Not a Single Mom...

Ok, I am a Single Mom.

But not by the terms that you probably just read that.

She Remembered Who She Was...

There is a storm raging inside of me. It has always been there. Only now I embrace it. All in.

I am a strong woman. Fierce. Loyal. Bold. Powerful. Unshakeable.

Rising Woman~ Faith Shevlin

Our next rising woman is very near and dear to my heart. Faith and I met briefly a couple of years ago at the Grand Opening of Nourish Medical Center. Shortly after, we became coworkers at Nourish and worked side by side for about a year and a half. Faith has been one of those people for me who are just so easy to love. We've connected on so many levels and have grown so close. She is just a true soul sister to me and I'm so thankful to have her participate in the Rising Woman Project. I'm also super excited to share that Faith interviewed me on her podcast last weekend and that will be coming out soon. What an honor to share our stories with each other and our communities.

Who are you and what do you do for a living?

My name is Faith Shevlin. I am a mind-body coach, holistic nutritionist and spiritual/intuitive mentor. By combining my expertise in nutrition and health, with personal growth and life coaching, I guide my clients through their own transformational journeys. I find incredible joy in inspiring others to take ownership of their own health and well-being so that they can live in full expression of who they really are.

My mission is to help women embrace who they are, access and trust the wisdom within themselves and connect with their own divinity.

I am the creator and host of a podcast, IMperfectly Healthy: where the psychology, science and spirituality of health and wholeness meet. I also love using, sharing and teaching others how to use essential oils as a tool in supporting well-being on all levels!          

What is your story?

The doorway to my own transformation came via the trifecta of struggling with my body image, relationship with food and chronic health issues. I started emotional eating, and having health problems, when I was very young. As a sensitive middle child, with an active and wild older brother and a rambunctious, self-expressed little sister, I felt invisible. I was really shy. I didn’t know how to ask for what I needed or how to express my emotions. Hiding was my to-go strategy. I was pretty much afraid of everything and terrified of rejection. (note: I came into this life with most of these fears, beliefs and insecurities) I became obsessed with food to cope with my emotions and anxiety as a young girl.  

My body and weight become an issue for me when I was in sixth grade. I was the first girl in my class to develop curves. This was so embarrassing for me. Being as shy as I was, the attention I started getting made me so uncomfortable.

This battle within myself, over food and my body, really took over my life (secretly). It was something that consumed me every day, every meal really. I was constantly obsessing over what I was eating and not eating, how many calories I was burning a day, the size of my clothes, comparing myself to other girls bodies, over-exercising, and mentally bashing what I would see in the mirror.

This went on throughout high school. I chose to pursue studying nutrition in college. I thought, if I could figure this food and weight thing out, then I would finally be happy and feel good about myself. I continued to struggle with food and my body while I got my bachelors and masters in food and nutrition. I then went on to become a Registered Dietitian.

My education did not help my emotional eating or body shame. I continued on the on-and-off-again pattern of dieting. I would put myself on really rigid eating plans and force myself to work out hard. Then I'd fall off and indulge in all the foods I “wasn’t allowed” to eat. I was in a constant search outside of myself for the answers to my “problems.”  

My body was my excuse to not fully engage in life. I can’t have fun until I lose weight. I can’t be confident until I lose weight. I can’t be myself until I lose weight. I can’t speak up until I lose weight. I can’t be sensual until I lose weight. I can’t have a healthy, loving relationship until I lose weight. I can’t pursue my dream job until I lose weight….

This internal shitshow (for lack of a better word), manifested in a number of physical problems. Throughout my 20’s I suffered with digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, acne, chronic infections and fatigue. While at the time, I thought these health issues were to blame for my weight and body issues, when in fact it was the other way around. My relationship with food and my body had created these physical challenges.

In my search to find solutions to my health and body issues, I was introduced to holistic healing. I started learning how our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual selves are one. These components must all be addressed and honored to truly be in optimal health and well-being.

I spent the next several years delving into personal growth, spirituality, the mind-body connection and metaphysics. I had to unravel the misunderstandings I had about my childhood, myself, others and life. I became a certified holistic health coach and worked with a number of teachers in these areas. It was in these studies, that everything shifted for me. I am so grateful for the journey I had to go on, because it has taught me soooo much about myself, life and the human experience. I use all I have learned along the way to help women break through all of this MUCH faster than I did.  

