Author: krista-lynn-landolfi

Beauty Can’t Buy You Love

June 1, 2006

The only way to feel truly beautiful is to look within before looking in the mirror.

“She is beautiful…” The boy I love just told me that he loves another; his reason is that she is something I am not-beautiful. I’m smart and witty, silly and fun, but I am not particularly beautiful. Melissa was a beauty; long curls flowing past her shoulders, big blue eyes with fluttering lashes. I looked plain; a “bowl-cut” on my head that was somehow always crooked, freckles plastering my face, and orthopedic shoes to cap off the look. It was the 70’s and I was just a child, but I was in love and he did not want me. Can you imagine my pain? 1st grade was a big year for me. I learned some of the toughest lessons of my life, the first being that physical beauty matters and I did not have it.

I was beautiful on the inside. I am a bright light and this was always evident. I knew that my soul was beautiful; my mistake was in thinking this was enough. By 5th grade I had accepted that I would never win any beauty contests and made peace with my place in life. Boys loved me, just not in the way they did the beautiful girls. They loved me for me-definitely not for my looks. The boys would spend hours with me, laughing and playing, but they never looked at me the way they did the pretty girls. I understood early on that I’d need to rely on my wits if I were to be appealing to the opposite sex.

Luckily, what I lacked in looks, I made up for in personality. My humor and zest for life drew people to me and eventually, in my teens, the boys came calling too. Since I’d resigned myself to being “the ugly girl” I was shocked. I found myself in no way desirable to a boy and this sudden turn of the tides confused me. This was to be the start of a long and bumpy journey.

Freckles faded, the nineties brought with it better hairstyles and the eyes that were somehow daunting as a child suddenly fit my face. I grew into myself, transforming from an ugly duckling to swan. Peoples perceptions of me changed, but my own did not. To me I was flawed, imperfect and even ghastly at times. I knew my insides were beautiful, but on the outside I felt gross. The more I worried about my appearance, the less like me I felt. I hated myself with venom-at least on the outside.

My inability to honestly access myself and find the positives was clinical; I was diagnosed with a severe case of “Dysmorphic Disorder”. I was obsessed with my flaws-both real and imagined. No one could convince me I was attractive or worthy. I got paid to model, but this only made me feel worse. With my “flower in full bloom” I focused on my thorns. No matter how good my own was I only saw that others had something better; better hair, skin, eyes, teeth, legs, lips, and so on. When the focus was on my outward appearance I was never enough.

Though I loathed my body I loved the fact that men desired it. While I had no connection to my body, I began using it to get what I want. I wanted love. I got sex. In my mind this was close enough to the real thing so I settled. My standards were so low that I settled for crumbs. If any love existed it was only for parts of me, never the whole.

My twenties were filled with the adoration of men, yet few saw through my façade, nor knew the real me. I became the sum total of my parts; I was now a pretty face and a hot bod. I got lots of attention then, but very little love. The more I searched for myself in a man the greater was my loss. My self loathing combined with pathetically low self esteem made me like a puppy; I begged for love. I was happy for any attention back then.

Today at thirty-five I am single by choice and having the greatest love affair of my life. A few years back I decided to fall in love with me. “You must love yourself first before another can love you” I now understand what it means. Today it does not matter what I look like, or what any guy thinks about it, because I know I am so much more than a body and its parts. Once again I am living from my soul. I shine from within and this makes me beautiful. I can laugh and dance and play. Freedom is beautiful.

Papierdoll staff writer Krista-Lynn Landolfi is a Professional Life Coach and Spiritual Counselor. She teaches seminars nationwide and is available for private consultation; inquire for details; Krista-Lynn@Krista-Lynn.com

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GET SPRUNG! 7 Ways to Feel More Alive

May 1, 2006

Can a person really feel anymore alive than they do right now? Absolutely; and I am sure you already knew the answer to that question. If you’re “normal”, you have been up, down, and everywhere in between. We understand the “up’s and downs” of life, and have come to expect them. Down phases often bring us to a halt. Up phases wake us up. Surviving the moments in-between, is where most people exist, most of the time. Life takes over and time seems to constrict us. Everyone uses the excuse that they would really start living, if they only had more time; while the time for living is right now. Carpe Diem; seizing the moment is the surest way to feel alive. There is not just one way to feel more alive; there are billions. When our eyes are open, we see there are endless reasons to celebrate each day. We start to feel a bit dead inside when we forget. The key to feeling alive is to live. Deep down we know what we really want and need. We all have a vision of our best life; actually having the courage to live it is another thing.

A wise young sage once told me, “If you want to love God, love what he gave you.” He said that I should focus on loving myself and my life; that this was the greatest gift any of us can give. When we love our lives, we are giving thanks for the gift it is. Hating ourselves is the equivalent of “spitting in the face of God”; or at the very least, your parents. Our lives are meant to be lived out loud; we are multi-faceted beings, with diverse talents, gifts, interests and needs. When we are living life from behind layers of fear, it becomes dull, and often, monotonous. Feelings of shame, regret, anger and even the “what ifs”, leave you in the dark; cutting you off from the fullness of your being.An enlivened state comes from a deeper awareness of life; you will need to be present, open, and available, to achieve such heights.

We’ve all experienced ‘defining moments’ in our lives; they are amplified and somehow stand out from others. Whether it was the birth of a child or landing a great deal, I’m sure you can recall a few “high-definition” moments from your own life. “H.D” moments are more colorful and vivid, feelings are intensified and you’re totally present and aware. Making a great play in a game or at work can create such a moment, but most times they are more subtle and sudden. Our ability to remain open, and engaged in an experience, is what creates the ‘Technicolor’ difference. “What experiences stand out for you?” “Do you see a pattern?”

If you are going through life in a fog, you are not totally alive. Shutting down your feelings, or denying issues in your life, shuts you down to a multitude of experiences. A flower does not resist its birth, and neither should we. Feeling more “alive” is a choice; you can take conscious actions to awaken your senses. Love’s the most powerful force; it brings us back to life, time and again. Purpose finding moments are much the same; suddenly things make sense, and you know exactly what to do. When we “take off the blinders”, the truth is revealed. Life bubbles with possibilities and we are once again, reborn. Are you ready to live more fully? The following suggestions will start the process, and inspire you to create your own ways, to “resuscitate” your life.

1.Stop Living in the Past: The surest way to kill the moment is to live in the past, or get lost in the future. We must learn to live our lives in the now, or be always one step away from ourselves. Finding our rhythm and balance is a process that can only be found by living in the moment. If you stop running, and take a few deep breaths, you will know exactly what you need, in any given moment. Take time to check in with yourself throughout the day; ask yourself the important questions. “How am I feeling right now?” “What do I need right now?” Ask your body what type of food it needs to be healthy and strong; a response or “knowingness” will guide you. Your soul will reveal what it needs to thrive as well; our greatest passions and joys are the food of the soul. If you find yourself feeling “off centered”, caught somewhere between yesterday and tomorrow, spending a few minutes breathing deeply in quiet reflection, can instantly restart your day. Wiggle and stretch about, until your mind and body calm, then relax into the moment.

2.Connect with Your Mama: We live on a planet that was created to sustain us. Vegetables and fruits spring forth to nourish us; helping us grow strong, and remain healthy. The earth supports us, while trees provide shelter, and create the air we depend on. What was once a forest is now one of our greatest resources; cotton, paper, wood; where would we be without the trees? Dead, that’s where. Realize how lucky you are; give thanks for all that you have, and you will feel more alive. Spending time in nature will reconnect you with your source, and awaken your senses. Our “Mama” loves us. Whenever you feel out of sorts or alone, connecting with nature will help you find your center.

3.Talk to Your Father: There comes a time to stop thinking and start seeking. Our sense of value and worth never comes from an outside force; press, property and prestige will only get you so far. Happiness is something that comes from within; inner peace is only obtained if one works for it. When we connect with God (Replace with Higher Self, Source or Infinite Intelligence if you wish) we feel more centered and fulfilled. Answers come easily; one must only get quiet enough to listen. When we learn to listen to our hearts-which is where God lives-the ever guiding voice within, will always lead us down the best path. Spiritual awareness will ‘bring you to life’.

