How to Embrace the Renewal Process Within

Renew Inspiration, Renewal Process, Journal Prompts, Positive Affirmations, Mind, Body, Spirit
Renew Inspiration

Renewal and restoration are not luxuries, they are essentials. – Chuck Swindoll

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I pray that your week has been filled with love, peace, joy, and happiness. Today, I want to focus on an important topic – How to Embrace the Renewal Process Within. I encourage you to have your journal or a notebook and something to write with.

Now, tell me what is your breaking point? When do you just STOP and take a rest? When do you say “No” to others because you already have too much on your agenda? Believe it or not, most people do not acknowledge when they are overwhelmed and tired. Most of us just keep going and going until we are exhausted and burned out. This is not a healthy choice at all.

Let’s begin to embrace the renewal process by answering a few questions:

  • What do I want or need in my life right now in this very moment?
  • Are my actions guided by love or fear? faith or worry? courage or doubt?
  • Will this action bring peace or inner turmoil in my life?

When you take time to answer questions related to your life honestly, you will find out what’s important enough for you to pursue and what to ignore.

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Renewal is what happens when you realize that some of this stuff you’ve been carrying around doesn’t matter. – Rob Bell

Next, I want you to begin using positive affirmations every day to help renew your mind, body, and spirit. Positive affirmations will help you to attract more positivity in your life and transform your thoughts. It’s important to repeat the following positive affirmations daily until they are hidden in your heart.

Here’s a few positive affirmations to help you get started:

  • I am beautifully made.
  • I am filled with gratitude.
  • I am worthy of great things.
  • I am confident and empowered.
  • I am surrounded by love.
  • I am learning and growing.
  • I am in charge of my own self-worth.

ADVANTAGES IN LIFE

Everything in the universe has a rhythm, everything dances. – Maya Angelou

As we go through life, it is important to realize when it is time for our renewal process to occur. Allowing time for renewal offers one so many advantages in life.  For example, a person who chooses to embrace the renewal process may experience:

  • Personal growth and expansion from the inside out.
  • A fresh start to something that will be much better, and in most cases, greater than what they were already experiencing.
  • The ability to make necessary plans and allows their mind to think of resolutions that need to take place.
  • Time to rest from the day-to-day hustle and bustle of life, which can interpret to self-reflection.
  • An opportunity to transform one’s mind and body to a more refreshed state.

CLICK HERE to get your FREE Journal Prompts download that will help you embrace the renewal process within!

In addition, I’ve provided some ways for you to spend quality time during the renewal process.

You can refresh your mind daily if you choose to:

  • Meditate
  • Read a motivational book/quotes
  • Learn a new skill
  • Take a mindful walk
  • Listen to a positive podcast
  • Stay off social media
  • Create a vision board

You can revive your energy if you:

  • Exercise
  • Practice yoga
  • Get plenty of sleep
  • Try a new healthy recipe
  • Take a dance class
  • Get some sun
  • Rest

You can rekindle your soul if you:

  • Read God’s Word
  • Pray and meditate
  • Spend a day in nature
  • Listen to spiritual music
  • Start a gratitude journal
  • Count your blessings
  • Read a spiritual/inspirational book

Finally, I encourage you today to really think about your personal journey and how important it is to make time to embrace the renewal process within. Keep honoring God with your life, stay in peace, trust his timing, and God will open doors that no man can shut.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Renewal requires opening yourself up to new ways of thinking and feeling. – Deborah Day

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Keep in mind that this is a journey and be patient with yourself. Ready, set, write!

  • How do you define renewal?
  • How often do you spend time in the renewal process?
  • Do you think the renewal process is necessary for your mind, body, and spirit?
  • How are you feeling right now in this very moment?
  • What do you need more of in your life?
  • What do you need less of?
  • What drains your energy?

 SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS & COMMENTS

 Our words can lead us down a path of renewal and increased personal fulfillment. – Sandra Marinella

If we just be still and listen, we will hear the sigh of relief inside our hollow bodies. We will hear the quiet and slow beats of our hearts and the pleasant thoughts surrounding our busy minds! Now, let’s be honest. When was the last time you took time to write in your journal? Do you often take time to renew your mind, body, and spirit? If yes, how often? If no, why not? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Copyright © 2021 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

Health & Wellness Inspiration

Health & Wellness Inspiration

Renew Inspiration, Health & Wellness, Inspiration, Wellness Tips, Journal Prompts
Renew Inspiration

Health is a state of body. Wellness is a state of being. – J. Stanford

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Have you taken time to renew your inspiration lately? Are you inspired to become better than you were yesterday? What drives you to push forward when obstacles arise in life or do you just want to give up? Who inspires you to reach for your dreams throughout this journey called life or do you feel left alone? Does anyone challenge you to set realistic goals for yourself? If not, today is your lucky day. I would like to challenge you today to get inspired for better health & wellness.

If this pandemic has not done anything else, it has created a sense of awareness to one’s overall health and wellness. For some people, this means choosing healthier food options, finding time to meditate during the day, adding exercise to their daily routine, or becoming closer to one’s spiritual being through prayer. To be honest, ideas can be found all around us. Take a moment and look around you right where you are. Inspiration is not required to knock at your door twice. We have to be ready and willing to do what’s necessary to grow, to learn, and most importantly, to find ourselves in a better place.

Here’s some wellness tips to help you improve your overall health:

  • Practice gratitude and smile often.
  • Get sunlight every day.
  • Drink water instead of soda.
  • Make half of your plate fresh veggies.
  • Add exercise to your daily routine.
  • Invest in a fitness tracker.
  • Spend time alone doing what you enjoy.
  • Pray and meditate often to calm your spirit.
  • Write your thoughts and feelings in a journal.
  • Cultivate a positive mindset.
  • Get plenty of sleep every night.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1 – The Feel Good Effect Book

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR MIND

To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders. -Lao Tzu

Now, on our journey for better health & wellness, it’s important to make a mental connection with your body and spirit. First, make sure to be realistic and put your thoughts into perspective honoring your personal beliefs. Second, don’t be afraid to prioritize things that matter most to you in your life right now, in this very moment, and remove all negativity, both people and things. Third, don’t be afraid to say NO to others and think positive thoughts throughout your day. Fourth, start using a calendar or planner to organize your appointments and errands.

Here’s some additional ways to improve your mind:

  • Pray & meditate often.
  • Read inspiration books.
  • Write in a journal or notebook.
  • Create a separate To Do List daily to stay organized.
Renew Inspiration, Health & Wellness, Fitness, Exercise, Inspiration
Renew Inspiration

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR BODY

Embrace and love your body. It’s the most amazing thing you will ever own. – Unknown Author

Now, that we have discussed improving our mind, it’s time to discuss the body. First, it’s important to treat your body well and with respect. Second, our bodies are built to move so make sure you plan some kind of exercise daily (cardio, strength training, stretching). Third, make sure to eat a well-balanced diet to include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Remember, move more, eat less. No more excuses. Fourth, set realistic goals and a create a plan to reach your goals. Fifth, track your food and exercise. Sixth, join an online Wellness or Health Program, such as Weight Watchers or Spark People for additional support.

Here’s some additional ways to improve your body:

  • Practice yoga or do some form of stretching.
  • Join a local gym or exercise class.
  • Plan your meals regularly.
  • No self-shaming. Be kind to yourself.

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR SPIRIT

Everything has a spirit – honor that. – Unknown Author

Let’s now discuss improving the spirit. First, it’s important for you to connect with your inner being or your spirit throughout the day. For example, spend time in prayer, meditation, and reading God’s Word to receive the proper guidance in your life.  Second, you can attend religious services often to get your spirit renewed or find scriptures to meditate on throughout the day. Third, take time to write down a spiritual quote or your favorite scripture to have it hidden in your heart. Fourth, you can get engaged with your spiritual self by reading inspirational books, writing personal reflections in your journal, or listening to spiritual music. Remember, your spirit drives your thought process, your emotions, and your mood so we have to keep it grounded with a strong foundation.

Here’s some additional ways to improve your spirit:

  • Write in your journal and reflect on your words often.
  • Spend quiet time alone and take walks outside to enjoy nature.
  • Listen to inspirational podcasts.
  • Count your blessings and practice kindness every day.

So, are you up for the health & wellness inspiration challenge? I sure hope this blog has given you a boost of energy and some ideas to help you get started on this journey. Please leave a comment and share what you have chosen to do differently in order to better improve your MIND, BODY & SPIRIT. Remember, we learn from one another so don’t be shy. I look forward to reading your comments.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 2 – The Wellness Remodel Book

JOURNAL PROMPTS

The care, therefore, of every man’s soul belongs unto himself. – John Locke

I love journaling because it is a safe place for me to put my feelings and emotions into words, then put my words into action. Remember, journaling is your very own personal journey throughout life, your ups and downs, your successes, and failures. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Ready, set, write!

  • Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present, or future?
  • What has been going well in your life lately?
  • What do you love about yourself?
  • What did you learn about yourself this month? this week? today?
  • What are you inviting into your life with your actions?
  • What are you thankful for? Why?
  • What are my values? What do I believe in?
  • Identify one way you would like to grow in the next year.
  • How have I been holding myself back?
  • How can I take a step forward?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Copyright © 2021 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

Embrace Self Love

Embrace Self Love

Renew Inspiration, Embrace Self Love, Self Respect, Self Care, Self Worth, Affirmations, Journal Prompts
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To love yourself is to understand you don’t need to be perfect to be good. – Unknown Author

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s welcome in February 2020 by discussing self-love. What is self-love? According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, self-love can be defined as an appreciation of one’s own worth or virtue. Self-love begins when we observe our actions and words with compassion as if we were our own best friend.

In addition, self-love is:

• Being honest about your current choices and thought patterns.

• Not selfish, but it forces you to undertake new practices that reflect self-worth.

• The way we see ourselves and how we treat ourselves.

• The motivation you need to make healthy choices in life.

• A safe place for you to share self-reflection.

• The gift that keeps giving.

• A way that cultivates a mindset of gratitude.

Finally, self-love is often times taught to us as children and as we grow, we begin to nurture everything within us, both good and bad.


Now, here’s something to think about. Self-love, self-respect, self-worth, self-care. What do these words have in common? There is a reason they all start with “self” because you cannot find them in anyone else.

Clear your mind and think about the questions below:

• Do you say yes when you really mean no?

• Do you seem to break promises to yourself often?

• Do you neglect your self-care routine over and over again?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you need to self-evaluate your life right now and begin to embrace self-love once again.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1


To begin with, here’s a great way to get started on your self-love adventure:

• Find some ME TIME

• Write in your journal

• Read an inspirational book

• Take a long walk and enjoy nature

• Exercise or do yoga

• Take a nap

• Relax and do nothing

WAYS TO EMBRACE SELF-LOVE

What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create. – Buddha

Before you can receive love and respect from others, you need to love and respect yourself. Keep in mind, self-love keeps us grounded and present. Self-love is not simply a state of feeling good, it is a state of appreciation for oneself that grows from actions that support our physical, psychological, and spiritual growth.

Here’s some ways to embrace self-love:

Take time for yourself first thing in the morning and right before bed time. Pray, read God’s Word, write in your journal, read a book, drink a cup of coffee, meditate, do yoga, take a warm bath, etc.

Exercise and don’t be afraid to mix it up. Exercise does the body good. Find something you love, but always try something new too. Do cardio one day and strength training another day.

Give yourself more grace. Stop comparing yourself to others, but instead extend yourself grace.

Tune out negative and toxic people. Limit your time and interaction with these people. Simply say no to the negativity and focus on the positivity in your life.

Get plenty of sleep. Set a bedtime for yourself and stick to it – No Excuses!

Don’t be shy and ask for help. Balance out your planner and daily tasks. Assign some stuff to your family or friends. Don’t feel guilty in doing so.

WAYS TO PRACTICE SELF-LOVE

When I accept myself, I am freed from the burden of needing you to accept me. – Dr. Steve Maraboli

Moreover, self-love is important to living a well-balanced life. Would you agree? After all, everyone needs to practice self-love at some time or another, right? When we act in ways that expand self-love in us, we begin to accept ourselves more in the moment, have less need to explain away our short-comings, are more centered in our life purpose and values, and expect living fulfillment through our own efforts.

Here’s some ways to practice self-love:

Become mindful. People who practice self-love often tend to know what they think, feel, and want. They are mindful of who they are and act on this knowledge, rather than on what others want for them.

Create a self-care routine that you practice regularly. Nourish yourself daily through healthy activities, like nutrition, exercise, proper sleep, intimacy, and healthy social interactions.

Set healthy boundaries. You’ll love yourself more when you set limits or say no to work, love, or activities that deplete you physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Protect yourself at all times. Protect yourself by allowing the right people into your life.

