May Edition
The Essence of Strength:
A Journey of Growth and Resilience
I saw an amazing quote that read:
“A Tree with Strong Roots, Laughs at Storms” and I felt that.
Strength is not merely a physical attribute; it is a multifaceted quality that encompasses mental, emotional, and spiritual courage. The Journey to strength begins with the understanding that it is a skill to be cultivated, not a gift bestowed at birth. Strength comes with Experience. It is the product of perseverance, learning, and the willingness to step out of your comfort zone. Every Obstacle you’ve overcome, every failure turned into a lesson contributes to the development of inner strength.
Mental Strength is the ability to focus and push through certain obstacles, doubts and fears while maintaining a positive outlook despite setbacks. Emotional Strength involves managing one's feelings, having Empathy, and building relationships based on support and Encouragement. Spiritual Strength is often found in a sense of Purpose, in the values that guide us, and in the connection to something greater than ourselves.
It is through life's trials and tribulations that we discover our true potential. The process of becoming strong or having strength is a dynamic and ongoing one, filled with moments of vulnerability and triumph.
In essence, strength is a continuous journey. It is not about falling but learning how to rise every time we do. It is not about being fearful but having the courage to face those fears and challenges. And most importantly, it is not something that you are born with- it is something you build day-by-day choice-by-choice.
So let’s celebrate the journey of strength in all its forms, recognizing that each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory in itself. Embrace the challenges that life throws at us, knowing that with each one we are becoming stronger and more capable of what comes next. Strength is within reach for everyone; it is just a matter of taking that first step and continuing to move forward.
Daily Practice on Stretching with Your Breath
Incorporating breathwork into your daily stretching routine can transform a simple flexibility exercise into a profound mind-body experience. It's not just about increasing your range of motion; it's about creating a rhythm between your body and your breath that enhances relaxation, focus, and stress relief.
Breathwork, the practice of conscious breathing, has been shown to have numerous benefits, including reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and even strengthening the lungs. When combined with stretching, breathwork can help you achieve a deeper stretch, as the act of breathing deeply relaxes your muscles and allows you to extend further comfortably. You will be stunned by how much your flexibility has increased. Breathing into the stretches deepens the stretch Significantly.
Here's a simple daily practice to get you started:
1. **Find a Quiet Space**: Choose a peaceful spot where you won't be disturbed. This could be a corner of your living room, your bedroom, or even outdoors in the forest. Personally being on the grass makes for the ultimate experience.
2. **Start with Diaphragmatic Breathing**: (Stomach area) Lie down or sit comfortably with one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest. Breathe in deeply through your nose, allowing your stomach to rise, and then exhale slowly through pursed lips. This type of breathing engages your diaphragm and prepares your body for stretching.
3. **Move into Your Stretch**: As you move into your chosen stretch, synchronize your breath with your movement. Inhale as you gently extend into the stretch, and exhale as you hold the position. The exhalation helps deepen the stretch as your body naturally relaxes.
** ( A great Stretch to try so you can instantly see what I’m speaking about is to lay on your back, heels touching, legs extended. Bend your right knee, pull it towards your chest and as you pull it towards you, breathe in for 5 seconds and release breath 5 seconds. Do this 3 times. As you pull your knee closer towards your head) After stretching the right leg, extend your leg to the ground. You will notice your right leg seems slightly longer than your left. That's how deep the stretch is when you stretch with your breath. Then repeat the left leg.
4. **Hold and Breathe**: Hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds, continuing to breathe deeply. Focus on the sensation of your breath moving through your body and the feeling of tension releasing with each exhale.
5. **Finish with Relaxation**: After completing your stretches, take a few minutes to lie down, close your eyes, and breathe normally. This allows your body to reap the benefits of the stretching and breathwork session.
Remember, the key to a successful stretching and breathwork practice is consistency. Even just a few minutes a day can make a significant difference in your physical and mental well-being. So, take a deep breath and stretch your way to a more relaxed and flexible you. Happy stretching!
SPIRITUAL RECIPE
Creamy Poppy Seed Fruit Salad
This bright and colorful dish will be a favorite at any cookout or event this summer. Not only is it delicious but it adds vibrant colors to the table!
You can either buy fruit that is cut up; or choose to cut up your favorites.
What you will need for the Recipe:
1\ Large Carton Fresh Strawberries | Root Chakra
1\Large Carton Fresh Blueberries | Throat Chakra
1\ Honey Dew Melon | Heart Chakra
1\ Cantaloupe | Sacral Chakra
5\ Kiwi | Heart Chakra
1\ Lb. Red Grapes | Root Chakra
1\ Medium Pineapple | Solar Plexus Chakra
1\ Bottle of Briana’s Poppy Seed Dressing
After you have selected your fruits, Pour half the bottle of Briana’s Poppy Seed dressing into the Fruit. Stir. Should have a light coating of Dressing on the fruit. Serve!
Yes, it’s that easy! [If you're like me and like extra dressing, go for it! Enjoy
May Channeling
No Mistakes- Spirit wanted me to reiterate that there are no mistakes. Although we have free will, we make a choice that brings us to a path. Even if that path may be a slightly “longer” path, it is still a path, and you always end up where you need to be. Don’t get too caught up in what you think you should be doing rather than what is happening at that present moment. It’s about being; Being in the moment—the Now. You are where you are for a reason and no matter what, things always work themselves out.
So let’s encourage each other to grow, create, and live without the shadow of fear.
After all, it’s not about never making a mistake —it’s about never missing the lesson.
It brings me to a song by Alanis MorrisettE. “ One hand in my Pocket” Go ahead and listen and make sure you smile. ;)
Stay Stunning and Grateful.
