Sadness – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

Life’s Journey

LaPorterDecember 11, 202010 Replies

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. – Lao Tzu

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! This morning I pause to bless this special day that is a beautiful gift from God. Today, I am celebrating my 47^th birthday. Now, what better way to celebrate my life’s journey than to write an inspirational blog post just for you.

After all, every day we wake up it should be a fresh start. If we are honest with ourselves, we have to admit that this year has been really tough on all of us, but especially those who have lost loved ones due to covid-19. I am so sorry for your loss. I could not imagine what those families are going through right now, but I do know that the holidays are especially difficult when you are grieving. Unfortunately, I lost my mother on December 19, 2015 so I relive this sense of sadness and grief during the holidays just like it happened yesterday.

WAYS TO NAVIGATE LIFE’S JOURNEY

Life is an opportunity, seize the day, live each day to the fullest. Life is not a project, but a journey to be enjoyed. – Catherine Pulsifer

Today, right in this present moment, I want to take time to reflect on how to navigate life’s journey. I honestly look at where I am today, and I look at how I came to be here. I acknowledge the darkness and the light that shines within. Each day I focus on my vision of positive changes that I need to make in my life so that I may heal and grow in the most beautiful way possible.

Here’s some great ways to help you navigate life’s journey:

Every day do something that will lead you closer to God. (Read & Study God’s Word, Pray, Meditate, and Listen to Gospel Music)
Thrive on happiness, a calm mind, and good health. (Reading, Journaling, Exercising, Walking in Nature, Practice Meditation, and Listening to an Inspirational Podcast)
Have faith, be courageous, and dream big. (Keep Believing, Trusting, and Hoping)
Strive for greatness and embrace change along the way. (Be Your Own Inspiration, Be Flexible, and Open Minded)
Don’t procrastinate. Think positive and plan ahead. (Observe Everything Around You, Stay Focused, and Create a Vision for Your Life)
Love to no end, be grateful, choose joy and be kind. (Spread Love to Others, Nurture Your Grateful Heart, and Throw Kindness Around Like Confetti)
Be strong enough to let go and wise enough to wait for what you deserve. (Show Strength, Courage, and Wisdom)

Now, this will not be an easy task, but it is a necessary one for you to grow into your better self. However, I do realize this journey has no rules, no right or wrong answers. I accept my journey for what it is, and I acknowledge that only I can do my healing work. Don’t be afraid to make this process personal.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS & PEP TALK

Your mind is a garden. Your thoughts are the seeds. You can grow flowers, or you can grow weeds. – Unknown Author

Next, in order for you to embrace this new way of thinking and living, it is important for you to feed your spirit with positive vibes on a daily basis. For example, I choose to feel good about myself and life’s journey each day. Even when I am feeling sad or depressed, deep inside I aspire to be a giver. A giver of life, a giver of good vibes, and a giver of strength. This kind of thinking will help you overcome life’s challenges and improve life’s journey.

Here’s a few positive affirmations and a pep talk I would love to share with you:

I am blessed and in charge of my life.
I am beautiful, brave, and ready to learn.
I am fearless and capable of so much more.
I am bold, strong, and free to make my own choices.
I am enough and perfect just the way I am.

PEP TALK ACTIVITY – 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 3 times. Now, be creative and create your own personal affirmations to describe yourself. Allow this to be your pep talk in the morning, repeat it throughout the day, and you can even post them at home/at work.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

JOURNAL PROMPTS

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!

MIND

What thought patterns do you have and how do they impact your life?
What did you do today that brought you closer to your dream?
What is your life’s vision for the next 3 years?

BODY

How can you love yourself today?
What is one of life’s little pleasures that you appreciate?
Who/What brings the most joy to your life?

SPIRIT

What do you need more of in your life?
What is something you would love to learn in your lifetime?
What are the best choices you have made in life so far?

BLUEHOST RESOURCE

WORDPRESS RESOURCE

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. Have courage to push harder than yesterday if you want a different tomorrow. Stay positive and be the best version of you possible. How do you plan to improve life’s journey? What is your favorite positive affirmation or quote? What do you believe in? 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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Understanding Trauma and Stress

LaPorterNovember 10, 20198 Replies

Today I will not stress over things I can’t control. – Unknown Author

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

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to share some information with you concerning trauma and stress. To begin with, trauma can be defined as a deeply distressing or disturbing experience in one’s life. Unfortunately, traumatic events are usually unexpected and can cause high stress levels, but also can change the quality of one’s life in many ways.

Here’s some examples of traumatic events that you may experience:

• Loss of a loved one or pet

• Divorce

• Serious Illness

• Physical pain or injury

• Natural disasters

• Parental abandonment

• Witnessing a death

• Rape or domestic abuse

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1

FACTS ABOUT STRESS

On the other hand, stress can be defined as a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances.

