Fall Season Reflections

Fall Season Reflections

Fall Image, Candle, Planner, Leaf, Flower

Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall. – F. Scott Fitzgerald

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Thought to Ponder – If you feel like you’re losing everything, remember that trees lose their leaves every year, but they still stand tall and wait for better days to come.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! What better time to start back writing and posting on my blog than during the fall season. On Sunday, November 3, 2024, our clocks will move back an hour at 2 a.m., and we will gain an hour of sleep as we “fall back”. This annual time change begins in March when we “spring forward” an hour and ends in November when we “fall back” an hour. The purpose of this process is to extend daylight hours during conventional waking time in the summer months. Unfortunately, that time change twice a year will come at a cost to our internal body clock and our daily routines.

FALL SEASON REFLECTIONS AND LIFE LESSONS

The falling leaves are like nature’s confetti celebrating the season of change. – Unknown Author

I have to admit, fall is my favorite season. I love the coolness in the air and the mental cleansing that I strive for as I experience change all around me. Have you ever just looked at nature (the trees, flowers, animals, grass) during the fall season? Taking just a moment each day in nature to reflect on the changes happening around you, you will learn a lot about your very existence which turns into life lessons.

Here’s a few examples of how reflections of the fall season can provide you with life lessons:

  • Radiate Beauty – There’s so much beauty outdoors. Take a moment and reflect on the fall colors and textures, then capture your own beauty, creativity and awareness during this time of natural change.
  • Let Go – 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.
  • Find Balance – As you go through life, it’s important to reflect on a healthy balance in life so that you can enjoy family, work, and personal time without feeling guilty.
  • God’s Blessing – It’s always good to reflect on God’s Blessings but fall brings more awareness to change and healthy relationships. Always strive to find healthy ways to improve your life as it relates to family, friendships, guidance, etc.

 HEALTHY WAYS TO TRANSITION DURING DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME

The secret to living well is – eat half, walk double, laugh triple and love without measure. – Tibetan Proverb

However, for many people, the end of daylight savings time may increase cases of depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), cluster headaches, and other health concerns, such as drowsiness and irritability. Even though there’s nothing you can do to fully compensate for the sudden time change, it’s important to make this experience as healthy as you can.

Here’s some healthy ways to transition during daylight savings time:

  • Advance Preparation for the fall time change. Move your clock backwards on Saturday night and think about readjusting your bedtime to better align with the time change.
  • Don’t stay up later. Be sure to go to bed on time. Allow your body to readjust to the time change in a healthy way.
  •  Limit all alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine on the Saturday before. These items can impact your ability to fall asleep and they can also trigger headaches.
  •  Get a lot of sunshine. Go outside and get a lot of sunshine. If it’s too cold, open your blinds. Try to go for walks during the day to help boost your mood and energy.
  • Exercise daily. Mild exercise, such as walking can help keep you from crashing on the couch after work.
  • Ditch the naps. Although a power nap during the day is tempting, don’t do it. If you get tired, get up and take a walk or do a vigorous exercise routine.
  • Resist sleeping in. Do not sleep in. Get up like you normally do. It’s important to jump right into your daily routine.
  • Adjust lighting. Adjusting the amount of light and dark in your home/office can help make the transition less difficult.

AFFIRMATIONS

Fall is a reminder that change is inevitable, but growth is optional. – Unknown Author

Affirmations will help you to focus on improving yourself. You can spend 5 – 10 minutes in meditation, journaling, or yoga with mantras. Self-love, positivity, open-mindedness, help set you in the right direction. Designate a time in the morning and at night when you can recite affirmations aloud. By saying them aloud, you hear the powerful words, and it can help you internalize them as true. The key to seeing a positive change in life is to say the affirmations with conviction and make it a personal experience.

Here’s a few of my favorite affirmations to help you get started:

  • Every day is a fresh start to realign with your purpose.
  • I have the power to create change within me.
  • I am open to new beginnings.
  • I ground myself in the present moment and nurture my inner self.
  • I embody warmth, peace, and serenity.
  • I embrace the beauty of change and watch my life transform into greatness.
  • I am in perfect harmony with the rhythm of life.
  • I let go of old habits and welcome new, healthier ones.
  • I am like the trees, letting go of what I no longer need to grow.
  • I release the weight of negativity and allow positivity to fill my heart.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

We all change colors and lose our leaves…then we bloom again. – Maria Lago

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!

  • What in your life makes you feel alive and energized?
  • What can you do to take better care of yourself?
  • What is going on well in your life right now?
  • What advice should you give yourself right now?
  • What is your vision for the next 3 months?

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Thank you for taking the time to read my latest blog post. What resonated with you? Share your thoughts concerning this blog post in the comment section below so we can learn and grow from one another. I look forward to reading your responses! If you have not done so already, please SUBSCRIBE to my Renew Inspiration blog so will receive notifications each time I publish a new blog post.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Copyright © 2024 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

Accept God’s Grace

Accept God’s Grace

Renew Inspiration, Accept God's Grace

I don’t know exactly what’s next but I’m stepping forward with grit, anchored in grace. -Julie Graham

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! As I sit here focusing on my writing, I keep thinking about how good God is to all of us. Sometimes we go through each day without even acknowledging God’s presence in our lives or simply just giving God thanks.

Despite how we sometimes act, God still loves us unconditionally and shows us grace. Grace is that attribute of God that enables us to break free of our sinful nature and follow God’s lead. Grace gives us strength, protection, and much needed direction. Most importantly, grace changes everything in our lives and all around us.

DEFINE GRACE

GRACE (noun): The free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings.

God’s grace is adequate for anything and everything that you experience in this life. Despite what prompted the hurt or disappointment you’ve experienced throughout your life’s journey, know that with time God’s grace can bring peace, hope, and healing.

GOD’S EXTRAVAGANT GIFT – HIS GRACE

God does not withdraw His grace when you stumble or fall. Instead, acting with grace and mercy, God gently picks you up and enables you to take the next step moving forward. You can always find at God’s throne of grace whatever help you need whenever you need it. You can run to God in times of trouble, when your heart is broken, when you’re at life’s crossroads or during the darkest and loneliest nights. Remember, God is waiting for you with open arms to offer you an extravagant gift: His grace. The best thing about that, it cost Him everything, but it costs us nothing. The only payback God asks from us is that we reach out and take the gift. Then, rest assured knowing that you are saved through God’s love and grace.

Spiritual growth begins with salvation given to us as a gift from God. Our daily spiritual growth is also utterly dependent on God’s grace. There are many ways to increase one’s spiritual growth through grace, such as reading God’s Word, allowing God’s Word to dwell in you, and staying in prayer through good and bad times. It’s important to have a clear and thorough understanding throughout this process. Keeping an open mind and meditating on God’s Word will allow you to apply God’s grace in your life so you can break free from mental, emotional and physical bondage.

AMAZON RESOURCE 

Prayer Approaching The Throne of Grace

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ACCEPT GOD’S GRACE

Grace is more powerful than sin. Nothing can separate us from the love of God. You don’t have to be perfect, only be a willing vessel and accept God’s grace. God’s grace will break chains in your life that often times keep you stuck with no healthy outlet and give you the freedom you deserve. You can accept God’s grace by doing the following:

JUST ASK – Matthew 7:7 says, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” God waits on you to make a request. Jesus treats your past and mistakes you made with grace. Jesus have already taken the weight of it all and left it on the cross.

THROUGH FORGIVENESS – Trust God’s grace by receiving forgiveness. Learn how to forgive yourself and clear your conscience.

PRAISE & WORSHIP – Take time to sing, dance or write God a love note. Express yourself to God often in your own way. Open your heart to receive God’s love and goodness.

The more grace we have and ask God for, the more mature as Christians we will be. I thank God, in His grace, has given us His Son to save us, His Spirit to dwell within us, His Word to instruct us, and His people to encourage us. Hope you will accept God’s grace so your life will be blessed for years to come.

AMAZON RESOURCE

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PRAYER

Heavenly Father, Master Grace Giver, thank you for giving me grace each and every day. Help me to become an extender of grace to others even when they don’t deserve it. I will never forget the price you paid to set me free, and for this I want to say thank you. Amen

AFFIRMATIONS

Affirmations will help you to focus on improving yourself. You can spend 5 – 10 minutes in meditation, journaling, or yoga with mantras. Self-love, positivity, open-mindedness, help set you in the right direction. Designate a time in the morning and at night when you can recite affirmations aloud. By saying them aloud, you hear the powerful words, and it can help you internalize them as true. The key to seeing a positive change in life is to say the affirmations with conviction and make it a personal experience.

Here’s a few of my favorite affirmations to help you get started:

  • I allow and embrace the Grace of God.
  • I am using God’s grace to navigate through life.
  • I carry myself with poise, grace, and dignity.
  • I see all the beauty and grace which is around me with loving gratitude.
  • I live my life with grace, elegance and perfect peace.
  • I am thankful for the limitless overflowing source of abundance.
  • I am always creating a new course of action through God’s love, guidance, and grace.

AMAZON RESOURCE

Journal To Overcome Grief

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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 and be patient with yourself. Ready, set, write!

  • What has prevented you from accepting God’s grace?
  • How can you improve your spiritual walk and increase your spiritual growth?
  • In what spiritual area do you need to improve?
  • What is one thing you can do to improve my prayer life?
  • What does God’s grace feel like?
  • What do I need to mute in my life in order to hear God’s voice?

Let’s Talk. Without God’s grace, we will not have growth and we would be lost souls. How has reading God’s Word, praying and journal writing brought you closer to God? Please share your thoughts. I look forward to reading your responses!

WRITER & BLOGGER CORNER

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Pixistock is a valuable resource that provides you with original content ideas in planner format, monthly, and the graphics to go with it to help speed up the content creation process.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Copyright © 2023 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

Benefits of Finding Hope Within

Benefits of Finding Hope Within

Renew Inspiration, Benefits of Finding Hope Within

Where faith exists, there exists great hope. – Ranal Currie

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Hope is an optimistic state of mind that is based on an expectation of positive outcomes with respect to events and circumstances in one’s life. When you have lost hope, you have lost everything.

Finding hope within is important because:

  • Hope is a healer. It whispers to you, “Things will get better.”
  • Hope is a motivator. It helps you see something better coming up ahead.
  • Hope is self-belief. It gives you the belief that you have the power to change any outcome.
  • Hope is inner peace. It helps to transform your spirit from chaos to calm.
  • Hope is contagious. It is spread from person to person.

 BENEFITS OF FINDING HOPE WITHIN

 Hope and fear cannot occupy the same space. Invite one to stay. – Maya Angelou

Instead of allowing negative feelings to overwhelm you during difficult times, let’s focus on the benefits of finding hope within. So, where does the thought of finding hope within come from? It’s simple. Deep inside we feel an expectation that something good will happen in the future. Despite all the negativity that goes on around us, most people strive to anticipate positive outcomes in their lives. Finding hope within:

  • Offers one a reason for living.
  • Helps build resilience in the face of adversity.
  • Helps control your emotions and sets the mood for the day.
  • Gives you room for self-expression.
  • Allows you to believe in your dream.
  • Reduces stress and anxiety.
  • Supports mental strength and happiness.
  • Improves overall health and encourages a healthy lifestyle.

WAYS TO EMBRACE HOPE WITHIN YOUR LIFE

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

Once you find hope within, it’s important to find ways to embrace it wholeheartedly. After all, hope is our energy, our fuel for living each day. Without hope in our lives, we lack the necessary energy to engage with life itself. Living a hopeful life is to recognize that everything and everyone matters, even you.

Here’s some ways to embrace hope within your life:

  • Regain control of your life and destiny.
  • Recognize that you can change your life at any time.
  • Be mindful of your expectations and shift them when necessary.
  • Reflect on past success and believe you can achieve your goals.
  • Disconnect from news outlets and social media often.
  • Listen to another person’s story to help clear your head.
  • Find creative ways to handle stress and disappointment (yoga, meditation, reading).
  • Establish a daily self-care routine that helps to calm you (journaling, to-do list).
  • Create honest and authentic relationships with active listeners and learn to forgive.
  • Develop a daily journal writing habit to release negative experiences and emotions.
  • Get outside and enjoy the big world that surrounds you.
  • Harness the power of uncertainty.

Hope can empower you to create and sustain a more positive future in many areas of your life. Hope is the one thing that can help us get through the darkest of times. Never stop believing in hope because miracles happen every day. You never know what tomorrow may bring.

