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The path to freedom is rarely easy. Often it’s a journey that challenges us to dig deeper, face our demons, and love ourselves enough to create lasting change.

Helping my gorgeous clients find freedom fills me with pure and utter joy, so when I received three interview requests lately on this very topic, I jumped at the chance to share my love for health and happiness – and the hard lessons I’ve learnt along the way…
 
 

 

Freedom from Fear

FEAR. It’s such a fascinating topic, no?

As a ‘Soulpreuner’ I feel like I eat fear for breakfast. It never really goes away, but I’ve learnt to be kinda’ glad about that. Without fear, there isn’t growth. Busting through limiting beliefs and showing myself what I’m really made of makes me feel fully alive.

When Kyana Miner asked me to be one of 21 fear-busting warriors speaking in this free global webinar event about Crazy Courage, I was thrilled and honoured. Ironically, live interviews are still very scary for me (hence my nervous excitement in the video!).

Join us here as we talk fears, limiting beliefs, intuition, and truly stepping into our authenticity.
 

Crazy Courage

From engineer to entrepreneur, Day 3 of the Crazy Courage Interview Series is a story about fear, love, and success. For the next 32 minutes, don’t focus on your limitations. Allow yourself to dream about the possibilities in your own life as you watch this interview.

Rebecca, affectionately called Bex by her clients, fell in love, quit her job, and started her own business. Bex’s story is so inspiring. She had no idea how she was going to create success. But in one short year, she has been featured in the news and on some of the most popular health blogs in the world.

The best part of this interview with Bex is her honesty as she talks about her scariest moments along her journey toward greater passion and aliveness.

– Kyana Miner, CrazyCourage.com

Freedom from Dieting

I’m sure you know by now that I do not believe in dieting, one little bit!

I’ve shared with you my ‘before’ pics and the truth about diet shakes. For years, dieting kept me trapped in a dysfunctional relationship with food.

But you know what? I’m not sorry that my journey took me there. My experience drives my passion to help women liberate themselves from the same sorts of issues. Knowing – first hand – just how devastating it can be to feel stuck in an unhealthy pattern helps me to be a more compassionate coach and truly understand what my clients are going through.

When STM Journalist Katie Robertson asked me to share my story in an article about the increasing shift in focus from ‘thin’ to ‘fit & healthy’, I was thrilled and honoured.

Join us here as we talk whole foods and motivational mantras, the essence of wellness (inside and out), and self-love.
 

Fit is the New Skinny

FORGET thigh gaps and bikini bridges, healthy living has become a national obsession. Meet the young “health-preneurs” leading the charge.

Rebecca Weller used to wash down her shame and stress with diet shakes. She forced down non-fat foods in her lunchbreak at the office and then went home to the low-calorie dinners lining her freezer.

The Perth-based cost engineer was just like many women she knew — a neon sign emblazoned with the word “THIN” buzzed and flickered in her mind, taunting her while she ran the numbers on the calories she’d eaten that day like a frenzied tax accountant.

– Katie Robertson, The Sunday Times Magazine / News.com.au

Image Credit: Richard Hatherly

Freedom from Addiction

Sharing my alcohol-free journey with you recently was one of my scariest moments. I don’t think anyone likes admitting (especially publicly!) things they don’t like about themselves.

But the love and support that poured in from you guys filled my heart to overflowing.

I also learnt an important lesson in the process: that vulnerability is powerful. We never know what others are struggling with until we have the courage to share our own stories and demons.

So when News.com.au Journalist Kate Midena asked me to share my story in such an important story about the effects of alcohol, I was deeply honoured.

Join us here as we talk about big, scary changes, and the beauty of hope and new beginnings.
 

Is Alcohol Destroying Us?

News.com.au spoke to four people whose lives have all been affected by alcohol in different ways. When we asked each of them if they thought the Australian public were aware of just how damaging alcohol can be, the answer was a resounding ‘No’.

“Alcohol is such a huge part of the Australian culture, drinking at every social gathering is just widely accepted as ‘normal’,” Rebecca Weller told us. “I think it’s only when we take an extended break from drinking that we realise just how damaging and unnecessary it really is.”

– Kate Midena, The Australian / News.com.au

 
I’d love to hear from you in the comments below, beautiful. Have you discovered freedom from a habit or pattern that previously held you back? How has it impacted your life for the better?

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Such a great question!

If you feel like you’re not really passionate about anything and are wondering how to find that special something that will fill your heart with joy, today’s video is for you, gorgeous:

Can’t view this video? Click here to watch on YouTube.

More Posts on this Topic

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On Being Fearless
Vision Boards to Rock Your Dreams
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Overcoming Resistance
Finding your ‘Muchness’

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I’d love to hear from you in the comments below, beautiful. Have you found your passion? If so, how did you find it, and where did the journey take you? If not, what’s one new thing/activity/experience you will try this week?

The post How to Find Your Passion appeared first on Vegan Sparkles with Rebecca Weller.

Click here to read Part 1  &  here to read Part 2.

 
I knew a lifestyle change of this magnitude (and the internal work it required) called for radical self-kindness, so I ‘rewarded’ myself for getting through each day with little treats like long walks, fresh sheets, fresh flowers, new books, raw desserts, and anything else that made things easier. I drank sparkling mineral water from fancy glasses and hugged my love a lot. I went to bed early. I cried some more and began to find it easier to talk about my fears and the jumbled mess of emotions that kept pouring out of me.

And in amongst the jumbled mess came some pretty big lessons and discoveries…
 

The Problem Wasn’t What I Thought it Was

All this time I thought the problem was my lack of willpower. As soon as I had that first drink, I didn’t want to stop, even though drinking to excess (and the awful shame and hangovers it left in its wake) had stopped being fun a long time ago.

It was a beautiful breakthrough when I realised that after I had that first drink, it wasn’t really me making the decisions anymore – my judgement was impaired, the Wine Monster was in full control and it wanted more, more, MORE!  So it wasn’t actually the fourth or fifth drink that was the big problem for me – it was that very first one.
 

It’s Okay (and Healthy) to Redefine ‘Fun’

One of my biggest fears about quitting drinking was that I’d never have – or be – fun, ever again. I honestly didn’t believe I’d feel joy in a world without endless social events and free-flowing bubbles… Without a crisp white wine with dinner… Without cheeky sunset cocktails…

After a bit of (sober) time to think, I began to realise that perhaps the reason I got so drunk at particular events was because I wasn’t comfortable there in the first place.

Now I skip events that don’t feel right for me. With my increasing self-respect (thank you, sobriety!) comes a feeling of being quite protective of my energy and not subjecting myself to unnecessarily toxic environments or situations.

If I’m invited to a big, boozy affair, I’ll arrive early and leave early. I have a great time chatting to everyone and then make a hasty exit before things get too messy.

It took some adjustment but I realise now it’s only natural that my social life will change as a result of my decision, and with each passing day I feel more okay with that.
 

I Don’t Need Alcohol to Have a Good Time

Trust me, no-one was more shocked at this one than me. I was awestruck the first time I went to an event sober and had a really great time.

Belly ache from laughing?  Check.
Deep and meaningful conversations?  Check.
A clear and grateful head hitting the pillow well before midnight?  Ohhhh, scrumptious check!
 

I Love People More

Back when I socialised with a drink in my hand, there was always part of my mind that was preoccupied with thoughts of booze.

Did I bring enough wine? Is it too soon to get another drink? Will anyone notice if I pour another? What happens if we run out? Will the bottle shop still be open? Will we make it in time?

Now, when I talk to people, I’m 100% present and focused on what they’re saying. Better yet, I remember everything we talked about! My relationships are so much stronger and deeper, and that sense of connection makes me feel so much happier.
 

Dutch Courage is a Diddle

I thought I needed to drink to feel confident. And yet, the longer I go without drinking, the more confident I feel in every situation. I trust myself more. I feel strong and graceful and grounded. I feel so incredibly peaceful without all that internal angst and drama.
 

