Diva Maverick Mavens

37 Must Live For Rip Roaring Cracklin Adventures

1. Halo Sky diving in the South--America

2. Paragliding in Kamshet, India    

3. Volcano expedition in Java, Indonesia

4. The Big Island Volcano Tour, Hawaii

5. Super Fierce Safari in Kenya, Africa

6. Mountain climbing in Antarctica 

7. Visiting Outer Space aboard a tourism ship

8. Climb Kilimanjaro

9. Zip lining in the Jungles of Peru

10. Following a film crew to the darkest regions of Mount Arak in search of Noah Arc

11. Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

12. Going on a Gorilla expedition in Rwanda

13. Surfing in a volcano voyage

14. Spending a night in Great Pyramid

15. Horse Racing in Tibet

16. Biking in the outback of Australia

17. Multi-continent multi-sport race around the globe

18. Nature hiking through Patagonia

19. Taking a private tour through the burial chambers Pyramids of Giza at midnight   

20. Taking a Count Drakula tour in the heart of Transylvania

21. Shark diving in South Africa's Cape Point

22. Mountain climbing in Nepal's Mount Annapurna

23. Trekking the Himmalayas

24. Skiing the Alps in France

25. White water rafting with crocodiles in Zamebzi

26. Biking the El Camino aka "Death Road"

27. Running with the Bulls in Pamplona

28. Driving a Race car through Germany's Neurburgring race course

29. Baja 1000 racecar track

30. Ice Climbing in Hinterrhein

31. Yatch racing from Brazil to France --Mini Transat

32. Go trekking down the Amazon

33. Drive the Great Ocean Road in Australia

34. Learn bull riding in the Wild West--America

35. Walk the Sydney Harbor Bridge in Australia

36. Take a rainforrest tour in South America

37. Sea Kayaking off the coast of Antarctica

 

 

 

Opening Your Heart to the Mysteries of Travel

It was a warm spring day and the smell of a freshly cut lawn permeated. As I was gazing down from the terraces of Sacre Coeur at what is the spectacle of Paris beneath me and Sacre Coeur above me, my senses tingled with expectancy, but I didn't know what I was expecting... until a procession of Nuns and a priest appeared from the Convent a chorus of angels entering Sacre Coeur like sunshine passing through a veil of the Holy of Holies. They were carrying burning incense; these pilgrims draped in the austerity of their black habits against the canvas of bohemia; they looked as if they were from another time--one that was far more refined and orderly than modernity would allow. The singing was intimate, secret the kind of hushed murmings that one would hear when speaking about the mysteries of life and ancient riddles...

Why Travel?

Traveling is like opening your lips and taking a deep breath and then exhaling the breath out slowly. The day-to-day grind of living can feel like walking through life waiting to exhale. You hold your breath because you fear being judged. You hold your breath because you don't want to hear what someone wants to say. You hold your breath because you believe if you do this or that it will make someone care about you. You hold your breath because you don't want to be alone. You hold your breath because you don't want to rock-the-boat. You hold your breath because your too scared to face your fears...and the list goes on and on.  

Can You Break Negative Patterns?

The best way to break a pattern is to do something different. I like to take this statement one step further. Why "not" crush your destructive patterns through travel and adventure. When you are traveling and stepping out of the norm, you will find what you are truly made of. Take an adventure and test yourself, test your soul, test your spirit. Bring the child who wasn't afraid of life--back to life. Open your heart to all the childhood dreams and passions you felt you had a right to just because you could perceive them. Everyday is an opportunity to explore the depths of who you are. It is written that we know ourselves best through trials. While I am not one of those spiritualist who will tell you that I love going through trials; in fact, I will happily relinquish that territory to Oprah, I will tell you that you are stronger and far more capable of surviving and flourishing than you, or others, have ever been given you credit for.

Moral of the Story...

Be an Indiana Jones and explore your world not with the feable eye of a naysayer but with the virility of an adventurer, the soul of a poet and the passion of a Puccini aria--Turandot, servant girl Liu. In the opera Turandot, Liu dies because she loves Prince Timor and the scene is heart-breaking. I'm  suggesting that you be willing to "LIVE" for your dreams as passionately as Liu martyred her life so that her prince may live. If you need a little inspiration, then listen to Renee Fleming singing this powerful aria "Tu che di gel sei cinta" Aria of Liu, from Turandot, Puccini.
    

Angelia Miller, Professional Speaker and Founder of Diva Maverick Mavens and the Adrenaline Living Talk Show...A MeTaphor for Life!

"I am a trailblazer and purveyor of “ALL Things” culturally significant, aesthetically pleasing, and conversationally thrilling. I discover adventurous people, places and things and present their encapsulated stories through words and media."