AFFIRMATIONS

Hope is the only thing stronger than fear. – Unknown Author

Affirmations will help you to focus on improving yourself. You can spend 5 – 10 minutes in meditation, journaling, or yoga with mantras. Self-love, positivity, open-mindedness, help set you in the right direction. Designate a time in the morning and at night when you can recite affirmations aloud. By saying them aloud, you hear the powerful words, and it can help you internalize them as true. The key to seeing a positive change in life is to say the affirmations with conviction and make it a personal experience.

Here’s a few of my favorite affirmations to help you get started:

  • Today is full of hope and possibilities.
  • I am worthy of the purpose that God has called me to.
  • I value and honor my boundaries.
  • I feel powerful, capable, confident, and energetic.
  • I learn from all my mistakes.
  • I feel comfortable in my own skin.
  • I believe that life brings me only the best.
  • I move at the perfect pace.
  • I allow God to guide everything I do.
  • I have hope, and I am hope.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Where there is hope, there is faith. Where there is faith, miracles happen. – 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. Keep in mind that this is a journey and be patient with yourself. Ready, set, write!

  • Define hope and make sure to provide examples.
  • What are you hopeful for on today?
  • Have you ever given up hope on something or someone?
  • Did you ever regain that hope again over time?
  • How can you change your negative thought patterns and become hopeful again?
  • What words inspire you, move you and make you feel hopeful?
  • What advice would you give a person who has lost hope?

Let’s Talk. Let’s talk. Hope helps us to appreciate life and everything life has to offer. Do you struggle with being hopeful while living in such a negative world? Do you find yourself hoping for a brighter future? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your responses!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Copyright © 2023 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

 

Benefits of Journaling

Benefits of Journaling

Renew Inspiration, Benefits of Journaling

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

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, let’s talk about the benefits of journaling. Journaling allows you to gain clarity inside and out. Journaling also helps you to make positive changes in your life. If you allow it, journaling will offer you a glimpse into your soul in its purest form.

Before we get started, please make sure you have the following:

  • An open mind; Meditation ready
  • Willingness to express oneself; Eager to move from one place to another freely
  • Humble and caring spirit; Broken soul
  • Journal or Notebook
  • Pen or Pencil

I want to encourage you to pause for a moment and look within. Create awareness of your overall energy, how you feel and what you’re thinking. Believe it or not, journaling can be another form of self-reflection. Journaling can make you aware of negative patterns in your behavior so you can focus on the present moment.

BENEFITS OF JOURNALING

Journal writing, when it becomes a ritual for transformation, is not only life-changing but life-expanding. – Jen Williamson

What’s the message that you need on today? What is it that you need to focus on within your life, right now, in this very moment? During your lifelong journey, it’s important for you to speak positive words into your soul. Despite the hurt you may feel or the sadness you experience in life, often times you forget that the power to overcome life’s challenges is already inside you. If you feel lost or defeated, it’s because the heart and mind are not working in harmony, when they work together you will find peace. Although, there’s a lot of benefits of journaling, here’s a few that I want to share with you.

Journaling:

  • Helps you think more critically about your life.
  • Reduces stress and anxiety by keeping you in the present moment.
  • Allows you to recognize and release negative thoughts and feelings.
  • Increases your happiness in life and improves your mood.
  • Encourages inner peace and a feeling of well-being.
  • Provides self-discovery, self-awareness, and moments of reflection.
  • Helps you gain clarity in your life, better memory.
  • Increases creativity, positivity, and mindfulness.
  • Builds resilience and confidence.
  • Helps to organize and process your thoughts and feelings.
  • Improves your sleep and overall mental wellness.

As you can see, making the decision to practice journaling will bring mindfulness, peace, and emotional healing into your daily routine.

JOURNALING TIPS

Journal writing gives us insights into who we are, who we were, and who we can become. – Sandra Marinella

There is no wrong or right way to practice journaling, just write! Journaling is a great way to release restless thoughts and emotions so you can be in a better headspace. Include journaling in your daily routine so you can heal any emotional, physical or mental wounds that may have been caused by negativity from others or internally. Here’s some great journaling tips to help you get started:

  • Create a safe place to write; Declutter your space; Add your preferred lighting and scented candles; You should feel good, happy and calm in your writing space.
  • Let it all out; Allow your thoughts to flow freely and write about anything.
  • Dedicate time and write regularly; Try to write in your journal on a regular basis; Every day is ideal.
  • Try new things; Move out of your comfort zone; Try things that make you happy; Write letters to yourself or to loved ones (past or present).
  • Don’t get too negative; Shift your writing in another direction; Avoid rereading your negative writing, but instead have a balanced point of view.

What’s your story or experience concerning journaling? It’s important to allow yourself to feel and to express yourself honestly throughout this process. I choose to reflect on inspiring quotes, affirmations and/or scriptures that are hidden in my heart during my journaling time in order to rise up above my problems, situations, depression, sadness, hurt, etc. Remember, this is a personal journey. Be sure to show yourself some grace while starting the journaling experience. It’s important for you to find your safe place and surround yourself with God’s love, peace, and joy throughout the process.

AFFIRMATIONS

Affirmation without discipline is the beginning of delusion. – Jim Rohn

Affirmations will help you to focus on improving yourself. You can spend 5 – 10 minutes in meditation, journaling, or yoga with mantras. Self-love, positivity, open-mindedness, help set you in the right direction. Designate a time in the morning and at night when you can recite affirmations aloud. By saying them aloud, you hear the powerful words, and it can help you internalize them as true. The key to seeing a positive change in life is to say the affirmations with conviction and make it a personal experience.

Here’s a few of my favorite affirmations to help you get started:

  • I am a unique, creative, and wonderful black woman who keeps growing by the day.
  • I am learning to love, cherish, and respect myself.
  • I am using the wisdom within me to navigate through my life.
  • I am releasing my connection to things that don’t serve me.
  • I am patient and know that growth may take time.
  • I am blessed with every challenge I have faced.
  • I am consciously working hard to bring the best out of every moment I am given.
  • I am always creating a new course of action because I am unstoppable.
  • I am embracing my full potential even if it makes others uncomfortable.

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

In the journal I do not just express myself more openly than I could to any person; I create myself. – Susan Sontag

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!

  • What is something that has been weighing on your mind lately?
  • What do you see as your biggest accomplishment? failure?
  • Do you have any regrets about how you’ve lived your life so far?
  • What have you done to make amends and/or forgive yourself?
  • What is the most important thing you have learned about yourself in the past year?
  • If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?
  • What can you do right now to lift your mood?
  • How can you make this week a better one than last?

Let’s Talk.  As you can see, journaling has many benefits that can help you overcome any obstacle that you face in life. Have you already tried journaling to overcome challenges in life? After reading this blog post, what resonates with you? I would love to hear from you? Please answer these questions in the comment section.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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

Copyright © 2023 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

Seeking Spiritual Alignment Through Affirmations

Seeking Spiritual Alignment Through Affirmations

Renew Inspiration, Seeking Spiritual Alignment Through Affirmations

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

Thought to Ponder – Alignment is about finding the feeling inside of the things we want and then deliberately choosing to create those feelings.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I know it’s been a long time since I’ve written an inspirational blog post and I truly apologize for my absence in this safe space. Unfortunately, I have been struggling with my own mental health and family issues lately which has caused inconsistency with my writing. I’m committed to getting back on track and posting inspirational content to help inspire you to improve your life one word at a time.

Today, let’s talk about how seeking spiritual alignment through affirmations can improve your life. Affirmations are meant to help change the negative thoughts in your head and replace them with positive thoughts that remind you of the truth of who you are. This process often times will move your attention to more empowering ideas that will ultimately create an improved result.

In addition, affirmations can be another form of positive self-talk that can:

  • Help set the tone for your day.
  • Be used to target and improve any area of your life.
  • Help you overcome any negative thinking patterns.
  • Provide a reflection of the kind of life you want to live.
  • Offer ways to improve your mood and emotions.
  • Increase your self-confidence and uplift your spirit.
  • Help you set realistic goals and create a plan to reach them.

DEFINITIONS

Affirmations (noun):

The word affirmation comes from the Latin affirmare, which means “to strengthen and make steady.” Affirmations are positive phrases or statements that we repeat to ourselves. Generally, they are used to manifest goals, dreams, or experiences we desire.

Spiritual Alignment (noun):

Being in tune with our soul’s purpose. We all have a unique reason for being on this Earth. Our actions, thoughts, emotions, and spirit are on the same page. Then, we are moving with ease in a particular direction.

HOW TO SEEK SPIRITUAL ALIGNMENT THROUGH AFFIRMATIONS

Seek to be whole not perfect. – Oprah Winfrey

Spiritual alignment is an important aspect of our lives that allows us to connect with our divine selves and experience a sense of oneness. When we are spiritually aligned, everything in our lives seems to fall into place. We feel happier, more peaceful and more content with what’s going on all around us. Lately, I have found that when used consistently, spiritual alignment can be experienced often through affirmations. If you take the time to seek spiritual alignment through affirmations, you will have the power to transform your life despite what you’re going through or the obstacles you face.

Here’s how you can start this process:

  • Create a list of affirmations that resonate with you and speak to your heart.
  • Begin with 3 to 5 affirmations until you feel more comfortable to add more.
  • Be in a quiet space with no distractions.
  • Take a few deep breaths in and out.
  • Say affirmations confidently and with purpose while looking into a mirror.
  • Repetition is key so repeat the affirmations throughout your day and be consistent.
  • Don’t move on from the affirmations you chose until you honestly feel the words hidden in your heart.

SPIRITUAL AFFIRMATIONS

Open your mind to possibilities. We live in an infinite universe where anything is possible. – Unknown Author

Spiritual affirmations will help you to focus on improving yourself. You can spend 5 – 10 minutes in meditation, journaling, or yoga with mantras. Self-love, positivity, open-mindedness, help set you in the right direction. Designate a time in the morning and at night when you can recite affirmations aloud. By saying them aloud, you hear the powerful words, and it can help you internalize them as true. The key to seeing a positive change in life is to say the affirmations with conviction and make it a personal experience.

Here’s a few of my favorite spiritual affirmations to help you get started:

  • I am living in alignment with my higher self.
  • I am divinely beautiful and vibrantly healthy.
  • I am centered, at peace, and in love with myself.
  • I am aligned with purpose.
  • I am grateful for all that I have in my life.
  • I am constantly attracting everything I desire.
  • I am devoted to my spiritual growth.
  • I am on the right path and divinely guided.
  • I am safe and protected at all times by the universe.
  • I am whole and complete.
  • I am becoming the best version of myself.
  • I am in tune with the universe and have unlimited access to eternal happiness.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Quiet the mind and the soul will speak. – Buddha

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 is happening in your mind right now in this very moment?
  • How do you keep your thoughts in check throughout the day?

BODY

  • How can you love yourself today?
  • What is one of life’s little pleasures that you appreciate?
  • What are you inviting into your life with your actions?

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?

Remember, seeking spiritual alignment through affirmations can help transform your life in a positive way. Shift your focus and attention towards thoughts and feelings that are both positive and constructive. Start using affirmations daily along with journal prompts and watch the quality of your life improve throughout your journey. Focus on positive changes and you will get positive results.

Let’s talk. What’s on your mind? Do you seek spiritual alignment through affirmations? Why or why not? 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).

Copyright © 2023 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

 

How to Navigate Life While Coping with Grief

How to Navigate Life While Coping with Grief

Renew Inspiration, How To Navigate Life While Coping With Grief

I didn’t give you the gift of life, life gave me the gift of you. – Unknown Author

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

Thought to Ponder – Those who think there is a time limit when grieving, have never lost a piece of their heart.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! In case you were wondering, I took a mental health break to gather my thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Today, my mother would have been 80 years old, but she passed away in December 2015. This has been a stressful time for me, to say the least. However, I want you to know that I appreciate you and all of the support you give to my writing and blogging platform.

