UNPOPULAR OPINIONS ABOUT SELF CARE

Practicing self care is all the buzz right now. However, there are some unpopular opinions about self that may help someone out there who is struggling to get a handle on this thing called self care. As always, do what works for you. Engage in activity and self love practices that brings you joy and peace. I thought I’d share some unpopular opinions about self care.

You don’t have to wake up at 5a.m. If you are a night person, then sleeping in may be what is best for you. As long as you get a good amount of sleep. As well as, be the most productive you, you can be. If you are a 7a.m. Person that is perfectly fine.
Along with waking up at 5a.m. You don’t have to exercise that early either. Me personally, I’m an evening workout person. It best suits me and I get the job done. The goal is to get in some kind of physical activity daily to ensure you’re taking care of that part of self care.
Donuts, chips, candy, ice cream, and cake you can have. You don’t have to deprive yourself of sweets. It’s called moderation. Enjoy life, and the sweets it has to offer. You know what you can handle and what you can’t. So the next time you’re on vacation enjoy all the food that is offered.
No one said you have to have 2-3 jobs to be successful or productive. If your one job is great and you love it, it takes care of you and your family then you are good. Juggling many jobs or side hustles isn’t for everyone. There is this thing called life you still have to enjoy.
Working a 9-5 is ok. Not everyone is an entrepreneur or wants to own their business. Don’t feel the pressures to create a business or become an entrepreneur. Make sure you love what you do and enjoy going to work everyday.
Journaling isn’t for everyone. Not everyone has the patience to sit down and write out their thoughts. Or feel the need to purge thoughts. It’s perfectly ok, if you don’t journal, have no interest, and isn’t your thing.
You don’t have to have a master plan or grand vision. Waking up and living life as the day come is amazing in itself. Actually, doing this will lead you to what really makes your heart flutter.
Having friends are a good thing. Knowing your boundaries and setting them is key. But we all need friends to get through life. The love, laughter, and sheer companionship both male and females need. Not one person on this earth can do life alone. Girlfriends…Why We Need Them
Social media can be a good thing. Not every aspect of social is media bad. Find what works for you and leave the rest. Moderation and filtering out the negative is key.

Those are just some unpopular opinions about self care and self love. Hopefully, this will help some not feel so pressured, confused, or overwhelmed when finding their routine. Remember to enjoy your one life. Go at your pace and enjoy the journey.

Be well on your journey.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

8 LIFESTYLE HABITS FOR MATURE WOMEN

As I really get good into my 40’s there are some lifestyle shifts taking place intentionally and some unintentional. I am proud to be my age, I don’t look my age, and I want to ensure I continue to be mindful and show my kids how to mature peacefully and with grace.

First I notice no matter what the situation is, I focus on the good and positive. No I don’t ignore what happened. But I don’t dwell on it either. I know from experience acknowledging what is, and moving on to the good is better for my mental health. As well as me progressing into the life I want to live. Focus on the good and keep positive.
Love my body, hair, and skin as is. I’m not willing to do anything unhealthy to get the ”perfect” body, hair, and skin. Having imperfection on my skin is normal and what makes me, me. Getting a little frizz I’ve come love, as it give me texture and volume. My body is amazing at this stage in my life after having 3 children. Love the body and skin you’re in. Just continue to take care of it and love it at every stage.
Following my heart and doing what makes me feel good. No more of me saying yes or volunteering myself when I don’t want to. We’re all guilty of this. But I’ve learned to let the guilt go of letting someone down. I no longer will put myself in an uncomfortable position to make someone else feel good.
Keeping things simple these last couple of years has helped my mental and emotional wellness. One of my favorite sayings is, ”If I have to think about it more than once or if it’s taking me too long to make a decision then, it’s not worth it.” I’m not into going around the block to figure something out. I’ll go with my gut, and let the rest play out. I’ve learned to trust my instincts and not over analyze.
Moisture is key. Keeping my skin looking young and healthy is about me keeping moisturized. The skin on my body is essential as I mature. Focusing on my hands throughout the day is a priority for me now. I have skinny fingers. So when they get dry, they look like dried up french fries. Also my hair is a part of my moisture routine. Moisture moisture moisture.
Enjoy nature as much as I can. Going for a walk and trying different trails and parks is very therapeutic. Being outside in nature is a freeing feeling and allows me to completely let my walls down. Hearing the different sounds and sometimes hearing nothing gives a good sense of peace. SELF CARE HABITS: 8 DAILY HABITS TO FEEL YOUR BEST
Treat myself often. Now this doesn’t have to be anything expensive. But if I want to have a latte from the coffee shop I’m going to treat myself. If I just want a new lipstick I will treat myself. Give back to yourself. Reward yourself. You deserve it and worked hard.
Less is more and I love it. Eliminating options on a daily allows me to be more productive. It begins in the morning by keeping my routine simple to jump start the day. SIMPLE SELF CARE MORNING ROUTINE WHEN FEELING BLUE Keeping clothes, jewelry, meals, and schedule simple prevents overwhelming episodes from happening. Don’t make life difficult.

Those are 8 differences I noticed since being in my 40’s. I’m loving this stage of my life and I know if I continue I’ll be better for myself and my family. Have fun, keep things simple, and take care of yourself.

Be well on your journey.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

MENTAL NOTE OF THE DAY

”You will not be punished for your anger, you will be punished by your anger.”-Buddha

Everyone has a right to get mad, angry, and upset. No matter what we do in life, or how hard we work on ourselves something is going to bother us. However, it’s what we do in that moment of anger. How do you handle your anger? MOTIVATIONAL HEALING: LEARN YOUR SOURCE OF ANGER If you choose to act on it and make the other person feel just as hurt as you, then you’ll probably regret the results in the long run. On the other hand, if you choose to way your options, not respond, or take time responding you’ll be more at peace with how you handled your anger. I’m a firm believer in matching someone’s anger is what makes us most angry. We’ve allowed someone to have power and control over our emotions. Training your mind to remain calm and in control in every situation will help when we are having our moments. Enjoy the rest of your day!!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

3 SIMPLE SMOOTHIE RECIPES, 5 INGREDIENTS OR LESS

I used to think eating healthy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle was expensive. But I found some simple smoothie recipes all 5 ingredients or less to help maintain my lifestyle. Starting your fitness journey or creating a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. YOU HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO START YOUR FITNESS JOURNEY Here are 3 smoothie recipes I use to ensure I’m getting the vitamins and nutrients I need, plus greens and veggies on a daily, and hydration.

Pineapple, Spinach, and Avocado Smoothie
1 Cup of Coconut Water (https://amzn.to/3axP8Yp)
1 Avocado
1 Cup of Spinach (or a handful)
1/2 Cup of Frozen Pineapple
1 Scoop of Protein Power (https://amzn.to/3uytJ8w)
Pineapple Strawberry Smoothie
1 Cup of Coconut Water (https://amzn.to/3axP8Yp)
1/2 Cup of Frozen Pineapple
1/2 Cup of Frozen Strawberries
1 Avocado
1 Scoop of Protein Powder (https://amzn.to/3uytJ8w)
Berry Banana Smoothie
1 Bottle of Premier Protein-Vanilla Flavor (https://amzn.to/3NTNZYT)
1 Banana
1/2 Cup of Frozen Mixed Berries

Each of these smoothies are simple and quick to blend up. Coconut water is great for hydration and provides flavor. You can opt to substitute with a flavored coconut water or use regular water. Also avocado and spinach is great because they provide great nutrients but are tasteless. I alternate bananas and avocados to give me some substance to the smoothies.

These are just 3 smoothie ideas with 5 ingredients or less you can try to jump start your routine or mix it up. It’s good to play around with flavors, ingredients, and recipes to avoid boredom. Remember don’t think too hard about it, have fun with the flavors and recipes, and keep the ingredients to a minimum. Also, it will save you time, money, and stress. The end result, you having a great balanced healthy lifestyle.

Enjoy!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

WEEKLY BLOG: TRIPLE DIGIT TEMPS, BACK TO SCHOOL MEMOS, AND NORMAL WORK WEEK

This week is a typical mid summer July week. With schedules, activities, and memos coming in for back to school making appointments and setting calendar reminders are my goal. Outside of that we don’t have much going on except staying cool in this triple digit weather.

Sunday: All I wanted to do today was relax and just be. My son had to go to work and that left the younger two with me and the hubs. I got laundry done and a little tidying done. After words I spent time bing watching ”See No Evil” on ID Discovery. Lastly, after an early dinner, I decided to go out and walk in nature. It was refreshing, cleansing, and sticky all at the same time. I obtained my goal in primarily staying off my phone this weekend. I intentionally left it on the counter and didn’t have the urge to pick it up.