4.Stop and Smell the Flowers: While it sounds like a cliché, this is sage advice. The sight of flowers brings joy, their colors and fragrances uplift us, creating more endorphins-the “happy chemicals” in our brain. Sending a bouquet is just about guaranteed to make anyone smile. Flowers are nature’s candy. Spend some time in nature exploring the flowers in your area; they attract butterflies, hummingbirds and other “magical beings” that are a wonder to behold. If you want to feel more alive, reclaim your sense of wonder and awe. Learn to slow down and appreciate your surroundings and all the pleasures of “Gods green earth”.

5.Get Creative: To create is to surrender. Creating is an intuitive act; though you may start out with a game plan, your creation will eventually take on a mind of its own; guiding, and moving you forward. Whether it be painting, crafting, writing or dancing; you must engage your senses, and surrender to the process. Going into a creative state will awaken greater possibilities in your life; you will learn to hear the guidance of your heart more clearly. Polls have shown that people receive their best ideas when in the shower, or driving; your mind quiets when you are in engaged in a task, thus allowing answers to appear.

6.Touch Yourself: I believe “purgatory” is feeling nothing; it is equivalent to existing in a void, or being a robot. While joy is the most sought after commodity, grief, melancholy and anger, serve their purpose as well. If you want to feel more alive, you must be willing to feel. Though pain hurts, it is only the flip side of our joy. “To the depths that we travel; so too will we rise” If a feeling is threatening to take you over, you can guide your emotions to another; by recalling things that make you feel happy or safe for instance. You can not think two thoughts at one time, so by directing your thoughts, you can always choose a better feeling. Our feelings are great indicators and guides; our bodies translate feelings differently, relaying messages of pleasure or repulsion. Passion makes the temperature rise and heart beat faster; fear makes us feel co
ld, or like we can’t breathe. What is your body telling you?

7.Speak Up! Speaking our minds can often be a challenging concept and terrifying reality; fear of public speaking is a common phobia. It may be frightening, but it sure is gratifying. Commit to Truth, in word, deed and action and you will surely feel more alive. We were born to express the insights, talents, and gifts that are unique to us; there is no other you in all of time. Integrity is about living true to who you are and what you want-learn to speak up. What truths about yourself are you currently hiding? Once your feeling sensors are open, you will be able to gauge where you stand in any situation, which enables you to make better choices, and follow your bliss.

Papierdoll staff writer Krista-Lynn Landolfi is a Professional Life Coach and Spiritual Counselor. She teaches seminars nationwide and is available for private consultation; inquire for details; Krista-Lynn@Krista-Lynn.com

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Dark Days? Just add color

April 2, 2006

It has been proven that when we look good, we often feel better; it is a lot easier to believe you are fabulous, when you look fabulous. If you want to start exploring new options for your life, why not start with your wardrobe? Experimenting with color and style is a safe way to try on a new you and gain new perspective for your life. Adding colorful accessories like a purse, necklace or pair of shoes, can change your look AND your outlook on life. With every visible change you make to your wardrobe, see yourself able to make changes in your life just as easily. Imagine that you can adorn yourself with qualities like, optimism, confidence and enthusiasm, while discarding all doubts and fears, like an old coat that no longer fits. Unlike our clothing, our lives must be custom designed, if they are to fit well. Once you have refocused your mind on the positive you will feel empowered to make other improvements and changes in your life.

Adding color to your wardrobe can be an instant mood lifter-shifting both your perspective and how others view you. Red renews passion and says “I am sexy and alive” Yellow boosts confidence and says, “I am powerful and compassionate.” Orange, will restore your vitality while expressing, “I am creative and courageous.” Prisons and hospitals are painted light blue because the color has a calming affect and induces a state of peace. Every color in the spectrum emits an energy that affects us; the real reason women are so drawn to shades of pink, is that this color reflects our natural state of unconditional love. The next time a dark mood threatens to take over your day, lighten up with some color.

