July 2019 – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

Regaining Balance

LaPorterJuly 28, 20191 Reply

In life, many things don’t go according to plan. If you fall, get back up. If you stumble, regain your balance. – 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 face it. Living in a chaotic and negative environment takes a lot out of you. In some ways, your life will seem out of balance and disconnected. You may even feel like you are out of control or just simply worn out with day-to-day activities.

When we find ourselves out of balance, our lives may include challenges, such as burnout, health problems, financial distress, emotional eating, isolation, and relationship issues just to name a few. Don’t worry, take a deep breath, and know that it happens to the best of us. It’s important for you to know that regaining balance in life is the key to your peace and happiness.

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF EMOTIONAL BALANCE

Life is a balance between holding on and letting go. – Rumi

While you’re traveling along your journey in life, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of maintaining emotional balance. After all, the characteristics of emotional balance allows you to participate in life to the fullest extent possible.

Here’s a list of the characteristics of emotional balance:

• A sense of contentment.

• A passion for living and enjoying life to the fullest.

• The ability to deal with stressful situations.

• The flexibility to learn new things and adapt to change.

• The ability to bounce back from adversity.

• A healthy level of self-confidence and self-respect.

• The ability to build and maintain fulfilling relationships.

EXAMPLES YOUR LIFE IS OUT OF BALANCE

To lose balance sometimes for love is part of living a balanced life. – Elizabeth Gilbert

To overcome this difficult challenge in life, you must first acknowledge that your life is out of balance. Don’t be afraid to address anything in your life that do not align with your lifestyle and beliefs.

Here’s some examples you may encounter when your life is out of balance:

• You find yourself reacting to everything in a negative way.

• You have unidentified and reoccurring health issues, such as fatigue or stress.

• You feel like every little thing is an emergency in your mind.

• You may be too tired to recognize or enforce your own emotional, personal, and professional boundaries.

WAYS TO REGAIN BALANCE IN YOUR LIFE

Remain calm in every situation because peace equals power. – Joyce Meyer

Once you’ve identified that there is an issue with your life, it is important to regain balance in your life by any means necessary.

Here’s some ways you can help regain balance in your life:

• Slow down. It is important to establish control over your time by slowing down.

• Live in the now. The fewer thoughts you have about your past or future, the more you’ll be present to your own inner spirit.

• Let go of control. Allow things to progress at their own pace so that you develop trust in the flow of life.

• Break old patterns. Simply breaking old habits one by one will begin to erode negative thought patterns and beliefs.

• Explore triggers to emotional highs and lows. It is important to avoid problems by identifying the root cause of your emotional challenges.

• Nurture yourself. Find time to be relaxed and happy throughout your day. For example, try meditation, getting a massage, reading a book, spending time in nature.

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Life is about balance. Be kind, but don’t let people abuse. Trust, but don’t be deceived. Be content, but never stop improving yourself. – Nishan Panwar

As you can see, journaling holds all of your emotions, thoughts, and feelings in one sacred place. Journaling has a way to uncover parts of yourself you never thought existed. Journaling can be fun, but also can be a serious process to help you cope with many life’s challenges, such as depression, grief, or loneliness. The most important fact about journaling is you have total control throughout the experience. You can keep it secret or share it with others. No matter what you decide, always be open, honest, and willing to write from the heart.

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Now, open your journal or notebook and practice journaling each day by using these helpful journal prompts:

MIND

It all begins in your mind. What you think, you become. – Unknown Author

• How does journaling help to improve your mental state?
• What is the biggest life lesson you’ve learned to date?
• What quote(s) inspires you on a difficult day?
• What do you love about life?
• List 5 positive thoughts that you have. Ready, set, write.

BODY

I am strong, fit, and well-balanced. – Unknown Author

• Describe a difficult situation you’ve encountered. How did it make you feel?
• If you could change one thing about yourself, what would you change and why?
• How can you incorporate self-care into your daily routine?
• What is something that you’ve overcome in life?
• List ways that you can relax each day.

SPIRIT

You have been assigned this mountain to show others it can be moved. – Unknown Author

• How has journaling helped to improve your spiritual well-being?
• What do I need to mute in my life in order to hear God’s voice?
• What can you do today to help yourself get better aligned spiritually?
• What does God’s presence feel like in my life?
• List a Bible verse about God’s love.

When you have made the decision to embrace life and regain balance, you will focus on making your own happiness and peace of mind a priority. So, what are you waiting for? Don’t wait. Start today.

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Stay patient and trust your journey. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. When was the last time you lost your life balance? How do you regain balance? Please share your honest response in the comment section. I cannot wait to hear from you.

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).

Unbreakable Faith

LaPorterJuly 21, 20196 Replies

Renew Inspiration, Faith, Grief, Comforting, Scriptures, Reflection, Journal Prompts — Pexels

God uses our trials to build our faith, draw us closer to Him, and give us a testimony of His faithfulness for others to see. – 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! Today, I want to discuss two topics that are dear to my heart – faith and grief. Do you often wonder if faith is needed to help you overcome grief? I sometimes think about this very question, but before we can make an attempt to answer the question honestly, we need to know and understand the definitions for both faith and grief.

DEFINITIONS – FAITH & GRIEF

God is still writing your story. Don’t let go of your faith because of what you have to see. – Unknown Author

Faith can be defined as:

• Complete trust or confidence in someone or something.

• Strong belief in God or in the doctrines of a religion, based on spiritual apprehension rather than proof.

Grief can be defined as:

• Deep sorrow, especially that caused by someone’s death.

Now, that we have clear definitions of both faith and grief, you should be able to answer the question – Do you often wonder if faith is needed to help you overcome grief? As for me, I believe you must have some level of faith to help you not only overcome grief, but faith is also needed to help you get through the difficult moments you may experience throughout the grieving process.

In addition, I believe we all have some level of faith within us. For example, when someone we love passes away, it is inevitable that questions of faith, spirituality, grief, and healing arise. All of these feelings and emotions can make you feel so many things at any given time.

FOUR PHASES OF GRIEF

Grief never ends…But it changes. It’s a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith…It is the price of love. – Unknown Author

Believe it or not, understanding the nature of grief can help us better cope with loss. Grief is a natural and healthy process that enables us to recover from terrible emotional wounds that may occur in life. I don’t know about you, but when I experienced the grief process after both of my parents suddenly passed away, my father (July 2003) and my mother (December 2015) passed away, I was forced to deal with my emotions whether I wanted to or not. In addition, I felt surrounded by darkness and heavy waves of anguish. Even though my husband was there right by my side, I still felt alone throughout this difficult time.

Here’s the four phases of grief that you may encounter throughout the grieving process:

• Shock – You may feel numbness inside like you’re trapped in a bad dream.

• Reality – Deep sorrow sets in accompanied by weeping, sadness, and depression.

• Reaction – Anger or guilt may occur toward family and friends.

• Recovery – There is an attempt to accept the loss within that have occurred.

Even though I’ve provided these four phases of grief, remember that these phases may vary in duration from person to person. Why? Because we are all different and experience life challenges in very unique ways. It’s also important to note that these phases may not be experienced at all, but I know I experienced all of them throughout the grieving process. Quite frankly, it was very hard for me and still is from time to time. I not only have to seek professional help, but I also do a lot of research and reading on my own to learn about different ways to help myself cope. When we neglect to go through the grieving process correctly, you often trigger depression, alcoholism, drug abuse, or other serious problems so don’t be afraid to seek professional help or support from loved ones.

MANAGING GRIEF

No one ever told me that grief felt so like fear. – C.S. Lewis

No matter how strong we are or how much support we are given throughout the grieving process, grief can affect your thinking, behavior, emotions, relationships, and overall health. I have found that one of the most difficult tasks for a bereaved person to encounter is adjusting to the new environment without the loved one who has passed away. For example, decisions have to be made regarding the appropriate time to put away a loved one’s things, make lifestyle changes, or form new relationships. Again, each person may handle these decisions differently so be careful not to judge.

Here’s three steps to recovery using God as a guide and comforter:

• Step 1 – Grieve – Though grief is bitter to our soul, we must allow sorrow to run its natural course throughout our lives. Denying or repressing pain can lead to emotional problems.

• Step 2 – Believe – It’s important to put our unbreakable faith in God’s promises and not our own.

• Step 3 – Receive – God desires to give us peace and comfort, but we must ask Him for it, then be willing to receive it with an open heart.

WAYS TO HELP OTHERS THROUGH THE GRIEVING PROCESS

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. – Unknown Author

Everyone grieves differently – depending on personality, religious beliefs, maturity, emotional stability, support factors, and cultural traditions.

Here’s some ways to help others through the grieving process:

• Ask God for guidance about when to speak and what to say.

• Encourage the bereaved person to share his or her feelings openly, then be willing to listen and don’t judge.

• Be flexible and gentle with yourself and others. Allow the grief and mourning process to unfold naturally.

• Don’t push or preach, but if the person indicates an openness, pray and share meaningful Scriptures, not personal opinions.

• Do simple things without being asked, such as providing a healthy meal, running errands, or making yourself available just to talk.

• Encourage the bereaved person to seek the help of a professional grief counselor or local support group.

COMFORTING SCRIPTURES

Healing is an art. It takes time. It takes practice. It takes place. – Maza Dohta

Seek comfort in your soul by reading the Holy Scriptures. This will allow you to start the healing process and allow you to be comfortable with expressing your feelings.

Here’s a few comforting scriptures to help you get started in the healing process:

• Psalm 23:4 (NKJV) – “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

• Isaiah 41:10 (NKJV) – “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

• Matthew 5:4 (NKJV) – “Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted.”

• John 14:26 (NKJV) – “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.”

• John 16:33 (NKJV) – “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

My prayer for you today is that you take the words from this blog post and hide them deep in your heart. Take time to reflect on them often throughout your journey. Finding healthy ways to cope with unbreakable faith and grief are a part of life and both contribute to our mental health as well as to our total well-being. I think it is very important for people to learn how to survive hardship at some point in life. For me, I am in the midst of this process and use my Renew Inspiration blog as a positive platform to not only encourage myself, but others as well. Embrace unbreakable faith and grief for yourself, and nurture it in others as they seek peace and comfort at such difficult times in life.

Reflection, Faith, Grief, Sadness, Water, Sunset — Pexels

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Faith isn’t a feeling. It’s a choice to trust God even when the road ahead seems uncertain. – David Willis

Here’s some thought-provoking journal prompts that I want you to focus on:

• What do I give permission for myself to do today?

• What is the best way to increase my faith?

• How does faith help you get through the grieving process?

• Why am I grieving right now?

• What is my fondest memory of my loved one who passed away?

• What are some of my grief triggers that affect me the most?

• When you are alone, what do you do?

• What season holds the most memories for you?

• List five ways you’ve become stronger and more faithful this month.

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Faith is all about believing. You don’t know how it will happen, but you know it will. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. Journaling through grief takes hard work, commitment and unbreakable faith. Faith that will move the mountains in your life. Do you enjoy journaling through the grieving process? How do you use faith to help you overcome the challenges of grief? Please share your honest response in the comment section. I cannot wait to hear from you.

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).

Prime Day 2019

LaPorterJuly 15, 20196 Replies

Work hard so you can shop harder. – 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! If you love to order items via Amazon.com, then today is a special day just for you. Drum roll please — It’s Prime Day 2019! I am so excited that this year Amazon has extended Prime Day 2019 to 48 hours, surpassing last year’s 36-hour event. Yes, Prime Day 2019 will take place over two days! Prime Day 2019 officially begins on Monday, July 15 at 3 a.m. EST and ends on Tuesday, July 16.

Whether you have never ordered items or services online before, I have made this process super easy. I hope you have carved out some time to browse the Amazon site and written out your wish list. You’re not going to want to miss all of the awesome deals that will be available throughout the day. This blog post will help you have the best shopping experience ever and if you make any purchases using the links below, I will receive a small commission to help stay apart of this amazing Affiliate Program so it’s a win-win. Now, remember in order to participate in this special event or buy any of the Prime Day Deals advertised below, you must be a Prime Member.

PRIME MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

Amazon Prime is a paid subscription service offered by Amazon that gives users access to products and services that would otherwise be unavailable, or available at a higher cost, to the typical Amazon customer. The standard annual membership cost is $119/year for regular customers and the student annual membership cost is $59/year.

Here’s a list of some Prime Membership benefits that you should take advantage of:

• Free 30-day trial membership (you can cancel at any time)

• Exclusive deals and discounts

• Free two-day delivery for eligible items

• Scheduled delivery options

• Free delivery on restaurant orders

• Unlimited photo storage

• Streaming ad free music and video options

• Watching your favorite movies and TV shows

• Free release-date delivery on new video games, books, music, and movies

• Same-day shipping for orders over $35 of eligible items (items must be ordered before noon to receive it by 9 p.m.)

Select the link below to SIGN UP:

AMAZONFRESH

AmazonFresh is a grocery delivery and pickup service in select cities. Prime members can get the benefits of AmazonFresh for an additional monthly membership fee of $14.99/month.

Select the link below to SIGN UP:

PRIME DEALS

Here’s some great Prime Deals that you cannot pass up:

TECH SAVVY

Here’s some great gift ideas for anyone who is tech savvy:

KINDLE UNLIMITED

Kindle Unlimited is a standalone subscription service separate from Amazon Prime and can be purchased whether or not you are a Prime member. Kindle Unlimited is a monthly membership fee of $9.99/month.

Select the link below to SIGN UP:

PRIME BOOK BOX

Save up to 40% off List Price on children’s books with Prime Book Box. Discover new children’s books delivered every 1, 2, or 3 months, you decide. The cost is $13.99 for your first box and your membership renews at $19.99/box.

Here’s some of the Prime book box benefits:

• Each box contains 2 hardcover books or 4 board books.

• Pick your preferences and tell them about your reader.

• Preview and decide which books you want.

• Skip a box any time.

• Modify or cancel the subscription at any time.

Select the link below to SIGN UP:

GIFT CARDS

Amazon.com Gift Cards are the perfect way to give your special someone what they’re hoping for even if you don’t know what it is.

Here’s some of the gift card features:

• Never expire

• Carry no fees

• No returns and no refunds

• Ability to view gift card balance

• Redeemable towards millions of items store-wide at Amazon.com or certain affiliated websites

Select the link below to SIGN UP:

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

It’s an “add to cart” kinda day! – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. Do you shop via Amazon.com? If so, how often do you shop via Amazon.com? Were you an Amazon Prime Member before reading this blog post? If so, what benefits do you enjoy the most?

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).

Vogue Magazine Series 73 Questions

LaPorterJuly 14, 20192 Replies

Vogue Magazine Series, Blogging Fun — Vogue Magazine Series

I didn’t come this far to only come this far. – 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! Today’s blog post was written for fun in response to a nomination I received from both Sunny Larue and Catherine Mellen. I have to admit I hesitated for a couple of days before deciding to respond to all of these questions. Some questions were a lot easier than others. Nevertheless, I got it done.

INTRODUCTIONS – SUNNY LARUE & CATHERINE MELLEN

My first nomination came from a wonderful and friendly blogger, Sunny Larue. In case you are not aware, Sunny Larue is also known as The Professional Martini Drinking Blogger. I love that blog name and it makes me smile every time I visit her website. I proceeded to read Sunny’s responses and learned so much about her. She has a passion beyond this world for mental health issues. Sunny loves to blog about her struggles with mental illness and continues to spread awareness everywhere she goes.

My second nomination came from another creative blogger, Catherine Mellen. I just recently came across her blog while on Twitter. She writes from the soul about shattering the silence on family secrets and childhood trauma. Every word you read pulls you into her fascinating life experiences. It’s a passion and willingness to share stories with a twist of creativity.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The inspiration for the Vogue Magazine Series (VMS) is to get an intimate insight on some of your favorite celebrities, reality personalities, and political personalities. These series of fast-pace questions are designed to challenge the individual to be open, vulnerable in a way to connect to the readers. Now, you won’t find answers from celebrities or reality personalities here, but if you continue reading this blog post, I guarantee that you will get to know me better, smile from time to time, and may want to participate in this kind of blog post yourself.

Before I get started, I wanted to share my nominees along with their blog websites (if applicable) and their Twitter handles:

Brittney – No blog yet – @missbritt14
Sarah – https://momwifewine.com/ – @MomWifeWine
Lisa – https://fluxingwell.com/ – @FluxingWell
Jess – https://justcallmejess.site/ – @Just_Jess_18
Chloe – https://chloechats.com/ – @ChloeChatsBlog
Erika – https://gettuckeredout.com/ – @beetsonbikes

Well, sit down, relax, and get ready to learn more about me in a fun way!

Here’s my 73 questions and answers:

1. What’s your usual Starbucks order? Hot Chocolate

2. What does your workstation look like? Clean and organized

3. Favorite food? Deep Dish Pizza

4. Favorite author? Iyanla Vanzant
 
5. What do you think of open relationships? I believe in traditional marriage (man & woman) – No open relationships

6. What is your favorite video game? Ms. Pac Man

7. Guilty pleasure treat? Dairy Queen Cheesecake Blizzard

8. Favorite movie? Friday the 13th

9. Favorite book? In the Meantime by Iyanla Vanant
 
10. Twitter or Instagram? Twitter

11. Desktop or Laptop? Laptop

12. Best advice you’ve ever received? To be honest and treat people with respect

13. What project are you working on right now? Writing awesome blog content to help increase my readership and subscribers

14. Favorite color? Black

15. Did you get good grades in school? Yes – A’s & B’s (a few C’s here or there)

16. Dream job? Professional Blogger, Freelance Writer & Author
 
17. Play any sports? Not on a team, but I enjoy volleyball, dodge ball & tennis

18. Do you have a degree? Yes – Bachelors & Masters

19. Nationality? Black American

20. What is your favorite kind of blog post? To encourage & How-To

21. What do you like to collect? Positive Quotes, Fridge Magnets & Shot Glasses

22. Describe yourself in three words? Caring, Friendly & Quiet

23. If you were a rapper what would your stage name be? Sweet T

24. Who was the last person you DMed? Sarah Barkley – MomWifeWine.com – She’s very supportive to other bloggers.

25. What’s on top of your wish list right now? To get 3 Amazon sales & to increase blog subscribers

26. Sorting house? I’m very organized & do household chores daily

27. How many tattoos do you have? No tattoos

28. What are you most grateful for this year? Being able to write freely

29. What’s the best thing that’s happened to you this month? Had week off of work to spend with my boys

30. What’s the best thing that’s happened to you today? Woke up in my right mind

31. What’s the best thing ever? Blogging about anything

32. Favorite season? Fall – Changing leaves

33. Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving Holiday

34. What fictional character do you relate to most? Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz

35. Do you like surprises? No

36. What’s the biggest surprise you’ve ever had? Husband taking me to the dealership to buy me a car that I had on my vision board

37. Which surprise made you cry? When my dad got re-married and he did not tell me

38. What’s the best surprise you’ve given somebody else? Took my boys on a shopping spree

39. Do you like muffins? Yes – I love banana nut & blueberry
 
40. Do you cook often? Yes – I have to cook for my family

41. What’s your favorite dessert? Banana Pudding

42. Is there a dessert you don’t like? Yes – Pecan Pie

43. Cake or pie? I prefer cake over pie

44. What’s your least favorite food? Baked fish / Asparagus

45. What’s your favorite condiment? Barbecue Sauce

46. It’s 4 am on a random Saturday. What are you eating? Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich with Milk

47. If you could teach a college class what would it be called? Be Kind to Yourself

48. Best animated film? The Incredibles

49. What has a guy done or said to impress you? Respect me and listens well

50. Best thing to do on a first date? Go for a walk by the water

51. Worst thing to do on a first date? Be late or rude

52. Best comic book character? Spider-Man

53. Name three things which can always be found in your purse. Wallet, Phone & Lotion

54. Favorite drink? Strawberry Daiquiri

55. If you could play a historical character in a movie who would it be? Oprah Winfrey

56. Kittens or puppies? I love kittens & puppies (animals in general)
 
57. Favorite sushi roll? Don’t eat sushi at all

58. What lipstick do you use? Don’t wear lipstick or any other make-up

59. What foundation do you use? Don’t wear foundation or any other make-up

60. Blow dry or air dry? Blow dry

61. Who is your fashion icon? I enjoy seeing blog posts from Dani Smith – She’s an enthusiast that loves fashion – iamdanismith.com

62. Favorite Disney Character? Minnie Mouse

63. What are you doing tomorrow? Resting & Writing

64. Movie you laughed the hardest through? Ghostbusters

65. Movie that made you cry? The Color Purple

66. If you could sing a duet with anybody, who would you choose? R. Kelly despite his legal issues, the man is talented and could sing his butt off

67. If your life was a song what would the title be? It’s Hard to Smile

68. What’s your favorite animal? A Zebra

69. Favorite illustrator? Sorry, I don’t have one

70. What country would you like to visit? Costa Rica

71. Best way to decompress? Hot Bubble Bath

72. Favorite exercise? Walk Workouts

73. Do you prefer writing in the morning or evening? Evening

Wow, this was a lot of fun! Some of these questions caught me off guard and it took me a few minutes before I could honestly answer them. I kept telling myself that it’s important not to overthink, just have fun with it! Again, I appreciate the nominations I received from Sunny and Catherine! Let’s continue to support one another’s blogging efforts. When you get a moment, go and support both of these talented bloggers:

Sunny Larue – https://sunnylarue17.com/ – @sunnylarue17
Catherine Mellen – https://shatter-the-silence.mn.co/ – @Irishgirl692

Happy Blogging!

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).

Journaling Through Anxiety

LaPorterJuly 7, 201929 Replies

Journaling, Anxiety, Renew Inspiration, Purple Flower, Depression — pexels

I’m not lazy. I’m just exhausted from fighting my way through every single day. – Mimi Love

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! So, how is your summer going so far? I hope you enjoyed your 4th of July holiday with your family and friends. Unfortunately, I am exhausted some days from trying to be stronger than I feel. I even overthink my overthinking. Lately, I have been experiencing a high level of anxiety. I normally feel this way during holidays. Of course, this holiday was no different. I thought about my mom a lot.

Believe it or not, everyone experiences fear and anxiety from time to time. Anxiety disorders can develop after a person experience trauma in childhood or adulthood. However, coping with anxiety on a regular basis can be quite difficult at any age level. Did you know that anxiety is a healthy response to help you cope with real threats to your life and well-being? Yes, anxiety is supposed to be a quick response that will motivate you to take action, and then fade away so you can feel safe again.

SYMPTOMS OF ANXIETY

Unfortunately, high levels of anxiety can cause various health conditions, such as:

• Panic attacks

• Depression

• Constant and excessive worrying

• Feeling exhausted and fatigue

• Increase stress

• Restlessness

• Insomnia and non-restorative sleep

• Irritability

• Lack of concentration

• Irrational fears and phobias

• Avoiding social situations

It’s important to analyze these symptoms very closely. If you feel the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily life activities and continues for at least 6 months, you may want to consider seeing a licensed health professional.

HOW ANXIETY MANIPULATES YOU

Many people deal with anxiety on so many levels, and in some cases, they deal with this condition alone. Unfortunately, anxiety often times manipulates you by showing the following:

• Self-doubt – Anxiety makes us question ourselves and our beliefs.

• Fear – Anxiety takes what is dear to you and makes you afraid of losing it.

• Worries – Anxiety can take a thought and turn it into excessive worries.

• Control – We don’t need our fears to manifest. Then, we strive to control everything.

Similar to the symptoms as noted above, it’s important to analyze how you’re feeling and request help from a licensed health professional so you can cope with life better.

WAYS TO REDUCE ANXIETY

Here’s some ways to reduce anxiety:

• Eating a healthy diet

• Limiting caffeine

• Abstaining from drinking alcohol

• Quitting smoking

• Exercising often

• Trying medication to calm you

• Practicing yoga routines

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Never have I dealt with anything more difficult than my own soul. – Unknown Author

I don’t think people realize how much strength it takes to pull your own self out of an anxiety attack. So, if you’ve done that today or any day, I’m proud of you. Repeat these positive affirmations daily as you look into a mirror:

• I am beautiful, flaws and all.

• I am worthy of my dreams.

• I am strong and I have a purpose.

• I am my own hero.

• I am worthy of real love and affection.

As you speak into your life using positive affirmations, you must believe the words in your heart. I don’t know about you, but I deserve to hold my head up high throughout my journey. As you can see, my self-worth isn’t determined by others, but it comes from within. Now, I hope you feel the same.

JOURNAL PROMPTS & WRITING EXERCISES

Anxiety isn’t something that goes away; it’s something you learn to control. – Unknown Author

Now, it is time to put your journaling efforts to work. Put all previous mistakes and misfortunes behind you so you’re moving forward with a clear mind. Believe in yourself and stand in your new experience. After a while this new experience and lifestyle will become priority. Nothing else will matter.

Here’s some thought-provoking journal prompts that I want you to focus on:

• Do you suffer from anxiety? If so, how do you work through it.

• What are some of life challenges that increase your anxiety?

• What are some of your fears or phobias?

• How do you plan to overcome your fears or phobias?

• What are your strengths?

• What are your weaknesses?

• Write a letter to someone and never send it.

• Interview your past & future self by asking questions that you need answers to.

• Use colorful markers or pens to write out all the things that make you happy.

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

If you correct your mind, the rest of your life will fall into place. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. Journaling through anxiety takes hard work and commitment. Whether it is alone time, reading a good book, or binge-watching your favorite show, what does your mind really need? Please share your answer in the comment section.

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).