   

 

Goals are the GPS of Dreams

I love finding inspiring people who succeed in spite of their handicaps, trials or tribulations and this is true of Caroline Casey who is legally blind. If Caroline can stand up in front of the Ted crowd (notoriously intellectual) and make a speech and get a standing ovation then what might be possible for those who have forgotten their dreams.

"When you are on fire with purpose and really know that no obstacle can ever stand in your way then anything can be negotiated in pursuit of your passion." Angelia Miller  

The most important factor for success is support

Many successful people talk about how a parent, guardian or friend was instrumental in their success. These gallant knights appear like righteous flaming swords directing heroes to a laudable future of fame and good fortune. Unfortunately for the dreamer it isn't long before Dream killers appear taking the form of family, acquaintances, friends, colleagues and bosses to "pooh-pooh" their dreams. In the beginning, children are endowed with the capacity to dream big. Children never thinks twice about telling anyone they meet they will grow up to be an astronaut, car racer, fashion designer, actor, singer, artist, opera singer and explorer. But as they age, those very eager dream killers converge on them and criticize each and every idea, hope and vision they have for the future; dreams slowly die under the microcosm of criticism. In time, these wonderful Technicolor dreams become nothing more than the delusions of the overly furtive imagination of a child. Words such as settle down and be realistic are thoughtfully placed in the way of the dreamer and their paths to success are occluded. Later in years, these beautiful minds suffer from depression that stems from living in disharmony with their purpose and their authenticity.

Recapturing the childlike mind of dreams

To get through writer's block, writers are told to set a timer for 15 to 20 minutes and write without editing themselves. Once you have a list of things that interest you from doing the above exercise; do them. Invite others (not just family) to join you in liberating your dreams. I love this saying, "It takes a village to raise a child." Well, it takes a village to bring your dreams to fruition as well. The bigger the dream the more people will have to become involved. Don't be afraid to allow people in; just as it is your purpose to live your dream it is their purpose to assist you in living yours. Assisting others in living their dreams often has the effect of liberating the mind of the helper. The midwives to dreamers have the advantage of witnessing the birth of a new life that is infused with renewed joie de vivre. You deserve the best in life and you deserve to have your dreams fulfilled as well. To paraphrase Barbara Cher, "Not all of your dreams have to make you money. It's great if they do but if they don't do them anyway..."  

Goals are the GPS of dreams." Angelia Miller

Maps are for Dreamers. One of the top ten gifts that people were buying for themselves this past Christmas was a GPS or global positioning system which receives its information from a global navigation satellite orbiting our planet. The function of a GPS is to get the purchaser from point A to point B in minimal time and with minimal frustration. A GPS will take the dreamer from their point A to point B faster than the traditional hunt and peck method that ninety-five to ninety-seven percent of the population uses today. Is it any wonder that so many people are frustrated with the progress they have made in their lives.

Turn your timer on for another 10 to 15 minutes and write about the kinds of outcomes you would like to have from your dream. Once you know what you want and the outcome you want to achieve. It's time to turn-on your GPS by asking yourself a few key questions such as:

What is my goal?

When do I want to achieve this goal by?

Who can assist me with my goal? Accountability?

What is my plan when all else fails?

What will I do when I procrastinate to get back on track?

What specific reward will I give myself for making progress? And how often?

What will be the consequences for not making progress on my goals?

What will be the specific actionable steps I take? Weekly? Monthly? Yearly,etc?

  

"Goals are dreams with a deadline." Napolean Hill

 

Angelia Miller, Founder of Diva Maverick Mavens and Adrenaline Living Talk Show...A MeTaphor for Life!...  I am a trailblazer and scout of “ALL Things” culturally significant, aesthetically pleasing, and conversationally thrilling. I hunt these adventurous people, places and things and present their capsulated stories via video and text. 

 

 

The Maverick Fire for Success and the Tango

The profile of a Maverick's nature is like a Tango dancer. Each characteristic of a maverick is showcased in intricate detail through the movement of the dancers. 

A maverick is: magnificent, adventurous, victory, excellent, ready, intent, candid, kick-in the-pants mentality. Let's look at each of the characteristics as it pertains to the fiery dance of the Tango. 

A maverick is magnificent. The Tango is passionate and magnificent. Each dancer must be completely emerced in the art of dancing in order to reach the goal of being the best in the world. Magnificients takes time, practice and passion. Magnificence is achieved through hours of practice and dedication.

A maverick is adventurous and no one knows better than a Tango dancer that you must be adventurous to be the best. The Tango dancer is adventurous rather like a crouching panther low and foreboding. Study the Tango and you discover that the best dancers have the element of adventure and danger. There is nothing ordinary about a great dancer; they understands how to take complex patterns and spin them into the gold of the Tango.

A maverick is always focused on victory like a professional Tango dancer. It take thousands of hours to become proficient in the diverse movements of the Tango and thousands more to become a champion. Being a winner, is a process of dedication and takes real commitment. Tango dancers make many sacrifices to be at the top of their fields; they could be spending time with their families; they could be socializing with their friends and etc but they choose to put in long hours to become the world's best Tango dancer. A dancer is dedicated to their craft

A maverick is excellent. Becoming proficient, is reward enough for a true Tango dancer. As you watch the movement of the dancers, you will see how instinctual and kinesthetic a Tango dancer has to be to conquer the diverse skill-set necessary to become a winner.  Dancers learn to trust their partners through the bond of having a common goal.

A maverick is always ready for whatever opportunity may come just as a Tango dancer is prepared through a daily regimented practice of their art-form. I am reminded of something Oprah once said, "Luck is when preparation meets opportunity."

A maverick is intentional. Goals are important and statistically speaking only three percent of people actually make their goals because so few of these people actually write their goals down. Tango dancers and artists of all kinds get to the tops of their fields because their intent is to win.  

A maverick is candid and they possess a kick-in-the-pants mentality. Watch a dancer as they rehearse and you will find that these people aren't your typical person. They are tireless and dedicated to making their dreams a reality. They will do whatever they have to live their dreams. A Tango dancer will do whatever it takes to be at the top of their fields; they will get coaching to improve their overall presentation or paying top dollar for wardrobe and makeup to present a polished image to the judges. A professional Tango dancer is candid about winning and they want to do what it takes to be a winner everyday and not just during the weekday! 

Angelia Miller, founder of Diva Maverick Mavens, found of the Adrenaline Living Talk Show ...A MeTaphor for life!...I am a trailblazer and scout of “ALL Things” culturally significant, aesthetically pleasing, and conversationally thrilling. I hunt these adventurous people, places and things and present their capsulated stories via video and text.

 

 

Lady Gagas Egg and Maverick Style Success

Described as a fame monster, Lady Gaga is an endless supply of eccentric couture looks and outrageous publicity stunts. No matter what your opinion of Gaga is you have to admit she has the Madonna touch in getting the attention of the media. Obviously fame seems to be attracted to those who have the business moxy and creativity to continously keep the public on the edge of their seats. While I'm not a fan of Gaga, I'm interested in people's stories so here are some facts about Gaga beyond the hype and yadda yadda.

Facts about Gaga taken from her website:

Gaga learned music by ear by the age of four.

At thirteen, she had written her first piano ballad

At fourteen, she had played open mic nights at clubs in New York  

Age twenty, signed with record label to write songs for other artist

Polaroid creative director

Let's use a E.G.G. formula to explain Gaga's success:

The word that's most associated with people of any success is excellence and I don't mean whether or not you like her music. What I mean is does Gaga work hard for her music and artistry. I believe the answer is yes. Nothing is ever half actualized with Gaga she believes in pursuing her vision. If we only had the maverick mentality to pursue our dreams the way so many of the pop stars today have, what might happen for us. Let's take the egg stunt at the Grammy's for one. I don't think there has been anyone I can think of who has appeared in a giant Taradactal egg carried by what looks like the left -overs of some modeling agency. When, I think back on the early days of cinema when this or that silent actress was swathed in leopard print and draped over a real lion for picture stills; those women were mavericks. I wonder what they would think about Gaga. Who else could pull off a stunt of this magnitude? Don't get me wrong at times I get fed up with all the la la publicity stunts too but...who gets the publicity... those who aren't afraid to be bold and excellent.

Let's talk about the G's is E.G.G. The first "G" is for glamor.

Everyone loves to look at beauty or someone who at least is expressing themselves on a larger than life scale. Recently, Gaga was named the creative director for Polaroid a title she received for being a song writer and performer who knows how to brand herself. Speaking of branding, Gaga loves to wear haute couture fashion because it is over the top and just as eccentric as the image Gaga would like to project for herself. Gaga likes to push the envelop like Madonna sometimes getting slammed for it and sometimes getting accolades for her stunts.

Note: When going big game hunting don't carry a slingshot.

The second "G" is E.G.G. is for generosity. If your going to be a big anything, you've got to be willing to give. 

While I was researching Gaga, I noticed that most of the time Gaga's face is covered with a hat or some larger than life eyeglasses which is consistent with performers who are HSP or highly sensitive people. At times, it's almost painful to watch these people give interviews. While these people are no passive shreaking fawns, they tend to be both private and frank which can be confusing for people in close proximity to them. It's just their nature to be fiery and passion and bold. The point is if people who seemingly don't like cameras in their faces 24/7 can do something against their nature to pursue their passion then why can't YOU. The first words out of the mouths of HSP is about the passion for their art or business and not about the publicity. The publicity is a way to a means and not the other way around for them. Gaga has a creative team that she works with to create the vision she sees for her shows and persona. During the Polaroid interview, she openly acknowledged them for their work.

During her youth, Gaga had attended a private girls school the Convent for the Sacred Heart that Paris Hilton attended too. While in attendance, here website states she was teased for dressing differently by her peers. suspect. Gaga likes to make her music and concerts accessible to everyone who is considered odd or different.  

Mega-successful people share unwavering passion for what they do, a maverick mentality to see their vision through to completion and the drive to continue doing what they love long after the applause has ended...

Angelia Miller, Founder of Diva Maverick Mavens and Host and Founder of The Adrenaline Living Talk Show...A MeTaphor for Life!

 

 

Merry Christmas White House Decorations

Once again it's Christmas at the house and I love these little clips. I think all Christmas trees should be delivered in likewise manner to everyone home.

Happy Holidays for Diva Maverick Mavens,

Angelia

 

Four Thoughts on Dealing with Grief

Staying on track with your career and goals after a personal loss can be difficult. Allowing ourselves the luxury of dealing with the loss of someone in our own time can feel overwhelming. I have four thoughts on dealing with grief and pushing forward with your goals.

The first thought is that when you are grieving there is no set season or time frame that the grieving process will end. Grieving is cyclical. Have patience with yourself. One moment you are deeply feeling the loss of a loved one and the next moment you're thinking about what your career and enjoying the company of friends and this is OK. There are no set rules for grieving. Who has the luxury sitting around the house in burka with the curtains pulled lamenting the loss of their loved one? I believe that each of us has a vision that is connected to a life purpose. I wish I had a magic wand to tell you what that life purpose is but know one has a clear picture of what you were born to be.

My second thought is that grief can be so overwhelming and encompassing that it is neccessary not to isolate during this process. Working with a grief counselor, can be of immense value and assistance when you are going through the seven stages of grieving. The seven stages of grief is shock or denial, pain and guilt, anger and bargaining, depression and loneliness, the upturn, reconstruction and finally acceptance and hope. You can find assistance in churches, there are many free programs offered as well for the entire family.

My third though about grief is accessing your goals after the loss of a love one to see what you can realistically do. One day you feel like running a marathon and the next day you see someone wearing an outfit similar to the person who had died and you're right back at the moment they died again. You may not even feel like approaching any of your goals when going through the initial phases of grieving and that is OK too. Go slowly at first and don't expect to make the same progress you would before the death. If you push to hard you run the risk of damaging your health and burning out your adrenals and possibly your thyroid too. Taking time to exercise, eat right and care for yourself is paramont.

My fourth thought is that when we are accomplishing our goals in business there may have to be some personal sacrifices made. Time away from the family during the grieving process can be devastating to family members that are having a hard time adjusting to the loss of a loved one as well. Sacrifices  have to be made for your family and your career. Hard choices that you will have to make. 

There are no easy answers but to make progress. You have to be willing to go the mile even when circumstances aren't in your favor and they very often will not be.

To Your Adventures,

Angelia Miller

Founder of Diva Maverick Mavens and the Adrenaline Living Talk Show...A MeTaphor for Life!

Photo credits: Christopher Hill of Hands Up Holidays www.handsupholidays.com

Five Tools for the Transitioning Warrior

What happens when when the things you've done before don't work anymore? What happens when you are trapped in that in-between zone called "the transition?"

There are five tools for the transitioning warrior and the first tool is developing your creativity. In todays economy, we need creative minds who are willing to experiment with new methods of doing things. Destroy your thinking- outside- the- box mentality and develop the mindset of a visionary. For every missed opportunity their is an opportunity to make serious profits now. During the great depression, more millionaires were made than any other time in history. Creativity can be nurtured through taking what Julia Cameron calls the artist's date which can apply to any area of expertise you might have--example techies going to a what's new for 2011 preview show.

The second tool which ties into what I was writing about above is watching trends. Subscribe to various blogs, columns, vlogs, audios through Google reader and keep up to date on what's new and what is coming up for next year. Understanding what's hot and up and coming for the next season will attune you to the needs of your customers before they ask. 

The third tool is getting a mentor who is several years ahead of where you want to be but yet close enough to still remember the pain of going through a transition. As I was recently discussing with a guest on my talk show last Monday, finding a quality coach isn't always easy but is worth the investment in time and resources because they will take you through your transitional period more easily. Take time to interview friends, acquaintances, strangers, trusted confidants, etc and names will begin to come up in conversation. Interview each candidate to make sure they are combatible and can be of assistance to your particular situation.

The fourth tool is researching your competitors. You need to keep an eye on your competitors to see how they are solving problems within their business. Watching how others solve or create an additional stream of income can cause you to begin to turn your challenges into blessings. In addition go through your local newspapers, magazines and see what others are doing in your area. Non-profits have great ideas for theme- generated publicity events that draw the buying public's interest quickly. Learn to adapt great ideas according to your niche or situation. Keep a clip book of local news stories, national stories and international story clippings that you can refer to when an idea sparks your creativity.

The fifth tool is networking. Yes, I said the word "networking." Get out and start meeting people in your fields of interest, friends, colleagues, professional clubs, memberships, etc. Allocate time on your calendar each month just for networking. You need to keep ahead of trends and know what others are doing. You never know when inspiration will strike. Meeting people can bring an infusion of fresh ideas and resources.

Finally, the transitioning warrior needs to realize that life is a journey. Sometimes we are on the highest peaks, at other times we are resting in the vallies below and still at other times we are simpling traveling to destinations unknown.

Angelia Miller

Founder of Diva Maverick Mavens and Adrenaline Living Talk Show on Blog Talk Radio

Interviewing the Empowered...inspiring "YOU" to take ACTION!

 

 

Photo credits: Courtesy of Ann Hettinger who paddled the “Everest” of ocean events the treacherous Molokai Channel in Hawaii. 32milesfromnow.com

The Warrior at Play and Rest

As a warrior, it is easy to live, think and breathe all things work related. Studies have show the importance of play and rest in improving your productivity, creativity and ability to focus on any tasks. Great nappers include Thomas Edison, Winston Churchill, Johannes Brahms and Bill Clinton to name a few. Making rest a necessary investment in your success will yield high returns. 

Playing is a great way to unwind and build in a necessary respite when you have been hard at work or battling in the trenches. Play allows the brain to recoup and regenerate while processing new solutions to problems you've been battling with. Often a solution to a problem will occur when you are doing something totally unrelated to work such as when you are driving around town on your day off and listening to the radio. 

Studies show that, "Sixty-two percent of Americans say work has a significant impact on stress levels and another 45% of Americans are concerned about stress levels. With all of this stressing, the importance of play and rest becomes the bedrock to a quality life and a preventative measure to other stress related illnesses and disease. Make time to play and rest and the quality of your life and business will be greatly enhanced. 

  

Living On the Dark Side of the Force

There are seasons when we are living on the dark side of the force when everything that surrounds us seems to be saturated in cremson judgement. During these times we have to be proactive by making  action plans for dealing with the down-pouring of negativity that life brings us. There are six keys I will share with you for protecting your sanity.

First, it's important that you do some form of exercise everyday of your life especially if you are prone to dark moods. Walking is an excellent way to get those endorphins kicking again. Additional powerful exercises are yoga, pilates andstretching which can manage stress during those times when your light sabre just isn't working as effectively as it should.

The second key is nutrition. Eliminate all white foods from your diet as these foods are notorious for zapping your energy and stealing your joy. A diet rich in vegetables, fiber and fruits will take you a long way in lifting your spirits.

The third key is to surround yourself with your favorite colors. I once asked my grandmother what her favorite color was; it was fascinating to me that she never surrounded herself with this color. The lesson I take away from my conversation with my grandmother is to include the colors that you love into your life even if you wear them under your garments. These colors are guaranteed to brighten your spirits.

The fourth key is to surround yourself with a nurturing group of people who share your values and common goals in life. You've heard the old saying, "Misery loves company." Well this edict need not be negative; it's comforting to be around people who have been through what you are going through and can provide you with sage advice when you find yourself suffering. These companion warriors can even shorten the length of time you have to walk through your valley of suffering.

The fifth key is if you are having a hard time bouncing back from your set back then you might consider speaking to a professional counselor who can be a sounding board. Everyone should have access to a counselor. There are times in your life when you may not want to share with trusted friends the kinds of demons you're struggling with and in these instances a stranger can be your sounding board during your dark night.

The sixth and final key. Find something that makes you laugh. I once read about a patient that was diagnosed with a serious illness that used laughter therapy to bring herself quickly into alignment with good health again. Download comedies and make a habit of watching silly, brain numbing, twottle that makes you laugh, if not for any other reason than mocking the utter stupidity of the person who produced or directed the rubbish. Make it a point to bring laughter into your life daily. Simply ask yourself the question what will bring me laughter today and then make the decision to do it.

Hint: Studies have proven that laughter reduces epinephrine, cortisol, dopac, and growth hormone levels. 