What have you overcome to get where you are today?

Beneath the physical struggles (mentioned above), were self-doubt, insecurity, self-judgment, comparison, and many fears (men, my power, being seen, rejection, success, etc). I know for sure, my physical challenges were/are manifestations of my inner world. My life has been, and continues to be, a journey of transcendence from victim to leader.

Creating and producing my podcast, IMperfectly Healthy, is one of my greatest joys right now. I had to overcome some serious fears and self-limiting stories to start it. “I hate my voice. I am an awful speaker. No one cares what about what I have to say. No one will want to be on my show. I will look like an idiot,” are a few of the thoughts I had to move beyond. I remember being sooo nervous just sitting in my room alone and having to record myself speaking. Breaking through all of that feels SO good. The voices are still there at times. They just don’t have power over me, or stop me. Being able to have amazing guests on, chat about my favorite things in life, and to help others by doing so is sooo rewarding!

Did you ever feel like giving up? When you felt like giving up, what did you do?

There are times I wish I would want to give up, lol.  Yet, there is this deep calling and driving force that keeps me going. Turning back is not an option. That is the only way I can describe it. Sometimes it feels like I have so far to go, so much I want to do. During those times, I slow down and get present. I reconnect with myself, my heart and Spirit to remember to embrace the journey. Stepping back and putting life into perspective helps me step out of the mental drama and stories when they get going.

What are your gifts and how did you discover them?

My gifts?  I have no idea, lol.  I tried to skip this question and Mimi wouldn’t let me. I can say what I love most is guiding and supporting others in connecting with themselves, discovering their own answers and truth, and becoming who they really are. I have been told I hold a loving, compassionate space for others healing very well.  Through all my years of study and my own experiences, I have gathered quite a bit of knowledge, wisdom and tools. In working with clients, I pull from it all to help them individually. My podcast guests tell me I am a natural interviewer =) With the support of my own mentors, I am currently on the path of further developing my medical intuitive abilities.  

What are some of the tools and resources you have used to work through and overcome those struggles? (books, counselors, workshops, programs, coaches, etc.)

I have used, and continue to use, sooo many tools and resources in my life. A few of my  favorite authors/teachers include Eckhart Tolle, Caroline Myss, Brene Brown, Alison Armstrong, Medical Medium, Abraham Hicks, and so many more. I have been blessed to work with a number of personal spiritual/intuitive mentors over the last 8 years in areas such as EFT tapping, intuition, Theta Healing, Reiki, meditation, breath work and more.. Working one-on-one with someone is crucial! I am also a huge fan of group programs and workshops.  Some of my favorites have been Landmark, Sister Circle with Tanya Lynn, The Holy Shift with Heather Lindenmenn, Man Breakthrough with Kute Blackson, and Theta Healing with Beatrice Calise. Tools I regularly use are meditation, self-expressive movement, breath work, yoga, inspiration talks and podcasts, oracle cards, crystals, essential oils, EFT tapping and “divine chats.”

Who in life do you rely on to keep you uplifted and on your path?

Relationships are soooo key.  I surround myself with like-minded people that are also committed to their own growth path. The more I step into my authentic expression and take heart-inspired action, the more amazing people come into my life. I tend to be fed most by one-on-one quality time, or super small groups. Large social gatherings and/or events aren’t really my thing.  My AH-mazing family and close friends are everything. There is nothing like having heart-to-hearts, pep talks and holding space for those I love. I am so grateful for my parents, sister, brother and soul friends. Spend time with others that speak your language, lift you up and inspire you to be who you really are. Remember, you get to chose who you spend your time with. Choose wisely.

What do you want other women to know who are feeling lost, and/or experiencing their own tragedy and/or struggles?

I see struggles, tragedy and/or feeling lost as an invitation to go within. The hard times are calling you to slow down, connect with yourself, nurture your relationship with the divine and hold yourself in the arms of love, compassion and faith. We are all humans enrolled in Earth School. We are here to learn, grow, heal and evolve. Trust life. Trust your life and know that, “life gives you what is most helpful for the evolution of your consciousness” (Eckhart Tolle). From that stance, you have choice. Choice is your power. Call on the courage to take responsibility for how you show up in life, no matter what life hands you. You got this!

To learn more about Faith or to inquire about working with her, please visit her website:

www.faithshevlin.com

Definitely check out Faith's podcast, IMperfectly Healthy:

Podcast app link: www.bit.ly/faithshevlin

Weblink: www.imperfectlyhealthypodcast.com

Thank you Faith for being part of the Rising Woman Project. You are a gift and I'm so thankful to have you in my life.

xoxo

Back-to-Love Lifestyle Makeover

This is a 12-week program for women who are seeking to improve their health from the inside-out. This is not a quick fix or weight loss program. This is a time to get back to making yourself a priority in order to have a lasting healthy & balanced lifestyle.  

Is this program for you?

• Are you a woman who has given much of yourself and your time to your family, spouse, children, education and/or career?
• Have you put yourself on the back burner for a number of years?
• Has your lack of attention to your own needs taken a toll on your health?
• Do you feel that you need the accountability with another person to be successful?
• Do you feel you're lacking the tools on your own to reach the goals you desire?

What will you gain?

• A new relationship to healthy living
• A new wealth of knowledge, tools and resources that will empower your belief and ability to lead an empowered lifestyle
• A new sense of confidence in yourself and your ability to make healthy choices
• A new sense of vitality that will be the driving force in maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• A new relationship with, and love for, yourself in all of your unique beauty

How does it work?

• We will have sessions via Skype and/or telephone which will provide the education, accountability, resources, structures, tools and coaching to support you on your path to better health and happiness. 
• I will provide homework, activities and exercises for you to do in between our sessions together which will contribute to your goals and lifestyle transformation. 
• I will be here to support you between sessions via email.

How to get started:

• Email me to schedule an initial telephone consult to determine the structure that will work best for you.

***One-on-one and group program options

***Group discounts and payment options available

Contact me for your free initial consultation or to book your first session!

mimi@mimimarie.com

Or send me a personal message on Facebook!

Bonding Beauties Mother~Daughter Workshop

I'm so excited to share my latest creation with you...

Peace or Chaos ~ the Perspective is Yours.

The right perspective makes the impossible possible...

Perspective is always a hot topic for me. I am in a constant exercise of keeping the right perspective on my life and my goals. There was a period of time a couple of years ago where I was doing way too much. It was typical of me to get overwhelmed very easily and make life miserable for everyone around me. While it's clear to me now why, back then it was just a vicious cycle of stress that I couldn't get to the bottom of. I believed that I had to DO everything and always be perfect, or life was never going to be great. The problem was that nothing was working out, I was never happy and much of my life was falling apart. Since then, I have learned there is a paradoxical magic in learning to say no and balancing my work load, and believing that we're all capable of much more than we usually allow ourselves. 

How is that possible? What has to change to create more balance and peace in your life? Your perspective. Your view. Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to say that it's an easy feat. But when you can alter your view and see the bigger picture rather than getting stuck inside of one seemingly stressful circumstance, then the level of stress that you have to experience becomes less. Sometimes I freak out, stress out, break down, cry for stupid reasons, but at the end of the day I can look in the mirror and know that I'm moving forward on my path. I can allow myself to ride the roller coaster of life and know that it isn't the end of the ride just because it gets bumpy. Now, I intentionally set up my life so that I can reach goals, follow my dreams, build a career, be a positive example for my kids and a loving, supportive partner to man. If I am actually going to fulfill on all of those things, then keeping the right perspective is key.

Stress really is ALL about perspective. The ONLY time you are ever incapable is when you SAY that are! You can be negatively impacted by a long list of things to do; you can be stopped in life because you don't like the way things are going. Or you can be thankful that you're the one to get the job(s) done; thankful that you have a life that is full and plentiful, and that you have the ability to reach great accomplishments; thankful that you have the power to change things that you don't like and that you really are the one in control of your destiny. It really is a choice - choose wisely!!

Thank you for reading!

Yours in balance :)

~Mimi

The School of Inner Beauty

Have you ever had any of these thoughts? (I know I have...)

• I wish I could love what I see in the mirror every day, regardless of my weight or outer "flaws."
• I wish I could feel beautiful, and even sexy!
• I wish I really loved myself.
• I wish I could feel comfortable, radiant and free everywhere I go and with everyone I meet.
• I wish I could stop judging myself.
• I wish I could be healthy without beating myself up if I make a mistake.

I'm so thrilled and honored to be participating and assisting in the launch of this amazing program with my great friend, Camille from Paleo Living. We're working together to expand our entrepreneurial lives and unleashing our inner goddesses!! Rawr!! ;) 

This program is unlike anything I've ever seen! You will be supported and coached by 15 amazing leaders in the world of health and womanhood to create a life of self-love where anything is possible. Unleash your inner beauty!! There are a few select spots left and the program starts on 9/30, so if you think one of those spots might be for you, check it out and apply! 

Loving YOU~

Have you given yourself any TLC lately? It’s so easy to get caught up in the busy-ness of life and to put ourselves last. We must consistently work on nurturing ourselves until it becomes a natural part of our daily life. We must care for ourselves from the inside- out. We become stronger when we can focus on accentuating that vibrant feeling that comes from proper self nourishment.

When we learn to consistently nurture ourselves, all aspects (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) become balanced. When I’m tired, sluggish, grumpy, sad, moody; that is my body telling me that something is off. We can lessen those negative feelings by focusing on activities that make us feel happy, vibrant and energetic. Not that we will NEVER have negative feelings (especially as women), but I’m sure we could all use a lot less of them.

Make a list of your own happy activities and tape it to your bathroom mirror.
Fit at least one of them into every day.
Here are a few that I’ve made for myself:

*Try a new exercise, a new workout routine out of a magazine, or a new class at the gym.

*Try a new recipe.

*Read something inspiring and motivating.

*Write in a journal – write the things that are bothering you to get them out of your head,
  or write the things that you have to be thankful for.

*Meditate. Take just a few minutes to silence your mind and activity.

*Go for a walk. Take in the beauty of the outdoors.

*Tickle your kids (or even your spouse).

*Watch a movie.

*Put on a song and sing really LOUD and/or dance to it like nobody’s watching.
  Or get the whole family in on a mini dance party!
*Jump on the trampoline.

*Take a sun bath. Just a few minutes basking in the sunshine can really relax your mood.

*Call or write a friend/family member you haven’t talked to in a while.

Do this for at least a month and see how much happier you become!

Article originally written for Skinny Ms.

A Little Piece of Me~

We're all on our own journey~

What I want the world to know is that it doesn't matter where you came from. It doesn't matter what your childhood was like, what kind of tragedy you've been through, or how long it takes you to get where you want to go. As long as you're always moving forward. And this is why I've decided to start sharing my story with you. I haven't always been happy & healthy. I wasn't born into a path of health and abundance. But somewhere along the way, I chose something different for myself. The path wasn't perfect and there were LOTS of mistakes along the way. But here I am today, in a place where I finally feel I have something to give. 

I am happily married to husband of almost 14 years and we have FIVE kids! My husband is an incredibly hard-working man and our kids are phenomenal, but we have every good reason to be TOO BUSY to be healthy, eat right, work out, etc., etc. None of that matters. If you choose to create and live a life you LOVE, and then take actions every day that will make that happen, one day you will wake up and realize you've done it. Just don't forget to enjoy the journey!

So, THIS is my very FIRST interview with a very dear friend of mine. She just started her own podcast show called Food, Love and Transformation and in a nutshell that just sums up so much of my own journey. When she asked me to be on her show, I was thrilled. Please excuse my amateur-ness ;) as I'm still working on my presentation and voice etiquette (we all start somewhere).. But this is ME and my life. Take it as you will. And please, if you do take a listen, I'd love to hear your feedback!

>>>Supermom! with Mimi Pacheco<<<

And now I want to take you on my next fitness journey.. Oh boy, I'm so excited!! :) For a couple of years I have enjoyed reading the back section of Oxygen magazine where they feature "real women living the Oxygen lifestyle.." and then I started fantasizing... maybe that could be me some day... And now I say, WHY NOT?? So, I'm going for it! Tomorrow morning I'm starting 60 days of JNL Fusion workouts and I figure by the time summer comes I'll be ready for my next photo shoot that I can submit to Oxygen! 

 

Do you have dreams, goals, wishes, fantasies that you've put on your "some-day-maybe" list? Well I say it's time to move them to your to-do-now list!! Life is happening NOW.. don't let it pass you by!!

Yours in health,
~Mimi~

PS~ Want to join me in my free, 60-day, private FB group for support, accountability, motivation and inspiration to get fit for summer? Go here and request to join - I'd love to have you:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/243414309130232/

What it means to be a Sweaty Betty~

Over the past 8 months being a Sweaty Betty has come to mean so much to me. It all started when I met Danny-J earlier in 2012. I just happened to get lucky when she came to town and my hubby & I got to meet her for a drink. It was then that she shared the crazy journey that she was about to embark on with The Sweaty Betties. Things were changing and big things were coming! 

A few months later she chose me as one of the bloggers to attend the very first Inspiration & Perspiration Workshop in Las Vegas in October. This was the first time I left my family for such a long distance alone and even though I was a little nervous, I was super excited. So I packed up my car, my 80's gear, my music and set off on my 4-hour road trip!

Left to Right: Creative Galina, Angie Gooding, Heidi Henry from Banana Buzzbomb, Me :) Danny-J, the other Mimi,  and Lindsay from ALY Warriors

I have been on my own health & fitness journey for a few years now (but actually, it's a lifelong journey, isn't it?!). Getting healthy and learning to balance my soul has led to my true place of happiness. Now more than ever before I am truly in love with my life! Over the past year my journey has become about how I'm going to give what I have gotten back to others. Danny-J and The Sweaty Betties have been a huge part of the evolution of this part of my journey.

The I&P Workshop far exceeded what I thought it would be and was one of the turning points that began to crack open my purpose in life. I met and connected with SO many amazing women who I now call my friends and that has only snowballed since becoming a Sweaty Betty Ambassador. I would dare to say that for most people it is impossible to have this many close friends who make such an impact on the world all in one place. Their presence and their willingness to share themselves with others moves me to tears. And it's so exciting to see things grow inside of this community. Not just for the Sweaty Betties as a community, but inside of each of our lives. There just seems to be this force that has us all flourishing and growing inside of what we're committed to and it's incredible. Makes me think of this quote:

So, who are the Sweaty Betties Ambassadors? We were hand picked by Danny-J to represent The Sweaty Betties Fitness Community and to help her spread her message. We each have uniquely inspiring stories and we have all been through a LOT in our own lives. And now we're here to have our stories be a contribution to other people's journeys. 

Here are the links to each of the SBA's Facebook pages.. go give them a LIKE!! Their sites can also be found under my 'favorites' on my home page.

Crystal with Train Dirty Fitness

Lindsay with ALY Warriors

Shanna with Pineapple and Coconut

Deanna with Life as the Fat Friend

Stacey Hancock

Margo ~ Brooklyn FitChick

Astrid with Better Believe Fit

Kimberly with Kiki's Kitchen- A Gluten Free Zone

Claudette with Cavegirl Confections

Christy with Whole to Healthy

Lisa with Healthy Way Fitness

Mariette with Namaste Mari

Valerie with LiveFit Journey

Grissel - Model and Fitness Bikini Competitor

If you're looking for a safe place to share your journey, get support and get on the right track to being healthy and fit, you definitely want to check out this amazing community. And as Danny says, "Don't be a b*tch!" :)

35 Years~ 35 Pieces of Me

Today is my 35th birthday and the last year has been a whirlwind for me. Such is life. I have recreated my life and I have found my purpose on this Earth. Inside of that, I have reevaluated my presence here on my blog as well as in the "cyber world." How is my presence serving my purpose? I have looked at what has been missing in who I portray myself to be for all of you, and what I have seen is that because of a lack of time, my presence has become less personal. And I feel that takes away from what I'm really committed to giving. I never intend to seem perfect, but I now know that I'm perfect just the way I am. So, today I put this list together with the intention of letting you know who I am.

Enjoy~ if you wish... :)

1. I have 5 kids.

2. I have never been overweight, but I have been very unhealthy. 

3. Two of my kids are biologically my brother and sister. My husband & I raised them from the time that we were 18 years old. 

4. I don't watch TV. 

5. I have 3 tattoos. 

6. I can be kind of wishy washy when it comes to making decisions. 

7. I was raised in a drug & alcohol induced environment. 

8. My favorite color is purple. 

9. I love to dance. 

10. I am spiritual, not particularly religious. 

11. I used to have a problem with alcohol. I have resolved that through personal development and love for myself.

12. My kids are the light of my life. 

13. My husband is my best friend and I'm so thankful we never gave up!

14. I want to visit Italy.

15. And India.

16. Sometimes I'm insecure. 

17. Making a difference for others is what moves me.

18. I don't love politics.

19. The ocean and the sunshine sooth every part of my soul.

20. I love to cook!

21. Indian and Thai foods are my favorite cuisines.

22. I just love FOOD.

23. I will never stop learning and growing.

24. I love the outdoors.

25. I declare that this year I am financially free.

26. I hate to be cold.

27. My dad passed away when I was 21 and I will miss him always.

28. Even though I grew up with my Mom, I have always missed her.

29. I can be really hard on myself.

30. I've done some things I'm not very proud of. 

31. I am no longer defined by my past.

32. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a super model. 

33. One of my favorite things to do is LAUGH.

34. I often laugh so hard that I cry. 

35. I love people. Really. I love all of you!!

Sweaty Inspiration!

My life has been crazy full of possibilities lately, so I came to realize that it wouldn't make sense for me NOT to enter the contest for The Sweaty Betties Inspiration and Perspiration Workshop next month! This workshop will feature my absolute #1 FAVORITE ladies in the health and fitness world. I 100% back everything that they're about ~ natural health, fitness, fun, balance and being 100% true to who we are as amazing and beautiful women from the inside out. I would be thrilled and honored to be able to spend some time with and learn more from them!! 

And this is why I'm here to share with you all, "What Inspires ME to Sweat!"

Getting sweaty has transformed so much about the person I am to the world around me. I am a more fit woman, wife, mommy and friend because of who I have found myself to be through being physically fit. Getting sweaty not only releases my endorphins, but it releases something that empowers me to live my life to its fullest and to chase that which is beyond my wildest dreams! I am inspired to sweat because it has made me the woman that I am today! :)

Have you checked out this workshop yet? Are you going? 

This awesome workshop to be held in Las Vegas is brought to us by the following AMAZING ladies:

The Sweaty Betties

BexLife

Angie Gooding

If you're not following them yet, you're missing out! They're sure to provide you with so much quality and richness in regard to health, fitness and all around wellness. If you're a new fan of theirs, please tell them I sent you! :)

Life Worth Loving~

Lately my life has been a perfect reflection of all of the things I've been working so hard to create. I think it's so important to take the time to recognize, acknowledge and give thanks when things are going your way. If we only focus on the things that DON'T go our way (which can be an easy trap to fall in to), then we could miss out on the things that really matter - the GOOD stuff! So, here are a few things that I'm feeling really thankful for this evening, as well as reasons I feel naturally inclined and inspired to keep living Heavenly Healthy.

• Seeing the healthy influence that we've had on our friends/family to improve their quality of life through healthy eating. This weekend as we spent time with some of our closest friends, it was brought to my attention that it has been through our example that some of them have been making positive changes in their kitchens/diets/lifestyles. Even so much as working toward becoming vegetarians!  If I am changing as little as ONE family's life by what I do, then I am one happy mama! I'm so proud of you, my friends, you know who you are! ;)

• Meeting new friends (thank you FitFluential, Inc.!).. I had the pleasure of meeting a fellow ambassador today; the very lovely, sweet and inspiring Alison from Berry Happy Bodies. We did a beautiful 3 mile walk on the coast of Encinitas and chatted the entire time! It was a pleasure to meet you and I look forward to seeing you again soon! 

• I'm excited to share that last week I took my first step in the direction of bringing my passion to life. I have teamed up with The Conscious Cook and I'm thrilled to be working toward changing lives through healthy eating. Additionally, I am working on a program to assist in transforming peoples health, beginning in their kitchen! 

I aim to wake up each morning with the thought that every day is a new possibility for creation. And if I don't wake with that thought, then I create it as the day goes on. It's not always easy, but it definitely is possible. This leaves me open to the unthinkable and unimaginable. You have to really believe that your dreams are possible if you want them to come alive! 

Thank you all for reading and supporting my journey!! 

Yours in health,

~Mimi~