I thought I’d pop in here and remind you to continue to plant yourself with seeds of faith, hope, inspiration, love, and joy.
We’re four days into March and spring is quickly approaching. As the days grow longer and the world begins to awaken from its winter slumber, let this be a reminder that just like nature, we too have the power to bloom and flourish.
March signifies a fresh start, a chance to shed the old and embrace the new. The flowers are pushing through the soil, the trees are budding with new life, and so can you. Push your way out of whatever is holding you back. Take this opportunity to plant the seeds of your dreams and watch them grow.
In the gentle warmth of spring, find the inspiration to spread your seeds of potential. Let go of any doubts that may have held you back and step into this season with confidence. Release any fear or negative doubts preventing you from watering the garden of you. The world is full of possibilities, and March is the perfect time to seize them. 2022 SPRING SELF CARE CHECKLIST
Embrace the energy of this colorful, warm, windy, and fresh season. Allow the blooming flowers and the budding leaves to symbolize your own growth and resilience. March forward with determination, knowing that every step you take is a step towards your goals.
Remember, just as March marks the end of winter, it can also mark the end of any stagnation in your life. Embrace the changes, embrace the challenges, and embrace the opportunities that come your way.
This is your season to shine, to blossom, and to flourish. Happy March, and may this spring be the beginning of something beautiful in your life!
Hello, there…it’s been a while since I last visited. Life is a world wind and it’s important to pause, breathe, and take a minute to self discover. We live in an insanely fast paced, social media, digital driven world that it’s often overlooked at how mundane ones dailylife can be. True profound growth happens in moments of stillness. So what have I been doing?
Without question, focusing on my health. Although in my head I’m a young 20something, my body isn’t. One of my new yeargoals was to focus on my health. I understand maintaining great health between the ages of 45-50 is essential. Keeping up with doctor’s appointments and following up. When I see something or feel something I don’t just ignore it, I make an appointment to see my doctor. Going to the dentist and eye doctor was on my to do list as well. It’s better to be proactive than reactive.
Along with going to the doctor, maintaining myself at home has helped me stay intentional and mindful. Eating with color. I’ve divulged in creating healthy homemade meals that focus on heart health, gut health, and ensuring myself and my family are eating healthier. Stretching morning and night has increased my overall health. Resting during the day has been one of the biggest benefits to my absence. Instead of coming straight in from work and doing work at home, I give myself a time off. Allowing myself to do what my body and mind wants to do and not over work it.
I can say my mental and emotional is at the best it’s been. I do understand it’s a journey and not a destination. Not just resting my body, but taking a moment to lie down in silence with just the sun peaking through for 15minutes helps me refocus and center my energy. The most important thing we can do in any situation is to stop and breathe. Nothing is ever so crucial that you need to respond or react instantly. 10 MENTAL HEALTH REMINDERS
Next, while on my hiatus, I was eliminating my screen time. Have you noticed there is a new trend, it seems, every other day. I’m talking about in fashion, beauty, tech, selfcare, money, relationships, and everything else you can think of. We have become so fixated on the trend that no one has any personal identity. Where’s the personal style? Everyone has the same “uniform” on when you go out. Beauty and skincare is no longer about personality and self expression. Who has the latest tech vice, that cost too much money. If you have a phone then you are a relationship guru. Even selfcare has seem to become a fad or gimmick.
If we aren’t careful, we will find ourselves down a path of confusion, lack of self awareness, and broke. Honey, keeping up with all these trends will drain your pockets. You don’t have to follow them. Wear what you want. Self expression is the best form of selfcare. It enables you to be your authentic self and not have the burden of being “in”. Save your money. Keep it simple and focus on what your body tells you it needs.
Lastly, I’ve been letting the universe tell me where to focus my energy. There have been times I’ve sat down to write and never posted. I wanted to be intentional about listening to my body and mind. I still want to encourage you all to believe in the dreams, goals, and ideas that have been placed in you. Take care of your mind, body, and spiritualhealth. Enjoy stillness and let life guide you. Become so self aware that you can be calm in the eye of the storm.
If I’ve learned nothing else along the way, I know exercising the minddaily is essential to a healthy lifestyle. Weekly or dailymentalreminders are needed. Life is going to take us on a winding road, with curves, bumps, ditches, peaks, and mountains. Prioritizing our mental health will give us the stamina needed to trudge through each day.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. We all need support, love, and encouragement. When you need help ask for it. Don’t hurt yourself trying to do things alone. Seeking support is a sign of strength not weakness.
Remember there will be days you’ll not be ok. Own it. Do what you need on that day to replenish.
Worrying isn’t going to make things move faster. Change outcomes or stop something from happening. Be mindful and use your time to focus on the now.
Those are 10 mental healthreminders to help you through the week. We don’t know what each week or day will bring, but we can be prepared mentally to not let anything over take our joy.
In the last couple of months and my goal for the new year is to be patient. Not just to be patient but in good spirits, positiveenergy, and anxietyfree. We all know that feeling. When we’re anticipating something or wanting something to happen quickly, the universe has a way of putting you on pause. I’ve learned to patiently wait with a good mindset.
The anxiousness in us is pushing for an outcome and most of the time the outcome we want isn’t the right one. Life has a way of working itself out. I’ve always said, “It may not work out how you want or thought it would, but it worked out how it was suppose to.” When it’s your time you will know. Many times what we’re wanting or expecting we’re not ready for.
”I embrace the journey, knowing that the right things will come to me at the right time. I release the need to rush and trust in the timing of my life.”
When we release the need to rush the process, we open doors for unexpected blessings, miracles, and joys to enter. Therefore, we create a space for us to enjoy every moment as they come and not feel guilt, shame, or worry. Thank you for peace and clarity.
Take a mental note and remind yourself you are exactly where you need to be. You have exactly what you need each day. Your path is specially designed for you. Every twist, turn, peak, and valley is necessary for your personalgrowth, journey, and fulfillment.
As you go through each day remember to let the universe guide you. Don’t rush or worry. Embrace the moment you are in presently. https://amzn.to/47BXPZg Practice self love, selfcare, and gratitude. Lastly, reflect back on a time when things worked out perfectly and it wasn’t what you expected. How did you feel? What did you learn about yourself?
”As bad as you want to address it, somethings are better left unsaid.” -@lowkyluv
I saw this quote and instantly thought of the conversation I had with my mom on Christmas. It’s no secret we haven’t been on the best terms. But what I had to do was understand her why behind her actions. While loving from a distance and giving myself the ability to heal and figure how I was going to participate in relations with her, I found the peace I needed. EMOTIONAL HEALING: OPEN YOUR MIND FOR UNDERSTANDING
So on Christmas when we were having a good conversation, she repeatedly asked if there was a way my brother and I could sit down and tell her everything she did so she can have a betterrelationship with us. She continually said she’ll listen and won’t get upset. I didn’t respond. I gave her the time and space to say whatever she needed. But I would not give in and respond to her request. As a matter of fact, thinking back, I didn’t give a millisecond thought of telling her what she did.
For me, I resolved whatever emotions and feelings I had. I didn’t need answers or an explanation. Nor did I need an apology. Lastly, I was ok with not having her acknowledge the past. It took me a while but once I understood and recognized it was my feelings and emotions to reconcile, healing and growth happened.
I knew I was on my aha moment, when she said I won’t even get into what you did to me. Typically that would have sent me over the edge, if I hadn’t already went there. Because I instantly thought I did nothing. I didn’t choose my father. But I let her continue and we ended with her saying she enjoyed Christmas at my house and she wants to do it again. Me: Ok you’re welcomed anytime.
Somethings are better left unsaid. Opening that wound isn’t going to get it to heal. Reaggravating an injury prolongs healing and adds unwanted infections. Find peace within. Resolve your own emotions about a relationship, person, or situation. Enjoy your day!!!!
My selfcare is a non negotiable. I have mastered taking time for myself without feeling guilty. Taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing requires intentional effort. However, I quickly had to learn how to get creative and resourceful to indulge in selfcare without breaking the bank. Let’s explore some of my affordableselfcare practices.
Free Therapists On Rotation Let’s be honest, therapy cost. If you have insurance then you probably can get to a therapist. But I found following therapist on social media has been the most helpful. I can get useful advice, information, understanding, tools, and clarity at my fingertips. Current fave is Dr. Shante Holley, Certified Life Coach, Podcaster, and Trauma Informed Ambassador. Follow her @drshantesays.
Sheet Masks Skincare is my jam. Treat yourself to an at home pampering session with my favorite By Nature Vitamin C & Collagen Sheet mask. https://amzn.to/3RYmGSyMoisture, dewy, and plump skin is what you get. I do my normal double cleanse and then put this on while soaking in my hot lavender oil infused bath. Less than $3 for one is a great way to rejuvenate yourself.
Clean, Fresh Sheets After a long day, climbing in bed to clean fresh sheets is an exhale moment. Part of my SundayResetroutine is changing linen. It’s a recharge that helps you unwind and have a good night sleep. Comfort and relaxation is a part of your selfcare. SELF CARE IS A LIFESTYLE
New Water Bottle I found the cutest water bottle on clearance for $4.99. https://amzn.to/3S1jIww This is my new toy to keep me motivated and on track for my water intake. Drinking sufficient amount of waterdaily can help eliminate mental and emotional distress. Yes it keeps me motivated, but I have another cute accessory.
Perfume Samples One of my favorite ways to boost my mood is perfume. Purchasing testers and samplers has given me the opportunity to diversify my collection for different purposes. I save money, smell good, and enhance my knowledge in learning how to compliment different notes and layer. A bonus is you can travel or put it in your purse on the go if needed to.
Bar Soap As a family of five, we go through a ton of body wash. But I started purchasing bar soap to give me a variety of scents, different formulation options, and suits my sensitive skin. https://amzn.to/4aBnyDZ Also the bar soap allows me to keep something for myself. And it lasts longer than body wash.
Press On Nails My daughter and I have been loving our press on nails these last couple months. We definitely get a return on our investment and we receive many compliments on them. I get such a rush at finding out how to do my own beauty treatments. So far my favorites are https://amzn.to/3S0F1ypKISS press on nails and Glamnetic. https://amzn.to/3GZkRP5 I have endless opportunities to explore my personality.
Selfcare doesn’t have to be expensive or reserved for those with deep pockets. In fact, free or inexpensive selfcare practices are more enjoyable and effective. Prioritizing your routine without straining your budget is a winwin. Selfcare is essential and it’s all about the little things that makes a good bit of difference.
Again, I don’t believe in New Year’s resolutions. It’s a cycle of mental and emotional abuse. Large goals are set and within a couple of weeks a setback happens, and we forget what we set out to do. Each year, instead, I set small goals and habits I’d like to achieve.
Last year my focus was self awareness . What I needed to do to remain emotionally focused and in control of my emotions. One of the most repeated quotes, scriptures, and advice that found me was to remain calm when you’re in the eye of the storm. That storm could be someone berating you, a tragic loss, unexpected circumstance, or anything that may cause a negative reaction. Next, I wanted to be intentional on how I communicated. One simple, but effective solution, was to be honest when someone asked me how I was doing. Often the response is “good and how you doing?” Answer the question honestly if they are asking. Also learning how to accept compliments, gifts, and appreciation without minimizing my own work. Just saying thank you is good enough. I would say I did well with those.
-Keeping my doctors and dentist appointments. Going to the dermatologist. If something doesn’t feel right make the appointment instead of waiting.
-Reading more. I have a ton of books purchased but haven’t read. I did well last year reducing my screen time. Now I need to be more intentional about picking up the book.
-Accept invitations. My husband and I are horrible about not accepting invitations. During the end of last year, we began to challenge ourselves and step outside the comfort zone and accept invites.
-Eating with more color. Unexpectedly I found myself on a vegan diet after I had some dental work done. I was trying to find tasteful, good, healthy, soft foods to eat while I healed. Thanks to Pinterest, I found many recipes to try. I noticed a difference in my hair, skin, energy, and body after that month. I’m going to keep it up through the year.
-Being more consistent with going to sleep. Many nights my kids want me to watch programs with them before bed. It’s great quality time and I’m happy they want to spend time with me, but mama needs sleep.
-Being consistent with my blog. I am very grateful for those who read my posts and follow. I still do love to inspire. I have pages of notes and articles. Staying motivated, balancing everyday life, and trying not to get burned out is my goals for this year. 3 SIMPLE SELF CARE TIPS THAT KEEPS ME SANE
-Being patient. No matter what it is or what’s happening I want to get better at practicing my patience.
-Provide a safe space for myself, family, and friends. I know what it feels like to need or want to talk things out. But having the safe space to do so often is the reason many people don’t reach out. Allowing others to vent, talk through their feelings, and feel heard is vital. It will help them, myself, and the relationships.
-Living intentional as my life transition. My son is graduating high school and I want to give him what he needs mentally and emotionally without hovering over him.
-Be good to myself. Towards the end of last year, I began to accept what was. When my hair didn’t turnout how I anticipated, I still said it was good. When my skin reacts I compliment how good it looks in the midst. My goal is to do more of telling myself good things.
-Saying “I love you”, instead of “Love you”. Seems miniature. But if I feel it when I say “I love you” instead of love you, it means more to the recipient.
Those are my intentions for the year. Will I have peaks and valleys? Yes. But that’s life. I’m going to give myself permission to take a break, pick back up where I left off, and adjust as needed. What are some of your intentions?
I know it seems cliche and you’ve heard this a million and one times. But what I learned this year was to be intentional every single day with positivethoughts, affirmations, and food for my mental. Life has us on a rollercoaster of emotions, challenges, and triumphs. In the midst of the ride it is important to remind yourself you are doing the best you can at the moment with what you have. Are we going to get it right every time, No!!! But that’s where we learn, grow, and gain wisdom. Each day celebrate yourself no matter how small it is and know you are enough.
It’s essential to acknowledge you are worthy of everything your desire. The love, joy, financial freedom, acceptance, validation, family, house, car, forgiveness, vacation and everything else you desire. Often we get caught in the self doubt and comparison trap. When you hit that fork in the road remind yourself everyone’s journey is unique and different. What’s for you will find you.
”You are doing your best. You can celebrate all that you have accomplished, no matter how small. You are worthy of love and joy.”-@mirabellecreations
In this new year, water yourself daily. We need food for nourishment, right? Drinking waterdaily is a must. Sleep is a requirement for us, right? Feed your mentaldaily and know you are enough. Don’t wait on anyone to tell you, tell yourself daily.
We live in a fast paced digital world where sharing every aspect of our lives have become the norm. However, there is an immense power in keeping your life private. Protecting your mental health and emotionalwellbeing while being intentional can lead to your personalgrowth on levels you couldn’t possibly imagine.
Boundaries and seeking validation from others can be exhausting and draining to ones mental health. I had to learn the hard way that even sharing something as profound as a promotion will lead to others counting your money and making assumptions about you. Setting boundaries and keeping certain things private allowed me to focus on my happiness and success without worrying about the opinions of others.
Another thing I noticed about keeping certain things private or only sharing certain things is I get to have some control over my narrative. I told my mom on Christmas Day, if someone says something about me it is completely made up because I don’t share anything. Therefore, if someone says anything your feelings won’t be hurt because you know they pulled it out of thin air.
”Solitude sometimes is best society.”-John Milton
Not sharing your personalbusiness keeps your from looking at what others are doing. Which we all know getting caught up in the comparison validation is detrimental to our mental and emotional well being. One of my good friends recommended “I Hope You Fail: Ten Hater Statements Holding You Back From Getting Everything You Want.” https://amzn.to/3vkJLpB Please read this book if you’re needing more advice on how to stay productive and private.
As the new year approaches do some reflections to see if you need to pull the curtain back on some things. Are there any areas where you feel you need to set some boundaries. Always start small and build as your confidence builds. Once you begin to see personalgrowth, self esteem, and self improvement you’ll have the motivation to continue pressing on. FRIENDLY REMINDERS I TELL MYSELF
Lastly, being private isn’t about being secretive or keeping secrets. But about protecting your peace, energy, and mind. Setting boundaries and embracing privacy helps us create a safe space for ourselves and others around us. HappyNew Year!!!
As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to reflect and set our intentions for the future. Affirmations are powerful as they help us build self belief, enhance our positivemindset, and manifest our days. I too, thought they were useless. Until, I began affirming myself every morning or night, when I’m doing my hair, makeup, or skincareroutine. Speak into existence. Believe the good you tell yourself.
Here are 23 affirmations to close out 2023. Let’s Go!!!!
I am capable of reaching my goals. Believe in your abilities and know that have been equipped to achieve whatever you put your mind to.
Every day I grow stronger and more courageous. Embrace the challenges and opportunities life brings you. Each challenge and opportunity is a lesson for growth.
I am grateful for the opportunities that come my way. Express gratitude for the opportunities that come into your life.
I choose to focus on the positive aspects of life. What you feed will come back. What you water will grow. Make sure to entertain the happythoughts. When negative thoughts come, redirect to positivity.
My potential is endless. Know that you are limitless and you have the world at your disposal. You can achieve whatever you dream of.
I am worthy of achieving my dreams. Believe in you that whatever you desire to do, be, or create you deserve. You are deserving of all the happiness and joylife has to offer.
I am enough, just as I am. The way God created you was how He wanted. Which means you are perfectly created in the most high image. Embraceself acceptance and love yourself unconditionally.
I choose to surround myself with positivity. Be mindful of what you consume. What your family and friends brings to your attention or phone. Choose to be around motivating and encouraging people.
I am proud of how far I’ve come. Progress is good no matter how small the step. Celebrate your accomplishments and achievements to build confidence along your journey.
I am open to new ideas and change. Embracechange. We don’t know everything and never will. Just because something has worked for so long doesn’t mean there isn’t a newer, better, more efficient way of doing. CHANGE IS UNCOMFORTABLE
I own my happiness. You are in control of your own happiness.No matter what anyone has said or done, you are responsible for reconciling your emotions and feelings.
I am confident in my abilities. Trust yourself to conquer whatever obstacles and opportunities come to you. Believe in your knowledge, power, and experience.
I am a magnet for success. Believe you deserve to be successful. Have an abundance mindset.
I am committed to my personalgrowth. Make it a priority to continually learn, grow, and improve yourself.
I am in charge of my future. You have the power to redirect your life on whatever path you envision. Only you can hold you back.
I trust my journey. Trust your path is specially yours. Nothing happens by accident. Your journey is unique to you. Every thing is there to teach you a life lesson.
I am learning and improving everyday. We can learn from the least person we expect. Embrace the differences and have a mindset of understanding the purpose behind it.
I am patient with myself and the process. Patience is also a teacher. We’ll move to the next step when we have mastered the one we’re on. If you want more money, get great at managing what you have now.
I am brave. Face challenges head on. Be proactive instead of reactive. Ignoring challenges only makes things worse. Facing adversity let’s us know where we’re strong at and where we need work.
I treat others with kindness. Kindness is free. Kindness is simple. Kindness is loving. Kindness is comforting. Kindness is contagious.
I radiate love and positivity. However, you want to feel, be.