Red lifts the spirits by stimulating passion and enthusiasm; it is a powerful color that is best used as an accent. When you wish to make a bold statement, red will help you to captivate your audience and claim attention.
Orange increases vitality while expressing uniqueness and creativity. When you wish to express your individuality, orange is a dynamic choice.
Yellow has a centering affect; it reconnects us with our personal power and sense of self worth. Infuse your wardrobe with a bit of yellow when you need to make an important speech; it portrays confidence and encourages trust.
Green has an incredibly energizing affect on the body, this color will help you to relax and feel comfortable in any situation. Green is the color of life and love. Next time you are outdoors amidst the grass and trees, stop to enjoy the view, while taking three deep, slow breaths-you will feel instantly refreshed.
Blue emits a peaceful, yet strong vibration and aids us in clear communication. Just as the sky and sea are in constant movement, the energy of blue shades will help us move forward into the flow of life; wear during phases of expansion and growth.
Violet is the color of royalty and offers protection from lower level energies; it is often called the color of mystics. Add purple to your wardrobe when you wish to connect with your spiritual side.
White connects us with the Divine; it reflects a positive nature and exudes a sense of purity and innocence. Wearing white is great when you are making a fresh start; it reflects the energy of a clean slate and opens one to the realm of possibilities.
Pink is great when you want to feel like a girl again; this ultra-feminine color exudes a calming sense of unconditional love. Pink is uplifting and energizing; if you find red to be too intense, pink is a great alternative. Red stimulates physical attraction, while pink stimulates a love match.

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Its Never too Late to Reclaim Your Passion for Fashion

February 1, 2006

There was a time when looking my best was very important to me. As an actress in Hollywood, it was a part of the job. I was expected to look good, so I did. As a teenager, I went through entire semesters of school never wearing the same outfit twice. I did not follow the trends, I set them. Before life got serious and I grew up, I had fun with clothing and fashion. I became a master at the use of accessories, and color became yet another extension of my self-expression. Every outfit I wore was like a costume, fit for the role I was to play that day. My choice of clothing now, says little more than that I have become lazy. Much of my time now is spent behind closed doors, writing. No one cares, nor sees, what I look like, so I do not care. When the pressure to look good was gone, my desire to look good left with it.

Today my wardrobe consisted of mismatched socks, a hat to hide the faded highlights and a sweater three sizes too big, but thick enough to keep me warm. The only time I dress up now is for a photo op. If there will be no proof, I will be in sweats. As you can see, these are desperate times, so desperate measures are called for. I will be covering fashion week this year, so once again it is a part of the job for me to look my best and I feel liberated. Whatever your inspiration, it is never too late to reignite your passion for fashion. If you too have let yourself go, I implore you to reclaim the glamour and revamp your look, before all you can do is look back and remember the good old days. Ask yourself what you would wear if you thought that it mattered. And trust me, it matters.

If you once salivated for a great pair of heels,and arrived early to be first in line at a sample sale but now look shockingly like your mother, or worse, grandmother, this intervention is for you. It is time to surrender the sweats, and remember just how fun dressing up can be! Dive into your closets, spend an evening perusing the fashion magazines and let yourself imagine the woman you would like to become. Somewhere in our minds we all have a vision of our best self, the life we would live if we thought anything was possible, and of the clothing we would wear, if we thought we could pull it off.

No matter your size, style or budget, you can make the choice to express your inner beauty, outwardly. Let the world get a glimpse of who you are, through the clothing that you wear. We all “wear many hats” in the course of a day – daughter, wife, mother, worker, student – the list goes on. It’s important you put yourself at the top. Give yourself a reason to dress up. Make reservations at the best restaurant in town, get tickets to a play or be adventurous and throw a party. Show off your hard won curves with a sexy new style and indulge your senses with silk and cashmere; our lives were meant to be celebrated and a great place to start is with fashion. Trust that you are beautiful and dress yourself from the inside out.

A wonderful example of this is a teacher I have studied with. Years ago, when she was just starting out and still trying to make her mark with in her field, she appeared very stiff in a button up suit and fancy dress shirt, with a serious and astute demeanor. If you were to meet this spiritual pioneer today, you would find yourself in the presence of a mystical goddess, complete with bright, flowing fabrics and sparkly jewels. She is a woman at once comfortable with herself and with expressing it. Gone is the tight smile and the ill fitting suits, gone is the suppressed woman who is trying to look the way she thinks she should look, in order to live up to her job. Today my mentor shines from within and it is reflected in every item of clothing she chooses. This dynamic teacher has written numerous best-sellers and now travels the world, in style.

