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Finding Peace and Comfort During Grief

LatishaOctober 4, 2021Leave a Reply

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

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

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to talk about finding peace and comfort during grief. Whether your grief experience is recent or not, it takes internal strength to find true peace and comfort while coping with the pain after the death of a loved one. So, instead of living your life worrying about the “what ifs”, spend time preparing your mindset with peaceful thoughts. Here’s a few examples to help you get started:

Find & recite your favorite scripture or prayer
Recite positive affirmations & quotes
Listen to motivational podcasts
Read an inspirational book
Receive uplifting words from a family member or friend

At the end of the day, what’s important is that you’re at peace because your intentions are good, and your heart is pure.

FIVE STAGES OF GRIEF

Grief…for those of us who understand, no explanation is needed. For those of us who do not, no description is possible. – Fran Solomon, Founder HealGrief.org

Now, let’s go over a few important facts about grief. First, we all experience grief differently. Second, there are no set rules to follow when grieving. Third, grief is often described in five stages as described by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross:

Denial – This can’t be happening.
Anger – Why did this happen? Who is to blame?
Bargaining – Make this not happen and I will …
Depression – I can’t bear this: I’m too sad to do anything.
Acceptance – I acknowledge that this has happened, and I cannot change it.

Although grief is often described in stages, each stage may last for a different period of time and it’s important to note that everyone may not experience all of the stages. Either way, make sure you acknowledge some or all of the stages as you experience them so you will understand what may be happening in your life.

COMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF GRIEF

I’m unsure which pain is worse…the shock of what happened or the ache for what never will. – Unknown Author

Next, let’s discuss the common signs and symptoms of grief so we can begin the healing process a lot sooner.

Shock and disbelief – You may feel numb or question whether the loss really happened.
Sadness – Profound sadness can lead to a feeling of isolation.
Guilt – You may feel guilt over things you said or did.
Anger – You may be angry with the person, caregivers or God/Higher Power.
Fear – You may begin to fear your own mortality or facing life without your loved one.
Physical – Nausea, fatigue, lowered immunity, weight loss or gain, insomnia, aches and pains.

It’s my hope that you may be able to cope with life once you understand what’s happening during the grief process.

WAYS TO FIND PEACE AND COMFORT DURING GRIEF

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

You can find peace and comfort during grief by speaking peace into your life every day. Examples – 1) Today, I am totally safe and surrounded by love, light, peace, and joy. 2) Today, I invite peace and harmony to dwell in me and surround me at all times. 3) Today, I have the freedom and power to create the life I desire.

Here’s a few more ways to find peace and comfort during grief:

Talk to someone you trust – family, friends, therapist, grief counselor, etc.
Take a walk outside and enjoy nature.
Listen to your favorite music to help calm your spirit.
Practice meditation and deep breathing exercises.
Establish a self-care routine for yourself.
Find something that you enjoy doing – a new hobby, learn a new skill, take a class, etc.
Stop feeling shame and guilt.
Make gratitude a part of your life.
Acknowledge and release negativity.
Practice doing relaxing activities – writing in a journal, reading, painting, coloring, etc.

Keep in mind that you already have peace within you, right now, in this very moment. Instead of ignoring and judging others, let’s be more supportive to others who may be struggling with finding peace and comfort during grief. After all, just lending a listening ear will do wonders.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

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

Meditate on peaceful thoughts. Define those thoughts in detail and write about them.
What takes your mind away from peaceful thoughts?
What is one thing I can do this week to improve my meditation time?

BODY

What do you feel right now in this very moment? Listen to your body and write about it.
How can I honor my body on today?
Does your self-care need improvement? How would you improve it?

SPIRIT

How do you cope with struggles? What set a spark in your soul? Write about it.
Wat am I grateful for and why?
How much you are trusting God with your life right now?

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS & COMMENTS

Please share what brings peace into your life during grief. What stages of grief are you currently experiencing? Are you familiar with any of the common signs and symptoms of grief? How do you find peace within? How can you write yourself into a peaceful state? Please share your honest response in the comment section. I cannot wait to hear from you.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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

Overcoming Pandemic Fatigue

LatishaNovember 9, 20206 Replies

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

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

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

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

OVERCOMING PANDEMIC FATIGUE

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

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

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

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

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

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

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

PEACE AFFIRMATIONS

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

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

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

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

FINAL THOUGHTS

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

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

JOURNAL PROMPTS

I love journaling because it is a safe place for me to put my feelings and emotions into words, then put my words into action. Remember, journaling is your very own personal journey throughout life, your ups and downs, your successes and failures. In addition, journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Keep in mind that this is a journey and be patient with yourself. Ready, set, write!

