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Why Laughter is the Best Medicine
You’ve probably heard the saying, “Laughter is the best medicine,” but have you ever wondered why? In a world where stress and anxiety seem to tag along with you everywhere, laughter offers a natural and effective way to boost your mood and improve your health. It turns out a good laugh might be just what you need to feel a little lighter and live a little better. In this post, we’ll explore the origins of the saying ‘laughter is the best medicine,’ a biblical perspective on laughter, the science behind it, the benefits it offers, and how to incorporate more laughter into your life. Here’s why making time for laughter can be more beneficial than you might think. Where the Saying “Laughter Is the Best Medicine” Comes From The saying “laughter is the best medicine” has been around for ages, but its exact origin is a bit of a mystery. Many believe it’s closely tied to biblical wisdom, particularly Proverbs 17:22, which says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” While the phrase itself isn’t directly in the Bible, this verse captures the heart of what it means—joy and laughter can be healing,…
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How to Choose Your Word of the Year for 2025
Every January, it seems like everyone is buzzing about New Year’s resolutions. We hear about ambitious goals and “new year, new me” aspirations, but for me, I’ve never quite connected with that. Life changes, sometimes unexpectedly, and it’s hard to plan for a season I’m not in. When those resolutions fall through—as they often do—there’s a sense of disappointment that’s hard to shake. I also noticed that sometimes, in trying to keep up with other people’s goals or trends, I was losing sight of what mattered most to me. Instead of feeling inspired, I found myself overwhelmed. That’s why, back in 2018, I decided to take a different approach. Instead of setting resolutions, I began the practice of choosing a Word of the Year. This simple yet powerful shift has profoundly impacted my life. Each year, I take time to reflect, pray, and ask God for guidance on what word will serve as my anchor for the year ahead. And let me tell you, it’s been transformative in ways I never expected. My Journey with a Word of the Year Let me take you back to 2018, the year I first embraced this practice. At the time, I was stepping…
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How to Create a Morning Routine for a Better Day
Mornings can be tough. For many women, the dawn brings not just the light of a new day but also the weight of countless responsibilities and challenges. Whether it’s the relentless responsibilities of motherhood, the silent struggle with infertility, the battle against mental health challenges, or simply the daily stressors of work and relationships, starting the day on a positive note can often feel like it’s not even possible. Maybe you were up all night with a sick child, or you couldn’t sleep due to a racing mind filled with anxious thoughts. You might have woken up feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or even dreading the day ahead. Sound familiar? Now imagine a different kind of morning. A morning where you wake up feeling a sense of calm and purpose, where you have a few moments of peace before the chaos of the day begins. A morning that sets a positive tone for everything that follows, filling you with joy and energy instead of stress and fatigue. This isn’t just a fantasy—it’s entirely possible with a mindful and intentional morning routine. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can create a morning routine for a better day tailored to your unique…
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53 Easy and Budget Friendly Fall Activities for Adults
As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, there’s a buzz in the atmosphere that can only mean one thing – fall is here! It’s that time of year when I swap out my flip-flops for fuzzy socks and embrace all things cozy. Whether I’m a die-hard pumpkin spice fanatic or love the crunch of leaves beneath my boots, autumn has a little something for everyone. In this blog post, I’m excited to share some wallet-friendly fall activities for adults to make the most of this magical season. From crafting your own fall drinks to leisurely strolling through colorful foliage, this list is brimming with affordable activities. I understand the importance of cherishing every moment of fall without worrying about the cost, so I’ve handpicked a range of budget-friendly ideas that are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Whether you’re adventuring solo, enjoying the company of friends, or planning a family outing, there’s a wealth of ways to embrace the spirit of fall. So, don your favorite sweater and join us as we explore a world of apple pie baking, bonfire nights, and pumpkin patch adventures. With these accessible and affordable fall activities, you’ll be…
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The Power of Dopamine and Reward in Everyday Life
Imagine you’re crossing the finish line of a challenging race, your legs burning with exertion, your lungs filled with the sweet taste of victory. As the crowd cheers, you feel an exhilarating rush of accomplishment, a surge of energy that wipes away the fatigue and leaves you with an unshakeable sense of triumph. In that electrifying moment, you are riding high on a wave of pure euphoria, your heart pounding with joy. But what if I told you that this surge of exhilaration isn’t just about crossing the finish line? What if I told you that it’s also the work of a powerful chemical in your brain called dopamine? This “reward molecule” fuels our ambition, drives our motivation, and enhances our moments of triumph and joy. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the captivating world of dopamine and reward, and uncover its vital role in our mental and emotional well-being. From its role in motivation to its influence on addiction, join us as we explore the science behind dopamine and how this remarkable neurotransmitter helps shape our lives. Exploring Dopamine: What is it and How is it Made? Dopamine, often called the “reward neurotransmitter,” is vital for motivation, pleasure,…
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How to Maintain Balance in a Social Media-Driven World
