Naomie Olindo’s Season 8 Reunion Dress

Southern Charm Season 8 Reunion Fashion

Naomie Olindo looks gorgeous in green at the Southern Charm Season 8 reunion in her silky one shoulder dress. And based on how bright the lights on stage appear to be, we’re honestly shocked she didn’t accessorize it with her go-to sunnies of the season (jk, jk). 

Fashionably,

Faryn

Click Here to Shop Her The Sei Dress

Click Here to Shop it in a Lighter Green

Click Here to Shop it in Platinum

Jewelry: @NicoleRoseJewelry

Hair: @JuliusMichael1

Makeup: @CarolineMakeupTime

Photo: BravoTV.com 

Info: @Naomie_Olindo

Originally posted at: Naomie Olindo’s Season 8 Reunion Dress

After numerous requests to take on a major volunteer project, and after declining several times, I ultimately said “Yes.” That ‘yes’ resulted, for the better part of a year, in much more of my time than I had anticipated.

That experience has had me doing some major soul searching. Yes, the project was a success, and yes, I did enjoy making a contribution and using my skills. But I concluded that as a retiree, it is important to establish a new set of personal rules to ensure declining a request for my time and talent is respected.

After years of parenthood and years in the work world where it was necessary to say ‘no’ and mean it, I was mostly successful. Sometimes said diplomatically, sometimes said emphatically, but there was general acceptance when a request was turned down.

Enter Retirement

Why and when did that change? Somehow, in retirement, there seems to be less respect when a request is declined.

Since retiring, as I turn down requests to be involved in a project or take on additional responsibilities, a ‘no’ isn’t always taken seriously.

My turning down requests with a polite “No, thanks,” results in comebacks such as “You are the best person to do this,” “Someone who committed to this now can’t because of health, because of family, or just because…,” or “We really need you.”

Are You Part of the Problem?

I’ve also found I am part of the problem. I am more susceptible to accepting responsibilities with volunteer duties when asked a second or a third time, though I originally turned them down. Why would I do this?

Out of my soul-searching, I have set some guidelines and questions for myself before taking on more or new additional responsibilities.

When you are asked to volunteer for a role or a position, inquire about:

Time Involvement

How much of your time do they honestly anticipate will be needed? If this is a first-time that a club or organization has established this position or a running this project, they may not be sure. If you agree to take the responsibility, make your time limits clear and stick to them.

Duration

Is there an end-point to this project or position? If you have been asked to fill in to complete a term where a board member resigns or when a planned event occurs, does that also mark the end of your responsibility?

Expectations

What will be specifically expected of you? This is an important question to ask before you commit. With volunteer positions, you won’t necessarily get a job description.

If those expectations are relayed to you during a discussion, I’ve found it beneficial to e-mail the person making the request and outline your understanding. “Thanks for including me in this project. I understand I will be responsible for xxx and activities will generally be on xxx dates.”

Then, consider some things about yourself:

Your Skills

Why are you being asked to do this? Why you specifically? It can be flattering to be asked to participate and wonderful to be sought out. But consider why, in addition to your time, they are asking you.

Do you have specific talents or contacts that will be beneficial to the organization or club? Did another volunteer leave unexpectedly? It’s good to know this.

Your Own Plans

Do you have other planned activities that must take a back seat if you say ‘yes’ to the request? If your involvement may jeopardize travel, family time, or personal downtime that you have planned, this could lead to resentment and dissatisfaction and result in a negative experience for you and for others involved.

Your Interest

Is the activity something that will challenge you in a good way? One of the wonderful aspects of retirement is the ability to try new roles, or to contribute your professional abilities on a voluntary basis.

I’ve seen a good example in some friends who are retired attorneys, volunteering their skills doing pro bono work. They do so in taking only the cases that they can accommodate considering other obligations and choices in their lives.

Your Limits

If you accept this responsibility, will you hold the organization accountable to your agreement? This is a key question.

Once you are involved and have perhaps become more dedicated to whatever cause or activity, it can be more difficult to gently remind that expectations of you are creeping beyond what was originally agreed.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What has been your experiences with volunteerism in retirement? Do you find your time is respected the way it was when you were employed or worked as a professional? Please share any tips you have that will us all be firm if we want to say “no” to a volunteering request.

Madison LeCroy’s Season 8 Reunion Dress

Southern Charm Season 8 Reunion Fashion

Madison LeCroy is definitely giving “bride-to-be” vibes at the Southern Charm Season 8 reunion with her white sequin gown. And based on how chic it looks glittering on stage, I think it’s safe to say that we 100% approve of her saying yes to this dress.

Fashionably,

Faryn

Click Here to Shop Her 16Arlington Dress

Click Here For Additional Stock

Jewelry: @NicoleRoseJewelry

Hair: @PatrickNavarro

Makeup: @PriscillaDiStasio

Photo: BravoTV.com 

Info: @Madison.LeCroy

Originally posted at: Madison LeCroy’s Season 8 Reunion Dress

It’s time to step into your authenticity and show up for yourself. Taking the lead and finding the will to compete will always require a certain amount of courage, but your full moon horoscopes for October 2022 are giving you the green light! After all, this full moon is in Aries. Allow this bold and powerful lunation to bring you the clarity and momentum you need to move forward. What era of your life are you ready to transition out of? Celestially fueled by the brilliant spark of Mars in Gemini, this month’s full moon in Aries is here to open your mind to the infinite possibilities, and illuminate a brand-new path that lies ahead.

Governed by red-hot Mars—planet conflict and passion—the best way to understand the impenetrable essence of Aries is by acknowledging the fact that its cardinal fire is powerful enough to initiate an entire journey through the zodiac. And while fellow cardinal signs—Cancer, Libra, Capricorn—initiate new cycles of life, Aries’ fire sign qualities have everything to do with the magic of fertility. After all, the first day of Aries season is always the first day of spring! Looking at this fire sign in a literal way can also put things into perspective, so imagine the blatant audacity and fearlessness required for Aries legend, Lady Gaga, to rock that meat-covered dress at the 2010 VMAs. I digress… but I rest my case. Here’s what you should know about the upcoming full moon in Aries:

Adobe. Design: Cierra Miller/STYLECASTER.

The moon is symbolic of our intuition, inner foundation and shadow self, so when it reaches its full moon phase each month, it puts a spotlight on everything that’s been hidden from our conscious mind. Luna also sits directly across the sun during this time, highlighting what lacks balance between our inner and outer world. The emotional tides in our bodies also rise, which makes us more sensitive to our surroundings than usual. On a brighter note, the full moon can also be a time of celebration, culmination and completion.

The full moon in Aries will take place on October 9 at 4:54 p.m. ET.

This month’s full moon will take place on October 9 at 4:55 p.m. ET at exactly 16 degrees Aries. Sitting in close proximity to Chiron retrograde, what this lunation is illuminating could feel bittersweet given the wounded healer’s influence, but it’s not as bad as it looks. On the contrary, there are other aspects working in our favor, so don’t be discouraged. Naturally, anything involving Chiron has to do with a wound and/or emotional trigger we carry within ourselves… and in the case of Aries, this “trigger” relates to our personal autonomy.

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Related: These 4 Zodiac Signs Will Feel The October Full Moon The Most

Despite the discomfort that could come with confronting these vulnerabilities within ourselves, recognizing what they are and where they stem from brings us closer to our authentic nature, and individual truth. The good news is, the sun will be sitting alongside Venus in Libra, presenting us with an opportunity to share, connect and relate to those who genuinely have our best interest at heart. In other words, this is equivalent to your “when all else fails” moment, as you are being reminded of the support you have around you, whether you were aware of this or not.

This is especially significant to consider with Mars in Gemini, given that this transit is notorious for being fickle, distracted and overly analytical. So, opening up to your friends and family about what it is you’re personally going through can actually turn out to be quite rewarding—at least when it comes to getting genuine feedback. Keep in mind, Mars is also in harmony with Saturn retrograde and the sun, which helps us set ideas in motion and find our sense of direction, despite the sensory overload brought to you by Mars in Gemini.

Are you ready to speak up, and stand up for what you believe in? Read your full moon horoscope for your sun sign, moon sign and rising sign below. Hint: Think back to the new moon in Aries that took place back in April 2022. Your full-circle moment is now loading.

How The Full Moon In Aries Will Affect Your Zodiac Sign

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Aries

Happy full moon, Aries. Luna is gleaming brightly just for you, and though the influence of Chiron retrograde in your sign could have you feeling blue, you are being encouraged to confront and make peace with the thoughts that may have been burdening you. Recognizing the shadowy attributes of your perspective and combative nature can be both healing, and insightful. Fortunately, with the sun sitting alongside amicable Venus in your relationship sector, you have the support of your peers, friends and significant others now more than ever. Being self-aware is part of your strength, but it’s about time you acknowledged how brave and inspiring you are.

Read Your Full Aries Horoscope For October 2022

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Taurus

You’re finding the courage to confront what you’ve been sacrificing, Taurus. Luna will reach its peak in Aries, while sitting together with Chiron—via your subliminal 12th house of healing, closure and inhibitions—while Mars (its ruler) sizzles through your second house of money and personal gain. All in all, this lunation is putting a spotlight on everything from your financial burdens to the unconscious energies that have been bogging you down for way too long. Luckily, with the sun conjunct your ruler, Venus—via your sixth house of daily devotions and health routines—the cosmos is not only supporting you, but also reminding you to show yourself a little more love.

Read Your Full Taurus Horoscope For October 2022

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Gemini

You’re making a dazzling impression, so go on and take the lead, Gemini. The full moon will touch down in Aries, bringing closure and clarity to your socially conscious 11th house of community and future visions, while sitting alongside Chiron retrograde. And with the moon’s ruler, Mars, turning up the heat in your sign, themes surrounding your sense of belonging in the world are top of mind. In any case, this lunation is asking you to reflect on what’s been hindering you from confidently sharing your sparkling intellect, and being your most authentic self in the community. If not now, when? The sun is sitting alongside charming Venus, giving you all the more reason to celebrate your wins.

Read Your Full Gemini Horoscope For October 2022

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Cancer

In the words of Beyoncé, you dreamed it, you worked hard, now own it, Cancer. A fiery full moon will ignite your 10th house authority, bringing emotional emphasis and an overall sense of completion to energies surrounding your professional life, and reputation in the world. Granted, while sitting alongside Chiron, you may find yourself reminiscing on past burdens, or perhaps feeling inhibited in the public eye. However, this is where this lunation is urging you to confront your fears and insecurities, so you can rise above it and move forward. Mars’ journey through your secretive 12th house is also shedding light on what’s been hidden from your conscious mind, namely when it pertains to communications and exchanges in the workplace.

Read Your Full Cancer Horoscope For October 2022

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Leo

Keep your eyes on the prize, Leo. The moon will reach its peak of fullness in Aries—via your expansive ninth house of worldly pursuits—all while conjunct the wounded healer, Chiron, which is where things may feel bittersweet. For instance, with the moon’s ruler, Mars, sizzling through Gemini and your 11th house of community affairs and future visions, this lunation is putting a spotlight on what’s been hindering you from stepping into your fullest potential, and taking the necessary risks. Maybe it’s a belief system or an outdated philosophy; the good news is, with the sun and Venus dazzling through Libra—your immediate environment—you’re being encouraged to connect and collaborate with your peers for support, and validation.