5 STAGES OF GRIEF & LOSS – On Death and Dying written by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

Loss and heartache do not define you. They are part of your story. – Unknown Author

Even though there are 5 stages of grief and loss, people who are grieving do not necessarily go through the stages in the same order or experience all of them. The stages of grief and mourning are universal in nature and are experienced by people from all walks of life, across many cultures. Mourning occurs in our lives in response to an individual’s own terminal illness, the loss of a close relationship, or to the death of a valued being, human or animal. While mourning, we spend different lengths of time working through each step and express each stage with different levels of intensity. Here’s the 5 stages of grief and loss as defined by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross:

  • Denial & Isolation – The first reaction is to deny and isolate yourself from the reality of the situation. Most people block out the painful words and hide from the facts. Some people will believe that nothing is of any value any more, not even life itself. For most people, this stage of grief and loss is a temporary response that carries us through the first wave of pain.
  • Anger – As denial and isolation leaves us, reality and its pain re-emerge. Now, the intense emotion people feel turns into anger. The anger may be toward objects, complete strangers, friends or family. Even though deep down inside the person knows this feeling of anger is wrong, they may even be directing it toward dying or deceased loved ones as well.
  • Bargaining – In the next stage, there are feelings of helplessness and vulnerability as a way to regain control through a series of “if only” statements, such as “If only we had sought medical attention sooner” or “If only we got a second opinion from another doctor.” Unfortunately, this is an attempt to bargain with God or our higher power in order to postpone our pain. Guilt often accompanies bargaining as well. The person believes there was something they could have done differently to have helped save their loved ones’ life.
  • Depression – In the next stage, the person may start to be overwhelmed with sadness or regret which turns into worry. This phase may be eased by simple reassurance from others around them. Another phase of depression is when the person is more private and tries to bid a farewell to their loved one in silence. In this case, a hug or a kind gesture will comfort them.
  • Acceptance – Reaching this stage of grieving is a gift not afforded to everyone. Death may be sudden and unexpected, or we may never see beyond our anger or denial. Unfortunately, this phase is marked by withdrawal and calm.

Please keep in mind that everyone grieves differently. There is no right or wrong way. Some people will wear their emotions on their face and be outwardly emotional. Other people will experience their grief more internally and may not cry at all. Remember, do not judge how a person choose to experience grief, as each person will experience it differently.

WAYS TO NURTURE YOUR MIND, BODY & SPIRIT WHILE COPING WITH GRIEF

You must learn to master a new way to think before you can master a new way to be. – Marianne Williamson

Sometimes I wish time would stand still and I don’t have to relive the pain that comes during this time of the year. While everyone else is excited for the holidays, I dread it with everything within me. The holidays are just not the same without my mother physically being here. No amount of journaling or therapy sessions will save you from the emotional turmoil that you experience and continue to feel throughout the grieving process.

Nevertheless, I’ve learned that it’s important to nurture your mind, body and spirit while coping with grief. Here’s a few different ways to help you get started along this journey:

  • Read and study God’s Word.
  • Seek God’s face each day through prayer and guided meditation.
  • Pray a specific prayer for positive change in and around your life.
  • Practice mindfulness and stay in the present.
  • Set personal goals and a plan to achieve them.
  • Fuel your body with healthy food options.
  • Exercise daily and/or try new yoga poses.
  • Change your mental focus and environment.
  • Setup a daily routine using a To-Do List.
  • Focus on gratitude and find what you are grateful for each day.
  • Write in your journal to get your thoughts on to paper and out of your head.
  • Make time for self-reflection. Go for a walk, read, listen to music, meditate or color.

However, if you feel your mental stability is getting worse throughout the grieving process, seek professional help in the form of therapy from a licensed therapist or social worker, medication to treat depression or anxiety, or support groups to help share your feelings with like-minded individuals.

Renew Inspiration, Affirmation 

AFFIRMATIONS TO HELP YOU NAVIGATE LIFE

Affirmations can be used to change your current mindset, boost your self-confidence, mood, and self-esteem. Through the power of repetition, you’re able to reconstruct your thought patterns, beliefs, and ideals in your subconscious mind. I will allow change to take place in my life on today. I plan to water my roots, so my soul can blossom. Now repeat after me:

  • In my sadness, I love myself.
  • It’s okay to take time to grieve.
  • I am patient with my healing process.
  • I allow myself to grieve then move on.
  • I feel my angels holding me today as I grieve.
  • I will embrace change in my life.
  • I will step out on faith throughout my journey.
  • I plan to endure and overcome heartache, pain, suffering, sadness and loneliness.
  • I am finding strength in myself as I grieve.
  • I focus on my blessings, goals and memories.
  • I will commit to improving my personal well-being.
  • I am gentle with myself as I heal.
  • I release my resistance to this situation.
  • I graciously accept help when its offered.
  • The universe lifts me, supports me and guides me.

Unfortunately, many of us struggle to overcome many obstacles in life, such as grief, and don’t understand that the root cause is often times hidden within. Whether you sometimes feel stressed out, anxious, sad or depressed, there’s one important fact that you need to remember. You need to learn that your mind, body and spirit must become ONE in order for you to be at your best. Only then, will you begin to navigate life while coping with grief.

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

Keep calm and write on. 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!

MIND

  • How can you create a space to help clear your mind?
  • What are some of your mental obstacles in life that are holding you back?
  • Our passion is typically something that brings us pleasure. What are some of your most passionate thoughts and how do you nurture them?
  • What is your greatest quest in life?

BODY

  • Sit or stand very still. What are you feeling right now in this very moment?
  • What are you having a hard time accepting in your life?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • How are you mistreating your body or compromising your health?

 SPIRIT

  • What steps do I need to take to become spiritually grounded in God’s Word?
  • What is holding you back from trusting and believing in God?
  • Does my life reflect what my heart desire? If not, what changes can I make?
  • How do you plan to feed your spirit on today?

JOURNAL TO OVERCOME GRIEF: A PERSONAL JOURNEY TO HEALING

No matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn’t stop for your grief. – Faraaz Kazi

Journal To Overcome Grief: A Personal Journey to Healing can be purchased via Amazon.com.  This beautiful grief journal includes thought provoking journal prompts and quotes that will help you navigate life after loss.

Journal To Overcome Grief

There will be times when you’ll want to cry and other times when you’ll smile as you explore your personal reflections. This is a unique way to honor your loved one and connect with their spirit through writing while creating your own personal keepsake for years to come.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

We all are different and unique, but I do know that our minds, bodies, and spirit must be as ONE in order for us to feel complete. What are some things you do to help calm your mind, body, and spirit? I look forward to reading your comments and 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).

Copyright © 2022 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

Worry Less and Trust God

Worry Less and Trust God

Renew Inspiration, Worry Less and Trust God

Worrying is a waste of time. It doesn’t change anything. It just clouds your mind and steals your happiness. – 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).

Thought for today – Not once does the Bible say, “Worry about it” or “Stress over it” or “Figure it out.” But over and over the Bible clearly says, “TRUST GOD.”

