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Creativity

Mind KEY / Creativity
how to prepare

PREPARE for winter with The Daily Key

by Cris McCullough PREPARE, the title of this month’s issue, is predicated on the hidden power of expectation/anticipation for an event, and our very human need to retain a modicum of control over the unknown. As we welcome a change of seasons, and the changes that inevitably face us as we move into the future, The Daily Key offers insights on how to prepare for those changes.  Preparing for the ebb and flow of change The seasons are part of a Universal “tide.” We go inward, and then move outward. There is a flow to everything. When humans find their flow within their own life, everyone around them benefits. We harvest what we have planted… be that an idea, a piece of art, money, food, or investments of time,...

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Comic books are educational

Nourishing the next generation of creators: an interview with Wayne Quakenbush

By Sabrina Rabidoux with Cris McCullough Nourishing and inspiring the creators of tomorrow Our student intern this year has been Sabrina Rabidoux, assisting Mind Key with our social media outreach. Sabrina is a student at The Metropolitan Regional Career and Technical Center (The MET), an innovative high school whose mission is to help students discover their interests and passions and support their journey to achieving their goals through mentoring and internships. Sabrina is also a talented graphic artist in her own right, and a prime example that shows how comic books are educational. I thought she might enjoy meeting one of Newport’s long standing icons in the art scene, Wayne Quakenbush, owner of The Annex Comics on Broadway in Newport, RI. My own kids went to the...

Bonsai meditative art

Nourishing nature and Bonsai at the National Arboretum

By: Cris McCullough On a recent trip to our nation’s capital, I discovered a hidden gem among the many museums and attractions of Washington, D.C. The National Bonsai and Penjing Museum at The National Arboretum contains miniature masterpieces of this extraordinary horticultural art. The Chinese art of penjing and the Japanese art of bonsai use woody plants in shallow containers as a medium to portray the natural growth habit of ancient trees in the landscape. These are living sculptures which require continual care, nourishment, and training to maintain their artistic design, and it’s also an example of bonsai meditative art, which can be used for nourishing ourselves. The museum’s collection began in 1976 with a gift of 53 bonsai trees from Japan to commemorate the United States...

practices for digital detox

Need a break from your screen? Try one of these simple practices for digital detox

By: Sierra Vandervort Ever heard of a digital detox? It’s a growingly popular phrase in the modern wellness industry, and simply means you’re in need of a good unplugging from your devices and digital workload. In our constantly digitally-wired world, it’s easy to see the need. In a fast-paced world, finding time to give your brain a break and let your thoughts come and go is more important than ever. If you need a break from your screen, it may be beneficial to try one of these simple practices for digital detox. The effects of our screens According to a 2017 study on the connection between productivity and cell phones, we’re less productive, inspired and creative when we’re in constant data-consumption mode. Even during the transitional moments of...

Edible milkweed for butterflies

Milkweed: A Source of Nourishment for Pollinators, Monarchs, and Humans

By: Karen Talbot, The Wild Gardener Botanical Sanctuary Gardeners and foragers like me have been encouraged to plant milkweed if they have space. Why? Not only is this plant phenomenal for hosting bees and other pollinating insects, but also because it’s the only source of food for the lovely monarch butterflies. And did you know that milkweed is also edible? According to the American Botanical Council (Mader, p.38), Native American tribes have valued this plant for food, medicine, and fiber. There are over 100 plants in this family, the common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) is the one I’m talking about here and it’s indigenous to the eastern U.S. where I live. Edible milkweed for butterflies is not hard to grow at all, and I’ve been doing it...

Social media alternatives

Four social media alternatives for small business owners

by Danielle Rose In a tumultuous digital world, social media fatigue is running high these days. Unfortunately, business owners and small organizations often rely on social media to help their businesses succeed. This isn’t ideal for everyone. On the vast wide web, there are endless options for everything, even social media. Perhaps there are some social media alternatives for businesses as well.  Not everyone can be on social media Social media, be it Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, YouTube, or any of the other dozens of growing open-platform sites, are household terms these days. A 2013 Pew Research report found that 97 percent of organizations have a social media profile. Many of these companies utilize the pages for marketing efforts. Although there were no available statistics on the matter,...

finding inspiration in others

On being a Creative: Finding inspiration in others

By Josephine Belliveau Art, in all of its mediums, is individual in every way. No two people interpret it the same, and no artist creates with the same mind. There is only one thing that all art has in common, and it is that every piece is inspired and inspiring. For me, the most crucial beginning to my creative journey was finding inspiration in others. Psychologist Andrew J. Elliot writes for Harvard Business Review that, “The heights of human motivation spring from the beauty and goodness that precede us and awaken us to better possibilities.”   Art encourages us to see beauty in the mundane or unpleasant aspects of life. Consuming it gives us the power to interpret it into our own context and see that we are not...

