by Tracey Payton | Jan 18, 2024 | Self Care Toolbox

My Movement Journey

‘Tis the season for resolutions, fresh goals, and that ever-optimistic “new year, new me” spirit. Now, don’t get me wrong—I love the enthusiasm everyone brings to this time of year. However, after numerous years of setting resolutions and making goals, I decided to take a different approach this time around.

In the past, I’ve meticulously crafted resolutions for every facet of my life—health, career, relationships, friendships, self-care—the list goes on. Yet, like many others, by February 1, I found myself burnt out from trying to achieve the myriad goals I had set.

So, for 2024, I made a conscious decision to forgo the multitude of resolutions and goals. Instead, I committed to just two that would hold profound significance and make a substantial impact on my life—one professional and one personal.

My personal goal is to walk an organized 5K every quarter, aiming to complete it in under an hour. Now, some may find this daunting, but that’s precisely why it’s my personal challenge. I’m sharing this goal with you as part of my journey to unity and wholesomeness.

As I started planning and strategizing for this 5K challenge, my first step was to invest in an actual 5K. Conveniently, my first organized 5K falls on March 17, 2024—my birthday. It’s the perfect kickoff to my birthday celebration while working towards my goal.

Of course, I can’t just wake up on March 17 and tackle the 5K effortlessly. Training and preparation are key. So, I’ve devised a comprehensive plan that not only includes more walking but also incorporates strength training at least three times a week. To ensure flexibility and joint health, I’ve added daily stretches and occasional yoga sessions. And, to keep things lively, I’ve thrown in some dance breaks throughout my day.

While these activities may not directly relate to walking a 5K, they contribute to keeping me in motion. Why a 5K, you ask? It’s not just an exercise goal; it’s a movement goal. Choosing movement I genuinely enjoy ensures I stay consistent, and I’ve observed two incredible benefits—less physical discomfort and a remarkable boost in creativity and thought.

These unintended perks make the effort invested in this goal truly worthwhile. I invite you to join us in sharing our personal journeys on the meander to mend. Remember, movement can take various forms—stretching, swimming, skipping, or just wandering around. Our movements may differ, but we’re here to support, encourage, and celebrate your unique journey. Cheers to a year of movement, growth, and fulfillment!

Gratitude in Action: Giving Tuesday and the Wellness Scholarship from Whole Self Unity

by Tracey Payton | Nov 23, 2023 | Self Care Toolbox

In a world that often moves at a relentless pace, taking just a moment to reflect on the things we can be thankful for is a powerful and grounding experience. One day that encourages us to do just that is Giving Tuesday—an international day of charitable giving that follows the consumer frenzy of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. This year, as we express gratitude, let’s delve into the transformative impact of Wellness Scholarships provided by Whole Self Unity, a beacon of hope and support for those seeking holistic well-being.

The essence of Giving Tuesday lies in the spirit of selflessness and generosity, reminding us of the joy that comes from giving back to our communities. It’s a day to amplify our gratitude by turning it into tangible actions that make a difference. The act of giving not only benefits those on the receiving end but also nourishes our own souls, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and purpose.

One remarkable initiative that embodies the true spirit of Giving Tuesday is the Empowering Resiliencecampaign.  This campaign will provide money for Wellness Scholarships for Women and their Cancer Journey Allies.

These scholarships for 2024 will offer three different tracks of online wellness and self-care trainings as part of the Empowering Resilience program. These funds will defray costs of Clarity Catalyst, Nutritional Coaching, or Reiki training for women navigating a cancer journey–for themselves or supporting others. The more funds we raise, the more scholarships we can offer.

Whole Self Unity recognizes that true wellness encompasses more than just physical health—it embraces mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The scholarship is a beacon for those who may be facing obstacles on their path to wholeness, providing them with the resources and support they need to pursue a balanced and fulfilling life.

The act of donating to the Wellness Scholarship on Giving Tuesday is a profound expression of gratitude in action. It’s a way of saying, “I am thankful for the well-being I enjoy, and I want to extend that opportunity to others.” In doing so, we contribute to a world where compassion and empathy flourish, creating a positive feedback loop of kindness and generosity.

As we celebrate Giving Tuesday and reflect on the impact of these Wellness Scholarships, let us be mindful of the transformative power of gratitude. Gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion; it is an active force that propels us to make a positive impact in the lives of others. By supporting initiatives like the Wellness Scholarship, we embody the essence of gratitude in action, creating a brighter and more compassionate world for all.

In conclusion, Giving Tuesday serves as a poignant reminder that gratitude is not confined to words alone—it is a force that can be harnessed to bring about real change. Through our contributions to these Wellness Scholarships, we are not just giving financial support; we are giving the gift of hope, resilience, and the opportunity for individuals to embrace their full selves. This Giving Tuesday, let us celebrate the spirit of gratitude by being agents of positive change and by fostering a world where wellness is accessible to all.

Clink the link below to donate.

https://secure.givelively.org/donate/whole-self-unity/empowering-resilience