December 2021 Inbox Inspiration

And just like that it's December again. Another year in the books (almost). While this time of year can be extra demanding of our time, I'm gonna float a crazy idea out there--let's chill out this December. Not because of Covid or travel restrictions, but by choice. Lets consciously, intentionally, sloooooooow down as 2021 comes to a close. I mean the sun is already doing it in the Northern hemisphere. It goes down at like 5:00 PM. So maybe we should as well? Who's with me?? If you're in, here are some ideas on how to slow your roll this month.
Say no. I mean it. Do it. Say no. See what happens. See how you feel. I guarantee you cannot disappoint someone to death.
Say no and stick with it. No take-backsies. Own it. You said no and that's that.
Say no and let go of guilt. Guilt is a useless emotion. It serves zero purpose. It changes nothing. It doesn't make the other person feel any better, it only makes you feel like shit.
Say no and don't make excuses. Did you now that the word no can be a complete sentence. It's true! Who knew? Someone asks you to meet for dinner or volunteer on a committee, you simply and politely say "no". You don't owe anyone a further explanation.
Say no and don't apologize. What are you sorry for? You did nothing wrong. You were asked a question and you gave an answer. The other person may not like your answer, but that's for them to work out. You are not responsible for their feelings. In fact, you are only responsible for your own feelings. Say no to someone else so that you can say yes to yourself! Wishing you all a quiet and calm month filled with healthy boundaries, firm decisions, and loads of free time. With a grateful heart, Kristen
New & Notable
FREE GIFT IN DECEMBER! As a token of my immense gratitude for each of you, every client who attends a Reiki or Intuitive Guidance session during the month of December will receive a free hand poured, crystal and Reiki infused 'High Vibe' candle at the time of their appointment. Supplies are limited. One candle per client. Shipping not available, in-person clients only. ENVISION BOARD WORKSHOP Only 3 Spots Left! Join us for the 5th annual EnVision Board Workshop Sunday, December 19th 4:00 – 7:00 PM in Palo Alto

If you haven't attended before, you're in for a real treat as this is not your typical vision board making process. No pre-work is necessary, in fact it's discouraged. Simply show up with an open mind, pile of old magazines, and blank poster board. You'll be guided step-by-step through a unique intuitive creative process resulting in your personalized vision board. You'll be amazed to discover what your higher self has planned for you in 2022! All are welcome (ages 18+) with proof of vaccination. No experience necessary. Scissors, glue, and refreshments provided. REGISTER
Gift Guide If you're looking for presents this holiday season, I personally recommend the following female-owned small businesses. These shops create products with positive energy, love, and integrity. Happy shopping!
Vane's Joyful Shop--Spark joy with everything in this shop. I mean how cute are the Santa Gnome garlands?!?! Naturally Rooted--I love the Herbal Tub Tea, but honestly everything from this shop is pure magic! It's located in Canada, but ships to the US.
Ragged Coast Chocolates--I can't live without the Coffee Peanut Chocolate Bark. And my friend who introduced me to this store enjoys the Drinking Chocolate every morning.
Awareness Soap --These soaps smell amazing and each comes with a write-up on the properties of the crystal included.
Magical Box Bakery--My birthday cupcakes came from this shop and they were scrumptious! The holiday offerings are spectacular as well, including Hand-Crafted Marshmallow mug toppers, Star Brioche Celebration Breads, Apple Butter, and so much more. Delivery and pick up in the Bay Area, CA only. HOLIDAY MAGIC CANDLE It's that time of year again! Holiday magic is in the air and limited edition Holiday Magic Candles are back! Each Holiday Magic Candle is crafted with the highest quality therapeutic grade organic essential oils and 100% natural soy wax. Energize every room in your house with this proprietary mix of the following seasonal scents:
A fresh forest of Scots pine needles, Douglas fir, and black spruce
Spicy cinnamon and nutmeg
A touch of sweet orange and ginger
Orders for Holiday Magic candles may be placed online before December 20th. Shop early if you want them as gifts!! SHOP

Recipe of the Month Cooking has always felt magical to me. You take a bunch of stuff, that on its own isn't very interesting, and mix it together to create something new and divine. That's alchemy. That's magic. That's energy.
PEANUT CHICKEN NOODLES This month's recipe comes from Damn Delicious and it's a staple at my house. I make these noodles several times a month for lunch and my daughter and I fight over the leftovers. Something about peanut sauce is irresistible to me!! I use the Lotus Foods Millet & Brown Rice Ramen, which I get at Costco. And I often replace the chicken breast with cooked rotisserie chicken that I toss in at the end. Enjoy! INGREDIENTS: 4 bricks Rice Ramen noodles 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks 2 cups shredded cabbage 2 carrots, peeled and shredded 2 green onions, thinly sliced 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts FOR THE SAUCE 1/4 cup peanut butter 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon Sriracha, optional DIRECTIONS:
In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, honey, ginger, vinegar, sesame oil and Sriracha, if using; set aside.
In a large pot of boiling water, add ramen noodles and cook until loosened, about 3 minutes; drain well.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken to skillet and cook until golden, about 6-8 minutes.
Stir in cabbage, carrots, and green onions until heated through, about 1 minute.
Stir in cooked ramen noodles and peanut butter mixture until well combined.
Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro and peanuts.
Nourishing My Soul This Month
What I'm Reading
The Serpent King, a novel
The Lost Village, a novel
The Lying Game, a novel
What I'm Shuffling Atlantis Cards, Diana Cooper What I'm Up To
December 4, New Moon Magic Meditation with Denise Elizabeth Byron
December 9, facilitating a private event EnVision Board Workshop.
December 16, attending a 'Connection and Creation Dinner' with Wise & Wonderful Souls.
December 18, hosting and facilitating EnVision Board Workshop in-person in Palo Alto. All are welcome!
December 21, attending Winter Solstice Ritual Meditation and online Fire Ceremony.
PLEASE NOTE: Palo Alto Reiki will be closed from December 24th through January 2nd.
In Your Own Words "I've received reiki treatments from Kristen, meditated with her, and took her Reiki 1 course. All my experiences with her have been incredible! I believe she truly has a gift. She also has an extremely calming and nurturing energy about her. I felt relaxed just being in her presence during the weekend Reiki course I took. Also, her new studio space is amazing - incredibly tranquil and lovely. I can't wait for my next session!" -Tracy, in Palo Alto, CA Add Your Review
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