Reaching students in the classroom 1

On reaching students in the classroom: Leave them room to bloom

by Darren Cooper Sometimes, reaching students in the classroom seems nearly impossible. Ever wonder why teachers do it? Why they put up with the immaturity, the bureaucracy and the lunacy? It’s for those a-ha moments. That moment of bloom, that moment of joy and excitement when a child, young or old, has their mind opened to a new concept, or a new thought. These teaching tips for new teachers will help bring on those lightbulb moments by offering tips on how to inspire students and how to get students engaged.  “There is nothing like the look in the eyes of a child when you see they are starting to understand what you’re teaching,” said long-time Essex County teacher Chrystine Gaffney. “Those moments don’t happen every day, but...

wedding tips for couples

Love in Bloom: Wedding tips for couples

Christine McCullough, Non-denominational Celebrant With spring wedding season in full bloom, happy couples around the globe are preparing to tie the knot. But for newly engaged couples, planning a wedding can feel a bit daunting. Even after scouring the internet for wedding prep tips, you may wonder how to make your day unique and special. Below, find four wedding tips for couples that will help make your day as unique and precious as your love. Four Wedding Tips for Couples The seed of love is planted in astounding ways. Sometimes through a unique shared hobby , like skydiving. Sometimes it’s a quick glance across the room on girls’, or boys’ night out and you’re instantly entranced. Other times, you may have cultivated that seed since you shared a...

healthy relationship with exercise

Relationship with exercise = relationship with self

by Dana Chapman, The Diet Recovery Coach The word “exercise” is a loaded one that comes with a lot of emotional baggage. This is especially true when exercise is associated purely with weight loss efforts and goals. When you think you "should" exercise, a funny thing happens. You start to dread it, then you are far less likely to actually do it. Which is the opposite result of what you are going for. Today I want to show you another relationship with exercise, and a more freeing way to look at it. Healthy exercise motivation, step-by-step Here's a step-by-step process to get you started on building (or rebuilding) a healthier relationship with exercise, movement and your body…Even if you have had a tumultuous relationship with it for years. If...

spiritual spring cleaning

Three ways to do a spiritual spring cleaning

by Sierra Vandervort If you thought spring cleaning was just for feather-dusting and clearing closets, think again. If you're feeling inspired to shift and change with the fresh energy of spring, you’re not alone. As the days grow longer and warmer, we’re naturally inclined to mimic Mother Earth and lighten our energetic field.  A spiritual spring cleaning could be a nice addition to your usual mid-May purge. Here are three ways a spiritual spring cleaning can help replenish your energy! Replenishing body, mind & soul: Timing is everything Seasonal connection is a practice that dates back thousands of years. Ancient Celts and Anglo-Saxons often marked their calendars with festivals to honor the solstices and equinoxes. In Ayurveda, early spring is Kapha season. Elements of water and earth are...

Next stage of personal growth

BLOOM: The Spring 2022 issue

by The Mind Key Editorial Team Flowers require an incredible amount of energy to bloom, and so does the process of blossoming as humans. Sometimes, when this is literally all we have energy for, other projects must be tabled until the next stage of personal growth is fully entered. In this issue, we will delve into this growth as we tackle topics on health, happiness and success. Blooming in this context could mean being spontaneous and branching into unknown places. In this issue we hope to offer insights for business and career growth, and how to bloom creatively. We share how to grow past health plateaus, and build better relationships with ourself and with others. We’ll also share our favorite suggestions for helping Mamma Earth bloom...

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Murder mystery in Newport RI

Murder, mystery and mayhem in Newport, RI

By Cris McCullough Murder Mystery in Newport, Rhode Island? Newport has been the home of numerous mysteries throughout the decades. A number of books have been written about murders in the extravagant mansions of the 19th and 20th centuries. Some are true accounts, and others fiction, but each story shines in the opulence of historic Newport. Looking to experience your own murder mystery in Newport RI amid a unique theater experience? As we emerge into the season, eager to laugh and become physically engaged with our surroundings, the Marley Bridges Theatre Company offers immersion into a world of mystery and mayhem. Discover how at Beechwood Manor and beyond where spectators are encouraged to take on the role of sleuth. History and imagination collide The Marley Bridges...

mini-guide to storm king art center

A hidden Hudson Valley gem: Storm King Art Center

One of the best ways in the steps to renewing yourself is traveling to a new place. For those not ready to travel, a simple change of scenery may be the key. New York's Hudson Valley is home to a number of unique locations, one of which is New Windsor's Storm King Art Center. This outside/inside exhibit, is part art museum, part nature walk. This unique art experience is a refreshing way to experience artwork. Even those who aren’t huge on art will find something to enjoy. This mini guide to Storm King Art Center This article done by takes you through an average visit of the center, and even gives you directions on how to get there! Your mini guide to Storm King Art Center ​​By...

