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The Power of Audacity and Resilience with Erika Rothenberger

In this empowering episode of The Motion of Gratitude, host Shannon Missimer sits down with the incredible Erika Rothenberger to explore the transformative power of resilience, grace, and intentional living.

Erika Rothenberger, a corporate professional turned wellness leader, podcaster, and author, shares her remarkable journey from surviving a traumatic assault to thriving through audacity and self-belief. She opens up about the harrowing event on June 16, 2020, and how it led her to a path of forgiveness and inspiration.

Together, Shannon and Erika discuss the importance of self-reflection, checking in with oneself, and maintaining a positive influence on those around us. Erika emphasizes the significance of gratitude, connecting with nature, and being intentional in our daily actions. She also delves into the value of surrounding ourselves with a "board of directors"—a supportive community that helps us grow.

Listeners will glean valuable insights from Erika’s BOLD method for living life audaciously and authentically. Erika also shares personal anecdotes about motherhood, including how her son’s entrepreneurial spirit motivates her to be a role model.

Tune in to this episode for a dose of inspiration, actionable advice, and the motivation to live a life full of purpose and resilience.

**Key Takeaways:**

- The benefits of self-reflection and belief during challenging times.

- How to leverage personal trauma as a source of growth and empowerment.

- The importance of audacity and bold actions in achieving life goals.

- Strategies for intentional living and making meaningful connections.

- The role of motherhood in personal and professional transformation.

Don’t miss this heartening conversation that promises to leave you feeling inspired and ready to embrace the power of audacity in your own life.

**Connect with Erika Rothenberger:**

- Erika's Website

- Erika on Instagram

This episode is brought to you by the Motion of Gratitude podcast. Subscribe and join us in making the most of every chance life offers!

For any listener inspired by Erika’s story, this episode invites you to reflect on your own journey

What if you didn’t have to just survive the holidays this year?
Breathe Through the Holidays is a 7-week guided breathing space to help you slow down, feel calmer, and stay present through it all.
Each week brings a simple, science-backed breath practice and reflection to help you reconnect with yourself — even in the middle of the busy season.
Join now for $33 at TheMotionofGratitude.com/holiday and give yourself the gift of calm.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes.
• Follow us on social media @TheMotionofGratitude for more content related to holistic well-being.

Ready to step into your life and stop going through The Motions? Let our 28 Day Gratitude Initiative be your new starting point! If you are ready to:
- find the good already in your life that you are missing
- find presence in your life so you don't let life pass you by
- start a consistent daily rhythm to set the tone in your life

Then join us! Purchase Your Experience today and get started! www.TheMotionofGratitude.com


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Welcome to Season 3 of the The Motion of Gratitude Podcast! In this exciting premiere, hosts Shannon Missimer brings back her husband Matthew Missimer.

The two delve into profound personal transformations and the pursuit of genuine happiness. Matthew shares his enlightening journey of moving away from materialism and discovering deeper fulfillment, starting with his transformative experiences in Costa Rica. The couple reflects on their major life changes, including selling their Utah home, moving into a historic 1700s farmhouse, and how these shifts have impacted their outlook on life.

Shannon takes listeners through their two distinct phases of adulthood: an initial focus on external achievements and a current journey towards internal re-identification and integration. As they discuss the significance of their new home, Matthew and Shannon open up about the importance of gratitude, presence, and establishing new foundations for living.

Stay tuned as Matthew talks about his book, "The Paradox of Having Your Shit Together," and how it aligns with their life philosophies. The Missimers share their adventures, family decisions, and how intentional gratitude and empathy have guided their path. 

Join us for an inspirational episode that promises insights into living a more connected, meaningful life.

Don’t forget to explore more about gratitude practices at themotionofgratitude.com and follow us on social media @themotionofgratitude. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform to never miss an episode!

What if you didn’t have to just survive the holidays this year?
Breathe Through the Holidays is a 7-week guided breathing space to help you slow down, feel calmer, and stay present through it all.
Each week brings a simple, science-backed breath practice and reflection to help you reconnect with yourself — even in the middle of the busy season.
Join now for $33 at TheMotionofGratitude.com/holiday and give yourself the gift of calm.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes.
• Follow us on social media @TheMotionofGratitude for more content related to holistic well-being.

