GRowing & Glowing

Thus far, 2017 has been one for the books. This year, I was able to discover and re-define myself. I started this year off with a bad break up and I knew then that my life was going to have to change; I was going to have to change. I needed to re-invent myself as an individual because I had spent so much time living as part of a unit. So I began to make little changes. They started off as physical; coloring my hair, piercing my nose, etc. Then, I decided that with all of my extra time, I wanted to do more of what I love. I decided to take a trip each month and to volunteer more. This year, I as able to make it to Texas for the first time and even greater, I made it to Canada and to Haiti to do missions work. World travel and helping others is really all I want to do. This year, I began teaching art and working at different schools, pushing myself closer to my art therapist aspirations. 

Even with all of these great things happening in my life, I noticed that I will not be completely satisfied until my mind, body and spirit are all equal. So, my best friend and I started a really promising
​ 5 for 5 Fit Lifestyle Challenge. 

So far, I have seen results mentally and physically. The great thing about this challenge is that it lasts five weeks, but it only takes 21 days to create a habit. I am growing and glowing and am so excited for all that is to come!

Read more for updates on my Growth & Glow, thanks to my 5 for 5!

WORK IT ON OUT: The Physical

5 times a week, Titziana and I work out. Most times we do this together, but due to our hectic schedules, some days we venture out alone. That, I'm learning, is okay! Everybody needs some peace and quiet. Working out alone also allows for us to focus more because together, we tend to play around. Working out for us includes yoga, walking the streets of ATL, and most importantly, KICKBOXING! 

Yeah, y'all. We got kickboxing memberships to iLoveKickboxing! After two days, I dropped five pounds. Of course, I'm making other healthy lifestyle choices as well, but the intensity of kickboxing classes definitely plays a large part in my success. ​

​​I promised myself as I was going up that mountains in Haiti, that when I made it back home, I would get my body in shape and train hard. So, I am honoring my commitment. Although I'm tired, I feel good. I'm eating less. I'm eating better. I'm controlling my portions. I'm drinking more water and eliminating excess sugars. My body will thank me later!

​Here's a great resource for staying fit, being active, and taking back control over your life.

Be Good to Others: The Mental

I get such good vibes when I do good things for deserving people... and even undeserving people. Anybody who truly knows me, knows that I love children (other people's children), and that's why I am where I am now in life. My purpose is to create better lives and promote safe and healthy lives for children. They are our future. They are our tomorrow. We need to influence our youth in positive and meaningful ways so that they do not fall or cave under pressure. They deserve love and life. It was an honor and privilege to take out a couple of my babies. Kaleb and Kamri mean so much to me and they have taught me so much about zest for life. We went out for Chic-Fil-A and bowling on a random night, just to spend some quality time. (Yes, Chic-Fil-A has delicious grilled nuggets since fried food is not an option!) 

PRAY IT ON OUT: The spiritual

Finally, I've been using my meditation period to pray more! I pray on my way to work in the morning. It is about a 20 minute drive to work, so I spend at least 10 of those minutes talking to God. The challenge is satisfied every day by five minutes of meditation, but God deserves even more. 

I can feel good things boiling when I take my time to pray. My heart is lightened and the weight that I'm carrying seems to evaporate. I have been going into work with a positive attitude and an "I can conquer all" mindset. I guess that also has to do with my affirmations. I just feel better each day. 

Although Sunday is the one day that I can rest and sleep in, Titziana and I decided that it is time to start going back to church. What excuse is there to kickbox on Saturday mornings and sleep in on God's mornings? 

There is a force that walks with you through the week when you decide to be on the Lord's team. God knows my heart and that I need him. It's time to re-claim my spiritual wellbeing.