Renew Inspiration – Page 21 – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

Blogging with a Purpose

LaPorterNovember 10, 20187 Replies

blogging, bloggers, writing, journaling, purpose — pixabay

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

Something to Think About – Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! There are many reasons why people start blogging. Some people start blogging as a hobby and for some people it’s a career. According to Dictionary.com, blogging is 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.

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

blogging, bloggers, white lily, flower — pixabay

MY STORY

I started my Renew Inspiration blog simply to inspire others using my own personal experiences, creative writing and research. But why? Well, when my mother passed away in December 2015 a piece of me left and never returned. I have lost other loved ones in the past, but losing your mother is a hurt that you just cannot explain. Unfortunately, I could not express how I felt so I became depressed and angry. I began writing how I felt every day. Then, someone told me to write letters to my mother expressing how much I missed her. Guess what? It worked. Shortly after I started journaling to help me cope with the grieving process. Writing became my passion and my coping mechanism. Eventually, I did seek professional help as well because my depression was getting worse and I even felt anxiety throughout my life as well. In January 2018, I decided that I wanted to take my writing to the next level. But how? I was surfing online and came across a Word Press and Blue Host ad. I clicked on it to find out more information and the blogger provided the necessary information to start my own blog. 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.

REASONS WHY PEOPLE BLOG

To take this a step further, let’s look at some other reasons why people blog.

Some people use blogging to:

• Inspire, encourage and motivate

• Teach and establish expertise

• Share ideas and their passion for writing

• Cope with life and its many challenges

• Expand networking opportunities

• Make money by selling product or using affiliate programs

• Express yourself and share creative writing

• Maintain online journal

• Provide book reviews or product reviews

• Capture travel experiences and photos

There is no failure, you either win or you learn. – Unknown

WHY IS BLOGGING POPULAR

Blogging is popular these days for many reasons.

• First, search engines love new content, and as a result, blogging is a great search engine optimization (SEO) tool.

• Second, blogging provides an easy way to keep your readers, customers or clients up-to-date on what’s going on, let them know about new deals, and provide tips. The more a customer comes to your blog, the more likely they are to spend money.

• Third, blogging allows you to build trust and rapport with your readers. You are able to build your expertise and credibility on a subject matter. Also, you are able to interact with the readers in the comment section.

• Fourth, blogging is a way for some people to make money. Along with your product or service, blogs can generate income from other options, such as advertising and affiliate products.

• Fifth, blogging is flexible and portable, making it a great option for people who strive to become an entrepreneur.

DOWNSIDE TO BLOGGING

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.

The key to success is to start before you are ready. – Marie Forleo

FREE TIPS FOR NEW BLOGGERS

HOW TO START A BLOG

The good news is that starting a blog or adding a blog to your existing website is easy and affordable.

Step 1 – Setting Up Blog

There are free blog options such as WordPress.com or Blogger, but to retain control and professional image, consider investing in a domain name and hosting, and installing WordPress or other content management system on your host.

Step 2 – Add Content

Once your blog is up and running, you need to keep it active with new and fresh content to grow your readership. I would suggest developing a set schedule for writing and posting to your blog.

Step 3 – Marketing

Great ways to reach your market are through social media, an email list and reaching out to other bloggers.

Step 4 – Add Income Streams

You can promote other companies’ products and services in affiliate marketing. Most companies, such as Amazon, Wal-Mart, Target and Kohls offer this program. You can also offer advertising or feed ad networks, such as AdSense, on to your blog.

blogging, journaling, writing, coffee, expression, change — pixabay

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

• What is your ultimate goal in life?

• What do you enjoy and what makes you happy?

• What is a healthy habit you want to develop?

• What are your 3 biggest distractions or obstacles you face?

blogging, lightbulb, thought, thinking, mind — pixabay

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS/COMMENTS

I can and I will. Watch me. – Unknown

What’s your story? Why did you start blogging? Do you love to write or have a passion to encourage others through blogging? How does blogging help your business or do you only blog as a hobby? If you don’t have a blog yet, after reading my blog, would you consider blogging in the near future?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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

Scattered About

LaPorterNovember 7, 201815 Replies

It’s not what you gather, it’s what you scatter that tells the kind of life that you live! – Unknown

Something to Think About – Scatter love wherever you go.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Lately, I have felt so scattered about. Busy home life, school meetings for the boys, therapy sessions, trying to find time to write and research, and thinking about my mother a lot since this is her birthday month. My mind is constantly on the go and sometimes I just want to shut it off just like a light switch. Other times, I just struggle to organize my thoughts in a manner that is helpful for me in that moment. Can you relate to what I am talking about?

