Tag: self care

My Top 15 Best Essential Oils That Help And Heal

Post author By Joann
Post date December 9, 2020
2 Comments on My Top 15 Best Essential Oils That Help And Heal

My Top 15 Best Essential Oils That Help and Heal.

Relax and enjoy my top 15 best essential oils that help and heal!

Some individuals nowadays think of aromatherapy as just a different indulgent exercise the privileged few enjoy.

Click here for a copy of your journal to a Better YOU.

But upon taking the time to delve deeper, I have found a whole new prospect relating to the diversified uses of aromatherapy.

The popularity of Aromatherapy has risen in recent years.

In this article, you will get a better insight into essential oils and aromatherapy.

You will also learn how to identify and buy quality oils, how to dilute and use them safely for a healthier and happier you.

Take a peek at my core balancing essential oils.

This all-inclusive masterpiece has over 120 aromatherapy and EO remedies to restore mind, body, and spirit.

What exactly is aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the practice of using oils from plant extracts for medicinal, relaxation, and aromatic purposes.

Chiefly known for its calming properties, aromatherapy techniques also advocate the utilization of various essential oils to comfort the mind and body.

If you’ve been wondering what essential oils are, worry no more.

I’m going to give you an overview of what it is and how it can be of benefit to you and your entire family.

So, what is an Essential Oil?

An EO is a highly volatile concentrated compound extracted from certain plants.

The oils in every EO capture each plant’s scent or “essence.”

Answers to any questions you can’t get from this content can be found in this ‘essential oil tell it all.’

The associated unique aromatic compounds give each plant its characteristic essence that makes up its essential oil.

Although essential oils for the most part, are still linked to the idea of a relaxing therapeutic massage session, there are many more recent uses today.

Research shows EOs can be helpful, but people have to know how to use them correctly.

How are Essential Oils Obtained?

The most common method for essential oil production is through steam distillation.

Another method is mechanical, including cold pressing.

Once the oil is extracted, it is full of aroma.

The oil is either stored alone or in combination with carrier oils.

At this point, the oil is ready to use.

These aromatherapy shower bomb melts are Ah—mazing!

You will be amazed at the wide range of natural benefits from my top best 15 essential oils that help and heal.

15 Essential Oils That

Help And Heal

The History of Essential Oils

The application of aromatherapy with essential oils dates back to 3500 BC.

EOs have been used since ancient times to help the body and soothe the mind.

History has it that the actual birthplace of essential oils and aromatherapy as we know it today is Ancient Egypt.

Ancient Egyptians cultivated plants for their oils and used them for religious, cosmetic, and medicinal purposes.

India, China, ancient Greek, and the Romans followed suit.

Exploring herbs and aromatic plants soon became an integral part of the Indian Ayurvedic medical system.

People used essential oils in those days, mainly for relaxation, hygiene, healing, and also for general health promotion.

Today, however, many people are trying to get back to nature.

The use of all-natural essential oils for medicinal, cosmetic, and therapeutic purposes continues to grow.

Many people have found the benefits and results of using aromatherapy to be far greater than human-manufactured medications.

They, by far have fewer adverse side effects.

With the increase in health and wellness promotion, essential oils have become perfect for practicing self-care and relieving stress.

What are Essential Oils Used For?

The uses, benefits, and possibilities of EOs are endless.

Essential oils are known for their versatility of use.

Essential oils are used and may be combined with other ingredients to produce fragrances, lotions, other cosmetics, skin care and hair care products.

Now, I’m going to discuss my best EOs that help and heal.

The applications of EOs are very diverse.

Their versatility of use also is what has made them an everyday staple in many modern homes.

People most frequently use essential oils in aromatherapy through inhalation and topical application.

With aromatherapy, they are inhaled through various methods, like via the use of a diffuser container, spray, oil droplets, and steam baths.

Aromatherapy with essential oils has several other benefits in addition to a pleasant smell.

Advantages of aromatherapy oils include mood improvement, concentration, decongestion, relaxation, and sleep improvement.

Today, many spas use aromatherapy to enhance the pleasant experiences of their clients.

The use of essential oils and aromatherapy, however, does not end there.

Many other application methods include diffusers, massage oils, inhalers, baths, and teas, but are not limited to them.

Therapeutic Essential oils and oil blends can also be produced for specific therapeutic purposes, such as

-Relieving muscle soreness,

-Minimizing the occurrence of acne,

-Fighting infections,

-Treating wounds,

-Repelling insects,

-Hair growth,

-Reducing winter blisters, and much more.

Are Essential Oils Safe? Here are some Essential Oil Safety Tips

As EO popularity and market continue to grow, concerns as to whether they are altogether safe also continue to grow.

These concerns are validated by the fact that EOs are highly concentrated and potent plant extracts.

You have to be cautious and read label directions for each oil before use.

Dr. Scott Johnson empowers individuals on the safety profiles for over 200 integrative remedies with this.

Essential oils are also highly flammable substances therefore they should be kept away from direct contact with some elements.

By all means keep EOs away from elements like flames, gas cookers, candles, fire, matches, and cigarettes.

It is advised not to apply essential oils directly into the eyes, ears, nose, or other sensitive areas of the skin.

Also, keep all essential oils out of sight and reach of small children and pets.

Are you taking any supplements, vitamins or medications?

Yes, no, maybe?

If yes, then hear this.

EOs should NOT be taken by mouth because it can interact with other medications or supplements with potential damage to the kidneys and liver.

The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians advises against using EOs on babies under three months old.

Before using EOs topically, it is very advisable to do an allergy test first, and this is how you do it.

• Dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil at 2 times the concentration of oil you plan to use.

• On the inside of the forearm, rub the mixture into an area the size of a quarter.

If within 24 to 48 hours, you don’t notice any allergic reaction like a rapid onset of pain and redness of the skin or other skin irritations, you can assume it’s safe to use.

How do You Dilute Essential Oils?

Why should these essential oils be diluted?

Wouldn’t it be more beneficial to dab a few drops on your skin?

Nay, nay, please don’t do that!

EOs are highly concentrated and volatile.

They should be diluted with another safe carrier substance to make them safer to apply and, to facilitate absorption.

Some recommended safe substances include; water, carrier oils, and skincare oils like Jojoba, Argan, sweet almond, Rosehip, liquid soap, and unscented lotion.

Essential oil dilution is very important to avoid skin reactions and systemic toxicity.

Essential oils dilution guide recommendations

The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) recommends a safe dilution ratio of 2.5 to 5% percent for adults.

NAHA recommends .5 to 1% (3-6 drops) dilution for babies three months and older.

Dilution rates are the amount of essential oils per one ounce of base oil.

The higher the percentage, the more likely you are to have a reaction, so it’s important to mix them correctly.

I love the versatility of essential oils.

As active advocates of alternative health therapies, we use EOs a lot in our home because of the countless benefits.

Because one essential oil can serve so many purposes, I’ve found that we have saved a lot of money making essential oils a staple in our home.

Here are my top 15 Essential Oils that help and heal and some of their benefits.

#1. Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula Augustifolia)

Lavender Oil is an incredibly popular essential oil that can help and heal in so many ways.

It is a non-toxic and non-irritant essential oil.

It is best known for its relaxation properties.

There is a lot of research that supports lavender oil’s ability to relieve insomnia, stress, and anxiety.

But it doesn’t stop there!

Lavender essential oil, like most of the oils on this list, is a multipurpose oil.

It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antidepressant, antiseptic, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties.

Lavender EO also has antispasmodic, analgesic, detoxifying, hypotensive, and sedative effects.

This purple flowering plant can soothe wounds and alleviate pain.

According to WebMD, “One small study found that lavender essential oil relieved soreness and redness for women who had episiotomies.

Another study showed that inhaling lavender essence, is believed to ease the pain from C-section childbirth.”

At home, we like to put a few drops of this oil in a diffuser at bed time.

One more way we love to use it is to add it to our massage oil or lotion.

The aroma of the lavender essential oil makes us feel relaxed, calm, and helps to ward off insomnia.

#2. Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary Oil comes from the rosemary herb, which is commonly used as a food seasoning.

It has anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, resulting in numerous benefits for hair and skin.

Research of rosemary oil has shown that it can improve brain function, specifically, focus and memory, when inhaled.

My daughter loves to add rosemary oil to her diffuser when she is studying.

She acknowledges that it makes her more focused and alert, and aids in information recall.

Many people say that rosemary oil strengthens their hair and promotes hair growth.

This is something my family has definitely experienced.

Research has even shown that it helps fight alopecia and other types of hair loss.

We have noticed a boost in our hair growth after adding rosemary oil to our hair care regimen.

We mix it with a carrier oil such as Jamaican black castor oil and massage it directly onto our scalp.

You can also add it your conditioner and other hair products for added hair growth boost.

#3. Tea Tree Essential Oil (Maleleuca Alternifolia)

Tea tree essential oil visibly smooths out the skin and reduces inflammation.

Research has shown that when mixed with a carrier oil, like coconut or jojoba oil, tea tree EO can be used topically as a lotion to alleviate acne and nail fungus.

This herbal/tea tree toothpaste has become a necessity in my morning routine.

Hygiene – my family’s favorite body wash contains tea tree oil. It helps fight body acne and leaves a refreshing feeling.

Antifungal – Tea tree oil is an excellent anti-fungal product.

It is also an excellent natural alternative treatment for yeast infections.

Natural Deodorant – Do you know that sweat itself does not smell, but it is when sweat combines with bacteria on your skin that an odor is produced?

Tea tree oil’s antibacterial properties make it an ideal natural alternative to commercial deodorants.

As an Antiseptic for minor cuts and scrapes – tea tree oil can be used to treat and disinfect minor cuts by killing bacteria.

#4. Sandalwood Essential Oil (Santalum)

Apart from being a classic, the rich scent found in many cosmetics, soaps, perfumes, and cologne’s are attributed to sandalwood oil.

It offers some astonishing health benefits as well.

One of its top benefits is the promotion of smooth and supple skin.

It also serves as a guard against skin cancer.

Sandalwood oil is widely used in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine to combat acne and reduce large pores.

People believe that sandalwood can be beneficial in treating disorders like fatigue, bronchitis, anxiety, insomnia, low libido, and UTI (urinary tract infection).

It also serves to brighten and even out dull, splotchy skin.

We use sandalwood essential oil as one of the key ingredients in our DIY facial mask.

Guess what happens when you use it to steam your face?

Vibrant, sleek and rejuvenated skin is revealed.

#5. Peppermint Essential Oil (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint essential oil is made up or extracted from menthol family plants.

This is one of my favorite EOs that help and heal.

Its fresh, cool, minty scent makes it a favorite of so many people.

It can relieve tension headaches when applied topically.

Peppermint EO also promotes digestion and freshens breath.

Its menthol content and scent are both invigorating to the senses and promote alertness and energy.

I find it helpful for relieving headaches, joint, and muscle pain.

I love mixing peppermint oil into my hair products because it stimulates and invigorates the scalp.

#6. Sweet Orange Oil (Citrus Sinensis)

Sweet orange oil is associated with the Citrus family.

Just like fresh oranges, the scent is very uplifting.

It can be used for many applications.

Some of its uses and benefits include;

Lifts your mood and reduces stress
Treats skin conditions such as acne
Prevents the growth of fungi and bacteria
Reduces pain and inflammation
Relieves an upset stomach
A natural household cleaner
Adds a pleasant scent to any room
Adds scent to products like perfumes and cleaners
Gives flavor to a variety of foods and beverages

However, when used in aromatherapy, sweet orange EO acts as an excellent mood and energy booster.

I love to add this scent to my diffuser early in the morning to give myself a great start.

Another tip is to add it EO to your favorite cleanser for a refreshing effect to your morning routine.

This essential oil is a great promoter of happy and warm feelings!

#7. Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon EO is extracted from the peel of, you guessed it – Lemons.

It is one of the most widely used fruits in the world.

Not to mention that it is one of my best essential oils that help and heal.

It is a very versatile oil as you go from using it in your cleaning products to using it on your skin.

When used as aromatherapy, lemon oil can relieve morning sickness symptoms including nausea and vomiting significantly.

Research shows inhaling it can also combat anxiety and depression.

Lemon oil also has amazing skin brightening effects.

Diluted lemon EO applied topically to corns and calluses helps with the inflammation and soothes rough skin.

#8. Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus essential oil is one of the exceptionally soothing essential oils that help and heal.

This EO is commonly used in spas and massage parlors because of its relaxing effect.

Eucalyptus oil inhalation is also a natural proven way to relieve symptoms of cough, flu and sore throat, as it opens the airway.

I love mixing this oil with body lotions and applying it to my chest.

I also like to add it to my diffuser anytime I have cold symptoms.

Eucalyptus oil usually blends well with peppermint oil for diffusion.

#9. Chamomile Essential Oil

Chamomile EO is another oil that has impressive soothing qualities.

For centuries, it’s been used to promote healthy sleep as well as combat anxiety.

As it promotes a good sleep, I like to add this oil to my diffuser whenever I find it difficult to sleep.

Likewise, people have said it is effective in the management of eczema.

#10. Clary Sage Oil (Salvia Sclera)

Clary sage is an herb found mainly in the Mediterranean.

This EO is also known by the name “eye-bright” because it is traditionally used to treat eye related ailments.

When used in aromatherapy, clary sage is a great agent for stress relief.

Also, studies have shown that it can even reduce high blood pressure!

When clary sage is topically applied, it serves as a natural way to reduce menstrual cramps, balance, mood and emotions.

This EO can also alleviate menopausal symptoms. It supports hormonal balance.

#11. Frankincense Essential Oil

In ancient times, frankincense was often used as an incense.

Because of its uplifting and earthy scent, it is perfect for spiritual connectedness.

Hence, it was one of the gifts the wise men gave to our Lord Jesus Christ in (Matthew 2:11) in the Bible.

This oil was considered one of the purest oils of that time.

Today, frankincense is still used to improve spiritual practices, such as in prayer and meditation.

In fact, when I add this oil to my diffuser, I feel spiritually uplifted.

Frankincense EO creates an atmosphere of comfort and safety.

#12. Myrrh Essential Oil (Commiphora Myrrha)

Myrrh essential oil has long been associated with spirituality and strength.

It is also mentioned a couple of times in the Holy Bible.

Not to mention that it was one of the gifts our Lord received at birth.

Three king gifts from the Magi to Jesus Christ are still reverenced today.

Often, in combination with frankincense, myrrh was used in places of worship as incense and perfume to purify the air.

By the same token, Myrrh EO is associated with preventing the spread of contagious diseases.

Diffusing myrrh oil can also help relieve nervous tension, thereby helping you to feel stronger.

In addition, this essential oil is believed to boost immunity.

Some people also use it to alleviate coughs, colds, and soothe the digestive system.

Myrrh EO is often recommended and used as a self-care regimen for meditation and relaxation.

It is one of my best essential oils that help and heal.

#13. Cedarwood Essential Oil (Cedrus Atlantica)

Cedarwood EO is one my best essential oils that help and heal.

It has a pleasant woody aroma.

As a matter of fact, it is derived from the Atlas cedar tree.

It is useful in Ayurvedic skin care as it helps soothe skin irritation.

Cedar wood oil also helps with itchiness, and redness because it has antibacterial and antifungal properties.

#14. Cinnamon Essential Oil (Cinnamomum Zeylanicum)

Cinnamon essential oil can fill the atmosphere with a warm autumn, pumpkin pie spice scent.

This EO has a variety of health benefits related to the skin, the immune system, and brain function.

Cinnamon EO is therefore one of the most potent antifungal, antiviral, antiseptic, and antibacterial oil available today.

It is used in aromatherapy for deep relaxation to the body, the joints, and the brain.

#15. Patchouli Essential Oil (Pogostemon Cablin)

Patchouli essential oil is commonly and widely used in aromatherapy.

Mainly because it has a strong, sweet yet spicy and musky scent.

It is also used as an ingredient in incense and perfume, as well as in skin care products.

This EO is uniquely obtained from the leaves and stems of patchouli plants.

Patchouli essential oil offers various health benefits.

Not to mention it can be used for treating skin conditions like dermatitis, acne, and dry, cracked skin.

It is also said to relieve colds, headaches, anxiety, depression, and stomach upset.

How Do We Use Essential Oils?

The options of how to implement essential oils are as diverse as the benefits.

• The most common way to use EOs is through aromatherapy via straight inhalation, a diffuser, or a humidifier.

• Essential oils can also be applied to the skin and the hair.

Word of caution, though!

Because some EOs are highly concentrated, they should not be applied directly to the skin.

If you are using EO topically, it is recommended to dilute it with a carrier oil like sweet almond oil or castor oil.

Similarly, you may also prefer to use these alternative carriers or base oils;

• Olive oil • Jojoba Oil * Grapeseed Oil * Avocado Oil

• Argan Oil • Moringa Oil * Neem oil *Coconut Oil.

There are so many essential oils to choose from, that’s why the potential benefits are basically exponential!

I arrange all my essential oils in this organizer. It is suitable for travel too.

I hope this list of my favorite essential oils that help and heal can help you to narrow down your search.

Hopefully, just a whiff of their fragrance can help elevate your mood and make your day better.

There is no standardized grading system for essential oils yet, so you have to trust yourself to choose well.

The FDA does not regulate EOs, so you have to decide the best place to buy your essential oils.

In addition, some companies may falsely claim their oils are pure when they aren’t.

Reading reviews of each oil before actually buying can be helpful too.

My advice is to be sure to do your research on any brand, the company as well, to ensure that you are buying pure and good quality oils.

What do you think about my top 15 best EOs that help and heal?

Have you tried any of these essential oils?

Do you have an EO you like to use that isn’t on this list?

Why don’t you share your ideas?

Please share your thoughts in the comments section below!

Sending lots of love and positivity your way ♥.

Stay Blessed!

Medical Disclaimer.

Notes/references

Tisserand, R., and Balacs, T. (1995). Essential Oil Safety. New York: Churchill Livingstone.
Burfield, T. (2000). Safety of Essential Oils. International Journal of Aromatherapy, Vol 10.1/2
Schnaubelt, K. (2004). Aromatherapy Lifestyle. San Rafael, CA: Terra Linda Scent.
Battaglia, S. (2002). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. Australia: International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy.

Family Parenting

Back to School: How to Ensure Children Are Safe

Post author By Joann
Post date August 29, 2020
No Comments on Back to School: How to Ensure Children Are Safe

Going Back to School: Tips on How To Ensure Children Are Safe.

Is It Safe For Your Children To Go Back to School?

How to ensure children are safe to return to school is a serious thought in every parent’s mind.

Back-to-School 2020 is a TIME like no other.

Gone are the jovial crowds, jostling to find the best deals on school supplies like markers, pencils, notebooks, and Kleenex.

Stores are quiet.

Silent, masked individuals move around the stores, not taking the effort to talk or make eye contact since no one can see their smile.

Stores hide their back-to-school items, uniforms, and school supplies along the back wall instead of broadcasting their sales in the front lobby.

This year doesn’t look like it usually does. The hesitance is tangible.

It’s time for school, but no one knows what that really means.

In some states, no one knows for sure when and if schools will ever start.

When educational facilities finally open their doors, what will school look like?

Parents have to make quick decisions with ever-changing situations.

They feel the weight of the world on their shoulders.

If they send their children to a traditional school, are they compromising their own health and the health of their kids, the teachers, grandparents, school workers, and staff?

The school does not just provide academics to children.

Students also learn social and emotional skills and access to mental and special needs support.

Students also have access to computers, the internet, and other vital services in a school setting.

Parents should be aware of what the school’s policies are concerning children’s safety while in school.

On the other hand, if they keep their children at home, are they separating their children from the necessary social and emotional support they normally get through time with friends?

What steps can parents take to ensure their children are safe?

How can you as a parent make the wisest choice, and how can you ensure your children are safe?

What is the parent’s role in keeping those precious little ones healthy during the back-to-school rush?

Let’s explore some tips from a parent on how to ensure your children are safe to go back to school no matter what option you have chosen.

While implementing these tips, it is my prayer that the Lord will guide you into making the right decision and I pray that the Lord protects and shields every child and family from all harm and danger.

1. Stay Updated on CDC Guidelines.

The most reliable resource to refer to when making safety-related COVID-19 decisions for you and your family is the CDC.

The CDC has a section dedicated to providing information about COVID-19 and how it relates to childcare at this link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/index.html.

Being on top of CDC guidelines will help you make sure your child’s school is operating in the safest and most efficient way possible.

For the most part, you need to teach your children about the importance of wearing the mask or cloth face covering, hand washing techniques, and social distancing.

This will help guide decisions such as whether or not your child should go back to school and will help give insight into things you can do on your end to ensure they’re safe going back to school.

2. Check Your School’s Safety Policy.

In a traditional school setting, an easy first step is checking the school’s mask and safety policies in the classroom and in outdoor spaces.

Some schools are flexible about masks, only using them when absolutely vital to keep state mandates.

Other schools strictly enforce mask usage.

Some schools are going to great lengths to ensure that children do not mingle in hallways, common areas, recess, and the lunchroom.

Instead, children limit their interaction with the people in their own classrooms.

These measures can be very helpful in holding back the spread of the virus, allowing schools to easily isolate rooms that may become infected without shutting down the entire school.

Find out the school’s policy on washing hands, sanitizing equipment and high-touch surfaces, social distancing, mask usage, and other personal protective-PPE measures.

Make sure that their standards of operation are in line with the CDC’s recommendations.

3. Cleanliness During Transitions To and From School.

When your child leaves for school, make sure they are equipped with a mask and personal hand sanitizer.

Teach him or her to use hand sanitizer when on the bus and when leaving school for the day.

There are many cute children themed sanitizers on Amazon that will encourage children to use them.

They can attach these portable hand sanitizers to their book bags for decoration.

Arriving home in the afternoon, have a designated area where soiled school items, such as backpacks, are placed.

Your child should thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water according to CDC guidelines and change their clothes immediately after arriving.

Later, when it’s time to sign papers and do homework, treat the school items as you would any germ-laden item, such as currency.

Teach your child to wash his or her hands after using items from his or her backpack, and not to touch their eyes or face while handling school items.

Temperature Checks: You should plan to monitor your children’s health at home especially their temperature with a thermometer (not the back of your hand).

The child should stay home if they have a temperature of 100.4 degrees or greater or any signs of not feeling well.

These important steps will help keep your children safe and healthy.

4. Homeschooling.

While the CDC does not provide scientific studies that suggest that COVID-19 transmission may be low among children, they stress that this is the case when proper protocol is followed.

You may find that your child’s school might not follow the COVID-19 protocol that is the safest or most efficient.

When you choose some form of homeschooling, social distancing becomes much more efficient and effective.

If you or one of your children has a health problem that would put you at significant risk were you to contract the virus, you may find that schooling or distant learning from home is the most viable option.

Getting some homeschooling ideas can help you to effectively provide good targeted educational instruction to your children.

An accompanying homeschool planner and activity journal are resources that can make homeschooling easier.

Here’s the link to CDC guidelines for keeping the home safe; https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/disinfecting-your-home.html#:~:text=%2D%20Wear%20reusable%20or%20disposable,water%20for%2020%20seconds.

Whether using the school’s online curriculum or your own, homeschooling provides a way to stay away from out of your control germs and contagions.

Keeping your child at home becomes an automatic safety mechanism for helping your child stay healthy.

While homeschooling, do not forget or neglect spirituality.

Nurturing spirituality in a child early leads to the development of a more harmonious and meaningful life.

Proverbs 22:6 says to; “Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.”

If you are not sure if homeschooling is what you and your family needs, the CDC has a great decision-making tool for families to refer to at this link. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/decision-tool.html

5. Avoid Stranger Danger.

When you choose to keep your child at home, you may elect to hire a tutor to guide him or her through the online curriculum.

Like any babysitter, this tutor must be thoroughly vetted. Will the tutor provide effective emotional support, or will she dismiss your child’s fears and needs?

Does your tutor have plenty of thorough references, a background check, and other proof that they are safe to be around children?

After you hire a tutor, listen to your children and what they tell you about the way their tutor treats them.

Don’t just go with the flow because hiring a tutor is cheaper than a private school.

Keeping your children safe from the virus will mean nothing if they are not safe from their in-home teacher too.

6. Being a Safe Teacher-Mom.

If you choose to stay home with your children, you are poised to provide not only physical safety but also emotional health.

Who knows your children better than you do? Is anyone else more invested in their physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being than the mother herself?

You may be confident that you can provide the safety and attention your children need.

As you homeschool your children, there may be times when you become overwhelmed by your children’s daily needs.

The novelty of teaching and parenting at the same time and the question of how to entertain everyone and keep everyone engaged in learning could become challenging.

During these times of stress, it’s important to take care of yourself so that you can be present as a healthy, safe, and fun mom.

Our article on self-Care: 17 ways to take better care of yourself provides proven ways to help you to be the best mom while caring for your ‘gifts of grace.’

Become aware of situations and comments that trigger you or tempt you to blow your top.

Do you feel shame when you think you haven’t done enough?

Do you feel upset when your children don’t perform as well as you’d hoped?

Are you comparing and measuring your children—and yourself—to other schools, moms, and situations?

Could you be pushing your children too hard? Are your expectations too high or too low?

Since you will be home 24/7 with your children, make sure you take time away to recharge.

180 Days of Self-Care for Educators can help you understand how prioritizing your own self-care will better equip you to positively impact student learning and achievement.

Read God’s word, walk in nature, read a good book, or vent to a friend.

Make sure that you are a safe mom to your children.

7. Pour on the Healthy Touch.

No matter what option you choose for schooling your child this school season, there are things you can do to keep your child safe physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

A very important ingredient to safety and well-being is a healthy touch.

Make sure your child gets plenty of safe, healthy touch while at home.

Numerous studies have shown the critical importance of human touch to our well-being and safety.

Dr. Asim Shah, A medical doctor-MD who teaches at Baylor College of Medicine states that “touch starvation increases stress, depression, and anxiety, triggering a cascade of negative physiological effects.

The body releases the hormone cortisol as a response to stress, activating the body’s ‘flight-or-fight’ response.

This can increase heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and muscle tension, and can suppress the digestive system and immune system—increasing the risk of infection…

‘Every single medical disease including heart attack, diabetes, hypertension, asthma—every single physical disease—is altered if you are more anxious, more depressed or if you have more mental health issues.’”

Source: https://www.tmc.edu/news/2020/05/touch-starvation/

You may not think that touch has anything to do with health, or that children need touch in order to be safe.

But in reality, their immune systems and health are compromised when they are deprived of the loving hugs, high-fives, pats on the back, and other experiences they previously received at school.

This means that it will be your job to fill in those gaps.

Becky Bailey, Ph.D. promotes the “I Love You Rituals” series on youtube as a way to incorporate healthy touch into your child’s life.

The four key ingredients of an “I Love You Ritual” are presence, healthy touch, gentle eye contact, and playfulness.

Sweet and playful connecting games, explained inDr. Bailey’s book, I Love You Rituals, can help increase the bonding and safety in your home.

Make sure to look up Ashley’s Conscious Life on Youtube to learn how to use “I Love You Rituals” in a day-to-day context.

Each of these tips will help keep your children safe during an uncertain time.

8. Social and Emotional Safety.

An important element of safety that cannot be neglected is children’s social and emotional safety.

Many schools provide social-emotional training every week.

At school, children learn to calm themselves, breathe deeply, solve arguments, and make friends.

Children learn how to express their frustration in helpful words and have a positive attitude towards life.

It’s important not to neglect children’s social and emotional safety.

If you choose to keep your children home from school, they may miss their friends and teachers.

You know you love your child. But how can you make sure your child knows it?

5 love languages of children will help you discover how to speak your child’s love language in a way that he or she understands.

They may miss the playground and after school activities even more.

If you send your child to a traditional school, they may feel stressed by seeing everyone in masks and by being introduced to rituals and routines that are completely foreign to them.

They may feel scared and startled by teachers who will no longer hug them, get close to them, or smile at them (due to social distancing and masks).

Social and emotional health are critical parts of safety.

Children whose emotional needs are not met are at a higher risk for anxiety and depression.

Are you listening to your children’s needs and point of view? Are you offering a comforting presence, understanding, curiosity, and kindness to your child?

These elements will improve their emotional well-being, which in turn promotes physical safety.

9. Other Immune Boosters.

The addition of immune system boosters to your daily regimen can help to ensure your children are safe at home and in the community.

In addition to healthy touch and psychological safety, there are many other simple, practical and cost-effective ways to support the immune system and help ensure your children’s safety during this volatile time.

Vitamin supplements, good nutrition, plenty of sleep, and exercise are other ways to ensure your child stays as healthy as possible.

First, help keep your children safe by boosting their immune defenses.

Vitamin C, D, and Zinc are the most popularly recommended by medical practitioners for immune system support.

All these supplements come in different forms including gummies.

Vitamin C is a well-known vitamin that helps children avoid sickness.

Pediatric gastroenterologist Kadakkal Radhakrishnan, MD, helps explain why this vitamin is so necessary especially for battling the common cold- https://health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/2017-11-29/vitamin-c-does-your-child-need-it#:~:text=The%20clear%20benefit%20for%20optimizing,in%20prevention%20of%20common%20cold.

Zinc and Vitamin D are also important for strengthening your body’s natural defenses.

Vitamin D helps your children to build strong bones. https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/vitamins-minerals/vitamin-d.html

Zinc keeps the immune system strong according to WebMD –https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and supplements/supplement-guide-zinc#1

Second, help keep your children safe by ensuring they have plenty of sleep.

The Sleep Foundation shares, “Without sufficient sleep, your body makes fewer cytokines, a type of protein that targets infection and inflammation, effectively creating an immune response…. Chronic sleep loss even makes the flu vaccine less effective by reducing your body’s ability to respond.” https://www.sleepfoundation.org/articles/how-sleep-affects-your-immunity.

Third, emphasize exercise for your children.

Ensure that they are getting outside to move their bodies in fun ways.

In this way, it will work out for the safety and health of all involved.

10. Trusting God Brings Ultimate Safety.

One of the most difficult admissions for you as a parent to make is that ultimately, you cannot ensure that your children are 100% safe.

Stray germs could come into the cleanest environment.

The most diligent teacher could allow a safety breach.

Danger could come out of nowhere. No matter how hard you try, you can’t ensure your child is 100% safe.

Even if you keep your child home 24/7, your child could be killed by a household plant, an extension cord, or a flat-screen TV! https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/things-in-your-house-that-can-kill-you/

Rather than becoming paranoid, we can seek God’s strength to rest in His sovereignty and love.

Ultimately, safety only comes from God.

The words of Psalm 27 describes an attitude of peaceful calm, trusting in the Lord’s protection:

“The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?

The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
whom shall I dread?

When the wicked came upon me to devour my flesh,
my enemies and foes stumbled and fell.

Though an army encamps around me,
my heart will not fear;

though a war breaks out against me,
I will keep my trust.” (Psalm 27:1-3 BSB)

The next verses explain the reason why David can have such confidence.

His ultimate request is not for protection from germs or other earthly harm.

“One thing I have asked of the LORD;
this is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the LORD
all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the LORD
and seek Him in His temple.

For in the day of trouble
He will hide me in His shelter;

(God)He will conceal me under the cover of His tent;
He will set me high upon a rock.” (Psalm 27:4-5 BSB)

Ultimately, our safety comes from God alone.

When our desire is the presence of God, we feel the security of hiding under his wings—even if we do get sick.

We should continue to work hard and do our best to keep our children safe.

But in the end, we should entrust them to the one who loves them more than we do.

And in Him, we can rest.

Praying for God’s continued blessings and guidance………♥

Family Marriage Relationships

Small Love Gestures That Keep A Relationship Going Strong

Post author By Joann
Post date August 17, 2020
No Comments on Small Love Gestures That Keep A Relationship Going Strong

Small Love Gestures that Keep a Relationship Going Strong.

You may have seen the catchphrase, “It’s the small moments that make life big,” plastered in a sentimental scrapbook or posted beside a baby photo on social media.

But have you ever taken the time to think carefully about the truth behind this statement?

We often work, labor, and stress to achieve great moments: a vacation, a college degree, or a great milestone.

But we don’t take the time to realize that each everyday experience with our friends, spouses, and children are the stuff of life.

The love dare is a 40-day challenge for husbands and wives to understand and practice unconditional love.

It’s the small love gestures that keep any relationship going good.

Without the little things, the big achievements will have no significance.

Here are some small love gestures and tips you can put in practice every day to show your spouse or partner that you love them.

These are proven strategies that can work no matter what season your relationship is going through.

These small love gestures don’t take a lot of time or money.

Some of them just take a second or two of your time but have lasting positive effects on your relationship.

They can help you and your spouse weather through the fall and winter seasons of marriage.

They can have a monumental effect to bond you and your spouse together as one happy couple.

Do you know what your partner’s love language is? Find out here.

Let’s look at some of the best simple love gestures that can keep a marriage going strong.

#1. Simple Smile

A simple smile is one of the small gestures for a happier relationship.

Dopamine, endorphins, oxytocin, and serotonin -AKA “happiness hormones” are all released when you smile.

These happiness hormones are associated with stress reduction, bonding, and relaxation.

A smile can have a powerful effect on your happiness and on your relationships.

One source says that more feel-good chemicals are released from a single smile than when receiving a large sum of money.

Give your partner a simple smile.

It’s a simple, painless, and free way to improve your quality of life. Show that you are truly happy to see him or her. Take the time to smile.

It’s the small things that matter. A Heartfelt smile is a small love gesture that can get the best out of your partner.

#2. Say Thank you. Appreciate your Mate

A married couple with nearly forty years of experience shares that one of the most meaningful small things in their marriage was thankfulness.

The husband thanked his wife for the daily chores and small tasks she performed for the family.

Every day, he thanked her for the delicious meals she created.

By example, they taught their children to cultivate a habit of thankfulness.

Saying thank you is another example of small love gestures that make a big difference.

#3. Ask Questions

Ask questions instead of making assumptions.

Engage your spouse in a meaningful conversation.

Show you care by asking about their day. You can ask as soon as they get home or over dinner.

Do a simple online search for conversation starters for couples, then bring those questions into your daily life.

Here’s a link to 100 questions that every couple needs in their relationship – the questions were specifically designed to build trust, openness, and eventually feelings of deep intimacy.

Don’t just rotate in the same ruts that you’ve always used.

Try to bring in new topics of conversation and learn something new about your spouse every day.

Asking your partner about their day is a small love gesture that shows that you care.

#4. Surprise Your Partner With gifts As a Love Gesture

Listen to your spouse’s conversation and try to tune into the small nuances that provide clues to the things they like and dislike.

Then surprise them with gifts “just because.” It will bring a smile to your spouse’s face.

Meaningful gift ideas include flowers, gourmet chocolates, special cookies, perfumes/colognes, or anything that can make their day special.

Essential oils – EO, is not a woman’s only thing anymore.

Men love them too! Essential oils are great gift ideas. Topped with a classy diffuser and a pure organic carrier.

Hmmm, these can really spice things up.

#5. Show Your Spouse You Are Thinking of Them

Sometimes the most powerful small love gestures include showing that someone that you are thinking about them.

You can surprise her by having lunch delivered to her job. You can out of the blues, prepare his favorite dish.

A Chocolatier Gold Ballotin is always a good gift idea.

Just sacrifice a little to make them feel special.

Even if your spouse does not respond, send him or her a text during the day, letting them know you are thinking of them and praying for them.

Remember the events that your spouse has scheduled for the day, and ask how those things are going.

#6. Simple Touch

Simple touch means a brief, playful touch that brings connection.

Pat their shoulder, caress their hair, do a special handshake, or give a brief kiss or hug.

Do these rituals daily to enrich your life.

RELATED: How do I make my relationship stay strong – 16 Ways.

Reach out and make the first move. Show your spouse you care and want to connect.

#7. Create Daily Rituals In Your Relationship

Every relationship should have rhythms and patterns of connection.

These patterns lend stability to relationships.

Check-in every morning over coffee. Hold hands and pray. Call each other at lunchtime and check-in.

Take time each week to go over that week’s schedule and pray together over your week.

Doing your rituals on a regular, recurring basis will help you and your spouse feel safe.

Becky Bailey calls these rituals of connection, “I Love You Rituals.”

She says that “I Love You Rituals” contains four ingredients: playfulness, simple touch, presence, and gentle eye contact.

While most of her I Love You Rituals are geared for adults connecting with children, partners can incorporate the same principles into their interactions with one another.

Are you truly present with your spouse during that quick kiss? Do you touch them gently, look fondly into their eyes, and express playfulness and joy?

It’s these little things that matter.

#8. Respond To Your Spouse’s “Bids.”

Dr. Steve Call says that couples are constantly sending out “bids” for attention.

Here’s a link to Dr. Calls’ “reconnect: insights and tools for cultivating meaningful connection in your marriage.”

Like a slight nose-scratch or cough from a bidder at an auction, some of these bids are subtle and hard to notice.

Nonetheless, spouses are constantly asking one another for connection in small ways.

It’s important to notice and respond positively to your spouse’s bid for attention.

If they hint at going out to eat, taking a walk, chatting about the day, or playing a board game, make sure you don’t brush off this small invitation.

Notice their “bid” for attention and respond with kindness.

If you’re not available right then, make sure you schedule another time when the two of you could connect.

If you make a habit of dismissing or ignoring your spouse’s bids, she or he may stop asking, and your relationship will suffer.

#9. Give Them Wildflowers

How about finding a small bouquet of lovely sweet peas, daisies, trumpet vine, or daffodils?

Wildflowers are a small but significant way to add beauty and love to your spouse’s life.

Even if not expensive, a small love gesture like this shows your spouse that you took time and effort to show them that you care about them.

Wildflowers are another example of small things that matter.

#10. Say “I Love You.”

Sometimes we assume that others know that we love them. But the words matter.

Many songs have been written on the importance of verbalizing our love.

Sometimes, we realize too late that we should have been more diligent about speaking love out loud.

Ron Hamilton’s song reminds us, “Life is but a vapor, quickly vanishing away.

Wait until tomorrow and your change may flee away.

Give a fragrant flower while its beauty still can charm. Give a kiss to warm the longing heart.

Say ‘I love you’ while the heart can feel. Say ‘I love you’ while the heat can heal.

Make a heart rejoice, give your love a voice. Speak the words while you can say ‘I love you.’”

The Bible says it’s the little things that matter. “For who has despised the day of small things?” God asks in Zechariah 4:10.

God says that the tiny mustard seed can grow into a giant tree (Mark 4:10).

A tiny bit of yeast can spread through an entire lump of dough (Matthew 13:33).

On the flip side, a tiny negative word of anger or hatred can spread, causing great destruction and devastation (James 3:5).

It’s worth our time to make sure that the small moments in marriage are healthy, beautiful, and nurturing to our spouse.

It’s not the heart-stopping moments of romance, the breathtaking honeymoon destinations, or the great accomplishments that make a marriage successful.

Without small moments of love and daily tenderness, any marriage or relationship quickly becomes difficult and suffocating.

Take time today to cultivate small things that matter.

In the end, you will find that your small investments will pay giant dividends.

Now that you got the picture, what’s your action plan?

You are in this for the long run, so do your part, keep it real and allow peace, happiness, and love to reign!

What do you think? Please share your thoughts in the comments.

Sending lots of love, positivity, and blessings your way:).

Dating Family INSPIRATION Marriage Newlyweds Relationships

Best Uplifting Quotes To Brighten Your Day

Post author By Joann
Post date July 22, 2020
6 Comments on Best Uplifting Quotes To Brighten Your Day

Sometimes, you may find you need some uplifting words that can brighten your day.

You may need reflective words or words of wisdom – an uplifting quote that can bring about a much-needed change or pull you in a better and more positive direction.

Find a comfortable spot like this to reflect on these words.

Words are powerful.

An uplifting quote can serve as a guiding light to self-enlightenment and productivity.

Well-articulated quotes can kindle fresh determination, inspiration and hope. They can trigger new perspectives and bring relief.

Here are some of my favorite uplifting and motivational quotes.

There are some that are specific for marriage relationships and they have a ♥ by them.

Here’s a link to a must-have book for all married couples.

There are specific and focused quotes towards the end for husbands and wives. You can’t miss those!

I’ll continue to update this list as I find more inspiration, so please keep checking back for more uplifting quotes!

If any of these quotes have blessed you in any way, please do not hesitate to share them with your friends and family.

Please share with me in the comments section at the end of the page what your favorite uplifting quote is!

It is my prayer that they would help you in a remarkable way along your journey to better relationship experiences and to encourage you to stay sensitive and intentional.

Here we go, the best uplifting inspirational quotes to brighten your day.

“We tend to forget that happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have.” -Frederick Keonig

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.” – Helen Keller

♥“A happy marriage is a long conversation which always seems too short.” -Andre Maurois

♥“The real act of marriage takes place in the heart, not in the ballroom or church or synagogue. It’s a choice you make – not just on your wedding day, but over and over again – and that choice is reflected in the way you treat your husband or wife.” -Barbara De Angelis

“Kindness has no religion. Religions are like narrow tracks, but kindness is like an open sky.” – Amit Ray

“Every morning when I get up, I ask God what he wants me to do, ask Him to lead me to the right people to help them.”– Richard Simmons

“Patience is the calm acceptance that things can happen in a different order than the one you have in mind.” – David G. Allen

♥“Let the wife make the husband glad to come home, and let him make her sorry to see him leave.” – Martin Luther

“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experiences of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” – Helen Keller

♥“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. -1st. Corinthians 13; 3-7 NLT

“Success is a lousy teacher. It seduces smart people into thinking they can’t lose” – Bill Gates

Powerful monthly Biblical affirmations for courageous faith is another resource that elevates the spirit daily. Check it out.

“Love is of all passions the strongest, for it attacks simultaneously the head, the heart, and the senses.” – Lao Tzu

“When you love someone, the best thing you can offer is your presence. How can you love if you are not there?” -Thich Nhat Hanh

♥ “If love cannot stand the test of time, then it has failed the test of love.” – Bernard Byer
“What I write comes from a place of deep love, and a deep understanding of all kinds of otherness.” – Jacqueline Woodson
♥ “Love is not finding someone to live with. It’s finding someone you can’t live without.” – Rafael Ortiz
“When God puts love and compassion in your heart toward someone, He’s offering you an opportunity to make a difference in that person’s life. You must learn to follow that love. Don’t ignore it. Act on it. Somebody needs what you have.”― Joel Osteen, Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential♥” True love is eternal, infinite, and always like itself. It is equal and pure, without violent demonstrations: it is seen with white hairs and is always young in the heart.” -Honore de Balzac
“Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down”. – Oprah Winfrey
“Love is begun by time, And time qualifies the spark and fire of it.” – Shakespeare
“When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.” – Henry Ford
♥“What counts in making a happy marriage is not so much how compatible you are, but how you deal with incompatibility.” -Leo Tolstoy
“When you face adversity, you need to remind yourself that whatever is trying to defeat you could very well be what God will use to promote you.” ― Joel Osteen, Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential
♥ “Love is everything it’s cracked up to be. It really is worth fighting for, being brave for, risking everything for.” – Erica Jong
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, But fools despise wisdom and instruction.” – Proverbs 1:7 NKJV
♥“Great marriages don’t happen by luck or by accident. They are the result of a consistent investment of time, thoughtfulness, forgiveness, affection, prayer, mutual respect, and a rock-solid commitment between a husband and a wife.” – Dave Willis
♥“Marriage is sharing your life with your best friend, enjoying the journey along the way, and arriving at every destination together – Fawn Weaver
You may also like the 12 best secrets to a long-lasting relationship.
“Quit worrying about how everything is going to turn out. Live one day at a time; better yet, make the most of this moment. It’s good to have a big–picture outlook, to set goals, to establish budgets, and make plans, but if you’re always living in the future, you’re never really enjoying the present in the way God wants you to.”― Joel Osteen, Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential.
♥“A marriage cannot survive when we think only of ourselves. We need to recognize that to love someone is a choice, not a feeling. – Christin Slade
♥“He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.” –Proverbs 18:22
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16 NKJV
“Words are powerful, speak wisely.” – Unknown
“Think before you speak. In the heat of the moment. It’s easy to say something you’ll later regret.” – Dr. Anil Kumar Sinha
“Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” – 1 John 4:11 NKJV
“Your desire to succeed should be driven by the need to fulfill your God-given purpose and not attract the praise of men.” –Tolu Thomy
“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.” – Brene Brown
“Let your past make you better, not bitter.” -Unknown
♥“When couples focus on remaining two while God is seeking to create oneness in them, they are inadvertently working against His purpose.” – Dr. Tony Evans
“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Words travel far more than we can ever reach across hearts and live longer than we can ever live on earth and as such, should be spoken with a lot of goodness in them.” – Terry Mark
“Be sure to taste all of your words before you spit them out.” – Unknown
“Think twice before you speak, because your words and influence will plant the seed of either success or failure in the mind of another.” – Napoleon Hill
“Purpose is that power that will propel you to get out of bed in the morning and push you to make your dreams come true.” – Unknown
“Never underestimate the power to change you.” – Walter Ngele

♥“I have known many happy marriages, but never a compatible one. The whole aim of marriage is to fight through and survive the instant when incompatibility becomes unquestionable.” – G.K. Chesterton
“Sin and Hell are married unless repentance proclaims the divorce.” — Spurgeon
“The truth carries a weight that no lie can counterfeit.” – John Hagee
“Today, if you are feeling overwhelmed, Jesus Christ is the rock who is high above your circumstance.” – Joel Osteen
“Righteous bumper provides motivation to push through difficulties.” – Dr. Charles Stanley
“Attacking the successful does not delete your failure.” – Dr. Pastor Paul Enenche
“Time changes, but truth never change.” – Unknown
“Children of today, there’s no benefit in rebellion.” – Dr. Pastor Paul Eneche
“Favor is the secret to uncommon blessings. Favor is the difference between your present and your future.” – Prophet Nanasei Sarkodie

“No matter what the matter is, you will matter when it matters most.” – Dr. Chris Okafor
“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, all play and no work makes Jack a poor boy.” -Unknown
“Dwelling on negative thoughts is like fertilizing weeds.” – Normal Vincent Peale
“When you appreciate the insignificant, you attract the significant.” – Skip Prichard
“Stop being jealous of people in their winning season. You don’t know what they lost in their losing season.” – Unknown

“Failure in education is not a failure in life. Failure is by determination.” – Unknown
“What you believe is what you become.” – Unknown
♥Where you go, I’ll go, where you stay, I’ll stay. – Ruth 1:16
The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. – Deuteronomy 31:8
“We are most grateful for life’s mountain tops when we have experienced life’s valleys” – Skip Prichard
“I want peace, happiness, not only for myself, for everybody.” – Fela Kuti

“It is better to be a fool for Christ than a hero for the world for the times of the world will pass away, but the blessings of Christ will endure forever.” – Pastor John Hagee
“You are creative, you are alive, you are the stuff life is made of. What else could possibly matter?” – Iyanla Vanzant
“Don’t you dare allow personal fear to limit what God will do in your life.” – Pastor Mathew Hagee
♥“What makes a marriage strong is loving with a biblical love grounded in patience, kindness, loyalty, grace, and more, which is in alignment with God’s covenantal purpose for marriage“. – Dr. Tony Evans

“Five Daily Reminders: 1. You only fail if you quit 2. Everyone’s journey is different 3. Things always get better with time. 4. The past cannot be changed 5. Happiness is found within” – Unknown
“The man who is powerful FEARS nothing; not even God. The powerful man loves God, but FEARS him never! Enduring power never grows out of FEAR. Any power that is built upon FEAR is bound to crumble and disintegrate. Understand this great truth and you will never be so unfortunate as to raise yourself to power through the FEARS of other people who may owe you temporary allegiance.” – Napoleon Hill
“Nothing works unless it originates from God.”– Unknown

♥“Love is like a friendship caught on fire. In the beginning a flame, very pretty, often hot and fierce, but still only light and flickering. As love grows older, our hearts mature and our love becomes as coals, deep-burning, and unquenchable.” – Bruce Lee

“Life is about keys when you have a key, you don’t knock, you open the door.” – Archbishop Nick Duncan-Williams

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” – Walt Disney

♥ “If you can’t do anything about it, then let it go. Don’t be a prisoner to things you can’t change.” – Tony Gaskins
♥ “God never said that the journey would be easy, but He did say that the arrival would be worthwhile” – Max Lucado
You may also like the best marriage advice for newlyweds – 31 tips.
“God will meet you where you are in order to take you where He wants you to go.” – Dr. Tony Evans
♥ “Remember who you are. Don’t compromise for anyone, for any reason. You are a child of the Almighty God. Live that truth.” – Lysa Terkeurst
“If you can’t fly, then run, If you can’t run, then walk, If you can’t walk, then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
“Our greatest fear should not be of failure but of succeeding at things in life that don’t really matter.” – Francis Chan
You may also like the 4 Sentence Prayer That Instantly Grants Your Heart’s Fiercest Desires.
“The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say, ‘O God, forgive me,’ or ‘Help me.’” – Billy Graham
“There is a reason the windshield is bigger than the rearview mirror. Your future matters more than your past.” – Max Lucado
“Your potential is the sum of all the possibilities God has for your life.” – Charles Stanley
“The greater your knowledge of the goodness and grace of God on your life, the more likely you are to praise Him in the storm.” – Matt Chandler
“The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; and, he will exult over you with loud singing.” – Zephaniah 3:17
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6
You may also like tips on how to intentionally pray for and with your children.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
“God is love. He didn’t need us. But he wanted us. And that is the most amazing thing.” – Rick Warren
♥“Christian marriage does not exist for the benefit of the two people in the marriage; it is for the benefit of the world, that God would be glorified in it. The main purpose of marriage is not the enjoyment of the two people who are married, the main purpose of marriage is to glorify Christ as we participate in the mission of God.” -Tim Suttle

Biblical Caution

Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. Philippians 2:4 NLT

“Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” -Galatians 6:2 NLT

^“Don’t befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people, or you will learn to be like them and endanger your soul.” – Proverbs 22: 24-25 NLT

“Don’t be fooled by those who say such things, for “bad company corrupts good character.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it, is like wrapping a present and not giving it. – William Ward

“The opposite of love is not hatred; it’s indifference.” -Elie Wiesel

For Husbands

The Christlike husband is not supposed to be mean, harsh, provoke, or ill-treat their wives.

They are to love their wives as they love their own bodies. Would anyone ever harm their own bodies?

Be patient with your wife. Women go through some emotions that are peculiar to them, sometimes we do not understand it ourselves.

As her first responder, instead of being nonchalant, be kind and understanding. It takes very little or few gestures to please a woman.

You will progress more if your wife is 100% on your team. You are the head of the household, stay proactive, focused, and intentional, and do all you can to keep your home moving in the right direction.

If you become passive and the wife takes over, please don’t complain and call her liberated and disrespectful.

You cannot hold your wife to a standard or accountability that you will not hold yourself to as well.

Blessings to you, the great man of valor!

♥“In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church.” – Ephesians 5:28 NIV

♥ “Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” – Colossians 3:19 NIV

♥ “Husbands, in the same way, be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.” – 1 Peter 3:7 NIV

“As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” – Proverbs 27:17

“Home is where everyone comes for respite and rest, but if a home environment does not provide the love that children need, then they will seek it elsewhere. ” – Nicoline Ambe, Being Dad

For Wives

The kingdom wife is supposed to respect (reverence) their husband.

They are expected to control their emotions and not nag, belittle, insult, talk negatively or gossip about their husbands, or bring them shame by the way they live at home or in the community.

Some men like to be respected for their intelligence and physical strength.

Some women look at it as “ego.”

Hey ladies, if all it takes for him to be the kingdom man you want is to respect his intelligence and physical strength and boost his ego from time to time? Please, by all means, do it!

♥ However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband. – Ephesians 5:33 NIV

“I love you not only for what you are but for what I am when I am with you.” – Roy Croft

♥“Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.” – Proverbs 31:11-12 NLT

♥“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.” – Proverbs 31:26-27 NIV

“Compassion is like a mother giving love to her children. Mother’s ways are higher than others, even when everyone rejects, mother accepts with her arms open and wide.” -Amit Ray

“When I am frustrated with my husband and feel like giving up on us, I have two choices. One: I can choose love and work on my marriage or, two: I can choose to love and work on my marriage.” -Darlene Schacht

“For our home to be a refuge it needs to be a place where love, compassion, and patience prevail.” – Allan Lokos, Patience: The Art of Peaceful Living

Encouragement

^♥Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

^♥Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? – Ecclesiastes 4:11

♥“You don’t fall into love. You commit to it. Love is saying ‘I will be there no matter what.’” -Tim Keller

^♥So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.– 1 Thessalonians 5:11

♥For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them. – Matthew 18:20

♥ As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.
– Proverbs 27:17

♥“Conflicts are not a sign you’ve married the wrong person. They simply affirm you are human.” -Dr. Gary Chapman

Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. – Hebrews 10:24-25

“Your mind is the only thing you can control exclusively. Don’t give it away too freely through useless arguments.” – Napoleon Hill

“Excellence is the best deterrent to racism or sexism.” – Oprah Winfrey

♥“Love is supposed to be based on trust, and trust on love, it’s something rare and beautiful when people can confide in each other without fearing what the other person will think.” – E.A. Bucchianeri

“And now these three remain faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” -1 Corinthians 13:13

Do you have a favorite quote you would like to share? Please let me know in the comments.

Please don’t forget to share! Get your free printable version of quotes below.

Sending lots of Blessings, Love & Positivity your Way…………♥

Life Style

17 Simple Ways To Deal With Stress And Anxiety

Post author By Joann
Post date July 21, 2020
2 Comments on 17 Simple Ways To Deal With Stress And Anxiety

17 Simple Ways to Deal with Stress and Anxiety.

Attention: You must take conscious control of your brain if you want to be successful. It’s about time to develop a winning mindset. Watch this video to the end to improve your mindset NOW.

Having some stress in your life is natural, but too much is bad for you.

It doesn’t matter where we find ourselves on our journey in life, whether it’s our career or our personal endeavors, we all deal with stress every single day.

We all have experienced and will sometime experience some levels of stress and anxiety.

The good news is that we don’t have to let them control our lives.

You can relieve your pain from the source.

Not all stress is bad. In fact, some Stress can help us stay on our toes and enable us to adjust to life’s changes.

How do we deal with stress?

How we deal with stress can make all the difference.

About 70% of adults in the United States say they feel some stress and anxiety daily.

Want to know something? There’s not been a time in history where the level of overall stress of humanity has been greater than it is today.

This is due in part to the fast-paced and ever-changing world of the internet, cell phones, emails, text messaging, and everything in between.

Too much stress and anxiety are bad, so how to manage them could be powerful tools for better overall health and wellness.

In this article, we are going to give you some practical tips that are effective for stress and anxiety relief.

Your stomach is twisted up in knots. It’s late at night, but you can’t sleep.

The uncertainty and the roller coaster of current events have kept you hopping, always on your toes.

Any hopes you may have had for family bonding or project completion during stay-at-home orders have worn off, and you’re just plain tired of the constant challenges.

New York Times best-selling author, Max Lucado, provides a roadmap on how to deal with fear and anxiety in his book/audiobook; “Anxious for Nothing: Finding Calm in a Chaotic World.”

It’s not fun anymore: Not knowing if you’re going back to church, not knowing if your kids will go back to school, not knowing if you will have a job.

Uncertainty gnaws at your soul like a rodent gnawing away inside a wall: You know it’s there, but you can’t quite get to it.

It’s difficult to relax because you don’t have an idea about what is going to happen next.

If you tune in to your over tired body, your frazzled mind, and your tense soul, you will realize that finding a way to relax is of utmost importance—even if it’s hard.

We have dozens of causes of stress and anxiety, but we need to learn how to let go and unwind.

Finding natural ideas for stress and anxiety relief is a priority.

A targeted 10 -day spiritual plan for overcoming stress is a great proven resource.

Here are some more simple and pain-free ways to reduce stress and anxiety naturally.

#1. Take A Break From Social Media To Relieve Stress And Anxiety

This idea might seem simplistic, but you might be surprised to realize how much of your stress and anxiety sprouts from the constant conflicts and comparison traps in the social media world.

Anxiety heightens as you wait to see if your beautiful photo, witty saying, or meaningful video will be approved and “liked” by friends and acquaintances.

Stress soars as you compare your daily life, successes, and thoughts with those of others.

Expressing an innocent opinion or thought can lead to dozens of angry and hateful responses.

Tension mounts as you watch people argue about politics, theology, and current events online.

So much stress, anger, and frustration reside within the addictive realms of social media.

Take a break for an hour, a day, or a week.

Set yourself a reasonable goal about how long you can stay off social media.

After the initial pull towards social media wears off, you may find you don’t miss it.

In this related post, we talk about 12 effective tips on how to digitally detox your relationship.

This is one way of managing stress and anxiety.

#2. Use Your Five Senses In Nature

Romans 1:20-21 says that nature reveals God’s character:

“For His invisible attributes, namely, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived… in the things that have been made.…Although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking…”

These verses explain that the physical world reflects and illuminates God’s character.

These 3-minute meditations will teach you the number one secret to have more peace, tranquility, and balance in your life.

It reveals the 3 most common barriers you are facing that are stopping you from getting the peace of mind and anxiety-free living that you deserve.

Observing God’s attributes, shown in nature, actually clears your thinking and keeps your mind from turning down futile, dark, anxious paths.

Aim to spend quiet time in nature for at least two minutes a day. If it’s impossible to go outside, open the window screen and lean out into the fresh air.

Let the wind caress your cheek. Tune in to the sounds of birds, wind, traffic, or dogs barking.

Allow your senses to tell you about the texture of the grass beneath your bare feet or the velvet petal of a rose.

Smell the fresh, fragrant air after a rain.

Taste a ripe fruit from your garden. As you relax, ponder what you see of God in nature.

Have you thought about His kindness in providing you with these beautiful experiences? Or, do you see His power in creating the farthest star and the tiniest DNA?

Do you see His faithfulness in bringing the sun over the horizon every morning?

Maybe you feel His renewing power as you see new flowers and sprouts breaking out of the ground.

As you ponder God’s character, take time to thank Him.

Visit your gratitude jar if you have one.

Thanking God for His character, revealed in nature, keeps our minds from dark paths (Romans 1:20-21).

Appreciation of God’s character and reliance on HIS sovereignty is a stress reliever.

#3. Spend Time With Animals

Stroking the soft hair of a velvety rabbit, feeling a loving kitty rub his head against your leg,

seeing your loyal puppy smiling up at you—these are gentle reminders of the benefit of spending time with animals.

God created animals to provide service and companionship to humans.

Scientists agree that animals can quickly cause your stress levels to plummet.

So, get out there and pet your dog!

If you don’t own a pet, contact your local Humane Society and see if they have a Dog’s Day Out Program.

Dog’s Day Out programs connect local people with a stressed and lonely dog from the shelter and allow them to take the dog on an adventure to a park or home.

In this way, locals who don’t have money or time to devote to a pet can enjoy the therapeutic and relaxing benefits of spending time with an animal.

If dogs are not your thing, contact a local horse therapy organization and discover what horses can reveal about fear, confidence, and healing.

Studies show that playing with or petting animals can increase levels of the stress-reducing hormone oxytocin and decrease the production of the stress hormone cortisol.

#4. Find Ways To Connect With Other People

During the COVID-19 epidemic, we have to be more creative in seeking ways to build relationships with others.

Even though it’s difficult, it’s still possible to connect with people. If your State allows it, invite neighbors to sit outside, six feet apart, under the shade of a tree.

Watch the sun illuminate your space as it slowly sinks below the horizon.

Experience the embodied joy of hand gestures, smiles, eye contact, and connection—elements of a relationship that can only be fully enjoyed in person.

British scientists have shown that people experience more endorphins, or feel-good hormones when they see a smiling face than when they receive a large sum of money.

Smiles are in short supply now that masks often cover the lower half of people’s faces.

If needed, resort to Zoom, Skype, or Face Time to get one-on-one interaction. Find ways to share smiles, air hugs, and meaningful interpersonal conversation.

Bask in the simple joys of life to get relief from stress and anxiety.

#5. Meditate On God’s Word

God commands us to meditate on His word. Much stress and anxiety could be relieved by meditation.

In Joshua 1:6-9, sandwiched between three exhortations to be strong and courageous, God commands Joshua to “meditate on it [God’s word] day and night.”

A simple way to meditate is to find a Bible promise book, choose a promise, and think about it constantly for two to five minutes.

Go ahead and get comfy, breathe deeply, and bring your mind back to that Bible verse as often as it wanders away.

Ponder on God’s word. You will get relief from stress and anxiety almost immediately.

Nicholas Carr and Curt Thompson emphasize that when we think about something repetitively, our brains create stronger neural pathways.

Like a rut that is worn by continual travel, we wear ruts in our brains. Whatever we think about over and over form repetitive neural ruts in our minds.

When our mind is on neutral, we repeat the same thoughts that we’ve thought so many times before.

For Bible meditation, this is very good news. The more you think about and ponder the word of God, the more your brain will begin to build new pathways that you can more easily fall back on.

Choose a verse, like Psalm 62:1-2: “For God alone, my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.”

Or Psalm 91: 1-3: “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him.

For He will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease.”

Turn it over and over in your mind. Let your mind ponder and let your heart connect emotionally with the Lord.

Drift to waiting silently on Him. Think about how He is your rock, a fortress, and a place of safety.

Think about this for two to five minutes—or longer if you can. You will be surprised at how calm you feel afterward.

#6. Try A Cuddle Swing

Originally designed for people with autism or special sensory needs, cuddle swings are a tremendously calming tool for any person of any age.

Made of Lycra, these swings swaddle you, offering the feeling of a secure hug.

Cuddle swings are an enticing place to take a nap, read, or recover from intense feelings.

When you order, make sure to check the weight limit so you can purchase one that can hold your body weight.

If you’d like to make your own, buy several yards of Lycra and loop it over a secure hook or bar.

Tie it securely and climb in!

Just make sure that the bottom of the hanging swing is around chest height. Once you climb in, it will stretch, hanging close to the ground.

It is advisable to buy one if you can’t make one.

It may create more stress and anxiety to try to venture into something new.

A cuddle swing or porch swing provides a feeling of safety and comfort.

#7. Gardening

Another simple way to deal with stress and anxiety is by starting good old gardening – Planting a mix of wildflowers, herbs, or vegetables.

You can start off with container gardening and/or raised beds. Make it a family affair. It could become a family digital detox tradition.

Did you know that the microbes found in soil are natural antidepressants?

Gardening gives a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.

It offers yet another chance to get outside in the fresh air and listen to the birds and the insects singing in the balmy summer afternoon.

Plus, fresh vegetables and fruit are added rewards.

#8. Prayer

Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Prayer is our route of communication with the all-powerful God who sees and knows every trial that we are in.

When we feel out of control, talking to God reminds us that there is someone, a higher power who is perfectly capable of handling our desperate situation.

Antidepressants and other mood enhancers are being prescribed at a higher rate than ever before and some people do rely on them for their benefits.

Millions of people around the world rely on their faith for stress management. They can go straight to God with no waiting in line, no prescription, absolutely free access when they are stressed and get protection and relief.

Faith implies that we trust and believe in God, with an unshakable hope that He has a better plan or agenda for our lives.

When we have that assurance, we are able to align our thoughts to things that matter most with a better sense of purpose.

Prayer and faith are my best stress reduction techniques!

“As pressure and stress bear down on me, I find joy in your commands.” (Psalm 119:143)

#9. Gratefulness

Stress and anxiety and gratefulness cannot coexist.

Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us that we will feel peace guarding our hearts and minds when we give thanks to God.

But did you know that science says the same thing? Jerusha Clark says, “Don’t worry; instead, thank God; then you get peace.

That sounds great, but is it really practical? Yes, especially with this keepsake.

Yes! Brain research clearly shows that anxiety and gratitude are mutually exclusive neural pathways.

Physiologically, you cannot be anxious and grateful at the same time…During active appreciation, the threatening messages from your…fear center…are cut off, suddenly and surely, from access to your brain’s neocortex…

It is a fact of neurology that the brain cannot be in a state of appreciation and a state of fear at the same time. The two states may alternate, but are mutually exclusive.”

What an amazing Creator God we serve! Why not take time to thank God for three things right now?

You can start with this.

Light up a gratitude candle! Don’t you feel better?

#10. Try Something New

When you’re in a rut, it’s amazing how a new activity or hobby can wake up your brain and your mind.

Find a new restaurant, go to a new store, listen to a new genre of music, or read a type of book that you don’t usually get into.

Change it up a little. Try some new makeup.

Change your hairstyle.

You may find that the new activity adds a missing spark of joy to your life.

Try redirecting your thoughts and training your mind to focus through meditation.

Look in the mirror, decree, and declare good things to yourself.

Get a meditation chair or cushion and practice normal breathing in and out.

Also, practice deep breathing in and out.

You will notice how your stress level reduces and you develop more concentration with each inhalation and exhalation.

#11. Exercise

Exercise is an important way of managing stress and anxiety naturally. Make sure to get some heart-pumping aerobic exercise.

Stretch and let your tense muscles loosen.

Release stress, gain emotional strength and nurture stronger relationships with this 7-minute regimen.

Take a walk outdoors and get your lymph, blood, and energy flowing.

Release tension and stress as you get your body moving.

Even though it’s hard to get up off the couch, you will find that you don’t regret it when you add stress exercises to your daily regimen.

Yoga is another form of physical, mental and spiritual practices that professes harmony in the body, mind, and environment. Many Yoga enthusiasts believe that a combination of the physical poses, controlled breathing, and relaxation techniques help to reduce stress, lower heart rate and blood pressure.

Progressive Yoga can be The Map, Torch, and Compass through your Stress.

Here’s a link to; A versatile Yoga Stretch Straps with an exercise Booklet & Carry Bag.

They say that exercising for 30 minutes per day is one of the best things you can do for both your mind and your body.

Not only does it help you keep fit, but it also gets the blood pumping around in your body.

While you’re doing exercises, there are chemicals being released from your brain that can elevate your mood.

#12. Sunshine

When John Denver said, “Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy…Sunshine almost always makes me high,” he was on to something.

The beautiful light of the sun is another one of God’s provisions to bring peace and hope to dark days.

Sunshine not only gives us Vitamin D – a prohormone that promotes healthy bones and teeth and supports the immune system*, but it also increases our brain’s production of feel-good chemicals. Can you get outside in the sunshine today?

You can also get vitamin D through certain foods or in a bottle here; Vitamin D3 (5000iu/125mcg) Infused with Coconut Oil ~ Non-GMO & Gluten Free (360 Mini Liquid Softgels)

Or can you find a spot where the sun is streaming through the window?

Try to have some sun-time every day!

#13. Eat The Right Things

This may sound too elementary but it is a reminder of a simple way to reduce stress and anxiety.

A healthy diet that includes nutrient-rich plant foods, anti-inflammatory fats, and adequate protein reduces stress and anxiety.

You can also supplement your diet with natural anxiety and stress relief supplements.

Also, avoid foods that are processed, unhealthy, and high in sugar.

You can also focus on eating foods like:

• Fruits

* Leafy Vegetables

• Seeds and Nuts

*Organic Dark chocolate

• Lots of water

* Lean proteins

• Gluten-free whole grains

• Chamomile tea

#14.Essential Oils And Candles

Some research suggests that the scent of aromatherapy essential oils may help reduce stress.

Using essential oils -EO in a diffuser or burning a scented candle may help reduce your feelings of stress and anxiety.

These essential oils are said to be among the things that help with anxiety. They are helpful in combating stress as well.

• Lavender

• Lemongrass

* Rose

• Lemon

• Vetiver

* Bergamot

• Yuzu

• Valerian

* Jasmine

• Holy basil

• Sweet basil

* Roman chamomile

• Neroli

• Frankincense

* Sandalwood

• Chamomile

• Clary sage

* Patchouli

• Fennel

• Ylang-ylang

* Orange or orange blossom

• Geranium

Here’s a link to your organic essential oil kit; USDA Organic Aromatherapy Essential Oils Set (Top 8), 100% Pure Natural – Peppermint, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Frankincense & Orange.

#15. Prevention Is Key

This sounds like the simplest but also the hardest thing to do!

Identify the stressors that may trigger your stress. You can record your triggers in this journal.

They may be recent conditions or they could have been there all along.

We need to focus on developing or creating habits to keep things on track and stay on top of our game.

Resisting procrastinating and staying true to self are ways to prevent stress before they creep up. I call them staying on track anti stress strategies.

#16. Cut Down On Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant found in tea, coffee, energy drinks, and some soft drinks.

It is a known fact that the ingestion of high levels of caffeine can make some people be anxious and jittery while some people tolerate it better.

If you are very sensitive to caffeine to the extent that certain quantities increase your stress and anxiety levels, then you need to either cut it off or reduce the quantity and strength of it that you consume.

An alternative to coffee is Yerba Mate if you can’t stay away from caffeine.

It gives the same effects as coffee but is also packed with amazing beneficial nutrients.

Begin your experience with this starter set.

It comes in a variety of flavors. This organic brand has very good reviews and is very reasonably priced.

#17. Self Care And Self Compassion

1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”

God never promised us that we would be immune to the troubles and cares of this world.

His word and the Holy Spirit, however, provide cushions for a safe landing.

Whenever you do feel like you are stressed or anxious, a good way to cope is to have a routine that will help you focus on stress management techniques.

Focus on self-care but more especially on soul care. It is very important for us to be strong in our faith and in the word so that we would be equipped to withstand any trials and situations that come our way.

Surround yourself with praise and worship songs, daily journaling, and reading the word daily.

The moment we understand that our bodies naturally experience stress to keep us safe and that this journey is about – getting out of the storm, riding the wave- no matter what is going on in our environment and in the world as a whole, then we can start to become more accepting.

Next time you need a little boost, jump in and try one of these simple, natural ideas and solutions for stress and anxiety relief.

These stress tips do not replace anxiety medication and much-needed counseling when applicable, but they are easy, cheap ways to deal with stress to try on your own. Plus, they have no side effects and can begin immediately!

Don’t be ashamed to ask for help.

When you try these simple ways to reduce stress and anxiety naturally, you might be surprised at the uplifting peace you’ll experience.

Have you ever felt stressed or anxious?

What are your favorite natural ideas to ease anxiety?

Be kind to leave me a comment:)

As always, I’m sending lots of love♥ & positivity your way! Stay continually blessed!

Life Style

Self Care: 17 Ways To Take Better Care Of Yourself

Post author By Joann
Post date July 21, 2020
2 Comments on Self Care: 17 Ways To Take Better Care Of Yourself

Self Care: 17 Best Ways to Take Better Care of Yourself.

At some point, you must press the ‘pause’ button to do YOU!

Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, and worried about the future and/or the future of your loved ones?

It’s all of us, right?

To be capable to care for others, we must also look after ourselves, and be the happiest, healthiest, and best version of ourselves.

To be successful in anything, you need a winning mindset. Right?

You can get immediate access to our winning mindset bundle here.

Self-care or self-compassion encompasses various ways to intentionally take better care of yourself.

And not feel guilty about it.

Jennifer Ashton, M.D offers “The Self-Care Solution: A Year of Becoming Happier, Healthier, and Fitter–One Month at a time.”

Dr. Jennifer provides much insight on self-care and shows how beneficial a mindful lifestyle can be.

She provides a pathway to improving your mind and body that nearly guarantees lasting success. Get a copy here.

Taking better care of yourself should be a priority, not only for your benefit and sanity, but also for the people around you.

The first step is to commit to your self-care routine with intention and dedication.

You can start your journey right here.

Check this scenario out;

It’s 11:00 pm. You silently close your child’s bedroom door, grateful he finally lost the battle against sleep.

As your eyes dart from one stack of dirty dishes to another stack of unfinished projects, you feel bone-tired.

Your mind is a thick molasses. Waves of weariness wash over your heart.

You don’t even know where to start processing today’s argument with your children or spouse, the social media argument about complicated world events, and your argument with yourself about what tasks are most important.

Tears slip out of your eyes as waves of guilt and failure wash over you.

If you have struggled to know how to take care of yourself as a mom, you are not alone.

During the COVID – 19 era, when churches, therapist offices, and support networks are closed, you could have tried to figure out how to take care of yourself emotionally.

Trying to care for yourself should be a natural and God-given instinct.

The Apostle Paul in Ephesians 5:29-30 said, “Indeed, no one ever hated his own body, but he nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church. For we are members of His body.”

God understands that humans naturally nourish, treasure, care for, and feed their bodies. He knows we automatically comfort, warm, and tenderly watch over our bodies.

But with children, marriage obligations, and work clamoring for our attention, we need more than our natural tendency to care for ourselves.

“If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.” – Jack Kornfield

In order to remain emotionally and physically healthy, we must become more intentional about taking care of ourselves.

Here are some important thoughts on how to take better care of yourself emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually.

They are not lavish or expensive, but practical.

This keepsake is for anyone seeking to improve their mood, reduce anxiety, and be their best selves.

#1. Recognize Your Limits

In the beginning, God created humans to live in humble dependence on Him.

Who is the only one who is all-powerful, all-present, in control, and all-capable?

It’s not us. Sometimes we are always on the go, being a “superwoman.”

As humans, we are created with limits. Immense relief comes from humbly recognizing that you are not God.

Experiencing God will help you get a better understanding of His sovereignty as He reveals Himself to you.

Hannah Anderson, in her book, Humble Roots, says that we are often tempted to a “pride that desires to live beyond natural human limitations… We buy the lie that we could be omnipotent, always virile, never tiring, never needing rest. We buy the lie that we could be omnipresent, always available, never distant, never missing out.”

Often, we think we can be perfect fun moms, involved in every activity, and providing our children and families with every opportunity.

We act like super moms, sometimes inflicting the notion that nothing will get done if we don’t do it.

And when we do, we become exhausted and drained.

Remembering our limitations—and humbly accepting them as an expression of our faith and dependence on God—is an important step towards wholesome self-care.

We don’t take care of ourselves because we’re selfish, proud, or egotistical. We take care of ourselves because we humbly admit that we’re not all-powerful—we’re not God.

With this in mind, I hope you can examine yourself and your environment and decide to start to take better care of yourself!

#2. Recognize That Your Body Is Your Responsibility

Who could better care for your body than yourself?

In Genesis 1:28, God called humans to steward the earth and all of creation.

Have you ever thought about your body as being a part of all creation?

Hannah Anderson points out, “You may have never thought of steadying your body as part of the call to steward the earth, but it’s not that much of a stretch. We are, after all, made from the earth, a mixture of minerals and elements that have only been made alive by the quickening Spirit of God.”

Along with your responsibility to take care of your children, your job, your ministry, you have a responsibility to take care of your body.

You can start by pampering yourself with this!

God desires for us to be healthy and strong and to take care of our bodies, mind, and spirit. “Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself.” – 2 Corinthians 6:19.

Fuel your body with healthy eating habits and supplements that are vital in sustaining your immune system and general well being.

Eat healthy home-cooked meals instead of ‘fast’ food.

Don’t unnecessarily tax your body. Give it the rest, nutritious food, and exercise it needs.

Don’t forget to drink significant amounts of water to stay hydrated. Water is very good for the skin, it helps digestion and boosts your immune system.

#3. Find Joy In Simple Things

God has created many beautiful experiences for us to enjoy.

1 Timothy 6:17 says that God “richly provides us with everything to enjoy.”

In his book, Pure Pleasure, Gary Thomas encourages believers to find pleasure in food, family, fellowship, and more.

He says that when we search for legitimate, healthy sources of pleasure, we will be less likely to fall into temptation and illicit pleasures.

Even when we go through very difficult times, we should look for the simple joys that are all around us: the sun on our faces, the smile of a child, or the gentle song of a flowing stream.

Looking for joy in simple pleasures is an important way to take better care of yourself.

You can look at old pictures, listen to your favorite songs, volunteer your time at a charity you like, get a massage, indulge in a bubble bath, join a women’s weekly prayer group or enjoy the benefits of your favorite essential oils and candles.

You can just relax indoors or outdoors in this!

For all-round relaxation and aromatherapy, you can also get you an essential oil shower steamer set.

#4. Work/Life Boundaries

Work/life boundaries have never been more important than they are today.

In a cultural shift away from remote jobs and towards in-home jobs, work has more potential than ever to invade every minute of our personal lives.

If you work at home, seek to develop a predictable schedule about when you will work and when you will relax.

Communicate to others when you are working and when you are “off.” When you’re relaxing, take it seriously.

Don’t even open your computer or your work email. Keeping your work from invading every minute of your day is critical in self-care.

#5. Process Your Pain

Unresolved pain, grief, or shame tend to sneak out in ways that are devastating to your body, soul, and health.

You may lash out at others or distract yourself with work to try to avoid difficult memories or thoughts.

Learning how to take care of yourself emotionally is critical for self-care.

Address even the seemingly small things that might seem insignificant like losing a twin sibling before birth, infertility, having a miscarriage, having a best friend move away, or betray you.

Acknowledge your grief. Talk to supportive friends and spiritual leaders. It’s been said that a problem shared is a problem halved.

Often communication with people gives you exactly what you need to hear for you to continue your journey in taking better care of yourself in the most positive way.

Read books on healing. Go to a therapist. Addressing your emotional needs is critical for truly relaxing and taking better care of yourself.

#6. Just Say No

“Love yourself enough to set boundaries. Your time and energy are precious. You get to choose how you use it. You teach people how to treat you by deciding what you will and won’t accept.” -Anna Taylor

In Luke 4:42-44, crowds were begging Jesus to continue healing and helping them. But he said no. He had to move on to other towns and preach there.

He didn’t allow himself to be dissuaded by popular opinions or by the demands of friends or society.

Instead, he simply moved on, “for I was sent for this purpose.” Jesus had a clear sense of purpose and values.

Tim Elmore recommends writing down five of your most important values and using them to help you make decisions in gray areas.

Eliminate parts of your life that don’t fit your values as a part of your self-care regimen.

Just learn how to just say no and don’t feel bad or guilty about it.

#7. Taking Time to Be Quiet

Taking time to be quiet is an important part of any self-care love routine.

Psalm 37:7 says, “Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him.”

Psalm 62:5 tells us to wait in silence for God.

Then Psalm 131:2 speaks of the importance of stilling our souls before God.

Many Bible passages encourage us to live a quiet life (1 Timothy 2:2, 1 Peter 3:4, and 1 Thessalonians 4:11).

Make time in your life for silence before the Lord.

Wait on him and try to connect to Him from the heart. Still your heart and acknowledge that it’s not all up to you—it’s up to Him!

This implies telling yourself that you are going to pause and slow down at intermittent times during the day.

Try to relax, go to a quiet place in or outside the house, look around you, close your eyes, and take deep breaths in and out several times.

You’ll notice that you will feel more relaxed before you start off again.

#8. Meditation

Even if you don’t subscribe to the common cultural views of meditation, you can still follow the Biblical command to fill your mind with God’s word.

Psalm 119:15 encourages us to follow the psalmist’s example of meditating on God’s words and ways.

God told Joshua that meditating on God’s word would give him courage (Joshua 1:8). Paul told Timothy to meditate on God’s purpose for his life.

Try to find a quiet place where you can focus on a small portion of God’s word. Turn it over and over in your mind.

Try this as a fun lounge vibe.

You don’t have to spend 30 minutes in meditation every time. Two to five minutes—while in the restroom or while feeding the baby—are often sufficient.

Meditate on God’s word and stop the endless soundtrack of frenetic thoughts that try to take your attention. Ponder on the Lord and His love for you for two minutes.

#9. Stretching

Wondering how to take care of yourself as a mom? Consider adding stretching into your life. A simple internet search will lead to easy stretches that you can do any minute of the day.

Watching your kids in the park, you can do a slow nod exercise or a hip flexor stretch.

Before you wind down for the night or while the kids are asleep or at school, you can take a little time, inhale, exhale and stretch.

Watch how much relief you’ll experience.

These are so inconspicuous that no one will even notice you are stretching!

If you work a desk job, try to get up every hour and stretch. Your blood will start to flow and you will notice an increased mental acuity.

#10. Journaling

Commit to journaling regularly as an important way of processing your emotions, understanding your life, releasing your frustration, and taking care of yourself emotionally.

Boundaries for the Soul: How to Turn Your Overwhelming Thoughts and Feelings into Your Greatest Allies By Allison Cook provides some important jumping-off points for journaling about triggering events.

It is very healing to write down your responses to Allison Cook’s probing questions in this book.

Her questions will help you get some distance from overwhelming emotions, talk to them kindly as if they were frightened children, comfort them with the love of Jesus, and re-integrate them into your renewed purpose.

This all-inclusive women’s care package provides simple ways to make you feel better.

Journaling is an important way to process your feelings, encourages self-awareness, and improves your mood.

Some ideas on how to start journaling are to start with positive inner reflections first like what makes you happy, what inspires you, your idea of a good day, eight things you love about yourself and your family, what makes you proud about yourself.

#11. Gratitude Diary

Gratitude is a feeling of appreciation and thanks.

It focuses on the positive.

What are the three things you are thankful for today? Is the sun shining?

Can you breathe freely?

Do you have food to eat and a place to live?

Is there someone in your life that has shown you that you matter to them?

A gratitude journal helps you to focus your attention on positive things in your life, great or small.

First Thessalonians 5:18 says, “In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Regardless of the circumstances, you can find at least three things to be thankful for.

Keeping a gratitude diary or journal helps you come back later with gratefulness and remember what God has done, making your day more productive and focused.

#12. Spend Time Outdoors

A park, field, or stream is an excellent place to work on self-care. You might want to spend some time walking by yourself or with a friend.

Almost any of these self-care ideas can be done outside. You can exercise outside, express gratitude outside, or meditate outside.

You can even journal outdoors!

Sometimes, we find that we feel closer to God when we are in nature.

Spending time in nature can help your wellbeing and mental state by relieving your stress and anxiety levels and improving your mood.

#13. Eat Chocolates

Chocolate should be a part of every self-care love routine!

Rich, creamy squares of luscious dark chocolates can boost your mood and give you renewed energy.

Try a piece by yourself or with a friend!

Chocolate edibles at any time of the day are not just refreshing but help you to relax and practice self-care at home.

#14. Listen to Calming Music

Wondering how else you can take care of yourself as a mom?

Listening to quiet, relaxing music is an easy way to take your kids along with you on your self-care journey.

Try Heartbeat Lullabies or calming nature sounds and music .

Kids can benefit right along with mom as you care for yourself with gentle, soothing sounds.

Listening to music that elicits positive emotions can help you to relax and elevate your spirit, which improves your mood and general well-being.

#15. Smile More

A clerk at the store, a child in your arms, or a neighbor across the street would be happy to receive your smile, which in turn can improve your mood, relieve your stress, and lower blood pressure.

Scientists have found that a smile gives your brain more feel-good hormones than receiving a large sum of money!

Smiling lifts your own spirits and encourages others.

Spreading smiles is free, painless, and rewarding. Make smiling an important part of your self-care love routine.

#16.Sleep

Sleep should be a priority in our self-care journey.

Bill Fish, a certified sleep science coach and co-founder of Tuck stated that “Getting a proper night sleep is essential to our health,” in fact, sleep is now known as the third pillar of wellness along with exercise and nutrition.”

Create a sleep schedule and try your best to stick to it. That way your body knows when to settle to rest and when to rise.

A full night sleep promotes mental wellness and diminishes the negative effects of poor sleeping habits that include fatigue, irritability, anxiety, and negative thoughts.

#17. Digital Detox

Distancing yourself from digital devices like smartphones, computers, tablets, and social media platforms help you to focus on real-life interactions and can make your brain to relax and also improve your sleep and focus.

It is a known fact that many families and relationships don’t have many faces to face social interaction anymore.

Most of the time, everyone is by themselves and on their phone, tablet, playing a game, or on social media.

You could be in the same house and you are talking to your spouse or children from the cell phone.

Develop a digital detox hour, hours, or a day that you’ll focus your mind on yourself to improve your focus and reduce stress.

You can call it or relate to it as a biblical fast. Maybe that could help you keep the phones away and stay off social media for some time to rejuvenate and take better care of yourself.

The journey of taking better care of yourself starts in your mind. You must understand your dependence on God and the limits of your body and spirit.

The journey of taking care of yourself emotionally continues as you process your grief, change your thinking about your own value, and start practical steps like meditation, stretching, and journaling.

“Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.” -Oprah

How does this journey end? In reality, the journey of self-care never ends. It’s not a one-time deal.

But it does come to a culmination as you begin to have enough energy, passion, and joy to invest in others again.

RELATED: Empty Nest: How to Cope When Children Leave.

As you entrust your own needs to God and humbly accept your own limits, you begin looking at others’ needs as more important than your own.

The Bible instructs that you take care of others with the same attentive care that you take care of yourself (Mark 12:31 – The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’).

And, in this way, the purpose of self-care is complete.

Your mind is one of the most fragile yet most powerful things in your body.

It is so important to look after yourselves and learn how to look after your beautiful mind. And body too.

Are you seeing things from a different perspective?

Don’t make excuses for not practicing self-care.

You are so worth it!

Please don’t allow procrastination to rob you of the well deserved wholeness and happiness that you deserve.

“Accept yourself, love yourself, and keep moving forward. If you want to fly, you have to give up what weighs you down.”
– Roy T. Bennett

How are you practicing self-care?

What routine have you put in place that is solely for you?

Please drop a line in the comments – it can help someone.

Also request for your FREEBIE below

Sending lots of love and positivity your way………..♥

Dating Relationships

HOW TO KNOW IF YOU ARE IN A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP

Post author By Joann
Post date July 21, 2020
2 Comments on HOW TO KNOW IF YOU ARE IN A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP

Toxic relationships exist and they are dangerous for your physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Have you ever wondered if your relationship is toxic to your overall wellbeing?

Are you beginning to feel things are not the way they are supposed to be in your relationship?

Maybe you are beginning to feel like you deserve better!

Many times, toxic relationships are hard to identify, but it’s also easy to identify behaviors that are blatantly out of line.

You may be asking: how can I make my relationship strong? Here are 16 ways to make your relationship stay strong.

Rainie Howard offers ways of escape in this resource; Addicted To Pain: Renew Your Mind & Heal Your Spirit From A Toxic Relationship In 30 Days.

Why is it so hard to leave an abusive relationship? Why is it so hard to move on?

In this article, we are going to show you some signs that signal an unhealthy and toxic relationship.

Many of us have gotten ourselves into situationships!

Quite frankly we often tend to stay in these relationships even when we know that we’re getting all the red flags to leave or demand changes.

Not only that, but we also continue to allow others to step on our hearts and feelings when we have the choice to leave.

According to John Mark Green; “Toxic people attach themselves like cinder blocks tied to your ankles, and then invite you for a swim in their poisoned waters.”

I get it, sometimes it’s confusing because you find yourself in a love-hate relationship.

Toxic people give you hopeful moments of happiness and moments of unexplainable deep stress and distress.

And you think that is the ideal way love is supposed to be, but it’s not at all.

Sadly though, many times before we get our Moses, we have to go through a couple of the Pharaohs.

No one can boast of a perfect relationship, in the personal or the business sphere.

But “The wrong person will give you less than what you’re worth, but that doesn’t mean that you have to accept it.” – Sonya Parker.

According to Ginnie Love Thompson, Ph.D., a Florida based Psychotherapist, “Every single relationship has a level of abuse. Nothing is perfect – there’s always some work to be done.”

For the most part, a good relationship should make you feel secure, special, happy, cared for, respected, and free to be yourself.

My friends, true love will never leave you feeling empty, drained, depleted and distraught.

And if for any reason you do? Then you’re in a toxic relationship.

A California – based communication and psychology expert, coined the term in her book Toxic People, defined a toxic relationship as “any relationship (between people who) don’t support each other, where there’s conflict and one seeks to undermine the other, where there’s disrespect and lack of cohesiveness.”

Let me tell you a couple of ways to identify if you’re in an unhealthy toxic relationship.

If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to make some big changes.

“Don’t settle for a relationship that won’t let you be yourself.” – Oprah Winfrey

The first sign of a toxic relationship is Confusion.

As God’s word says, “God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.” (1 Corinthians 14:33).

It is always good and very important to pay close attention to identify if the person you are in a relationship with is bringing clarity or confusion to your life.

When a person continues to give you less effort and is also showing signs that he/she doesn’t want to “get serious” about a relationship, then they are most likely wasting your time.

They expect much and give little. They feel entitled and act like they are doing you a favor.

If you don’t know where you stand with someone in a relationship, then you should let that person go.

Trust me, also believe that there is always someone out there who will not leave you confused.

The second sign of an unhealthy relationship is Dishonesty

If your partner is constantly lying to you, you are discovering little lies here and there, telling a partial truth, or doesn’t even communicate his/her whereabouts, these are all big red flags.

When you are in a relationship or dating, you should know that HONESTY is the first sign of loyalty.

Honesty breeds TRUST over time in a relationship.

Always consider if the person you are with is honest about EVERYTHING.

Most toxic people don’t follow through on their promises. They are “sweet and smooth talkers.”

They say one thing to make you happy this one moment and then revert to their old ways.

Rachel Sussman, LCSW, a marriage and family therapist in New York, says “There’s the constant push and pull.”

Every dishonest gesture between partners undercuts a little bit of the relationship.

The third sign of a toxic relationship is fairly easy to identify.

No Commitment – If the person you are with doesn’t want anyone to know they’re dating you, then you’re pretty much a secret and he/she is liable to do anything.

They don’t talk about the future after you’ve been together for some months or they are comparing you with their past relationships.

They are not committed, period! And that’s a BIG red flag.

No, they don’t have to post you on social media 20x a day, but it should be made known that they are in a relationship with you.

Don’t get me wrong, this doesn’t always guarantee that they will be faithful, but it does give clarity that they can potentially be honest.

It shows they value you as a person.

Dr. Clinton McLemore― a leading expert on interpersonal relationships― gives you a powerful roadmap for promoting healthy and productive relationships and how to have some value for your relationship.

You may already know this, but if your partner is DISRESPECTFUL, this can be a huge red flag.

Being disrespected in a relationship causes much emotional confusion and distress.

Mutual respect fosters individual growth and development.

Lack of respect messes with your image and gives you a sense of insecurity about yourself.

Lack of respect does not bring out the best of you.

In fact, it makes you not feel like yourself around them.

You see, when a man/woman tells you very hurtful things, those things don’t just go away, they stay grounded in your heart for some time.

Better to be with someone that will build you up, even when you don’t feel or look your best.

Here’s one that most people don’t take into much consideration – Uneasy Feeling.

Follow your intuition, if you feel like something is off or you are feeling any type of anxiety and fear in a relationship or anything in general.

Listen to that small voice!

Most times our inner selves will tell us the truth before it surfaces.

I think, a lot of times, most of us know when something is off, but we choose to find out the hard way.

Listen to that small voice in your head. God will never lead you wrong.

A sixth Sign that you’re probably in an unhealthy relationship would be a Lack Of Change In Behavior.

Let me give you an example, if a person constantly does the same thing over and over without changing.

And he/she knows that it bothers you, then they clearly don’t care about fixing the problem, or making you happy.

A person can apologize, but if their actions don’t match, then something is not adding up.

When they are wrong, they try to rationalize their behavior or blame others for it.

True Repentance should come with a change, they say!

Dependence would definitely be another sign of an unhealthy relationship.

Do not get me wrong, it is okay to take care of your partner.

But when taking care of your partner becomes a full-time job and they are not putting in the same effort, then you are basically dealing with a child with all related stresses.

Do not sacrifice your time and efforts on a selfish and self-centered person.

By all means, don’t.

Some people will be in a relationship with you just because it’s beneficial for them, while the whole time you could be losing out on an amazing partner who will give you the world and more.

Don’t settle for someone who is full of excuses as to why they are not where they are supposed to be because anyone can support themselves if they are willing.

Now I think it’s time we get on the topic of Abuse; another sign of signs of a toxic relationship.

There is more than one kind of abuse. There’s physical abuse, mental abuse, and narcissistic abuse.

If you’ve ever encountered any of these types of abuse, I just want to let you know that you are worth so much more!

Mental abuse is the first sign of these 3. Why?

Because once you allow a person to abuse you mentally – control your mind -which can be verbal – arguing, disrespect, or just their actions, this will eventually lead to physical abuse.

Sometimes people hide what they really feel behind words and hidden agendas until they get comfortable enough to abuse you physically.

Physical abuse could lead to death. No, I am not being dramatic.

If you are in a relationship where you are getting abused, at what point do you think the abuse will end and at what point do you think this person will stop?

There’s never an excuse for abusive behavior, especially when it comes to love in a relationship.

Love is the strongest drug and if you are with a person who is seriously in love with you, but abuses you, at no point does that make it right?

None, for neither of you!

Leave that relationship as quickly as possible, especially when you are not yet married.

Lastly, Narcissistic abuse is the most underrated type of abuse out there.

This is the silent abuse.

This is where the person will have you thinking you’re doing everything wrong in the world, but you’re doing everything you possibly can to the best of your ability.

They mess with your mind. You can’t impress them.

“Beware of narcissistic people. They’ll tell everyone you’re crazy, only to cover up their trickery. ” ― Mitta Xinindlu

“Narcissists are very retaliative if they believe another has achieved what they desire, exposed their insecurities, or refused to be under their control.” — Lorraine Nilon

I think most people have gotten a piece of this kind of abuse.

Not only because it’s so easy to miss, but also because it plays with your mind in so many ways, and most importantly it is a disorder.

Trust me it is very torturing.

Here’s a couple of signs that you’re in a narcissistic relationship:

You have low self-esteem, you feel as though you’re going crazy, you become depressed or anxious.

Nothing you do is ever good enough.

When you try to leave they pull you back in, their attitude towards you changes rapidly.

Guys, this is only a couple ways a narcissist abuses you and I think it is the most horrible of them all.

Beware of these toxic relationships! They are very hard to recover from. Not impossible, but hard!

Now that we’ve discussed the different types of abuse in a relationship, we should move forward with other signs that indicate you’re in an unhealthy relationship.

Which brings me to Control.

If you are dating someone who seems to be very controlling you should be careful, controlling people want you to do exactly as they say or else… and this is not a safe place to be.

When you’re in a relationship, it should be equal, even though a man is dominant over the woman he should never make you feel as though you don’t have a choice or a voice.

You should still be entitled to do what you want and have some sense of independence as long as it isn’t disrespectful towards your relationship.

One thing we all ignore is our Own Comfort in a relationship.

If you don’t feel comfortable without makeup or wigs, etc, then you aren’t with your soulmate,

You see real true love should not be identified by how good your makeup looks, or how laid your hair is,

but when you can wake up barefaced, and 100% natural, you’ve found someone that accepts you for you!

Don’t ever change your image to be with someone.

Beware of the person you’re with is charming when they want to be, real love should always be present, not just sometimes.

Real love is Unconditional. It shouldn’t be based on performance.

If they are more charming to everyone else than you, then you probably have yourself a cheater.

Never stay with someone if they make you feel ignored and invisible.

In a toxic relationship, nothing gets resolved.

Most discussions end in arguments. There’s zero tolerance and accommodation for the other person’s feelings.

They always assume the worst of the other person.

It is one thing to say you’re in a relationship with someone that you’re uncertain about,

but it is a completely different thing to be with someone who doesn’t even give you the attention you deserve.

Trust me, someone who really wants to be with you will not make you feel ignored or left out.

They will always make time and always check-in, busy or not.

“Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord.

For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the Church.

Now, as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loves the church and gave himself up for her.” Ephesians 5:22-25.

This is a clear biblical representation of how God intends for us to love each other in a marriage relationship.

God did not intend for us to be in relationships where our hearts are being abused, our love is taken for granted, and our images distorted.

That’s not biblical!

That is what the devil wants. Satan wants us to be abused and broken, but God wants us to be loved and made whole.

The word “perfect” in 1 John 4:18 means “complete” or “mature,” and the love that is referred to is God’s, selfless agape love.

An unconditional love that is not based on performance.

This is the type of love that should exist in every relationship.

It’s sacrificial love – bearing one another.

At no point should we doubt that unhealthy relationships are all that God has in His plan for our love lives.

God wants the best for each and every one of us, and I think we should want the best for ourselves as well.

If we stop settling for less, God will truly give us a Kingdom man/woman.

Pastor Joel Osteen once said that everything you need to be happy is in you.

Happiness is a choice and should not be dependent on somebody else.

“The hardest part of being in an emotionally abusive relationship, it’s actually admitting you’re in one.” – Anna Akana

When you are with someone who persistently makes you unhappy, suffocates those precious parts of you, makes you feel lesser than who you are,

you must be alive with your eyes wide open to the damage they are doing.

You owe them nothing, you owe yourself everything.

Everyone deserves to thrive, to feel no intimidation, and to feel safe, and you deserve to be happy in your relationship.

Don’t allow yourself to be in toxic relationships.

You should be able to identify signs that indicate that a relationship may have become, or always was, toxic.

Sometimes you just have to learn how to be alone and patiently wait for true love to find you or vice versa – Most of the time when you least expected it.

Soulmates are real, and you will be at peace when your true soul mate comes into your life.

If you know how much God loves you unconditionally, then you will know how much he cares about your situation.

Lastly, are you:

Currently, trying to get over a heartbreak?

Are you trapped in a toxic relationship?

Do you desire to leave a toxic relationship?

It is possible!

When you have tried all you can, you just have to make up your mind and heart that you will not accept that anymore.

With prayer, self-care, people that care, and self-love, you will overcome any phase you are going through.

Sometimes telling yourself that; I’m going to stay positive,

Believing that God created us with a great destiny, and

conditioning our minds to rely on God’s plan,

We feel better, we attract better, and we are living again.

Don’t get so consumed in an unhealthy relationship until it starts to affect your mental health.

It’s like a low-grade fever that may eventually evolve into a high fever.

When you really stop and think about it, a toxic relationship brings about some levels of fear and anxiety.

These could lead to depression and feelings of hopelessness.

12 best secrets to a long-lasting relationship will help you to identify the good attributes of a healthy relationship.

It’s not too late to let go and start new. All you have to do is try.

“The broken heart will heal and you will have peace like never before.”
― Tracy A. Malone

The best is yet to come.

Wishing you all the best in your relationships and sending tons of love and positivity your way!

Blessings……..

Tags ending toxic relationships, healthy relationship, how do you know if you are in a toxic relationship, Reconciling a toxic relationship, secrets to a long lasting relationship, self care, Signs of a toxic reilationship, toxic husband, Toxic relationship, toxic relationships psychology, toxic wife, warning signs of a toxic relationship, what is a toxic boyfriend, what is a toxic girlfriend, what is a toxic relationship, women's health

My Top 15 Best Essential Oils That Help and Heal.

Relax and enjoy my top 15 best essential oils that help and heal!

Some individuals nowadays think of aromatherapy as just a different indulgent exercise the privileged few enjoy.

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But upon taking the time to delve deeper, I have found a whole new prospect relating to the diversified uses of aromatherapy.

The popularity of Aromatherapy has risen in recent years.

In this article, you will get a better insight into essential oils and aromatherapy.

You will also learn how to identify and buy quality oils, how to dilute and use them safely for a healthier and happier you.

Take a peek at my core balancing essential oils.

This all-inclusive masterpiece has over 120 aromatherapy and EO remedies to restore mind, body, and spirit.

You may also like 17 simple ways to deal with stress and anxiety.

What exactly is aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the practice of using oils from plant extracts for medicinal, relaxation, and aromatic purposes.

Chiefly known for its calming properties, aromatherapy techniques also advocate the utilization of various essential oils to comfort the mind and body.

If you’ve been wondering what essential oils are, worry no more.

I’m going to give you an overview of what it is and how it can be of benefit to you and your entire family.

So, what is an Essential Oil?

An EO is a highly volatile concentrated compound extracted from certain plants.

The oils in every EO capture each plant’s scent or “essence.”

Answers to any questions you can’t get from this content can be found in this ‘essential oil tell it all.’

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The associated unique aromatic compounds give each plant its characteristic essence that makes up its essential oil.

Although essential oils for the most part, are still linked to the idea of a relaxing therapeutic massage session, there are many more recent uses today.

Research shows EOs can be helpful, but people have to know how to use them correctly.

How are Essential Oils Obtained?

The most common method for essential oil production is through steam distillation.

Another method is mechanical, including cold pressing.

Once the oil is extracted, it is full of aroma.

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The oil is either stored alone or in combination with carrier oils.

At this point, the oil is ready to use.

These aromatherapy shower bomb melts are Ah—mazing!

You will be amazed at the wide range of natural benefits from my top best 15 essential oils that help and heal.

15 Essential Oils That

Help And Heal

The History of Essential Oils

The application of aromatherapy with essential oils dates back to 3500 BC.

EOs have been used since ancient times to help the body and soothe the mind.

You may also like how to maintain a happy and healthy relationship – 9 Cs.

History has it that the actual birthplace of essential oils and aromatherapy as we know it today is Ancient Egypt.

Ancient Egyptians cultivated plants for their oils and used them for religious, cosmetic, and medicinal purposes.

India, China, ancient Greek, and the Romans followed suit.

Exploring herbs and aromatic plants soon became an integral part of the Indian Ayurvedic medical system.

People used essential oils in those days, mainly for relaxation, hygiene, healing, and also for general health promotion.

Today, however, many people are trying to get back to nature.

The use of all-natural essential oils for medicinal, cosmetic, and therapeutic purposes continues to grow.

Many people have found the benefits and results of using aromatherapy to be far greater than human-manufactured medications.

They, by far have fewer adverse side effects.

With the increase in health and wellness promotion, essential oils have become perfect for practicing self-care and relieving stress.

You may also like – Self-Care: 17 ways to take better care of yourself.

What are Essential Oils Used For?

The uses, benefits, and possibilities of EOs are endless.

Essential oils are known for their versatility of use.

Essential oils are used and may be combined with other ingredients to produce fragrances, lotions, other cosmetics, skin care and hair care products.

Now, I’m going to discuss my best EOs that help and heal.

The applications of EOs are very diverse.

Their versatility of use also is what has made them an everyday staple in many modern homes.

People most frequently use essential oils in aromatherapy through inhalation and topical application.

With aromatherapy, they are inhaled through various methods, like via the use of a diffuser container, spray, oil droplets, and steam baths.

Aromatherapy with essential oils has several other benefits in addition to a pleasant smell.

Advantages of aromatherapy oils include mood improvement, concentration, decongestion, relaxation, and sleep improvement.

Today, many spas use aromatherapy to enhance the pleasant experiences of their clients.

The use of essential oils and aromatherapy, however, does not end there.

Many other application methods include diffusers, massage oils, inhalers, baths, and teas, but are not limited to them.

Therapeutic Essential oils and oil blends can also be produced for specific therapeutic purposes, such as

-Relieving muscle soreness,

-Minimizing the occurrence of acne,

-Fighting infections,

-Treating wounds,

-Repelling insects,

-Hair growth,

-Reducing winter blisters, and much more.

Are Essential Oils Safe? Here are some Essential Oil Safety Tips

As EO popularity and market continue to grow, concerns as to whether they are altogether safe also continue to grow.

These concerns are validated by the fact that EOs are highly concentrated and potent plant extracts.

You have to be cautious and read label directions for each oil before use.

Dr. Scott Johnson empowers individuals on the safety profiles for over 200 integrative remedies with this.

Essential oils are also highly flammable substances therefore they should be kept away from direct contact with some elements.

By all means keep EOs away from elements like flames, gas cookers, candles, fire, matches, and cigarettes.

It is advised not to apply essential oils directly into the eyes, ears, nose, or other sensitive areas of the skin.