wellness-junkie of Denmark

Blogs are the new websites - tjek min nye officielle "hjemmeside"

2011-02-03T06:53:00.002+01:00

Medblogger - eller blogger-in-spe? Klik forbi www.agbelmadani.blogspot.com - vi ses:)

a-g

Jeg blogger (også) på iform.dk

2011-01-16T18:12:00.006+01:00

Nu blogger jeg også på blondine-bloggen på iform.dk - en selv(u)højtidelig træningsblog, der mest handler om genveje til super(I)FORM - seees:)

a-g

Er bloggere en flok ekshibitionister?

2011-01-12T07:14:00.004+01:00

Et lille morgengrynt fra mig her i S-toget, surfende på vej til arbejde på de gyldne vinger af DSB fri internet – TAK for det – og god morgen:)

Der eksisterer en håndfuld myter om os bloggere – som dybest set bunder i uvidenhed om, hvad formålet med en blog er, og hvad den kan bruges til.

Ligesom jeg kan forsikre jer om, at der ikke vandrer isbjørne rundt i de norske gader og stræder – hvor jeg har trådt mine spæde børnefødder – så handler at blogge først og fremmest ikke om 15 minutters berømmelse og at vise sig frem; look at me.

Prøv en gang at sammenligne os bloggere med skuespillere (ja, hvorfor ikke…;). Der er helt klart gode og dårlige skuespillere – og gode og dårlige bloggere.

Forskellen på good or bad ligger i deres evne til at formidle

At blogge handler om at formidle et budskab – at give – inspirere, informere, og gerne en lille smule provokere.

Og tja, at der så er nogen af os der i tillæg er ekshibitionister – og kan lide finere madlavning, gå til badminton eller smukt grønlandsk perlebroderi...

... det gør os bare til en broget og spændende forsamling af mennesker, der har noget på hjerte.

GOD dag til dig fra
a-g

Sådan blogger du dig til succes ved hjælp af autencitet

2011-01-07T16:10:00.005+01:00

Du skaber tillid og autencitet ved at blogge. Og autencitet er en af de mest knappe og efterspurgte ressourcer i erhvervslivet.

Hvorfor er det vigtigt at være autentisk? Jo, når vi er autentiske, det vil sige er os selv og ikke forsøger at foregive at være noget vi ikke er; så får vi andre personer til at stole på os. De ved hvor de har os og hvad vi står for. Og når vi har skabt tillid omkring vores egen person er det nemmere at netværke og skaffe os viden.

Og viden er altafgørende i vores vidensamfund, for at skabe resultater og overleve som virksomhed.

Eksempel:
Sådan blogger du dig til succes ved hjælp af autencitet
En lille vinskabsproducent i Californien er passioneret omkring sin virksomhed. Så passioneret at han beslutter at oprette en blog om opbevaring af vin.
Primært formål: At dele ud af sin begejstring og viden om hvordan man opbevarer vin på bedste vis. Sekundært formål: Salg gennem god og gratis PR.

Vinskabsproducenten går i gang med at blogge. Det går ikke lang tid før han får flere kunder, og kunder som befinder sig geografisk længere væk og som er villige til at rejse det længere, for at købe vinskab hos ham.

Hvorfor? Jo, ved at være ikke-sælgende på bloggen og fokusere på at give ud af gode råd oparbejder vinskabsproducenten en tillid blandt kunderne, som en større virksomhed med et anselig marketingbudget ikke vil kunne matche – og blot misunde. Kunderne føler sig trygge ved at handle med vinskabsproducenten.

Uddrag fra min kommende born-on-the-blog e-bog Blogging til dummies

Blogging er din unikke mulighed for at kommunikere direkte med køberne

2011-01-03T21:25:00.006+01:00

Hvorfor ”beg” eller ”buy”, som i de traditionelle og forældede regler for marketing og PR? Ja, hvorfor enten trygle og bede redaktørerne af de trykte medier om, at skrive din historie og håbe på at komme gennem nåløjet med dine pressemeddelelser og vareprøver? Eller købe dig til dyre annoncer som du ikke er sikker på rammer målgruppen plet og giver dig fuld valuta for skillingen?

Internettet er din unikke mulighed for at skippe dyre marketingbudgetter - og passivt afvente at der er nogle indflydelsesrige mediemennesker, der tager dig og dine produkter til nåde.

Internettet er din umage mulighed for at tage skeen i egen hånd og kommunikere direkte med de kunder, som du ønsker!

Denne tankegang modtages dog ikke med kyshånd af alle. Til mine foredrag hvor jeg fortæller om de nye og tidligere regler for PR – før og efter internettet - møder jeg ofte skepsis. Der er marketingchefer som har det bedst med at tage til marketingmøder, fordele budgetter og følge op på god gammeldags facon.

Og redaktionel omtale og annoncering er stadig aktuelt for enkelte produkter – vi bliver nødt til at huske på at komfortzonen hos mange beslutningstagere og en del købere stadig ligger udenfor blogs og internettet - og i de traditionelle regler for PR og marketing.

Uddrag fra min kommende born-on-the-blog e-bog Blogging til dummies

Lær mere om blogging - og opret din egen blog - til mit kursus hos Berlingske 10. og 24. februar!

Glædelig Jul!

2010-12-24T12:26:00.002+01:00

GOD jul til dig & dine, vi blogges ved i det nye år - og jeg vender stærkt tilbage med nye uddrag fra born-on-the-blog bogen Blogging til Dummies!

Kh
Anne-Grete

Hvorfor skal jeg blogge?

2010-12-19T22:07:00.008+01:00

Uddrag fra min born-on-the-blog e-bog Blogging til Dummies

Hvorfor skal jeg blogge?
Godt spørgsmål! Det er faktisk ikke helt sikkert at det er det du skal – blogge altså.

Det første du skal overveje er, hvordan passer en eventuel blog ind i min kommunikationsstrategi? (Tjek en super skabelon på en kommunikationsstrategi her). En blog er nemlig, dybest set, navnet på et kommunikationsværktøj, på linje med hjemmeside, nyhedsbrev, podcast, video og pressemeddelelser. Og bloggen skal være nøje afstemt i forhold til de kommunikationsværktøjer du bruger i forvejen.

Jeg skal bare blogge! har flere af mine klienter som PR-rådgiver indledt vores møde med. Ofte er de blevet sendt hjem igen med et nyhedsbrev – i stedet for en blog. Det er nemt at blive begejstret over fænomenet blog. Men ofte vil en blog ikke tilføre deres virksomhed merværdi. Så er der ingen grund til at blogge - eller at fortsætte med det.

Eksempel:
En af mine tidligere direktører er krystalklar til at få sin egen blog. Det får han, en som udgangspunkt intern blog, der kun kommunikeres internt i organisationen. Og fordi blogging er et sprit nyt fænomen for organisationen aftaler vi at formidle bloggen som et 3 måneders pilotprojekt. Det viser sig at være godt tænkt. Direktøren får efter de første par entusiastiske indlæg sværere og sværere ved at levere blogindlæggene til tiden.

Direktørens interne blog holder tiden ud – de 3 måneders pilotprojekt. Og der bliver taget beslutning om ikke at fortsætte. Fordi… bloggen på det tidspunkt ikke er en integreret del af kommunikationsstrategien.

I dag ved jeg der blogges bredt på både direktør- og mellemlederniveau i selv samme organisation – stadig på internt plan. Med lærerig viden i bagagen fra pilotprojektet.

Så hvordan ved du at en blog er det rigtige for dig og din virksomhed?
Jo, hvis du – vitterlig:
A. Har noget på hjerte, noget du ønsker at give (vender vi tilbage til)
B. Et ønske – vitterlig - om en åben dialog

Du er parat til at lytte til hvad der bliver kommunikeret tilbage til dig selv og virksomheden. Og du er parat til at gå kunderne i møde gennem handling; til at imødekomme deres behov. En stor overvejelse, som der skal soves på! Overraskende mange virksomheder er nemlig ikke parate til at høre hvad deres kunder har at sige. Et eller andet sted trives de bedst med dialogen én vej. Og kundehenvendelser gennem en på forhånd defineret kundeformular; med andre ord, de har det bedst med selv at have kontrol over den information, der bliver sendt dem retur fra omverdenen.

Anderledes er det med en blog. Du giver slip på kontrollen – og underkaster dig en slags de frie markedskræfter. Lidt skræmmende, meget fascinerende – og utroligt lærerigt! Også for bundlinjen.

a-g:)

Følg med i fortsættelsen af denne born-on-the-blog e-bog Blogging til Dummies!

Blogging til Dummies - tjek indholdsfortegnelsen

2010-12-15T07:00:00.001+01:00

Blogging til Dummies – 9 trin til god & gratis PR - det er arbejdstitlen, og nu har jeg lavet indholdsfortegnelsen til e-bogen, der bliver lavet på denne blog.

Hvad synes du - er der et punkt/emne eller to der mangler, som jeg med fordel kan skrive om i e-bogen?

TAK fra
a-g

Indholdsfortegnelse:
1. Hvorfor skal jeg blogge?

2. Hvad er en blog?

3. Hvordan opretter jeg en blog?

4. Hvordan skal jeg skrive?
a. Skriv noget som andre gider læse
b. Den perfekte overskrift
c. Involver dine læsere

5. Hvor ofte skal jeg blogge?

6. Hvordan holder jeg motivationen?
a. Sæt dig mål der giver mening

7. Hvordan skaber jeg trafik?
a. Bliv ven med Google
b. Bliv ven med Technorati
c. Skriv indlæg på andre blogs
d. F å andre til at linke til dig

8. Hvordan tjener jeg penge på at blogge?
a. Premium Content
b. Google AdSense annoncer
c. Annoncer fra samarbejdspartnere
d. Afledte produkter og ydelser

9. Det ”bløde”:
a. Min egen bloghistorie
b. Personlig succes som blogger (evt. en 2’er?)

Succes som blogger - ny e-bog vil blive lavet på denne blog!

2010-12-13T16:44:00.008+01:00

SÅ er beslutningen taget: På mange bloginteresseredes opfordring vil jeg nu skrive e-bogen med arbejdstitlen "Blogging til Dummies - 9 trin til god & gratis PR" - og det hele (næsten) sker på denne blog

Der er flere (e-)bøger der er blevet til på baggrund af blogindlæg. For eksempel min blogguru David Meerman Scotts The New Rules of Marketing & PR - og har du ikke læst den, altså både bloggen og bogen - så er der masser af inspiration at hente i dem begge, til hvordan du skaber god og gratis PR.

Jeg glæder mig til at starte - og til at lægge dele af bogens indhold ud her på bloggen. Gode kommentarer og indspark modtages med kyshånd - og bliver til en del af bogen!

GOD uge fra
a-g

Personlig vækst på togbanen: JA tak til flere forsinkelser hos DSB!

2010-12-07T07:36:00.004+01:00

Forestil dig at du giver dine DSB-ærgrelser en turnaround – og bliver et endnu større (og ja, mere tålmodigt) menneske

Valget er nu en gang dit: Vil du acceptere tog-ikke-til-tiden – og hygge dig - eller vil du ærgre dig også næste gang, dit tog er aflyst eller forsinket?

Lad os lære af østen. Mon ikke de ville haft større tålmodighed med DSB-forsinkelserne, end os vesterlændinge?

Hørte lige om en ø-seilads der var forsinket på Bali. Det var kun de ventende turister der brokkede sig - balineserne, de hyggede sig!

Os togrejsende med DSB har også mulighed for at gøre rejseoplevelsen til en positiv oplevelse - hvis vi vil...

Så – næste gang vi står og venter på et forsinket S-tog:
* Tager vi en dyb vejrtrækning
* Siger: Min lykke er inde i mig selv og upåvirket af ydre omstændigheder
* Siger igen: Jeg accepterer forsinkelsen med hele mit hjerte…

... og det gerne HØJT, så de andre ventende passagerer også kan høre det:)

Peace & love - også på togbanen,
a-g

Skrevet mellem Måløv Station og Hovedbanegården – under massive forsinkelser…

Ps. MEN – det ville da ikke gøre noget, om DSB serverede varm kaffe på stationen til os forfrosne ventende passagerer. Blot et lille spindoktor råd…

Nyt blogkursus - nu for 3. gang hos Berlingske

2010-12-03T07:26:00.005+01:00

Det intensive mini-kurset Bliv hørt - bliv flyvefærdig blogger på 2 aftener præsenterer jeg nu for tredje gang sammen med Berlingske Media.

De nye datoer er:

10. og 24. feb. 2011 kl. 16:30 - 19:00, i Kammerherren, Berlingske Media, Pilestræde 34 1147 København

Sagt om kurset:
”… lad mig først takke for et godt kursus! En sand hjerne-eksplosion af muligheder har åbnet sig”
Deltager ved kurset 8. og 15. april 2010

Gå hjem fra kurset som flyvefærdig blogejer og blogger, fuldt klædt på til blogosfæren - og til at fortsætte med at skrive og blive hørt på din egen nyoprettede blog. Medbring blot din bærbare – og du er i gang!

3 gode grunde til at blogge
1. Det er sjovt
2. Det er god, effektiv og gratis PR!
3. Konkurrencefordel, når det at være autentisk er en knap og efterspurgt ressource - især i erhvervslivet

Kurset henvender sig til
Alle, der har noget på hjertet og som ønsker at blive hørt. Virksomhedsledere, medarbejdere, selvstændige og privatpersoner, som brænder for det de laver. Meningsdannere og frontløbere, som ønsker at berige og gøre en forskel for deres læsere.

Prisen inkluderer kursusmateriale og kaffe/the og vand. Faktura fremsendes ved tilmelding.

Tilmeld dig - og se hele programmet for begge aftener her

GOD weekend til dig fra
a-g

Og Multitabs vinderne er...

2010-11-29T17:24:00.001+01:00

... Olympia, CMilla og Lis Marker!!

De tre heldige må meget gerne sende deres adresse til ag.belmadani@gmail.com - så er der 200 lækre Multitabs på vej; vitaminer og supersund Omega 3 i én...

a-gee:)

Wellness-junkie goes from Danglish - to Danish!

2010-11-29T12:00:00.001+01:00

Acknowledging the majority of my blog readers live in Denmark, Sweden and Norway (thank you, Google Analytics!) - and me working with lifestyle information to the Nordic countries, I have decided, as for next blog post, to continue my blog in... Danish! The shop will continue in English.

THANK you so much, my dear readers from North America, and the rest of the Web Wide World, for following my blog and giving me splendid feedback - now I hope you are skilled also in the Nordic languages...

MY NEW HOT ARTICLES ON HEALTH: For the Norwegian readers I have a few articles to share with you:
Ung kropp? Slik skal du trene når du er 20, 30, 40... 100! (Sjekk hvor mye som skal til for å holde kroppen ung)
Kari Jaquesson: Sannheten om flat mage

Kari Jaquesson

... and for the Danes:
Farvel til fedtet - 10 nemme tricks

Peace & love - og alt godt til dig:)

a-g

How to go from superwoman - to Brilliant Bad Girl!

2010-11-25T12:00:00.005+01:00

Please join me in this Bad Girl movement. Say no to being a SUPERWOMAN - and YES to being a Bad Girl: Have fun, relax and be yourself in a 2010 modern busy world

The 2010 Challenge of Today is indeed to slow down and connect with and listen to our inner voice. To connect with our authentic self. I have written the eBook a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS for 2 reasons:

1. We live in a country - a Western world - where women suffer from stress every day. This book is my eBookish way to put emphasize on a very important subject: We need to challenge the values of the world - from being increasingly material - to also include the soul.

Check out the eBook in the Bad Girl Shop

2. I really don't want to pass the "stress values" to my kids - to innocent children in general, who deserve to grow up with a deep connection to themselves. They deserve to be relaxed - and happy!

Peace to you and so much love,

Anne-Grete Belmadani

Retro: SUPERWOMAN Challenge - stop being so perfect

2010-11-22T12:00:00.001+01:00

This is a challenge I posted on the blog two months ago - a loving reminder that deserves to be re-posted! You take care out there, Love a-g:)

You may contradict me here with a: "Well, nobody's perfect!" Then I'll say you're right - but there are so many SUPERWOMEN out there - striving to reach excellence and being perfect, every single day.

Nothing wrong with that, except it can be pretty exhausting:-) And maybe it's worthwhile to examine the real intention behind striving to be perfect: Is it because we don't feel good enough? Do we really need to produce results to be loved? The wonderful answer to the last question is we're perfect just as we are!

Well, let's get practical:
* Try doing one of your work tasks to your 90% satisfaction - and experience your boss being happy anyway
* Sit down and relax with a drink before your guests arrive, forget cleaning the rest - and have a blast of a party anyway
* Don't bother wearing matching ear rings and a belt - and feel great looking anyway
* And so on...

Have a happy and a VERY imperfect day!

Warmly,
a-g

WIN Omega 3 Vitamines - Value DKK 3.200!

2010-11-19T08:26:00.014+01:00

Hey Norway, Sweden and Denmark!

Have you taken your vitamines today...;-)?

Well, if you haven't - and don't have any - then this is your opportunity to December spoil yourself with healthy Multi-tabs Complet Vitamines.

We're looking for 10 winners:-) Who each will receive 200 Multi-tabs Complet value DKK 320 by December 1st.

What's so special with these vitamines is they also contain "built-in" Omega 3, scientifically proven to protect your body against for instance heart disease - all in just one single pill.

HOW TO JOIN THE CONTEST
Answer this simple question - and answer by commenting on this blog post:

What's so special with this Multi-tabs Complet vitamines?
A. They are split up in two pills: One with vitamines and one with omega 3
B. They contain essential vitamines and omega 3 fatty acids in just one pill

Please comment with your answer before Friday November 26th.

Read more about the Multi-tabs (DK)

GOOD luck with the contest - enjoy your weekend!

Love
a-g

* Contest only for participating citizens with address in Norway, Sweden or Denmark.

OUUUCH... Responsibility Bites: The Sweet Dilemma of Being a Grown-Up

2010-11-18T12:00:00.004+01:00

Wouldn't you too sometimes wish you weren't that well informed on what's good and bad for you - what's safe?

I heard about this mature new-divorcee woman - she was so fed up with always doing what's right. One day when out driving her car she threw litter out of the window... and we're talking about the non-recyclable kind. She did it just for the heck of it - to feel free.

Being in my late 30's; mature and somehow experienced in life, I have had my midlife share of trial & error experiences: What's wisely to do - and what's not...

Resulting in me now always:
Flossing my teeth at night. If I don't means visiting the dentist more often; expensive - and hurtful!

Removing my make-up every night. If I don't means my skin won't regenerate itself that well when I sleep - and I may look older than I really am:-( (We won't have that - would we;-)?)

Remembering my omega 3 vitamins every night. If I don't it's baaad for my heart, considering how women nowadays catch up with men on heart disease.

Well, I could go on... and where is my carefree Bad Girl in all this?

This is me in another 40 years

... when acting so proper and responsible - and knowing almost too much about what's good and bad.

Although I wouldn't personally recommend begin throwing litter out of the window and mess up our beautiful nature (even more), I can perfectly understand this woman's reaction.

So - as for being a Bad Girl I will choose to go mentally: Pursue my dreams as much as I'm able to do - not limiting myself by other people's opinion and judgement; remove "should" and "ought to" entirely away from my vocabulary...

But who knows what happens this March when I turn the golden middle-age of 40? Watch out on the streets for being hit by litter, when I drive by your neighbourhood;-)

Love,
a-g

Geek Girl: Why Does Authentic People Make More Money?

2010-11-15T12:00:00.003+01:00

Authenticity is The New Buzz Word. And one of the 2010 most sought after qualities in business. Why is that? Well, the explanation is quite simple:

When you are authentic the world will think of you as trustworthy. People will confide in you. It will be easier for you to network, get the right connections and create healthy and longlasting relationships. And this confidence in you will make it easier for you to get the information you need to succeed in your job!

The world doesn't need just another anonymous suit - it needs YOU - us, to get out there and show the world who we really are:-)

It's possible making an effort to be authentic - even though speaking about fakin' it til you make it, wearing a fake mustache, at the Geek Girl Meetup!

a-gee

How to Find Time for Yoga when You Don't Have the Time

2010-11-12T22:33:00.018+01:00

Tidy up my kitchen - or work on that sexy yoga butt...?

That was my kind a superficial decision to make when I got home from my full time job this Friday afternoon. Western privileged life is full of these kind of small and big decisions every day.

Nevertheless such seemingly small decisions - made every day - grow big and shape our lives - yes, shape our bodies - our minds - and determine our state of health

That's why I decided today to leave the kitchen looking like a mess.

Totally ignoring The Perfect Trap - where everything has to be perfect around us before we make time for ourselves. Which results in that perfect moment for relaxing, doing yoga, start on that painting never arrives...

****** Hey friend, your perfect moment is right now! ******

Man, I was so pleased with myself afterwards. And yes, and then I had the energy to clean up the kitchen in just a few minutes!

Have yourself a wonderful relaxing weekend:-)

Love
a-g

Watch the Geek Girl Video Powertalk: 5 Steps to $uccess

2010-11-11T00:00:00.000+01:00

Now you can watch - and listen to my entire powertalk - in Danish - from the Geek Girl Meetup last Saturday!

ps. Sometimes I move out of the picture, but you will be able to hear it all: Fake It til You Make It, Think Like a Man, Be Authentic...

WATCH IT HERE - AND PUSH THE BUTTON FROM 30 MINUTES AND ON!

Love
a-g

Geek Girl Unplugged: Fake It til You Make It

2010-11-08T08:09:00.012+01:00

Yep, and it's not about faking it at all - more to be self-confident, think like a man and have the guts to communicate your personal and professional assets.

Like when a man applies for a job when he meets (only) 1 of 5 required qualifications - and he still gets the job! He's convinced he can learn the other 4 qualifications.

And - when a typical woman applies for a job when she meets all 5 of 5 qualifications. Sometimes she doesn't get the job anyway...;-)

Why is this? My key point at the Geek Girl Meetup this Saturday was the fact we women tend to undersell ourselves.

So - if you don't want to fake it in order to climb up the succes ladder:

Then please don't lie (and fake it anyway): Be truthful and tell things the way they are - don't limit yourself - GO GIRL:-)

Take-Action Challenge:
Say 3 good things about yourself:-)

SO much love to you from
a-g(eek)

The Fake It til You Make It slogan is from my speech at Geek Girl Copenhagen Nov. 6th 2010. This photo was tagged on FB by Facebook Expert Sanne Fabiola

A Geek Girl knows... How to Mix Business with Geeky (authentic) Pleasure

2010-11-05T16:00:00.007+01:00

So - tomorrow is The Great Geek Girl Day of Copenhagen. I'm looking SO much forward to sharing my powertalk $hh - a Geek Girls 5 steps to Succes - with other geeky girls! And - have their say on the 5 fabulous steps.

I can reveal it will be a cocktail of professional and private secrets...;-)

For those of you not entering the event: The 5 steps revealed tomorrow will appear on this blog next week.

Have a wonderful weekend!

a-geeky:-)

SLIM down, superwoman: Get some rest

2010-11-04T06:56:00.006+01:00

My dear friend Top-of-the-Pops lost 12 pounds in 5 days - just by sleeping for sweet 8 nightly hours (!)