Ready to step into your life and stop going through The Motions? Let our 28 Day Gratitude Initiative be your new starting point! If you are ready to:
- find the good already in your life that you are missing
- find presence in your life so you don't let life pass you by
- start a consistent daily rhythm to set the tone in your life

Then join us! Purchase Your Experience today and get started! www.TheMotionofGratitude.com


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Joel Zuckerman shares his journey of writing over 250 letters of appreciation and the impact it has had on his life. He discusses the seven pillars of expressive gratitude, including how it makes the writer and recipient feel good, fosters a positive ripple effect, and leaves a lasting legacy. Joel also introduces his upcoming book, 'Gratitude Tiger,' which emphasizes the importance of proactively experiencing gratitude. In this conversation, Joel Zuckerman and Shannon Missimer discuss the power of gratitude and its impact on mental and emotional well-being. They explore the difference between reactive and proactive gratitude, emphasizing the importance of expressing gratitude rather than keeping it silent. Joel shares his personal experience of practicing gratitude during a challenging time after a serious accident in Peru. He highlights the perspective shift that gratitude brings and how it helps him cope with difficulties. 

You can learn more about Joel at GratitudeTiger.com, where he offers speaking engagements and resources on gratitude.

What if you didn’t have to just survive the holidays this year?
Breathe Through the Holidays is a 7-week guided breathing space to help you slow down, feel calmer, and stay present through it all.
Each week brings a simple, science-backed breath practice and reflection to help you reconnect with yourself — even in the middle of the busy season.
Join now for $33 at TheMotionofGratitude.com/holiday and give yourself the gift of calm.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes.
• Follow us on social media @TheMotionofGratitude for more content related to holistic well-being.

Ready to step into your life and stop going through The Motions? Let our 28 Day Gratitude Initiative be your new starting point! If you are ready to:
- find the good already in your life that you are missing
- find presence in your life so you don't let life pass you by
- start a consistent daily rhythm to set the tone in your life

Then join us! Purchase Your Experience today and get started! www.TheMotionofGratitude.com


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In this episode of the Motion of Gratitude podcast, Shannon Missimer interviews her Incredible friend Laura Di Francesco. Laura shares her diverse range of businesses and passions, including her law firm (Dean Street Law) , lifestyle brand, Flourish ( co-working space)  and Ethereal Farm ( Her gorgeous Air BnB in Southern PA!). Laura shares her mindset shift towards embracing her multi-passionate nature and finding balance in her life.  They dive deep into the idea of being a renaissance woman when the world is saying to niche down.  Laura  shares her insights into what has allowed her to navigate the logic of law, with the free flow of her lifestyle brand and her many incredible hobbies.   She shares her journey to becoming a lawyer and her mission to provide equitable access to legal information and the approach she takes to make law approachable to business and entrepreneurs.  Laura shares her exciting news about running for Miss Pennsylvania USA pageant and her incredible perspective of how she lives her life. 

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

03:48
Embracing Multi-Passionate Nature and Finding Balance

06:21
Taking Small Steps and Being a Student of Yourself

10:26
Navigating Between Analytical and Creative Pursuits

22:39
The Power of Participating in Pageants

If you are as excited as we are to follow along on Laura's journey you can find all her information below! 

Here's where you can find Laura on Social Media:
INSTAGRAM:
@lauradifrancesco
@deanstreetlaw
@flourishwestchester
@etherealfarms

Laura's Website:
lauradifrancesco.co

What if you didn’t have to just survive the holidays this year?
Breathe Through the Holidays is a 7-week guided breathing space to help you slow down, feel calmer, and stay present through it all.
Each week brings a simple, science-backed breath practice and reflection to help you reconnect with yourself — even in the middle of the busy season.
Join now for $33 at TheMotionofGratitude.com/holiday and give yourself the gift of calm.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes.
• Follow us on social media @TheMotionofGratitude for more content related to holistic well-being.

Ready to step into your life and stop going through The Motions? Let our 28 Day Gratitude Initiative be your new starting point! If you are ready to:
- find the good already in your life that you are missing
- find presence in your life so you don't let life pass you by
- start a consistent daily rhythm to set the tone in your life

Then join us! Purchase Your Experience today and get started! www.TheMotionofGratitude.com


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Dr. Amit Kakar, owner of Avalon Pharmacy, shares his journey of prioritizing family over business and the importance of being present and connected with his wife and children. He shares his personal family tools to foster open communication and understanding. Dr. Kakar also highlights the significance of vulnerability as a parent, and how it creates a safe space for children to open up and seek guidance. He discusses the challenges men face and the importance of finding like-minded individuals who can provide support and understanding. Dr. Kakar also touches on the prevalence of mental health struggles and the role of mindset in overcoming them. The conversation focuses on the importance of mindset, nutrition, and fitness in promoting mental wellness. To here the perspective of a pharmacist, who has given out more than 3 Million prescriptions, and of that 3 Million, 70% are for mental health, Amit has a beautiful perspective on focusing on our wellbeing and what he is doing to help! Check out his story, and all the incredible tools he has to offer!

You can learn more about Dr. Amit's programs through:
@amitkakarpharmd
www.amitkakar.net


Takeaways

• Prioritize family over business and be present and connected with your spouse and children.
• Hold Sunday family meetings to discuss the upcoming week and ensure everyone is on the same page.
• Create separate one-on-one time with each child to foster open communication and understanding.
• Practice vulnerability as a parent and apologize when necessary, creating a safe space for children to open up.
• Seek like-minded individuals who can provide support and understanding in the journey of parenthood.
• Recognize the prevalence of mental health struggles and the importance of mindset in overcoming them. Mindset plays a crucial role in shaping one's perspective and influencing the mindset of children.
• Nutrition has a significant impact on mental health, and education and awareness in this area are essential.
• Being an example for children and maintaining a united front as parents is crucial.
• Resilience and the ability to bounce back from setbacks are important for personal growth.
• Paying attention to details and being in tune with one's role as a parent is essential.

Chapters

00:00
Choosing to Be a Family Man with a Business

02:37
The Power of Sunday Family Meetings

09:40
Creating One-on-One Time with Each Child

11:31
The Importance of Vulnerability and Apologizing

14:49
Finding Support in Like-Minded

What if you didn’t have to just survive the holidays this year?
Breathe Through the Holidays is a 7-week guided breathing space to help you slow down, feel calmer, and stay present through it all.
Each week brings a simple, science-backed breath practice and reflection to help you reconnect with yourself — even in the middle of the busy season.
Join now for $33 at TheMotionofGratitude.com/holiday and give yourself the gift of calm.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes.
• Follow us on social media @TheMotionofGratitude for more content related to holistic well-being.

Ready to step into your life and stop going through The Motions? Let our 28 Day Gratitude Initiative be your new starting point! If you are ready to:
- find the good already in your life that you are missing
- find presence in your life so you don't let life pass you by
- start a consistent daily rhythm to set the tone in your life

Then join us! Purchase Your Experience today and get started! www.TheMotionofGratitude.com


Looking forward to connecting with you!

Send us a text

In this episode of the Motion of Gratitude podcast, Shannon Missimer interviews Ellen Bradley, an entrepreneur, yogi, and global citizen. They discuss Ellen's journey of world schooling her three daughters for the past eight years. Ellen shares that her decision to world school was driven by a desire to expose her children to the beauty and diversity of the world and to break free from societal conditioning. She emphasizes the importance of trusting one's intuition and making small choices that lead to big changes. Through world schooling, Ellen has learned about the capacity and resilience of children and the power of motherhood. She believes that the world is the greatest classroom and that human connection and nature should be valued in education. Ellen and Shannon discuss the challenges and rewards of world schooling and the importance of gratitude in navigating life's ups and downs. They also touch on the documentary Untethered and Ellen's upcoming book, which aim to share the wisdom of women around the world and inspire mothers to trust their intuition and embrace a wildly different normal.

Looking to following along on Ellen's Journey?

You Can find her on IG https://www.instagram.com/journeyoftheglobe/
https://www.instagram.com/ellenbradleyyoga/

https://www.live-untethered.com/

Trailer for the Untethered Documentary https://seedandspark.com/fund/untetheredthefilm#story

Takeaways

• World schooling allows children to experience the sensorial aspects of life, human connection, and the wisdom of elders and indigenous people.
• Trusting one's intuition and making small choices that align with one's purpose can lead to big changes.
• Motherhood is a pillar of love and guidance, and mothers have the capacity to create a deep connection with their children.
• Children have a greater capacity for resilience, curiosity, and learning than we often realize.
• The world is the greatest classroom, and education should prioritize human connection and nature. World schooling can be challenging but also brings families closer together and exposes children to different ways of living and thinking.
• Gratitude is a powerful tool that can help navigate intense times and shift one's perspective.
• Choosing to let go and untether oneself from expectations and societal norms can open up new opportunities and freedom.
• Sharing stories and wisdom can inspire and support other mothers on their own journeys.
• Trusting one's intuition and embracing a wildly different normal can lead to personal growth an

What if you didn’t have to just survive the holidays this year?
Breathe Through the Holidays is a 7-week guided breathing space to help you slow down, feel calmer, and stay present through it all.
Each week brings a simple, science-backed breath practice and reflection to help you reconnect with yourself — even in the middle of the busy season.
Join now for $33 at TheMotionofGratitude.com/holiday and give yourself the gift of calm.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes.
• Follow us on social media @TheMotionofGratitude for more content related to holistic well-being.

Ready to step into your life and stop going through The Motions? Let our 28 Day Gratitude Initiative be your new starting point! If you are ready to:
- find the good already in your life that you are missing
- find presence in your life so you don't let life pass you by
- start a consistent daily rhythm to set the tone in your life

Then join us! Purchase Your Experience today and get started! www.TheMotionofGratitude.com


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In this episode of the Motion of Gratitude podcast, Shannon and Matthew reflect on their time living in the jungle in Costa Rica. They discuss the lessons they have learned and the challenges they have faced. One of the main takeaways is the importance of slowing down and being present in the moment. They also talk about the contrast between the hustle culture in the US and the more relaxed pace of life in Costa Rica. Another key lesson is the appreciation for the simple things in life, such as clean water and access to basic necessities. Overall, their time in the jungle has taught them the value of finding balance and embracing both the traditional and spiritual aspects of life. In this conversation, Shannon Missimer reflects on her experiences and lessons learned during her time in Costa Rica. She discusses the importance of self-discovery and self-love, particularly in relation to physical health. Shannon also emphasizes the value of taking messy action and embracing failure as a means of personal growth and transformation. She encourages listeners to explore and step outside of their comfort zones, reminding them that life is a beautiful journey of self-discovery and expansion.

Takeaways

• Slowing down and being present in the moment is important
• There is a contrast between the hustle culture in the US and the relaxed pace of life in Costa Rica
• Appreciating the simple things in life, such as clean water and basic necessities
• Finding balance and embracing both the traditional and spiritual aspects of life Self-discovery and self-love are essential for personal growth and happiness.
• Physical health should be a priority, and taking care of oneself is a form of self-love.
• Taking messy action and embracing failure are necessary for growth and transformation.
• Stepping outside of one's comfort zone and exploring new experiences can lead to self-discovery and personal growth.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Reflection on Time in the Jungle

03:21
Slowing Down and Embracing the Flow

06:45
Living in Harmony or Disharmony

10:38
Lessons in Flexibility and Adaptation

13:46
Exploring Extremes and Finding Balance

15:07
Appreciating the Simple Things

21:14
Living with Limited Resources

23:36
Adapting to a Slower Pace of Life

26:05
The Beauty of Creativity and Exploration

29:13
Freedom of Thought and Witnessing Others' Journeys

31:04
Finding the Middle Ground and Acceptance

32:01
Meeting People from Around

What if you didn’t have to just survive the holidays this year?
Breathe Through the Holidays is a 7-week guided breathing space to help you slow down, feel calmer, and stay present through it all.
Each week brings a simple, science-backed breath practice and reflection to help you reconnect with yourself — even in the middle of the busy season.
Join now for $33 at TheMotionofGratitude.com/holiday and give yourself the gift of calm.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes.
• Follow us on social media @TheMotionofGratitude for more content related to holistic well-being.

