Exercise – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

Health & Wellness Inspiration

LatishaMarch 21, 20215 Replies

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

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

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

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

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

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1 – The Feel Good Effect Book

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR MIND

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

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

Here’s some additional ways to improve your mind:

Pray & meditate often.
Read inspiration books.
Write in a journal or notebook.
Create a separate To Do List daily to stay organized.

Renew Inspiration, Health & Wellness, Fitness, Exercise, Inspiration — Renew Inspiration

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR BODY

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

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

Here’s some additional ways to improve your body:

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

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR SPIRIT

Everything has a spirit – honor that. – Unknown Author

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

Here’s some additional ways to improve your spirit:

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

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

AMAZON RESOURCE # 2 – The Wellness Remodel Book

JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

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

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

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Anxiety On The Rise

LatishaMarch 22, 20203 Replies

Renew Inspiration, Anxiety, Stress, Panic, Fear, Coronavirus, Hope, Kindness, Happiness — Unsplash

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Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength. – Charles Spurgeon

Thought for today – Believe that you are stronger than your anxiety.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I pray that you and your families are staying healthy during this difficult time. Let’s face it, the rapid spread of the coronavirus has increased anxiety, wide-spread panic, fear and stress for most people around the United States and abroad. In fact, 70% of adults in the United States feel some level of stress and anxiety daily. People are nervous and scared which is a normal response to the issue at hand.

I don’t know about you, but I will be the first to tell you that my anxiety is on the rise, but it is also silent within. I try not to let my family, friends or co-workers know when my anxiety level increases. Today, I will not allow anxiety to dictate how I feel or how I interact with others. Today, I will not stress over things I cannot control. Instead, I choose to spread love, hope, peace, comfort, joy, happiness, kindness, encouragement and inspiration through my Renew Inspiration blog.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1

COMMON CAUSES OF ANXIETY

Anxiety has the ability to keep you from enjoying life and doing things you enjoy. – Unknown Author

Before you can work through an issue, it is important to understand what the issue is and how it can impact you as a whole. So, what is anxiety? Well, anxiety is defined as a nervous disorder characterized by a state of excessive uneasiness and apprehension; Feeling of worry; Fear characterized by behavioral disturbances.

It is important to note, that while there can be many causes for anxiety all around us, here’s some common causes of anxiety that often times impacts our lives or someone close to us:

• Stress that can result from work, school or personal relationships.

• Emotional trauma in our lives.

• Financial concerns.

• A chronic or serious medical condition.

• A major event or performance.

• Side effect of certain medications.

Be open and honest to your loved ones if your anxiety begins to interrupt your life on any level. Do not ever think you’re alone because you’re not. Overcome your fear by taking a step to work through this difficult chapter in your life’s story.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

SYMPTOMS OF ANXIETY

Nothing diminishes anxiety faster than action. – Walter Anderson

Next, I want to provide the symptoms of anxiety to help you become aware of how you are feeling or if you notice any of these symptoms in others. Unfortunately, high levels of anxiety can cause various health conditions and/or symptoms, 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 CAN MANIPULATE YOU

Inner peace begins the moment you choose not to allow another person or event to control your emotions. – Pema Chodron

Moreover, 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 you 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.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

WAYS TO REDUCE ANXIETY

Smile, breathe and go slowly. – Thich Nhat Hanh

Now, that we know the common causes for anxiety and the symptoms, it is important to find ways to reduce anxiety so we can live more productive lives.

Here’s some ways to help reduce anxiety:

• Increase your faith, read scripture and pray.

• Eat well-balanced diets.

• Add a daily exercise or yoga routine.

• Take medications or supplements that are prescribed by a licensed doctor.

• Enjoy aromatherapy by lighting a candle using essential oils (lavender, sandalwood, rose, roman chamomile, geranium, orange blossom).

• Express yourself and how you are feeling using a gratitude journal.

• Spend quality time with family and friends.

• Laugh and find the humor in every day life.

• Learn to avoid procrastination and prioritize what needs to be done.

• Practice mindfulness and deep breathing techniques.

• Listen to soothing music.

• Maintain a positive attitude.

It’s important to take mental breaks as often as possible. Take a deep breath and remember to go easy on yourself. What ever you do today, let it be enough.

AMAZON RESOURCE #4

JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

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

• What are some of life challenges and/or triggers that increase your anxiety?

• How do you plan to overcome your anxiety?

• 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.

Remember, to take care of yourself throughout this stressful time. Click on the image below to receive some Positive Affirmations. Read them daily until they resonate in your spirit. Then, share them with others. Write a comment below to let me know how my Renew Inspiration blog has helped you. Let’s overcome anxiety by sharing positive vibes, not panic or fear.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Strive For Excellence

LatishaMarch 15, 20206 Replies

Renew Inspiration, Strive, Excellence, Challenges, Affirmation, Journal Prompts — unsplash

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We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence is not an act, but a habit. – Aristotle

Thought for today – There’s no wrong or right way, just strive for excellence.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I sure hope you and your family are in good health. My family is healthy and safe, but we’re still trying to wrap our heads around the schools being closed for 3 weeks starting tomorrow. This brings me to this week’s discussion.

At any time, we have to brace ourselves for various life’s challenges, such as the coronavirus outbreak, massive school closings, national emergency being put in place, etc. Sometimes we’re ready to face the challenges head on and other times we are caught off guard which leads to stress and anxiety. Often times we are in panic mode or find ourselves just falling to our knees crying out to God. Today, I want to encourage you to strive for excellence throughout your journey especially during these difficult times.

WAYS TO STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE

Excellence is not a skill, it’s an attitude. – Ralph Marston

To begin with, let’s define excellence. According to the Webster Dictionary, excellence (noun) is defined as the quality of being outstanding or extremely good. Now, do not confuse striving for excellence with striving for perfection (being free from all flaws or defects). It’s important to note that they are not one and the same. Also, keep in mind that your journey will be different from my journey or someone else’s, but in the end, we are still striving to push harder than yesterday so we can have a better tomorrow.

Here’s some ways to strive for excellence throughout life:

• Find time to pray and meditate often
• Practice gratitude – keep a list and be sincere
• Schedule time to exercise and get it done – no excuses are allowed
• Keep a success journal and reflect on your written words often
• Identify your values and stick to them
• Learn something new every day – online courses, reading, watching informative videos, listening to podcasts

HOW TO OVERCOME CHALLENGES

Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence. – Vince Lombardi

Despite how things may be going in your life right now, it’s important to learn how to overcome challenges that may occur in your life from time to time. Let’s face it, life happens to the best of us whether we’re ready or not. In some cases, these challenges may be life changing, such as a death of a loved one, a terrible accident or a medical diagnosis. As you navigate throughout life, be a reflection of what you’d like to receive. Don’t over complicate the process. What you give out throughout your journey, will always return back to you. Make sure to give love, truth and respect every day.

Here’s some suggestions to help you overcome challenges:

• Embrace self-awareness
• Use time to your advantage, don’t procrastinate
• Commit to focused discipline
• Engage your own creativity
• Think BIG, be proactive and set goals
• Re-evaluate your daily tasks
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family, friends or co-workers

EXCELLENCE AFFIRMATIONS

My goal is not to be better than anyone else but better than I used to be. – Unknown Author

Remember, everything in your life is a reflection of a choice you have made. If you want a different result, make a different choice. Now, repeat the excellence affirmations noted below:

• I am a woman or man of excellence.
• I am kind, smart and can accomplish my goals.
• I am increasingly excellent in all that I think, say and do.
• I attract love and excellence into my life.
• I demonstrate excellence within me.
• I strive for excellence and thirst for knowledge.
• The energy of excellence is infused into my very being.

Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Now, open your eyes and recite these powerful words again. Take a moment to add some additional excellence affirmations to make this list complete.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Walking the grounds of gratitude, I stumbled upon the palace of happiness. – Brendon Burchard

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

• What did you achieve today?

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

• Define 3 things you can do to improve yourself.

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

• Right now, my greatest challenge is _______________.

• My greatest qualities are _________________.

• What do you love most about my life?

• What are 5 good/healthy habits you want to start next month?

• How can you improve your mindset so you love yourself more?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Embrace Self Love

LatishaFebruary 2, 20202 Replies

To love yourself is to understand you don’t need to be perfect to be good. – Unknown Author

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

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

In addition, self-love is:

• Being honest about your current choices and thought patterns.

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

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

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

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

• The gift that keeps giving.

• A way that cultivates a mindset of gratitude.

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

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

Clear your mind and think about the questions below:

• Do you say yes when you really mean no?

• Do you seem to break promises to yourself often?

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

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

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1

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

• Find some ME TIME

• Write in your journal

• Read an inspirational book

• Take a long walk and enjoy nature

• Exercise or do yoga

• Take a nap

• Relax and do nothing

WAYS TO EMBRACE SELF-LOVE

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

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

Here’s some ways to embrace self-love:

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

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

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

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

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

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

WAYS TO PRACTICE SELF-LOVE

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

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

Here’s some ways to practice self-love:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

SELF-LOVE AFFIRMATIONS

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

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

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

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

• I accept and approve myself completely here and now.

• I am healing more and more every day.

• I am surrounded by love and prosperity.

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

• I release all doubts and insecurities about myself.

• I am resilient and can get through anything.

• I am worthy of loving and being loved.

• I value myself.

• I am an unstoppable force.

• I am proud of who I am.

• I nourish my body with healthy food and exercise.

• I am beautiful, kind, and smart.

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

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

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

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

• How do you define self-love?

• What do you love most about your life?

• How can you love yourself more?

• Describe yourself positively in 10 words or less.

• What are you proud of yourself for today?

• How much do you truly love yourself?

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

• What is your self-care routine?

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

AMAZON RESOURCE #4

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

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

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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