Marijke McCandless, author of the newly released book Naked In The Now, is a playfulness instigator and award-winning writer. She is recognized by prestigious outlets, including Spirituality and Health Magazine, Best Self, and Thrive Global. Through her dynamic online writing practice group, Write Now Mind, and a range of personal growth workshops, she empowers individuals to embrace the present moment with joy and authenticity. Her book, with the subtitle Juicy Practices for Getting Present, invites readers on an inner striptease journey towards self-discovery. With a passion for adventure, especially rock climbing, Marijke encourages others to step out of their comfort zones and live fully.
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Contact Info
- Website: www.MarijkeMcCandless.com
Most Influential Person
- Joel Morwood (author of the book called The Way of Selflessness)
Effect On Emotions
- After 30 years of coaching, I now love breathing meditation. It took me a long time to get there. I always slightly controlled my breath. One of the tricks I used to begin uncoupling the technique was secretly matching my breath to my husband's.
- I didn't know what the rhythm of my breathing would be, so I had to pay close attention to another person's breath.
- Also, I have done this with a pet. It taught me not to be in control of my breath. Then I started doing breathing meditation as if I were that other person. I had to completely follow the breath, and I couldn't be even a tiny bit ahead of it.
Bullying Story
- I wasn't bullied myself, but I experienced childhood abuse at a very young age. My journey of healing has been alongside my husband, who was bullied. He often says that mindfulness saved his life.
- Bullying can be an isolated incident, a weekly occurrence, or even a daily ordeal. The real challenge lies in how we internalize it—sometimes we take on inappropriate shame or hatred for the bully.
- We often replay these painful stories in our minds.
- While society must address bullying, it's also crucial for individuals to move beyond the victim identity. Focusing our thoughts and attention away from the negative energy—whether self-hate or hatred for others—can be liberating.
- My husband, bullied for years, began to hate others and himself. Mindfulness taught him to sit with his feelings, no matter how difficult, and find peace in the present moment.
- This practice helped him recognize that he also experienced love and kindness.
- By bringing his attention back to the present, he could accept his past and choose to grow from it rather than remain trapped in a victim identity.
Suggested Resources
- Book: There Is Nothing Wrong With You: Going Beyond Self-Hate by Cheri Huber
- Book: The Direct Way: Thirty Practices to Evoke Awakening by Adyashanti
- Book: The Way of Selflessness: A Practical Guide to Enlightenment Based on the Teachings of the World's Great Mystics by Joel Morwood
- Book: The Way of Liberation: A Practical Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Adyashanti
- App: Insight Timer
- App: Project Joy by Sheri Huber
Related Episodes
Improve Your Sex Life With Meditation; Dr. Cheryl Fraser
Sex and Consciousness; Heather Shannon
Mindfulness Through Gratitude; Frank Kilpatrick & Rayko
Offer From Bruce
Seeking relief from stress and anxiety? As a coach and hypnotist, I'm here to help you conquer your inner critic so you can confidently thrive. Email me at bruce@mindfulnessmode.com with ‘I Am Determined' for a free coaching session. Let me help you pave the way to a fulfilling life.