The 3 Essential Components of Inspiration

The 3 Essential Components Of Inspiration

The 3 Essential Components Of Inspiration

THE 3 ESSENTIAL COMPONENTS OF INSPIRATION

Article by Sophie Mihalko
Photo Credit: Dasha & Mari
Magazine: Issue #30

In her 2009 TED Talk's, Elisabeth Gilbert describes how inspiration is often something outside of ourselves that we somehow need to invite in. 

We often get our best ideas in the shower, while driving a car, or even washing dishes, which is very frustrating since we don’t have anything to record or write with.

So, let’s use the example of the shower and investigate what the conditions are that allows inspiration to strike so often!

1 :: We are not thinking
Most of us know how to take a shower, drive a car, and do the dishes without thinking about it. NO THINKING allows inspiration to come faster than if we are. Why? It’s simple- A thought is the repetition of something we know or have experienced. Inspiration is something that does not exist yet, so it just cannot be in the same environment as a repetition of something that already exists. 

Meditation or Access The Bars® are a great way to have a blank mind. Find your way to clear your thoughts. 

2 :: We are relaxed
The hot water, the repetitive movements, the condition of the shower itself is relaxing. When the body does not make strenuous movements (but still moves), inspiration is much more likely to strike. We are now in full mode of “receiving”, like a blank slate. The body is open to the information. Ruth Stone, the famous American poet often described how she felt poems “passing” through her body.

Taking a walk in nature, stretching, receiving a massage, or eating the foods that nurture our bodies are perfect ways to relax as well. 

3 :: We are not judging ourselves or others
Usually we do not judge ourselves for the way we take a shower. We also do not judge the shower. In this space of non-judgement, where nothing is wrong, bad, big or small, inspiration can come. It will find a fertile ground where a seed can be planted without the risk to be modified or pushed away. 

Judging ourselves not only creates stress, but it also prevents our creativity to blossom. Therefore, even if you are your “worst critic”, adopting a technique to stop self-judgement as soon as it is noticed is critical in developing new ideas. 

If you apply these three components and recreate them at any time, you will eventually be able to get inspired any time you choose to be. 

ABOUT ANGEL

Angel Quintana

Angel Quintana is the founder of Holistic Fashionista, an alchemical herbalist and mystery school teacher based in Saint Petersburg, Florida. She's incredibly passionate about the alchemical process known as The Great Work and helping others evolve "the archetypes" found in their inner world, so they can confidently answer the questions: WHO AM I and WHY AM I HERE. Learn more about Angel's work at www.theoccultchateau.com


DISCLAIMER

The information on this website is presented for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the diagnosis, treatment, or advice of a qualified, licensed medical professional. The facts presented are offered as information only, not medical advice, and in no way should anyone infer that we are practicing medicine. Seek the advice of a medical professional for proper application of this material to any specific situation.

How to Enjoy Life after Divorce

How To Enjoy Life After Divorce

How To Enjoy Life After Divorce

HOW TO ENJOY LIFE AFTER DIVORCE

Article by Camille Ditele
Photo Credit: Dasha & Mari
Magazine: Issue #30

Thinking about having a life after divorce can be overwhelming and daunting for those who are suddenly cast into undertaking this situation; most tend to become fearful of what the future may hold. Honestly, it is really hard to consider how you can enjoy your life after divorce since this is such a hard situation to overcome. However, the most common problem of every person who endures this journey is they don’t know what to do to move forward and enjoy their life. So, how and what are the things that you may do?

Divorce by no means is easy to overcome. Listed below are some things you might consider in order to help you embrace your newfound independence:

||Think about your emotional steadiness
Divorce is truly a hard thing and whether you are going through it or you already have, your emotional steadiness is essential since you may tend to be somewhat off kilter after undertaking such an emotional ordeal. Always keep in mind that life after divorce could possibly be a struggle. However, you must also realize that you will create better times in your life. Through facing this situation~ you can begin your fast track towards a happy life.
 
||Try to look at the bright side
Think on a positive side. Remember that this is not an ending; rather it is just a new beginning for a better life. Having an optimistic mental attitude about your new beginning will create a big difference in enjoying everyday life. Life after divorce might be implausible and it might also be hard, if you don’t remain optimistic about what’s in front of you.
 
||Surround yourself with the people who have your best interest at heart
Most people begin a new relationship with anyone because they are lonely. Sparking a relationship whether it is friendly or romantic with everyone & anyone who will spend time with you may contribute to more sadness after divorce. So be very careful and selective when getting your feet wet in this area.

||Spend time doing things you like and enjoy every week
Make sure to spend some of your time in making yourself happy after divorce. Don’t forget to stop and smell the roses. At least once a week, take the time to go and do something that you really enjoy doing. If you don’t know what this is, well its time to figure that out don’t you think?
 
||Set definite objectives and execute a plan to attain those objectives
In order to assure that you feel better about yourself and enjoy the feeling that triumph brings, think about an objective or set objectives that you’ve always had but never attained. After that, prioritize those objectives and work out a plan to attain them, one by one. Let that plan be executed and then glory in your accomplishment and celebrate once you’ve reached your goal.

Creating your life after your divorce is a logical and sound thing to do in order to be blissful and have the life you desire. Your life doesn’t need to be a continuation of the hurt that you might have gone through. Start a new beginning by being optimistic and implementing what brings you joy.

Holistic Fashionista Recommended!

3 Secrets to Finding Closure After Divorce + more free tips to help you stop struggling and GET YOUR LIFE BACK AFTER DIVORCE!!

The REAL Reason You Haven't Found Closure Yet, What SMART Women Do That Will Save You Years of Struggle, 3 Steps You MUST Follow to Finally Move On Once and For All + more! Get FREE access here!

ABOUT ANGEL

Angel Quintana

Angel Quintana is the founder of Holistic Fashionista, an alchemical herbalist and mystery school teacher based in Saint Petersburg, Florida. She's incredibly passionate about the alchemical process known as The Great Work and helping others evolve "the archetypes" found in their inner world, so they can confidently answer the questions: WHO AM I and WHY AM I HERE. Learn more about Angel's work at www.theoccultchateau.com


DISCLAIMER

The information on this website is presented for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the diagnosis, treatment, or advice of a qualified, licensed medical professional. The facts presented are offered as information only, not medical advice, and in no way should anyone infer that we are practicing medicine. Seek the advice of a medical professional for proper application of this material to any specific situation.

A Stalking Quest to Find Your Muse

A Stalking Quest To Find Your Muse

A Stalking Quest To Find Your Muse

A STALKING QUEST TO FIND YOUR MUSE

Article by Denita Austin
Photo Credit: Dasha & Mari
Magazine: Issue #30

In our darkest times, we can still go out into the world and find something of phenomenal beauty. Regardless of any situation that we encounter in life, there is always light at the end of the tunnel and the sun will always make an appearance. There is beauty everywhere and we must take the time to open our eyes and take it in. We are surrounded by so much to fill our hearts and souls for a life time, but one must have patience to endure. 

I encourage all Holistic Beauties to wander the world and find that burst of inspiration that will run chills down your spine and form a permanent smile on your face. Perhaps a moment of silence to reflect on what intrigues you, what is it that creates a spark within your bones to gently push you to dive into your day. Is it a person, art, life in itself or maybe it’s ourselves? 

My personal quest of finding a muse has been quite intriguing. I tend to switch this creative process every year. It’s more of a hard reset for me. If I begin the year on one muse, whether it’s a person or subject matter, I literally focus on that for one complete year and then the next year will completely different. I’m inspired by constant change. In my world it’s a form of continued growth. My number one suggestion to everyone would be to travel to find your answers. When we travel or we are set out on a quest to find answers, not only do we learn about our surroundings along the way, but we learn about ourselves and how we function in the world. I personally like to think that we inspire each other more than we think. I could clearly travel to another country and be inspired by someone picking grapes to eventually make a fine wine. That person could clearly become the muse of the year to either paint something, write a book, or even pick up a new hobby. We are surrounded by so much beauty and inspiration that we tend to forget.

A prime example could be the Holistic Fashionista Magazine. At first glance of visiting the website, one can experience a rush of inspiration by gazing at the authentic creative layout of colors, designs, and concepts. It is by far a Brand of Inspiration and a burst of vibrancy oozing out of your computer screen. Every single cover is a reflection of Authenticity. This could easily be a muse; whether it’s the creator or the magazine you connect with. 

Finding your muse isn’t as hard as you may think. It doesn’t necessarily have to be another human being. It can honestly be yourself. You could be inspired just by being your creative spirit. You also have the option to go on a quest and make your own rules and travel to find that boost of inspiration. Along your trip you may stumble across snippets of what could be the next chapter in your life. Being side-tracked from our path is common, however we should pay serious attention to our instincts. It is super important to open your heart and mind to everything life has to offer.

Think about your quest in detail and ask yourself the following questions:

1 :: Why do I feel the need to find my Muse?
2 :: What will this do for my life? 
3 :: What am I willing to do to grab this burst of light? 
4 :: Do I currently have a muse? If so what is it or who?
5 :: How soon will I challenge myself to begin my quest?

When your decision is made to begin your quest, I would like to share these helpful tips for you to try on your quest:

Have a liberated lifestyle| Challenge yourself to think outside the box. This will not only boost your confidence but it will allow you to experience more creative energy instead of following the rules all the time. 
   
Spend Time With Creative People|
 If you are able to surround yourself with people who value creativity as much as you do, this will get the juices flowing
   
Listen to your Instincts|
 Tell the Micromanager of your emotions to take a back seat. Rules, restrictions, and social norms can put a damper on creativity.  It’s when you’re free within yourself that you’re able to show up in the world. Our emotions always reveal the truth and influences our decisions. 
   
Keep a Journal|
 Keep a journal of your experiences that were memorable and exciting. You can always reflect back on this for inspiration that may spark new thoughts and ideas.
   
Travel & Explore|
 This is always a favorite of mine. Move away from the normal routine. Jump out there and explore. Your muse may just be on the other side of your destination. Jump out there!

I wish you the best of luck on your quest to find your muse or to become your own muse. I want to hear about your experience. Don’t be shy, send me a note. 

ABOUT ANGEL

Angel Quintana

Angel Quintana is the founder of Holistic Fashionista, an alchemical herbalist and mystery school teacher based in Saint Petersburg, Florida. She's incredibly passionate about the alchemical process known as The Great Work and helping others evolve "the archetypes" found in their inner world, so they can confidently answer the questions: WHO AM I and WHY AM I HERE. Learn more about Angel's work at www.theoccultchateau.com


DISCLAIMER

The information on this website is presented for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the diagnosis, treatment, or advice of a qualified, licensed medical professional. The facts presented are offered as information only, not medical advice, and in no way should anyone infer that we are practicing medicine. Seek the advice of a medical professional for proper application of this material to any specific situation.

Artists, Photographers, and the Creative Inspiration of the Muse

ARTISTS, PHOTOGRAPHERS, AND
THE CREATIVE INSPIRATION OF THE MUSE

Article by Jeannine Chanin-Penn
Photo Credit: Dasha & Mari
Magazine: Issue #30

Artists, Photographers, And The Creative Inspiration Of The Muse

Artists, Photographers, And The Creative Inspiration Of The Muse

If you look up the definition of a Muse you will find:
myo͞oz/noun
(In Greek and Roman mythology) each of nine goddesses, the daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne, who preside over the arts and sciences.
A woman, or a force personified as a woman, who is the source of inspiration for a creative artist.
synonyms: inspiration, creative influence, stimulus; formal afflatus

In more modern times, a muse has evolved to include a variety of individuals that profoundly inspires and influences one’s creative work. Quite typically we think of a muse as an exceptionally beautiful woman like Audrey Hepburn was to Givenchy, the can-can dancer Jane Avril was to artist Toulouse Lautrec or model and heiress Edie Sedgwick was to Andy Warhol. 

Often these are very complex, intimate relationships sometimes resulting in great love, great heartache, or both. With actress Mia Farrow, Woody Allen created a feminine young, innocent and their relationship went from a seemingly strong love to a very complicated mess that ended their relationship personally and professionally. 

Photographer Alfred Stieglitz fell in love with Georgia O’Keeffe’s artwork before falling in love with her. Stieglitz photographed her nude and exhibited the pictures, which caused a sensation. After divorcing his wife and marrying O’Keeffe, the photographer took hundreds more pictures of her.

Though they had their ups and downs, they continued to share their passion for art and each other until Stieglitz’s death in 1946.

And then there are the non-sexual, not classically beautiful women only muses. Martin Scorsese has a unique bond with Robert De Niro a man who he sees as his alter ego. Their collaboration has resulted in numerous award winning movies including “Raging Bull” and “Goodfellas” two of the greatest films of all times. 

Tim Burton and Johnny Depp are another iconic duo in Hollywood whose list of films includes “Edward Scissorhands” and “Alice in Wonderland.” According to Burton, they communicate in a way that "wouldn't really make sense to the normal person." “It’s very nice to have someone that you can have a completely abstract conversation with and leave the room, feel like everything’s fine, and then realize that if you pick it apart, you have absolutely no idea what either of you said.”

The list of muses is endless especially among artists/photographers and their subjects, directors and actors, choreographers and dancers, writers and their characters and fashion designers and their models.

Who is or could be your muse? Is there someone whose style, face, essence inspires you? Could they be your model, your protégé…your constant inspiration? I’d love to hear about them in the comments below.

For now my greatest muse (who is my muse, and doesn’t know it) is my son. Besides being in love with his face, I think the relationship of parent and child is so intense that it is easy to find inspiration in so much of what they do, the expressions they make and in them just being a mirror of ourselves. 

ABOUT ANGEL

Angel Quintana

Angel Quintana is the founder of Holistic Fashionista, an alchemical herbalist and mystery school teacher based in Saint Petersburg, Florida. She's incredibly passionate about the alchemical process known as The Great Work and helping others evolve "the archetypes" found in their inner world, so they can confidently answer the questions: WHO AM I and WHY AM I HERE. Learn more about Angel's work at www.theoccultchateau.com


DISCLAIMER

The information on this website is presented for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the diagnosis, treatment, or advice of a qualified, licensed medical professional. The facts presented are offered as information only, not medical advice, and in no way should anyone infer that we are practicing medicine. Seek the advice of a medical professional for proper application of this material to any specific situation.

3 Marketing Mistakes Made by the Multi-Talented Entrepreneurs

3 MARKETING MISTAKES MADE BY
THE MULTI-TALENTED ENTREPRENEURS

Article by Ling Wong
Photo Credit: Dasha & Mari
Magazine: Issue #30

3 Marketing Mistakes Made By The Multi-Talented Entrepreneurs

3 Marketing Mistakes Made By The Multi-Talented Entrepreneurs

The multi-passionate, multi-talented entrepreneurs often have a creative streak in them that makes stuffing themselves into the “usual” marketing box not only frustrating but also the cause of patchy results.

They face a unique set of challenges, which leads to 3 common mistakes they tend to make in marketing their businesses:

Mistake 1 :: Lack Cohesive Message

For those creative spirits, they are bursting with new ideas all the time. They are always learning and improving themselves, adding new skills and tools to their arsenal. All of these are great – when new ideas, skills, tools and experiences come together, alchemy and magic happens. However, if they don’t have a way to communicate all these with a cohesive message, they often appear like a Jack-of-all-trades. When they lack focus about their expertise and niche, they have a tendency to go on and on and on when talking about what they do for their clients… until their readers/audience/potential clients just glaze over.

Fix it :: Find the golden thread that ties all your conviction, superpowers, passions, talents, experience and skills so you can weave them into ONE cohesive message that is unique to YOU. Side effect – you will stand out and make competition a non-issue.

Mistake 2 :: Failure To Connect

Many clients I work with do really well when they are making connections in person. However, when it comes to written marketing materials, they hit a wall. Their copy and content not only fail to make a meaningful connection with their ideal clients, but also miss the mark in connecting THEM with their life’s work. When they say those “marketing communication” out loud (e.g. an “elevator pitch” kind of thing), they don’t feel connected with the words. The communications do not strike a cord for THEM, resulting in misaligned energy, and lack of excitement that do not serve in attracting ideal clients.

Instead, they constantly worry if they are “saying it right,” putting a break on fully expressing their personality and conviction.

Moreover, they have taken trainings and programs, and sitting on a bunch of templates and checklists that led them to using generic words too superficial to connect with their audience personally and emotionally. They stifled their own voice, trying to sound “right.” They use buzzwords or jargons that are devoid of meaning and make them sound like everyone else. They stuff themselves into the copywriting box because of their fears of not being good enough, of being criticized/judged (which leads to conformity) and that of missing out.

Fix it :: Get personal, get emotional.
Find the words that make YOU tick. Get into the psyche of your ideal clients to understand what they need to know in order to work with you.


Mistake 3 :: A Me-Too Marketing Plan

We take trainings and programs with the good intention to further our businesses. But so often we grab a strategy here and a tactic there, then string them together without considering how they come together holistically and synergistically so they talk to each other and put us in the best light possible. Even worse, we sound like a schizo from one platform to the next. As a result, I see many coaches doing a lot of busywork and chasing bright shiny objects… wasting time, energy and money.

They got themselves into marketing activities that don’t tap into their genius, or executing tactics that don’t resonate with their value. The misaligned energy behind the actions is not attractive to clients, and the fact that they are dragging their feet just sour the whole perception about marketing.

Fix it :: Having a plan is good for business.
Instead of getting caught in the “how it should look like,” consider how your plan is going help YOU cut the busywork and do want truly matters.

ABOUT ANGEL

Angel Quintana

Angel Quintana is the founder of Holistic Fashionista, an alchemical herbalist and mystery school teacher based in Saint Petersburg, Florida. She's incredibly passionate about the alchemical process known as The Great Work and helping others evolve "the archetypes" found in their inner world, so they can confidently answer the questions: WHO AM I and WHY AM I HERE. Learn more about Angel's work at www.theoccultchateau.com


DISCLAIMER

The information on this website is presented for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the diagnosis, treatment, or advice of a qualified, licensed medical professional. The facts presented are offered as information only, not medical advice, and in no way should anyone infer that we are practicing medicine. Seek the advice of a medical professional for proper application of this material to any specific situation.

Entrepreneurship: Bridging the Gap Between Business and Art

ENTREPRENEURSHIP: BRIDGING THE GAP
BETWEEN BUSINESS AND ART

Bridging the Gap Between Business and Art

Bridging the Gap Between Business and Art

Article by Darlene Dunn
Photo Credit: Dasha & Mari
Magazine: Issue #30

I used to think of artists whenever I heard the word ‘muse’; not anymore! I have come to realize a fundamental truth about entrepreneurship- there is the ‘business’ of making money and then there is the ‘art’ of making money. To be truly successful you need both business acumen and a connection with art. So, what inspires you? 

Do you realize that a muse is not necessarily a person?  

 :: When you are designing your logo, your office or just about anything else, you may need some inspiration. Many go to Pinterest for ideas. If you do this, then Pinterest is your muse!

 :: When you want to freshen up or create your website, you may need some inspiration. Many look all over the Internet at other websites to get ideas for their website. If you do this, then the Web is your muse. A big word of CAUTION- do NOT copy someone else’s website or program... they are NOT YOU… your website and programs must reflect who YOU are in order to work and be successful.

 :: Of course, your muse can be a person-- who inspires you? Who ignites your creativity? There is definitely no shortage of amazing entrepreneurs here at Holistic Fashionista!! Any one of these amazing folks could be your next muse.

So, take a minute to reflect on your business and decide where you need to get in touch with the ‘art’ of making money, then take time to find your inspiration; you won’t regret it and neither will your POCKETBOOK!!

ABOUT ANGEL

Angel Quintana

Angel Quintana is the founder of Holistic Fashionista, an alchemical herbalist and mystery school teacher based in Saint Petersburg, Florida. She's incredibly passionate about the alchemical process known as The Great Work and helping others evolve "the archetypes" found in their inner world, so they can confidently answer the questions: WHO AM I and WHY AM I HERE. Learn more about Angel's work at www.theoccultchateau.com


DISCLAIMER

The information on this website is presented for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the diagnosis, treatment, or advice of a qualified, licensed medical professional. The facts presented are offered as information only, not medical advice, and in no way should anyone infer that we are practicing medicine. Seek the advice of a medical professional for proper application of this material to any specific situation.

Unleashing Your Inner Muse: Questions to Enhance Self-Love and Inspiration

UNLEASHING YOUR INNER MUSE:
QUESTIONS TO ENHANCE SELF-LOVE AND INSPIRATION

Article by Michelle Bennington
Photo Credit: Dasha & Mari
Magazine: Issue #30

Unleashing Your Inner Muse

Unleashing Your Inner Muse

"I am my own muse.
I am the subject I know best.
The subject I want to better."

-Frida Kahlo

The journey in search of inspiration is always a deeply personal one. From the face of a stranger, to the soothing sounds of nature, it can truly be uncovered anywhere. While keeping your eyes open to the endless possibilities surrounding you, it is also essential to look within. Have you ever considered that YOU are your greatest work of art? Do you view your life as your ultimate masterpiece? Contemplate the following questions and challenge yourself to unleash your inner muse.

 :: What do you adore about yourself?

Perhaps you love your sense of style, your ability to make people laugh, or the way you can always liven up your own day by dancing! These traits aren’t anything to sweep aside and are exactly what muses are made of. Inspiration is found in the smallest details and it’s imperative not to exclude your own appeal from your attention. Focus often on your gifts and be mindful of everything you have to offer. Certainly there's a physical trait you prefer over the others as well. Do you have your mother's lips, hands that remind you of your best days, or an unbelievable booty!? Take a quick Polaroid and add it to your vision board as a quiet reminder to love yourself daily.

 :: Are you living in alignment with your beliefs?

Whether it be eating for health, conserving energy, never saying "no" to a golden opportunity, creating artwork often, or not supporting other people's negativity-- you have beliefs you’re deeply passionate about. When you ignore these beliefs in your everyday activities you are thrown out of alignment with your true self. Not honoring the sincere callings of your heart discounts your convictions and in return weakens the bond with your inner muse. Be conscious of your daily decisions and ensure they aren't contrasting your core beliefs. You’d be surprised how much this can affect you unknowingly.

 :: Are you being genuine in your interactions?

The quickest way to lose connection with your inner muse is to censor your existence to fit some sort of pr­e existing societal mold. There's no need to put on a mask for others and it doesn’t help anyone to pretend you are someone you aren't. Genuine connections are rich in truth as well as acceptance from both sides and simply cannot be duplicated by falsities. Relationships built with the background of fabrication will by no means enrich your life and honestly aren’t worth a minute of your time. Perhaps by showing your true colors you will lose a few untrue friends but you will gain so much more, and you will surely encounter your inner muse.

 :: How can your personal story inspire growth and change?

Undoubtedly you've endured misfortune and come out stronger on the other side. You've fought some serious hardships and you've WON! It's so easy to overlook your own accomplishments while focusing on what you still want to achieve but take a second to step back and just admire the work of art you’ve already created. Your life is one-of-a-kind and no one else could have done it precisely like you. Consider every lesson you’ve learned and how you can share those lessons to help others overcome similar obstacles. Be willing to view yourself as the hero of your own story and open to allowing others to do the same.

 :: How can you help the world today?!

So much of becoming your own muse is extending yourself into the universe and inspiring others even in the most basic of ways. Think about what the people you know may need and don’t be afraid to reach out if you think you can help. Often the effort alone is enough to brighten someone’s day. Smile at strangers. Pay it forward at the coffee shop. Text an old friend. Ensure no one you pass feels invisible today. In return you'll also feel seen, more alive, and more in touch with your inner muse.

ABOUT ANGEL

Angel Quintana

Angel Quintana is the founder of Holistic Fashionista, an alchemical herbalist and mystery school teacher based in Saint Petersburg, Florida. She's incredibly passionate about the alchemical process known as The Great Work and helping others evolve "the archetypes" found in their inner world, so they can confidently answer the questions: WHO AM I and WHY AM I HERE. Learn more about Angel's work at www.theoccultchateau.com


DISCLAIMER

The information on this website is presented for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the diagnosis, treatment, or advice of a qualified, licensed medical professional. The facts presented are offered as information only, not medical advice, and in no way should anyone infer that we are practicing medicine. Seek the advice of a medical professional for proper application of this material to any specific situation.