Continuing our Journey – the next 50 days

While on a path of self-improvement we sometimes must reflect and go back in time before we go forward; as a pause of reflection, not regret.

Standing on our back deck I have a moment of clarity and realize my blessing and unique circumstance. You see our deck is the deck my grandfather built (or perhaps had built) some 30 years ago and where I stand, I am able to see the house where I celebrated my 1st birthday. I’m not exactly sure how many of you are able to say that and I don’t know that I necessarily wish it upon you, either.

Indulge me for a moment, this blessing definitely brings happy memories and moments of nostalgia but it also brings some heavy-hearted memories as well. To become the best version of ourselves we cannot live in the past. We need to take stock and tuck away our happy memories, for safekeeping, make note of any life-lessons that are available for practical knowledge and then let go of the past.

And please also remember, that we should not worry about the future and simply live fully in the present moment.

Yesterday’s the past, tomorrow’s the future, but today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present.

Bil Keane

If I may have a little more time for reflection, I’m on a roll!

Over the past number of years, I have started, restarted, and restarted several different versions of my morning routine.

Big exercise routines, little exercise routines, morning stretches, reading the bible, reading self-help books, this project, that project – all to seek and find that “better version of me”.

The only thing consistent, it seems, are my inconsistencies. 
Always starting something new and not finishing, but that really can’t be true, can it? Or is it that we need to be ready for our big ideas and in the perfect mindset to embrace the things we are seeking to change or improve in ourselves?

No, it’s quite simple actually, not every self-help and self-improvement “cure” is for everyone.

One element that tends to stick, is journaling. Journaling can be healing, a form of meditation, a written expression of gratitude, and a method of organizing and/or clearing your mind.

My current state – I am all over the map in the mornings. Some days I feel amazing and ready to hit the ground running and other days, very disorganized and unfocused.

A good morning routine can help to set your day and align your goals – get you back on track and stay there! It can help in avoiding chaos and lead us to “inner peace”.

In turn, a good nighttime routine will lead to a better night’s sleep and a good night’s sleep is truly the foundation of a great morning!

Tips for a Good Night’s Sleep:

• Turn off electronics one hour prior to bedtime
• Enjoy a cup of decaf tea or warm almond milk with turmeric
• Meditate or Pray 15 minutes before sleep
• Breathe slowly as you consciously think about each body part and “ask” it to relax (my favorite!). E.g.: toes relax, feet relax, etc….

It’s only by bringing a habit into your conscious awareness that you can observe what it’s doing, how it empowers and serves you … or doesn’t.

Jeff Olson, author and entrepreneur

By creating good routines to set your day on the right path will make it easier for you to keep your good habits throughout the day. For me, that is proper stretching, light exercise, eating right, meditation, prayer and enjoying music (do you see the ribbon of a theme here?).

I do not have control over my pain, just yet, but I do have control over my attitude and what I put into my mouth! Oh my, I am SUCH a foodie!! I love good food, “good for you” food and of course the poorly labeled “bad for you” food, but who doesn’t like a little treat every now and again? It is all about balance!

All that being said, I am FINALLY going to be cooking recipes out of a cookbook that I have had for a very long time. “It’s all Good” by Gwyneth Paltrow and Julia Turshen. Super excited for the yummy and creative experiences coming our way.

I LOVE cooking – the music blaring (Frank Sinatra, Motown or Bob Marley – really depends on the mood) and of course a lovely glass of Chianti!

Impressions from today:

• Listening to Music
• Journaling/Writing
• Positive Thinking
• Reflection on Gratitude
• Seeking the good habits that work for you!

What motivates you to keep going? Please let me know your feedback!

Until next time … Peace and Blessings, Friends!