Perhaps one of the simplest ways to change the outlook of oneself is to be reminded of all the good things in your life.  Reflecting on how far you have come, what you have already accomplished, and what you have learned, can be very encouraging.

Appreciating your dearest friends, your closest family members, and yourself can be a smile on your face.

If you need a lift or an attitude adjustment, try to appreciate and reflect on the good things.  Count your blessings.  It can be done anytime and any place.

 [ send green star]

Whether phrased as "push your buttons," "get your goat," "get you riled up," or "annoy you," it's no fun to be on the receiving end. How to cope?

1. Don't take it personally. Even when someone criticizes your actions or demeans your very nature, know that they are merely directing their inner turmoil in your direction. Someone else's opinion of you is mostly irrelevant, and basically none of your business. Don't assume that there is any validity to an accusation. Perhaps there is a valuable lesson buried inside the unkindness that merits objective consideration, but negative emotions are best just quickly discarded.

2. Look to the positive people in your life for support. If you balance many positive and supportive friends against one or two negative influences, it is much easier to cope. If you don't currently have enough positive people in your life, begin a focused effort to add positive people to your inner circle. If you don't have personal connections, search for groups of positive people at MeetUp.com

3. Remove negative people from your life. Yes you can, even if it's your boss. You don't need that job so much that it's worth your health or happiness. Everything in life is a choice. Sometimes making a change is important, while other times just knowing that you hold the power to make a different choice is enough.

4. Forgive the offender, not for their sake, but for your own sake. The act of forgiving releases your anger and provides space for rational thinking and action.

5. Be grateful for the wake-up call. Any time that someone or something grabs your attention is a good time to be grateful - even if the message is unpleasant. Something is happening that requires your conscious awareness. Perhaps you have a lesson to learn or an action to take. Perhaps it is time to remove another negative influence from your life.

6. Release any expectations that the unkind person should have acted differently. Life is not fair, and you only cause yourself unhappiness if you hold an expectation that life or any individual should be fair or kind.

Jonathan Lockwood Huie

 [ send green star]

While some of us wear our emotions on our sleeve, others keep feelings bottled up for decades. Strike a balance. If you are suffering with unexpressed frustration or grief, let the tears flow. Then find a friend to laugh with. Laughter,  lightens the saddest moments and bonds us to family and friends.

 [ send green star]

Thank you~Sandra  Sandra U.

If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.
- Mother Teresa

Let today be a day of acceptance, compassion, and understanding. Let us feel our bond of humanity with each of our planet's six billion souls. Put aside color, geography, wealth, education, political and religious beliefs, and feel the throb of each human heart in your heart. Never let your compassionate connection with all creation be limited by your politics, your language, or your traditions. Know that the spirit transcends all cultural differences and embraces all creation.

 [ send green star]

Nancy this is a wonderful thread in a wonderful group, it made me smile and I will have to come back and read more soon

 [ send green star]

 [ accepted]

'Focus on the joy'

How many things in your daily life do you do just for the joy of it?

When you do something just for the 'joy' of it you are not worried about what you get in return, nor do you do it because you 'should' or 'have-to'.  You do it because you want to.

As you infuse your life with this kind of joy, you internalize the message that you cherish, love and respect yourself. Your self-esteem, self-confidence and self-worth all get a boost because you're doing things that are important to you.

Do something just for the 'joy' of it.  When you experience joy, others around you feel it too!

 [ send green star]

Respect Drives Success

The process of setting challenging goals and then writing out a plan to achieve them causes you to feel much more confident about achieving your dreams and consequently better about yourself.

You gain self-respect as you move step-by-step toward the completion of something that is important to you.  It really is the key to success!  It's so important to have clear plans for the changes you want to make in your life and to earnestly work toward realizing them.

Each progressive step you take toward reaching your goals is like a stepping stone  of 'like' and 'self-respect'.  You feel more positive and accomplished which fuels all your endeavors.

 [ send green star]

Many slog for alifetime looking for happiness.  They feel guilty doing things they enjoy.   So they take care of their jobs, their families, their children, and their pets thinking that the time for happiness will come later.  In the end, they discover that it doesn't.

Believe that you deserve happiness now. 

You know those early hours in the morning when the house is quiet and the mist is floating outside the window?  That is happiness. Remember how it felt to hold your baby for the first time?  That is happiness.  Remember how you felt when you achieved what seemed like an impossible goal?  That is happiness.

 [ send green star]

Serving Others With Love

Today you may feel to build youself up in the eyes of your neighbors.  Instead, serve others quietly and without fanfare.  Find a need and humbly fill it.  Anonymously lend a helping hand.  Share a word of kindness.

'If you want to influence others to serve and help you make a difference, you will get back when you give out.  The service ethic always boomerangs. '

~ Sheila Murray Bethel

 [ send green star]

Happiness is abundant in the joy of achievement.

Happiness doesn't come from successfully completing simple or mundane tasks, it comes from completing a task that demands your best efforts.

When you pour your heart and soul into something and you accomplish that something, the afterglow of satisfaction you feel is happiness.  It is the thrill of all your efforts and hard work.

Each and everyone of us needs  accomplish, achieve and triumph to be happy.  Our human spirit requires it.  Remember that happiness thrives in activity and accomplishment.

 [ send green star]

'Welcome Change'

There is nothing more certain in our lives than change.  Yet many of us fear change and make eleborate plans to avoid it.  We fear the new and find comfort in the stability of the known and familiar.

But to grow, you need to not only accept change, but to embrace it, joyfully.  Think of a flowing stream as representing your life.  In some places it flows smoothly, with barely a ripple as it travels on its journey.  At other places along the way, obstacles create a great turbulence, the water roars and thunders as it crashes through gorges and down steep falls.  These represent both the easy and difficult times you experience.

Yet, a stream may have a place where the water becomes banked up, stagnant, unhealthy.  Here, nothing thrives and nothing changes.

Welcome the rushing waters of change into our life, for change means growth, spiritual health, and self-realization.  Embrace each new direction you encounter with courage and enthusiasm.  It is the key to a happier you.

 [ send green star]

'Clean your spirit'

When our mothers told us to clean our rooms, they were unwittingly giving us a gift that would have lasting repercussions.    Although we grumbled when asked for  the umpteenth time to clear the mess, we were actually doing more than physically cleaning our rooms. We were cleaning our spirits as well.

There is a spiritual side to everything--even household, chores.  Cluttered rooms are often indicative of cluttered mind.  Messy houses may point to messy lives. 

From that platform of confidence, you can then go on to solve the more difficult aspects of your life, knowing that you have solidarity and order backing you up.

 [ send green star]

It's no secret that we have the ability to program ourselves to believe and act in negative ways.  The good news is that we're also blessed with the ability to program ourselves to believe and act in positive ways.

The starting point is awareness.

You should first become familiar with how your thoughts make you feel and act.  Ask yourself, what thought make me feel happy, sad, jealous, mad, etc? How do I react to my feelings?  Once you have the answers to these questions, consider yourself aware.

When you're in touch with your feelings  you're consciously able to program yourself for positive action.  Next time you catch yourself in a thought that doesn't feel good, stop and consciously choose to react in another way.  When you re-frame your thinking, everything changes.

 [ send green star]

As we travel along life's road, we exchange countless huge and build lifelong relationships, with a small, dear circle of family and friends.  And how best do we build and maintain these relationships?  Healthy relationships are built upon honesty, compassion, responsible behavior, trust and optimism.  Healthy realtionships are build upon the Golden Rule.  Healthy relationships are built upon sharing and caring.

Are you the kind of person who spends the time and the energy required to build strong, healthy, lasting relationships?  Barbara Bush had this advice:'Cherish your human connections--your relationships with friends and family.'  And that's wise counsel because you are blessed , you are loved, and you are vitally important to your family and friends--they most certainly need you, and most certainly need them.

'Line by line, moment by moment, special times are etched into our memories in the permanent ink of everlasting love in our relationships.'~Gloria Gaither

 [ send green star]

When you commit yourself to continuous improvement, you can't help but feel better about yourself.  With growth comes the willingness to take risks and accept challenges.  It's exciting because there is always something new you can be, do, and have and learn.

It is in reaching that you find out who you really are and all that you are capable of.  

As you build momentum, you'll shine with confidence and inspire others along the way. 

That's what progress is all about~ 

 [ send green star]

Attract Prosperity.

They say money attracts more money.  Wouldn't it be nice t find out?  But in truth, prosperity isn't about money.  It's about feeling rich in happiness, love and positive experiences.

This is something you not only can have, you can multiply with the right approach.

Appreciate your friends.  Look for joy each day and you'll find more.  Feel happy about all you have in life and you'll find your happiness grows.

Live this way and you'll end up with a wealth of prosperity that all the money in the world can't buy.

 [ send green star]

It's in our nature to improve our private selves.

Choosing ways to improve ourself is not the hard part.  What's difficult is maintaining the enthusiasm and having the self-disipline to make self-improvement part of your daily routine.

There is no easy way around it.  It takes consistent daily effort to get results.

Improving yourself gives you a wonderful sense of satisfaction and feeling of accomplishment that's difficult to match.

Remind yourself every day of the benefits of improving yourself and how these benefits will enhance your life.  If you succeed in keeping your awareness high, your enthusiasm will remain high and carry you through.

Start making improvements, today, ~after all all it's part of your nature.

 [ send green star]

When people don't live up to your expectations, it's not unusual to feel responsible for changing their behavior.  You may try and try--but when you don't succeed you end up feeling depressed and like a failure.

Changing another person can be a frustrating, impossible goal.  Realize that people only change when they want to. 

When you put yourself in the position of controlling the uncontrollable you place a heavy burden on yourself.  Not only do you feel weighed down, but you used up tremendous amounts of energy.

Channel your focus toward things that you can control, such as yourself.  It is much more peaceful and productive way to live.

 [ send green star]

'The true beauty of a person is reflected in the soul.'

You don't need a perfect figure, a huge and expensive wardrobe, or a brilliant hairdresser to make you beautiful.  Beauty is waiting there inside your soul, ready to be brought out.

Your joy in life and passionate pursuits make you sparkle and radiate excitement and energy.  Your confidence and enthusiasm light up your face and bring a swing to your walk.  Your serenity, generosity and sensitivity are mirrored in your eyes and in your beautiful smile.

You are beautiful, know it, believe it, and live it~

 [ send green star]

'Personal growth is just a hug away.'

We have all heard that yo need four hugs a day for survival, eight hugs a day for maintenance, and twelve for growth.

The touch of a hug a healing effect on your body.  Your immune system stays strong and you feel loved and special.  Hugs have a way of nurturing the little child within you and helping you feel cherished by family and friends.

If you're not getting your twelve hugs a day, reach out and ask for the hugs you need.  A simple, "Can I get a hug?" goes a long way toward getting those twelve hugs you need for growth.

 [ send green star]

Free Yourself from Toxic People

People that are happy with these lives are much more likely to support and encourage your happiness.  Those who have goals of their own are more likely to support you in  pursuit of your goals.  Those who express their creativity are more inclined to help you discover your own talent.

Armed with this knowledge, you can choose to associate with those that have your best interest at heart. 

Look carefully at the lives of the people in your circle of friends.  Do you 'hang out' with those who choose scarcity or abundance?  Perhaps, it's time to let go of friends who are unwilling to recognize happiness, to value goals or nurture talent; and time to welcome healthier friends into your inner circle.

But, before you view your friends with a critical eye, take a long look at yourself.  Are you happy, goal oriented and in pursuit of your talents?  If not, take steps to include these virtues in your life.  You'll be amazed at how old friends may change and how new friends may suddenly appear.

 [ send green star]

New experiences are opportunities to learn.

Each new experience opens doors to new possibilities.  Yes, just the thought of stepping out of your comfort zone can be scary.  But, it can also be extremely rewarding.  Just think, waiting for you are untapped skills, fresh knowledge, new relationships, and so much more.

If you face setbacks, as we all do occasionally, embrace the opportunity for growth and learning and keep forging ahead.

As you tread new paths and reach new horizons, your self-confidence will skyrocket. You'll no longer dread new experiences, but look forward to them with enthusiasm.

Throw your fear of failure out of the window. Jump in feet first and reap the personal rewards of learning something new.

 [ send green star]

Laughter is the best medicine

Did you know that the average child laughs 400 times a day, while the average woman laughs only 15 times per day?  If laughter seems like a distance memory, then it's time the child inside come out to play.

In reality, you have so much more to enjoy that the child you used to be--and so many more reasons to laugh.  Yu have that vast library of memories to be brought out and explored - years of joy, adventure and smiles.  There are mistakes filed away--all good reason for laughter.  There's the accumulation of friendship-full of hugs, love and good times.  There's that treasure chest of experience to be dipped into--and so much more meant to bring a chuckle!

And finally, never to be over looked, there's that secret inner deposit of excitment, wonder, enthusiasm and confidence in all the good times yet to come!

 [ send green star]

Clear your mind, and appreciate the moment

The more your life is packed with deadlines and stress, the more you'll benefit from taking time out to just 'be' is the moment.

Clear your mind of everything that's gone by and everything that's to come.

Focus on the blue sky above or the clouds racing by.  Feel the warmth of the sun on your face or the cool of the raindrops on your hand.  Look at the grass, the trees.  Breathe in the scent of the flowers.

For a moment, just 'be'.  It will ground you and help you put everything else into perspective.

 [ send green star]

We were given all these muscles for a reason--to use them.  Without exercise, they become weakened and you become physically less than you could be.

Get out there~develop your own exercise. Jog in the park, play volleyball or tennis~swim, cycle, skip, ski, dance.  Just get those muscles moving.  You'll not only be fitter and more toned, you'll feel much better, as well.

And remember~those 650+ muscles include your 'smile' muscles.  They need exercise, too!

 [ send green star]

Often, the things we value most become so much a part of us we forget to appreciate them. We take things for granted and never give them a second thought.

Have you ever called them to thank them for something they've done, and never thought of saying thanks to your dearest friend for everything they have done for you?

Today is your day to reflect on the things and people that have done things for you. Take joy  in your love for your  your family members and your friends.  Then, find away to let them know how much they mean to you.

 [ send green star]

"It's not where you start; it's how you finish."

When looking at the picture, we all know that how we finish is more important than where we start.  Many successful people started out in life with odds against them, and came through winners.

When working towards goals, forget that you may have started out at a disadvantage, met hurdles or made mistakes along the way. Move past the past!

Start looking forward.  Then, you will move ahead in leaps and bounds.

 [ send green star]

How many things in your daily life do you do just for the joy of it?

When you do something just for the 'joy' of it, you are not worried about what you get in return, nor do you do it because you 'should' or 'have to'.  You do it because you want to.

As you infuse your life with this kind of joy, you internalize the message that you cherish, love and respect yourself.  Your self-esteem, self-confidence and self-worth all get a boost because you're doing things that are important to you.

Do something today, just for the 'joy' of it.  When you experience joy, others around you feel it too!

 [ send green star]

Optimistic people have it good; they're less susceptible to ill health and better able to fight off ailments if they strike.

Given that stress and unhappiness can have a negative impact on your health, it stands to reason that happiness resulting from an optimistic attitude stands you in good stead.

Think about the blue sky beyond the black clouds above.  Imagine yourself already standing on the summit, instead of seeing a mountain with an impossible climb.  In the same way exercise to build physical strength, keep exercising optimism to strengthen it.

Start today, make it a healthy one!

 [ send green star]

Talent does not mean you have to be an artist who paints masterpieces, or a gymnast who does flips.  Talent resides within you, in many different ways.

Caring for others is a talent, teaching is a talent, making people feel welcome is a talent, solving problems is a talent.

Never underestimate your talents.  Focus on and accept the talents you have, and you will find great fulfillment in life.

 [ send green star]

Old magazines, stacks of books, clothes you never wear, piles of papers, towers of magazines and drawers full of who knows what.  It's called clutter, and the more it collects the less you want to deal with  it.

Clutter can overwhelm you and drain your energy.

Eliminating clutter is healthy.  No longer do you pour energy into looking through papers for that one lost item.  No more do you ignore anxiety about piles that disguise forgotten responsibilities.  No hours of frustration are added to you preparation for the day, as you pull wrinkled clothes from your closet becasue they're wedged too tightly.

You can start clearing out, start small~by clearning out one drawer, one cabinet, or one shelf.  You won't feel overwhelmed and results will give you the motivation to tacke the next pile.

Organization is a gift that you deserve.  Give it to yourself.

 [ send green star]

Resentment is like a parasite.  It feeds on you and leaves you weakened by its presence.  Its only purpose is to take from you- and take it all.

Break free and shake resentment off!  There's simply no room in your life for this negative energy.  You have so much to do and so many places to go.

Start by focusing on what you do have.  Concentrate on what could be. Forgive, forget, and move on.

Let go of resentment today and you'll be amazed by all the space it leaves in your life for better things.

 [ send green star]

So many times we live our lives during what others want us to do or what we think is expected of us.  This may be practical at work, where you need to fulfill our job duties, but your personal life is different.

If you're always doing what others want, you end up neglecting your own interests and needs.  Over time, your spirit withers, and you feel caught in an undertime of survival.

You're important and so is your calendar and mark some time off, just for you.    Consider this time an investment in your emotional health and wellness.  Enjoy it without guilt, no ifs, and no buts.  This is time to give back to yourself.

 [ send green star]

From an early age, we've all been taught the importance of problem solving.  Yet, sometimes, we can help people more by not trying to find solutions.  In fact, on occasion, silent listening and empathy can be a priceless gift.

People who are grieving the loss of a loved one or a relationship, need time to mourn, not quick solutions.    They need you to listen while they pour out their hearts; they want a silent hug, not instant answers.

An understanding smile and hand on the shoulder may be the best support you can give.

 [ send green star]

Ten Sunny Ways to Make Your Day A Good One

A good day is when you wake up remembering that a good day happens by CHOICE not chance!

A good day is when you  live the day in the present, being grateful for the little things in life.

A good day is a day that you  look back on and smile, because you allowed yourself to be open to something new without realizing it at the time.

A good day is when you can feel anger, pain, sadness, etc. but not let it take over.

A good day is when you relax and go with the flow.

A good day is drama free.

A good day is when you're aware that you are a kind and compassionate person and treat yourself that way.

A good day is when you don't use excuses to paralyze your thoughts and dreams or allow fear to keep you  from stepping out and doing something you believe in.

A good day is connecting with people who are on the same self exploration journey as you are.

A good day is the realization that EVERY DAY IS A GOOD DAY no matter what happens!

 [ send green star]

It's important to look back on past successes but it's even more important to use your vision to look ahead.

When we spend too much time looking back at past events, we get caught up in the "woulda, shoulda, coulda", talk.  Learn from your past, then let it go.

Focus your imagination on your future.  When you send these good thoughts out in front of you, they prepare and smooth the way.  Use your imaginator to reel in all the possibilities that lie ahead.

Picture your ultimate success and then get to work creating it.

 [ send green star]

Imagine how dull life would be if you only saw things in black and white.  What if all the infinitely wonderful shades that we, as people , are able to appreciate turned to shades of gray?

Our greater sensitivity enables us to find magic within the ordinary. 

Never under estimate your abilities, your creativity and your sensitivity. With all these talents no one can deny that you are an amazing human being!

 [ send green star]

There isn't a meaningful goal that can be achieved without facing obstacles and hurdles.  It's an inevitable part of life's road to success.  The more you come  to grips with this, the faster you'll get where you want  to go!

Instead of seeing difficulties as the end of your dreams, see them as part of your journey.  View obstacles as challenges, which once overcome, will bring you closer to your destruction.  Refuse to be stopped-keep focusing on where you want to go.

When the going gets tough, remind yourself that snags build wisdom, perserverance and strength.  With this outlook your frustrations will transform to motivations and success will come your way more quickly.

 [ send green star]

Deuteronomy 8:8, where the Israelites are promised "a good land…, a land of wheat and barley, of vines, figs, and pomegranates, a land of olive trees and honey."

The ancients might not have known the word "antioxidant," but they were onto something with this list of biblical "super-foods."

Wheat

This grain, which is found in everything from bread to pasta to cakes, is healthier when it is refined as little as possible. Whole-wheat products (those that are certified 100% whole wheat) contain 30 percent of your recommended daily fiber intake, as well as high levels of manganese and magnesium. A diet rich in whole grains is also thought to increase your energy level and lower your risk of type-2 diabetes, gallstones, and other health issues.

Barley
Another whole grain, barley can be found in breads and cereals, as well as in hearty winter soups. High in fiber, barley is good for intestinal health and can lower cholesterol and reduce your risk of colon cancer and type-2 diabetes if eaten regularly. Barley also contains trace amounts of copper, which have been shown to help reduce the symptoms of arthritis.

Grapes

Everyone knows that grape juice and red wine are tasty—but healthy? Grapes contain nutritional compounds called flavonoids, which are believed to reduce your risk of blood clots and protect your body from damage by the "free radicals" found in LDL, or "bad," cholesterol. Rich in antioxidants, grapes may provide protection against cardiovascular disease, particularly in women.

Figs

These sweet fruits, eaten either dried or fresh, are high in potassium, a mineral that helps control blood pressure. They are also high in dietary fiber, which may help you lose weight, and they are a fruit source of calcium, which can help preserve bone density. Fig leaves, which are not typically eaten but can be made into an extract, are thought to help lower insulin levels in diabetics.

Pomegranate

These strange-looking seed fruits are back in vogue as health-giving super-foods, particularly in juice form. The fruits are rich in antioxidants, which prevent LDL cholesterol from doing its damage, and it helps prevent blood clots by keeping blood platelets from clumping together. Pomegranates may also help reduce the risk of breast cancer and lessen the symptoms of arthritis.

Olives

Olives, and the extra-virgin oil that is made from a single pressing of the fruit, contain many of the antioxidants that are thought to protect against the oxidation of LDL cholesterol compounds. They also are high in monounsaturated fatty acids, which are called "the healing fats" because they lower the effects of "bad" cholesterol while raising "good" cholesterol levels. High in vitamin E, olive oil also is thought to protect against colon cancer, and it is helpful in fighting gastritis and other stomach ailments.

Honey

Raw honey, in addition to being a natural sweetener, is replete with antioxidants and is considered to be an anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal substance. It is thought to have tumor-fighting properties, and may help prevent colon cancer. The daily consumption of a spoonful of honey is said to increase antioxidant levels in the blood, and is the healthiest sweetener for type-2 diabetics. Honey also may have wound-healing and muscle-regenerating properties.

 [ send green star]

You've just woken up, and you're on the wrong side of the bed. Is there any way to switch to the other side? Absolutely.

For those times when your mind is addled, and your center is shaky; open this little black bag of cures and find your beautiful balance!

Spend your first 15 seconds awake planning something nice to do for yourself today. "This can really set you up in a good mood--even if it's just going by the farmers' market and getting fresh strawberries."

The longer you lie there, the more you ruminate, the darker your outlook is likely to become. So get vertical and make a cup of coffee, take a shower, feed the cat...

Make that two glasses of water upon awakening, the time when our bodies are dehydrated.  Dehydration causes fatigue, which affects your mood.

You already know the number one way of chasing away a bad mood: exercise. A workout at the gym sure helps. But even just a few minutes of movement--a fast walk, for example--raises energy and reduces tension.

When you're dogged by anxiety or the dread you woke up with, try to pinpoint what's causing it. Did someone say anything the day before? Do you have a meeting today you wish you didn't? Was it the dream you were having when the alarm went off? "If you can figure out why you're upset, that's halfway to feeling better.

Generosity and gratitude are both big contributors to happiness. Do something nice for a stranger or friend and see if you don't feel better about yourself. Also, jot down three things that you're grateful for. It seems so simple, but counting your blessings just has a way of making you remember the sun is shining.

 [ send green star]

A significant part of your environment is the people you spend time with.  These people have a huge impact on you and your decisions. This is precisely why you need to be sure you surround yourself with those who support you and your ambitions.

Do your best to avoid people who belittle your enthusiasm, put you down or try to squash your dreams.  On your best to seek out those that support your goals and share your energy.

Surround yourself with positive people.  When you combine that with both positive energy and attitude, you can't help help but soar.

We have different relationships to our lives, all of which are important.  Yet it's the people in our lives who add silly laughter. 

Society has changed significantly.  For many of us, our families reside in different places nowadays.  Each one of us can build stronger lives on the strength of our connections with others. 

In today's busy world, we need to find a place that is there for us, and building a community that adds a lot of value to your life.

 [ send green star]

Your friends and family ar your closest links to personal freedom.

Through your friendships with them, you learn, to share, to care, and to experience true joy.  Through these intimate connections, you learn what relationships really mean.

In times of sadness relationships comfort us, and in times of happiness they help us celebrate.

When you open your heart to another and share your deepest feelings; you open the door to personal freedom.

Typically it is our fear that holds us back from pursuing our purpose. Maybe you feel your purpose is unrealistic.  Possibily you do not have a good support system intact to help you take the steps needed. The first step in moving forward and getting some answers, is listening to that inner voice and giving it an opportunity to talk to you.  List any desires and dreams you have that you haven't admitted to anyone.

Are you spending the majority of your time doing things that do not have much value to you?  Remember, there is absolutely no right or wrong answer here.   It is important to fill your time with activities that bring you joy. 

Know that it is never too late to make changes in your life.  Living a life without purpose or passion is draining and unfullfilling.  You can absolutely begin to make necessary changes, a little at a time.  It is a matter of commitment and vision.  You need to be willing to take some risks and open yourself up to unknown possiblities. 

 [ send green star]

It is so important that we nourish ourselves -- body, mind and spirit . Being kind to oneself is a healthy habit to get into, and the best way to get into the groove is to set aside "Time" each week for you, and you alone!

Where to begin? Imagine there is someone in your life you can depend on to pamper, heal and revitalize you, and treat you royally -- for at least a few undisturbed hours each week. Now, imagine that "someone" is YOU. Pick something that would bring you great pleasure -- an activity, an experience, or a material gift -- and agree to give it to yourself.

For peace of mind -

Build your sense of trust in yourself. Your first task is to build the trust that whatever happens in your life, you can handle it all. Right now, think of something about any area of your life that is bothering you and repeat to yourself ten times the important words, "Whatever happens, I'll handle it." I . These are important words to have when the "what if's" come up. "What if I lose my job? I'll handle it." "What if I get sick? I'll handle it."   And what does "I'll handle it" mean? It means, "I'll learn from it. I'll grow from it. I'll make it a triumph!"

Do your very best, then let go of the outcome. To help you let go, develop the trust that "It's all happening perfectly." This calming affirmation is a shortened version of: "I've done my best, but even if things don't go the way I want them to go, I will simply find a way to be enriched by whatever life brings me. I will learn and grow from it all. Therefore, it truly is all happening perfectly." Repetition over and over again of this wonderful affirmation, will definitely quiet the negative chatter of the mind and help you let go of the outcome. Peace at last.

Say "thank you" a lot. Saying "thank you" is a wonderful way to make important connections in all areas of your life. The words "thank you" can also help you appreciate and focus on all the good that is around you, thus helping you release any feelings of anger and resentment you may be holding. You can see why the words "thank you" are two of the most powerful words ever spoken.

Your sense of confidence and peace of mind will grow and grow. Remember: there is plenty of time...but now is definitely the time to begin!

 [ send green star]

Everyday we make literally hundreds of choices, consciously and unconsciously.  One of those choices is our attitude, like when you woke up?  What it is like now?

When we are aware of how our attitude affects our well-being, choices are so much easier to make.  With this new found knowledge, you can literally change whatever you can dream of.

You deserve a great life, happiness and self-fullfillment. 

 [ send green star]

Water is so important for life that we can survive days, weeks, maybe months without food, but only days without water. The human body is about 55 to 70 percent water, and no bodily function takes place without water.

Water is the most important and most abundant natural resource, yet it is also the one we take for granted the most. If your throat isn't dry and you don't have sweat pouring off your forehead, you tend to take it for granted. But water does a lot more than just satisfy your thirst. Among its duties, it carries nutrients throughout the body, adds moisture to body tissues, softens stool, helps cushion your joints, and aides in the regulation of body temperature. Therefore, the human body continuously loses water throughout the day, and water molecules floating around in the atmosphere cannot be reabsorbed back into the body. We lose water through urination, stool excretion, respiration, sweating, and evaporation from the skin.

Water helps tremendously with weight management. In nature, water cleanses and refreshes the earth and the atmosphere. Drinking water washes our bodies of harmful products or toxins. This internal cleansing is very important for overall good health and weight management.

Do not wait until you are thirsty before you drink water. Thirst is actually a warning signal that you are not drinking enough water. To avoid dehydration and to maintain proper functioning of the body, you need to create a "water cycle" to constantly replace fluids you lose.

The first step is to set a goal to drink at least eight to ten cups of water every day. 

 [ send green star]

The list of things you can do to simplify your life is probably endless. Big changes will require a good deal of thought and planning. But there are many small changes you can make to simplify your life right now, such as:

Buy a simple car-one that has less gadgets to fix.

Do your shopping all at once, and preferrably in the same place.

Reduce the clutter in your home and office. Throw out things that you don't use.

Buy classic clothes that don't go out of style.

Throw out your dry cleanables

Shop during off-hours.

Get a simple, low-maintenance hairstyle.

Downscale to a smaller home or less expensive car.

Find a way to turn your hobby into your primary source of income.

Make a conscious effort to reflect upon and appreciate the simple things in your life-those things that you may be taking for granted.

Simplifying your life isn't always simple, but something as easy as getting more organized can be a big help. As some of the complexity decreases from your life, you may find greater clarity and peace of mind.

What makes the concept of simplication difficult for some people is that it implies that you must give up something. But many people derive invaluable benefits from simplifying their lives-more time, freedom, self-expression and a chance to live with more clarity and meaning. Simplification is a deeply personal endeavor and should be approached with the following things in mind:

Values/Priorities. What is most important to you? What would you have the hardest time living withou--your health, family, friends, time, creative projects? 

 Identity. Who are you? What talents, skills, activities and types of environments bring you the most enjoyment? Are you living authentically-speaking your truth and living according to your own values (values that you've examined and owned) or someone else's?

Time/Pace. How do you manage time and pace yourself? Is your natural pace 100 miles per hour or a bit slower and more reflective? Examine your current pace and your energy levels. If you're feeling exhausted or burned out, you may need to slow down, or at least change where you are focusing the majority of your energy.

Purpose. What do you most want to do with your life and are you doing that right now? How do you wish to direct your talents? Are you living purposefully?

Vision. What is your ideal lifestyle and environment? What would your life look like if you could design it exactly the way you wanted? You can't always "have it all," but think about how close you can get to that vision now, realistically.

 [ send green star]

Getting the best out of life,  often requires us to change position. That's because when we get caught up in our own version of reality and insist that the way we see it is the only way it can be, we limit ourselves and color our world according to those limitations.

By a simple shift in viewpoint, however, and determining to see the situation from a changed perspective, we often discover that even the most impossible circumstance is surrounded by possibility.

Once we begin to grasp that we are the singlemost important determining factor in our own lives, we begin to realize how very magical life really is, because we are always, always, always! free to change positions and look again.

 [ send green star]

Vitamin K (Menadine) was named for the Danish word for bloodclotting-Koagulation.

It is important in the production of the clotting agent prothrombin and in the conversion of glucose to glycogen (the form of sugar stored in the body for use as fuel.)

Vitamin K is produced in the intestines of normal, healthy people.  It is important for normal function of the liver and needs bile to be utilized.

Positive Effects

Promotes proper blood clotting

Reduces hemorrhaging

Used in treatment of coronary rhrombosis

Natural Sources - fish, kelp, soybeans, and oil, safflower oil, egg yolks, alfalfa, leafy green vegetables, spinach, tomatoes, potatoes, yogurt, corn, strawberries, wheat bran and germ, cauliflower, carrots, peas, cow's milk. 

 [ send green star]

Necessities

Find time for yourself

Schedule time away from your job, your partner and your children. Use this opportunity to tune in to what you want and need. Don't feel that you're being selfish; you have a responsibility to yourself to take care of your needs.

The next time you're asked to do something, don't answer right away. Say, "Let me think about it" or "I have to take care of something right now. I'll call you back and let you know." This will give you time to evaluate the situation and decide if it's something you truly want to do.

For many women, saying "No" doesn't come naturally. But practice makes perfect, so start now! You can try it in the mirror, or even walk around the house saying it. Get used to hearing yourself say the word, and then you'll be ready to use it with other people!

Finding yourself is not about what you add to your life, it's about what you take away. Once you have created your "Absolute Yes List," the top priorities in your life, it becomes easier to identify those things that you'll need to let go. Although it may feel uncomfortable to think about saying no, it's important to remember that each time you say yes to someone or something else, you say no to you and your priorities. If saying no is difficult (especially to family members), then make sure you speak to your partner for support before and after you decline a request.

Your self-care is always a valid excuse to say no. Don't over-explain or defend your decision. Be graceful and honest. You might say something like: "I'm sorry, but it's just not possible for me to do that," or, "I'll have to decline but thank you anyway." As you practice saying no, it will get easier. Start now.

______________________________________

For one week, keep track of how many times you say yes to something that is not on your Absolute Yes List.

At the end of the week, tally up the number…surprised? Awareness is the first step to realigning your decisions and priorities.

 Make a list of five things you'd like to say no to. Start by thinking about these questions.

 [ send green star]

Your Welcome~ Lill

 [ send green star]

Taking  a good look on our health condition~our body tells us how it is functioning~eyes, nails, tongue...

A check list~ for a beautiful you

Clues About Fingernail color and texture can reflect a wide range of medical conditions

A Guide to Healthy Fingernails:

White nails -Liver diseases such as hepatitis

Liver diseases such as hepatitis - Lung diseases such as emphysema

 [ send green star]