time.

Gold and silver really are God’s money. Let me explain. 

Did you know that paper money is not backed by anything?

 It’s called “fiat” currency meaning that it’s not backed by any real commodity but instead by government decree, thanks to President Nixon. 

In 1971, Nixon took the USD off the gold standard. Since then, we’ve had free floating currency, not anchored to anything. So, what you really have are pieces of paper in your wallet that are losing value every day.

Here’s a practical example to illustrate this. In 1965, 2500 ounces of silver could buy you one Ford Mustang. In 2020, you could’ve bought two of them with the exact same amount of silver.

Since the dawn of civilization, gold has been regarded as the metal of the sun. Gold with its glorious shine and radiance promotes many things. For example, gold signifies light, love, self-reliance, generosity, security, positive energy and abundance.

Silver is the metal of the moon with high electrical conductivity, industrial and medicinal properties that have been used for ages. In fact, silver promotes cooling, calmness, intuition, cleansing and deflects negativity.

Unquestionably, gold and silver have many special health and healing benefits. Their inherent value and uses have been passed down over generations across the world. 

I can recall at various times in my life my mother telling me to wear some more gold to lift my energy, or to switch to silver to give my spirit protection. Many cultures have long used precious metals for healing the mind, body and spirit.

Chances are, you also have a favorite piece of gold or silver jewelry that you just love wearing, for whatever reasons. 

On the financial side of things, gold has been called God’s money by financial experts, most notably by Robert Kiyosaki. And he’s absolutely right. It’s been used for centuries as a store of value in many parts of the world.

In India, where I’m from, gold and silver are traditionally given as part of a bride’s dowry as beautiful, ornate jewelry and coins. It’s an ancient practice and a form of financial security for the bride. 

And I vividly remember my mother and grandmother’s saying “sell your jewelry only if it’s absolutely necessary.” Why? Because a gold chain could be bartered or melted into a coin and used for transactions during hard times.

And it’s worth mentioning a very practical side to physically carrying some gold or silver bullion with you. Unquestionably, a couple of silver coins could come in very handy in an emergency situation.

So, allow me to illustrate what an emergency could look like.

Last year, during a cell outage in Canada, all ATMs and cellular service by a major network provider were down for about 24-48 hours across the country. 

People’s cellphones just didn’t work. 

And, things we normally are able to do with our phones couldn’t be done. 

For example, my kids couldn’t book an Uber or make payments with their Apple Wallet. Bank apps were inaccessible on phones. I was shocked to find that cash couldn’t ben withdrawn from ATMs. And some banks were suddenly closed.  Heck, you couldn’t send a text message or make a darn phone call! 

The bottom line: cash was king in the moment for anything you needed to buy. As my hubby and I were out for dinner, we overheard someone who had no means to pay for his meal asking the owner if he could pay in gold coins. And to our surprise, the owners enthusiastically said YES!

What would you do if you had no cash? Or no access to your bank accounts?

How you would pay your bills, mortgage, buy food or get to places if you had no means to transact with others?

What if there’s a way to be financially in control over your money, so you’re not at the mercy of your bank?

There are ways.

For example, more people are using cryptocurrencies to do exactly this. But they also share a similar problem like paper money – they’re not backed by anything real and tangible.

You could take all your money out of the bank and hide it under your mattress or in your garden. You’re not earning any interest on it in the bank, so why not LOL.

Or you could transact with others using real gold and silver bullion that you own, in your possession in the event of a grid-down scenario. And escape the financial matrix!

I’m offering my clients a powerful way to save and transact out of the financial matrix. It’s using a proven system that’s gaining a huge global following.

It involves using gold and silver: God’s money. 

It’s a way to seamlessly buy and sell gold and silver bullion in fractional amounts. And you can save it in a vault or at home, and transact with others in your network – easily, effortlessly, whenever you want! And an added bonus: you can also build your wealth by buying collectible coins and just watch your portfolio grow. Yes, all of these things can be done outside of the matrix.

But just to clarify: I’m not a financial expert. Always check with your financial advisor before committing to any investment, especially in these precarious times.

As a grounding coach, I help my clients see that mind-body-spirit health is dependent on your overall sense of security. As Abraham Maslow beautifully articulated, a person thrives when their basic life needs are met. These include food, water, clothing, shelter and safety – which includes knowing you’re financially safe and secure irrespective of world events.

Wouldn’t you agree that feeling financial secure is essential to feeling grounded each and every day? Yes, it most certainly is!

Ground yourself by getting some gold and silver: God’s money. They are time-tested durable symbols of wealth derived directly from Mother Earth. They sparkle, shine and exude a sense of abundance and self-confidence. Sweet!

And don’t think you can’t afford it. I love the ability to buy fractional amounts based on your budget and financial goals. 

So, yes, the world is about to get a whole lot crazier. And the time is now to ground and prepare wisely for the financial reset, in whatever ways make sense to you.

Finally, check out my new book, Get Financially Grounded with Gold and Silver to learn specific strategies to preserve assets, build wealth, escape the matrix and build financial freedom. It’s also available on Amazon and major book distributors worldwide. 

Contact me for a complimentary discover call. Together, let’s see how you can make gold and silver, God’s money a powerful part of your financial strategy. Use precious metals as an insurance policy. Use them to fight inflation, build wealth and discover financial freedom. 

 

Want to boost mental clarity? Drink some greens! And energize your body too :)

On a recent trip to Mexico, I discovered the amazing healing power of green juice. 

Not that I wasn’t already aware of how magical greens are to consume for finding my optimal mind-body health. 

But this time, I experienced them in a very satisfying way. Green juice helped me eliminate brain fog and heal some annoying skin issues I’ve had for years.

Every morning, I walked to the local market and got myself some fresh squeezed green juice. With my limited Spanish, I asked the elderly lady selling them what was in it. Celery, cucumber, parsley and oranges. That’s it. 

So, I drank this delicious, refreshing green juice every day for about 10 days. Amazingly, I saw significant health benefits that lasted well beyond my vacation. Not only did my daily dose of fresh greens boost my mental clarity almost immediately, it cooled my body. 

From an Ayurveda perspective, the greens removed excess pitta. This is the term in Ayurveda to describe too much heat in the body. And that in itself can be problematic. That is, excess pitta can typically show up as skin rashes, eczema and even acne.

Over these 10 days, I noticed how this particular blend of green juice wasn’t overly complicated. I’ve been juicing at home for a while now with a tendency to add more fresh produce to the blend, like spinach, kale, beets, green apples, coriander, lime, and avocado if I’m making a smoothie. 

Even though I’ve tried sticking to a juicing routine at home for a number of days, I never experienced the healing benefits of any green drink until I tried this version. I’ve even tried pure organic celery juice for a while but did not really feel any better.

“Less is more” is so true when it comes to juicing or making smoothies. 

Through my juicing stint, I realized I don’t need to throw a ton of green produce in to the mix. Of course, we tend to believe that more healthy things thrown into the juicer or blender are good for you. Without a doubt, greens have high nutritional value. But sometimes too many greens (or of anything) can be overkill on your body. 

If you haven’t noticed any real health benefits from juicing everything together under the sun, it might be a good idea to try just a handful of ingredients for at least a week. And then monitor how you feel.  

Even after as little as three days, you might get a good idea of which ingredients suit you, which don’t and what to adjust. Or you can try the celery, cucumber, parsley and oranges combo that worked wonders for me. Clearly, it seemed super popular with the locals and expats staying in my Mexican town. 

Yes, you too can boost mental clarity with these simple greens with a refreshing citrus kick. 

Let’s take a look at these simple four ingredients and their incredible mind-body health benefits:

Celery has phytonutrients which have antioxidant properties that fight off free radicals to prevent cell damage and many diseases. It has amazing anti-inflammatory properties for both the mind and body. And many experts also believe celery juice helps with weight loss. For example, Anthony William has written extensively about the mind-body benefits of celery juice. Take a look at his research findings here.

Cucumbers. In addition to their awesome anti-inflammatory properties and ability to regulate blood pressure, cucumbers have a flavonol called fisetin which studies have shown help keep the brain healthy and young. More specifically, cucumber water has specifically been shown to improve cognitive function for people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Parsley has super-rich source of antioxidants, specifically flavonoids like apigenin, lycopene, luteolin, alpha and beta carotene. Apigenin has been proven to help with neuron formation, learning and memory and with combatting depression. Some studies have even shown apigenin can help the cognitive function of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease patients. And, parsley has also been scientifically proven to reduce the toxic load of heavy metals like cadmium in the brain and body. Clearly, parsley is a super green that plays a critical role in boosting mental clarity. 

Oranges. In addition to being an excellent source of vitamin C, other nutrients such B6, folate, potassium and other antioxidants found in oranges have been found to halt cognitive decline particularly in people dealing with Alzheimer’s disease, plus they help promote improved blood flow to the brain to support improved cognition and concentration levels. Specifically, studies have shown the citrus flavanone hesperidin as having a notable positive effect on mental health. Vitamin B6 has also been shown help stave off depression too.

What else do all four of these super foods have in common? Well, they can keep you well-hydrated which benefits your skin and help with weight loss. You may feel lighted, less bloated and you could find your skin glowing! Scientifically, these super foods boost your immune system. And they help stave off cancer.

So, if you’re dealing with brain fog, depression or chronic fatigue, why not boost your mental clarity with greens?

Here are the proportions to juice, and opt for organic produce where possible:

1 bunch of parsley

1 bunch of celery, trimmed with the leaves removed

1 large cucumber

2-3 oranges

½ cup of filtered water (optional)

You’ll get about two servings and it keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days. Be sure to keep some of the pulp: just mix it in to get some fibre – your gut will thank you. And consume juice on an empty stomach for optimal benefits.

Greens are indeed complete mind-body medicine that also keep you grounded, calm and connected to nature.

As always, please consult with your doctor or healthcare practitioner before trying anything new. And, always be mindful of any contraindications to prescriptions you’re taking. Finally, always listen to your mind and body first before following the advice of any healthcare practitioner.

In summary, it’s easy to boost your immunity and mental health with simple greens.

Cheers to a clear mind and a healthier body!

Interested in getting dietary and lifestyle tips specific to your unique Ayurvedic dosha, or mind-body type? Book a complimentary 20 minute session with me to begin your healing journey.

7 ways to raise your vibe each morning

Ah, wouldn’t it be great to make each day phenomenal?

Every day can indeed be truly phenomenal. 

Sure, we all have days that are just not good ones. 

But we can make a conscious effort to have a great day each and every morning we rise from bed. It really is possible to start your day with good vibes. 

Above all, the secret is not letting curve balls derail us. So, how do we do this? It’s done by mindfully recognizing them for what they are and staying the course, in an energetic state of awareness and high vibration.

Unquestionably, there’s no denying we are living in dark times. 

We are surrounded by negative news 24/7. And it’s hard not to escape. 

On an individual level, we are faced with difficulties of all kinds. For example, job losses, illnesses, turbulent relationships, and mental health challenges can really weigh us down. 

So, we have a conscious choice to make. 

We can view difficulties as stress that bring down our health and quality of life. 

Or we can view them as challenges or opportunities. 

Without a doubt, it’s the proverbial “glass is half-empty” vs. “glass is half-full” saying. You can choose to see the glass half-full every day irrespective of what’s going on in the world and in your life.

Given the reality of life, how do you consciously raise your vibe each day? 

Basically, it starts with mindful attention to your morning routine and how you want your day to go: maybe you have specific things you need to accomplish or maybe you don’t and you want to just chill. 

All things considered, starting your day with good vibes means going with the flow. 

Generally speaking, this means recognizing that your day may not go as intended, such is life. 

So, the big question is: how will you cope if something unexpected comes your way? 

If you mindfully set yourself up to start your day with good vibes, chances are you will have a positive day. And if doesn’t go as intended, you’ll be able to process any hiccups from a place of mindful awareness without getting dragged down for too long.

To illustrate this, here are some simple, conscious ways you can start your day with good vibes:

  1. Meditate upon rising. Spend 5-10 minutes in silence with your eyes closed. Notice how you feel this morning. Pay attention to the sounds around you: the clock ticking, other family members getting ready. And notice your breath – is it shallow or relaxed? Maybe recite a mantra for the day such as “I am at peace” or “I am love”. Find a phrase that resonates with you.
  2. Write down three things you’re grateful for every morning. It could be as simple as the opportunity to open your eyes to another day, a warm bed, a roof over your head, a loving family or a great cup of coffee. And note anything else that comes to mind.
  3. Smile in the mirror when you brush your teeth. Tell the person looking back at you how much you love and appreciate them!
  4. Move your body. Take a short walk outdoors and let the morning sun energize you. If the weather is gloomy, a walk outdoors will give you fresh air to wake up the mind. Try some yoga, tai chi or qi gong. Go for a run or a bike ride. And moving your body doesn’t need to be complicated or take up a lot of time. Always go by how your body feels and choose activities that lift your mood and make you feel super-awesome.
  5. Eat an all-natural, hearty organic breakfast. Wouldn’t you agree it’s time to ditch processed, high-fat and sugary foods? According to this 2019 PubMed study, ultra-processed foods are associated with lower nutritional density and negative health outcomes. Sure, we know these foods are bad for you and ultimately they impact your vibe. So, why not make your breakfast from scratch using natural, wholesome ingredients? A good nutritious breakfast is the fuel that will propel you into a productive day. With a little prep work the night before, you’ll be adding one important ingredient to help you start your day with good vibes. 
  6. Give a hug. Yes, hugs feel awesome. It could be another family member or even your dog or cat. You can hug yourself – just wrap your arms tight around your body and squeeze hard til you smile! Hugs make us feel warm and fuzzy and awesome – they definitely raise our vibe. Why not wake up each morning and give some hugs?
  7. Check your cellphone AFTER you’ve worked your way through the first six items on this list. Social media and text messages can wait until you’ve spent time in the morning on yourself, nurturing your mind, body and spirit.

So there you go – try these easy ways to raise your vibe each and every day. 

Essentially, adding one hour to your morning routine to go through these activities is all you need to start your day with good vibes. 

Simply start with one activity for a few days or jump right in and do all of them on the list. 

Just watch and notice how you’re able to build resiliency and raise your vibe to handle any situation. And yes, you can have an incredibly awesome day, each and every day.

Looking for a little help with raising your vibe? Book a 20-minute discovery call with me to see how coaching sessions can help you shift into the right mindset that works for You