Category Archives: Wellbeing

Thoughtful Thursday Excuses be Gone Book Review

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I was working in an online class where I created a detailed sketch of a girl with flowing hair and butterflies (I’ll share that with you later this week). But it had taken quite a few tries and quite some time to get the sketch just right.

I needed to paint her so I could bring her to life, yet I found myself stuck. I really wanted to paint her but was afraid to ruin the sketch that had taken hours to complete. I came up with all sorts of excuses as to why I couldn’t or rather wouldn’t paint her. Finally I thought this is ridiculous because I’ve painted so many portraits before that turned out pretty good. Then I remembered Wayne Dyer’s book, “Excuses be Gone!” and silenced those negative nellies in my mind. I painted her and you know what, she turned out pretty awesome.

But I wasn’t paying attention to my thoughts and let them run wild. So this whole thing was a good reminder for me of what I need to be doing, minding my thoughts. I had read Wayne Dyer’s book a while ago and loved it. In his book he explains why all of us at one time or another become victims of our own self defeating thoughts that can immobilize our progress in life. Wayne also describes how to silence those negative thoughts so we can move forward.

It’s not always easy because sometimes we forget to keep up with the practice. But this book was well written and quite an eye opener and I’ll be putting it on list to read again😊 I highly recommend Wayne Dyers book “Excuses be Gone!” You won’t be disappointed!

Thanks for stopping by!!

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(Note: by clicking on the links or image above it will take to the corresponding product in your region’s Amazon store. This Affiliate link means that I’ll get a small commission when you buy through my website. Thanking you in advance!!)

“If you really want to do something you’ll find a way. If you don’t you’ll find an excuse.” ~Jim Rohn

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Thoughtful Thursday Benefits of MCT Oil

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Photo by Alexander Mils on Pexels.com

Our brain is a complex organ which requires lots of energy to run efficiently on a daily basis. It controls a lot of things like our emotions, memories, thoughts, motor skills, touch, vision, breathing and more. Plus it pretty much regulates every process in our body. But as we age, our brain health may decline. So it’s really important to take care of this powerhouse so we can keep our wits about us as we get older.

MCT oil is a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) which is more easily digested than longer-chain fatty acids found in foods. The most common form of MCT oil is extracted from coconut oil since 50% of the fat in coconut oil comes from MCTs.

MCT oil is excellent for brain health and has been shown to help manage Alzheimer’s, Epilepsy and Autism. Plus it may help reduce body fat, improve your gut health, fight bacterial growth, increase energy, reduce inflammation and manage blood sugar levels and more.

I’ve been using Garden of Life Organic MCT Oil for the last year and have noticed an improvement in my brain health. I feel more mentally alert, energetic and overall better. I add 1 tablespoon, one or two times a week to my shakes and smoothies. I don’t notice a flavor difference so I have no problem consuming it and I love how I feel! You can find it on Amazon or click on the image below.

I highly recommend Organic MCT Oil by Garden of Life, it’s been a life changer. However, as with any dietary change please consult with your health care provider to make sure this is a good fit for you. (Note: by clicking on the link or image above it will take to the corresponding product in your region’s Amazon store. This Affiliate link means that I’ll get a small commission when you buy through my website. Thanking you in advance!!)

Thanks for stopping by!!

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“The preservation of health is easier than the cure of the disease.” ~Unknown

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Thoughtful Thursday Color and Moods

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Have you ever thought about how color affects how you feel? Many people associate colors with different things like trees, the ocean, flowers or even a cool summer’s breeze which evoke positive emotions and make us feel good. But you can also associate colors with negative things because we create these associations in our mind through our personal life experiences.

Our brain reacts to sensory impressions. Visual impressions make up 80% of that. And that’s a pretty big chunk. So it’s no wonder that color can greatly affect our moods. Studies have shown these are some of the generalities of how colors can make you feel:

  • Blue: Calming, Dependable, Peace, Trustworthy, Wisdom
  • Green: Growth, Nature, Contentment, Health, New Beginnings
  • Red: Love, Power, Confidence, Passion, Excitement, Anger, Danger
  • Yellow: Happy, Joy, Spontaneous, Hope, Danger
  • Orange: Kindness, Warmth, Enthusiasm
  • Pink: Romantic, Soft, Playful
  • Purple: Wealth, Glamorous, Mysterious, Creativity
  • Black: Sophisticated, Powerful, Serious, Luxurious, Aggressive
  • White: Fresh, Clean, Pure, Truth, Simplicity
  • Gray: Passive, Low Energy
  • Brown: Earthy, Stability, Support

Pay attention to the colors in your environment and how they make feel, especially the clothes you wear. You may be quite surprised and discover new things about yourself!

Hope you enjoyed this post today, thanks for stopping by!!

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“Color was not given to us in order that we imitate nature. It was given to us so that we can express our emotions.” ~Henri Matisse

    Sunflower Photo taken by Maria Vidaurre

    Thoughtful Thursday “Act as if it were impossible to fail.”

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    “Act as if it were impossible to fail.” is a quote by Dorothea Brande from her book Wake Up and Live! It’s a simple quote that is so very powerful. When you think about it, what would you do differently if you knew it were impossible to fail? Personally, I can think of lots of things I would have done differently in my life and I’m sure you can to.

    It’s not a far fetched idea, but something that’s pretty basic if we’d only believe. We have a tendency to create so many obstacles in our minds that stop us dead in our tracks from reaching our goals and creating our dream life. But why?

    The reasons can vary drastically from one person to next. But I think the first step is to look at ourselves in the mirror and be accountable for our actions, thoughts and attitudes. Because these are the things that brought us to where we are today.

    The next step which is easier said than done is to dig deeper and look at where some of these beliefs and thoughts started and what started them. Is it something our parents taught us? Or is it a result of something that happened to us? Is it combination of both of these things or something else? But you must be completely honest with yourself if you are to move forward.

    Once we have a better understanding of why we react a certain way to certain situations we stand a better chance of conquering the obstacles we created for ourselves. And as a result we can move on to bigger and better things.

    I hope these words of wisdom by Dorothea Brande inspire you in some way today! Thanks for stopping by!!

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    “All that is necessary to break the spell of inertia and frustration is this: Act as if it were impossible to fail. That is the talisman, the formula, the command of right-about-face which turns us from failure towards success.” ~Dorothea Brande

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    Thoughtful Thursday Cold Remedy

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    With the cold and flu season here I wanted to share an old remedy that my mom used to make. She believed that honey and garlic would cure anything a cold or flu could bring and she was right. Although I’m vegan, this is one thing I didn’t give up.

    Growing up honey was a staple in our home. We used it on toast, in recipes and to sweeten tea. It was always delicious! Honey has lots of benefits including:

    • Rich in antioxidants
    • Strengthens the immune system
    • Eases sinus issues
    • Helps suppress coughs
    • Promotes the healing of burns and wounds
    • Boosts memory and more!

    Now add some garlic to the honey and you have even more health benefits like:

    • Contains antioxidants
    • Helps protect against illness including colds
    • Reduces blood pressure
    • Improves bone health
    • Improves cholesterol levels and more!

    When you combine these two superfoods along with a bit of onion, no virus or germ can survive. I’ve used this remedy for years and it shortens my illness without fail every time.

    It’s easy to make, just put the onion and garlic in a mini food processor and puree. Then transfer it to a small bowl and add enough honey to cover the pureed mixture (I always add a little extra 😊). Store it covered in the fridge. Normally when you refrigerate honey it becomes thick and crystallizes. However, with the added onion and garlic, it becomes more fluid like a syrup.

    Now I’m not going to lie, the garlic and onion can be strong so don’t chew it, swallow it like cough syrup. Take 1 tablespoon 3 times a day and you’ll feel worlds better in no time!

    Ingredients:

    • 1/8 onion
    • 2 cloves garlic
    • Enough honey to cover the minced onion and garlic.

    Hope this helps you stay healthier this winter. Thanks for stopping by!!!

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    Starry Night Journal

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    I hope your weekend is off to a great start! This was a painting I started before my studio reno got underway and now I was able to finish it. I was experimenting with different types of paint and shades of blue and purple. Originally this painting didn’t have any clouds but it looked like it was missing something so I added them in. What do you think?

    Thanks for stopping by!!

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    “I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of stars makes me dream.” ~Vincent Van Gogh

    Thoughtful Thursday Battle Boards

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    I can’t believe how this year has flown by. We’re already in middle of September and before you know it the holidays will be upon us once again. As we get closer to the last quarter of the year, it’s a good time to take a look at your goals and where you stand on them. Are you meeting them? Did you stay on track or did you forget about them altogether?

    Brendon Burchard one of my favorite coaches has a YouTube episode on creating a Battle Board. It’s never too late in the year to start because everyday is a new chance for new opportunities to come into your life. So with my studio getting closer to being done, this is one of the changes I’m implementing.

    The concept of the Battle Board is basically to have your goals outlined in front of you so you can see them every day to keep you on track. If you’re not looking at your goals on a daily basis it’s easy to become distracted and veer of course. Once that happens there’s no chance for success.

    Whatever your goals may be health, business, finances or relationships, assess where you are and where you want to be. Then create your Battle Board to keep you on track and successful!

    Hope this inspired you today. Thanks for stopping by!!!

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    “Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into visible.” ~Tony Robbins

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    Dangers of Keto Diet

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    I’ve talked about this before but it’s really important to remember how truly unique each of us are. From our personalities, to our looks to how our bodies react to foods, especially diets. A little over a year ago, I gave the Keto Diet a try for 15 days. But it didn’t agree with my body. I ended up losing weight but not fat. When I went back to eating my normal diet, which is vegan and I reintroduced the carbs, I put the weight back on and then some.

    I came across some people who loved the Keto Diet so much that they stayed on it for a long time. But what most people don’t know, is the Keto Diet was designed to be followed for short periods of time. This is a diet of high fat. Even though some say it’s the good kind of fat, bottom line is fat is still fat. And too much of anything will take a toll on your body.

    Long story short, by staying on the Keto for a long period of time, the people I spoke with developed serious health issues and were told to get off of the diet. The adverse affects of prolonged Keto Dieting is dangerous and include:

    • Hepatic Steatosis (fatty liver disease)
    • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
    • Kidney Stones
    • Hypoproteinemia (abnormally low protein)
    • Keto Flu (symptoms mimicking a cold flu)
    • Rapidly Increased Cholesterol Levels
    • Vitamin & Mineral Deficiencies
    • Dehydration

    Also keep in mind if you already have pre-existing health conditions you very well could make these worse or add more complications to your list. So please always consult with a doctor before and during major dietary changes so you can monitor your progress and avoid any serious adverse affects.

    Thanks for stopping by!!!

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    “Every human being is the author is his own health or disease.” ~Buddha

    Photo by Jill Wellington on Pexels.com

    Galaxy Art Journaling

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    I’ve been having fun experimenting with different color combinations in my watercolor journal. I really like this color combination. It’s a dark turquoise, deep magenta, rose and light blue.

    I think I like it better than the last one. What do you think – A or B? Cast your Vote in the comment section below 👇

    A (left) / B (right)

    Thanks for stopping by!!!

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    “Keep your eyes on the stars and your feet on the ground.” ~ Theodore Roosevelt

    Thoughtful Thursday Mission Organization

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    Imagine going to the library and the books are randomly placed on the shelves. You’d get frustrated because you can’t find what you’re looking for. If you were the person in charge of getting new books for the library you wouldn’t know which books to add because you don’t know what’s already there.

    We all have a tendency of acquiring “stuff” that seems to pile up and multiply all on it’s own if we don’t tend to it. Maybe we’re just not an organizer by nature or we’ll get to it later but then later never comes. All this “stuff” stops the flow of energy causing you to become unhappy, stressed and lose clarity to name a few.

    I’m getting ready to do the floors in my studio. It’s something I’ve been putting off but needs to get done. I’m not looking forward to packing everything up because I have a lot of art supplies I use. On the other hand this is going to force me to really look at what I have and ask “do I really need this, does it bring me happiness.”

    I wanted to get some new ideas and a fresh outlook to organizing my studio so I purchased a book by Desha Peacock, “Your Creative Work Space” which is available on Amazon.

    I started reading the book and love it so far. Desha shares examples of creative work spaces from different people in different professions. She also shares her wisdom for organizing your sacred space and keeping that way. I’m already very excited to put some of her ideas to use and create better energy flow in my studio.

    I’m not sure how this is going to work out but I’ll do my best to keep posting and sharing the happy with everyone. Wish me luck 😅

    Thanks for stopping by!!

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    Photo by Jill Wellington on Pexels.com