Body

Journaling for Renewal

LaPorterSeptember 22, 20192 Replies

Sometimes renewal comes in surrender. – Rob Bell

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Special Thought – Everything is up to you. Your emotions, your thoughts, your perceptions, your reactions. Every moment.

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 – Journaling for Renewal. 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 make time for the renewal process to take place in their lives. We just keep going and going like the Energizer bunny, right?

DEFINE RENEWAL

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

Before starting any new project, I always take time to define the words that are included in the project. Why you ask? In order to truly grasp an understanding of your subject matter, you first must know the meanings of the words and how they are used in your context.

Renewal is a noun and can be defined as an instance of resuming an activity or state after an interruption; the action of extending the period of validity of a license, subscription, or contract; the replacing or repair of something that is worn out, run-down, or broken.

Synonyms: resumption, recommencement, continuation, re-establishment, renovation, restoration, modernization, improvement, reconditioning, overhauling, rehabilitation, rebuilding, regeneration

ADVANTAGES IN LIFE

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

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.

Time for renewal offers one:

• 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.

I encourage you today to really think about your personal journey and how important it is to make time for renewal. You will experience life awakening experiences that will allow for personal growth as well as an expansion of your creativity that only you can explore and enjoy.

Psalm 51:10 – Create in me a clean heart, Oh God, and renew a right spirit within me.

Here’s some ways to spend quality time during the renewal process:

MIND
• 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

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

SPIRIT
• 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

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

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 enjoy the renewal process:

• 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?

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

And suddenly you know, it’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings. – Meister Eckhart

Let’s talk. 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!

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Surrender My Life

LaPorterSeptember 8, 20192 Replies

The moment of surrender is not when life is over, it’s when it begins. – Unknown Author

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Thought for today – Have patience and wait for the things you want most. Don’t chase it. Don’t run after it. If God wants you to have it, He will give it to you. Amen.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today I want to discuss a topic that truly impacts your mind, body, and spirit. Your total well-being depends on the decision for you to surrender your life to God. Every thought, every choice, and every move we make throughout our journey is based on how we build our spiritual foundation. Do we believe in a Higher Power? Do we trust God enough to allow Him to guide our every step? I don’t know about you, but I always think about this topic. At what point do you feel comfortable enough to surrender your all and all to God?

DEFINE

Before you can attempt to answer any of these questions, it is important to understand what the word “surrender” means. The word “surrender” is defined as to yield, give up or over, submit, abandon, relinquish, cede, waive, or capitulate. Unfortunately, in some Bible translations, the word “surrender” is not found, but the concepts of “yielding” (Romans 6:16-19) or “submitting” (James 4:7) are used instead.

Take a moment and answer these questions:

• Does something in your life seem out of control?

• Do you have more problems than solutions?

• Do you feel like you’re stuck or at a standstill in life?

• Are you overwhelmed no matter how hard you try?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it’s time for you to surrender your life to God. No excuses, no exceptions, just do it!

GOD SAYS

God says, remember these four things while living your best life:

• I will make a way for you.

• I’m fighting your battles.

• Prayer is the best medicine.

• Trust my timing.

I realize that God has given me a choice to believe and receive His blessings each and every day, but it all depends on when I make the decision to surrender my life to Him. Just like anything else in life, this decision may not be an easy one to make. However, it is a necessary one.

WAYS TO SURRENDER MY LIFE

Life is a balance between what we can control and what we cannot. I am learning to live between effort and surrender. – Danielle Orner

Here’s some creative ways to surrender my life to God:

• Believe and Obey God – First, I must believe in God. God’s direction isn’t always the easiest way, but God does make it clear that sometimes we only need to be still and let Him handle the rest. Remember, obedience is key.

• Stop Striving and Start Abiding – We don’t have to strive to make our life turn out a certain way. Instead, we need to abide in God and allow Him to work miracles in our lives.

• Confess and Surrender Your Need for Control – Go to God in prayer and confession. Ask God to help you surrender control each and every day. Focus on trusting in God and not being afraid to surrender your life.

• Be Still and Know – God delivers us, protects us, fights for us, and expects us to trust Him throughout life experiences. Be still and know this to be true.

• Trust God – It’s important to know that trusting in God is a lifelong process. We must learn how to submit our thoughts, trials, and emotions to God. This will not only lighten your burden, but God will make your path straight.

• Seek God – If we diligently seek God in all we do, He will direct your steps.

Remember God knows your every thought and he knows what your heart is really feeling. No matter how hard we may try to act a certain way, if our actions are not sincere, God will know it. Be true to yourself, to others, and most importantly, be true to God who should be the head of your life.