Here’s some interesting facts about stress:

• 90% of what is stressing you today will be irrelevant in a year. Don’t lose sleep over petty things. Get over it and move on.

• If you avoid the conflict to keep the peace, you start a war inside yourself.

• Doing your best does not mean working yourself to the point of mental breakdown.

• Growth is painful. Change is painful. But nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF STRESS

Moreover, the signs and symptoms of stress may last a few days, a few weeks or a few months. With the support of loved ones, the stress reactions usually pass more quickly.

Here’s some common signs and symptoms of stress:

• Physical – Upset stomach, Tremors, Profuse sweating, Chills, Chest pain, Rapid heartbeat, Rapid breathing, Increased blood pressure, Headaches, Sleep Disturbances

• Thinking – Difficulty making decisions, Confusion, Memory problems, Difficulty in problem solving, Poor attention span, Lack of concentration

• Emotional – Anxiety, Fear, Guilt, Grief, Depression, Sadness, Lost or abandoned, Isolation, Irritability, Numbness, Being alone

If the traumatic event is extremely painful for you, be sure to seek professional assistance from a licensed therapist or counselor.

RECOVERY FOR YOURSELF

Here’s some ways you can practice recovery for yourself:

• Express your feelings as soon as they arise.

• Reestablish a normal schedule as soon as possible.

• Spend quality time with loved ones.

• Fight against boredom and get some exercise.

• Go for a walk outdoors to help clear your mind.

• Eat a well-balanced meal even if you don’t feel like it.

• Take a warm bath with lighted candles and calming music.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Trauma is anything that overwhelms the brains ability to cope. – 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. Now, close your eyes and clear your mind. Grab your pen/pencil. Open your journal or notebook. Ready, set, write!

• How do you handle stressful situations?

• Do you prefer to be by yourself when you experience trauma and stress?

• What is one thing you can do to reduce stress in your life?

• What is the best way to heal trauma and stress?

• How can you honor your body on today?

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Let’s talk. Have you ever experienced trauma in your life? If so, how did you handle it? How do you handle stressful situations? 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).

Summer Time Blues

LaPorterJune 30, 20197 Replies

Blue Flower, Sadness, Depression, Mental Illness, Summer Time — pixabay

Sometime you need time alone to unplug and reconnect yourself again. – Unknown Author

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

Special Thought – A flower does not think of competing to the flower next to it. It just blooms.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s face it, even though most people look forward to summer time, there are others who experience summer time blues. Summer time blues can also be known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In other words, SAD can be defined as a person experiencing sadness during the change of seasons. Unfortunately, some people never overcome these sad emotions and then fall into a deep depression.

REASONS WHY PEOPLE LOOK FORWARD TO SUMMER TIME

Here’s a few reasons why people look forward to summer time:

• People enjoy the warm weather.

• Children are out of school for summer break.

• Families look forward to going on fun vacations.

• People plan many outdoor parties and cookouts.

• People can enjoy more sunshine because the days are longer.

• Going to outdoor carnivals and festivals.

• Eating frozen treats more often.

TRIGGERS PEOPLE MAY EXPERIENCE

Take a deep breath. It’s just a bad day, not a bad life. – Unknown Author

Believe it or not, you may be suffering from summer time blues if you’re experiencing any of these triggers:

• Disruption of Routine – No matter how busy you are, it is important to maintain a consistent sleeping, eating, and exercising schedule.

• Not Sleeping – Staying up later than usual or tossing and turning during the night.

• Bad Moods – Constant mood swings and sadness.

• Body Shaming or Insecurities – Not happy with your body because you’ve gained weight over the winter months.

• Anxiety Issues – Worrying about finances due to paying for summer vacations, hosting parties, shopping, or summer camp.

• Dislike Heat – If you simply just don’t like the summer heat may cause you to go into a dark place.

Remember, these are just some of the triggers that comes to mind when I think about summer time blues.

Welcome in summer with a bright, poppy doormat perfect for your space.

READER PARTICIPATION – WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

Can you think of any other triggers? Please share your answer in the comment section.

HOW TO COPE

Don’t wait for the perfect moment, take the moment and make it perfect. – Unknown Author

Since everyone’s coping skills may vary, you may cope with your summer time blues differently. However, everyone would need to analyze in one way or another the following items:

• Daily Schedule or Routine

• Exercise Habits

• Adequate Sleep

• Planing Ahead

• Delegating Duties

• Don’t be Hard on Yourself
 
Once you’ve analyzed the items noted above, it’s time to be creative with your coping mechanisms. Here’s some simple, but fun ways to help everyone cope with summer time blues:

• Host a “ME” Party so you can pamper yourself and focus on your own needs.

