Blog – Dr. Danielle Clark

Are you prepared?

How do you feel when I ask you the question, ‘Are you prepared for a crisis or unexpected event?’ Many people experience a surge of tension, worry, or fear when confronted with this question. For some, it triggers denial or a freeze-like response, causing them to dissociate from the idea of preparation; the old ‘it can’t happen to me’ mindset.

If you find yourself reacting in a similar way, take a deep breath. I’m here to help; preparing for the unknown can be a soul-centered endeavor. Know that I’m posing the question, ‘Are you prepared for a crisis or unexpected event?’ out of love. We all lead busy lives and it can be challenging to think proactively or plan for the future. That’s precisely why I’ve created this special space for you to think strategically. This time is for you.

While the media, insurance companies, doomsday preppers, and many other outlets and people portray preparation as fear-based, we can choose to approach preparing for life’s unknowns from a different perspective – a place of empowerment.

Over the past few months, I’ve been doing just that, asking myself a variety of ‘Am I prepared for…?’ questions. These questions have granted me a remarkable sense of freedom and self-reliance as I’ve identified vulnerabilities and strengthened certain areas of my life. For example, I recognized I would be underprepared if someone tried to take me or force their way on me, so I enrolled in self-defense classes. These classes have made me more aware of potential attacker risks and equipped me with practical techniques to protect myself. There’s been no added fear involved with me acknowledging my weaknesses. Because I could take action, I now walk through a dimly lit parking lot and life with more confidence, knowing I’m prepared if the need arises.

Other areas of preparedness I’m leaning into include home safety and being able to care for others in an emergency. In fact, the reason I am sending this newsletter later than I usually do is because I was in a First Aid & CPR class.

If you’re interested in leaning into the concept of preparing further, remember that preparing is a mindset, and it’s crucial not to bring too much fear or perfection to the task. You can’t prepare for every possible scenario, and that’s okay. What matters is approaching this task with love and excitement, knowing you are working towards maintaining independence and your ability to be of service in the face of a challenge.

To enhance your sense of preparedness, you need to tailor your approach to your unique needs. Consider various categories such as financial, legal, emotional, physical, and safety. Conduct a self-audit to determine how you can become better prepared. You can identify potential scenarios, like natural disasters, economic downturns, or job loss. Ask yourself preparedness questions and empower yourself to take action. Perhaps you could draft a will or protect your business by filing for an LLC if you identify you are vulnerable in that area. Maybe you could ask your doctor for an extra month’s supply of essential medication in case you take an unexpected trip. Or you can start saving more money by making small lifestyle changes to be ready just in case something financially unexpected happens.

Additionally, try not to stress about time constraints. Believing that you don’t have enough time to prepare is a limiting belief that is also oftentimes connected to preparing. Even dedicating just ten minutes a day or ten minutes a week can yield significant results. In ten minutes, you can check smoke detectors, update security codes and passwords, purchase mace for your keychain, put a stash of cash and your passports in one accessible area, and more.

The key is to make ‘Are you prepared?’ a regular part of your daily and weekly routine. This way, it becomes less overwhelming, and the more you prepare, the more confident and secure you’ll feel. And remember to do all of this out of love – be aware, but not scared. The Universe has your back. Think of it this way: Most of us keep a spare tire in our car trunks, just in case. We aren’t worried about getting a flat tire. That spare in our trunk isn’t generating negative energy that will lead to a flat tire; rather, it’s something we do to provide us with a bit of extra peace of mind and security if the unexpected occurs.

Take a deep breath. Be proud of yourself for leaning into hard yet important things. I’m sending you love and light. If you’d like to explore this concept further, it would be my honor to have a one-on-one session with you.

Sincerely,
Dr. Danielle Clark | Psychic Medium
drdanielleclark.com

PS – Here is an affirmation to help you approach preparation from a soul-centered place, “I lean into the areas I can influence, and I release control of what I can’t. I find peace in the balance between effort and surrender.”

PPS – Take a moment to reflect on your own beliefs and attitudes about preparing for the unknown. Grab your pen and journal. Are there any limiting beliefs or fears that may be holding you back from taking proactive steps to prepare for unexpected events? In your journal, explore the following questions:

What emotions come up for me when I think about preparing for unexpected events or crises? Do I experience fear, anxiety, denial, or resistance? Describe these feelings in detail.
Can I identify any specific beliefs or thoughts that contribute to these emotions? For example, do I believe that ‘it can’t happen to me,’ or that ‘I don’t have enough time to prepare’? Write down any such beliefs that come to mind.
How have these limiting beliefs impacted my level of preparedness in various aspects of my life, such as safety, finances, or personal well-being? Have I been avoiding taking necessary actions due to these beliefs?
Consider the concept of preparing as a mindset and a source of empowerment. How would my life change if I were to approach preparedness with love and excitement rather than fear? Write down the possibilities and potential benefits.
What steps can I take to challenge and transform these limiting beliefs? How can I reframe my thoughts and attitudes to be more proactive and confident in my preparations? Brainstorm actionable ideas and write them down.

