Category: Health and Wellness

How to Keep Going After Tragedy Hits

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It’s been said many times over that ” Life goes on”.  I am a true believer in that.  Life does go on, with or without you.  Traumatic tragedy and trauma are all around us.   It’s a fact that while on this earth we will all experience loss, sickness, disability, or separation from a loved one.  All of our stories are different , but no one is immune when it comes to these things.  It is just part of being human.

I feel like I have experienced so much  in my short 40 years on this earth and I am sure there will be more to come.  Here is what I’ve learned along the way to help process things , and to assist anyone out there struggling with finding the inspiration to keep going.

Ask for Help

Trauma can rewire our thinking.  Sometimes you are so far in that hole , you don’t know which way is up.  Ask someone to throw you a rope .  Don’t be ashamed to call on friends for help.  Let them know you are struggling and try to be clear about what it is you need from them.  Maybe it is just someone to listen.  Maybe you need a laugh.  Often times our family and friends will try in ways they hope are helpful but actually are not beneficial to our healing because it wasn’t what we needed at the time.  Be clear on what it is you need from them.  Don’t count out support groups or a professional therapist.  It is comforting to speak about sensitive things with someone outside your circle that has a professional background in what you are dealing with.  In a group setting you will find people who are experiencing the same things.  This can be a comforting safe space for you to not only express yourself , but to find contrast .

Find Contrast

Take a look around, you are not the only one in pain.  It’s true what they say you know?  ” It could always be worse”.  What a terrible way to see things huh?  I don’t think so because it opens up this line of  positive thinking somehow.  At the times I have felt the lowest,  it helped me to see that compared to some , my troubles are a walk in the park.  I’m not talking about comparing your wounds.  I’m talking about finding a space in your soul where you can tell yourself ” Yes this is bad, I’m in a place that doesn’t feel good, but it could be worse. “.   Then look past all that negativity and find what is good in your life.

Focus on the Good

It could be the littlest things.  You have a home.  You have a bed. etc. etc.  Start simple to get it going.  One tool I acquired over the years was a technique where you do exactly that.  Each morning and night you sit and count all the things you are grateful for in your life.  Tragedy only brings more tragedy if we dwell on it and keep it in our thoughts too long.  Being grateful and appreciating what is good in your life will bring more good.  Make sense?  I use a string of beads  that my daughter pieced together when she was little.  I close my eyes and I hold each bead in my hand while saying something I appreciate about my life.  Take your time with it.  Be very specific and thorough.  List everything.  Do this morning and night for ten days straight and watch how your world starts to shift.

Know that Change is the Only Constant

The only thing we can count on in this world is that things will change.  It’s scary to think about sometimes , but that is the reality.  Mentally prepare yourself so that when bad things happen you can think of it as just another change in your life.  We can’t hold the universe in a choke hold.  We can’t sit in our sorrows too long. It’s all about perspective.  We ourselves give meaning to the things that happen in our life.  We actually have the power to let it take us , or discover that this is just change and life will go on . I personally have experienced some of my biggest wins after tragedy has hit.

Look for Open Doors

In the midst of trauma we can not see past our own face.  Often times there are open doors , with much opportunity to be had, but we miss them because of the fog over our eyes.   Again ” life keeps going with or without you”  .  No matter what has happened , there is a brighter day .  Set your mentality on that and keep your eyes open for “direction” after crisis.  You may find it in a person, place or thing . It may just be a very important lesson you have learned that will help you and possibly others in the future.  It’s all about staying present and living in the now.  This is a major key to life after trauma.

Let it Go

When there is nothing left to do, and nothing left to say, when you have no control over the situation, or the time has past for you to take action;  you must let it go! When we hold on to things it effects us at a cellular level.  I’m not saying to forget a loved one , or forget what happened to you.  I am saying that we have to make peace with things and release control when there is nothing we can do about a situation.  Have you ever heard the line ” stress kills”?  It truly will take you down.  When we experience trauma and we do not find a way to get back to some kind of balance, this is where major disease plants its seeds.  That seed will grow rapidly.  Being aware of how our body feels is very important.  Find ways of healthy release.

Releasing Tension 

Release tension and stress in the body.  Maybe it’s laughter , a nice stretch, a long morning walk, or just breathing . Do something ! A good exercise I use is a method called Box Breathing.  Basically you breathe in for four seconds. Hold it at the top for four seconds.  Let it out for four seconds and then hold it at the bottom for another four.  Repeat that sequence four or five times.  There is such a power in the breath when resetting the mind and body.  This will also open your diaphragm and help the blood and muscles get oxygenated. Exercise also offers a moment/space for the mind to take a rest and focus on something else .  It can be such a helpful tool when you can’t stop thinking about something.

In closing:

Life is complicated.  There will always be highs and lows.  Some of the lows catch us by surprise.  In those moments remember to:

Stay Present

Ask For Help

Focus on what is Good in your Life

Know that it is Only Change

Look for Open Doors

Let go of what you Can’t Control

Find a way to Release the Stress in your Physical Body

 

Don’t give up ! You will get through this!  Stay present friends.  Be Well.

 

 

 

 

5 Natural Ways to Boost your Energy

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We are all searching for that magical boost of energy to get us through our day.    I truly believe it is a mix of sleeping well, eating right, exercise , and stress reduction that help boost our energy levels each day. But who am I kidding, when that’s not feasible, I want something fast that works when I need it.

Here are a few natural and safe things I’ve used over the years to gain energy .

1. MCT Oil

Medium-Chain Triglycerides.  Most commonly extracted from coconut oil . There are four  different types of MCTs available . Caprylic and Capric Acid are the most commonly used and  have several unique health benefits.  Since MCTs easily enter your cells without being broken down, they can be used as an immediate source of energy .MCTs can also be converted into ketones in the liver. These ketones can pass through your blood-brain barrier, making them a convenient source of energy for your brain cells.

2. Peppermint Oil (mentha piperita)

When I need a quick pick-me-up , I grab my Peppermint Oil.  It is great for those two o’clock drags.  I simply put a drop in my hands and inhale deeply through the nose and mouth. Make sure to wash your hands afterwards so you don’t get it in your eyes.  Also watch for any skin sensitivities .  Don’t over do it. One drop is all you need .  . Make sure any oil you use, is therapeutic grade if you are putting it on the body . You could also diffuse it for concentration , focus and accuracy. ( order peppermint oil here )

3. A Quick Workout

Even if it’s for two minutes .  Get your blood flowing.  Go for a short walk,  bust out 20 jumping jacks , or some stretches and deep breathing.  Inverted yoga poses such as Downward Dog are amazing for a quick energy re-boot .  Any of these will assist your  muscles and blood to become oxygenated.  Choose something that fits your lifestyle . Movement always helps me feel better and gives me a boost when I’m feeling fatigued.

4. Cucumbers

Cucumbers are over estimated.  They are full of water which is great for hydration, but they have many other nutrients/ vitamins/ benefits that may surprise you .  Cucumbers contain  just enough carbohydrates and B vitamins to give you a longer-lasting and healthier boost of energy than soda, coffee, or those health hazard energy drinks.  They are rich with electrolytes, low in calories,  and contain thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6, and vitamin A. One cup of cucumber provides around 11% of the daily value for vitamin K. Cucumbers also contain lignans, which research suggests,  lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and several types of cancer. So next time you are crashing reach for a cucumber and reap the benefits!

5.Water

The simplest,  but most important of all.  Water consumption is crucial  .  The body/mind will become sluggish at all of it’s operations when dehydrated.  On average you should be drinking  half your body weight ( in ounces) every day.  More or less depending on how you exercise ,or if you have other health issues.  It seems so easy and cheap.  It is!  Carry a bottle with you and just sip it through the day .  If this is absent from your lifestyle right now and you are tired all the time , this little change could make all the difference .

 

In conclusion, there are so many natural options out there for you to utilize.  Sometimes we need to go outside the box ( soda, coffee, energy drinks) and try to find simple lifestyle changes that can make a huge difference in our day-to-day lives.  Try to eat right, get proper rest, exercise, and reduce stress daily.  This will surely help fight fatigue and gain the energy level you desire

Thank you for taking time to read this.  I would love to hear any feedback or tools you use to stay energized naturally.  Be Well.

