The process of healing during a heartbreak is easier said than done. While it seems simple to remove all physical evidence and move on, the reality is the emotional scarring that is left behind makes it feel impossible to recover from. There is no number which can predict how long the breakup will take to get over. The recovery process is subjective of the individual however the tenet of the painful process should be to learn from the breakup and be able to grow as a person. This is the end goal which takes longer than most people would expect. Typically, the healing starts with expressing all the emotions which are often coupled with reminiscing on the last “perfect” moments of the relationship. While reliving the memories repetitively brings some positive emotions to the forefront it can also cause more harm emotionally which hinders the healing process. The difficult part about a breakup that was out of the blue means that a majority of the time will be spent analyzing for signs that the relationship was on unstable ground. It is important to recognize that in a breakup that there will be periods of time where the negative feelings will come in waves and that it is okay to let the feelings take over. This is better than keeping the feelings inside which could lead to a problematic pathway of dealing with the breakup. The complex structuring of the brain makes it so that putting focus on the negative aspects can change the structure which can lead to a decline mental health. Even though it is easier to focus on the things that bring sadness, there is more reward on finding things that can bring happiness back into daily routine. This will lead into a path of successful self-growth. Realistically, the whiplash from a breakup does not end till you find happiness in something that reminds you of all the wonderful experiences that are there left to explore.

~Angela Jetty

I will not say life is hard because it is not meant to be. Life is meant to be filled with experiences, happiness and growth and once you master the mindset and life you want for yourself it is said to actually be quite simple. Which all sounds really easy but is it? I think everyone can agree that life can be very overwhelming! As a young adult, our lives are consumed with classes, work, internships, studying and the desire to still hang out and attend social functions with our friends and family but when do we have ME time? When we sleep? That is not enough and unfortunately sleep is not me time.

During our compacted day we must take a step back and not forget to breathe. It is highly recommended that everyday for at least ten minutes, you should stop everything and do something you enjoy rather it is reading a few pages in your book, writing a journal entry, doing yoga or clearing your mind and focusing on your breath. You might be thinking well that is easy, it is just ten minutes. I can surely do something I enjoy every day. However, truthfully it does take a conscious effort. It has to become a routine and pattern.

You must train yourself to take time out for self-wellness and the sooner the better! Once you become consistent in taking time out your day for me time, throughout your day you tend to feel a difference of how you handle certain circumstances. For example, if you are a goal setter and put a deadline to anything you do not just work or assignments, you often will feel a rush of anxiety and disappointment if you do not do as well or meet your deadline. However, when you take me time or become consistent in your self-wellness, your overall mindset changes. You become more kind to yourself, you become more aware and optimistic of circumstances and situations and learn to handle failure, change and the unexpected more calmly. Journaling or yoga may not be your forte, maybe a mindfulness class or book club and discussion is better. Whatever works for you, find it, stick to it and start to take care of you!

~Alexis Adams

Mental health can be improved in many ways to get the maximum positive impact on life. The impact of physical exercise has already been proved to elevate mood. The mind and the body can work together to create a balance that positively increases the mental state. By making exercise a part of a daily routine, it can increase the volume of certain brain regions which improves the oxygen delivery process overall. Specific neurohormones help growth of neurons and promotes stronger neuron signaling. Maintaining a regular workout routine can maintain mental health as a person’s age increases. Recent studies in animals have shown that exercise leads to the creation of new neurons in the hippocampal region. Neurons in the hippocampus region have the main function of separating new and old memories. Through the process of neurogenesis, these neurons allow a level of flexibility to help process new information that the brain obtains. Staying physically active not only keeps mental health at good levels but can also prevent physical health from deteriorating. By integrating mental and physical health, there is more scope to optimize and get the most benefits.

There are many reasons why people may feel the need to keep quiet about a traumatic experience. These reasons may include; shame, guilt, fear, and judgement. No matter the reason, keeping quiet about trauma may cause an individual to deteriorate internally and prevent them from their highest level of mental health. Why should we limit ourselves from living our life to the fullest due to constant fear of being open and honest about the trauma that we have experienced?

