The Bledsoe Firm - September 2024

W ord S earch

Mental Refresh

Abundant

Apples

HEALTHY WAYS TO CLEAR YOUR MIND

Cookout

Crunchy

Fall

Golden

Keeping an organized home can help you with stress. When things are clear and tidy, you can find what you need easily, and the clean environment provides relief. Your mind is much the same way. A cluttered mind is less capable and more prone to becoming lost or overwhelmed than a clear mind. Stress, anxiety, and negative thoughts can compound, preventing you from accomplishing your goals and leaving your conscious brain cluttered. These are some proactive steps you can take to help clear your mind and mitigate those negative mental influences. MEDITATION Rather than running away from our thoughts and feelings, it is often best to face them head-on. Meditation can help you focus, de-stress, and improve your cognitive functioning. In order to meditate, you should sit comfortably in a peaceful, quiet environment. Then, focus on your breathing — in through your nose, out through your mouth — and try to keep your mind clear of thoughts. When thoughts do cross your mind, acknowledge them without giving in to the emotions they aim to provoke. You should start by meditating at least a few minutes a day, and then increase the duration as you feel comfortable. Meditation is like a muscle: The more you do it, the stronger it gets. JOURNALING Jotting down your thoughts, feelings, and creative inklings in a journal, for at least five minutes per day, can help you work through your problems, anxieties, and stressors. It allows you to identify your negative thoughts and behaviors, and to make tangible changes in order to correct them. Make sure to keep your journal and writing utensil close by, so that journaling is as convenient as possible. Your journal is your space to write, or draw, whatever comes to mind. Use it as best suits you. EXERCISE Being physically active has benefits for your mental and physical health. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are your brain’s way of cheering you up. Furthermore, it can help reduce the symptoms of stress, as well as relax you. Think of it as mobile meditation: a way to clear your mind while burning calories.

Grandparents

Harvest

Labor

Maple

Sports

Windy

Inspired by Simple-Veganista.com

Perfect Curried Chickpea Salad

This simple curried chickpea salad is the perfect school lunch on the go or quick meal. Enjoy it on your favorite bread for a delicious sandwich or over healthy greens.

INGREDIENTS •

1/2 cup vegan mayo

1 cup sliced green onions 1/2 cup raisins or chopped dates

1 tbsp curry powder

3/4 tsp garlic powder

2 cans chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained

1/2 cup cashews

Juice of 1 lemon

1 cup diced carrots

Salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS 1. In a bowl, combine mayo, curry, and garlic powder. Blend and set aside. 2. In a separate bowl, add chickpeas and mash about half the beans with a fork or masher. 3. Add carrots, green onion, raisins or dates, and cashews. 4. Mix with curry dressing and add lemon juice. Mix well and add salt and pepper to taste. 5. Serve on a bed of greens or a bread of your choice.

3

JustFamilyLaw.com | 949.363.5551

Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator