Staying Safe Walking

Evening Everyone, how's your day going?

Wow, it's hump day, Wednesday, and almost the end of the month.

How is the walking challenge going for everyone?

I just came across some safety tips from a book called, "Small Changes, Big Results," by Ellie Krieger, MS, RD. On page 45.

Now, I don't like plagiarism from any books or copying it, so I will do my best to summaries the information to the best of my knowledge. 

Doing walks within health clubs or within the safety of our homes, we don't think of the dangers while we're out. Here are a few pointers to follow to keep safe while you're out strolling.

1.   Walk Defensively: Pay attention to your surroundings. Always keep your head up and alert. Never walk alone.
2. Look for Cars: Stay off the roadways as much as possible. Drivers rarely pay attention, for you're much smaller than another vehicle. But, if you do have to walk on the road, stay as far to the side as you can and always face oncoming traffic.
3. Walk-in Well-Travelled Places: Know your neighborhoods, and keep your phone on you for cases of emergencies. If walking at night stay closer to home or places that are usually busy during those hours (parks, basketball courts; places where there are lights).
4. Don't Carry Valuables: Don't make yourself into a target. Leave purses and wallets either at home or in your vehicles. Never carry expensive jewelry or excessive cash or credit cards upon yourself.
5. Tell Someone Where You're Going: Always let your family, spouse, or partner know where you are going. For in case of an emergency, they will know where to find you or expect you to be.

These are all good points to keep in mind when out venturing.

I have an idea for an upcoming challenge for next month once we are done with this challenge. Also, Another incentive will be coming into play as we will be entering week six of the 52 weeks of small changes.

Up to date, here are the five weeks worth of incentives that we all should keep noted so far.

• Stay Hydrated
• Get Plenty of Rest
• Be Active Daily
• Keep a Daily Food Journal
• Stay Positive (Don't Worry, Be Happy)

I wish you all a good night. Stay safe and healthy as we travel along this journey together.

Family Lines

                                     

Hey everyone, how is everyone doing today?

Well, who just like me, been curious about their family lineage, or what is our true nationalities?

Now, mark me, what I am sharing, I'm not being sponsored for, or asked to share. This is on my own accord. I find it all fascinating. This path has started back in my junior year in high school when it was mandatory to do a family genealogy report.

At, the time, unfortunately, I could only access information about my mother's side of the family. My biological father and mother had been divorced since back in 1981, and I haven't had contact with him till 2014.

Well, last year for father's day, I purchased my charming husband a DNA kit from https://www.ancestry.com/.  Where they can show the nationalities of where the percentage of your bloodline is originally from.

My husband has been curious about the whole thing and kept commenting about how he would enjoy doing that, so I surprised him with it.

This year, the sneak got me a kit for mother's day. The main reason is mainly that I have no clue about any information about my paternal bloodline. I was informed by my father, that his paternal lineage was from Denmark and the maternal lineage was from Czechoslovakia.

Plus, the only story my mother had known about my father's family which seemed to pass down to lots of its members. When my grandfather's father came across, he was traveling with six brothers. There was a disagreement of some sort. That once they departed from the ship, seven versions of the name were formed.

Anyways, back to learning about the lineage. I did the DNA testing. It took about two to three months until I was able to get any results. 

I was surprised by the results. Most I was expecting, others I wasn't.

Plus, I was given a chance to expand my experience on the site to expand my research. There, I've learned lost family lines and how close my family is to each other. 

When my paternal great-grandparents and my maternal great, great-grandparents arrived to the states during the immigration era.

I am sharing this information, for I believe there are many just like me who has been curious and wondering who our families are and how are they related. Were they in the service? What is our heritage like?

I hope you all find this useful and of interest. And that it helps open eyes on what might and could be.

Have a good day, be safe, and stay healthy.

Week 5 Incentive: Keep Positive (Don't Worry, Be Happy)

We all know the term, "see the glass as half full," right?

Well, my friends, that's what this week's incentive is all about. Seeing things in the positive and develop an optimistic outlook on life.

1. Shift Self-talk: when negative thinking creeps in, shift your thoughts into more positive and productive ones. Example:

                Negative Reactions                   |                 Positive Reactions

        I can't do that. I don't know-how.       | I can learn to do that. I get to learn something.

        That won't work                                 |          I'll find a way to make it work.

        I'm not good at this.                            |          What can I do to get better at this?

    

       2. Use Affirmations: by using affirmations helps push away negative thoughts and reprogram the mind so thoughts become more positive.

         3. Have a Sense of Humor: If things don't go as planned, find the humor within the situation.

         4. Take Care of Yourself: by taking good care of yourself and your health, helps to build a positive self-image.

         5. Develop Healthy Relationships: develop a support network that you can depend on, by surrounding yourself with positive people. Also, the key to any relationship is communications and trust.

        6. Practice Gratefulness: Take some time every day to remind yourself of all the good things in your life. Be grateful towards yourself and to others.

        7. Celebrate Your Strengths and Accomplishments: List all your strengths and all your accomplishments, to also help keep you on a positive mindset. Revisit these when you need a reminder that you're a good person and have done many good things.

        8. Let Go: let go of things that you have no control over. Over time, there are things and people that you can't change, and that's okay. Worry more about yourself than those who can't or don't want your help. 

        9. Forget Your Fears: Many of us let our fears of the unknown impair our ability to be positive, to move forward, or to achieve the things that will bring happiness into our lives. Push away the fears and negativities, and focus on the positive and be open to the possibilities instead.

       10. Harness the Law of Attraction: although made recently popular, the law of attraction has been around for centuries. In the simplest terms, is that you focus on what you want and what you want to attract into your life instead of focusing on the negative, the frustrations, or the disappointments. By focusing on what you want helps you to visualize positive outcomes, mobilizing you to make them a reality.

So, in addition to staying hydrated, get plenty of rest, be active, and track your food intake, look at life in a positive aspect. In other words, "Don't Worry, Be Happy!"

Week 4 Incentive: Food Journal

Happy Friday everyone!!!

How is everyone doing? Can you believe that the month is almost over?

Well, I'm a little late on this post, but it's better late than never, right?

So, for week 4, it's to keep a food journal.

Now there are many ways to keep a food journal. I have mentioned several in an earlier post, once called the ideal meal plan (have the link below):

https://jessylifejourney.blogspot.com/2019/03/ideal-calorie-meal-plans.html

Besides keeping track of daily food intakes you can also keep track of your fitness and moods. I've noticed during certain times like when I'm bored, stressed, or depressed, I usually snack a little more than normal or have more then what I intended.

I've found several printable templates that you can use if you prefer to write things down. This site here provides 30 or so printable food journals for you to follow.

For more food journal templates:

https://www.developgoodhabits.com/food-journal-template/

Or if you have a smartphone like I do, you can download useful apps to help. Such as LoseIt!, MyFitnessPal, Fitbit (of course be needing the watches as well), and many more to help with keeping track.

Just keep in mind to watch your portions and be mindful of what you are eating. Plus, drink plenty of water to help stay hydrated.

Have a good day and take care.

Daily Oracle Drawing: The High Lady of Love and Compassion

Morning everyone, how are you all doing today?

It's FRIDAY!!!

What is everyone's plans for the weekend?

Sadly, of course, I have to work this weekend, but today is my day off to get caught up with a lot of stuff at home.

Let's see what the Oracles have to say for today.

It's the High Lady of Love and Compassion appearing as a challenger.

When the High Lady of Love and Compassion appears as your Challenger, she gently reminds you to snap out of self-centeredness. The ego has set a sneaky trap for you. You may have forgotten that to create an abundant life, you must be conscious of how your choices impact those around you. Are you trying to manipulate others to get what you want without consideration for them?

Is it possible that your good intentions are about helping too much, enabling another person to remain the same and preventing his or her growth? Sometimes it's better to let others hit bottom with their own suffering rather than trying to make it easier for them. Sometimes you need to be "cruel" to be kind.

Be conscious that you aren't alone in this world. Begin to behave as if the God in all life-in every person-matters. Remember that the living world is a sacred community, and you're a magical and important part of it. But you're not the only one who counts.