So go in peace my children and may the force be with you!

 

 

Photo credits courtesy: Cynthia Makris World Class Professional Opera Singer and NLP specialist.  

 

 

  

4 Signs that you are Dealing with a Judas

If you have ever dealt with a Judas, you know how devious these individuals can be. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the story of Judas, let me tell you. Judas was a profit in the inner circle of Jesus ministry. Jesus knew that Judas had been stealing from him and that he would deceive him for 40 pieces of silver to the Romans. Just as a side, no one else knew that Judas was stealing from the treasury which means there was so much money in the treasury that what Judas stole was imperceptible. Anyway on the night that Judas delivered Jesus to the Romans, he kissed Jesus on the cheek so the Roman soldiers knew which person to arrest and bring before Pontius Pilot Roman ruler of Judea for trial. 

What are the 4 signs that you are dealing with a Judas:

The first sign you are dealing with a Judas is that a Judas' will seek to under-mind your authority. Judas' are adept at making anyone they are opposing or feel threatened by look as if they are professionally inept. A Judas can do this by implying through little comments that you are incapable of doing as good a job as they can. Some Judas' are so good at this kind of subterfuge that it actually sounds like sincere concern for others productivity.

The second sign that you are dealing with a Judas is that they will gossip about you to your enemies but will tell you that they love you to your face. Beware of a potential Judas who appear to be overly obliging. A true friend earns the right to your confidence. If you are telling a stranger with a pleasant demeanor all of your concerns in the workplace then consider that you may be damaging yourself professionally. A Judas will take inventory of your comments to gain ammunition against you especially if you have a position power that they want to possess.

The third sign that you are dealing with a Judas is that Judas' will alienate you from your true friends by making you believe that they are un-supportive. A true friend will tell you how it is. A Judas will make you believe that positive loving feedback is destructive criticism. After all, a Judas doesn't want the voice of wisdom hanging around exposing them for who they are.

The fourth sign that you are dealing wit a Judas is that Judas' are 100% ego-centered. It's all about them and how they can get ahead. How can they make a profit and if it's over your dead body than so be it? Never forget this when dealing with a Judas.

In dealing with a potential Judas take note of the following:

Watch how Judas' interact with others. Do they have a reputation for being ruthless? Do they have a reputation for the kiss of death. Dr. Phil said,"The past is the best predictor of the present." Although I am not a fan of the Dr. Phil show, I do agree with this statement. Become aware of the underlining reasons for a potential Judas' sudden interest in you. Remember most Judas come in the packaging of a friend or confidant which is why they are such a powerful destructive force in people's lives. 

Final notes about Judas' and humanity in general:

I believe in humanity and I believe in the inherent goodness of people but I also believe in being "perceptive" in your interactions with others.   

Photo by Kathi Von Koerber performance artist, photographer, filmmaker and dancer of Kiahkeya. Her interview is in the audio archives listed above.

A Season of Surrender for the Warrior

What happens when the Warrior is called into a season of surrender? The Warrior is built for fighting; he/she is built for victory. A season of surrender is the ultimate test of courage. Make no mistake about it surrender will bring you to your knees and cause you to question your existence. A season of surrender will cause you to doubt everything you hold as dear and sacred...  

Why do we enter into seasons of surrender? Answer: because we have'nt listened to that still inner voice. We know when we are unfulfilled in a career. We know when we haven't been in integrity with others or our family. We know when we are living a life that is far removed from our life purpose.

Sometimes a season of surrender can come after loosing a job you never liked. Sometimes a season of surrender can come after a divorce. Some times a season of surrender can come after a great victory. Some times a season of surrender can come during periods of alienation when no one else is willing or able to support you. Sometimes a season of surrender comes after the death of a loved one. We have a free will so when one person is praying for life and the dieing is asking for death/peace whose request will be honored. When you resist we are instantly propelled into a season of surrender.

There are times in our lives when we go through some of the worst tests and tribulations and we grapple with the usual question--why? Why is this happening? Why was I born? Why are things like this? Why do others have it better? Why is this happening to me? Why haven't I been blessed more often, etc. When we are brought to these places of contemplation if we are willing to delve into those dark places we can make a shift to a deeper understanding of whole and what we are. 

Each of us has the capability to improve the lives of others to be an inspiration to those around you. I remember having a conversation with a close friend and was surprised at how profoundly I had touched his life by reaching out to him. I've said all of this to say that when the Warrior enters into a season of surrender it is in this time that "you" are at your most powerful and when you have access to your greatest knowledge of enlightenment!  

 

 Photo courtesy Kathi Von Koerber filmmaker and Performance Artist, Kiahkeya.

 

4 Steps to Increasing the Warriors Energy

There are 4 ways that we can begin to take charge of our energy levels and they are through exercise, emotional wellness, diet and detoxification. The food we put in our mouth isn't just about eating when we are hungry; it's about giving the body the proper nutrition so that it can go through the day and fight again what ever air-born pathogen or what not that tries to drive us to a season of the sick bed. No one wants any down time in this day and age. Besides who wants to stay in bed all day long feeling lousy.

Food allergies are to blame for many people's lagging energy and they can come in the form of wheat, dairy, sugar, heavy starches and gluten sensitivities to name a few. The more you can eliminate white foods from your diet the better. Eating plenty of green leafy vegetables and fruit should be a goal for everyone. Try to go organic as much as possible. Start slowly adding in more vegetable and fruits with each meal until you begin to enjoy them. Good nutrition need not be like training for an marathon it's ok to to be perfect sometimes. We just need to make sure we eat properly most of the time. 

Exercise isn't a dirty word. Exercise can be gentle and it can be pleasant. Start with a regiment of 3 to 4 days a week at 20 minutes and build up to the recommended 30 to 60 minutes a day. A lot of research has gone into the significance of weight bearing exercises on keeping our bones healthy and strong and if you want to be out their kicking some but, you will need those healthy bones. There is only one of you and you need to take care of you. You are a divine temple.

Emotional wholeness is one of the overlooked aspects of maintaining healthy energy levels. Americans are among the top most stressed nations in the world. We burn so brightly that soon enough the bulb burns out and needs to be replaced. Stress management techniques should be apart of everyones arsenals and should be taught in schools. Make sure you are getting enough sleep. Your body repairs itself between 1 AM and 3 AM and if you our partying or working, your body will not regenerate. I love meditation, entrainment music especially Alpha or Theta, planning a play date, spa day, Yoga and Tai Chi.

Finally, detoxing our bodies is one of the most overlooked but one of the most effective things we can do to rid our bodies of the burden of toxicity. The biggest organ is our skin and we expose to so many harmful substances that we need to lessen it's burden by regularly detoxing. Steam baths and brushing the skin are excellent ways of ridding our bodies of toxic overload. From detoxing the skin, we should go deeper to the lymphatic system is like the bodies sewer system and it must be purged to maintain health. Using a mini trampoline for 10 minutes and deep tissue massage can help to keep the lymphatic system running clean.   

Incorporating these 4 steps into your life daily can bring the energy levels back to normal so that you can have the unfair advantage over the competition. Every warrior aka. adventurous woman should value their body and take care of it otherwise what is the use in enjoying the fight when the fight has been taken out of you.

Photo by Dana Romanoff a photojournalist and serious adventurist look for her interview in the archives.   

Exploring the Archetype of the Warrior

Let's explore the archetype of the "warrior". Today, I had an interview with John the owner of Wandrian Adventures and as I was listening to his stories, I thought about the various warrior types I've had on my show. The warrior archetype represents the most basic of instincts which is survival. It the individual who goes on adventures not knowing if they will get dysentery or malaria from the water in a third world country but will venture into those perilous water for the hell of it. The warrior follows the impulse to go to war and to go off to a foreign land when everyone else is telling him or her to be afraid. The warrior will fight until there is no more breath in his body or until he dies trying or has succeeded. And even then it is debatable if these hearty individuals will allow a meer victory to slow them down. There will always be another battle to win, another mountain to climb and another victory to be had. 

The warrior archetype is one who inspires and directs us to look inwardly to our own inner source of courage. There's that word again...courage! This archetype tell us to be bold, be steadfast, be daring, be forceful with your convictions. No one else will fight your battles for you. Think of movies like the Terminator with both male and female warriors, Star Wars, Iron Man, Star Trek and Twilight to name a few. The spirit of the bold warrior is what tamed the wilderness of this new land centuries ago. And it is the same spirit that rules this land and is worshiped in our society today.

Photo: Courtesy Kathi Von Koerber filmmaker and visual performance artist.

More on the Mission of a Courageous Life

I have been pursuing the Holy Grail of my existence which is life purpose for most of my life. Ever since, I was a child I could remember feeling as though there were a specific purpose for my life and that it was much bigger than I could imagine. As a youth, I would say to myself that I am capable of great things. These visions have fueled me through the- not- so glamorous daily grind of living. How many of you started out life believing that anything was possible only to have life repeatedly kick you squarely in the tush. Life isn't for the cowardly; indeed, it is for the courageous which brings me back to the theme of my life. Are you the type of person that when people hear your story they literally gasp? How do you do it..? The answer is simple: For you, there is no other way of living but to keep moving forward through the sludge forging a new path where there was none before. Living takes vision and faith. Life is often illuminated only as far ahead as we "need" to see which means we are often lost in the shadows of contemplation. 

I don't know why some people are entrusted with little while others are entrusted with vast abundance. It is a question that most people grapple with especially when the scales of justice are often tilted. I've interviewed various experts on my Adrenaline Living Talk Show, on the Law of Attraction and the concept sounds great at first until you realize that the results are spotty at best. Furthermore, I am not a proponent of excessive suffering for the sole- purpose of being a beacon of hope to the unwashed masses either--how egotistical! What I do believe is that whatever you going through can inspire others and in some small way enable them to get back into the trenches of whatever there facing at this moment. Suffering is like the changing of seasons and the welcoming of Spring with it's ripeness of possibilities.

Living a courageous life is not easy which is why I love adrenaline sports because it can take my mind off of whatever I'm facing and it allows me to be totally in the moment completely grounded and centered.

Keep dreaming, keep breathing, keep living. 

Angelia Miller

Adrenaline Living Talk Show

 

Picture courtesy Fran Capo: adventurist and explorer.

The theme of Courage in Our Lives

I recently talked to a life purpose expert before I decided on the programming for my Adrenaline Living Talk Show which is all about the theme of courage. In speaking with this expert, she told me that the theme for my life is you guessed it courage. When someone says something to you that rings true you automatically know it, and I did. I never thought of myself as courageous and neither do most of the people I interview and yet we are all interconnected through the theme of courage. When we think of courageous people we think of that person who runs into a flaming building to snatch a baby from the last breaths of unconsciousness. We think of that person who sacrifices his or her life for a belief that they hold as sacred. We think of courage as someone who dies for what they believe in but I want to say that courage also includes living for the truth. Looking back on my life thus far, I can see the theme of courage like a vein supplying life.

As with all warriors, there are times when you need to rest and recoup from your "dark nights of the soul" which is why it is imperative that you take care of your body and give it the proper rest, meditation, and nutrition it desires so it will honor you and continue to function at maximum capacity.  

Photo courtesy Margaret Lobenstein--The Renaissance Soul

Angelia Miller

Founder of Adrenaline Living Talk Show and Diva Maverick Mavens

10 Healthy Energy Foods

I recently saw this article on MSN about the 10 healthiest foods and was astonished by how much more vitamin C a kiwi has than an orange. Kiwi's usually run about 33 cents a piece and I usually don't give them a second glance-- well that will change. The list is full of great tasting choices that are high in vitamin C and should be in your arsenal for cancer-fighting healthy food choices.

http://tinyurl.com/yjsrwdf

Mission Statement for the New Year

Give 2010 a clear intent and make a mission statement. A mission statement is a statement of intent in this case for the year. I also like the use of the term motto. How do you want your year to progress for 2010? What do you want to focus on this year? A mission statement is different from the pie theory which is to divide your life into so many quadrant and then make a goal for each segment which includes, family, health, career, etc. A mission statement is a general statement as to the intent for the year and is personal and requires time to decide if you want to bring more joy into your life, or more adventure, perhaps you want to have more fun this year or experiment with trying new experiences. A personal mission statement can be fun and can make all the difference in a great new year.

Set aside some time and think about what you would like to have more of in the new year. Write it down on an index card and carry it with you and put on your calendar. Refer to your mission statement often to remind yourself what you want to experience more of in the new year. You'll find yourself making choices that support your desire to be congruent with your mission statement.

Powerful New Years Resolution Solutions

I interviewed Michelle Rigg of Ideal Outcomes and we discussed core values and how these values underline every decision we make. Well it wasn't the first time that I had heard of core values, I had first been introduced to them through my academics and mainly in the context of numerous personality tests. I hadn't taken stock of my core values in a while. During the interview Michelle mentioned that she re-assesses her core values every six months which means that core values aren't set in stone they can change in order of importance depending on life. I began to re-assess my own core values again and find the things I consider most important must be in harmony with my life path. Re-assessing your core values can be time consuming but well worth the effort and investment of time.

Here is a partial list of core values to get you started. The list is in no particular order: respect, joy, family, wealth, career, trust, integrity, status, praise, abundance, purpose, creativity, individuality, control, freedom, safety, security, loyalty, communication, personal space, honor, dignity, adventure, prestige, culture, time, health, autonomy.

Now that we are shedding the old year and moving into the skin of a new year, understanding our core values can assist us in achieving our goals i.e. New Year's Resolutions in 2010. The new year is always full of hope and promise. I hope you had a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.   

Christmas in Paris

I love to hear about Christmas traditions. I found this video of Paris at Christmas and wanted to share it with you. Enjoy!