Lmst

Womp womp

#therapist #therapy #counseling #mentalhealth #mentalhealth #mindfulness #mindful #selfcare #funny #joke #amusing #humorous #meme #memes

I can't promise it will get better, but I can promise it will change.

#meme #memes #mentalhealth #mindfulness #mindful #selfcare #therapist #therapy #counseling #mentalhealth #queer #lgbtq #lgbtqia #trans #transgender #mtf #transwoman

Lmao
#meme #memes #funny #joke #amusing #humorous #mentalhealth #mindfulness #mindful #selfcare #therapist #therapy #counseling #mentalhealth

Parents, take note: This is the correct way to respond.

#therapist #therapy #counseling #mentalhealth #mentalhealth #mindfulness #mindful #selfcare #meme #memes #queer #lgbtq #lgbtqia #lesbian #sapphic #wlw

Parents, take note: This is the correct way to respond.

#therapist #therapy #counseling #mentalhealth #mentalhealth #mindfulness #mindful #selfcare #meme #memes #queer #lgbtq #lgbtqia #lesbian #sapphic #wlw

an empty space in my closet

A Mindful Lament
Gloria Heffernan

#Poetry #GloriaHeffernan #Mindful #OneArtPoetry #Meditation

https://oneartpoetry.com/2025/04/25/a-mindful-lament-by-gloria-heffernan/

Smart Eating: Embrace Whole Foods for a Healthier Life

Smart eating has become a challenge in a world overflowing with over-processed products cloaked in misleading labels, inviting us to decode the truth behind our food choices and reclaim our health with every bite.

Chips, cookies, and marshmallows may be tasty, but they don’t give my body what it really needs to function well. It’s super important to think about what we eat because it affects how we feel overall. Even though these yummy snacks make us happy momentarily, they often miss the important stuff like vitamins, minerals, and other things our body needs to do its best. When we’re smart about our food choices and eat lots of good stuff like fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats, it can make a big difference in how we feel. By going for nutrient-packed foods, we can help our bodies do what they’re supposed to and stay healthy for the long run.

Food and food products may seem similar, but they have distinct differences.

Food:

Refers to natural, whole ingredients that are consumed for nourishment and sustenance.
Includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, fish, dairy products, nuts, and seeds in their natural state.
Provides essential nutrients that our bodies need to thrive, such as antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, healthy fats from nuts and seeds, and protein from lean meats and dairy.

Food Products:

These items are processed or manufactured and often contain multiple ingredients, including additives, preservatives, and flavorings.
Examples include packaged snacks, processed meats, frozen meals, and sugary beverages.
They often contain added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium, which can lead to health issues if consumed excessively.

The Importance of Whole Foods

Prioritizing whole foods in our diet is crucial because they typically offer more nutrients and fewer unhealthy additives than processed food products. Whole foods can enhance our immune system, boost energy levels, and improve overall well-being. They are rich in fiber, which aids digestion, as well as vitamins and minerals that help protect against chronic diseases.

In contrast, heavily processed food products can lead to poor health outcomes. They may be convenient, but the long-term effects of consuming too many processed foods can include weight gain, increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Making Better Choices

Photo by Valeria Boltneva on Pexels.com

To improve our diet, we can start by incorporating more whole foods into our meals. Here are some practical tips:

Plan Meals: Take time to plan weekly meals that focus on whole foods. This can reduce the temptation to reach for processed snacks and meals.
Read Labels: When we do purchase food products, reading labels can help us make better choices. Look for shorter ingredient lists and avoid items with a long list of unrecognizable components.
Cook at Home: Cooking at home lets us control what goes into our meals. Experiment with whole ingredients and spices to make delicious, healthful dishes.
Snack Mindfully: Choose nutrient-dense snacks such as fruits, vegetables, yogurt, or nuts instead of reaching for processed snacks out of habit.

We take proactive steps toward enhancing our health by consciously focusing on whole foods. This intentional approach nourishes our body and supports our mental and emotional well-being, creating a holistic framework for a healthier lifestyle. Ultimately, choosing whole foods over processed products empowers us to feel our best and live life to the fullest.

Whole Foods & Autoimmune Disease

Whole foods offer numerous benefits, particularly for individuals coping with autoimmune diseases like lupus. I have been consciously shifting my diet towards whole, nutrient-dense foods as I navigate chronic migraine, lupus, and endometriosis. It hasn’t been a huge shift in eating as I have been vegetarian for over 15 years and try to make conscious decisions about my eating habits. However, I will definitely dig into the bag of chips my son or husband has brought home or a dish of preservative-loaded ice cream now and then. I always pay for it the next day with increased inflammation, pain, or migraine.