Forgive yourself. Practice being less hard on yourself when you make a mistake. Remember, there are no failures. There are only lessons learned.

Live intentionally. Live with purpose and design. Make plans and accomplish what you set out to do. You need to establish your living intentions, to do this.

I have found that when I make time to practice self-love on a regular basis, I am a better wife, mom, friend, and co-worker. I am more disciplined throughout my day, feel rested, and ready to conquer the world.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

SELF-LOVE AFFIRMATIONS

You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anyone. – Maya Angelou

Like I’ve stated before, self-love is not selfish. You cannot love another person until you know how to love yourself. Work on being in love with the person in the mirror who has been through much, but is still standing.

Look in a mirror today and say these words out loud – I love myself today because I am beautiful, I am strong, I am powerful, I am fabulous, I am unique, I am blessed, I am smart. Repeat this exercise at least 3 times per day.

Here’s some self-love affirmations that you can practice daily:

• I accept and approve myself completely here and now.

• I am healing more and more every day.

• I am surrounded by love and prosperity.

• I am worthy of all the blessings coming my way.

• I release all doubts and insecurities about myself.

• I am resilient and can get through anything.

• I am worthy of loving and being loved.

• I value myself.

• I am an unstoppable force.

• I am proud of who I am.

• I nourish my body with healthy food and exercise.

• I am beautiful, kind, and smart.

• I spread love to those around me and it returns in abundance.

Now, be creative and create your own self-love affirmations to describe yourself. Allow this to be your daily pep talk in the morning and repeat them throughout the day. Remember, you cannot truly love another person until you know how to love yourself. Loving yourself enough to realize you deserve a happy and fulfilled life. Well, I challenge you today to practice self-love and appreciate yourself just the way you are. When you learn to love you, then others will love you the way you deserve to be loved in return.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we will ever do. – Brene Brown

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Keep in mind that this is a journey and everyone takes their own path. Ready, set, write!

• How do you define self-love?

• What do you love most about your life?

• How can you love yourself more?

• Describe yourself positively in 10 words or less.

• What are you proud of yourself for today?

• How much do you truly love yourself?

• Write yourself a love letter. Make sure to talk yourself through a struggle.

• What is your self-care routine?

• How can you create space for self-love in your life right now and in the future?

AMAZON RESOURCE #4

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Let’s talk. Share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Copyright © 2020 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

National Women’s Health and Fitness Day

National Women’s Health and Fitness Day

Women's Health, Exercise, Well-Being, Fitness
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You are capable of your healthiest and happiest life. – Unknown Author

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Special Thought – The body achieves what the mind believes.

Women's Health, Fitness, Exercise
National Women’s Health and Fitness Day 2019

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today is a great day for women everywhere. Did you know that women all over the world is celebrating National Women’s Health and Fitness Day today? Well, I have to be honest, I did not know until I was doing some research online. National Women’s Health and Fitness Day is the nation’s largest annual health promotion event for women of all ages. This wonderful day has been observed the last Wednesday of September since 2002.

What better way to celebrate and honor women that to write an inspirational blog post, right? I not only wanted to bring awareness to this special day, but also provide some ways that you can participate today, tomorrow, and forever!

Across the country, an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 women of all ages plan to participate in health and fitness events in places, such as:

• Senior Centers
• Hospitals
• Health Clubs
• Schools
• Retirement Communities
• Houses of Worship
• Park and Recreation Centers
• Local Health and Service Organizations

The goal of this national event is to encourage women to take control of their health, to learn the facts they need to make smart choices, and to make time for regular physical activity throughout their personal journey.

AMAZON RESOURCES:

EMBRACE YOUR PERSONAL JOURNEY EVERY DAY

It’s never too early or too late to work toward being the healthiest you. – Unknown Author

Take a moment and visualize your life as you want it to be. Go to a quiet, private environment for 15 minutes every day where you can close your eyes and imagine your body, environment, relationships, and life in ways that please you. Always remember, what has been has nothing to do with what will be, and what others experience has nothing to do with your experience. This is the moment where you must find a way to separate yourself from all of the past and from the others in order to be what you want to be. Then, you will be able to embrace your personal journey one step at a time.

Believe it or not, you have within you, right now, everything you need to deal with whatever the world can throw at you. Do you believe this? Sometimes you have to be your own hero. Do you have the courage to do so? Just because you are struggling throughout your personal journey does not mean you are failing. Keep believing and the good things will happen. Always remember the one who falls and gets back up is so much stronger than the one who never fell at all. Your purpose is to fully be all that you are. Now, think about that for a moment. Look at yourself in the mirror and tell yourself with confidence – I BELIEVE IN THE PERSON I’M BECOMING!

Positive Mantra – Positive Mind + Positive Vibes = Positive Life

Make your own happiness and peace of mind a priority. Be more positive, be happier, think positive & find greater success by doing the following:

• Write yourself a love letter.
• Learn something new from someone today.
• Choose a positive mantra and repeat it throughout the day.
• Keep good on promises to yourself and continue to work towards your goals.

AMAZON RESOURCE:

WALKING FOR FITNESS

Don’t let the scale define you. Be active. Eat healthy. Be happy. – Unknown Author

Walking for fitness is such a great way to get in your exercise. Depending on the weather, you can walk outdoors around your neighborhood or you can visit your local park to walk through the nature trail. Well, in Michigan the weather can be somewhat tricky, especially in the winter, so I choose to do my walk workouts in the comfort of my own home. One good thing that I have found, is when you choose to walk for fitness, you are in control of how fast you move or when it is important for you to slow down and rest. Remember, a consistent, moderate pace offers good cardiovascular benefits, but interval training delivers those gains sooner and in a shorter workout. Also, there is no wrong or right way to do a walk workout, just get up and start walking for fitness!

Here’s some additional health benefits when walking for fitness:

• Boosting your spirits and creativity

• Helping to clear your mind

• Protecting you from heart disease

• Lowering the rate of weight gain

• Strengthening your memory

• Decreasing your risk from some cancers

Well, what are you waiting for? Let’s start WALKING for better health and fitness!

AMAZON RESOURCE:

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Strength grows in the moments when you think you can’t go on but you keep going anyway. – Unknown Author

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Upon entering the journaling process, you will find that you are able to reflect freely without judgement.

Now, take a few minutes every day to pour out your soul. Be open and honest. Set goals, make plans to achieve them, and check your progress throughout the process. Ready, set, write!

Close your eyes and clear your mind. Grab your pen/pencil. Open your journal or notebook. Then, use these helpful journal prompts to help you improve your health and fitness levels:

• What did you achieve today?

• What can you do right now to lift your mood?

• Define 3 things you can do to improve yourself.

• Describe a time when you had to make a really hard choice.

• Right now, my greatest challenge is _______________.

• My greatest qualities are _________________.

• What is most important in your life?

AMAZON RESOURCE:

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Your greatest obstacle and your greatest strength stare back at you in the mirror every day. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. Do you like what you see in the mirror? What kind of healthy habits do you plan to start? How do you plan to increase your fitness levels? How do you plan to celebrate today? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Copyright © 2019 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

Spring Forward, Change Is Coming

Spring Forward, Change Is Coming

flowers, butterfly, spring, outdoors
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Spring is a lovely reminder of how beautiful change can truly be -Unknown

Even though Michigan weather is in the 30’s today, the first day of spring is March 20th. Spring is one of the four conventional temperate seasons, following winter and preceding summer. Spring is the season of new beginnings for many people. Take time and look around you when the flowers, plants, and trees begin to bloom, days become longer, and the weather is warmer.

No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow -Unknown

spring, outdoors, yard, plants, flowers, trees, grass
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So, here’s the life lesson I want to discuss with you on today. Just like the seasons change, so do our mind, body, and spirit.

He health the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. -Psalm 147:3

Life Lesson – Mind
As spring starts to surface and the trees begin to bloom, we can see God’s reminder to align our hearts to the new thing He’s doing all around us. Keep in mind that everything changes except God. People change, circumstances change, our bodies change, and our desires and passions change. There is certainty in life…change!

Our thoughts are the first things we need to deal with during change because thoughts directly affect our emotions and determine our behavior. When circumstances change, make the transition mentally and your emotions will be a lot easier to manage. The next time sudden change happens in your life, act on God’s Word and not merely reacting to the situation, you will be able to manage your emotions instead of allowing them to manage you. Now, repeat after me…I don’t resist and dread change, and I adapt when I need to.

