Sunday, January 25, 2015

YOU'RE STILL LEARNING

What defines you? What makes you you? What inspires you to be exactly as you are?

Here I am, almost 22 years old, figuring out who I really am. I have discovered what I am passionate about in life -- health, fitness, and loving and helping others. This revelation did not happen overnight, no. It did not happen entirely internally, either. I found out who I am, who I will be, and why I'm here with the help of every little person and experience that has been placed in my path thus far.

I've been studying psychology for four years now. In my developmental, adolescent and educational psychology classes, we focused on the development of babies, children and teenagers. Never on adults.

We never stop developing. We never stop learning. We are products of everyone and everything we encounter, and that is just amazing. I've learned, and continue to learn, such useful and interesting things from those around me. Some are intentional lessons, some go unsaid. I am so grateful for every interaction I have and every lesson I learn from all of you. Here are some that come to mind.

I've learned from my Mom that happiness is a choice. That saving your money is extremely important. That a smile can solve all problems. That it's not the amount of time you have here in the physical world, but how you spend that time.
I've learned from my Dad the importance of living in the present, and keeping the good times as memories to think back to when necessary.
I've learned from my sister, Gretchen, that nourishing your body with the right foods will enhance and prolong your life.
I've learned from my sister, Brigette, that if you're not completely satisfied with something, you change it.
From my cats, the feeling of over-protectiveness.
From my boyfriend, Russ, everything about the human body and working out. And love.
From my two best friends, Shannon & Taylor, that it doesn't matter how long you go without seeing each other, your bond will never be broken.
From my future mother-in-law, that a mother can never be replaced, but opening up to unconditional love can heal all heartache.
From my Dad's fiance, Patty, that the mood of any room can be changed with a little paint.
From my friend, Susanne, that lavender essential oil is just that -- essential. Especially in the shower right before bed time.
From my clients, that with dedication and positivity, you can change lives.
From my yoga teacher, that if something doesn't feel right for you at that very moment, you return to child's pose.
From three of my bosses, that if you are not completely appreciated, respected, and your potential goes unnoticed, it's time to move on.
And from myself, that you have a purpose in life. You are here for a reason. You must figure out your reason, and soar. You must enjoy every step of the way, too. Life is a journey.

So, put down your iPhone. Observe those around you. Learn something new, something that you can teach to your friends and family, and keep this cycle alive.

Friday, January 2, 2015

RESOLUTIONS

Here we are. 2015. A clean slate for the eager mind.

All over social media lately I've seen posts belittling New Years resolutions. It seems as if many are against the idea of others hoping to better themselves. Why people would choose to voice these opinions is beyond my understanding. Resolutions are opportunities to grow. To decide what may be hindering you from living the way you wish to live. To act. To change.  

I encourage you to make at least one resolution. It doesn't have to be massive or even noticeable to others. Maybe you want to take more time for yourself, or start living in the present rather than worrying about the future. Maybe you want to eat more vegetables, or do your laundry every Tuesday. Maybe you want to exercise more, or tell those special people that you love them every day. Whether your resolutions are big or small, I hope you accomplish them. I hope you actively think about how you wish to better yourself, and you do it.

Me? My resolutions are to drink more water and to practice more yoga. I want to be hydrated all the time. I want to further connect my mind and body. I want to work on my flexibility and my breathing. Sticking to these goals will be easy with my new, colossal water bottle from my sister, Gretchen, and two gorgeous new yoga mats from my Russ, and my dad & his fiance, Patty. It's as if they knew what my resolutions were before I even made them. ;) 

I'd love for you to share your resolutions for 2015!