Costa Women Blogs

2020 - so strange they named it twice! At the end of our 10th Anniversary year, I am looking back at what we have achieved in what, for many of us, has been the strangest of years.

Are you sick of making the same resolutions year in year out? With the New Year just around the corner, we usually make resolutions with a willingness to improve our lives. But can we learn from previous years and do somethings differently this year to bring wellness in our lives, that would stick through the whole year and develop into healthy habits? No matter where we look, we see people struggling to keep their life in some sort of order and balance.  Some have a better time with getting their lives into a balanced state than others. Others sometimes give up and let their lives crash into chaos and disarray. Get A Balanced Life Month is for those hoping for a new start to get their lives into some sort of order and balance, to relieve the stresses of everyday life. We all know what that is like. We have all been there in one way or another, trying to balance something out to make it work so we have room for our personal life. My “word” for this year is “PLANNING”.  This will form part of my new year´s resolutions as by implementing this, it will allow me to balance out the massive peaks in my workload and help me to avoid overwhelm.   To maintain a balanced life, we must do quite a few things to make sure it stays balanced. It doesn´t just happen!  We must MAKE IT HAPPEN! Organisation: Even an organised home can lead to a more balanced life and lifestyle. Keep a calendar on the fridge to keep track of important dates and times. Organise items on shelves, either by date, alphabetically or by what they are. Diet: Sticking to a balanced diet will help us not have those fluctuations of weight gain and weight loss forcing us to try quick fixes. Exercise:  A balance between good nutrition, healthy eating and exercise is key to having good health. Work/life balance:  This is important as if you do not have the balance, something will suffer. Four pillars diary planning: I now work to the 4 pillars of Health, Relationships, Personal Development and Work.  If they are not balanced, I am neglecting something in my life. Meditation/Relaxation:  This is excellent for grounding us and making our day feel balanced. Finances:  This can be hard to judge as occasionally we do have unexpected emergencies that we have to pay for – but in general, if we know we have a month or two where we always have extra expenditure, let´s try to plan for it and spread out the cost by saving a little every month if possible. Last Minute Expectations:  If you have clients, family or friends who often contact you last minute asking you to do something or for help or advice – meet these requests where possible, but not to the detriment of your balanced life.  Set boundaries – AND STICK TO THEM!   When we don´t actively make our lives balanced, it is easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed and possibly even burnt out.  Do you often feel you don´t know how you managed to get everything done?  Or is your “to do list” never ending?  Do you feel you just don´t know where the week has gone?  Do you feel all you do is work, work, work – and nothing is just for you?   If that sounds like you – NOW is the time to take steps to give you back control of your life and regain that BALANCE! Make a list of areas you want to improve to help you gain that balance.  As I mentioned above, I use the 4 pillars and I find that helps.  When you write down everything you want to prioritise under each pillar, it may surprise you.  Which list is longest?  Your list can contain whatever you need it to contain from a work priority task, to simply spending quality time with your other half, or taking an hour out to exercise or have a massage. Once you have written down all the areas under each of the pillars, list them as high, medium, and low priorities.  We often get bogged down with doing lots of simple quick tasks, but they end up taking a few hours of our time and could possibly be even delegated.  Do you have a cut off time from work each day? Then in your planner, start to plan your week based on the 4 pillars.  Start with your health and write in the times you are going to do something for your health and what you plan to do, then do the same for relationships, personal development and LASTLY, work!  You can plan your week at a time to suit yourself – Friday 4pm, Sunday, or early Monday morning etc.  You can write your tasks under each of the pillars in different colours – so all your top priorities are in red, and so on.  When you start to do this, and feel the effects, you will want to get into the habit and continue this throughout the year. It´s OK to take baby steps.  It won´t happen overnight.  Be patient, don´t fall back into bad habits – MAKE IT HAPPEN! If you find that you are tackling all your big tasks, but not finding time for the small things, especially work – it may be time to look at getting some help.  Hiring a VA may seem like an expense, but if it allows you to get on with what is important, then you will find you can achieve more income whilst maintaining your balanced life. A little time each week to plan and review, will be time well spent.  Write down what you have accomplished, or what you did not accomplish – and if so, why not.  What stopped you?  Were your goals unrealistic?  Having this as a visual will help with your re-evaluation each week, month, and quarter etc. By doing this, it should help you achieve the balanced life you imagined.  Your life should have changed for the better.  You can continue to improve on areas as and when you need, just by adding them to your 4 pillars planning. There is always room for improvement in having that perfect balanced life.  However, by doing this and being more conscious about balance, your life will be much more enjoyable and fulfilled! MAKE IT HAPPEN!

We asked you to nominate a member of Costa Women who you believe in 2020 has had a positive influence in the lives of others; big or small.  You responded and I am delighted to share the nominations.

For years My Divine friends and myself have been writing passionately about our own Awakening and Ascension journey, sharing with our readers how the time is approaching for all Humanity to leave the dense world of duality by choice; a consciousness of love and evil, and ascend into a vibrant world of unity, love, joy and peace. We have shared how we have done and continue to do the inner work and are prepared for this almighty energetic transition, moving from the old world to the new world. None of us could have imagined how this end time would play out. The final end game we all find ourselves in now, which continues, ever so gently to squeeze the life out of each living being. Chipping away at our independence and our freedom to choose… to be well, to live, play and work as our heart’s desire. As I witness how my homeland Spain and the whole world is being told false stories about the virus, made to distance from each other, mask ourselves and even talk of mandatory vaccination… I have moments when I feel my heart breaking wide open as I know isolation and suicide is growing… and ask myself can it break anymore? Hasn’t it been enough to awaken fellow mankind? AND then I breathe, feeling it all, allowing it all to move through my Body Consciousness.   IAM in a good space, and I want nothing more than to shout out loud and tell others to wake up and sense what is being done and be alright too! But it’s not for me to interfere, I understand freewill and how everyone has there own journey towards realisation! Realising who they truly are! Instead my friends and I share our own awakening and ascension experience. Maybe, just maybe a heart will flutter as it realises it has been enough and it’s time to take a stand and make a change.   I continue to walk in two worlds… holding the vision of a most vibrant future presence, NewEarth for all Humanity to join me in feeling Divinely Magnificent now, no matter what, and walking side by side with everyone in this now turbulent physical reality, feeling the bowels of Mother Earth opening up and swallowing us alive and whole.   Yes, me and my friends are now prepared, we remembered how we are each born sovereign and free and how no-one can take away without consent this truth and stop us from experiencing this most exciting time in Humanity’s existence, as we transcend the tyranny of duality into a loving consciousness of unity, community where dreams come true!    Along our journey, we remembered to feel, embrace, feel and accept all our darkness and the light, to remain patient and know very soon we’ll be fully experiencing the magnificence of NewEarth that we are consciously and most diligently birthing from within.   We’re nearly there, but first these last few months are going to be challenging, it has to be, to give everyone a chance to awaken from a nightmare we’ve all created and experienced for far too long!   So dear ones during this end time, stand firmly anchored in your love boots, holding your hopes and dreams tight and know love has won and all is well in all creation. It will help you be brave and courageous to reclaim your sovereignty and freedom and walk by our side, bringing in a future presence we have all so long awaited!     Today IAM sharing Kimberley’s true Awakening story, very wise words for YOU to resonate with and help you through this time. Enjoy.   Cover Painting by Kimberly Harding   The Awakening Heart by Kimberley   Although we are all called to awaken our hearts, and in doing so, are rewarded with an incredible sense of liberation, I would hesitate to refer to such an awakening as “easy” or “comfortable”.   In some ways, an awakening heart is more at risk. Within the act of awakening, one almost feels as if one’s heart is more vulnerable, as protective illusions, delusions, and projections fall away.   Without this “protective” armor, we feel out of our heart-comfort zone.   However, I believe in the idea that we are each called to awaken within ourselves. As this is our call, we are supported in this process.   The image “Awakening Heart” used on the cover of this ‘E Book’ speaks to this idea. I see a heart being lifted up and rescued from the tumultuous waves of chaos and confusion.   This is the blessing of awakening. We are able to move beyond and above that which limited us before. In this state, when we are sometimes called upon to confront life patterns and decisions we find overwhelming, Heaven helps us.   A heart in a state of awakening is at its most vulnerable. The loss is protection, however, is more than offset by the gain in love, warmth, and compassion that is the domain of the awakened heart.   You can read more of Kimberley’s journey on her website...     Affects and Changes of the Awakening Earth and the Humanity   The Earth and Humankind are all part of a Natural Shift of Consciousness that is occurring now. Our solar system finds itself surrounded by a higher expansional energy; a new energy that we have called forth in our declaration for no more fear, greed and power-mongering.    It is an energy that resonates with LOVE. Love that Humans have learned to FEEL here on Earth. A love that creates DivineHumanBeings, allowing them to live in a peaceful and harmonious surrounding on Earth.    This new energy, of intense light actually affects the magnetic make-up of our whole solar system. Creating intense magnetic storms on our sun, where strong solar flares reach the Earths orbit and interfere with the magnetics within the Earth and the Human Being.   The Human body contains millions of tiny magnetic particles that interconnect through Human antennas to the Earth’s magnetic field, enabling the Human to receive and transmit consciousness which influence the physical body and all its internal systems.   The interference of the magnetic field is causing a cleansing effect on Earth, physical shifting and shaking the earth and her inhabitants, creating unusual weather patterns and within the Human Being; cleansing people from all their fears and yesterdays. It is actually the most beautiful gift that we can receive.  Intense light to naturally awaken our consciousness, changing our DNA and crystalising our molecules. Our inner light, our being is being ignited anew, clearing our body of past debris, burning away everything that no longer serves us, leaving nothing but pure love and passion within each Human Being and the Earth.   During this Shift in Consciousness… our Awakening is affecting our mental, emotional and physical bodies, pulling us all ways and putting us through some uncomfortable and painful times. Not only are we integrating and releasing all our own past life patterns and karma that no longer serves us, but that of all our ancestors that have lived before us.    Our Body Consciousness; Body, Mind and Spirit is naturally finding a new balance.   It is most important neither to fight nor to give in, but to trust that everything is all so perfect. This is our journey that we have chosen to live now so let’s enjoy the ride and allow our Embodied Ascension to happen quite naturally.   Awakening Symptoms   Physical… Aches and pains in the joints, especially neck, shoulders and back, heat sensations beyond the menopause, feeling hot and cold, feeling dizzy and shaky, vertigo, ringing in the ears, nauseous, itchy skin, red patchy skin especially the face, exhaustion and feeling tired, waking up a lot, headaches and migraine, stomach aches and indigestion, no appetite, extremes of diarrhea and constipation, eating a lot, heart palpitations, irregular heartbeat    Emotional… Crying, deep sadness, confused, nervousness, passionless    Mental… Anxious, intense dreaming, loneliness, not thinking straight, losing words, depressed    Barbara’s suggestions for more comfort   Consciously breathing in the new energy, especially in painful areas for at least 10 mins. a day, healthy daily eating of protein, good fats, lots of fruit and veg, drink plenty of fresh water, moderate use of caffeine, coffee, tea and alcohol, positive and loving self talk, soaking the body in Epsom salts and lavender oil, walking in nature or some form of gentle exercise you enjoy 20 mins a day, sleep a lot… napping through the day if possible, trust yourself… even when doubt tries to creep into your mind.   You can download our FREE 3 part series of True Awakening Experiences here…   True Awakening Experiences Part I ©2014   True Awakening Experiences… Part II ©2016   True Awakening Experiences… Part III ©2018 ©Barbara Franken… Creative Visionary & Master CreatorInspiring New Energy Consciousness & Multi-Dimensional Living     A paperback and Digital Book is available from all Major online stores… Amazon and Apple.  I share my own magical journey, exploring Who I AM with the help of nine Elemental Beings and expand from a world of fear, struggle and limitation into a New Energy Consciousness of love, grace and freedom. It is in this loving space that I discover my Divine and ALL LOVING self and allow myself to integrate together as one Body Consciousness… a DivineHumanBeing… and Magnificent Master Creator who expresses and creates heart and soul passion on the physical plane and beyond..    Join my MasterCreator Class and emerge yourself in the celebration of life through dance, song, art, relaxed inner journeys and beyond everything known… preparing yourself for your NEW role on New Earth.   There is no time like the present moment to Sign Up and give YOURSELF this magnificent gift… More Info: MasterCreator Class     All the money raised from my books and classes go to my non-profit association The Magnificent Consciousness that holds free local Creative Art projects in Benalmadena, Spain.

What does the word “alarm” mean to you?  The dictionary definition brings up statements and words like – a sudden fear or distressing suspense caused by an awareness of danger; apprehension; fright. Any sound, outcry, or information intended to warn of approaching danger, an automatic device that serves to call attention, to rouse from sleep, or to warn of fire, smoke, an intruder, etc. – a warning sound, signal for attention. There are, of course, different types of alarm.  More recently we are familiar with “the state of alarm” due to the pandemic Covid-19.  And there was much talked about in the press and on social media about people being alarmed at the shortage of toilet paper! In most cases, it seems alarm bells bring out negative, stressful emotions in us like the following: –   Alarm bells – worried   State of alarm – pandemic   Alarmed – shocked   Alarm clock- don´t want to get out of bed   Fire alarm – fear Sound the alarm – panic   Alarm bells ringing – warning   Burglar alarm – threat   Panic alarm – danger   If you say that something sets alarm bells ringing, you mean that it makes people feel worried or concerned about something. All these emotions are negative or things we are not always looking forward to, or reluctantly must adhere to – however, let´s see if we can have a positive spin on alarms… Since the first “state of alarm”, we have been spending so much time at the laptop…have we forgotten work life balance?  Do we take time away from the laptop?  Do we still have an exercise routine? Here are some tips how you can use an alarm as a positive effect during these uncertain times… Set an alarm on your laptop, for example on every hour (you can set your parameters)   Every time the alarm goes off, stop what you are doing, and write down one thing you are grateful for.  Take a few minutes to think about that, and write why you are grateful for it,   At the end of each day, you will have a beautiful list with all the amazing reasons why you are grateful!   Have a coffee break   Take a walk   Do some stretching or yoga   Do a short household chore   Listen to some music   Please share what you would like to set your alarm for!

As we approach the holiday season, Age in Spain is proud and excited to announce the launch of our brand new pilot project – Friendline. What is Friendline? Today, Age in Spain is launching Friendline, a new and free telephone friendship service to connect older people living in Spain with volunteers, through a weekly phone call with someone with similar interests.    In a world where new technology often leaves some of us behind or makes us feel left out, Friendline offers people the joy of a friendly conversation.    Why now?  The Christmas and New Year period is a time when older people can feel particularly lonely or isolated. When you add the impact that Covid 19 has had on all of us (literally distancing us from friends and family), Age in Spain decided now was the time to give older English-speaking people in Spain something to look forward to in 2021. This is also a time of year when lots of us want to make a contribution to our communities. Volunteering for Friendline takes just one hour of your time each week and gives you the satisfaction of knowing you have made a difference. Age in Spain will match older people with trained volunteers who have similar interests to ensure that both people will look forward to the weekly calls. Friendline calls could be a highlight of each week.  Director of Age in Spain, Helen Weir, said: “Friendship is the best first line of defence against so many of the problems older people can face. As we get older there is a real risk that our worlds get smaller and we have less chance to make friends. Friendline is a way to do something positive about that. It really doesn’t matter what the conversation is about, it might be sport, ballroom dancing or your garden. What Friendline offers is a human connection with all its benefits. Friendline can be a lifeline”   Get involved If you are an older person living in Spain and you are interested in receiving Friendline calls, you can find out more at www.ageinspain.org/friendline, by calling Age in Spain on +34 93 220  9334 or by emailing friendline@ageinspain.org  Age in Spain would also love to hear from anyone interested in working as a volunteer on Friendline. You can also refer a family member or friend living in Spain to Friendline if you think they would appreciate a regular call.  Friendline is a free service.   Background Age in Spain supports older English-speaking people living anywhere in the country. We provide accessible and independent information to help people get the most from their lives in Spain and participate fully in their communities.  We are a charity (asociación benéfica) registered in Spain and are dependent on charitable donations from trusts, foundations and individual donors to make a real difference to people’s lives. Please get in touch if you are interested in volunteering, making a donation, or if you would like to refer someone to the Friendline service. Best wishes for the holiday season from us all here at Age in Spain.