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! It has been more than two months since I’ve posted here. Lately, I have found it very difficult to focus on writing projects, to limit my worrying and to trust God for everything pertaining to my life. I had to take a mental break from researching and writing, but now I’m back. As I have stated before, I promised myself, that I would write about topics that I personally experience so I can help others who may be going through similar life changing situations. If you live your life constantly worrying about things that are out of your control or have anxiety that cause you to stray away from things you love to do, then it’s time to worry less and trust God.

SCRIPTURES

Old Testament Scripture – Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved. (Psalm 55:22)

New Testament Scripture – Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

MY STORY

Anxiety comes from trying too hard to control the future. – Unknown

What’s my story related to worry and anxiety? I’m going to be honest, I never really worried a lot or felt anxiety to the point where I would not do certain things until my mother passed away in 2015. It was at this point that I felt like a total failure because I could not help my mother fight her Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It was so difficult just watching her breathing get worse and worse. My mother was a small woman with strength of a lion, but COPD broke her body down quickly right before my eyes.

Even as I write these words, emotions begin to stir around inside of me, but I continued writing so I can help someone else who may be experiencing the same thing. It’s hard to admit sometimes, but the grieving process has been very difficult for me, but I turned to writing as a way to release my pain and emptiness inside. I am glad to say that I no longer blame myself for my mother’s death. I realize I had no control of her chronic illness and God’s timing. This process has shown me that you can learn different ways to handle worry and anxiety throughout life, but it’s fair to say that it may never leave your body for good, it’s just resting inside waiting for an opportunity to arise.

DEFINITIONS

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

Did you know that worry and anxiety often times goes hand in hand? Let’s define both.

Anxiety can be defined as a feeling that lives inside us and blocks us from fully living the life we want to live. Anxiety has various symptoms that can be felt anywhere in the body. Anxiety can happen at any time, and it can influence our thoughts, emotions, actions and physical health.

On the other hand, worry can give way to anxiety or unease. Worry allows one’s mind to dwell on difficulty or troubles surrounding one’s life. Worries are a chain of thoughts based in words. For example, “What will happen if” … “It will be terrible when” … “What if I can’t”.

WORRY TRIGGERS

Worrying doesn’t empty tomorrow of its sorrows; it empties today of its strengths. – Corrie Ten Boom

Let’s face it, we all have issues that we worry about, right? Sometimes we’re not even aware of why we’re worrying, when we’re doing it or what we tend to worry about the most. We just know that we often feel anxious, and we find ourselves stuck in a vicious cycle of worry. One of the ways to break this vicious cycle is to be aware of which things trigger our anxiety.

Here’s a few questions to ask yourself when determining your worry triggers:

  • Is it when you’re in certain places?
  • Is it particular times of the day?
  • Is it when you’re around certain people?

Many different things can trigger worry and understanding your particular triggers can help you process and establish ways to respond to your anxious feelings. Keep in mind that anxiety can trick you into believing your thoughts are reality.

FEELING OVERWHELMED

You can’t calm the storm…so stop trying. What you can do is calm yourself. The storm will pass. – Timber Hawkeye

When you’re feeling anxious, you struggle to distinguish what you’re actually experiencing and what your thoughts are projecting. Begin to divert your attention from the thoughts inside your head to what is real around you. Pay attention to what you’re doing right now in this very moment, not on your worries or anxiety.

Here’s a few suggestions that you can use when you’re feeling overwhelmed:

  • Take slow, deep breaths, as many as you need to in order to feel calm.
  • While breathing slowly and deeply, visualize a peaceful, soothing place. Examples may include walking on the beach, taking a hike in the woods, reading a good book, sitting in a meditation pose, doing yoga, etc.
  • You can pair deep breathing exercises with aromatherapy using a candle or essential oil diffuser to infuse the air with a calming, relaxing scent such as lavender, rose, bergamot or chamomile.
  • Drink a soothing, noncaffeinated tea. Great herbs for reducing anxiety include lavender, chamomile, passionflower, hawthorn, kava, ginseng and lemon balm.
  • Ground yourself physically in a way that feels comfortable. For example, you may sit in a chair with your feet firmly planted on the floor or you can stand with your feet planted on the floor and your back pressed against a wall.
  • Notice negative thoughts and replace them with simple positive ones. For example, I can’t handle this becomes I am handling this right now and I know this anxiety will soon pass.

WORRY LESS AND TRUST GOD

Worrying is like sitting in a rocking chair. It gives you something to do but it doesn’t get you anywhere. – English Proverb

It’s impossible for you to completely eliminate worry and anxiety from your life, but you can significantly lessen its hold over your life. Part of this process is learning when it might show up (triggers) and coming up with a plan to deal with it when it does (solutions).

Here’s some great ways to worry less and trust God:

  • Pray and read God’s Word daily.
  • Determine the source of the worry, so you can do something about it.
  • Allow yourself time to worry (10 to 15 minutes).
  • Understand your specific symptoms. What are your thoughts when your anxiety escalates? In what situations do your symptoms intensify? Lessen?
  • Know what works for you. Which strategies are helpful in moments of high anxiety? Examples could be deep breathing exercises, mindfulness exercises, meditation, journaling or talking with a support person.
  • Ditch the small stuff and put things in perspective.
  • Give into laughter and smile more.
  • Engage with positive people.
  • Schedule therapy sessions with a mental health professional. Be open and honest.
  • Write down your thoughts and feelings in your journal or notebook. Then, reflect on them throughout your journey.

Although experiencing worry and anxiety in our lives are natural, when they become chronic and trapping your mind in vicious cycles with no resolutions, is when they become a problem. Stop using your energy to worry. Instead, use your energy to believe, create, love, grow, manifest, heal, and trust God. Be blessed!

AFFIRMATIONS TO HELP YOU STOP WORRYING

Affirmations can be used to change your current mindset, boost your self-confidence, mood, and self-esteem. Through the power of repetition, you’re able to reconstruct your thought patterns, beliefs, and ideals in your subconscious mind.

Here’s some affirmations to help you let go of stress, worry, and anxiety:

  • As I breathe, I am calm and relaxed.
  • I am strong and courageous.
  • My thoughts and feelings are valid.
  • I live peacefully alongside all of my emotions and worry.
  • I accept what is happening in my life, moment by moment.
  • My acceptance gives me courage to face situations and people.
  • I live my life fully and freely, enjoying my life even when I feel anxious.
  • I feel grounded in this moment which helps me to move freely past the worry or anxious feeling.
  • I have survived my anxiety before, so I can do it again.
  • I let go of what I cannot control.
  • My anxiety does not define me.
  • I have the power to control my thoughts, feelings, and emotions.

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

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!

  •  What positive things will begin to take the place of worry and anxiety?
  • What are your biggest challenges that prevent you from overcoming worry and anxiety?
  • What are some of your worry triggers?
  • When do you find yourself worrying about these triggers?
  • Where are you when this worry is at its peak?
  • What makes your worry or anxiety worse? What makes it better?

JOURNAL TO OVERCOME GRIEF: A PERSONAL JOURNEY TO HEALING

 No matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn’t stop for your grief. – Faraaz Kazi

Journal To Overcome Grief: A Personal Journey to Healing can be purchased via Amazon.com.  This beautiful grief journal includes thought provoking journal prompts and quotes that will help you navigate life after loss.

Journal To Overcome Grief

 

There will be times when you’ll want to cry and other times when you’ll smile as you explore your personal reflections. This is a unique way to honor your loved one and connect with their spirit through writing while creating your own personal keepsake for years to come.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

Please share what helps you to worry less and trust God more? How do you choose to cope with worry and anxiety? I look forward to reading your comments and 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).

Copyright © 2022 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

Happy Mother’s Day

Happy Mother’s Day

Renew Inspiration, Happy Mother's Day, Holiday, Grief

A mother’s heart is like a rose, always open, always loving. – 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! Happy Mother’s Day to all of the well-deserved women reading this blog today. My prayer is that you got a chance to relax a bit and enjoyed time with family and friends.

Mother’s Day is a holiday honoring motherhood that is observed in different forms throughout the world. However, Mother’s Day is bittersweet for me since I lost my mother in December 2015. In honor of my mother, Rosalynn K. Russell, I wrote this poem as I struggled through my first phase of grief:

STILL HERE – Written by Latisha Porter

Still here…your spirit lives within me, I can feel you, but I cannot see;

Your beautiful face that often lit up a room, makes us wonder if you left too soon;

Still here…your presence surrounds me day by day, sometimes I cannot find the words to say;

I love you, I miss you, I cry myself to sleep;

No one seems to understand me cause my emotions are so deep.

Still here…your love will forever be in my heart, even though you’re gone, we’ll never be apart…Still here!

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS FOR MOTHERS

Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher. – Oprah Winfrey

Did you know that positive affirmations are used to reprogram the subconscious mind and to encourage us to believe certain things about ourselves or about the world and our place in it? Positive affirmations are also used to help us create the reality we want in life. Now, with that said, please recite these positive affirmations every day and look in a mirror as you say them. Repeat them until you feel it in your soul, and you begin to believe every word.

  • I am divine love.
  • I am a good mother.
  • I must take care of myself so I can take care of those I love.
  • I am an amazing mother, even as I work hard to become a better one each day.
  • There is value in everything I do.
  • Love flows into my life easily and effortlessly.
  • The love I give comes back to me tenfold.
  • I am worthy of love, support, and appreciation.
  • My needs and desires matter and they deserve to be met.
  • It’s okay to need, want, and take a break from my family to be alone.
  • Taking care of myself is not selfish, it is necessary for me to be a great mother.

MOTHER’S DAY FUN FACTS

Mothering is the gospel lived out as you hold your child’s heart in beauty, prayer, and patience. It’s not the big decision, but the little ones, trusting God through it all. – Elizabeth Hawn

DID YOU KNOW…

  • Ann Reeves Jarvis of West Virginia helped start Mother’s Day Work Clubs to teach local women how to properly care for their children.
  • In 1868, Ann Reeves Jarvis organized Mother’s Friendship Day at which mothers gathered with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote reconciliation.
  • In 1870, Julia Ward Howe wrote the Mother’s Day Proclamation which was a call to action that asked mothers to unite in promoting world peace.
  • In 1873, Julia Ward Howe campaigned for a Mother’s Peace Day to be celebrated every June 2.
  • The official Mother’s Day holiday arose in the 1900s as a result of the efforts of Anna Jarvis, daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis.
  • In May 1908, Anna Jarvis organized the first official Mother’s Day celebration at a Methodist church in Grafton, West Virginia.
  • By 1912 many states, towns and churches had adopted Mother’s Day as an annual holiday.
  • In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a measure officially establishing the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

JOURNAL TO OVERCOME GRIEF: A PERSONAL JOURNEY TO HEALING

 No matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn’t stop for your grief. – Faraaz Kazi

Journal To Overcome Grief: A Personal Journey to Healing can be purchased via Amazon.com. This beautiful grief journal includes thought provoking journal prompts and quotes that will help you navigate life after loss.

Journal To Overcome Grief

There will be times when you’ll want to cry and other times when you’ll smile as you explore your personal reflections. This is a unique way to honor your loved one and connect with their spirit through writing while creating your own personal keepsake for years to come.

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

 A mother instructs with wisdom, guides through example, trains by love. – Roy Lessin

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!

  • Write a letter or poem to your mother expressing your gratitude and appreciation.
  • What do you like about yourself as a mother, sister, aunt, friend, etc.?
  • What makes you feel nourished in your mind, body, and spirit?
  • How do you add value to the world and those around you?
  • How can you show yourself more love?
  • What is your favorite part of your daily routine?
  • What do you want your legacy to be?

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).

Copyright © 2022 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

11 Ways To Practice Self-Love

11 Ways To Practice Self-Love

Renew Inspiration, 11 Ways To Practice Self-Love

It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority. It’s necessary. – Mandy Hale

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 February in with a discussion centered around self-love. When I think of February, I immediately think about Valentine’s Day and the concept of buying gifts for the people we love. But a thought came across my mind this week. What about spending some quality time this month focusing on self-love?

Self-love is taught to us as children and as we grow, we begin to nurture everything within us, both good and bad. Self-love requires you to be honest about your current choices and thought patterns. Remember, self-love is not a selfish act, but instead it forces you to undertake new practices and ways of thinking that reflects your self-worth.

WHAT IS SELF-LOVE

Self-love is the source of all other loves. – Pierre Corneille

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, self-love can be defined as an appreciation of one’s own worth or virtue. In other words, self-love is a state of appreciation for oneself that grows from actions that support our physical, psychological, and spiritual growth.

Self-love can also mean:

  • Having a high regard for your own well-being and happiness.
  • Not settling for less than you deserve.
  • A transparent way that cultivates a mindset of gratitude.
  • The way we see ourselves and how we treat ourselves.
  • Having a safe place for you to share self-reflection moments.
  • Taking care of your own needs and not sacrificing your well-being to please others.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1 – SELF-LOVE WORKBOOK FRO WOMEN

SELF-LOVE EXAMPLES

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

Now, here’s something else to think about. Self-love, self-respect, self-worth, self-care…What does all these words have in common? There is a reason why they all start with “self” because you can’t find them in anyone else. You cannot truly love another person until you know how to love yourself. I challenge you today to appreciate yourself just the way you are and then strive to become better each day. When you learn to love you, then others will love you the way you deserve to be loved in return.

Here’s some self-love examples to help you get started on this journey:

  • Prioritize yourself and designate time to do things that make you happy.
  • Spend quality time with people who make you smile and laugh.
  • Give yourself a break from self-judgement.
  • Speak to yourself in a positive and loving manner.
  • Trust yourself enough to make the right choices and decisions.
  • Always be true to yourself and respect your values.
  • Set healthy boundaries in all of your relationships.
  • Show yourself some grace and forgive yourself often.
  • Read an inspirational book or listen to an uplifting podcast.
  • Give yourself a positive pep talk each day by reciting affirmations.
  • Spend time reflecting on your life while writing in your journal.

Never lose sight of the main goal here. Loving yourself enough to pause and reset from time to time is necessary for you to continue your personal growth journey. Why you ask? Because you deserve a happy and fulfilled life.

WAYS TO PRACTICE SELF-LOVE

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

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 shortcomings, 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.
  • Calm your mind. Spend time in prayer, meditation, reading, or writing. You can try writing in your journal, walking outside, practicing breathing exercises or yoga.
  • 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.
  • Step outside your comfort zone. Never be afraid to step out and try new things.
  • 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.
  • Celebrate wins, both big and small. Always cherish and celebrate everything good that happens in your life.
  • Accept compliments. Don’t be shy. If someone gives you a compliment, accept it and know that you are worthy to be admired.
  • Cultivate a positive and safe place. Take time to clean and declutter your area. Then, add finishing touches to your space, such as new lighting, scented candles, plants, etc.
  • 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 POETRY

SELF-LOVE AFFIRMATIONS

Talk to yourself like you would to someone you love. – Brene Brown

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 so much in life 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 additional self-love affirmations that you can practice reciting each day:

  • I value myself and I am proud of who I am.
  • I am beautiful, kind, and smart.
  • I am an unstoppable force.
  • I accept 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 nourish my body with healthy food and exercise.
  • I deserve to love myself and to be loved by others.
  • I have the ability to overcome any challenge in my life.
  • I have the power to change my own story one page at a time.
  • 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, when we love ourselves, it helps us feel our best in the inside, and when we feel our best, we can give more to those around us. I truly hope that I’ve given you some inspiration to become a better person within your own skin.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3 – A SELF-LOVE JOURNAL

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

Don’t forget to fall in love with yourself first. – Carrie Bradshaw

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 improve your attitude and appreciate yourself more?
  • How much do you truly love yourself?
  • What do your loved ones admire about you?
  • 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?

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS/COMMENTS

Sharing is caring. I would love to hear from you. Please answer these questions in the comment section. You never know, your comment may help someone else along their journey. How do you plan to practice self-love? What are some of your favorite self-love affirmations? After reading this blog post, what resonates with 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).

Copyright © 2022 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

9 Ways Affirmations Can Improve Your Life

9 Ways Affirmations Can Improve Your Life

Renew Inspiration, 9 Ways Affirmations Can Improve Your Life
Renew Inspiration

One small positive thought in the morning can change your day. – 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, let’s talk about how affirmations can improve your life. To begin with, the word affirmation comes from the Latin affirmare, which means “to strengthen and make steady.” Affirmations are meant to help change your thoughts and move your attention to more empowering ideas that will ultimately create an improved result. Affirmations can be another form of positive self-talk that can:

• Help set the tone for your day.
• Be used to target and improve any area of your life.
• Help you overcome any negative thinking patterns.
• Provide a reflection of the kind of life you want to live.
• Offer ways to improve your mood and emotions.
• Increase your self-confidence and uplift your spirit.
• Help you set realistic goals and create a plan to reach them.

Simply put, when used consistently, affirmations have the power to transform lives despite what you’re going through.

9 WAYS AFFIRMATIONS CAN IMPROVE YOUR LIFE

Talk to yourself like someone you love. – Brene Brown

In order to receive the most benefits of reciting affirmations, it’s important for you to read and recite them aloud. Then, state them in the present tense as if they have already been accomplished. This process will make your mind believe that it’s already happening. Repetition is key. The more you say it, the more you may believe it. Affirmations can improve your life by:

1. Increasing self-awareness so you can acknowledge your daily thoughts and feelings.
2. Allowing you to become more grateful in any situation you are faced with.
3. Keeping you encouraged and more motivated to accomplish personal goals.
4. Helping you be in the present moment not worrying about the past or the future.
5. Teaching you how to be more open to new possibilities; not afraid to take risks.
6. Helping you to manage your feelings and emotions under stressful situations.
7. Reminding you to pay attention to your thought patterns.
8. Keeping you calm and at peace.
9. Helping you become more aware of what you want and your mind helps you get it.

During this process, focus on finding solutions and learning how to make positive changes in all areas of your life. After all, taking the time to recite affirmations daily can be the start of transforming your life.

If you want to want to get started with using affirmations, CLICK HERE to get my FREE Positive Affirmations Guide.

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Positive thinking must be followed by positive doing. – John C. Maxwell

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 to help you get started:

• 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.

Repeat your daily affirmations 1 to 2 times per day so it will be a constant reminder of what you are aiming for. Shift your focus and attention towards thoughts and feelings that are both positive and constructive. Start using daily affirmations along with journal prompts today, and watch the quality of your life improve throughout your journey. Focus on positive changes and you will get positive results.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful. – 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. Keep in mind that this is a journey and be patient with yourself. 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?
• What is happening in your mind right now in this very moment?

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?
• What are you inviting into your life with your actions?

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?
• How do you keep your thoughts in check throughout the day?

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS & COMMENTS

How do you plan to use affirmations to improve your life? How often to you recite affirmations? Do you plan to add affirmations and writing in your journal to your daily routine? Please share your thoughts in the comment section.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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

Copyright © 2021 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved