Friday, July 19, 2013

Summer Reading Recommendations---Know more, Grow more...





Are you “unlucky in love?”

Looking for Mr. Right? Seeking self-help to become more self-realized? Or perhaps simply striving to expand your knowledge base and make better decisions regarding your quality of life?

It’s “summer time and the living is easy.”
And there’s no better time to relieve stress, mellow out, and escape through the pages of a good book.

Take some much-deserved “down time.” Kick back, relax, and be prepared to be enlightened and transformed with these recommended reads!  

By the way... a good cup of java or herbal tea is not required, but enhances the experience.

Here's what's worth a book look:
 

ACT LIKE A LADY, THINK LIKE A MAN---By Steve Harvey
When most folks first learned that the famous “king of comedy” and talk show host had penned a book on dating and relationships, no dout many thought that this in itself was pretty hilarious! After all, what type of credentials would lend to a comedian's credibility in this arena? But Harvey proved his haters wrong. Here he dispenses sage advice that instructs women that if they want to be treated better to stop “lowering the bar”. He also lets us know that “every man has a plan” with regards to dating and mating. Overall, the book is definitely worth the price of admission. Pick it up!
 
 HE’S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU---By Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo
This popular relationship guide serves as a reality check for many women. It decodes the double talk of “Mars” inhabitants and helps women see their actions with greater clarity. More than likely, you’ll find a few of the guys you’ve dated amidst the many scenarios! Hello?
 
BLOOD RELATIVES---By Darlene Greene
 Knowledge is power. And if you haven't had an opportunity to pick up this compelling read, you should. Readers will find important information that is life changing and empowering. Discover what "the buzz is about". Copies available on line through Inamaegreene.org, or through Amazon.com.



LIFE'S SPICES--By Vicki Ward 
Life's Spices takes the work of women of color around the world, and shares their collective wisdom through a popular anthology series. Stories reflect a wide array of experiences and circumstances. You'll laugh, cry, and relate to over 200 pages of personal essays, poems, and even recipes. 

 
DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF FOR WOMEN--By Kristine Carlson
Stress less. Live a more balanced life, that is rooted in having the right priorities, and setting boundaries. Chapters include: Create memories for your children; fancy your femininity; stress busters, and more. Makes a great gift copy for a friend in distress as well.
 
 
Your turn. What's on your bookshelf this summer?

 





 

Saturday, July 13, 2013

Heal Your Body, Mind & Spirit...




“Health is the greatest wealth.”----Ralph Waldo Emerson

Many of us spend countless hours caring for other people.
We tend to the needs of our kids, our families, our church communities, and even “bad” bosses.
We stretch ourselves like African Rubber.
Adding to the mix is the everyday stress of having to do more with fewer resources.
The sum total of this life equation? Burnout. Illness. Fatigue.
And even periodic feelings of being overwhelmed and under-appreciated. True?

It doesn’t have to be this way. Balance is the key.
A wise man once said, “You can’t give from an empty cup.”

With this in mind, here’s how to “fill your cup,” replenish your spirit, and lead a more balanced existence.

 
BODY

  • Get the proper amount of rest. Though needs vary, experts recommend 7-8 hours nightly.
  • Eat a well-balanced diet, with proper portion control. Did you know that African-Americans suffer disproportionately with obesity? Be mindful of your food choices and act accordingly.
  • Treat yourself to a body massage. July 18th actually marks “Everybody deserves a massage week.” Consult your local listings for a qualified service provider in your area. You deserve it!
  • Summer heat can deplete. Keep your body flushed and functioning right with 8 glasses of water, and avoid excessive sun.
  • Treat your body like a temple. Set boundaries. Never accept abuse in the "name of love."

MIND
  • Keep positive thoughts. The Good Book tells us: “As a man thinketh, so it is.”
  • Learn to forgive. Forget the past. Grudges block blessings and waste energy. Devote your thoughts to self-improvement, spiritual principles, or expanding your knowledge base.
  • Get lost in the pages of a good book. If time is short, consider books on tape. These “audio versions” can be enjoyed in your car on your daily commute.

SPIRIT
  • Avoid toxic people, and folks that keep gossip and strife going. Stop the madness!
  • Treat yourself to things that give you pleasure. Don’t wait to be pampered by someone else--- be your own best friend. Make it a part of your weekly “things to do.” Treat yourself to a movie, a medi-pedi, a bubble bath with candles, chocolate, and the company of those who cherish you, accept you, and value you for who you are.
  • Listen to some good music. Studies show that it has therapeutic properties.
  • Have dreams and goals. What's on your "Bucket List"? Would you like to start your own business?  To get your body back in bikini-shape? Go back to school? Go for it! Dreams keep our hearts young and our souls inspired. Just make sure to keep them a little realistic for optimal success. :-)

Thoughts? How do you live a well-balanced, "full" life? Which one of these tips are among your favorites?



Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

Monday, July 8, 2013

 
 

Ina Mae Greene Foundation Domestic Violence Awareness PSA

 
 
 
 
 



Information and awareness is one of our most important tools in this fight to end violence against women and girls in our country. Please do not be to embarrassed to save your life or the life of your child.

You are not alone, there is an average of 5,000,000 women in this country abused every year.

It is time that we take control of our lives and our future. Stop domestic abuse!
The choice is yours.

For more information about the Ina Mae Greene Foundation, or to look for resources in your city visit our website-www.inamaegreene.org.

.....because the road to safety should not be a dead-end!