Tag Archives: #ShalomTotalWellness

Antibiotics, Gut Health

Top 5 Natural Antibiotics

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Antibiotic use, or perhaps I should say overuse, causes catastrophic damage to the health of an individual. What one may think of as a “quick fix” may cause a short-term remission of infection. However, the eventual long-term damage is far more distressing, often overlooked, and points to the original problem – compromised gut health.

 Prescription strength antibiotics will indeed wipe out the bad bacteria (infection), that one is facing, but they are nondiscriminatory and wipe out good bacteria as well. This leaves one more open to allergic reactions, auto-immune distress and all sorts of maladies that would have naturally been prevented if the microbiome, of the individual, had not been tampered with.

The bacteria, in our gut, is our first defense against sickness and disease. When we don’t take care of the bacteria, we lose that protective barrier.

One way to protect gut bacteria is to avoid taking prescription strength antibiotics. If you do find yourself with an infection, internal or external, before turning to prescription strength medication, consider trying one of the natural substances that Creator God has blessed us with.

There are many options, readily available to us, found within nature. These God given antibiotics won’t wipe out good bacteria and will give your immune system a boost in the process.

 BLACK SEED OIL

Touted as the “cure for everything except death”, black seed oil (Nigella sativa) is a powerful ally against many physical maladies, including internal and external infections. It also works to speed up healing.

In fact, research shows that black seed oil can even be used against “super bugs” – infections that are antibiotic resistant.

As with any oil, used therapeutically or to cook with, black seed oil must be purchased in an organic, raw and “cold pressed” state. When an oil is created using a pressing method that utilizes heat, it creates free radicals and can cause more harm than good, when consumed.

*Caution: Due to its tendency to burn the throat, you may want to add the black seed oil to some juice, and then swallow. I would recommend against taking on an empty stomach.

COLLOIDAL SILVER

Used as far back as ancient Greco Roman times, solid silver has long been known as a very effective healing substance. In modern times, silver has been used in colloidal form which simply means that it has been broken down into very small particles and is now suspended in a different matter, or liquid.

Once in the presence of colloidal silver, single-cell bacteria (such as fungus, some infections and viruses) are destroyed. The silver literally chokes out the enzymes that feed single-cell bacteria, thus starving out the bacteria and killing them.

Another major benefit of using silver, as a natural antibiotic, is that it leaves good bacteria alone – unlike prescription antibiotic drugs. This is good news for the times we’re living in, where over[1]usage of prescription strength antibiotics has created infections that no longer respond to modern drugs.

Colloidal silver is a secret weapon that more people are waking up to. It can be used to help benefit many illnesses and is seen as being safe enough for internal, as well as external use. Some people use it for its immune system boosting effects during what is known as cold and flu season.

Colloidal silver gets a bad rap among some health professionals. As always, research the benefits, as well as risks, in order to make your own informed decision.

 GARLIC

Fresh, raw, garlic in its natural form should be crushed and then left alone to sit for 10 minutes in order to allow the potency to surface. Just remember that cooking the actual garlic or heating it up to any degree, will destroy the active ingredient in garlic – allicin – which will, in turn, take away the healing properties.

For internal infection, garlic can be chewed and swallowed directly or chopped and then added to liquids, honey, or food, and then consumed. A therapeutic dose should contain at least 4 garlic cloves at a time. For serious infection, consider consuming a therapeutic dose, twice a day.

Garlic can be used for external infections as well. Once again, fresh, raw garlic should be crushed and then set aside for 10 minutes to allow the allicin to come to its maximum potency. Then the garlic can be directly added to honey, or coconut oil, and then applied to the affected area of skin. This would also work with combating fungal infections. Use this method of application twice a day until the skin clears up.

As a side note, garlic also helps stimulate cancer fighting cells. It’s truly a powerhouse of health benefits!

*Caution: To avoid an upset stomach, do not take garlic on an empty stomach. Since garlic is so strong, it’s possible that it may kill some of the healthy bacteria in the gut. Supplementing with probiotics will help insure this will not be a problem.

OREGANO OIL

This well-known remedy has been around for centuries and is just as effective, against coughs, colds, and infections as it is old. Its active ingredient, carvacrol, is what causes oregano oil to be so powerful against harmful bacteria, making it another one of nature’s antibiotics.

For internal use, add oregano oil to a carrier oil such as coconut oil or grape seed oil, before ingestion. This cuts back on potential stomach upset as well as dilutes the strong flavor that is characteristic of this oil.