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

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

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

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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

Be Mindful

LatishaFebruary 23, 20205 Replies

Everything you need, your courage, strength, compassion and love; everything you need is already within 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).

BENEFITS OF MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

The real meditation practice is how we live our lives from moment to moment to moment. – Jon Kabat-Zinn

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! For the last couple of weeks, I have been practicing meditation each day thanks to my wonderful friend Ray at therayjourney.com – #TheRayChallenge – Small steps, BIG changes. I have to admit, practicing meditation daily has given me a new look on life.

Today, let’s spread the word about how to be mindful in every day living can help people who suffer from anxiety and depression. So, what is mindfulness? Mindfulness is a type of meditation that involves using the senses to pay attention to what’s happening around you and inside you, in the here and now.

Here’s some benefits of mindfulness meditation:

• Get better sleep.

• Lower stress levels.

• Banish temporary negative feelings.

• Improve attention to details.

• Manage chronic pain.

• Reduce anxiety and help prevent depression relapse.

• Make progress toward your weight-loss goals.

LIVE IN THE MOMENT

Mindfulness is being present without judgment in every moment. – Unknown Author

In addition, to be mindful is a way of being with yourself and perceiving the world around you that can help you live your life more peacefully and with greater balance. Well, as I researched the mindfulness concept, I kept coming across the words “LIVE IN THE MOMENT”. I do realize that if you suffer from anxiety or depression, it is quite difficult to just live in the moment from day to day.

Here’s some ways to help you live in the moment:

• Take small steps throughout the process or transition.

• Remember, slow and steady wins the race.

• Try to embrace the freshness of each day.

• Analyze beauty of now in this very moment.

• Do everything with pure joy and happiness.

• Accept your weak points or imperfections in life, then work on them one at a time.

• Strive to free yourself from all distracting thoughts by journaling your true feelings.

TO BE MINDFUL IS NOT

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

Now, it is important to really understand what it truly means to be mindful and what mindful is not. To be mindful is living in your present moment rather than in your anxious thoughts and feelings. Also, to be mindful allows you to explore, invite, and be compassionate with anxiety and difficult emotions, which in turn reduces their power over us.

Here are some examples of what to be mindful is not:

• A quick-fix trick – It’s important to keep practicing mindfulness over time.

• Religious – It’s not part of a religion and it does not involve beliefs or practices that conflict with any religion.

• Something separate from you – The capacity to be mindful comes from within.

• Time-Limited – The more you practice mindfulness, the better it works.

• Something you have to drop everything for – Mindfulness is a mindset and way of life that fits in with where you are and what you’re doing.

• A magic wand or cure-all – It’s an effective tool that you can use to choose your focus, reduce anxiety, and still face problems but live a quality life.

• Just for people who are already relaxed – Mindfulness is a powerful way of taking charge of your anxiety and helping you become relaxed and full of inner peace.

• Always easy – Mindfulness is a skill that must be developed over time, so don’t give up.

WAYS TO BE MINDFUL THROUGHOUT LIFE

No amount of guilt can change the past and no amount of anxiety can change the future. – Unknown Author

Every day we have many opportunities to practice mindfulness. Have you ever wondered what it means to live in the present? Well, here’s some ways to be mindful throughout life:

• Observe your breathing throughout the day. You momentarily free yourself from your thoughts, worries and fears. The quality of our breath tells us a lot about our state of being. When the breath is slow and steady, we are calm and peaceful. When the breath is constricted, we are tense.

• When possible, eat silently and slowly. Eat nourishing food and taste every bite. Enjoy the smell of your food and how it looks on your plate. Think about the texture of the food. Recognize your non-hunger triggers to break compulsive overeating.

• Notice your outside environment – sunlight, rain, the wind, trees, sights and sounds. What is your state of mind and your thoughts as you run your daily errands? Are you in the present moment or thinking about what you will be doing next?

• Walk mindfully by paying attention to the movement of your body and your surroundings. Notice as your feet connect with and leave the ground. Feel your muscles moving and supporting you.

• Listen wholeheartedly. Next time you’re in a conversation, make it your goal to fully listen to what the other person is saying to you, without getting lost in your thoughts. Trust that you will know the right thing to say next when it’s your turn to speak.

• Get lost in the flow of doing things you love. We all have certain activities we love doing. They connect us with our inner spirit and bring us fully alive. Whether it is cooking, dancing, singing, gardening, journaling, writing, painting, swimming or sewing, schedule time to do it and enjoy it.

• Meditate daily. There’s no getting around it, meditation has huge benefits and increases your levels of energy, happiness, inspiration and inner peace. Remember, even 10 minutes per day can have a positive impact on your life.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Remember to take care of yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup. – Unknown Author

• What do you think your life would be like if you didn’t have anxiety or depression?

• What do I need more of in my life?

• What positive changes have you made or experienced in the past year? month? week?

• Write about one thing that you look forward to every day.

• Write about something that you forgive yourself for.

• Write about at least 3 things that help you feel better when things are difficult.

Be mindful as you live each day, use the power of visualization to reach for your dreams and aspirations. On the flip side, end your day on a positive note by writing down what you are thankful for and taking time for self-reflection. Strive each day to be the best you can be. Be present in the moment, minimize stress levels, and appreciate the beauty life offers.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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

Summer Time Blues

LatishaJune 30, 20197 Replies

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

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

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

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

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

REASONS WHY PEOPLE LOOK FORWARD TO SUMMER TIME

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

• People enjoy the warm weather.

• Children are out of school for summer break.

• Families look forward to going on fun vacations.

• People plan many outdoor parties and cookouts.

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

• Going to outdoor carnivals and festivals.

• Eating frozen treats more often.

TRIGGERS PEOPLE MAY EXPERIENCE

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

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

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

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

• Bad Moods – Constant mood swings and sadness.

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

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

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

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

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

READER PARTICIPATION – WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

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

HOW TO COPE

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

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

• Daily Schedule or Routine

• Exercise Habits

• Adequate Sleep

• Planing Ahead

• Delegating Duties

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

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

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

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

• Find a hobby or something you are passionate about.

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

• Take time to volunteer and help your community.

AFFIRMATION FOR MENTAL WELLNESS

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

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

READER PARTICIPATION – WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

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

JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

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

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

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

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

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TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

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

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

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

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Calmness Within

LatishaApril 21, 20193 Replies

Every breath we take, every step we make, can be filled with peace, joy and serenity. – Thich Nhat Hanh

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 the week – Sometimes, its really ok if the only thing you did today was breathe.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Happy Easter to you and your family! Well, I really feel the need to discuss an issue that I struggle with often – finding the calmness within. I honestly feel that you will find the calmness within when you love yourself and truly believe in yourself. Would you agree? Finding the calmness within means that you’re at peace with yourself and you’re at peace with those around you.

FINDING WAYS TO CALM YOUR SPIRIT

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

In order to find ways to calm your spirit, it’s important to make your life a priority. Make time now to care for yourself. Remember, stress and anxiety can form major health concerns, such as depression, high blood pressure, heart disease and all the other stress related illnesses that can form in your body. Don’t hesitate to calm your spirit and find peace within yourself.

There are many ways to calm your spirit, such as:

• Meditation

• Reading the Bible

• Practicing Yoga or Exercise

• Journaling

• Reading inspirational books

• Praying

• Finding a hobby

• Taking a walk outdoors

Now, for the truth to be told. How do you find the calmness within? Throughout life it’s important to allow yourself to grow and change. After all, your future self is waiting. Striving for personal and spiritual growth is a must. For example, I spend time writing and journaling to find my calmness within. Everyone needs to find a moment where there is no one else around judging you or adding his or her opinion to the situation that will only impact your life.

HOW TO IMPROVE SPIRITUAL GROWTH

Sure sign of spiritual growth: you want more freedom, and less stuff. – Lisa Villa Prosen

Growth in general is often uncomfortable, messy, and full of feelings you weren’t expecting. But it’s necessary for you to go through the growth process. However, spirituality is less about doing and more about being our truest most authentic self everywhere we go.

Here’s some suggestions to help you improve spiritual growth:

• Read your Bible daily. For some people it’s as simple as just picking up the Bible and start reading it from cover to cover. For others, it’s a difficult process and you must develop a reading plan that’s right for you. Keep in mind that the easiest way to truly experience spiritual growth is to make Bible reading a priority.

• Meet together with other believers regularly. Attending church regularly or gathering with other believers is fundamental to spiritual growth. According to Acts 2:42-47, being in the presence of other believers is for teaching, fellowship, worship, communion, prayer, and to build one another up in the faith.

• Get involved in a ministry group. The best way to stay in church, is to participate often. Most churches offer small groups and many ministry opportunities. Pray and ask God for guidance in this area. In addition, some churches offer classes or counseling to help you find the appropriate place that’s right for you.

• Pray daily. Did you know that prayer is simply talking to God? There are no right or wrong words to say. Just be honest and be yourself. Give God thanks for your salvation. Pray for others in need. Pray for direction. Pray and ask God to fill you daily with His Holy Spirit. Simply put, there is no limit to prayer. Remember, pray often anytime and anywhere.

PRAYER FOR INNER PEACE AND CALM

Holy Spirit, please encircle me, come hold me safe and secure in your loving arms.
Wrap my mind up with your truth. Guide my thoughts and calm my fears.
Steady my emotions, Holy Spirit that you would guide my feelings.
May I not be overcome with anger. Please Holy Spirit sustain my soul, with vision for the future, and hope for tomorrow. I need you in my life today and forever more. Amen.