Believing In Your Soul’s Plan

I haven’t spoken to my teenage niece in a year and a half. The last time I saw her, she was here in Florida, staying with me. During her stay, there was a behavioral concern that put her in serious harm’s way. My husband and I both agreed that I needed to inform my sister, her mother, so she could be aware and take whatever action she deemed best. When my sister told my niece that I had reached out about the concern, that was it. My niece decided she was mad at me and no longer wanted to talk to me.

This niece is my only niece, and we had always been very close. She would sleep over, and we would go on family adventures and trips all the time. In fact, my niece lived with me and my family for a year and a half when my sister was going through a hard time. To have all of those shared memories and love, and then suddenly not have that connection has been incredibly difficult.

I wish I knew my niece’s friends’ names and how school is going. I wish I could spoil her and take her shopping like I used to. I wish she and I could be sitting around a table together at Christmas, smiling and drinking eggnog. Not having her in my life hurts like hell, but I’m okay because I know the Universe has a plan. Even though I’m hurting, I know this separation serves a higher purpose for both my soul growth and hers.

Separations in life can be challenging, whether it’s losing your job, going through a divorce, or someone passing on. What I have learned through the many separations in my life, is that although it may not be what I want, it may be exactly what I need for my soul’s growth.

I’ve been thinking a lot about my dad passing away. This upcoming January will mark ten years since he died when I was just 28 years old. There was so much sadness. I was such a Daddy’s girl. I felt deep sorrow knowing that things could have been different if it weren’t for his alcoholism and smoking habits, which led to a massive heart attack.

The day Dad passed away, I had a profound experience. I clearly felt him, warm tingles up and down the right side of my neck and shoulder. It was my first significant clue that I had the ability to communicate with the other side as a medium. Ten years later, I have a beautiful and thriving psychic mediumship practice that supports many others through their own separations and life transitions. My dad’s passing gave me a gateway to a beautiful gift and a way to serve Spirit.

My niece’s separation has also provided me gifts. It has given me more strength to speak my truth, regardless of the consequences. It’s also helped me to lean into my spiritual side more, trusting in the Universe’s plan.

If you’re out there, navigating the complexities of estrangement, grief, and loss, if you find yourself constantly pondering what you could have done differently to prevent a separation or why certain things didn’t unfold as you expected, if bitterness and a sense of unfairness weigh on your heart, I encourage you to be gentle with yourself and believe in the highest good even when things are hard and don’t make sense. It’s my belief that if something was meant to be, even if we don’t fully comprehend it, it was meant to be.

In the case of my niece and me, I am convinced that even if I hadn’t mentioned that incident to my sister, some other circumstance would have arisen to separate us. It seems as though there was a deeper soul contract and energy at play that necessitated this separation.

Similarly, regarding my father’s struggles with addiction and vices, I believe that even if I had ‘done more’ to get him help, he would still have passed away young due to those vices. And although him passing away hurt, it was also exactly what I needed in my healing and spiritual journey.

It’s my belief that we are committed to our soul contracts. Ultimately, events unfold as they are meant to, and we must find peace knowing they serve a higher purpose. Sometimes, we’re shown gifts and growth right away, and other times, it takes time, but know the gifts are always there for all involved.

I hear this message regularly from the Spirit world. When I communicate with those who have passed on, they consistently convey to me that their loved ones should understand there was nothing they could have done differently, that it was their time, and that the passing was necessary for both individuals’ soul growth.

No matter the separation you are grappling with, know that your soul is evolving through this experience. You did everything perfectly. You are perfect. The Universe has a plan.

I believe in you. I believe in your soul’s plan.

PS – Here is an affirmation to help you release the energetic hold on a separation you are navigating, “I trust in the divine plan of my soul’s growth, surrendering the need to control and fully understand everything.”

PPS – Do you want more insight into a separation you’ve been navigating? Take a moment to sit in stillness with your journal and pen. Close your eyes, place your hands on your heart, and breathe deeply. With your heart as your guide, ask your soul to share its understanding of this situation. In your journal, record what wisdom your soul imparts, what it needs from you, and how it feels in the midst of this challenge. Trust the insights that emerge and let your soul’s voice guide your reflection.

Bloopers, blunders, and how we’re all in this together

My friend Tori and I had our October girls’ weekend circled on the calendar for months. A few weeks ago, I shot Tori a quick FB message to make sure we were still on track. She promptly confirmed we were on. Yahoo!

Then, last week, Tori told me she hadn’t realized she’d somehow triple-booked herself with work commitments that very weekend; she could no longer go. What!?! Huh? Bummer!

Two days later, via FB messenger, Tori declared that she’d managed to rearrange her schedule and that our girl’s weekend was back on! Hooray! However, later that evening, I couldn’t help but notice the message vanished before I could fully read it.

The next day, I messaged her: “Hi there! I glimpsed your ‘I can come’ message, but it mysteriously vanished. What’s the latest? Are you in or out?”

Tori’s response: “Oh no! I was praying you hadn’t seen that message. Turns out, I’m still a no-go. Got all tangled up with client names and dates, and my eagerness got the best of me. I was secretly hoping you hadn’t read it, sparing you from my cosmic disarray – this retrograde has been challenging for me.”

Of course, our canceled plans and the back-and-forth were hard on me. However, I was glad to have seen her latest “I can come” message as it got Tori to open up about the phase of disorganization and time mix-ups she’d been in. This revelation gave me some comfort because I had been in a similar funk too.

In the past month alone, I managed to buy my first cinnamon broom of the season, brimming with excitement, only to absentmindedly leave it behind at the checkout. And then, a doozy – I wrote a check to my home insurance company for $161, meanwhile, the amount due was $1,261. How I managed to conjure that number is a cosmic mystery in itself. I even confused a student in my business class for someone in my marketing class, a blunder that left us both puzzled. Oh, and while running an errand, I locked my car, placed my tea mug and keys on top of the car while I attended to something else, and then left to go into a store without my keys – but, of course, I remembered my tea. I’m sure more blips and bloopers have vanished from my memory, but you get the point; I’ve been scattered.

The takeaway here? Whether it’s a retrograde, an overload of stimuli, or the sheer weight of stress, remember, we’re all in this together, dropping balls left and right. Let’s show ourselves and others grace and speak about our blunders openly.

Sadly, we’ve been too conditioned to present only the polished side of our lives, fearing that anything less would burden others or make us look bad. But by sharing our missteps, we can weave a beautiful tapestry of connection and understanding among the sacred people in our lives while giving ourselves a much-needed release. In these shared imperfections, we find community and a reassuring sense that we’re not alone in our wonky journeys through life.

PS – Here’s an affirmation to use when you are feeling insecure about your quirks, ‘I understand mistakes and imperfections are only perceived. I consciously chose to give myself grace and love for fully embracing all aspects of the human experience.’

PPS – There’s immense strength in openly sharing your challenges, not just the significant life events like coping with grief or facing a job loss, but also the smaller struggles such as staying organized or making everyday mistakes (like leaving a store without the item you paid for).

Grab your pen and journal if you want to explore this concept more. Reflect on the potential healing that can come from acknowledging and releasing your personal struggles. Consider how sharing these struggles might create a sense of connection and healing for others who can relate. Imagine the supportive space that could be held for you and others in similar situations.

After some thoughtful brainstorming, as it calls to you, consider taking steps to share these challenges with others.

7 ways to preserve your energy

Recently, I’ve noticed more people coming to me feeling drained because they can’t seem to find the energy they need. This lack of energy can make it tough to tackle everyday tasks, which then makes them feel guilty or like they’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of unfinished business.

Does this sound like what you’re experiencing, too?

If so, I want more for you. I want your motivation and energy high and sustained so that you have enough oomph to achieve everything you need to while still having plenty of gusto to take on your goals and dreams.

Give these preserve your energy ideas a try and see what works for you while remembering to be gentle with yourself. There’s a lot of dense, low-energy stuff around us and rising above it isn’t an easy, straightforward task – it takes hope, belief, community, hard work, self-discipline, and more.

7 ways to preserve your energy

Minimize energy fluctuations: Maintaining a consistent energy level throughout the day is more beneficial than experiencing extreme highs and lows. To achieve this, steer clear of sugary drinks and foods, limit excessive caffeine intake, and focus on eating balanced meals while staying hydrated. I also suggest opting for several small meals over one large one. If you find it challenging to get essential nutrients consistently, consider taking supplements.

Manage stress and take breaks: Prioritize managing stress before it escalates to the point where cortisol takes over, leading to burnout. Taking consistent breaks throughout the day can help.

Release negativity: Repeatedly dwelling on the same issues, harboring anger, or blaming others can drain your energy and hinder progress. Practice acceptance and forgiveness.

Mindful consumption: Be conscious of the energy you invest in activities and entertainment. Lighter and simpler activities, like a leisurely walk or watching a romcom, require less energy than intense experiences such as visiting an amusement park or watching the news. Balance your energy expenditure by pairing demanding tasks, like reading a research book, with simpler activities like gardening.

Establish boundaries: Be selective about where you spend your time and who you interact with. Some environments and people can drain your energy. Get comfortable saying ‘no’ and honoring what your soul needs.

Time management: Align your tasks with your energy levels. If you have high energy in the morning, tackle high-energy tasks first, like brainstorming new business logo ideas or creating social media content. Save lower-energy tasks, such as organizing the junk drawer, for later in the day when your energy is lower.

Strategic work: Identify tasks that can be automated or delegated to save time and energy. Consider using systems and tools or collaborating with others to streamline your workload. I also suggest simplifying your surroundings to reduce mental clutter and save energy. Regularly declutter your space, know where items are located, and eliminate things that no longer serve you.

Here are a few things I’ve done recently to preserve more of my energy:

Keep track of my keys: When I return home, I tend to scatter myself across various spots – my office couch, the dining room table, the kitchen island. I usually come in with three different bags that I don’t unpack. As a consequence, I often find myself frantically searching for my keys the next morning, causing stress and wasting precious morning time. I’ve made an effort to invest an extra 5 minutes when I arrive home to organize my belongings and keys.

Embrace brevity: I tend to be quite wordy in my writing, whether it’s text messages, emails, or grading papers and giving feedback. I’m now focused on maintaining the essence of my message while being more concise.

Streamline my commute: I work in the city a few times a week; Tampa traffic is brutal during rush-hour. To avoid unneeded stress, I’ve been proactive about scheduling friend meet-ups and workouts after work to avoid rush-hour, ensuring a smooth ride home without the frustration of stop-and-go and honking horns. During the drive, I make a point to listen to energizing music or a spiritual podcast for perspective and connection.

Prioritize my day: Over the last few months, I’ve noticed a decline in my overall energy, especially at night. I’m learning to accept this and acknowledge that I can’t do everything I used to. I’ve become more realistic about what I aim to achieve in a day.

I’m sending you love, light and lots of feel-good, vibrant energetic vibes.

Sincerely,
Dr. Danielle Clark | Psychic Medium
drdanielleclark.com

PS – Here’s an affirmation to use to remind you to nourish your energy, “My energy is a precious resource, and I use it wisely by focusing on what truly matters and letting go of the rest.”

PPS – Do you find yourself uncertain about how you allocate your time and energy each day? Are you eager to gain a clearer understanding of where your valuable hours are being spent? If so, grab your pen and journal. Over the next week, make a conscious effort to record both your activities and thoughts. For instance, when you’re commuting home from work, jot down the 30 minutes spent driving, but also take note of what occupies your mind during that time. Are you daydreaming about your upcoming Hawaii vacation, or are you mulling over a work presentation that could have gone smoother? Document as many tasks and thoughts as possible. By the end of the week, you’ll have valuable insights into areas where you may need to adjust.

The times we’re in have a purpose

A few weeks ago, the Miller family, our friends from Boston, visited Tampa to spend the weekend with us. They are a family of four, and we are a family of three, along with our 100-lb yellow lab, Charlie, who can almost count as an additional ‘person.’

We had a packed schedule, including a Rays game, a visit to the St. Pete pier, and walks around Ybor and downtown Tampa; my 5-seat CRV wouldn’t cut it. Thus, we opted to rent a minivan for the weekend.

Thanks to the generous state employee discount I receive, I managed to secure a minivan from Avis for $130 from Friday to Monday. Score!

Spending time with the Millers was a blast. We’ve known each other for a decade, and having them around felt like a slice of home.

On Monday, my husband Ron returned the van. He texted me saying he had provided Avis with the requested pictures of the fuel gauge and mileage and that drop-off went smoothly. Wonderful!

A couple of days later, reviewing my Amex transactions online, I saw a charge from Avis for over $600. Filled with panic, I immediately dialed Avis.

After enduring some time on hold, a representative admitted he was not entirely sure about the charge but said he would request a copy of the invoice to be emailed to me. When the invoice arrived, it simply stated, ‘Miscellaneous Charge: $450.’

Anxiety washed over me, and my lip quivered in response. How is this situation acceptable? How could Avis charge me such a hefty fee without notification or explanation? How could they do this to others? What if this enormous mystery fee hit someone’s bank account who was living paycheck to paycheck?

I redialed Avis, requesting to speak with a supervisor. The supervisor explained that the $450 fee pertained to a pet cleaning charge. The explanation baffled me. While a few of Charlie’s hairs might have been present, they hardly warranted a $450 expense. Why hadn’t we been advised to vacuum the vehicle before returning it or when dropping it to avoid such a fee? Why hadn’t a more reasonable fee, say $50 or even $75 for vacuuming, been charged?

Upon hearing the reasoning behind the $450, my composure crumbled, and tears flowed uncontrollably. I wept for the escalating greed and corruption in the world; I cried for the diminishing compassion, communication, and ethics that characterize the current times.

I managed to negotiate the charge down to $200; however, the emotional impact had already been made. This incident stirred up a lot within me, leading me to retreat and focus on healing for the next few days. I indulged in a Gilmore Girls binge-watch, enjoyed a long soothing bath, and went to bed at 8pm three nights in a row.

And now, I’ve resurfaced. I’ve reclaimed my “glass-half-full” attitude and positive vibes, as that’s the outlook I’ve consciously chosen to adopt. I’ve decided to elevate my energy so that my awareness of malice doesn’t define me. Simultaneously, I’ve deliberately chosen to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us all: the wonders of nature, signs and synchronicities, and the unwavering love from my family and friends.

Considering the state of the world today, it’s likely that you, too, have encountered similar experiences to my Avis scenario – small reminders that are big reminders that the world is broken; reminders of injustice and greed caused by the absence of compassion and systems and structures that no longer work, or perhaps never did work.

The encouraging side to all of it, at least for me is, I believe the wickedness of the world is being shown to us more and more to give us as a collective the opportunity to amplify our positive energy and spark change – to exercise our inner-power, transcend the noise, advocate for truth, and ascend. For every heartbreak I have encountered, I know I am better for it, because I have chosen to let that situation teach me more about living in love and light.

So please, take the time you need to grieve, recuperate and recharge, but don’t feel low and isolate yourself for too long as there’s no need – this time we are in has a purpose.

Sincerely,
Dr. Danielle Clark | Psychic Medium
drdanielleclark.com

PS – Here’s an affirmation to use when the world feels heavy, ‘I have the power to be heart-centered and optimistic, even in the hardest of times. I know that every challenge has a deeper purpose guiding me and humanity towards growth and transformation.’

PPS – We don’t need to wait for a trigger (like my Avis situation) to explore and release pent-up emotions about the state of the world. Grab your pen and journal. Reflect on a recent situation in the world that has been weighing on your heart. Describe the emotions it stirs within you. How has this event affected your daily thoughts and actions? Allow your pen to freely express your frustrations, fears, and any other emotions you’re experiencing. How can these feelings help elevate both yourself and society? This journal prompt may be a beneficial one to use several times a week, helping you to process, transmute, and release feelings as needed.

Sometimes, less is more

A couple of Friday nights ago, carrying our yoga mats, my husband Ron and I entered our yoga studio for our regular gentle all-levels restorative candlelight class.

As we made our way to our preferred spot at the back, we passed by Ben, who was rolling his mat up and getting ready to leave. Ben, who used to attend the Friday night class with us, but hadn’t been in a few months, glanced up, his face displaying disapproval. In an abrupt tone, he asked, ‘When are the two of you finally going to step it up to a real class? I mean, how long do you want to be just beginners?’ I offered a wry ‘Ha’ and walked on.

While on my mat, waiting for class to start, I felt a deep sadness for Ben and his perspective. Instead of experiencing the warm love around Ron and me and realizing that we were exactly where we wanted to be, Ben’s ego only allowed him to consider that his ‘more advanced’ class surpassed ours in meaning and worthiness. What a hardened way to experience the world.

In a chest-opening yoga pose, my sadness transformed into inner pride. Our encounter with Ben reminded me of the limiting beliefs and ego I used to carry. There was a time when I resembled Ben, passing judgment on others (and myself) for not climbing the corporate ladder fast enough, for not ticking off more tasks on the to-do list, or for not displaying enough ambition toward goals.

How times have indeed changed…

How I have changed…

And this realization gave me and still gives me immense peace.

Today, I proudly align myself with what truly serves me. I still pursue ambitious dreams that resonate with my soul, constantly evolving and striving to excel in endeavors that excite me. However, I also find immense joy in simply existing without perpetually striving to be the ultimate best. I hold dear the smaller, simpler aspects of my life, considering them sacred.

In fact, I occasionally strive not to change or get better at the things I cherish, such as enjoying the familiar flow of a beginner’s yoga class.

It’s my wish that you always remember that we are Human BEings, not human DOings. Relaxing. Repetition. The familiar. They give us the comfort and peace that is our birthright; don’t let anyone make you feel small for claiming and enjoying what is yours.

PS – Here’s an affirmation to use when your ego says, More, more, more: ‘I recognize true growth isn’t solely about reaching greater heights and that it’s also about deepening my understanding, compassion and inner peace.’

PPS – Do you want to explore finding peace in the smaller familiar moments more? If so, grab your pen and journal. Recall a recent experience where you found joy and tranquility in a simple, everyday moment. It could be a mundane activity like washing the dishes, a familiar place, or a routine you cherish. Describe the sensations, emotions, and thoughts you experienced during this moment. How does embracing these small moments of joy contribute to your overall well-being and contentment? How can you bring more of these sacred moments into your life?

Speak up, stand strong

Earlier this month, I was in Massachusetts and got to see many of you. Thank you sincerely to those who came out to Lions Gate and Circles of Wisdom. I’ll be sure to let you know when I visit New England again.

The other day, as I leisurely scrolled through my Facebook feed, a friend’s post abruptly caught my eye. I could feel my shoulders tensing up and warmth rising in my chest. I sat up straighter. Put the phone down. Closed my eyes and shook my head side-to-side. It was not anger that fueled this surge, but a profound sense of strength, grace and certainty.

This situation is not okay…I thought. It’s your body.It’s your money. It’s your soul.Never give up your power.

My friend Henry had just come home after a massage. What should have been a time for blissful rejuvenation turned sour when the masseuse made inappropriate comments about him being overweight. Despite the degrading comments, he stayed for the massage and even tipped the person, not wanting conflict. Henry was now on Facebook reflecting on the situation and he was angry.

As I took in his post, I flashed back to the week before when I was getting a pedicure. The manicurist had just finished putting the last coat of turquoise on when she asked if I liked my pedicure. I looked at my right big toe, then my left big toe, and then my right again. I thought, I don’t like it.My right toenail is much shorter than my left. I want them even.

I responded, ‘I love it.’

As I walked out of the salon and to my car, I watched my feet connect with the pavement and thought, Just go back and ask her to even out your toes.

Instead, I got in the car and went home. Similar to Henry, I didn’t want conflict.

While at home, I knew I should have spoken my truth and honored my money and body, but that voice in me telling me to do so wasn’t as strong as when I heard about Henry’s encounter.

It wasn’t until I read Henry’s post (thank you Universe for sending me my lesson in perfect timing) that I realized my voice of self-worth and advocacy needs to be as loud for myself as it is for others. I’m aware and I’ll keep working on this.

Since you’re reading this, I invite you to ponder: Is this message being sent to you in perfect timing? How can you be a better self-advocate?

PS – Here’s an affirmation to use when self-advocating is needed, ‘My voice matters. I speak up for myself as loud as I would for others.’

PPS – Do you want to explore your self-worth deeper? If so, grab your pen and journal. Reflect on three instances in which you prioritized the opinions, expectations, or needs of others over your own. What similarities do these situations share? Explore the underlying motivations behind your decision to place someone else’s interests first. How can this newfound awareness empower you to communicate your truth more effectively in the future?

Summer detox tips for higher summer vibes

Summer is in full swing. The longer days. The festivals, celebrations, vacations, and the sunburns (that hopefully tan), the sandy cards, and the missing flip-flops. Or is that last one just me?

For me, summer brings a sense of vitality paired with a more relaxed mindset; the extra warmth and light (especially here in Florida) provide me with more energy (and sweat), a sense of deeper gratitude and a deeper connection with Mother Nature, especially with water.

Because of the light and bright summer feel, I’ve found it to be an excellent season to detox mind, body and soul giving me an even higher summer vibe.

In no particular order, here are a few detoxes I’ve incorporated and some ideas on how you can too:

Calendar Detox: Participate in more spontaneous activities, block off days to just ‘live in the moment’, and cancel plans that don’t energize you. Too much planning keeps us rigid. This detox invites flexibility and flow into your life. I’ve been saying ‘yes’ a lot more when an invite comes my way and feel more free and alive.

Cry: Yes! You read that right. Make space to open your heart. Read a sappy beach-read novel. Volunteer at the local shelter. Have a heart-to-heart with your partner while you’re fishing on the lake. Crying is a beautiful emotional cleanse that releases stress-related hormones and gives us a sense of renewal and emotional clarity.

Technology Detox: Easier, said than done, I know, but it’s so worth it. To get the full effect of a technology detox, leave all technology at home for a fun summer day out, including your smart watch and ask others who are with you for the day to do the same. If you’re not ready to go all in, you can commit to not watching TV for a week and instead spend your nights crafting on the porch or taking a long stroll in your neighborhood. Getting a break from technology has many benefits including enhanced focus, creativity, and productivity.

Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate! Water, fruit and veggie infused water, and organic juices are excellent for helping to flush unwanted chemicals (like too many peach margaritas) from our bodies. Summer favorites of mine include turmeric pineapple water and beetroot, carrot, apple and ginger juice. Iced green tea is also a great detox as it packs lots of antioxidants.

Sweat: Thanks to the mounds of sunscreen and mosquito spray we consume, our skin and body may be suffering from chemical overload. Regularly sweating will help to remove toxins from your body. Fortunately, finding ways to sweat in the summer is easy. You can ride your bike, go for a run, play pickleball. Be sure to shower soon after sweating to remove any residual chemicals. If sweating isn’t your thing, dry brushing can help bring chemicals up to the surface, allowing them to leave your body.

Breathwork: Adding breathwork to your summer increases oxygen flow in the body, improving circulation and nourishing cells. Oxygen plays a crucial role in the body’s natural detoxification processes. Yoga and long night time strolls are two spaces where I do deep belly breathing activities.

I’m sending you and your summer so much love.

PS – Here’s an affirmation to use to remind yourself of the power you hold in your wellness journey, “I design a life of well-being. My choices create healing and rejuvenation.”

PPS – To offer you additional support on your summer detox journey, you may want to consider starting a food and beverage log. If this calls to you, grab your pen and journal. Between BBQs and beers and extra sweets, summer can knock us off our health goals if we aren’t careful. That’s why creating a daily log to track your food and beverage intake may be helpful.

Write down everything you consume, including meals, snacks, and beverages. Reflect on how certain foods make you feel and identify any patterns or triggers that may affect your body and mood. Use this log to make conscious choices and gradually incorporate more detoxifying foods (leafy greens and citrus are great) and hydrating beverages (see above) into your diet as needed.

Get outside yourself

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, depressed or stuck – you’re not alone. Over the last few months I’ve seen an uptick in clients navigating these emotions and I have my own experiences as well.

Fortunately, getting outside of yourself can help.

When I say ‘getting outside of yourself’, I mean shifting your focus away from your own thoughts, emotions and concerns.

Oftentimes, we don’t do this though, do we? Instead, we hyper-focus on ourselves or our perceived issues. We think about something and then think about it some more, hoping that somewhere along that string of thoughts we’ll find the answer. Or we sit in our sadness so long that all we do is magnify our feelings of confusion and stuckness.

Lucky for us, we don’t have to face everything on our own. We can get a sense of relief, connection and balance externally.

Maybe you thought I’d say, ‘go internal… the answers are within us.’ There is truth in these words no doubt, but there are alternative ways to shift our focus. First, redirecting our attention to the needs and experiences of others; and second, immersing ourselves in new environments. Both can help us to tap into our beautiful inner wisdom.

When we are outside of ourselves, we are broadening our perspective, giving our mind and emotions time to rest and recharge. By temporarily shifting away from ourselves, we are working to regain a sense of balance, giving us time to heal, to experience new ‘ah-ha’ moments and tune into inner wisdom.

Give it a try! Here are some ideas to get outside of yourself:

Volunteer

By volunteering, you become part of a larger community and connect with others. Make sure to choose a cause meaningful to you – a genuine sense of belonging and involvement can provide a much-needed distraction from personal distress. Contributing to the well-being of others can be incredibly healing.

Recently, I was overwhelmed by my summer workload: teaching multiple business classes, enhancing future classes, and preparing my tenure portfolio. Despite this anxiety, I prioritized volunteering at the Special Olympics in Florida, alongside my son Aaron, for an eight-hour shift. That day was truly remarkable, and since volunteering, my anxiety about my workload has significantly decreased. Witnessing the determination of those courageous athletes provided me a fresh perspective: appreciate the present moment and recognize my blessings.

When praying, say ‘we’

‘I’ statements tend to come with ego or a feeling of being alone. Dear God, I have a problem and I need help. To foster a stronger sense of unity and partnership with your higher power, use ‘we’ statements.
When I am feeling blue and am seeking the answer to something, I ask God, ‘What can we do?’ Adding the ‘we’ gives me a sense of camaraderie and companionship with my higher power.

Go for a nature walk

A nature walk offers an escape from yourself, immersing you in a different environment. What colors do you see? What sounds can you hear? Connecting with nature shifts your focus away from internal concerns, calming your mind and grounding your emotions.

Nature walks are my go-to when I have a lot going on. I leave my phone at home and work hard to detach from my current thoughts and live in the present moment. Mother Nature is a wonderful teacher. I’ll always find something I need while walking – a heart-shaped leaf on the ground or a silly squirrel that makes me chuckle. Do your best to be present.

Read a memoir by someone who has lived a different life than you

Memoirs provide a powerful means to broaden our horizons and understand diverse perspectives. Through these narratives, we discover the shared human experiences of overcoming challenges, grappling with fears, and seeking love. By immersing ourselves in memoirs, we transcend our own reality and enter the lives of others, offering a pathway to connect with universal truths, and foster personal growth and empathy.

I just finished reading the book The Daughter of Auschwitz: My Story of Resilience, Survival, and Hope by Tova Friedman and Malcolm Brabant. Tova was one of the youngest survivors of Auschwitz. Her story serves as a powerful reminder to persevere, fight for humanity, and uphold my beliefs (I highly recommend this beautifully written book, a testament to love and resilience). Reading about Tova’s experiences reminded me that my problems aren’t as big as they feel, which has given me a deep level of peace and appreciation for all I have.

Sincerely,
Dr. Danielle Clark | Psychic Medium
drdanielleclark.com

PS – Here’s an affirmation to use when you want to get outside of yourself, ‘I possess the power to redirect my focus from my thoughts and concerns, enabling me to find rest and rejuvenation.’

PPS – Do you want a practice activity to get outside of yourself for a bit? If so, grab your pen and journal. Follow the below writing prompt and lose yourself and your worries for a bit. If you happen to think about something happening in your current world, don’t judge it, just ask it to leave and keep writing.

Prompt: Transport yourself to a world covered entirely in water. Describe the sights, sounds, and sensations as you navigate through an underwater city and explore the depths of the ocean.

Break the chains of judgement

As an empath and psychic medium, I’m naturally a sensitive person. And you know what? It seems like my sensitivity keeps getting stronger as I get older. So, I’ve had to make some changes to take of myself.

One big change I’ve cut out is alcohol – I need a solid 48 hours to recover from it. Talk about time wasted! When it comes to caffeine, I’ve learned that I can only handle one cup of tea in the morning. If I have it later or go over my limit, I end up with the shakes and a foggy mind. No fun at all!

I’ve also realized that sticking to a strict sleep schedule of 7-8 hours is crucial for me. Bed time is around 10pm and I wake up around 6ish. That’s the only way I can wake up feeling refreshed and relaxed, which is critical for the work I do. I have definitely refined my routine.

Although I do what I can to keep myself running at an optimal level, sometimes external factors break my routine – like my husband Ron leaving for work at 4am.

Ron does what he can to be super quiet in the morning, and I love him for that. He gets ready in the spare bathroom; he turns on as few lights as possible. But at least a few times a month, he will drop a spoon in the sink, or trigger our yellow lab Charlie to bark, or not turn off his alarm quick enough.

Once I’m up, it’s better for my brain to stay up instead of going back to sleep. It used to be that when I woke up, I’d throw a huge temper tantrum, either venting to Ron through text or just stewing in my own head. I’d stay in bed for hours feeling unproductive and grumpy.

“I’m so pissed I’m awake…”

“Today is ruined before it even started…”

“My work is going to suffer because I’ll be exhausted…”

I wasted so much time and energy on rumination and anger. And guess what? My days really did turn out crappy, and my projects suffered as a result. I manifested my own misery.

But about two months ago, when Ron accidentally woke me up yet again (this time dropping his keys on the tile floor), I made a promise to myself that I needed to change my approach. Instead of throwing a fit, I fought the urge and decided to pray: I trust that if I’m awake, there’s a reason for it.

I waited to hear the garage door shut, then grabbed the book sitting on my bedside table and started reading. After cruising through a couple chapters, I noticed the sun’s orange glow peeking through my shades, so I moved out of bed, brewed a nice cup of tea and got a head start on my work. I actually enjoyed my morning and found I could appreciate the time to myself before the day became hectic. Compared to a mental state of griping, I had a clear mind, a full heart and good energy. Plus I got so much done!

The point is, sometimes our minds don’t always know what’s best for us. So why waste time judging the outcome of an inconvenience when we can control our perspective? When we surrender and trust that everything is perfect just as it is, well, everything really does turn out perfect!

Sincerely,
Dr. Danielle Clark | Psychic Medium
drdanielleclark.com

PS – Here’s an affirmation to use when you’re feeling rattled over a perceived disturbance, ‘I embrace life’s unpredictability for my own peace and fulfillment.’

PPS – Do you want to gain insight into shifting your negativity when something unexpected happens? If so, Grab your pen and journal. Reflect on a recent experience where external factors disrupted your routine or plans. How did you initially react, and how could you have responded with more grace and acceptance? Delve into the emotions you would have liked to experience instead. Imagine responding with patience, flexibility, and gratitude. What micro-changes (like in my case reading a book and praying) could you make to your thoughts and behaviors next time to feel these emotions?

Category: Blog