Two Insights, One Quote, Some Food for Thought, and a Recipe to Try

Patrick Jenkins
Apr 16, 2023
5 min read

Insight#1: Taking our MEDS so we are the BEST versions of ourselves.

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to become overwhelmed and feel like we're not living up to our full potential. The good news is that there are simple habits that we can adopt to bring out the best version of ourselves. These habits are collectively known as MEDS: Meditation, Exercise, Diet, and Sleep. In this blog post, we'll explore each of these pillars and see how they can help us become the best version of ourselves.

Meditation

Meditation is the practice of focusing your mind on a specific object, thought, or activity to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state. By meditating regularly, you can reduce stress, increase your self-awareness, and improve your overall mental and emotional health. Additionally, meditation has been linked to improved cognitive function, creativity, and empathy.

To start meditating, find a quiet place where you won't be disturbed and sit comfortably. You can close your eyes or keep them open, whatever feels more comfortable for you. Focus on your breath, and whenever your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath. There are also many meditation apps available that can guide you through your practice and provide you with helpful tips and techniques.

Exercise

Exercise is another crucial pillar in bringing out the best version of yourself. Regular physical activity has been linked to a myriad of benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, increased energy levels, and better mood. Exercise also helps to reduce stress and anxiety, which can have a significant impact on your overall well-being.

The type and intensity of exercise that you choose to do will depend on your personal preferences and fitness level. It's essential to find an activity that you enjoy, as this will increase your chances of sticking with it in the long run. Whether it's running, yoga, weightlifting, or team sports, find an activity that you love and make it a part of your daily routine.

Diet

The food that we eat plays a significant role in our physical and mental health. A healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve digestion, and boost our immune system. A well-balanced diet can also improve our mood, cognitive function, and energy levels.

To ensure that you're getting all of the nutrients that your body needs, focus on eating a variety of whole foods. Avoid processed foods that are high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. If you're not sure where to start, consider speaking with a registered dietitian who can help you create a personalized meal plan that meets your nutritional needs and fits your lifestyle.

Sleep

Finally, sleep is essential for our physical and mental health. During sleep, our bodies repair and regenerate, and our brains consolidate memories and learning. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to a myriad of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Lack of sleep can also have a significant impact on our mood and cognitive function.

To ensure that you're getting enough quality sleep, aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night. Create a relaxing sleep environment by keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Avoid using electronic devices before bedtime, as the blue light can disrupt your sleep cycle. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, to help regulate your circadian rhythm.

In conclusion, adopting the MEDS lifestyle can have a significant impact on our physical, mental, and emotional health. By prioritizing meditation, exercise, diet, and sleep, we can bring out the best version of ourselves and live a happier, healthier life. Start small, and gradually incorporate these habits into your daily routine. Remember, the key to success is consistency, so keep at it, and you'll soon see the benefits of your efforts.

Insight#2: Breaking Through Hurt and Pain with the Power of Love

Everyone goes through hurt and pain in life. It is an inevitable part of the human experience. However, there's a powerful healing force that can help us break through these negative emotions - love. Love has the potential to transcend our suffering and help us emerge stronger and more resilient. In this blog post, we will explore how love can act as a catalyst for personal growth and healing, and discuss some practical steps to help you embrace love as a means of overcoming hurt and pain.

Acknowledging Your Pain

The first step to healing is acknowledging the hurt and pain you're experiencing. Suppressed emotions can lead to more significant problems in the long run. Allow yourself to feel your emotions fully, without judgment. This act of self-awareness will enable you to understand your pain and create the foundation for the healing process.

Practicing Self-Compassion

Love begins with self-compassion. Recognize that you deserve love and care just as much as anyone else. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would treat a close friend or family member who is in pain. By nurturing self-compassion, you are creating a safe space for healing to occur.

Seeking Support and Connection

Connecting with others is vital in the healing process. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups to share your feelings and experiences. Surrounding yourself with people who love and care about you can help you feel understood and less alone in your journey. This connection can foster a sense of belonging and help to reinforce the belief that you are worthy of love and support.

Practicing Forgiveness

Forgiveness is an essential aspect of love that can help you break through hurt and pain. Forgiving yourself for past mistakes and others for the pain they may have caused you allows you to release the burden of resentment and bitterness. It is important to remember that forgiveness is a process and can take time, but it is a crucial step towards healing and self-growth.

Cultivating Gratitude

Focusing on the positive aspects of your life and practicing gratitude can help you shift your perspective and find joy amidst pain. Make a habit of expressing gratitude for the love and support in your life, and for the lessons that pain has taught you. This attitude of gratitude can help you foster a more positive mindset, making it easier to overcome hurt and pain.

Conclusion

Breaking through hurt and pain with the power of love is possible when you allow yourself to be vulnerable, practice self-compassion, and seek support. Embrace forgiveness and gratitude as tools for healing, and cultivate an open heart to give and receive love. The journey of healing may not be easy, but with the power of love on your side, you'll find the strength to overcome your pain and emerge stronger, more resilient, and ready to experience a life filled with love and happiness…that is something we all deserve.

Inspirational Quote

“Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” - Albert Einstein

Question to Ponder

What would your life look like if you chose to embrace love and forgiveness as your primary tools for healing and growth?

Recipe to Try

Pastele Stew

Ingredients:

5 lb pork, diced
2 stalks of celery
1 onion
2 bell peppers
Salt and pepper
2 bunches of cilantro
Cumin
1 package of Achote powder
4 cloves of garlic
2 bay leaves
Oregano
1 can of chopped olives
Chili pepper flakes (to taste)
2 cans of tomato sauce
1/2 tablespoon of baking soda
Oil
Chopped potatoes (optional)

Instructions:

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the Achote powder and stir until the oil turns a deep red color.
Add the diced pork to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
Chop the celery, onion, and bell pepper into small pieces and add them to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Add salt, pepper, cumin, garlic, bay leaves, oregano, and chili pepper flakes to taste.
Drain the can of chopped olives and add them to the pot. Stir well.
Pour in the tomato sauce and stir until everything is well combined.
If desired, add chopped potatoes to the pot.
Add 1/2 tablespoon of baking soda to the pot, stir well, and cover.
Let the stew simmer on low heat for about 1 hour or until the pork is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Remove the bay leaves from the pot and garnish the stew with cilantro leaves before serving.