How to Feel Happier
Something I read a while back , struck a chord in me…
“Happiness is a feeling.”
This is something I tell myself often. You see, the past year has been one of the worst years of my life.
Starting my own business and trying to start a blog has kept me trying to keep a smile on. Publicly, I mean. No one cares when things are bad. They don’t want to hear it.
And when things are good?
Greed, jealousy and envy can rear their ugly heads in ways I never thought possible. It doesn’t matter how hard you try to feel happier. It doesn’t change the ugliness in this world.
With that said, despite what challenges you are dealing with now. The good, the bad or the ugly. Happy times, stressful times or scary difficult times.
There are actionable things you can do right now to feel happier.
If I can still manage to feel happy enduring what I have been through this past year, there is no question you can too. Today I want to share some of the things I think can make anyone feel happier.
On good days or bad.
Things that you might need to force yourself to do. But that you *should* do if you need a pick me up. Happiness really does only exist within yourself.
Pink, red, orange and yellow are happy colors.
You can’t change the past. You can’t make bad people good. You can’t turn black into white. But there are shades of gray that you can add color to.
Add some color to your life by surrounding yourself with cheerful colors and friendly kind people. Stop and take time to do something you enjoy.
Play a silly game on your phone for a few minutes. Go for a walk or watch a funny YouTube video. Anything that will make you laugh.
Call a friend. Be careful with this one. Not everyone who pretends to be your friend is your friend. I hope you don’t learn this the hard way the way I have.
When you do, you don’t need to mention that you’re feeling bad. You don’t have to vent or share even. Simply say to your friend, “Tell me something good.”
You’ll be surprised how a happy or uplifting story can lift your spirits. Even if it’s just for a moment.
Exercise. Exercising Makes You Feel Happier.
It doesn’t matter what you do. Walk, run, jump rope. Do a set of angry pushups. You would be surprised how you can instantly feel happier just be getting your heart pumping.
Eating Makes You Feel Good
Sometimes when you’re feeling sad you forget to eat. Or nothing tastes good…
At least for me anyway.
Eat something and drink a glass of water. Opt for something healthy like fruit or a large healthy meal. Depending on when you ate last.
Also, do treat yourself. This is time for self care. Do anything that will make you feel better!
Eating chocolate is good!
Just don’t go to town on a whole pint of Death by Chocolate (my personal favorite). Eat a small amount of chocolate while you are preparing a healthy snack or meal.
Whatever bad sh*t is bringing you down, put a positive spin on it.
I have this bizarre gift of being able to find a positive in every single situation. I’m not kidding when I say this.
Even the most horrible things that have happened to me.
How to turn a negative situation into a positive one.
Here’s an example. When I was a kid about 9 years old, I was drowning in a pool of water.
(I’ll share the story of how it happened another time.)
This is about your happiness. Let’s get back on topic…
I was taking in water, drowning. On a beautiful sunny day. Surrounded by happy kids who were swimming, laughing and having fun.
Meanwhile, I was suffocating. I was taking in water and drowning in a chlorine filled (and who knows what else) public pool. After my short bout of panic (trying to grab peoples feet to get help) I suddenly gave in. I realized that this was the end. Oddly, I felt a moment of blissful peace.
Kind of like in the movies. You know, like when the white light suddenly appears out of the clouds.
Then suddenly, someone grabbed me. It was the girl who almost killed me. She lifted me up and carried me to the edge of the pool. Where I gagged and coughed trying to breathe again.
Which felt even worse than the drowning itself.
Not to mention the humiliation I felt in front of everyone. Especially, in front of the cute lifeguards.
Because the lifeguards are always cute, right?
The three positive and most important things that have come of this are: I started taking my daughters to swim class at a very young age. I will never regret the chilly mommy and me swim classes we went to.
They continued to take swim classes until I knew both my girls could swim well.
I too finally learned how to swim. I took adult swim classes as soon as I could afford them. I was in my twenties when I finally learned how to swim.
It just goes to show you, it’s never too late to learn something new.
The most important thing I learned which is also the most valuable positive thing. That I can spin out of this dire situation is that I am not afraid of dying.
Maybe it’s because I know the things I have accomplished in my life are enough. The people I have helped and the lives I have touched. Or maybe it was that moment of bliss I felt.
There was no fear.
So what lots of people consider the worst case scenario being death, I do not.
The worst case scenario for me is that I die unhappy. Nothing will stop me from trying to make as many people feel happier before that happens.
Making other people happy can make you feel happier.
That’s what makes me feel happy. When I help other people.
Whether it’s to help you lose weight or to try to find a happier career path… Or to write that book you’ve been thinking about. The one that’s eating you up inside.
It makes no difference to me. As long as I can help at least one person.
Some business experts would say that my website is “confusing” to visitors. The message isn’t always clear.
So here is what it is all about: How you can feel happier.
If you want to feel happier check out my list of products. It’s a mixed bag of stuff. I guess I’m still trying to figure out what makes me feel happier.
So kill me – I’m not afraid.
Contact me now if you need help growing your business through the Power of Writing. Or starting your own business…
Here’s what one happy client told me:
“I really love your way with words. You’re friggin talented Irene. I love how you write. It gave me chills.”
~Jennelle Gordon
Founder of Beyond Freedom
Books and online marketing are my specialties. Check out my about page to schedule a live consultation here: Learn more…
Why You Should Write a Book
A few years ago, I was watching a popular morning show on one of the major networks. Tim Larkin, author of “Surviving the Unthinkable” was demonstrating self-defense techniques and promoting his book.
Watching the show ignited two things inside me. Fear and envy.
I ordered the book immediately.
Every few months, I pick it up and read it again. I don’t want to be one of the many women who’ve joined the “Me Too” movement. I prefer to create a new movement.
“Not Me”
By protecting myself. And creating the kind of power and income to protect myself from as many horrible things as possible.
Like debt, stress, limited choices, narcissists, stalkers, becoming a victim and envy.
Why was I envious?
I have always wanted to be a published author. Not sure why exactly. Maybe because I love to write. Or because I’ve always been a bookworm.
I was a little envious of the man on television promoting his book. Not because he was on television. I’ve been on TV. Not that big a deal.
Because he was a “published author.”
This might not mean much to you. But to me? At one time I wanted to be a writer and a journalist. I was shot down by an English teacher, who told me “You’re a bad writer.” He wasn’t even an English teacher. He was an unemployed substitute, taking the place of my real English teacher, while on a leave of absence.
My dreams were crushed. Yet another way, we can become victimized.
It was a big deal to me.
I finally did it. I wrote, published and sold my first book within a couple of weeks.
Once I set my mind to it and set a goal.
Like Tim Larkin, I have knowledge about something people want. And Need. To lose weight, feel great and live a happier and healthier life.
You do too.
We all have a superpower.
You have a superpower. Something that you can teach others. Writing a book is one of the best way to reach millions of people who need what you can teach.
Who can benefit from your knowledge and experience.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Too many people die without achieving their dreams.
Don’t say “Me Too.” Say Not Me.
Download your FREE checklist to start writing your book now.
The Ketogenic Diet
What is the Ketogenic Diet?
The Ketogenic diet commonly known as Keto, is a low carbohydrate high-fat diet used for rapid weight loss. Success stories of weight loss are growing in numbers. With people toting all over social media about their weight loss success. The diet is spreading rapidly as one of the hottest weight loss trends.
The diet creates a low blood sugar effect which puts your body into a state of ketosis. This causes the body to burn excess fat quickly. Although it is recognized for weigh loss success, the diet consists of mostly fat and very little protein which causes some concern.
The Ketogenic diet was developed in 1924 by Dr. Russell Wilder at the mayo clinic. It was originally developed to help treat children with epilepsy. It has since been widely used by doctors and patients as a treatment for epilepsy. Although Dr. Wilder is recognized for coining the phrase Ketogenic, the diet may have been around longer. His studies were based on fasting and similar diets used to treat epilepsy since as early as 500 BC.
It’s not clear exactly when Keto became a popular weight loss trend. However, as with most diets, there are already many cases where the weight is gained back after going off the diet.
Pros and Cons of the Ketogenic Diet
The positive effects of the Ketogenic diet are rapid and significant weight loss. Making it appealing to those wishing to lose weight. However, there are drawbacks. Negative side effects have been reported as low energy, constipation and dangerously low blood sugar levels from the lack of carbohydrates. The biggest negative effect is weight gain after going off the diet.
Often times you gain even more weight back. Yet, remaining on the diet can be equally dangerous. The high fat food you consume while on the diet can put you at risk for stroke, heart disease and heart attacks.
A healthy lifestyle change with increased exercise and eating a well balanced diet is a safer way to lose weight and keep the weight off for longevity.
Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Making healthy lifestyle choices has always been and will always be the safest and healthiest way to lose weight. And keep it off for good. Eating a well balanced diet filled with vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes and lean protein is not only safe but effective.
One of the downfalls of any diet is not incorporating a healthy exercise routine into your weight loss plan. Exercise is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself. Whether you are trying to lose weight or not. It relieves stress, keeps your metabolism going giving you energy, it burns calories and releases endorphins that make you feel good. It also increases your stamina. For more productivity, better sex and happiness.
To learn more about weight loss and healthy lifestyle choices watch this video: Vital to Your Weight Loss Success
This post may include affiliate links. Which means I may earn some money if you click on one. This does not affect your price. Please see my disclosure for more information.
The Benefits of Yoga
Heal your body and your mind with Yoga.
Yoga is a common practice derived from a Hindu spiritual and ascetic discipline. It is a combination of breath control, simple meditation, and the adoption of specific bodily postures. It is widely used for health, exercise and relaxation. There are many types of yoga and choosing the right one depends on your style and preference. Whichever style you choose, you can reap many benefits from adding the practice to your exercise routine.
Yoga improves muscle tone, flexibility, strength and stamina. Power yoga is my personal preference. It combines strength and meditation to build muscle, increase your heart rate and decrease stress.
Don’t let the headstands and pretzel-like twists scare you. Beginners can start slowly with easier poses that almost anyone can do. Yoga stretches help you improve balance and flexibility while working multiple muscle groups at once.
How to Take a Yoga Breath
Yoga breathing can greatly improve your mental health and overall well being. Benefits include improvements in mental clarity and concentration, stress relief, and relaxation of the mind. They are very easy to do and help improve your focus and concentrate. You become more in tune with your entire body and your mind.
You can practice yoga breathing for relaxation. Sit or lie in a relaxed position. Inhale deeply through your nose as you feel your lungs and chest fill completely with air. Tighten your core while inhaling and exhaling. Release the air by exhaling slowly through the mouth. Feeling the air leave your body, while concentrating on your inner core. The breathing helps you concentrate as you feel the breath entering and slowly leaving your body.
Using Yoga for Weight Loss
Yoga is a form of exercise that can be used to maintain a healthy weight or lose unwanted weight. It is often practiced in a heated environment to increase metabolism and pulse rate. Which can help you lose weight quickly. Maintaining a healthy weight gives you more energy, helps you prevent illness and builds confidence. To make better decisions in life, better career choices and enjoy healthier relationships.
To get started practicing yoga today, all you need is a yoga mat and a little guidance. You can find a class near you, buy a yoga DVD or find free yoga videos on YouTube.
For more ways to get more balance in your life and build a strong hard core read How to Get Flat Abs Fast.
This post includes affiliate links. Which means I may earn a small commission if you click on a link. This does not affect your price. Please see my disclosure for more information.
The Best Abs Workout
Discover the best abs workout to get strong sexy abs fast.
When you are on the beach or lounging by the pool, you want to feel good about yourself. You want to feel confident in everything you wear. Your bikini, your favorite sundress and even nothing at all.
Read on to learn the best abs workout for a lean, mean tight core. Ab exercises that will give you toned, tighter, stronger and even flatter abs. These are the best ab exercises I have found to get flat abs fast. If you follow this quick 6 day ab exercise routine, you will have a stronger leaner mid section. This is the exact method I use to get beach body ready.
Cardio for Abs
Adding more cardio and other exercises to your workout routine will help you get there faster. And following a healthy eating plan. Even if you exercise for 10 minutes each day. It will improve your health. Even better try doing at least 2 to 3 10-minute workouts every day. It makes no difference if you exercise for 30 minutes all at once, or in three 10-minute intervals. Start now. Begin today.
If you start today and use the method I am about to share with you for 6 days straight, I guarantee you will have a stronger, tighter core. And it is absolutely 100% FREE to use. Cassey Ho is an award-winning fitness instructor who created Blogilates. A YouTube channel that has literally hundreds of FREE YouTube videos to help you get the toned, tight body you desire. The body you deserve.
I have been doing Blogilates for a several of years now and I absolutely love it. The best part is that she has a variety of short videos you can squeeze in. Even on busy days.
6 Days to Flatter Abs
This is by far my favorite ab workout routine. It is simple, easy to follow and best of all – it works! Find YouTube on your Smart TV, on Roku, your computer, iPad or even your phone. Look up these 3 videos and do them every day for 6 consecutive days, in sequence:
Day one: Extreme Abs
Day two: Extreme Abs 2
Day three: Extreme Abs 3
Repeat in sequence 3 more days.
That’s it. If you’re a beginner and you can’t do the entire workout without resting, that’s okay. Take little rest breaks and then pick up again when you can. Or pause the video and grab a drink of water. Then pick up where you left off. Believe me, if you hang in there and keep doing these ab exercises every day (or most days) you will be able to complete the entire workout before you know it. And you will feel great!
The videos are short and extremely effective. But like Cassey Ho says in Extreme Abs, “You want that body. You want that life. Then you have to work for it.”
For an even faster way to show off your flat abs and tight, toned body try shedding just a couple of pounds. It will help you accentuate your hot bod physique that you’ve been working so hard for. Check out “Zipping It Up: How to lose 5 pounds fast and look great in that little black dress!”
It’s available in select stores and on Amazon in Kindle and print. But don’t buy the book if you’re not going to read it. And do the work. If you want to lose weight, get more fit and have a sexy bikini beach body, you have to do the work.
Like my friend Charlotte did after doing all the things in my book. Here’s what she told me:
“I did all the things in your book and I dropped 2 dress sizes. I am so happy being back in a size six again.” Charlotte S.
If you want that body and you want that life learn more here: I want that body and I want that life!
For even flatter, beach body abs, prevent bloating by drinking tons of water. Check out my yummy recipe for Delicious Detox Water to reduce bloating fast.