Ready to step into your life and stop going through The Motions? Let our 28 Day Gratitude Initiative be your new starting point! If you are ready to:
- find the good already in your life that you are missing
- find presence in your life so you don't let life pass you by
- start a consistent daily rhythm to set the tone in your life

Then join us! Purchase Your Experience today and get started! www.TheMotionofGratitude.com


Looking forward to connecting with you!

Send us a text

In this episode, Shannon Missimer interviews Emily Montgomery, the founder of HiLU, a pro-social app dedicated to spreading words of affirmation and fostering a community of gratitude. Emily shares her personal journey of transformation, from being a lawyer and prosecutor to following her passion for gratitude and kindness. The idea for HiLU came to Emily during her pilgrimage on the Camino del Santiago, where she received voice recordings of affirmations from her mentors. She realized the importance of affirming others and creating a space for meaningful connection. Emily emphasizes the need for social connection and the impact of loneliness on our well-being. This conversation explores the feeling of loneliness and the impact of social media on human connection. It highlights the importance of voice communication and optimizing well-being through thoughtful communication. The power of gratitude and meaningful communication is discussed, along with the barriers to communication and the methodology of expressing genuine appreciation. The conversation also introduces HiLU, a pro-social app that facilitates meaningful communication. It emphasizes the significance of emotional and social well-being and the long-lasting impact of meaningful words. 

Takeaways

• Transformation can happen when we listen to our inner voice and make choices that align with our true selves.
• Creating spaces for affirming others and fostering meaningful connections is essential for combating loneliness and improving well-being.
• Words of affirmation and gratitude have the power to uplift and inspire both the sender and the recipient.
• Building a community centered around kindness and gratitude can have a profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. Loneliness is a prevalent feeling that many people experience but may struggle to identify or articulate.
• The younger generation, despite being surrounded by people and social media networks, often experiences high rates of loneliness.
• Social media can contribute to feelings of disconnection and superficial social connections.
• Voice communication is more impactful than text messages or videos in fostering genuine connection.
• Expressing gratitude and meaningful words can have a profound and long-lasting impact on both the sender and the recipient.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Connection

01:17
Emily's Journey and Transformation

08:09
The Camino del Santiago and Mentors

11:06
The Challenges and Beginnings of the Journey

13:30
The

What if you didn’t have to just survive the holidays this year?
Breathe Through the Holidays is a 7-week guided breathing space to help you slow down, feel calmer, and stay present through it all.
Each week brings a simple, science-backed breath practice and reflection to help you reconnect with yourself — even in the middle of the busy season.
Join now for $33 at TheMotionofGratitude.com/holiday and give yourself the gift of calm.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes.
• Follow us on social media @TheMotionofGratitude for more content related to holistic well-being.

Ready to step into your life and stop going through The Motions? Let our 28 Day Gratitude Initiative be your new starting point! If you are ready to:
- find the good already in your life that you are missing
- find presence in your life so you don't let life pass you by
- start a consistent daily rhythm to set the tone in your life

Then join us! Purchase Your Experience today and get started! www.TheMotionofGratitude.com


Looking forward to connecting with you!

Send us a text

Summary

In this episode, Shannon Missimer interviews Dr. George Ackerman, the founder of Together for Sharon, an organization dedicated to raising awareness about Parkinson's disease. Dr. Ackerman shares his personal journey as a caregiver for his mother, who had Parkinson's, and the inspiration behind his organization. He discusses the early signs and diagnosis of Parkinson's, the importance of lifestyle choices in managing the disease, and the resources available on the Together for Sharon website. Dr. Ackerman also highlights the significance of the National Plan to End Parkinson's Disease and encourages listeners to get involved in supporting the cause. Dr. George Ackerman discusses his work in supporting individuals with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers. He shares his experiences and the importance of creating a support group for those who have lost loved ones. Dr. Ackerman emphasizes the message of support, advocacy, and the commitment to finding a cure for Parkinson's disease. The conversation concludes with expressions of gratitude and a reminder to find purpose and light in life.