• Visit your local library so you can read a good book or join a summer book club.

• Take a nature walk and be mindful of the things that you see, smell, and hear.

• Find a hobby or something you are passionate about.

• Write your way to happiness (poetry, short stories, lists, recipes, letters, journals).

• Take time to volunteer and help your community.

AFFIRMATION FOR MENTAL WELLNESS

This is a wonderful day. I’ve never seen this one before. – Maya Angelou

Today I give up freely what is no longer serving me, I release it to create space for what inspires me. I feel healthy and strong today. I have all I need to make today a great day. Today everything will work out. I will move through my day appreciating all things I have. Amazing opportunities will come my way. I have it within me to solve any challenges that may come my way. I am happy and content with my life. I am patient and calm while enjoying my journey. I am grateful for another day to make a positive contribution to the lives of others.

READER PARTICIPATION – WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

How do you feel after reading this affirmation? Please share your answer in the comment section.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

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

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

• Today, I can honor my body by …
• One thing I need to work on is …
• One lesson I learned today is …
• One thing I need to let go is …
• Today, I am thankful for …
• One old habit I want to eliminate from my life is …
• One thing that makes me sad and feel all alone is …
• One thing that brings peace in my life is …

If you or someone you know have symptoms of summer time blues, it’s important for you to take your summer back. If it’s someone else, help them throughout this difficult process. After all, everyone can create his or her own sunshine and start defining summer the way you want it.

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TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

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

Let’s talk. Coping with summer time blues can be difficult for most people. Have you ever experienced the summer time blues? How did you handle them? Do you socialize more or do you prefer to stay alone?

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Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Mental Break

LaPorterJune 23, 201918 Replies

The body benefits from movement, and the mind benefits from stillness. – Sakyong Mipham

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! Well, it is officially summer and our schedules are all over the place. Now, that school is out, most families have to juggle working outside of the home, taking children to summer programs, and planning fun activities to do as a family. I am sure all of the parents can relate, right?

In addition, this is also a time where people can become mentally drained due to stress and anxiety. Tis the season to be happy one moment and sad in another. When your emotions seem to be all over the place, it is important to take a mental break from life as you know it so you can put your mental state in check. During this time, remember, you are not alone during this process. Make sure to change your focus and have your support network established.

RELAXING THE MIND

Your calm mind is the ultimate weapon against your challenges. So relax. – Bryant McGill

Believe it or not, relaxing the mind is very important when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Take time to observe how you really feel and don’t be afraid to challenge your thoughts.

Here’s some ways to help relax the mind:

• Sit or lay in a quiet place

• Visualize yourself calm and at peace

• Take slow, deep breaths with your eyes closed

• Practice mindful meditation or prayer

• Listen to soothing music
 
• Read a good book

• Write in your journal or notebook

• Exercise or go for a walk outdoors

• Talk to someone you trust (family, friends, co-workers, therapist)

• Soak in a warm bath with your eyes closed

TODAY I RELEASE

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

Stop trying to please everyone and putting yourself down. At some point, you have to make positive changes in your life in order to see positive results. Don’t live in the past. Instead, take a moment to release all pain, suffering, worry, and anxiety.

Today I release all of the following:

• Toxic thoughts and emotions

• Unhealthy environments

• Unfruitful relationships
 
• Thoughts of revenge and unforgiveness

• Thoughts of envy and strife

• Negative words I spoke about others

• Negative words I have spoken to myself

I totally let all of these things go on today, right now in this very moment. I live a life filled with love, peace, and freedom from this day forward.

AFFIRMATION FOR MENTAL WELLNESS

Make your mental health a priority. – Unknown Author

Today I embrace the memory of the past and the strength of the future. I am grateful for all that life has given me. I acknowledge that I did the best I could at the time, and now I am ready to clear my mind of all negative thoughts. I am in perfect balance. I am physically and emotionally connected and healed. I am free of worry and I am truly at peace with who I am. Every day I plan to set aside quality time for mental wellness so I can become stronger and more relaxed. I love myself and life as I know it.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Silence isn’t empty, it’s full of answers. – Unknown Author

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

• What is on your mind right now in this very moment?

• What are some of your thoughts that you want to change?

• What are some of your thoughts holding you back right now?

• What was the last self-care thing you did to improve your mental state?

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

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

Let’s talk. Taking a mental break can be difficult for most people. It not only takes courage, but it takes a strong level of commitment. How often do you take a mental break from life’s priorities and challenges? Do you feel guilty or do you look forward to this time to refresh your mental state?

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).

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!