Organizing your thoughts can be very difficult for some people. Depending on the situation, there are many different ways to help gather and organize your thoughts, so you can continue going about your day. The most important thing is to realize that some ways to organize your thoughts may be practical for you, and others may not be. Being open for change is key to a healthy balance. It’s important to be flexible, kind to oneself and willing to adjust your thought process in any given situation. Remember, your mind will always believe everything you tell it. Feed faith. Feed it truth. Feed it with love. Peace and Blessings!

Gather up all your scattered dreams and build the life you love. – Unknown

ORGANIZING YOUR THOUGHTS

Here’s some helpful ways to help organize your thoughts:

• Use sticky notes and a wall – Write down a thought on a sticky note, then stick the note on the wall. Then, spend time sorting your thoughts.

• Take notes on index cards – Use the top red line for the main thought and list the other related thoughts underneath on each of the lines that follow.

• Develop a list – Capture your thoughts on a good old-fashioned list. Then, sort it later.

• Sit quietly or meditate – Meditation can calm the mind and body. Also, it can help you sort out your thoughts subconsciously and help to improve focus.

• Sleep on it – If you cannot seem to make sense of thoughts in your mind, go to sleep for the night and revisit your thoughts in the morning.

• Exercise – Move your body and exercise to give your mind a break which will allow your subconscious to work on your thoughts in the background.

• Spend time in nature – Spend some time outdoors to get out of your head and let your eyes take in the sights. Take a 5 minute walk to help boost your creativity, burn calories and reduce your blood pressure.

• Find a hobby you enjoy or have a passion for, such as drawing, painting, sewing, journaling, blogging, dancing, playing a musical instrument, etc. Get lost in your hobby and forget the sense of time.

A friend gathers your scattered pieces and gives them back to you in the right order. – Unknown

7 MORNING AFFIRMATIONS (www.mysomethingwonderful.com)

• I face today with an open mind

• Today I speak with kindness

• I lead with love

• I am gentle with me

• I will act with intention

• I choose to do no harm

• My actions reflect my words

reflection, outdoors, time, journal prompts, scattered — pexels

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

We come spinning out of nothingness scattering stars like dust. – Rumi

• Besides your looks, what could use a makeover in your life?

• If you could change one thing in your life what would it be?

• Describe a recurring dream you have had at any time in your life. What do you think it means?

• Sit for a minute and consciously breathe in good. What good are you envisioning? What good do you want to bring into your life?

• Sit for a minute and consciously breathe in bad. What bad do you want to leave your life? How can you take one step to do this?

• What gives you the strength to keep going when you feel confused about your thoughts?

• Do you make enough time for what’s important in your life?

flower, blossom, bud, possibility, life, scattered — pexels

YOUR LIFE CAN BLOSSOM – (SaratogaOcean.com)

Each new day is like a tiny bud of possibility for your life to change for the better. All you have to do is let go of whatever has happened so far, and step into a new threshold of opportunity. Use your imagination and envision a renewed blossoming of your life!

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

I realize that everyone has a moment in life when they feel scattered about. Think about this for a moment. How do you organize your thoughts when you feel scattered about? Do you feel in control of the situation or out of control? Do you feel confused and anxious? What is required of you to get back in control of your life?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Simply Joy

LaPorterNovember 4, 201810 Replies

You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. (Psalm 16:11 NIV)

Something to Think About – Joy is the echo of God’s life in us.

Love is spoken here. Joy is chosen here. Grace is given here. – Unknown

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today I choose joy and I welcome it into my life. How about you? Now, my life is simply bursting with joy! There’s no doubt about it, joy does not just appear in our lives, we have to make the decision to choose joy and keep choosing it every day. So, repeat after me – I find joy in each day. It’s time to make my joy a priority. My life is full of joy and happiness.

Joy comes when we choose to live in harmony with God’s eternal plan. – Russell M. Nelson

Simply joy has a way of working its way from the inside out. When our lives are filled with joy, we spread the same positive energy to those people around us. Joy is infectious, transmittable, spreadable, and catching. Simply joy is contagious!

When God’s joy fills our mind, body and spirit it bestows on us a beauty that radiates from within. As we spend quality time with God (reading God’s Word, prayer, meditation, spiritual journaling), we will find that God is our sole source of joy. God brings joy into our lives by answering our prayers, offering wisdom, His Word, and blessings from on high. Simply joy is a gift of God and should be your strong foundation so when rough times and unexpected emotions arise in your life, simply joy will remain constant.

Remember to ponder on God’s Word and His promises of future joy in your life often. Let the hope fill your heart until you receive God’s radiant and everlasting joy. Exceedingly great joy will be yours forever. Why? Because simply joy will make you shine forth like the sun itself when God is with you. Peace and blessings!

SCRIPTURES

Here’s some scriptures that speak about joy:

• Then he said unto them, go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength. (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV)

• But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. (Psalm 5:11 NIV)

• Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord. (Psalm 27:6 NIV)

• For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. (Psalm 30:5 NIV)

• Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. (Psalm 51:8 NIV)

• My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you-I whom you have delivered. (Psalm 71:23 NIV)

• When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. (Psalm 94:19 NIV)

• Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. (Psalm 100:1-2 NIV)

• This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24 KJV)

• Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. (Psalm 126:2-3 NIV)

• Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wind with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do. (Ecclesiastes 9:7 NIV)

• And provide for those who grieve in Zion-to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord of the display of his splendor. (Isaiah 61:3 NIV)

• Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. (James 1:2-3 NIV)

• Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy. (I Peter 1:8 NIV)

EXAMPLES OF FEELING JOY

You are free to think thoughts of worry or joy, and whatever you choose will attract the same kind back to you. Worry attracts worry. Joy attracts joy. – Rhonda Byrne

Here’s some examples of feeling joy:

• A twinkle in the eye

• A ready smile

• A skip in the step

• A song in the heart

• Pure happiness

• Strength in the midst of weakness

• Peace in the midst of chaos

• Comfort in the midst of sorrow

WAYS TO FIND JOY

Joy is the holy fire that keeps our purpose warm and our intelligence aglow. – Helen Kellar

• Sing fun, upbeat and inspirational songs

• Focus on the good in life, not the negative

• Smile and leave a little sparkle wherever you go

• Surround yourself with joyful and positive minded people

• Talk about joyful things that you enjoy

• Find your passion and share it with others

• Spread joy and positive vibes around friends and strangers

• Share your joyful experiences throughout life

simply joy, blue sky, water, scriptures — pixabay

JOYFUL AFFIRMATIONS

I am perfectly happy to be me. I am good enough just as I am. I love and approve of myself. I am joy expressing and receiving. – Louise Hay

• I am joyful every day and create joy for others.

• I have energy and joy bursting inside of me.

• I move forward with joy and grace.

• I deserve joy and I express joy. Then, life returns the favor.

• I am worthy of joy, abundance and love in my life.

• My heart is so full of joy that it creates ripples of happiness in the hearts of everyone around me.

journaling, book, flowers, writing, simply joy — pixabay

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

There is no joy without gratitude. – Brene Brown

• What brings joy into your life?

• What’s one thing you can do right now to be more connected to joy?

• Write about a joyful experience and include your senses: touch, sight, sound, taste and smell.

• Write two “I am” statements that make you feel joyful and powerful.

• What are three words/phrases that come to mind when you think of joy?

• How can you bring joy into your present situation?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Welcome November

LaPorterNovember 1, 20189 Replies

fall season, november, change, gratitude, thankful, grateful — pexels

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

Something to Think About – Interrupt anxiety with gratitude.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s Welcome November by introducing an important concept called gratitude! Let’s define gratitude. Gratitude is the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. When was the last time you showed gratitude toward yourself and to others? Gratitude can help shield you from negativity, eliminate stress, heal your body, improve your sleep habits, boost your self-esteem, and improve your personal relationships. If you allow it, gratitude can also unlock the fullness of life. Gratitude turns what we have into enough and more in some cases. Gratitude turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. Gratitude can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. Inhale love. Exhale gratitude.

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

15 STEPS TO ACHIEVE GRATITUDE (http://preventdisease.com)

• Appreciate
• Stop Labeling
• Optimism
• Release Your Past
• Avoid Comparison
• Kindness
• Stop Using Excuses
• Nurture Relationships
• Forgiveness
• Avoid Impressing Others
• Commit To Your Goals
• Care For Your Body
• Believe
• Dream
• Give

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

November, Gratitude, Flowers, Thankful, Grateful — pexels

15 GRATITUDE BUILDING AFFIRMATIONS (www.lemonadebrain.com)

• I am blessed to have the body I have
• I feel grateful to be loved
• I am grateful for how the sun warms my face
• I feel blessed when I see the stars
• I am grateful for my sense of taste
• I am grateful for shelter
• I give thanks for every breath I take in
• I feel gratitude for my dreams
• I feel blessed when I feel grass and sand between my toes
• I am grateful for music that speaks to my heart
• I am thankful for family
• Every time I lift another’s spirit I feel grateful
• I am grateful for my talents
• I am grateful for my sense of smell
• I am grateful for laughter

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

GRATITUDE QUOTES

Gratitude is one of the sweet shortcuts to finding peace of mind and happiness inside. No matter what is going on outside of us, there’s always something we could be grateful for. – Barry Neil Kaufman

Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation. – Brian Tracy

Gratitude doesn’t change the scenery. It merely washes clean the glass you look through, so you can clearly see the colors. – Richelle E. Goodrich

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

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.

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.

November, Gratitude, Thankful, Grateful, Sunset, Peace, Water — pexels

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

Welcome November! New month, new dreams, fresh start!

• Today, I show my gratitude by…

• My favorite part of the day was when…

• Today, I accomplished…

• I felt joyful today when…

• Today, I am grateful for…

• What’s a simple pleasure that you’re grateful for?

• What mistake or failure are you grateful for?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Slow and Steady

LaPorterOctober 29, 201814 Replies

The mind is everything. What you think you become. – Buddha

Something to Think About – Be not afraid of going slowly, be afraid only of standing still.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Throughout life we should always make it a priority to set both short-term and long-term goals. There is no greater feeling than to achieve a goal that you have set for yourself. Would you agree? Whether it takes you one month, 6 months or 1 year, slow and steady is key to a committed goal setting process. Let’s face it, some goals will take longer to reach than others. Make your goals challenging, but always have a clear balance of planning to reach both short-term and long-term goals.

journaling, goals, goal setting, long-term, short-term — pexels

SHORT-TERM GOAL EXAMPLES

• To lose 10 pounds by Christmas 2018.

• To exercise for 30 minutes at least 3 days per week.

• To write at least 3 blog posts per week.

LONG-TERM GOAL EXAMPLES

• To lose 100 pounds by Christmas 2020.

• To join a local gym by the end of December 2018.

• To research and inquire about guest blogging opportunities by January 2019.

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

GOAL SETTING

Goal setting is required if you plan to be successful in life. Goals are great because they cause us to stretch and grow in ways that we never even dreamed of. To reach our goals, we must become better and be willing to do better along our journey.

• Goal setting helps to provide focus in our lives.

• Goal setting offers a sense of direction in our lives.

• Goal setting can give necessary actions needed to achieve the goal(s).

• Goal setting helps to shape our dreams and destiny.

You must have long-term goals to keep you from being frustrated by short-term failures. – Charles C. Noble

TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL GOAL SETTING

When thinking about goal setting, always remember that we all need powerful long-term goals to help us get past those short-term obstacles that we sometimes face in life. The more powerful our goals are, the more we’ll be able to act on and guarantee them to come into existence.

• Evaluate and reflect. It’s important to know where we are right now and what our current level of satisfaction in life is. Take a moment and write down the answers to these very important questions: What is my current situation? Am I happy in this situation right now? What could I change in my life to make it better?

• Define your dreams and goals. If we allow our souls to be quiet and still without any distractions, we would be able to look deep within our hearts and dream a better situation for ourselves and our families. Our dreams are hidden within. We would also be able to pursue our dreams with clear directions, plans and strategies to achieve them. Now, think about these questions and write down your answers: What are your dreams and goals? What are my plans and strategies to help me reach my goals?

• Make your goals S.M.A.R.T. The acronym S.M.A.R.T means Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-Sensitive. Specific goals are not vague and incomplete. Measurable goals can be tracked so you will see progress. Attainable goals can be reached in a specific time frame. Realistic goals can be set and reached as well with effort. Time-sensitive goals would be given a timeline to track your progress.

• Have accountability. It’s important to hold yourself accountable to the goal setting process. Let’s face it, if no one else but you know about your goals, there would be no check and balance throughout the process. You could possibly be at a standstill and no one would be able to encourage you through the temporary setback. Share your goals with a loved one, a close friend or a fitness coach.

If it’s important to you then it really doesn’t matter how long it takes. It only matters that you get there. – Unknown

CREATE A PLAN

After you establish your goals, now it is time to create and follow a plan to make your goals a reality. Here’s some important tips to keep in mind during the planning process:

• Make clear deadlines for achieving your goals.

• Set personal milestones to stay motivated.

• Decide what actions are required to reach your goals.

• Put your actions into a schedule that is easy to follow.

• Readjust your goals or plan as you see fit throughout your journey.

Do not give up. The beginning is always the hardest. – Unknown

Renew Inspiration, white flower, journaling, reflection — pixabay

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

Go to your quiet place, pull out your journal and start answering some of these questions. Make sure to reflect on your answers throughout your journey.

• How often do you set goals for yourself?

• How do you determine if something is important enough to set a goal for it?

• How successful have you been at achieving the goals you have set for yourself? Discuss some successes and failures of previous goals.

• What are your biggest personal milestones?

• How well are you currently balancing life?

• How confident do you feel about who you are?

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

Mindfulness Chatter

LaPorterOctober 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.
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>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!

Journaling for Spiritual Wellness

LaPorterOctober 22, 20183 Replies

pink flowers, stones, journaling, spiritual, wellness — pixabay

A personal journal is an ideal environment in which to “become”. It is a perfect place for you to think, feel, discover, expand, remember, and dream. – Brad Wilcox

Something to Think About – Make yourself a priority and enjoy the journey.

The journey isn’t about becoming a different person but loving who you are right now. – Suzanne Heyn

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Many people strive to improve spiritual wellness throughout this fascinating journey called life. Spiritual wellness can be defined as being connected to something greater than yourself. It is important to have a set of values, principles, morals and beliefs that provide a sense of purpose and meaning to life, then using those principles to guide your actions. Finding meaning and purpose may be a lifelong process for most people that evolves based on unique circumstances or individual life experiences. Keep in mind that it is natural to experience a variety of emotions along the path to spiritual wellness – both positive (hope, forgiveness, acceptance, joy) and negative (doubt, fear, disappointment, conflict).

Here’s some ways you can improve your spiritual wellness and find harmony in life:

• Explore your spiritual core – Ask yourself questions, such as Who am I? What is my purpose? What do I value most? These questions will allow you to think more in depth about yourself.

• Look for deeper meanings – Spending quiet time alone pondering the meaning of life. Then, analyze occurring patterns in your life that will help you see that you have control over your destiny.

• Express yourself – It’s okay to express what is on your mind. Building awareness by either talking to a loved one or through journaling, so you can reflect on your feelings, then move forward.

• Try yoga – Yoga is a physical technique that helps to improve your spiritual wellness by reducing stress, boosting the immune system, lowering blood pressure, reducing anxiety, depression, fatigue, and insomnia.

• Think positively – Positive thinking will cause you to refocus your mind to a calm and happy place.

• Take time to meditate – Devote at least 10 minutes per day to connect with yourself.

• Serving your community, spending time in nature, appreciating music and the arts.

Spring Flowers, spiritual, wellness, journaling — Pixabay

JOURNALING FOR SPIRITUAL WELLNESS

My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive, and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style. – Maya Angelou

Believe it or not, people strive to live a life full of meaning and purpose. When people achieve their personal goals, pursue their dreams, find one’s purpose for living, and find harmony in life, it allows them to live happily ever after. Now, let’s take the journaling process to the next level. How about using the journaling process to improve your spiritual wellness? Remember, journaling is a way to capture ideas and keep your dreams alive until you can put them in motion. Ideas 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. We have to be ready and willing to do what’s necessary to grow, to learn, and most importantly, to find yourself.

Spiritual wellness has the power and capability to make our decisions and choices easier in life, ground us during periods of change and give us the resiliency to survive with grace and inner peace in the face of adversity. When striving to develop and practice your own spiritual wellness, it is best to find the technique and approach that works for you. Remember, there is no “one size fits all” approach.

time, renewal, spiritual, wellness, renew, inspiration — Pixabay

TIME FOR REFLECTION

Inhale the future, exhale the past

Take a moment to assess your own spiritual wellness by asking yourself the following questions.

• What gives my life meaning and purpose?

• What give me hope?

• How do I get through tough times? Where do I find comfort?

• Am I tolerant of other people’s views about life issues?

• Do I make attempts to expand my awareness of different ethnic, racial and religious groups?

• Do I make time for relaxation in my day?

• Do my values guide my decisions and actions?

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Fall in love with taking care of yourself – Mind, Body, Spirit

MIND

• Meditate on peaceful thoughts. Define those thoughts in detail and write about them.

• What is your favorite memory or life experience? Write about it.

• Write about an obstacle you overcame today.

BODY

• What do you feel right now in this very moment? Listen to your body and write about it.

• Name one area of physical health you excel in, and one you would like to improve.

• Write down 5 ways to relax and commit to doing at least 1 per day.

SPIRIT

• How do you cope with spiritual struggles that occur in life? Write about it.

• What set a spark in your soul? Write about it.

• How do you respond to setbacks or failures? Why? How could you change from within?

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS/COMMENTS

A little progress each day adds up to big results

How often do you spend time journaling? Do you ever spend time reflecting on your spiritual wellness? If so, what kinds of things do you think about? What kind of improvements do you need to make in your life? What is your meaning and purpose?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Spiritual Balance

LaPorterOctober 21, 20184 Replies

Life is all about balance. You don’t always need to be getting stuff done. Sometimes it’s perfectly okay, and absolutely necessary, to shut down, kick back, and do nothing. – Lori Deschene

Something to Think About – Balance is not something you find. It’s something you create.

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

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, let’s talk about spiritual balance. How often do you read and study God’s Word? Do you just read your favorite Bible verse, pray, then move on with your day? In order to find spiritual balance in our lives, it is important to schedule quality time to not only read God’s Word, but also to write down our personal thoughts about the verses read and to determine how we can apply the verses to our own lives.

Here’s my suggestions for beginning this spiritual journey:

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

My Motto – Each day I need to let God’s Word interrupt me, rearrange me and redirect me.
To strive for spiritual balance, it is important to 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 find spiritual balance within your life:

• Write your thoughts and feelings in a journal
• 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

My mind and body are in perfect balance. I am a harmonious being. – Louise Hay

meditation, spiritual balance, peace — pexels

When thinking about spiritual balance, it is important to prepare your mind, body and spirit for the journey. From experience, it is difficult to have spiritual balance without first getting the mind ready to receive our spiritual gifts from God. So, in addition to reading and studying God’s Word, it is also important to practice meditation regularly. Meditation can be defined as a practice where an individual focuses his or her mind on a particular object, thought, or activity to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state. Remember, practice makes perfect so make sure to plan for meditation every day. It’s important to start with good breathing techniques when doing your meditation. In addition, create a peaceful and safe space where you will not be distracted during your meditation. It is important to let go of any and all frustrations throughout the meditation process. Meditation, when done correctly, offers many benefits throughout his or her weight loss journey as well.

