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To support the show:  Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13 Anchor:  https://anchor.fm/unpacking For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com  To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  @unpackingpod Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 You’re awesome!!  Go be your awesome self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

To support the show:  Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13 Anchor:  https://anchor.fm/unpacking For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com  To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  @unpackingpod Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 You’re awesome!!  Go be your awesome self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

To support the show:  Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13 Anchor:  https://anchor.fm/unpacking For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com  To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  @unpackingpod Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 You’re awesome!!  Go be your awesome self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

To support the show:  Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13 Anchor:  https://anchor.fm/unpacking For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com  To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  @unpackingpod Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 You’re awesome!!  Go be your amazing self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

To support the show:  Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13 Anchor:  https://anchor.fm/unpacking For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com  To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  @unpackingpod Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 You’re awesome!!  Go be your amazing self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

To support the show:  Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13 Anchor:  https://anchor.fm/unpacking For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com  To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  @unpackingpod Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 You’re awesome!!  Go be your amazing self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

We are diving into all things essential oils today. Disclaimer:  I am making no medical claims  I am not a doctor  Informational only This is the information that is out there  How to use essential oils: Topically Internally Aroma (inhale, diffuse)  What are they? Highly concentrated oil, made from plants, flowers, leaves, herbs, bark, rind, etc.  How are essential oils made? Distillation  Expression Solvent  Enfleurage  Carbon dioxide extraction  Uses / benefits:  Aromatherapy  Skin Sleep Headache  Concentration Cleaning  Aging / age spots  Hair health Moisturizing  Uplift mood  Menstrual cramps  Antiseptic Relaxation  Fights depression Helps digestion Nausea Burns  Cold sores  Insect repellent  Respiratory problems  Muscle spasms  Pain Boost immunity Reduce inflammation Increase energy  Deodorant  Help focus  Fever reduction  Concerns / considerations:  Sun exposure  Pets  Internal use  Sustainability  Ethically sourced  To support the show:  Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13 Anchor:  https://anchor.fm/unpacking For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com  To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  @unpackingpod Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 You’re awesome!!  Go be your amazing self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

Today we are diving into the CBD basics.  Disclaimer:  I'm not a doctor This is informational only I make no claims CBD does certain things This is the type of information that is out there  I make no medical claims Marijuana vs cannabis vs CBD, it's not all the same thing. And the plants are the same thing. Let's go over the plants themselves. Cannabis - family of plants.  Types of cannabis plants are: ruderalis, indica and sativa  Types of sativa plants are: hemp and marijuana  Hemp:  Larger plants, 4 meters/12 feet  THC of .3% or less CBD oil Hemp oil Cannabis oil Food Textiles  Paper Building materials  Marijuana: Smaller plants THC of 10% or more  THC oil  Marijuana oil Cannabis oil  Weed  Forms of CBD:  CBD oil CBD pills / capsules  CBD vapes  CBD dabs CBD wax concentrates CBD edibles  CBD tinctures  CBD concentrates  CBD sprays  CBD topicals  Before you buy:  Decide if you want full spectrum, broad spectrum or isolate  Products have been 3rd party test (within the last 6-9 months and by an accredited lab)  Label, just like our food, what ingredients are used  Dosage  Extraction process  Reviews / ratings (products and company)  THC levels = .3% or less  CBD Warnings / Concerns:  Not a regulated industry Can have negative reactions to medications you may be taking  Tends to elevate things: alcohol, meds, etc  Could be harmful to your liver  Possible side effects:  Small drop in blood pressure  Drowsiness Dry mouth Lightheadedness Anxiety Nausea  Dizziness  Vomiting  Diarrhea Changes in appetite  Changes in mood  CBD Uses:  Anxiety  Stress Sleep Inflammation Seizures  Pain  Parkinsons  Cancer  Addiction Promote heart health Muscle spasms Acne Arthritis  M.S. Fibromyalgia Migraines  Hepatitis TBI Digestion Antibacterial Antioxidant ADHD Alzheimers Chron's  IBS Depression Diabetes Nausea from chemo  Osteoporosis  PTS / PTSD  Schizophrenia  Psoriasis  Obesity  Huntingtons's disease  Autism Asthma Neuroprotective  Glaucoma  Healthy skin  Strengthen bones  Joint pain  Mood stabilizer  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

Before we get into the ways to change your mood, let's talk about being down for an extended period of time.  Today we are talking about how to change your mood for a temporary period of time. Not an extended period of depression.  Signs of depression according to the ADA, and they are signs that occur or you are experiencing for more than 2 weeks at a time:  Low moods, persistent low mood Feelings of sadness, loneliness, hopelessness, emptiness, irritability, frustration, anger Loss of interest or pleasure in sex Excessive guilt or feelings of worthlessness Tiredness, lack of energy Trouble concentrating or making decision Memory problems Taking more time or moving more slowly than usual Restlessness, trouble sitting still Disrupted sleep patterns  Changes in weight loss or appetite  Persistent headaches, other pains or digestive problems without clear physical triggers  Reoccurring thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts Anxiety Circular thinking  Self harming  Substance abuse and addiction  If you are experiencing these symptoms for longer than 2 weeks it could be signs of depression and please seek help. The 33 ways to change your mood:  Making a gratitude list, journaling out gratitude  Spending time in nature Exercise or movement  Smiling  Taking a nap Meditation Spending time with your pet Writing / journaling  Rocking out to your favorite music Chatting with friends and family that lift you up  Say no to something or many somethings  Replace negative self talk with positive self love language  Creating an action plan  Long nights of sleep  Be honest with yourself, if you need help, find a therapist you gel with  Buy yourself flowers / plants  Jump around / have a dance party  Getting a really good essential oil blend / candles with uplifting scents  Deep breathing  Doing something for someone else  Quiet snuggles in a cozy spot  Netflix stand up comedies, get your laugh on Explore somewhere new  Get all dolled up and treat yourself  Sex  Purge some junk / stuff  Spending some time in the sun  Do something creative  Read Make plans  Eat a really healthy and fulfilling meal Get a massage / reiki  Pretty much anything you would do for self care  Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13 For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com  To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 Twitter:  @stephdennis13 You’re awesome!!  Go be your amazing self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

Have you ever been curious as to what exactly self care is and what that means?  What does self care mean?  According to the Google dictionary it is the practice of taking action to preserve or improve ones own health.  Also according to Google it is the practice of taking an action role in protecting ones own well being and happiness in particular during periods of stress. What does self care look like?  It is going to look different for everyone.  The category / components of self care:  Mental / emotional Physical Social Spiritual Intelligence Financial Relationships  Professional Personal  How to practice self care:  Dogs / pets  Exercise or movement  Journaling  Making lists  Cleaning / tidying up / purging  Bath Face mask Massage Reiki / energy healing  Practicing gratitude Prayer Affirmations Gardening  Talking to friends Having favorite beverages  Doing something creative Exploring new places Sitting in the sun Reading Netflix  Nourishing foods  Getting all your water in Getting your hair done Sex Getting your vitamins / medicine  Podcasts  Audiobooks  Forgiving someone / forgiving yourself  Resolving conflicts Overcoming self doubt  Dance  Organizing No screens  Meditation Yoga Focusing on your breathing  Hot beverage  Music Budgeting  Understanding your feelings  Getting enough sleep / napping  Volunteering Going for a car ride / motorcycle ride / etc.  Creating boundaries  Spending time in nature  Cuddling up with cozy blankets  Dessert  Doing your hair and make up  Cooking / baking  Saying no  Setting goals  Therapy  Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13 For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com  To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 Twitter:  @stephdennis13 You’re awesome!!  Go be your amazing self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

Today we are talking about the power of gratitude. I have 19 points on how gratitude can help improve ourselves and ultimately our life. 1 - Gratitude can put us in a positive mindset 2 - Change your mood almost immediately  3 - Helps move out those negative comments and starts to rewire your brain 4 - Improves our emotional well being  5 - Provides greater optimism  6 - Can literally make us happier  7 - Gratitude can allow us the capacity to forgive easier  8 - Raise our self esteem 9 - Can be really motivating  10 - It can reduce stress  11 - Form of self care  12 - Can help you connect to a higher power  13 - It can help you overcome obstacles easier  14 - Can help you become a better human  15 - Help us increase our creativity  16 - Can help you with your job and career and being successful in that  17 - Help us be less materialistic focused  18 - Can help us exercise more  19 - Can increase our goal achievement  Challenge: For 30 days write at least 3 things you are grateful for!  Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13 For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com  To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 Twitter:  @stephdennis13 You’re awesome!!  Go be your amazing self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

If you find yourself in a natural disaster and/or hurricane situation, here are my recommendations based on this experience:  Evacuate always  Apply for financial assistance  Stock up on food and water before you leave and also while you are out of town before you come Expect no power Expect chaos Try not to plan too much post natural disaster, give yourself some down time Seek help if you need it Practice self care  Traveling across the country tips:  Plan Budget Stop when needed Plan for gas stops  Eat for energy Plan for the unexpected, save for the unexpected just in case  Have a little trash bag handy to keep your car clean  Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13 For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com  To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 Twitter:  @stephdennis13 You’re awesome!!  Go be your amazing self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

We are diving into asking questions when we don’t understand something.  So we have all been confused about things or had certain topics we don’t understand.   When we assume things instead of ask questions it can be harmful.  It is naive on our part. It’s also a missed opportunity.  Try to pinpoint what you don’t understand.  What is unclear? What do we need clarity around? What do we want clarity around?  What do you want to know? What do you need to know?   Also ask those clarifying questions. For example, if I am understanding this right … Or what I hear you saying is …  Take the time, if you don’t understand something simply ask questions!    Paypal:  paypal.me/stephdennis13   For show notes go to: unpackingpodcast.com      To connect:  Instagram:  @stephdennis13  Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephdennis13 Twitter:  @stephdennis13    You’re awesome!!  Go be your amazing self today!!!  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

Have you ever been curious what could be holding you back from achieving your dreams and/or goals? Today we are talking about limiting beliefs with Ryan Borawski.  Ryan’s Instagram:  @ryanborawski  Ryan’s Twitter:  @RyanJBorawski  Ryan’s website:  ryanborawski.com    Ryan is a corporate trainer for his full time position and he also has a side life coaching business.    What’s the difference between limiting beliefs and fear?  There are two types of fears. Legitimate fears, for example I do not want to touch a hot stove.  There is really good fear. There is a lot of bad fear.    When you look at how you tell the difference between limiting beliefs and fear is it whether or not you have taken action or is deeper than that?    A lot of times limiting beliefs are preventing us from taking action.  Surround yourself with people who will help you raise your standards.    How do you go about identifying a limiting belief?    A lot of times you can’t identify them on your own because you need someone to cover your blindspots.    Exercise:  Write down the beliefs you have.  Circle the ones that are empowering. Identify how they are getting you to where you want to go.  Then look at the disempowering beliefs and question them. Where did I develop these from? Who did I develop this from? How is this limiting me from getting to where I want to go? Was the person I learned this from worth modeling?   Essentially you are creating doubt through your questions.  If you associate enough pain to those beliefs you’ll change them.  We focus on determines what we feel.    How do you prevent that limiting belief from creeping back into your thought space? Create empowering beliefs. Affirmations are important and affirmations are only as important as the action that you take.  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

Today we are talking about call out culture and call in culture.    I’m going to start with call out culture and we are going to define it. According to Wikipedia, call out culture is defined as:  AKA outrage culture  Term for the social phenomena of publicly denouncing perceived racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia and other forms of bigotry  The denunciation (call outs) can happen in person or online  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

Religion and spirituality, both are pretty heavy topics which we don’t shy away from around here.  I want to start off by saying either is right or wrong.  One might be more attractive to each particular person depending on what they are looking for and what resonates with them.    According to the Google dictionary, religion is defined by the belief in and worship of super human controlling power, especially a personal God or Gods.  Spirituality is defined as the quality of being concerned with the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things.  Agnostic is defined by a person who believes that nothing is known or can be known of the existence or nature of God or of anything beyond material phenomena, a person who claims neither faith or disbelief in God.  The two things I wanted to compare and contrast if you will is religion and spirituality.  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

Before we look to set goals, we have to look at the different areas of our lives and make sure we are focusing on the right area. As you guys know life is complicated, there is so much happening all the time, one quarter, one month even, hell even one week we may want to focus on our career and the very next week there might  be something going on where we need to focus on family.  I’m going to have you list out the different areas of your life.  Some areas may include:  Family Friends Kids / Children Pets  Spirituality / Faith / Religion  Personal Growth & Development  Self Care / Self Love / Alone Time  Spouse / Partner  Dating  Marriage  School / Education  Relationships  Health / Fitness / Movement  Money / Finances / Wealth  Hobbies  Side Businesses / Side Projects    What I want you to do is rate yourself in each category from 1-10. 1 being really bad 10 being really good    As you are setting these goals, let’s use the SMART acronym.  S = Specific  M = Measurable A = Achievable  R = Relevant  T = Time bound / Timely --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

We have had three episodes on race so far with this final one I want to give us some direction on how we can move forward and do better. First I’m going to start with a quote by Shelby Knox and she said, “Fellow white feminist it’s time for us to take a damn seat and listen.” --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

Today I want to highlight some of the articles and things I have read, I have pulled quotes from and share with you to help you understand where I am coming from in terms of why I felt it was so necessary to have this type of conversation. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support

Today we are continuing our race conversations and we are going to be defining some pretty important terms that some of you may or may not already know.  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/unpacking/support