Oregano oil can also be used externally for psoriasis and fungal infection. In order to stave off burning, or irritation, oregano oil ought to be diluted with a carrier oil before placing on the affected areas. Avoid placing oil on open scrapes and wounds.

Oregano oil can also be deeply inhaled, or used in a steam inhalation, to help break up congestion, mucus, and bring overall relief from sinus infections, colds, and flu.

 *Strong Warning: Pregnant women, and women who are trying to conceive, are advised against using oregano oil due to its emmenagogue properties, meaning that it may induce menstruation which can harm the fetus. The therapeutic use of oregano oil is not recommended for infants, children or nursing women. Those with a heart condition, or high blood pressure, should avoid oregano oil use or, at least, consult their physician or natural healthcare practitioner before use.

RAW HONEY

Perhaps the most delicious antibiotic that nature yields is raw honey. In order to receive its therapeutic properties, honey must be labeled “organic”, “raw” or “unpasteurized”, and preferably, “local”.

The location where the honey has been gathered determines the specific ingredients found within the honey. It can even be said that relief for seasonal allergies can be found when one consumes the raw honey that has been gathered from bees that live, locally, to the allergy sufferer.

Raw honey contains an enzyme called glucose oxidase. This enzyme produces a natural form of hydrogen peroxide – a substance that has antibacterial properties. This makes raw honey an excellent option in terms of cleansing skin wounds and preventing infection.

One of the benefits of using raw honey, on external skin infections and wounds, is that it won’t sting or irritate the skin.

Raw honey can be consumed to help soothe a sore throat, boost energy, aid in digestive issues and improve immune health. Raw honey also has anti-inflammatory properties and, when combined with cinnamon, may provide relief to those who suffer from painful joints.

 *Strong Warning: Raw honey should never be given to infants due to the possibility that it could induce botulism. People who are insulin resistant ought to avoid, or take caution, when consuming honey.

Our bodies respond best to things that they recognize – plants, herbs, minerals. This connects us more deeply to Creator. This type of co-creating brings about the health and healing that we need. Besides that, it is incredibly empowering to walk away from pharmaceuticals and the systems of the world!

Shalom to you,

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.”
-3 John 1:2

References:

1) Salman, Mohd Tariq & Khan, Rahat & Shukla, Indu. (2008). Antimicrobial activity of Nigella sativa Linn. seed oil against multi-drug resistant bacteria from clinical isolates. Nat. Prod. Radiance. 7.

2) Nicastro, H., Ross, S., and J. Milner. Garlic and onions: Their cancer prevention properties. Cancer Prevention Research. 2015. 8(3):181-189

Excerpts of this blog were taken from the book Shalom Total Wellness: Biblical Principles for Health & Healing by Dr. Sheli Ricci. Available on amazon, scribd, and barnesandnoble.com.
Encouragement

The Wilderness Season

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Thoughts on The Wilderness: No one, or at least very few of us, wakes up with the goal of spending time in the wilderness. We prefer comfort. We like our niceties. Growth sounds good but who wants messy?

Like the Hebrews, of old, it may take a move of GOD to even get us out there. Like Yeshua (Jesus), it may take the Holy Spirit’s leading. And so, on faith, we go…

…and once we’re there, reality sets in. It’s a wild place full of much less than what we once had. Uncertainty sets in. It’s narrow here. It’s constricting. There’s nowhere no run to and nowhere to hide. We can’t go back to the life we once knew. No map has been provided for our journey. We’re not sure how we’ll get out of this.

But we do have a guide. His Name is Yeshua (Jesus). In the wilderness, we learn to receive His love in a new way. All other voices become background noise as His Voice becomes the Only One we hear. His direction becomes clearer than what we see around us.

He’s with us. He’s taking us through the heat. He’s shielding us from the elements. He’s teaching us His ways. We’re learning how to love. We’re learning how to live. He’s sending the manna and the quail. We’re learning when to move and when to rest.

These things don’t always happen as effectively when in the city or in the town or when surrounded by community. But in the wilderness the necessary becomes the real. We have no other option but to cling to our Good Shepherd.

This is where real growth happens. Ashes are exchanged for beauty. We learn how to fight the giants. Preparations are being made for us to take the land.

“The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.

2 It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God.

3 Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.

4 Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence; he will come and save you.

5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.

6 Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.