I Feel Healthier

After decades of insomnia, I now sleep like an angel. No waking at 3am, staring at the ceiling, wishing my dehydrated head would stop pounding. It feels heavenly to wake up feeling fresh every morning with clarity, a feeling of connection, and a sense of purpose.

My face and eyes feel less ‘puffy’, my skin is less dry, and my little ‘wine pouch’ belly disappeared. I have more energy, my digestion has improved ten fold, and brain fog is a thing of the past.
 

I Feel Happier

I feel more myself than I have in a very long time.

That cheeky sense of humour I thought only came out to play at wine o’clock? Turns out it wanted to play all the time – I was just pigeonholing it.

The anxiety I thought I was drinking to soothe? Turns out drinking only delayed it and invited it back double-strength the next day. Craziest of all is that drinking actually caused most of it to begin with. I’ve rarely felt anxious in the past few months – instead feeling only increasing calm and bliss. Sweet Heavens!
 

I Have So Much More Time Now

Without late nights or days wasted in hangover-mode, I have so much more time and energy. Time for movies (and remembering the entire plot), farmers markets, brunch dates, early morning writing sessions, long walks, trying new things, and daydreams.

Time for greater creativity and clarity, productivity, and deep, peaceful relationships.
 

The Part I Love Most

The absolute, delicious, blissful freedom.

Freedom from counting drinks. Freedom from giving myself ‘those lectures’ about not making an idiot of myself this time. Freedom from saying stupid things I regret. Freedom from believing I can only connect with people when I have a drink in my hand. Freedom from searching for late-night cabs in the freezing cold, or worrying about how to get home. Freedom from the morning-after cocktail of tiredness, nausea, anxiety and paranoia.

I’m not saying it’s always easy. Some Fridays – especially when I’m hungry and/or tired – my inner 3-year-old throws a tantrum and still wants wine, wine, WINE!

But I am saying it gets much easier. And is so, SO worth it.
 

So Is This Forever?

‘Forever’ still feels too big, too scary, too infinite. It’s still too huge for me to hold-my-hand-on-my-heart and promise on. For now all I know is that sobriety is too beautiful a sanctuary for me to want to give it up anytime soon. I worked so hard to get here and it’s more sublime than I could ever have imagined.

Throughout this journey I promised myself that I’d treat myself to a lovely big gift at the end of 100 days to reward myself for ‘going without’ for so long… only to find now that I’m here (at day 139, according to my trusty little tracker app), I don’t need it anymore.

Alcohol-free  turned out to be the biggest gift of all.   ♥
 

Update, September 2014:

It’s been almost six months since I decided to conduct the sassy experiment that changed my life. My darkest hours have inspired a soulful new direction, and I’m so excited to announce I’m now hard at work creating the website & resource I wish I’d had during the first 90 days:
 
::  Interviews + inspiration from kick-ass babes who wouldn’t be where they are now if they hadn’t ditched the drink.

::  Elixirs + desserts to tease your tastebuds and keep your mouth deliciously occupied.

::  Stories + journals for deep reflection and getting your head straight.
 
Sexy Sobriety has become a haven of inspiration, wellness, and empowerment for hundreds of women from around the globe.

Learn more (and receive a free coaching call video) at SexySobriety.com.

The post 100 Days Without a Drink – Part 3 appeared first on Vegan Sparkles with Rebecca Weller.

There’s little I love more than hearing stories of Australian women following their passions and creating beautiful new enterprises.

Even better?

Chatting with one such Goddess over a luxurious cup of 100% certified organic tea.

Naturally, when I had the opportunity recently to interview Tessa Bontempo, founder of The Seventh Duchess Tea Co., I jumped at the chance.
 

Welcome, Tess!

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When did your love of tea begin and how did it spark the desire to begin your own tea company?

I have loved the ritual, experience and rich history of tea drinking for many, many years now! I love tea! It’s good for the mind, good for the body, and connects the modern and old.

However, I come to realise there was something missing in the Australian market. I wanted to create a refined range of teas that lauded the history and tradition side of tea, but at home within a contemporary, modern life free from artificial colour and flavour. This inspired me to spend a year travelling the world learning about the art of tea, and the various tea rituals of different cultures.

I truly believe that we all deserve a little luxury in every day, because life should be all about the little pleasures!
 

Have you always had the entrepreneurial spirit of adventure or is it a more recent development?

Yeah, I really have! Entrepreneurship runs in the family! So, I never really thought anything different and I always wanted to achieve things for myself. In fact, I remember in year nine I told my economics teacher I was going to be an entrepreneur and he laughed at me!
 

What’s the best thing about rocking your own biz?

I love being able to control my own destiny, challenge myself and follow my passion!
 

Being a soulpreneur is damn hard work. How do you practice self-love and self-care to ensure your sparkle doesn’t fade?

I like to start my mornings with yoga, and tea (naturally). I also ensure I always spend a few moments for myself each day, for instance, I like to find a calm and relaxing space to take 10-20 minutes to myself. It helps me de-stress and breathe. If I’m having a particularly difficult day, I’ll make sure I drink our Peace Organic Relaxation tea. It really does wonders to the mind, body and soul!
 

What’s got your toes tingling with excitement right now?

We’re currently working on a new product which will be a summer inspired blend. Something you can drink warm when you’ve got the winter blues, taking you to a place where the sun shines on your face, or you can drink iced to refresh your body during the warmer months. It’s set to launch in September, and I cannot wait!
 

What’s your favourite iced tea recipe?

I absolutely love Hibiscus Coconut Iced Tea! It’s really good for your body, and tastes absolutely delicious (win win!).
 
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Want to WIN your very own collection of tea from The Seventh Duchess?

To win a prize pack containing four varieties from the delicious new Apothecary range, simply comment below and tell us:

What’s your favourite tea ritual and why?

Entries close Midnight AWST Wednesday 30th July. The winner will be chosen at random and notified by email on Thursday 31st July.

The winner must be a current VeganSparkles.com subscriber. Click here to join us if you haven’t already (it’s free + you’ll score yourself a bonus Sparkle Experiment eBook gift!).

The post The Seventh Duchess Giveaway! appeared first on Vegan Sparkles with Rebecca Weller.

Click here to read Part 1.

 
If there’s one thing I’ve learnt in adopting a vegan lifestyle, then eating gluten-free, then starting my health coaching practice, it’s that having a great support network can mean the difference between weeping alone in the corner, and rocking it out and actually enjoying the challenge.

Before embarking on an experiment of this magnitude, I knew I’d need help, and lots of it.
 

My Tools of Choice

:: Like the true geek I am, I wrote a 10 Things Better Than Wine list and referred to it every day.

:: I joined Hello Sunday Morning (such a great initiative!) and read stories from others who were undergoing the same challenge.

:: I ordered and read Jason Vale’s book: ‘Kick the Drink… Easily!’

:: In a very happy accident (while reading an article about the increasing number of ‘dry’ cafes opening in the UK), I discovered the Soberistas website. There, I was amazed and oh-so relieved to find oodles of incredibly helpful sober blogs (including my now-favourites: Carrie on Sober, Mrs D is Going Without, Unpickled, and Fit Fat Food).

I’m not sure why I was so surprised to find these blogs. Did I really think I was the only woman in the world struggling to put the glass down?

:: I also stumbled across Belle’s blog and 100 Day Challenge:
 

I will not drink for 100 days. No matter what. I can cry, but I will not drink. I can go to bed or go home early. I might feel distressed… but I will not drink. Bad things might happen, but I will not drink. Incredibly shitty things may happen to someone around me, or my neighbor, or my friend’s friend’s grandmother. But there will be no booze. Funerals? Weddings? Amputation? I’m not drinking for 100 days no matter what happens… No matter what.
~ Belle, Tired of Thinking About Drinking

 
This challenge instantly appealed to me. Quite honestly, the thought of never drinking again was terrifying. Even thinking about it made my chest constrict and the waterworks start again.

One hundred days. Now, that seemed manageable. Long enough to have a proper break and then reassess the situation, but short enough to seem achievable (and a whole lot less scary than ‘forever’).

:: I downloaded a Day Tracker app onto my phone and decided 100 days was my goal.
 

The Hardest Part

I’m not gonna’ lie. The first 30 days were tough.

I hadn’t expected to feel so insanely tired all the time. I’d only been drinking (albeit to excess) a couple (okay, sometimes 4 or 5) nights per week, so I didn’t expect a physical detox. Very naïve on my part, especially since it took my body a good 30 days to detox from dairy, and then again from gluten. I should’ve seen it coming.

I didn’t think I’d cry so much but I did. I threw a couple of tantrums in frustration at not being able to drink like ‘normal’ people (and cried). I replayed all the stupid, drunken things I’ve ever done over-and-over in my mind (and cried some more).

I was upset that I’d let alcohol have such a huge influence over me and I hated the fear I felt in taking it away. I was frustrated that it felt so hard to go without it, and that I didn’t really know how to deal with my daily emotions. I hated that reality felt so relentless without the option of ‘cutting loose’ on a Friday night. And I hated that I wasn’t sure who I was in social settings without a drink in my hand.

Feelings reinforced by the reaction from friends and former colleagues, generally along the lines of: “Are you insane? I’d rather go without food for 100 days than alcohol!”

The very same reaction I would have had before I embarked on this challenge.

Would people still invite me out if I stopped drinking for good?
Would I always feel like I was missing out?
Would I ever have – or be – fun, ever again?

I was afraid of what would happen if I stopped drinking. But I was more afraid of what would happen if I didn’t.

And I got through it.

Day 30 fell on my birthday, and for the first time since I turned 17, I celebrated it sober. Instead of my usual cocktails, champagne and dancing-on-tables celebration, I spent the night cuddling on the couch with my love, my favourite dinner (fajitas), some fancy raw chocolate, a crystal goblet filled with sparkling mineral water and fresh lime, and an 80’s flick.

And you know what? It felt really good. Wholesome. Healthy. Right.

Little did I know, the real discoveries were yet to come…
 

Click here to read Part 3.

The post 100 Days Without a Drink – Part 2 appeared first on Vegan Sparkles with Rebecca Weller.

Or maybe a few months into a healthy new habit – and juuuust when you’re getting the hang of it – you do something destructive… and you’re not really sure why?

Today’s video is for you, gorgeous.
 

Can’t view this video? Click here to watch on YouTube.

Tools to get you Unstuck

Meditation

Breathe. Surrender. Let go of the results. Remember this is a journey, not a short-term fix.
 

Emotional Freedom Technique

If you’ve never tried EFT (or Tapping), check out this video or this one to get started. Then, the next time you find yourself elbow-deep in the cookie jar, sit down, take a deep breath, and try tapping to explore what’s really going on. How does your body feel in this moment? Is it fearful? Where is that fear coming from, beautiful?
 

Affirmations

Maybe your fear of success stems from a place of feeling like you’re not good enough. Affirmations can be a powerful way to reframe your fears and foster a new mindset.
Try:
‘My body is becoming stronger and more graceful every day’
or
‘I love being free of my old, destructive habits’
or
‘I love the person I am becoming’.
 

Journalling

Write it out, baby! Really explore your emotions.

:: What pleasure are you gaining from being stuck in your old habits? Maybe it feels safe and secure to stay stuck in your ‘story’?

:: What will your life be like if you make these changes, and what will it be like if you don’t?

:: What scares you about making these changes? Maybe you’re afraid of how people might react to the ‘new’ you, or of no longer fitting in. What would be the absolute worst case scenario? Often when we’re brave enough to explore our fears in depth, we find that the monster scenarios we built up in our minds are not so scary after all.

:: Ultimately, who do you want to be? Where do you see yourself two – or five, ten – years from now? What do you want to do with your one precious life here, beautiful?

 
So tell me in the comments below, angel-face: When do you find yourself self-sabotaging? What triggers it for you? How do you deal with it? And what ‘story’ or ‘identity’ in your life are you ready to let go of? xx

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