About the Blog
We live in a pretty busy, crazy world where multi-tasking is expected and we often question the meaning of life. Even when we know the tools to help us slow down and enjoy life, we often are so spun out of control and distracted that it is hard to find the balance and the time to be compassionate with ourselves. Free Your Mind is here to help us find that balance and time. Where we are reminded of the benefits of slowing down and living in the present moment. Where we can share simple tips on how we can have the quality of life we crave and not just continue to make another “to-do” list that we never get to. Free Your Mind believes that making a small effort towards your wellness and awareness is a big deal and should be celebrated. Here you will find easy every day tools on mindfulness, positive living, and stress management. We encourage everyone to share their ideas, thoughts, and tips, so together we can FREE OUR MINDS!
About The Writers
Christine Marie Salas, MSW, HTP, Lead Writer
When I was in my most stressful years, I wasn’t taking care of myself. I kept thinking that the only solution was just to get more stuff done in a day so that I would have more time later. But days, and weeks, and months, and years went by, and the “later” I had hoped for, never came. I just kept becoming more stressed and more unhealthy, which included not eating well, not sleeping, and increased anxiety. But one day I woke up from my stressful nightmare and I realized that I shouldn’t live my life for later, I should live my life for now! It was then that I realized how my thoughts, actions, attitude, and reactions are really what cause my stress and only I had the power to change my situation. It was then that I really realized how powerful the mind can be and how mindfulness can reduce stress and improve my quality of life. I believe that everyone has the power to manage their stress and be happy. Knowing and remembering we have that power within us is the first step.
A little more about me…. I’m a positive, but real, person and I love to laugh (who doesn’t? I’m obsessed with finding good stand-up comedy). I believe that everything in my life happens for a reason and I try to look for the lessons in my misfortunes and be grateful for what I have. I love being outdoors, practicing yoga, and having a balance between spending time with friends and family and spending time alone. I believe even just a little kindness and a smile can go a long way. I have a BA in Sociology, a Master’s in Social Work, and am a Healing Touch Practitioner. I am Puertorican, grew up in Westchester, NY, and currently live in Portland, Oregon with my husband, daughter, and dog. The Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course was an eye-opening experience and is what gave me the idea to start the Free Your Mind blog with the help of my younger sister, Crystal. I worked for a non-profit organization as a Director, where I managed mental health programs to assist those experiencing homelessness and those residing in Adult Residential Facilities. I now work for a non-profit retirement community as the Director of Social Services where I provide psychosocial support to older adults. Working with older adults has truly helped me live in the present moment.
Crystal Aida Nardi, Contributing Writer
Being positive and remembering to focus on good thoughts can be a challenge in our busy world. Growing up I tended to allow the events around me to affect my mood and the way I felt about people or situations. I allowed my emotions to get the best of me, in turn, focusing too much on the negative. Although I enjoyed my teenage and college years, I didn’t spend enough time appreciating ALL of the amazing moments life has to offer. Around the age of 21, I started my journey on positive thinking. I began to read articles, books, and watch videos on the power of the mind and our ability to manifest our dreams. It truly changed my life. I began to realize that the way I felt was a choice and that all of the things I wanted could be accomplished through hard work, persistence, and positive thinking. Since then I have accomplished many goals and dreams that I always hoped would come true. I truly believe that you can have anything you want in life and the key to making things happen is positive thinking, believing, and working towards your goals. Being mindful reminds us to live in the moment, appreciate all that life has to offer and live freely!
Now a little background about myself…Eating and cooking are passions of mine and I love to be surrounded by friends and family. I love to work out, be outside, play any game, and travel. I have a BA in Psychology from Western Connecticut State University and a Master’s in Education from Manhattanville College. I am Bilingual/ESL Teacher, teaching in both English and Spanish. I love my job and working with kids. I am Puertorican and was born in New York. I grew up in Westchester, NY, and Fairfield, CT. I am currently living in Connecticut and continuing to live out my dreams.
