Most of us consider reading books as simply a way to pass the time. While that may be a good end in itself these days, I’ve discovered there are actually health benefits attached to this favorite leisure activity. Who knew?! According to thehealthsite.com, there are several science-based rewards that come with reading books, such as: Mental exercise: Reading…
God never promised us an easy life without discouragement. In fact, the Bible reminds us in John 16:33 that “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” This passage tells us that God knows the difficulties we’re facing, but has a plan for helping us get through them with His power! To stand…
Simple pleasures are the last healthy refuge in a complex world.” ~Oscar Wilde When all is said and done, isn’t it the modest pleasures of life that bring comfort and gratification during stressful times? For me, this is definitely the case! As we’ve all experienced some bumps along the road over the past year, I’ve discovered…
When will this ever end? If this question [regarding COVID-19] has spiraled through your thoughts over the past several months, you’re not alone. The pandemic “pit of despair” is real but that doesn’t mean you have to remain stuck in its deep, dark trenches. I’ve needed to remind myself a few times of this great Bible promise found in…
Are you having a difficult time staying connected with others during this awkward time of the pandemic? Here’s what I did to remedy this issue for myself. Several months into this thing, I signed up for an exercise program that was way beyond my ability or even my interest. I’m not athletic, so competitive exercises…
When stressful days hit, I’ve found it effective to be mindful in my activities. Capturing the simple things in life helps lift my spirit on days when I might otherwise have a huge case of the blahs! So, here are a few easy things I do to drive my [potentially] negative reactions toward life-restoring actions instead. I love…
In the midst of a particularly anxious day, or a prolonged depressive episode, the notion of clearing one’s mind and gearing up for a workout can feel downright impossible. Ironically, a study finds forcing yourself to exercise may be the best thing to do in mentally turbulent times.” ~John Anderer It’s a startling fact but, “Anxiety disorders…
Worry. It’s something we all do, but for some individuals, it’s a constant battle to control. From being up all night with racing thoughts to having difficulty concentrating on tasks at hand, concerns can go from perpetual annoyances to an endless list of “what ifs.” Try these Ideas to Calm Your Concerns: Catch your concerns…
You may remember the well-known children’s book Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. Although published in 1972, its content is still relatable—and not just for kids. After all, who can say they never experience one of “those days” they would just as soon forget? No doubt our lives have been full of lousy days…
When the pandemic started here last Spring, I knew we were in for some changes. But I also thought by summertime we would surely be on our way back to “normal.” Well, we see that hasn’t happened, and it may not be like we were used to for a while longer. So, these days of confinement…