Instacart

 I recently got a job with Instacart. I shop for people’s groceries and deliver them to their house/apt/condo. I’ve been on a few deliveries and have been enjoying my new work. 

Goals

 I’ve been reading several articles my Google Assistant pulls up for me that are health related. There are a few consistent answers when it comes to creating a more healthy lifestyle. 

1. Eating good foods. 

I went on a walk today to implement what I’ve been learning and on my walk I saw some fruits on a tree hanging over the fence. It looked extremely delicious so I picked a few and put them in my pocket. When I got home, I washed them, ate some and shared some. They were awesome! Little snacks like that will make the difference. 

2. Exercise.

Since I am pregnant I am somewhat limited to what type of exercise I can do. I tried to shoot the soccer ball a few times from the 18 yard line with my kids and later vomited. I can walk, thankfully, so I walk. A family pass to the gardens or amusement parks are a good deal because they provide extra motivation to exercise. 

Freedom of Speech

I read something that said if we are able to express ourselves with our words, we are able to let go of negative emotions that might otherwise be detrimental to our health. Freedom of Speech is a sensitive topic lately because we have learned that the words we speak, write, read, etc. actually do have some type of water weight to them. TBC... 

Breastfeeding

 I watched a commercial the other day where this woman was at her wits end trying to breastfeed so I thought I’d share some good experiences. 

1. Lay on your side on the bed and have baby lay under your armpit (so to speak) so you’re both extremely comfortable as much as possible. 

2 I’ve read some posts that say read a book while breastfeeding/get on the iPad, etc. I’d have to say set aside all distractions and watch your baby get the nourishment it needs. You’ll see them eat their real food the same way when they’re older and it’s a magically beautiful experience to observe. 

3. Throughout the first few days when it’s new to you and your milk hasn’t fully come in yet... try your best to hang in there. It really gets better. 

4. If your breasts become sore and wounded, you can put your breast milk on them and that’s really healing. 

5. Use your breast milk to clean the babies eyes and ears if you wish (and yours). 

Happy Brain

A list of 6 ways to train your brain for happiness via inc.com:

“1. Ask yourself if you’re thinking positive.

2. Memorize a list of happy words.

3. Use associations.

4. Practice gratitude.

5. Spend a few minutes each day writing about something that made you happy. 

6. Celebrate your successes, even the small ones.” 

Helpful Tips via Google Assistant

 Daily Tips via Google Assistant

“Get into the sunlight. The brain craves the sun and will react positively when exposed to it.”

“Try to be active for at least 30 minutes, 5 days a week. Up to 60-90 minutes may be needed for weight loss.” 

“Every bedroom needs a working fire alarm. Almost half of home fire deaths occur at night when people are sleeping.” 

“Strategies to beat financial stress:

-Recognize your power to make a difference.

-Focus on the positive

-Stay in the present, don’t obsess about the worst-case scenario.

-Reject thoughts of failure.” 

When writing in your gratitude journal, you can use the “GIFTS Technique”

The “GIFTS Technique:

G: Growth: Personal growth, like learning a new skill.

I: Inspiration: Moments or things that inspired you.

F: Friends/Family: People who enrich your life.

T: Tranquility: The small, in-between moments, such as enjoying a cup of coffee or a good book.

S: Surprise: The unexpected or a nice favor.” 

Positive Affirmations:

“I feel confident. I am doing the best I can in this moment.”

Tips:

“Exhale longer than you inhale to practice deep breathing.” 

Some Quotes from TIME Magazine thanks to Google Assistant

 “...One day at a time. Remind yourself of what’s important in your life and why.” - Misty Copeland, ballet dancer

“Right after you read the news, try doing a physical activity. Do push-ups, take a walk, do 25 jumping jacks. You’re going to feel panic and anxiety; do something physical to burn it off. It’ll give you clarity.” -Hasan Minhaj, comedian

“Someone recently told me, ‘It’s still O.K. to laugh.’ It’s important.” - Preet Bharara, podcast host and former U.S. Attorney

“Listen to your body and take time for yourself. For many of us, the way we speak to ourselves is not the same way we would speak to someone we love and care about. I try to remember this when I feel anxious. When we practice self-compassion, we can then be a better help to others.” - Aly Raisman, Olympic Gymnast