DAILY TO-DO LIST

• Wait Patiently – Psalm 27:14

• Have Faith – II Corinthians 5:7

• Pray – Philippians 4:6

• Think of Others – Philippians 2:4

• Trust in the Lord – Proverbs 3:5

• Read God’s Word – Psalm 119:12

• Give Thanks – Psalm 136

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Writing is the only way I have to explain my own life to myself. – Pat Conroy

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. Now, open your journal or notebook and practice journaling each day by using these helpful journal prompts:

Here’s some journal prompts to help you throughout this transition:

• When I wake up in the morning, how do I most want to feel?

• What do I need more of in my life?

• What do I need to let go of?

• What do I most need to heal right now?

• What problem can you surrender today?

• What beliefs are holding me back from living my dream life?

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Let’s talk. Do you find it difficult to surrender your life to God? If so, why do you think this decision is difficult to make? Please share in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Finding Kindness Within

LaPorterAugust 29, 20194 Replies

Kindness is the language that the deaf can hear and the blind can see. – Mark Twain

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Finding kindness within is not as easy as it sounds. Recently, I have made a commitment to find kindness within and to practice kindness toward others on a daily basis. But what does this really mean? For me, it’s quite simple. To practice kindness, you first must find kindness within (mind, body, spirit) so you can share it with others. You must be kind hearted and be a gentle soul. You must naturally care for others and not be fake about it. Then, you have to show that you’re not selfish by showing compassion toward others as well as refraining from criticizing and/or judging people throughout your journey.

Believe it or not, kindness actually reduces stress, anxiety, and depression. Also, kindness can put us and others at ease while we’re interacting with one another. Try it next time you’re out and about. Offer a kind word or gesture to someone you meet, to someone who serves your community, or even a family member. Notice what happens. From a learning perspective, you’ll see that the effects are cumulative. The more we practice kindness, the better we get at it, it helps build our character, and it becomes who we are.

DEFINITION

Kindness (noun) – the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate; a kind act.

FUN FACTS

Unexpected kindness is the most powerful, least costly, and most underrated agent of human change. – Bob Kerrey

• World Kindness Day is a day that was started in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement. This day is celebrated on November 13th in several countries all over the world, such as United States, Italy, India, Singapore, Nigeria, Japan, Australia, and Canada.

• Kindness is considered a virtue and is recognized as a value in many cultures and religions.

• National Random Acts of Kindness Day was started in 2004 by New Zealand and is observed on February 17th. This day can be celebrated by individuals, groups, and organizations nationwide to encourage acts of kindness.

• Kindness is a natural antidepressant because it causes a release of serotonin in our brain.

• Random Acts of Kindness Foundation (RAK) is a US nonprofit that was founded in 1995 and has its headquarters in Denver, CO.

WAYS TO PRACTICE KINDNESS

Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for kindness. – Seneca

Here’s some ways to practice kindness throughout your day:

• Be kind to yourself. Notice your self-talk. Recite positive affirmations. Practice meditation and engage in basic self-care routines.

• Use your manners often. Saying thank you and you’re welcome are expressions of gratitude. A grateful heart is all it takes to express kindness.

• Smile at everyone you pass or encounter. I always greet people with a warm smile and a kind word. Whether they respond or not, it makes me feel good.

• Greet people with a friendly hug. A good hug can lift someone’s spirits or make them feel loved and appreciated.

• Be generous and give from the heart. Donate money or clothes to charity, volunteer your time to help the needy, or even bring a gift or souvenir whenever you visit a friend. Even at home, we can lend a helping hand by offering to wash the dishes, vacuum the floor, or clean the bathrooms.

• Help a stranger. You can help someone put their bags in the car, let someone go ahead of you in line, hold the door or elevator, run errands for your friend or neighbor, or hold an umbrella for someone who needs a hand.

• Send good wishes. Kindness always begins with a thought. Secretly send people good intentions, wishes, and prayer.

• Give praises. Giving a sincere praise to someone is an act of kindness. By giving recognition to others, we can help them to develop confidence in themselves.

• Call a loved one or friend. Take a moment to call a loved one or a friend to catch up instead of sending a text. It’s refreshing to have a heart-to-heart conversation over the phone.

• Send greeting cards. Send a greeting card just because to let someone know you’re thinking of them. Sometimes, the unexpected cards are the best, and they’ll make a lasting, positive impression.

DAILY AFFIRMATIONS – SPEAK KINDNESS

In a world where you can be anything, be kind. – Unknown Author

Here’s some great examples of how you can speak kindness into your life:

• I believe in myself and trust in my abilities to succeed in all I do.

• I am a beautiful soul that radiates a vibrant and beautiful form. All is well in my body and mind.

• I let the events of today go. I forgive myself and others for any mistakes that were made. I am ready to start fresh with a new day tomorrow.

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Choose kindness because it changes everything. – Unknown Author

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:

• How do you define kindness?

• How will you practice self-kindness today?

• How often do you share kindness with others?

• How is gratitude and kindness related?

• Do you plan to celebrate World Kindness Day (November) or National Random Acts of Kindness Day (February) in the future? If so, what do you plan on doing?

Remember, it’s important to make it a daily habit to overwhelm others with your kindness. Kindness is the most fundamental value as a human. Being kind is the powerful way to connect with others. People will develop trust in you and remember you because of tiny acts of kindness you practice. Make a commitment to yourself to find kindness within (mind, body, spirit) and share it with others.

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Let’s talk. Be merciful, gracious, and have a tender temperament. It’s important to choose kindness daily. Always help someone. You might be the only one that does. How do you plan to show kindness toward others today or in the future? What is your favorite way to practice kindness? Please share your honest response in the comment section. I cannot wait to hear from you.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Living in Fear

LaPorterAugust 12, 20194 Replies

Never let your fear decide your fate. – Unknown Author

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For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and a sound mind. – II Timothy 1:7 KJV

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Just like all feelings and emotions we experience in our daily lives, there’s a portion of fear that is also necessary. Unfortunately, we have to be careful not to get caught up in all of the fears, negative feelings, and emotions. Often times living in constant fear can cause you to experience unhealthy feelings and physical consequences, such as:

• Chronic worrying

• A high level of anxiety

• Harmful sleep habits

• Issues with your appetite

• Digestive disorders
 
• Muscle tension

• Short-term memory loss

• Increase stress levels

• Depression

• Suicidal thoughts

As you can see, living in fear has a negative impact on your total well-being – mind, body, and spirit.

DEFINITIONS

Worrying doesn’t take away tomorrow’s troubles, it takes away today’s peace. – Unknown Author

It’s important to also note that living in fear will cause an increase in anxiety and worry as well. Below you will find the definitions for fear, anxiety, and worry:

• Fear – an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.

• Anxiety – a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an event or something with an uncertain outcome.

• Worry – a state of anxiety and uncertainty over actual or potential problems.

So, I know you’re wondering how you can turn your life around, right? Well, let’s start with focusing on basic lifestyle changes.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES

Our anxiety does not come from thinking about the future, but from wanting to control it. – Unknown Author

Although living in fear can cause an imbalance in your body, there are many options you have that can re-establish harmony of your total well-being – mind, body, and spirt.

Here’s some lifestyle changes to include in your daily journey:

• Exercise daily.

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet.

• Focus on what you appreciate.

• Write your thoughts in a journal or notebook.

• Be conscious of your worries.

• Learn to relax.

• Pray and meditate.

• Establish a strong social network.

• Talk to a professional therapist or counselor.

Now, remember you’re not going to change overnight. It’s going to take time, commitment, and consistency to find what works best for you. Be careful not to rush the process.

OVERCOME FEAR, ANXIETY & WORRY

Worrying will never change the outcome. – Unknown Author

As you may already know, overcoming fear, anxiety, and worry may not be easy, but it is possible. As you take the necessary steps to overcome these emotional challenges, you will allow yourself to focus on the more important things in life. It takes effort and commitment, but just imagine the number of rewards that will follow. Please keep these important tips in mind throughout the process:

• Tip 1 – Honesty is key so always speak your truth.

• Tip 2 – Focus on your breathing techniques, slowly breathing in and out.

• Tip 3 – Trust the Universe, but don’t question your personal beliefs and values.

• Tip 4 – Don’t fight the feeling, just let go and let God direct your path.

• Tip 5 – Always make time for personal reflection.

My hope for you today is to find a way to balance fear, anxiety, and worry in your life. Remember, a little of anything will be alright, but it’s when you allow stuff like fear to consume your life, is when you will experience stress and heartache.

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears. – Nelson Mandela

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:

• Who or what are you afraid of? Why?

• What fear is holding you back?

• What causes you anxiety and/or worry?

• What helps you conquer the fear in your life?

• What brings peace and comfort into your life?

• What gives you courage to move forward?

• How were you courageous today?

• What is your biggest fear in life?

• What is holding you back from improving your lifestyle?

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

I allow love to fill my mind, body, and soul all day today. I am love. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. Do you find yourself living in fear? How do you cope with fear, anxiety, and worry? Can you list at least 5 ways you’ve become stronger and more courageous this month? Please share your honest response in the comment section. I cannot wait to hear from you.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Life Changing Quotes

LaPorterAugust 4, 20191 Reply

I nurture my mind, body, and spirit in positive and loving ways. – Unknown Author

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s welcome August in with a focus on improving our mind, body, and spirit. Today, I want to discuss the importance of reading life changing quotes with a purpose.

I don’t know about you, but I love to encourage myself by not only reading quotes, but also reciting the words during difficult times. If you allow the words to resonate in your spirit, you will become the words that you read and speak. Sometimes it is important to read and recite the quotes over and over. Many people like to memorize quotes as well just like scripture. What’s important is that you find what works for you and do it on a regular basis to receive life changing results which is your purpose.

I am present within myself. I can center myself with the ease of my breath. I feel grounded, confident, worthy, and whole. – Unknown Author

BENEFITS OF READING QUOTES

I awaken today, appreciating everything in sight, and I give thanks. – Louise Hay

There are many benefits to reading life changing quotes on a regular basis, such as:

• Reminding us about what we already know, or aspire to be, and trigger something within us to get back on track.

• Giving us insight into the thoughts and teachings of very wise people.

• Helping us overcome challenges, such as grief, sadness or depression.

• Keeping our value system and beliefs in the forefront of our minds.

• Offering us a quick boost of motivation and encouragement.

• Being a way to express wisdom into our lives consistently.

As you go through life, it is important to find some favorite quotes to help uplift you when you’re feeling down, to help you make wise choices, or just to improve your overall lifestyle. Honestly, I have a lot of quotes posted on my wall near my desk and I find myself reflecting on the inspirational words throughout the day while I am working at my desk.
 
Here’s a few of my favorite quotes:

MIND QUOTES

• Happy mind, happy life. – Unknown Author

• Your only limit is your mind. – Unknown Author

• A quiet mind is able to hear intuition over fear. – Unknown Author

• Quiet the mind and the soul will speak. – Buddha

• You have to train your mind to be stronger than your emotions or else you’ll lose yourself every time. – Unknown Author

BODY QUOTES

• Speak to your body in a loving way. – Unknown Author

• The body achieves what the mind believes. – Unknown Author

• Fill your body with deep breaths and it will fill you with peace. – Unknown Author

• Your body hears everything your mind says, stay positive. – Unknown Author

• Workout because you love your body, not because you hate it. – Unknown Author

SPIRIT QUOTES

• I feed my spirit, I train my mind, I focus my mind. – Unknown Author

• Never be a prisoner of your past, it was just a lesson not a life sentence. – Unknown Author

• All of the power I need to create a life I love inside of me. – Unknown Author

• You have to participate relentlessly in the manifestation of your own blessings. – Unknown Author

• Reset, readjust, restart, refocus, as many times as you need. – Unknown Author

FITNESS QUOTES

• Working out is my mood changer. – Unknown Author

• Work out, eat well, be patient, your body will reward you. – Unknown Author

• Discipline is doing what needs to be done, even if you don’t want to do it. – Unknown Author

• Do it over and over again until it becomes part of who you are. – Unknown Author

• Fitness means so much more than having a nice body. It means having a much better life. – Unknown Author

FAMOUS QUOTES

• Through my education, I didn’t just develop skills, I didn’t just develop the ability to learn, but I developed confidence. – Michelle Obama

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

• Motivation is what gets you started Habit is what keeps you going. – Jim Ryun

• Move out of your comfort zone. You can only grow if you are willing to feel awkward and uncomfortable when you try something new. – Brian Tracey

• We can’t become what we need to be by remaining what we are. – Oprah Winfrey

MAYA ANGELOU’S QUOTES

Maya Angelou was one of America’s most beloved poets and authors, who for decades occupied an inspirational role at the center of American life. Maya Angelou was one of my favorite authors who spoke with courage and strength that made everyone stop to listen. I wanted to include some of her quotes that helps to keep me grounded from time to time. Hopefully, the quotes will do the same for you.

• There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.

• If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.

• When you learn, teach. When you get, give.

• Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.

• Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future and renders the present inaccessible.
 
• I have fallen, but I will get up.

• Without courage we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can’t be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest.

• A wise woman wishes to be no one’s enemy; a wise woman refuses to be anyone’s victim.

• Hate, it has caused a lot of problems in the world, but has not solved one yet.

LIFE CHANGING AFFIRMATIONS

I have the power to accomplish everything I need to do today. – Unknown Author

Now, I could not close this blog post out without giving you some life changing affirmations. Please take some time to recite these life changing affirmations every day. Not only recite them, but also believe every word. Feed your spirit life and you will have a life full of happiness.

MIND

• My mind is clear and focused.

• I am in control of my thoughts, feelings, and choices.

• I can achieve anything I set my mind to.

• I have a strong and healthy body.

• My body is balanced and thriving.

• I am brave, bold, and beautiful.

SPIRIT

• I have a calm spirit.

• I have unlimited potential.

• I embrace happiness as my natural state of being.

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

I am a soul of love. A heart of peace. A mind of stillness. A being of light. – Julie Parker

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.

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

I allow love to fill my mind, body, and soul all day today. I am love. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. What are some of your favorite quotes or affirmations? Do you like posting quotes and affirmations on your wall at home, school, or work? If so, how does this process help to improve your life? 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).

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.

MIND

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

BODY

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

SPIRIT

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

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).

Moving Forward

LaPorterApril 14, 201914 Replies

You don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward…just take the next step.

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).

Thought for the week – Moving forward means it’s time to write a new story.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! This week I have been in a very difficult place. It’s been hard to focus on writing so I had to step away to get my mind, body and spirit reconnected again. Have you ever been there or felt this way? Sometimes it helps to know that you’re not alone and you find comfort in knowing that others may be experiencing this same kind of feeling from time to time. Now, I realize it’s so important to be honest with yourself and with those closest to you so that’s where today’s topic originated from – Moving Forward.

WAYS TO MOVE FORWARD

The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.

Today, I wanted to write a few words about moving forward. Whether you’re stuck in a rut from a recent break up or going through the grieving process from the loss of a loved one, many people struggle with moving forward. Now, speaking from experience, I do realize that moving forward is not always easy. However, it’s important for people to be honest with themselves and with those around them when choosing to shake it off and take the first step to move forward.

Here’s some common ways to help you move forward in various life situations:

• Change your attitude. Believe it or not, to manifest is to create exactly what you want in your life by choosing to consciously vibrate in alignment with that feeling now. So, don’t put off changing your negative attitude. Choose to shine and a leave a little sparkle wherever you go.

• Block out negativity. Let’s face it, negative vibes bring about negative vibes. I AM – two of the most powerful words. For what you put after them shapes your reality. So, why not make it a positive life, right?

• Take ownership. Be the first to own up to what you didn’t do or to any mistake you may have made in life. That’s how you learn and earn respect.

• Let go of the past. It’s not healthy to relive your painful past. If you continue to look at today through the eyes of the past, you can never see what the present moment has to offer you in life. Remember, you can’t change what happened, but you can change your mindset and actions in the present.

• Start small. Set small goals for yourself and write them down. Each morning, look at your goals and make a plan to do something productive that will help you reach your goals.

• Stick to a schedule. Make a plan and stick to it. I know life happens from time to time, but also remember your success is found in your daily routine. Create a daily To-Do List with 3 to 5 items on it and check your tasks off throughout the day.

• Be willing to forgive. In order to be kind to yourself, it’s important to commit to talking with yourself in a way that’s helpful, rather than harmful. Speak life into your situation, not death and destruction.

• Live in a moment of gratitude. Start every day with an attitude of gratitude. Afterall, gratitude makes sweet miracles of small moments. Breathe in beauty, exhale gratitude.

Don’t be afraid to find your own happiness throughout this process as well. Remember, achieving success and personal growth is not going to happen overnight. To be able to move forward in life, you may have to let some people and thoughts go in order to live a more fulfilled life with purpose.

Moving Forward, Renew Inspiration, Journaling, Reflection, Writing, Notebook, Journal — renewinspiration

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

Do not give your past the power to define your future.

As always, I want to give you some journal prompts that will help you throughout the moving forward process. Believe in yourself and choose to shine while journaling your way to happiness. If you’re honest with yourself, you will achieve what ever you set your heart and mind to.

• What would make you happy right now?

• What is standing in the way of that happiness?

• What is draining your energy from day to day?

• What do I need to give up, say no to or let go of?

• How can I re-prioritize my to-do list?

• What would I be doing if money or other people’s opinions didn’t hold you back?

• What are you afraid of?

• How can you confront those fears head on?

• What is a short-term goal that you’re confident you can achieve?

• What is an important lesson you’ve learned recently?

Thank you for reading my latest blog post. I really look forward to inspiring all of you with written word. When I write my Renew Inspiration blog posts, I strive to grow within myself with every word that I type. Believe it or not, my Renew Inspiration blog is the key to my very being. It gives me strength and power to reach so many people, both near and far. I would love to hear your thoughts about moving forward so please leave a comment. Peace and blessings!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Amazon, Blue Host and WordPress Affiliate Programs which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Bluehost.com and WordPress.com

Spring Time Renewal

LaPorterMarch 2, 201915 Replies

It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade. – Charles Dickens

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 could describe March in one word, what would your one word be? My word would be renewal. I always like to think of spring as a time for renewal and growth. Renewal requires opening yourself up to new ways of thinking and feeling. March is a good time to let go of the old and make room for the new. We’ve been stuck inside during the winter months and now it feels right to get organized, physically active, and create positive change all around us.

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

TIME FOR RENEWAL

Time for renewal offers:

• 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 you were previously experiencing.

• The ability to make necessary plans and allows your mind to think of resolutions that need to take place.

• You 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.

MIND

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

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 and remove all negativity, both people and things.

BODY

Your body loves you. Love it back. – Unknown Author

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.

SPIRIT

Everything has a spirit – honor that. – Unknown Author

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 and positive foundation.

Come to the water. Live in the moment and be. Refresh your mind. Rest your body. Renew your spirit. Regain a gentle heart and peaceful soul. Reclaim yourself. Restore in the power that is greater than you. – Bonnie L. Mohr

flowers, notebook, pen, coffee, goals — pexels

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

And suddenly you know, it’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings. – Meister Eckhart

• What are your priorities in life?

• What do you love about yourself?

• How do you feel when you look at the sky?

• What are ten things you love about spring?

• What are three specific goals for March?

• Where would you like to travel during the spring?

• What books are you reading?

• What good habit do you want to develop?

• What is the hardest challenge you have overcome?

• What is one thing you can do tonight to prepare you for tomorrow?

• Find a poem, verse or quote to inspire you for the month ahead.

• Identify one way you would like to grow in the next year.

Spring is a great time to envision endless possibilities, and to use our creative gifts to reach new levels of achievement, wellness, happiness, and success. 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! I encourage you today to really think about your personal journey and how important it is to make time for renewal. You will experience life awakening experiences that will allow for personal growth as well as an expansion of your creativity that only you can explore and enjoy. Peace and blessings!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

My Present Place

LaPorterFebruary 10, 20198 Replies

Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life. This is my happy place. – 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! Wow, I cannot believe it has been a whole week already! Time really flies when you’re having fun, right? Before I dive into my topic today, I want to express appreciation for ALL OF YOU who have subscribed/followed Renew Inspiration. It really means a lot to me. My prayer each and every day is to find the right words to say to help you along this journey called life. I look forward to reading your personal thoughts in the blog comment section for each post. It’s not only refreshing to hear your point of view, but it is also healthy to have on-going dialogue with others.

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about my present place. Am I happy or sad? Am I willing to make the necessary changes that are needed to excel in all aspects of my life? Am I content right now or willing to step out of my comfort zone to explore new endeavors? These are just a few questions that I have found myself thinking about this week. Have you ever just sat down in a quiet place and allowed yourself to think without interruption? This process is called self-reflection. It’s really important to spend quality time in self-reflection mode whether you have all your stuff together (you think) or you’re still trying to find your way (most of us).

DEFINE SELF-REFLECTION

Self-reflection is a humbling process. It’s essential to find out why you think, say, and do certain things…then better yourself. – Unknown Author

Before moving forward, I think it is important to understand what self-reflection is before you can commit to practicing it on a regular basis. Self-reflection can be defined as meditation or serious thought about one’s character, actions, and motives. To take it a step further, you must be willing to learn more about your fundamental nature, purpose, and essence of life. Take a moment and look in a mirror. What do you see? You see a reflection of who you are on the outside. For example, you notice your physical facial features, the color of your skin, your hair color and style, etc. However, self-reflection is not only your outward appearance, but it is a way of assessing yourself deep within – mind, body, and spirit.

HEALTHY WAYS TO PRACTICE SELF-REFLECTION

As you begin to practice self-reflection in your life, you will notice a shift in your mindset, an increase of positivity in your life, and discover a deeper connection within. Here’s some healthy ways to practice self-reflection throughout your journey:

• Prayer and meditation – Take a moment to quiet your mind, read a scripture, pray, and meditate. Allow your mind, body, and spirit to only connect with God so you can hear His voice.

• Yoga and exercise – Every day is important to do some form of yoga and exercise. Movement gives you more energy and helps keep you healthy.

• Reading inspirational books – Reading keeps your brain healthy, but reading inspirational books also keeps you in a positive mood.

• Reciting positive affirmations – Reciting positive affirmations will give you hope and encourage you to focus on your goals/dreams.

• Writing or journaling – Writing is a form of self-expression. Capture every moment of your life in a journal so you can pause to reflect on the good times and make changes to avoid bad situations.

• Drawing and painting – Showing your creative side will help to open your mind to different aspects of life. You become calm and relaxed as if you have no care in the world.

• Vision board – Create a vision board so you can have a road map to success. Be creative and use pictures from magazines or from online, quotes, goals, etc.

FIND YOUR ZONE FOR SELF-REFLECTION

Self-reflection is a personal way for you to learn more about yourself. It’s important to find your zone and comfort level so you can reap the positive benefits of self-reflection. Here’s some helpful tips to help you find your zone for self-reflection:

• Tip 1 – Be honest with yourself. Honesty is key to success. Be honest with the process and with yourself. It’s important to remind yourself how things are going and how you are behaving throughout the process.

• Tip 2 – Notice behavior patterns. Be aware of your behavior patterns so you can strengthen the positive/healthy ones and remove the negative/unhealthy ones from your life.

• Tip 3 – Be able to articulate your core values. Take time to identify what’s most important to you so you can evaluate if you’re living those values throughout life. Your lifestyle has to shift at some point, and you should notice the change from the inside out.

• Tip 4 – Be forgiving. Be gentle with yourself when you don’t seem to get it right along the journey. Remember, we’re all human and we all make mistakes.

• Tip 5 – Keep track of your self-reflection. Start a journal where you record your observations and monitor your personal growth throughout this process.

My Present Place, Renew Inspiration, Self-Reflection, Meditation, Journal Prompts — pexels

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

My body is healthy, my mind is focused, my soul is calm. – Unknown Author

Journal Prompts are given to inspire you to write freely about your life and to improve yourself. Take time to think about your thoughts, to acknowledge how you feel, and to strive to be spiritually grounded throughout your personal journey. You have to dig deep inside yourself and do the serious work to truly understand your present place. Keep in mind, this is an on-going process because life is always changing.

MIND

• What am I thinking right now in this very moment?

• What thought patterns do I have and how do they impact my life?

• How does meditation guide me through my day?

• Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present or future?

• How do I deal with difficult thoughts or failures?

BODY

• How do I feel right now in this very moment?

• What is one old habit you want to eliminate in your life?

• What do you consider to be your most challenging flaw?

• How often do you exercise during the week?

• How do relax your body?

SPIRIT

• Am I spiritually grounded right now in this very moment?

• What is something I need to be free from and surrender to God today?

• What is your favorite Bible verse and why?

• Are there areas of my life where I need to learn to trust in God?

• How has journaling helped me get closer to being spiritually grounded?

TIME FOR REFLECTION – MORE JOURNAL PROMPTS

• What is the number one problem you would like to solve (or see solved) in the world?

• What is the number one thing missing from your life right now?

• What is one of life’s little pleasures that I appreciate?

• When was the last time you felt fully alive?

• What can I do to nurture my mind, body, and spirit?

• In what ways are you different from the person you were 2 years ago? 1 year ago?

Instead of sadness, anxiety, and depression, choose to practice self-reflection to help you cope with life challenges. You will think differently, feel better, and strengthen your spiritual being. Your whole being will thank you and those people surrounding you each day will thank you as well. Peace and blessings!

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND COMMENTS

As I stated before, I look forward to hearing from you. Please take a moment to reflect on this blog and answer these questions in the comment section. You’ll be surprised how much we learn from one another. What are your thoughts related to self-reflection? How often do you practice self-reflection? How has self-reflection changed your life?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Amazon, Target, Blue Host and WordPress Affiliate Programs which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Target.com, Bluehost.com and WordPress.com

Improve Yourself by Practicing Self-Care

LaPorterFebruary 3, 201910 Replies

Self Care, Improve Yourself, Reflection, Journal Prompts — pixabay

Self-care is giving the world the best of you instead of what’s left of you. – 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 discuss some ways that you can improve yourself through self-care. So, what is self-care? According to The Self-Care Solution written by Suzy Reading, self-care can be defined as any life-giving activity that restores, sustains or improves your health. Simply put, self-care is nourishment for your entire soul, mind, body and spirit. Self-care can also help people become the best version of themselves when they learn effective ways to navigate through life.

WHY SELF-CARE IS IMPORTANT

As we go through life, all of us have experienced stress on some level one way or another. It’s so important that you have the necessary tools to help you promote healing and cultivate clarity in your life as you experience stressful situations or any kind of life changing event.

Suzy Reading provides 3 reasons why self-care is important:

• Stress is not going to go away. Stress is a normal part of life. In fact, life would be boring without some stress to keep us on our toes, right?

• Stress has a cumulative effect. Stress can add up very quickly so make sure to plan for regular pressure releases throughout your day. For example, go for a walk, do a stretch routine or meditate.

• Too much stress is dangerous. It’s a fact that too much stress makes us ill and greatly diminishes our ability to enjoy life.

HOW DOES SELF-CARE HELP?

Self-care is important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel. – Eleanor Brown

Suzy Reading provides ways that self-care helps us throughout life:

• Self-care helps you cope with life changing events, such as an illness, the loss of a loved one, depression, parents adjusting to life with a newborn, etc.

• Self-care helps us recover after experiencing life changing events, such as the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, divorce, etc.

• Self-care offers us a protective function, forming a buffer against future stress. If you are able to prepare yourself before a life changing event occurs, then do it. For example, before the birth of a child, the finalization of an adoption, getting married, starting college, or moving into a new home.

• Self-care helps us to flourish as individuals and to become the best version of themselves. For example, you may be striving to become a better parent, a better spouse, in search of a new career, or preparing for retirement.

SIGNS THAT BURNOUT MAY BE OCCURRING IN YOUR LIFE

It’s important to note that prolonged stress can result in a state of burnout. According to Suzy Reading, burnout is characterized by exhaustion, manifesting itself emotionally, mentally, and physically. It’s an overwhelming state, when you feel like you have nothing left to give and you just can’t ignore your body’s plea for a break.

Here’s some signs that burnout may be occurring in your life:

• Extreme tiredness, trouble sleeping despite feeling fatigued, difficulty switching off and a sense of overstimulation.

• A general suppression of the immune system evidenced by frequent bouts of minor ailments such as cold sores, headaches or common colds.

• Muscular aches, pains, and physical tension.

• Low mood, suppressed appetite, poor concentration or diminished enjoyment from life. A sense of feeling stuck and overwhelmed.

• Anxiety, anger, reactivity and irritability.

Improve Yourself, Self-Care, Reflection, Stress, Journal Prompts — pixabay

Believe it or not, self-care will help you heal and overcome burnout. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with life’s events, prioritize soothing activities and choices that restore balance to your life.

Here’s some examples of soothing activities and choices that restore balance to your life:

• Go for a walk around your neighborhood or in a local park.

• Exercise does the whole body good.

• Do some yoga poses.

• Practice meditation or spend time in prayer.

• Read an inspirational or motivational book.

• Take a warm bath to help you relax.

• Spend some time journaling or coloring.

• Just sit still with your eyes closed and practice breathing techniques.

Stress, Time Management, Improve Yourself, Self-Care, Reflection — Pixabay

SELF-CARE CHECKLIST

She made a promise to herself to hold her own well-being sacred. – Unknown Author

Today, I …

• Read God’s Word and Prayed

• Spent time in Meditation

• Exercised for at least 30 minutes

• Read an Inspirational Book

• Complimented Someone

• Found Enjoyment in Life by doing Fun activities

• Took time for myself

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

Journal Prompts are given to inspire you to write freely about your life and to improve yourself. Take time to write down your goals. Then, write about how you feel after you’ve nourished yourself with self-care activities so you can see what is working for you. Use your journal to connect the dots between choices and outcomes. Feel free to include anything that inspires you, such as quotes, pictures, positive words, etc.

• When was the last time you felt fully alive?

• What was the last self-care thing you did?

• What is one thing you need to let go?

• What book are you reading right now?

• What do I want more of in my life?

• What is one way you like to recharge your energy levels?

• What is holding you back from improving your lifestyle?

• What would you like to change in your daily routine?

• What brings you joy every day?

• What causes you anxiety?

• How can I honor my body on today?

• What is your vision for the next 3 months?

As you can see, self-care is not selfish, but it is necessary to help keep us calm throughout life. Give yourself permission to take time out for you. From time to time, make an appointment with yourself. Don’t wait for good moment, they rarely come. Plan your time and fill it with something that nurtures your head, heart, and body. Peace and blessings!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!