A proper diet and some good exercise; that's obviously the old fashioned way of bringing our body to at pleasant and healthy weight.

Studies show that in a 2010 superwoman life there are two just as important factors in regard to weight loss:

* Reducing our level of stress
* Getting some sleep!

Well, good night then:-)

a-g

Just joined The Slow Movement! ps. And proud of it...

2010-11-02T21:02:00.007+01:00

Aaah... why rush and not grasp one single thing? With no time to notice the beauty - the love - that surrounds each and every one of us?

So - today I joined The Slow Movement. Didn't sign up officially, just made a silent contract with myself, to eat more slowly, do my yoga more slowly (bonus: makes it even more efficient for body and soul) - live life more slowly.

Basically The Slow Movement is about connecting. Connecting to ourselves, our friends and our family, to life.

I think in relation to connecting it's SO important to be aware of the level of adrenaline in our modern 2010 world. It's just not possible to connect when always high on adrenaline - unhealthy too. Just don't go by the flow and take the modern busy "rules" for granted. Set your own pace! Decide for yourself on how you want to live your life. If you want to skip yoga class - like I did today... then do it, relax, take a deep breath and enjoy:-)

*** How about a Slow Guide to Life... coming up next?:-) ***

Slooow moves from
a-g

Hold on to your Dreams - in the midst of Everyday Life

2010-10-31T19:27:00.006+01:00

Everyday Life is cool - it's right here and it's a gift - when we remember to appreciate the small as well as the big things!

But as human beings we are designed to evolve. To grow and to always strive for excellence and bringing 100 % of our gifts to the world - to make a difference. For one or many persons - THAT'S HAPPINESS TO ME.

I've just put a picture looking very much like this one, on the wall in my living room, to remind me of holding on to my dreams

There's great wisdom in not putting all of our eggs into only one basket; to let our happiness depend entirely on only our partner, or our job, family or friends. Believing that one single thing or person can bring us all the happiness we need

Instead... let's make sure to listen to our hearts and...
* finally get that book inside our head down on paper
* start painting and listen to our inner artist
* take some great photos and make a mini-exhibition (this one is for TS, my best friend:-)
* ... or what ever your heart tells you

ps. Don't get trapped in the "has-to-be-perfect" mode, no no, most importantly is to get started, to feel the happiness of just doing it!

Dreams-come-true to you from
a-g

THANK YOU

2010-10-27T20:19:00.004+02:00

Thank you, you lovely blog readers out there for following my blog - and for inspiring and supporting me in emphasizing the importance of inner wellness.

Some days - like tonight - when I'm totally drained for energy I just find so much pleasure in my blog - and all the interesting and loving mails from you blog readers (who typically prefer privacy and writing me a message on Facebook:-)

I just want to tell you that your fine cyberspace company comforts me - and I hope - I sense and read from your mails - that this splendid feeling goes both ways. That you grasp some inspiration from this blog in living your own life - your own splendid way!

All my love,
a-g

ps. This is for you:

LET'S MEET: Geeking up for Geek Girl Meetup in Copenhagen

2010-10-26T21:41:00.011+02:00

November 6th will be a very special day: 150 tech freaky geek girls - including myself;-) - will attend this first-time-in-Copenhagen technology conference Geek Girl Meetup Copenhagen - ladies only.

I will have a 25 minute speech on... I will reveal the subject later this week!!

* * * * * * * * * * * I'm considering buying these glasses for the Meetup

So, if you happen to be in Copenhagen November 6th - AND have a ticket, then please step by and say hello!

You know, cyberspace is too cool, but real life and meeting up with other geeky girls - that's just top dollar

Love & peace to you from
a-gee

w-j feat. Michael Jackson: Starting with the man in the mirror

2010-10-25T16:34:00.010+02:00

Let's just admit it: It's easier to blame others and not take the responsibility ourselves.

Lately I've been aware of so many - too many - people blaming others for living a boring and limited life. I just feel like giving them a hug - and then shake them (gently:-) - and then hug them again and tell them:

Hey, start taking a look in the mirror. The person you see is the one being able to change your life. And when YOU change, you will view people differently

Ain't that true? When you're happy everything - and everyone - seems more lovable and attractive.

The key question then is: How do we make ourselves happy? I will follow Oprah on this one: Whenever you want an answer, just stop and listen

Peace & love
w-j

Invitation: Just... don't

2010-10-20T22:02:00.007+02:00

Please join me in a 5-Day-Doing-Less of what you usually do

As for me I will have a 5 day cyber and blog free break - until Monday! Well, working as a Web Editor of course I will have to surf the wonders of web in the day time - but as for afternoons and evenings I will stay cyber free.

In stead I will...
* Spend time on reading books
* Spend time on doing absolutely nothing
* Spend time on listening to beautiful music
* ... maybe - definetely! - read some gossip magazines and watch MTV Cribs;-)

How about you? Take this opportunity, together with me, and experience the calm and good of slowing down. And most importantly: Let's notice how our world won't fall apart, in spite of us occassionally giving "only" 50 percent in stead of 110...

Peace (yes, lots of peace) and not to forget love! To you from
a-g

Ooh, being a bad girl doing less, saying no is just SO addictive:-)

Relationships: Say good-bye to your Good Girl - and feel the POWER

2010-10-18T22:15:00.005+02:00

Maybe write her, something like: I love you, Good Girl, but now it's time to go... and celebrate the real me!

Why? Because there's so much power in YOU, if you just dare to show the world (and your partner) who you really are. And stop hiding behind a pleasing mask

How? By listening to and honouring your inner voice, that will tell you exactly what to do, how to take care of yourself and your own needs.

Saying good-bye to your Good Girl is your key from looking good - to looking great

Well, it's not all about superficial looks, but you know, that confident glimpse and sparkle in your eyes, when you know you're doing what's right and good for yourself.

Let's get practical: People will always, typically unconsciously step over your personal borders.

Just watch long-term relationships where you may think: How does he/she put up with the spouse's behaviour? The answer is: He og she has been a Good Girl / Man for too long.

So... wave fare well to that Good Girl - NOW - and stand up for yourself!

GREAT superwoman powers to powerful you from
a-g

Want more beauty in your life? Here's how

2010-10-15T07:49:00.011+02:00

... it's making good decisions - decisions made by heart. The good and hearty decisions will make you happy, and when your're happy and...

not using all your energy on fighting yourself internally, with decisions made that doesn't feel right

...you will be able to notice the beauty around you!

ps. And when YOU're happy, the magic will touch your friends & family too.

The No. 1 Tip: How to make good and hearty decisions

More self-care tools in the SUPERWOMAN Toolbox

Love & peace to you from
a-g

Cancel, cancel, cancel... the ugly face of self-care

2010-10-13T16:41:00.006+02:00

I just hate having a bad day. In fact, I wish every day could be a good day. With lots of energy, laughter, love, smiles...

Yesterday I felt really low on energy and like I was going to be sick:
* 90 minutes of fantastic yoga - CANCEL
* Dining & wining with the online girls - CANCEL
... it was just so boring relaxing on the sofa!

I prefer being "on" like a few weekends ago when recommending IMEDEEN at a lifestyle exhibition in Copenhagen:

It was so much fun, joining the sweet IMEDEEN girls and tell people about my skin results, using IMEDEEN.

ps. I perfectly know there's no yin without a yang - and that a bad day, like yesterday, makes the good days feel even better. But well, that's just my head speaking...

More YIN please:-) from
a-gee

How I made peace with my Morning Godzilla

2010-10-11T08:21:00.007+02:00

They say lots of spouses try to change their partner every day. But gooosh, how are we many to attempt changing ourselves!

The difference between healthy goals for personal development, and punishing ourselves with fitting-in "should" and "ought to" can be only skin deep.

Let's go practical: Me expecting myself to A. get up at 6 a.m. in the morning - B. with a smile on my face (:-) yes, wer're talking really high expectations here!). AND C. starting my day with also a physical goal: doing yoga.

Well, I guess it's pretty easy for you to predict the outcome of these morning goals, just by reading and grasping the lack of my motivation: Failure, BIG failure...

That's why I decided to make peace with my morning person - my morning Godzilla - here's how:

This morning I got up at 7 a.m. and had a wonderful morning together with my family - and also - PARTICULARLY - with myself. Honoring myself not being a morning person gave me quite a bit of self-respect - made me feel good. Very simple - and very pleasant. And ps. Guess what, I was so happy about my decision that I did C. morning yoga...

How about you - who are YOU? How can you honor yourself, the way you are?

Happy YOU, me - all:-) from
a-g

Oops - last night I was a BAD, bad girl

2010-10-08T08:22:00.011+02:00

Are you sometimes fed up doing what's right - what's expected of you? Always be considerate and fulfill other people's needs...?

Well, I was last night, and on my way home from work I decided to be a very, very bad girl. Which resulted in...

* I bought candy, bubble gum - and a hot gossip magazine (which I usually never buy, just read at the hairdresser's...)
* I headed for my sofa and skipped 30 minutes of daily yoga
* I refused helping my kid with her homework (oooh, bad mom! Well, my husband had to help her out...)
* I skipped making tea and pampering my family after dinner (nope, didn't make dinner either) - funnily, pretty hard to resist, especially the pampering

ps. You may think the above is nothing to make a fuzz about. And I'm happy if you do, which proves self-care, limits and what we need is highly individual!

All night my brains told me to be service-minded. But listening to my gut feeling - which told me to totally relax - made me... HAPPY. On the contrary, living up to the expectations would have made me feel... CONTENT, and useful

In the long run I know I have to, and want to, give so much to the ones I love. But I seriously will allow myself, once in a while, also in the future, to take a day - totally off - and dare I say, think only of myself...

Warmly,
a-g

Learn how to be a bad girl too:
Check out a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS

Thank heaven for my PINK new rain boots!!

2010-10-07T18:34:00.008+02:00

In the midst of Pink Ribbon and breast cancer awareness, my mood was saved this morning by my new pink rain boots.

6:56 a.m.: It rains dogs & cats, and everyone (but my sweet stranger photographer...) looks extremely grumpy at the train station

Funny how a little color makes my day. ps. Every time I looked at my rain boots they made me smile. Call me superficial, but in the long run what's important is the small things in life...

Warmly,
a-g goes PINK

Surprise yourself: Do something impossible

2010-10-06T07:10:00.007+02:00

Yesterday I surprised myself - and a few others: I did a yoga head stand. For the first time in my life! And without really knowing what I was doing.

Before my yoga class I felt pretty tired and secretly wished A. this class to be over with as soon as possible and B. NO difficult moves - please!

In my own little weary bubble I just did what the teacher told me to do: Well, I did a head stand.

So - my new rule is: Not so much brains and pre-considering - just do it Nike-ish! Because when we give our brains the possibility to decide, you probably know what it would have told me: No, Anne, you have never tried the head stand before, I don't really think you can do it - today. Try it some other day when you feel more energetic!

4 ways to surprise yourself and do impossible stuff:
1. Now, go say hello and talk to that hot colleague you've been wanting to speak too for so long.
2. Open that webshop - and succeed - in spite of financial crisis.
3. Go for that morning run - even though you keep telling yourself you're not a morning person.
4. Do that head stand too - here's how(-:

Warmly and gutsy from
a-gee

Choosing with my heart - again: Yoga It Is

2010-10-04T15:27:00.007+02:00

Yesterday I made another choice by heart - not by brain: I cancelled an appointment with a personal fitness trainer. My brains are fully aware of all the benefits of a fitness regime. Problem is, everything else than my brain thinks it's boring...

On the other hand I...

Just writing the sentence now made me see happy colours of bright blue, red and orange

So, I will stick to my yoga. Actually, I think I will do some sun salutations when I get off this train. Well, not until I hit my living room...;-)

How about you? What kind of sports make YOU happy? Make YOU see some bright colors...?

Peace, love, orange and paradise blue - to you from
a-g

It was MAGIC: Pictures from My Copenhagen Walk of Life

2010-10-01T18:42:00.016+02:00

Gosh, I should do this more often! Take time out, be on my own, no plans. Time to think. Really be aware of life and enjoy it even more

Wauv - it's Friday night - and I have 2 hours in Copenhagen City - all by myself. My dinner date isn't before 8:30. No strings attached, no one is expecting me - what should I do...?

I decide to go for a walk. I sense the scent of flowers, passing the flower shop, I see - yes, see - the architecture, the sunset, and smell the different kitchens at Østerbro, this eastern part of Copenhagen: Indian, Mexican, Italian... I start really looking forward to my dinner! The best part of it all is I don't have to rush.

Highlights from my Østerbro walk-of-wonders:

No, it's not gold - it's the evening sun shining on the edge of the ceiling

Can't help put these purple wonders from Ilse Jacobsen on my wish list

This is a very peaceful view from Copenhagen City

Copenhagen architecture meets beauty - and the skyline

A spectacular church at Østerbrogade - meeting sunset

Warmly,
a-g

Do we really need to work that hard...? Self-care vs. ambition

2010-09-29T09:02:00.000+02:00

In stead of chasing goals at high speed, I now invite you to slow down, withdraw from the situation - and evaluate for yourself if you really - really - need to work that hard...

***

Are you too busy? And how do you know when it's too much?

The simple answer I believe is: When our body - and gut feeling - tell us so

Western world challenge only is, we're not used to listening to the signals from our body. Yoga, for instance, is a perfect way to make head and body connect - probably the reason why it's become so western world popular, because there's a need to slow down our busy lives and - so to speak - get a life. Speaking for myself, saying YES to yoga three years ago has been a useful tool to improve my listening to my body. (How about you, do you have any good advice and tools to share on this one, how to make it easier to listen to your body? Then please feel free to share it on this blog).

Self-care vs. ambition... On the other hand there are so many reasons NOT to prioritise self-care. We've been gifted with 24 hours a day - and there is so much I want to experience - to achieve!

The golden question is: How can we combine ambition with self-care?

One practical and relevant example from my life:
How often should I blog? As for now I blog 4 or 5 times a week. What if I lower my ambition and blog twice...? Would it make any difference - to me - on the number of readers?

Sometimes 80 % - or 50 % can have the same impact as 100 or 120 %

Warmly,
a-g

Useful link:
How to Prioritise Work Tasks

Basic self-care: Have you said hello to your dentist lately...?

2010-09-28T17:26:00.007+02:00

Well, I have - today. Which makes it easy for me to be cheeky...:-)

Studies show that there are surprisingly many (super)women who skip seeing their dentist, as often as they should. One major reason why is the cost of dental care.

The six most popular reasons, picked up from oralanswers.com:

1 - It costs too much - 50% agreed

2 - I cannot miss work - 34% agreed

3 - I cannot find a dentist - 30% agreed

4 - I am afraid - 27% agreed

5 - It is too far to travel - 20% agreed

6 - I do not want to go to the dentist -18% agreed

I must admit I resented going today, now I'm very happy I did. And the best part: There will be six long months before I have to sit in a dentist chair again...

Dentistry BIG smile from
a-g:-)

Self-pity go home: 2 steps to releasing your Giant within

2010-09-26T21:28:00.006+02:00

Ever felt sorry for yourself - and also, felt like there's nothing to do about it? Here's the good news:

A. There's loads of energy for you to be released! When you transfer this great power within you - and let it out in positive ways, you will make tremendous personal progress.

B. The two steps to release are as follows:

1. Accept your situation - you don't have to approve of it, just accept that this is how things are (right now).

2. Take action - this second step is actually the easy part. When you have accepted and made peace with the actual circumstance, taking action comes nice and easy.

I felt really sorry for myself, quite a while ago, when studying for a degree in auditing. My interest in auditing was about zero, and why I had chosen the study was a decision of brain - not heart. But also in this case my heart won: At last I was so fed up with the study I decided to quit. In other words:

I finally gave up pretending and overhearing my gut feeling, and I accepted the situation, that I was not happy with my study. I accepted who I was!

This was not an easy decision, when brought up with the ethics: "Never quit" and "always finish what you have begun".

I quit my study with a broken heart. My gut feeling was great! - but my brain kept telling me the opposite.

Today I am very lucky about my decision. Working as a web editor is a decision made by heart.

Maybe you too feel stuck in a job, a study - a relationship...? Remember you always have a choice. Listening to your gut feeling means honoring your Self. And honoring yourself means self-respect and a high-quality YOU. And - who, in addition to yourself, wouldn't thrive from that?

Peace, love and (self) RESPECT to you from
a-g

Fun and freaky Friday on-the-run

2010-09-24T19:54:00.018+02:00

Although I am crazy about my job, I just loooooove Fridays! The anticipation of lazy mornings, having a cup of coffee - or two - and just gaze into the air. Knowing I don't have to hurry.

BUT: Before I'm able to totally relax, I go for an afternoon run, every Friday around 5ish. A perfect physical culmination of a week day cyberspace life!

You have a LOVELY weekend!

All my best,
a-g

I met Beauty on the railway this morning

2010-09-22T15:09:00.005+02:00

Beauty is everywhere - and much easier to catch a glimpse of when we have the energy! Maybe it was yesterday's great relaxing yoga session - that made me sleep like a baby - and then notice this morning's spectacular view from Copenhagen Nordhavn station, on my way to work:

A few steps later there was this huge pot of flowers, visible from the street window. I'm really no good at remembering flowerish names, but they were purple, and they were gorgeous!!

a-gee:-)

SUPERWOMAN Challenge: Stop being so perfect

2010-09-21T18:17:00.006+02:00

You may contradict me here with a: "Well, nobody's perfect!" Then I'll say you're right - but there are so many SUPERWOMEN out there - striving to reach excellence and being perfect, every single day.

Nothing wrong with that, except it can be pretty exhausting:-) And maybe it's worthwhile to examine the real intention behind striving to be perfect: Is it because we don't feel good enough? Do we really need to produce results to be loved? The wonderful answer to the last question is we're perfect just as we are!

Well, let's get practical:
* Try doing one of your work tasks to your 90% satisfaction - and experience your boss being happy anyway
* Sit down and relax with a drink before your guests arrive, forget cleaning the rest - and have a blast of a party anyway
* Don't bother wearing matching ear rings and a belt - and feel great looking anyway
* And so on...

Have a happy and a VERY imperfect day!

Warmly,
a-g

(Super)woman challenge 2010: Take good care of your heart!

2010-09-19T20:58:00.009+02:00

Every single day, a Danish woman dies from a heart related disease. That makes heart disease the major cause of death among Danish women. In fact, more women than men die from heart disease.

Practically, men's chance of surviving heart disease is larger than for women - due to the lack of scientific knowledge.

This was a long explanation, why I bought this bracelet to support the cause:

What can we do, then, to avoid heart disease? According to MayoClinic.com it's all about:

* Don't smoke
* Get regular exercise
* Eat healthy foods

Well, we knew that:-) AND let's just do it, then!

Warmly,
a-g

ps. You can support the Heart Foundation, too, read about some of your options here

Watch the video: SUPERWOMAN's silly walk

2010-09-19T20:07:00.004+02:00

When do we stop jumping - instead of walking...? When do we become extremely self-conscious about other people's opinion - and walk "properly"? Is it at age 8, 12 or...? When did you start to walk as you think is expected from you...?

In a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS I mention the importance of having fun. My experience is that surprisingly many grown-ups don't know how to have fun, just let go - and show their happiness! Compared to only a few kids I know. Why is that we become so afraid of showing our real self? Well, since the good blog posts are supposed to be short;-), I'll leave it with a warm and loving invitation:

Today - on your way home from work, make your own silly walk - have fun, and just let go

ps. Here's my version of a silly walk:

Have fun!

Peace, love & fun to you from
a-g

FREE: Check out the Toolbox for SUPERWOMEN

2010-09-18T16:57:00.006+02:00

Right now, I'm inviting you to take yourself - and your self-care - seriously, by checking out the (free) pdf exercises in the SUPERWOMAN Toolbox - print the one that calls your attention, and give yourself a 10-minute timeout, listen to your heart - and write down your answers

Choose between learning how to set valuable goals, once and for all - or how to become your own best friend - or how to get ALL of your energy released - by just asking yourself one single question - or...!

And it's all for free, in one-page printable pdf's - and put into one toolbox for your convenience:-)

Sounds to good to be true...? No, it's for real, and it's right here, in the SUPERWOMAN Toolbox - just click here.

I don't know about you, but I have read a few self-care books. And how many of them have I actually worked with - and not just read? I have typically postponed doing the exercises, thinking I would do it at the end, when I had finished the book. NOOOOT...;-)

There's so much power in writing things down - try it for yourself, I know I will, with the Set goals one!

Warmly,
a-g

Still having trouble saying NO...? Try the 10-10-10

2010-09-16T15:31:00.004+02:00

Still having trouble saying no (and yes to yourself) after reading the former blog post NO is the new YES...? Then the 10-10-10 exercise will do - brought to you from a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS.

Choose a specific decision that needs to be made - big or small - and:

Ask yourself three questions:
1. What will happen in 10 minutes if I say no to this?
2. What will happen in 10 months if I say no to this?
3. What will happen in 10 years if I say no to this?

The 10-10-10 exercise puts your decision in perspective.

I know an American woman who based her decision to get a divorce – from a very bad relationship - on this exercise. She knew that in 10 minutes it would hurt immensely. In 10 months, it would still hurt, and there would be all those practical matters with the lawyer, house, and getting the kids adjusted to the situation. But in 10 years? That's where she began to see the benefits. In the intervening years she would have created a better life on her own terms, because her marriage as it stood was chipping away at her own self-respect and destroying her sense of self-worth with every passing day. She would become a better role model for her children by refusing to put up with things the way they were, and most of all she would still have many years left to enjoy a full and complete life filled with self-respect and love for herself – and the potential to find love again with a new partner.

But it doesn't have to be such a big life decision. The 10-10-10 exercise can also be used for smaller things, such as turning down overtime when your son is trying out for the black belt in judo. Your boss won't be thrilled for the first 10 minutes, but in 10 months she will most likely have forgotten the whole thing. And in 10 years, will your boss still be your boss? But in 10 years your son may still have a hard time forgetting how his mother chose to work instead of being present on his special day.

Happy saying-no - & yes to yourself and the ones you love,
a-g

5 steps to becoming your own best friend

2010-09-15T08:21:00.003+02:00

1. Let go of your guilt and bad conscience
2. Learn to live with your mistakes
3. Avoid comparing yourself with others
4. Choose your own – and most positive – life story
5. Choose healthy, uplifting relationships

Examples:
• Say goodbye to toxic friendships that drain you of energy
• Pursue new and rewarding relationships that give you joy and energy
• Break off an unhealthy love relationship
• Drop destructive and unhealthy habits – and replace them with healthy ones that do your body, self-esteem and self-confidence a world of good

ps. Keep both halves yourself:-)

It’s like emotional life insurance – that’s what you get when you become your own best friend! Put aside some time every week, because a good friendship needs time and attention to last. And - ENJOY your own company:-)

Warmly,
a-g

ps. The above is an excerpt from a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS, get to read "the whole story" here

a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS: Learn how to be your own best friend

2010-09-14T21:53:00.005+02:00

Check out author and coach Michala Storm's review of my e-book a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS:

"...feeling overwhelmed is one of the most common symptoms of today’s superwomen! The answer to this lies in front of you - Anne-Grete’s much needed guide will help you move past the unhealthy pressure that many of us put on ourselves.

Anne-Grete’s message simply is to accept yourself and to be your own best friend! As easy as this sounds we all know that it’s not always easily done

But with Anne-Grete’s ”A SUPERWOMAN’s e-guide to Inner Wellness” you don’t have to procrastinate anymore. With this uplifting, easy-to-read and much fun guide you will find the simple tools to get you started today. Anne-Grete guides and inspires you by providing very useful exercises and life changing advice. Much kudos to Anne-Grete for her work - I highly recommend it".

Michala Storm - visit her blog

Love web? Speak Danish...? Write-for-web workshop Oct. 26th

2010-09-13T16:28:00.009+02:00

... then join my new workshop in Copenhagen on how to write web friendly!

Like, how to write a catchy headline, that makes people want to keep on reading. And - how long is the perfect web article?

Find out: If you happen to be in Copenhagen October 26th - and, speak and write Danish - then don't hesitate to sign up for this must-have how-to-write-for-web workshop, that will make your web readers really, really happy:-)

Read more about and sign up for the workshop

ps. Looking forward to seeing you - cyberspace is good, and real life is too!

Warmly,
a-g

Lose 10 mental pounds today: Slim down your mail box

2010-09-12T23:34:00.005+02:00

... I've just been there: From 99 mails - to a managable number of ten. And gooosh - how boring (I must admit) it was; I'd rather write a blog post, empty the dishwasher.. than reorganizing my mail box. On the other hand: What a relief when the work was done.

Today's No. 1 tip - reorganize your mail box:
Check out Microsoft's 7 ways to organize your email - valuable information, also for blog readers not using Outlook.

That's all, folks, for today; one single tip - boosting a massive release of energy!

YES (superwo)MAN from
a-g

Beauty Is Everywhere - have you noticed it today...?

2010-09-10T20:28:00.004+02:00

This is what I read on a Papyrus leaflet today:

* Float free of time
* Carry hope for love, joy and celebration
* Life is rich
* Beauty is everywhere
* Every personal connection has meaning
* Laughter is life's sweetest creation

Well done, Papyrus:-)

Warmly,
a-g

NO is the new YES

2010-09-09T17:48:00.006+02:00

Every single day we are challenged on how we use our time. If we don't pay attention to the numerous decisions made - big or small - we may feel helpless, and like everybody else makes decisions on our behalf. If you have been there, you will know it's not a pleasant feeling!

Here's a tool to become the capatain of your own ship (and calendar:-) :

Just say: ”I need to check my calendar first”. That will give you the 10 minutes you need to decide if it’s something you really want to do or not

Warmly,
a-g

Just give: The beauty of 2 Red Cross volunteers

2010-09-08T07:23:00.008+02:00

Last night I went with a group of women, to visit one of the Red Cross voluntary services in Copenhagen. We were curious to learn more, especially about what makes these volunteers spend so much time on helping others.

And wauv - to sum the entire evening up, what I remember the most is the faces of the 2 volunteers, telling us about their particular service.

They looked so... happy!

The 2 volunteers' eyes just shone with contentment, and they inspired me to ask myself: What can I do more to help those in need?

In my just-published book a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS, I write about the magic of giving - and how what we give in magic and mysterious ways always come back to us. Here's an excerpt:

"... giving more than you expect to get back can best be compared to putting small amounts of money into a bank account every day. Slowly but surely, the money accumulates, and before long you earn “interest” in the form of:

• people helping you when you least expect it
• clients returning with more and more business
• people you care about telling you more often how much they appreciate you
• strangers who smile at you
• your ideas and suggestions are taken more seriously
• improved communications with everyone and everything
• relationships that just work without friction – the experience of flow

...

You take care out there,

a-g

Special blog reader offer: Clarins Bust Beauty Gel for FREE - value £35 - with the purchase of the SUPERWOMAN eBook

2010-09-06T07:02:00.012+02:00

Copenhagen summer is coming to an end, and I desperately find myself clinging to that feeling of summer: The warm weathers, my flip flops, my (natural) tan:-) - and the wonderful and relaxed outdoor life, with numerous barbecues and yoga in my garden.

Special hang-on-to-that-summer-feeling offer for my blog readers:

Get a Clarins Bust Beauty Gel for FREE - value £35 - when purchasing my new eBook a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS*.

ps. Just write "wellness-junkie's blog" in the field "Comments", when completing your order - click here to proceed for English version - and here for Danish version.

nb. Limited stock only (goes only for the Clarins products, though;-).

Read a product review of Clarins Bust Beauty Gel here

*Offer available for Europe only.

ps. Speaking of outdoor yoga; yesterday I guess was this year's grande finale. In the midst of a Plow Posture, an army of september-fall mosquitos decided to attack me - I guess it must have looked hilarious, my arms and legs fighting the insects, while trying to be yoga-cool and breathe quietly!

Warmly,
a-g

How Mindfulness saved my day

2010-09-05T15:11:00.007+02:00

Two days ago I...

woke up 1 hour late
bicycled like a mad (superwo)man to the train station, to reach work on time
had to hurry even more, when the bicycle chain fell off
(spent a lovely day at work)
was late for my train home again
.. got on the wrong train(!)
had to travel back again and catch the right train

... aaah! Guess if my adrenaline level went bananas. My face went completely red, but... somehow, instead of letting it destroy my day, I managed to watch myself and the annoying incidences from the outside. When the next annoying thing appeared, I just shook my head and almost had to laugh. My face was still blooming red, though;-)

* * * * * * * * * ' * * * When I am mindful - I am free * * * * * * * * * * * * *

I like Jon Kabat-Zinn’s definition of mindfulness:

Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way;
On purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally

Notice the word nonjudgmentally; instead of me having self pity and thinking it's just bad, I (this time) managed to stay cool (and red!). Yes, sometimes it seems very difficult to be mindful, but as long as we practise, we will improve our mindful skills. Be proud of yourself when you can, and accept it's often 2 steps forward and one step back!

ps. Two sweet bus drivers helped me get the bicycle chain on spot again, and I remember I thought, how wonderful it is, that there's so many people out there ready to help us - if we just dare to ask.

Warmly,
a-g

YES - finally! Check out the new SUPERWOMAN eShop and eBooks

2010-09-04T14:45:00.021+02:00

Finally - the new eShop is on air - click here and have a SUPER WOMAN look

ps. And I no longer have to say "my soon-to-be-published eBook a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS" - because now it is ripe & fresh in the eShop - and ready to give all the SUPERWOMEN out there in cyberspace, practical tools for even more balanced and joyful SUPERWOMAN living.

Enjooooy:-)

a-g (SO happy for the release)

It's magic: What a sunrise can do

2010-09-02T08:16:00.004+02:00

This morning my mood was instantly improved by the view of a dazzling sunrise. Wauv! For a moment I paused in my morning-2-dos - and just enjoyed the sight of it.

What a head start on the day! I wish you a wonderful day - and remember, even though it may be raining dogs & cats, keep that sunshine in your heart...

Peace, Love & Sunshine
a-g

Make your Someday Today – with Michala Storm’s ebook on procrastination

2010-09-01T19:30:00.006+02:00

Let “Procrastination - 15 Strategies To Overcome Procrastination Today” help you start living the life you want – if you dare to… Because according to the author, the reason why you procrastinate may be you, not wanting to lose the illusion of great possibilities… or, not so much for the fear of failure - but success!

Now, prepare yourself for looking procrastination in the eye – don’t procrastinate it;-) – and make some self-knowledge bring you closer to your dreams – the real you

ps. And the solution…? Michala Storm offers a palette of solutions for finally ending procrastination - and one of my favorites is choosing a role model.

Get your own copy of the ebook here

Check out Michala Storm's Facebook page

Peace & love, less procrastination & more fulfilled dreams - to you from
a-g

4 ways to spoil: Because you can

2010-08-31T15:59:00.007+02:00

Have you ever said to yourself: It was me who called last time, now it's her turn! Or - he has never done anything for me - and that makes me not want to do anything for him.

Well...:-) Indeed, it's tempting to count the gives and takes - but what now, if you choose to erase the old 1+1 equals (just) 2 thinking - and replace it with a more rewarding one, like give without counting - and receive dozens in return...?

4 ways to spoil - because you can:
Spoil your partner by inviting him out several times in a row - without expecting him to take the next initiative
Tell someone you love him og her - even though you said it yesterday
Give your business partners a beautiful flower - and tell them how happy you are for the collaboration
. ... this one is for you to decide:-)

Warmly,
Anne

Quiet Please: Yin Yang makes my world go round

2010-08-30T14:16:00.006+02:00

After what I will consider some serious partying this weekend:-), I am now ready to go back to my green tea, a decent bed time - and for some relaxing music...

... like Quiet Please. You may remember my blog post about passive relaxation (if not, you can refresh it here), where I emphasized the importance of doing nothing.

Well, Quiet Please is that kind of music - that kind of relaxation - that demands nothing of us at all. How relieving, in a world of yes, serious demands!

Click here for some contemporary Quiet Please music - close your eyes and aah - just relax

TIP: Fall asleep to their music - and sleep (very) well.

Love,
a-gee

Have some SUPERWOMAN fun: Dancing the night away at The White Party

2010-08-29T16:51:00.011+02:00

What's better than one party...? Two parties:-) After my 50's and 60's party, I almost went straight on to The White Party. Now, you may think I'm a super party person - I'm not! - the two different parties just happened to be at almost the same time.

Here's an excerpt on how to have (more) fun, from my soon-to-be-published book a SUPERWOMANs e-guide to INNER WELLNESS:

... collect friends who put you in a good mood. When it comes to humor, joy and having fun, the first person I think of is beauty guru Ole Henriksen. He’s an absolute pleasure to be around – he radiates pure joie de vivre and enthusiasm about everything. The first time I interviewed him for Q Magazine I knew I was in the midst of a unique experience: on the question of why we as adults lose our childlike approach to life and fun, he replied that we are afraid of what other people will think about us. So imagine how much more fun we can have if we stop worrying so much about being judged

Something to think about, there! Have a FANTASTIC Sunday.

Warmly,
Anne

On my way home from the 50's and 60's party

It's tonight: Check out a wellness-junkie's dress for the 50's and 60's party!

2010-08-27T11:51:00.006+02:00

My 60's dress for tonight's party:

Laughing and having fun is such a gorgeous part of being alive - and sometimes we have to track the fun down ourselves... instead of sit and wait for it:-) But sometimes too, fun can be materialized in an invitation to a dress-up party. For instance to a 50' and 60's party tonight...

If you have read my fomer blog post Investing in you: Check out your flower power diagram, you may have noticed Fun and games as being a part of the Flower Power diagram. So, this weekend I invite you too to have fun - maybe dress up too, or finally rent that movie, that just gives you that wonderful belly laugh!

You take care out there,

Warmly,
Anne

Feel-good: How not to wear your sofa after work

2010-08-26T08:19:00.008+02:00

Yesterday, after what seemed like a long day at work, I almost jumped into my sofa - aah! Tempting just to stay there, until preparing for dinner - and then back on the couch again. But not this time, friends...

After 10 minutes of nice relaxation I decided not to wear my sofa any more (at least not before evening time). I got up, deprived the kids from watching Disney Channel, and put on a DVD with David Swenson - one of my yoga gurus.

After 20 minutes on the yoga mat with David's calming voice guiding me through the exercises, I felt really good about myself. Still a bit tired, though, but now I wasn't tired only in my head, also in my body! And that just sets for a good night's sleep.

Have a wonderful day:-)

Warmly,
Anne

Investing in you: Check out your flower power diagram

2010-08-25T08:26:00.006+02:00

Investing in you - and in all aspects of YOU, is just so rewarding, not only for yourself, but for everyone and everything that surrounds you:-) Yes, even my flowers prosper from a me being a whole person... having the energy to give more.

In my book a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS I illustrate a complete life with the following illustration (just double-click for a larger image):

"You will become a whole person and better able to give yourself what you need. You will also improve your ability to listen to your own body because you will be more in touch with yourself. And that awareness will make it easier for you to understand and deal with physical tension as it arises, instead of letting it turn into long-lasting stress. And this is possible only when the connection between your mind and your body is working properly".

Thank you for joining me in putting a world focus on INNER WELLNESS and a balanced life - in an adrenaline driven modern society there's a need for us!

Warmly,
Anne

Now, set that goal... and become who you want to be!

2010-08-24T12:40:00.007+02:00

Without goals - you will stay who you are

With goals - you become who you want to be

This is a non-judgmental - and quite straight-forward - quote, said by one of my PR clients today. The quote tells us how important goals are for our personal development - if that's what we want. Surprisingly many of us don't have a goal - or if we have one, it's vague and non-measureable. In my soon-to-be-published e-book a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS, I write about the importance of setting concrete goals, in order to achieve what we want.

Maybe reading these lines make you feel slightly uncomfortable - and lazy for not setting valuable goals? Well, welcome home to the rest of us; I can assure you most people feel instant resignation and lack of willingness, to committing themselves to doing-this or doing-that - it's part of being a human being!

Nevertheless, jumping over that gap and just do it will result in a new and relieving feeling of power and energy: There's vast power in expressing our wants out load, and especially on paper.

TAKE-ACTION CHALLENGE:
Print out and fill out your goals - big or small, material or inner wellness-like - in the Set-Goals form in The SUPERWOMAN Toolbox. ps. If you have already filled out the form, just lean back, take a deep breath and take 5:-)

Warmly,
Anne

Classic SUPERWOMAN question: You - or the lawn?

2010-08-22T09:50:00.007+02:00

Should I work out - or should I work on my garden? Well, 9 out of 10 times I choose to work out...

This morning I got up at 6:30, and determinedly made the company budget which I have procrastinated for so long. The result: Loads of energy released - and I actually wanted to go for a morning run(!) This is very unlike me, as I prefer to workout in the afternoon.

When stretching in my garden afterwards, I couldn't help thinking about all the gardening work that needed to be done.

And then it struck me, how classically SUPERWOMAN that is; yes, we know we need to prioritize, but where do we want to slack...? That's a difficult one!

TAKE-ACTION CHALLENGE:
Start noticing the different situations, where you can choose between fulfilling your own needs - or fulfilling someone or something else's (the garden's, the carpet floor, other persons'). What's your choice?

Warmly,
Anne

ps. During one of my SUPERWOMAN speeches a woman 20 years older than me reaasured me, when I get older, I will too be able to prepare perfectly for the guests - and have time to sit down for that pre-drink, before the doorbell rings;-)

Win treatments at Helle Thorup Spa: AND THE WINNERS ARE...

2010-08-20T11:27:00.007+02:00

... Anne Sommerskov and "anonymous" Camilla!

Right: 3-2-1 - the lottery is to be decided

ps. Please, Camilla (who posted a DK comment with "Svaret er naturligvis A, glæder mig til at læse den :-), Knus Camilla"), send me your e-mail at info-at-agbelmadani.com, within a week, and I'll make sure to inform Helle Thorup Spa.

All the contestants had the correct answer: Yes, the name of my soon-to-be released book is a SUPERWOMANs e-guide to INNER WELLNESS.

The two lucky winners (and their lucky friends) will...
"... enjoy a relaxing footbath with organic bathing salts. Exfoliating and firming scrub and mask. Relaxing massage with organic moisturising lotion..." - aah, congratulations!

ps. This was a local competition, worldwide ones coming up soon.

Have a wonderful weekend!

a-g

Dig into The SUPERWOMAN Toolbox: Set goals - and tune in on who you are

2010-08-19T10:11:00.007+02:00

Setting goals don't mean we're not satisfied with what we have - setting goals is just a powerful tool to communicate with our inner voice - a way of making sure we live in accordance with who we are, and what makes us happy.

In my soon-to-be-released ebook a SUPERWOMANs e-guide to INNER WELLNESS I present this exercise, which I would like to pre-share with you. Quite a few of the exercises from the book will be free to download - coming up:-)

Now, sit down a comfortable and quiet place with a cup of tea, and spend 20 minutes on defining your goals - and notice how calm and determination comes to you!

Warmly,
Anne

***

EXERCISE 6 – set goals!

Outline your goals for each area:

Relationships:
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________

Health:
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________

Fun and games:
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________

Helping others:
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________

Spirituality:
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________

Career:
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________

Let's do... nothing: Feel great with passive relaxation

2010-08-18T13:16:00.005+02:00

Are you always active - even when you are relaxing? May sound like a funny question, but it can be serious enough, when it comes to avoiding stress and feeling well.

In fact, we need both active and passive relaxation in our lives to feel balanced and great:

Active relaxation - may involve doing yoga, meditation, going for a walk, yes,even a run, watching television and reading a book.

Passive relaxation - doing nothing, just being! Being in a state of demanding nothing of yourself.

It's just SO important to schedule passive-relaxation time, in order to reset and "reboot" our bodies and minds. I must admit I tend to choose the active kind of relaxation:

But now - from today - from this very moment - I promise myself to spend some more time, just doing nothing. Not only being a human doing - but also a human being.

Please feel free to join me, you lovely blog reader-beings out there!

Warmly,
Anne

The 20-Minute-Good-Morning-Exercise Movement - wanna join?

2010-08-17T16:20:00.008+02:00

Do you dream of getting up 20 minutes earlier than you usually do, and work out - or meditate, or do yoga - in the morning? Well then, let's do it!!

Step 1: Get up 20 minutes earlier than you usually do
Step 2: Do 20 minutes of push ups, situps, yoga - or meditation

...if I can only have one single person joining me in having a morning workout routine, it will be really motivating and easier to keep up - knowing that I'm not alone:-)

Join the big little Movement on Facebook

... it's also perfectly OK just to roll out of bed and wear your nighties

Now let's just do it - only for 14 days - and get a head start on our day!

THANX for joining me,
Anne-Grete

The Secret: Finding time for YOU

2010-08-16T13:15:00.010+02:00

How do we find time for exercise, fun and self-care - when we have a job, "tons" of house chores and maybe also kids and cats to take care of? I don't think there is a sole answer to the question - and there sure are lots of excuses for why we don't find the time - well, let's not stick to the excuses but the solutions:-) - and here's one from me:

My best tip ever - ever! - is a wonder-mix of 1. just do it and 2. think out of the box

Like yesterday, when my family and I spent a couple of hours at my in-laws. I really wanted to do some meditating yoga, and instead of giving up on the idea with a "well, it's Sunday and family day, better put it off until tomorrow", I chose to leave husband and kids behind an hour early.

Heading home, I anxiously looked forward to unfolding my yoga mat and enjoy the calming voice of Rikke Hansen and her must-have CD Mediterende Yoga:

Alright, the brat pack arrived before I had finished my yoga. My youngest one repeated after Rikke, just slightly exaggerating: Take a deeeeeep breath! - and then she giggled and ran away:-) Oh well, at that point I was so relaxed from my yoga, that I didn't get annoyed and had to laugh too...

***

TAKE ACTION CHALLENGE:
There are vast possibilities for YOU hid between the lines in your calendar - where are yours?

Warmly,
Anne

Don't die with your music still in you

2010-08-14T20:17:00.005+02:00

WAUV - the line itself is so strong, and instantly made a huge impression on me. It's so true, and speaks for itself - but the man behind the words - at this particular moment - Wayne Dyer, has made a movie, The Shift - check out this clip, where he tells about the moment, when he decides to allow his music to play out load:

Wayne Dyer - Don't Die With The Music Still In You must-see video clip

***

ps. This blog post is dedicated to my grandfather, who would have turned somewhere-in-the-nineties today. He lived to be dazzling 85, and (although he didn't smoke), he sure knew how to live his life with music! Bless you, grandpa, you are a rolemodel to me.

Love,
Anne

Working with your mind: 2 shortcut-books to INNER WELLNESS

2010-08-13T10:20:00.018+02:00

* * * * * * *

Today I received an uplifting - and also very honest mail - from one of my blog readers. She told me she enjoys working with the affirmation tools of Louise Hay, but finds it hard - in the midst of being a single mum - to find time for herself, to really act on what she knows is good for herself.

Does it sound familiar to you...? Well, I perfectly understand what she means - I think. It can feel frustrating knowing what to do, being aware of our own needs, and then don't find the time for it in our busy everyday schedule.

* Like, when we know going for a run twice a week would do wonders for our body and spirits.
* Like, when we know remembering to tell ourselves positive affirmations would make a huge (positive) difference for how we perceive ourselves - we just forget to do it

I wish there was one single and easy answer on how to find time for ourselves

Well, whilst awaiting the revelation:-) there is one thing I know for sure:

Working with ourselves, by accepting, forgiving and learning to love ourselves unconditionally, we make a quantum leap, when searching for INNER WELLNESS

These 2 shortcut books will give you a kick-start:

1. You Can Heal Your Life - Louise Hay (also available in Danish)
2. Your Body Speaks Your Mind - Debbie Shapiro (also available in Danish)

Happy reading - and happy weekend to you:-)

Warmly,
Anne

SUPERWOMAN - official press photos

2010-08-12T09:05:00.001+02:00

Wellness-junkie goes hippiesh: The answer is love

2010-08-11T15:22:00.005+02:00

May sound like I'm caught in a hippiesh kind of flower power peace & love mood...

Well, maybe I am, just a little bit, but the thought really struck me after reading Elizabeth Gilbert's Eat Pray Love. In the book, no matter what challenges she faced, the solution always came down to one single action: She had to stop fighting herself - let go - and love herself.

Peace & love to you from
a-g

Win 2 gift vouchers for two at Helle Thorup Spa in Copenhagen

2010-08-10T12:02:00.009+02:00

Would you happen to be in Copenhagen the last 14 days of August? Then join the quiz, and win 2 SUPER(WO)MAN gift vouchers for two at Helle Thorup Spa.

***
Aah - here's what you get:
Gift voucher to Spa Club Lounge Ritual for two persons
Hand and Foot treatment 30 min.
... including a glas of cava, smoothie or healthy juice - fruit & snacks
***

The quiz - here we go:
What's the name of my soon-to-be published ebook?
A. a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS
B. a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to better health

Just comment on this blogpost with your answer.

The two (lucky) winners will appear on this blog Friday August 20th.

Description of the treatment:
Enjoy a relaxing footbath with organic bathing salts. Exfoliating and firming scrub and mask. Relaxing massage with organic moisturising lotion. Nail polish is optional.

ps. If you combine the Spa Club Lounge Ritual with a spa treatment, a day card will be DKK 150 in stead of 300.

Do you feel good enough? When people-pleasing doesn't work

2010-08-09T13:44:00.005+02:00

I am so excited about my soon-to-be published ebook a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS, that I can't help revealing parts of it in advance. Here's a sample from the book, about being (feeling!) good enough, a daily challenge for lots of SUPERWOMEN (and men) out there.

Warmly,
Anne

***

If you were a bird, you’d never ask yourself if you were good enough. Your flying would be okay – whether you fly to the right, left, or straight ahead.

No one would say that your flying method was absolutely wrong: Hey you, you can do better than that! Or, if you were a spider, nobody would dare criticize your web for being too finely woven, too small, or too big. Your web would be totally fine!

As a child, you were also completely satisfied with yourself. No matter how much your belly stuck out, you still thought you were great. Then you went to school and learned to fit into the group. You learned what you were allowed to do, and also what you weren't allowed to do – and it was all meant with the best of intentions with the purpose of socializing you to get along with other people.

Now you are an adult – and you have never really learned to step outside of those rigid norms

You learned to say YES and get rewarded in the form of pats on the back and good grades, because that was what was expected of you.

And you learned above all that if you don’t do what you are told, you just aren’t good enough.

The challenge is that, as an adult, you experience loads of situations where you are expected to step outside the box and say no and to not do things to make everyone else happy.

When People-pleasing doesn’t work:
• You become the boss and are expected to make unpopular decisions
• You find yourself in an unhealthy relationship and want to break free of it
• You decide to become an entrepreneur and need to think out of the box – and not necessarily do what your competitors do
• You want to get something done and are politely waiting for other people to do what they promised
• You are stressed because you feel that you do not have any other choices beyond the regular norms for how life should be lived
• You are uncomfortable with yourself despite the fact that everyone else thinks you are so nice and hard-working

It will take your inner People Pleaser some time to conquer the need to please. The cost – in the short term – can seem sky-high. You will disappoint people you care about, and they may even become angry when you no longer behave according to their preconceived notions.

But don’t worry, because what if I told you that their anger and disappointment were mainly about themselves? That what makes them act that way is their insecurity and human need for safety, to get you to fit into their world view? And that when they have become used to the new you, their anger, disappointment and insecurity will disappear? Wouldn’t giving up being a People Pleaser then become an attractive option worth considering?

Give to others: 7 great things you get in return

2010-08-07T10:03:00.006+02:00

Giving to others is a fantastic opportunity to give something back to the universe. Making other people happy is great – it gives depth, perspective and meaning to your life, and fosters that feeling of making a difference in the world.

We hear all the time that givers "get it back" tenfold in return. Not always in the form of cold cash, but in time, doors will open in miraculous ways. You might be wondering where you can borrow a projector, and suddenly someone will offer you one – because you once helped them with something else. The phenomenon is known as the Law of Attraction.

Everything you give will eventually come back to you

The law of attraction is universal and is vastly superior to the concept of "getting something in return". It’s all about giving! And often it’s not the same people who end up giving back. Giving more than you expect to get back can best be compared to putting small amounts of money into a bank account every day. Slowly but surely, the money accumulates, and before long you earn “interest” in the form of:

• people helping you when you least expect it
• clients returning with more and more business
• people you care about telling you more often how much they appreciate you
• strangers who smile at you
• your ideas and suggestions are taken more seriously
• improved communications with everyone and everything
• relationships that just work without friction – the experience of flow

Because if you always give just what you expect to receive, that’s what you’ll get. And nothing more!

Giving rule #1: Give of yourself and your skills – because you can – and never expect anything in return from the same person you are giving to
Don’t just take my word for it. Try it for yourself! See what happens and write me on info-at-agbelmadani.com and tell me how it has positively influenced your life. Because it will! I look forward to hearing from you.

***

Extract from my soon-to-be-published ebook a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS

Enjoy the best in life - from wherever you are!

2010-08-03T17:15:00.006+02:00

Where are you right now - and what good is there for you to explore?

I just had a spectacular run today over the Randoey bridge in Hjelmeland, Norway

Yesterday I enjoyed my mom's fabulous dish komler - get a recipe here and try it out yourself!

I will never forget the fresh asparagus I had in Rome 10 years ago

Get out there and enjoy:-)

Warmly,
a-g

Dare to be The New You

2010-07-29T17:18:00.006+02:00

...and this is also what you face when you begin to go after your own new goals:

Accept that other people have expectations about who you are right now, and understand that they may feel threatened by you behaving differently and asking more from the world around you. The good news is that everyone will get used to the new you in time

From my soon-to-be-published eBook "a SUPERWOMAN's e-guide to INNER WELLNESS"

SUPERWOMAN Toolbox: Find your INNER WELLNESS alarm bells - and make a wellness turnaround

2010-07-27T10:43:00.008+02:00

When you start paying attention to the small signs, that tell you your INNER WELLNESS needs to be prioritized, then it's easier to make a turnaround - and get yourself back on the wellness track again.

My own alarm bells ring when I forget to water the flowers; a clear sign for me that I'm too busy and need to slow down. A second alarm bell rings for me, when I start getting short-tempered, and annoyed at other people not doing things my way. Then I know there are too many things going on in my life simultaneously - and I need to get my priorities straight.

How about you? Now spend 5 minutes finding 1-3 alarm bell situations in your life - and yes, just by being aware of it, you will have a powerful tool to return to wellness and wellbeing again!

SUPERWOMAN Toolbox - exercise 1:
I know I am too busy when I...
1. ______________________________________________________________
2. ______________________________________________________________
3. ______________________________________________________________

ps. Some inspiration from participants at my wellness seminars: Their alarm bells ring when...
* They don't find time for exercise, like taking a run or going for a walk
* They start nagging
* They don't spend time for themselves

HAPPY wellness & turnaround to you from
Anne

Acceptance: The smooth way to inner wellness and peace

2010-07-25T21:39:00.009+02:00

Investigating positive affirmations á la Louise Hay, here's one that really makes a difference in my life:

I accept others, the way they are; and they accept me, too

It sounds easy but for most people it's not. Really. Just imagine accepting others the way they are! That would mean a serious decrease in partnership discussions, fewer split-ups, fewer and/or less harsh arguments, more peace in the world...

Leaving it on a non-political but personal level, I think it's interesting how starting with accepting others may lead to accepting ourselves. I have often heard the saying the other way around; when you accept yourself, it's easier to accept others.

So - the last two days I have made an effort to accept others the way they are

The most obvious and immediate pay-off has been a more peaceful me. Not letting myself get annoyed of other people's - well, let's say, not-so-spectacular side of their personalities. These people haven't changed - I have chosen to react differently and accept who they are.

And the funny thing is that "these people" - when me being more friendly and easy going - seem to accept me more. Wauv! And I seriously don't know, after only two days, if I have become more accepting of myself. But I do somehow, as mentioned earlier, feel at peace and better about myself - and proud of being so generous to my surroundings... Well, I think I will continue repeating this very affirmation on acceptance, on a daily basis.

How about you? Try to repeat the affirmation several days in a row and see for yourself. And please feel free to share your experience with the readers and me by commenting on this post - or share it (only) with me on info-at-agbelmadani-dot-com.

Have a wonderful week!

Love,
Anne

My RECOVER resolution for a relaxed me - wanna join?

2010-07-23T17:06:00.010+02:00

Today I had a wake-up call: I need to schedule recover time in my calendar. I'm so busy planning work, work-related events, family trips and activities, my running, fitness and yoga training, grocery shopping, and social events - and today I was struck by the physiological fact: human beings need to recover - sometimes just do nothing! I am so lucky to be the owner of two adorable cats, and they fully understand the concept of relaxing 100%, in between chasing mice and flies; top role models, they are.

Oh well, then I decided to start today. I made myself comfortable in my super-hammock.

I sat there for an hour, reading positive affirmations from Louise Hay. Aah... need I say the rest of my day has been swept in a daze of well-being. I really need to take five more often!

Please join me, the world needs more people with a relaxed attitude, people who have the energy to handle everyday challenges in a calm and resolving way...

Warmly,
a-g

8UYA5C9YZRW5

How to become your own Best Friend

2010-07-22T13:40:00.009+02:00

In my soon-to-be published e-book a SUPERWOMANs guide to INNER WELLNESS, I write about what to do, in order to become our own best friend. Here are the 5 steps:

Let go of guilt and guilty conscience
Learn to live with (and love!) your flaws
Don't compare yourself to others
Choose your own and most positive life story
Choose healthy relationships

... and here are a few practical examples on how-to:

Say good-bye to a friendship, which drains you from energy
Invite to a new friendship, that brings joy and increases your self-esteem
Walk away from an unhealthy partnership
Get rid of some unhealthy habits - and make place for new and better ones, that support your body, your self-esteem and your self-worth

I love push-ups (especially when they're done:-), it's a good habit, making me feel strong - and creating a strong relationship with myself

Of course the above is only the headlines, and there's so much to elaborate on! But sometimes it's good just to be reminded of, yes, that being our own best friend may make life a whole lot easier and more fun.

May you enjoy your own company!

Warmly,
Anne

Self-care at Ole Henriksen's Spa: The art of receiving

2010-07-20T12:45:00.015+02:00

If you're a SUPERWOMAN, I bet you're good at giving - but are you also good at receiving?

I was personally put to at test, when being seriously pampered at Ole Henriksen's Face/Body spa in Los Angeles, California. I didn't even have to reach out for a glass of fresh water - I was barely up on my toes when I was kindly told to sit down; "you are being treated today". At first I must admit it made me feel slightly uncomfortable, I'm so used to taking care of my own needs and my own happiness. That's a good thing, I have experienced from my own life, not being dependent on others to make my day - but sometimes, I have realized, being too independent can deprive us from the greatest gifts of life, like receiving.

~ * ~
Inside-the-Spa highlights from my day at Ole Henriksen's Face/Body Spa in West Hollywood:

ps. For outside-the-Spa highlights, please check the former blogpost My fabulous day in LA

The joy of anticipation - getting ready for several hours in Spa heaven

Relaxing in the meditation room, after a fabulous OLE HENRIKSEN Head to Toe treatment - thank you, top Therapist Bryoni!

Super-Esthetician Tiffany Robinson gave me a wonderful Facial treatment - my body is fully relaxed now and I look like I need a nap:-)

So many Ole Henriksen products in one place - any (SUPER)woman will get exstatic only by looking at the wonders!

~ * ~
Giving and receiving is like yin-yang; it's a perfect circle, a wonderful flow of life. Giving to the universe makes the world a better place, and makes us feel good. Being able to receive is an expression of self-worth. That we feel worthy of taking in all the good things we're being offered.

So - when giving is a natural part of being a SUPERWOMAN, let's all practice the art of receiving!

Warmly,
Anne

Are you a SUPERWOMAN: Good at everything - but taking care of yourself?

2010-07-18T09:27:00.007+02:00

... and would you like to change that - and make space for YOU? My soon-to-be-published e-book A SUPERWOMANs guide to INNER WELLNESS offers 40 pages of practical tools and inspiration on how to create that luscious feeling of enough time, to embrace your own needs in the midst of modern living. A pleasant side effect is that when we are happy and content ourselves, we're also able to give and contribute even more to our loved ones - to the world!

A SUPERWOMANs guide to INNER WELLNESS is the result of my last 10 years working on the subject; writing numerous of lifestyle articles, gaining new insights by every new article and interviewee. Also, having speeches and workshops with quite a few SUPERWOMEN have given me valuable feedback, telling me there is a need for focusing on how to practise self-care in such a fast-paced world.

Looking forward to continue this SUPERWOMAN journey - please join me, in enjoying adrenaline, wonderful technics (for instance this blog software) and all the possibilities of modern living - and at the same time in maintaining inner wellness!

Warmly,
Anne

SUPERWOMAN photo by Bo Lynge

Pictures from my fabulous day in LA

2010-07-08T07:23:00.010+02:00

Looking forward to a luxurious treatment at Ole Henriksen's Face/Body Spa in Californian Los Angeles, I got up at 6 a.m. this morning to get a head start on my day. Here are a few images of a very interesting Wednesday, a more detailed report of my faaab treatment(s) at Ole's Spa will follow on this very blog:-)

Waiting at the bus stop in Manhattan Beach, a very comfortable bus is going to take me to LA for just a dollar and 75 cents! Hope the expensive Danish bus companies read this...

Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard has a street named after himself, I was passing it at the Sunset Boulevard. Note the sign: It's life - and it's yours

Warming up to the treatments with a healthy Acai smoothie

Aah... I'm leaving the Spa after 3 hours and 15 minutes pampering - a Head to Toe and a Facial treatment, pictures and text coming up!

On my way back to Manhattan Beach I discovered this fitness factory at Macy's, unusual to me living in Denmark, that people show off their sweat and athletic moves in front of all the people who go shopping - I think they are bold:-)

I just love beach life with IMEDEEN

2010-07-07T07:02:00.003+02:00

Today's wellness tip: Be happy for who you are

~ * ~

Used to always getting sunburnt, now it's a relief to enjoy getting a tan, with the strengthening of my skin, thanks to IMEDEEN. The Tan Optimizer tablets have prepared my skin for the sunshine in Manhattan Beach, and after three weeks - of course together with a sunscreen - I am so pleased to say I haven't been burnt even once. Aaand - I have gradually built the tan of my life. Maybe you don't think it looks like much, but for me it's J-Lo great not to see any bluish sheer...

ps. Tomorrow I will enjoy a special treatment at Ole Henriksen's spa at Sunset Boulevard in LA. Need I say I'm looking forward to it...?:-) And I sure will post a report on my blog.

Peace & love to you from
a-g

3 great and free yoga podcasts for your iPhone

2010-07-06T02:29:00.008+02:00

If you - like me - usually don't live next door to a fabulous yoga studio like The Green Yogi at Manhattan Beach, it's just good news that the following podcasts can give you an excellent yoga workout in the comfort of your own home:

Amazing yoga with Sean and Karen Conley

Baptiste power yoga vinyasa

Yoga to the People

When the Copenhagen weather is good, I just love doing yoga in my own garden

Enjoy:-)

Warmly,

a-g

How to use worries to pursue your happiness

2010-07-04T19:08:00.005+02:00

Almost having finished Gretchen Rubin's bestseller book The Happiness Project...

... I clicked by her blog to catch even more inspiration - in my own pursue of happiness.

There was a quote by Samuel Johnson, on how we (our mind) tend to exaggerate our fears. And here's the comment I posted:

Well said, Mr. Johnson:-) And thank you, Gretchen, for posting it on your blog.

I especially like the part on how our imagination tends to exaggerate our worries. Just being aware of this mental phenomenon has given my own worries less power - I say to myself, "well, remember, this is only in your head".

At the same time I'm happy to have the ability to worry and think we should accept it - yes, embrace it - to some extent. When it comes to it, exaggerating our worries is a great way to protect ourselves, and the ones we love.

Like my kids and I taking a walk on the fishing pier of Manhattan Beach. My youngest one is a toddler, and even though there is a high and safe fence on the pier, I was always only two steps behind her, ready to save her from - my very own mindmade threat of - falling into the ocean. This worry may be irrational, but walking two steps behind her made myself feel safe:-)

Thanks for initiating some good thoughts here, and happy Fourth of July, to all of you!

Best,
Anne-Grete Belmadani

Read the original blog post No Man Ever Found the Happiness of Possession Proportionate to That Expectation which Incited His Desire... on Gretchen Rubin's blog

3 reasons why I love Californian lifestyle

2010-07-03T00:36:00.004+02:00

Today's wellness tip: Drop the stylish flat iron for a day - and - just for the fun of it - let your hair go big:-)

~ * ~

Being Scandinavian in Manhattan Beach is a very pleasant culture shock:

1. People say hello to you on the street - without actually knowing you!!

2. Although I've been here for two weeks, it hasn't been raining one single day

3. There are free refills on soda pops and coffee - and ps. excellent service

There are numerous reasons more to mention but I'll leave it here for now. Oh yes, and a last one, everything's so big here! The cars, the tissues, the milk bottles. Even my hair seems to have supersized...

From femina.dk: IMEDEEN and I in LA

2010-07-02T00:55:00.008+02:00

Today's wellness tip: Get a fab tan with IMEDEEN Tan Optimizer

~ * ~

Having stayed 10 days at Manhattan Beach in California - along with my IMEDEEN tablets (and my family :-) I must admit I haven't been this tanned for a decade. Thank you, IMEDEEN Tan Optimizer, my little daily pill which has prepared my skin so well for the sun. It increases production of melanin, the skin's own protection against the damaging rays from the sun - and reduces redness; yes please! Redness has until now been part of my sun tan experience, however, this time under the Californian sun, my skin has not (yet) turned red...

Apart from IMEDEEN and a progressive tan, it's a mecca for the skin, me being able to wear only t-shirt, shorts and a pair of flip flaps - and a bikini on the beach. And my skin loves it. Dry spots from being hidden during the winter disappear in all the fresh air, the sun and the extra care that I splurge myself with before, during and after sunbathing. Lots of sunscreen and body lotion!

Even yoga is a pleasure to enjoy outdoors in this warm climate, the other night at the top of the Shade Hotel here at Manhattan Beach. The sky embraced us warmingly. And breathing in the ocean air - just delicious.

You will hear from me again next week at femina.dk. Were just invited to an ultimate spa experience at Ole Henriksen Face / Body spa on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, don't know the exact date yet - but I sure will bring a report on this very blog:-)

Take care out there!

Warmly,
Anne-Grete

Translation/excerpt from femina.dk, read the blog post in Danish

Just a tip: Ingli Pai facial cream softens and moisturises your skin

2010-07-01T02:30:00.006+02:00

Today's wellness tip: Break the habit - try out something new, for example a new moisturizer!

~ * ~

All that sun when resting and playing on the Manhattan Beach - even though I use sunscreen, and IMEDEEN tablets to strengthen my skin from within - calls for a good moisturizer. A while ago I was lucky to receive a few samples from Ingli Pai, and I made sure to bring them for my vacation here in LA.

I think the Ingli Pai Cream for normal to dry skin is wonderful, really nourishing and it's immediately absorbed by my skin, leaving it subtle and well moisturised. Good for the conscience too, it's made from only natural ingredients, and I love the scent of jojoba and sandalwood.

Read more and shop your own Ingli Pai products here

Aah... yoga at the roof deck of The Shade Hotel in California

2010-06-30T01:31:00.008+02:00

Today's wellness tip: Hang in there...

~ * ~

Having taken yoga classes 4 days in a row now, my body starts getting really really weary. And - at the same time it feels happy, relaxed and extremely content. What else can my body ask for, than being used? After all, that's what our bodies are designed for: motion!

Yesterday's class on the roof top of The Shade Hotel was a very pleasant experience. Yoga instructor - and founder of The Green Yogi - Mary Strong encouraged us to, while being outside in the fresh air, to take advantage of the energy from nature. Being just a few blocks from the ocean, I inhaled the ocean breeze and literally could feel the energy from the sky above. Nice!

The importance of having something to look forward to

2010-06-28T22:37:00.006+02:00

Today's wellness-tip: Lift your spirits by finding something - big or small - to look forward to

~ * ~

... like today, when I'm looking forward to a very special yoga event on the roof top of the luxurious hotel The Shade, located two blocks from Manhattan Beach, California. The happening starts at 6 pm, there's free entrance - and a glass of champagne afterwards:-) ps. I'f you're not being able to join me, I'll make sure to cover the event on my blog - stay tuned!

This is where I'll be tonight - if you like yoga and find yourself at the Manhattan Beach, please come join!

Less can do; I always look forward to my morning cup of coffee. Preferably in solo company, with time to quietly sit down and enjoy the awakening of a new day. I love getting up before everybody else in the house - which is practically impossible after we got our two cats - so to achieve my peace and quiet I have to feed them first - and then enjoy my coffee...

What about you? What do you - big or small - look forward to?

Warmly,
Anne-Grete

LA yoga update: Life is more fun when I keep my resolutions

2010-06-27T23:58:00.007+02:00

Today's wellness tip: Keep the promises you make to yourself

~ * ~

I really - really - want yoga to be part of my everyday life. So 2 days ago I decided to do yoga every day while vacationing in LA, creating a habit which I hopefully will be able to stick to when I get home to Copenhagen in three weeks.

I kick-started my resolution with a poweryoga class the day before yesterday - wauv - it was great, at The Green Yogi, an eco-chic poweryoga studio at Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach.

The loving and cosy entrance of The Green Yogi

I also entered a power hour flow class yesterday - same place - beginning to feel my muscles hurt, not (yet) used to everyday yoga!

And today... I feel sore in my back, and my legs feel just so heavy!! But be sure, I will attend the class at 6 pm today. Luckily for me and my yoga-beaten body it's a Yin relaxation... but tomorrow I'm onto 75 new minutes of poweryoga.

Funny how my brain starts trying to convince me I do not have to take a class every day:

1. argument - the self-pity one: "Don't push yourself too hard, a-g, remember to relax, two or three times a week is also fine!"

2. argument - the bad conscience acting-like-a-bad-mother one: "What about the kids, after all this is your family vacation, don't you want to spend some more time with your children - what kind of mother are you?":-)

Well, I have chosen to overhear both of my brainy arguments. I'm doing this for me, and I am absolutely positive the kids will experience me as an even happier (yoga) mum!

On the contrary, if I choose to slack on my everyday-yoga resolution, it will make me feel bad and like I'm not being able to keep my own promises. My inner critic will rise (go bananas), and yes, then I will probably be better off for a yoga class, than staying home with my family, wearing a grumpy face...

You take care out there!

a-g

Hello from LA: 4 great things to bring back to Denmark

2010-06-26T15:40:00.010+02:00

Today's wellness tip: Move your body - and get inspired

~ * ~

Here's a visible factor to my great motivation right now, the view from the apartment that we rent:

I'm fascinated by how we can work from the inside, with for example positive affirmations á la Louise Hay, changing how we see our outer world. And then I'm certainly also intrigued by how we can change our mental wellbeing by "just" replacing the environment.

Yes, it's crazy - and promising - how physically moving ourselves from one place to another can change our lives the mental way. I'm not saying it's possible to escape from our present challenges merely by buying a (one-way) plane ticket:-) But when we choose to travel, let it be short or long distance, there are so many gifts to receive, in the shape of new insights, new motivation, new wisdom and inspiration on how to live our lives in an even better way - when we come back to our old place again.

My wish for my one-month stay in Los Angeles, at the Manhattan Beach, is to bring home some wellness inspiration from "over here". And there's plenty of it:

1. Smiling Americans who - very un-Scandinavian - greet me with a hi and eye contact, without knowing me in advance, making me feel visible, appreciated - and happy!
2. A garage on the main road, made as a fitness bootcamp, where doors open at 9:30 am every day, where you can just pop up and join - very friendly and inviting
3. Two beautiful and (very) mature ladies passing us on the street, complimenting my girls' hair
4. A co-yoga participant, telling me how good it is, me spreading the word of inner wellness and spirituality-light on my blog

And so on:-)

Approaching the beach from "our" (I wish!) apartment, you find a specific pavement only for bikes, and one for pedestrians; walkers, runners, fitbirds holding on to hand weights and squatting while they walk, parents taking a run with their skating or bicycling children, having a nice conversation at the same time - and friends going for a brisk walk, carrying a Starbucks latte-to-go, whilst catching up on the latest gossip.

Have a nice day, wherever you live in the world:-)

Anne-Grete

Fra femina.dk: 6:46 a.m. – min løbetur på Manhattan Beach i LA

2010-06-25T02:36:00.007+02:00

Wauv wauv wauv!! Det er ingen sag at stå op og løbe 4 kilometer, når det er på en smuk sandstrand, der hedder Manhattan Beach, 150 meter fra ens lejlighed. Og solbrune surfere hilser en god morgen – ”morning!” – med et smil, og der er mindst tyve andre, der også går, cykler eller løber.

Jeg huskede at pakke mine IMEDEEN tabletter, inklusive Tan Optimizer, og jeg synes at min hud, allerede fra day 1, tager imod solen på en god måde. Her på billedet har jeg godt nok lidt farvet dagcreme og øjenskygge på, men synes selv jeg allerede – efter en dag på stranden - er blevet lidt brun.

HYG jer:-)

ps. Blogger igen om en uge, gad vide hvor brun jeg er blevet til den tid…?

Kh
Anne-Grete

Læs indlægget på femina.dk