Women often express how they continuously avoid certain conversations, people, and events to prevent the possibility of having to relive a traumatic event. When talking about a traumatic event, it can trigger an individual to have flashbacks and it may elicit emotions that they worked to unconsciously suppress. Suppressing one’s memory of a traumatic event can only lead to more harm in the long run. Women must take power over their minds and fight against the negative attributes that they believe will or have come from traumatic experiences.

Speaking up about one’s trauma does not only help the traumatic event become less devastating to the victim, but it can also help others overcome their anxiety about opening up about their experiences, as well. Women in general need to stick together and make each other aware of traumatic situations that are often not discussed or are attached to a stigma. Being aware of how the trauma effects the livelihood of individuals may help the healing process for others in that they will understand that their experience is a part of their healing journey. I stand with women across the world in saying, Let’s break the silence and become resilient women who have gained empowerment over our situations and turn tragedy to victory by helping other women become stronger!

~Kiara Baldwin

What is genuine happiness? Is it composed of the “things” you own or desire? Is it finally getting that new job, earning that 4.0, asked on a date by the crush you have admired for months or the new purse you have saved up for? Happiness does not revolve around things we desire; true happiness is internal and starts within. According to Dr. Suzanne Degges White of Psychology Today there are four key factors that one should practice daily to create a culture of happiness in their lives.

Friendliness: Sometimes it is hard to meet new people. As individuals we experience everyday responsibilities and struggles that causes us to put meeting new people and creating new experiences on the back burner. However, having friends are extremely important, they are there to help uplift and support you. When you are open to creating new friendships and spreading kindness you are stepping out your comfort zone and allowing more pleasure to enter your life.

Cheerfulness: For majority of people, it is difficult to be optimistic when it feels like your world is crashing around you, when everything that could have possibly gone wrong does. The last thing you probably want to do is smile. If you were thinking about giving up, don’t! Smile instead. It is stated that smiles are contagious and when you smile you are letting go of exhaustion and frustration. When someone offers you a genuine smile or vice versa the energy is reflected, your perception has changed, and your day is brightened.

Compassion: Showing compassion to others positively influences the giver. When we are having a rough day or going through personal situations we are not on our “A” game, we are forgetful, tired and emotional. Yet, when someone takes the time out of their day to show compassion and understanding we instantly feel better. The act of compassion is a key because it truly brings peace of mind to one’s heart.

Gratitude: When you wake up every morning there is at least five things you should be grateful for. When you are grateful and appreciative of the little things, you are creating a habit of finding the good in any stressful, unhappy or uncomfortable situation. You also will find yourself speaking things into existence and changing your outlook.

  ~Alexis Adams

Having a perfectionist personality comes with its own share of problems. The main one being that inner critic that does not see the hard work but rather the imperfections. It points out minuscule opinions that can negatively impact mental health. Taking steps that will make the inner critic a friend rather than an annoyance can change the pattern of growth. The voice of the inner critic relies on insecurities to bring you down rather than build you up. In many ways our inner critic is also what ignites the fire to pursue ambitions so by making a path where the inner critic does not stand in the way of making progress, there is a greater scope of creating boundaries that can impact mental health in a positive way. One of the ways you can rewire your inner critic is to think of it as a playlist where there are many options to change the song or the artist. Giving the inner critic a set of characteristics that clearly define the boundaries between a critic that is unhelpful and does not promote self-growth and a critic that improves qualities that can let you grow in a positive manner. Self-criticism can also be managed by increasing a way for more self-compassion. Often times we neglect giving ourselves the same care that we give to others. This hurts our emotional self and can set us back in the pattern of growth that is necessary to be successful. The characteristic of self-compassion can give us the start we need to get up after a failure and make our way back on the path. Finding the balance between positive and negative self-criticism is a delicate one but once it is figured out, there is more scope for being the best version that allows for the most success.

~Angela Jetty

Life happens! No matter what is done or not done, said or not said…life will continue to happen. But while life is happening, there are choices that can determine the outcome of one’s ability to live or exist with the happenings of life. Obstacles..they happen! In life! And are meant to teach a lesson in order to maintain growth, which is a main aspect of living.  Obstacles can also be the hindrance that forces merely existence.  So, how does one overcome the obstacles in life in order to live and not merely exist?

Obstacles create tension, and with that tension comes unconscious exerted behavior as an easy coping mechanism. Knowing self well enough to forgive the self for the actions is a key aspect of having the capability to move forward. Take the time to recognize the emotions caused by the obstacle and express those emotions the best way possible. Journaling, talk therapy, and expressive recording are a few ways that allow an individual to simply…GET IT OUT. Once it is out, it becomes easier to analyze and gives a clear insight into the information needed to recognize the message and the lessons intended to teach. The more the lessons are relevant, the more they are applied to life in order to continue growing with the intent to LIVE.

For every illness, there is a cure. Look at obstacles as an illness and you have the key ingredients for the cure. Life does not have to be harder based on a choice. Therefore, learn from the experience of the obstacle; grow from what you learn, and live through your growth. How does something grow without the proper nutrients? The obstacle is the food and the valuable lessons are the nutrients. Consider one’s ability to express to be the waste needed to be disposed of in order to absorb the healthiest minerals. Continuous consumption of healthy minerals equates prosperous growth which then equates healthy.

~DeAnna L. Alexander

True healing comes from within. Although medication can be helpful, it is only a partial fix. Life changes are important, as well. Seth Gillihan of Psychology Today, writes that medication can support the body’s natural healing processes, but works best when prescribed only if necessary and only as long as necessary.

Meaningful connections are important to healing too. Seth concludes that meaningful connections include, recognizing the importance of family and community, connecting to the natural world we are a part of, and acknowledging that we are “governed by meaning”. Keeping the well-being of those we care about in mind, also creates purpose and meaning. Yet, despite all the ways that we have available to connect with others we can still feel disconnected.

It is important to take a break from our busy lives in order to have time to heal. Many people feel the need to be constantly productive instead of making time for themselves. There are different ways we can make room to pause such as blocking off non-work hours, participating in religious practices, focusing on personal relationships, reading meaningful texts, exercise and practicing yoga, etc.

Technology can also contribute to a loss of connection with our surroundings resulting in emotional and mental disassociation. Limiting screen time endeavors us pay attention to ourselves, the world we live in and the people we care about the most.  Leaving your phone at home or in your bag when running errands can aid positive change. Engaging in outdoor activity, such as taking a walk can keep you in touch with the natural world.

Nutrition also affects psychological health. Nourishing your body can help reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms. Changing your diet is one way we can nourish our brain and body. A balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, fish, healthy fats, etc. can be great for most people. Figuring out a diet that works can make a difference in your mind, brain and body.

 ~Thavary Mam

Who doesn’t love securing a bag? Finally landing your dream job or getting that promotion you’ve been working hard on can leave you feeling like you can conquer anything! It is something you should be proud of! But once all the confetti settles and you’ve finally come down from your happy high, what else is left to do? A.C Shilton of Psychology Today writes about the emptiness she felt after achieving what she thought would be unthinkable, and how she coped with it. She writes of her experience with “arrival fallacy”.

“Arrival Fallacy” is defined as the “illusion that once we make it, once we attain our goal or reach our destination, we will reach lasting happiness.” This term was defined by Tal Ben-Shahar, who is a Harvard-trained positive psychology expert who is also credited with coining the term. This term focuses on what people expect from success. Then when they get that success, the happiness they once had during their rise to the top, takes a nosedive and vanishes. He says this is what he believes leads to celebrities having mental illnesses.
The research from this article showed that it is okay to be happy at the bottom. It’s also great to be happy at the top, but when you’re there, always take time to reflect on the things you did the way up. Find something that keeps you humble, but keeps your mind busy at the same time. When you are at peace and not in pieces, anywhere you are on your road to success can keep you fulfilled.

~Alicia Meredith

Mental health affects our overall wellness and it’s important that we take care of ourselves in all aspects. Often times mental health is neglected because it’s a topic that’s not openly talked about. There are different things we can incorporate into our lifestyle to help our overall well being.

One way that can help mental health is animal companionship. Having a pet or support animal has several benefits. In Psychology Today, Adi Jaffe stated mental illness can leave people socially isolated. Having a pet can help that feeling of isolation by giving affection and companionship without judgment. In addition, a pet dog can encourage being active, exercising, and getting outdoors. Animal companionship can help those struggling with mental health for those that don’t have family and friends available. Lastly, taking care of pets can give one a routine and structure to their days.

