Nisha Moodley is one of my biggest girl crushes.
She is one of the most beautiful examples of a truly free woman I know, fiercely dedicated to sisterhood, to living life instead of writing or talking about it, and, simultaneously, she always seems to be traveling or doing something just generally epic.
I was introduced to Nisha through Gabrielle Bernstein's herfuture, and have been following her for about a year now. Although I suscribe to many powerful women, her emails + blog posts are without a doubt my favourite reminders on how to live a truly free life.
For those of you who don't know her, Nisha started off as a holistic health coach, eventually helping women to break the pattern of emotional eating. After years of inward journeying and building extremely successful businesses, she's now a business and lifestyle coach, and is making some serious waves in the world. Watch out for her upcoming bestsellers and speaking tours. This woman is a force.
Please check out www.fiercefabulousfree.com for more on Nisha - and make sure to sign up for her mind blowingly spot on weekly newsletter.
It depends on the season and it always changes, but lately: I've been having a good long stretch, followed by a short meditation in the teepee (I bought it for my man for Christmas), then a short walk in the neighborhood. Then, kettlebell swings, breakfast and a shower!
What would your advice be to a young woman who is still in her "old life", yet wants to transition to a lifestyle that feels more authentic to her?
Your freedom is in the journey, not the destination. Instead of being frustrated at where you are, notice where you want to go and really, really savor all the little steps. There can be deep pleasure in the moment, if you're open to it.
Also, have amazing girlfriends that you give your full trust to. Share the things you think and feel about yourself that you're ashamed or embarrassed about; you'll find that you're more connected than you think, and these women will serve as your cheerleaders, tear-driers and mirrors throughout your journey. Women thrive in sisterhood.
What was one of your biggest life changing experiences over the last few years?
Divorce. It was the worst thing I've endured in my adult life so far, and it definitely showed me that I'm stronger and more resilient than I gave myself credit for. It also showed me things about myself that I didn't want to acknowledge were there. Shadow and light. I was faced with it all, and thank goodness I had amazing friends to help see me through.
I know you've been to tons of workshops, seminars and trainings. What was the best biz advice you've ever received? The best life advice?
The best business advice AND the best life advice came from my boyfriend. The first time we hung out, he asked me, "If you could do anything and get paid for it, what would you do?". That question sparked my creativity and dedication to living an extraordinary life more than any other question, and I continue to consider what my ultimate desire is in every situation. Choosing to go for what I really want has been game-changing in every area of my life.
What is the secret to a sustainable business?
Having sustainable human beings running it, and a focus on being of service. When we're not sustainable as individuals (healthy body, mind, bank account and relationships), we can easily fall into a what-can-I-get mindset. When we're tending to ourselves as individuals - making sure that we're healthy and sustainable - we can really show up in service of others.
Your current favourite:
-Book? Jitterbug Perfume, by Tom Robbins
-Travel Destination? (Visited or dreaming about) Peru (heading there in April 2013!) ...Can't wait to see the Maldives and Iceland one day.
-Track? This is too hard! Let's say Feather, by Little Dragon
-Food? Again, too hard! I'd say my family's crab curry, made with dungeness crab and coconut flakes. Amaze.
What are your favourite ways to care for yourself?
Eating delicious, healthy food. Dancing. Taking off work for days or weeks at a time (currently on a 1 month trip in Central America). Long talks with girlfriends. Buying myself flowers every week. Pedicures.
Who are your sheroes? (Women role models, girl crushes)
Moms (including mine) who know how to take care of themselves and their families. My clients -- I am totally awe-struck by the stand they're taking in the world, and their dedication to giving and growing. Every single one of my amazing girlfriends.
I have a 'toolbox' that helps me to feel grounded when I get off center - Meditation, Green Juice/Smoothies, Singing, Nature, etc. What's in your toolbox?
Sex. A glass of wine with a girlfriend. A shower. A long walk with some great music in my ears.
What is your future vision for your career? Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
In 5 years, I'll still be sharing my message of the importance of women's freedom, helping women thought leaders unblock the things in their life that keep them from living in full alignment with their vision and mission. The primary mediums for my work will be books, retreats and my mastermind.
I'll also have some mini humans to care for, and we'll trek around the world with them.