Back to the Kiitchen

Photo by Karina Ustiuzhanina on Pexels.com

So I am slowly getting back to making my own delicious treats with ingredients such as dates, nut butters, chia seeds, and fresh fruit. Trust me—making my treats takes less time than reading the unending lists of unpronounceable ingredients in food products! Also, there’s something incredibly satisfying about the entire process, from selecting quality ingredients to preparing and turning them into a delightful creation. When mindful about eating, you begin to notice the taste difference between fresh and processed food; it’s a revelation that transforms your relationship with what you consume. Fresh tastes so much better and doesn’t make you crave more 5 minutes later, allowing for a more balanced approach to snacking. By creating my own sweets, I cater to my taste buds and embrace a healthier lifestyle that prioritizes nourishment and satisfaction, and best of all, I know exactly what’s in them!

Knowing ingredients

Whole foods have the potential to heal and nourish our bodies, providing essential nutrients that promote overall well-being. In stark contrast, processed food products often contain chemical ingredients that may or may not have undergone rigorous testing for safety in consumption. This discrepancy raises important health concerns, especially concerning recent events such as removing artificial dyes from various food items. For instance, do you recall the infamous red dye number 3. This particular additive was long banned from cosmetics due to its harmful effects on skin, yet it remained prevalent in our food supply for years, exposing consumers to unnecessary risks. It is crucial for us to scrutinize the ingredients in the products we consume, advocate for transparency in food labeling, and prioritize whole foods that contribute to our health rather than undermine it.

Whole Food Healing

Here are some key reasons why whole foods can be especially beneficial:

Nutrient Density

Whole foods are typically rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support the immune system and overall health. For someone with lupus, these nutrients can help reduce inflammation, support healing, and promote better energy levels.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Many whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fatty fish, possess natural anti-inflammatory properties. For individuals with lupus, managing inflammation is crucial. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon and walnuts) and antioxidants (found in berries and leafy greens) can help mitigate inflammatory responses in the body.

Stabilizing Blood Sugar

Whole foods tend to have a lower glycemic index compared to processed foods. This means they help stabilize blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for managing energy levels and reducing fatigue—a common concern for those with lupus. Avoiding spikes and crashes in blood sugar can lead to a more balanced energy state.

Gut Health

The consumption of whole foods supports gut health, which is essential for those with autoimmune conditions. A healthy gut microbiome can play a crucial role in regulating inflammation and immune responses. Foods rich in fiber, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, promote a healthy gut flora.

Reduced Exposure to Additives

Whole foods are less likely to contain additives, preservatives, or artificial ingredients commonly found in processed foods. These substances can sometimes exacerbate inflammation and negatively impact health, especially for those with autoimmune disorders. Choosing whole foods can help minimize this risk.

Photo by Ann poan on Pexels.com

Improved Mental Well-Being

A diet rich in whole foods can contribute to improved mental health. Certain nutrients, like B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids, are vital for brain health and mood regulation. For individuals with lupus, maintaining mental well-being is crucial as they may experience additional stress due to their condition.

Personalized Nutrition

Integrating whole foods into the diet allows for more personalized approaches to nutrition. Individuals can focus on foods they tolerate well and that support their specific health needs, rather than relying on processed foods that may not meet their nutritional requirements.

Nourish Mind, Body, & Spirit

Adopting a diet rich in whole foods can support overall health, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life for those coping with lupus or other autoimmune diseases. Prioritizing nutrient-dense, minimally processed foods is a proactive strategy that empowers us to take control of our health and well-being. This approach nurtures the body and fosters a deeper connection to our food choices, encouraging us to be mindful of what we consume. By actively engaging in this process, we can nourish our sacred vessels more deeply, recognizing that every bite we take has the potential to support our healing journey. Using mindfulness as a path of healing for both body and spirit, we cultivate a greater awareness of our physical and emotional needs, ultimately leading to a more resilient and balanced life. Embracing this lifestyle can inspire individuals to explore new culinary experiences, experiment with vibrant flavors, and find joy in preparing meals that align with their health goals.

I have begun saving recipes in Flipboard as an alternative to Pinterest. Today, I made the pepper and carrot soup recipe from my magazine, Food, on Flipboard, as we received an abundance of fresh bell peppers and carrots from Misfits Market this week. Carrots and bell peppers are both nutritious vegetables offering various health benefits.

Here are some key nutritional benefits of each:

Carrots

Rich in Vitamins:
- Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A (beta-carotene), essential for good vision, immune function, and skin health.
- They also contain vitamins C, K, and several B vitamins, contributing to overall health.
High in Antioxidants:
- Carrots provide antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Dietary Fiber:
- They are high in fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain a healthy weight by promoting feelings of fullness.
Low in Calories:
- Carrots are low in calories, making them a great snack option for those looking to manage their weight.
Promotes Heart Health:
- The fiber and potassium in carrots can support heart health by helping to manage cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Bell Peppers

High in Vitamin C:
- Bell peppers are one of the richest sources of vitamin C, essential for immune health, skin health, and antioxidant protection.
Vitamins and Minerals:
- They also provide significant amounts of vitamins A, E, and K and various B vitamins.
- Bell peppers contain potassium and folate, contributing to cardiovascular health and fetal development.
Antioxidant Properties:
- They contain several antioxidants, including carotenoids and flavonoids, which can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Weight Management:
- Bell peppers are low in calories and high in water content, making them filling and beneficial for weight management.
Supports Eye Health:
- The carotenoids (like lutein and zeaxanthin) in bell peppers are beneficial for eye health and may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Incorporating carrots and bell peppers into your diet can enhance overall health, offering a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and beneficial compounds essential for maintaining optimal bodily functions. A simple soup is a great way to include a variety of produce, allowing you to experiment with different textures and flavors, and beneficial herbs and spices to elevate your meals. Additionally, practicing mindful eating allows us to experience the richness and flavors of our hard work in the kitchen. Remember to pause and give thanks for your blessing of fresh, whole foods.

Happy Eating!

Check out links below for additional information:

Dr. Mark Hyman’s article “Improve Your Diet Overnight” for additional information.

Global Autoimmune Institute article “Culinary Medicine: Autoimmunity and Healthy Eating“

Global Autoimmune Institute “Understand Autoimmune Disease“

Lupus Foundation of America

#autoimmuneDisease #awareness #balance #endometriosis #experience #freshEats #healing #healthyFood #healthyLife #healthyLiving #healthyself #lupus #meditation #mindful #mindfulEating #mindfulness #moments #practice #produce #smartEating #soup #wholeFoods

Love him or hate him, this is one of the most beautiful openings to an album I have ever heard.

Fear and Fridays Poem - Zach Bryan

"I'd say I've seen some beautiful days, I've walked countless coastlines, awoken on mountain tops, I have seen death and birth and kissed good lips.

I don't need a music machine telling me what a good story is, and matter of fact I've never asked nothing from nobody.

I've taken my motorbike down the Pacific 101 and I have stood atop the Empire State Building with my father.
I've ridden in fear, although, I was afraid every single time.

I've learned that every waking moment is enough and excess never leads to better things, it only piles and piles atop the things that are already abundantly in front of you like breathing and chasing and slow dancing and love making, fighting and laughing.

I am unhinged, unworthy, and distasteful to mostly everyone l meet, however I am loyal to a fault to anyone I find kindness in.

I do not and will not fear tomorrow because I feel as though today has been enough, and I got no hate in my heart for anything, anywhere, or anyone.

And I think fear and Fridays got an awful lot in common, they're overdone and glorified and always leave you wantin. Yeah, I think fear and Fridays got an awful lot in common, they're overdone and glorified and they always leave you wantin'."

#zachbryan #fearandfridays #mindful #mindfulness #mononoaware #impermanence #mujo #ichigoichie #mensmentalhealth

Limitations & Radical Mercy

This piece was originally written in 2023. As I continue to grow and learn through Radical acceptance, I have discovered another facet of healing—Radical Mercy. I have updated the piece to expand on this theme and its place in fostering resilience and acceptance.

Each one of us experiences times of hitting our limit, and these limits can be in the form of physical limits, mental limits, or manufactured limiting beliefs. Understanding the difference between limiting beliefs and actual physical or mental limitations is vital to thriving. We have the power within us to shift limiting beliefs, whereas substantial physical or psychological impediments require radical acceptance and mercy.

Limiting Beliefs

Limiting beliefs arise from the stories we tell ourselves. These typically begin in childhood during the impressionable age of three to eight. Something as simple as being told by a teacher that you are slow or sloppy creates tension within the self. For a child, a moment of questioning arises. “Am I sloppy? I must be since an adult – an authority figure whom I have been told is smarter, more knowledgeable (or insert any word consistent with “better than”); therefore, it must be so, and I am sloppy.”

Here lies the danger. The “I” is not sloppy. Maybe the “I” actions were negligent, but that is momentary behavior that the “I” can change if presented with options or explanations.

Our language imparts the need for more understanding and discernment of the moment’s truth. We must distinguish the doing from the doer. We are not our thoughts or actions, but we are responsible for our thoughts and actions. One who is established in discernment understands the ground of being.

We, as experiencers of emotions, thoughts, and actions, need to be aware of the effect of our emotions, ideas, and actions on ourselves and others. Through these unmindful actions, we unwittingly impose limiting beliefs on ourselves and others.

Mindful Discernment

Shifting limiting beliefs is rooted in mindful discernment. Having a sense that something is not right, not quite so, is the first step in shedding attachments, in this case, attachment to outworn beliefs and lifestyle patterns. This altering of one’s course is usually a gradual transformation; it requires skillful effort, such as mindful attention and great patience.

Altering Perspective

For example, as a child, I was told I could not run far due to activity-induced asthma, as I seemed to get winded quickly on occasion. What I heard was, “Kristen cannot run.” Allowing this thought pattern to solidify in my being, I did not think otherwise until I was 27, a year and a half after giving birth to my son; I decided to start jogging to regain my strength and stamina. I thought, what is the worst thing that could happen? I get out of breath, take a break, and walk. So that’s what I did. On my first jog, I was ridiculously out of breath; my chest was on fire. I stopped and focused on breathing, willing the breath to find its natural rhythm. It did, and I walked the rest of the way, mindful of my breath and body.

I did not pass out, and I did not have any adverse reactions, so I persevered. Releasing my attachment to any outcome, I focused on putting one foot in front of the other until I could not. After a few months, I was able to jog a full mile. I celebrated the achievement as I had, through discernment, discovered “Kristen can run.”

I ran for the next ten years. Running became a passion as it allowed freedom from thoughts and actions. I found a sense of pure being in the sound of my soles slap, slap, slapping the pavement, a peacefulness I had only experienced in yoga or meditation.

Gracious Acceptance

Thus, overcoming this one limiting belief opened the doors to remove the mental obstacles I had placed in my way throughout my life; the question begged to be asked, “What other self-made challenge could I overcome? The answer was deeply resonant- I could overcome any limiting belief I had constructed: this can be distilled down to attachment to the fruits of any idea, thought, or action. Bear in mind, this did not mean I could necessarily run a marathon. Realistically, I needed to understand the difference between limiting beliefs and actual physical limitations. My knees would not take running a marathon. Over the 10 years I ran, I accrued much damage to joints, a stress fracture, and a broken bone in my foot. My physical limitation prevented me from running a marathon, but it was not a limiting belief.

For this, gracious acceptance is required. My yoga practice cultivated the understanding I needed for this acceptance.

Please note that by yoga practice, I do not mean only the asanas or poses, as is the prevalent understanding of yoga in the US. I am indicating the fullness of the embodiment of yogic principles and philosophy, of which the postures are a part of the much more comprehensive practice.

Again, much like shifting limiting beliefs, accepting physical or psychological limitations takes time and patience. Rallying against the natural flow of our life path or playing the victim of our circumstances only creates more suffering. Adjusting one’s view to the present moment allows for space where we may plant the seeds of acceptance. When we align ourselves with the present moment, we can no longer be distracted by the “what-ifs” of the past or ensnared in anxiety over the unmanifest future. We begin to nurture the seeds of acceptance with loving kindness and patience.

“In the space we create through present-moment awareness, infinity awaits.”
KMS

Physical Limitations

As an example, the chronic migraines I experience are physical limitations. Additionally, for the last three years, I have developed other symptoms that can impair my ability to speak or think clearly, drive, or partake in activities that bring me great joy, such as hiking and yoga (asana). Prevalent muscle weakness, joint pain, neuropathy, and confusion, such as forgetting where I am or what I am doing, can be dangerous in specific settings. My awareness of my limitations is keen.

Of course, at the onset, these symptoms were frightening and frustrating. Experiencing migraine from a very young age, I was potentially in a more desirable space to adjust to the additional limitations. Still, canceling plans and adapting from an active lifestyle to one spent mainly on the couch caused anger, resentment, fear, and sadness to arise. I had to sit with my emotions and make friends with the pain and anxiety to overcome dwelling on what I could not do. I needed to invite the sadness into my being and experience it fully to taste its essence to mourn what I perceived as a loss.

Loss

Losses can be viewed as destruction; we create new ideas, paths, and a new view of our predicaments through mindful destruction. In my case, it was not the joys of my past that were destroyed but my attachment to how things “must” be. It is not “I love hiking; therefore, I will always be a hiker.” I enjoy the sense of aliveness, freedom, and connection with nature that hiking affords my spirit. This experience and this sense of space can manifest through other pursuits. The destruction of one path provides a clearer view of a new path that is untrodden and full of pure potentiality. This potential is available to us in every moment. In the space we create through present-moment awareness, infinity awaits.

Radical Mercy

What allowed this space to manifest? Radical Mercy. Acceptance is acknowledging and embracing reality as it is without trying to resit or change it. Meanwhile, mercy goes beyond acceptance by introducing kindness, grace, and relief. While acceptance says, “This is how they are,” mercy says, “Even though this is reality, I choose compassion over condemnation.”

Radical mercy is not passive; it is grace in action, a powerful force that compels individuals to respond to suffering with compassion and understanding. It is a transformative act that defies conventional notions of justice and fairness, challenging societal norms that often prioritize punishment over healing. It is mercy given without conditions, disrupting cycles of judgment and resentment, creating space for reconciliation and growth. This profound willingness to extend grace to ourselves is a radical act, especially in the face of limitations. Mercy is required to release feelings of disillusionment or failure to meet one’s own expectations of self.

Having mercy for myself has transformed the experience of chronic illness, not as something to endure but as a way to invite grace, patience, and even healing. The bitterness and weight of perceived failure of what now cannot be can be suffocating, but mercy has softened this, allowing space for self-compassion. It is a radical act to say, “I am worthy of kindness, even from myself.” This shift does not change my illness, but provides a new path of experiencing life itself.

“I will hold myself to a standard of grace, not perfection.”
KMS

I now have a deeper appreciation for the cycles of nature as I see my path reflected in its seasons, as I experienced a time of blossoming and unfolding, as well as times of mourning and destruction. The two sides of the coin, non-duality expressed in each moment, for life implies death, and vice versa.

As I align myself with what my body, mind, and spirit are capable of in each moment, I sense the blossoming of the seeds of acceptance, spreading peaceful contentment through my sacred vessel, allowing appreciation of the nuance and texture of the tapestry of the universe and the mystery of its weaving.

Please note that if you suffer from limitations causing you physical or mental anguish, I recommend talking with a trusted professional.
Start with your primary care doctor if you are still figuring out where to ask for help. For mental health assistance: https://jwww.samhsa.gov/

I look forward to continuing to explore the concept of radical mercy over the next few weeks, delving deeper into its nuances and exploring the idea beyond the self. This journey involves examining how radical mercy can be harnessed as a powerful social tool that fosters understanding and improves communication between individuals and communities. Promoting empathy and compassion in our interactions can create an environment where differences are celebrated rather than feared. Through the application of radical mercy, we can bridge divides, dismantle prejudices, and ultimately cultivate a more harmonious society where dialogue thrives and connections are strengthened.

Wishing heartfelt blessings for a serene and beautiful holy weekend to everyone celebrating.

#acceptance #awareness #balance #Buddhism #consciousness #discernment #experience #fear #flow #healing #limitations #meditaion #mentalHealth #mentalWellbeing #mercy #mindful #mindfulness #moments #overcomeiingFear #perception #practice #selfAcceptance #selfTalk #selfcare #stressReduction #stressRelief #wellbeing #wellness #zen

want to relax your mind today? whatever you are doing, whatever you are going through right now, just leave it behind and enjoy this >

https://youtu.be/QfWgV7bK-rU

#relax #goodvibes #mindful #positive

#ShroveTuesday Important days #spiritual #mindful #festival #feast #MardiGras That's #Fat #Tuesday 🙏🏽 4 ☮️🕊🤎 End message xP

This is a truth I am learning more and more deeply through mindfulness meditation.

We choose a lot more than we think.

#Pagan #Mentalhealth #Mindful #Perspective #Meditation

The reminder I got yesterday about being #mindful of where one steps (particularly in stormy #weather)! #nature #rain NOTE: “Worms are fantastic burrowing creatures that are the living, breathing engineers of the underworld. They eat and recycle organic matter to keep our soil healthy.”(via: https://www.soilassociation.org/causes-campaigns/save-our-soil/meet-the-unsung-heroes-looking-after-our-soil/why-are-worms-important/) .(Posting in my personal capacity.)