Another way to help mental health is having a balance between work and life. Working long hours and not being able to see your family and friends can contribute to stress and mental health issues. Improving work-life balance can be done by not thinking of work when you’re not working. For example, turning off electronic notifications like your work phone or work emails if you can. It’s important to make time for yourself when you’re off the clock. Having a good balance with your work will help your overall wellness. Taking care of yourself physically and making time for the things you enjoy will improve that balance.

Lastly, recreation can positively affect our mental health. Recreation isn’t just limited to physical activity like the gym. It can include hobbies and interests such as social recreation, creative activities, or physical activity. Adi Jaffe includes examples of recreation including bowling, playing chess, writing, music, painting, swimming, and running. All of these enhance social, psychological, and physical well-being. Overall, there are many benefits to recreational activities. It can increase self-esteem, mindfulness, social skills, a sense of belonging, a sense of accomplishment, etc.  

~Thavary Mam

People are constantly throwing the word “toxic” around lately. Have you recognized, owned up to, and started working to improve your toxic ways?

Self-reflection is essential to growth. It allows us to understand why we are the way we are, why we think the way we do, why we behave and react the way we do. Sure, it’s easy for us to blame everyone but ourselves for the failure of things in our life like relationships, friendships, not being where we want in life, etc. At some point in life you have to question yourself, and your flaws. Life is a reflection of who we are and what we allow to happen. Sometimes the problem is you. Does that make you less worthy of anything? No. It simply means that taking a step back and reflecting on what needs to be changed in order to reach the life you long for is needed. 

Rid of all negativity; whether it’s negative thoughts, people, or habits. Form new and positive habits, relationships, and thoughts. Begin a new daily routine that guides you to the things you want to accomplish. Be as vulnerable as you can be, to unleash things that may be holding you back from a better you. Start a self-Reflection journey, that’s gives you the opportunity to read back on growth you’ve accomplished thus far. Reflect on every mistake or negative behavior you may regret. Own them, grow from them, and be happy for them. As they were learning lessons needed to get you where you need to be.

Between schedules and keeping up social appearances, it is hard to take a step back and enjoy the wondrous beauty of our surroundings. In a world where there is pressure to be accountable for each hour, a feeling of guilt takes over when we take some time out of our routines to seek joy in the small things. However, keeping in touch with the little things that can bring moments of joy into our routine can not only bring an increase in productivity as well as improving our mood. Joy is a contagious feeling which can change each person when even a small part is introduced. So much of our life revolves around moments of stress that it is hard to see moments of joy that are right there in front of us. Many people fail to understand the importance of including these moments until they are hit with a devastating experience, after which they try to include the steps to experience joy.  If we take the initiative to involve finding joy in ordinary things, there will be fewer regrets, and there will be an increase in living in the present instead of worrying about the future. Just by trying to intentionally find joy can create a natural transition into finding moments of joy unconsciously, which leads to a happier life.  

~Angela Jetty

““We need time to defuse, to contemplate. Just as in sleep our brains relax and give us dreams, so at some time in the day we need to disconnect, reconnect, and look around us.” -Laurie Colwin”

Technology has several benefits in the world today. It’s all around us to help us do simple to difficult tasks, but it’s becoming clear that many people are becoming too “plugged in” at times. We are often consumed by scrolling on social media or using our phones to fuel addictions like online shopping or binge watching that one show everyone is talking about. But why? Here are several reasons why unplugging can help you become a better you:

Unplugging can decrease stress: Phones and computers constantly keep us in the loop between text messages, calls, and emails. But sometimes, reading a certain text or email can ruin a perfect day. Being constantly connected can suddenly move you from relaxation mode to work mode, and this unpredictability causes stress, insecurity, and a constant state of unnecessary reactivity.

Logging off of social media decreases the feeling of jealousy and even loneliness: In a 2013 case study at Humboldt University, researchers found that one and three people felt worse about themselves after visiting Facebook. Logging out decreases the feelings of envy from not being on a tropical beach or even from achieving something you want.

Life is happening right in front of you! So instead of looking at all the things you could be doing or want to do, sit back and smell the roses. Every day you don’t you let go by, that’s one less day can take advantage of your full potential!

~Alicia Meredith

According to a Pew Research Center study, for those that are religious or spiritual, involving connection with a higher power in your daily life can be beneficial for your health and relationships. Nowadays there can be many things that prevent someone from practicing their faith in meaningful ways. A busy lifestyle might prevent someone from making time due to work, school, or social responsibilities. Lastly, many may think that religion or spirituality is a passive action, but the most important part of belief is that it is practiced and not just blindly done. With that in mind, here are some simple ways you can involve your faith more in your everyday life:

1. Don’t stress if you miss a day- If you find a time and place of worship that works for you, going every week might make you feel more connected with your faith. However, don’t treat it like a mandatory event that brings you guilt even if you skip a single week. If you can’t make a service that week, take a few moments every day to for reflections. Whether it is reading over a passage that connects with you or moments of silence, take time to focus on your beliefs.

2. Donate- If you can’t give up a lot of your time, donate your money instead. Find a worthwhile cause supported by a local community organization, church, synagogue, or temple. Whether it’s a one-time donation or a monthly contribution, giving back to your community is one the primary tenants of all faiths and by donating you can help others do important work.

3. Make a scared space at home- Finding somewhere in your home where you can take a few moments to isolate yourself and pray or meditate, will make it much easier to work around your own schedule. A few candles, your prayer book of choice, and a small mat are all you need.

4. Taking a day of rest- Whether it’s reducing or completely taking a break from your workload one day a week, this day can be used for inner reflection and reconnecting to your beliefs. Prepare for this beforehand by making meals ahead of time and getting chores done in advance.

5. Take care of your body- Imagine your body as your own place of worship and make sure it is working order. You can do this by taking a break from alcohol or drugs for a short time, or just making sure your body gets a proper exercise and diet. Think of your religion or spirituality as a holistic endeavor, you are not just nourishing your mind you are also nourishing your body. Your body and your life is a gift so treat it as such.

6. Peer support- Finding others in your community that think as you do is incredibly important for your mental health so creating a peer support group of some kind can be helpful. Depending on the community you live in, the type of group you chose to gather will be different. Your group can comprise of more than just one religion, spirituality or belief system to can discuss and debate important issues. This can lead to a better understanding of both your faith and theirs. Or, if your opinions are a minority within your faith, finding others who think similarly can help make you feel more contented with your ideas. Regardless of the makeup of your group, it is important that you feel that you can comfortably discuss a range of topics with them. This step is helpful specifically if it is difficult to practice your beliefs within your community

Finding a safe space to practice your faith is key to enjoying and exploring it. Religion and spirituality should not be anything else besides your own personal connection to a higher power. These tips can be beneficial for those who have trouble finding the time to practice their faith.

Differentiating between anxiousness and an anxiety disorder may be challenging. Learning how to recognize and manage key contributors of anxiety may be even harder. Let’s dive deeper into the difference, contributors and management of anxiety.

The Difference: When you are constantly anxious, or your anxiety interferes with your day-to-day life is a direct indicator that you may be experiencing an anxiety disorder as opposed to common anxiousness. Psychologists define an anxiety disorder as a mental health disorder characterized by feelings of worry, anxiety, or fear that are strong enough to interfere with one's daily activities.

The Contributors: Many things can cause anxiety such as stress, genetics, medical conditions and substance withdrawal. Stress from a relationship, job, school, or financial predicament can contribute greatly to an anxiety disorder. Genetics also plays a role in anxiety. People who have family members with an anxiety disorder are more likely to have one themselves. Other medical conditions can lead to an anxiety disorder, such as the side effects of medication, symptoms of a disease, or stress from a serious underlying medical condition. Chemicals in drugs such as cocaine, marijuana, hallucinogens, prescription anti-seizure, pain-relieving medications, alcohol and even substances as common as caffeine can affect the way the brain functions and cause anxiety symptoms. These symptoms can occur while using drugs, but they may also last for weeks after the drug use has stopped. The stress of day-to-day living combined with any of the above might serve as key contributors to an anxiety disorder.

The Management: Anxiety can be managed through self-care, therapies, medications, and specialties. Self-care such as avoiding alcohol, reducing caffeine intake, physical exercise, stress management, quitting smoking, relaxation techniques, and a healthy diet can reduce anxiety greatly. Therapy offices for example, Joie de Vivre, can equip you with the necessary tools to help manage your anxiety. Lastly, medications and specialties can also be very useful if further assistance than self-care and therapy is needed.

Research has shown that the correct relationships can positively impact mental health. Having strong bonds can release a number of neurochemicals that make you feel good. The qualities of a correct relationship should include having a partner that allows you freedom to seek out new opportunities that can lead to a journey of self-growth which allows both people in the relationship to flourish. The correct partner would be understanding and will not hold the other person back in the relationship. In some heterosexual relationships the women will often be in the position to compromise while the man does not. This type of power dynamic is not helpful for either person and more often than not can make the woman feel stuck in the relationship as she does not feel as she is growing as a person. The suitable dynamic would be where both people in the relationship are secure individually and then bring the best of their characteristics to the relationship which makes it beneficial to both people and allows room for personal growth.

While finding the correct relationship, it is good to keep in mind that while it is sometimes okay to compromise, this may hinder the relationship in the future. Many times, after the “honeymoon phase” of the relationship is over the real characteristics come out and this can negatively impact both people and this creates setbacks. Dealing with these characteristics that come out later in a supportive way that allows growth can allow for a flourishing relationship. Coming up with ways to deal with conflict in a relationship can in the end prove to be a factor that brings couples closer together rather than creating a distance that eventually could end in separation. The ultimate goal in being a relationship is creating a permanent partnership that can survive any conflict while being able to celebrate success that eventually lead to a personal growth development. that makes both people in the relationship happy and successful.

~Angela Jetty

I had the privilege to interview a nutritionist and yoga instructor who works with Joie de Vivre. We spent some of the afternoon discussing nutrition and wellness in everyday life and some information I thought would be extremely insightful for others to hear as well. These snippets can be advice that I believe everyone can use as guidelines to living your best life. These answers are directly from the amazing mind of Julie herself, so the answers will be a bit more personal as to not lose any impact on her words.

1. What are the best foods to eat on a busy day?

   So, I would say to start with a decent breakfast. Look at things that have a good source of protein, complex carbohydrates, and good healthy fats. A good default is fresh yogurt that is not sweetened, and eat that with a bit of fruit and some chia or granola. You want to be sure to get your daily fiber, which comes from the fruits, vegetables, carbohydrates, and seeds. As for good protein, for the mornings fresh organic cows milk or non-sweetened yogurt is a good choice. But protein can come from non meat source such as nut milk or soy milk as well. Cheeses are also a good source for protein and calcium. Finally for healthy fats, good sources to get these are in seeds (such as chia, flax, and hemp), nuts, and avocados.
   
   When you are getting through a busy day, its important to limit your caffeine intake as much as possible. As much as we may need it to start the day you should try to limit the coffee intake. This is because it can add a lot of sugar and unhealthy fats to your diet(if you get a frappuchino or really sweet drink for instance or load up your coffee with sugar and milk). All of that sugar combined with caffeine and extra fat can alter your energy levels throughout the day and it can impact your work. If you do have to drink something in the morning, use herbal tea. Herbal tea has natural stimulants inside the flowers and plants that brew it, and these gently wake the body up. They are better at keeping energy levels consistent throughout the day.
   
   Finally snacks are just as important as meals. To pick a good snack, look for anything that travels well such as fresh fruit, hummus, nuts, and hard cheeses (like cheddar, gouda, or asiago) are good sources of protein, calcium, and vitamin D. There are also some decent protein bars out there too, just keep a look out for the amount of processing and sugar that goes into them. In general for a busy day, the most important thing is to bring awareness to your diet. Try to eat as little processed food as possible and if you end up in a situation where you have to eat out, be mindful about what goes into your meal. Look for fruits, vegetables, quality carbohydrates, protein that is not fried or saturated in oil. And finally look for color, a meal where everything is a different color is sure to be something nutritious.

2. How much does diet play a role in ones life?

   This is huge, because I don’t actually like the use the word diet. I prefer to use f lifestyle choice. Because ‘diet’, that word gets a bad rap and is limiting. For humans, food is supposed to be enjoyable, nourishing, and social. Its about having a lifestyle of being aware of what we need. Food is there so we can survive on a physical level, but theres also a sense of thriving in the realms of emotions and mental and social because it helps us deepen connections with those we share around us. Its something thats part of us. Food is a thing that connects us to the planet, on a bigger picture the planet is what sustains us. We are not separate from what we eat, its part of how we thrive on so many different levels. So it’s really important in someone’s daily life.

3. If you could lean a new skill what would it be and why?

   If I were gonna learn a new skill, it would be the art of writing. I love to read.  Even in short passages that may be one or two sentences, I find these are things that stick with you. All throughout my life there have been books and texts and things, but I find those people who have a way to writing really short and concise impactful writing are far more impressive. That’s something I would love to have, I even joke with my husband how one of these days I’m going to learn how to use a pottery wheel once we aren’t so busy and the kids are grown.

4. What light exercises do you think are Most beneficial to sustaining a positive mood?

   I teach yoga so this is big for me as well. I’ve also been as student of yoga for a really long time. I’ve been teaching for years now, and what Ive found is best is sun-salutations. It helps to bring your energy up for one, but it also forces you to stop everything and be in the present moment. You aren’t needing to focus on anything else except for keeping yourself balanced and right here. These poses are easy and not very intense, they are mild and anyone can do them. I even do then when I find myself overwhelmed during the workday and just need a few moments to slow down and ground myself. There are also some other poses that are really good for the mind and mood if you need to reconnect with yourself such as forward folds, downward dog, tree pose, and child pose.

5. What motivated you to pursue the desire to help people lead a better life?

   First of all I really love quality food, that could be an answer in itself. But the biggest thing is that; in the past several years I’ve lived in a space where it can be very overwhelming and busy. So its easy to make the food choices that may not be the best for me or my family. Im in this environment where my choices affect myself and the way I impact my family, so I can really connect to the idea that when I make good food choices for myself and my house, it makes such a difference. I know that it’s a struggle and that it can be some work not only to give into convenience and cravings, but with some planning Ive found that in my own life how happy me and my family are when we are eating mindfully.
   
   We are bombarded with unhealthy food choices, and it may fill us temporarily, but it leaves other aspects of our life empty. I’ve wanted to show people that with some planning you can completely overhaul the way that you eat, still feel satisfied, and eat what you love but not have the struggle associated with it. I think it’s empowering too, because people realize they have the tools they need to take control of their life inside of them already. It can be really inspiring once people start using this mindset that they previously didn’t give much time to. Even making one change shows that every little change that you make makes such a big difference. So me being able to show people how you can make these changes one step at a time is super fulfilling. 

Depression is a mood disorder interferes with concentration, motivation, and many other aspects of everyday functioning (Psychology Today). It can cause an increase in anxiety levels, while also negatively affecting your appetite, sleep pattern, body weight, relationships, and more. What are the signs of depression? Constant sadness, feelings of worthlessness, lost of interest in activities that once made you happy, constantly wanting to be alone, suicidal thoughts, and more.

What caused me to get here? Overcoming depression can be easy for some and harder than ever for others. The first step to overcoming depression is knowing the triggers. What is causing me to feel this way? What traumatic events have taken place to get me here? Are my thoughts causing me to stay in a state of depression? It is impossible for one to get through it, without first knowing how they got there.

A Different View: Try taking a different view on life, and what it is that has caused this sadness or pain. Look at it as an event that needed to happen for your life to prosper. Living a better and happier life is completely up to you, if you really want it. Find a purpose that will help you overcome this disorder. Remember that not only does everything happen for a reason, but you are also in control of most of what happens in your life.

Think Happiness and Prosperity: Constantly reminiscing on the negatives of your life only increases the levels of depression and hopelessness you are suffering through. Think happy thoughts, reminisce on all of the good in your life so far, think of all the positive things you want for your future. Go outside, get some fresh air, have a small work out to blow off some of that sadness and steam, be vulnerable with your loved ones. Don’t isolate yourself and dwell on things that sink you back in. Finds way of distracting yourself like a creative hobby, or simply spending time with friends and family. To be happy we have to think happy. To live a positive life, we have to have a positive mind. You are in control of your thoughts and emotions, don’t let them control you.

Seeking Professional Help: When it comes to seeking therapy, many people avoid the option possibly out of fear of admitting that they need the help. Every human on this earth has gone through some type of traumatic experience that has negatively affected their mental health. This experience could’ve been a list of things like a horrible break-up, the lost of a loved one, or financial hardship. As people we have developed a habit of bottling emotions in, in hopes that we’ll get through it alone with an allotted amount of strength; however, this isn’t always the healthiest way out. Seeking professional help gives us the opportunity to be vulnerable and let go of emotions without being in fear of judgement. Seeking help could be the push you need to gain back the happiness you’ve watched drift away. Seeking professional could be the best thing you’ll ever do for yourself and your mental health.

~Jazmin Washington

Having a family member or friend come out to you can be a challenging time for you and for them as well. It can be a learning experience on how to accept them and cope with your emotions. There are several ways that you can show your love one you’re accept them:

1. Understand They’re the Same Person.

   When first coming to terms with someone who has come out, the important part to know is that they are still the same person you have known throughout the years. Your daughter is still your daughter no matter what her sexual orientation is. The memories you have with her have not changed and your view of her should not either. With them disclosing this information to you, they are trusting you with something that can be hard to open up and talk about. By giving them the love and acceptance they deserve this can strengthen the relationship.

2. Educate Yourself.

   When you first learn that someone is a part of the LGBTQ community, it can be hard not to think of stereotypes that come with the term. It is important to understand that how someone expresses themselves is not based on the sexual orientation. If a man is interested in the fashion industry, it is not safe to assume that he is gay. A crucial element when accepting someone is learning the correct vs. incorrect terms to use around them.

3. Provide Support

   By supporting your family member or friend this can allow your relationship to grow. There are many positive things you can do that shows the person that you support them. This can be correcting someone who makes a derogatory remark and explain to them how it can be hurtful to that person. If someone is transgender, it can be a simple task of going to a doctor’s appointment with them. With someone going through a transition in life, it can make a huge difference in their mental health if they feel they have the right people that are supporting their decision.

Being confident in an interview can help you feel more comfortable and make a good first impression. By following these 10 steps it can help you feel relaxed and poised during the interview process:

1. Eye Contact: Having eye contact is a vital part in the interview process. Having eye contact with the interviewer can show them that you are confident in your answers and in yourself. If you are staring at the ground or above the interviewer this shows that you are nervous and are intimidated.

2. Firm Handshake: Having a firm handshake can show the interviewer that you are serious about the job and you’re composed and collected. It is a good idea to practice with friends or family before your first interview.

3. Think Before you Speak: When interviewing it is a good idea to fully listen to the question and think about your answer before responding to the interviewer. Do no hesitate to pause before answering to think clearly about the answer you’re about to give.

4. Know What you Want: Before interviewing for the position know exactly what you want out of the job and let the interviewer know that. If you care about the position and show interest this shows that you are serious about the opportunity.

5. Do Not Squirm: Fidgeting around in an interview can show the interviewer that you’re nervous and uneasy. Avoid tapping your feet or your hands. Try to take a take deep breath if you feel yourself getting overwhelmed in the interview process.

6. Practice Beforehand: One of the best things you can do before an interview to help yourself feel confident is to feel prepared. To help yourself feel ready practice with a family member or friend just like you did for your handshake. Research common interview questions and have them pretend to be the interviewer. By doing this you are going into the interview composed and confident.

7. Gain Knowledge about the Company: Before going to the interview make sure to research the company you’re interviewing for. Know the company values and the important central players of that organization. By doing this it can show the interviewer that you’re serious about this job and have done your homework.

8. Smile: Showing that you have enthusiasm and are engaged in the interview can show a lot about the person. Although it can be a nerve-racking experience try to have fun with it. If you are showing the nervousness in your face by frowning or looking distracted this can show the interviewer that you may not be interested in the position.

9. Think Positive about Yourself: One of the first things you should do when in an interview is to assure yourself that you do deserve to be there. They called you for a reason and that reason is that they saw something in you and you can be a good fit for the position.

10. Dress to Impress: The last way to feel confident in an interview is to be feel confident in your outer appearance. If you feel confident on the inside it should reflect on the outside to. This can even mean going shopping for a new blouse which can even help you get excited about the interview. I mean who doesn’t love shopping? It can help you calm your nerves about the interview and in the end make you feel confident in yourself which is the most important thing.