#ad May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Let's explore ways to elevate mood and enhance mental health! #PureAmbassador #DollSquad

Mental Health Awareness Month!

May is Mental Health Awareness Month (MAHM). Some people are calling it *Mood Awareness Month* as well. I strongly believe our Mental Health greatly affects our Physical Health. While it is certainly not as simple as 'mind over matter', our mental health is as important to our well-being as our physical health.

Are you the strong one in your social circle? The one who everyone relies on, looks towards for solutions or help? Is anyone checking in on you?

The weight of caring for others can greatly affect our mood and our mood correlates with our mental health. I just want you to know I see you! I am that person in my circles, and over the past few years where my chronic pain has reached higher levels than I could handle, I often mentioned that I was not OK, and sadly was never met with the sympathy/empathy I have shown others. I had one person on Facebook that I have known for years tell me "Do you think that you are the only person in the world with problems?" I thought I felt alone in 2011 when I was in a hospital bed deathly ill and no one seemed to care, but having someone say that to me so pointedly cut to the quick. Not only was it a painful revelation but also one that made me turn inwards and become even more stoic than I already am. Bottling things up is never good!

*Self Care* has been my New Year's Focus Phrase/Intention for a number of years now. Do you know why? Because I haven't been doing the best job of it. Not a lack of knowledge but a set of catch 22 circumstances that hasn't made it easy to be kind enough to myself.

There are three sets of circumstances that share something in common, weight loss, developing healthy eating habits and mental health - people can shove pat answers and platitudes down your throat but until you yourself take the reins, nothing changes. They all also need to start directly with seeking the right Doctor to rule out organic issues for the problem. Provided you have already done that, let's explore ways to improve mood and mental health, not just in May, but everyday! That is exactly what the Ascending Butterfly Empowerment Community is all about.

Which heart are you today?

Before I delve into some ways I am using to improve my mood, I have to start by reminding you that if you are in a dark place, if you are feeling suicidal reach out! Pick up your phone and dial 988, it is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week. You matter. You are not alone. Tomorrow is a fresh start - but you have.to.stay.

Money is NOT your identity - if you are experiencing financial insecurities there are ways out, if you are experiencing food insecurities apply to the supplemental nutrition assistance program to help get you and your family meals until things turn around. If money is not your issue but too much time is or loneliness has you feeling down, there are tons of not-for-profit organizations who still need volunteers. Look into community organizations in your neighborhood to make an impact on your community!

I am a long time mushroom lover and have been exploring finding more ways to incorporate mushrooms into my daily routine - I do cook with them but was never sure if I was getting enough of their benefits that way.

Here are some mood boosters I have been greatly enjoying!

🦋 If you spend too many hours in front of a digital device - computer, phone, laptop, you are going to be interested in this product! I am currently trying the ScreenProtect Gummy from Pure Encapsulations - I spend all day in front of digital devices. I do have my laptop on the setting that protects me from blue light but since I am in front of a screen literally all day long I thought I could use more help! These papaya flavored gummies are a nootropic blend that support mental endurance and visual function during extended computer use. These support visual acuity & comfort with lutein + zeaxanthin.

 

They promote mental endurance, support mental alertness for up to 5 hours, and they contain EnXtra Alpinia galanga extract for a caffeine-free mental endurance support. They are indicated for individuals with 3+ hours of screen use daily and are also over 18 years of age! I just started with these so I will report back in a bit on how they are working for me once I have had more time taking them. This is my first nootropic supplement ever so I feel like I have so much to learn. I am trying to get better at taking care of my eye health. I put way too much strain on my eyes both writing and doing photography editing.

 

🦋 This one says it all in the product's name: Daily Pure Pack - Mood Balance - I felt a difference in three days, and considering I am in constant chronic pain - currently having a Rheumatoid Arthritis inflammation pain flare that my Rheumatologist described as 'the worst I have ever seen and I have been doing this for a very long time' for this supplement to help me balance my mood this quickly is nothing short of amazing. This product helps to: promote positive mood, moderate occasional stress, maintain healthy eating behavior, and support emotional and mental well-being. Results will vary, but I am very optimistic about these for myself so far. I also really like Pure Encapsulations SAMe which I have featured here before.

 

🦋 Mushrooms are also appearing in beauty products and I have one that belongs on your radar! Doll Skin Genius Hyaluronic & Reishi Mushroom Repairing Serum. This hydrating and repairing serum with reishi mushroom and five weights of hyaluronic acid penetrates deeply and fills skin with hydration for a visibly plump effect. This bottle of serum is definitely vanity worthy and pairs perfectly with my next reco:

 

🦋 Yes you can apply any serum with your hand, but how about a method of application that in and of itself has multiple benefits? I am obsessed with my new A&G Stone Gua Sha Facial Massage Tool that I purchased at World Market (yes, I bought this one, it was not gifted!) Gua Sha has origins in Chinese Medicine, the smooth edge of the Gua Sha is used to lightly scrape the face and neck to stimulate blood circulation and lymphatic drainage and is thought to lift and tone the skin. It is recommended to use it with you favorite skincare, I prefer using it with serums. Rose quartz is considered the love stone so I selected this stone to help enhance my self-care and self-love healing vibes for 2023! They also have this one in Jade if welcoming in prosperity as you manage your self care is more your vibe. Either way, you can't go wrong. Just remember, be gentle, don't tug at your face!

 

🦋 Scent, Rest and Sleep - I have recommended a few CBD, Melatonin and Teas on these pages that help with sleep. As well as aromatherapy options like lavender that help with relaxation. I don't get enough sleep and I am actively working on getting better with this aspect of my self-care.

 

🦋 Music - A cheap and easy way to elevate your mood! Have you updated your playlist lately? Try making mood playlists. You don't have to listen to the playlist that reflects your current mood you can listen to the one that reflects the mood you *want* to be in.

 

🦋 Pets - The benefits to your mood from welcoming a pet into your life are numerous. Pets will return your love and affection ten fold.

 

🦋 Pay it forward/Good deeds. Pay for coffee for the person behind you on line, or a fast food meal, or for gas, etc. Knowing you are bringing someone unexpected joy will bring you joy as well. And you never know when that good karma will come back to you. More than likely it will be when you least expect it and most need it. 

 

MY TAKE:

 

If you are in the mood for a more comprehensive read on this topic, check out this great article on Food Revolution Network entitled "How Mushrooms Can Help with Depression, Anxiety, and Your Overall Mental Health" published June 22, 2022.

 

So many things can affect our mood positively or negatively, but actively working on what triggers your bad mood and learning to adjust how you react to those stressors will go a long way to preserving a more balanced mood and ultimately your mental health and well-being. Just like with weight loss and developing healthy eating habits, you have to start with small steps and build so those positive new behaviors become a new habit. A new *healthier* behavior!

 

I am trying every avenue I can to improve my mood and my mental health and being more aware of my mood, of my need to take breaks, and my need to be more disciplined with healthy habits. It's a process and journey, not a silver bullet or an overnight fix.

 

And yes butterflies, we all just have blah days - those days where we can't put a name to why we are less than our usual selves. It's OK. Take that mental health day. Give yourself permission to rest, to put off the things that can wait until tomorrow, to talk it out with a friend, a therapist, a family member - there are so many ways to elevate your mood.

 

So don't let that HBO show turn you off to the power of mushrooms! And remember with a supplement you don't have to worry about taste issues for those of you who would like the benefits of mushrooms but don't care for the taste. No, you don't burp up a mushroom taste in your mouth with any of these supplements! 🍄☺

 

Readers Sound Off: How do you elevate your mood? What heart are you today from the Mental Health Check In Graphic?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. There is no financial remuneration in the making of this post, some products were provided for Editorial Consideration others were purchased. All opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. 

If you like this article treat me to a coffee, a caffeinated writer is a happy writer! 

paypal.me/TracyIglesias

https://cash.app/$ascendingbutterfly

Venmo: Ascending1

#ad A #SelfcareSunday for your Gut! Show your tummy some love with amazing products from Pure Encapsulations. #PureAmbassador

A Self Care Sunday for your Gut!

NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

I know the internet tries to sell you on a SelfCare Sunday that's all face masks and wine, but taking a step toward a healthier you is important too! Don't get me wrong, I appreciate the joys of a good mental health day too, but I am also here for taking small steps towards my physical health.

If you have been considering doing a 'cleanse' I am trying to two products from Pure that you should definitely consider!

🦋 PRODUCT ONE:

PureDefense Collagen with Bone Broth Powder The hardest part of a cleanse is feeling *deprived*, but how about a way to enjoy your cleanse and still get protein in addition to these benefits:

🦋 Immune system support with fermented EpiCor postbiotic

🦋 Promotion of barrier integrity - specifically your G.I. mucosal lining

🦋 Cell health and joint support from natural, bioactive compounds (including plant-based flavoniods)

🦋 15 grams of protein from grass-fed beef bone broth AND collagen peptides

Includes immune-supportive mushrooms (fellow Horror/SciFi loving entertainment watchers, no worries you won't turn into a cordycep zombie), enhanced absorption turmeric extract, fermented black garlic extract (this is not my first time featuring black garlic extract, it is incredibly beneficial in so many ways) and an organic vegetable blend, offering both flavor and immune-supporting phytonutrients

Combine a scoop of this powder with hot water for comforting and savory goodness that has health benefits and won't leave you feeling deprived. I would do a smoothie for breakfast, this for lunch and dinner on your cleanse days. If you are trying to reduce meat in your diet, this is also an excellent option for your *meatless mondays* or a meal for Fridays during Lent.

🦋 PRODUCT TWO:

 

Probiotic G.I. - Helping to promote support digestive function and immune function is something I personally do daily. A Probiotic is definitely helpful before, during and well past a cleanse. This one helps:

🦋 Promote G.I. health

🦋 Helps maintain healthy cellular activity in the G.I. tract

🦋 Supports healthy barrier function, cell health and immune function in the G.I. tract

Provides 10 billion colony forming units (CFU) per capsule of the beneficial strains Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium lactis and Streptococcus thermophilus

Note: It is suggested to refrigerate this one and it arrived to me cool (the package had a ice pack in it) - so put this in your refrigerator or beauty fridge if you have one!

Pill Size:

MY TAKE:  

The only other thing I would add to this list is keeping a pot of ginger tea brewed and at the ready (I like to buy organic ginger and make this tea myself but you can also buy a Ginger tea on the market!)

I enjoy bone broth even when I am not on a cleanse of any type. This is a perfect product to keep in your desk at work, especially in winter when you don't want to go out or get so busy you do not have time to order in. Just get a cup of hot water from the water cooler and add a scoop of this to it, instant lunch that has protein, is super comforting, and won't weigh you down!

ROCK THE VOTE:

I still need testimonials to help me advance to the voting round for my Sephora Squad application, literally 10-15 words and you get ZERO emails in conjunction with your support! Remember Ambassadorships for your favorite blogger always mean fun stuff for readers too! VOTE: https://www.sephorasquad.com/leave_testimonial/114319

Readers Sound Off: What does a typical Selfcare Sunday look like for you?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. However I am a brand ambassador for Pure Encapsulations and products were provided for Editorial Consideration. All opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. 

If you like this article treat me to a coffee, a caffeinated writer is a happy writer! 

paypal.me/TracyIglesias

https://cash.app/$ascendingbutterfly

Venmo: Ascending1

#sponsored It's #SelfCareSunday and #hearthealth awareness month, no better time to share a simple way to help your heart! #PureAmbassador

*Supplement suggestions are products that are currently working for me, please check with your doctor before starting on any supplements if you are taking medication. Your doctor or pharmacist will be able to let you know if they play nicely together! This is NOT medical advice!*

February is the awareness month for Hearth Health in the United States. It's American Heart Month and I would be remiss if I let the month come to a close without sharing a simple way to support your cardiovascular health. ‡

Some of you may know from following my social media accounts, that Mama Butterfly is experiencing issues with her heart, and this past year has been a blur of hospitalizations and doctor visits.

Like the engine is the 'heart' of a car, our heart is definitely the engine of our bodies and there are important ways to help take care of it:

- Learn your health history. Is there history of heart disease in your family? If so, be sure to discuss this with your primary care doctor (who may also refer you to a cardiologist).

- A heart healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and low fat dairy products. Reduce salt, saturated fat and sugars.

- Exercise - Strive for 150 minutes of moderate- intensity aerobic activitity each week plus muscle strengthening activities twice per week.

- Quit Smoking

 

-  Take all medicines as directed by your physician and never stop a medication without clearing it with your doctor first. Worried that a supplement may not play nicely with your current meds? Well then Pure has you covered! Check out their Drug Nutrients Interactions Checker/database to make sure the supplements you are taking don't interfere adversely with your medications!

 

- Choose your drinks carefully, limit alcohol consumption, substitute water for sugary drinks

 

- Take heart smart supplements like Pure Encapsulations O.N.E. Omega it offers 1,000 mg supercritical Co2 extracted, triglyceride-form EPA and DHA in a softgel once daily dose.

 

About O.N.E. Omega:

 

- Supports joint and connective tissue integrity

- Promotes cardiovascular health

-  It offers *twice* the potency of other fish oils (with NO fishy aftertaste)

-  Low temperature, oxygen-free processing prevents oxidation reactions

     

‡These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Other 'heart smart' supplements from Pure Encapsulations: 

- Coq10 120 mg

- Resveratrol EXTRA

- Cholestepure Plus II

- PureHeart K2D

MY TAKE:

Pure Encapsulations are free from unnecessary additives and many common allergens. We had no history of heart issues in my family making what mama butterfly is going through that much more of a surprise. But seeing what she is going through I am trying to be more careful about my own heart health, and am glad to have the opportunity to partner with Pure Encapsulations and take better care of my overall wellness.

What you won't find in Pure Encapsulations: Wheat, Soy, Dairy, Eggs, Gluten, Coatings and Shellacs, Tree nuts or peanuts, Artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners, GMOs, unnecessary binders, fillers or preservatives, trans fat & hydrogenated oils.

My only warning with this supplement and this is the first I have experienced with Pure so far is that this one is big! I have not had trouble swallowing it personally, but it is certainly larger than any other pill I take.

I am very happy to report that these do not repeat on me at all. No fishy aftertaste.

 

If you have already done a DNA kit like 23andMe or Ancestry, you can tap into the power of PureGenomics which is a service that harnesses the science of nutrigenomics to help personalize wellness strategies and get supplements tailored to your unique health needs. (I really want to try this!) 

 

‡ These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

READERS SOUND OFF:

Which supplements are you already taking? Are you thinking of adding any new ones? If so, which ones and why? Have you already done a DNA report from 23andMe or Ancestry?

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FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received. I am a PURE Ambassador. As a Pure Ambassador I will have the opportunity to receive products free of charge or at a discount. All opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. 

If you like this article treat me to a coffee, a caffeinated writer is a happy writer! 

paypal.me/TracyIglesias or https://cash.app/$ascendingbutterfly or Venmo: Ascending1