Enjoy our latest video for CFMC and remember the power of “Giving from your Heart” and the difference you can make in an-others life. It was such a joy to interview a woman, namely, Bertie Elliott, who lives in her truth and whose generosity shines a light on so many.
Thank you
Diane
This past weekend I was privileged to be able to mentor young women at CSUMB, as part of WELI, the Women’s Education & Leadership institute, career development program. .
I’m continually inspired by the beauty and powerful resilience of a women’s spirit, but saddened by the cruelty, hardship and unfair discrimination many endure. Even when others would of given up, these capable young women are positive and motivated to learn and step beyond the boundaries life has dealt them.
Success to them is much bigger than simply themselves, it’s the chance to make a difference in someone else’s life, in their community, a chance to reach out and touch someone else’s soul to break the cycle of poverty and abuse. These young women don’t live stuck in the past, instead they are hungry to learn , driven to make a difference and willing to go to school, work one or two jobs, all while caring for family members.
GHGH GIRLS
When you think of heroes, think of these young women.They are the individuals who want to be the change we all want to be and see in the world, authentic souls who speak from a place of knowing.
The women I spent time with are Owning it in the most powerful way possible. I say to them …you are special, you can and you will succeed because you have everything right here inside of you…all they need is someone to take their hand and guide them so they have the tools to move forward.
Where there are programs that support women such as, WELI, The Women’s Fund, Rising International, Made by Survivors, there is HOPE, and where there is HOPE , there is a place for Women to Rise up..
WOMAN’S FUND, WOMAN’S ECONOMIC INITIATIVE
I will finish with this thought…if we can make a difference, even if it’s just one person, one action at a time and give a girl, a woman a chance…we give our communities and the World a chance for a brighter future and in turn we too will feel the joy and expansion that comes from helping another.
Now, Own it, Feel it, Live it!
Own it – Founder Dolly Singh and her “Thesis” Team of experts, engineer the world’s first comfortable, high performance Stiletto …finally someone who understands our pain!
Feel it – Sexy Stylish shoes that feel and look good, as they support your mind, body and “soul,” literally … throughout the day.
Live it – Step up and strut down the runway of life dressed in your own style with confidence, stability and sass…no pain and plenty to gain!
The Dream team of fashion, science and anatomy will take us all a little higher later in 2015 /early 2016 …..sometimes it really does take rocket science to take us a step further!
Spirituality in Stilettos salutes the virtues science!
Own it Feel it Live it!
Mothers and Daughters Connect on the Hudson.
The fun, healthy, juicy ways to reconnect,explore, exercise and eat!
SHARE IT!
This “treat” is designed to enhance the very special love and sometimes delicate bond that we share with our daughters.
Over Four days and three nights, mothers and daughters will have the time to slow down, honor and deepen their relationships as they share parts of themselves often hidden in the fabric of everyday life. Most importantly; through exploration, nourishment, new experiences, and lots of laughter, they’ll reinforce their bond, create traditions and priceless memories that will stand the test of time.
Dishing the Deliciousness of Life
Our Retreat will be held in the beautiful indoor& outdoor environments of the Hudson valley.
We create a safe haven, where mothers & daughters can take the time to re invest in themselves. They will be reminded that our health and happiness cannot be separated from what we eat, what we feel, what we think and what we do.
Own it, time for:
• Exploration of mind body spirit unity for health and happiness.
• The fun, healthy, juicy ways to connect, explore, exercise and eat!
• Investment in yourself, to reignite and regain your life balance.
• Own your choices.
Feel it, through:
• Delicious farm to table cuisine.
• Yoga, meditation & hiking in nature & bodhi studios.
• Nutrition counseling – practical, delicious, sustainable choices.
• Hands on fun cooking and juicing classes, visit to farmers market.
• Pampering – specialized massage/bodywork at the areas number one spa.
• Private reception at “2 Note botanical perfumery & skin care”.
Live it, by:
• Creating your own life flow and nutrition plan that will enhance and improve your every day life.
• Strengthening your relationship with each other through a shared and better understanding of mindful health, nutrition and total well-being.
• Embracing what it is to be present and compassionate, as you step into each new life chapter together and face all of life’s thrill and spills.
• Live your life with Wit & Wisdom!
Hosts -Diane Danvers Simmons, founder & spokesperson for, Own it Feel it live it & Spirituality in Stilettos and her daughter, Natalie Simmons, with Erika Laurion, Nutritionist and Health Chef.
Special summer introductory rate; $1000 per person, all inclusive – accommodation, 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners, juicing, exclusive of alcoholic beverages and transportation.
Maximum attendees 14 [7 mother & daughter pairs], sign up now for a unique mother & daughter experience, to create the memories that will stay in your hearts forever.
Exclusive Retreat Dates; August14th, thru 17th.
Accommodation– 26 Warren B&B and Westcott House, both located in the heart of historic Hudson, NY. An artistic, vibrant, foodie, community, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley.
Detailed Information, availability, and to reserve your,
“Mother & Daughter Connection on the Hudson” treat, please contact Diane@ownitfeelitliveit.com
There are no coincidences …It’s just up to us to be present, take notice & act!
Dawn and I met at a fund raiser for “Rising International” at her wine tasting room in Carmel by the Sea. A serendipitous meeting that lead to friendship, as we each shared our vision to help women over a glass of wine.
Our vision is like the perfect pairing of wine and food … I’m passionate about creating a movement of positive change and growth for all women and Dawn is passionate about supporting businesses and foundations, through her winery, whose mission includes empowering women.
Could there be a more harmonious meeting of the minds? We don’t think so, and we’re excited about sharing the power of this experience with you!
Dawn and I are always looking for enjoyable new ways to help women attain dynamic levels of growth in the pursuit of balanced, for-filling, happy lifestyles. Therefore, I’m thrilled to announce that I’m teaming up with Dawn’s Dream Winery to offer a unique Spirituality in Stilettos experience, where women can switch off the daily chatter, by being immersed in the serenity and beauty of Carmel and Carmel Valley.
Spirituality in Stilettos
Own your Power, Feel your Spirit, Live your Life with Wit and Wisdom.
In this fast-paced media driven world, we hunger for truth, balance, clarity, and authentic growth, with the desire for spiritual and human connection. But how do we get there?
writing in our Own it, Feel it,Live It Journal, soothes the soul!
By Giving women an opportunity to explore, connect, and rediscover the value and joy of investing in themselves, Spirituality in Stilettos (SIS) workshops highlight the power of mind, body, spirit unity to promote total well-being for a happier, healthier life. SIS is a multidimensional approach blending the best of East and West to help women nourish and enrich their everyday lives while remaining grounded in their own truth and style.
Spirituality in Stilettos Workshops – June 26th & 27th.
with Diane Danvers Simmons & Dawn’s Dream Winery
Friday, June 26th, 6pm-8pm – Wine Reception
Kick-off those worn out shoes for a reception early Friday evening, June 26th, at Dawn’s Dream Winery, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet Diane Danvers Simmons in person while enjoying delectable wine-tasting flights and sumptuous appetizers during an Introduction and Info session. This reception will feature lots of camaraderie and some interactive exercises intended to prepare you for the Spirituality in Stilettos workshop.
Saturday, June 27th, 10:00am-4:30pm – Spirituality in Stilettos Full-Day Session & Activities
“Balancing & Connecting Mind, Body, & Spirit,
in the Modern World with Wit & Wisdom.”
One dish, one discussion, one dance at a time with a nice glass of wine
Amid the splendor of the Galante Ranch & Winery in Carmel Valley, a full day Spirituality in Stilettos workshop begins! Overlooking the lush vineyards and surrounding grandeur of the mountains, a number of empowering sessions and activities are planned.
Diane created her Spirituality in Stilettos workshops to be held in beautiful indoor & outdoor environments so that a safe haven can be created, affording women the time to reinvest in themselves. In this way, women will be reminded that health and happiness cannot be separated from what we eat, what we feel, what we do, and what we think at any phase of life. The series flows into three parts, all of which bring the essence of Own it, Feel It, Live It to incandescent life through fun, insightful activities in mother nature, unique interactive exercises, journaling, yoga, meditation, sensory awareness, and discussion … along with some surprises!
A delicious farm-to-table lunch will be served to nourish and enliven the senses.The day’s workshop will conclude with Dawn hosting a personal wine-tasting in the peaceful coolness of the wine caves.4:30-5:00pm drive back to Carmel is scheduled to follow.
This is an event you won’t want to miss, Ladies — An affirming and enlightening opportunity to explore the strengths of a multi-dimensional approach to life. and demonstrate what a powerful difference can be made when we come together and support each other in a common goal.
Cost for this unique experience is, $425 per person. Includes transportation on 06/27/15 to and from the Ranch, lunch, beverages, wine tastings and full SIS day program.
This magical event of fine food, wine, and spiritual wit & wisdom is sure to sell-out quickly, so e–mail diane@ownitfeeelitliveit.com to make your reservations or call 775 287 3679, as soon as possible.
For more information about Diane Danvers Simmons and her wonderful work with Own It, Feel It, Live It, please visit her official website at www.ownitfeelitliveit.com.
Additionally you can also contact Maegan WarehamAt Dawn’s Dream Winery – Sales & Event Manager(831) 659-2649
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Boxing Our Way Out of Life’s Boxes.
As the poetic champion, Muhammad Ali would say “float like a butterfly sting like a bee”…I’m not sure if he would describe us in such eloquent fashion, but we certainly gave it a try.
“We can’t be brave without fear” Muhammad Ali.
I’ve never understood the benefits of boxing until my recent trip to Todos Santos. Admittedly, I was on a gorgeous beach surrounded by my fellow Angels wearing our latest accessory, an enormous pair of bright blue padded boxing gloves. Our first lesson in boxing was with non other than Ramiro Reducindo Radilla, the 2003 Pan American gold medalist. Only the best for the Angels- thank you Erica!
Eva’s right hook!I don’t think any of us knew what to expect, after all, isn’t boxing about throwing punches to weaken and knockout your opponent ? The furthest thing from loving kindness and spiritual bliss.However, I have to admit, we did leave on a powerful, spiritual high!
Ramiro, the boxer,wasn’t just my opponent, instead, he became my teacher disguised as well padded punch bag with a cheeky grin! I learned that boxing is much more than a cardio work out of skill, strength, speed, reflexes and endurance …which sounds pretty amazing in of itself. Boxing in a strange way is literally, “Own it, Feel it, Live it “on steroids. It’s a true challenge , combining the ultimate of mind, body and spirit awareness and participation.
With arms flexed at a 45 degree angle, I practiced the four basic punches in boxing; the jab, cross hook and upper cut. Leading with my left hand, instead of my pre wired right hand, I shuffled ( just like Ali in my own mind) the one-two-combo … This isn’t just exercise for the body, people, it’s exercise for the mind.
One, two combo shuffle!As you can see from the picture Ramiro is a giant compared to me, but that made the challenge even more enticing, as we danced and sparred to the beat of one, two, three. The more I leaned into the punch, the more he back away, and then more I advanced again. I felt agile, powerful, and strong.I was in the moment, at one with myself and my opponent as the onlookers dissipated into the sand.
The Angels and I were literally bouncing Pogo sticks, fueled by an adrenalin high that made each of us feel invincible, evident by the smiles on our faces. Our boxing experience was unbelievably empowering and symbolic in many ways.We Owned it, by stepping out of our boxes and I do believe we strenghened our wings that day, toward becoming Guardian Angels….
Boxing is mind, body, spirit unity in action, so get ready for some spiritual shuffling in my workshops!
Today around the World we recognize and celebrate International Women’s Day!
The theme for all women in 2015 is simple #MAKE IT HAPPEN!
Take the time to think about what you truly want, so you can Make it happen,in your own life and those of others by encouraging effective, positive action, for advancing and recognizing all women.
Be proud, stand tall and “Own Your Power, Feel Your Spirit and Live Your Life the way you choose with Wit & Wisdom!”
If you’ve never been on a small bus with 10 women, just think back to a school bus trip or ask Franchesco.I can honestly say, it doesn’t matter if a member of the female race is 5 or 45 …we always manage to cover every topic of conversation at a decibel level , that could put 200 bagpipers to shame .
Having a Whale of a time!
Two boats, 5 guides, four crew, a chef , ugly life jackets, bikinis, sunscreen and we were ready to, Own it ,Feel it and definitely Live it, on yet another Eco adventure. This time to the rugged islands of the Sea of Cortez.
First stop – Swimming with the Seals … not my first choice of mammal to swim with, in-fact the thought had never popped into my consciousness before, non the less, it was part of our exploration, of self and nature.
Harmless looking!
Sergio instructed us on the virtues of swimming with the seals.In one breathe he enticed us by describing the playful charms of a seal pup and in the next, he put the fear of God in us, as he coached us on what to do, and not to do, if confronted by a 16 foot male.
That’s when I asked, “why can’t we be content with just snorkeling?!”
The next feat was to once again struggle into the confines of the tightest wet suit we could endure…beautiful new ones, but still tight enough to embarrass any good woman and I won’t tell you what Sergio suggested we do to warm them up!
Really happy I’m alive and singing!
Wearing Snorkel masks, flippers and wet suits to keep us intact, we all felt like seasoned experts, comical, but it’s amazing how a good outfit can make you feel. One by one, the brave Seal Angels began to dive and flop into the Sea of Cortez.
I was still questioning if I really needed to add this to my list of accomplishments, was I doing this because everyone else was {ego},or because I wanted to? I didn’t relish the idea of being nipped by a pup, having bubbles blown in my face by a mother seal, or being annihilated by a whacking great sea lion, however, I was curious.We were playing in their territory, so we needed to respect their law of engagement.
My anxiety dissipated when I witnessed the seals welcome us, just as any good golden retriever would.I was in awe and inspired to dive right into the acrobatics in that moment, lead by our fearless guides who dived deep into the turquoise waters, gracefully spinning like mermaids in rhythm and sync with the seals.
I didn’t dive deep, but I did become part of the show, the spectator behind a mask. I was awe struck, allowing the real performers to come to me. The seals were watching me, watching them, as they playfully swam under and around me …it really was like playing with puppy dogs! Luckily no sea lions took an interest in me, but even so I was out of the waters in record time.
Diving deep!
I’m truly happy I swam with the seals, even for a short while. I allowed myself to feel uncomfortable, but I didn’t allow it to immobilize me. I asked myself “What am I afraid of, when will I get another opportunity like this?” After all,I wasn’t alone, I had people close by who knew these waters and it’s wild life. This wasn’t about failure or success, let’s face the seals weren’t judging me and nor were my fellow Seal Angels.This was an incredible chance to connect with another species, in a way that I wouldn’t be able to anywhere else. I didn’t have to be brave and take the lead, instead it was a chance to tread water, be the observer and trust in the unknown, those around me and my own instincts.I simply allowed myself to be totally present and look at this adventure through different lenses.
And this my friends happen before Lunch … more to come!
I bet Charlie’s Angels never swam with Seals!
Own it and Feel what it’s like to really Live it NOW!
Disclaimers-
No guides, Seals or wild life were intimidated or harmed on our adventure.
No sporting apparel or equipment company has offered to endorse, supply or photograph us.
Photographs courtesy of Anja and my I phone.
Alas, still no make-up , hair stylist , or stylist of any description assisted us.
Nothing is more rewarding than when a story inspires a spontaneous, healthy, happy gathering in New York!
After being transported back to the shores of Todos Santos with“Spirituality on a Surfboard,” our detox Chef extraodinaire Erika, was inspired to pull her i phone from it’s docking station and reach out to the New York Angel contingent. Clearly the text invite was exactly what every homebound, snow engulfed Angel needed, as the response “YES” instantly flooded her phone screen!
Within hours the fearless warriors were over dressed in full snow gear regalia, snow boots,goggles and bobble hats. Shoveling their way out of the confines of forced air residences. The Angels were ready and eager for an expedition in the snow drifts of New York. Ok, a walk, but it’s still adventurous!
Goggles and a pole – I’m ready for any challenge!
After all, the Angels, are well trained athlete’s, thanks to hiking the beaches of Todos Santos, climbing rock faced dusty mountains and swimming with Sea lions in the Sea of Cortez!! Yes, that story will follow.
The Snow Angels embraced the snow with the playful curosity of a child, the same curiosity that enables one to relish,enjoy and be present in the moment.
It feels so good to be a Kid!
You can tell by the beautiful smiles on their faces that they loved every minute, they had a blast.They felt refreshed and healthy, as evident by the glowing cheeks that would put Snow White to shame. It was time enjoyed together, sharing and connecting to yet another of mother natures glorious seasons.
They sealed the day with the ritual of Afternoon Tea, a fine British tradition and fruit salad, a Californian one I do believe. In the warmth of Erika’s home they continued to talk up yet another storm about life, the weather and subjects protected by the sanctity of “The Sisterhood of Snow Angels.”
Thank you Erika for instigating a breakout and for sharing the picture!
Any Snow Angel’s imprint in a moment of sheer playfulness remains in the care of mother nature! OWN IT, FEEL IT,LIVE IT !
Snow Angel meets a snow child!
Disclaimers –
No strangers were taken out in the snow ball fight.
No snow ploughs, ski poles or snow dogs were used to make this endeavor easier.
Hair and make-up was unnecessary in this activity and clothing was very necessary, even without a sponsor or stylist!
Looking at the pre surf shot we really could of been Charlie’s Angels… but, alas, we weren’t, instead with adrenaline pumping through our veins we were four eager women and an italian man named KiKi, praying to our Angels to keep us alive for yet another chance to escape with nature !
I have to say, I’m pretty proud to be one of the four surf virgins, forget “the 40 year old virgin”, we were all “the 45 plus year old virgins”, willing and able to happily admit temporary insanity and conquer some big fears on the shores of Todos Santos!
To be honest, I wasn’t feeling that bold or a 100% willing, even though I’m pretty able.I was actually terrified looking out at the crashing waves,as I remembered the time I was tumbled and smashed on the bed of the ocean on my honeymoon…but that’s another story. I had just fought my way into the confines of an ill-fitted wetsuit without putting my back out, so, at least I needed to honor that feat and listen to the instructors spanglish. As you can see by the pictures below, Pedro did his best to demonstrate the art of surfing!
Really…cobra pose , followed by upward dog!
Then jump, lunge and warrior two?
I don’t know if Pedro realized, but we’d already completed our daily practice of yoga and meditation,which on one hand meant we were already in the zone, but on the other hand ( forgoing all of the good karma and Oms) the thought of doing yoga on a surf board was a little daunting!…This is the moment I questioned my sanity,but felt comforted by the the laughter that continuously flowed and the bond with my fellow angels as we practiced our maneuvers on the sand, totally oblivious to the stares of nearby spectators!
Ok …I’m done with all this listening ..let’s go girls!
Owning it, went to Fearing it, in an instant! After a few fearless strides, I did a 180 degree turn and began to peel my hard earned suit off my body…much to my own surprise, let alone my personal instructors horror. His reaction was instantaneous, persistent and encouraging. He didn’t make me feel stupid and he didn’t let me give into my fear of being pummeled by the ocean or whacked unconscious by the surf board. Instead he promised to swim out with me and stay close by. Knowing he wasn’t going to abandon me got me back on board … literally!
The excitement was building inside, warming my belly, as I lay on the board and began to paddle out into the unknown. I felt like a child being pushed high into the air on an endless swing, as the nose of the board rose up and crashed over the breaking waves.In that moment I let go of the fear and got lost in the thrill of the spill ,as I screamed with laughter while the ocean spray cooled my face.I wasn’t walking on water yet, but I was part of it. Time stood still,I was completely present, connected to my natural instincts and the strength of my own body in the ever-changing moment.
“Here’s your wave…turn your board and start paddling !!”
“Stay near by Julio !!” OMG, upward dog…lunge… warrior pose with arms spread eagle …’‘OMG, I’m up and alive, I’m being carried by the energy of the waves… I’m alive… You can go now Julio!”
the lunge….and I can fly to if I want!
As my feet touched the safety of the sand I was DONE!! I felt healthy and refreshed, plus my hair was styling with all the salt needed for a great beach look !
I have to say with humility… Thank god for my persistent guardian angel instructor, along with my sister surfer angels and the angel support team lead by Erica juicing on the sand ! We were in this together and I needed to be able to stand tall, to fly free on the waves and to be able to say I CAN, instead of I could.
I went back out again and again, and each time was different. I felt exhilarated and energized as the waves washed away the stress’s of everyday life. I rose, I flew, I lunged ,I tumbled, yet ultimately I was flooded with euphoria, as I stood in disbelief and rode the magic wave all the way to shore!
Anja gliding over the wave !
I now understand why surfers become addicted to the spirit of the surf.It is a spiritual experience to feel at one with mother nature, connected to the energy and power of the waves and wind, to feel part of something much bigger than yourself. What I realized in those moments is that riding a wave is not just about FEELING IT, it’s about being PRESENT and LIVING IT ! -it’s ultimate FREEDOM, CONNECTION, JOY, A EUPHORIC HIGH.
With all that said, No … I won’t be surfing back in the cold waters of Carmel, but I will surf again in warmer climates with a Guardian Angel instructor close at hand !
Feeling invisible…where to next surfer angels?
I’ll finish by saying, only one person can stop you and that’s you … so never say never, Own it, by trusting yourself, step out your box and allow yourself to Feel it and most of all Live it, NOW. Trust yourself and shout out I CAN!
Thanks to fellow surfer Angels, Annie, Eva, Anja and of couse Ki Ki, you are all fearless and awesome! Special kudos and thanks go to Chris and Erica for enthusiactically capturing our every emotion.
No makeup artists, hairdressers or wardrobe professionals were in sight. No photographic retouching… much to our chagrin. No surf instructors or wildlife were harmed on our surf adventure 
!
Look out for the next adventure, “Spirituality at the Sea of Cortez ” this coming Wednesday !
Own it, Feel it, Live It … and you’ll love it ! Diane x
