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lifestyle

Practicing gratitude

Practicing gratitude is a simple thing that you can incorporate into your daily life to improve your well-being.

‘recognizing the good you already have in your life is the foundation of all abundance’

By practicing gratitude you help to integrate more lightness,

to appreciate the simple things in your daily life, such as a sunset, a flower on your way, someone who lets you cross, the smile of a stranger …. By wanting to incorporate gratitude into life you are choosing to welcome more happiness, appreciation and to have a more positive outlook on the simple things in your life.

For example, I am on the terrace writing this article and the men next to me spilled his coffee on the table, he started to get angry insulting himself, his coffee and the table, so seen like that it’s funny but this person put itself in a negative energy for a such a little thing. 

Think about it, reacting in frustration or just reordering  a coffee and reminding yourself how lucky you are, you haven’t been burn?

The coffee is on the table, whether you get angry or not it stays on the table.

There are many, examples like this.

I invite you to ask yourself if when you get upset about simple things in your daily life does it brings you something?

And if, on the opposite, changing  perception by bringing gratitude does not lighten your life. 

Practicing gratitude is a discipline, a state of mind that we can choose.

Grateful for the little things, the big things and what’s in between

Several studies have been able to demonstrate the positive effects in life, on physical and mental health that this practice can bring. 

Here is an article published by Harvard University on this subject.

https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier

Practicing gratitude isn’t about ignoring life’s challenges or day-to-day problems, but rather gives you a lighter, flexible, and balanced perspective on your life.

Notice the good things, seek them out, appreciate them

The benefits of this practice

– be happier

– be healthier

– better sleep

– be more optimistic

– enjoy the simple things in life

– create better relationships with your family, friends

– be less jealous and envious

– be less materialistic

– makes you smile

Here are some examples to help you in your integration into the practice of gratitude

Journaling

– Write in a journal some funny phrases like

I’m gratful for;

  • myself 
  •  the beauty and power of the ocean
  • my cat
  • choosing to practice gratitude
  • my family
  • my friends
  • the nature 
  • my life 
  • to be able to breath everyday 
  • love 
  • my body 
  • opportunities
  • my freedom 
  • someone else smile 
  • the sun 
  • my good health 
  • the rain, the wind..

The list could be endless, write down every little things that you are grateful for  by acknowledging the little everyday things that will bring you a lot.

Or you can share on your journal  the Best moment of your day, a smell that you fancy, a kind words of a person you have met, you can recognize all the simple and positive little things.

Write a thank you letter to yourself or someone who has impacted your life

Smile at an unknown person or a person around you without expecting a return

– Create a gratitude jar

This one I love it, you just have to mark all the things for which you are grateful for on a paper put them in the jar and read them later

I practiced this while working on a boat in Tahiti, the captain had set up a jar and we had to write 3 to 4 times a week of simple things for which we were grateful for. Once or twice a months, the whole crew gathers around the table and everyone leaves the little anonymous notes that had been left in the jar. It was really moving

To be present, appreciate what you have in front of you when you have it

Meditation with intention on the things we appreciate in life and what we are grateful for

-Appreciate the simple things in life, sunsets, flowers…

– Look at yourself in the mirror and said loudly “I am grateful for myself”

– Look at things on the bright side

-Integrate grateful mantra in your yoga practice

Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can bring you happiness, joy, and contentment.

You can cultivate an attitude of gratitude and abundance even in difficult times by incorporating these habits into your daily life.

Every act of gratitude, whether it’s thanking those who serve you or noticing the beauty arounds you, can have a significant impact on your happiness and your relationships.

Embrace these simple yet powerful gratitude practices to live a happier, more fulfilling life.

‘one moment of absolute gratitude can transform your whole life’ Sandhguru

xoxo, juju

Coconut – Hot Hydration

Coconut, tastes of heaven and is astounding for your health and skin.

Are you dreaming of a tropical beach, a taste of paradise and a radiant skin?

What if you could have it from anywhere with the most simple and natural daily routine.

Of course, a collagen cure will amaze your tone, but a simple daily coconut water drink could do a lot too. Do you know why your skin stops shining and starts getting tired? so many skin experts I met always told me the same HYDRATION, keep your body hydrated water is key to the body. I’m not going to remind you that our body is made of 60% of water and our brain 73% of water, but well I do. Coconut water is one of the best natural sources of hydration, naturally refreshing, coconut water has also a taste of paradise, sweet and nutty, even if the coconut is coming from some tropical destinations, nowadays we can find coconut water everywhere. 

