Lux Thinking Aloud Life Lately: Update On My Personal Journey 8:15 AM Life lately has been a whirlwind of change, growth, challenges, and grateful chaos. Key Takeaways: Update on My Life Lately I moved to America after years of pandemic separation from my husband, navigating the exhausting immigration process and emotional goodbyes.The transition brought healthier habits, daily park walks, and a happiness my husband notices radiating from me.I expanded my career into SEO work that challenges and excites me while learning to navigate the evolution of AI-driven search.Typhoon Tino devastated the Philippines, affecting my family and exposing government corruption that diverts flood-control funds.Despite the chaos of major life changes, I'm reading more non-fiction and planning to launch digital products before year's end.Life lately has been equal parts bliss and anxiety: new adventure, new experiences, new place, new people, new challenges. I haven't shared anything personal here in a while. It's been intentional because I don't want to overshare. But I'm returning to why I started this blog: to make people feel less alone by sharing my own journey.So here we go. Life Lately: Crossing Oceans for Love I've moved to a new continent. I finally joined my husband in America after years of separation due to the pandemic. The process was torturous. Mountains of paperwork to comply with US law. Endless waiting. Eye-watering expenses. Detours at every turn. Then came the move itself: selling and donating belongings, cleaning, packing. If you've moved cross-country or internationally, you know the insane time and energy it demands. I went through all of it.Love That Survived the DistanceLong distance wasn't a walk in the park. Being apart from your spouse is hard, especially when communication becomes a daily challenge. Our marriage was tested repeatedly.But I'm grateful for my husband, for who he is and how he loves. I never once doubted his loyalty during those years apart. Having God at the center of our relationship made all the difference. Grieving What I Left Behind I had to let go of so many things I loved because I couldn't bring them with me. Confession: I cried when it hit me that I had to sell my work desk and office chair; my home, more than my bed, ever was. It felt like a small thing, but I realized I needed to grieve that loss. That desk witnessed everything: work wins and breakdowns, video calls, late-night series binges during my depression. That desk and chair saw me through it all. Saying goodbye felt like losing an old, trusted friend. I just hope the new buyer appreciates them as much as I did.I grieved for the life I learned to love. My routines, my independence, my solitude. Living alone in that house is one of the most peaceful and best times of my life. Life Lately: Everything Feels Brand New Life here is completely different from my home country. I'm now thousands of feet above sea level, where it's colder (for a tropical girl), but I love it. We've built a routine I genuinely enjoy. The quiet mornings are so peaceful. The view from our window takes my breath away. Our life is simple but deeply satisfying. I appreciate how much cleaner it is here, how we see wildlife on our morning walks. It makes me treasure what I have now, knowing what I lacked before. And hey, my new desk and chair aren't half bad! Life Lately: Healthier and Happier Than Ever I may be in my 40s, but I feel healthier than ever. I'm in my hiking era (that's me in the heading image!).I'm more conscious about food choices, I work out regularly, and my husband and I enjoy daily park walks. He's even commented that I seem happier now than before. Expanding My Career At the start of this year, I chose "expand" as my word of the year. I've expanded into a new role that I genuinely enjoy. I'm diving deep into SEO (search engine optimization), continuously learning because Google keeps evolving. Especially with AI reshaping everything. But I love what I do. Challenges excite me. Typhoons Hit Home This month, Typhoon Tino (international name Kalmaegi) slammed the Philippines. My family was affected. Some had to be rescued and evacuated as floodwaters kept rising. Only a couple of days after, Typhoon Uwan (Fung-wong) struck, this time mostly affecting the northern part. Thankfully, they're safe along with our dogs. No serious damage. No major injuries or illnesses. But for those terrifying hours when the power went out and signals became unstable, I could barely breathe from worry.And this happened only four weeks after they were hit by a 7.4-magnitude earthquake. The Philippines: A Country Robbed Corruption has been normalized in the Philippines for as long as I can remember. But recent events exposed the ugly truth: The Philippines isn't a poor country. It's been robbed. Congressmen, senators, and officials pocket trillions meant for flood control projects while living lavish lifestyles they flaunt online. People die every year from flooding because of substandard or completely ghost projects. Then, when calamities hit, these politicians parade around distributing relief goods with their faces plastered on every package. As if they spent their own money instead of taxpayer funds.I don't get it. How do you stomach watching the news—your fellow citizens sitting on rooftops, fearing for their lives as water keeps rising, waiting for rescue, starving and freezing, some desperately trying to revive their loved one—while you sit comfortably in your mansion? How do you sleep at night knowing you could've saved them if only you'd put the money where it was supposed to go? The disaster could've been avoided if only you had built proper drainage instead of buying your wives' and children's Hermes bags and diamonds. Yes, Filipinos are resilient. Something I'm actually proud of. But it's time to stop romanticizing resilience. It's time to demand accountability from people who left us no choice but to survive when we should've been thriving.I hope those responsible face justice. But since the majority are complicit, I doubt it'll happen soon. Typhoon Donations AcceptedIf you see our government asking for donations, don't send them!They'll likely pocket the money for another Rolls-Royce, foreign property, or private jet while their people sit in hours of traffic on broken roads with no proper transportation system.Instead, I highly recommend the trusted NGO Angat Buhay Foundation. Every penny you send reaches typhoon victims. Or send it to me. I'll forward it directly to our church that accepts evacuees, or to my sister, who can buy the goods and deliver them personally.Here's where you can send help: Reading Recap I've been slow with reading this year because of the big move and all the changes. But I'm proud I finished a non-fiction book, and I'm currently reading another (with more on my TBR). That's huge for someone who can devour fiction in a day but struggles to focus on non-fiction for an hour. What does enjoying life lately mean?It means finding joy in the present moment despite chaos and challenges. Enjoyment doesn't require everything to be sorted out; it's choosing gratitude for what's good even when other parts feel messy or uncertain. It's finding joy in both the big and the small moments.Life Lately: Chaotic but BlessedDespite the challenges — my family's situation, my country's corruption, all the upheaval — I still feel blessed and grateful for everything I have.How about you? How's your life been lately? I hope you're always well, my friend.
Lux Thinking Aloud A Blog About Life And Love 2:54 PM This is a blog about life, love, and everything in between.TL;DR/Quick Overview: This blog intentionally covers life lessons, relationship advice, book recommendations, and lifestyle content instead of focusing on one topic because real life doesn't fit into neat categories. Key TakeawaysThis blog explores both life and love because they are interconnected.Features multi-topic posts that are insightful and entertaining.You'll find honest book reviews, literary suggestions, and real-life experiences and lessons that set this site apart from typical self-help or relationship sites.Is this a blog about life and love? Yes, this is absolutely a blog about life and love! I cover a wide range of topics, including life lessons, dating advice, book recommendations, and financial tips. I'm happy to chat about whatever's on your mind.What exactly will you find here? Life stuff that actually helps Life is beautiful and complex, and sometimes we all need practical advice that actually works in the real world. I write about these life topics, sharing what I've learned the hard way so you don't have to: Simple life hacks that make your day easierReal talk about money and career growthTravel stories and food recommendationsHome decorating ideas and health tipsFaith conversations and personal growth thoughts Love and relationship content Whether you're single and loving it, navigating the crazy world of dating, or working on a long-term relationship, we're all just trying to figure out how to love and be loved well. Here's where I share relationship insights, struggles, and victories: Dating advice that actually worksMarriage tips from someone who gets itSelf-love practices for when you need them mostSingle life struggles and celebrations How did this blog start? I'm an introvert with really loud thoughts, so I needed somewhere to share them. I started 'Lux Thinking Aloud', originally an online journal that later evolved into the professional blog it is today.Learn more about this blog's history here. Why don't you just pick one topic? When blogging experts told me to pick one topic, I thought, "but that's not how life works." One day you might need dating advice, the next day you're looking for a good book recommendation, and the day after that you want tips for saving money. Why visit five different blogs when you've got a friend here who can help with all of it? 😉We think about our careers, our relationships, and our favorite books all in the same day (at least I do!).So I decided to keep it real and talk about everything that matters to actual humans living actual lives.Surprise for Every Visit Isn't it exciting not knowing what you'll find when you visit here? Today, it could be relationship advice. Perhaps next week it will be the perfect book or movie for your mood. Life is full of surprises. And so is this lifestyle blog. Why do you blog so much about books? I've totally embraced my bookish era. If you love books as much as I do (or want to start loving them more), this blog is basically like having a book-obsessed friend who always has recommendations: Book reviews that tell you if it's worth your timeReading recommendations for every mood and reader typeTips for creating the perfect reading nookGift ideas for the book lovers in your lifeMovie suggestions based on your favorite genreWhy should readers stick around?I'll give you four excellent reasons why you should come waste your time with me: It's hopeful.I will not gloss over the ugliness of life. But I will always, always find the beauty in it.It's authentic.When you come here, you're getting honest thoughts from a real person about real life - not some perfectly curated content that pretends everything fits into neat little boxes.It's insightful.I've been attending webinars and counseling sessions. I'd love to share with you what I've picked up along the way!This is your safe space.The world could be so loud. Social media could be toxic. Consider this blog your safe space in life.I'm basically your online pal, always excited to share books, relationship tips, or life stories with you. I unabashedly share my wounds and battle scars to make you feel you're not alone in your journey.Thank you, life lovers!After fourteen years (can you believe it?), I am grateful to everyone who has stuck with the blog through its growth and changes.If you're new here...welcome! Grab a cup of coffee, browse around, and let's chat about life, love, and everything in between. I'm sincerely thrilled you're here! FAQs Is this blog really about both life AND love?Absolutely! Because they're connected, aren't they? Your relationships affect your life goals, your personal growth impacts how you love others, and your lifestyle choices influence your dating life. It all fits together. How often do you post new content?Every week or so. Sometimes more than once a week (depending on my current workload). I share something new regularly because life is constantly evolving. Whether it's a book I just finished or a life lesson I learned the hard way, there's always something fresh to talk about. Who is this blog for?This blog is for anyone trying to figure out the whole 'adulting' thing! Whether you're single, dating, married, starting your career, or just trying to find new books to read - if you're human and you're living life, this blog is for you. Can you help with my specific situation?While I can't provide personal advice, I share many real-life experiences and practical tips that could be helpful. I can also offer some health knowledge since I am a licensed pharmacist.I'm planning to follow my dream of studying Psychology. Pray that I find enough time to get there so I can truly be qualified to offer counseling.For professional counseling, legal, financial, or medical advice, please consult qualified experts in those fields. Do you actually read all these books you talk about?Every. Single. One! I don't post fake reviews. I'm that person who stays up too late because "just one more chapter" and then wants to tell everyone about it. (If it were up to me, I would post all the books I read, which is waaaaay more than you'll see here.)Learn how to navigate this blog here.Gifs credit to ownersWhat topics about life and love do you prefer to see more of in this blog?
Lux Thinking Aloud It's Okay To Be The Villain In Someone's Story 5:51 AM Sometimes protecting your peace means becoming the villain in someone's story, and that's perfectly okay. TL;DR - Quick Summary: You don't owe anyone unlimited access to your time, energy, or resources. Setting boundaries and prioritizing your well-being isn't selfish—it's necessary. It's okay to be the villain in other people's story if it means being the hero in yours. Key Takeaways Boundaries aren't betrayal - Protecting your peace doesn't make you a bad person.You're not everyone's emergency contact - Stop being the perpetual crisis manager for others.Family ties don't justify toxic treatment - Blood relation isn't a free pass for disrespect.Villains are made, not born - People become villains through circumstances and self-protection choices, not inherent evil. Feeling guilty about saying no to another favor?Like you're somehow letting people down by not being available 24/7 or sending them money as soon as they say, "I need help paying _"? Here's the truth: it's okay to be the villain in their story if it means protecting your mental health and self-respect. Sometimes the most loving thing you can do, for yourself and others, is to walk away.Wiggle Being the Villain Means Self-CareYou're Not the World's Crisis ManagerLet's get something straight: you are not 911. You're not everyone's emotional support system, ATM, or personal problem-solver.Sure, helping others feels good, but when it comes at the expense of your own well-being? That's when you need to pump the brakes. When was the last time someone asked if you needed help? Or if that person, who turns to you every time they're in a tough spot, ever asked how you're doing?If you can't remember, that's your first red flag.Being a villain sometimes means taking care of yourself first, and that's okay.Tenor Your Time and Energy Are Precious Currency Your time isn't infinite. Your energy isn't renewable like solar power. Every "yes" to someone else's drama is a "no" to your own peace and goals. You are a villain in someone's story, and that's okay when the alternative is being a victim or a villain in your own. Stop Looking for Healing Where You Were Hurt We keep going back to the same people who wounded us, hoping they'll suddenly become the source of our healing. But you wouldn't go to a broken faucet for clean water, so why seek validation from people who consistently disrespect you? Love Them from a Distance Family Doesn't Mean Free Access "But we're family!" might be the most overused excuse for toxic behavior. Being related by blood doesn't give anyone a VIP pass to treat you poorly. If someone consistently drains your energy, disrespects your boundaries, or only shows up when they need something, it's time to reevaluate that relationship, even if you share DNA.Sometimes, the best thing you can do is love people from a distance.Giphy They Handed You the Scissors Sometimes the scissors were handed to you long before you decided to cut the cord. You wouldn't have walked away if you felt safe, valued, and respected. That person created the distance through their actions; you're just acknowledging it. It's Okay to Burn Bridges Not every bridge is worth maintaining. Some lead to places that no longer serve you. Some were built on shaky foundations from the start. It's okay to be the villain in someone's story when those narratives consistently paint you as less than worthy of basic respect. Practical Steps to Protect Your Peace Even If That Makes You a Villain in Their Story Set Clear Boundaries Learn to say "no" without explaining yourself to death Don't answer every call, text, or emotional emergency immediately Create specific times when you're available versus when you're off-limitsStop the Emotional ATM Withdrawals You don't owe anyone your emotional labor just because they're going through something. Helping occasionally? Great. Being someone's permanent therapist? Not your job.Notice who only contacts you when they need something Trust Your Gut If someone consistently makes you feel drained, trust that feeling Pay attention to how you feel before, during, and after interactions Your peace of mind is not a fair trade for anyone's approvalHow much disrespect should you take before you cut off a family or friend? Here's the shortest but best answer. EVER:DormentalityThe Freedom of Being Misunderstood Here's what's wild: once you stop trying to save everybody, you become the hero in your own story, and that's liberating. Yes, some people will be upset. They might call you selfish, cold, or difficult. Let them.They'll gaslight you and make you feel terrible for declining. Tell you you've changed or have become too proud. Don't listen. The people who truly value you will respect your boundaries. Those who get angry? They're the ones who need them most.Those who are displeased when you put some space reveal they care more about what you can do than who you are.Giphy To Recap: It's OK to be the Villain It's okay to be the villain in their story because the main character in your story is you. Protecting that protagonist isn't selfish. It's necessary for your sanity. Set those boundaries, keep that distance, and remember: you were not born to save everyone.Someone amazing already did that two thousand years ago on a cross.The right people will love and accept you for who you are, appreciate you for being in their circle. Everyone else? Well, they're not your responsibility.FAQs Does villain mean bad?Short answer: Yes. But life's messier than a Marvel movie, so let's break this down.What Most People Think Villain MeansWhen someone says "villain," your brain probably jumps straight to the classic villain checklist:Deliberately harmful: They're intentionally causing chaosThe story's bad guy: That person everyone's rooting againstSelfish motivations: They'll step on anyone to get what they wantMorally corrupt: Manipulative, cruel, and with zero regard for anyone else's well-beingBasically, if they'd fit right into a Disney movie as the character everyone boos, they're a traditional villain.But life isn't a fairy tale. Sometimes the line between "villain" and "person with different priorities" gets pretty blurry.Antagonist vs VillainAn antagonist just opposes the main character. Could be a competitor, a rival, or someone with conflicting goals, without being evil.Complex motivations: Some villains have backstories that make you think, "Okay, I actually get why they did that." I watched Maleficent and found myself rooting for her. I saw Sleeping Beauty as a kid and always thought she was unjust and cruel.Context is everything: Your perspective shapes who the villain is in any given story. Can a villain be a good guy? Absolutely. Generally, every person has a redeeming quality. Some of the most compelling villains are actually decent people caught in impossible situations or fighting for something they believe in.Many people labeled as villains are only protecting themselves from toxic situations. Are villains born or made?Villains are made because no one is inherently born evil. People become villains in others' stories when they choose self-respect over people-pleasing, boundaries over doormat behavior, and personal peace over toxic relationships. In real relationships, villains are usually made through repeated boundary violations and disrespect.When someone consistently treats you poorly, setting boundaries naturally makes you the bad guy in their narrative.imgflipThe Different Shades of VillainNot all villains wear black capes and cackle maniacally. Some are surprisingly... human. Let's break down the types of villains that'll make you question everything:Tragic Villains: When Life Breaks YouThese are the villains that life created.What happens when someone gets pushed past their breaking point? When trauma rewrites their entire worldview? Tragic villains didn't wake up one day and choose evil. Life dealt them a hand so brutal that their coping mechanisms became destructive.What made them villains:Shaped by trauma: Their past created their present behaviorFeel trapped: They often hate what they've become but don't see another wayRelatable origin story: You might think, "In their shoes, I might've snapped too," like Joaquin Phoenix's Joker)Sympathetic Villains: The Ones You Actually Root ForThese villains make you uncomfortable because you get them.Maybe they're trying to save their dying child. Maybe they're fighting against a corrupt system. Maybe they're protecting their community from something worse. Their methods are wrong, but their heart? It's in the right place.What makes them a villain:Relatable motivations: Love, protection, justice, survivalMoral complexity: They're doing wrong things for right reasonsHuman flaws: They feel real because they struggle with their choicesAnti-Villains: Heroes Using Villain TacticsThese characters think they're the hero of their own story, and they might have a point.Take Thanos (yeah, I went there). Dude genuinely believed he was saving the universe from overpopulation and resource scarcity. His method was horrific, but his goal was to prevent universal suffering. That's some twisted heroism right there. What is the opposite of a villain? The opposite of a villain is typically a hero or the protagonist (the main character and the central focus of a story). While often synonymous with a hero, a protagonist can also be an antihero or even a villain, depending on the story's perspective and the author's intent.So how about you? Are you the hero or the villain of your story?The header image is copyrighted by Internet Marketing Ad and may not be reused commercially. Message me if you'd like to commission or create something similar for a small fee.
Lux Thinking Aloud My Word for 2025: Expand 6:31 AM My Word for 2025: Expand Who else isn’t big on resolutions? I know I’m not. Instead, since 2014, I’ve been choosing a word for the year. It’s like a theme that sets the tone for what’s to come. It’s a small tradition that helps me focus and grow intentionally. Have you picked yours yet? Here’s my word for 2025:ExpandTo expand means to broaden, to stretch beyond what you already know, and to grow into something greater. That’s exactly what I’m planning to do this year.It’s not about stepping out of my comfort zone. That phrase feels too forced. Instead, it’s about extending my reach, building on what I know and love, and growing from there. Does that make sense?On My ReadingIf you’ve followed my book reviews and recommendations, you know romance novels are my go-to. I can finish them in one sitting because they’re my favorite escape.But this year, I’m mixing it up. I’m adding non-fiction to my list—autobiographies and self-help books, specifically. I’ve already started with Forgiving What You Can’t Forget, and wow, it’s a journey.Reading non-fiction is slower for me, and that’s okay. Unlike romance, non-fiction isn’t meant to be devoured. It’s meant to be savored—absorbed in small bits, reflected on, and applied to life.Health & WellnessIn addition to my usual Pilates and yoga routine, I’m bringing back something I used to love: dancing. I don’t know why I stopped (thanks, adulting!), but it’s time to revisit that part of me.I'd love your recommendations if you know of any fun, beginner-friendly dance classes (nothing like Zumba or overly complex choreography). Let’s keep it simple and joyful!Career in Digital MarketingOver the years, I’ve learned that clients value results over certifications. That said, continuous learning is essential—especially in digital marketing, where everything evolves quickly.Pinterest MarketingLast year, I started my journey as a Pinterest marketer, and it’s already been rewarding. My clients are seeing real, profitable results, and I’m just getting started. This year, I’m doubling down on Pinterest.SEO Content MarketingI am also sharpening my SEO skills. After all, content writing is my first love, and SEO is the magic that brings it to life for online businesses. There's something satisfying about typing a keyword and seeing the article on top of the search results page. Happy for my client and myself!YouTube VideosThis isn’t a career move or a product I’m selling. It’s more of an experimental project for me. I recently created a YouTube channel, Sound Sleep Solutions, featuring white noise and relaxing background audio. It’s perfect for:Focusing during work or studyMeditating and finding calmImproving sleep qualityAdding a soothing background soundtrack to your dayWhat’s next? To align with my 2025 word, Expand, I’m taking this project further:Uploading content to YouTube Music (I just discovered it’s a separate platform!).Sharing my tracks on Spotify for broader reach.Adding more white noise options and creating new relaxing music tracks to cater to diverse preferences.If you’re looking for peaceful sounds to enhance your day, I’d love for you to check it out. Feedback and suggestions are always welcome! 😊Selling Digital ProductsI started selling digital products on Amazon last year.My Amazon, Tales N Doodles, sells children’s coloring books and journal notebooks with witty covers (you can see previews of the products on the right side of this page if you're reading with your laptop).I’m expanding my collection with adult coloring books and upgraded journals this 2025. Journaling has been a big part of my life lately, so why not create something others will love, too? I have other plans I'm excited about. Stay tuned for more!Expanding My CircleI wish I could say I’m joining clubs or doing volunteer work this year, but let’s be honest—that’s a no for me. As an introvert, homebody, and self-proclaimed anti-social human, I’m perfectly content with my circle as it is.However, I am expanding my online network by connecting with fellow book lovers on Bookstagram and Goodreads. If you’re there too, let’s link up!Travels and ExperiencesFingers crossed that 2025 brings more opportunities to explore new places and create unforgettable memories. While I can’t make solid plans yet due to personal and logistical reasons, I’m hopeful. Here’s to manifesting positive outcomes!Past Words for InspirationIf you’re thinking of choosing a word for your year, here are some of mine from the past for inspiration:2024: Elevate – Improving in what I do and who I am.2023: No – Saying no to the less important so I can say yes to what truly matters.2020: Premium – Choosing not to settle for less.2019: Milestone – A year of many firsts.2018: Spontaneous – Embracing spontaneity, even as a control freak.2017: Winning – Overcoming inner battles and emerging victorious.2016: Unorthodox – Doing things differently and stepping out of character when necessary.2015: Better – Striving to be better than the year before.2014: More – Saying yes to more experiences, opportunities, and growth.Word for 2025Have you chosen your word for 2025? I’d love to hear it! Whatever it is, I pray this will be a year of breakthroughs, answered prayers, and healing for us all.All images: AI-generated by Internet Marketing Ad
How-To Embracing Your Inner Child: Tips for a Happier You 2:02 AM What’s your favorite childhood memory? Mine is doodling without a care in the world. There’s something about our innocence that’s refreshing to recall. The joy from something as simple as a coloring book or getting lost in a whimsical story. Embracing your inner child is essential for our well-being, as it fosters creativity, gives us the healing we need, and reignites a sense of wonder. What is Your Inner Child? Your inner child represents the childlike aspect of your personality. It encompasses: Original thoughts and feelings from childhood Memories of joy and creativity Innocence and playfulness that may have faded over time Engaging in child work allows you to reconnect with this essence, helping you embrace your inner child and heal from past trauma. Why is it Important to Connect with Your Inner Child? Connecting with your inner child is crucial for emotional well-being. Benefits include: Fostering self-compassion Enhancing creativity Providing a safe space for emotional expression Nurturing this relationship cultivates a sense of playfulness and joy in your adult life. Signs You Might Be Neglecting Your Inner Child Many people neglect their inner child without realizing it. Here are some signs: Feeling overly serious in everyday life Lacking spontaneity or playfulness Difficulty expressing emotions Feeling disconnected from your creative side Recognizing these signs is not a cause for alarm but a call to action. It’s the first step towards rekindling that essential connection and allowing joy to flourish again. It’s a step towards healing from childhood wounds and finding balance throughout adulthood. 5 Tips for Embracing Your Inner Child Here are some simple yet effective tips on how to embrace your inner child: 1. Rediscover Childhood Hobbies and Activities Think back to what you loved doing as a child. Was it drawing, coloring, playing an instrument, or building with blocks? Make a list of your favorite childhood activities. Dedicate time each week to engage in one of them. Invite friends or family to join for added fun. 2. Spend Time in Nature Nature has a beautiful way of bringing out our playful side. Try these ideas on how to reconnect with your inner child: Go for a walk in the park or along the beach. Collect leaves, rocks, or flowers to create a nature collage. Have a picnic and enjoy the simple pleasures of being outdoors. 3. Allow Yourself to Play and Be Silly Give yourself permission to be playful. Here’s how: Try out a new game, whether a board game or a video game. Dance around your living room to your favorite songs. Wear something fun or silly just for the joy of it. 4. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation Mindfulness can be a powerful tool for healing your inner child. Consider these practices: Take a few minutes each day for meditation. Focus on your breath and let your thoughts settle. Use guided meditation specifically designed for inner child work. Reflect on your feelings during these moments and embrace them without judgment. Here's my favorite from Yoga with Kassandra: 5. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences The people you spend time with can significantly impact your mental health. Seek out friends who uplift and inspire you. Engage in communities that encourage creativity and playfulness. Limit exposure to negativity—taking a step back from toxic relationships is okay. Embracing your inner child can lead to profound healing and joy. Benefits of Embracing Your Inner Child What happens when you reconnect with your inner child? It can bring many benefits that enhance your life in many ways. 1. Increased Happiness and Well-Being When you reconnect with your inner child, you often rediscover the joy in simple things. Benefits include: A lighter heart and more laughter in your life. Greater appreciation for everyday moments. A more optimistic outlook on life. 2. Improved Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills Tapping into that childlike wonder can spark fresh ideas. Playfulness encourages creativity, allowing you to think outside the box. Experimentation with new hobbies can lead to innovative solutions. Less fear of failure gives you the freedom to explore different approaches. 3. Reduced Stress and Anxiety Engaging with your inner child can be a great stress reliever. Playful activities can shift your focus away from worries. Mindfulness practices help ground you in the present moment. Silly moments can alleviate tension and lighten your mood. 4. Stronger Relationships with Others When you embrace your inner child, you become more relatable and open. Increased empathy and understanding in your interactions. More authentic connections as you share your playful side. Improved communication, as you express your true feelings. 5. Greater Sense of Self-Acceptance and Love Learning to love your inner child can lead to profound personal growth. Self-compassion flourishes as you embrace your past experiences. Acceptance of your flaws becomes easier, allowing for personal growth. A deeper sense of worthiness fosters a loving relationship with yourself. Embracing your inner child is a beautiful journey filled with healing and joy. Introducing My Coloring Books for Kids! Coloring is a delightful way for the young ones and “young once” to reconnect with their inner child. I’m excited to announce that I’ve started publishing coloring books on Amazon under Tales N Doodles. My collection of coloring books is designed to spark creativity and create lasting memories. Here’s a brief overview of each book and what makes them unique. 1. 30 Cute Jungle Animals Coloring Book for Kids This coloring book has adorable jungle animals to ignite your child’s imagination. Features include: Educational Content: Each page showcases cute jungle animals whose names are listed alphabetically. No Bleed-Through: Single-sided pages prevent colors from smudging, allowing kids to color worry-free. Perfect for Little Hands: Measuring 8.5 x 8.5 inches, it’s just the right size for small hands. 2. Cute Baby Farm Animals Coloring Book for Kids Unleash your little one’s creativity with this charming book filled with baby farm animals. Educational Elements: Every page features a cute farm animal with its name, plus a handy reference for their baby names. Single-Sided Printing: No more concerns about color bleed-through, ensuring a clean coloring experience. Ideal Size: Designed for tiny hands, this book is also 8.5 x 8.5 inches and printed on premium paper. 3. Cute Happy ABC Animals Coloring Book for Kids This fun-filled book introduces kids to various creatures while learning the alphabet. Key features include: Educational Focus: Each page combines a happy animal with the first letter of its name, making learning enjoyable. No Bleed-Through: Thoughtfully designed with single-sided printing for a smooth coloring experience. Perfect Dimensions: It’s also 8.5 x 8.5 inches, great for little hands, and printed on premium white paper. The Joy of Coloring Coloring provides a fun and beneficial way to connect with your inner child. It allows you to: Express Creativity: Coloring fosters imagination and offers a joyful escape from daily stress. Relax and Unwind: This playful activity can help you feel more centered and calmer. Bonding with Children These coloring books are perfect for bonding with children. Create Lasting Memories: Spend quality time together, coloring and laughing. Encourage Learning: Use the educational aspects to teach kids about animals and the alphabet in a fun way. Share Joyful Moments: Coloring together can lead to conversations, storytelling, and shared creativity. Embracing Your Inner Child The benefits of reconnecting with that playful spirit and the enjoyable activities can help you navigate adulthood. From healing your childhood wounds to finding joy in coloring, each step leads to increased happiness, creativity, and stronger relationships. So grab some coloring books, spend time outdoors, and allow yourself to play and be silly. Remember, life is meant to be enjoyed, so let your playful side shine brightly. Coming Soon: More Coloring Books from Me I have created more coloring pages for kids and adults – especially for my fellow book lovers. Follow Tales N Doodles on Amazon for all the latest updates!What other scenes or subjects would you like to color? Your ideas will inspire my next coloring book project.DisclaimerThis blog post is intended for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While I have drawn from research and personal experience, it's important to remember that everyone's journey is unique. If you are experiencing mental health issues, please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
