Author Archives: Megan Antlfinger

What, Where, & How to Create a Healthy Home

It is so important for your health and well-being to understand the what, where and how of toxins in your home. What they are, where they are lurking, how to avoid them if possible or deal with them if they are already there. Toxins can be found in the furnishings, beauty & cleaning products, and construction materials in your home. The air quality within our homes is 6x more toxic than the outside air that is filled with industrial pollutants. It is time to know what you can do to make your home healthier!

Over the last five decades the creation and use of chemical concoctions and synthetic materials to manufacturer products for the home has exploded. Thought of as an innovated way of making products cheaper, this ability has inadvertently made our homes unhealthy havens ridden with toxic off gassing. Most products brought into your home contain unhealthy toxins unless you seek alternatives. This includes furniture, carpets, paints, window treatments, bedding, towels, flooring, and cabinetry, just to name a few.

Formaldehyde is a great example of a toxic chemical that permeates one’s home and can be found lurking in spaces and places that most wouldn’t imagine. Remember back to your science class with the glass jars containing smelly solutions that preserved all sorts of interesting items. The smell wafting through the air was the preservative formaldehyde, which is now considered carcinogenic. Manufacturers currently use it to inhibit the growth of microorganisms in many household items. Unfortunately it can be found in the furniture, fabrics, and cabinets to lotions and canned goods. Let’s look at some solutions to this toxic problem…

The first solution is to open the windows! Again the air within your home probably contains many more toxic substances than the polluted air outside. Typically, these noxious substances have not been evaluated for health safety. If they have, they certainly have not been evaluated to see what type of effect the combinations of chemicals have on our health. Thus, because we live in a toxic soup, it is critical to open windows and allow our homes to breath so that we can breath easier.

The second area to focus on is your bedroom! Making this area chemical free can have a major impact on your health and wellbeing. You spend a good number of hours in this space, which makes it exceptionally important to create a healthy haven. Choose organic bedding, towels and low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint. Therefore, as you sleep the night away your body can have the full benefit of this restorative part of your day instead of expending energy fighting off disease creating chemicals.

Another easy Home in Harmony Lifestyle solution is to bring plants into your home! They act as a natural filter that actually cleans the air of toxic chemicals. A plant that thrives whether you have a green thumb or not, (my children will attest that I lack proficiency in that area) is the spider plant. This fabulous greenery can actually filter the toxic substances found in formaldehyde! I will include a list of plants and the chemicals they filter in my upcoming book. In a few months, we will have details on how to pick up your copy!

These are just a few of the simple Home in Harmony Lifestyle tips and solutions that will help you to create a healthy home that allows you and those you love to breath easy.

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Happy Soaring!

XOXO

Designing Your Inspired Tech Relationship

It is amazing to think back only twenty years to a time when technology was an imaginary ideal in sci-fi movies and shows. A time when Dr Spock had what looked similar to the flip phones that my teenagers currently carry. In that twenty year period the ability of technology has unequivocally expanded beyond our wildest dreams while the reliance on technology with its bandwidth of possibility continues to increase. It is becoming progressively more difficult to fully understand the scope of technological dependence that pervades our culture and lives. It is also important to examine what we are allowing into our lives through technology and what technology knows about our lives because we are inadvertently allowing it in. These are important questions to contemplate to help find the support that technology can offer without being caught up in the anxiety that it can create. Finding this balance is critical in living fully, joyfully and in harmony.

Let’s explore…

It is important to ask the question, Is technology an appendage or a constructive tool in your life? This can be a hard question to answer for many because technology has infiltrated so much of our lives. Adults, as well as children, have become hooked on cell phones, smart phones, iPads, iTouches, computers, TVs, reading devices, and other technological devices. To fully understand your level of “connectedness” you might ask yourself, “What would happen if you left your phone off for an extended period of time?” Of course, ‘extended’ is relative. To my grandfather, that might mean not picking it up, ever. However, to my son, a few hours may seem like an eternity. Our experience of time in relation to technology varies greatly. Begin to notice where you are on the continuum and how much time you spend connected, plugged in and absorbed in the technological devices in your life. What would it feel like to unplug for a portion of your day? Your reaction to this challenge gives you a big hint to your level of technological attachment and whether it is a tool or appendage.