 

In addition, coconut water is loaded with important nutrients and minerals

Coconut water benefits 

Low calories

Support a good digestion 

High source of hydration 

Helps with weight loss

Rich in good nutrients, potassium, calcium, magnesium

Antioxidants

Skin beauty

Lower blood sugar

Amazing after exercising

Promote healthy heart

Making yourself travel to the tropics 

Coconut water is a delicious natural beverage that can replace all your soda, it keeps you refresh and amazingly hydrates at any moment of your day and also after a workout 

What are you waiting for to make yourself dream, just take a sip of coconut water, enjoy your dream and all the benefits from where you are.

For the cocktail lover, coconut water can be the healthy touch to bring your cocktails to another level…

Check out some of my fresh juice, smoothies and cocktail recipes 

xoxo, Juju

In addition, coconut water is loaded with important nutrients and minerals

Coconut water benefits 

  • Low calories
  • Support a good digestion 
  • High source of hydration 
  • Helps with weight loss
  • Rich in good nutrients, potassium, calcium, magnesium
  • Antioxidants
  • Skin beauty
  • Lower blood sugar
  • Amazing after exercising
  • Promote healthy heart
  • Making yourself travel to the tropics 

 

Coconut water is a delicious natural beverage that can replace all your soda, it keeps you refresh and amazingly hydrates at any moment of your day and also after a workout 

What are you waiting for to make yourself dream, just take a sip of coconut water, enjoy your dream and all the benefits from where you are.

For the cocktail lover, coconut water can be the healthy touch to bring your cocktails to another level…

Check out some of my fresh juice, smoothies and cocktail recipes 

xoxo, Juju

Love letter

How to fall in love with our partner again?

Love, love, love…. love is everything, is everywhere

I love love, everything about it is the greatest and probably the hardest feeling in life.

unfortunately, we often get lost in our love, in a relationship, we forgot ourselves or we get too self-centred that we neglect our partner, we stop prioritising our relationship, we stop seeing each other with the eyes of love, we forgot how beautiful is our relationship and how amazing our partner is, we forgot to remember why we choose each other, why we love each other, we got trap in our everyday life in our routine, until we choose to see the spark again, we all know and have lived those moments. I dare you to tell me one couple that you know, that truly ever loved each other without any troubles, arguments, complications, miscommunication, disenchantment… I do know not myself anyone, or so those people that believe that is not worth annoying themselves with those feelings have made the choice to stay single.

but

What if we choose differently,

What if, we choose to remember our love instead of our default 

What if, we meet each other tonight forgetting all about what just happened in the last past weeks. 

What if, we could restart where we were happy and fully in love

What if, we decide to be happy and fully in love when we see each other tonight 

What if, we choose to let our arguments a side and not give them any space to be 

What if, we put our ego on the side from tonight to reignite our love flame

What if, we choose to not forget how much how big we love each other

What if, we choose to laugh again together 

What if, we let go of being right or wrong and accept each other 

What if, we choose love instead of anything else 

What if, we always remember Love 

You could choose to believe in us, in our love, to understand you are living a bit of a couple’s crisis but believe in your love, is stronger and magical. Give yourself the chance to fall in love again, starting with the way you look at each other. Choose to reignited the spark in our eyes, in the flame in our hearts.  

Don’t let every day kills you and don’t let the expectation you have for your couple and your future ruins your present. Love is magical.  Let the magic happen

YOGA – philosophy & different types

MEANING OF YOGA

There is no single definition of yoga. In order to experience truth through yoga, we should study its classical definitions and reflect on our own understanding of it.
If we wish to connect to the intuitive, creative part of us, and realize the eternal Self at our core, we need to consider what yoga really is. Each definition of yoga reveals part of the ocean of knowledge and experience that forms the yogic path.

Yoga as a science

Yoga is a science, that is, it is a body of techniques that lead us to consciously connect with ourselves and with life, the experience of yoga. As yoga is a science, there is no dogma or belief system attached to it. Yoga simply tells us to do a certain practice and then to feel the effect of that practice,

e.g. if we breath slowly in a relaxed manner we will slow our heart rate; if we focus the mind we will develop mental peace and deep insight.

Highest philosophical definition of yoga

In Sanskrit, the word ‘yoga’ is used to signify any form of connection, UNION . In a philosophical sense, however, yoga means the conscious connection Union of your self

Patanjali’s definition of yoga

The yoga sutra of Patanjali – « yoga chitta vritti nirodhah » T . ‘Yoga is the blocking (nirodha) of mental modifications (chitta vritti) so that the seer (drashta) re-identifies with the (higher) Self.

Yoga is the mastery of the activities of the mind-field. Then the seer rest in its true nature.

Asana is a mere tool to influence and access the mind Asana, pranayama and meditation are one – not separate

Meaning of Pranayama:

The term is derived from the Sanskrit, “prana,” meaning “life force,” and “ayama,” meaning “extension.”

Pranayama is a comprehensive practice of yoga. The journey of our life towards its destiny has many milestones. The journey is like a river flowing with turns and twists, trials and tribulations. However, in the end, it reaches its destination! The human being is made up of body, intellect, and emotions; all three are interrelated, interdependent, and inseparable. Our life is Prana.

Pranayama is the awareness and manifestation of this flow of energy. Prana is life.

Wherever there is existence as an expression of life, there is Prana.

Yoga can be confusing if you are not a master yogini. There are many different types of yoga out there, and every style has its own benefits.

Personally, I love the variety that yoga has to offer since I can choose the one that feels right for me at the present moment. Here is a guide to the five most popular types of yoga:

– VINYASA YOGA:

Is a flow that connects one posture to the next using the breath. The breath initiates the movement, and it can be practiced in a vigorous, dynamic and stimulating way, and also as a soft, gentle practice. Vinyasa is a practice for everyone. It can be fun, calming, challenging, bring clarity and help you to connect with yourself through movement.

– POWER YOGA:

Is athletic and is a type of Vinyasa that focuses on building strength and endurance. Usually taught with loud and vibrant music, it aims to create a high level of energy, vitality and freedom. Power yoga is a practice for everyone who likes to sweat, strengthen their body and mind.

– HATHA YOGA:

Moves deliberately slowly into different poses that challenge your strength and balance, with a deep connection to your breath and the posture. Hatha yoga focuses on breathing, alignment, balance, relaxation and mindfulness. It is the best for beginners and anyone who likes to focus on each pose and alignment.

– YIN YOGA:

Is a slow-paced style of yoga that works deeply into your body with passive, longer-held poses. It targets the deepest tissues, fascia, and meridians, improves energy flow, and balances the internal organs. Yin yoga has several health benefits, calming and balancing mind and body. It is for everyone who likes to nurture calm and deep connection.

– KUNDALINI YOGA:

Is a form of yoga that involves chanting, challenging breath exercises coupled with asana and meditation. The practice is repetitive, and its purpose is to activate your Kundalini energy, a spiritual energy located at the base of your spine. Often called “yoga of awareness,” it brings balance to the body, mind, and soul. Kundalini is for everyone.

Kundalini is for everyone.

Which type of yoga will get you excited? Have you tried all of them?

Which type of yoga excites you? Have you tried them all?
What does yoga mean to you?
What is your general intention for your practice?
Where do you feel yourself in yoga?
Do you have any physical or emotional pain?
What is your intention for today?
Do you feel stuck? If so, where?
What would you like to transform?
Write down three words (without thinking). Close your eyes, take a nice, big inhale and exhale and write them down.

In the end,Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India. It involves a range of poses, breathing techniques and meditation practices that promote wellness and mindfulness. Engaging in yoga can help improve flexibility, strength, balance and coordination, as well as reduce stress and anxiety. It is often used as a complementary therapy to treat certain health conditions, such as chronic pain, depression and insomnia. Additionally, yoga promotes inner peace and a greater sense of self-awareness, allowing individuals to connect with their bodies and minds on a deeper level. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or just starting out, incorporating yoga into your daily routine can have profound benefits for your overall health and well-being.

So why not give it a try and see how yoga can positively impact your life?

xoxo 

Justine

12 must read self-development books

“I don’t know about you, but I love reading. I love getting lost in words, creating my own universe through a story. It’s a real moment for me, like being in a bubble and connected to the present moment while losing track of time.

Personal development books have always brought me a lot and many of them have guided me through life changes and transformations.

Here is a list of 12 books that have guided me and brought me enlightenment in recent years, including love, personal development, relationships, and confidence. They have also given me the strength to accomplish and realize my desires. I have read some of them several times, interpreting them differently each time, and I’ll probably read them again.

I hope you find your happiness. Enjoy your reading.

xoxo – Juju.”

BLINK - the power of thinking without thinking

Blink moves quickly through a series of delightful stories…Gladwell is always dazzling us with fascinating information and phenomena…If you want to trust my snap judgement, buy this book: you’ll be delighted.- “New York Times Book Review”

A provocative and enlightening read…It is a pleasure to travel through this land of rapid cognition with a guide as curious and insightful as Gladwell. “Atlanta Journal-Constitution”

A really fun ride…Gladwell offers a near-limitless supply of fascinating anecdotes…He is without peer in his ability to sum up complex concepts with a simple, tight phrase.”Chicago Tribune”

New earth – Eckart Tolle

Awakening to your life’s purpose

lluminating, enlightening, and uplifting, A New Earth is a profoundly spiritual manifesto for a better way of life—and for building a better world.

“[Oprah] Winfrey calls the book ‘a wake-up call for the entire planet, one reader at a time. It helps us to distance ourselves from our egos . . . and to open ourselves to a higher self. . . . It helps us to stop creating our own suffering and obsessing over the past and what the future might be, and to put ourselves in the now.'” 
—USA Today

The four agreements – Don Miguel Ruiz

“This book by don Miguel Ruiz, simple yet so powerful, has made a tremendous difference in how I think and act in every encounter.” — Oprah Winfrey
“Don Miguel Ruiz’s book is a roadmap to enlightenment and freedom.” — Deepak Chopra, Author, The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
“An inspiring book with many great lessons.” — Wayne Dyer, Author, Real Magic

Clarity and connection – Yung Pueblo

Perfect for gaining some thoughtfulness and perspective at any point in the day . . . I’m always surprised how impactful even a short poem from Yung Pueblo can be.”  (Dr. Mark Hyman, New York Times bestselling author)

Thinking fast and slow – Daniel Kahneman

In his mega bestseller, Thinking, Fast and Slow, Daniel Kahneman, world-famous psychologist and winner of the Nobel Prize in Economics, takes us on a ground breaking tour of the mind and explains the two systems that drive the way we think. 
System 1 is fast, intuitive, and emotional; System 2 is slower, more deliberative, and more logical.

Women who run with the wolves – Clarissa Pinkola

“Women Who Run With the Wolves isn’t just another book. It is a gift of profound insight, wisdom, and love. An oracle for one who knows.”
—ALICE WALKER

“An inspiring book, the ‘vitamins for the soul’ [for women] who are cut off from their intuitive nature.”
—San Francisco Chronicle

Breath – James Nestor

“Breath” by James Nestor explores the significance of breathing – its science, history, and cultural importance. It challenges conventional wisdom and offers practical tips and exercises for better health and vitality. The book examines various breathing techniques and reveals the impact of mouth breathing versus nasal breathing on overall well-being. “Breath” is an eye-opening journey into the significance of something we often take for granted -the simple act of breathing.

You are not listening – Kate Murphy

If you’re like most people, you don’t listen as often or as well as you’d like. There’s no one better qualified than a talented journalist to introduce you to the right mindset and skillset―and this book does it with science and humor.” 
-Adam Grant, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Originals and Give and Take

The wim Hof method – wim hof

“This book will change your life.” ―Ben Fogle, travel writer and broadcaster

“If you had to read one book on how to feel great, this is it. I’m so glad Wim’s techniques have been summarized in such an easy-to-digest way. I’ve been doing his method religiously because it works.” ―Jesse Itzler, serial entrepreneur, bestselling author, endurance athlete, and an owner of the Atlanta Hawks

The art of loving - Erich froom

In this astonishing, insightful book, world-famous psychoanalyst Erich Fromm explores the power of love in our daily lives. Fromm reveals his daring prescriptions for overcoming the fear of love . using love to conquer anxiety . and developing a more exhilarating love life.

The celestine prophecy – James redflied

“A gripping adventure story filled with intrigue, suspense, and spiritual revelations.” -Commonwealth Journal
“A spiritual classic…a book to read and reread, to cherish, and to give to friends.” – Joan Borysenko, PhD, author of Fire in the Soul
“In his inimitable style of great storytelling, Redfield opens us up to a world of insight, inspiration, synchronicity, and power.” – Deepak Chopra

Attached – Amir Levine and Rachel S F Heller

Life changing

An insightful look at the science behind love, attached offers readers a road map for building stronger, more fulfilling connections.
‘A groundbreaking book that redefines what it means to be in a relationship.’ – John Gray, PhD., bestselling author of Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus