As you move through life in the pursuit of your dreams and goals, remember to have fun along the way. Focussing on too many problems can heavily weigh you down and creates a low energy vibe.
In the great poem “THINKING” by Walter D Wintle, he poetically expresses, “You’ve got to think HIGH to RISE” – I love this line so much.
Where there is a problem, there is almost certainly a solution, and that’s a better home for your thoughts.
Don’t forget to bring in your fun side once in a while – it’s all too important.
Don’t be labelled the “boring” one, because I just know you love to sing, dance and enjoy being happy.
Happy is a HIGH vibration and guess what that brings…..YES, more happiness.
I feel your smile today, it’s truly beautiful. 😊
In honour of your happiness, I dedicate this post to you.
It’s okay if your life is not “picture perfect” – I don’t think anyone’s is anyway.
I’ve always said “perfection is in the imperfections”, it makes life so much more interesting, real and true.
There’s a lot of pressure at the turn of a New Year, to write down new goals, set a new plan and make great things happen! Now, Missy Motivator here is always up for a challenge towards a better life, but all I would say is, don’t rush the process – let it flow out of you gently and much more meaningfully.
Stay aligned with your core values and truthful to your authentic self.
Create more space and light in your life – this is where the real magic happens.
So, as you turn the page of each new day, be mindful of where your focus is at – a messy mind equals a messy life, so keep it all nice and tidy upstairs.
Think about the things you truly love doing and have a deep connection to. How does being immersed in these interests make you feel?
You want to be involved in activities that make you feel alive.
Do things that align with your soul.
Make time for you, the real you.
Peace of heart and tranquility of mind are fully embodied, when you dance to the tune of your bliss.
Happiness is a feeling that can be tapped into at any moment of your day.
If you think happy things, you cannot be sad – read that one again!
Therefore, the power of your self-happiness is just a happy thought away.
Happy thoughts, create happy feelings, which then lead to doing things that make you feel even more happier.
The happy thought comes first, but it’s the happy ‘feeling’ that ignites the positive action.
1.THINK
2.FEEL
3.DO
When I was heavily into my coaching, believe me, I studied this field constantly. I read countless books on everything related to self-mastery.
I not only shared it with my coachees but I applied all the learnings to myself. I had to test it out before sharing it.
This type of brain work takes a lot of practice – I mean MASSIVE amounts.
Basically, you have to reprogramme your mind to new thinking, and the old programne that’s been running for many years, does not want to budge. It is rigid, stuck, locked in, set in stone….but not impossible to change.
I know this stuff inside out and even I find it extremely difficult to master. I’ve been practising this daily since 2008. Yes, 16 years trying to reprogramme my mind.
I believe this new thinking, is growing strong roots and the fruits of this are starting to blossom.
It takes daily effort, increased self-awareness, strong self-belief and a deep knowing that true transformation is taking place.
At times, and especially at the beginning of this change process, your mind is going to be exhausted. It will take up so much of your mental energy, because your brain is creating a new set of neural pathways. I’m not going to go that deep into it, but if you are interested in reading more on how the brain can change, read books on the subject of neuroplasticity – FASCINATING!
I believe the body is self-healing. How can something so perfectly formed, not have internal intelligence to heal?
I know you have more self-power than you can ever imagine.
I believe, we are super human beings, who haven’t yet fully discovered how to tap into our genius.
Your greatest potential is waiting to be unleashed – don’t fight it – let it out.
You are truly remarkable in every sense of the word.
Believe in you.
Believe in your capabilities.
Believe only magnificence lies before you.
Give yourself that gift – watch the short video I created below. 💛
I love these words of wisdom, they keep my mind in check, when things don’t seem to be going my way.
It’s a reminder to us all that we do not have a crystal ball and we must believe our aligned path will bring us to the most treasured pleasures.
This is where true faith and purpose always wins the day.
When that deepest part of your heart is locked in to forever goodness – no negative barriers can stand in your way. So much so, they don’t even exist.
Where progress is slow, but your faith in the mystery of the unknown, holds true for you – it’s just a matter of time before you breakthrough.
Your inner strength, is like a ray of bright sunlight bursting through dark cloudy skies.
There is no thunder without lightning. Your positive magnetic energy, is like that spectacular lighting bolt, slicing through those deafening roars and igniting your electrifying dreams.
You don’t often succeed in life by chance.
Strong faith does not need luck.
Hope has no healthy heartbeat.
Purpose blended with passion, is a dynamic duo.
Knowing, is beyond believing.
Open yourself up to the blank space before you and feel your way into your desired future.
Keep the faith.
Here’s a short Youtube video, I created many years ago – just for you…
What if even in your weakest moments, you are someone else’s power, role model and heart of hope?
You see, that’s the kind of unseen power you have. To empower and guide others because they look up to you in some meaningful way.
By knowing that you help more people than you realise, in turn, gives you more self-power.
You can never be weak if you help others, for as they seek strength in you, you gain strength in their growth – it’s a magical two-way cycle.
I met a beautiful human being today, at a moment when I was questionning my own circumstances and she, unknowingly, gave me strength because of her kind ways and happy spirit.
Even the coach needs a coach.
The mentor needs a mentor.
The leader needs a leader.
The teacher needs a teacher.
And the person at the very top of the tree, pulls strength and resilience from their chosen team. No one wins alone – do you hear me?
You’ll never get anywhere in this world alone – that’s a selfish move – and you will always retreat back to “better together” because it really is.
In unity we thrive – read that one again!
Happiness therefore is enjoyed more abundantly, when we are together, giving out love.
A world in complete union, is possible. One smile, one heart, one love.
Fighting creates separation and moves the world backwards. If we are to grow and evolve on this earth, we need to join hands and with a common ground focus.
What are these commonalities:
Love
Joy
Peace
Happiness
Health
Growth
Abundance
Unity
So how do we achieve that, when we are surrounded by wars, hate and selfish leadership ego?
We have to lead with pure love from the bottom up, not the top down.
Love will ALWAYS overpower hate – there is no stronger force.
If the “many” live their lives in love, no matter the external circumstances, the world will begin to change for the better and not before.
I’m not telling you to ignore the horrible fighting that’s going on, because sadly, it’s there and it’s real. I am telling you to change yourself from within. To focus on loving, giving, helping, growing and being a better human being – the compound effect of this is such a powerful, life-giving source. In doing so, these wars will eventually melt away and never return.
Fighting and hating is life-taking and we’re not going that way. We are supposed to be evolving in a much more sustainable and beautiful way.
If we don’t change now – one by one, we run the risk of becoming extinct.
You need to BELIEVE that you hold the POWER to change the world for the better – and it starts with love and kindness.
Be mindful of what I said earlier – “In unity we thrive” and therefore, “In division we die – we ALL die“.
I want you to do one loving thing everyday for the next 100 days. When you do this, your life is GOING TO CHANGE in so many wonderful ways.
The GOOD LIFE comes from doing GOOD THINGS – be mindful of that.
May your day today, be filled with love and kindness.
Your future is so AMAZING, this I know for you.
Love Clarabelle
Please subscribe, like and share – thank you my dearest friend.
This was me in 2018 having a great laugh with my nieces, jumping around like a fool on their outdoor trampoline – I was aged 45 then…..I’d do it again today at 51, if my body allowed it!
We must create a sense of fun and adventure in life, we must, at times, be a kid again and drop the adult seriousness. Being a boring adult, can be exhausting and I have no energy for that!
Yes, we all have troubles and worries – some more than others, but we must always remember to face adversity with a smile and a solution – read that one again!
I am so happy when I am with my nieces – I have five of them and one nephew and their energy and love for life is truly contagious.
Go on, have a little fun!
When ‘Auntie Claire’ comes from London to visit them, the only thing I’m doing is having a whole lot of fun and they, deservedly so, get my undivided attention. We go on nature walks, play board games, draw, write, watch family movies, sing, dance and everything in between – those moments are some of the best times of my life.
When you free your mind from the worries of today and just ‘live in the moment’, life becomes much more peaceful and joyful.
And if you are feeling overburdened with life’s challenges – take a step back and do something funloving and carefree to get out of the issue and into the positive energy, – your body and mind will thank you for it.
Please “don’t give a damn” what others think…..do you….do all of you and more!
Fall down 7 times, get up 8!
As soon as you free up yourself to be yourself, well it’s a different kind of story and a journey you’d be much happier living.
I have a dream to travel the world on a luxury super yacht, sailing the open seas and inviting the ocean sunsets into my heart.
The great thing is…in my magical mind…it’s never JUST a dream…it’s a vision to come true….to forever experience…to truly live and fully immerse in.
Dream It Do It and as cliche as it may sound, that’s my exact plan.
I’m never that girl who only talks the talk! Yes, it might take me a few years to get there, but I will forever walk the talk.
I’ve always loved boats and I’m not even a great swimmer but there’s just something so special about sailing towards the summer sunset – free, easy, bright and breezy!
Catamaran Sunset Cruise in Santorini
Watching whales in their natural environment will be on my sailing adventures list – the thought of being close to the breathtaking beauty and magnitudnal size of a blue whale, fills me with the greatest joy and off-the-scale excitement.
Our sailing journey starts in 2025 where we will be cruising around Spain, France and Italy, on the stunning ship – the famous Sky Princess by Princess Cruises. It’s a top quality oceanliner that will be freeing my heart amongst the waves of life.
These dreams do come at cost, but I’d rather pay thousands of pounds for a magical lifetime experience than a fancy designer handbag anyday – but hey, each to their own and we all love what we love!
The world is a travellers extravaganza and its hidden gems are waiting to be explored. Please check out The Rife Guide my favourite modern nomad travel blog.
A lot of us are living and working in square boxes most of our lives, but I genuinely don’t think that’s where we’re supposed to be. Our life of this time should not be couped up any longer than it needs to be. The wonders of the natural world on land, sky and sea want to greet our soul with a smile and a sparkle. Please don’t be tempted to stay in your cave for too long, the miracles you seek are often just a decision away.
I dare you to plan that dream trip, go to that new place you’ve had your eye on, shake mother-nature’s hand and simmer under the sunset like there’s no tomorrow – for I know this adventure will live in your heart forever.
Explore your passionate desires through wondrous worldly travel.
With a title like this, I am in no way minimizing the sheer amazement that is Angkor Wat. Truly, I have never been so blown away by such mastery and grandeur. I usually max out on museums and historic sites after a few hours each day. Something was different at Angkor Wat. Each temple held a unique frequency, and I became more energized as I temple-hopped. If it were allowed, I would have happily slept out there. LOL. There is a wealth of information about visiting Angkor Wat online, so I wanted this article to help you differently. Here, I’ll share my favorite things I did in Siem Reap beyond the temples.
First, I’ll offer a few tips I wish I had known before visiting. Then, we’ll head north of Angkor Wat and explore beyond, where I’ll share some of the adventurous and off-the-beaten-path activities I enjoyed outside the temple grounds. To clarify, the ancient city of Angkor Wat is inside the modern city of Siem Reap. I’ll keep these concise and to the point. Here are my top 11 pointers not to miss beyond the temples!
Angkor Wat
1. Logistics
Passes
When I visited Angkor Wat in June 2024, there were three types of passes available: a one-day, three-day and seven-day pass. If you have the time, I highly recommend the seven-day pass. It allows you to explore the grounds at a more relaxed pace and visit remote temples that many rushed travelers don’t have the opportunity to see.
There are two main viewing routes in Angkor Wat – the Big Circuit and the Small Circuit, most definitely traversed on separate days. My friends and I hired a TukTuk driver for the Big Circuit, which was the best use of our time and incredibly fun! The next day, I tackled the Small Circuit on my bicycle, which provided both a workout and enjoyment.
There was something about biking alone through the jungle that made me feel like a real adventurer, especially when I got stuck in a torrential downpour for 1.5 hours 🙆🏽♀️. I recommend these transportation methods and they are a bit rugged and keep you close to the earth. You can rent or hire an air-conditioned car, to me this felt too modern for the landscape.
Pro tip ~ there are two temples 20-30 minutes outside the Big Circuit called Phnom Bok and Banteay Samre. We had our driver take us to these for an additional small fee. Now I wouldn’t suggest more temples unless they were worth it, and these REALLY REALLY ARE!
Put on your athlete cap, as Phnom Bok requires 630 steps up to this 9th-10th century temple. This is no joke in triple-digit weather, my friends. Apart from the crumbling Phnom Bok there is also a gorgeous Buddhist temple atop. You will feel alone on top of the world up here.
Banteay Samre is down the street as you head back into town. This temple blew me away because the carvings are well-preserved. I think this is because of its tucked-away location and the fact that it attracts far fewer visitors than the temples on the circuits.
Food & Drink
There are cafes and restaurants scattered throughout the grounds of Angkor Wat which offer a variety of food, drinks and souvenirs. You won’t go hungry out there!If you have specific preferences for snacks and hydration, I recommend bringing them in a backpack. Additionally, it’s wise to research the weather for your visit. Depending on the season, you may want to pack a rain jacket and umbrella, just in case.
2. The Angkor Wat App
This app proved invaluable as it maps out both routes within its interface, conveniently numbered in viewing order – a stroke of genius! Clicking on each temple provides a brief history, which was informative. While the basic version sufficed, in hindsight, I wish I had opted for the upgraded version for additional features and information. The app was particularly helpful when I explored alone on my bike, keeping me on course through the behemoth jungle.
3. The Secret Angkor Thom Trail
Anything secret intrigues me, especially when lost cities are involved. So when a local tipped me off to the 12km trail around Angkor Thom, my ears perked up. As you enter through any archway entrances surrounding the perimeter, you’ll find small dirt trails leading up to the wall (I entered at the South Gate). On top of the wall is a perfect trail for walking, running, or biking. You’ll encounter wildlife, a jungle to your right, a moat to your left and hidden temples along the shaded path. I saw no other trekkers, only a few bicycle groups during my walk.
Walking is one of my favorite activities, and this trail in this setting made it extra special – it was one of my favorite walks ever. I suggest bringing a hat, plenty of water, a fully charged phone and a few downloaded podcast episodes. Walking casually, I completed the full loop in 3 hours and 22 minutes. Talk about experiencing Angkor Wat without the crowds!
I think you will be pleasantly surprised and enamored with the town of Siem Reap. It is walkable, safe and has the modern conveniences you want. Now, this is not a food guide, but there are a few places I MUST point out. These are places I will always revisit when I return.
4. Restaurants
It is hard to have a bad meal in Siem Reap. That said, I especially fell in love with these restaurants. The first two are quick, delicious and mission-driven establishments. The third was such a comforting, cozy experience tasting Geeta’s food; it reminded me of my Nana’s cooking!
• Wild Creative Bar & Spring Rolls Restaurant – anyone who has designed a restaurant concept around spring rolls has my heart. To me, spring rolls are close to tacos regarding a near-perfect meal. Light, easy, crunchy, flavorful, creative and requires sauce ~ bliss! Wild has come up with some unique rolls and dipping sauces. I packed a few of their rolls for a picnic one day inside the temples and that was the move.
• Muffin Man – these guys served me one of the best muffins I have ever had. Along with sweet treats, they nail healthy salads and sandwiches. With two convenient locations in town and delicious coffee, Muffin Man is a must-try.Don’t miss reading the story of how they came to be, as it absolutely moving, grab the tissues.
• Serendib Srilankan Cuisine – go meet Geeta and eat her incredible food! She is a nurse by day and chef extraordinaire by night. The sweetest soul and her food will transport you to Sri Lanka and beyond.
5. Bars
There are plenty of bars in SR, but these watering holes were unique and unforgettable.
• Asana Old Wooden House – a cozy, perfectly lit gem inside Pub Street’s bustle. This cocktail-forward bar is a beautiful example of traditional Khmer architecture. These houses are known for their intricate wooden carvings and elevated stilts to protect against flooding during the monsoon season. You could see lighting up a cigar with the most interesting man in the world at Asana!
• Laundry – I first walked by Laundry and thought it was a laundromat. Nope! It is a groovy, low-key bar with a melting pot of travelers, expats and locals. The pool table, along with the hot peanuts and local draft beer, are the main attractions. The perfect place to decompress after a day of temples!
• Elephant Bar – because who doesn’t love a little pinky-up moment? Located inside Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Elephant Bar boasts a well-appointed setting. They host a welcoming happy hour from 4-6p, open to outside guests. Beyond the delightful drinks, I was charmed by the friendly staff, world-class art and snacks (of course!).
Honorable Mention – although not a restaurant or bar, I highly recommend visiting Tribe Art Gallery. They house incredible art created by locals and other artists throughout Asia. The meaning and intention behind each artist’s work really drew me in. Check their hours; they were open Friday through Sunday evenings when I visited.
North of Angkor Wat
For the adventures below, I rented a scooter. There is nothing like riding a scooter through Cambodia’s countryside, as this is a wonderfully rural part of the world. It did a lot for the little kid in me. Don’t miss this type of transportation during your exploration beyond the temples!
6. Banteay Srey Temple
Banteay Srey Temple is known for its distinctive red sandstone construction, unique among the Angkorian temples. This beauty dates back to the late 10th century, making it older than Angkor Wat, built in the early 12th century. It is celebrated for its decorative intricacy, showcasing some of the finest examples of classical Khmer craftsmanship from the Angkorian era. The artistry here was astounding. You will need your temple pass to enter.
7. Cambodia Landine Museum
Landmines in Cambodia are a tragic legacy from decades of conflict, including the Vietnam War and the Khmer Rouge regime, which left the country heavily contaminated with unexploded ordnance. This museum tells the brave and heroic story of Aki Ra ~ a soldier, humanitarian, hero, de-miner, husband and father.These accounts of the past are heavy and hard to process. Understanding these gut-wrenching pieces of history allows us to honor and acknowledge those who endured unfathomable hardships. For me, it’s a way to pay my respects.
I mapped myself here to break up my drive to Tonle Sap Lake and was sure glad I did! During the brief tour of the farm I saw and learned about all the sustainable ways they use the lotus flower. These include making thread for clothing, food, vegan leather, candles, perfume, tea and much more. Don’t miss the gift shop downstairs + lotus tea & biscuits upstairs!
9. Tonle Sap Lake
Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia 😲. It has sustained Cambodian communities for centuries, providing fertile fishing and agricultural grounds. The lake is home to floating villages, where houses and structures are built on stilts or platforms. This allows inhabitants to adapt to the lake’s changing water levels and move their homes + communities as needed depending on water levels during wet and dry seasons. Visiting the floating villages is a hands-on way to understand the importance of this lake. Can you imagine moving your home because you know a monsoon is coming? All I can say is respect.
Phnom Kraom is home to a Buddhist monastery where monks live and practice daily rituals, contributing to the serene atmosphere atop the hill. You can explore this Buddhist temple, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Cruise to Phnom Kraom after Tonle Sap for sunset, as this is one of the highest points in Siem Reap. Viewing the floating village from this hillside provides a colorful vision. You will need to show your temple pass to enter.
East of Siem Reap
11. Kulen Elephant Forest Camp
My last suggestion beyond the temples is Kulen Elephant Forest Camp. I booked this experience directly online. They offer roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned car, which is amazing. Our guide picked us up downtown, and we drove one hour east to Kulen Elephant Forest to meet these majestic giants.
These elephants were rescued from working in tourism at Angkor Wat in 2017. By 2019, elephant rides at the temples had stopped. It is wonderful to see how well taken care of they are, these caretakers are doing a top notch job. The time spent at the camp includes making elephant food, feeding, walking, and hanging with the elephants in the forest. If you are an elephant lover, this experience will be a dream come true! The money spent on visits helps with their feed, care and conservation efforts. I paid $90 USD.
Good Bye, Mysterious Angkor Wat
When I think about Angkor Wat, it evokes mystery and intrigue. There are many theories about how the Khmer built the largest and most prosperous urban city of the 12th century. How did they cut and lay each stone so precisely? How did they carve the stones without cracking them? As curious as I am, some things are better left enigmatic. I believe ancient civilizations had access to higher consciousness ~ visioning, dreaming and creating as they were not so focused on climbing the corporate ladder, paying bills, social media and running carpools ~ if you know what I mean?
I hope you enjoy the temples with your body, mind and soul. May they touch you on a deep cellular level, activating a sense of mystery and wonder. And I hope these ways of experiencing Siem Reap beyond the temples round out your visit in a fulfilling way.May we all have the privilege of dreaming up something magical in this lifetime!
With all my love,
Bekah
PS ~ if you are doing the darn thing in Southeast Asia and plan to visit Vietnam, check out our unique Vietnamese food guide here!
Please follow The Rife Guide for more inspired travel and food articles for the modern nomad.
I believe your ‘Heart Power’ is stronger than any mind power because ‘Heart Power’ is that undeniable, unbreakable chain of love, bonded with your soul.
The real essence of you, is your ‘Heart Power’ – the mind and body are just ways we use to express this.
‘Heart Power’ – you never need to think about, it’s just naturally there, living and breathing within you.
When you truly let your ‘Heart Power’ grow – there are no limits.
It’s my ‘Heart Power’ that speaks with you today.
May your day be fully connected to your own ‘Heart Power’.
If only you could see the greatness that lies ahead for you.
Hold a future vision of living a fulfilling life with passion and purpose.
Believe that every step you take, leads you to your dreams.
As you progress through your life today, make each step count. All you have to do is focus on each single step and in no time a brighter horizon will form.
Don’t dwell on the grey skies, for then it will surely rain. Seek the blue above and let the energy of the sun uplift you.
If you really want to change your current status, you have to channel all your energies into making that happen.
You have to go ALL IN , in order to get ALL OUT, of any unwanted situation.
It seriously is up to you and you’ve got to have real clarity on what you’re going to do everyday, in order to make that positive change.
Do the work and stay totally focussed on the goal in hand. It may also help to have an emotional trigger that will keep you on track.
Work, work, work on your plan, as much as you can, and in time, your efforts WILL pay off.
If it means, getting up at 4am every morning to fit the work in, then do it.
Your energy is so mighty and powerful, it can help you achieve so much more than you think.
Are you ready? If you are, you will feel a different person from within. You will switch into ‘gladiator’ mode and nothing will stop you until you get there.
Deliver everyday on becoming the best version of yourself.
Deliver by honouring your core values and serving your inner purpose.
Trust yourself to deliver on the things that matter to you and forge forward in the pursuit of your dreams.
Success is an accumulation of ‘doings’ aligned with your goals, that in time, manifests into your desired outcome.
Take charge of your thinking and channel your energies into a focussed and habitual manner that serves you well.
You won’t achieve what you want by delivering on this once or twice a week. Your success will be determined by the work you put in everyday and that is an absolute fact.
If you want to get real results, act accordingly and know the fruits of your labour will appear in good time.
Dance to the tune of life’s harmony and emerge in a new light.
Amongst the chaos of life, it can be difficult to find a sense of peace and tranquility. Honour thy honesty and harmony will breathe light.
Find a sense of peace through prayer, self-reflection and purpose.
For in the deepest of silence, our truth whispers like an inner thunder.
In moments of doubt, despair and dread, know that alone time, blended with quiet space, will induce a fresh sunlight into any dark day.
Keeping it moving all the time, might seem like a good idea but this may also lead to “messy movements”, which in turn, can create more damaging chaos.
After one’s silent time, we make the right moves and not before.
You owe yourself the power of daily solitude, silence and serenity.
To get the best out of a joyful life and all its magical wonders, one must savour each beautiful moment.
Never rush the process of life and the abundance it offers you. Take time to relax in its self-healing powers and float in its waters of love.
Life is not a sprint to the finish line, it is a treasured, slow walk along the white sandy beach, soaking up the wonderful energies of the warm sunshine.
The quote above may seem a little bit morbid at this time of year and I definitely don’t want to bring any darkness into your life today.
I want you to think about how this quote speaks to you. In my own mind, it creates a sense of appreciation and gratitude for the now and the magic of life itself. It pushes me to see ‘LIFE IN LIFE’ and to cherish that each and everyday.
Truly ‘live’ your life and know what that means for you.
As 2023 approaches believe in life, believe in your magnetic energy and believe in your self-power.
Clarabelle Online Magazine 