The High Lady of Love and Compassion is waiting to guide you and be your friend and Ally. Think first of others and she will orchestrate your ultimate success.

Daily Oracle Drawing: The Word Lord

Good Day my Friends! How are we all doing this Monday?

So today's Drawing the Word Lord comes to play as the Challenger.

When the Word Lord appears as your Challenger, he gently warns of untruths, denials, and unsupportive thoughts and words in any area of your life. If you've been dishonest in any way, it's time to make amends. Change your tune; otherwise, your impact on the world will not be as effective as you would like. Even if you were to be successful as an immediate result, there would be a price to pay later. 

If others are being unsupportive towards you, know that it's them, not you. Don't take this world personally. Remember that you don't have to engage others when they project their own fears and negativity onto you.

Another message here is about how you speak about yourself. Do you say self-deprecating words? Do you minimize yourself so as not to intimidate others? Do you refer to yourself as less than beautiful? Time to change those unconscious statements now! It's not difficult to change things, as we are always given a choice to make new decisions. As long as you remain positive and supportive, the rest will quickly melt away until all you perceive is the highest good for all.

All you need is a desire to change and be positive and the Word Lord will help you win the game of life!

Week 3 Incentive; Daily Oracle Drawing: The Dream Walker

Hello Everyone!!!

Happy Sunday!!

How is everyone doing so far this month? 

I've known it's been very hot and humid lately. Hopefully, everyone is staying hydrated and trying to keep cool. Also, hopefully, you all are getting enough rest as well. That should also help keep up the energy to get through this summer.

The new incentive for week 3 is to set up a routine activity every day. By incorporating daily activities into your everyday routine, will do wonders for your overall health and helps keep your youthful in the process. And here are several ideas on how to do so.

1. Walking

• Commuting: work, school, to the market
• Walking the Dog
• Running Errands
• Parking: park furthest from the entry
• Starting or Ending Your Day: in the morning or just before bed

      2. Taking an Active Lunch: do a brisk walk on your lunch break

      3. At Work: stretching helps keep you limber and awake while working

      4. Active Television   

• Laundry: wash, dry, folding
• Cleaning
• Cardio
• Floor Exercises

      5. Get Vertical: take stairs instead of the elevator

      6. Hire Yourself: do car washes, dog walks, cleaning yards or homes

      7. Standing

      8. Having Fun: sports, swimming, hiking

      9. Unplug Yourself: turn off all electronics

*******

                            Daily Oracle Drawing: The Dream Walker

The Dream Weaver challenges you to wake up from your restless sleep, in which you're not dreaming at all. This is the time to remind yourself of your passions and the aspirations you may have left behind. Perhaps you should reconsider and allow yourself your precious dreams again. Don't give them up. There is always a way they can return to you as long as you don't try to dictate the forms they take.

Another way the Dream Walker challenges you is when you're in the middle of a nightmare brought on by you or by others. Wake up and don't struggle, for she reminds you that the Divine will lead you out of the bad dreams and into a much better one. This, too, shall pass.

Be mindful that you have a unique and special purpose. You're always actively influencing your reality through your thoughts and reactions to life's challenges.

Daily Oracle Drawing: The Hawk Pince

The Hawk Prince challenges you to pay attention and listen to the warnings being sent your way. Are you pushing forward in spite of other’ cautionings about the direction you’re headed? Are you refusing to listen to your own inner voice?

Red flags are waving in the breeze, and you’re being challenged to heed their message. When the Hawk Prince descends as your Challenger, it’s an indication that something isn’t quite right. Don’t worry, though; he always arrives just in time for you to let go of your old ideas and begin again. Spirit only wants the best for you!

4th of July; Week 2 Incentive; Daily Drawing: Well Watcher

      

Morning Everyone!!

How is everyone doing today as we start a new week of July?

Well, yesterday was July 4th. Hopefully, everyone enjoyed Independence Day in their own way.

Unfortunately, I had to work. But, from what I was told, a few people got together and paraded through town in their cars to boost moral.

Plus, there were fireworks later that night that started at 9:30 and lasted until 10:30. I was able to catch the last ten minutes of the fireworks on video.

****

Today starts the 2nd week of the Small Changes for a Healthier and Happier Life.

Last week, we started by keeping hydrated. This week, we're adding to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep. To feel refresh and to cut down the stresses to the body. There are many advantages and disadvantages of getting plenty of sleep or lack of.

The amount of sleep varies between ages. 

• Newborns: 14-17 hours
• Infants (4-12 months): 12-16 hours
• Toddlers (1-2 years): 11-14 hours
• Preschoolers (3-5 years): 10-13 hours
• School Age (6-12 years): 9-12 hours
• Teens: 8-10 hours
• Adults: at least 7 hours

******

Daily Drawing: The Well Watcher

As an Ally: The Well Watcher signals the need to go within to contemplate the true source of power in the world - which, he reminds you, is that of the Divine.  This is a message to let you know that you are being called to the Well, and this unseen power will be there and will be yours to align with.

This affirmation and prayer will invite the Divine to bring miracles and resolution into your life:  "Thy will be done through me for the highest of good of all and for the true manifestation of my soul purpose."

You will know the way forward by the still, small voice within you. The Divine also may answer your call by sending others to help guide you."

Daily Drawing: The High Lord of Gratitude and Service

Hey everyone, how's it going?

Decided to pick up on my daily oracle card drawings once again.

We all need a little inspiration now and then.

Today's card is the High Lord of Gratitude and Service

Drawn in the Ally position; the High Lord of Gratitude and Service has arrived to help you find your true purpose today. Feeling gratitude for each moment you experience, and loving what is and what has been, will remind you that every breath you take holds a deep and profound awareness.

Through small actions and selfless service to another, you're automatically placed upon your highest path, whether you're immediately aware of it or not. The presence of this Ally lets you know that you're on the correct path to fulfilling your desires.

You're also notified that your actions of service and attitude of gratitude will yield riches beyond your wildest dreams, as long as those riches aren't the goal you have in mind. Giving service with no thought of return is what's required of you today. This would also be a good time to write a list reminding yourself of all the things in your life and the world around you that you have to be grateful for.

If your question refers to a relationship, let gratitude be your guide. Be thankful for all you learn from this person. Truly, there are no friends and no enemies, just teachers along life's journey. Be grateful for the laughter and even for the tears. The attitude of gratitude is a magnet for true love in all forms.

Benefits for Walking Daily

July's Resolution, Challenge, and Incentive Advice

Evening everyone. How are you all are doing? Well, today is the first day of July. This means new resolutions for the third quarter, a new challenge, and a new plan. Just remember, before you decide on any lifestyle changes, always talk with your doctor first.

So, first is the new resolution to follow for the next three months. Keeping up with my writings and vids. Which I will be doing for my challenges and incentive plan; being more active, which means to change up my workout routines. Plus, with my walking challenge this month, I would be really active. ; and finally more self-care. I've always put others before myself. Well, this time, it's time for me to take better care of myself and my well-being. So, with everything that has happened so far, I believe its time to start a new and this is a great way to get started and begin to refresh ourselves. Next, I'm throwing up a new challenge for the month. This month, it's gonna be a 30+ mile walking challenge. How you do it is up to you, you can do indoor walking programs or take a walk around the block. I will be posting a walking video here in the next few days. I know that I promised that it would be today, but I got caught up with many other projects, I didn't get the chance. So, I will do my best to get that started when I can.

And finally, the new plan is going to be following a 52-week program for a better healthier living. "52 Small Changes, One Year to a Happier, Healthier you," by Brett Blumenthal; I believe is great information on how to improve your life within a year by making small changes each week, adding to what you've already learned.

So, to start the first week is to stay hydrated.

Which is the best thing to follow especially with this summer going to be one of the hottest that we ever had in years. I believe the last time I've seen a summer like this was when I was still in school. So, it is best to stay hydrated and follow the benefits of drinking a daily dose of 64oz of water a day or more.

I wish everyone a good night. Be safe and stay healthy.