gratitude

November is gratitude month, though, I believe every month, every day we should write down/discuss what we are grateful for in this life. Whenever I'm being negative or having a bad moment, my boyfriend's favorite question to ask me is "what are you grateful for?" Here is a list for every day of November of the things that I'm grateful for. Make your own list and share!

1. My boyfriend, Joshua. He is by far one of the most positive, uplifting people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. He has the ability to bring out the best in people and always brings a smiles to everyone's face. Five minutes in a room with him and everyone is laughing. I'm a better person for knowing him.

2. My family. Through thick and thin, no matter what (even when we disagree), they are always there for me and I for them. I have taken many risks in life and with great risks come great "failures." My family has been with me through every step of the way.

3. My friends. Are more like my family. They have been with me through some crazy times and we have amazing memories together.

4. My cat, Calliope. She is a calico and has a personality and a half. She knows when I'm upset and will snuggle up to me. She's also a fan of laying in the funniest positions which is always good for a laugh.

5. Chocolate. Do I really have to elaborate?

6. The ocean. Growing up less than a mile of the beach is a blessing. One of my favorite places to meditate is on the beach. Sometimes there is nothing more relaxing and centering than the sound of the waves and the smell of the salt air.

7. The mountains/rock climbing. Finding rock climbing nine years ago changed my life. I feel my calmest when up in the mountains, surrounded by giant trees and friends. Second to meditating on the beach, I am my most present when climbing.

8. The sky. Daytime sky, nighttime sky. It's all magical.

Whenever feeling down or negative, think about what you're grateful for and even write them down and put them in a jar! That way you always have them on hand when feeling a bit blue.

Much love,
S

respect

Happy Sunday everyone! I hope you all are enjoying autumn and taking advantage of the amazing weather we have been having. Take time for yourself and go for a walk, run, hike, sit by the ocean, discover the beautiful trails near and far. Whatever it is that brings you joy, do it. This brings me to my reason for writing today and it's about self-respect. Like most of you, my life is a never ending to do list. While I love every minute of it and (mostly) have fun, there's come a point where I crash. If you are like me it is important to figure out the reasons why this happens. This is why living mindfully is key. I have a tendency to think that I can do it all, do it well and on my own. Work 40-50 hour weeks, sure! Start school again, heck yes! Pick up another job, ok! Help start a business, love to! Go climbing, always! Add in family, friends, cooking, cleaning, and all of the other fun little things I add to the list...no wonder I crash. When you jam pack your schedule like I do some things tend to fall by the waste side like sleep and healthy eating. Getting plenty of rest, water and proper foods is what fuels the body and mind so that we can all tackle our busy lives and be healthy and happy while doing it! This is where self-respect comes in. You need to take time for yourself. Here are some things you can do:

1. Learn to say no. 

2. Ask for help. 

3. Prioritize. Get yourself a planner and use it! Carry it with you everywhere. It's your personal assistant. 

4. Meditate. Even if it's only for one minute. Learn to quiet your mind. This will help you focus and become more in tune with yourself. 

5. Plan your meals. This is a huge area where most people (including myself!) are lacking. I have a hard time with it myself. Make time to plan meals for the week or make time (morning or night) to make healthy snacks and food for the day. I'll make another post with quick and easy recipes! Really need help find a Certified Health Coach! I have just begun school at the Institute  for Integrative Nutrition and have two wonderful colleagues who would love to help you. Joshua Louro and Adam Davenport of Life's Epiphany are two of the most positive and energetic people I know. Check them out at www.lifes-epiphany.com

Much love,
S