I admire her, not so much for her fashions, but for her ability to live truly to herself. She wears what she enjoys and she enjoys what she wears. Her style speaks volumes about who she is. You can immediately sense that this is a wise and powerful woman, her clothing simply accentuates this truth. Our confidence, or lack thereof, shines through. So it is important to feel good in what you are wearing. While our beauty really does come from with in, it can be enhanced or decreased, based on how we choose to dress. The way we look determines instantly what people will think of us. All day long, with everyone that we meet, we size them up and write their life story, all based on their appearance. People say “don’t judge a book by its cover,” but the truth is, great covers sell more books.

People will make an assumption about you, based upon the clothes you are wearing. I want to be seen for who I am. This funny looking bag lady thing I have got going on, this is not me. I am hot. I have style, passion and even a bit of pizzazz. I once had a line in a commercial, where I had to describe the perfect man. I declare he has a certain je nai se quai, that little something special you can’t quite put your finger on. You can only have it if you are totally being you. The something special is a fullness of being. One who is so content with themselves that they have chosen to have fun, not just with their wardrobe, but with everything that they do. That’s the person I aspire to be.

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New Year, New You?

January 2, 2006

Another year has come and gone and many of us wonder if we are any the wiser for it. As you read this, you can probably recall years past, and the resolutions you made that did not last through the month; 37% of people will have abandoned their resolutions within eight weeks. On average, 100 million Americans make New Year’s resolutions each year and at least 90% of people will fail before the year is out. Why? Because they did not have clearly defined goals or a committed plan of action. In fact, 70% of people don’t have any goals in life whatsoever. Twenty five percent of people say they have goals, but don’t physically write them down or record them and only 5% of people have clearly stated and recorded their goals. According to Harvard Business School, the 5% that record their goals achieve more personally and professionally than the rest of the 95% combined, and are dramatically more likely to be financially successful. No matter how many diets you have quit, or self-help programs you have failed to start, one year from today you can be in a much better place, if you choose to be. The key to making successful resolutions is to set specific goals and commit to taking daily action steps until you achieve your desired results.

There Are Only 3 Reasons Why We Don’t Achieve New Year Resolutions:

1. CLARITY - We don’t set specific New Year’s resolutions

2. STRATEGIES - We have specific written goals, but we haven’t recorded the strategies to achieve these goals

3. IMPLEMENTATION - We don’t have an easy system for implementing our New Year’s resolutions and on-going monitoring

Making a resolution is easy. Keeping it takes work!

Resolutions are a process, not a one-time effort. In order to achieve your desired results, you will need to create new habits and, once this is successfully accomplished, follow up on such behaviors over the years. Our success or failure is determined one day at a time with every choice we make; our current habits are the greatest indicator of future results. One second is all it takes to choose a new thought, a new thought leads to a new attitude, which, when programmed for success, can lead you to the fulfillment of your goals and dreams. No matter who you are, there is probably room for improvement in your life.

You can redirect your life at any time, not just for the New Year; resolve to choose something better or different for yourself and commit to following the steps needed to achieve these goals. Remember that you alone can make the choice. I hope this is the year you do!

This year, set resolutions you will keep! The following seven steps to success will help you to set realistic goals, while empowering you to achieve them.

1) Mental Reprogramming- Our minds and the thoughts we choose are the central guiding force in our lives, drawing to us the experience that matches our thought patterns. Often it is only our own self-defeating thoughts that stand in the way of our goals. People are afraid of failing, looking stupid or of not being enough, so they will convince themselves they can not, before even giving something a try. Take a moment to explore your own thoughts and see if you are programming yourself for success, or for failure?

2) Positive Projections-Think it. See it. Feel it. Be it. Let your imagination run wild
and reveal to you what your life can be. See yourself succeeding. You are strong, confident and courageous. You can do anything! Trust that you are able and then choose to be willing.

3) What’s the Price? What’s the Payoff? Everything in life has a cost; in order to say yes to one thing, we must say no to another. Our time is the greatest commodity we have and how we choose to spend it often increases or decreases our level of enjoyment and success in life. Are you spending your time well? Every choice you make is an investment; if you sow seeds of success (commitment, persistence, organization, etc …) you are sure to reap the rewards.

