Weekly tips, affirmations, and small actions to feel your best.

5 Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Vegan Burgers

As the weather gets warmer, you’ll probably notice that your neighbors are firing up their grills for another exciting grilling season. You don’t have to be left out of the burger mania just because you follow a vegan lifestyle.

According to an article published by the American Dietetic Association, at least 2.5 percent of Americans identify as vegans.

Five Yummy and Easy Vegan Burger Recipes

Forget all the complicated recipes and expensive protein replacements. These recipes for simple vegan burgers are chock full of natural meat alternatives mixed with veggies and flavorful spices. Heat your grill or the stove and try these mouthwatering burgers that are vegan-friendly.

vegan burgers1. Tofu Barbecue Burgers

Makes: 2 servings

Ingredients:

16 ounces firm tofu, pressed overnight and halved

For Barbecue Rub:

•1 Tablespoon onion powder
•1 Tablespoon dry mustard
•Tablespoon sweet paprika
•2 teaspoons garlic powder
•¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
•¼ teaspoon ground cumin

Barbecue Sauce:

•½ cup ketchup
•1 small onion, minced
•1 large clove garlic, minced
•2 Tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
•2 Tablespoons brown sugar
•½ teaspoon prepared Barbecue rub
•1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
•1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
•2 fresh hamburger buns

Directions:

•Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

•In a small bowl, add dry mustard, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Mix until dry rub is combined well and set aside.

•In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, prepare the barbeque sauce by adding ketchup, onions, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ground cayenne pepper, and ½ teaspoon prepared dry rub. Stir well until the mixture comes to a boil.

•Reduce heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove saucepan from heat and allow to cool for about 5 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the sauce until velvety smooth. Set aside.

•On a medium sheet pan lined with aluminum foil, spray a light coating of vegetable oil spray. Season both sides of tofu slices with remaining dry rub and arrange them on a prepared sheet pan. Bake until golden brown, about 15 minutes on each side. Remove from oven.

•Place a saucepan with barbeque sauce over medium-high heat until it’s hot again, about 4-8 minutes. Use a meat brush to coat tofu burgers with sauce on both sides generously.

•On a griddle pan over medium-high heat, spray a thin coat of cooking spray and toast buns until golden brown. Arrange burgers on each bun and top with veggies and vegan condiments of your choice.

2. Shroom & Onion Vegan Burger

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients:

•4 large Portobello mushrooms
•¼ cup olive oil
•¼ cup balsamic vinegar
•1 small bunch of fresh basil, minced
•1 small bunch of fresh oregano, minced
•3 large cloves garlic, minced
•¼ teaspoon Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper
•1 large white onion, sliced into ¼-inch rings
•4 vegan-friendly whole wheat burger buns
•2 large tomatoes, sliced
•1 cup fresh mixed greens

Directions:

•On a large sheet pan, arrange Portobello’s cap side up.

•In a small bowl, add 3 Tablespoons olive oil, balsamic vinegar, basil, oregano, garlic, salt & pepper. Use a whisk to combine well and pour over the mushrooms. Turn mushrooms over and use a meat brush to coat both sides well with the marinade, then flip them back to stem-side up.

•Set aside and allow mushrooms to marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, uncovered.

•With about 10 minutes remaining for the marinade, prepare the caramelized onions. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the remaining olive oil until shimmering. Add onions and sauté until soft, translucent, and golden brown, about 7-10 minutes. Transfer onions to a bowl and set aside.

•In the same skillet, arrange mushrooms and sauté until golden brown and slightly softened on the edges, about 4-6 minutes on each side. While the mushrooms sauté, brush them with remaining marinade for optimal flavor.

•Transfer shrooms to a platter. Place burger buns flat and toast in the same skillet until lightly brown, about 2-3 minutes. Place a shroom burger between each of 4 buns and top with tomato, greens, and other tasty vegan condiments.

