Blog Layout

Water...Ugh!

January 9, 2024
Let’s be honest. We’ve all been told how much water we SHOULD be drinking. It’s like a hundred gallons a day, right? No, but some days it feels like it. It’s really like 120 ounces a day. And depending on who you ask, coffee does or doesn’t count. Diet drinks counteract the benefits of the water you drink. I know we have all seen the gazillion ads for water enhancers.

We are told the benefits of drinking enough water like:
 
  • Assists with maintaining a healthy weight,
  • Boosts health and beauty,
  • Affects energy levels,
  • May prevent and treat headaches,
  • And so on and on and on.

Today I’m sharing my love/hate relationship with water and how I trained myself to get in a decent amount daily.

These cups pictured were are just a few I've bought over the years all in the hopes I would drink the famed 120 ounces. Did it work, you ask? Sort of. I’m sharing what I learned about what works for me and what doesn’t. I hope you can find a water habit that works for you.
 
  • I use different cups/bottles different times of the day. The water bottle type I use for working out. The 40 ounce cups are the ones I carry daily. The half gallon jugs are now in storage in the garage. They were just too big and the water got warm by the end of my work day.
  • I like cold water but not ice cold. Believe me, I tried different temperatures and paid attention to what I drank more of.
  • I always order water when I go to a restaurant even if I’m ordering something else to drink.
  • I started with water enhancers to get in the habit of drinking water. The options go from super clean to just junk, you might as well be drinking diet sodas. Read the labels and try to start with the fewest ingredients. I did start with the ones that had vitamins and caffeine. I then moved to the cleanest. Now I rarely use any at all unless it’s something to boost my hydration. I have a peach bellini flavored hydration that I love.
  • I cut out one cup of coffee a day in order to get more water in.

I now get in 75-80 ounces a day and I can live with it. I pay attention to my body and know when I need more water. It really does make a huge difference in my energy levels.

Stay up to date with my latest posts and insights by subscribing to my newsletter for FREE.
a woman is standing in a greenhouse surrounded by plants .
By Lori Jones February 11, 2024
In our lives, comfort zones serve as sanctuaries of familiarity and safety, offering a sense of stability in an ever-changing world. While there's undeniable value in the routines and habits that structure our days, there's also a hidden cost to confining ourselves within these comfortable boundaries. The true essence of life, with its myriad opportunities for growth, learning, and joy, often lies just beyond the edge of what we know and where we feel most at ease. Embracing the unknown, therefore, isn't merely an act of adventure; it's a profound form of self-care that invites us into a world of potential and transformation. The Paradox of Comfort Zones Our comfort zones, while soothing and familiar, can paradoxically become prisons that limit our growth. The routines that once brought solace can gradually dull our senses to the vibrant tapestry of life awaiting outside their borders. It's within this realization that the seeds of change are sown. The decision to step beyond our comfort zones is akin to opening a door we've long ignored, behind which lies uncharted paths laden with possibilities for discovery and renewal. Embracing Vulnerability and Change Venturing into the unknown requires vulnerability—a willingness to face the uncertainty of new experiences with openness and courage. This journey often begins with a single step: a conscious choice to do something differently, no matter how small. Whether it's trying a new hobby, altering our daily routines, or engaging with new people and ideas, each act of bravery brings us closer to a fuller understanding of who we are and what we're capable of achieving. The transformative power of stepping out of our comfort zones cannot be overstated. My own journey taught me that what feels like a potential fall into the abyss is, in fact, a leap towards self-empowerment. The moment our safety bubble bursts, we're offered a stark choice: to retreat into the shadows of what was or to move forward into the light of what could be. Choosing the latter opens us up to a world of self-care practices that nourish not just our bodies but our spirits—inviting new passions, interests, and joys into our lives. The Challenge of New Beginnings This week, I challenge you to join me in the practice of embracing something new. The act of incorporating a novel element into your routine, no matter how trivial it may seem, is a declaration of your willingness to grow and evolve. It's an acknowledgment that life's richness is found not in the repetition of the known but in the exploration of the unknown. Consider this your invitation to step out of your comfort zone and into a journey of self-discovery. Let each new experience be a step toward a more enriched, vibrant version of yourself. Remember, the goal isn't to radically overhaul your life overnight but to introduce small, manageable changes that collectively lead to significant transformation. As we venture into this exploration together, share your experiences, successes, and even the fears you overcome. Your journey of stepping beyond the familiar is not just about personal growth; it's a beacon of inspiration for others to follow. Let's collectively embrace the unknown, discover new passions, and redefine what self-care means in our lives—beyond the comfort zones that once defined our limits. Stay up to date with my latest posts and insights by subscribing to my newsletter for FREE.
a black and white photo of a person reaching out their hand
By Lori Jones February 11, 2024
In our journey through life, we often encounter moments that test our ability to manage independently. Today, we're addressing a challenge that resonates with many: the act of asking for help. It's a hurdle fraught with complexity, particularly for those who have struggled with it before. Yet, it's a crucial aspect of self-care, one that requires our attention and courage. Let's dive into five actionable tips to empower ourselves to seek support with confidence. 1. Cultivate Self-Compassion The first step towards asking for help is to treat yourself with kindness. Recognizing that seeking support is a testament to your strength, not a weakness, is fundamental. You are worthy of the help you need, and acknowledging this can transform your approach to seeking assistance. 2. Clearly Identify Your Needs Understanding precisely what you need assistance with can significantly ease the process of asking for help. Specificity not only clarifies your request but also makes it easier for others to provide the support you need. Remember, it's entirely acceptable to ask for exactly what you need, without diluting or disguising your request. 3. Seek a Trusted Ally The importance of having a supportive network cannot be overstated. Identify someone in your life—a friend, family member, or mentor—with whom you feel safe and comfortable. Opening up to a trusted ally can not only provide you with the help you need but also strengthen your bond with them. 4. Embrace Vulnerability Vulnerability is a powerful tool for connection. By sharing your genuine feelings and struggles, you invite others to understand your situation more deeply. This honest exchange can demystify the process of asking for help, making it a less daunting experience. 5. Take Gradual Steps If you're not accustomed to seeking help, the idea of doing so can feel overwhelming. Start with small, manageable requests and gradually increase as you become more comfortable with the process. Each step, no matter how minor it may seem, is a leap towards embracing the support system around you. Empowering Ourselves to Seek Support As nurturers and caregivers, it's natural for us to focus on providing for others. However, it's equally important to remember that receiving care and support is not just acceptable but necessary. Let's empower each other to seek help when needed, understanding that it's a sign of strength and self-awareness. You're not alone in this journey. I'm here to support you, encouraging you to take that step towards asking for help. Together, we can navigate the challenges that come our way, supporting and uplifting one another in the process. Stay up to date with my latest posts and insights by subscribing to my newsletter for FREE.
More Posts

Want More? Don't forget to sign up for exclusive content and discounts!

Join Our Newsletter
Share by: