May we inhale the stories that surround us: good vibes, gentle moments, gracious miracles. Let us choose to inundate our souls with the power of quiet breaths that compose our everyday adventures, and balance our ever-busy minds and hearts. May the air that dances through our bodies come carrying wildflowers of presence, compassion, and peace. As we welcome these fruits of the spirit into our souls, may we let go of our inner battles. May we choose to replace fear with bravery, and let go of stress in exchange for a quiet calmness. Let us exhale the negativity that overwhelms us, and inhale breaths of wonder.
via Karyn Bender RPh CHHC
Turning to food to alleviate stress or for comfort is a common problem. Unfortunately, using food to pacify our emotions rarely makes us feel better. We can get caught up in a vicious cycle of trying to fill our emotional needs with food, which leaves us feeling unsatisfied, powerless, guilty, and ashamed. The first step in breaking the cycle is to recognize the difference between physical and emotional hunger. Emotional hunger comes on quickly, craves certain foods, and doesn’t go away after your belly is full. It can also trigger negative feelings. Physical hunger is a gradual feeling that goes away when you are full, and doesn’t care what you eat. Next step is to keep a journal to find out what your triggers are. Do you eat because you are bored and feel empty, stressed out, or sad? Once you understand what emotions you are trying to comfort, you can work on fulfilling them in other ways. If you feel the urge to pacify your feelings with food, try exercising instead of eating. Exercise releases endorphins and can have a positive impact on your emotional state, as well as your health.
via Karyn Bender RPh CHHC
It’s so easy to get caught up in this fast paced world. Everything is screaming at you that THIS is more important than THAT and you get caught up in the whirlwind. Jumping from one issue to the next you feel that you are caught in a tug-o-war that is tearing you apart. When that feeling of being overwhelmed overcomes you, remember the real priority is YOU. Find solace and rest and come back to your own heart. If everything is well inside your heart, all else will fall into place.
via Karyn Bender RPh CHHC