GVIX HEALING PRACTICES

Feeling out of sorts or just not like yourself? Together let's explore some healing practices that are good for the soul x

JUNE 2020

It's been a long time but good things come from those that heal. With all that's going on in the world I wanted to be in the proper mindset and energy space to bring this piece to life. Self-reflection has been the most important step in my healing journey and it takes time. So, thank you for your patience. Today I come to you with practices and remedies that ease my overactive/emotional mind. Through these practices I was able to ground and humble myself with simple yet powerful activities. It hasn't been easy over the last couple months but it's been worth it. I feel stronger and deeply connected to self. I'm a huge advocate of self-care and believe when you begin from within - you'll always win x

Baby Steps

> Learn a family recipe! Recently I learned how to make smothered catfish from start to finish. I was impressed with my first go at making this dish. The best part about learning family recipes is the quality time I spend with my loved ones and listening to stories that have been passed down from generation to generation. It's all love. Thanks Mama, I love your southern cuisine and everything about you x

> Eat plenty of colorful food! Whether in a salad or smoothie there is no wrong way to ingest fruits and veggies. Your body will thank you now and in the future. Colorful foods include dried apricots and salt and pepper cucumbers, which are among my favorite. Both really nice snacks for hot summer days. Choosing food from an array of colors is a sure way to realign your chakras and receive a natural source of energy. Eat up buttercup!

> Water, H20, Aqua! Whatever you may to call it, you need more of it. We all do. Drink at least half the amount of your body weight daily (in ounces not pounds). For example I weigh 150 pounds I typically drink anywhere from 75 to 100 ounces of water per day. Water clears and hydrates your system from the inside - out. Our bodies are made up of mostly water. Mother Nature decided to cover 71% of the Earth in water. You get it. Bottoms up!

> Watch feel-good movies! We laugh, cry, feel inspired, sing, and dance to our favorite flicks! Below I have a few recommendations for your viewing pleasure:

The Wiz

Eve's Bayou

Vampire in Brooklyn

Sex & The City (all seasons and movies)

If Beale Street Could Talk (beautiful soundtrack)

Mental mindfulness

> Listen, trust, and follow your intuition. The inner guide knows best, a truth-teller, and your internal compass. There is power in stillness. Listening to one's self is an amazing tool to carry when navigating through life. Life presents us with situations where we have to use discernment and go with that gut feeling, follow that guidance. However, be cautious there is a difference between your intuition and overthinking. I recently read a quote via Pinterest 'thoughts are not facts, so don't believe everything you think'. So, be mindful.

> Don't hold onto grudges or regrets.Those emotional ropes weigh you down and hold you back from what is meant for you. Forgiving others and maybe even yourself, releases unhealthy thinking patterns that often lead to finger pointing in what we call the blame game. Understanding someone's point of view doesn't mean you agree with their theory. Sometimes it's worth throwing in the white flag because letting things go work in your favor. Ultimately, releasing anger and issues that don't serve you. Always remember let go and let God.

> Try a different form of mediation. Whether that be journaling, walking or indulging in a adult coloring book. Anything that makes you feel good and allows you to think - let it flow. I've recently began a standing mediation and it's been just as effective as my traditional sitting practice. Standing mediation activates blood flow throughout the body. First thing in the morning I open all my bedroom windows and allow the breeze/nature sounds to guide my mediation for about five to ten minutes. With deep breaths exercises and eyes closed I awake refreshed and ready for my day.

> Find your balance and peace. First, place one hand over your heart and the other on your tummy. Close those beautiful eyes. Take a deep breath in through the nose hold for five counts. Exhale through the mouth for five counts - repeat three times (or as needed). Breath work is an essential part of my day especially in the mornings and before bed. Give yourself permission to feel all the emotions that you've been bottling up over the past few months, weeks, or days. Give yourself time to cry, feel, and heal whatever may be on your mind. I believe tears have healing properties. Tears humble us and comfort us. I feel great after a good cry. I found balance through plenty of tears, prayer and soul-searching. I found peace by focusing on what makes me happy and being grateful for my blessings.

Home remedies

Candle Guide (room x room)

Bedroom: Lavender of course! You can also add a sensual scented candle such as sandalwood or jasmine to set the bedtime vibes.

Living room: Fresh cotton or a ocean breeze scented candle. My best friend always has a fresh cotton blend burning in her living room. Every time I visit her it feels and smells like home.

Bathroom: Herbal scented candles improve circulation and mental clarity. Perfect for in shower mediation. Strong herbal candles work wonders during allergy season, helping clear out sinuses. Also consider an incense, earthy aromas spark harmony within the home.

Kitchen: Open a window to allow the natural breeze to clear out your cooking space. Don't mask those savory and sweet smells. Your cooking deserves the honor. If necessary diffuse some lemon essential oil or put a chopped lime down the garbage disposal for a fresh scent and natural clean.

Tip 1: Consider soy candles infused with essential oils for a zen home.

Tip 2: Be sure to wipe down hard surfaces after burning a candle. Some candles leave behind a dark substance called 'soot'. This can be avoided by trimming candle wicks and buying quality candles.

> Air purifiers, my new fave! Captures allergens, bacteria, and gases that are lingering in your home's atmosphere. All the while circulating purified air through each room. I can tell you first hand I sleep a lot better. Being a person with allergies galore, I find myself breathing better and not waking up throughout the night. A good night's sleep is essential to good health.

> Plan a hot girls summer day for a couple of girlfriends, sisters, or aunts. Put together a plant potting party on the patio followed by a craft your own mojito bar. Mojito bar ingredients: lime, mint, rum, an assortment of fruits (fresh or frozen), sugar, and club soda - simple yet sweet. Try a backyard yoga social for something more laid back. Have a 'wine down' session with a light dinner and cookie dough s'mores around the fire pit. All handcrafted by you – who is capable of anything and everything.

*Of course, we must all use our better judgement with any social gatherings no matter how small the crowd. Social distancing is important and shouldn't be taken lightly. Please use caution.

x

We all have our own way of doing things and healing ourselves. These are my suggestions and I’m sure this list will grow over time. The ultimate key to healing is love. Love for one’s self. Enjoy this down-time and being with yourself. Personally, being alone and going within has been therapeutic. The silence of the outside world allowed me to be me and really hear my inner-self. I call her my ‘intuitive-half'. I protect, listen, confide, and appreciate her. Remember you are your home – so take care yourself.

Stay safe this hot girl summer x

#blacklivesmatter