HOW TO CALM YOUR SPIRIT

Be kind. Be calm. Be joyful. Be humble. Be thankful. – Mary Davis

Our lives are always so busy with work, school, sports, hobbies, etc. Learning how to remove yourself from the madness of busyness can often times be very difficult, but necessary. You become more confident and you learn how to calm your spirit.

Here’s some helpful suggestions to assist you with calming your spirit:

• Address the root of your stress or discomfort.

• Take time to be alone to analyze your thoughts and feelings.

• Learn how to find stability in life by regulating your breath during stressful situations.

• Don’t be afraid to see a health professional or therapist to discuss issues in a safe place and no judgement zone.

• Establish a reward system to pamper yourself from stress to a more calming spirit. For example, read a book, do some journaling/writing, go for a walk or just sit and do nothing.

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

As always, I want to give you some journal prompts that will help you find the calmness within. Believe in yourself and choose to shine while journaling your way to happiness. If you’re honest with yourself, you will achieve what ever you set your heart and mind to.

• What do I need to mute or remove from my life in order to hear God’s voice?

• How can I have peace and calmness in my life in the midst of chaos?

• When was the last time I felt truly calm and at peace?

• How does gratitude bring me peace?

• How can I simplify my life in little ways?

• What are some ways in which God’s presence is felt in my life?

• I cannot get enough of God’s presence because __________________.

• When I meditate on God’s goodness I __________________.

My prayer for you today is that you will find the right way to embrace the calmness within during any stressful moment in life. Now, are you ready to find your calmness within? If so, please share how you plan to find your calmness within along your journey. Remember, to stay patient and trust and your journey.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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From Journaling to Blogging

LatishaJanuary 27, 20199 Replies

Journaling, Blogging, Pink Flower, Reflection, Journal Prompts — pexels

The past is your lesson. The present is your gift. The future is your motivation. – Unknown Author

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

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to discuss the process from journaling to blogging. As a start, it’s important to know that journaling is whatever you want it to be. You are in control and can define what journaling means to you. For example, I chose journaling to express myself while grieving the death of my mother. Simply put, journaling can be your creative way to record life in general and all its amazing experiences.

JOURNALING SNAPSHOT

Journaling can be done online or using a journal notebook. Journaling is a form of expression and is always a personal journey to help cleanse one’s soul. For example, when you choose to write in your journal, you can begin the healing process to release various emotions, such as pain, hurt, or guilt; feelings, such as sadness, happiness, or loneliness; practicing self-reflection by designing your journal pages using colorful markers, stickers to add a personal touch, or including pictures and quotes.

Remember, journaling holds all of your emotions, thoughts, and feelings in one sacred place. Journaling has a way to uncover parts of yourself you never thought existed. Journaling can be fun, but also can be a serious process to help you cope with many life’s challenges, such as depression, grief, or loneliness. The most important fact about journaling is you have total control throughout the experience. You can keep it secret or share it with others.

JOURNALING TO FIND YOURSELF

Your life only gets better when you do. Work on yourself and the rest will follow. – Unknown Author

Now, let’s take the journaling process to the next level. How about using the journaling process to find yourself? Journaling is a way to capture ideas and keep your dreams alive until you can put them in motion. We have to be ready and willing to do what’s necessary to grow, to learn, and most importantly, to find yourself.

1. To ponder and pen your big dreams – Your journal is an ideal place to write out all of your desires and dreams. If there were no limits, what would you want to become? Who would you want to meet? What would you have? Where would you go? Write it all down, describing in detail what your success would look like. By doing this, you can begin to put the laws of success attraction into motion.

2. To get clarity and solve problems faster – When you are unable to see a clear path in your life, it’s better to jot down all those thoughts swirling around in your head. Writing things out gives you the accurate perspective necessary to attract the right solutions. Take a moment to write down questions related to your problems. In fact, you should have an attitude of expectancy that you will find the right answers.

3. To chart what works – Journaling about your ideas, successes, and even failures empowers you to backtrack to see what’s working in your life and what’s not. It’s important to be honest with yourself and be willing to make the necessary adjustments where needed to live a rewarding life.

4. To track your past victories – Take a moment to celebrate your victories and write when and where you have excelled in life. It’s easy to remember your every mishap, but also make an effort to note what’s going right in your life as well.

5. To plan and strategize – Use your journal for both short-term and long-term planning. This process will allow you to work through specific strategies on how you will accomplish your goals. Plan everything from the week ahead to the entire year in your journal.

6. To create a success action routine – Your success action routine should consist of time for meditation and visualization, speaking positive affirmations and reviewing your goals. Visualize yourself completing your goals and feeling the benefits and rewards of doing so.

7. To take control over your future – Journaling about your ideal life and begin to act as if you have that life right now. Be descriptive and detailed in your writing. This will help you prepare for an opportunity that doesn’t exist yet, and ready yourself for the victory to come.

8. For self-improvement – Your journal is a safe place where you can truly be honest with yourself. This is your book, your story, your journey. You have no limitations or boundaries. Your journal is private so you can express yourself and get to know who you really are and what you truly desire.

9. To help you through the decision-making process – In your journal, you can list pros and cons when you are faced with having to make a difficult decision. Write out every possible outcome and use this to guide you through the decision-making process.

10. To keep you in a state of gratefulness – As you go through the process to find yourself, stay grateful throughout your journey. Express gratitude in your journal. Slowing down to make note of what you’re thankful for can relieve you of anxiety, stress, and help you to enjoy life to the fullest. In addition, the act of gratefulness also draws more positivity your way, helping you to create a cycle of success.

Then, after a few months, I decided to move from journaling to blogging. Remember, you may go through this same process, but for different reasons.

BLOGGING SNAPSHOT

There are many reasons why people start blogging. Some people start blogging as a hobby and for some people it’s a career. Blogging can be defined as a website containing a writer’s or group of writers’ own experiences, observations, opinions, etc., and often having images and links to other websites, a single entry or post on such a website.

For example, setting up my Renew Inspiration blog was a challenging experience, but yet rewarding at the same time. Through this experience, I found my true passion, inspiring my supportive audience (that’s you) through writing in the form of blogging. So, thank you for believing in me and taking the time to visit my blog often. Remember, this experience is not complete without you.

The blogging experience improves your life in the following ways:

• Help you become a better writer and thinker

• Lead you to a healthier lifestyle and choices

• Inspire other people with encouraging words

• Allow you to network and meet new like-minded people

• Create awareness or getting your voice heard

• Satisfy your creative side and gaining knowledge through research

DOWNSIDE TO BLOGGING

Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience. – Unknown Author

Blogging is popular because it is a great marketing tool and helps you make money, but it also has a downside.

• Blogging requires a commitment and takes a great deal of time to manage. For blogs to be effective at SEO and engaging readers, it needs to be updated regularly.

• Blogging involves creativity and you having a passion to write about things you enjoy. To keep the content flowing, you have to keep the readers engaged with awesome ideas, tips or suggestions.

• Blogging can provide income for some people, but the payoff is not immediate. One of the biggest frustrations with blogging is that it is time-consuming with little payoff in the beginning. It takes time to build up a readership and momentum.

Whether you are journaling or blogging, it is important to remember, ideas to write about can be found all around you. Take a moment and look around you right where you are. Inspiration is not required to knock at your door twice so enjoy the process as you help find yourself through the experience and inspire others at the same time.

Journaling, Blogging, Writing, Pink Flower, Life Experiences, Reflections — pexels

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

I am blessed. I am beautiful. I am brave. I am bold. I am strong. I am enough. – Unknown Author

Journal Prompts are given to inspire you to write freely about your life and to help you find yourself.

• What does a successful life look like to you?

• What do I want to accomplish in my life today?

• How can I create more acceptance in my life?

• What feels like a struggle at the moment?

• What is your biggest regret?

• How have I been holding myself back?

• What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?

• How can I take a step forward?

SHARE YOUR JOURNALING AND BLOGGING EXPERIENCES

I aspire to be a giver. A giver of love, a giver of good vibes and a giver of strength. – Unknown Author

Do you enjoy journaling and/or blogging? Please share your journaling and blogging experiences. We can learn from one another and grow through one another’s learning experiences.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Journaling to Overcome

LatishaNovember 24, 20184 Replies

Journaling, Overcome, Lighthouse, Water, Rocks, Mental Health, Reflection — pexels

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

Something to Think About – There is no wrong or right way, just write!

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I sure hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends. Today, I want to talk about journaling to overcome anything and everything that may happen in your life. 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 up a glimpse into your soul in its purest form. Also, journaling can provide an outlet for your personal thoughts and feelings to be expressed freely without criticism. From my experience, it’s important to have your guard down when making the decision to start journaling to overcome. After all, journaling helps you to gain better control of your emotions and thought process, which improves your overall mental health.

MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF JOURNALING

• Less stress, feel calmer

• Increased happiness in life and improves your mood

• Developing self-awareness and empathy

• Ability to heal past or present traumas

• Gain clarity in your life, better memory

• Increased creativity

JOURNALING HELPS YOU OVERCOME

• Makes you more aware – Helps you get to know yourself better; Brings your thoughts and feelings to the surface

• Let you take control – Minimize the chaos in your life; Journaling helps get things into perspective

• Shifts your viewpoint – Offers a safe place to practice positive self-talk; Retraining the brain to think positively

• Let you notice patterns – Helps you see how you’re doing over time

JOURNALING TIPS

• Create a safe place – Declutter your space; You should feel good, happy and calm in your 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 – 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

• Make it easy – Set yourself up for success; Keep your pen and paper handy at all times.

Journaling, Overcome, Flowers, Mental Health, Reflection — pexels

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

• What did you achieve today?

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

• Define 3 things you can do to improve yourself.

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

• Right now, my greatest challenge is _______________.

• My greatest qualities are _________________.

SHARE YOUR COMMENTS

It’s all about finding the calm in the chaos. – Donna Karan

Journaling can help you overcome any problem or obstacle that you face in life. Have you already tried journaling to overcome challenges in life? If so, please share your experience(s). Do you like to journal? If so, how often do you write in your journal?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Mindfulness Chatter

LatishaOctober 25, 20183 Replies

flower, mindfulness, anxiety, depression, self-reflection — pixabay

Everything you need, your courage, strength, compassion and love; everything you need is already within you.

Something to Think About – Train your mind to see the good in everything.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, let’s spread the word about how mindfulness can help people who suffer from anxiety and depression. So, what is mindfulness? Mindfulness is a type of meditation that involves using the senses to pay attention to what’s happening around you and inside you, in the here and now. Mindfulness is a way of being with yourself and perceiving the world around you that can help you live your life more peacefully and with greater balance. In other words, mindfulness is living in your present moment rather than in your anxious thoughts and feelings. Mindfulness allows us to explore, invite, and be compassionate with anxiety and difficult emotions, which in turn reduces their power over us.

Mindfulness is being present without judgment in every moment.

Well, as I researched the mindfulness concept, I kept coming across the words “LIVE IN THE MOMENT”. I do realize that if you suffer from anxiety or depression, it is quite difficult to just live in the moment from day to day. Take small steps throughout this process. Remember, slow and steady wins the race. Try to embrace the freshness of each day and to analyze the beauty of now. Do everything with pure joy and happiness. Accept your weak points or imperfections in life, then work on them one at a time. Strive to free yourself from all distracting thoughts by journaling your true feelings. Use the power of visualization to reach for your dreams and aspirations. End your day on a positive note by writing down what you are thankful for and taking time for self-reflection.

MINDFULNESS IS NOT

• A quick-fix trick – It’s important to keep practicing mindfulness over time.

• Religious – It’s not part of a religion and it does not involve beliefs or practices that conflict with any religion.

• Something separate from you – The capacity to be mindful comes from within.

• Time-Limited – The more you practice mindfulness, the better it works.

• Something you have to drop everything for – Mindfulness is a mindset and way of life that fits in with where you are and what you’re doing.

• A magic wand or cure-all – It’s an effective tool that you can use to choose your focus, reduce anxiety, and still face problems but live a quality life.

• Just for people who are already relaxed – Mindfulness is a powerful way of taking charge of your anxiety and helping you become relaxed and full of inner peace.

• Always easy – Mindfulness is a skill that must be developed over time, so don’t give up.

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

WAYS TO PRACTICE MINDFULNESS

Every day we have many opportunities to practice mindfulness. Have you ever wondered what it means to live in the present? Well, here’s some ways to practice mindfulness in your daily routine.

• Observe your breathing throughout the day. Your breathing occurs naturally and rhythmically. You momentarily free yourself from your thoughts, worries and fears. The quality of our breath tells us a lot about our state of being. When the breath is slow and steady we are calm and peaceful. When the breath is constricted we are tense.

• Before you get out of bed, notice your thoughts. This practice helps us get in touch with what is on the mind and in our dreams.

• When possible, eat silently and slowly. Eat nourishing food and taste every bite. Enjoy the smell of your food and how it looks on your plate. Think about the texture of the food. Recognize your non-hunger triggers to break compulsive overeating.

• Notice your outside environment – sunlight, rain, the wind, trees, sights and sounds. What is your state of mind and your thoughts as you run your daily errands. Are you in the present moment or thinking about what you will be doing next?

• Walk mindfully by paying attention to the movement of your body and your surroundings. Notice as your feet connect with and leave the ground. Feel your muscles moving and supporting you.

• Connect with your senses. Your senses – touch, smell, taste, sound and sight – are your gateway into the present moment. Put love and attention into the simple tasks of your day and you will be amazed how much joy and peace they can bring you.

• Listen wholeheartedly. Next time you’re in a conversation, make it your goal to fully listen to what the other person is saying to you, without getting lost in your thoughts. Trust that you will know the right thing to say next when it’s your turn to speak.

• Get lost in the flow of doing things you love. We all have certain activities we love doing. They connect us with our inner spirit and bring us fully alive. Whether it is cooking, dancing, singing, gardening, journaling, writing, painting, swimming or sewing, schedule time to do it and enjoy it.

• Travel or mix up your routine. Plan your next vacation or just take a different route while running errands. Your senses take over for a short while and it frees you from your mind as you enjoy the different scenery.

• Meditate daily. There’s no getting around it, meditation has huge benefits and increases your levels of energy, happiness, inspiration and inner peace. Remember, even 10 minutes per day can have a positive impact on your life.
<h2
>SELF-REFLECTION

Take time, be honest and fill in the blank. Reflect on your answers throughout your journey.

• One thing I need to work on is _________________________.

• One thing I need to let go is _______________________.

• One lesson I learned today is _______________________.

• Today I can honor my mind, body and spirit by ______________________.

• I need to improve my spiritual life by _________________________.

vase, flowers, thankful, mindfulness, anxiety, depression — pixabay

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Every positive change in your life begins with a clear, unequivocal decision that you are going to either do something or stop doing something.

• What do you think your life would be like if you didn’t have anxiety or depression?

• What do I need more of in my life?

• What positive changes have you made or experienced in the past year? month? week?

• Write about one thing that you look forward to every day.

• Write about something that you forgive yourself for.

• Write about at least 3 things that help you feel better when things are difficult.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS/COMMENTS

Your mind is a garden, your thoughts are the seeds, you can grow flowers or weeds.

Remember, each and every day we have many opportunities to practice mindfulness. Do you currently practice mindfulness? If so, how often? If not, do you plan to include mindfulness in your daily routine? Please share your thoughts in the comment section.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Target Affiliate Program and Blue Host Affiliate Program which is an advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Target.com and Bluehost.com

Writing to Escape

LatishaAugust 10, 20181 Reply

You might not write well every day, but you can always edit a bad page. You can’t edit a blank page. – Jodi Picoult

writing, escape, bubble, lonely — pixabay

Thought for today – There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. – Maya Angelou

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to express the passion I have for writing. There are many reasons why I write. Sometimes I write because I am happy, and I also write when I am sad. However, the main reason why I have a passion for writing is to escape. When you hear the word “ESCAPE” what is the first thing you think about? For me, when I think about the word “ESCAPE”, I think about breaking free from something. When I write, I like to escape from life as I know it each day. I like to escape the pain and misery of losing both my dad and mom. Losing your parents leaves a hole in your heart that can never be filled. I like to escape the frustration of parenting adopted children with disabilities and behavior problems. I like to escape the racism of this wicked world for not only having black skin, but also for being a woman. I like to escape from mental illness both depression and anxiety. I like to escape from those sleepless nights when I just listen to my thoughts go on and on. Writing allows me to be honest with my feelings and help me cope with challenges that I face throughout my journey.

Journal Prompts – Time for Reflection

Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on. – Louis L’Amour

Keep Calm and Write On

Let’s use our Journal to escape from negative thoughts, pain, hurt, sadness, and bad memories. Remember, journaling should be a safe place for you to write how you feel and to reflect on your heart felt thoughts. This is your personal journey so make sure you are honest throughout the process.

MIND – Be still and know that I am God. (Psalm 46:10)
• Meditate on escaping from something from within and write about it.
• What takes your mind away from God?
• What brings you the most joy in life? Describe it in detail.
• What qualities do you think others admire about you?
• How much do you truly love yourself? How do you show it?

BODY – No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape that you may be able to bear it. (I Corinthians 10:13)
• What do you feel right now in this very moment? Listen to your body and write about it.
• Do you feel courageous on today? If so, take time and write about it. If not, how can you build courage in your life?
• Where do you struggle with pride, dishonesty, or being discontent?
• In what area of your life do you need to improve self-discipline?
• How do you de-stress during the week?

SPIRIT – The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18)
• How do you cope with pain, misery, sadness, being alone, etc.? Write about it.
• How is God your strength and protector? Write about it.
• When do you feel God’s presence most in your life? How do you respond?
• What is one way that you can improve your spiritual walk?
• How can you improve your prayer and meditation routine?

As you can see, writing to escape is real and takes little effort on your part. If you don’t currently write in a journal today, take a moment and think about how journaling could help you cope with the daily challenges of life. Believe it or not, sometimes I just pick up my pen and just start writing words, not sentences. Before I even realize it, I am writing paragraphs. Writing to escape can help you clear your mind and offer you an opportunity to break free from internal bondage. Writing to escape can help you lose yourself on paper and forget about time. Most of all, writing to escape can bring about a peace that is more powerful than the stress in your life right now. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get our journals and write to escape!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
Please share what you escape from as you write, think or just meditate. How do you plan to escape the challenges of life? What is holding you back from journaling? I look forward to reading your comments and feedback!

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Meditation from the Inside Out

LatishaJuly 5, 201810 Replies

The inspiration you seek is already within you. Be silent and listen. – Rumi

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I hope you enjoyed your 4th of July holiday to my United States readers. I don’t know about where you live, but it was humid and in the 90’s. No grilling here! I cooked some steaks and hamburgers in the Air Fryer which makes for less cooking time and less mess to clean up in the kitchen. Well, enough about cooking and food. I want to discuss a very important topic today related to our mental state, relaxation and total well-being. The topic is called meditation.

meditation, yoga, pose, stillness, peaceful, water — pexels

Did you know…

• Meditation reduces stress?
• Meditation helps with clearing your thinking?
• Meditation increases our capacity for empathy and compassion?

Meditation is not a way of making your mind quiet. It’s a way of entering into the quiet that’s already there. – Deepak Chopra

meditation, stones, relax, peace, nature — pexels

Thought for today – I am in perfect balance. I am physically and emotionally connected and healed. I am free of worry and I am at peace with who I am. Every day I grow stronger and more relaxed. I love myself and life.

The goal of meditation isn’t to control your thoughts, it’s to stop letting them control you. – Unknown

Alright, let’s be honest here. Do you practice meditation daily? weekly? monthly? or never?

Meditation, when practiced regularly, can bring about a true personal transformation from the inside out. As you allow yourself to experience your inner peace and security, you will naturally begin to discover aspects of yourself that were previously hidden due to stress. Keep in mind, when practicing meditation, your body undergoes a structural change, which demonstrates the profound impact of simply sitting down, perfectly still, with your eyes closed, breathing deeply nice and slow. Meditation relaxes the entire brain and places your entire body in a calm way of living. Simply put, meditation is spending quality time with your soul and not allowing anything or anybody to distract you.

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

Physical Benefits of Meditation:

• Lowers high blood pressure
• Lowers the levels of blood lactate, reducing anxiety attacks
• Decreases tension-related pain
• Increases serotonin production that improves mood and behavior
• Improves the immune system
• Increases the energy level, as you gain an inner source of energy

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

Mental Benefits of Meditation:

• Anxiety decreases
• Emotional stability improves
• Creativity increases
• Happiness increases
• Gain clarity and peace of mind
• Problems become smaller
• Sharpens the mind by increasing focus

As you can see, meditation is your time to relax, unwind, and practice your deep breathing techniques. Even though you are free to meditate anywhere, it would be nice to create your very own personal space in or around your home dedicated to meditation.

Tips to Create Your Personal Meditation Space

Tip 1: Choose a location with nature in mind. For example, lush green trees, soothing blue water, beautiful flowery garden, next to a window, on a patio, porch, empty room decorated with nature colors and pictures, etc.

Tip 2: Keep the space clean. If the environment around you is clean, your mind can also be relaxed during meditation. Less clutter is better.

Tip 3: Invite lots of fresh air. An airy and well-ventilated room is surely going to make you enjoy your meditation better.

Tip 4: Light shades work better. Pastel shades give a more soothing feel compared to dark or bright colors. You may choose a room which has either white or light shade walls that helps you relax.

Tip 5: Light it up as you like. Allow sunlight to come through your windows or if it is evening you may want a specific type of lamp to help set the relaxing mood.

Tip 6: Smell the relaxation. You may choose from a variety of fragrances as per your choice. Whether it is aromatic incense sticks or essence oils, the choice is yours.

Tip 7: Think comfort. You may choose a soft yoga mat, a low-height mattress, soft cushion or a comfortable chair.

Tip 8: Play it soft. You may choose some soft instrumental music which helps enhance your experience.

Journal Prompts

Let’s make it common practice to write in your journal after you practice meditation.

• I like to practice meditation because ___________________________.
• When I practice mediation, I feel ___________________________.
• What are your daily habits?
• What is a habit you want to break?
• What is keeping you from changing?
• List 5 emotional trigger words. How do they make you feel?
• Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present or future?

Remember, once you get into the habit and experience the mental clarity, emotional stability, physical relaxation that the meditation practice offers, not practicing meditation seems unimaginable. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s set aside some quality time today to renew inspiration – mind, body and spirt by practicing meditation!

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
If you practice meditation, please share your favorite place to meditate. What is your favorite time of the day to meditate? Do you like music playing in the background when you are meditating? Were you aware of the health benefits when practicing meditation? Have you experienced any positive health benefits while doing meditation? If so, please share in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

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