Benefits of meditation includes, but not limited to:

• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Reduces impulsivity, cravings, and addictions
• Increases resilience in hard times
• Increases happiness and optimism
• Helps create loving, harmonious relationships
• Increases focus, creativity, and life satisfaction
• Increases memory, compassion, and productivity
• Produces a deep state of peace and well-being

How to Meditate:

• Sit Still – Just sit still and close your eyes – Outer stillness will lead to inner stillness
• Relax – It’s not a process – You just let go and surrender
• Pay Attention – To nothing in particular – Just be awake and focus on self-awareness

Spiritual Balance Quotes:

By God’s wise designing we are wonderfully made, every part essential and in perfect balance laid. – Anon

Spiritual balance is the principle that allows the mind to be still. You cannot expect the world to settle down, everything to work out, in order for you to be happy. You have to get control of your mind. – Frederick Lenz

Balance your life with spiritual experiences that remind and prepare you for continued, daily ministering to others. – M. Russell Ballard

pink, flower, journal, book, write, pen — pixabay

My Journal Prompts – Time for Reflection

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

• 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?
• 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.
• 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.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Thankful Thursday

LaPorterOctober 18, 20188 Replies

white flower, thankful, peaceful, renew, inspiration — pixabay

My life is not perfect, but I am thankful for everything I have. – Unknown

Something to Think About – Start each day with a thankful heart.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today is Thankful Thursday! I have so much to be thankful for on today. Here’s just a few things on my list – I am thankful to still be in the land of the living, I am thankful for salvation and Jesus dying on the cross, I am thankful for my loving husband, I am thankful for our two sons, I am thankful for our lovely home, I am thankful for reliable transportation, I am thankful for having a good portion of health, I am thankful for having my bills and debt paid on time, I am thankful for having food to eat and clean water to drink and I am thankful for you. There is always something to be thankful for. Would you agree? Yes, even when we are in the midst of a storm in our life, we have to hold our head up and thank God for giving us the strength to overcome the many obstacles that come and go.

Be thankful for your blessings and never doubt your struggle. Don’t ask why it happened, just be thankful for the strength it gave you. – Unknown

My Inspiration and Success Guide

• Create some personal goals for yourself and track your progress
• Find some ME TIME and do something that you enjoy
• Start a gratitude journal and write what you are grateful for each day
• Read an inspirational book and write your thoughts about the book in your journal
• Take a long walk and enjoy nature then write about your experience in your journal
• Try a new exercise and stretch afterwards
• Just do nothing or take a power nap
• Take a hot bubble bath, relax and clear your mind
• Find some time for self-reflection and meditate on your successes/failures

At the end of the day I am thankful that my blessings are bigger than my problems. – Unknown

My Daily Pep Talk

Look in a mirror today and say these words out loud:

I love myself today because I am beautiful, I am strong, I am powerful, I am fabulous, I am unique, I am blessed, I am smart, I am worthy to be loved, I love my smile, I choose to shine on today, I will rise and not fall, I will work toward my dreams and/or goals, I believe in myself on today. Repeat 3 times.

Now, be creative and create your own person affirmations to describe yourself. Allow this to be your pep talk in the morning, repeat it throughout the day, and you can even post them at home or at work.

flowers, notebook, pen, coffee, goals — pexels

My Journal Prompts – Time for Reflection and to be Thankful

Be kind. Be thoughtful. Be genuine. But most of all, be thankful. – Unknown

MIND

• What takes your mind away from God, thus robbing your peace?
• What is your biggest dream and/or goal?
• What has prevented you from going after your dream and/or goal?
• What thoughts have I been repeating in my head lately? Are they true?

BODY

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

SPIRIT

• Where do you see the unmistakable mark of the creator? Thank and praise God for it.
• How is God trying to get your attention to stop, treasure, and ponder how he’s working in your life right now in this very moment?
• When have you seen God use something small to produce a big outcome?
• What can I do to nurture my spirit more throughout the week?

Today I remind myself that when I remain calm throughout my journey I can easily manage my thoughts, attitude and emotions. My life has meaning and purpose. Things around me become clear and easy to handle. Be thankful for every second of every day that you get to spend with family and friends. Life is very precious. I am totally safe and surrounded by love, light, peace and joy. Be blessed!

lightbulb, thought, thinking, mind — pixabay

Share Your Thoughts

So, grab your journal and write down at least 10 things that you are thankful for. As the day goes by, review your list and add to it as you see fit. Make sure to set some goals for yourself and plan to reach those goals every day. What are some of your obstacles throughout this process? Do you struggle to get started with new projects or to stay motivated? Did you practice the Pep Talk this week? If so, how did it help you throughout your day? Did you try any of the journal prompts? If so, how did they help you begin your journaling process? I look forward to reading your feedback in the comments section!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Fill Me Up, Holy Spirit

LaPorterOctober 15, 20184 Replies

The spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. (I John 4:4)

Something to Think About – Invite the Holy Spirit to lead your decisions and emotions today!

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Fill me up, Holy Spirit. Fill me up while I continue my journey here on earth. Fill me up with your presence as I write these inspirational words for my readers on today. Holy Spirit guide my every step and give me positive thoughts in the midst of turmoil. Strengthen my heart and comfort my spirit.

The mere whisper of the Holy Spirit can drown out the thundering noise of an entire world. – David Jeremiah

In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit is also referred to as the Spirit, the Spirit of God, and the Spirit of the Lord. In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit is sometimes called the Spirit of Christ.
The Holy Spirit is included in the Trinity, which is made up of 3 distinct persons: The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit serves as a teacher, counselor, comforter, strengthener, inspiration, revealer of the Scriptures, convincer of sin, caller of ministers and intercessor in prayer.

As soon as Jesus (the Son) was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God (Holy Spirit) descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven (Father) said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:16-17 NIV)

The Holy Spirit helped in creation with the Father and Son, filled the prophets with the Word of God, assisted Jesus and the apostles in their missions, inspired the men who wrote the Bible, give guidance to the church, and sanctifies believers in their walk with Christ. The Holy Spirit acts as Christ’s presence on earth, counseling and encouraging Christians as they struggle with the temptations of the world.

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever; He is the Spirit of truth. The world cannot receive Him, because it does not see Him, neither do they know Him: but you know him; for he dwells with you and shall be in you. (John 14:16-17)

The Holy Spirit is the Comforter sent by Jesus to dwell in us and to comfort our souls during challenging times in life, such as the death of loved one, divorce, losing a job, etc.

Holy, Bible, Scriptures, God, Jesus, Salvation — pixabay

Seven Attributes of the Holy Spirit

1. The Holy Spirit is a loving Comforter. He has loved us since before the creation of the world. Remember, he is the only one able to truly comfort our hearts in times of trouble. (see Romans 5:5)

2. The Holy Spirit is a faithful Comforter. Remember, he loved us while we were still dead in our sins. He loves us even to the end and will never turn away from us. (see Romans 15:13)

3. The Holy Spirit is an untiring Comforter. Despite our murmuring and complaining, he never loses heart or feels weary while helping us work through our issues. (see John 14:26)

4. The Holy Spirit is a wise Comforter. He finds what is causing the disease within you and cures it. He offers healing to us that is acceptable in the eyes of God. (see I Corinthians 2:10)

5. The Holy Spirit is a safe Comforter. The comfort of the Holy Spirit is safe for us to rest in it as well as trust it. (see I Corinthians 2:13)

6. The Holy Spirit is an active Comforter. He intercedes for us, reminding us of God’s great promises and His grace. He actively leads and guides us to the perfect will of the Father. (see Romans 8:26-27)

7. The Holy Spirit is an ever present Comforter. He is always right there with us. Remember, he will never leave us alone, nor forsake us. (See John 14:16)

We should be so grateful that Jesus thought so much of us, to give us the wonderful gift of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit lives within us and will guide you through the challenges of life. Get a better understanding of the seven attributes of the Holy Spirit and hide the scriptures in your heart.

candle, stones, lavender, holy spirit, reflection — pexels

Time for Reflection – Journal Prompts

MIND

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

• Write about personal beliefs or things that held you back in the past? How do you plan to avoid them in the future?

• How can you create a space to help clear your mind?

• What are some of your mental obstacles in life that are holding you back?

BODY

These mountains that you are carrying, you were only supposed to climb. – Najwa Zebian

• Imagine what a new beginning would look like or how it would feel. Write about it.

• Sit or stand very still. What are you feeling right now in this very moment?

• What are you having a hard time accepting in your life?

SPIRIT

Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord. (Psalm 31:24)

• What steps do I need to take to become spiritually grounded in God’s Word?

• What is holding you back from trusting and believing in God?

• Does my life reflect what my heart desire? If not, what changes can I make?

Share Your Thoughts

Do you allow the Holy Spirit to guide you throughout your day? Do you notice when the Holy Spirit speaks to you? If so, how do you respond?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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