Breathe Love & Magic

What’s the difference is between your soul vs. higher self? Are they the same? Is one your boss and the other whispering conflicting advice at 2am? Stick with me, because we’re going to break it all down in a way that’s simple, practical. This is a discussion about two powerhouse aspects of yourself. The Big Picture—Who’s Who? I’m going to talk about how these two powerhouse aspects of you can help you manuever through this crazy life on earth so you can learn the lessons you’ve chosen and have the experiences you desire. Let’s start with an image. You’re on a road trip. You, behind the wheel, snacks in hand, music blasting—that’s your human self. Trying to make good choices, occasionally getting lost, sometimes stopping at a weird gas station that smells like burnt coffee and regret. Your soul? That’s the car. It’s been through lifetimes, carrying your essence from one trip to the next. It remembers every twist, turn, triumph, and trauma. It holds your deepest desires, your wounds, your wisdom. It’s the part of you that grows. Your higher self? That’s your internal GPS. Always connected to the satellite or Source. It sees the whole map, even when you can’t. It’s not here to scold you for wrong turns. It lovingly reroutes you, again and again, toward your highest path. Whether or not you listen is up to you. The Soul’s Job: Experience, Growth, and Emotion Your soul is on a long-term journey through time. It’s collecting experiences, evolving lifetime after lifetime like a cosmic PhD program. Some souls are young, learning the basics. Others are seasoned and wise, walking around with an inner depth you can’t quite explain. Ever notice patterns in your life? Same struggles, same relationships, same type of job drama—just with different haircuts and names? Yep. That’s karma. Think of karma as unfinished business. Lessons you didn’t fully master last time come knocking again. Not to punish you, but to give you another shot at choosing differently. Try this Exercise: Jot down patterns that keep showing up in your life. What’s the common thread? What might your soul be trying to work out through these experiences? Soul Contracts & Retrieval And then there are soul contracts. The pre-birth agreements you make to bump into certain people, face specific challenges, or dive into deep, life-changing love. I recently covered the idea of soul contracts in an episode which  you’ll find in the show notes. Ever meet someone and feel like you’ve known them forever? Could be someone from your soul group, showing up again to play a different role in your growth. Sometimes your soul even splinters a bit. Trauma can cause soul fragmentation, making you feel like something’s missing. Ever say, “I just don’t feel like myself”? That could be a soul piece gone off on it’s own. The good news is you can call it back. This is the kind of thing addressed by shamanic healing in a soul retrieval session. The practitioner goes looking for those lost bits and brings them back to you. There are other types of energy healing, as well as meditations, and even journaling which can help you reconnect and reclaim your parts to achieve wholeness. One book I loved about the soul and life between life is Journey of Souls by Michael Newton. The Higher Self: Your Cosmic North Star Your higher self is an entirely different level of who you are. It’s not about your past lives because using the theory of time, it’s all happening at the same time. And this is not about your emotional baggage. The higher self is far above the petty details of every day life. Your higher self sees the truth and your greatest potential. The timeline that leads you to the most growth, joy, and alignment—even if it’s not the easiest one. This is where your soul is the student and your higher self is the teacher. Wise. Unshakable. Connected directly to Source. Your higher self holds the blueprint for this lifetime including your purpose, your lessons, your gifts, and quietly drops breadcrumbs to help you stay on track. Try this Exercise: Take 5 quiet minutes to ask yourself: What would my higher self say about this situation? Then relax, breathe deeply and listen. Write down whatever comes. Don’t filter it or edit or doubt it. Just let it flow. The more you do this, the clearer this voice becomes. How to Tell Who’s Talking Here’s where things get exciting and juicy. When you’re facing a big decision, how do you know whether it’s your soul or your higher-self weighing in and giving advice? The soul’s voice feels emotional. It’s rooted in your personal story, your longings, your wounds. It might say, “I’ve been here before. This hurts. Be careful.” The higher self’s voice is calm, clear and direct. It doesn’t waver or explain. It might say, “You know what to do. Trust it.” That’s the difference between your soul vs. higher self. Try this Exercise: Think of something you’re struggling with right now. Take a moment to ask yourself, “What does my soul say about this?” Write that down.  Then ask, “What does my higher self say about this situation?  Write that down too. Next, compare the answers. The shift in tone alone might surprise you. The information, point of view and advice is likely to be different. The Soul’s Playground – Emotion, Creativity, Healing If your soul had a love language, it would be emotion. That’s where it does its deepest learning. Healing emotional wounds through therapy, shadow work, or inner child healing is soul work. Every time you face a fear, rewrite a story, or feel something fully—that’s your soul leveling up. When you use your creativity? That’s total soul expression. Have you even cried while writing a poem? Lost yourself while painting? That’s you connecting with your soul. Feel something sacred move through you when you dance? Your soul is stretching or releasing blocked energy through movement. Try this Exercise: Do one creative thing today—without judgment. Just for you. See what stirs. See what you create. Higher Self’s Playground: Intuition, Synchronicity, Stillness Your higher self speaks through subtle signs. Butterflies in your gut. That song lyric that answers your question. That dream you can’t stop wondering what it means. To hear the higher self, you’ve got to quiet the static and mind clutter. This is what meditation is for. But you can also walk in nature or journal. These activities help you tune into the higher frequency. Here’s the amazing part. Your higher self often guides you to find what brings you joy. Yes, fun is sacred. Pleasure can be part of the experience and guidance. Another way to know the difference between your soul vs. higher self. How Does This Help in Real Life? Let’s say you’re stuck in a relationship pattern. Again. Your soul might say: You’re repeating an old lesson. Let’s figure out what the wound is here. Your higher self might say: This dynamic doesn’t align with your highest path. Time to reconsider and decide if this relationship is for  your highest good. Both have value. One offers healing. The other offers direction. You get to work with both aspects. Practices to Connect To work with your soul: Journal about emotional patterns and past experiences Do shadow work Dive into creative expression Explore past-life themes if you’re open to that To connect with your higher self: Meditate Ask questions and free-write answers Practice surrender. Trust divine timing Follow what excites and expands you Try one today. See how it shifts your energy. Soul Vs. Higher Self – You Are the Bridge Here’s the big takeaway between the soul vs. higher self. Your soul is the evolving storyteller of your existence. On the other hand, your higher self is the steady lighthouse guiding you home. And you, in this beautiful, messy, miraculous human form, are the bridge between them. You get to tap into both. You get to feel and know. You get to heal and lead. Tonight, before bed, try this: Ask yourself, “What did my soul experience today? What did my higher self want me to see?” Let the answers rise and come into your awareness. You might be surprised by the wisdom already within you. You’ve got the car and the GPS. The journey is all yours! The post Soul Vs. Higher Self—Who’s In Charge? appeared first on Intuitive Edge.

Ready to manifest big things or small? These seven manifesting hacks are all you need to attract what you want and live the life you dream of. Manifesting isn’t just vision boards and crystals. It’s about aligning your energy with what you want and allowing the Universe to meet you halfway or better yet, take the lead. If you’ve ever found yourself obsessing over something you deeply desire, spinning in circles, checking all the boxes, trying to “do it right,” you’re not alone. It’s human nature to want control. But manifestation happens when you learn how to partner with something bigger, something unseen. My Manifesting Success Over the years I  have manifested many things. The biggest was finding the right man to marry. It was a lot of work but I lucked out big time with my husband. Methods I’ve used have been all over the place. With dating, I wrote my affirmations into songs or chants and sang them non-stop, mostly because they made me happy. Plus, this worked for me! So, I thought it was time to talk about manifesting again and to offer seven methods that are simple to use. Align Your Energy I have curated seven manifesting hacks. These techniques aren’t about trying harder but shifting your mindset, activating your imagination, and tuning in to the emotions that attract what you want like a magnet. The methods are rooted in spiritual principles and personal experiences. Some are inspired by brilliant metaphysical minds like Neville Goddard. Others come from modern teachers and practical spiritual wisdom passed down over the years. Before you dive in, here’s the Golden Rule – Be clear and specific about what you want. Don’t worry about how it will arrive, but what you want to receive,  experience, and FEEL. That feeling is your frequency. How to ask the Universe for a gift. As Neale Donald Walsch, the author of the Conversations with God book series says, “Emotion is energy in motion.” That’s what pulls the dream into reality. 7 Juicy Manifesting Hacks 1. The Water Glass Method This is a simple ritual, and it’s surprisingly powerful. You’ll need two glasses and some water. First, take one glass and label it with your current situation. Maybe it says something like “I’m stuck in a job I hate” or “I feel lonely.” Then take the second glass and label it with what you want instead. This might be “I love my fulfilling, flexible job” or “I’m surrounded by warm, loving friendships.” Now, slowly pour the water from the first glass into the second and focus on the emotional shift. Imagine the change already happening. Feel the new energy and infuse that into the water. Then, drink the water from the second glass. This symbolic act allows you to internalize the energy of your new reality. You can repeat this daily or as often as you feel inspired to. It works because it combines intention, imagination, emotion, and action which are the four pillars of manifestation. 2. Letter from Your Future Self This method was popularized by Neville Goddard, a mystic and teacher known for his belief that imagination is the creative power of the universe. To do this, write yourself a letter from a future version of you, one year or more ahead, where everything you desire has already come to life. In this letter, describe what your life looks like now that your dreams have come true. What’s different? How do you feel? Be as specific as you can. Write about your career, relationships, finances, health, or creativity – whatever is most important to you. Reflect on what you’ve achieved and how your journey unfolded. This helps trick your subconscious into accepting this future as reality. Once the letter is finished, seal it in an envelope. Set a reminder to read it again in a few months, or even a year. Don’t obsess over it. Just let it go and discover what shifts. 3. The Congratulations Scene This one taps into social energy. You imagine your friends and loved ones congratulating you on your success. Picture a few key people in your life who would be genuinely happy for you. See them smiling, hugging you, raising a glass. Hear them say things like, “I’m so proud of you,” or “You did it, I knew you would.” Create a vivid mental scene where this is happening. Make it as real as possible. Imagine what you’re wearing, where you are, what’s being said. Smile as you imagine it. This is a fun and effective because it blends imagination with social proof. It makes the success feel public, witnessed, and celebrated. That kind of energy is magnetic. Manifesting not working? Try this! 4. The 3-6-9 Manifesting Method This manifesting hack was inspired by Nikola Tesla’s fascination with the numbers 3, 6, and 9. Then Karin Yee, a modern manifesting teacher and gratitude expert, combine the numbers with what she learned from manifesting expert Abraham-Hicks. It’s based on repetition, numerology, and focused affirmations. Here’s how it works: Step 1: Get very clear on your desire. Choose a specific intention or goal. This could be something like attracting a new opportunity, healing a relationship, or receiving a financial breakthrough. Step 2: Create an affirmation that reflects this desire as already true. Start with “I am” or “I’m so grateful that…” Examples might be: “I am so excited I bought the exact car I wanted” or “I’m thrilled to be living in my beautiful new home,” or “I feel so lucky that my ideal clients come to me with ease.” Step 3 Write this affirmation three times in the morning, six times in the afternoon, and nine times before bed. Repeat this every day for at least 21 days, or up to 45 days. You’re embedding the affirmation deep into your subconscious, and the repetition at those specific times helps align your energy throughout the day. Tesla felt these numbers were the keys to the Universe. You can do this in a dedicated notebook, or on slips of paper you collect in a jar. So many experts wear by this method. 5. Contract with the Universe This one’s for when you’ve done everything you can—and now it’s time to let go. Start by getting crystal clear about what you want to hand over to the Universe. What are you ready to stop trying to control? What outcome do you want to invite? Most importantly, how do you want to feel when it’s all resolved? Once you know, write a simple contract. You can do this on paper, in your journal, or even type it into a document. Here’s an example you can customize: “I, [Your Name], enter into a sacred contract with the Universe on this day, [Date]. Today, I hereby delegate the following situation to Universal Intelligence: [Briefly describe what you’re letting go of or asking support for.] I trust the process and the timing. Everything is unfolding for my highest good. My role is to stay aligned, open, and willing to take inspired action when guided. I will not micromanage or interfere. I release this with love and faith. Signed, [Your Signature]” You can also add a timeframe or deadline this way, “I invite clarity or resolution by [insert date], if it aligns with my highest good.” Next, seal the contract energetically. You might light a candle. Read the contract aloud. Place it on your altar, tuck it into a book, stick it in a file, or burn it as a release. Whatever feels right. Then let it go. That’s the hardest part, but also the most magical. Your job is to stop checking on it. Stop worrying. Just stay in the vibration of trust. More Hacks in the Podcast There are two additional Neville Goddard manifesting hacks in the podcast, but you’ll need to listen to find out what they are. Now, it’s your turn. Which one of these methods are you going to try first? Have fun and happy manifesting. The post 7 Juicy Manifesting Hacks Are All You Need! appeared first on Intuitive Edge.

This is an encore presentation of the podcast’s second most popular episode! If you’ve ever wondered about faerie magic and if it’s possible that faeries are real, listen to this week’s show. Can you get to know and communciate with them? Are they helfpul or scary? You are about to find out! In this other-worldly and magical episode, my guest and I talk about faerie sightings and portals, communicating with faeries, faerie lore from Ireland and the difference between US Fae and those living Ireland. You’re about to hear a bunch of Real Life stories and experiences that my guest Barbara Gallagher and I shared.  Barb has had some pretty amazing experiences with the faeries here in the USA. She was actually warned not to connect with faeries on her tip to Ireland. People said since there is a lot of let’s say bad blood between humans and the fae there. Lots of history where there was a war and the faeries, who lost and moved underground. In fact, another word for the faeries is Sidhe, which means mound. Isn’t that interesting? Eventhough we aren’t going to get into any actual faerie magic, these stories are quite magical. To see the original post you can visit this page. Barb told the story of how she opened a faerie portal in the woods and then saw it was still active a full year later. She also shared a healing experience where a fairie worked on her back that was completely fascinating. As an herablist, Barb makes flower essences and herbal tinctures and explained how she is often guided by the plant spirits themselves. She’s a natural at speaking with the spirit world and the Fae. Barb is also very encouraging that anyone can do this by holding a clear intention and having an open heart. I asked what she gets out of this relationship and Barb explained how it fills up her heart with love and graititude. I thought maybe there was an experience of oneness as well and she agreed. We talked about dryads – tree spirits, undines – water spirits, sylphs – air spirits and others. She’s even seem those sepia-colored spirits that artist and author Brian Froud depicts in his books. I shared how I had read so many books about the Findhorn Garden in Scotland, famous for growing 40 cabbages in the 1970s and more on the difficult Scottish coastline by working with the nature spirits, plant devas, and elementals. There are so many great books on the nature spirits. Tannis Halliwell has written many including My Summer with the Leprechauns -a favorite! Another classic is The Elves of Lilly Hill Farm by Penny Kelly. At the end, Barb talks about how to talk with the Fae and other nature spirits and we wrap up one amazingly magical episode. I hope it inspires you to connect, enjoy faerie magic, and have some of your very own stories to tell. The post Encore Presentation – Real Life Faerie Stories appeared first on Intuitive Edge.

Are you curious about how to connect with your ancestors spiritually for help, healing and more? In this episode, I explain easy ways to communicate with departed family and handle the ones who haven’t yet healed. Connect with Your Ancestors All over the world, people work with their ancestors to create a sacred connection. There are many reasons to reach out across the veil and speak to your kinfolk. It doesn’t have to be complicated, spooky, or overly ceremonial. This is not Hollywood, right? At it’s heart, ancestor work is a beautiful spiritual practice that honors where you come from and invites supportive ancestral energy into your life. In this post, you’ll discover why you might want to connect with your ancestors, how to begin, what to offer, and what to do when the ancestors who show up aren’t exactly wise, loving, or… helpful. (Yes, it happens.) I’m not going deep into ancestral healing in this episode. But it’s good to know when you heal yourself of anything passed down through your family, you often heal the family line as well, back to the root of the problem. Why Work With Ancestors? People come to ancestral work for all kinds of reasons. Curiosity. Grief. Nostalgia. A desire to connect more deeply with your roots. Working with your ancestors offers guidance, healing, and a profound sense of belonging. 5 Reasons to Build a Relationship with Your Ancestors Support and guidance: They’ve lived through hard times too. Their wisdom is embedded in your DNA. A sense of rootedness: Feeling disconnected from the world? Your lineage can ground you. Spiritual clarity: This practice helps you tune in to something deeper than daily noise. Reciprocity: Honoring those who came before you expands your spiritual life in surprising ways. Energetic healing: When trauma or patterns are inherited, ancestral work can help you clear them for yourself and future generations. You don’t need to have had a great relationship with your family—or even know their stories. This is about connecting with the wise, healed ancestors who may have experience with what is challenging you today. They can offer assistance. These are all wonderful reasons to learn how to connect with your ancetsors spiritually. How to Set Up an Ancestor Altar Creating an altar is a beautiful, simple way to invite connection. You’re making a space that says, “You are welcome here.” You’ll need: A small, clean surface A cloth to define the space Photos or names of ancestors A candle A glass of water (a spiritual conduit) Any personal or symbolic items that feel meaningful You don’t need to overthink it. Just let the space feel like a warm invitation. And remember to state clearly that you are calling on your “loving, whole, and healed ancestors.” This filters out the ones who aren’t quite there yet (more on that later). What Offerings to Make Offerings are a way to honor and build relationships. These gifts create energetic reciprocity. You’re giving thanks, showing respect, and strengthening the bond, making it easier to connect with your ancestors spiritually. Simple offerings might include: Fresh water Coffee, tea, or a favorite drink Bread, fruit, or sweets Flowers or herbs Incense or perfume they used to wear When to Make Offerings On birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays During full or new moons, solstices or equinoxes Anytime you need guidance or feel grateful You can refresh offerings weekly or monthly, or when you want to connect – it’s totally up to you. A Simple Ritual to Connect Here’s one more important thing to know about how to connect with your ancestors spiritually – it can be easy! Here’s a short, yet powerful 5-step ritual you can do anytime: Prepare – Clear your energy, straighten up the altar, light a candle, and place your offering. Invite – Say something like: “I call on my loving, whole, and healed ancestors who have the desire and ability to help me. I remember and honor you.” Speak – Share what’s in your heart and on your mind. Thank them. Ask for guidance or just be present. Listen – Be open to receiving messages through thoughts, emotions, symbols, or dreams. Close – Thank them again. Blow out the candle. Return offerings to nature. If you enjoy journaling, try automatic writing. Ask for a message, then write whatever comes without editing. You might be surprised by the wisdom that flows. And sometimes ancestral healing may crop up in the writing. Here’s another episode about working with your ancestors. What You Can Work On Together Ancestor work isn’t just about healing the past, but can also build an ongoing connection. You can: Ask for clarity around life decisions Request help with relationships (including family) Seek encouragement and protection Discover hidden talents or spiritual gifts Explore lineage stories or karmic themes Some believe that helping us is part of our ancestors’ soul evolution. They want to support us. And the more you connect, the more the relationship grows. When Ancestors Get Snarky Okay, let’s talk about the awkward part. Sometimes the ancestors who show up are not exactly warm or wise. Some might show up cranky, judgmental, or even downright snarky. Just because someone has crossed over doesn’t mean they’ve evolved or are any wiser. Years ago, I did a poorly worded invocation during a magic ritual. I asked for the “highest available ancestors,” thinking that meant spiritually evolved. What I got instead was a group of spiritually bossy types who were available. They proceeded to scold me like disapproving Victorian aunts. So rude! The lesson I learned was to be specific and only call on ancestors who are loving, whole, and healed. This is why you want to learn how to connect with your ancestors spiritually the proper way. I haven’t worked on ancestral healing with these difficult spirits but it’s probably a good idea. Another Snarky Ancestor Story Then recently, I had a reading from someone I hadn’t worked with before. As she began channeling, the messages were laced with digs—like “You’re too independent” and “too practical.” I asked her to shift the energy upward and reach above those spirits. We did get a few helpful nuggets, but most of it remained tangled in the snark-zone. Even the reader admitted it was the snarkiest reading she’d ever done. I believe it. So, keep this in mind whether you doing ancestral healing or just calling on your ancestors for support or comfort. You get to decide who you talk to. Just because someone is on the other side doesn’t mean they’re spiritually evolved—or helpful. There’s no need to tolerate unkind or critical energy from the spirit world (or this world either). How to Set Boundaries With Spirits Think of communicating with spirits like any relationship. As you discover how to connect with your ancestors spiritually, if someone shows up acting shady, now you know you don’t have to work with them. Be specific when inviting: “Only loving, whole, and healed ancestors.” Set firm boundaries: “If you are not of 100% light, please leave now.” Trust your intuition—if something feels off, it probably is. Feel free to say “No” and send pesky ancestors packing. Ask questions: “Who are you? From which line? How far back do you go?” You wouldn’t let just anyone in your house. Same goes for your entering energy field! To work with your ancestors, you don’t need to know your full family tree, have formal training, or attend any special workshops. It’s about respect, intuition, and relationships. Whether you light a candle, whisper a name, or leave out a cup of tea, you’re opening a line of communication. You are the living legacy of countless lives. They walk with you. But you get to decide who walks beside you. And if a spirit shows up acting shady? Firmly ask them to leave. You might do a bit of ancestral healing to separate and clear things up with any difficult spirits. Remember it’s your altar, your energy, your rules. And your whole and healed ancestors surely will visit to cheer you on! Go ahead – light a candle, offer a cookie, and say hello. That’s how to connect with your ancestors spiritually. Someone loving is likely waiting to hear from you. The post How To Connect With Your Ancestors Spiritually appeared first on Intuitive Edge.

Do you consider yourself to be a human being vs. a human doing? Let’s be honest—most people are pros at “doing.” Is There More? You make lists and tick the boxes. You read the books, meditate, maybe perform rituals, and strive to “stay aligned.” But somewhere in the back of your mind or buried beneath the pile of laundry and oracle decks, you know there’s more. Something quieter. Something deeper. What is that something? Its being. Human Being Vs. Human Doing According to spiritual experts and those who have left organized religion behind, “doing” and “being” often show up as polar opposites. Society drives “doing” in terms of success. Being fit and healthy, having a nice home, a great job, and keeping your kids active – that’s all doing. As a result, doing takes priority, squeezing out your chance of being. Personally, I am driven to be productive. This was instilled by my father who thought I should be doing something. Take steps. Create something. Don’t just laze around and certainly no sleeping late! So for me, doing became the way. The way to make something of myself. The way to get attention and praise. Now, if a weekend goes by and I don’t do anything, I feel unsatisfied and sad that the time went by and I have nothing to show for it. Times Are Changing However, times are changing for me. It seems I’m coming to a great shift in my life, from a life of doing to place of being. This is what my guides are asking of me. They say it’s time. More than time. At first, I felt really sad about this. It’s hard to understand. What does it mean if I don’t do anything? What will I say when people ask me, “What have you been doing?” Well, I’m still producing my podcast. Check. It’s the time of year for gardening. Check. I’m trying some new recipes for salads and summer meals. Check. Maybe I’ll paint again like last summer. Being Is Unfamiliar But it feels funny, off, and unfamiliar. As a human being vs. human doing, I will no longer be marketing my business. If people request readings or bioenergetic clearings, I’ll be  happy to do them. But the days of marketing myself have come to a close after a long, long time. Initially, I felt a loss. I felt sad and wondered how I’ll get through what spirit is asking of me. Then I got an incredible message from my guides with a completely different perspective after I’d been stewing for several days. Message from My Guides Here’s what my guides said: “This is a time to celebrate! You are off the wheel of business building and marketing. You are now free! Free to explore and discover new levels of consciousness. To indulge in new experiences. It is an exciting time filled with surprises and big magic. Get excited and celebrate your transition and transformation.” I did a little research to learn more about what it means to just “Be.” Turns out that doing and being are not necessarily opposites. They’re more like dance partners -one steps back and the other comes forward. Each has it’s own rhythm, and when I learn how to move between them both, spiritual growth will start to feel less like a something I’ve got to do or get done and more like a natural unfolding. So, let’s get down to it. What exactly is the difference between a human being and human doing? The Active Path of Doing Doing refers to everything you do in life and even in the name of spiritual development like meditation, yoga, breathwork, journaling, energy healing. Even acts of kindness or creative expression count. These are the intentional actions you take to feel more connected, centered, and clear. Doing comes with tools and structure. It provides a sense of momentum. And let’s be honest—it also gives me something to measure. When life feels chaotic, doing something can feel like a lifeline. It’s a way to feel like you’re in control of your growth. There’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, doing plays an essential role in spiritual development, especially when you’re just starting to unravel old scripts and limiting beliefs. Benefits of Doing 1. Cultivates Mindfulness. Practices like mindfulness or meditation train the mind to return to the present moment, which is one of the most powerful spiritual muscles you can build. 2. Creates Space for Reflection. Journaling, for example, helps you process emotions, integrate insights, and track growth over time. 3. Fosters Discipline and Transformation. Doing something consistently, even small things, rewires your nervous systems. The repetition of practice creates new patterns. 4. Connects You with Others. Group rituals, classes, retreats, and even shared silence deepen your sense of belonging and community. 5. Supports Emotional/Mental Health. From decreasing anxiety to increasing a sense of purpose, doing has measurable benefits for the brain and body. 6. Opens the Door to Being. Often, it’s through consistent doing that you unexpectedly find yourself in a state of stillness, presence, or awe. It provides structure for this transformation. Being Present “Being” is what happens when you stop trying to get somewhere. It’s the moment after you exhale and the silence between thoughts. The inner stillness that doesn’t need fixing, upgrading, analyzing, or optimizing. Being isn’t something you “achieve” which is exactly what makes it so tricky for someone like me who was raised and rewarded for getting stuff done. Being is not about effort or self-improvement. Instead it’s about allowing and remembering. Spiritually speaking, being is about being present. It’s the sense of feeling connection with the here and now, including the messy emotions, awkward pauses, quiet joy, and unfiltered truth. You were created as a human being vs. human doing. Benefits of Being The benefits of being are subtler and often profound. 1. Inner Peace and Calm. Neuroscience backs this up. When you rest in the present moment, your parasympathetic nervous system kicks in, reducing cortisol and increasing serotonin. In plain terms you start to relax and feel safe. 2. Authentic Self-Connection. Being helps you reconnect with what’s real inside you. Not the version of yourself you are curating, but the person who’s been waiting underneath. 3. Grounding and Clarity. When you’re not spinning in thought, chasing the next insight, or trying to understand, clarity arises naturally as wisdom. 4. Healing and Emotional Resilience. Being with yourself in a non-judgmental way, especially if you’re uncomfortable, supports emotional release and a deeper self-acceptance. 5. Connection to Oneness. Many describe the state of being as a portal into something larger, whether it’s nature, life energy, or a feeling a sense of unity with all things. Knowing you are a part of everything in the Universe. 6. Compassion, Joy, and Love. These emotional states are not goals. They’re natural byproducts of being present. When you stop trying to be loving and just rest in being, love shows up on its own. Love for yourself, for others and the world. Is Being Better Than Doing? Back to the question of human being vs. human doing. Is one better? Nope. That’s not the point. In fact, trying to “be” instead of “do” is just more doing in disguise! You don’t have to choose one over the other, but learn to recognize when each mode is helpful. Think of it like breathing. Doing is the inhale, being is the exhale. You need both to live. This is what I am in the midst of. Shifting from a human doing to more of a human being. To stop worrying about launching the next class or my social media and just enjoy the day. I’ve been told this shift is a sign of remarkable transformation and comes from years of striving and spiritual development. Magic Will Rise! Being is not “doing nothing”. It is embodying a deep spiritual lesson that has the power to heal. And as I learn to just be (as well as people too), the magic will rise and grow. Good magic, like: Magic that brings happiness and peace. Magic of working together to solve problems. Magic that brings laughter and fun, possibilities and optimism. Magic where things come together easily. Magic that offers joy every day and a deep appreciation for all the good that already exists as things are. It’s time to trust that my gifts will find a way into the world more organically. My journey is not ending but it’s very nature is changing. I am worthy not because of what I produce or get done, but by simply being and that is enough. And the same is true for you my friend! This is your invitation to join me if you dare…which one will you be? Human being vs. human doing – the chice is up to you. The post Are You A Human Being Or A Human Doing On A Spiritual Path appeared first on Intuitive Edge.