7 And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes.

8 And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.

9 No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there:

10 And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” -Isaiah 35:1-10 (KJV)

In this dry and lonely land, we are being strengthened. We are being refined. Champions are being born. Victory is imminent. There’s no room for fear. Our tongues only speak faith.
Look for the flowers while in this wilderness. There may not be entire fields of them. But they can be found. This is where we become FREE.

Shalom to you,

NEWSFLASH, Uncategorized

SHALOM TOTAL WELLNESS BOOK IS OUT NOW!

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Hooray! My first solo book is finally out, friends!

My goal, with Shalom Total Wellness: Biblical Principles for Health & Healing, was to make it accessible enough for someone completely new to natural health, but fresh enough for someone who has been into natural health for years.

As per the usual, I approach everything through the lens of biblical truth. You might be surprised to hear that the Bible has a lot to say on the topic of health and healing!

I also did something that I don’t do very often. I shared some of my personal journey with health struggles. Yes, I got vulnerable.

I’d be honored for you to consider reading Shalom Total Wellness: Biblical Principles for Health & Healing. It was listed as the #1 New Release in the Naturopathy category, and made the Best Seller list, on amazon! Currently, it is steadily remaining in the top 7 New Releases, for both kindle and paperback versions (in the Naturopathy category) on amazon. Thank you for being part of the journey!

Here’s where to find it:

Paperback version: https://www.amazon.com/Shalom-Total-Wellness-Biblical-Principles/dp/B0B28FPVCN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1938MQE6DZUIU&keywords=shalom+total+wellness&qid=1654104518&sprefix=%2Caps%2C71&sr=8-1

Kindle version: https://www.amazon.com/Shalom-Total-Wellness-Biblical-Principles-ebook/dp/B0B26KJ4ZK/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1654104518&sr=8-1

NOOK Book (eBook): https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/shalomtotal-wellness-dr-sheli-ricci/1141514657?ean=2940166341563

SCRIBD (eBook): https://www.scribd.com/book/575493614/ShalomTotal-Wellness-Biblical-Principles-for-Health-Healing

If you happen to pick up a copy, and feel led to leave a review, that would be wonderful. I’d love to hear how this book is being received!

Shalom to you,

COVID19, Uncategorized

Natural Health Approaches to Covid Related Illnesses

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My initial opinion about the C-V virus was that it was all hype or perhaps even a hoax. My belief remains intact concerning the actual virus. It was a cold with respiratory symptoms, for most. Sadly, for a select few with pre-existing conditions, and/or serious Vitamin D deficiency, it proved more serious – even deadly for some. But for most, it was a mild illness that lasted a few days and then passed.

However, the actual “C-V 19” VIRUS is very different than the illness that many are experiencing now. If you’re wondering why some people have a harder time than others with this illness, why some have had “it” more than once, etc…this is due to the genetic transference that is being spread by those who are getting jabbed.

The virus is NOT the “vaccine”. I REPEAT: the virus is NOT the “vaccine”! These injections are not even working like typical vaccines do. These C-V injections are genetic modifiers that have not been tested and fully researched.

“Emergency Authorization” = EXPERIMENTAL AUTHORIZATION

What is happening now, with the C-V injections, IS the experiment. This means that it is very possible for some to receive saline injection (placebo), a heavier dosage, or lesser dosage than others.

Ingredients of each C-V injection includes at least 50 Billion sp*ke proteins, fetal cells. graphene oxide (think tiny razor blades within black goo), and 3 retroviruses (including HIV) to name a few. Sadly, just coming in contact with someone who has this in their system can cause genetic transference to the un-injected individual.

Vitamins can help strengthen your immune system, and must be a major part of your personal arsenal for prevention of C-V related illness. But merely stating that Vitamin D is always the answer is too simplistic. We’re not dealing with a regular flu, at this point. Remember, the “vaccine” is NOT the virus. Whether you end up getting vaccinated, or not, at some point you may end up in a potential genetic transference situation with close contact with someone who has been jabbed.

Thankfully, we are not left helpless in this trying time. There are several different natural substances that can help combat the genetic transference. If you doubt that something natural can help combat genetic transference from a bio-weapon, I understand. This doubt comes from a lack of understanding concerning how we were originally created.

We were created from the dust of the earth – by GOD. And it is the natural substances, from the earth, that our bodies recognize and respond best to. It does not take a pummeling from man-made chemicals or GMO injections to get us back into a state of health.

In the end, I know that most of us really are trying to do our best with what is a very difficult situation. Below, I have listed several natural substances that can help combat the genetic transference C-V.

DANDELION

GOD, in His infinite wisdom, placed within many of our backyards, something that we commonly refer to as a “weed”. This “weed” has within it the properties needed to UNDOCK sp*ke protein. Yes, DANDELION is your first line of defense against sp*ke protein!

This info is based on research that has found that common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) blocks the interaction between ACE2 receptors and sp*ke protein. We all have ACE2 receptors in our bodies and the sp*ke proteins are encoded to attach and attack them. This is why people who take statins, or medication that inhibits ACE2 receptors (many elderly), have had more serious reactions (even deadly sometimes) …bc if the natural ability of their ACE2 receptors is being inhibited then their immune system’s ability to fight off the sp*ike proteins is severely weakened.

See Link for More Evidence: Common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) efficiently blocks the interaction between ACE2 cell surface receptor and SARS-CoV-2 spike protein D614, mutants D614G, N501Y, K417N and E484K in vitro | bioRxiv

SURAMIN (PINE NEEDLES)

Suramin is found in pine needles. According to Dr. Judi Mikovits, suramin is the antidote for the C-V “vaccine”. It works by inhibiting the coagulation (“clotting”) aspect as well as the inappropriate replication of DNA and RNA, in particular.

Pine needles also give an incredible boost of energy and immune support. The suggested mode of ingestion is via hot tea (5 grams of dried, or fresh, pine needles to one cup of water). Keep the used pine needles after your first cup to be used again a second time. If you are dealing with a strong genetic transference response to C-V, you could drink up to 3 to 6 cups a day. Use your own discernment.

As a precaution, only drink half a cup the first time in order to make sure that you don’t have any allergic reactions. For the most part, pine needle tea is safe for everyone but be wise and cautious until you know, for sure, how your body responds.

I do not recommend going out and harvesting your own pine needles, unless you really know what you are looking for, as some varieties are toxic. Once again, please do your own prayerful research on this topic, first.

*Caution: pregnant women are not encouraged to consume pine needle tea.

See Links for More Evidence:

100% Natural Non-GMO Organic Dried Pine Needle Tea | 1.09 lb. [500 grams] 1 Month Supply – Holisticgear

Structural basis for repurposing a 100-years-old drug suramin for treating COVID-19 | bioRxiv

STAR ANISE

For my Female Friends: Star Anise has within it something called shikimic acid. This acid helps to combat spike protein.

The spike protein, whether from the virus, or genetic transference from someone who’s been jabbed, tends to gravitate to, and attack the ovaries, in particular. This is why I recommend women check out star anise. It has hormonal properties that have been helpful in regards to C-V related menstrual irregularities. It can be used in tincture, hot tea or even powder form.

It does have a pretty strong flavor (like black licorice some say) but it may be worth pushing thru! Do not use Japanese star anise as it can be toxic. As always, I recommend you do your own research to decide if it is safe for you, first.

See Links for More Evidence:

Antidote for Spike Proteins & COVID19 Vaccination? Fennel, Star Anise, Shikimic acid, Pine Tree Needle Turpentine & NANO SOMA – Survive the News

Anise: Benefits, Side Effects, and Preparations (verywellhealth.com)

Star Anise Extract: Benefits, Side Effects & Dosage | BulkSupplements.com

QUININE

You may have heard of the positive effects of the drugs, hydrochloroquine (HCQ) and chloroquine (CQ) in relation to combatting C-V 19. They are both chemically derived versions of natural quinine. My approach is to go to the natural source.

Quinine is a powerful anti-viral and has been used to fight off malaria for years. It’s anti-inflammatory properties have lent to it’s favorable history with treating rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

Studies show that HCQ/CQ have a synergistic effect on the cells to modulate immune activity to guide the immune system into an anti-viral state. HCQ/CQ have also been found to reduce the amount of time that one has C-V 19 as well as inhibits the potential for pneumonia to take hold.

Clinical trials have also shown that HCQ/CQ can reduce the risk of death among those who are hospitalized with C-V 19.

It goes without saying that quinine is a heavy hitter when it comes to combating C-V 19 related illness, and something highly worth checking into.

See Links for More Evidence:

Hydroxychloroquine/Chloroquine as Therapeutics for COVID-19: Truth under the Mystery (nih.gov)

20-Week Study of Clinical Outcomes of Over-the-Counter COVID-19 Prophylaxis and Treatment (nih.gov)

Quinine: The Tonic for COVID-19? – Penn Medicine

I pray this information is helpful to you. We do not operate in a spirit of fear but it is time to get educated so that you can be aware, and ready, in case your household gets hit. Be empowered by the fact that there are natural approaches to C-V19 and the genetic transference that is rapidly occurring. What we are experiencing is no surprise to our ABBA Father. He has provided a way for us!

This is not a complete protocol or medical advice. These are my opinions. Before making any decisions, please do your own prayerful research and seek the opinion of your natural healthcare professional.

Shalom!

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” 3 John 1:2

Emotional Health, Peace, worry

The thinking solution: simple steps to become worry-free

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Has anyone ever referred to you as a worrier or said that you over-think? It’s true that people who tend to worry also tend to be “over thinkers”. Now, I’m not a fan of the term ‘over thinker’ (or ‘worrier’). However, I do believe that this terminology points out a general truth: the truth being that those who worry are usually people who have amazing thinking capabilities.

After all, in order to begin the worry process (in regards to a situation) one must think over different (frightening) scenarios that could possibly go wrong. It’s a vicious cycle. But the point I want to make is that due to your amazingly strong thinking capabilities — it may be thinking that will help get you out of that vicious cycle of worry.

Below, is an exercise that I like to refer to as “The Thinking Solution”.

The goals of this exercise are: to choose a (positive truth) thought over a (negative) thought; to give all cares and worries over to GOD; and to stop the habit of worry and to begin the habit of inner peace.

Step 1: When you feel worry coming over you, STOP, and ask yourself….

Step 2: What are you worried about? Name “it” (bills, the future, physical health, etc) and then ask yourself….

Step 3: Is there anything that I can DO to help improve “it” right now? If there is, then do what you can today. Then tell yourself that you have done all you can, for now, and then let “it” go. If there is nothing that you can do today, then tell yourself that and then let “it” go.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.“ – Philippians 4:6-7

Step 4: Invite GOD to be part of your decision to “let it go” …tell Him your concerns and picture yourself placing your cares in His arms …leaving them with Him. You can trust Him. He is FULLY capable!

“Cast your burden on the Lord,
And He shall sustain you;
He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.” – Psalm 55:22

Step 5: If the negative thought/worry pops up again, ask yourself something along the lines of: “what if ‘it” goes well instead of goes wrong?”. Remind yourself that you’ve placed your cares into the arms of GOD and choose to “let it go” again.

“Now may the Lord of shalom himself give you shalom always in all ways. The Lord be with all of you.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:16

Decide to enlist your amazing thinking capabilities to work for you rather than against you. The habitual thought pattern, of worry, usually does not happen overnight to an individual. It may take years to cultivate the worry-fear loop that so many of us get stuck in.

So be patient with yourself as your begin the new thought pattern of peace and trust. It may take time. But it will most certainly be worth it. When you choose shalom over worry and fear, your mind, body & spirit will thank you!

Shalom to you,

Click here for more ways to regain peace: https://shalomtotalwellness.com/2020/03/27/how-self-awareness-can-lead-to-peace/

Encouragement

a divine release is coming: a word of encouragement

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For those who feel they’ve been holding their breath due to present circumstances….a Divine Release is coming.

For those still mourning past circumstances…a Divine Release is coming.

For those who are afraid of what the future may hold…a Divine Release is coming.

For those who’ve felt bound by relational fears, and unholy ties….a Divine Release is coming.

For those who are waiting alone, in the secret place….a Divine Release is coming.

For those who feel as though life has them in a holding pattern….a Divine Release is coming.

For those who have been rejected by those who you treated with nothing but kindness and even showed restraint towards….a Divine Release is coming.

For those who have shed tears, cried out, and grieved over the current state of your family/nation/other nations/the church…a Divine Release is coming.

For those who have been stung by those who preach against stinging, judged by those who preach against judging, or rejected by those who preach inclusion….a Divine Release is coming.

For those who have a heavy heart and may not even know why….a Divine Release is coming.

Just as Noah sent out a raven, and then a dove, to find a dry, resting place, you have lovingly sent out your shalom to others. With great depth of sadness, your “raven” and your “dove” returned to you as there were very few – and perhaps none – that would receive the shalom that you offered. (see Genesis 8:6-11)

Many have no room for the shalom that GOD offers because they are too busy leaning on their own understanding. As a result, their hearts and minds have been left unguarded and open to the spirits of manipulation and control. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

But just as Noah – once again- sent out another dove to find a dry, resting place, there will be a time when you too will – once again- send out your shalom and it will be received by others. (Genesis 8:12)

Until then, do not be grieved when others refuse the shalom you offer. Freewill is given to all and just as the shalom of YHWH is freely given, it can freely be refused. GOD, Himself, will see that you, yourself, will receive that which you so lovingly attempted to share with others.

The painful scenarios you have experienced may cause you to feel that you have lost out. But the truth is – you have lost nothing and those things you feel you’ve lost will return to you! “Whenever you enter a house, first say, ‘Shalom!’ to the household. If a seeker of shalom is there, your ‘Shalom!’ will find its rest with him; and if there isn’t, it will return to you.” (Luke 10:5-6)

Just as YHWH commands all debts to be forgiven, and released every 7 years (known as the Jubilee Year) you, too, have a personal “Jubilee” just around the corner. A time that will astonish even the greatest of skeptics and scoffers.

Things may appear to get worse sooner than later. But remember, appearances can be deceiving.

As the winds of change blow, the spiritual atmosphere may become more tense because (after all) you’re in the midst of a spiritual battle.

Do not give into despair. Hold on, dear friends, and praise YHWH ahead of time for the good things that are on their way….a Divine Release is coming!

Shalom to you!

joy, Spiritual Health

how to ACTIVATE JOY

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There are many things in life that are beyond our control. Pain, loss, and difficult circumstances come to us all. That old adage of how “you can’t control others, but you can control how you respond to others” is very true. This can be applied, not only to people, but to other areas of our lives, as well.

The year 2020 is a perfect example. Oh yes, this year will go down in the history books as being one of the most difficult years – world wide! With bad news seemingly coming at us from every angle, sadly, it is no wonder that suicide and depression is on the rise.

However, it doesn’t always take catastrophic news, hitting us from every angle, to lose our joy. In fact, for many, joy seems to have been out of reach for the majority of our lives. There are people who only experience joy on “special occasions” like when they’re vacationing, spending money, eating, etc. This will cause the person to go to great lengths to seek the next “high”. Of course, this isn’t authentic joy…this is a temporary happiness caused by external pleasure.

The truth is that joy comes from the inside and not from ideal circumstances or external pleasures.

If you’re not sure how to lean into a life of joy then there is good news! You don’t have to wait for joy to jump on you – you can activate it! Being joyful is just like everything else – it takes practice and being purposeful in order to achieve it.

Below are 3 Simple Ways to Activate JOY:

(1) Look for the Simple Beauty in Life. No matter how ugly you may feel things are, there is always something beautiful to celebrate. Remember when you used to pick wildflowers, or draw pictures, as a child? You thought they were so pretty and couldn’t wait to share them with someone else! Well, you don’t need a dozen roses and a picture to post, on social media, in order to find joy in beauty.

Beauty isn’t always this enormous (or expensive) display. It can be found almost anywhere including within the mundane of routine. Tap into the wonderment of seeing beauty in the simple things, of life, again…..and joy will follow.

(2) Be Present. It’s easy to get distracted when you are facing difficult circumstances. In fact, you could be sitting in a comfortable room, surrounded by people who love you, but if your mind is focused elsewhere then you will miss the moment. Allow your body to feel the comfort of the room. Look your loved ones in the eye and listen to them, share with them, and appreciate the time you have.

Sadly, we don’t all have the gift of a comfortable room or a bunch of loved ones, in our lives. But we can all partake in cozy occasions. Make space, in your life, for those things that bring you comfort (a favorite meal, a cup of tea, a soft blanket, a nap, etc.) and thoroughly relish the time spent with those things. Life may not be a constant laugh fest but it can be full of wonderful moments. You can decide what to focus on, choose to be present…and joy will follow.

(3) Focus on Strength Rather than “Happiness”. As strange as it may sound, being happy is overrated. I’m not saying that sadness is better by any means. But know this: happiness is temporary and is usually dependent on external circumstances. Happiness is a butterfly that flits here and there but never stays. Rather than placing so much attention on being “happy”, focus more on being a person of inner strength.

Please don’t misunderstand me here. I am not saying that if you lack joy, then you’re “weak”. What I’m saying is that chasing after happiness is a pursuit in folly because, once found, it will not last.

The root of JOY is STRENGTH, not happiness.

It is strength that determines what your focus in life will be. It is a person of strong character that refuses to give up. When outward circumstances turn sour, you can always tap into strength to keep you going. In fact. Nehemiah 8:10 tells us that the joy of the LORD is our strength!

If you feel lacking in the inner strength department, do not despair. All good things come from our Heavenly Father and it is His strength, working through us, that we lean into.

Pursue strength… and joy will follow.

Shalom,