Life Lesson – Body & Spirit

depression, woman, sadness
Pixabay

Moving right along to the next life lesson. Unfortunately, the change in seasons will affect some people in ways that most cannot explain. Many people struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) which is a depression related to the change in seasons.

Some of the symptoms are as follows:

• Moodiness
• Low Energy
• Difficulty Sleeping
• A Lack of Interest in Activities
• A Lack of Interest in Relationships
• Feeling Hopeless

To help you prepare for the change in seasons, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you find yourself sleeping more?
• Are you struggling to get out of bed?
• Is it harder or easier to exercise now?
• Do you feel less patient?
• Are you easily annoyed or irritated?
• Do you feel more energized and productive?
• Has there been a shift or change in any of your relationships?
• Are you actively involved in activities?

Answering these questions will give you some insight about how the change of seasons may or may not affect you personally. Regardless of whether you are affected by SAD, there are three important points that will help you navigate and manage this process.

First, you need to exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes per day. Moving your body on a regular basis has a positive effect on your physical and emotional health. Keep in mind, you don’t have to spend countless hours in the gym to satisfy this requirement. You can walk around your neighborhood, run and play with your children, or do an at home workout.

Second, you need to get more sunlight. People need to be exposed to sunlight on a daily basis. Our bodies absorb vitamin D, important to our health, from sunlight. And the energy and emotional boost that we get from a few minutes in the sun is well worth it.

Third, you need to talk it out. It’s always easier when you’re sharing your thoughts and feelings with someone, such as your spouse, friend, coworker, or therapist. This process not only strengthens your relationships, but also it provides you with positive support during this difficult time.

spring, showers, rain, outdoors, woman, umbrella
Pixabay

Journal Prompts – Mind in Bloom
April showers bring May flowers. What do May flowers bring? Why do you think so?

Write about the perfect spring day and include details, such as smells, sights, sounds, touch, tastes.

Spring is thought to be a time of new beginnings. Write about a time when you started something new.

spring, walking, outdoors, exercise, body, moving
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Journal Prompts – Body Moving
Write about how you plan to move forward physically in 2018.

Set some realistic exercise goals for yourself and write them down.

Write about one way you would like to grow physically in the next year.

spring, fishing, boat, outdoors, water, relax
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Journal Prompts – Spirit Renewed
Write a personal poem about spring. What does spring time inspire in you. Write about it.

Write about how God has blessed you. Be specific and give examples.

Write about something you feel strongly about.

What’s on your mind?
Don’t be shy. Please share your thoughts and/or feelings concerning this blog by leaving a comment so we can have an open dialogue. I would love to hear from you!

Welcome March – Total Health & Wellness

Welcome March – Total Health & Wellness

Spring Flowers
Pixabay

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Psalm 37:23

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6

Welcome March! Well, today is March 1st. Where did February go? I do realize it is the shortest month of the year, but I cannot believe we are ten days from Daylight Savings Time (March 11th) and nineteen days from the first day of Spring (March 20th). Well, I have to ask you…Have you taken time to renew your inspiration? Are you inspired to become better than you were yesterday? What drives you to push forward when obstacles arise in life or do you just want to give up? Who inspires you to reach for your dreams throughout this journey called life or do you feel left alone? Does anyone challenge you to set realistic goals for yourself? If not, today is your lucky day. I would like to challenge you today to get inspired for TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS. Let’s strive to organize your MIND, BODY & SPIRIT.

The mind is like water. When it’s turbulent, it’s difficult to see. When it’s calm, everything becomes clear. -Prasad Mahes

To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders. -Lao Tzu

mental connection
Pixabay

Now, on our journey for TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS, it’s important to make a mental connection with your body and spirit. First, make sure to be realistic and put your thoughts into perspective honoring your personal beliefs. Second, don’t be afraid to prioritize things that matter most to you in your life right now, in this very moment, and remove all negativity, both people and things. Third, don’t be afraid to say NO to others and think positive thoughts throughout your day. Fourth, start using a calendar or planner to organize your appointments and errands. In addition, create a separate To Do List daily to stay organized and stress free.

Journal Prompts 
• What are your priorities in life?
• What do you need to be content?
• Write down something that you want to remember. Why is it important to you?

Your body loves you. Love it back. -Unknown

Embrace and love your body. It’s the most amazing thing you will ever own. -Unknown

body, yoga pose
Pixabay

Now, that we have discussed our MIND, it’s time to discuss our BODY. First, it’s important to treat your body well and with respect. Second, our bodies are built to move so make sure you plan some kind of exercise daily (cardio, strength training, stretching). Third, make sure to eat a well-balanced diet to include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Remember, move more, eat less. No more excuses. Fourth, set realistic goals and a create a plan to reach your goals. Fifth, track your food and exercise. Sixth, join an online Wellness or Health Program, such as Weight Watchers or Spark People for additional support.

Journal Prompts
• Write 5 things you would like to do more and make a plan to do them.
• What do you love about yourself?
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses.

Everything has a spirit – honor that. -Unknown

In the long run, the sharpest weapon of all is a kind and gentle spirit. -Anne Frank

Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. -Albert Einstein

spirit, reading, Bible, God's Word
Pixabay

Now, we have discussed MIND & BODY. Let’s now discuss our SPIRIT. First, it’s important for you to connect with your inner being or your spirit throughout the day. For example, spend time in prayer, meditation, and reading God’s Word to receive the proper guidance in your life. Second, you can attend religious services often to get your spirit renewed or find scriptures to meditate on throughout the day. Third, take time to write down a spiritual quote or your favorite scripture to have it hidden in your heart. Fourth, you can get engaged with your spiritual self by reading inspirational books, writing personal reflections in your journal, or listening to spiritual music. Remember, your spirit drives your thought process, your emotions, and your mood so we have to keep it grounded with a strong foundation.

Journal Prompts
• What are you thankful for? Why?
• What are my values? What do I believe in?
• Identify one way you would like to grow in the next year.

So, are you up for the TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS challenge? I sure hope this blog has given you a boost of energy and some ideas to help you get started. Please leave a comment and share what you have chosen to do differently in order to better organize your MIND, BODY & SPIRIT. Remember, we learn from one another so don’t be shy. I look forward to reading your comments.

TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS TIPS
• Your success is found in your daily routine.
• Fitness Rule #1 – Never skip Mondays.
• Count your blessings and practice kindness every day.
• Let go of what you cannot control.
• Listen to your heart.
• Remember, to breathe.

Walking for Fitness

Walking for Fitness

woman, walking, exercise, fitness
pexels

Walking for fitness is such a great way to get in your exercise. Depending on the weather, you can walk outdoors around your neighborhood or you can visit your local park to walk through the nature trail. Well, in Michigan the weather can be somewhat tricky, especially in the winter, so I choose to do my walk workouts in the comfort of my own home. One good thing that I have found, is when you choose to walk for fitness, you are in control of how fast you move or when it is important for you to slow down and rest. Remember, a consistent, moderate pace offers good cardiovascular benefits, but interval training delivers those gains sooner and in a shorter workout. Also, there is no wrong or right way to do a walk workout, just get up and start walking for fitness!

walk, leslie, sansone, tone, zone, body, workout
Just Walk – Leslie Sansone

There are many walk workouts to choose from online, but I love to do walk workouts from Leslie Sansone and Jessica Smith which can be found on YouTube or you can purchase DVDs right from Amazon, whichever you choose, just get moving and enjoy walking for fitness.

My favorite Leslie Sansone Walk Workout DVD’s:
• The Tone Every Zone Walk – Upper Body Circuit, Lower Body Circuit and Fast Walk
• Walking OFF the Pounds – 3 Different Miles – Total Body Fitness Walking
• 5 Boosted Miles – Customize your walk workout time and intensity
• Walk Away the Pounds – 4 Mile Burn – Ultimate Power Walk

My favorite Jessica Smith Walk Workout DVD’s:
• Walk On – 5 Fat Burning Miles – Fit in your 10,000 steps a day
• Walk Strong – 6 Week Total Transformation System – Lose inches & build fitness

Here are some additional health benefits when walking for fitness:
• Boosting your spirits and creativity
• Helping to clear your mind
• Protecting you from heart disease
• Lowering the rate of weight gain
• Strengthening your memory
• Decreasing your risk from some cancers

Well, what are you waiting for? Let’s start WALKING for better health and fitness!

Quote:
Walking is the best possible exercise. Habituate yourself to walk very fast. -Thomas Jefferson

Words of Inspiration:
When you walk with purpose, you collide with destiny.

Walking gets the feet moving, the mind moving, and movement is life.

Your journey will be much lighter if you don’t carry your past with you.