Tuesday TwoLet me share with you two insights
on ways to take care of your mental wellnesS each week. |
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Tuesday TwoLet me share with you two insights
on ways to take care of your mental wellnesS each week. |
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1. Work With, Not Against, Your Natural Flow
Our brains and bodies follow a natural ultradian rhythm—meaning we can usually stay focused and productive for about 90 minutes at a time. After that? We’re meant to take a break. Not push through. Even 10 minutes away from your desk--a walk, a stretch, a snack, a moment of stillness—can reset your system and prepare you for your next wave of creativity and clarity. When we learn to work with our rhythms instead of fighting against them, we become more grounded, more energized, and a whole lot more effective. Your rhythm is your power. Tune in. Protect it. Move with it. 🌿 Title: Unmasking for Connection: The Courage to Be Seen For years, I wore the mask well. I smiled through the pressure. I nodded when I disagreed. I stayed polished, professional—and protected. But something changed the moment I chose to show up as I truly am. Not perfect. Not polished. Just… real. 2. Unmasking isn’t about oversharing or losing your boundaries. It’s about letting people see the you behind the titles, behind the to-do lists, behind the expectations. The one who feels deeply. Who gets nervous before the big presentation. Who sometimes doubts—but still shows up. And here’s what I’ve learned: When you let your mask slip, the right people lean in closer. We connect more deeply when we drop the act. We lead more authentically when we stop pretending to have it all together. And we live more joyfully when we stop performing and start belonging. I believe this world is craving real. Real presence. Real empathy. Real connection. So today, I’m choosing to lead with heart. To connect without pretense. To unmask, not for attention—but for alignment. Because the real me is always enough. And so is the real you. ✨ Your Turn: When was the last time you showed up without the mask? What did it feel like to be truly seen—and accepted? I’d love to hear your story. Drop a comment or send me a message. Let’s continue this conversation—with honesty, heart, and humanity.
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1. Create Calm in a Noisy World
Our phones, watches, and devices are constantly buzzing for our attention. It’s no wonder our minds feel full before the day even begins. Here’s one thing that’s made a huge difference for me: a consistent bedtime routine. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just intentional. ✨ Try dimming the lights, soaking in a bath, reading something that doesn’t overstimulate your brain, and most importantly--removing devices from the bedroom altogether. (Yes, really. You might sleep better than you have in years.) 2. Sync Your Mind and Body—Outside Throughout your day, it’s so helpful to reconnect your mind and body. One of the best (and easiest) ways? A 10-minute walk outdoors. No agenda. No podcast. Just you, your breath, and the rhythm of your steps. Let the sunshine or breeze remind you that you’re here, now. And if you’re a visual motivator like I am—mark it down with a star, a smiley face, or a happy note in your calendar. A little acknowledgment goes a long way in building consistency. This week, I hope you find peace in the pause. Remember--your nervous system responds to kindness. Let’s start there. 💛 #StressLessLiveMore #GraceOverPerfection #MindBodyReset #IntentionalRest #ChooseCalm #JoyIsAChoice #MentalWellnessMatters #WalkItOut #DailyReset #HealthyHabits #DigitalDetox #WomenWhoLeadWell Easter holds different meanings for different people—and I love that we can make space for both spiritual reflection and lighthearted joy in the same season. For me, it’s a time to gather with family, celebrate renewal, and reflect on hope.
Here are two meaningful reasons I find myself celebrating every year: 1️⃣ The Death and Resurrection of Jesus ✝️At its core, Easter is the most sacred day on the Christian calendar—a celebration of Jesus' resurrection after His crucifixion. This moment in history represents hope, redemption, and new life. For many of us, it’s a reminder that even in our darkest hours, light is coming. That grace meets us exactly where we are—and that renewal is always possible. Whether you spend the weekend in quiet reflection, attending a sunrise service, or praying with your loved ones, Easter offers us a chance to reconnect with our faith, and to reflect on the beauty of second chances. 2️⃣ Chocolate Eggs and the Easter Bunny 🐰🍫Let’s be honest—there’s something magical about seeing the wonder in a child’s eyes as they search for hidden eggs, or unwrap their favourite chocolate treat. The Easter Bunny may not appear in scripture, but it sure knows how to deliver joy! These playful traditions remind us to be lighthearted, to laugh, and to soak in the sweetness of the season—both literally and figuratively. Whether you're dyeing eggs, planning a hunt, or simply indulging in a little chocolate (dark chocolate for the antioxidants, right? 😉), this side of Easter reminds us to pause and delight in the simple things. So this past weekend in Alberta and this weekend in BC, I’m choosing to celebrate both the sacred and the sweet. The hope that comes with resurrection—and the joy that comes from chocolate bunnies and family giggles around the brunch table. Wishing you a beautiful Easter filled with love, laughter, and meaning. 🕊️💛 #EasterHope #FaithAndFun #HeIsRisen #ResurrectionSunday #EasterJoy #ChocolateAndGrace #FamilyTraditions #EasterWeekend #CelebrateRenewal #LightHeartedLiving #JoyIsAChoice Two Simple (but Powerful) Practices to Support Your Mental Wellness
Mental wellness isn’t just about avoiding stress or “thinking positive.” It’s about how we support ourselves in our everyday moments—especially the messy, full, beautifully complicated ones. Here are two simple but powerful practices I keep coming back to, both personally and in the work I do. 1️⃣ Breathe to Reset When things feel chaotic or overwhelming, I remind myself: “I can always come back to my breath.” A few intentional breaths can reset the nervous system, ground your energy, and create space between a trigger and your response. One of my favourite tools is the BMW breathing technique (thank you, Dr. Bal Pawa!):
2️⃣ Create a Joy Ritual Joy isn’t just for the “big” moments. It’s something we can choose to create—daily. For me, joy often looks like lighting a candle, stepping outside to feel the fresh air, sipping tea from my favourite mug, or listening to a song that shifts my mood. These are small, intentional rituals that remind me I’m worth the care. By creating joy on purpose, we build resilience. We remind ourselves that even in tough times, there’s still beauty. Mental wellness doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small. Breathe. Choose joy. And remember—you’re allowed to care for yourself with the same heart you give to others. 💛 What’s one thing you're doing this week to support your mental wellness?
1. Wellness isn’t just about avoiding illness—it’s about actively creating a life where you thrive. Think of health as a spectrum: on one side, there’s illness, where people rely on doctors and medical care to help them heal. But on the other side, there’s something even more powerful—choosing daily habits that support your well-being, build resilience, and keep you feeling your best. Wellness is about being proactive, not just reactive. It’s about taking ownership of your health, making choices that fuel your energy, and embracing a lifestyle that enhances both your body and mind. When we shift our focus from just treating problems to truly optimizing how we live, we step into a whole new level of vitality and joy. We then truly excel from within!
2. Growth isn’t just an option—it’s essential. There’s always something new to learn, whether it’s breakthroughs in mental wellness or fresh insights into global health challenges. The more we stay open to new ideas, the more adaptable we become. As leaders in wellness, it’s not about clinging to what we’ve always known—it’s about expanding our perspectives, embracing innovation, and staying curious. That’s how we keep evolving instead of getting stuck in outdated ways of thinking. What is something new you are learning? 1. Scent - Give Yourself the Spa Treatment – Anytime, Anywhere ✨💆♀️
Self-care doesn’t have to mean booking an expensive day at the spa—you can create little moments of luxury right where you are! One of the easiest ways? Harness the power of scent. Dabbing a drop of essential oil—jasmine, peppermint, or vanilla—onto your wrist or diffuser bracelet can instantly shift your energy. 🌿✨ 🌸 Jasmine: Boosts beta waves in your brain’s frontal lobe, increasing wakefulness and sharpening focus. Need a mental boost? This is your go-to! 🌿 Peppermint: Invigorates the mind and body, helping to clear mental fog and enhance alertness. A must-have for midday slumps! 🍦 Vanilla: Promotes feelings of warmth, comfort, and relaxation—perfect for unwinding after a long day. Scents don’t just affect our mood; they also stimulate the limbic system in the brain, influencing memory, emotions, and even vision. The next time you need a little pick-me-up (or a calming moment), reach for your favorite essential oil and breathe deeply. What’s your favorite scent to reset and recharge? 2.Move Your Body, Grow Your Mind! 🏃♀️🧠✨ Did you know that physical activity does more than just strengthen your muscles—it also strengthens your brain? Regular movement promotes the production of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), a powerful protein that fuels brain health by encouraging the growth of new brain cells. 🧠 Where does this happen? BDNF works its magic primarily in the hippocampus, the part of your brain responsible for memory and learning. This means that every time you move—whether it's a walk, a workout, or even dancing around your kitchen—you’re actively supporting your brain’s ability to retain information, stay sharp, and adapt to new challenges. 🚶♀️ Why does this matter? 🔹 Enhances memory and cognitive function 🔹 Reduces the risk of cognitive decline as we age 🔹 Improves focus, creativity, and problem-solving 🔹 Helps manage stress and boost mood ✨ The best part? You don’t need to run a marathon to reap the benefits! A brisk walk, yoga session, or even stretching can help stimulate BDNF production. So, next time you're feeling mentally foggy, get moving—your brain will thank you! What’s your favorite way to stay active? One concept I was aware of based on Dr Gary Anaka's work is connecting the left side of the body to the right helps to activate the brain and grow new dendrites in the brain. 1. Breathe. Refocus. Respond.
Dr. Bal Pawa, MD, in The Mind-Body Cure, shares a simple yet powerful technique called BMW breathing—a practice that helps reset your autonomic nervous system so you can respond rather than react in stressful moments. Here’s how it works: 🫁 Breathe – Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose, hold for 5 seconds, then exhale through your mouth. 🧠Mind – Notice your thoughts, but keep bringing your focus back to your breath. 🗣 Word – Choose a calming word (like peace, amen, or om) and repeat it as you exhale. This simple practice can shift your mindset and bring instant calm. Give it a try the next time you need a reset! 2. Hit Reset: 3 Simple Ways to Recharge This Week ✨ Feeling drained? Overwhelmed? It happens. But the good news is, you don’t have to stay stuck. Here are three ways to reset and step into the week with clarity and energy: Breathe with Intention – Try BMW breathing: Inhale deeply, hold, and exhale slowly. Focus on a single calming word to ground yourself. See above Move Your Body – Whether it’s a walk, stretching, or a dance break, movement shifts energy and clears your mind. Choose Joy – Find small moments that bring you happiness—good food, fresh air, a conversation that lifts you up. Joy is a choice, and you get to make it! What’s one thing you’ll do to reset this week? Finding Balance – Literally.
This past weekend, I was hit with terrible vertigo. Three days of the world spinning was enough—I finally went to the ER. I had tried self-treating with the Epley maneuver, but it wasn’t enough. I was prescribed some meds and this morning, a physiotherapist (a former skater I coached!) treated me, and I’m finally on my way to recovery. This experience reminded me of a few important lessons: 1️Life Keeps Moving, Even When I Can’t. I like to think of myself as strong and capable. So, despite feeling awful, I still hosted a birthday party for my grandson, son, and daughter-in-law. I was managing… until I sat in a rocking chair. One backward rock, and my entire world exploded in dizziness. I nearly lost my supper, and thankfully, my husband was there to catch me. Off to bed I went. The party carried on without me—because it turns out, not everything has to be on my shoulders. 2. The Human Body is Incredible. The tiny canals in our ears control balance in ways we rarely think about—until something goes wrong. In my case, my ears were giving conflicting signals to my brain, causing the vertigo. It was a powerful reminder that we need to work with our bodies, not against them. Movement, nutrition, rest—these things aren’t just nice to have, they’re essential. This week, I’m focusing on listening to my body and allowing myself to recover. What’s one way you’re supporting your well-being today? 💙 1. Dark Chocolate Lovers, Rejoice! 🍫
Not only is dark chocolate delicious, but it’s also packed with benefits that make it a guilt-free indulgence (in moderation, of course 😉). Here’s why I’m all for a little chocolate therapy: 🍫 Rich in Antioxidants – Loaded with flavonoids and polyphenols, dark chocolate helps fight oxidative stress and inflammation. ❤️ Great for Your Heart – It can improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. 🧠 Brain Booster – The flavonoids in dark chocolate support brain function, memory, and neuron growth. Yes, chocolate can make you smarter! 😊 Mood Enhancer – It stimulates endorphins and serotonin, giving you that happy, feel-good boost. So, if you needed a reason to enjoy a piece of dark chocolate today—consider this your sign! What’s your favorite way to enjoy it? 🍫 2.Light the Way to a Calmer Mind 🕯️ Ever notice how a simple candle can completely shift the mood in a room? There’s a reason for that! Candles aren’t just for decoration—they’re a powerful tool for mental wellness. Here’s why: 🕯 Triggers Relaxation – The soft flicker of candlelight naturally soothes the nervous system, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. 🌿 Aromatherapy Benefits – Scents like lavender, chamomile, and vanilla can promote calm, improve focus, and even support better sleep. 🧘♀️ Creates a Ritual of Mindfulness – Lighting a candle can serve as a reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and be present in the moment. 💡 Boosts Mood & Ambiance – A warm glow makes any space feel cozy and inviting, encouraging a sense of peace and comfort. So tonight, light a candle, take a deep breath, and let the simple act of illumination bring you a little more calm & clarity. What’s your go-to candle scent? 🔥 |
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August 2025
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