Weekend Wellness 10.08.17

So much focus is put on eliminating bad habits from our lives. However, I’ve found that starting new, healthy habits is just as challenging if not more challenging, than eliminating bad ones. For most of my adult life, I’ve been focused on trying to start one habit: become a morning person. I am a true night owl. I re-energize at night and it’s hard to turn my brain off. I’ve tried everything from limiting before bed screen time, to sleep inducing teas and lotions and evening meditations and journaling. While they definitely help get me to bed earlier when I put in the effort; no matter how much I sleep the night before I am not a morning person. I’m slow, I need my coffee, and will always need to set an alarm. However, I’d love to be that person that by 9 am has already worked out, showered, and is working hard at the office.  But the reality is, I’m just not there yet, but I’m not giving up either.

What is one habit you are trying to start (and do you have any new ideas for me to breakthrough on mine)?

Weekend Wellness: 08.20.17

Goal setting is a huge part of my life. It is something I do regularly and always in writing. Why? It gives me something to reflect on, refer back to, and track my progress accordingly. I find without writing my goals down on a regular basis, I feel like I lose direction. For me, it’s extremely important to do big picture goal setting 2x a year: around the New Year and around my birthday. I find those are the two times per year when I really reflect on the trajectory of my life and where I need to focus my efforts. However, each week I do some planning and goal setting to help ensure I have a successful week. Regular goal setting helps keep me centered and focused, especially when life feels hectic.

How often do you set goals and how does it help you? 

Weekend Wellness 09.18.16

Happy Sunday! I hope you are having a peaceful start to your morning. This week the focus is on finding joy. I personally get a lot of joy out of a quiet Sunday morning with my cup of coffee. This is usually the time where I do my weekly planning, which really helps me stay on track for the days head. Setting intentions, goals, and plans in the peace and quiet of my home (and in my PJs) really sets the tone for the week. What brings you joy?

Weekend Wellness 08.21.16

Maybe I am old school, but I find that a personal, hand-written note goes a long way in showing someone gratitude. Regardless of the mode of delivery, I always try to put my words of thanks in writing; because let's be honest, who doesn't love getting a "just because" card or text from a friend? Like many other simple acts of kindness, showing gratitude can be easily overlooked or forgotten. However, this week I am going to make it a priority to let people know how much I appreciate them. How will you show gratitude this week?

Weekend Wellness 08.14.16

This is a question I try to reflect on daily to build a habit of gratitude. From this habit I've realized that all my responses can be simplified into one category: my health. I try to live in a way that nourishes my body, soul and mind, to try be the best version of my self every single day. What are you most thankful for?

Weekend Wellness 08.07.16

Random text messages from family and friends, a well-timed corny joke, a glass of wine, Harry Potter weekends. Whatever makes you smile (and feel free to share in the comments!) I hope you find joy in it this week.

Introducing Weekend Wellness

Baton Rouge, Istanbul, Orlando, Dallas, Munich. 

These are only just a FEW of the cities that have experienced tragedy and violence within the past few WEEKS. Every morning I almost dread reading the news. The constant acts of hate that fill the daily headlines have left me desensitized. For the first time ever, I felt uncomfortable in a crowded theater watching a Broadway show. It just felt like so many of the other news stories that I read; horrible acts of violence occurring at common gathering places. Sometimes the world can feel overwhelming and the ability to bring change feels impossible. While I don’t pretend to believe that a few positive messages can change the world, I do believe that on an individual level, changing your thinking can change your life. So, in my small attempt to put some happiness and thoughtfulness back into the world, I am introducing the Weekend Wellness series to W&W. On Sunday’s I’ll post a thought provoking question in effort to jumpstart the week with some positive vibes. I’ll answer my own question and encourage others to do the same. Whether you respond only internally to generate mindfulness or publicly comment on the post to uplift yourself and others, let’s just all take some time to bring a little more peace into our lives.