4) Is it a wish or a goal? Until you set a time frame for completion, your desired outcome is merely a wish and not a goal. A goal is something that can be measured. When you commit to a goal, set specific time lines and guide posts, so that you can track your progress. It is also important to review your goals at least twice yearly. Time passes and people change. Are your current goals in alignment with the current you, or are you trying to fit in to someone else’s life?

5) Commitment, Commitment, Commitment: Until you alone make the choice to commit to your resolutions and goals, they will be merely wishes. The most common resolutions people make regard their health; 60% of Americans die from health related issues caused by their own behaviors, such as overeating, smoking and poor exercise.
Make the commitment; in order to say YES to my best life, I will have to say NO to…?

6) Make a map to your destination: If you know where you are going, you will find a way to get there. Same as you would chart the direction to a destination you were driving, so too must you clarify where you are heading in life. Every journey begins with one step…

7) Daily Action Steps: To strengthen your conviction and align with your goals, it is important to take action daily. As mentioned, a goal is measurable. Let’s say you want to write a book, in just twenty minutes a day, you could complete this task with in the year. An equal amount of time spent exercising daily, could help you drop a couple dress of sizes, while adding 10+ years to your life.

If you are still unsure about what type of changes you are willing to make, or possibly need, honestly answering the following questions will help you gain clarity.

If absolutely nothing changes in my life/current situation, will I be where I want in 1, 5, 10, year(s)? Do I even know where I want to be?
What are my values and am I honoring them?
What gets me most excited? When am I most alive?
What choices can I make to bring my life more meaning, joy and fulfillment?
What do I really want and need? Ask yourself this question over and over, until you get to the truth. Often our first inclination is to give a programmed response or the answer we think people want to hear. What is most exciting is that our purpose is custom designed to fit exactly who we are, not necessarily who we think we should be.

Get online support and find resources to help you complete your goals:

http://www.hiaspire.com/newyear/

http://www.goalsunlimited.com/sites/NewYear/index.php

http://home.att.net/~CoachingTip/self_learning/

http://www.oprah.com

http://www.washington.edu/newsroom/news/1997archive/12-97archive/k122397.html

Make the commitment to yourself with a resolution contract:

http://www.goalsguy.com/Events/n_contract.html

What are the Top 10 New Year Resolutions?

http://pittsburgh.about.com/cs/holidays/tp/resolutions.htm

PS: My own New Year resolution is quitting smoking, a dirty habit I never should have picked up again. I am replacing this with frequent walks and additional exercise and my reward will be a trip to the dermatologist, to rejuvenate my skin. I intend to be smoke free by the time this goes to print, on 01/01/2006; my plan is to use nicotine replacement therapy for a minimal time, join an online support group to hold me accountable and encourage my progress and to use empowering mantras to help me em
brace my new status as a non-smoker. Keep me in your prayers…

krista-lynn-landolfi

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Beating the Holiday Blues with Style

December 1, 2005

Holidays got you down? You are not alone. For most, the holiday season is a time of joyful celebration with friends and family, but for many, it is a time of loneliness, that can lead to the holiday blues and even depression. The shortened days of winter offer less light and encourage us to hibernate; staying in bed longer, eating more food and conserving energy are all symptoms. Combine this with the perceived pressures of the holidays, with stress on both time and wallet, and it is easy to get into a funk. The blues can be worked through, while a depression is more serious and requires professional help; an online self diagnosis test can reveal where you stand. Holiday Blues often result from the pressure we place upon ourselves to make everything perfect; they are fueled by unrealistic expectations and over-commercialization. In wanting the picture perfect holiday, we often miss the joy of what is. The following are some helpful tips to staying centered in joy this holiday season and will help you to avoid the pitfalls of the post-holiday let down:

You’ve got to give to receive: Get involved helping others; not only will you contribute to the betterment of humankind, you’ll have the opportunity to meet people of similar interests and possibly make some new friends.
Make a list and check it twice: A state of gratitude attracts more blessings into your life; each day list five reasons you have to be grateful. Still not happy? Make a wish list; if you believe your dreams are possible, they may come true.
Get direction: Where do you want to be in life? Who do you hope to become? Often we get down on ourselves because we feel confused about where we are going, or feel stuck in a rut; take time now to explore the possibilities for your life. Choose three priorities for the year and commit to following decisive steps towards the fulfillment of your goals.
No playing God: Don’t take on too many responsibilities or try to do all the holiday planning, cooking, shopping and decorating alone; turn chores into an opportunity for bonding time with family and friends by divvying up the load and sharing in the experience.
Just Breathe: When you are anxious or stressed – just breathe. When you are tired and in need of a boost just breathe. You can restart your day in one minute with simple breathing techniques: Place one hand on your lower abdomen and the other upon your chest; slowly take in a deep breath while expanding your stomach out, pull the air upwards, and into your lungs. Feel your lungs open and expand, feel this powerful life force spreading through your entire body-every organ and every cell. BREATHE. Inhale joy, strength, peace and vitality while releasing any blocks on the exhale.
Sun Rise, Sun Set: If you want to jump start your system and realign with your natural rhythm, start and finish each day by watching the sun rise and set. Seasonal Affective Disorder affects millions each winter, causing a decline in mood, or a depression, due to lack of sunlight. Just twenty minutes a day can increase melatonin and release other powerful chemicals, which will uplift and stabilize your mood.
Get help: If you have experienced a dramatic change in eating or sleeping patterns, lasting longer than four weeks, with a decline in your energy, interest and mood, you may be depressed. If you are unsure if you are at risk for, or currently in a depression, the following web sites offer a vast array of resources that will assist and guide you:

http://www.stoploneliness.com/depress_quiz.html
http://depression.about.com/od/diagnosis/
http://www.feelgoodtips.com/main_depression_treatments.htm

National Mental Health Association
2001 N. Beauregard Street, 12th Floor
Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone 703/684-7722
Fax 703/684-5968
Mental Health Resource Center 800/969-NMHA
TTY Line 800/433-5959

Everyday you wake there is cause for celebration

krista-lynn-landolfi

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Summer Essentials: Swim Wear 2005

June 15, 2005

Make this the summer you shine in the sun.

Designers have put the fun back in beach wear. This year there are no rules and plenty of styles to choose from. Some of the hottest looks for the season include the ever popular boy shorts, belted waists and patterns – there is one for every taste. Color is the big trend in all clothing right now and you are sure to find a suit that appeals to you; your mission is to find one that fits you. Make peace with your body; it is time to identify your body type and find the suit that is best for you.

Even if you don’t normally purchase swimwear online, I would suggest visiting the swim store at http://www.nordstrom.com. Nordstrom has a vast selection of swimwear from all the hottest designers and has organized their Web store with a ‘shop by figure focus’ feature. Make sure to check out the “flattering fit guide,” nothing is sexier than a woman who is comfortable in her own skin – and in her suit!

To help you find your body type, take a look at this sizing chart:

Before you make your purchase you need to evaluate what the suit is for; “Are you planning on swimming in it or simply lounging?” If you plan to spend any time in the water you need to make sure that you can move in your suit without half of you popping out. Next, you need to check your suit in various lighting; unless you want to put on a show at the beach-make sure your suit is not see through. To complete your beach babe look, don’t be afraid to add accessories like a funky cover up, some fun summer jewelry and a great hat – which will also protect your face from the sun.

Below are my top picks for 2005:

The “Miraclesuit” stands up to its name and is flattering on just about any body type; if you are thicker in the middle it will pull it in, if you are smaller on the top it will push it up – you can’t go wrong here.

Miraclesuit® Two-Tone Bathing Suit
$122.00

If your budget and body allows, Juicy Couture has a fabulous line of fun and flirty suits for summer. My favorite is their halter with skirted bottom; it gives the added coverage of the boy short, which is so hot this season, while offering a touch of femininity.

Juicy Couture Beach Halter with Skirted Bottom
$229.00

Venus USA (http://www.venusswimwear.com) has an amazing array of suits for all sizes; many of which can be mixed and matched. Their prices are as great as the styles they offer and you’ll find many accessories to add to your look.

If you plan to storm the shores looking like a sexy goddess, remember: when it comes to swim wear – less is less – a body hugging suit with cut outs will make a far grander statement than a few stings and band aids. Check out http://www.bestswimwear.com, they carry over two dozen designers from all price ranges and feature many of the sexiest styles for the season.