Sister's Maui Celebration

Six years ago, I was in the throes of my healing journey with pancreatic cancer. I was losing my hair, and the chemo was so rough on me. I was hoping my tumor would shrink enough so that I could have the radical surgery for a chance to extend my life. At that time, the 5-year survival rate was 8%.

During those bleak days, I would daydream about being able to go back to Maui with my sister. She had accompanied me for a business trip in Maui in the fall of 2016.

I was able to have the Whipple procedure and have been counting my blessings ever since.

My sister and I have the same birthday, she was my birthday gift on my fifth birthday. Not many people get a baby sister for their birthday.

This year is a big celebration for us, 60 and 65. I wanted to do something spectacular and decided we’d come to Maui, just the two of us for a week.

We stayed on Ka’anapali Beach at the The Outrigger. It was a gorgeous resort, and they treated us like royalty. The aloha spirit is alive and well there.

Here’s some of the fun things we did.

Our first stop was Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop in Olowalu.
We were starved and both ordered a cheeseburger and fries. We each got a favorite mini-pie to go. My favorite is the coconut cream and my sister loves the chocolate macadamia nut variety. I highly recommend this place. We’ve also had their chicken and waffles with coconut syrup on our previous trip. AMAZING.

Coconut Cream Pie is my favorite. Yum.

What a lovely welcome, thank you, The Outrigger.

When we checked into our hotel, we found a beautiful welcome message and display on our bed. When I booked our package, they asked if we were celebrating a special occasion, and I told them of our special birthday.

Each night, we’d watch the sunset from our balcony and what a gift that was.

We enjoyed an amazing Cacao Farm Tour and Tasting in Lahaina. We met at the chocolate factory and we were driven by a small tour van to the cacao farm nearby. It was fascinating, and our guide Brandy was amazing. Wear walking shoes and be ready to climb stairs to a treetop open-air lookout with a fabulous view, and enjoy taste-testing nine full-size pieces of their high-quality chocolates.

Such a fascinating tour of the cacao farm, see the variety of stages of the pods and we got to sample the finished product in a tree house with a phenomenal view of the island.

AKL Lavender Farm and Gardens in Kula.
This is a beautiful respite 4,000 feet up the side of Haleakala. It offers a view to die for, with views of both sides of the island. Wear walking shoes and prepare for a very steep parking lot and dirt trails, wandering beside lavender beds and gorgeous flowers of unimaginable beauty.

Every course was scrumptious. We’d both heard of how amazing Mama’s Fish House was and made it a point to make it a priority this special trip.

Mama’s Fish House in Paia
A 5-star experience to be had at this upscale, down-home tropical oasis serving the most amazing dishes, drinks, and desserts. Our lunch was almost three hours long, and the service, venue, food, drinks, and dessert were culinary delights.








Whale-Watching Adventure
We were blessed to be invited by friends to join them for a three-hour private chartered boat on our last full day. The whales put on an incredible personal show that we will hold in our hearts forever. What a way to cap off our Maui celebration.

Everything was perfect at Mama’s Fish House for our special celebratory lunch. Almost three hours of one delight right after the other.

Cheers to us!

The whales put on an unforgettable, once in a lifetime show for us. We are so grateful. Thank you Larry and Patty. <3

Sacred Self-Care: Honoring the Precious Gift of Your Life

Originally posted on The Wellness Universe blog - March 7, 2025.

In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s easy to put ourselves last. We rush from one obligation to another, often neglecting our own needs in the process. Often, our busyness is seen as a badge of honor.

But what if we viewed self-care not as an indulgence but as a sacred responsibility?

Sacred self-care is about honoring the precious gift of your life, treating yourself as a sacred vessel, and replenishing your energy with love and intention. It’s about recognizing that you deserve to be nurtured just as much as you nurture others.

Self-Care as Vehicle Maintenance

An effective way to understand self-care is through the metaphor of vehicle maintenance. Imagine your body, mind, and spirit as a cherished vehicle, sacred vessel, or precious mode of transportation that propels you through life.

• If we don’t regularly fill our gas tank, charge our battery, change the oil, or check the tires, our vehicle will eventually break down.

• Often, these breakdowns are preventable with some planning, effort, and scheduled maintenance.

Likewise, when we fail to care for ourselves, we risk running on empty—physically exhausted, emotionally drained, and spiritually disconnected. It’s a recipe for disaster; we can only run on fumes for so long.

Preparing for Life’s Journey

Think about the journey of life. Just as a vehicle requires extra care when preparing for a long road trip or extreme conditions, we must also give ourselves additional attention when facing challenges.

Whether it’s rough roads, inclement weather, or unexpected detours, a well-maintained vehicle is better equipped to handle the journey.

• We don’t begrudge our car’s fuel or fluids because we “just filled the tank last week”—yet, how often do we dismiss our own needs with that same reasoning?

  • “I took a break yesterday.”

  • “I slept well last night.”

  • “I had a relaxing weekend.”

  • “I’ll eat well tomorrow.”

But self-care isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing practice.

Inspiring Sacred Self-Care Practices

The intention of this practice is to inspire you to treat yourself as beloved and to offer tools to foster self-love and replenishment. Through visualization, journaling, and discussion, you can develop a deeper understanding of what it means to honor yourself as a sacred vessel.

Filling Your Sacred Vessel Tank: A Visualization Exercise

A powerful way to connect with self-care is through visualization.

1. Take a moment to sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths.

2. Imagine yourself as a beloved vehicle or vessel, one that has carried you through many miles of life.

3. Reflect on how it feels to be well-maintained versus running on empty.

4. Envision yourself engaging in something that truly brings you joy:

   • A walk in nature

   • Listening to your favorite music

   • Painting, dancing, or reading a book

5. Feel the energy of that activity filling up your energy tank, replenishing your reservoir, and keeping you running at optimum condition.

6. With every inhale, you absorb this nourishment. With every exhale, you release exhaustion, stress, and self-doubt.

7. As you slowly return to the present moment, carry this peaceful state with you. Remember that you can revisit this feeling anytime you need to refuel.

Journaling Exercise: Sacred Self-Care Check-in

Writing is a sacred act of self-expression and healing. Take a few moments to reflect on the visualization and answer the following prompts:

• How full is my “tank” right now?

• What signs do I notice when my “vehicle” is low on energy?

• What sacred self-care practices can I implement to refill my tank?

• What resonated with you during the visualization?

• What insights did your visualization reveal?

• What self-care intention will you commit to moving forward?

Be honest with yourself.

• Do you notice exhaustion creeping in?

• Are there physical signs like headaches or fatigue?

• Emotional signals like irritability or overwhelm?

By recognizing these signs, you gain the power to take action before burnout sets in.

Sacred self-care practices vary for each person. They might include quiet moments of meditation, a nourishing meal, movement, or creativity that brings you joy, or setting boundaries to protect your energy. The key is consistency—small, loving acts of care add up over time.

When we give ourselves permission to prioritize our well-being, we send a powerful message—to ourselves and to those around us—that we are worthy of love and care.

Sacred Self-Care Practices

Sacred self-care practices vary for each person. They might include:

• Quiet moments of meditation

• A nourishing meal

• Movement or creativity that brings you joy

• Setting boundaries to protect your energy

The key is consistency—small, loving acts of care add up over time.

When we give ourselves permission to prioritize our well-being, we send a powerful message—to ourselves and to those around us—that we are worthy of love and care.

Weaving Sacred Self-Care into Daily Life

Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate. It can be as simple as:

• Drinking a glass of water with gratitude

• Taking five deep breaths before starting your day

• Spending a few moments in nature

• Saying no to something that depletes you

• Saying yes to something that restores you

• Speaking to yourself with kindness

• Asking for help

• Sharing gratitude and what went right in your day with another

• Wearing a favorite outfit or piece of jewelry that you feel beautiful in

The key is to create a sustainable practice, one that honors your needs consistently rather than waiting until you reach the point of exhaustion.

Closing Affirmation

As we conclude, take a deep breath and affirm:

“I honor the sacred gift of my life. I am worthy of love, care, and replenishment. I prioritize my self-care and treat myself with compassion, kindness, and grace. I allow my cup—my sacred vessel—to runneth over with plenty.”

Let this affirmation be a guiding light, reminding you that self-care is not selfish—it is essential. By treating yourself as a valuable treasure or a beloved, you cultivate a wellspring of energy, love, and peace that not only sustains you but also allows you to show up more fully for others.

Final Thoughts

Sacred self-care is a lifelong journey. Just as a well-loved vehicle requires regular maintenance, so do you. Be gentle with yourself, listen to your needs, and remember that you are a divine being worthy of love and care. May you always keep your tank full, your heart light, and your path illuminated with joy.

If you enjoyed this article, you’ll love Sacred Self-Care the first Saturday of the month. Join us live or catch the recording on demand. Find out more NOW.

A piece of jewelry that holds a special place in my heart is my new Heart of Infinity pendant designed by Miche Meizner, which commemorates the 10th Anniversary of The Wellness Universe. Find out more HERE.

Loving Yourself Better: A Sacred Journey of Self-Care

"You are imperfect, permanently and inevitably flawed. And you are beautiful." – Amy Bloom

In a world that constantly urges us to strive for perfection, it’s easy to lose sight of our innate beauty. We hold ourselves to impossibly high standards, measuring our worth by achievements, appearances, and external validation. But what if we embraced our imperfections as part of what makes us uniquely beautiful? What if, instead of striving for perfection, we focused on loving ourselves better?

The Essence of Loving Yourself Better

Loving yourself is not about arrogance or self-indulgence—it’s about honoring your worth and treating yourself with the same kindness you so freely give to others. It’s about recognizing that your value is not conditional upon meeting societal expectations, but rather an intrinsic truth.

Self-care is the vessel through which we nurture this love. When we tend to our mind, body, and spirit with care and compassion, we reinforce the truth that we are deserving of love—just as we are.

Practical Ways to Love Yourself Better

1. Speak to Yourself with Kindness

Pay attention to your inner dialogue. Are you your own harshest critic? Replace self-judgment with words of encouragement. Speak to yourself as you would a dear friend.

2. Embrace Your Imperfections

Your scars, quirks, and mistakes are part of your story. Instead of seeing them as flaws, view them as testaments to your resilience and growth.

3. Prioritize Rest and Nourishment

Your body carries you through each day—honor it with adequate rest, nourishing foods, and gentle movement that brings you joy.

4. Create a Sacred Self-Care Ritual

Whether it’s journaling, meditation, or soaking in a warm bath, set aside intentional time to care for yourself. These moments remind you that you are worthy of love and attention.

5. Set Boundaries That Honor You

Protect your energy by setting boundaries with people, work, and situations that drain you. Loving yourself means saying no when needed and prioritizing your well-being.

6. Connect with What Brings You Joy

Do more of what lights up your soul. Whether it’s creative expression, time in nature, or meaningful connections, joy is a powerful act of self-love.

7. Practice Gratitude for Yourself

Each day, acknowledge something about yourself that you appreciate. Your strength, your kindness, your perseverance—celebrate the unique essence of you.

You Are Enough

Self-love is not a destination but a practice—one that requires patience, grace, and commitment. As you embark on this journey, remember that you are already whole. You are beautifully imperfect, and that is enough.

So today, take a deep breath and whisper to yourself: I am worthy. I am loved. I am enough.

This article is based on our Deep Dive curriculum for February where we’re focusing on Loving Yourself Better. You can join us HERE.

Embracing Joy Through Adversity Interview of Janette Stuart by Katarina Todorovic

Written by Katarina Todorovic | Published On April 15, 2024 on MysticMag

In a world often shadowed by uncertainty and challenges, Janette Stuart emerges as a radiant beacon of hope and joy. As the Emissary of Joy at Angel Angles, a best-selling author, angelic practitioner, and a triumphant survivor of pancreatic cancer, Janette’s journey epitomizes resilience, faith, and the transformative power of positivity. Through her remarkable experiences and unwavering spirit, Janette has touched countless lives, illuminating pathways to inner peace and healing. In this exclusive article-interview, we delve into Janette’s inspiring story, exploring her insights on navigating adversity, embracing joy, and finding profound meaning amidst life’s trials. Join Mystic Mag as we embark on a journey of enlightenment and empowerment with Janette Stuart, a true testament to the extraordinary strength of the human spirit.

Can you share a pivotal moment or experience that led you to discover your connection with angels and pursue angelic practices?

My “why I do what I do” now came as a result of my beloved brother’s sudden illness, rapid decline, and passing in 2012. I grew up in the church and knew about Angels but didn’t know they could help “regular people” just like me. I thought you had to be a Saint or Holy One to work with the Angels. I found a woman who worked with the Angels, and her words on Facebook shared the love and wisdom from the Angels, which were like a healing balm to my soul during that difficult time of my brother’s rapid health decline in 2012. I could feel the love pouring my way from the Angels during those dark days. I felt loved, supported, protected, and held. Following a year of grief, I reached out to have a private Angel Card Reading with her, and it was marvelous and healing. It was pivotal in my life, and a mere six months following my first angel card session, I was taking classes on how I, too, could assist people during life’s challenges by sharing the love, joy, and peace I received from the Angels and became a Certified Angel Card Reader.

As a Best Selling Author, you’ve likely encountered various challenges in your writing journey. How do you navigate obstacles and maintain inspiration throughout your creative process?

When I first began my business in 2015 following a successful career in local public administration, I was afraid to put my name on my work. I came from a financial and human resources background, and switching to using my soul wisdom and guidance, I thought, what will people think when I profess to channel Angelic Love and Wisdom? I felt the imposter syndrome, with feelings of not being good, credentialed, or brilliant enough. I’m sure many of your readers can identify with those feelings of inadequacy which happen to many of us at various points in our lives.

I wrote my first book in 2016 as I was guided by divine inspiration. From the age of 8, I knew I would be a writer and author. I self-published and didn’t even know there was a whole process to get your words out to readers. I had several thousand followers on social media then and thought I would sell a thousand books easily. Boy, I was in for a surprise!

Although disappointed in the initial sales, I wasn’t deterred from my mission to release a series of devotional books in my volume set, “On a Path of Joy.” I felt guided to release four volumes before I became ill in the fall of 2018.

In early 2019, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and for a few months, my writing was put on hold while I underwent treatment. I began blogging about my journey to provide hope for others also experiencing that difficult physical and emotional healing journey. Today, I am thriving, and I am so grateful.

I write every day to express myself and obtain clarity. I share my writing as inspired, and I am in quietude daily to nurture and fill my cup with divine inspiration. As an empath, I require much time in solitude to recharge my energy and nurture my creativity.

What type of services do you offer?

I’m happy to provide private 1:1 Angel Card Readings and 1:1 Self-Care Strategies sessions on Zoom.

Your blog, Angel Angles, serves as a platform for spreading positivity and spiritual guidance. How do you ensure authenticity and relevance in your content while catering to diverse audiences?

My Angelic guidance is to spread love, joy, and peace through the content shared on my blog, and I like to remind the visitors of their divine heritage and that they are not alone. Lately, Self-Care and Self-Love have been a huge focus to share the reminder we are never alone; the Angels have our back. We each have at least two guardian angels who are with us our entire life and love us unconditionally. We don’t focus on any one religion but share universal love and compassion. Our audience has a diverse community of Angel lovers worldwide, and I rely on divine guidance regarding content and frequency.

Your work encompasses both spirituality and practicality. How do you reconcile these seemingly contrasting aspects in your teachings and writings?

For me, life is very simple. I am a spiritual being living here now, and so are you. It feels like we are more alike than dissimilar when we focus on the truth of our nature. I like to remind myself and others that we are here to shine our light and to live a life of love, joy, and peace. We came from Love, and that’s where we’ll return when this journey is over. I try to remember to view my world through the Divine lens of Love. I don’t always remember that concept, but I can begin again and lean into Love.

As someone who helps others connect with their divine inner wisdom, what advice would you give to individuals who feel disconnected or lost in their spiritual journey?

We are all unique individuals who came here for a specific purpose. Being our most authentic, true selves and sharing that bright light with the world brings fulfillment and joy. It doesn’t matter if you are excited about painting, cars, decorating, writing, music, cooking, crafts, technology, or animals…we all have something that sparks our creativity and makes us feel happy and grateful to be alive. We should point our compass to what brings us joy. Be your “you-est you” and I’ll be my Janette-est Janette.

We go amiss when we give away our personal power by hiding or shrinking our truest selves by turning from our joy and catering to others ideas of what is best for us, what we “should” do for a living, how we should live our lives, dress, behave, what we should acquire, attain, or how we should conform. That’s where we get disconnected or lost in life.