Monday: Oh the work week has started. I’m feeling good this morning and ready to be productive. My hope is when I get to the office I’m able to have emails and voicemails to take care of. Well….my hope for a little business today went out the window really quickly. But I ended up having a great day at work with it just being the 2 of us (another agent). The importance of having adult woman conversations can’t be valued enough. After work I plan to wash my hair, again. Do a little housework and then relax.

Tuesday: I had a good morning and afternoon to start the day. Left the office early to get my younger 2 so my oldest can head off to work. After running some errands, I got into a mood and cleaned house, changed linen, and did some laundry. Before working out, I made some plans for back to school since we’re beginning to get notifications and emails regarding sports physicals, supply list, and fundraisers. Later in the evening I had time to manage some Poshmark listings, go over some edits, and finally went outside for a walk. Stayed up pretty late since my son didn’t get off until 11p.m.

Wednesday: Starting the morning early with breakfast and coffee with the hubs. Was able to listen, read, and watch content to help me get through some emotional healing with my mother. However, the information rec’d was very informative, helpful, and gave me the motivation needed to move forward. (I haven’t spoken on the relationship with my mother and I much, however when I find the right words I’m sure it will come out. It’s very difficult for some to understand because it’s mostly emotional trauma.) Later in the evening I decided to do a midweek clean, laundry, and take some notes.

close up shot of scrabble tiles on a white surface

Thursday: It’s hot and humid out. Spent the day working on calendar stuff and schedule as I begin to get in school schedules, activites, and calendar memos. With the 3 kids, keeping up is a task in itself. Along with my son being ”safety kid” this year. My son had to work this evening so we baked cookies and relaxed until the evening. Had a really good workout today. I’m proud of myself for the last couple weeks been sticking to no sugar, carbs, or alcohol. I’ve noticed a difference in my energy, skin, and body.

Friday: Good start to the morning. Made a couple of errands before heading off to work. It was a little eventful at office. But I was able to get the kids sports physical scheduled. I’ve been coming in all week cleaning and doing laundry. So tonight I think I’m going to find something to binge watch and relax. However, before I do, I did have a chance to publish MY NATURAL HAIR LOVE HATE RELATIONSHIP. I will probably still decided to go out for a walk and get a good release in mentally and emotionally.

Saturday: A typical sleep in morning for me. Had an amazing conversation with my brother and nephew this morning. Off to a great non eventful Saturday. Spent time daydreaming, enjoying my coffee, and then eventually binging on Netflix. Later in the evening we’re headed out to do some errands and grab a couple of items. Finally, the hubs and I had a great conversation outlining how we’re going to proceed with back to school, upcoming fall season, and goals for the second half of the year.

Have a great week everyone!!!!!!!

P.S. Weekly blog is designed to show the realistic life of a working mom, balancing life, family, career, and herself.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

WHY MY BLOG IS STILL A SECRET AFTER 2 YEARS

So I saw this post scrolling on Pinterest and it totally resonated with me so of course I had to read it. “Why I kept my blog a secret?” It seems like something you would want to shout to the world. Well not so much. And I’m not just talking about family. I still don’t discuss my blog with friends or coworkers.

macbook air flower bouquet and magazines on white table

For me, one of the main reasons I kept it a secret was because my family thought I was wasting my time. It didn’t make me rich as soon as I clicked ”publish”. Because everyone else in my family was talking about starting their restaurants, t-shirt businesses, and makeup brand no one was interested in learning what a blog was. When I brought up my blog they completely ignored me and dismissed me.

Next, I kept my blog a secret because I just wanted to post and write what I wanted, how I wanted to express my feelings and thoughts. I literally thought, I could come on here write, and still be invisible. My goal was to be able to write, post, and publish without fear. Sometimes families can be more judgmental than friends or coworkers.

Another reason I kept my blog a secret was because I didn’t want to offend anyone. While I still want to love, respect, and protect my family, part of my journey is knowing where some of my thoughts, views, feelings, and emotions stem from. I didn’t want anyone to feel like I was pointing the fingers or blame. Sometimes people don’t understand or want to accept your experience of them.

Finally, I kept it a secret because I would get unwanted comments, suggestions, and advice on the topics I should write about. When I did bring up the idea of mental health, healing, and protecting your peace I knew by the comments and reactions they weren’t where I was emotionally. I got the hint to let it go and never push someone to look deeper internally. This was my journey, my truth, and my healing that I was sorting through. All while trying to help and motivate others.

I did end up telling like 3 people. But only one ended up being a family member. I’ve never been the type to like the spotlight, focus, and attention on me. Seems weird I know, to have a blog and be an introvert. FACTS ABOUT INTROVERTS YOU SHOULD KNOW But that’s the point, it’s my corner of the internet to motivate, encourage and inspire.

This journey for the last 2 years has taught me the importance to motivate and encourage yourself more than you can get from others.

Be well on your journey.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

10 JOURNAL PROMPTS TO A BETTER YOU

”So tell me about yourself.” That is one question or phrase that stumps us all. We typically go to what we do for a living or what our job title is. It’s always easier to explain what we don’t like to do, what we don’t like about ourselves, or any negative thing. The journaling this week is focused on the better you. I set out on this challenge because I no longer wanted it to be a challenge for me. To do this, it’s sometimes helpful to use a guided journal or workbook to give you a boost. https://amzn.to/39qbkTJ

spiral notebook with message on white paper sheet

10 Journal Prompts To A Better You

What is something good that happened to me? (Big or small)
When was the last time I laughed uncontrollably? What made it funny? How did it make me feel?
What was the last book I read?
My favorite memory that I tell over and over again.
What do I like to do for fun?
I feel most comfortable in…(This could be a place, time, clothing, or anything that makes you feel comfortable.)
If my friends were to describe me they would say…
The one thing I can’t live without…(Use this and run with it. It could be food, a person, object, product, or anything.)
My favorite movie and why?
Three words to describe me and why?

Use these 10 journal prompts to help you understand you. Sometimes we do things so routinely and don’t know why. Learning the why will help us know why we gravitate towards certain things in life. From there we’re able to understand our deepest self. As always, remember there is no right or wrong way to journal. Be specific as possible. Lastly, be as honest as possible. I know being vulnerable is uncomfortable. CHANGE IS UNCOMFORTABLE But to get to being your freest self, you must do the uncomfortable thing.

Happy Writing!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

5 TIPS TO BEAT THE AFTERNOON SLUMP

Lately because work has been slow, I had begun to get these afternoon slumps. I had to switch somethings up in my routine to give myself an afternoon pick me up. Here are a couple of tips to beat that afternoon slump.

boy in white dress shirt using macbook pro

Healthy Snack. Because I work in an office setting and sit at a desk for hours it’s important for me to choose wisely when it comes to snacking. Try this very tasty but inexpensive blend mix to give you some energy. https://amzn.to/3aFamU2 This week I focused on packing fresh fruits, several different kinds of trail mix, and a good protein bar. All are packed with natural flavors, low sugar, and high in protein. Opting for a healthy snack provides more energy and benefits than cookies, chips, or candy.
Water. Water. Water. Staying hydrated is a must. The more water I drink the more I’m going to have to get up and go to the bathroom, which is a good thing. The more water you drink the less you snack. Also the more water you drink, is a great way to reduce belly bloating. And of course your skin stays clear. Yes, I slice lemon in the morning, place it in a baggy, and in my lunch bag. This helps me keep variety and flavor with my water. Limit the soda and sugary coffee drinks that will give you an afternoon crash.
Get Up and Move. Taking a 5-10 minute break is essential to beating the afternoon slump. Go outside, get some fresh air, and walk around. 6 TIPS FOR MONDAY MORNING BLUES Give your eyes a break from looking at a computer screen. This will give you a natural boost of energy. If you can, go to a coworker desk and have a quick chit chat. Don’t do anything work related for a few moments.
Turn on tunes. Sometimes if it’s too quiet I will turn on some soft music. If you can, create some noise or distraction for you to focus on where only you can hear at your desk. If I don’t do some soft jazz, I’ll turn an audio book, or video on YouTube. The goal here is to give your mind something else to hear and focus on.
Routine Switch. This is simple and works. Among your daily tasks switch up your routine. Find a way to make your job interesting but yet still productive. Doing the same thing day after day will get boring and provides lack of enthusiasm. Bonus Tip: Get creative and switch your desk around. Spruce up your work area.

These tips to beat the afternoon slump is for anyone to use. You don’t have to work in an office setting. If you work from home these are great tips. If you’re a stay at home mom, the tips can help. Adjust and tailor them to fit your needs.

Have a great day everyone!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

SIMPLE SELF CARE MORNING ROUTINE WHEN FEELING BLUE

We’ve all experienced those days that are blue. We feel tired, not interested in getting out of bed, eating, or talking to anyone. Sadly if we don’t get up and just lay in the bed, it could turn into something darker than we want it to or need to. So here is a simple morning routine you can do when you’re feeling blue.

woman in white tank top posing with peace sign

5a.m.-7a.m.-Wake up early even if you don’t have anywhere to go or nothing to do. Laying in bed too long effects not only your mental psyche but your physical body will get stiff and soar. Just getting out of bed is an accomplishment in itself. It signals the brain that you care about yourself and you want to be somebody that day.

7a.m.-7:15a.m.-Affirm yourself and the day. Once you wake up, sit up in the bed and first affirm ”Today is going to be a great day.” ”I am deserving of all the good that is going to come to me today.” Then take 5 more minutes to pray and thank God for giving you breath in your body and movement in your limbs to make it another day. Or you can opt to meditate for 5 minutes and focus on your breathing and being in the moment.

7:15a.m.-7:30a.m.-Instant boosts of energy. Get out of bed and stretch. Then make your bed up. That is another small self care activity that provides a sense of accomplishment. Do a good body stretch to awaken your blood flow, bones, and circulation. This will give you an instant boost of energy and motivation to want to proceed with your day. After stretching open your blinds and curtains. Even if it’s raining or gloomy out. If you can, open the window for some fresh air.

7:30-8a.m.-Spend time with yourself. Head to the bathroom and freshen up. During this time look at your beautiful face in the mirror. Take your time having a moment alone to yourself. In this moment, shower, brush teeth, wash face, do your hair, and makeup if you want to. Put on something cute but comfy. Lastly, give yourself another instant boost of confidence by putting on some perfume.

8a.m.-8:30a.m.-Feed your soul. Have yourself a bottle water. Take some vitamins or medications if you’re required to have them. Fix yourself a nice colorful and healthy breakfast. HEALTHY LIFESTYLE: 5 SIMPLE AND QUICK BREAKFAST IDEAS Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. Sit down and enjoy your breakfast that you made for yourself. No phones or distractions allows you to once again be in the moment and intentional.

8:30a.m.-9a.m.-Connect mentally and emotionally. Take time to journal and reflect on how you’re feeling. Brainstorm your life, goals, dreams, and desires. Write down what you need to do, have accomplished, and prioritize the list. This gives you an opportunity to purge out the negative, motivation to take steps later in the day towards your goal, and a place to hold yourself accountable. Also during this time you may read a book, listen to a podcast, or watch a motivational video to get your spiritual tank full. Try an affirmation journal like the one below to help you build your confidence and self esteem. https://amzn.to/3aIMKxY

This is just an example morning routine you can do when not feeling your best. Each step is to motivate, provide energy, and give a small sense of accomplishment. You may adjust steps, times, or anything needed to suit your needs. The goal is to get yourself back on track.

Be well on your journey.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

7 SELF REFLECTION JOURNAL PROMPTS

We just reached the half year mark. Have you accomplished any of your New Year goals? Are they even still goals of yours? We have six months to make a difference and hold ourselves accountable. While the weather is nice and we have more daylight, now is the time to do some self reflecting. Here are 7 journal prompts for self reflection.

woman with glowing eye makeup and lipstick

7 Self Reflecting Journal Prompts:

What do I enjoy doing over and over again without getting bored that I will do for free?
List the 10 most interesting characteristics about yourself. (It could be physical, mental, emotional, talent, dream, desires, or whatever makes you you.)
What are three things I do well?
What is one goal that keeps making it to my list that I start but don’t finish, never start, or too afraid to start?
What do I need to let go of, but having a hard time doing?
List three things I can do everyday to make myself feel better? (If you can write more, then do so.)
What are my favorite ways to unwind?

As you begin to reflect remember to be as detailed as possible. No detail is ever too small. The more in depth you’re able to go, the better your self awareness you’ll become. In result, leading you to your goal of living the life you want. Use the link provided to begin journaling to a better you. https://amzn.to/3xbjxmA These journal prompts are for you to have a deeper dive into who you are now and where you want to go. There aren’t any right or wrong answers here. MENTAL HEALTH AND SELF CARE IS FREE

Journaling for self reflection is a great way to check in on ourselves. This is one way to hold ourselves accountable. Also gives you a mental check on where we are and where we need to go. Furthermore, self reflecting journal prompts gives us an insight on what’s working and where we may need to adjust our self care. These 7 self reflecting journal prompts help me to get clarity on what I wanted to do with my time, who I wanted to spend my time with, and how I show up in certain relationships.