The ramifications of the inundation and over stimulation of technology can affect young and old in many ways. Three significant negative outcomes include:

First, the rates of obesity and diseases related to obesity are increasing daily because of the sedentary lifestyle that our culture has succumbed to and technology plays a key role in this dilemma.

Second, our lives have begun to mirror the pace of technology. Many feel a sense of overwhelm from the pressures of day to day living which is reflected in our need to multitask which diminishes our ability to be fully present in each moment and instead leaves one feeling frazzled.

Third, due to the speed and ability to communicate 24/7 one would assume that we are more efficient and effective. Instead, the reality is that the increased exposure to stress on not only a daily basis but a minute to minute basis causes elevated levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) to course through our veins without relief. This pressure cooker of stress effect that technological advancement has created produces stress and strain psychological and physically effecting performance, blood pressure, immunity and even weight.

For these reasons it is critical to give yourself time each day, each week and as much time each year to unplug and take a deep breath from the taxing stressors that technology exacerbates.

It is also fundamentally important to realize that each click is monitored by on-line stores. Similarly, surveillance of your habits from trips made to brick and mortar establishments like big box chains or corporate pharmacies occur. Your habits are tracked so that retailers can entice you to buy specific or similar products. Marketers are hoping to help take the thinking out of your actions by creating habits that you are unconsciously being directed towards. You can expand your awareness of these practices by fully noticing advertising such as coupons that are given to you at checkout or companies that automatically pop-up on your Facebook feed. This ability of carefully crafted algorithms is based on monitoring your behavior with hopes of determining your future behavior. Noticing these tactics helps to place you in the driver’s seat giving you the ability to maneuver through life seeing and choosing your adventures on your terms.

Technology can be a supportive tool that helps you navigate through life. Gone unchecked, it can create anxiety, stress and cause adverse habits. Being fully aware of all facets of your relationship with technology establishes a solid foundation that brings balance, joy and harmony to your life.

Happy Soaring!

XOXO

Create Harmony in Your Home

Most people don’t realize that their home has a major impact on their overall sense of well-being. Did you know that your home affects your sense of calm and harmony, your health and your outlook on life? It actually has the power to influence your moods, hormones and body chemistry and that plays a big role on your level of satisfaction in life, ability to find calm in the midst of chaos and whether you enjoy great health!

Every room is important but the mudroom plays a key role in your level of calm and harmony. It is the last impression you have of your home when you leave & it is the first area you see when you enter. You either walk in and with a sigh of relief, think, “Ah, I’m home”. Or you see the all-consuming clutter (meaning it consumes your physical & mental space) and that drains your energy. This sets the tone for a good portion of your day. Many people have confided that it makes them feel cranky to walk into a disorganized clutter filled mudroom or entryway. If you are one of the many it is time to make changes. You want to create a space that nurtures you instead of depleting your vitality.

Let’s look at a few simple solutions to help this space be great:

The first simple solution is to make it a clutter free zone. Everything in the space should have a place. Everything (period). If it doesn’t have a spot, either remove it or find a designated destination. This is actually easier than it sounds! Let me explain…

Studies have shown that more than 85% of our behavior is habitual. That means that much of our daily activity is repetitive, going-through-the-motion type of behavior. When we take a morning shower, you aren’t thinking about each step in the process. Rather, you move through the shower in a habitual daze that allows you to plan the day ahead. This is the brain’s innate ability to shift into an autopilot mode when mindless tasks are at hand. This helps to conserve your brain’s energy and need to focus on more important stimuli (like making sure you are safe). You can use this natural mechanism to your advantage to clear clutter and create an organized space where everything ends up in it’s place.

If you create an organized space where everything has a place there’s no need to put effort into thinking about where to put something or where to find it when you are rushing out the door. Unfortunately, on the days that you become stressed from misplaced items, your cortisol levels increase, which can create a whole myriad of health issues if not kept in check. When you begin your day off-quilter a negative momentum can spiral out of control effecting all other parts of your day. So, let’s look at ways you can train your brain to help create organized outer and inner calm.

Labels are a great reminder of where specific items go. They help to train your subconscious to put things in their designated place and create a habitual autopilot response. Color-coding baskets has the same outcome. Each color can have a particular item associated with it or a specific person who is assigned that color. This is especially great for children!

The second solution is bringing beauty into your space. Creating an aesthetically pleasing environment effects how much you smile. Studies have shown that when we are surrounded by beauty it triggers our happy hormones. Making your mudroom beautiful will leave you smiling as you exit or enter.

One way to bring beauty into your space is the use of color. We are all unique individuals and the colors you love might be different from the colors that make me happy. Begin to notice which colors make you smile. Different ways to add color include fabric for pillows or window treatments or using rugs. Find fun colors, textures and patterns that make your heart sing!

The third solution is including something inspiring or uplifting in your mudroom. This is going to be different for everyone. Remember, it is the last space you see before you go out into the world and the first place you see when you return home. An inspiring saying, picture or object can help you focus on what you want out of life. It can be a family motto or slogan, a piece of art that reminds you of something special in your life. It works on a conscious and unconscious level to help you set an intention for your day and your life.

These simple Home in Harmony Lifestyle Solutions will help you create a home that supports and nurtures your mind, body & spirit. What one thing on this list are you going to do today to begin designing your inspired life?

Happy Soaring!

XOXO

Building Big Dreams

“If you can dream it, you can do it.”

Walking around Disney was an awe-inspiring experience! I know what you are thinking, “How could the pinnacle of big business and material consumption be an inspiring experience?” I guess it depends on where one focuses their attention. For me, every corner of Disney was yet another incredible example of dreaming big. From the magnificent lush botanical displays, magical set designs to the astonishing big vision of the creator, Walt Disney, who said, “If you can dream it, you can do it.” The questions are; Do you dream big? Are you living the life of your dreams? Let’s look at ways to make your life a place where dreams come true.

When we are children are dreams soar and the sky is the limit to our invincible spirit. Can you remember back to what you thought you would be one day? Did you fulfill those dreams? I love to hear children speak of what their future holds because there are no barriers, should’s, or cant’s. The world is their playground and they are excited with the sense of possibility that is only restricted by their imagination. Which is often limitless. In most cases as people get older their sense of possibility diminishes. Begin to think, no scratch that, don’t ‘think’ instead use your imagination to design the infinite possibilities that your life could hold.

As we age we become contained in set beliefs. We accept the expectations that others have for us or that we have made for ourselves. This limited viewpoint undermines your ability to imagine the expansive potential of possibilities that you can create for yourself. Maneuvering through life containing your potential moves you into a coping mindset instead of claiming life on your terms. Imagine the array of opportunities for your life and begin living your full potential. If Walt Disney had allowed others to define his life, we would not enjoy the gifts of his imagination.

Design Your Big Vision

Take time to create a big vision allowing your imagination to fly free. It is never to late to realize your dreams. It is just a matter of figuring out what they are! Begin to look at what makes your heart sing. We are all unique individuals that have amazing gifts to share with the world. The orchestration of talents at Disney produces an amazing symphony of sights, sounds and textures. It is only with the combination of these elements and talents that an amazing experience is created. The microcosm of Disney is an example of the larger cosmos of life. Sharing your special gift with the world brightens and adds the textures, sounds and sights that only you can create which will allow others to benefit from your contribution to the world in whatever way you choose to shine your light.

Believe That Your Dreams Can Come True

Believing in you is an integral step in moving mountains, building castles or soaring to new heights. If the Wright brothers didn’t believe in themselves they would never have flown through the sky. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and inspire you to soar. The seeds of faith intuitively grow especially when watered by encouragement and support.

Begin Today

Do one small thing today that will help you realize your vision for tomorrow. Disney did not build his kingdom in a day. He had a big vision that started with a simple paper and pencil that allowed him to draw his dreams. His paper and pencil created all the lands in his realm including his Tomorrow Land that we enjoy today. You can build the life of your dreams by taking one small step today. It is in the many small steps that a path is paved.

The idea that you have no limits might seem like a foreign concept to you. Begin to believe that your dreams are meant to come true. Step out of the box of contained expectations and step into a mindset of infinite expression that will allow you to realize your power. Dream, believe and begin. Because, “If you can dream it, you can do it.”

Happy Soaring!

XOXO

Build With Intention

When I opened my front door today a bird flew out of the wreath hanging on the side of the house. I suggested to my daughter she take a look inside the wreath to see if there was anything interesting to see. As I had suspected, she exclaimed that there were two tiny blue eggs nestled into a nest among the silk flowers! We all climbed up on the front porch bench to get a bird’s eye view inside the home that the mama bird had created for the two blue miracles that lay inside. The sweet scene reminded me of the blessings of my own family and home that I nurture and cherish with all my heart. It made me think of how I love to share ways for you to make your home a nest that will support you and those you nurture to help you meet the day ahead and fly to new heights.

One of the main focuses of Home in Harmony Lifestyle is to create a home environment that is truly your nest. Similar to a mama bird creating her nest with the sole intention of building a space that is safe and secure to lay her eggs and allow her hatchlings to survive, thrive and eventually fly, I want to share insights that will help you build your nest so that you can soar. Let’s look at one easy lifestyle solution that can create a huge impact.

Your home either supports and nurtures your life goal’s or they deplete you of your energy which does not allow you to thrive or fly. The first step in creating a supportive space is to decide what you most need from your home and name it or set your intention. If you are a writer and envision a peaceful sanctuary your intentions are going to be different from a family with active children. Setting your intention for the space allows you to stay focused on what exactly you are trying to create. Naming the intention allows you to visualize what aligns with your intention and what is incongruent. This allows you to walk around your home and determine what things should stay or go based on your vision. This is also true when finding new items to bring into your home. Ask yourself, does this support my intention which supports my overall goals and needs?

I recently read an article about Rob Lowe in Architectural Digest. He explained how he and his wife decided what type of environment they wanted to create for their family home in California before they began the design process. This allowed them to create a space that was congruent with their overall family needs, life vision and hopes for their home. They chose to make their grande house feel like a comfortable, child friendly oasis that welcomed kids and dogs to run free. By thoughtfully examining, deciding and naming what they needed from their home they were able to create a home that best supported their vision and intentions for the family.

Quick Tips to Create Your Nest!

Name it & Claim it

First, name the intention for your home that will best support you on your journey and allow you to fly. Take some time to think about what most inspires you. Make a list of activities that you love to do at home and begin to create the space into a foundation of consistent encouragement and inspiration. Maybe each room has it’s own special purpose. Name it and claim it for each room and for the space overall.

Evaluate & Clear

Next, begin to evaluate the current space to determine what is in alignment and supports your intention and vision for your home and overall life. Clear those items or change the areas that do not support these goals. This means truly looking at the items in your space and consciously determining what types of memories each item holds. If the memories are positive, inspiring and in alignment with your vision, by all means keep it to support you in your nest and life. However, if the mementos, paintings or furniture have negative vibes from past experiences or negative people then it is time to let them go and make space for things that support you.

Evaluate & Align

When deciding on items to add to the space, choose things that are in alignment with the goal for your sanctuary and your overall big vision. Remember, less is more. Adding things slowly and consciously is better than going to a big box store and finding items without meaning. Imagine what it would feel like for your overall sense of wellbeing if everywhere you looked in your nest, positive memories would bubble to the surface of your consciousness.

These simple steps will help you build a strong, supportive nest. This will allow you to survive, thrive and fly!

Happy Soaring!

XOXO