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.

Creating Sacred Space for Personal Reflection

First Published on The Wellness Universe on Dec. 20, 2024

There are countless ways to create a personal sanctuary for your reflection and spiritual growth. Don’t have a dedicated room or space of your own? No worries. With a little intention and creativity, you can weave sacredness into the corners of your home or workplace, transforming even the smallest nooks into havens of personal reflection space.

Let me share with you my personal journey of creating sacred spaces for personal reflection. My main area of sacred space is on my couch. Here, I start my day with a comforting cup of coffee and quiet devotion, which includes journaling and setting my intention for the day ahead. This is not just a corner of my home, but one of my primary work areas.

Nearby, I have an altar on a small table that showcases my word of the year, reverence, a healthy plant, a heart-shaped crystal, and a candle. Across the room from me, I have a collage of colorful cards, notes, bookmarks, and oracle cards that are special to me. I look at it a hundred times a day.

I can also see out my patio door to the backyard and trees behind our home, giving me a sense of being one with nature. My hummingbird feeder and wind chimes provide countless joy and a backdrop of tranquility and peace.

What about other places as sacred spaces?

Here’s a list of 10 unexpected sanctuaries you may want to create for yourself. All are excellent self-care, offering joy and tranquility in unexpected places.

Creating sacred space is a deeply personal and intentional process, even in the most unexpected places. Here’s how you can transform these areas into nurturing sanctuaries for personal reflection and peace, putting you in control of your own tranquility.

1. In the Car

Turn your car into a mobile sanctuary by adding items that bring you peace—perhaps a crystal, essential oil diffuser, or calming music playlist. A small token of protection or a mantra card can remind you of peace even in transit. I worked with a woman who took a nap in her car during her lunch hour and came back to the office transformed.

2. At Your Desk

Create a sacred corner on your desk with items like a small plant, inspiring quotes, or a candle (if allowed). These simple touches can help ground you and create a more mindful working space. Clear clutter to make room for calm and clarity.

3. Wall of Goodness

Dedicate a section of a wall to affirmations, gratitude notes, or images that uplift your spirit. This “wall of goodness” will serve as a visual reminder of the blessings in your life, bringing positive energy into the room. This could be a spot where you display your vision boards or artwork.

4. On a Shelf

A small shelf can become a sacred altar. Arrange candles, crystals, sacred texts, or meaningful trinkets that align with your intentions. This humble space can hold great significance, representing a haven of peace.

5. On a Bench

Turn a bench in your home or yard into a place for quiet contemplation. Add a cushion, blanket, or a small potted plant to create a serene seating area. It becomes a perfect spot for morning reflection or evening meditation.

6. In the Backyard

Designate a part of your yard as a sacred outdoor space. It could be a simple garden corner or a place for sitting in quiet meditation. Nature itself becomes part of the sanctuary, connecting you with the earth’s energy. I have a friend who sends me beautiful pictures from her backyard that bring her joy: a dew-kissed flower, the moon filtering through the clouds, or a bird, dragonfly, or butterfly that tickles her fancy.

7. In the Bathroom

Transform your bathroom into a sacred, spa-like retreat. Incorporate soothing elements like candles, bath salts, or essential oils. Let the space become a haven for cleansing and renewal—both physical and spiritual. This is one of my favorite evening rituals: to enjoy a nice soak in the tub, which sets me up for a good night’s rest and a great day ahead.

8. In the Kitchen

The kitchen can be sacred by infusing mindfulness into your cooking and meal preparation. A small altar with a candle or fresh flowers can bring intentionality and gratitude to the act of nourishing yourself and others. I also enjoy doing the dishes, which can become a meditative practice.

9. In the Bedroom

Your bedroom can become a sacred retreat by incorporating elements that promote rest, relaxation, and spiritual reflection. Soft lighting, soothing colors, and natural fabrics can create a calming atmosphere. Consider placing a small altar, a crystal, or a journal on your nightstand to infuse the space with peace and intention. Declutter regularly to maintain an energy of tranquility, making it a place for deep rest and rejuvenation.

10. Creating a Bubble of Serenity Around You

No matter where you are, you can carry your sacred space with you. Envision a protective bubble of serenity surrounding you, creating peace and stillness. Through mindful breathing and intention, you can maintain this calm energy, even amid chaos. I love to apply essential oil that makes me feel invincible and call upon Archangel Michael to go with me and surround me with safety and protection. When I travel by air, I ask Archangel Michael to pave the way ahead with ease and grace so that I may be surrounded by kind travelers and that safety and excellent health are assured.

Each of these spaces, when approached with intention, can become a vessel for peace, reflection, and sacred energy.

As you create your sacred self-care space, know that your way is the right way. You can’t get it wrong. Whatever feels good and nourishing to your spirit is great to include in this private retreat place.

As I mentioned earlier, choosing a word of the year has been one of my most treasured practices. Over the past nine years, it has transformed my life. I’ve taught hundreds of people how to choose their empowering focus words to guide them daily. I’m offering a free workshop, and I’d love to have you join us. You can watch the recording NOW and start your own transformative journey.

I have a gift that may dovetail nicely with your DIY sacred space creation; it’s a PDF with 11 tools and tips to cultivate more inner peace in your life. Get your Peace Like a River gift NOW.

Self-Care and Where’s my Internal Low Power Warning Sign?

Spending time in nature is a great self-care practice.

Do you ever notice how your laptop or phone has that cute little battery icon, and it shows you how much power you have left before you need to recharge or plug into the Source of electricity?  Do you wish you had a similar feature that reminded you to take care of or self-care measures to plugin before your power fails? 

Today, consider this article as your reminder to keep an eye out for your internal warning system that is trying to get your attention before you crash due to a lack of power. 

So, when my laptop is running low on power, I notice the backdrop light gets dimmer, and then the low battery warning message comes on and tells me to plug into the Source.  That is a great reminder.

Using the metaphor of our electronics as our precious bodies, we don’t want to suffer a complete loss of power, lose data, or become unable to function.  The sad truth is that many of us take better care of our phones than our precious selves.

I don’t want my light to dim or my power to fail so that I cannot function.  I want to be aware of subtle signs that my power (energy) is waning.  Below are six internal low power warning signs.

Some of these internal warning signs are:

1.      Crankiness

2.      Exhaustion

3.      Loss of humor or joy

4.      Overwhelm

5.      Defeat

6.      Making poor choices

So how do we plugin or fill our batteries to function at full power?  Self-care is the answer.  Take time to love, nurture, and fill yourself so that you are better able to navigate your responsibilities. 

Think of yourself as a precious vessel.  What you fill yourself up with is what is going to come out.  A container of olive oil produces olive oil.  A vessel filled with milk produces milk.  What are you filling yourself up with, dear heart?  Consider what food, internal dialogue, people we are spending time with, the content we are reading, listening to, or watching.  

Just like the pre-flight announcement states, “In the event of a drop in pressure, the oxygen masks will drop from the compartment above you, put the mask on yourself first…” A great example.  We are of no help to ourselves or others if we are unable to function, incapacitated, or unconscious. 

So, how do you plug into your Source of power?  How do you fill yourself up so that you can thrive? Below are ten self-care measures you can embrace. Start today, start with a baby step if you don’t yet have a self-care routine.

Some ways to fill yourself up are:

1.      Doing things that delight you.

2.      Unplugging from technology.

3.      Getting the rest you need.

4.      Acts of Devotion, connecting to your Source with a capital S.

5.      Eating nutritious foods.

6.      Staying hydrated.

7.      Filling your life with positive content and people.

8.      Getting out in Nature.

9.      Moving your body.

10.   Remove complaining, criticism, excuses, and blame from your life.

I am a contributing author in the soon to be released book "The Ultimate Guide to Self-Healing," Vol. 2.  I wrote about the transformative power of Affirmations and positivity if you'd like more ideas about self-care and positive steps you can take in your life, visit my free resource page.

Want more divine connection with the angels and goodness and grace? I have a free, Facebook Group, Angel Circle of Gratitude you may want to check out. Each Tuesday at 10 a.m. Pacific/1 p.m. Eastern join for a lovefest with the angels.

Janette Stuart: #1 Best Selling Author, Certified Angel Card Reader, Blogger, Military Mom, and Emissary of Joy at Angel Angles with Janette Stuart which will assist you to own and embrace your Divine Beauty and live a life of love, joy, and peace. Gentleness and Joy are my Superpowers.

www.angel-angles.com