Life’s Challenges – Page 4 – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

Totally Grounded and Secure

LaPorterNovember 15, 202011 Replies

The thing that keeps you grounded is doing the thing you love. – Tom Hiddleston

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to focus on being totally grounded and secure. Despite what you have experienced throughout the week, be thankful that you are here today to speak about it, read my inspirational blog, and write reflections in your journal. However, in order to be totally grounded and secure, you must first practice mindfulness and use your senses to identify:

Five things you see
Four things you can hear
Three things you can touch or feel
Two things you can smell
One thing you can taste

This process will slow down the mind and allow it to be present in the here and now. Take your time with each sense, each observation, breathe, and try to stay objective.

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GROUNDED CHARACTERISTICS TO STRIVE FOR

Stay humble, stay grounded, remember what got you to that level and that’s hard work. – Tim Howard

Moreover, being totally grounded is the ability to be completely aware and conscious during the present moment. In other words, you are present in your life and not obsessed with the past or future. There are many grounded characteristics to strive for, but what matters most is individuals must be:

Unshakeable – Calm under pressure
Reliable – Show up, no excuses
Unwavering – Has higher standards
Humble – No need to impress others
Healthy Self-Esteem – Understand personal value & self-worth
Don’t worry – Willingness & capable to handle anything that happens in life
Don’t Conform, Instead Lead – Stand up for what’s right & willingness to stand alone
Encourage Others – Helping people reach their true potential

Now, I have to ask. Which grounded characteristics do you hold?

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HOW TO LET GO OF THINGS FROM THE PAST

Breathe, darling. This is just a chapter. It’s not your whole story. – S. C. Lourie

Next, allow yourself to release anything and anybody from your presence that do not help you to grow and flourish. Once you release, you will naturally enjoy fresh new beginnings in life that will allow you to grow and mature. Keep in mind that this can take time, practice and patience.

Here’s some effective tips to help you through painful experiences and let go of things from the past:

Create a positive mantra to counter the painful thoughts.
Create physical distance.
Do your own work.
Be gentle with yourself.
Allow the negative emotions to flow.
Accept that the other person may not apologize.
Engage in self-care.
Give yourself permission to talk about it and forgive.
Seek professional help, if necessary.

LET GO & RELEASE AFFIRMATIONS

Feel the feeling but don’t become the emotion. Witness it. Allow it. Release it. – Crystal Andrus

Finally, during your journey, create an environment to leg go and release using affirmations. This process will allow you to become more aware of your thoughts and words.

For example, today I release:

Anything that is no longer serving my higher purpose.
Anxious thoughts and experiences that no longer serve me.
Doubts and insecurities about myself.
Toxic thoughts and emotions.
Unhealthy relationships.
Thoughts of revenge and unforgiveness.
Everything and everybody who is no longer a part of the divine plan of my life.
All anger and frustration from my body.
The need to be seen and valued by others.
My past beliefs and negative thought patterns.

As you go through life, reconnect with your present self. Don’t be afraid to let go and release. Be kind to yourself and celebrate the small victories. Then, and only then, will you be totally grounded and secure in the life you have grown to know.

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JOURNAL PROMPTS

If you are always trying to be normal you will never know how amazing you can be. – Maya Angelou

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

Do you feel totally grounded in your life right now?
What are 3 things that you are striving for?
Are you afraid to let go of things from the past?
What are your favorite affirmations?
How do you plan to prioritize your life?

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SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. Your mind will always believe everything you tell it. Feed it faith. Feed it truth. Feed it with love. What is on your mind right now? How often do you spend time reflecting on your life? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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

Overcoming Pandemic Fatigue

LaPorterNovember 9, 20206 Replies

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

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I don’t know about you, but I am experiencing pandemic fatigue in 2020. As we watch the covid-19 case numbers and deaths rise again across the country, it’s important to realize that the stress and the fatigue of the covid-19 pandemic is still hanging over our heads. These feelings and emotions can often times cause people to be exhausted, scared and worried about some of the following:

• Catching and/or spreading covid-19 to others
• Being sick, isolated and dying in the hospital alone
• Financial concerns and losing jobs
• Caring for loved ones who has covid-19
• Going through the grieving process alone
• Feeling isolated and depressed

At the end of the day, I am at peace because my intentions are good, and my heart is pure. My main goal is to keep me and my loved ones safe during this difficult time by overcoming pandemic fatigue.

OVERCOMING PANDEMIC FATIGUE

Your storm is bigger than you are, but your Jesus is bigger than your storm. -Ron Hutchcraft

Believe it or not, it’s perfectly normal to feel burned out while trying to overcome pandemic fatigue. Pandemic fatigue can be caused from a number of emotions you’ve experienced during the pandemic, such as:

• Fear
• Anxiety
• Grief
• Loneliness
• Depression
• Hopelessness

Even though it is challenging to adapt to the increased uncertainty of the pandemic, we must find our inner peace that will help us pay attention to our emotional and physical needs.

Here’s some healthy ways to help you overcome pandemic fatigue:

• Take care of your body – Make sure to get plenty of sleep, rest, and exercise. Also, eat a balance and nutritious diet.
• Lower your stress – Focus on activities that are calming or bring you joy, such as yoga, nature walks, reading, writing in your journal, practicing meditation and breathing exercises, or watching a comedy.
• Connect with others – Remember, we are social creatures by nature. Try to connect with others by making phone calls, arrange video meetings, chat on social media, join a virtual group, take a virtual class or attend online religious services.
• Accept your feelings – Acknowledge and name your feelings. Then, refocus your mind and energy on things you can do to feel better.
• Create new traditions – Set aside Sundays for self-care, Fridays as family game night or Saturday as movie night. Be creative and come up with ideas that work best for you and your loved ones.

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PEACE AFFIRMATIONS

Today I choose: calm over chaos; serenity over stress; peace over perfection; grace over grit; faith over fear. – Mary Davis

Even in the midst of life’s many storms and challenges, such as the covid-19 pandemic, we have the capacity to stand in the center of our own peace. Did you know that it is important to speak peace into your life every day? Take a moment to recite the following statements with confidence:

• Today, I am totally safe and surrounded by love, light, peace, and joy.
• Today, I invite peace and harmony to dwell in me and surround me at all times.
• Today, I have the freedom and power to create the life I desire.
• Today, I believe in myself and will be my own inspiration.
• Today, I plan to water my roots, so my soul can blossom.

Keep in mind, it is important for you to know that you already have peace within you, right now, in this very moment.

FINAL THOUGHTS

One thing that I have learned in life, whether your storm is BIG or small, it takes internal strength and peace to overcome many obstacles in life. Just because you may be struggling or find yourself isolated right now, does not mean you are failing life forever. After all, as long as we are living on Earth, we will always experience some type of storm. Keep believing in yourself and stay safe while overcoming pandemic fatigue.

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JOURNAL PROMPTS

• Have you experienced pandemic fatigue?
• What is your life’s purpose?
• How do you cope with every day struggles of life?
• Do you include affirmations in your daily routine?
• How do you plan to overcome pandemic fatigue?

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SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. Spend time preparing your mindset with peaceful thoughts, such as scriptures, prayers, affirmations or inspirational quotes. What is your favorite scripture, prayer, affirmation or quote? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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

Season of Gratitude

LaPorterNovember 1, 202015 Replies

Gratitude helps you to grow and expand; gratitude brings joy and laughter into your life and into the lives all those around you. – Eileen Caddy

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s welcome November with new dreams and a fresh start. When I think of November, I think of gratitude. Gratitude turns what we have into enough and more in some cases. Gratitude turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. Gratitude can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. What does gratitude mean to you?

DEFINE GRATITUDE

Small seeds of gratitude will produce a harvest of hope. – Unknown

Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. When was the last time you showed gratitude toward yourself and to others? Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. If you allow it, gratitude can also unlock the fullness of life. Inhale love. Exhale gratitude.

In addition, gratitude helps people:

Feel more positive emotions.
Relish good experiences.
Improve their overall health.
Deal with adversity.
Build strong relationships.

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT GRATITUDE

Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul. – Henry Ward Beecher

Quite frankly, I believe that all good things come from gratitude. If you really think about it, gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings. Live in gratitude. When you are thankful for what you have, you are always rewarded with more.

Moreover, here’s some additional important facts about gratitude:

Gratitude shields you from negativity.
Gratitude makes you at least 25% happier.
Gratitude helps to rewire your brain.
Gratitude eliminates stress and heals your body.
Gratitude can improve your sleep habits.
Gratitude can help boost your self-esteem.
Gratitude can help improve your personal relationships.

7 GRATITUDE AFFIRMATIONS

Gratitude is the single most important ingredient to living a successful and fulfilled life. – Jack Canfield

Here’s 7 gratitude affirmations to help you become more grateful:

I feel grateful to be loved by family and friends
I am grateful for how the sun warms my face
I am grateful for my sense of taste and smell
I am grateful for shelter
I give thanks for every breath I take in
I am grateful for music that speaks to my heart
I feel grateful every time I lift another’s spirit

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GRATITUDE JOURNAL

The real gift of gratitude is that the more grateful you are, the more present you become. – Robert Holden

A gratitude journal is a diary of things for which one is grateful. Gratitude journals are used by individuals who wish to focus their attention on the positive things in their lives.

Start a gratitude journal to include a personal reflection (goals, thoughts, feelings), affirmation, scriptures, poems, quotes, kind gestures (writing notes, letters, or making phone calls). Be creative and honest. This process will change your life in a positive and uplifting way.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Gratitude helps you to grow and expand; gratitude brings joy and laughter into your life and into the lives all those around you. – Eileen Caddy

Gratitude is a lifestyle that you choose. Overtime, choosing gratitude means choosing joy. It’s a choice that requires constantly renewing of your mind with the truth of God’s Word, setting your heart to inspire others with creativity from within, and disciplining your tongue to speak words that reflect God’s goodness and His grace. Honestly, I believe a grateful spirit, rooted in the soil of God’s goodness and grace, will impact how you view and respond to everything in your life. When gratitude becomes your default setting, life changes.

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JOURNAL PROMPTS

Living in a state of gratitude is the gateway to grace. – Arianna Huffington

How have you shown gratitude on today?
What made you smile today?
What are you learning about yourself?
What’s a simple pleasure that you’re grateful for?
What mistake or failure are you grateful for?
How often do you practice gratitude?
How have gratitude changed your life?

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SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

There is a calmness to a life lived in gratitude, a quiet joy. – Ralph H Blum

Let’s talk. It is important to practice gratitude in your daily life to feel happier and more connected to the world and a higher power. How often do you practice gratitude? Do you keep a gratitude journal? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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

Healing Power

LaPorterOctober 25, 202012 Replies

When God heals and restores, He brings you out better than you were before. – Joel Olsteen

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I open myself to God’s blessings, miracles and His healing power. God is our healer today, tomorrow and forever! Do you believe this on today? Despite what we may be going through in our lives, God wants to heal us from our emotional bondage that continues to hinder our spiritual growth to maturity. God wants to give us peace, love, and comfort throughout our lives. God wants to free our minds, bodies, and spirits from those things that will harm us. God does not want us to live in pain and misery. It’s important for all of us to read, pray and meditate in God’s Word.

Here’s some life challenges that you may be facing during this difficult time:

MIND – Mental Illness, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Worry
BODY – Physical Aches and Pains, Stress, Eating Disorders, Arthritis, Stroke, Heart Attack, High or Low Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Cancer
SPIRIT – Lost in Sin, Nonbelievers

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SPIRITUAL TOOLS TO ASSIST US IN THE HEALING PROCESS

God has an amazing way of taking all the pieces of our life and transforming them into a beautiful design. – Stacy L. Sanchez

God is a healer. By faith, receive your healing today. There is no doubt in my mind that God is my healer. No matter what my mind is telling me or how my body may feel, I trust God to heal me from the top of my head to the soles of my feet. I ask God to bless me with vibrant health and overflowing joy every day. When you enter God’s presence with praise, God enters your circumstances with healing power.

Here’s some spiritual tools to assist us in the healing process:

The Cross of Jesus Christ

The cross is God’s remedy for our emotional pain and distress. Without Jesus’ death on the cross for our sins, no one would have eternal life. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). This verse explains the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The cross of Jesus Christ provides the way to heaven for sinful mankind, like you and I, who could never get there on our own.

God’s Word

The healing power of God’s Word is shown throughout the Bible. God truly has unfailing love for His people. God has always challenged us through His Word to experience Him in a tangible, but loving way so that He could bless us with health through our obedience. The Word of God says, “For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life” (Proverbs 6:23).

Rejoicing and Praise

God is the only unchanging constant in our lives. When all is gone – health, family, friends, money, position, etc. God remains. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Isn’t that something to rejoice about? Not only is God present with us, but God’s Word also tells us that nothing can separate us from that great unconditional love.

The Holy Spirit

It is a fact that God knew that we could not change our sinful ways or heal ourselves in our own strength. God gave us His Holy Spirit to live within us and to take up residence in our hearts. The Holy Spirit gives us new birth, makes us a new creation in God’s sight and places us into the body of Christ. The Holy Spirit helps us to better understand and apply Scripture to our daily lives. (I Corinthians 2:12-13)

God’s Body, the Church

God’s Word tells us that God loves and accepts us, yet we strive to get love and acceptance from people we can see, hear and touch. If one part of the Christian body suffers, every other part suffers with it. So, if you are in a difficult situation, do not be alone. Reach out to Christian family members, friends, support groups, or spiritual counselors.

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FINAL THOUGHTS

During these difficult times, trust God and believe in good things to come. God has a perfect timing; never early, never late. It takes a little patience and faith, but it’s worth the wait. Yes, we should be confident and know that God is forever powerful within this Earthly realm. Always remember, nothing in this world is too big for our God. Don’t underestimate God in times of trouble or distress. Humble yourself and turn it all over to God to handle. Allow God to guide your every thought, your every step along this journey called life. As I stated earlier, God is my healing power today, tomorrow and forever!

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Heal yourself, heal the world. – Eileen Anglin

MIND

Define what brings me the most joy in life…
Today or this week I was most blessed by…
The area where I need to put more trust in God is…
An act of obedience God is prompting me to take is…

BODY

Ways I want God to transform me…
An aspect of God’s character he recently revealed to me is…
God is leading me to make the following changes…
The most significant area of my life that is not finding its way into my journal is…

SPIRIT

I feel most distant from God when…
One lesson I learned from Scripture this week is…
Journaling has helped build my spiritual foundation by…
Define an area in my spiritual life where I need to see God’s guidance is…

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SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. Give God your weakness and He’ll give you His strength. Do you believe in God’s healing power? 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).

Fall Into Journaling

LaPorterOctober 18, 202016 Replies

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).

I choose to feel good about myself each day. – Louise Hay

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! When I think of the fall season, I think of change. As I look outside my window, I notice the leaves falling from the trees and changing colors. As I step outside, I notice the weather getting cooler and we are seeing sunlight less and less each day.

DETERMINE YOUR PURPOSE

Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose. – Viktor Frankl

Let’s take this time to fall into journaling so we can make a positive change in our lives. While getting started with journaling can be frustrating for some people, for others it can be a life changing habit that takes little effort. Remember when doing anything new in life, such as journaling, it’s important to have a personal and well-defined purpose that will encourage you to stick to your new habit.

Here’s some questions to help guide you through the process to determine your purpose:

What is my purpose for journaling in this season of my life?
How would journaling benefit me right now in this very moment?
Do I have any unresolved issues in my life, such as stress, anxiety or childhood trauma?

Whatever your reason, the results will be the same. Once you begin the journaling process, you’ll become wiser, more enlightened, and will notice a better version of yourself.

JOURNALING TIPS

Journaling is paying attention to the inside for the purpose of living well from the inside out. – Lee Wise

Many people have used journaling to overcome life’s challenges or simply to just express oneself. In addition, journaling can help with personal growth and development too. By regularly recording your thoughts you will gain more insight into your daily behaviors and mood changes. In order to help balance all of these changes, here’s some great journaling tips to keep in mind as you get started on this life changing journey:

When journaling, use a pen and paper or favorite notebook.
Journal in the morning, noon or evening which ever time works best for you.
Commit to writing in your journal every day, but don’t stress over it.
Don’t edit your thoughts or feelings when journaling, just write.
There’s no rules so keep it simple and create your own layout.
Be honest and write about the current space you’re in.
Use journaling prompts to change up your daily entries or to assist with writer’s block.
Cultivate an attitude of gratitude while journaling.

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JOURNALING BENEFITS

Writing in a journal reminds you of your goals and of your learning in life. It offers a place where you can hold a deliberate, thoughtful conversation with yourself. – Robin Sharma

There are many benefits associated with journaling. The process of journaling helps you to organize your life, express your thoughts, and improves your mood. Journaling allows you to track patterns, trends, improvement and growth over time. In addition, journaling can improve not only mental and physical health, but it has increased self-esteem in some people as well.

In addition, journaling helps you to:

Clarify your thoughts and feelings.
Improve personal growth and development.
Reduce stress and anxiety.
Unlock creativity within.
Set and achieve personal goals for your life.
Cultivate mindfulness patterns.
Solve problems more effectively and improves relationships.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Journaling is a good way to help us to stop, take a step back and reflect on ourselves. – Journey Cloud

As you can see, there are limitless benefits of journaling from mental clarity to improving creativity and communication. As you fall into journaling, think of the empty pages as your future, soon to become your past. Do not make excuses, but instead find time to reflect on your amazing life while journaling.

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JOURNAL PROMPTS

Everything you’ve ever wanted, is one step outside your comfort zone. – Unknown Author

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

MIND

What thought patterns do I have and how do they impact my life?
What takes your mind away from positive thoughts? Peaceful thoughts?
What is one thing I can do this week to improve my meditation time?

BODY

What is happening in my body right now?
How can I honor my body on today?
Does your self-care need improvement? How would you improve it?

SPIRIT

Wat am I grateful for and why?
What do I need to be free from and surrender to God?
How much you are trusting God with your life right now?

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SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Journal writing is a voyage to the interior. – Christina Baldwin

Let’s talk. Have you taken the time to determine your purpose? Do you enjoy the journaling process as a whole? If so, how often do you write in your journal? 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).

Self-Care 101

LaPorterOctober 16, 20206 Replies

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

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Autumn is a great time to self-reflect and focus on what really matters in your life. One important topic that comes to mind is self-care. 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

Give yourself the same care and attention that you give to others and watch yourself bloom. – Unknown Author

As we go through life, all of us experience stress on some level one way or another. It’s so important that we have the necessary tools to help promote healing and cultivate clarity in our lives.

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.

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HOW DOES SELF-CARE HELP?

Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure. – Oprah Winfrey

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.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed with life’s events, prioritize soothing activities and choices that restore balance to your life.

ACTIVITIES THAT HELPS RESTORE BALANCE TO YOUR LIFE

Self-care is how you take your power back. – Lalah Della

Here’s a few examples of activities that helps 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.

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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

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SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Self-care is giving the world the best of you instead of what’s left of you. – Unknown Author

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

What was the last self-care thing you did?
What is one thing you need to let go?
What is one way you like to recharge your energy levels?
What is holding you back from improving your lifestyle?
How can I honor my body on today?

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!

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Let’s talk. As you can see, self-care is not selfish, but it is necessary to help keep us calm throughout life. What would you like to change in your daily routine? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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

Improving Attitude Awareness

LaPorterOctober 11, 20204 Replies

If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude. – Maya Angelou

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 choose to have a positive attitude and look at my life in a new way. With this brand-new attitude, brings a positive mindset and beautiful blessings from on high.

As we travel along this journey called life, it is important to embrace the moment you’re in, which is a process called awareness. Well, what’s the best way to practice awareness? You start this process by training yourself to be mindfully aware of what is happening in your life right now, in this moment. Awareness balances thinking and reduces anxiety. Keep in mind, anxiety is focused on the past or the future and awareness is grounded in the present.

Attitude is defined as a settled way of thinking or feeling about someone or something, typically one that is reflected in a person’s behavior.

Awareness is defined as the quality or state of being aware; concern about and well-informed interest in a particular situation or development.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR ATTITUDE

The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude. – Oprah Winfrey

In life, two things define you: 1) Your patience when you have nothing and 2) And your attitude when you have everything. Attitude awareness is the first step to building a positive attitude. Believe it or not, our attitude plays a big part in our every day lives and can affect the outcome of our future. Always remember, attitude is a choice. We can choose whether to have a good or a bad attitude at any given time.

Here’s six valuable ways to help improve your attitude:

Live in the present moment – Learn how to stop, sit and be quiet even if it is just for 10 minutes per day. Your mind, body and spirit will thank you later.

Act with a sense of purpose – Your actions must be in line with your personal values and who you are as a person. It is important to live your life with purpose.

Expect the best out of every situation – Don’t complain or think negative. Instead, replace negative thoughts with positive ones.

Use setbacks to improve your skills – Don’t be afraid to look back at your actions so you can learn important life lessons from your mistakes.

Spend time with like-minded individuals – The people you surround yourself will reflect upon you and how you live your life.

Take action and then let it go – Holding on to your past is not an option. Take appropriate action and let go of everything that is holding you back mentally, physically and spiritually.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

FINAL THOUGHTS

Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference. – Unknown Author

As you go through life, always expose yourself to positive information and hang around positive people so you will achieve positive results. Whatever life throws at you, even if it hurts, press forward and plant your feet on solid ground and be strong. Remember, strong walls shake, but never collapse.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Don’t be ashamed of your story. It just might inspire someone. – Unknown Author

Mind

Meditate and think about only positive thoughts. Then, write about your thoughts.

When you close your eyes, what do you always dream about? Write about it.

If you could paint a picture of your favorite memory, what would it look like?

Body

Live in the moment right now, describe the feeling and everything around you.

What is the most complicated part of your life right now?

Do you adapt easily to change or is it hard for you?

Spirit

You’re looking through the window to your soul, what do you see?

What is the biggest thing you want to change about yourself?

Do you wish you could press the reset button on anything in your life? If so, what?

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. How do you plan to improve your attitude awareness? 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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Journaling Beyond Measure

LaPorterSeptember 13, 202010 Replies

Journal writing is a voyage to the interior. – Christina Baldwin

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to explore various ways to make your life complete using my very own concept called journaling beyond measure. Journaling beyond measure will help you gain clarity inside and out. In addition, this concept will help you to make positive changes in your life that will offer you a glimpse into your soul in its purest form by doing the following:

Making you more aware – Helps you get to know yourself better; Brings your thoughts and feelings to the surface
Letting you take control – Minimize the chaos in your life; Journaling helps get things into perspective
Shifting your viewpoint – Offers a safe place to practice positive self-talk; Retraining the brain to think positively
Letting you notice patterns – Helps you see how you’re doing over time

BENEFITS OF JOURNALING

Journaling is my safe place and I use this time to just write how I feel with no excuses and no explanations given. Believe it or not, journaling has many benefits, such as:

Lowering your stress levels and making you feel calmer.
Helping you gain clarity and improving your short-term memory.
Encouraging you to maintain an organized record of your progress and journey.
Helping you increase your happiness and improving your mood.
Helping you develop self-awareness and empathy.
Offering you an ability to heal your past or present traumas.
Helping you to increase your personal creativity.

Remember, when you write in a journal it becomes your personal journey of creative and heart felt thoughts. Your experiences may even bring about other benefits if you’re open to the process.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1 – Creative Journaling

JOURNALING TIPS

In addition, journaling can provide an outlet for your personal thoughts and feelings to be expressed freely without criticism. From my experience, it’s important to have your guard down when making the decision to start journaling. After all, journaling helps you to gain better control of your emotions and thought process, which improves your overall mental health.

Here’s some amazing journaling tips to keep in mind as you embark on this journey:

Keep a regular writing schedule so journaling becomes a habit.
Select a journal that you feel comfortable using to capture your inner thoughts.
Don’t over think your written entries, just write honestly.
Be creative, add photos and positive quotes to enhance your written entries.
Take your journal everywhere you go to capture special thoughts or moments.
Be spontaneous and free letting it all out with no structure.
Don’t get too negative, but instead shift your writing in another direction.

Finally, don’t worry about format, grammar, or spelling. Remember, this is your personal space and a written account for how you feel right now in this very moment. Don’t worry about following your traditional writing rules. Dedicate time daily and just write.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2 – Bible Journaling

JOURNAL OPTIONS

Next, I want to share some journal options that you can include into your journaling schedule. Some people may do just a simple journal based on everyday events or you can get creative and try some other journal options, such as:

Bible Journal – Bible Journals can provide you with a therapeutic way to better cope with everyday situations, understand your feelings and establish a connection between your life and the biblical content. Include notes, scriptures, life lessons and examples, pictures, quotes, questions, etc.
Gratitude Journal – Gratitude Journals allow you to recognize, appreciate and record pleasant occurrences in your life. Also, you can include blessings, special moments of authentic happiness and contentment. Include what you are grateful for, personal thoughts, quotes, stickers, etc.
Prayer Journal – Prayer Journals allow you to deepen your relationship with God by writing down your prayers every day. Learn by reflecting on prayers that have been answered, and others that haven’t. Some suggestions may include prayers, scriptures, personal thoughts, self-reflection notes, quotes, etc.
Reading Journal – Reading Journals can be a place to store your personal reactions to what you’re reading. Writing down your responses will allow you to discover how you feel about the book itself, the characters, scenery or plot. Include the book(s)/authors you are reading, personal thoughts, and emotional responses, connect the book to your own life, questions you may have about the book(s), connect with the characters, etc.
Scrapbook Journal – Scrapbook Journals is a cross between scrapbooking, journaling, collaging and sketching pictures to tell a story or to highlight a special memory. Include pictures, personal thoughts, quotes, stickers, etc.
Travel Journal – Travel Journals are a place where you can write about trips you have taken, what you learned during and after the trip. Include adventures, stories, memories, pictures, personal thoughts, culture, customs, the people you met/saw, favorite places you visited, quotes, etc.

Now, remember I just wanted to share a few journal options, but you can create any type of journal based on your life and style. There are no right or wrong journal options. Choose the journal option that you will enjoy, learn from, and continue to grow throughout life.

FINAL THOUGHTS

So, whether you are currently writing in a journal on a regular basis or you would like to start, these benefits, tips and options should help you start journaling beyond measure. Don’t be afraid to grab your journal and write your ideas so you’re able to retrieve your thoughts whenever needed. Your journal holds pertinent life information, so you can remember and reference at any time in your future. Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

AMAZON RESOURCE #3 – No Excuse Journaling

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Bible Journal Prompts:

What is your favorite scripture and why?
What values do you want to live by based on scripture?
In what area of my life do I need to improve self-discipline?

Gratitude Journal Prompts:

What are you grateful for?
What would my ideal day look like?
What is one thing that I can do to change my attitude?

Prayer Journal Prompts:

What is one thing I could do this month to improve my prayer life and spiritual walk?
What is one thing I can do today that would promote a quiet spirit within me?
Do you think God will answer your prayers? Why or why not?

Reading Journal Prompts:

What is your favorite book/author and why?
What is one book you’d like to read before the end of 2020?
If I was given the opportunity to write a book, I would write about….

Scrapbook Journal Prompts:

Do you consider yourself being a creative person?
How do you like to retell a story or special memory?
What is one thing that I can do this week to improve my creativity?

Travel Journal Prompts:

What makes this trip special to you?
What are you planning to do on this trip?
Take time to reflect on the location, people, the customs and the food.

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. Journaling can help you overcome any problem or obstacle that you face in life. How do you define journaling beyond measure? Have you already tried journaling to overcome challenges in life? If so, please share your experience(s). 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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Engage in God’s Word

LaPorterAugust 23, 20205 Replies

Get in God’s Word until God’s Word gets in you. – Unknown Author

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Thy word is thy lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105)

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s begin this beautiful Sunday discussion on how to get engaged in God’s Word. Especially during this pandemic or any time of crisis, it is important to keep God’s Word in the forefront of our minds. As believers in God and Jesus Christ, we must schedule quality time to not only read God’s Word, but also to write down our personal thoughts about the verses read, determine how we can apply the verses to our own lives in 2020 and don’t be afraid to cross reference the information in the Bible Concordance.

PREPARING FOR YOUR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY

Pause and find the blessings in today. – Unknown Author

Making time to read and study God’s Word is so important for your spiritual growth. God’s Word can help guide us in the right direction or make us rethink a situation before we pursue it further. Take a moment right now to analyze where you are today and then continue reading my list of suggestions that will help you prepare for your spiritual journey ahead.

Set a time to better engage in God’s Word and stick to your plan.
Gather your materials, such as Bible, Notebook, Journal, Pens, Highlighters, Dictionary, Bible Concordance, etc.
Designate a quiet space with no distractions.
You may want to play some soft music in the background to set a relaxing mood.
Make sure your study area is free of clutter and well lit.
Pray and meditate while studying God’s Word to open your mind and heart.
Speak to God often to strengthen your relationship and ask Him to direct your study time/spiritual journey.

Don’t be afraid to be creative. Be your own inspiration. After all, this is your spiritual journey. Make it as comfortable as you like, but also for growth purposes step out of your comfort zone from time to time to make it an unique and pleasurable experience as well.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

BETTER ENGAGE IN GOD’S WORD

Each day I need to let God’s Word interrupt me, rearrange me and redirect me. – Unknown Author

Our time spent reading Scripture, prayer, and meditation must alter us if we have truly experienced a spiritual encounter with God. After all, God has created us to interact and respond to His Word in multiple ways. We should all endeavor to engage in God’s Word throughout our lives and hold ourselves accountable.

Here’s five ways to better engage in God’s Word:

Study – When we study God’s Word we are investing focused time in a passage word, character or theme. Study requires you to analyze the Scripture which takes concentration and focus. The primary goal of study is understanding.
Devotional – The goal for devotional reading is application. Simply put, what the Scripture means to me. However, we must make sure this is not the only way we interact with Scripture or we risk losing the truth.
Meditation – Meditation is the ability to hear God’s voice and obey His Word. During meditation it is important to fill your mind with Christ. The goal of meditation is reflection.
Memorization – It is important to understand what Scripture teaches us so have God’s Word hidden in your heart and mind. Memorizing God’s Word helps us achieve the goal of discipline.
Action – Clearly, we must be focused on doing what Scripture teaches. We must be changed and compelled into action, whether in our thoughts or our actions. Spending time in God’s Word must lead us to obedience.

So, as you can see, there are various ways to better engage in God’s Word. Keep in mind, you may not be able to engage in all of these ways each day but schedule your time to include all the areas of study, so you can have a better understanding of God’s Word. Remember, spending time studying God’s Word is our intentional determination to grow in our understanding and to strengthen our bond with Him. Even if you have not engaged in God’s Word in the past, take a leap of faith and start today.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

JOURNAL PROMPTS

True peace comes from knowing that God is in control. – Unknown Author

MIND

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7)

What takes your mind away from the Lord, thus robbing your peace?

What is your biggest dream?
What has prevented you from going after your dream?
What thoughts have I been repeating in my head lately? Are they true?

BODY

Who is own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripe ye were healed. (I Peter 2:24)

List 5 ways you’ve become stronger and more courageous this month.
Lord, please strengthen my heart when it comes to ________________.
When I’m in pain, physical and emotional, I find strength in ________________.
How can I make more space in my life for the things I love?

SPIRIT

Behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you. (Proverbs 1:23)

Where do you see the unmistakable mark of the creator? Thank and praise God for it.

How is God trying to get your attention to stop, treasure, and ponder how he’s working in your life right now in this very moment?
When have you seen God use something small to produce a big outcome?
What can I do to nurture my spirit more?

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

ENGAGE IN GOD’S WORD KEEPSAKE

Please accept this ENGAGE IN GOD’S WORD keepsake. Post it on your wall, mirror and/or social media accounts and cherish it always.

Renew Inspiration, Engage in God's Word, You Are God's Masterpiece, Pink Flowers — Renew Inspiration

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. How often do you read God’s Word? When is your favorite time to ready and study God’s Word? Do you have a favorite scripture that is hidden in your heart? Do you keep a written Bible Journal or Notebook to reflect your study time? 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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Benefits of Reading Quotes

LaPorterAugust 6, 20206 Replies

I am present within myself. I feel grounded, confident, worthy, and whole. – 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 start August off with improving your mind, body, and spirit by learning the benefits of reading quotes. I don’t know about you, but I love to encourage myself by reading inspiring and uplifting quotes when I am going through difficult times in my life. If you allow the words to resonate in your spirit, you will become the words that you read and speak.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

BENEFITS OF READING QUOTES

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

Although there are many benefits of reading quotes, I want to focus on the benefits that will help improve your mind, body, and spirit. Sometimes it is important to read and recite the quotes over and over until you feel the words living within your soul. 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 will help you improve your whole sense of existence.

Here’s a few benefits of reading quotes that will help improve your mind, body, and spirit:

Calming yourself until your mind, body & spirit become one.
Reminding us about what we already know or aspire to be.
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.
Providing a different or better perspective on a subject.
Encouraging a creative or critical thinking flow.
Great reinforcement tool to assist with life changing measures to move forward.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

MY FAVORITE INSPIRING QUOTES

There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. – Unknown Author

Honestly, I have a lot of inspiring quotes posted on my wall near my desk and I find myself reflecting on the inspirational words throughout the day while I am working or deep in thought.

Here’s a few of my favorite inspiring quotes:

Quiet the mind and the soul will speak. – Buddha
Speak to your body in a loving way. – Unknown Author
The body achieves what the mind believes. – Unknown Author
All of the power I need to create a life I love inside of me. – Unknown Author
Reset, readjust, restart, refocus, as many times as you need. – Unknown Author

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.

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JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

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?

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?

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?

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

READING QUOTES KEEPSAKE

Please accept this READING QUOTES keepsake. Post it on your wall, mirror and/or social media accounts and cherish it always.

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. What are some of your favorite quotes? Do you like posting quotes 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).