The Acceleration of Technological Change

One of the most prominent drivers of accelerated change is technology. The exponential growth of computing power and the rise of artificial intelligence have transformed industries, economies, and our daily lives. However, this acceleration comes with a range of issues:

a. Digital Overload: The constant influx of information, notifications, and digital demands can lead to information overload and negatively impact mental health.

b. Job Displacement: Automation and AI are altering the job market, leading to concerns about job security and the need for upskilling and reskilling.

c. Privacy Concerns: The rapid expansion of data collection and surveillance technologies has raised serious concerns about individual privacy and data security.

Globalization and Shifting Demographics

Globalization has connected people, cultures, and markets like never before. The movement of goods, services, and people across borders has had profound implications, such as:

a. Cultural Identity Challenges: As societies become more diverse, people often find themselves grappling with issues of cultural identity and integration.

b. Economic Disparities: Globalization has led to both economic growth and inequality, creating a sense of injustice and frustration.

c. Environmental Impact: The increasing interconnectedness of the world is exacerbating environmental issues, such as climate change, that affect everyone.

Changing Societal Norms

Societal norms and values are evolving, bringing about positive changes but also challenges, including:

a. Gender and Identity: A rapidly changing landscape of gender and identity can be empowering for some but confusing and threatening for others.

b. Political Polarization: Shifts in political ideologies can lead to polarization and ideological clashes, making it difficult to find common ground.

c. Social Media and Mental Health: The influence of social media on self-esteem, body image, and relationships raises concerns about mental well-being.

The Pressure to Keep Up

The pace of change often creates a sense of pressure and anxiety, as individuals feel the need to keep up. This has various consequences:

a. Stress and Burnout: The constant demand to adapt and excel can lead to stress and burnout.

b. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): The fear of missing out on opportunities and experiences can lead to impulsive decision-making.

c. Shallow Relationships: The speed of life can hinder the development of deep, meaningful relationships.

The Inequality Challenge

Rapid change doesn’t affect everyone equally. Disparities in access to education, technology, and opportunities exacerbate inequalities:

a. Educational Divide: Those with limited access to quality education may struggle to adapt to changing job markets and technologies.

b. Digital Divide: The lack of access to the internet and digital tools can isolate individuals from the benefits of the digital age.

c. Income Inequality: Economic disparities widen as those with resources adapt more easily to change, while others are left behind.

Environmental Concerns

As our world rapidly changes, environmental challenges become more urgent:

a. Climate Change: The acceleration of climate change is already impacting communities, ecosystems, and economies.

b. Resource Depletion: Rapid industrialization and urbanization put immense pressure on Earth’s finite resources.

c. Biodiversity Loss: Rapid changes in ecosystems threaten biodiversity, potentially causing irreversible damage.

The Strain on Mental Health

The cumulative effects of rapid change, along with the challenges they bring, can result in significant mental health issues:

a. Anxiety and Depression: The uncertainty and pressure associated with change can exacerbate mental health conditions.

b. Isolation: Rapid change can make people feel disconnected from their communities and loved ones.

c. Self-Identity Challenges: Changes in society can lead to an identity crisis for some individuals.

Strategies for Navigating Rapid Change

Despite the numerous challenges, there are strategies that individuals and societies can employ to navigate this era of rapid transformation:

a. Education and Lifelong Learning: Continuous education and skill development are crucial for adapting to changing job markets.

b. Mental Health Support: Promoting mental health awareness and seeking professional help when needed is essential.

c. Sustainable Living: Individuals can make choices that contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious world.

d. Embracing Diversity: Embracing diverse perspectives and experiences can lead to more inclusive societies.

e. Regulating Technology: Striking a balance between technological progress and privacy and ethical concerns is vital.

The world of rapidly accelerating change is both exhilarating and daunting. While the pace of change presents a multitude of problems and challenges, it also offers opportunities for growth, innovation, and progress. As individuals, communities, and societies, our ability to adapt, mitigate negative consequences, and harness the benefits of change will shape our future. By understanding the challenges and actively seeking solutions, we can navigate this whirlwind of change and build a more resilient and inclusive world for all.

At its core, this quote emphasizes self-awareness. It urges us to pause and reflect on how our current circumstances are interconnected with our thought patterns and subsequent actions. This self-reflection is the first step towards transformation because it encourages accountability. It’s about taking ownership of the life we’ve created so far.

Imagine our thoughts as paintbrushes, and our minds as the canvas. We are constantly painting our future through our thoughts and actions. When we perceive our reality as unsatisfactory or limiting, we must realize that we have been the artists behind this creation. However, the key to change lies in understanding that we possess the power to alter the image on that inner screen.

The quote underscores the potent tool of visualization. Visualization is the conscious act of imagining the life we desire. By visualizing our goals and aspirations, we plant seeds in our subconscious, aligning our thoughts and actions with our desired outcomes. This process not only fuels motivation but also acts as a blueprint for our subconscious mind to follow.

The choice of words in the quote – “the picture stay the same, deteriorate, or grow into whatever you illuminate on your inner screen” – is especially significant. It implies that we hold the reins of our lives, and our thoughts determine the direction. If we continue to visualize the same circumstances, they will persist. If we allow negativity or doubt to dominate our thoughts, our reality may deteriorate. However, if we consistently project positive, empowering visions onto our mental canvas, we pave the way for growth and transformation.

Moreover, Dr. Wayne Dyer’s words remind us that we are not static beings. Our lives are fluid and evolving. We are the cumulative result of the thoughts, beliefs, and actions that have shaped us thus far. This realization should inspire hope, for it means that we can always rewrite our life’s narrative. We are not bound by our past; we can paint new pictures, forge new paths, and redefine ourselves at any moment.

In essence, this quote is a call to action. It implores us to harness the power of our thoughts and intentions, to acknowledge our role in our current circumstances, and to actively engage in the creative process of reshaping our destinies. It encourages us to be conscious creators of our lives rather than passive observers of our circumstances.

In practical terms, this means cultivating a positive mindset, setting clear goals, and regularly visualizing our desired outcomes. It means taking deliberate actions aligned with our aspirations. It requires self-discipline, persistence, and a belief in our ability to effect change.

Dr. Wayne Dyer’s wisdom reminds us that we are not victims of circumstance, but authors of our own stories. We have the agency to paint new pictures on our inner screen, to transform our lives, and to manifest the reality we envision. Our thoughts are the brushes, and our actions are the strokes that craft the masterpiece of our lives.

Defining Vulnerability

Vulnerability can be a difficult concept to define, but it is an important tool for nurturing healthy relationships. At its core, speaking without ego and managing our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors allows us to create authentic connections by bringing our true selves to the table and allowing others to see us as we are. We must embrace vulnerability in order to open ourselves up to genuine connection and understanding. Doing so requires courage and self-reflection but it leads to greater trust with those around us, both professionally and personally.

The Role of Self-Disclosure

Self-disclosure is a key component of meaningful relationships between individuals. It involves the honesty and vulnerability it takes to share details about oneself with those we trust. Doing so can help us better understand how we feel, think, and act. By openly sharing our experiences, we can create trustworthy exchanges that will ultimately help strengthen our relationships with others as well as with ourselves. Honesty with others also serves to enforce honesty with ourselves, allowing us to be more aware of our choices and intentions every day.

Compliments as a Form of Affection

Compliments are more than just a nice thing to hear; they can be a form of affection that everyone needs in order to feel secure and valued. Everyone needs to be reassured every once in a while and this especially holds true when it comes from those we love – whether you’re close friends, partners or family. A kind word or genuine positive comment about something someone said or did can make them feel appreciated and show them how much their presence matters in everyone’s lives. It doesn’t have to be extravagant either, just a simple acknowledgement of something they’re good at, giving them praise for something they worked hard on, or simply reminding them how special they are can mean more than words could ever say.

How to be More Vulnerable with Your Partner

Vulnerability can be one of the sweetest, yet most difficult pieces to share with your partner. It requires a level of trust most people find intimidating and can often lead to moments of uncertainty. To become more vulnerable with your partner, start small by opening up and sharing in the small things you love. This allows them to get to know who you are when alone, without any masks or filters in place. Plus, it will allow THEM to share in those precious moments together, fostering deeper connections and understanding between you two. Have patience, take your time and be gentle with yourself throughout the process.

Why Being Vulnerable is Important in Relationships

It’s not always easy to be vulnerable in relationships. We share our lives with another person we (hopefully) trust, and we can feel exposed and even embarrassed when we share parts of ourselves that we feel are too personal. But it’s important to remember that by being vulnerable we create a safe environment for both of us. By sharing intimate aspects of ourselves we build trust as well as a deeper connection, because we’re not trying to keep parts of ourselves secret. That erodes self-trust, so we must strive to remain open and honest with those we love. In the end, we’ll all benefit from it by having stronger bonds with one another!

What are the Benefits to Being Vulnerable in a Relationship

Allowing yourself to be vulnerable in a relationship can be difficult, but there are many benefits that come from it. One of the most meaningful is the greater support partners can offer each other during difficult times. When partners open up about their fears, hopes, dreams and weaknesses with each other, they show care for one another on a deeper level. This allows those partners to better understand each other and provide support in moments when they may not even realize the other needs it. Being vulnerable can create an intimate bond between partners that can help create a long-lasting healthy and happy relationship.

Being vulnerable is a risk worth taking because it can lead to much deeper and more fulfilling relationships. When we are open with our partner, they get to know us on a much deeper level and we form a stronger connection. If you’re not used to being vulnerable, it’s okay to start small. Maybe try sharing something you’re passionate about with your partner or opening up about a difficult time in your life. Remember, being vulnerable doesn’t mean being perfect – we all have fears and doubts and that’s what makes us human. What matters is that we allow ourselves to be seen by our partners, warts and all. So go out there and take the leap – you might just be surprised at how great it feels!

In honor of Black History Month I wanted some perspective – so I asked 2 dear friends of mine – an interracial couple – what they have experienced as individuals and as a couple during their 20 year relationship.

I have posted this below with their permission – it is unedited…

Perspectives from Bryan and Angie on humanity seeing and honoring every color –

As we drove back from a road trip to visit family, we spent some time discussing your blog post and what we might be able to share. Our conversation started out reflecting to our life together as a couple and our interaction with the world and where color came into play. We talked about going out to restaurants and stores and how that is a place where racist situations can be obvious.

I’ve always admired Bryan’s ability to not allow the opinions, comments or looks from strangers bother him and he spends no time wondering about what other people think that he is never going to see again.  When I asked him about how he is able to do this he said because if he didn’t ignore it he would go insane.

We both agreed that racism still exists today and is ingrained into our systems and all parts of our society. Having spent over 20 years in my relationship with Bryan it has opened up my eyes to how bad, in general, black people are still treated in this country by white people.

Bryan brought up his aunt, a white lady, who married his uncle back in the 60’s and what life must have been like for their interracial relationship during that time when black and white people were not allowed to mix like we see today.  He said because of their relationship it not only helped pave the way for other interracial couples but it exposed his family to a situation where they could see past skin color.  I was welcomed and accepted into Bryan’s family with love and kindness.

We also talked about my family, specifically my Grandpa and how our relationship helped him to stop using old offensive terminology. Through the love and respect he had for me, it provided him the chance to get to know Bryan and he became more aware of his words and he changed them as a result. That was a demonstration of love winning.

Then we looked up the definition of humanity and came back to the initial question in your email. 1. All human beings collectively; the human race; humankind. 2. The quality or condition of being human; human nature. 3. The quality of being humane; kindness; benevolence.

I struggle with the word Humanity or all human beings collectively because I don’t agree that all humans see or honor every color. There is too much hate in our world today and in my opinion only those humans who possess the quality of being humane are the ones who can truly make a difference and will honor every color. We are grateful that both of our families have this quality and we are all better as a result.

How can you honor another color or culture with someone whose path crosses yours?

What question could you ask a fellow human to show your interest in becoming more aware of their racial or cultural perspective and lived experience?

#Awareness #Perspective #Truth #Lived Experience #Education #MiracleActivationCenter

*Francis Wardle first became involved in issues regarding multiethnic and multiracial children when his four-year-old daughter came to him in tears, after a peer used race as a put down. Since then he has created the Center for the Study of Biracial Children, given presentations on multiethnic and multiracial issues throughout the US and Canada, written extensively on the topic, and been quoted in newspapers, magazines, TV programs, and radio stations including NPR. Currently Dr. Wardle teaches at Red Rocks Community College and the University of Phoenix/Colorado Campus, consults for the National Head Start Migrant Program, and writes for a variety of national publications.

We are committed to doing our part to seek justice for those affected by forced exploitation of all kinds including labor, domestic servitude, sexual exploitation, and forced marriage, to name a few. Here are some stunning global statistics:

• 19.9 million people are subject to forced labor in private or state-run companies, and criminal exploitation
• 1.4 million people experience domestic servitude in private homes
• 6.3 million people are in forced sexual exploitation (including 1.7 million children)
• 21.9 million people are in a non-consensual, forced marriage

By understanding the realities of forced labor, domestic servitude, sexual exploitation, and forced marriage, business owners can make informed decisions about how to prevent and address exploitation in their companies. Business owners can take social and ethical responsibility by considering a few simple steps to support those vulnerable in our society.

* Start by placing a message of awareness on mirrors, walls or other prominent places within your business as Budd Dairy in Columbus, OH did. They implemented a simple but effective way to let their patrons know that if something is ‘amiss’ – they have your back. They placed a photo that was prominently placed on every mirror in every bathroom and if you’re in Columbus – stop by: https://budddairyfoodhall.com

It’s also important to become familiar with the signs of modern slavery and human trafficking, so that you know how to spot them if necessary. For more information and specific guidance. Check out the Hope for Justice website (https://hopeforjustice.org/spot-the-signs/) for tools and resources on this subject.

* Finally, create an atmosphere where it’s safe to speak up should anyone be in danger or need help – letting customers and employees know that you have their back.

Justice is something we all need to work together on, and your business can make a difference in this fight. With just a few steps, you can help protect those vulnerable in our society. Let’s join hands and stand up against injustice!

At the Miracle Activation Center we support the human rights of every individual and are always looking for ways to donate service and monetary contributions. Is there an organization that you know needs help? Please let us know!

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted on December 10th, 1948 as a result of the experience of World War II. This document was taken up a the first session of the UN General Assembly in 1946 – a newly formed entity comprised of an international community – that vowed to never let the atrocities that occurred during the conflict ever happen again. (https://www.un.org/en/about-us/udhr/history-of-the-declaration)

So much has been taken – so many have been tortured, dismissed, discarded – on a personal level, on a racial level, on a religious level, on a physical appearance level, on a gender level…and the list goes on. How do we heal from this as an individual or group or tribe?

We are curious creatures and may notice differences quickly – but this does not mean that the differences are anything other than just that – different. Not good, not bad, not threatening, not divisive. Only when we attach meaning to these differences do we see ourselves as separate and unique. Maybe we just received different attributes to show one another how great the spectrum of our species truly is.

Food for thought:

What is the mantra or intention that we could say to ourselves on a daily basis that would release our attachment to the differences we see in others?

Live and let live?

Que sera?

We are all one?

The interconnectedness of humanity is resolute in the sense that we are all a part of the same species. We already have common ground – we are able to choose what we see beyond that. Do you see yourself in me?

Intimacy–into me I let you see. This may seem risky and for those who are risk-averse or have suffered at the hands of betrayal can be a scary proposition. Working with a counselor you can practice safe ways to allow your heart and hands to be open to receive and give unconditional acceptance to live a fulfilled, purpose-filled life.

At Miracle Activation Center we practice 4 pillars from SMART recovery that help our clients discover, recover, rebuild, and reclaim their lives.

Home (Pillar 1)
Just like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz said, “There is no place like home.” We help our clients find what home means for them and how to connect to home.

Health (Pillar 2)
We help our clients find models of health around nutrition, physical exercise, good sleep habits, medication if needed and meditiation.

Community (Pillar 3)
We all go home together. Finding a community that is supportive and allows every member to be fully self-expressed is the key to connections.

Purpose (Pillar 4)
One of our greatest joys is helping our clients find purpose in their daily lives. For many who have been accustomed to an external locus of control model, this can be one of the most liberating aspects of recovering. We believe that everything you need to know to create a beautiful, purpose-driven life is within you. We help our clients gently awaken and remove all barriers to peace and the truth of who they really are-perfect, complete, and whole.

This is part of what we want to address at the Miracle Activation Center. Everyone has experienced some form of trauma – from the playground to retirement – and allowing ourselves to experience what it feels like to forgive, release, surrender and enjoy this life we were meant to live is what we’re working toward for everyone who finds us.

Happiest of holidays – whatever that may be for you –

As a parent, sibling, business owner, or spiritual leader, you may be struggling with caring for a loved one who requires extra support and resources. Whether you are dealing with a mental illness or another condition that requires caregiving, it can be a challenging and overwhelming experience. How can you continue to be of service when you are juggling all the responsibilities and facets of your own life? It can be rough, and we want to honor those who are currently providing care for another.

To help you navigate this demanding situation, here are some resources and suggestions:

1. First and foremost, remember that you are not alone in this struggle. There are millions of other caregivers in the US who can relate to what you are going through and offer support and understanding. There are over fifty-three million Americans who are unpaid caregivers to family, friends, and neighbors. According to Mental Health America 27% of adult caregivers are helping someone with mental illness. This means that you or someone you know in your close circle is a caregiver.

2. Take care of yourself first. Get plenty of rest, eat well, and find a way to get physical movement either through exercise, playing a sport, or simply going for a daily walk. This will make you stronger and better equipped to provide the care your loved one needs.

3. Be proactive about seeking out resources and support, whether that means reaching out to other caregivers for advice or connecting with healthcare providers and professionals who can assist you. Not only is it okay, but necessary to ask for help when you need it. It may mean seeking out respite care, finding a support group, counselor or other assistance as needed. With the right support and resources, you can succeed in your caregiving journey.

4. The key to understanding short or long-term care is education. Education leads to awareness and awareness leads to your ability to recognize and set limits or boundaries so that you can remain healthy and stay strong. Knowing what you are facing and how to operate within this paradigm will provide the best possible outcomes for you AND the person you are supporting.

***Bonus Resource: Mental Health America has a fantastic “Caregivers Guide” to help you navigate your caregiving role so that you don’t wind up needing a caregiver of your own because of exhaustion and frustration. Although their area of expertise is mental health, the information is universally applicable to ANY recovery – which always includes a mental health component.

You can find the guide here: https://mhanational.org/caregivers/caregivers-guide

As always, we are here to support you and love you just as you are. Feel free to reach out to us if you have questions or need assistance with any aspect of your life. We are here to be YOUR caregiver.

As John Lennon said in his song – “life is what happens to you while you’re making plans” – I interpret that to mean that when we continually get wrapped up in the BUSYNESS of life – we begin to lose touch with how we really feel and what we really value. This often leads to placing our time and attention on things that do not give us the time and space to reflect, relax and assess what we really feel, want and desire. Connecting with your true self will provide all the answers and insight you need if you know what questions to ask –

So – to become more emotionally aware – try this:

Hot chocolate and a walk (nearest park, your street, to the mailbox)

Questions to ask yourself:
How am I really doing? (What comes up?)
What am I feeling? (What comes up?)
Is there anything that I wish I felt differently about?
How would I be able to shift what I’m currently doing to feel those feelings?

Yoga with Adriene – just go to YouTube (the best friend you always wanted with a timeframe and level to match wherever you are at)
Why yoga? A Hindu philosophy teaching that by holding back the activity of one’s body, mind, and will one can know one’s true self and be free. (Count me in)
The more you focus on your breath – the more relaxed and aware you become of things outside your physical body. This may take a few attempts, but I guarantee you will always feel more centered and accomplished regardless of what you experience and will have learned something you didn’t think you could do – but now can. Expansion in any form involves awareness.

Tip: I suggest doing yoga with some sort of instructor – virtual or otherwise – as they take the guesswork out of what to do – allowing you to connect with your breath and higher self.

Remind yourself of who you are
What did you enjoy most as a kid? (Go do it – even if it involves a sandbox or a jungle gym or stuffed animals or Legos or Hot Wheels cars – what’s different – what’s the same)
What brings you joy now? (How often are you doing it?)
Who would you like to speak with that you haven’t taken the time to contact in a while? Maybe someone who knew you before all that life happened. (CALL THEM – or meet in person to catch up if you can. Connection is powerful – reach out – maybe even to someone new who you feel drawn toward!)

Emotional awareness helps you make healthy choices, maintain good relationships, and achieve your goals, handle life’s stresses, navigate relationships, and stay motivated. By practicing mindfulness/awareness, you can practice engaging in the present, accepting events and feelings without judgment, and moving through life with peace and ease.

This was something interesting I discovered and wanted to share. We didn’t come up with this yesterday…and the fact that I can create new grey matter in my brain – HOLD THE PHONE!

EMOTIONAL WELLNESS MONTH TIMELINE
2011
A Harvard Study Showed Mindfulness Works
According to the study, meditation and mindfulness can help create new grey matter in the brain, which improves memory, learning abilities, compassion, and self-awareness.
1990
Americans With Disabilities Act Passes
The ADA includes protections from discrimination for mentally and physically disabled Americans. These protections extend to employment, public transportation, accommodations, and government agencies.
1963
Congress Funds Mental Health Centers
Congress authorizes funding and construction grants for community mental health centers. The legislation is signed and enacted by President Kennedy.
1946
National Institute of Mental Health Established
The National Mental Health Act creates the National Institute of Mental Health to promote emotional wellbeing on a national level.
1883
Birth of Psychiatry
German psychiatrist Emil Kräpelin becomes the first to publish a comprehensive system of psychological disorders centering around a pattern of symptoms and potential underlying physiological cause.

As always we are here to support you and love you just as you are. Please contact us if you have any questions or need assistance.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Many people struggle with mental health issues, and you are not weak for reaching out for help. There is help available. You can find hotlines and support groups in your area, or reach out to a mental health professional.

YOU ARE NOT POWERLESS. Even if you feel like you are struggling, know that you have the power to make changes in your life. You can take steps to improve your mental health, and you will get through this tough time.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please reach out for help.

Dr. Caceda from Stony Brook University Hospital says that “sadly, many Americans have thoughts of taking their lives. Half of those who have these thoughts make a plan, and 1.4 million take some action toward ending their lives. Because of the stigma associated with suicide, the numbers could be higher than reported . Warning signs include talking about wanting to die, expressing feelings of hopelessness, and giving away prized possessions.” There are MANY people, however, that never say a word about how they are feeling or provide any indication that they have thought about ending their life and commit suicide. No one is exempt from having these thoughts.

Some contributing factors to suicide include:

• Relationship problems

• History of self-harm or previous suicide attempts

• Exposure to suicidal behaviors

• Feelings of isolation or being alone

• Access to firearms or other lethal means

• Drug or alcohol abuse

– Veterans and other military personnel are at a higher risk for suicide.

– Those in the arts, media, sports, and entertainment fields are also at a higher risk.

– LGBTQ youth are another group that is particularly vulnerable to suicide.

– Finally, white men over the age of 44 and 85 are more likely to commit suicide.

https://www.stonybrookmedicine.edu/patientcare/askexpert/suicidalthoughts

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. There are many resources available, and it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Seek professional help if you’re feeling hopeless or helpless, and talk to someone you trust if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Asking for help requires unbelievable strength. You use your power to guide, direct and shape the future of the business you’re in – use this same power to raise your hand and have a conversation with a professional or someone you trust. You are human and we all struggle at some point. You deserve to get help and to feel better.

1. DRINK WATER – hydration is important – we are around 50-60% water (females are approx. 50% and males approx. 60%) and a general rule of thumb for how much to drink daily is ½ of your body weight in oz (if you’re 200lbs, you’d want to consume 100 oz). WHY is this important? Water allows us to:
a. Form saliva for digestion
b. Allows body’s cells to grow, reproduce and survive
c. Flushes body waste, mainly in urine
d. Lubricates joints
e. Regulates body temperature (sweating and respiration)
f. Needed by the brain to manufacture hormones and neurotransmitters
g. Acts as a shock absorber for brain and spinal cord
h. Helps deliver oxygen all over the body

Now that you know all of that – aren’t you excited about drinking water DAILY?!?! This may be just what you’ve been missing!

***Pro tip – figure out a bottle or canteen or other vessel that will hold the amount of water you should consume each day and fill it/them up at the start of each day. You’ll know where you’re at with your water consumption by being able to visually see what’s left throughout the day.

2. STRETCH – taking 15 minutes once or twice or even periodically during the day will give your mind and body pause to reset, reconnect and re-energize. Even if you’re not exercising a lot – we all need to stretch! Muscles do 1 thing and they do it very well – CONSTRICT! If you find yourself stiffer or slower than you’d like…it’s time to take 10 – even standing and bending over to let gravity have its way with you can help. Here’s why:
a. Stretching can help relieve stress
b. Reduces anxiety
c. Improves posture
d. Less risk of injury
e. Improved flexibility and range of motion
f. Relief from back pain

***Pro tip – spend a total of 60 seconds on whatever stretches you choose to do – and break it up if needed – 15 secs x 4 or 20 secs x 3 – breathe into each stretch and only go until you feel the slightest bit of tension – you will feel the expansion with each consecutive attempt – even if it’s just a tiny bit – that’s OK and it’s not much time! (Nevercontinue to do anything that is painful – stretching is all about the small incremental elongation of whatever you are stretching – nothing extreme or painful).

3. REFLECT – CONNECT – MEDITATE – give yourself 10 min to simply pause – however that might feel best for you. There are no rules! The goal is to just BE. Here are some ideas:

a. Spend the 1st 5 minutes of the day simply sitting with your face towards the sun – stimulating the Vitamin D production in your body and thinking about the things you are grateful for in your life.
b. Lie in the grass or sit in a chair and look up at the clouds to see what you see and what thoughts might come to you for acknowledgement or contemplation.
c. Perform an online search or check out an app for guided or non-guided meditation. You may find the lulling sound of a person’s voice guiding you through a mindful journey to see what shows up for you is a fit! If not – maybe put on some non-lyrical music and see where your mind goes.

The point is to give your brain an opportunity to pause amidst the chaos, untangle and sort through observations and experiences, consider alternative interpretations of anything that keeps coming up for you, and discover possible guidance or direction for what you seek.

***Pro tip – set a recurring appointment on your calendar with a REMINDER that goes offtelling you that it’s time for you to take a little time for yourself and treat it as any other appointment – show up and don’t be late!

The more we can connect to and align our mind, body and spirit – the closer we get to wellness.

#wellness #practice #body #mind #fitness #miracleactivationcenter