self love

Love Yourself to Better Health

Many consider February to be “the month of love.”  We often see pink hearts, chocolates, and romance shooting at us like cupid’s arrow.  It’s important to shed light on another kind of love.  “Self-Love” is something that many put on the back burner but should be exercised often.  No matter the day, month or year.

How many times have you said that you’re too busy to incorporate self-love? There isn’t enough time in the day, your workday is long, the kids and your husband need to come first, the dishes are piling up and the laundry needs to be folded. Do you mention any of these common reasons?

Maybe you have a laundry list of your own. Even though life is busy, it’s still important to incorporate self-love. It’s also important to remind yourself that making self-love a priority is not a selfish act.  If anything, when you exercise self-love, not only will you benefit, but those in your life will benefit as well.

Self-love is a positive regard for your own happiness and well-being.

This type of love leads to increased strength and responsibility, mindfulness, increased productivity, increased self-compassion and decreased stress. Studies have shown that when you practice self-love, you are more likely to engage in activities and a lifestyle that contributes to better nutrition, physical fitness and overall improved health.

When thinking about self-love, two examples spoke volumes to me.  Especially during a time in my life when I was lacking a great deal of self-love and placing everyone else before me. The first is the “airplane instruction” example. When traveling on an airplane, we are taught to place and secure our mask before assisting and caring for others. When I first gave this thought some more detail and depth, I immediately thought it was selfish. Then I began to understand the concept more and definitely now see how much it relates to self-love. Our journey can be quite the education tool and reminder.

The second example is the “you cannot pour from an empty cup” concept.  In relationships and life, women especially find themselves burnt out and exhausted because of constant care and responsibility to others. It’s important to constantly ask yourself, “How full is my cup?” If you’re feeling depleted and burnt out, it’s time to add some self-care and love. Doing so consistently will help to keep your cup full and help you maintain better health and happiness.

It’s important to remember to treat yourself with the same love and compassion that you would show to someone you’re in love with. The more you care for yourself, the better equipped you will be to give back to and empower others. The more you give, the more you will receive in return.

Self-love and self-care are much of the same.  Below are some tips that may help you incorporate self-love in your own life.  I encourage you to try to incorporate at least one act every day.  In time, it will become more natural and you will reap the many benefits. Remember, this may be the month of LOVE, but self-love is something to exercise and embrace all of the time.  You don’t need a large budget or a lot of time. Keep it simple, gentle, and see what works for your own unique, beautiful self.

Tips for Practicing Self-Love:

  1. Practice Gratitude: A daily gratitude journal is a great way to express those things you are grateful for.
  2. Self-Acceptance: No matter where you are on your journey, it’s important to tell yourself, “I am enough.”  There is nobody like you and that’s what makes you so special.
  3. Take Time to Be Alone: Being alone with yourself is important when exercising self-love. Take a relaxing bath, go for a walk by yourself or curl up and read a good book.
  4. Make A List of the Things You Love About Yourself: Too often, the self-sabotaging critic is running crazy in our minds.  Whether it’s the critic or the “business” that keeps us from forgetting, take time often (or daily) to read your list.
  5. Accountability and Support: Exercising self-love can take some work. Especially in the beginning. Creating a support-system you trust or finding an accountability partner could be very beneficial.
  6. Find the Joy in Today: Instead of rehashing or reliving anger and shame from the past, focus on the joys of the present.
  7. Allow Yourself to Dream Big: Is there something you’ve always wanted to do?  Now is a great time to explore without placing limiting beliefs and judgement on yourself.
  8. Find Those Things That Inspire You: Passion, purpose and inspiration are big components of life.  What ignites your spark?  What things can you do to feel inspired?
  9. Nourishment and Movement: Fueling your body with foods that nurture you will not only help you feel better but will empower you to take care of YOU! The same goes for movement.  It doesn’t have to be rigorous exercise.  Find what you like and maybe try something new.
  10. Celebrate Your Success: No matter how big or small your accomplishments are, celebrate them!

Click below for addition tips to:

SLOW DOWN

This month and every month, i encourage you to make time for self care and love.  find what works for you and make it a part of your lifestyle.
 please share this post with anyone that you think may benefit. ❤

xoxo,

kim

Health Benefits of Bison

Bison meat not only provides incredible flavor, but it’s packed with many health benefits too! Over the years, I’ve learned so much about the food industry, the nutrition factor of different foods, how they impact our bodies and health and which products I choose to consume over other options.

Growing up, I was always a huge meat and potatoes kind of girl.  That being said, I now try to limit my consumption of beef.  Especially if it’s not grass fed and humanely treated.  Bison is an incredible alternative to industrial livestock and farming.  Many of the foods which Americans are consuming today.

Health Benefits of Bison #bisonbenefits #bisonhealth #grassfedmeats

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I recently had the opportunity to visit a local Bison farm here in Maryland.  I enjoy visiting farms to meet the farmers and employees, see how the animals are raised and discuss the process from farm to table.  Since visiting Gunpowder Bison in Monkton, I’ve become a loyal customer.  I also love that I can visit the farm or have my items sent to my door when life is a little busy.  My favorites right now are the holiday gift packages.   I love how the gift packages are named after different trails on the farm.  I recommend checking them out. Gift Packages

When considering lean produce options, bison ranks high on my recommendation list.  Compared to other produce options, bison meat provides many nutrients, is lower in fat, has fewer calories and provides incredible flavor.

Grass fed bison is an incredible source of Omega-3’s, Vitamin E and has high levels of CLA.  Conjugated Linoleic Acid is shown to be a fat blocker and anti-carcinogen.  For additional information about bison and its health benefits, go to: https://www.gunpowderbison.com/pages/why-bison

Benefits of Bison

Choosing your bison farm is important because quality counts.  Personally, I choose to support local from a farm that treats their animals well, doesn’t use hormones or chemicals and values quality.  How animals are treated shows in the quality of your food.  I recommend visiting your local farms and talking with the farmers.

This delicious meat comes in a wide variety of cuts and options.  I love ground bison for chili, burgers, meat sauces and other recipes that many are traditionally used to preparing.  Bison steaks are incredibly tender and packed with flavor.  Bison bones have to be one of my favorite choices because I make bone broth every week.  Bone broth is incredible healthy and provides many gut health benefits.  To learn more about bone broth and it’s benefits, hop over to: https://kimwilson.me/homemade-bone-broth-recipe/

If you’re looking for a tasty recipe this holiday season, I highly recommend the Thyme Rubbed Bison Short Ribs below.  When it comes to bison meat, you can’t go wrong.  If you’re new to bison or haven’t tried it before, I encourage you to try this delicious protein option.

 

Thyme Rubbed Bison Short Ribs

Rub:

  • 6 tablespoons finely chopped fresh thyme leaves (from about 1 1/2 bunches)
  • 1/4 cup minced garlic (from about 1 small head)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest (from about 2 medium lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt

Braise:

  • 4 pounds bison short ribs
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, large dice
  • 1 medium fennel head, large dice
  • 1 medium celery stalk, large dice
  • 3 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 1 medium bay leaf
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  1. Heat the oven to 300°F and arrange a rack in the middle.
  2. For the rub: Place all ingredients in a medium bowl and mix until thoroughly combined; set aside.
  3. Braise: Pat ribs dry with a paper towel and cover on both sides with thyme rub. Let meat come to room temperature, about 20 minutes.
  4. When the meat is ready, place a large, shallow pot with a tight-fitting lid over medium heat and add oil. When it starts to shimmer, add ribs and sear until well browned on both sides, about 4 minutes per side (you may have to do this in batches).
  5. Remove ribs to a baking sheet and set aside. Add onion, fennel, and celery to the pot and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender and browned, about 10 minutes. Stir in thyme, bay leaf, and broth, then place ribs bone side up in the pot and bring mixture to a boil.
  6. Once boiling, cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Cook ribs until meat falls apart when pierced with a fork, about 4 hours.

ENJOY!

 

If you’ve tried bison, I welcome your comments or recipe ideas below.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

XOXO,

Kim

 

*Photo and Recipe Credit:  Gunpowder Bison

 

Naturally Cleanse the Immune System

7 Ways to Naturally Cleanse the Immune System

The immune system is designed to work against diseases in your body. It has a resistive power that fights bad bacteria and viruses that can cause illness and sickness. The immune system is designed perfectly, but our negligence towards our health often weakens the system. If it is not properly cared for, it becomes so weak that even small illnesses like the flu or a cough can become severe. The immune system also becomes dirty by fighting too much bacteria. Cleaning is required to make it strong again. There are many ways to clean the immune system and boost its power.

This time of year, the seasons are changing.  We are approaching colder weather, darker days and stress.  The shift in the air often leads to illness, lowered immunity, depression and exhaustion.  Before we know it, the holidays are here.  A time for many to join family and friends, but also a time with added stress and poor nutrition choices.  Boosting and cleansing your immune system, naturally as it’s designed, is a great way to kick off the autumn season on a healthy foot.

7 WAYS TO NATURALLY CLEANSE THE IMMUNE SYSTEM #immunehealth #cleanse

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Here are some of the ways to do it naturally.

1.  Turmeric

Turmeric is a yellowish spice used in many dishes in Asia. It has proven beneficial in the treatment and prevention of many diseases. Very high in anti-toxicants, turmeric helps in fighting against free radical damage. Some studies have shown that an active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, supports the action of B cells, T cells, and natural virus killers in the body. This effect provides support to fight against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Add turmeric to your meals to keep your immune system powerful and clean.

2.  Vitamin D:

Vitamin D is also known as the sunshine vitamin. It helps to keep the immune system clean. Deficiency of Vitamin D results in a weak immune system and health problems. Vitamin D can be directly accessed from the sunlight but sun exposure has its own risks, so vitamin supplements are preferred. They are easily available and can be taken daily with no side effects. Vitamin D3 is preferred over D2.

3.  Beetroot:

Beetroot is a reddish vegetable with a lot of benefits for the immune system. It helps to restore your body’s PH balance with minerals like iron, calcium, zinc, and magnesium. These minerals have very strong detoxifying properties. The high content of pectin and betaine found in beetroot also works as an anti-toxicant against bacteria.

4.  Colloidal silver:

Colloidal silver has a history of cleaning uses. It has been used as a water purifier and to clean wounds and medical equipment. There is concern that colloidal silver is bad for skin and health because it turns the body bluish-gray. This is due to a substance called argyria. But argyria is actually a result of silver abuse and excess consumption. Colloidal silver is best for the purification of an immune system but should be taken in very small doses. “Silver Fuzion” is most recommended.

5.  A mixture of apple and ginger:

The combination of apple and ginger helps to clean the body. The best thing is that it is very easy to prepare and store. Combine eight ounces of organic or freshly pressed apple with one teaspoon of ginger. Mix them with a small amount of husk in it or blend it.

6.  Green tea:

Green tea can cleanse your immune system and make your skin fresh. It is tasty and can be made easily. It has many anti-toxicants that help to flush toxins from your body. In addition, green tea is rich in catechins that improve liver function.

7.  Lemonade Cleanser:

Lemon has natural cleansing properties. Although consuming lemon directly is slightly unpleasant, you can easily make a natural, healthy lemonade. Combine four tablespoons of lemon juice, a half teaspoon of maple syrup, and a half teaspoon of pepper in a ten ounces glass of water. Mix well. Drink it daily and you’ll notice a change in your immune system.

 

What are some natural ways that you like to boost your immune system and health?  I welcome your comments below.

Please share this post with anyone you know who may benefit.

Wishing you health and happiness,

Kim

A Season for Change

If you’re like many people (including myself), the summer season was a busy one. Summer is filled with cookouts, vacations, time with friends and family, longer nights, and creating memories. It may have also included choices that didn’t serve you as well. You may feel like it was a busy time of the year and you’re missing some rest and relaxation. Are you feeling stressed or lacking balance? I know that I’ve been feeling the need for change as I move into the fall months.

The autumn season is one of the best times of the year for cleansing and taking authority in life. When I say “cleansing,” I am not referring to a plant-based, drink-only cleanse. The term cleansing (or detoxification) can refer to many things.

A Season for Change #cleanse #fullmoon #autumnharvest #detox

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In my own personal life, I have taken a strong look, especially over the past year, at things, choices, and people that are not serving me well. I’ve considered food choices, toxic relationships, negative thoughts, choices I have made, goals I have set, and options for what I want to see in the future. Have you thought about what may or may not be serving you well and helping you thrive?

With the full moon in Aries just passed on October 5, Aries inspires us to strive and thrive despite any struggles we may be experiencing. The energy is about finding independence, trusting yourself as you move forward, and finding power. The energy from the full moon will help us to use our power from a place of heart rather than ego.

This is a great time to reflect on where you’ve been, what changes you want to make, and how you will choose to move forward.

I am a small-town girl and I love so much about the country. When I think of autumn, I often think of the harvest season. I think of planting seeds and new beginnings. Ways that those seeds can be nourished for growth. When you think about moving forward into the autumn season, I encourage you to think about seeds you can plant and how you can help them grow in your own life, whether they pertain to you personally or to others in your life.

As women, it’s very important to take care of ourselves but also to support and lift up those around us.

As your body prepares for a stressful holiday season and colder weather, it’s important to consider ways to nourish your body, ramp up self-love, and practice stress management. Allergies are higher and the immune system can become more susceptible to illness and exhaustion. Seasonal eating helps to not only nourish the body but also give it what it wants as the season transitions.

Pumpkins, squash, sweet potatoes, apples, and pomegranates are all wonderful fall favorites. Not only are they delicious, but they also pack many health benefits, especially when paired with lean meats and healthy fats. Limiting processed foods, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol will help you thrive through the autumn season. Sufficient sleep and personal care will not only benefit your body and mind but also help you as we approach the holidays. One of my favorites is an Epsom salt bath with lavender oil drops. It’s important to figure out what works for your own unique beautiful self.

Toxicity comes in many forms. Consider the foods you are eating, the relationships in your life, stress, environmental factors, and negative thoughts. Look at the level of fulfillment in your career and things you’ve always wanted to do but never tried. This is your time to focus on the positive energy of change. It’s a great time to start fresh, feel empowered, and do what makes you feel healthy and happy.

As the leaves change colors and fall, look at ways you can shed some old and allow for new growth. What changes can you make in your own life to help you thrive?

 

 

Setting Intentions

Setting Intentions: 5 Tips to Create a Positive Change

Setting intentions can have a powerful impact on our lives.  As we begin a new month, we are given the opportunity for a new mindset, new results, a fresh start and new intentions.

Intentions are things that we plan to do or achieve.  They help us create our own reality and guide us towards who we want to be and what we desire to do.  Even though they are similar, intentions are different from goals.  When you set a goal, a plan and destination is established.  This usually creates a timeline, expectations and steps to achieve that goal.  When setting intentions, it’s similar to a goal but you don’t have a plan or course of action.  There isn’t pressure to achieve that destination.  You’re creating an intention for what you want and leave the rest up to the universe.  It’s about the journey, not about the destination.

Declare exactly what you want because the universe responds to clarity. 

Setting Intentions: 5 Tips to Create a Positive Change #intentions #holistichealth #setintentions

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Intentions are a wonderful way to help you stay focused and committed to what matters.  Using your intentions for motivation will help the most when you’re feeling down and unmotivated.  As we grow and change, our intentions may do the same.  There are several things to consider when creating intentions.

 

1.  EVALUATE YOUR CURRENT SITUATION

As you evaluate your current situation, it’s important to settle into a place of non-judgement and unconditional love.  Think about your life at this moment.  Are you satisfied with your career and relationships?  Think about how you may feel if things were different.  Are you feeling a desire towards change in other areas of your life?  Write down your thoughts about your health, happiness, relationships, spirituality, career and self love.  Do you see areas where change or improvement may help?

2.  be clear with what you want  

As I mentioned before, the universe responds to clarity.  Focus on setting intentions that are easy to understand.  Avoid things that may be confusing, vague or have different meanings.  For example, steer away from things like, “I want a more fulfilling life.”  That can mean a lot of things.  What does a fulfilling life mean to you?  What does it look like?  Practicing visualization techniques or creating a vision board may help bring clarity.

3. Practice gratitude

Gratitude is an amazing, incredible force.  One that can expand our happiness, create better relationships and enhance our health.  What are you grateful for?  Are you practicing gratitude on a daily basis?

Finding meaning and joy in our own lives can help with great inner transformation.  There are many ways to practice gratitude.  When you wake up in the morning, write down three people that you will kindly reach out to that day.  Before you go to bed, make a list of things you’re grateful for.  Writing thank you cards and hand written notes to others is another way to express gratitude.  Not only will these selfless acts inspire and warm others, it will contribute to your own health and happiness as well.  Who knows, you may have some new discoveries and intentions along the way.

4.  declare your intentions out loud

Whether you say them to a friend, your loved one or yourself, voicing your intentions out loud will help you fulfill them.  Stretch your imagination and take note of your feelings during and after expression.  As the words and ideas come together, an amazing energy will be formed.

5.  leave the details up to the universe

Have you ever wanted something before and found yourself disappointed or unhappy because it didn’t happen or you didn’t get it?  Only to later discover that something more amazing crossed your path.  This has happened to me many times and I’ve found the experience to be pretty incredible.

Sometimes we put so much energy and control into things that we want to go a certain way.  Things that may not be the best thing for us or that may keep us from experiencing something even greater.  When you set your intentions, have faith that incredible things will happen.  If you’re feeling a lack of spirituality and faith, nurture this area.  It will help bring positive energy and confidence that things will work out as they are supposed to.  The universe has an incredible way of making things happen.  Especially when you declare good intentions.

 

do you set intentions in your own life?  i welcome any comments or feedback below.  writing down intentions can be very powerful.  for a copy of my free “intentions sheet,” click on the link below.

Free Sheet

“Intentions compressed into words enfold magical power.”
~Deepak Chopra

 

XOXO,

KIM