Grounding Journey - Soulful Chats for Midlife and Beyond

Anxiety spiking? Try this instead. If you've ever felt "off" and couldn't quite find your way back—this episode is for you. I'm joined by my friend Jenny King (acupuncturist + certified aromatherapist) for a deeply grounding, practical conversation on using essential oils as part of your real-life support toolkit—especially when you're dealing with stress, overwhelm, perimenopause shifts, migraines, or that frazzled "10,000 things" feeling. This is not about any specific brand, and we're not selling you anything. It's education, nervous system support, and a gentle way home. We start with a simple guided moment (yes, you can do it even if you don't have oils), then walk through how to pair oils with acupressure points—like a "lock and key" for your energy and your body. Heads up: This episode is a little different than usual. If you can, listen when you're not driving—you may want a pen and paper. LINKS: Check out Jennie's Website - www.redbirdhealingarts.com Visit my website to join my emiall list or check out more offerings at groundingjourney.com Discover the My Happy Life Monthly Subscription Box to connect with your mind, body and spirit deeper  - https://myhappylifebox.com I would love to connect with you email me at - [email protected]  New to Grounding Journey? I'm Cris, a student of the world, finding my path and helping others along the way. I've been using Meditation, Yoga, Crystal Healing, Reiki, and aromatherapy to light my way for almost 20 years. ⁣ ⁣  When I'm not cuddled up at home with my dog, a good book, and a glass of wine, I'm often traipsing around foreign lands with Matthew, my husband, and Kevin, our son, exploring and learning from different cultures and beliefs systems. ⁣ ⁣  My husband and I started a monthly subscription box, My Happy Life Box as a compliment to my podcast - Grounding Journey, The deeper conversations you've been seeking as a way to connect with other souls on a similar spiritual journey. ⁣  Thanks for being a part of my journey. I hope to be a part of yours!

In the midst of endings and beginnings, there is a quiet invitation pulling you inward — toward rest, reflection, and sacred stillness. As we stand in the space between years, you're invited into sacred stillness: a gentle inward shift that allows the noise to fade and your heart to speak. Rather than pushing into what's next, this conversation encourages you to soften, reflect, and let intention — not pressure — guide your way. If you're navigating change, feeling worn down, or craving a moment to simply be, this episode offers reassurance, grounding, and permission to slow down. Sacred stillness is where clarity rises, healing begins, and the next chapter forms — naturally, gently, and in your own time.

Are you chasing someone else's version of success? In this solo episode, I'm sharing something deeply personal—the silent "success contract" so many of us carry without even realizing it. You know, the belief that success means working harder, doing more, and constantly proving ourselves… even when it doesn't feel good. After a tough eight weeks of cluster migraines, I had time (a lot of it in bed!) to reflect on what success really means to me. I talk about how I once thought success meant fighting for something—anything—just to prove it was worth having. But now? I'm living a completely different story, and it feels so much more aligned. I'll also share how my husband, Matthew, had his own "aha" moment around success—one that completely shifted how he sees his life and career. If you've ever felt like you're hustling toward something that no longer fits, this episode is for you. Let's talk about what it means to rewrite your success contract and create a life that actually feels like yours. Subscribe to the My Happy Life Box to connect with your mind, body and spirit deeper  - https://myhappylifebox.com/subscriptionbox/ I would love to connect with you email me at - [email protected] Or DM me Visit on IG https://www.instagram.com/grounding_journey/  New to Grounding Journey? I'm Cris, a student of the world, finding my path and helping others along the way. I've been using Meditation, Yoga, Crystal Healing, Reiki, and aromatherapy to light my way for almost 20 years. ⁣ ⁣  When I'm not cuddled up at home with my dog, a good book, and a glass of wine, I'm often traipsing around foreign lands with Matthew, my husband, and Kevin, our son, exploring and learning from different cultures and beliefs systems. ⁣ ⁣  My husband and I started a monthly subscription box, My Happy Life Box as a compliment to my podcast - Grounding Journey, The deeper conversations you've been seeking as a way to connect with other souls on a similar spiritual journey. ⁣  Thanks for being a part of my journey. I hope to be a part of yours!

Are you in control of your smartphone—or is it controlling you? Do you find it hard to disconnect even in moments when you need rest the most? Does someone you love drive you crazy because they're always glued to their phone?  We're diving into the science and personal stories behind our smartphone addiction and its profound effects on our mental health, sleep, and overall well-being. Our guest, MJ Murray Vachon, is a seasoned clinical social worker with decades of experience, reveals how constant phone use overloads our dopamine system, leaving us anxious, irritable, and less creative. Through candid discussion, we explore the stark differences between passive screen time on smartphones versus the slower, more balanced pleasures of life. You'll learn practical strategies for reclaiming your time—by creating a healthy digital infrastructure and setting clear boundaries to protect your sleep and relationships. We compare real-life examples from clinical practice and daily life, highlighting how even simple changes can drastically improve your quality of life. This conversation isn't just about cutting down screen time; it's a call to live more mindfully, reconnect with yourself, and foster deeper connections with those around you. If you're ready to transform your relationship with technology and reclaim your energy, tune in now to hear the full conversation. Links-  MJ's Podcast - Creating Midlife Calm  https://tinyurl.com/2ce626tc MJ's Website - mjmurrayvachon.com Subscribe to the My Happy Life Box to connect with your mind, body and spirit deeper  - https://myhappylifebox.com/subscriptionbox/ I would love to connect with you email me at - [email protected] Or DM me Visit on IG https://www.instagram.com/grounding_journey/  New to Grounding Journey? I'm Cris, a student of the world, finding my path and helping others along the way. I've been using Meditation, Yoga, Crystal Healing, Reiki, and aromatherapy to light my way for almost 20 years. ⁣ ⁣  When I'm not cuddled up at home with my dog, a good book, and a glass of wine, I'm often traipsing around foreign lands with Matthew, my husband, and Kevin, our son, exploring and learning from different cultures and beliefs systems. ⁣ ⁣  My husband and I started a monthly subscription box, My Happy Life Box as a compliment to my podcast - Grounding Journey, The deeper conversations you've been seeking as a way to connect with other souls on a similar spiritual journey. ⁣  Thanks for being a part of my journey. I hope to be a part of yours!

For many women, perimenopause and menopause feel like an unwelcome guest—but what if we could shift that perspective? Instead of dreading the changes, what if you could feel empowered, informed, and proactive about your health and well-being? In this episode, we explore how to navigate midlife with confidence and vitality. Poorvi Chordia, a physician, entrepreneur, and passionate tea expert, shares how integrating Western medicine with holistic wellness can make all the difference in managing symptoms and thriving through this phase of life. We discuss everything from strength training and nutrition to sleep hygiene, anxiety, and brain fog—breaking down practical ways to support your body and mind. Plus, we touch on the importance of community and how connecting with others can make this transition feel less isolating. Midlife isn't something to endure—it's an opportunity to redefine how you want to feel for the next 40 years.  Find Poorvi and her amazing teas - https://www.herbsandkettles.com/ Subscribe to the My Happy Life Box to connect with your mind, body and spirit deeper  - https://myhappylifebox.com/subscriptionbox/ I would love to connect with you email me at - [email protected] Or DM me Visit on IG https://www.instagram.com/grounding_journey/  New to Grounding Journey? I'm Cris, a student of the world, finding my path and helping others along the way. I've been using Meditation, Yoga, Crystal Healing, Reiki, and aromatherapy to light my way for almost 20 years. ⁣ ⁣  When I'm not cuddled up at home with my dog, a good book, and a glass of wine, I'm often traipsing around foreign lands with Matthew, my husband, and Kevin, our son, exploring and learning from different cultures and beliefs systems. ⁣ ⁣  My husband and I started a monthly subscription box, My Happy Life Box as a compliment to my podcast - Grounding Journey, The deeper conversations you've been seeking as a way to connect with other souls on a similar spiritual journey. ⁣  Thanks for being a part of my journey. I hope to be a part of yours!

Feeling the energy of a new year? Whether you're excited about fresh possibilities or anxious about the unknown, this episode will inspire you to approach 2025 with love and intention. In the Season 6 opener of Grounding Journey, I'll share a story of how coming from love instead of fear cahnged the whole day for Matthew and I. Drawing inspiration from Robin Sharma's The Saint, the Surfer, and the CEO, we'll explore how love can guide us through challenges, strengthen our connections, and help us let go of hurt. This episode dives deep into the emotions that shape our lives, from fear and scarcity to forgiveness and expansion. You'll feel encouraged to tune into your heart, embrace your feelings, and consciously create a year rooted in love and self-discovery.   Want to check out my upcoming program? https://groundingjourney.com/theexperience/ Subscribe to the My Happy Life Box to connect with your mind, body and spirit deeper  - https://myhappylifebox.com/subscriptionbox/ I would love to connect with you email me at - [email protected] Or DM me Visit on IG https://www.instagram.com/grounding_journey/  New to Grounding Journey? I'm Cris, a student of the world, finding my path and helping others along the way. I've been using Meditation, Yoga, Crystal Healing, Reiki, and aromatherapy to light my way for almost 20 years. ⁣ ⁣  When I'm not cuddled up at home with my dog, a good book, and a glass of wine, I'm often traipsing around foreign lands with Matthew, my husband, and Kevin, our son, exploring and learning from different cultures and beliefs systems. ⁣ ⁣  My husband and I started a monthly subscription box, My Happy Life Box as a compliment to my podcast - Grounding Journey, The deeper conversations you've been seeking as a way to connect with other souls on a similar spiritual journey. ⁣  Thanks for being a part of my journey. I hope to be a part of yours!

Feeling stuck in a life of routine and longing for more? Join us as we dive into the transformative journey of rediscovering creativity and passion in midlife. Felicia Messina D'Haiti shares how a simple retreat exercise led her to this transformative practice, sparking a shift from burnout to fulfillment.  Together, we explore how embracing curiosity, listening to your inner calling, and designing spaces that align with your unique energy can help you craft a vibrant, fulfilling second act.  Spoiler: you can Feng Shui your home without feeling overwhelmed or juggling a bunch of rules. Listen in to learn how!   Links: Grab the Smudging 101 guidebook I mention https://groundingjourney.com/smudging-and-clearing-your-space/ Subscribe to the My Happy Life Box to connect with your mind, body and spirit deeper - https://myhappylifebox.com/subscriptionbox/ To stay updated with our latest episodes and never miss a moment of inspiration, be sure to subscribe to the Grounding Journey podcast on your favorite platform. We release new episodes regularly, featuring insightful guests and thought-provoking conversations about personal growth, motivation, and spiritual development.   Felicia's website - https://www.feliciadhaiti.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/soul_shift/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SoulTransformations

In this season of giving thanks, we bring you the story of Lisa Mesquela—a woman who turned her second chance at life into a mission to protect those without a voice. Diagnosed with cancer over a decade ago, Lisa emerged not only as a survivor but as a fierce advocate for farm animals suffering from abuse and neglect. On Grounding Journey, she shares the path that led her from a life of quiet strength to founding a sanctuary for over 80 animals, facing her deepest fears, and finding purpose beyond herself. Hear how Lisa's journey from personal survival to community impact reminds us of the resilience, compassion, and power of purpose—perfect for anyone seeking to connect with gratitude and the true spirit of giving back.   Links: Lisa's Website - https://freedomfarmanimalsanctuary.org/ upcoming auction: http://freedomfarmanimalsanctuary.betterworld.org/auctions/ffas-annual-auction-animals To stay updated with our latest episodes and never miss a moment of inspiration, be sure to subscribe to the Grounding Journey podcast on your favorite platform. We release new episodes regularly, featuring insightful guests and thought-provoking conversations about personal growth, motivation, and spiritual development. Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content, episode teasers, and more ways to engage with our community. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we look forward to having you with us on the next episode!

Are you feeling stuck or uncertain about your next steps in life? We're dive deep into the transformative power of rediscovering yourself in midlife that leads to a purposeful next chapter with a follow up conversation from earlier this year with Nancy Mitchell.  Nancy shares her personal experience of navigating an empty nest, moving, career transitions, and the unexpected losses of a longtime pet and a relationship—all at once. These pivotal moments pushed her to reevaluate what really matters and embrace a sacred pause to rediscover herself. Through candid discussion, we explore how midlife doesn't have to be the time of dread our mothers experienced but can instead be a powerful opportunity to realign, refocus, and create a life filled with passion and purpose. Whether you're thinking, "I can't just pause my life," or wondering how to make space for change without giving up everything, this episode is for you. You'll learn that taking a break doesn't have to be drastic—sometimes even 30 minutes of silence a day can make all the difference. Tune in to be inspired, reflect on your own journey, and discover how this midlife stage can be the beginning of something more meaningful and fulfilling. (Check out Nancy's first episode - Ep 123 Sacred Pause instead of pushing through) Links - Nancy's Website - https://boldbeginningscoaching.com/ Nancy on IG - https://www.instagram.com/bold_beginnings/ Subscribe to the My Happy Life Box to connect with your mind, body and spirit deeper - https://myhappylifebox.com/subscriptionbox/ I would love to connect with you email me at - [email protected]  Or DM me Visit on IG https://www.instagram.com/grounding_journey/   New to Grounding Journey? I'm Cris, a student of the world, finding my path and helping others along the way. I've been using Meditation, Yoga, Crystal Healing, Reiki, and aromatherapy to light my way for almost 20 years. ⁣ ⁣ When I'm not cuddled up at home with my dog, a good book, and a glass of wine, I'm often traipsing around foreign lands with Matthew, my husband, and Kevin, our son, exploring and learning from different cultures and beliefs systems. ⁣ ⁣ My husband and I started a monthly subscription box, My Happy Life Box as a compliment to my podcast - Grounding Journey, The deeper conversations you've been seeking as a way to connect with other souls on a similar spiritual journey. ⁣ Thanks for being a part of my journey. I hope to be a part of yours!  

Have you ever felt the urge to reinvent yourself? That is just what our guest, Maureen Law did, a retired nurse who has embraced a life of service as a Swami in the Kriya Yoga tradition. Together, we explore her evolution from caregiver to spiritual guide, discovering the essence of what it means to serve others with compassion and grace. Our conversation touches on the significance of empowerment and support in people's journeys, the blending of mystical Christianity with Eastern philosophies, and the importance of recognizing that every belief system has value. She shares her insights on how yoga transcends religion and emphasizes the universal power of love and connection. Join us as we discuss how embracing diverse beliefs can expand our consciousness and foster a more inclusive world. This episode is a beautiful reminder that our paths may be unique, but they all lead to the same destination: love and understanding. Tune in to hear her incredible story and find inspiration for your own journey! Connect with Maureen Website - https://www.peaceandwellnessfromwithin.org/ Facebook - Peace and Wellness from Within - https://www.facebook.com/Muktima430 Subscribe to the My Happy Life Box to  - https://myhappylifebox.com/subscriptionbox/ I would love to connect with you email me at - [email protected] Or DM me Visit on IG https://www.instagram.com/grounding_journey/ New to Grounding Journey? I'm Cris, a student of the world, finding my path and helping others along the way. I've been using Meditation, Yoga, Crystal Healing, Reiki, and aromatherapy to light my way for almost 20 years. ⁣ ⁣ When I'm not cuddled up at home with my dog, a good book, and a glass of wine, I'm often traipsing around foreign lands with Matthew, my husband, and Kevin, our son, exploring and learning from different cultures and beliefs systems. ⁣ ⁣  My husband and I started a monthly subscription box, My Happy Life Box as a compliment to my podcast - Grounding Journey, The deeper conversations you've been seeking as a way to connect with other souls on a similar spiritual journey. ⁣ Thanks for being a part of my journey. I hope to be a part of yours!