Today, let’s dive into how your imagination works to spark your intuitive development. I’ll show you how they’re similar, different, and most importantly, linked in a primordial way. When you nurture your imagination, you’re actually building your intuitive power! (Looking for the link to shaman drumming? Scroll to the very bottom.) Am I Just Making This Up? Let’s start with a common question I hear from clients all the time, “What if I’m making it up?” I’ve been there. Early on, I asked myself that constantly. Now, I rarely do. In fact, I often laugh and say, “I could never have made that up!” But when you’re new to working with your intuition, that confusion is natural and it’s not a bad thing. Why? Because building your imagination is actually one of the most powerful ways to strengthen your psychic abilities. Wild Visions! I’ve had wild intuitive experiences. Things I absolutely know I didn’t “make up.” One of my favorites happened while walking in the woods with my husband. I saw a good-sized rock and felt an intuitive nudge to sit and meditate. So, I asked my husband Paul to give me just five minutes and he agreed. I closed my eyes and took a few deep breaths. Within moments, I felt myself fall through the rock into an underground cave system. But this wasn’t just any cave. It looked like an office, complete with cubicles, furniture, and a human-sized mole in business attire. Yes. A mole. Wearing a slightly rumpled white shirt with rolled-up sleeves, wire-rimmed glasses, and a loosened tie. He was calmly reading a newspaper. I was stunned. Before I could speak, Mr. Mole began listing which food supplements Paul and I needed. Then he returned to his paper. A minute later, I was back in my body, sitting on the rock like nothing had happened. Now tell me, who makes up a mole nutritionist in a office cave? I know I didn’t consciously create that LOL! And here’s the key – after that mole visit that I started intentionally using my imagination for intuitive exploration. Mermaid Visualization For example, at the ocean I decided to pretend to be a mermaid. I imagined swimming deep beneath the surface, searching for hidden caves and lost cities like Atlantis. It was delightful and super fun. Perfect for intuitive development. Here’s another exercise I recommend to flex your imagination. Close your eyes and visualize a closed door in front of you. Now ask yourself what’s behind it? What do you sense on the other side? Do you hear anything? Pick three things that might be there. Then open the door. What do you see? This kind of creative play isn’t just fantasy but great intuitive training! Imagination Opens Your Intuition Many experts say that intuition and imagination are two sides of the same coin. Here’s how these two powers work together: Imagination opens the door. It creates a mental movie studio where you can explore images, stories, and what-ifs. It’s unconstrained by reality and rich with possibility. Intuition leads you to the right door. It’s your gut instinct, your sudden knowing, or your inner yes. It doesn’t have a storyline. Your imagination constructs new options, then your intuition helps you choose. Together, they’re magic. Your imagination sets the stage, while your intuition chooses the scene that’s most true for you. Intuitive Development with Imagination Let’s get practical. Here are ways to build stronger intuitive knowing. 1. Flex Your Creative Muscles – Draw, doodle, paint, or tell a spontaneous story. Use tarot cards as prompts and make up tales based on what you pull. This stimulates your right brain and bypasses the logical mind – great for intuitive development. You can also imagine different outcomes to a situation you’re facing. Try visualizing both best-case and worst-case scenarios. Then ask yourself which version feels best or more aligned? This strengthens your intuitive development. 2. Mental Play and Visualization – Imagine your intuition is speaking to you. What does it say? Does it show up as a voice, a feeling, an image or symbol? Maybe you sense or feel something. These are the clairs. I once drew an open treasure chest with eight beams of light curling out of it. Months later during a meditation, I saw myself bound by eight chains which melted into a key. A treasure chest appeared and I opened with that key. Guess what came out – the same eight light beams, just like my drawing. My art journaling turned out to be an artistic prophecy of sorts! 3. Journaling and Dream Work – Write down intuitive hits, dreams, and weird little nudges. Over time, patterns emerge, and your confidence grows. That’s how you move from “Was that real?” to “Oh yeah, that was spot on.” Journaling is wonderful for intuitive development. Start tracking your dreams. They’re direct messages from your subconscious, wrapped in symbolism. I recommend The Dream Book by Betty Bethards—it’s my go-to dream resource. 4. Quiet the Noise – Stillness is magic. Go for a walk without your phone. Sit in nature. Meditate. That open space invites intuitive whispers. The less your brain is busy with distractions, the more room there is for imagination and intuition to dance. 5. Follow Nudges – Try a new route. Say yes to something random. Let creativity lead without needing a reason. The more you follow intuitive whims, the stronger the signal gets. How to Tell the Difference That’s the big question, right? How do you know if it’s your imagination or intuition? Here’s how to tell: Imagination is playful and often elaborate. You can shape it at will. It may come with strong emotions, excitement, fear, and fantasy. On the other hand, intuition is calm, direct, and surprising. It pops in out of nowhere and usually feels neutral, even if the message is powerful. Your body knows. Intuition often arrives with physical sensations—chills, a gut feel, a sense of “This is right.” Imagination stays mostly in the mind. The first time I entered the Akashic Records, I felt it viscerally. I was with two friends, and as we tuned into energy, I was engulfed by chills around my head and through my body. That’s the kind of response imagination alone doesn’t generate. There’s so much more in the podcast including my description of how to do a shaman journey – and you’ll find a link to a shaman drumming video at the bottom of this post. Have fun! Awaken Your Sixth Sense! If you’re ready for intuitive development, I’ve got a great program for you called Awaken Your Sixth Sense. You’ll get seven super simple prerecorded lessons filled with exercises and things to try to build your inner knowing. And right now it’s on sale for $27! Marked down from $88 for a short time. Click here to down your copy today! In the podcast, I also talk about Shaman Journeys and how drumming helps your brain waves move into a more receptive theta state. I listen to at elast 15 minutes of drumming when I want to do one of these journeys. Below is the drumming video I recommend: The post Use Imagination to Spark Your Intuitive Development appeared first on Intuitive Edge.

The story begins on St. Patrick’s Day, when I did a Celtic shamanic journey to connect with Merlin. Nearly three years ago, he first appeared in a meditation and told me I was embarking on a spritual adventure. There’d be no map, no guide, and no goal. Just blind trust so I can learn to go with the flow. At the bottom of these show notes you can find links to other Spiritual Adventure Updates. My Spiritual Adventure Continues Let me tell you, it’s hard! I like a little direction. I don’t need a detailed itinerary, but a basic idea of where I’m headed? That’d be nice. But Spirit had other plans. I was told – No plan. Just try things. Trust the unfolding. So, I did. I hosted full moon events, started an intuitive mastermind—nothing quite stuck. Still, I love creating and I keep going. Then I found Sharon McErlane’s books and the Net of Light. Sharon channels the Great Council of the Grandmothers, and something clicked. Their mission resonated deeply – to raise the yin energy globally and restore the balance of masculine and feminine on the planet. I’m from the generation that followed Gloria Steinem and was part of the second wave of women who flooded the corporate world in the ’80s. So, the idea of empowering women is part of my history and DNA. Shamanic Journey with Merlin Okay, back to Merlin. During the St. Patrick’s Day shamanic meditation, I stepped into a boat with no oars and let the current take me. Dolphins and small whales surfaced, nudging the boat forward which was fun! When I landed, a great black hawk greeted me. It was massive and stood beside Merlin, wings flapping as if to get my attention. Merlin had a message for me. He said I was doing well on my journey. He likened me to a meandering brook—not quite a river yet, still finding my way. He cautioned me not to push the river which means not to rush things. “Let it come. You’ll become a river in time.” Classic Merlin, metaphorically fascinating and a bit vague. Afterward, I looked up the meaning of this giant black hawk. The bird I saw is called a Great Black Hawk, symbolizing strength, transformation, divine connection, and higher perspective. It represents a call to trust my intuition and step into purpose. Ancestors of the Land Weeks later, I heard a story on a podcast about a man from Germany who came to the US and wanted to buy land in Arizona. He couldn’t afford it, but went to meditate on the land. The spirits of the land came to him, saying they wanted someone who would honor it like him. A series of miracles followed, and he purchased the land! Hearing this gave me full-body chills. That story felt like a message about working with the ancestors of the land. Days later, while reading a book from the Grandmothers series, I learned to heal the Earth, you have to first connect with the ancestors of the land and your own ancestors too. That message landed twice in one week. I’d never been interested in my ancestors. Beyond one grandmother, they had all passed before I was born.  Now, I started to wonder if ancestral healing is part of my path? I decided to investigate further. Shamanic Journey to the Grandmothers On April 9th, I did another shamanic journey to meet the Grandmothers. I saw them dancing around a fire on the plains. I said hello, and after greeting me, they pushed me into the fire! It didn’t hurt (I was safe in dreamtime), and I know fire is transformative and purifying. Then came a wild shift – I started to grow taller and taller, until I was the size of a redwood. From that height, the fire looked tiny, the size of a penny. Interesting. Then, I shrank back to normal and came out of the journey. What was that about? I sat with it. Growing tall gave me perspective, but maybe it also meant I was stepping into a more expanded, grounded version of myself. Like the redwood, vast and steady with deep roots. Spiritual Container On April 14th, I met the Grandmothers again—this time in a forest at night. They greeted me and began dancing around me. “Get to know us,” they said, “and we’ll get to know you.” I started to grow again—not redwood-size, but big enough that the hem of my skirt filled the entire circle. I felt myself brushing against my own power—and stopped. I didn’t want to overwhelm or overstep. Later, I realized the circle they created wasn’t a limitation. It was probably more like a container, holding me while I grew. Again that’s interesting. By April 25, something was shifting. I felt electrically connected to nature. Alive. More powerful. And it hit me that I might not be just a meandering brook anymore, but perhaps advanced to the river. So I asked the grandmothers in shamanic journey, “If I’m a river, who are you?” The Grandmothers answered, “We are the aquifer.” Chills. The aquifer—silent, essential, underground. While I move along the surface, they are the deep, ancient source that sustains everything on earth. That made perfect sense. Splashed with Paint Then came May 5th. In another shamanic meditation with the Grandmothers, I was pushed into their circle again, but this time, they splashed me with yellow ochre paint. It was a sacred moment. Yellow is the color of the solar plexus representing confidence, identity, power. However, this ochre was ancient, primal, and earthy. It felt like an initiation. I did a little research and found that being pulled into a circle like that is a spiritual activation. And the paint? Could be a sign of belonging. I was being welcomed in. Maybe a Test? The last journey I’ll share happened just this week—May 12. And wow, was it a big one. This time, the vision felt more involved. I saw the Council of Grandmothers standing on the Great Plains. They didn’t waste any time. As soon as I arrived, they asked me, “Why are you here?” I took a breath and answered from the heart, “I’m here for myself… for other women… and for the world.” Good thing I said that—because I felt it was a test. And apparently, I passed. They told me to open my heart and breathe through it. So, I did. Then they showed me something extraordinary. They had woven a blanket for me—a stunning, sacred piece of art. Right in the center was a vibrant field of golden yellow. Framing it were bands of bright, vivid orange above and below. And then on each end was a bold stripe of deep purple. Gift of the Thunderbird The centerpiece was a large, black thunderbird woven into the golden yellow section. It was stylized and angular, not realistic. Naturally, I looked it up. The thunderbird is one of the most sacred beings in many Indigenous traditions. It’s a messenger of the Great Spirit and a sign of powerful protection and spiritual authority. The thunderbird shows up when you are being entrusted with something big—sacred gifts or spiritual wisdom meant not for personal gain, but for the good of the people. Suddenly, their earlier question, “Why are you here?”, made even more sense. What a gift from this shamanic journey! Then I asked, “Is there anything else you want to tell me?” First, they threw more paint on me. This time, yellow ochre and turquoise. I love turquoise. (Thank you, Grandmothers.) And this paint felt like a blessing. A finishing touch on a sacred rite. Turquoise relates to the throat chakra, authentic expression, truth-speaking. But it also symbolizes spiritual upgrade, elevated vision, and soul expression. In other words, all the good stuff. Love Yourself, Love the World Then they told me, “Love yourself. To love yourself is to love the world.” They said that by focusing on self-love, I would heal not just myself, but my family, my friends, my community, my country, and beyond. “Allow this love to ripple out around you,” they said. And I got the sense this was energetic truth. That kind of self-love is not selfish—it’s exponential healing. Imagine if everyone began to love themselves like that. What kind of world could we create? Now I’m not getting grandiose about this. I don’t think I’m better than anyone else. I’m just a woman walking her path, like everyone else. Yes, this sounds kind of amazing and as shamanic journeys go, I’m pretty happy with them. But I still don’t know what it really means. What’s expected of me? What’s coming next? I have no idea. What will this look like in my practical, daily life? Still no clue. What’s Next? Am I still on a spiritual journey to nowhere? Yep, but what a ride it’s become. And if nothing else, I can promise this – I’ll keep showing up. I’ll keep listening. And, I’ll keep sharing what unfolds. Even though I’m still on this journey to nowhere without a map, now I’m flowing like a river, moving with divine feminine power. The Grandmothers are guiding and I’m paying attention. If you’d like to meditate with the Grandmothers, email me at Ronnie[@]IntuitiveEdge.biz and let me know. Or scroll to the very bottom of my website’s home page to sign up for the newsletter. I’m going to offer a Grandmothers’ event soon and if I have your email, I can send you the date and details. Links to Earlier Spiritual Adventures Episodes The Tipping Point In Life – My Spiritual Adventure How To Find Joy In The Journey – My Spiritual Adventure Update Painting My Way Into A Colorful Spiritual Adventure Tips To Let Go – The Adventure Continues With This Podcast Snack Raise Your Vibration To Feel Happier With Magical Self-Care     The post Grandmothers Threw Paint At Me And Pushed Me Into The Fire appeared first on Intuitive Edge.

Ever wonder if you could be an evidential psychic medium? Can you learn how to do that or does it just come naturally? Find out in this episode of the Breathe Love & Magic podcast Rewire vs. Retire My guest, Dr. Elizabeth Fried, spent over 40 successful years as a management consultant, bestselling author, and award-winning executive coach. Then she hit her 70s, looked around, and said, “Time to rewire.” (Not retire — rewire. This fabulous woman does not slow down.) Her new life features modeling and mediumship. Yeah. That’s right. She connects with the dead and she’s on camera showing up proudly with her flowing silver locks and beautiful cheekbones. How She Made the Shift When I asked how this shift happened, Elizabeth said, “I wanted to do something that tapped both my creative and metaphysical sides.” She investigated, took classes, and put herself out there to create a whole new life. But this wasn’t some woo-woo whim. She had experiences for decades — starting with a jarring out-of-body moment in her twenties that she did seek information about but didn’t start anything spriitual. Later, she had full-on download of unconditional love during a business call. The room glowed gold and she felt a presence so vivid she assumed her husband had walked in. Someone had squeezed her shoulder but when she turned to look, no one was there. Evidential Psychic Medium Elizabeth trained to be an evidential psychic medium like it was a second MBA. Took course after course. She loved working with Suzanne Giesemann, a former Naval commander-turned-medium, who brings the same no-nonsense left-brain structure to her work that Elizabeth does. She studied, meditated, practiced, and practiced some more. And that led her to a platform called VerySoul.com. It’s free for practicing mediums and offers readings to people who can’t afford them. It’s also a place to sharpen your skills with other mediums — and get honest feedback. Although she was already a professional, she wanted more practice, so went through their program too. The most outstanding part of this story is that every cent she earns today from mediumship goes to The Honor Foundation, where Elizabeth also coaches special ops veterans pro bono. How cool is that? Surprising Reaction I asked Elizabeth what kind of reaction she got from former colleagues. She posted an article on LinkedIn entitled, “Going Out on a Limb,” (like Shirley MacLaine) as she publicly announced her new role as a medium. Reactions were…mixed. Some were encouraging while a few took a dim view. One email came from someone too cowardly to even use a real name. “ConcernedCoach@gmail.com” told her she was damaging the coaching profession by aligning herself with “oddball” things like acting and mediumship. Elizabeth’s response? “Wow. You must think I must have a lot of power if one LinkedIn post can destroy the whole industry.” Great sense of humor. Stories on Mediumship Here’s the truth — her work is powerful. And the stories she shared with me were heartwarming and stunning. Like the time she connected with someone’s husband and saw an exact memory — the couple sitting by a fire in lawn chairs outside a camper. And yes, the client validated every single detail. Or the woman who asked whether someone triggered her husband’s death. Elizabeth asked Spirit, got the answer, and added a little comic relief when the husband said, “My ticker just ran out of tocks.” Even in spirit, people have a sense of humor. Vanilla Pudding & Orange Jell-O Then there’s the client whose mother passed. Elizabeth started the session by seeing a box of vanilla pudding and orange Jell-O. That turned into a creamsicle? Stay with me — the client confirmed at the end of the reading while holding up those two boxes her mom gave her 5 years ago. She’d had them in the pantry ever since. And her mom had said, “Maybe you’ll figure out how to make a creamsicle.” She Met A Movie Star in Spirit! Elizabeth even managed to connect with Chadwick Boseman for one of her clients. Yeah, the man who starred as the Black Panther Wakanda Forever – the movie. At first, she didn’t say anything because she was seeing a ripped Black man in tribal gear and didn’t want to come across as inappropriate. Turns out, the client knew him. They’d even shared lunch in LA. Chad had once invited her to be in a film, which she had to decline. And he came through to remind her. Chills, right? Want to hear more on mediumship? Check out this episode. Deceased Pets Speak She’s also connected with pets — dogs, donkeys, even a long-deceased cat that was mad her name got reused for a dog. And yes, she got sassy from beyond the grave. Told her owner, “You have some nerve giving a dog my name.” Seriously? Yup! Elizabeth doesn’t claim that this is easy work. She says being a medium takes time, real commitment, and an ongoing practice. She meditates a lot. But she’s all in — because her purpose is to be of service. And she’s doing that now more than ever. So, if you’re wondering whether you could become an evidential psychic medium too, yes! Go take a class. You don’t have to be a natural – you just need a lot of practice. And, if you’re looking for a reading, find her at www.elizabethfried.com/medium or on VerySoul.com. Because age doesn’t matter. It’s about connection. Healing. Service. And the willingness to keep growing — even at 77. Because some people retire. And others like the fabulous Elizabeth? They rewire. BIO – Dr. Elizabeth Fried After a successful career spanning over 40 years as a management consultant, best-selling author, and award-winning executive coach, Dr. Elizabeth Fried has joyfully entered a new chapter of her life. Today you’ll find her spending her “re-wirement” as both a medium and an actor. As a medium, she has developed abilities that accurately connect you with departed loved ones.  She brings healing and empowering messages you may be longing to hear.  All fees earned from mediumship are directly donated to the Honor Foundation (THF), an organization she supports as a pro bono coach by helping special operations military (Navy SEALs, Marine Raiders, Delta Force) successfully transition to the civilian sector. Web Site & Social Media Website:  https://ElizabethFried.com VerySoul: https://verysoul.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethfried Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth.fried/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nelizabethfried/ The post Rewired in Her 70s, She Became an Evidential Psychic Medium appeared first on Intuitive Edge.

Do you think of yourself as a kind person? Or maybe you’re nice? There’s a huge difference between nice vs. kind and that’s what I’m talking about in this week’s episode. A Nice Story Let me start with a story. Something happened recently that threw me off more than it should have. It wasn’t a huge deal, but it messed with my head—and honestly, it didn’t need to happen. The whole thing could’ve been avoided. That’s what got me thinking about this topic – the essential difference between being nice vs. kind. I couldn’t stop reflecting on what happened. I had some thoughts on what separates these two acts, but I did a little digging to get clearer. I discovered there’s even a spiritual angle to this. But first—the story. I felt drawn to this nonprofit because I liked their mission and I figured I could help! I’ve got an MBA and decades of marketing experience. This seemed like a worthy cause. So I started asking questions about their marketing plans. The first woman I spoke with said, “Oh, you should talk to Alice. She’s the one who working on that stuff.” I set up time to chat with her. Confusion Sets In Alice was honest and said the group wasn’t into marketing. They wanted things to grow “organically” without any help. I figured, okay, maybe they’re not into it and I started let it go. The next thing I know, the founder of the group reached out that same day and asked if I wanted to talk with her. Imagine that! Maybe there was still a chance? When we spoke, I was surprised by her positivity. I shared four super simple, no-cost ideas—and she loved them. I wasn’t looking for payment, I just to offer my services. She even commented, “Spirit must have sent you,” and asked if I had more ideas. I said yes, more will come but let’s start with these. The next step was telling the board at their next meeting – she would bring it up. I was so excited. It felt like the stars had aligned! Maybe Alice had it wrong or there was a shift happening? After the board meeting, the founder said they loved my ideas. She told me to reconnect with Alice to get things started. I was thrilled. A Misunderstanding Things changed during my follow-up with Alice. She mentioned a couple zoom groups and monthly trainings I could join. I was so confused and even a bit angry. What? Why weren’t we talking marketing? Alice didn’t miss a beat. “This isn’t a business, and we’re not doing any marketing,” she said. Just like that. I wasn’t mad, just completely confused. Not the response I expected based on conversations with the founder. What happened? I emailed the founder again. She said, “Let’s talk.” When we spoke, everything shifted. She said they move slowly, they want to get to know me better, maybe I should join some groups to see how I fit with them. The Aha Moment And that’s when it hit me. The founder didn’t really love my ideas. She was just being NICE! She could have said, “Thanks, but no thanks.” But maybe she didn’t want to offend me or she’s not good at saying “No”. Instead, she praised my ideas—but left out the truth. Meanwhile, Alice had been clear from the start. And her voice went through my thoughts in that last conversation, having told me there was no way this was going to work. Nice vs. Kind Nice and kind are NOT the same thing. People use them interchangeably, but these words come from totally different places and very different impacts. You see, most people think they’re kind. Especially women—because we’re trained to be nice and polite. We’re told not to upset anyone and if you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all. But when being “nice” means hiding the truth, being unable to establish boundaries, or pretending everything’s fine when it’s not—that’s not honest and it’s not healthy either. Kindness includes honesty or you aren’t showing that you care. There’s no compassion in bing nice – its more self-serving so people like you. 5 Key Differences of Being Nice vs. Kind 1. Motivation and Intention When you’re being nice, you’re often trying to avoid conflict or get people to like you. It’s about keeping the peace. Kindness comes from be caring and having empathy. You’re doing something because you truly want to support or help—not because you want a gold star. 2. Depth and Authenticity Niceness tends to be surface-level. It can sometimes even be a bit fake—like agreeing just to keep things smooth. Kindness goes deeper. It’s authentic. It usually requires more courage, especially when it involves being honest in an uncomfortable moment. A Few Examples A) Spinach – Someone has spinach in their teeth. If you’re nice, you probably say nothing to save yourself adn themfrom embarrassment. But if you’re kind, you quietly say, “Just so you know, you’ve got spinach in your teeth.” B) Trouble – A friend’s heading for trouble. If you’re nice you likely stay quiet, thinking it’s not your place t say anything. But if you’re kind, you speak up gently because you care what happens to the person. C) Dating – I learned to let the men down kindly back when I was looking for love. Instead of ghosting, when a man asked if he could see me again, I was honest and would say, “I had a nice time but I don’t think we’re a match.” Most men actually thanked me. It was awkward and scary first couple of times, but it got easier. Because honesty almost always wins. 3. Impact Being nice might make things pleasant for the moment, but it often doesn’t go very far. Kindness, on the other hand, can be transformative. It can really help someone grow, heal, or feel seen. And it doesn’t leave them hanging on. 4. Expectations Nice people often expect something in return—a thank-you, approval, validation. Kind people give from the heart. There’s no hidden agenda, no keeping score. 5. Assertiveness Niceness avoids discomfort. It’s all about people-pleasing and keeping things harmonious. But kindness? It’s honest—even when it’s hard. It respects your boundaries and theirs. The Spiritual Aspect of Kindness Being nice often comes from the ego. It’s about how you appear, whether people like you, and keeping peace at all costs. It’s fear-based: fear of rejection, fear of disappointing someone, or fear of being judged. Being kind comes from the soul. It’s about presence, love, and integrity. It doesn’t always feel “nice” in the moment—but it’s honest, aligned, and compassionate. Kindness might mean saying no. It might mean telling a hard truth. It might even ruffle some feathers. But it comes from the heart. And in the long run, it’s farmore meaningful. In addition, when you have kindness as a goal, that promotes growth. You’ll likely find yourself in challenging situations so you learn about kindness. You’ll seek opportunities that  require you to do something uncomfortable or inconvenient. Too Busy to Be Kind? I was listening to an interview with Houston Kraft, author of a book titled Deep Kindness and he talked about a phrase he coined: “Intersectional thinking.” It helps you link kindness to your everyday life by being specific. In addition to your “To-Do”list, you can also have a “To-Be” list. So you can set an intention for your day to be kind to one person. This is very doable, vs. an overall goal of being kinder which can be hard to implement. Keep it simple! Also, when you say you’re too busy to be kind, what you’re really saying is—it’s not a priority. Yet, what you make time for is what you value. So, if kindness is important to you, make time for it. Say “No” with Kindness If you’re stuck in chronic niceness, it might be time to practice saying “No” with kindness. Here are several examples of kind ways to say “No” with honesty and integrity. “I can’t join you because I have something else going on.” “I wish I could, but my plate is full.” “No thank you, but I appreciate the offer.” “Unfortunately, I can’t this time—but maybe next time.” “Thanks for thinking of me.” “I don’t have the bandwidth right now.” The Middle Path No one loves being rejected and that’s why saying “No” feels hard. But you don’t have to choose between being a people pleaser or being harsh when you don’t agree. There’s a middle path—and it’s kindness. If you need to practice to build this muscle, don’t start with the trickiest person in your life. Start small. Practice with someone safe. Discover what it feels like to hold your ground and keep your heart open. Because when you do? You’ll stop being “so nice” all the time, feeling pressured and overwhelmed, and start being real. And that, my friend, serves everyone—especially you. The post The Essential Difference Between Being Nice Vs. Kind appeared first on Intuitive Edge.

Are you a risk taker and trust in the Universe? Do you lean forward into something you’re dreaming about—a new path, a bold desire, a leap of faith—without knowing exactly how it’ll turn out? Or maybe you’re risk averse, holding on tight to what you know. You’d rather stick with what’s familiar, even if it’s not your ideal, rather than roll the dice on something uncertain. This conversation is about risk and trust. If you want to live life to the fullest, you need both. So let me take you back. Garden Variety Chances Thirty years ago, I wrote an article that ended up being published in the Venture Inward magazine—yes, the Edgar Cayce Foundation’s magazine. It was my very first piece ever submitted, and it got accepted. That was an enormous thrill. The column was called “The Turning Point”, and believe me, it was. That article, “Garden Variety Chances,” told a story I want to share again, because even now, decades later, the message still rings true. At the time, I’d been working at a major packaged foods company in New York for seven years—and I hated it. I mean, I learned a lot, had good experiences, but the energy was just…heavy and often stressful for what seemed like no reason. The Big Layoff Eventually, a larger corporation bought us, and with all the merging, my position was eliminated. But there were jobs open to be considered. I applied half-heartedly, knowing I didn’t want any of them. But then came the severance offer: seven months’ salary. To leave a job I despised? That was the universe handing me an exit ramp—and I took it. For this is one time I had trust in the Universe. What did I do with my first unemployment check? I went to Hawaii. No regrets! Anxiety Mounted I didn’t want the same kind of job again, so I didn’t know what was next. But the path slowly revealed itself. A former colleague called and asked if I could help out at her agency. That was the beginning of my freelance career in copywriting and marketing consulting. Sounds great, right? And it was—for a while. But about two years in, I hit a wall. My bank account was dwindling. I was filled with fear. I kept imagining the worst like losing my condo, my car, having to move back in with my parents at 30. That felt like the end of the world. Even though I was in that anxious place, one day at the grocery store, I splurged. I bought a $3 sorrel plant. That’s it. Just a leafy, lemony green. I certainly didn’t need it. Money was tight. Yet, I bought it anyway. I lived in a condo without any outdoor living space, so I couldn’t really plant it. I called my friend Carrie and told her about my “extravagance.” She was gardening and invited me to plant it in her yard. However, she also warned me about the neighborhood rabbits. Inhaling & Exhaling Here was my dilemma—keep the plant safe on my windowsill, where it would survive but not thrive, or plant it outside, where it might flourish…or get eaten. I actually meditated on this. Yes, over a $3 plant. But that’s how everything shifted. In that quiet space, I received this guidance. To live life to the fullest, you must take risks. If you hold everything tightly to yourself—people, money, dreams—in fear of losing them, then you cut off the flow of life. It’s like breathing. You can’t keep inhaling without exhaling. You must let go in order to receive more. You have to trust in the Universe. That was the moment I laughed out loud. The ridiculousness of it all—a $3 plant had become a mirror for how tightly I was gripping life. I was paralyzed by fear, and this plant was showing me the way out. So, I took the plant to Carrie’s garden. I trusted that it would flourish. And I trusted that I would, too. What happened after that? Everything changed. Want to hear more about my spiritual journey? Trust in the Universe A freelance position came along that was just right. I was independent and financially stable. My bank account bounced back. And something else happened—I started dating again, after a five-year hiatus. Two relationships followed. Neither lasted, but I showed up. I tried. That was a win. And the best part? The following spring, Carrie called me. “The sorrel plant is growing again!” she said. Turns out, sorrel is a perennial. I didn’t know that at the time. But there it was, bursting through the soil again, thriving. That $3 risk had come full circle. That plant was my proof. That risk can yield surprising and beautiful results. You just have to be willing to let go and trust. I’m Still Learning Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m still learning this. Still living it. Today, my risks look different. I risk going slow instead of fast. I risk not pushing and having patience. I risk saying “No.” But my essence hasn’t changed. I’m still like a river, flowing toward the ocean. Sometimes I hit rocks, take unexpected turns, but I keep moving. I’m still learning not to fight the river. I don’t want to be the salmon swimming upstream—I want ease and grace. And to be in the flow, you have to trust. That’s the risk. I don’t always trust in the Universe, but I keep at it. Sometimes, you only get to see the next step after you’ve taken the first one. There is no master plan. Life isn’t a straight line. It’s more like sailing—you tack left, then right. You adjust to the wind. What’s Your First Step? So I ask you: what’s the first step you need to take? Not the third, or the fifth. Just the first. What’s the $3 “sorrel plant” in your life? What are you holding onto so tightly that it’s keeping you from growing? If you need help with trusting the Universe, you might look for a sign- here’s how. Sometimes, you have to speak the first word so the next one comes. You have to trust the siphon will flow. That’s what channeling has taught me, and that’s what life keeps showing me. So today, I invite you to trust in the universe. Take the step. Let the flow find you. Because, my friend, you just might flourish. The post Are You Brave Enough To Trust In The Universe? appeared first on Intuitive Edge.