Takeaways

Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder that affects the nervous system and gets worse over time.
Early signs of Parkinson's can include tremors, rigidity, and muscle stiffness.
Lifestyle choices such as exercise and diet can support individuals with Parkinson's and slow the progression of the disease.
Together for Sharon is an organization that provides resources and support for individuals and families affected by Parkinson's.
The National Plan to End Parkinson's Disease is a historic bill that aims to increase funding for research, improve treatment and care, and raise awareness about Parkinson's. Dr. George Ackerman is dedicated to supporting individuals with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers.
Creating a support group for those who have lost loved ones is an important initiative.
Support, advocacy, and unity are crucial in the fight against Parkinson's disease.
Finding purpose and light in life can help overcome challenges and make a positive impact.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:02 Purpose of Together for Sharon
02:00 George's Mother's Story and Parkinson's Awareness
06:22 Keeping Sharon's Legacy Alive
07:38 Early Signs and Diagnosis of Parkinson's
10:30 Lifestyle Choices for Parkinson's Support
12:16 Together for Sharon and Partnerships
16:25 Creating a Supportive Community
23:11 George's Caregiver Journey
28:49 The National Plan to End Parkinson's Disease
35:38

What if you didn’t have to just survive the holidays this year?
Breathe Through the Holidays is a 7-week guided breathing space to help you slow down, feel calmer, and stay present through it all.
Each week brings a simple, science-backed breath practice and reflection to help you reconnect with yourself — even in the middle of the busy season.
Join now for $33 at TheMotionofGratitude.com/holiday and give yourself the gift of calm.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes.
• Follow us on social media @TheMotionofGratitude for more content related to holistic well-being.

Ready to step into your life and stop going through The Motions? Let our 28 Day Gratitude Initiative be your new starting point! If you are ready to:
- find the good already in your life that you are missing
- find presence in your life so you don't let life pass you by
- start a consistent daily rhythm to set the tone in your life

Then join us! Purchase Your Experience today and get started! www.TheMotionofGratitude.com


Looking forward to connecting with you!

Send us a text

Summary

In this episode, Shannon Missimer interviews Ben Newman, a renowned speaker, entrepreneur, and performance coach. They discuss the importance of your burn and purpose, setting standards over feelings, the power of authenticity and connection, and the Coach to Coaches program. Ben shares personal stories and insights that highlight the significance of living life fully and making every day count.

Takeaways

• Focus on your burn and purpose to stay motivated and overcome challenges.
• Set standards for yourself instead of relying on feelings to guide your actions.
• Authenticity and genuine connection with others are key to making a lasting impact.
• Follow through on your commitments and be true to your word.
• Choose to live life fully and make each day count.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

03:15
The Importance of Burn and Purpose

08:22
Setting Standards over Feelings

11:45
The Power of Authenticity and Connection

19:55
Staying Authentic and Following Through

25:11
The Coach to Coaches Program

26:52
Choosing to Live Life Fully

What if you didn’t have to just survive the holidays this year?
Breathe Through the Holidays is a 7-week guided breathing space to help you slow down, feel calmer, and stay present through it all.
Each week brings a simple, science-backed breath practice and reflection to help you reconnect with yourself — even in the middle of the busy season.
Join now for $33 at TheMotionofGratitude.com/holiday and give yourself the gift of calm.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes.
• Follow us on social media @TheMotionofGratitude for more content related to holistic well-being.

Ready to step into your life and stop going through The Motions? Let our 28 Day Gratitude Initiative be your new starting point! If you are ready to:
- find the good already in your life that you are missing
- find presence in your life so you don't let life pass you by
- start a consistent daily rhythm to set the tone in your life

Then join us! Purchase Your Experience today and get started! www.TheMotionofGratitude.com


Looking forward to connecting with you!