Imagery with art and words: Building a creative meditation practice

By Kathy Mack, "wholistic" life coach and expressive art therapist Humans are wired for connection and community, but maintaining safety and survival has often meant foregoing these in the past 24 or more months. Given the acute challenges of modern times, many of us have had to make compensations and choices to survive differently during the pandemic. There is a need to renew and reconnect, but how to begin? Building a creative meditation practice is a tool renewal during difficult times. Learn how this simple and creative act can reconnect us with ourselves, our community, and even our inner circle. Creative meditation practice for renewal during difficult times Times of stress, fear, lack of connection, or count-on-able norms and routines that fall away pretty much summarizes our living...

Post-covid reintegration

Hacks for reintegrating into a post-covid world

By Cris McCullough, MA, Holistic Counselor Post-covid reintegration  It’s been a challenging two years! But here we are, gazing into what has been described as, “the new normal.” We all have made sacrifices of one kind or another, and now we are faced with the challenge of reintegrating and finding our personal rhythm that helps us be and stay healthy. There are many ways to find healing that can assist us in embracing the new normal. The Daily Key editorial team asked some of our trusted colleagues from various disciplines the question: “What are your suggestions/tips/hacks to help folks recover, renew, and master the act of post-covid reintegration?” Reintegrating with New York State therapist James M.:  How can isolation affect a person’s well being? For many, at the start of the...

Clean ocean access supports local artists

Artists Supporting Clean Ocean Access opening reception

by Danielle Rose Clean Ocean Access [COA] is opening their office doors for a reception from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm on Thursday, March 31. Instead of business as usual, Clean Ocean Access supports local artists with a full display of artwork. "Creations for the Ocean: Artists Supporting Clean Ocean Access" is centered around various media works inspired by the power of the local environment. The belief is that storytelling in all forms is essential to our sharing and understanding of the natural world. “We look forward to sharing our first artist-focused event around our vision of a clean, healthy ocean that is accessible to all,” according to COA. Attendees will have light refreshments and an opportunity to meet and chat with the artists. The original works will...

labyrinth spring renewal ritual

Celebrate spring with a labyrinth walk

by Cris McCullough, Certified Labyrinth Facilitator Spring equinox is a yearly astrological event which occurs when day and night are of equal length, this year occurring at around noon (EDT) on March 20th. A labyrinth spring renewal ritual is an easy, mindful and simple meditative way to bring intention and hope into the coming season. Traditionally the spring equinox has focused on prosperity and thanksgiving for new growth and new opportunities. After a two year world hiatus due to Covid, I think we could all use a little hope. Walking a labyrinth, alone or with a group, is a beautiful way to affirm a return to the positive in your world. Your personal labyrinth spring renewal ritual  Ritual is a way to keep us mindful, focused and in...

Spring renewal for health and success

RENEWAL Issue of The Daily Key

by The Mind Key Editorial Team Spring is invariably coupled with the idea of this issue’s theme of Renewal. Each spring, harbingers of growth and birth appear across the earth, and ecology grabs our attention. We renew promises to ourselves to stick with the diet, or get out and exercise more or make other improvements in our bodies and our environment as a whole. Our issue’s theme of spring renewal for health and success means it’s never too late to start fresh and make major, or even minor changes in your life. Renewing yourself can be as simple as trying something new or visiting new places; the main idea is to prioritize your well being. These little actions can become bigger steps in growth and renewal...

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Ancient christmas traditions

Light the darkness: Grasp the Common Spirit of Holiday Traditions

By Cris McCullough Ho! Ho! Ho! It is Christmastide, Hunnakah, Dwali, Los Posadas, Kwanzaa… The world over, there are some sort of holiday traditions for hope and celebration of light and generosity, during this festive time of year. We associate the season with so many traditions—decorating a Christmas tree with lights, placing candles in the window, parties and the giving of presents… and ultimately a deep-seated belief in Santa, a jolly old fat man with a bottomless bag of gifts who can fly through the air and visit the entire world in one night! Holiday Miracles! Besides being made famous by Clement Moore’s beloved poem, The Night Before Christmas, these holiday traditions stretch back across time and continents, and ultimately point to an annual astronomical phenomenon,...

journaling to create a holiday memory book

More than just memories: A holiday memory book can heal

by student writer, Josephine Belliveau Creating a holiday memory book can be a great way to commemorate the treasured moments we experience over the holiday season. Most people make scrapbooks that are decorated pages with pictures. However, sometimes pictures don’t do the valuable memories we never want to forget justice. A holiday memory book combines scrapbooking and journaling to bring peace and calm to your holiday traditions. By adding the aspects of daily journaling, you’re turning a scrapbook into a memory book that’s unique to add to your family history. Bringing the holidays alive with stories and anecdotes. You’re recounting these memories with not only pictures but with words.  Creating a holiday memory book tradition Every family has their own traditions and ways to celebrate the holidays, some...

Seasonal tips to thrive this holiday

Thriving through the holidays: Tips for a well-balanced holiday season

by Cris McCullough & the Mind Key Editor Team We have all survived a year filled with challenges and now another challenge looms...

create your best year in 2019

Learn to create the perfect year this January

By Seshat Clairvoyant Happy New Year! 2019 is bringing us so much new energy to learn from. This is the year to learn how to create a more positive life. When we add 2019 it adds up to three. Three years give us the energy to create. In numerology, the number three is all about creation, self-expression, optimism, joy and socializing. Perhaps most importantly, threes represent honing your spiritual practice. This is the time for expansion, illumination and plain old fun. The energies will show us how to create your best year in 2019. We will learn new ways of leading a healthier life—a more spiritual life...

lifelong learning comes in many forms

In this issue: An introduction to Lifelong learner

By Catherine Minto Over the duration of our lives, we come to know what we know through the pursuit of applied academia, or the raw experience of our personal journey through life. We learn through trials, tribulations, and triumphs. Failures teaches us as much, if not more than our successes.  Lifelong learning guides us through the endless undulations of the experience that is life. One of the greatest advantages of living in this age is our ability to access and absorb millions of volumes of information. We can gobble it up and literally run with it in our pockets. Being a lifelong learner is so much more than information, however. It’s a free-spirited journey of the soul to remember that life is short, but that we...

Cannabis' intellectual creativity capacity is being shown in recent research.

Cannabis and Creativity: Using your whole brain

By Marla Funez   Creativity is not just creation, but the ability to see many solutions to a problem. Current research indicates cannabis' capacity to strengthen our intellectual creativity and ability to think freely.   Where is creativity in the brain? A common misconception of creativity is where it comes from. Many people think those who are "left-brained" have a linear thought process and use more logic, while the "right-brained" are creative and more inclined to use their feelings. The assumption is that people who use more of the left hemisphere of their brain are not as creative as people use more of the right hemisphere of their brain. This is a misconception because, as sports psychology writer Christopher Bergland explains in an article for Psychology Today, creativity comes from...

This month’s passion issue has us looking at all sorts of characters. Mallory Harte Underwood talks success.

Story of Success: Mallory Harte Underwood

By Libby Reilly Stories of Success Mallory Harte Underwood talks success as we delve into this month’s theme of passion. One common thing that comes to mind when thinking about passion is someone who has chased a goal or dream, and is now living their passion through their work. Mallory, the powerhouse entrepreneur behind Hartewood Professionals, a unique virtual assistant business, has done this. Mallory and her family of four reside in Phoenix, Arizona and strive to soak up all that life has to offer. Through her previous work with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, meditation and yoga practice, several cross-country moves and now raising two children, there were many instances that lead to her taking the leap into entrepreneurship. In this interview, Mallory shares the scoop on...

Learn how to have a writing career, and in the process, gain that flexibility and freedom you’ve always wanted!

Turn your passion into a career

By Danielle Rose Once upon a time, if you wanted to make a career change, such as taking up teaching or accounting, your options were limited. Getting another degree was your only recourse—something that cost significant time and money. How often have you said, “I wish that were my job,” or “I’d love to make money doing that”?  What held you back? Experience? Reputation (or lack thereof)? No time or money to undergo training? What if you could make a career or thriving side-business out of things you already know you love? What if you could become an expert in your chosen field? And, what if you could do all this without sacrificing too much time or extra cash? The answer is incorporating a professional writing...

What do you (still) want to be when you grow up? Childhood interests lead to adult purpose

Focusing on your childhood passions could unveil your future career

By Libby Reilly Childhood interests; grown-up focus It might surprise you to note that your childhood interests could be the key to your future purpose. Think about it. Who were you in second grade? Eight-year-old Libby carried a Lion King backpack, learned how to do a French braid all by herself, and discovered that “stage fright” was not in her vocabulary as she shimmied and pirouetted across stages for dance recitals and local plays. At eight years old, Libby also loved making up songs, rhyming words, and she soared through vocabulary tests like a champ. But how do these childhood interests help you find your purpose and focus? This article from Business Insider says that if you are wondering what you should be doing with your life and career,...

inward focus is key; outward focus is the door

Learning to focus on that which best serves

New life and reflection Spring is a beautiful time of growth, inward focus, new life and reflection. There’s a reason we often participate in spring cleaning—the harsh winter is behind us. With the sun and sprouting life comes the desire for a fresh, clean start. With this new start, we allow ourselves the optimum opportunity and setting to enjoy the welcomed season. Spring also allows us to reflect on so many areas of our life. If we are wise, we can use this time to look inward and do a self-spring clean. We can rid ourselves of the habits, attitudes and relationships that are as harsh or unwelcome as the desolation of winter. By turning our focus to the important and beautiful things in life, we...

Pitfalls of bloggers and rock stars

On a summer trip back in 2015, Mind Key affiliate and writer, copywriter, and coach, Marisa Goudy, learned some life lessons applicable to many creative entrepreneurs and their artistic ego. Through the lens of U2’s song, "Songs of Innocence," Marisa found there are many pitfalls that can be found among creative types and entrepreneurs across the globe. By Marisa Goudy You know the songs that matter. They have a way of illuminating your past. At the same time, they shed new light on your present and make you look forward to a brighter future. (Articles and blog posts can do this too, of course.) If “Songs of Innocence” appeared on your iTunes as a free download back in 2014, you likely recall the backlash. No one even had time...

Defining personality, building healthy ego

Who are you? A look at Ego and Personality Development

by Danielle Rose and Libby Reilly Defining personality and how your ego forms can be a confusing task. This is because, at its heart, personality is who you are. What you are is a daughter, a son, a grandma, a teacher, a friend, a fill-in-the-blank. But who you are is the base of your being. Strip away all the labels and the emotions. Strip away anything but a given situation and how you react to it—that is your personality. Why are we talking about personality types in an issue on ego?  Because our personality is part of what shapes our ego, and how we perceive and interact with the world. How do you interact with the world? How can a better understanding of who you are...

ultrablue, a story of success by Eric Bunk

Music Knows No Timeframe: Meet Eric Bunk

PROFILE OF SUCCESS Each month, Mind Key shares the story of one person who is successfully striving for, or has achieved, the life they were meant to live. We love sharing stories of adventure, life lessons and people who took life by the horns and forged ahead. We're excited to introduce you to Eric Bunk, a musician from West Milford, NJ who recently raised his vibration and released a meaningful song he wrote more than 20 years ago, making Ultrablue, a story of success. Tell us about what you're doing and your life path. My life path is really just to try to get the most out of life. Music helps me express some of the energy I have stored up over time.  I work a regular job,...

Music is more than a pastime: it’s medicinal

by J.T. Nash, a Fall 2016 graduate of William Paterson University, NJ In a modern society, consumed by psychiatric appointments and psychoactive medications, it is essential to realize that a mere choice of song can provide a sufficient therapeutic effect to remedy some of our psychological afflictions. Music: The vibration of humanity Parents traditionally play classical music for their children to absorb while sleeping--music is a vital element of humanity, serving as a catalyst for our behavior. Due to the profound, impassioned influence that symphonic stimulation supplies, most cultures of the world use music to improve moods, deliver focus, or lull a person into a meditative state. "Music lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity," musical icon Moby states in an interview with Thought Economics. In...

Professionals can help you find a sustainable job by pursuing your passion

How to earn money pursuing your passion

By Tamara Rokicki The traditional nine-to-five job is no longer the only way to earn money.  We live in a time when traditional living is becoming less applicable. Today, having a sustainable job means making a living doing what you love.  People everywhere are discovering that living a full and satisfying life includes doing things that make them happy—hobbies and passions that make them feel alive and well rounded. Many bloggers, Etsy shop owners, and YouTubers own their passions by creating their own little business empire. The Mind Key Project was founded on the belief that everyone is not only entitled to financial freedom through the pursuit of his or her dreams. We also believe that by denying our talents, passions and dreams, we sell ourselves short...

Overcoming vulnerability through art and finding your happiness

Creativity: The Art of Happy

By Amanda Hollenbeck Vulnerability is not a feeling people tend to view positively. Typically, vulnerability is related to the pain after a heartbreak, the tears after a death, or to the shame after a failure. Overcoming vulnerability tends to become a focus on the end result, rather than the journey. However, it’s impossible to find happiness without being vulnerable enough to take chances to create that happiness.   The consequences of numbing vulnerability In her 2012 TEDx talk in Houston, Brene Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work, states that people attempt to numb vulnerability because it has been largely tied to this idea of pain, of being in debt, of having obesity, of being addicted, or of being heavily medicated. Completely omitting...

Renew your talents by understanding your past lives

Renew Your Innate Talents Through Understanding Past Lives

By Carlie Currier In January, we featured an article about past life hypnosis. Some believe that individuals who have recalled past life memories have somehow tapped into a higher consciousness—one that can often lead to the development of new talents and creative abilities. Creativity can also help us in understanding past lives. In a 2014 study reviewed by the American Psychological Association found that those who reported having past life memories scored significantly higher on a variety of creativity measures. No matter how we use our creativity to achieve a flow state, we can all reach a similar realm of creation to draw inspiration and open up our minds to new concepts.   Channeling creativity and the transcendent Kerstin Zettmar, professional artist and holistic healer, has witnessed...

flowers

March’s issue: Renewal, a recipe for achievement and growth

Renewal marks a change in our lives. It means to start anew, freshen up lifestyles, ideals, ways of thinking and even our relationships. Sometimes we can become stuck in broken connections or repeating patterns. Renewal becomes an opportunity to shed the skin of old and to become the person you were meant to be. There’s no better time to do this than when the earth is doing the same. In spring, we revel in the scent of fresh air, the sound of birds singing and the wonder of nature being reborn. After the hibernation of winter, spring is (excuse the pun) a breath of fresh air. It’s easy to allow the new energy to envelop us and take us with it.  And why shouldn't we allow it?  We...

gutless and grateful

Self-discovery as a pathway to your dreams: the story behind “Gutless and Grateful”

February's issue is relationships. There is no better way to start than to share the story of how one amazing woman who lost everything to achieve true self-discovery. In doing so, she caught her dream in a way that could have never happened otherwise. By Amy Oestreicher I grew up doing musical theatre. Let me rephrase that. I grew up thinking my life was a musical. Call it the “theatre bug,” call me a “drama queen” or a great big ham--I lived for the world of the stage. Singing and acting were ways I could connect with the world around me. When I took a deep, grounded breath from my gut, I sang what my heart longed to express. I found comfort in the words of my favorite composers. Through theatre, I...

Amy Oestricher's one-woman-show "Gutless and Grateful"

Time is running out to see a great show!

Time is running out to see Amy Oestreicher’s one-woman-show “Gutless & Grateful,” a moving story of triumph over one of life’s most incredible detours. As writer, director and starring actress, Amy is a creative visionary who wears many hats.  She is a speaker, survivor, columnist, and author of "My Beautiful Detour," available December, 2017. She was also featured on the Today Show with Kathie Lee Gifford, and '16 TEDx Talk. (Be sure to check out her next TEDx on Feb. 17th).   About the show [caption id="attachment_5373" align="alignleft" width="258"] Amy Oestreicher[/caption] “Gutless & Grateful” is an inspirational musical comedy which documents Amy’s experiences of over 25 surgeries, and six years without food. Amy knew she needed to stop waiting for life to catch up to her, so she decided to...

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Don’t be a zombie–Improve email productivity

I am a total email zombie. There's no doubt that my email productivity sucks. I spend more time in my email than any other app.  I constantly flip back and forth from my inbox while working.  I'm the one refreshing my email while waiting in line, running out the door, at the bus stop...

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Image by The Spiritual Indian

Using a Journal – Making the most of your time

By Rebecca Pall [caption id="attachment_5333" align="aligncenter" width="630"] Ferris Beuller's Day off , the iconic film of looking around and smelling the roses[/caption] “Life moves pretty fast.  If you don’t stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it.”   This quote from the 1986 movie, Ferris Beuller’s Day Off, rings true in today’s day and age more than ever.  People have so much going on in their lives that it’s sometimes hard to sit down and really appreciate the time or good experiences that we have in life.   One of the best ways to keep track of memories is through a journal.  It doesn’t have to be a long entry but, having a journal to keep track of the specifics of a couple special memories, can...

Social Media Posting: Timing Strategies Uncovered

Do you feel like you’re always posting on social media, but no one sees your content?  Are you confused about the best time to post? As part of our work bringing you great online communication maintenance services, the Mind Key team is always seeking to unlock the keys to understanding the landscape of online marketing. As we learn from our affiliates, we strive to share their knowledge, and their services with you.  Lori Ramas of Lion LinQ is incredibly savvy when it comes to social media and networking, and has agreed to share some tips on how to best time your social media posts.  Learn more about her at LionLinQ.com, or by contacting team@lionlinq.com to set up a consult to better understand how to make...

creativity

Tips on finding time to be creative from Marie

In our hectic world, it can be difficult to find creative time. Many artists and other creatives have explained that their ideas come to them suddenly, often fueled by strong emotion or intuition. Wendy Watson-Hallowell, the Belief Coach, explains, “When I become inspired, I work hard to clear time in my immediate schedule to write since I know that the urge dissipates when I don't follow it. Sometimes the creative push becomes so strong that I just have to stop and create, or it gets really uncomfortable. When I am not in that creative flow, sitting down to just 'create' because I said I would, isn't very helpful. I find the lack of structure brings out the best in what I have to offer.” So how...

The helpfulness of lists in prioritization of goals

In an article for Psychology Today, Carrie Barron, MD, author of “The Creativity Cure: How to Build Happiness With Your Own Two Hands” writes that lists are a way to “coalesce and conquer” the plethora of choices in today’s culture.  She adds that lists benefit productivity as well as creativity by working through questions and confusions, to prioritize and streamline, to determine direction, create action and to organize to minimize inner chaos. [caption id="attachment_5222" align="alignright" width="300"] Lists can help you organize your thoughts[/caption] Ultimately, lists are a way to better understand ourselves and the work that we’re doing. They help us create action plans, organize our thoughts and ultimately, drive us toward our goals. I had the benefit of spending some time with the Belief Coach, Wendy Watson-Hallowell...

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Plan to acheive your dreams this year

Below is an insightful post written for Mind Key last year by Tara Ann Lesko.  Even though the post talks about 2015, this New Year is no different (and DragonTree is offering a new version for 2017).  While many people use the New Year to create resolutions, we prefer to create goals and to make plans.  Just changing the terms we use make our thoughts more concrete.  Use your time wisely this new year and check this planner out! *************************** 2015 went by in a blur, as years often do when you are 30 or 40 plus. We are all familiar with the clichéd New Year's resolutions made in late December while we're entwined in tinsel and credit card debt. You know the type; lose weight, save...

January’s Issue: Time – How do you view it?

[caption id="attachment_5204" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Time is a clock in the sand begging to be overlooked - It's only a "thing" if we make it one.[/caption] We depend on time for everything. We are so conditioned to run on or by it, that there's a sense of jealousy or confusion for those who don't know or care. But what is time? We as a society measure it in linear terms. We adhere to this linear definition so tightly that we find it difficult to even be open to a different interpretation. How do we find the time to do all that we hope? Can we manifest more, or bend it? What does it mean to "spend our time wisely” and why is it so important to "stop to...

Elisabeth Ladwig on Science, Nature and Magic

Elisabeth Ladwig works in the medium of conceptual photography, or a photographic artist. Her artwork, often mistaken for paintings, are created from original photographs. Elisabeth began [caption id="attachment_4959" align="alignright" width="200"] When Life Hands you Lemons[/caption] as a graphic designer then later merged her career with her interest in collage art. The subject matter is a manifestation of her interpretations of the world through both observation and study. “Since childhood, I have pretty much synonymized science, nature, and magic,” Elisabeth said. “But what I noticed early on is that, out in society, all the mystery seems to get stripped away once we've found a hard algorithm for something. This always made me sad. I want to view the world with fascination and wonder, so my hope is that my art...

Great American Novel Package–Meet the editors

Yesterday's Great American Novel Package post talked about the services the package can provide.  Today, we want to tell you about all of the resources we have to support your journey. [caption id="attachment_4946" align="alignnone" width="154"] Danielle Rose, story editor and novel coach[/caption] Danielle is a long-time author and journalist.  She has edited several large-scale, and many small-scale publications, and has completely compiled the Mind Key Anthologies of art and writing (www.mindkey.me/anthology).  She has the experience and dedication needed to provide feedback for nonfiction work, as well as a passion for characters, and for weaving stories that reflect current social and philosophical issues. She will focus on not only your story, but your sentence structure, your organization and chronology, as well as the emotional aspect of your characters,...

Great American Novel Package

Are you a writer who has written a book? A series of published or publishable essays?  Maybe you have just finished yet another year of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) this November.   In today’s day and age, a book is not a project to be completed alone.  Long gone are the days when a finished, or partly finished, book could be sent to an editor or an agent. Today, the publishing industry has become more discerning. Whether in the realm of fiction or nonfiction, the industry expects a clean, well-thought out, deeply woven manuscript with marketing potential, and an author driven to make sales. Those who choose to self-publish are not exempt from these rules. Before any manuscript can be given consideration for publication it must...

Mind Key Etsy store NOW OPEN!!

It’s with much excitement that I’m proud to announce the newest addition to Mind Key. We now have our own Etsy store! Mind Key Etsy was created to offer our artists the ability to showcase and sell their work. Also, it provides our community and readers (you!) handmade, quality crafted products made with the intention to inspire, sustain, and encourage you to be your happiest, healthiest self. Our store offers a variety of different items guaranteed to raise your vibration. First, it offers several collage-inspired pendants with some inspirational words and phrases. For example, here is the “Let Go collage pendant”.This one of a kind, handmade item is priced at complete with an intricate flower, butterfly, and old postcard design ($20.00)If you’re interested in this style, be...

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November in a Nutshell

By Carlie Currie In honor of Mind Key’s third anthology, Tempest: Life Upturned, the theme of November has focused on riding out the storms of our lives that can brew during this season. Although this time of year is often seen as a preparation for the happiness of holidays, it can often bring about stress and turbulence. However, sometimes a sense of misdirection can lead us to learning more about ourselves and can be an opportunity for growth. The first theme of this month was mental health awareness. In Tamara’s article, “Art Therapy to Treat Mental Illness” art therapy is used as a creative outlet to cope with mental illness and stress. In addition, her article “How Mental Illness Affects Family Dynamics,” discusses the impact of...

Harvesting Weeds For Fall Health

I never used to like autumn.  I’ve always been more of a spring girl. Watching the world come alive, and singing with the energy of the earth… I’m in my glory! Lately though, I’m learning how beneficial reaping the harvest can be, both physically and spiritually.  Whether I’m watching the October rains turn our August-faded lawns green again, walking a mountain path, or sitting on the beach in my hoodie, debating a swim, there’s so much life waiting for us to share in the bounty and I’m learning to sit quietly and reflect in the cooling days and appreciate all I’ve done in the warmer seasons so that I can reap their benefit all winter long. What grows is often what we need, so I’d like...

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Aquidneck Food Challenge

Aquidneck Food Challenge Posted by Charla Dury on 10:00 AM in Aquidneck food challenge challenge eat local energy connection energy of food event old patterns new habits snapshot | Comments : 0 Rhode Island's Aquidneck Community Table launches their first ever eat local challenge this week, and whether you live on the island or across the country, shfting your food perspective to "eat like a local" opens up new patterns and new ways to connect to the energy of our bodies and our environment. There's no better time than now--when local food is at its most abundant--to try your hand at a more-local diet.  If you're looking for help eating locally in your area, please contact us at info@192.145.233.101 and we'll help you find your local resources. Sign up to take the Aquidneck Food Challenge! September 1-10, 2016 Friends, We've been hearing a lot of questions...

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Controlled Environment Agriculture At Spring Box Farms

As we talk about the annual harvest within environment week, we don't want to forget or discount farms that use Controlled Environment Agriculture who harvest all year long.  Many farms use this technique to monitor both the quality and organic content of the food that they produce.  Check out the local offerings at Clements' Marketplace. ...

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Halloween As A Harvest Tradition

Halloween is the ultimate harvest tradition--one that touches upon many cultures and traditions.  But where do our Halloween traditions come from?  Did the holiday ever have spiritual connotations?  Does it still? Whether trick or treating, carving jack o' lanterns or bobbing for apples, Halloween, like many holidays, comes with its own set of traditions. Learning the roots of these traditions can allow for a better understanding of self, and a stronger connection to a holiday that ranks as one of the best loved. Photo courtesy of North Jersey Media Group   Samhain, which occurs on the same date as Halloween, was an ancient celebration centered around the last harvest of the year. The day marked the beginning of winter, a time associated with death. On this night, the...

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Kicking Off NanoWrimo Season

Connecting with other like minded people is imperative in finding inspiration.  November marks the annual writing challenge, NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), which provides inspiration and resources for to writers to complete fifty thousand words in thirty days. Although NaNoWriMo is revered by aspiring authors across the globe, the raw and freeing act of writing--unedited--is not reserved for novelists alone. October helps us gear up for this event. The harvest season is when we pull together our resources and reflect, and there is no better time to ready ourselves for a writing challenge. Whether it’s by preparing a story outline or gathering ideas on how to gain more writing time, October comes at the perfect time. Mind Key member Tamara Rokicki shares her tips on how to prepare for...

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Why Child-Driven Learning Works

Imagine a school where children choose their own lessons, and are motivated and enthusiastic to learn. Sounds like a parent’s fantastical utopia, doesn’t it? Sugata Mitra, founder of the Hole-in-the-Wall experiment and Minimally Invasive Education, doesn’t think so.  He discovered that through the use of learning centers, children were able to learn and thrive on their own, without the input of teachers. Many untraditional schools such as some Montessori and Waldorf schools utilize this concept of child-driven learning, as do many homeschooling families.  Child-driven education is also the defining characteristic of unschooling. Photo Credit: Shelby Sheene Shelby Sheene, mother of three unschooled children in Tampa Bay, Florida, says, “Unschooling is a method that embraces the idea that children want to learn. It is basically learning through life and...

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Bring In New Energy For The Spring Now

The practice of planting spring-flowering bulbs is a lesson in patience.  Selecting little brown lumps to place in your garden and then patiently waiting, sometimes forgetting about them throughout the winter, until they can bloom come spring. Jodie Bross of Glenwild Garden Center in Bloomingdale, NJ says: "The idea of the bulb is so nice: patience and being kind to yourself, giving yourself that downtime. It's OK to draw in and not be out there all the time, beautiful. Bulbs are also a good lesson to slow down and let things happen at their own pace." As Jodie so eloquently states, we there is opportunity to learn from nature, and sometimes those lessons are best learned by getting your hands in the soil experiencing nature's wisdom first-hand. The good news is,...

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