body – Page 4 – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

God Our Healer

LaPorterJune 3, 20183 Replies

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5)

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

There is no doubt in my mind that God is my healer. No matter what my mind is telling me or how my body may feel, I trust God to heal me from the top of my head to the soles of my feet. I ask God to bless me with vibrant health and overflowing joy every day. How about you? When you enter God’s presence with praise, God enters your circumstances with power. Yes, we should be confident and know that God is forever powerful within this Earthly realm. Before you read any further, let’s get ourselves prepared for a spiritual breakthrough. Please grab a pen or pencil, a Bible, your journal or a notebook.

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

Here’s some life challenges that you or someone you know maybe facing:

Mind – Mental Illness, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Worry

Body – Physical Aches and Pains, Stress, Eating Disorders, Arthritis, Stroke, Heart Attack, High or Low Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Cancer

Spirit – Lost in Sin, Nonbelievers

God has provided the following spiritual tools to assist us in this healing process:

• The Cross of Jesus Christ
• God’s Word
• Rejoicing and Praise
• The Holy Spirit
• God’s Body, the Church
• A New Self-Image in Jesus Christ

The Cross of Jesus Christ
And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. (Matthew 10:38)
The cross is God’s remedy for our emotional pain and distress. Without Jesus’ death on the cross for our sins, no one would have eternal life. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). This verse explains the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The cross of Jesus Christ provides the way to heaven for sinful mankind, like you and I, who could never get there on our own.
• Ways I want God to transform me…
• Define an area in my spiritual life where I need to see God’s guidance is…

God’s Word
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Romans 10:17)
The healing power of God’s Word is shown throughout the Bible. God truly has unfailing love for His people. God has always challenged us through His Word to experience Him in a tangible, but loving way so that He could bless us with health through our obedience. The Word of God says, “For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life” (Proverbs 6:23).
• My favorite passage of Scripture is…
• One lesson I learned from Scripture this week is…

Rejoicing and Praise
I will praise the Lord according to his righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the Lord most high. (Psalm 7:17)
God is the only unchanging constant in our lives. When all is gone – health, family, friends, money, position, etc. God remains. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Isn’t that something to rejoice about? Not only is God present with us, but God’s Word also tells us that nothing can separate from that great unconditional love.
• Today or this week I was most blessed by…
• The area where I need to put more trust in God is…

The Holy Spirit
Behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you. (Proverbs 1:23)
It is a fact that God knew that we could not change our sinful ways or heal ourselves in our own strength. God gave us His Holy Spirit to live within us and to take up residence in our hearts. The Holy Spirit gives us new birth, makes us a new creation in God’s sight and places us into the body of Christ. The Holy Spirit helps us to better understand and apply Scripture to our daily lives. (I Corinthians 2:12-13)
• I feel God’s presence most when…
• I feel most distant from God when…

God’s Body, the Church
And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (Matthew 16:18)
God’s Word tells us that God loves and accepts us, yet we strive to get love and acceptance from people we can see, hear and touch. If one part of the Christian body suffers, every other part suffers with it. So, if you are in a difficult situation, do not be alone. Reach out to Christian family members, friends, support groups, or spiritual counselors.
• I am eager for God to…
• My calling in life is…

A New Self-Image in Jesus Christ
For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. (Galatians 6:3)
Not only must we believe in God’s evaluation of us, but we need to reject what our own faulty experiences and emotions tell us. Remember, self-image doesn’t change because we focus on pleasing ourselves, but it changes because we believe God and accept His love for us.
• An aspect of God’s character he recently revealed to me is…
• God is leading me to make the following changes…

Other Journal Prompts
• My spiritual gifts are…
• Define what brings me the most joy in life…
• Sometimes I get angry with God about…
• An act of obedience God is prompting me to take is…
• Journaling has helped build my spiritual foundation by…
• The most significant area of my life that is not finding its way into my journal is…

Always remember, nothing in this world is too big for our God. Don’t underestimate God in times of trouble or distress. Humble yourself and turn it all over to God to handle. Allow God to guide your every thought, your every step along this journey called life. As I stated earlier, God is our healer today, tomorrow and forever!

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
and Wisdom to know the difference. – Reinhold Niebuhr

Let’s pray – Heavenly Father, I bring to you my burdens and you know my current situation. You know I cannot make it in this world without you. Comfort my heart, heal my body, give me strength to carry on throughout my journey. Amen.

Practice the Miracle Morning Life S.A.V.E.R.S:

1. Silence – Time for reflection, meditation, deep breathing or praying
2. Affirmation – Room to develop and repeat your positive affirmations
3. Visualization – A moment to visualize your goals possibly with a vision board
4. Exercise – Benefit mentally from physical exercise with a brief workout
5. Reading – Develop your mind by reading a few pages from a self-help book
6. Scribing – Write down your thought keeping and reviewing a journal
www.wantforwellness.com

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Leave the Past Behind

LaPorterMay 31, 20185 Replies

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I am starting over today, right now in this very moment. Yes, as I type these words to inspire you, I am also being inspired. I want to erase all negative thoughts and feelings from my inner being. I want to replace all negativity with a new pattern of positive thoughts and feelings; a new wave of emotional balance and well-being; a new connection to my life as I know it, think it and feel it. There will be a new belief system inscribed within me.

The beauty of life is, while we cannot undo what is done, we can see it, understand it, learn from it and change so that every new moment is spent not in regret, guilt, fear or anger but in wisdom, understanding and love. – Jennifer Edwards

How many times do you think about the past? It could be past events, death, thoughts, people, relationships, choices, successes, failures, etc. While it is not against the law to think about the past, be careful not to get caught up in an emotional web or bondage that may keep you from moving forward. Each day I wake up, I thank God for allowing me another chance to get my life back on track. What do I mean by that? Well, we are human and last, I remember, all humans make mistakes. We should live and learn from our mistakes, not dwell in them.

Face each day with a positive attitude. Dig deep inside to strive for new opportunities that surround us every day. Focus on right now and not what ifs. Believe it or not, even as I type these words, it seems easier said than done. I realize it will not be easy for some, but to move to a better place in life, we sometimes need to place ourselves in uncomfortable situations and/or conversations. Involve yourself with like-minded individuals who build you up and not tear you down.

Here’s some ways to help you leave the past behind:

• Write your thoughts and feelings in a journal
• Share your thoughts and feelings with a trusted family member or friend
• Seek professional help from a licensed therapist
• Read and be grounded in God’s Word
• Meditate and be prayerful
• Practice yoga and stretch routines
• Read inspirational and spiritual books
• Set some attainable goals for yourself
• Post positive quotes where you can read them daily
• Recite positive affirmations throughout your day

The only way to get over the past is to leave it behind. If you spend your time re-living moments that are gone forever, you might miss the special moments that are yet to come. – Susan Gale

Mind – Meditation
The thing about meditation is: You become more and more you. – David Lynch

According to the Wikipedia, meditation can be defined as a practice where an individual focuses his or her mind on an object, thought, or activity to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state. It’s important to start with good breathing techniques when doing your meditation. In addition, create a peaceful and safe place where you will not be distracted during your meditation. Remember, to let go of all frustrations throughout the meditation process. Then, you will feel refreshed, renewed, and at peace.

• Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present, or future?
• What are your priorities in life? What helps you to stay on track?
• How do you keep your thoughts in check throughout the day?

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Body – Set Attainable Goals
Set goals that are well balanced. – M. Russell Ballard

First, you must set attainable goals for yourself. Second, you need to write down your goals to clarify and strengthen your daily intentions. Hold yourself accountable by maintaining focus and discipline throughout your journey. Rewarding yourself will help reinforce the positive actions you’ve taken so you can continue doing it every day. Effective systems and habits make it easier for you to accomplish your goals on a regular basis. Simply put, your success is found in your daily routine.

• What do I want to accomplish in my life today? Tomorrow? Next week? Next month? Next year?
• What are my strengths? What are my weaknesses?
• Discuss one way you would like to grow in the next year.

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Spirit – Self-Reflection
Time spent in self-reflection is never wasted. It is an intimate date with yourself. – Paul TP Wong

Self-reflection is a humbling process. It’s essential to find out why you think, say, and do certain things, then better yourself. I think of self-reflection as making time for ME. Similar, to meditation, you are going to a quiet and safe place away from distractions. Then, you are taking short breaths and paying attention to what is going on within you. Your thoughts, feelings, emotions, all moving to the same rhythm.

• What did you learn about yourself today? This week? This month?
• What are you inviting into your life with your actions or thoughts?
• How can I create more acceptance and happiness in my life?

Don’t close the book when bad things happen in your life, just turn the page and begin a new chapter. – Unknown

blank screen, desk, laptop, work, thoughts, feelings, typing — pixabay

I want to hear from you – Don’t be afraid to start over. It’s a new chance to be creative and to rebuild what you want. Begin to look at your life as a story being written on paper and you are the author. Train your mind to think differently. Train your body to react differently. Train your spirit to feel differently. This will be a process that will continue for a life time. Out with the old and in with the new. Leaving your past behind, old habits, negative thoughts, old relationships, failures, etc.

Please share your thoughts in the blog’s comment section concerning the following questions:

• How do you plan to leave the past behind?
• What methods of release do you use? For example, do you write in a journal, write blogs, read inspirational books, talk to someone, meditate, go for a walk outdoors, etc.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Staying Grounded

LaPorterMay 13, 20187 Replies

The Lord will fight for you. You need only to be still. Exodus 14:14

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration and Happy Mother’s Day to all of you beautiful mothers that read my blogs every week! Today let’s focus on the concept of “Staying Grounded”. What’s the first thing you think about when you see the words “Staying Grounded”? I think about being grounded in the Word of God, staying focused from day to day, being on track to reach goals, and hope for the future.

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

Word of God
Stand your ground, it’s sacred. -Unknown

In my opinion, staying grounded in the Word of God increases your faith and renews your hope for the future. Staying grounded takes a strength from within like no other. For some, reading God’s Word is enough. For others, reading God’s Word, praying to God, practicing meditation, and living Christ-like satisfies their spiritual endeavors. As you read God’s Word, keep these tips in mind:
• Always ask yourself – How does this word apply to me?
• Receive every word as true. Rest upon the promises that God has given you.
• Be prepared to put what you read into action in your life.

Staying Focused
Don’t fear change. When its winds come blowing stay grounded, don’t let it knock you down. -Unknown

Staying focused from day to day is not as easy as it sounds. It seems to be easier when you have a daily To-Do List. Your list may include your daily agenda or you may want to include items that will build your faith and bless others along the way. For example, you may want to include:
• Count my blessings
• Practice kindness
• Let go of what I can’t control
• Listen to my heart
• Be productive yet calm
• Just breathe

On Track to Reach Goals
Make it your goal to stay physically strong, mentally sound, emotionally stable, and spiritually grounded. -Unknown
There has to be a fire within you in order for you to strive to reach your goals. You have to think positive and plan for success. Well, how do you start? First, you should set some personal goals for yourself. However, not just any kind of goals, make sure you set SMART goals for yourself. Second, you need to write down your goals to clarify and strengthen your daily intentions. Third, break down your goals into small and manageable steps to overcome any anxiety you may have. Fourth, hold yourself accountable by maintaining focus and discipline throughout your weight loss process. Fifth, rewarding yourself will help reinforce the positive actions you’ve taken so you can continue doing it every day. Remember, effective systems and habits make it easier for you to accomplish your goals on a regular basis.

• S – Specific – Well defined so that anyone can understand the goal
• M – Measurable – Needs to have parameters in order to know if the goal was achieved
• A – Attainable – Must be a realistic goal that challenges you
• R – Relevant – Make sure the goal is consistent with your other goals and will aid you in achieving your long-term goal
• T – Time Oriented – Create a time frame for when you want to accomplish your goal

Hope for the Future
I am grounded. I am safe. I am divinely protected at all times. -Unknown
is another one of those words that can be defined on a personal level and may change from situation to situation; or person to person. According to the Webster Dictionary, hope is defined as a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen; a feeling of trust.
But what does hope mean to you? Do you hope for anything great on today or in the near future? When I think of hope, I think of beauty and positive vibes. Hope is like a beautiful flower that thrives on sunlight and water. In a spiritual sense, hope relies on your daily commitment to God’s Word, meditation, and prayer.

• How do you define hope?
• What do you hope for each day?
• I feel hopeful/hopeless because…
• Name at least 5 things you are hopeful for. Then, take a moment and reflect upon each thing listed.

Wings to show you what you can become. Roots to remind you where you’re from.

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

As always, I look forward to hearing your feedback and reading your comments. Remember, sharing our thoughts and experiences teaches others a life lesson. In addition, please invite others to subscribe to my blog as well and share my blog on your social media platforms. Finally, I have added some items from www.amazon.com that may interest you so I would appreciate your support if you make a purchase. Until next time…

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Peace Be Still

LaPorterApril 28, 20185 Replies

Even five minutes spent in silence will nurture and revive your soul and your spirit. -Doreen Virtue

Today, I am totally safe and surrounded by love, light, peace, and joy. Today, I invite peace and harmony to dwell in me and surround me at all times. Today, I have the freedom and power to create the life I desire. It is important to speak peace into your life every day. It is important to know that you already have within you, right now, everything you need to deal with whatever the world decides to throw at you. Just because you may be struggling in this moment, does not mean you are failing. Keep believing in yourself and good things will happen.

In solitude there is healing. Speak to your soul. Listen to your heart. Sometimes in the absence of noise we find the answers -Dodinsky

Peace be still. Look forward with hope, not backwards with regret. The fact that you aren’t where you want to be, should be enough motivation for you to keep pushing forward. Peace be still. Strive to push harder than yesterday if you want a different tomorrow. Peace be still. When you awaken each day, take a moment to open your eyes to the beauty of life within. This would be a good time for some self-reflection, meditation or yoga. Then, open your heart to the natural serenity that lies within you.

If you seek peace, be still.
If you seek wisdom, be silent.
If you seek love, be yourself.
-Becca Lee

Self-Reflection Journal Prompts:

• What’s on my mind right now?
• What do I need to hear today?
• How can I uplift myself?
• What advice do I need to give myself right now?
• What answers am I seeking?
• What doubts do I currently have? How can I ease them?
• What are my greatest strengths and how will they support me in achieving my vision?

Be peaceful, be happy, be whole.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Embrace Who You Are

LaPorterApril 22, 20185 Replies

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

personal, person, surrender, embrace, nature — pixabay

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! So glad you have returned for more uplifting inspiration that comes from within. Today, let’s focus on this topic: Embrace Who You Are! Now, think about that for a moment and define what that means to you, right now in this very moment. Then, answer this question: What is your personal vision for your life? Take a moment and visualize your life as you want it to be. Go to a quiet, private environment for 15 minutes every day where you can close your eyes and imagine your body, environment, relationships, and life in ways that please you. Always remember, what has been has nothing to do with what will be, and what others experience has nothing to do with your experience. This is the moment where you must find a way to separate yourself from all of the past and from the others in order to be what you want to be. Then, you will be able to embrace your personal journey one step at a time.

The more you embrace and surrender to change, the more you will be supported. -Unknown

hero, embrace, woman, power, strength — pixabay

You have within you, right now, everything you need to deal with whatever the world can throw at you. Do you believe this? Sometimes you have to be your own hero. Do you have the courage to do so? Just because you are struggling throughout your journey does not mean you are failing. Keep believing and the good things will happen. Do you have the faith to believe in yourself? Always remember the one who falls and gets back up is so much stronger than the one who never fell at all. Your purpose is to fully be all that you are. Now, think about that for a moment. Look at yourself in the mirror and tell yourself with confidence – I BELIEVE IN THE PERSON I’M BECOMING!

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

Make your own happiness and peace of mind a priority. Be more positive, be happier, think positive & find greater success by doing the following:

• Write yourself a love letter.
• Learn something new from someone today.
• Choose a positive mantra and repeat it throughout the day.
• Take a moment to write down your values. What is most important in your life?
• Keep good on promises to yourself. Do at least 1 thing to work towards your goals.

Strength grows in the moments when you think you can’t go on but you keep going anyway. -Unknown

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Grace Changes Everything

LaPorterApril 16, 20183 Replies

He who loves purity of heart and has grace on his lips, the king will be his friend. Proverbs 22:11

Grace changes everything. Grace has been defined as “the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings”. Simply put, grace is “undeserved favor from God.” God’s grace is adequate for anything and everything that you experience in this life. Despite what prompted the hurt you’ve experienced in life, know that God’s grace can bring peace, hope, and healing. One beautiful thing about grace is that God does not withdraw His grace when you stumble or fall. Now, let’s pause here and give God some praise for His sincere love for us. Instead, acting with grace, God gently picks you up and enables you to take the next step. You can always find at God’s throne of grace whatever help you need whenever you need it. You can run to the Lord in times of trouble, when your heart is breaking, at life’s crossroads, and during the darkest and loneliest nights. Remember, God is waiting for you with open arms.

By grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

God offers us an extravagant gift: His grace. The best thing about that, it cost Him everything, but it costs us nothing. The only payback God asks is that we reach out and take the gift and then rest in it with guilt-free comfort knowing that you are saved through faith. If you find yourself in a small place, God knows you’re there. He’s with you, and He can do something mighty big. Trust his amazing grace. One thought I often meditate on is that when you trust in the Lord, you will never be disappointed.

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

Let’s pray:
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

Here are some Prayer Prompts to encourage, strengthen, and inspire you as you journal your prayers.

• Heavenly Father, you are…
• Heavenly Father, I thank you for…
• Prayer for peace when it comes to…
• Prayer for moments when I am….
• Heavenly Father, please give me patience to…
• Heavenly Father, I pray healing over…
• Heavenly Father, I love you because…

Gratitude Changes Everything

LaPorterApril 11, 201810 Replies

When gratitude becomes an essential foundation in our lives, miracles start to appear everywhere. -Unknown

So, let’s define gratitude as the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and return kindness. Simply put, gratitude changes everything. Gratitude is one of the sweet shortcuts to finding peace of mind and happiness inside no matter what you might be going through in life. Gratitude changes the way we start the day, spend the day, and look back on the day. For me, my day always begins and ends with gratitude. How about yours?

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

Gratitude Affirmation – I am grateful for another opportunity that life offers me on today. I am grateful for a fresh start, a brand- new way of thinking and a positive outlook on life. I am grateful for the fact that I can learn from my mistakes, and then let them go. I am grateful for my mind, body, and spirit functioning in a way to inspire others using encouraging words from the soul. I am grateful to have God as my guide, my supporter, and my protector. I am grateful for my husband, children, close family, friends, and readers like you who offers me support every step of the way. I am grateful just to have another chance to get my life right and back on track.

Scriptures
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. I Chronicles 16:34 NIV

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. I Corinthians 15:57 NIV

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

It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful. -Unknown

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

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

Here are some Gratitude Journal Prompts to help you get started:

• What’s a simple pleasure that you’re grateful for?
• What’s something about your body or health that you’re grateful for?
• What book(s) are you grateful for?
• What’s a tradition that you’re grateful for?
• What’s one of your personality traits that you’re grateful for?
• What mistake or failure are you grateful for?
• What skill(s) do you have that you’re grateful for?
• Look around the room and write about everything you see that you’re grateful for.
• Write about some place you’ve been that you’re grateful for.
• What’s something that you’re grateful to have today that you didn’t have a year ago?

Spring Forward, Change Is Coming

LaPorterMarch 12, 20184 Replies

flowers, butterfly, spring, outdoors — Pixabay

Spring is a lovely reminder of how beautiful change can truly be -Unknown

Even though Michigan weather is in the 30’s today, the first day of spring is March 20th. Spring is one of the four conventional temperate seasons, following winter and preceding summer. Spring is the season of new beginnings for many people. Take time and look around you when the flowers, plants, and trees begin to bloom, days become longer, and the weather is warmer.

No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow -Unknown

spring, outdoors, yard, plants, flowers, trees, grass — Pixabay

So, here’s the life lesson I want to discuss with you on today. Just like the seasons change, so do our mind, body, and spirit.

He health the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. -Psalm 147:3

Life Lesson – Mind
As spring starts to surface and the trees begin to bloom, we can see God’s reminder to align our hearts to the new thing He’s doing all around us. Keep in mind that everything changes except God. People change, circumstances change, our bodies change, and our desires and passions change. There is certainty in life…change!

Our thoughts are the first things we need to deal with during change because thoughts directly affect our emotions and determine our behavior. When circumstances change, make the transition mentally and your emotions will be a lot easier to manage. The next time sudden change happens in your life, act on God’s Word and not merely reacting to the situation, you will be able to manage your emotions instead of allowing them to manage you. Now, repeat after me…I don’t resist and dread change, and I adapt when I need to.

Life Lesson – Body & Spirit

Moving right along to the next life lesson. Unfortunately, the change in seasons will affect some people in ways that most cannot explain. Many people struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) which is a depression related to the change in seasons.

Some of the symptoms are as follows:

• Moodiness
• Low Energy
• Difficulty Sleeping
• A Lack of Interest in Activities
• A Lack of Interest in Relationships
• Feeling Hopeless

To help you prepare for the change in seasons, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you find yourself sleeping more?
• Are you struggling to get out of bed?
• Is it harder or easier to exercise now?
• Do you feel less patient?
• Are you easily annoyed or irritated?
• Do you feel more energized and productive?
• Has there been a shift or change in any of your relationships?
• Are you actively involved in activities?

Answering these questions will give you some insight about how the change of seasons may or may not affect you personally. Regardless of whether you are affected by SAD, there are three important points that will help you navigate and manage this process.

First, you need to exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes per day. Moving your body on a regular basis has a positive effect on your physical and emotional health. Keep in mind, you don’t have to spend countless hours in the gym to satisfy this requirement. You can walk around your neighborhood, run and play with your children, or do an at home workout.

Second, you need to get more sunlight. People need to be exposed to sunlight on a daily basis. Our bodies absorb vitamin D, important to our health, from sunlight. And the energy and emotional boost that we get from a few minutes in the sun is well worth it.

Third, you need to talk it out. It’s always easier when you’re sharing your thoughts and feelings with someone, such as your spouse, friend, coworker, or therapist. This process not only strengthens your relationships, but also it provides you with positive support during this difficult time.

spring, showers, rain, outdoors, woman, umbrella — Pixabay

Journal Prompts – Mind in Bloom
April showers bring May flowers. What do May flowers bring? Why do you think so?

Write about the perfect spring day and include details, such as smells, sights, sounds, touch, tastes.

Spring is thought to be a time of new beginnings. Write about a time when you started something new.

spring, walking, outdoors, exercise, body, moving — Pixabay

Journal Prompts – Body Moving
Write about how you plan to move forward physically in 2018.

Set some realistic exercise goals for yourself and write them down.

Write about one way you would like to grow physically in the next year.

spring, fishing, boat, outdoors, water, relax — Pixabay

Journal Prompts – Spirit Renewed
Write a personal poem about spring. What does spring time inspire in you. Write about it.

Write about how God has blessed you. Be specific and give examples.

Write about something you feel strongly about.

What’s on your mind?
Don’t be shy. Please share your thoughts and/or feelings concerning this blog by leaving a comment so we can have an open dialogue. I would love to hear from you!

Welcome March – Total Health & Wellness

LaPorterMarch 1, 20182 Replies

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Psalm 37:23

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6

Welcome March! Well, today is March 1st. Where did February go? I do realize it is the shortest month of the year, but I cannot believe we are ten days from Daylight Savings Time (March 11th) and nineteen days from the first day of Spring (March 20th). Well, I have to ask you…Have you taken time to renew your inspiration? Are you inspired to become better than you were yesterday? What drives you to push forward when obstacles arise in life or do you just want to give up? Who inspires you to reach for your dreams throughout this journey called life or do you feel left alone? Does anyone challenge you to set realistic goals for yourself? If not, today is your lucky day. I would like to challenge you today to get inspired for TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS. Let’s strive to organize your MIND, BODY & SPIRIT.

The mind is like water. When it’s turbulent, it’s difficult to see. When it’s calm, everything becomes clear. -Prasad Mahes

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

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

Journal Prompts
• What are your priorities in life?
• What do you need to be content?
• Write down something that you want to remember. Why is it important to you?

Your body loves you. Love it back. -Unknown

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

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

Journal Prompts
• Write 5 things you would like to do more and make a plan to do them.
• What do you love about yourself?
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses.

Everything has a spirit – honor that. -Unknown

In the long run, the sharpest weapon of all is a kind and gentle spirit. -Anne Frank

Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. -Albert Einstein

spirit, reading, Bible, God's Word — Pixabay

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

Journal Prompts
• What are you thankful for? Why?
• What are my values? What do I believe in?
• Identify one way you would like to grow in the next year.

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

TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS TIPS
• Your success is found in your daily routine.
• Fitness Rule #1 – Never skip Mondays.
• Count your blessings and practice kindness every day.
• Let go of what you cannot control.
• Listen to your heart.
• Remember, to breathe.

The Soul Within

LaPorterFebruary 11, 20186 Replies

Scriptures:
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

Do you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. I Corinthians 6:19-20

Once again, I want to thank you for believing in me and supporting my writing endeavors. I don’t know about you, but I am putting last week behind me and planning to have a much more productive week ahead. Sometimes I just sit and think about everything that life throws at us from day to day…from hour to hour…from minute to minute! For some of us, this experience can be very difficult to manage throughout our journey. We depend on support from family and friends to help us through those challenging times. For me, I pick up a pen and just start writing. Whichever way you choose to release this negative energy is good, the most important thing, is to release it. However, some people are not that fortunate. They have to face these hard times alone or just don’t have the means to find ways to handle the pressures of life.

The Soul Within was written with you in mind. Even if you are not experiencing a difficult time right now, just keep living. It is important to learn how to mentally withstand difficult situations presently and in the future. According to the Webster Dictionary, soul is defined as the principle of life, feeling, thought, and an action in humans, regarded as distinct entity separate from the body. Your soul is the part of you that consists of your mind, character, and thoughts.

The soul within is like an instrument playing a special tune to everything that life throws our way. The soul within clears our mind in the midst of chaos and confusion. The soul within offers a sense of comfort and peace as we go through challenges in life. The soul within at times, get filled up with our emotions especially when we experience heartache and pain. The soul within often times try to protect us from the negative world we live in. The soul within runs so deep that some people have out of body experiences that only they understand and can explain. The soul within is your protector, your guide, your teacher, your angel, your friend. The soul within can be a mother to the motherless and a father to the fatherless. The soul within can be your companion, comforter, and helper. The soul within showers you and those around you with love, peace, joy, and gratitude each and every day. The soul within will always be there tucked deep inside just waiting for the right time to assist you, but we have to learn how to get out of the way. No matter how difficult it may be, take a deep breath, close your eyes, and enjoy the soul within experience.

Quotes:
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. -Maya Angelou

Maybe you’ve been assigned this mountain to show others it can be moved. -Unknown

Positive Thoughts:
Stop trying to calm the storm. Calm yourself, the storm will pass.

It is well with my soul.

Her soul is fierce. Her heart is brave. Her mind is strong.