Social media, a tool that has transformed our lives, is not without its challenges. It’s a double-edged sword, offering us the ability to connect with friends and communities worldwide but also posing significant threats to our mental health and well-being. In this blog post, we’ll delve into these challenges and provide practical strategies to help you navigate the world of social media more effectively, enhancing your overall well-being. The Challenge of Social Overload One of the most daunting aspects of social media is the sheer number of connections it enables. While humans are naturally equipped to handle about 150 casual friendships, social media opens the floodgates, allowing us to connect with hundreds or even thousands of people. This can create a false sense of closeness and pressure to engage with numerous connections, often at the expense of our real-life relationships and more intimate social circles. Navigating Stress in the Digital Age In addition to social overload, social media exposes us to a constant stream of stressors. The continuous flow of news, political debates, and global issues can be emotionally draining, unlike real-life interactions where we can choose to step back from stressful situations. This exposure can lead to increased anxiety…
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How to Increase Serotonin: The Science Behind Mood-Altering Hormones
Picture yourself standing on the edge of a cliff, feeling the cool breeze gently ruffling your hair as you look out at the vast expanse of the ocean below. The sun is hanging low in the sky, casting beautiful streaks of crimson and gold across the horizon, and for a moment, everything feels just perfect. Take a deep breath and enjoy the salty scent of the sea air, letting a sense of calm wash over you like a warm hug. In that brief moment, you’re overcome with a feeling of contentment and peace—a truly serene moment. But what if I told you that this feeling of bliss wasn’t just a product of your surroundings? What if I told you that it was actually the result of a tiny molecule being produced in your brain called serotonin. This “happiness hormone” plays a significant role in shaping your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, making our cherished memories and emotional well-being possible. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of serotonin and uncover its powerful influence on our mental and emotional well-being. From its impact on our mood to its role in shaping our everyday experiences, join us as we explore…
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Just for the Summer: Unraveling Love and Attachment
If you’re on the lookout for a fictional book that dives deep into mental health and explores the complexities of attachment in relationships, Abby Jimenez’s “Just for the Summer” is the perfect pick for you. This post reviews “Just for the Summer” and offers insights into how the author masterfully intertwines the theme of attachment theory within the romantic and familial relationships of her characters. If you are curious about attachment theory, I have a whole blog post on the overview of it that you can check out here! Summary of “Just for the Summer” Abby Jimenez’s “Just for the Summer” is a contemporary romance that immerses readers in the captivating world of romantic “curses.” Justin, an engineer, accidentally becomes an internet sensation after sharing on Reddit about his peculiar curse: every woman he dates mysteriously finds their soulmate immediately after parting ways with him. Similarly, Emma, a traveling nurse, faces the same perplexing phenomenon in her romantic endeavors. When Emma reaches out to Justin after stumbling upon his post, they devise a daring plan—to date each other and then break up in hopes of canceling out their curses and finally discovering true love. Emma’s impulsive decision to take a…
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Empower Your Life: A Busy Mom’s Guide to Prioritizing Self-Care
Dear Busy Mom, I understand the immense responsibilities you juggle, from managing the household to nurturing your loved ones. In the midst of this chaos, it’s easy to neglect your own wellness. But remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish; it’s crucial for you to thrive and continue giving your best to your family. So, where to start? Here are some practical steps tailored just for you: Start Small, Think Big: Don’t burden yourself by attempting to revolutionize your entire routine overnight. Begin with small, manageable changes that fit into your lifestyle. Whether it’s dedicating five minutes to reading your Bible each morning or substituting sugary snacks with healthier options, every small step is a significant stride. Listen to Your Body: As a busy mom, you’re often attuned to the needs of others. Remember to listen to your own body’s signals. If you’re feeling tired, honor that by allowing yourself to rest. If you’re craving movement, indulge in a short walk or stretch session. Tuning into your body’s cues is the first step toward nurturing your wellness. Find Your Tribe: You’re not alone on this journey. Seek support from fellow moms who understand the unique…
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Empower Your Summer: Health and Wellness Tips for Women
As the sun rises higher in the sky and the days grow longer, summer offers a unique opportunity to focus on our holistic health and well-being. With warmer weather and longer daylight hours, we’re naturally drawn to outdoor activities that invigorate our bodies, minds, and spirits. In this article, we’ll explore how engaging in various summer activities can contribute to our overall wellness, from physical fitness to mental relaxation. Join us as we discover the importance of embracing the abundance of the summer season and harnessing its transformative power to nurture our health and vitality. Prioritize Physical Activity: Summer beckons us outdoors, offering a wealth of opportunities to engage in physical activity and soak up the rejuvenating energy of nature. Here are some refreshing ways to stay active this summer: Hiking: Venture onto scenic trails and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of nature. Hiking not only strengthens muscles and improves cardiovascular health but also provides a much-needed mental escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Swimming: Take the plunge into refreshing waters and enjoy a full-body workout that enhances endurance, flexibility, and coordination. Whether gliding through a pool or diving into the ocean waves, swimming offers a…
