Tag: stress

Stress-free Nuggets

** Smile! Laugh! You can do it. Your body will thank you.
** What else can you do with Vicks VapoRub?
** Got Patience? It is an admirable and valuable character trait that we all need.

Nugget 1 A Little Humor

***Never Argue With Children – A little girl was talking to her teacher about whales. At one point in the discussion, the teacher remarked that it was physically impossible for a whale to swallow an entire human being because, even though the whale was a very large mammal, its throat was very small.
“But the whale swallowed Jonah,” the little girl insisted.
Irritated, the teacher reiterated that a whale could not swallow a human. It was physically impossible, she said.
The little girl said, “When I get to heaven, I will ask Jonah.”
The teacher asked, “What if Jonah went to hell?”
The little girl replied, “Then you ask him.”

***Why frogs are always so happy
Ethan: Why are frogs always so happy?
Brad: Beats me.
Ethan: They eat whatever bugs them.

***A husband and wife get up on Sunday morning. After breakfast, the wife notices that her husband isn’t dressed for church.
“Why aren’t you dressed for church?”
“Simple. I’m not going.”
“Why not?”
“Well, I’ll give you three pretty good reasons why I’m NOT going.
First of all, the church is cold in the morning. It’s just cold.
Second, no one there likes me. Everyone is always talking about me behind my back.
And third, most important of all, I just don’t feel like going!”

Well, I’ll give you three pretty good reasons why you ARE going.
First of all, the church isn’t cold in the morning; it’s warm.
Second, I think, or I’m pretty sure, that there are some people there who do like you,
And third you’re the minister, so get dressed.”

Nugget 2

There is a website that provides DIY projects that may make your life easier and hopefully save you some money. One of the posts was so interesting that I decided to share tips with you all. The title of the post is: “What Else is Vicks VapoRub Good For? 4 Unexpected Deodorizing Hacks.” I grew up with Vicks VapoRub in the family bathroom cabinet. We used it for colds and congestion.  I never knew (until now) that this household staple could be used as a deodorizer.  See the sources at the end of this post and check them out.

We all know that no matter what you do to avoid negative stress; you cannot totally get away from it. Negative stress can impact your state of mind, your physical health, the decisions you make, your shopping habits, your eating habits, etc. It can also rob you of your time. Things we can do like DIY projects, can contribute to less stress. Fresh smells can cause dopamine and serotonin to be released in the brain. The effect can be an uplifted mood, a reduction of anxiety and stress. Most importantly, less stress helps us to be happy & fit for the Master’s use!

The following 4 tips may be used to help keep your shoes, musty closets, and more – FRESH.

1. Deodorize the Trash Can – Vicks has a strong, clean scent that can mask unpleasant odors. Smear a small amount inside a trash bag or under the trash can lid to keep odors in check.

2. Deodorize Closets – Vicks is great for freshening up closets and keeping those pesky moths away—they hate the smell! So, keep a jar tucked in the closet where you store your winter clothes. Poke holes in the lid of the Vicks jar. Place it inside the back of your closet. Voila!

3. Deodorize Boots & Shoes -Vicks helps mask odors and leaves a fresh scent behind. Dab some Vicks on cotton balls and tuck them inside your boots or shoes overnight.

4. Deodorize Smelly Hands After Cooking – The eucalyptus and menthol in Vicks helps remove strong odors like garlic, onion, and fish—scents that soap alone struggles to remove. After cooking, rub a small dab of Vicks on your hands, then wash with warm water and soap. Your hands will be odor-free and lightly moisturized.

DIY DISCLAIMER: This DIY guide involves the use of Vicks VapoRub for various household purposes. Please note that Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients that can be harmful if ingested by pets. It is strongly advised to use this product with caution and keep it out of reach of animals to prevent any health risks.

Nugget 3 Remain Patient

James 5:7-11, NKJV
7 Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. 8 You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.

9 Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door! 10 My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience. 11 Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.

Rich, wicked unbelievers in James 5:1-6 had been oppressing the poor believers. James gave them a warning; Their reckoning day was coming. It’s not a sin to have expensive things, land, or to be rich. It’s what you do with your wealth that counts. They refused to spread their wealth. James let the believers know that their day of justice, deliverance and vindication was coming. He didn’t give a time or date but he encouraged them to remain patient and steadfast to the Lord. In due time, He would intervene on their behalf.  He would keep His promise.

Being patient is challenging for me. I do not like waiting. It can be especially hard when I’m suffering, but I understand that I grow spiritually through patience and endurance.  One thing I have learned is that I cannot make God move any faster than He intends to. My arms are too short to box with Him. He will come to my rescue only when He gets ready. Although I may struggle with waiting, I remain steadfast to Him.

James gave the example of the waiting farmer. The farmer does not sit on the porch, read the newspaper and wait for the harvest to come. He daily cares for his crops during the growing season. He does not grumble and complain because they are not growing fast enough. He knows that after his hard work, the harvest will come.

James gave other examples. The Old Testament prophets spoke for God. They were anointed, obedient and faithful, yet they suffered. Job suffered more than we probably will ever suffer. He had stubborn trust in God, during his trials. Look at how God brought him out. He was applauded for his perseverance.

Are you going through a tough situation? Are you tired of waiting for a change to come? You’re not in this thing alone. God sees and He knows your situation. Don’t give up. Don’t give in. When your change comes, you’ll have another testimony – a testimony that will bring glory to our wonderful God.

Patience is a vibrant Christian virtue, which is deeply rooted in the Christian’s absolute confidence in the sovereignty of God and in God’s promise to bring all things to completion in a way that most fully demonstrates His glory. ~Albert Mohler

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If you wait, it could be too late. For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting live (John 3:16).

If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.Bye for now. Thanks for visiting. Don’t forget to click the Follow button

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.

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Disclaimer of Advertisements
Please be advised that the ad links and cookies attached to the pages of Happy & Fit for the Master’s Use have nothing to do with my ministry and have nothing to do with this blog. They do not reflect the ministry’s interest or endorsement in any way.

Sources
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/66076319525059563/
https://jokes.scoutlife.org/jokes/frogs-always-happy/
https://holidravel.com/a-husband-and-wife-get-up-on-sunday-morning/?ssp_iabi=1683551292346
https://www.hometalk.com/
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/clean/what-else-is-vicks-vaporub-good-for-5-45122182
https://www.vicks.co.uk/products/decongestants/vicks-vaporub-ointment
https://itsyourturnblog.com/when-to-be-patient-and-when-to-be-impatient-baca2e2ae697

Uplifting Tidbits

Have you smiled or laughed today? Humor does a body good. Are you a constant complainer? Complaining can be bad for your health. What can spices do for you? They could protect your health. Spice up your meals and enjoy all the super health benefits that God has provided through herbs and spices!

Welcome! I’m excited that you decided to visit Happy & Fit 4 the Master’s Use.  l’ll some share physical, mental, and spiritual tidbits to encourage, enlighten, motivate you, and/or simply make you smile. It’s not about one part, it’s about the whole. God wants us healthy mind, body, and soul.

A man buys a parrot and brings him home. But the parrot starts insulting him and gets really nasty, so the man picks up the parrot and tosses him into the freezer to teach him a lesson. He hears the bird squawking for a few minutes, but all of a sudden the parrot is quiet. The man opens the freezer door, the parrot walks out, looks up at him and says, “I apologize for offending you, and I humbly ask your forgiveness.”

The man says, “Well, thank you. I forgive you.”

The parrot then says, “If you don’t mind my asking, what did the chicken do?”

What did the Judge say when the skunk walked in the courtroom?

Odor in the court! Odor in the court!
          

A police officer attempts to stop a car for speeding and the guy gradually increases his speed until he’s topping 100 mph. The man eventually realizes he can’t escape and finally pulls over. The cop approaches the car and says, “It’s been a long day and my shift is almost over, so if you can give me a good excuse for your behavior, I’ll let you go.” The guy thinks for a few seconds and then says, “My wife ran away with a cop about a week ago. I thought you might be that officer trying to give her back!”  ~James Harris               

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“Complaining is dangerous business. It can damage or even destroy your relationship with God, your relationships with other people and even with your relationship with yourself.” – Joyce Meyer    

What do you do when you get really stressed out? Is your first instinct to complain? Somehow complaining has become a natural reaction to us. We gripe, groan, vent, and moan about the unfairness of it all. The Children of Israel in the Bible were famous for murmuring and complaining. They also got into a lot of trouble with God because of it.

Research has shown that when we complain, the hippocampus – the part of the brain that plays a crucial role in problem solving and intelligent thought, releases a stress hormone called cortisol.  The release of cortisol is your natural “flight or fight” response that has kept humans alive for thousands of years.  One effect is to raise your blood pressure and blood sugar so that you’ll be prepared to either escape or defend yourself.

All the extra cortisol released by frequent complaining impairs your immune system and makes you more susceptible to high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. It even makes the brain more vulnerable to strokes. 

Research also shows that when we hear someone else groan, moan or complain.  It’s like inhaling second-hand smoke.  So, damage can be caused either way. 

Because complaining has become a natural reaction to many of us, we have to train ourselves to not complain so much. Now this doesn’t mean that we should never complain or vent, but if and when we do, it’s suggested that we do it with the purpose of resolving a concern or grievance not just because it rained when you wanted the sun to shine or because the clerk at the grocery store didn’t say thank you.

Venting could keep us from going off on somebody.  The key is having the right, trusted person you can vent to: Someone who can encourage you, give you insight, or just be there to listen. 

I’m a work in progress when it comes to complaining.  When I sing songs like Rev. Paul Jones’s song: I Won’t Complain, it reinforces the fact that God has indeed been good to me and I must practice being more thankful cause – things could always be worse.  Somebody said, “I had no shoes and complained, until I met a man who had no feet.”

Click on the video below to view the oral presentation of this blog and my rendition of Rev. Paul Jones’s song: I Won’t Complain.

–———————————————————— 

Are you aware that adding herbs and spices to your food not only add extra flavor but they may also help protect your body?  Some aid fat burning and boost metabolism and help stabilize blood sugar.  Some have powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal properties.

Here are 8 herbs & spices that may benefit you.

1. Basil – Basil is a very effective anti-inflammatory herb with extraordinary healing benefits that work for arthritis, allergies, and inflammatory bowel conditions, to name a just a few.

2.  Cinnamon is highly effective at helping to stabilize blood sugar levels, making it very effective for those with diabetes (type 1 and type 2). In one study of people with type 2 diabetes, just two teaspoons a day reduced blood sugar as much as 20-30%, as well as lowering LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

3.  Rosemary has long been known to improve concentration, boost memory, and lift depression. Rosemary also strengthens the immune system, improves circulation, stimulates digestion, and fights cancer, as well. 
 
4.  Thyme’s active ingredient is known for treating bronchitis, sore throats, chest congestion, laryngitis and asthma.  It is also effective as a soothing stomach aid to relieve gastritis, indigestion and colic.

5.  Turmeric is said to be more effective slowing down the development of Alzheimer’s disease than many medications, because it decreases inflammation and oxidation in the brain. This spice also speeds up the recovery time from strokes as well.

6.  Cloves have strong antiseptic and germicidal ingredients that help fight infections, relieve digestive problems, and arthritis pain. One of cloves’ best known uses is its ability to relieve tooth and gum pain. 

7.  Cumin is known for being especially good for digestion.  It helps detoxify the body, and is highly effective for respiratory disorders like asthma and bronchitis. 

8. Oregano contains oil that is a very potent anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral agent). It may also relieve inflammation, internal or external, and offer relief from allergies, aches and pain, without side effects. 

Spice up your life a bit and enjoy all the super health benefits that God has provided through herbs and spices!

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.  Always check with your physician to be sure certain herbs and spices don’t interfere with medications you may be taking

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better. 

If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be one of the wisest decisions you will ever make.

I hope enjoyed these uplifting tidbits. Thanks for watching.  Until next time, have a blessed day!

Thanks for stopping by.  Feel free to share any tips or positive thoughts.

Look me up on YouTube.

Sources
https://www.blissquote.com/2020/04/complaining-quotes.html
https://www.beano.com/posts/snow-white-jokes

http://www.laughfactory.com/jokes/clean-jokes/4https://ideapod.com/constant-complaining-is-bad-for-your-health/http://clipart-library.com/herbs-cliparts.htmlhttp://www.truthaboutabs.com/top-10-spices.html.

Refreshing Tidbits

Need to smile? See these jokes. Need a break from stress? Try a stress ball. Need to hear a happy praise song? You’ve come to the right place. Be blessed!

Hello! I’m excited that you decided to visit Happy & Fit 4 the Master’s Use, where I share physical, mental, and spiritual tidbits to encourage, enlighten, motivate you, and/or simply make you smile. It’s not about one part, it’s about the whole. God wants us healthy mind, body, and soul.

HUMOR TIME

“Trouble knocked at the door, but, hearing laughter, hurried away.” – Benjamin Franklin

During lunch at work, I ate 3 plates of beans (which I know I shouldn’t). When I got home, my husband seemed excited to see me and exclaimed delightedly, “Darling I have a surprise for dinner tonight.” He then blindfolded me and led me to my chair at the dinner table. I took a seat and just as he was about to remove my blindfold, the telephone rang. He made me promise not to touch the blindfold until he returned and went to answer the call. The beans I had consumed were still affecting me and the pressure was becoming unbearable, so while my husband was out of the room, I seized the opportunity, shifted my weight to one leg and let one go. It was not only loud, but it smelled like a fertilizer truck running over a skunk in front of a garbage dump! I took my napkin from my lap and fanned the air around me vigorously. Then, shifting to the other leg, I ripped off three more. The stink was worse than cooked cabbage.

Keeping my ears carefully tuned to the conversation in the other room, I went on releasing atomic bombs like this for another few minutes. The pleasure was indescribable! Eventually the telephone farewells signaled the end of my freedom, so I quickly fanned the air a few more times with my napkin, placed it on my lap and folded my hands back on it feeling very relieved and pleased with myself. My face must have been the picture of innocence when my husband returned, apologizing for taking so long. He asked me if I had peaked through the blindfold, and I assured him I had not. At this point, he removed the blindfold, and twelve dinner guests seated around the table, with their hands to their noses, chorused, “Happy Birthday!”   heso1

A child asked his father, “How were people born?” So his father said, “Adam and Eve made babies, then their babies became adults and made babies, and so on.” The child then went to his mother, asked her the same question and she told him, “We were monkeys then we evolved to become like we are now.” The child ran back to his father and said, “You lied to me!” His father replied, “No, your mom was talking about her side of the family.”  Anonymous

GOD IS GOOD!

We easily declare that God is good – on our BEST days. I got a raise on my job.  God is good!  I found a great parking space at Walmart.  The man of my dreams found me.  Oh, God is good!  

On our WORST days, it can be challenging to declare that God is good. I lost my job.  My car broke down on the side of the road.  My husband has been diagnosed with cancer.  Although it may not seem like it, God is still good. 

God’s goodness shows up in our lives every single day.
* He wakes us up.  
* He gives us breath. 
* He protects us from dangers we can and cannot see.
* Most importantly, He provides salvation [John 3:16] and all the perks (peace, joy, deliverance ….) that come with it.

If you’re ever doubt that God is good just remember:  You didn’t safely arrive at your destination, in your car simply because you’re a good driver. You didn’t tell your heart to beat this morning.  You didn’t keep yourself safe during the night.  It was God and He is good all the time!

Click on the video below to hear an oral presentation of this blog and to hear my rendition of the song: God is Good.

STRESS BALLS

In today’s “new normal” world, it’s easy to become stressed out.  At times I find it stressful just going to the grocery store.  I put on my mask. I have to make sure I’m going in the right door. hat I’m used to buying, I can’t always find.  I have to remind myself to breathe and calm down. I feel like I’m in an episode of the Twighlight Zone.  By the time I get home, I’m just tired! 

Dealing with negative stress can have serious effects on your health and cause strain in relationships.  When stress gets too awful, your blood pressure can go up, your hair can fall out, it can lead to a stroke and even a heart attack.  It can cause you to gain weight, be short tempered and unfriendly.

One way that you can cope with stress is to use a stress ball.  A stress ball is a small, soft, kneadable ball that you can squeeze in your hand. They come in different shapes and sizes.  They are easy to find and not expensive.  

Here are 4 benefits of using a stress ball.

1. Stress causes a lot of physical tension. The main benefit of the act of repeatedly squeezing a stress ball is that it releases tension and helps to relieve stress.  When you tighten your grip around a stress ball, your hand and wrist muscles constrict. Then, as you release your hand by relaxing your muscles, your whole-body releases stress and tension. 

2. A stress ball may help boost blood circulation. As you constrict and contract your finger and hand muscles, you improve the blood flow to your hands and wrists, which helps your muscles rid themselves of toxins, and improves function.

3. Stress can cause you to lose sleep.  The use of the stress ball may help to promote sleep because it relaxes the body. When you get the right kind of sleep you need, you become more productive during the day.

4. A stress ball can contribute to your mental health.  Regular use can help clear your mind, even if only for a little while.  Your focus is directed towards the act of squeezing the ball.  As you squeeze it, your mind can become relaxed and distracted from stressful activities. 

Here’s a basic way to use a stress ball.
–     Squeeze the stress ball in your left hand for 30 seconds.
–     Pulse it for 30 seconds.
–     Repeat with the right hand.

Meditate on scripture while squeezing the stress ball.

John 14:1  Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.

Isaiah 41:10  Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Get that stress ball out!  Throw it across the room if you have to.  Just don’t throw it at your boss.  Give it a chance and see just how it might benefit you.
Check with your doctor first if you have health issues.

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better. 

If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be one of the wisest decisions you will ever make.

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.

Thanks for stopping by.  Feel free to share any tips or positive thoughts.

Look me up on YouTube.

SOURCES
https://www.keepinspiring.me/funny-quotes/http://www.laughfactory.com/jokes/clean-jokes/3http://www.laughfactory.com/jokes/clean-jokes

Yes I Can

Let’s get started on the DO better! Challenge, so that we can better fulfill our destinies and enjoy all the plans God has for us on this earth. You only have one body – so look after it. Do better in February than you did in January!

Humor Time
Have Faith My Child

For the umpteenth time Mrs. Youngston came to her pastor to tell him, “I’m so scared! Joe says he’s going to kill me if I continue to come to your church.”

“Yes, yes, my child,” replied the pastor, more than a little tired of hearing this over and over. “I will continue to pray for you, Mrs. Youngston. Have faith – the Lord will watch over you.”

“Oh yes, he has kept me safe thus far, only…..”

“Only what, my child?”

“Well, now he says if I keep coming to your church, he’s going to kill YOU!”

“Well, now,” said the pastor, “Perhaps it’s time to check out that little church on the other side of town.”

Going Out

A couple was going out for the evening. The last thing they did was to put the cat out.

The taxi arrived, and as the couple walked out of the house, the cat shoots back in. So the husband goes back inside to chase it out.

The wife, not wanting it known that the house would be empty, explained to the taxi driver “He’s just going upstairs to say goodbye to my mother.”

A few minutes later, the husband got into the taxi and said, “Sorry I took so long, the stupid thing was hiding under the bed and I had to poke her with a coat hanger to get her to come out!”

What would you like them say?

Three buddies die in a car crash, and they go to heaven to an
orientation.

They are all asked, “When you are in your casket and friends and
family are mourning upon you, what would you like to hear them say about you? The first guy says, “I would like to hear them say that I was a great doctor of my time, and a great family man.”

The second guy says, “I would like to hear that I was a wonderful
husband and school teacher which made a huge difference in our children of tomorrow.”

The last guy replies, “I would like to hear them say, “Look! He’s moving!”
laughing face

Nutrition

The best vitamin for a Christian is B1.

Leaning on the Everlasting Arms is a hymn published in 1887 with music by Anthony J. Showalter and lyrics by Showalter and Elisha Hoffman.  Showalter said that he received letters from two of his former pupils saying that their wives had died. When writing letters of consolation, Showalter was inspired by the phrase in the Book of Deuteronomy 33:27 “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms….”

Hope this video blesses you.

The 2018 DO Better! Challenge

Faith confession: Yes I can! I believe I can so I will Do Better!  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. – Philippians 4:13

This challenge came about in Dec. 2015.  One night in choir rehearsal  I asked, “How many of you have healthy lifestyle habits that you know you need to pick up or put down – you don’t have to go home and pray about it- you just know you need to do it?” Everybody raised their hands.  I said, “I want to challenge you to pick a goal for the next 30 days.  They picked a goal and the Do Better challenge began the next day.

Every week after rehearsal we met and gave a report.  It was based on the honor system.  I asked,” Did you meet your goal?”  There were only 2 possible answers – Yes or No.  Why is it that you have to almost fight people for an answer to a yes or no question?  If you did not complete your goal for that week, the answer is No.

We would then share about our successes and failures.  We encouraged each other.  This is why you should invite others to join you –for accountability and support.  Every month we added another individual goal.

Each goal rolls over.  You don’t do one for a week or a month and stop doing it the next week or month.  You add a new goal every month and continue with the previous one.  That’s how it becomes a lifestyle change or habit.   The challenge is flexible.  You may want to add a new goal every week for nine weeks.  You decide.

Our challenge lasted 13 months.  We started off with 9 participants.  Two of them dropped out.  At the end of Jan. 2017, we had adopted 13 healthy lifestyle habits.

The goal of the DO Better! Challenge is to help you develop and maintain healthy lifestyle habits.  It’s never too early or too late to begin living healthier.  Any healthy lifestyle change is better than none at all.  This is not a weight loss challenge.  You may shed some pounds but it will depend on the goals that you choose.

It’s very unlikely that you will live to be 100, 120, or older.  Even if you do live to be 103 wouldn’t you like to be a spry, feeling good 103 – still doing some kind of work for God?  I’m not striving or praying to live to be 103.  I’ve often shared that my goal is not to live longer.  My goal is to improve the quality of my life.  I don’t want to be old, in pain, on medication, and hardly able to get around.  I want to be spry, able to dress myself and drive myself around for as long as possible.

Research shows that if you’re going to be successful at almost anything in life, the very first choice to make is to set some goals.  Remember, your goal must be measurable.  For example, if you choose exercise, how many days and how many minutes will you do it?  If you choose to stop drinking so many sodas, how many will you drink each day or each week?

The following are a list of possible goals.  Conduct your own research.  Discover why and how adopting some of these goals may help you become and remain fit for the Master’s use – for the rest of your life.

Here are 4 possible goals for February:

  1. No fried foods days (ex. no fried foods 4 days a week).  Fried foods can increase your fat, calorie and salt intake.  You won’t find a lot of nutrients in fried foods.  Eating a lot of fried foods can have negative effects on your health.
  2. Meatless days (ex. No meat at all, no chicken, no red meat, no pork).  Health experts suggest that most Americans eat way too much protein.  Excessive protein intake can also have negative effects on your health. There could be an association between red and processed meats and cancer and inflammation.
  3. Junkless days (candy, cake, etc. and/or chips, cheese puffs, etc.).  The word junk implies that something is extra and useless. We usually want to get rid of junk not accumulate it.  Junk food can contribute to depression, fatigue, obesity and other ailments. They have lots of calories and very little nutritional value.
  4. Improve sleep habits (ex. Avoid heavy and/or large meals within a couple hours of bedtime. Get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night).  The amount of sleep you get or don’t get can affect your health, mood and weight. Studies have found a link between insufficient sleep and health problems, such as diabetes and heart attacks.  Sleep also helps fight some of the fallouts of stress.

Let’s get started on the DO better! Challenge, so that we can better fulfill our destinies and enjoy all the plans God has for us on this earth.  You only have one body – so look after it.  Do better in February than you did in January!

One of my goals during 2017 was to eat less meat.  I did really well with this goal until Thanksgiving.   After then I jumped off the wagon.  I didn’t fall off, I jumped off.  I ate way too much meat.

I’m getting back on the wagon.  My goal for February: a) Can have meat (red, turkey, chicken, etc) only two days a week.  b) Can have salmon or other fish two days a week.

Feel free to share what goals you (and hopefully a friend, family member, or co-worker) set for Feb. and how you plan to achieve them.

Thanks so much for stopping by and taking the time to view the video and read all the nuggets.

 

Bye for now.

 

Sources:

http://jokes.christiansunite.com/Faith/Out_Of_Gas.shtml

http://www.broadcaster.org.uk/section2/jokes/parentingjokes.html

http://www.christian-jokes.net/Jokes/Heaven-and-Hell-Jokes/31-What-would-you-like-them-say.aspx

http:// www.jokesclean.com/ChristianJokes/HolyOneLiners.php

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leaning_on_the_Everlasting_Arms

 

 

Wellness

Need a little humor? Stop by. Wellness involves the whole person: the body, mind, and spirit. We must strive to have a balance in all three areas. We should periodically examine our lives to make sure that we improve and maintain our emotional, as well as physical and spiritual wellness.

Humor Time

A woman goes to the Doctor, worried about her husband’s temper.

The Doctor asks: “What’s the problem?”

The woman says: “Doctor, I don’t know what to do. Every day my husband seems to lose his temper for no reason. It scares me.”

The Doctor says: “I have a cure for that. When it seems that your husband is getting angry, just take a glass of water and start swishing it in your mouth. Just swish and swish but don’t swallow it until he either leaves the room or calms down.”

Two weeks later the woman comes back to the doctor looking fresh and reborn.

The woman says: “Doctor that was a brilliant idea! Every time my husband started losing it, I swished with water. I swished and swished, and he calmed right down! How does a glass of water do that?”

The Doctor says: “The water itself does nothing. It’s keeping your mouth shut that does the trick.”

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10 Things You Never Hear in Church

  1. Hey! It’s my turn to sit in the front pew!

  2. I was so enthralled; I never noticed your sermon went 25 minutes over time.

  3. Personally I find witnessing much more enjoyable than golf.

  4. I’ve decided to give our church the $500 a month I used to send to TV evangelists.

  5. I volunteer to be the permanent teacher for the Junior High Sunday School class.

  6. Forget the denominational minimum salary. Let’s pay our pastor so he can live like we do.

  7. I love it when we sing hymns I’ve never heard before!

  8. Since we’re all here, let’s start the service early.

  9. Pastor, we’d like to send you to this Bible seminar in the Bahamas

  10. Nothing inspires me and strengthens my commitment like our annual stewardship campaign!

    Submitted by: NoNo & Co.
    Author/Creator Unknown

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I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth.

My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.

O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together.

Psalm 34:1-3 Kings James Version(KJV)

Hope this video blesses you.

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WELLNESS

Wellness:“Wellness is the complete integration of body, mind, and spirit – the realization that everything we do, think, feel, and believe has an effect on our state of well-being.” – Greg Anderson

Emotional Wellness implies the ability to be aware of and accept our feelings, rather than deny them, have an optimistic approach to life, and enjoy life despite its occasional disappointments and frustrations.

Seven tips to improve and maintain emotional wellness:

  1. Learn to accept changes in your life. Change happens whether we like it or not. It may not always feel good, but it provides an opportunity for growth.

  2. Think about what you’re thinking about. Only you can decide what you think about. So make the decision to think positive.

  3. Learn to laugh, especially at yourself. Research shows that laughter can boost your immune system, ease pain, relax your body, and reduce stress.

  1. Have hope. Having hope helps you to believe that your situation won’t last always. We read in Psalm 42:5, Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.(KJV)

  2. Enjoy life. Do at least one thing every day that you enjoy doing (taking a walk, drawing, knitting, etc). Write down things you are thankful for. Practice smiling.

  3. Learn to love and accept yourself just as you are. You can’t change your height. You can’t change your skin color. You can’t change your age. Don’t compare yourself or your life to those around you. The bottom line: it is what it is.

  4. Let bygones be bygones. Holding on to past hurts and failures can be toxic for your emotional wellbeing. It’s important to learn how to forgive and move forward.

One of my quests for 2017 is to encourage people (myself included) to do better (mentally, spiritually, and physically).  I believe the best way to do this is by setting goals that you can live with for the rest of your life.

The Do Better challenge for this post:  Examine your emotional wellbeing.  Ask yourself the following questions:

  • Am I able to maintain a balance of work, family, friends, and other obligations?

  • Do I have ways to reduce stress in my life?

  • Am I able to make decisions with a minimum of stress and worry?

  • Am I able to set priorities?

If you answered “no” to any of the questions, you’re lacking in this area at this time of your life.  Set some goals to help you adopt healthy habits and attitudes that foster wellness. The better you are able to master your emotions, the better able you are to cope with the stressors of life. You will also be able to move forward in a positive direction.

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Bye for now.  Thanks for visiting.

 

Resources

http://www.sunnyskyz.com/funny-jokes/146/A-Woman-Goes-To-The-Doctor-Worried-About-Her-Husband-s-Temper#l5iRs5DdM0om7zmr.99

https://wellness.ucr.edu/emotional_wellness.html

https://www.google.com/search?q=emotional+well+being&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&sqi=2&ved=0ahUKEwiR2Oac083TAhVFKWMKHVPkBUgQ_AUIBygC&biw=1390&bih=763&dpr=1#imgrc=f-IYgXuMOkEnrM:

 

 

The Buffet Table

Welcome to the buffet table! I’ll be jumping from one subject to the next, so get your plate and fill it up. The good news: you don’t have to worry about portions, fat, sodium, sugar, GMOs, nor calories.

TOMORROW We’ve all said at one time or another, “I’ll do it tomorrow.” I’ll begin that project tomorrow. I’ll go on a diet tomorrow. I’ll start a savings plan tomorrow. I’ll start getting more sleep tomorrow night. I’ll give my life to Christ tomorrow. I’ll start working on things that God has laid on my heart tomorrow. I’ll get life insurance tomorrow. I’ll start exercising tomorrow. I’ll choose to be happy tomorrow.  Tomorrow came, and you still didn’t do what you said you were going to do. The cemetery is full of the bodies of people who said, “I’ll do it tomorrow”, but tomorrow never came. Books, ideas, songs, inventions, plays, crafts, testimonies never to be shared, and destinies never to be fulfilled have been put in files labeled tomorrow. It’s so easy to put things off for tomorrow. Tomorrow is not promised.

Let your tomorrow begin today!

RESURRECTION DAY You usually don’t hear people talking about Resurrection Day until around Easter. The ultimate resurrection was when Jesus Christ rose from the dead. He died but when He rose, He rose with all power in His hands. His resurrection made it possible for us to have resurrections in our lives. We all go through things. Sometimes the situation looks, feels, and smells so bad that we think it’s dead. Just like God raised Jesus up from the grave, and just like Jesus raised up Lazarus from the grave, He can raise your situation up from the grave also. So when you find yourself in what you are sure is a dead situation, rest assured that your Resurrection day is on the way!

REFLEXOLOGY It is said that a large percentage of disease is stress related. Getting a massage is one way to release stress. There are many more benefits associated with massage therapy including relaxation, increased and improved blood circulation, and increased flexibility. Reflexology is a therapeutic form of foot massage and of course, hand reflexology is a therapeutic form of hand massage. Reflexology may benefit people in the same way massage helps people relax and reduce their stress levels.

Reflexology is based on the belief that each part of the foot is a mirror site for a part of the body. The big toe, for example is considered a reflex area for the head. The heart and chest are around the ball of the foot. The liver, pancreas and kidney are in the arch of the foot. Practitioners believe that certain areas of the hands and feet are linked to other areas and organs of the body. For example, the brain can be helped by putting pressure on the tips of the three largest toes on both feet.

One day while on the computer, I did a search on hand reflexology. I found a web site that allowed me to print out a free 10 step hand reflexology self-treatment. I sat at the computer and did some of the exercises. I can’t begin to describe how good my hands felt. I have two different foot rollers and a porcupine massage ball that I ordered online. I had no idea that my feet and hands could feel so good after using them.

One time I had a pain in my neck. The pain was there for more than a week. I took aspirin. I applied a heating pad. Neither of those things worked. The Holy Spirit brought to my attention my porcupine massage ball. I began to roll one foot and then the other over the ball and immediately the pain began to ease. I did it the next day and the next, and then the pain was totally gone!

Check out reflexology. Visit the library or google it. There are reflexology charts available that show the locations and therapeutic indications of pressure points on the hands and feet. I thank God for letting me discover the benefits of foot and hand reflexology. I use my porcupine ball on a regular basis. I get so busy that I sometimes forget about my foot rollers and hand reflexology techniques. That’s why I like sharing healthy living tips: As I review topics and share them, I get reminded of certain things.

GROWING UP It’s generally thought that wisdom comes with growing older. It does happen with some people, while others become stupider (yes, I had to look it up: stupider or more stupid). I like using stupid because it really gets people’s attention. I’m growing up while growing older. Sounds silly doesn’t it? Life seems backwards. By the time you grow up and begin to figure life out, it’s time to exit.

“I think of life as a good book. The further you get into it, the more it makes sense.” Harold Kushner

I like to think that my life would have turned out much better if I would have had the wisdom I have now, when I was 25. But I don’t dwell on that thought because I can’t go back to when I was 25. I can’t undo what’s already been done. All I can do is learn from the mistakes, stupid decisions, trials, and disappointments because they were instrumental in making me who I am today. Not that I’m all that, but I like to think that I have become a better person. I’m not where I need to be, I’ll be growing up until I die, but I thank God I’m not where I used to be.

“In the trials we’ve faced, something good has happened too: God has fine-tuned us so we are more compassionate, more caring, more loving, more aware of others’ pain.”

I would have never chosen this path for my life, but my strategic, all knowing, loving, Daddy God had other plans. He knew and still knows the best route for my life. After all, it was He who formed me while I was yet in my mother’s womb. He tells me in Jeremiah 1:5a “I knew you before I formed you in the womb; I set you apart for me before you were born” and in Jeremiah 29 verse 11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Now that’s good news!

HUMOR TIME Willing to take a bullet for Jesus? The two thousand member Baptist church was filled to overflowing capacity one Sunday morning. The preacher was ready to start the sermon when two men, dressed in long black coats and black hats entered through the rear of the church.

One of the two men walked to the middle of the church while the other stayed at the back of the church. They both then reached under their coats and withdrew automatic weapons.

The one in the middle announced, “Everyone willing to take a bullet for Jesus stay in your seats!”

Naturally, the pews emptied, followed by the choir. The deacons ran out the door, followed by the choir director and the assistant pastor.

After a few moments, there were about twenty people left sitting in the church. The preacher was holding steady in the pulpit.

The men put their weapons away and said, gently, to the preacher, “All right, pastor, the hypocrites are gone now. You may begin the service.”

The dog closed his eyes in concentration. This fundamentalist Christian couple felt it important to own an equally fundamentally Christian pet. So, they went shopping. At a kennel specializing in this particular breed, they found a dog they liked quite a lot. When they asked the dog to fetch the Bible, he did it in a flash. When they instructed him to look up Psalm 23, he complied equally fast, using his paws with dexterity.

They were impressed, purchased the animal, and went home (piously, of course). That night they had friends over. They were so proud of their new fundamentalist dog and his major skills, they called the dog and showed off a little. The friends were impressed, and asked whether the dog was able to do any of the usual dog tricks, as well. This stopped the couple cold, as they hadn’t thought about ‘normal’ tricks. “Well,” they said, “let’s try this out.”

Once more they called out to the dog, and then clearly pronounced the command, “Heel!” Quick as a wink, the dog jumped up, put his paw on the man’s forehead, closed his eyes in concentration, and bowed his head.

I hope you leave today – as full as a tick.  laughing happy face with tongue   Bye for now.  Thanks for stopping by.

Resources http://www.christian-jokes.net/Jokes/Church-Jokes/115-willing-to-take-a-bullet-for-Jesus.aspx http://www.christian-jokes.net/Jokes/Bible-Humor/141-The-dog-closed-his-eyes-in-concentration.aspx Jeremiah 1:5 International Standard Version http://biblehub.com/isv/jeremiah/1.htm Jeremiah 29:11-13New International Version (NIV) https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+29%3A11-13&version=NIV Johnson, B. (2006). I Don’t Suffer From Insanity….I Enjoy Every Minute of It! (Mar. 3) Siloam Springs, AR: DaySpring Cards, Inc.