Recently the United States has launched a new three digit number to access mental health support in this country. It’s as easy as dialing 988 and you will be connected to a live, trained operator who will listen and guide you through your needs. It actually links you to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800 number which is 1-800-273-8255 We all can agree a 3 digit number is much easier to remember and dial when in crisis. Just like 911 is. So it’s about time…
What is a visual journal you ask? Some of the earliest forms of art like cave drawings, called Petroglyphs, are, in fact, visual journals. They depict daily life, struggles, battles, the fight to live, hunting etc… Compare that today and if you look at my social media feeds you see images of my daily life, my struggles, food I like to eat and other daily documentation. My personal journal looks quite the same. And it wouldn’t be my journal if it didn’t have some bling or other artistic additions to it.
I am all about homemade for the holidays! I am always looking for creative projects that also reflect my personality and the personality of the people I am giving things to. This year, I am really focusing on giving gifts I have made with love. So here is a small collection of the good stuff I love to make and give!
I wanted to begin by sharing creative projects for the tummy! Starting with homemade hot chocolate stirrers. They’re easy to make with kids of all ages! Hit up the local dollar store for your plastic spoons and other accessories.
Being resilient is something I wasn’t so familiar with. I was taking some professional development classes and had this amazing speaker, Dr. Katherina Gilboa. Her book was called from Stressed to Resilient. I listened. I took voracious notes. I was DETERMINED to become resilient! I bought her book before the course was even over. I was going to improve myself!
So what does an art obsessed certified licensed counselor know about meal prep ideas and why should you care? About three years ago I started focusing on better nutrition for myself. I was probably at my heaviest, taking daily doses of blood pressure medication and cholesterol medication. Granted both of these conditions are genetic thanks to my mom and dad but also can be managed through diet, nutrition and exercise.