Read Your Full Leo Horoscope For October 2022

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Virgo

Has there been an equal amount of give and take within your intimate unions, Virgo? There will be a revelatory full moon in Aries touching down on your eighth house of mergers, mutual gains and energetic exchanges, while sitting alongside Chiron retrograde. During this time, you’re being called to confront the connections and commitments that no longer resonate with you, in order for you to set yourself free. These residual energies could have something to do with your authority figures, or professional employers/colleagues that aren’t respectful of your boundaries. Fortunately, with the sun conjunct Venus in Libra, you’re being reminded of your talents, abilities and owning up to your self-worth in the process.

Read Your Full Virgo Horoscope For October 2022

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Libra

Be honest with yourself, Libra. After all, with this Mars-ruled full moon activating your relationship sector, all while its ruler lights up your ninth house of worldviews, you could be coming to terms with the fact that you and a significant other aren’t necessarily on the same page. Naturally, the moon’s close proximity to Chiron retrograde could feel emotionally heavy, but instead of sweeping things under the rug, you’re being encouraged to speak up and stand up for what you believe in, while others of you learn to hold space for your partner’s unique perspective. Could be vice versa, but what’s fair is what, right? The sun is conjunct Venus in your sign, making harmony top of mind.

Read Your Full Libra Horoscope For October 2022

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Scorpio

Call back your energy, and take a chill pill, Scorpio. The moon will peak in Aries, while alongside Chiron, via your sixth house of daily rituals, work routines and health habits. What’s the rush? Are you in some sort of race? If you’ve been overworking yourself and taking on too many responsibilities, this lunation will step into make it known. After all, with the moon’s ruler, Mars, lighting up your eighth house of intimate unions, you’re more than likely prioritizing acts of service, as opposed to tending to your own garden. Meanwhile, the sun and Venus are partaking in some sweet R&R via your 12th house of solitude, so what are you waiting for?

Read Your Full Scorpio Horoscope For October 2022

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Sagittarius

Express yourself, Sagittarius. This is especially true with a fiery moon lighting up your fifth house of love, passion projects and performance, but while alongside Chiron retrograde, you may find yourself feeling more reluctant to take the extroverted route. Could this have something to do with a friend, partner and/or work colleague? With Mars (the moon’s ruler) sizzling through your relationship sector, you could be extra preoccupied with competition or petty gossip… and if this happens to be what’s inhibiting you, the full moon will be sure to point it out. On a brighter note, the sun and Venus will be dazzling your 11th house of community, so find your soul tribe and tell the haters to kick rocks.

Read Your Full Sagittarius Horoscope For October 2022

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Capricorn

Things may or may not be running smoothly at home, but this doesn’t mean it’s solely up to you to make things right, Capricorn. The moon will peak in Aries, while alongside Chiron retrograde, via your fourth house of family matters and emotional foundations. Are there emotional burdens resurfacing from your past? The moon also rules your relationship sector, so chances are you may be more argumentative—perhaps even about petty details—thanks to the influence of Mars. That said, if work routines are becoming an issue, or perhaps getting in the way of your personal life, it may be time for a change. Luckily, the sun and Venus in Libra are fully supportive of your decision.

Read Your Full Capricorn Horoscope For October 2022

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Aquarius

If you’re prioritizing the way you’re being perceived by the people around you, then you’re simply not being authentically yourself, Aquarius. For instance, the full moon will touch down in Aries—via your third house of communication and immediate surroundings—all while making a conjunction to Chiron retrograde. Is something or someone in your inner circle making you feel insecure? With the moon’s ruler, Mars, sizzling through Gemini, you could be hyper-focusing on the petty gossip, or the small talk surrounding you. This could be the result of a decision you made recently, but you’re in luck as the sun conjunct Venus is fully supportive of your unique belief systems, which encourages you to open up and share your thoughts.

Read Your Full Aquarius Horoscope For October 2022

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Pisces

You’re recognizing your worth, and prioritizing your value, Pisces. Be with regards to your source(s) of income and/or what brings you emotional fulfillment, you’re being encouraged to speak your truth, and ask for what you deserve without guilt or shame. As it is, the moon rules your fifth house of celebration, which means you probably earned it. However, given that it will conjunct Chiron retrograde—via your second house of comfort, money and stability—all while its ruler (Mars) sizzles through your family sector, you could come to find that you’re repeating patterns from your past, or feeling burdened to meet the expectations of your upbringing. The sun conjunct Venus says to lean on your S.O. for support, love and validation.

Read Your Full Pisces Horoscope For October 2022

It is easy to feel run down and low in energy in our fast-paced society. This blog post will discuss how meditation can improve energy levels and make you feel more present and alert. It will also provide some tips for getting started with meditation.

What Is Meditation?

Meditation is an ancient practice used by many cultures for centuries to promote physical and mental well-being. Meditation has its origins in the ancient Vedic times of India and is one of the modalities used in Ayurvedic medicine.

Meditation has evolved to include various techniques and has become a tool for achieving relaxation and other desired outcomes. However, at its roots, the purpose of meditation is to connect with one’s true Self.

Meditation can be done anywhere, at any time, and doesn’t require special equipment. All you need is a quiet place to sit comfortably.

Evidence on Meditation and Energy

Studies on meditation have shown improvement in energy, mental clarity, and physical ailments such as pain, blood pressure, and heart rate. It has also been helpful for gaining energy when suffering from chronic conditions. However, it is essential to note that these outcomes are only a product of the practice and focusing on energy is a powerful aspect of meditation.

Different Types of Meditation

Meditation has evolved to include various approaches. All of them involve supporting calmness and you should choose the one that fits you best. The important thing is that you are starting, and starting IS doing.

Let’s go over some of the basics.

1. Meditation can be performed sitting, standing, or lying down; however, meditation is about awakening and energy, so sitting comfortably is the most effective way to start.
2. Meditation in the morning is popular because the world is still waking up, and there is genuine peace about transitioning from hibernation to life again.
3. Breathing exercises are a great way to start any meditation. You can try our 3 Minutes to Calm, which is how I start many meditations, or quietly focus on your breath and observe it as it passes through you.
4. You will hear your thoughts. This is normal. It’s helpful to think of these thoughts for what they are – your mind chattering. Approaching this chatter with observation and humor is useful, and putting it in a “place” such as in the back of your head will provide a visual space to help with the concept of observation.

Meditation to Help with Energy

Through meditation, you will provide your body and mind with an opportunity to rest and be at peace. This is naturally rejuvenating. By focusing on your breathing, the rest of the world will let go, and your body and mind will relax.

You will come out of meditation with more energy and focus than you had in your session.

Let’s go over a beginning meditation.

Easy Meditation Practice

When you first start meditating, it is essential to keep it simple. Don’t try to do too much at once or force yourself into a long session. Instead, starting with a shorter session is best.

Here is an essential meditation practice to get you started:

Find a Comfortable Place to Sit

Sit comfortably with your spine straight. You can sit in a chair with your feet on the ground or cross-legged on a cushion.

Close Your Eyes and Take a Few Deep Breaths

Focus your attention on your breath. As you breathe in, notice the sensation of the air moving into your lungs. Feel the air go in through your nose, down through your chest, and into your belly. As you breathe out, notice the sensation of the air moving out of your lungs.

This should be rhythmic, effortless, and gentle. A good visual is to think of waves lapping on the shore as your breath moves in and out.

Watch Your Focus

When your mind wanders (and it will), return your focus to your breath and allow those words to live in a space. Remember that they are just thoughts and words, not material to your practice.

Time Yourself

Set a timer for your meditation. Start with five minutes and gradually increase your practice.

The key to successful meditation is consistency. The more you meditate, the better the results. So, find a time that works for you and make it part of your daily routine.

Meditation is powerful and can improve energy levels and help create space for peace and calmness in an otherwise chaotic world. However, finding a practice that works for you and being consistent with it is essential. By following these tips, you will be well on your way to improved energy levels.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you noticed you run low on energy? What do you do to get your body energized? Do you practice meditation? How does it help you?