 

Instant Pain Relief with Simple Tools

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There are simple and easy techniques that can be learned and applied in those moments of  pain escalation that can bring you back down to some kind of homeostasis (balance).  I’m not talking about magic cures or fancies remedies that make things disappear (Although you would be very surprised). I am talking about having tools in your tool belt to deal with chronic pain and stress when they arrive in our day to day lives .  Sometimes if you take a moment to reset your mind and body , you can function and get through the tasks at hand .

Here are six quick and simple tools:

1. Breathe

Yes.  You have heard it before.  Just breathe.  Take a minute for yourself.  Sit or stand with your spine erect and diaphragm(chest cavity) opened.  Close your eyes.  Take four or five deep breaths.  Breathing directly into the space holding the physical pain.  This will oxygenate the blood and muscles. Clear your thoughts for a moment, only focusing on the breath. Slow down your heart rate.  Quite everything down so much that you can hear your own heart beat.  Then open your eyes and feel the space that has been made.  There is serious power in the breath.  There are so many techniques but I like box breathing for this exercise .  It consists of a four second inhale……Holding for four seconds at the top of the breath, then releasing for four seconds and repeating the cycle several times.  Just nice easy breaths, taking your time while counting, and making sure to use up full lung capacity.  It is a beautiful tool, the breath.  So much power to create change.

2. Mood Enhancers / Mood Stabilizers

Sometimes it helps to look ahead and keep things with you that you might need throughout the day.  I like to carry a couple essential oils with me.  There are several that are absolutely amazing for mood management.  I love Wild Orange any time day or night.  It always seems to enhance my mood immediately.  I basically run it in my diffuser 24 hours a day.  If you are out and about , simply put a drop in your hands and inhale .  Do you ever feel that two o’clock  drag?  Where your body is tired and  hurting and you are just done?  Try Peppermint and Wild Orange together for an amazing pick- me-up.

For mood stabilization I like to go with woodsy /grounding oils like DoTERRA Balance Blend, or even just some good ole’ Lavender .  It always seems to have a positive effect on those around you after applying/ diffusing it.

There are so many options in choices of oils and how to apply them, but these are a great start.

3. Topical Application

Let’s not forget the power of just applying something topically where the pain is.  If you can trick your mind for a few minutes, you can find temporary relief physically and mentally.   I love DoTERRA Deep Blue Rub for muscle aches and pains.  It’s so penetrating.  It does have the classic menthol smell.  If you want to stay away from that I recommend Lavender or Siberian Fir for tired achy muscles. Apply ( with proper dilution)to desired area of pain while breathing deeply.

4. EFT/Tapping

This is a gem I ran across about four years ago in a very trying time.  I can’t tell you how much it helped me then, and how much I use it now for a quick reset. Here is a link on EFT if you want to know more .  You don’t have to do it exactly how they teach it as far as the wording.  It’s important to learn the simple sequence of moves 1-9 , and why/how they are working for you, and then you can add your own words or meanings as you go  ( that’s what I do).  This is worth checking out and I do really believe in it’s benefits.

5. Guided Imagery

I was introduced to this while working in a Cancer Institute in 2003.  They offered this CEU to all the patients and staff.  It was titled “Pain and Stress Management with Guided Imagery”.   During the class , I remember thinking ” This is a bunch of hocus pocus, I can’t believe they are offering this in a medical facility. ” .  By the end of the class I was a true believer. I felt little to no pain in my body and my mood had completely shifted. Learn more here.  I highly recommend this as an early morning routine or before bed.  There are so many different examples for specific needs.   Search You Tube and find your favorite. I love facilitating these in my massage sessions to release stress and trauma. It’s a great tool with some surprising healing qualities.

6. Affirmations

This was also introduced to me at that same CEU on guided imagery. They described it as another form, and it is literally one of my favorite tools to reset.  You can pick one affirmation through the day and say it.  You can make certain affirmations for certain situations.  You can find all kinds of longer affirmations on-line( You Tube) for specific ailments.  Basically it’s a reprogramming of the mind.  It is very powerful.  It feels a little silly at first, but once you tap into it, it can become a very important tool in your tool belt. Learn more /get examples here . I chose one on anxiety and depression for an example.  This will give you a good idea of what affirmations are and how to use them in your daily life.

 

Thank you so much for your time in reading this.  I hope it was helpful.  Please leave your questions and comments below.  I’d love to hear what your thoughts are on these subjects and maybe how they have helped you.  Be well

Dreams Come True With Intention and Action Towards your Purpose

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Intention is a funny thing.  I heard once, ” a dream is a wish your heart makes. “.  It starts as a thought , something  you hear or see , and it resonates so intensely that a fire begins to burn inside you . That spirit within speaks something special and unique to your heart. Your intuition begins to stir . You start to dream out every detail.  It brings you so much joy to think about,  and when you take the steps of action to achieve it , it falls right into your hands.    What a beautiful and special feeling.    I personally think that this is what it is like to know you are on your path of purpose.

Here are 6 very helpful thoughts/tools that can be utilized to enhance and accelerate any “dreams” that you want to become tangible.

1.Dream in Detail

A journal is an extremely helpful way  to track goals .  Sit down and write out in detail what this “dream” looks like .  Every ,single , detail.   What do you need to get started?  What do you need to succeed?    Who do you have by your side? Not only those things, But do the actions you need to take bring you happiness and fulfillment?  What do you expect to get out of reaching your goal ? Why did it resonate with you in the first place ?  Sometimes the “WHY” can be the biggest catalyst to success.

2.Does it bring you joy?

We often times get so caught up looking toward the finish line, that we forget to enjoy running the race.  I have read many times over that when you are aligned with your purpose it brings you joy.  Take a second to look at your dreams and evaluate how much joy you feel while taking the steps needed to achieve them..

3.Take Action!

Break things down into little steps . Start right away .  You don’t have to have everything figured out.  It doesn’t need to be perfect.  Don’t wait on your dreams.  No matter how small it seems, do something every day to achieve what you want.  It is nice to sit around and look at our goals, but if action is absent, most times , goals are not achieved .

4.Are your Goals in-line with your Purpose?

Often times in life we hit those roadblocks.  Situations come to pass that make us think twice.  These are great indicators you are not in-line with your purpose.  My Granny always says ” Jenny Glenn ( that’s what she calls me ) , you know it’s right when you get all the green lights.”  I think she is onto something there.  If your truest intentions are bringing you joy and everything is going your way ,or perhaps even better than you planned , then you can rest assured you are on the right track.  When you hit roadblocks, stop signs, and construction, you may want to re-evaluate the next steps in your journey.  This is a great time to look back at your journal .

5.What Story are you Telling Yourself?

Our brains are wired for a story. Blueprints are very strong.  Many of us have been taught things that we carry with us our entire lives.  In the times of trouble or doubt, always re-evaluate the story you are telling yourself .  Is it a story someone told you a long time ago that you decided was truth?  Can you change your thinking?  Open your mind to explore other possibilities that are in-line with your purpose. Break through barriers that have been set for you in the past .  You can build off the wisdom of others while making “your story”,  your very own.

6.Model after Someone who is Successful

Ever heard the saying “watch the company you keep.” ?  It’s an oldie but goodie.  Surround yourself with like-minded people . When you are focused on a goal , it is always helpful to look at those who have gone before you.  How did they get started?  What steps did they take?  What resonates with you that they’ve done ?  How could you easily put twists to it and make those practices your own?   This can also be  a helpful tool to avoid any of those roadblocks or accidents . You see the mistakes of others, learn and grow from their experiences without having to go through it yourself.  Before you know it YOU are the one inspiring someone else , and the cycle begins again.

green leafed plants

Photo by Luka Siemionov on Pexels.com

In closing :     Your dreams are precious.  Especially if the intention is to be in-line with your purpose.  So dream in detail,  light a fire in your soul,  keep your eyes open to what resonates with you, live joyfully through your purpose, know the story you are telling yourself,  re-assess your goals often , spread the knowledge of truth to like-minded individuals,  and most importantly , don’t ever let anyone else write your story.

 

Thank you so much for your time in reading this.  I hope it was helpful.  Please leave your questions and comments below.  I’d love to hear what your thoughts are.  Be well

 

5 Anti-Inflammatory Foods

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Chronic inflammation contributes to many common Western diseases. Here are a few heroes that can help suppress many molecules known to play huge roles in inflammation.

1. Turmeric

Turmeric is an extremely beneficial substance to the brain and body.  It very well may be the most effective supplement we know of.   Turmeric contains curcumin, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and  it helps neutralize free radicals in the body.

The Extract is most likely to be free of less contaminates . You can buy some DoTERRA  Turmeric extract here:  http://www.mydoterra.com/jgg.

Unfortunately, curcumin has a poor absorption rate into the blood . It helps to consume black pepper with it, which contains piperine, a natural substance that enhances the absorption of curcumin by 2,000%  per pub-med.

 

2. Black Pepper

Known as the “King of spice”.   It’s properties are more than just a wonderful flavor and aroma . Black pepper has been valued for its  antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Studies have shown that the chemical compounds of black pepper, particularly piperine, may be effective in the early acute inflammatory process.

 

3. Garlic

The anti-inflammatory properties of garlic have been proven to ease symptoms of Arthritis. A little bit can go a long way. You can use it fresh or roast it for a more subtle flavor in any of your dishes.

 

4. Berries

There are many variety of berries to try including Strawberry, Blueberry, Raspberry and many others.  Berries provide antioxidants known as anthocyanins. These compounds may reduce inflammation.

 

5. Peppers

Chili peppers and bell peppers are rich in quercetin, sinapic acid, ferulic acid and other antioxidants with increased anti-inflammatory effects.

 

 

 

Thank you so much for your time in reading this.  I hope it was helpful.  Please leave your questions and comments below.  I’d love to hear what your thoughts are.  Be well

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finding A Balance when Dealing with Chronic Pain

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Hi Readers,

I am a long-term sufferer of Chronic Pain.  The Past 24 years I have been on a mission to find, Natural, Safe, and Effective techniques and tools to help aid me in being a happier, healthier me.  This is what I want to spread to my readers.  My Testimonies, My Struggles, and most Importantly my Successes!!

Anyone Dealing with Chronic Pain knows there is more to it than just medicines you take, or the type of exercise you do.  It typically becomes a lifestyle choice.  A choice to put your well-being first, to love yourself, to check your emotional well-being, your nutrition, your sleep patterns, and many other things are in this equation to living a ” Pain Free” life.

Therefore Readers, each of my posts will contain several elements.  First addressing the localized pain with tools, exercises, and treatments.  Second, The emotional connections that deal with the certain type of pain being discussed. Third a nutritional tip of some sort. And Finally a few of my personal recommendations.  Along the way will be  a few  inspirational quotes or links to articles that will stimulate action and progression in your journey to health and happiness.

Living “Pain Free” is a fantasy to some.  It takes a well-rounded foundation.  A” Balance” in our daily activities.  A pyramid of health to build on, is the most wonderful place to start.  So today we keep it simple.

doTERRA Wellness Pyramid

more at info at mydoterra.com/jgg

 

Eat Right, Exercise, Rest and Manage Stress, Reduce Your Toxic Load, Informed Self Care, and Proactive Medical Care.  This is the foundation of a Healthy, Happy, Pain Free Life.  I cannot stress enough that one thing alone is not going to cut it.  A lifestyle choice must be made.  A well-rounded decision for Over All Balance.

 

I look forward to learning more, and experiencing  positive changes in my own life, as we struggle through this together.  I end this with.  Be good to yourself. You are worth it.  You deserve the best life has to offer, and there is hope.

 

 

pain

 

 

Thank you so much for your time in reading this.  I hope it was helpful.  Please leave your questions and comments below.  I’d love to hear what your thoughts are.  Be well

 

 

 

Ways to use Essential Oils

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Here are a few different ways you can use Essential Oils.

  1. They can be applied to the skin
  2. Simple Inhale ( putting into your hands and breathing)
  3. Steam Inhalation
  4. Essential oil Diffuser
  5. In a Bath
  6. Aromatherapy Massagehow to use

 

 

Thank you so much for your time in reading this.  I hope it was helpful.  Please leave your questions and comments below.  I’d love to hear what your thoughts are.  Be well