Mind Body & Soul

The mind can be compared to the central command center through which the soul expresses itself and the body is the vehicle that executes the desires of both. Though all three components of the Human Being serve vastly different purposes, each is equally important and must be nurtured for optimal performance. Someone I consider to be a very spiritual individual shared with me that we have entered the era of “health”. There is no coincidence that our country has approached a critical crossroad concerning health care. National health care on the surface sounds promising for there are many who suffer needlessly because they lack resources. However, it is my opinion that in addition to having access to medical services, we should be proactive and take responsibility over our own bodies.

If we should be mindful of the thoughts we think and the actions we take, we should also be mindful of what we eat and how we treat our bodies. After all, when we eat nutritional foods, drink lots of good water, exercise regularly and get proper rest, we reinforce our body to carry out our higher purpose. Every time I attend a funeral and the deceased did not pass away from a natural cause, old age or trauma, I am reminded that wealth, intelligence and beauty mean nothing when the body shuts down.

Knowing that my Mind, body and soul are connected and neither is designed to function without the others, I intend to take responsibility for my own health. I am the master of my life and the trustee of my destiny.

Scents can have a profound impact on our moods, health, and spiritual growth. Below, in very simple format, several flowers and oils have been listed with some of their emotional and spiritual benefits.  These scents can be used in meditation or simply for “inspiring” certain moods or effects.  Using scents can be as simple as having fresh flowers in your house or garden where you spend time, or you can buy essential oils from a store (not the oils that say “perfume,” buy the real oils) along with a diffuser or a burner with a candle.  You can also add a small amount of essential oil to bath water (make sure oils are very diluted when coming in contact with the skin).Posted below are what experiences/feelings these scents can help us with, or promote within us.

Flowers

• Carnations - self love, passion
• Jasmine - self esteem, psychic development, dream work
• Lavender - inner guidance, spiritual contact
• Lily - spirituality, love, purity
• Lilac - travel, past lives
• Rose - heart awareness, love, beauty

Oils

• Ceder wood - connection to spirit
• Chamomile - inner peace
• Sage - Balance mind and emotions
• Eucalyptus - Clears negativity
• Lemon - Increases energy and clarity
• Marjoram - Calms an agitated mind
• Neroli - Opens heart and inspires creativity
• Rosemary - increase spiritual awareness
• Rosewood - enhances meditation
• Vetiver - aids in stillness

Scents can be used for many different things and can greatly help us in many areas of our lives, as can be seen from all the benefits listed.

“Nature often holds up a mirror so we can see more clearly the ongoing processes of growth, renewal, and transformation in our lives.”
William Shakespeare

Extreme self-care begins with easing your mind, calming your body, and feeding your soul.

Ease Your Mind :-Easing your mind involves being fully present and aware of this very moment. Eliminate the guilt and shame you carry with you from your past and put an end to the unfounded worries about your future. Create more time for gratitude, abundant thinking, a positive attitude and lots of laughter.

Till the soil and plant seeds of healthy intentions by:

* Creating a gratitude journal - Start making a daily list of what you are grateful for.
* Joy Spotting- Notice every little moment that fills you with joy.
* Reading motivational books and blogs - Check out my blog roll for some great inspirational mojo.
* Listening to uplifting music, podcasts and audio books.
* Being aware of your self-talk - Are you gentle and kind to yourself?
* Lightening up - Things do not have to be so frigging serious. Seriously!
* Lots and Lots of Laughter - Who are you sharing your time with? Do they make you laugh?

Calm Your Body :-As important as easing your mind is to your mental health, exercise and relaxation also play a key role in your well being. Our bodies are marvelous creations that carry us through life. You deserve extreme self care. Just like a beautiful flowering plant, your healthy body needs rich soil and water to create a full and healthy bloom.

Caring for and calming your body includes:

* Regular massage therapy - Bodywork should be a regular part of your health care.
* Relaxing baths - If you have a tub, get in it!
* Luxurious naps - You deserve an occasional nap.
* Moving your body - Walking, going to the gym, enrolling is a dance class, run, stretch, and play!
* Healthy nutrition - Plenty of water, fresh fruit, vegetables, whole foods.
* Care for your mental body image - I dare you to look in the mirror and greet yourself each morning with “Hello Gorgeous!” Be kind to your self by banishing negative body talk.

Nourish Your Soul :-Discovering true balance includes creating time to feed your spirit. Nurturing yourself spiritually allows you to ground yourself in your body keeping you anchored, healthy and alive. Caring for the soul includes eliminating the weeds that show up and choke out your natural soulful beauty.

Nourish your soul by:

* Banishing interruptions and making time to be still.
* Get in touch with your spirituality through peaceful time in prayer or meditation.
* Create a time for your creative pursuits - photography, journaling, art projects and music.
* Get unplugged - Turn off the television, radio, computer, pager and any other electronic device.
* Focus on your breath - Deep cleansing breaths in through you nose, filling your lungs to capacity and then letting it all go with a     giant exhalation.
* Share your time with people who make you smile until your face hurts.
* Get out of the house and get close to nature - The miracle of water, woods and wildlife will rejuvenate your spirit.