3. Classic Chick Pea Vegan Burgers

These tasty legumes, also called garbanzo beans, are an excellent meat alternative. A study published by Journal Nutrients states that garbanzo beans are nutrient-dense and are an excellent source of fiber. Plus, they are a delicious addition to these burgers.

Makes: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

•1 (19 ounces) can chickpeas, drained & rinsed
•1 small red onion, finely chopped
•Small zucchini, grated
•1 small bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped
•3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
•2 Tablespoons vegan peanut butter
•1 Tablespoon sriracha sauce
•1 teaspoon garlic powder
•One teaspoon ground cumin
•½ teaspoon sea salt & freshly ground black pepper
•1 cup quick oats
•3 Tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

•Line a large sheet pan with aluminum foil and set it aside.

•In a large bowl, add drained chickpeas and use a fork to mash them into a pulp.

•Add onion, zucchini, cilantro, vinegar, peanut butter, sriracha, garlic powder, cumin, salt & pepper, and oats.

•Use hands to knead ingredients until well blended. Form mixture into 6-8 equal-sized vegan burgers.

•In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil and add burgers.

•Cook until lightly brown, about 3-5 minutes on each side. Place patties on burger buns and add your favorite vegan toppings.

vegan burgers4. Black Beans Vegan Burger

Makes: 4 servings

Ingredients:

•1(15 ounces) can black beans, drained & rinsed
•1 small white onion, chopped
•One large clove of garlic, minced
•1 medium carrot, grated
•One small green bell pepper, minced
•1 Tablespoon cornstarch
•1 Tablespoon warm water
•¼ cup Sriracha sauce
•1 teaspoon ground cumin
•1 teaspoon ground chili powder
•One teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
•¼ teaspoon sea salt & freshly ground black pepper
•1 cup whole wheat Panko crumbs
•¾ cup all-purpose unbleached flour

Directions:

•Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a sheet pan lightly with vegetable oil spray and set aside.

•In a large bowl, add beans and mash into a pulp. Mix in onions, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper and knead into a thin dough-like consistency.

•In a small bowl, add cornstarch, water, Sriracha, chili powder, cumin, Old Bay, salt & pepper. Whisk until thoroughly blended. Pour into bean mixture and stir until incorporated.

•Whisk the remaining ingredients together in a separate small bowl. Stir cornstarch black bean mixture to enhance thickness.

•Divide mixture into four equal mounds on a prepared sheet pan. Gently flatten them into 3/4- inch thick vegan burgers.

•Bake burgers until lightly browned and crisp and done on the inside, about 10 minutes on each side.

•Arrange burgers on whole wheat vegan buns and add toppings of your choice. You can also enjoy it without the bread and have a salad on the side.

5. White Beans Vegan Burgers

Makes: 4 servings

Ingredients:

•½ cup dry quinoa
•One cup cold water
•1 teaspoon garlic powder
•1 small bunch of fresh thyme, minced
•One teaspoon smoked paprika
•1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
•14 ounce can of white beans, like cannellini, drained and rinsed
•½ cup fresh or frozen corn
•1 medium red bell pepper, seeded & finely diced
•1 small red onion, finely diced
•Medium lemon, juiced
•1/3 cup almond flour
•1 Tablespoon ground flaxseed & 3 Tablespoons water (mixed in a small bowl)
•1 teaspoon Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
•¼ cup olive oil

Directions:

•In a small bowl, mix ground flaxseed and water well and set aside.

•In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add water, quinoa, garlic powder, and half the thyme. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until liquid is evaporated and quinoa is tender for about 15 minutes. Turn off heat, remove the lid, and allow quinoa to rest for at least 10 minutes.

•In a large bowl, add beans and use a fork to mash about ¾ of them. Leave a few whole for texture. Now, add quinoa, onions, red bell pepper, corn, remaining thyme, paprika, cayenne, and lemon juice. Mix well.

•Add almond flour, flaxseed mix, salt & pepper, and mix well until it makes a soft dough. Divide mixture into four equal parts and form them into flattened patties about 4 inches big and ½-inch thick.

•In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil until shimmering. Arrange patties in the skillet and cook until heated through and lightly browned, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Transfer patties to a platter.

•Build vegan burgers by placing patties between burger buns. Top with lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, and any other tasty vegan condiment you prefer.

Did you know that all these quick and tasty burger recipes can be made ahead of time? Form patties and separate them with a sheet of waxed paper, then place them in the freezer. When you’re hungry for a burger, take them out of the freezer and thaw it in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts on Easy Vegan Burger Recipes

You needn’t spend a fortune on the premade products in the grocery store. These vegan burgers use common ingredients to make delicious and healthy burgers your whole family will love. Don’t be surprised if they request them to be served on more occasions than Meatless Mondays.

10 Symptoms of A Panic Attack to Never Ignore

Suddenly, the world around you looks different, and it’s almost as if you’re looking through a snow globe as your perception distorts. Your head is spinning, your heart is racing, and your body begins to sweat like you just ran a marathon. The symptoms of a panic attack seem overwhelming.

But could it be something else?

For example, is your anxiety causing all this discomfort?

Understanding Panic Syndrome

symptoms of panic attackThere are more than 2.7 million people in this country that have panic disorder, according to Anxiety Disorder Statistics. Panic and anxiety are often confused as they’re remarkably similar. You can have panic attacks when everything seems to be going great, or you can have them in during times of extreme stress.

Your body feels stress, and the fast-paced society in America does nothing to help alleviate this tension. Anxiety is a constant issue for many. It’s an ache in the pit of your stomach that makes life unbearable at times.

Panic, on the other hand, is the feeling of impending doom or a complete meltdown, which occurs when your anxiety hits an all-time high. While you may feel anxious, you still function, but the symptoms of a panic attack stop you in your tracks.

What’s so confusing with panic attack symptoms is that you don’t know whether it’s anxiety or something medically gone awry. How do you know the difference, and when should you seek help?

Symptoms Of A Panic Attack You Shouldn’t Ignore

Even experts don’t know the difference between panic and heart trouble until they run tests and do a full evaluation. After you’ve dealt with this disorder for some time, you will be able to recognize similar signs and symptoms. Here are the most common symptoms of a panic attack that you should not ignore.

1. Chest Pains

Chest pains are something that you should not take lightly, no matter what the cause. Panic can cause your muscles to restrict in this area and give you the sensation that you have a heart attack. The key is to see if the pain alleviates or goes and comes.

During a panic, the pain will last during the attack, but it should quickly subside. Also, panic is known for getting the stomach acids all churned up, which can also cause an uncomfortable sensation in your chest.

2. Difficulty Breathing

Being unable to catch your breath is a terrifying feeling, especially if it comes on suddenly. Many people hyperventilate during panic because their body’s abundance of hormones causes an upset. Remember the old trick of breathing into a bag?

Many people breathe too fast when they’re panicked, and it’s often hard to tell the difference between being short of breath and hyperventilating. Using the bag trick helps you put some of the oxygen you’ve lost back into your body. You must be careful because many people who have heart attacks or other sicknesses will often hyperventilate.

3. Sweating

Sweating is a way to cool down the body, and it’s expected when you’re working hard or in extreme heat. However, when the body is under intense fear, sweating can come on quickly, even when you’re sitting watching television.

4. Dizziness

Dizziness is always alarming as you think the worse. While many things can cause you to be dizzy, your anxiety will tell you it’s the most troubling condition like a heart attack, stroke, or cancer. Different people report feeling various things.

Some folks say that they feel as if they’re on a merry-go-round, and they can’t get off. Others have a slightly unbalanced feeling. They can still walk and move around, but they feel like their equilibrium is off.

According to the National Institute of Health, many vestibular disorders can cause vertigo or an unbalanced sensation due to an inner ear disturbance.

love yourself quote5. Feeling Faint or Passing Out

Feeling faint goes one step beyond dizziness. You may feel as if you’re going down, and something is pushing you to the ground. Sadly, this fear is probably all in your mind.

Conditions like vasovagal syncope can cause this feeling, but people don’t pass out with panic in most instances. According to Cedars-Sinai Hospital, those who have syncope usually regain consciousness quickly. Some cases of panic are so severe that people pass out, and relatives or friends call the squad.

However, the most common way to differentiate between the two is that panic doesn’t usually cause fainting, and syncope and other conditions will cause these frightening experiences.

6. Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations feel like many things to different people. Some say that they think their heart is doing flip-flops, while others feel like it’s skipping a beat or off rhythm. It’s important to notate the frequencies of these occurrences and how long they last.

If you have runs of palpitations in a row, it’s essential to get emergency care. Since it’s so hard to differentiate panic from heart problems, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Stress can cause your heart to do funny things, but so can heart disease.

Also, conditions like a-fib can be a deadly situation that needs to be addressed quickly. The Mayo Clinic states that this rapid and unsteady heart rhythm can cause cardiac arrest or death if left untreated.

7. Chills

Have you ever watched a scary movie and seen an actor or actress so scared they’re shaking with fright? The same thing is happening inside your body. When you have an intense fear of panic or anxiety, it can cause your entire body to shake.

The rush of adrenaline and cortisol can cause you to feel sensations. The good news is that these shivers will quickly pass when your hormone levels go back to normal. Chills can be associated with sicknesses, too. Therefore, you must ensure it’s anxiety and not a stomach bug or the flu.

8. Unable to Move – Paralyzed

Sometimes you can get so fearful that you cannot move. The body can experience fight, flight, or freeze episodes that render you frozen. When the symptoms of a panic attack get so severe that you are catatonic or feel trapped, it’s a sign that your condition may morph into a somatoform disorder.

Somatoform disorders are a group of psychiatric conditions that are lumped into one. When you’re under such anxiety and stress that it comes out in a physical symptom, you’re experiencing conversion disorder. It’s called conversion disorder because the body is converting pressure into physical symptoms, and the most observed is a headache.

However, people can experience hysterical blindness or paralysis due to extreme levels of anxiety. According to American Family Physician, conversion disorder falls under the somatoform category.

9. Fear of Dying or Losing Control

Anxiety is often called the great pretender because it can make you think and feel things that aren’t real. One major issue that people with panic disorder face is fear of dying. Your body feels sensations that you don’t understand and are abnormal, so your first thought is that you’re going to lose control of your life is over.

Many people avoid going in public once they have panic attacks, which can morph into agoraphobia, a social anxiety disorder. Additionally, after you’ve dealt with panic for so long, you may become desensitized. For instance, you may feel impending death but shake it off due to panic.

However, something may be wrong in the body that is causing you to feel this way. Other issues, like brain cancer, can cause you to feel sensations. So don’t be so quick to dismiss things just because they follow a typical pattern.

10. Feelings of Detachment

One of the worst symptoms of a panic attack that people experience is detachment. Do you feel detached from your body during periods of strong unease? This only occurs in those who have a severe issue with anxiety, and it’s a coping mechanism from the body.

You may feel as if you’re looking at yourself from the outside or taking on an alter ego. According to the Calm Clinic, detachment can be mental, emotional, or physical.

symptoms of panic attackFinal Thoughts on Recognizing the Ten Symptoms of a Panic Attack

When you look over the list of things that happen to you during the panic, it’s truly horrifying to think that chemical imbalances and circumstances can do this to you. Since anxiety mimics so many other conditions, you can never be too sure.

While you don’t want to run to the hospital each time you have some heart palpitations or chills, you need to learn when you need to be evaluated. A panic attack’s symptoms differ for each person, and your panic can change over time.

Your attacks may start as choking sensations with a fear of impending doom and your heart racing, but years down the line, they become more or less severe with different symptoms. Thankfully, there are many holistic methods to treat both panic and anxiety so you can live a happy and worry-free life.

Therapists Explain 5 Daily Habits That Reduce Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are two of the most commonly diagnosed mental health problems out there. With all the stressors of today’s world and the personal issues that many people deal with, it’s no surprise that so many people struggle with these difficulties.

For many, the quest to reduce the severity of their anxiety and depression is one that never quite ends. Being able to find habits that can help in this regard is incredibly useful. As such, here are five practices that’ll help reduce anxiety and depression.

1.    Sleep Well

People often underestimate the importance of sleep. It’s a therapeutic process that is crucial to your body’s ability to function, carry out proper processes, and expend energy in practical ways. Your mind is a part of your body, so it makes sense that it is affected when you don’t sleep enough. Here are some ways that this happens:

depression and anxiety·         Poor Sleep Makes You Stressed Out

Stress levels rise, and positive thinking drops when you don’t get enough sleep. This mindset starts because, without rest, you lose some of your ability to process hassles and hurdles, even when they’re minor. You can feel more distressed from random events and even experience anxiety from everyday problems as a result. You need sleep to better process your daily life!

·         Poor Sleep Is An Anxiety Disorder Risk Factor

Individuals who struggle to sleep or who maintain poor sleep schedules have a higher risk of developing anxiety disorders, according to studies. This is especially true if these sleep problems remain untreated for a prolonged period, likely because sleep problems can lead to undue stress during the day.

·         Poor Sleep Is A Depressive Disorder Risk Factor

Much like anxiety, insomnia and a lack of sleep are often linked to depression, and research indicates that addressing sleep issues early can prevent escalation into depression. Though more evidence is still necessary, there seems to be evidence that insomnia can directly cause depression, if not long-term depressive disorders entirely.

2.    Meditate

Meditation is sometimes scoffed at or considered a “new age spiritualism” sort of deal, but research doesn’t lie! It’s incredibly beneficial to your sense of calm and relaxation, which can help with depression and anxiety. Here are some ways that this happens:

·         Meditation Reduces Stress

Given meditation’s reputation for being all about tranquility, it makes sense that its performance can help stress levels. This study indicates that meditation is an effective means for stress management and promotes psychological wellbeing. This is because it helps manage the hormone cortisol, a stress hormone, and regulates its overall production.

·         Meditation Reduces Negative Thoughts

If you want more positive thinking, meditation can help you. It can help you to achieve more effective emotional understanding and regulation. While you will likely still have negative thoughts now and then, but they’ll be reduced as your view changes for the positive. This can bring down depressive symptoms.

·         Meditation Helps Anxiety Management

Using mindfulness and meditation as supplements for current ongoing treatment can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety disorder, often with the most positive effects on those with the most severe cases. This allows you to prevent further anxiety but circumventing stress reactivity and promoting more usable coping mechanisms.

·         Meditation Is Effective Depression Treatment

Believe it or not, studies have shown that meditation is a fantastic, beneficial, and effective supplementary form of treatment for depression. This may be because meditation regulates the production of cytokines, which are inflammatory chemicals commonly released for mood management.

3.    Eat Healthily

What you eat can significantly affect your mental health and positive thinking. Your entire body responds to what you choose to consume as it turns this into fuel for all the organs in your system. To function at an optimal level, it needs to right kinds of fuel in the right amounts. Without that fuel, your risk of all sorts of problems in your body is heightened, and that includes the subject of mental health.

You don’t have to eat a perfectly calculated diet to help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Focusing on vital nutritional sources and lessening your intake on obviously unhealthy and empty calories – like junk foods, trans fats, candy, and processed goods – can be enough. Here are some things you need in your meals to reduce depression and anxiety:

·         Carbohydrates

The idea that all carbs are bad for you is blatantly incorrect. So many carbohydrates are used in sinful, unhealthy foods, which worsens their reputation. In reality, though, carbs are necessary for the brain’s energy, as it depends on glucose, a simple sugar that comes from carbohydrates. On top of that, carbohydrates have positive effects on the production of serotonin, which is a feel-good hormone that helps with mood balance and management.

The trick is to pick complex carbs. You can find these in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, instead of simple carbs like white rice or fried foods.

·         Protein

Protein is made up of amino acids, which are crucial to hormone production in the brain. Hormones are neurotransmitters that transmit signals between different cells in the body, which is why they help you feel good. Dopamine, serotonin, and other similar hormones are famous for improving mood and providing warm, happy feelings that aid depression and anxiety management.

storm passing quote

·         Vitamins and Minerals

All minerals and vitamins are crucial for everyday health, though the necessary amount varies. Each one provides different benefits, but they’re all necessary for overall wellbeing. The best vitamins and minerals for your brain are vitamin C, vitamin D, selenium, magnesium, and zinc. You can take a simple supplement for ones you don’t get enough of; talk to your doctor first before starting on any forms of dietary help!

·         Fatty Acids

Fat also has a bad reputation, but healthy fats are important for brain health. You’ve probably heard of omega-3 and omega-6 and how they help brain function, and those are two fatty acids that you can’t do without. Getting enough of these essential nutrients balances your stress levels, mood, and overall wellbeing.

4.    Be Grateful

It definitely feels a little condescending to hear that you need to be more grateful to reduce depression and anxiety better. But this isn’t to say that your feelings aren’t valid because you don’t have a “good reason” to be anxious or depressed.

Instead, the advice to be more grateful is rooted in the scientific fact that practicing gratitude changes your brain functions. You can both recognize and validate your emotions and experiences while acknowledging things in your life that are good! Here are some ways that gratitude is good for mental disorders and imbalances:

·         It Improves Self-Esteem

Feeling gratitude changes the way you view yourself. You begin to recognize your strengths and feel grateful for them, which means you compare yourself to others much less and are more appreciative of your capabilities. It also means that you become more glad for the features you may have previously disliked in yourself, as you start to find positive things about them.

·         It Makes You More Resilient

In this context, resilience refers to managing stressors, setbacks, and even triggers for depression and anxiety in more positive ways. Studies find that expressing and experiencing gratitude can help you to be more resilient in the face of trials and tribulations. This is likely because gratitude teaches you to find lessons and silver linings in bad times.

·         It Helps You Sleep

Remember how we said that better sleep means better management of depression and anxiety? Well, being more grateful can help your sleep quality! It scans that when you feel more positive about the world around you, you also feel less worry that keeps you up at night, and you feel more relaxed and happy when you turn in for the day.

·         It’s Good For Psychological Health

A lot of different emotions cause stress, anxiety, and depression. These feelings include envy, regret, frustration, and resentment. Gratitude allows you to rise above these feelings, preventing them from taking root within you and festering into symptoms of more significant problems.

5.    Exercise Can Reduce Depression and Anxiety

It’s a bit eye-roll-worth to recommend exercising to ease mental disorders. And it’s true that it alone isn’t sufficient for treatment. But if you want to reduce symptoms, then it can certainly help! After all, exercise is critical for the improvement of many different bodily functions. So it’s natural that the brain is among the organs it aids. Here are some ways that it does so:

·         It’s Distracting

When you exercise, you have to focus on the physical sensation of the activity. It takes effort and energy to work out, and as you pant and huff, you’re taking your mind away from your anxieties and working your stress off into that lost energy.

·         It Releases Feel-Good Hormones

When released in balanced amounts, we’ve already discussed how certain neurotransmitters can help regulate emotion, stress, and mood. Exercise can provide those balanced numbers of hormones, especially with endorphins. This is why so many people who exercise experience “runner’s high,” which is a state where their body has released so many feel-good hormones during their workout that they feel outstanding afterward! It’s beneficial for depression and anxiety, as it sends warm feelings with those good hormones that reduce their effects.

·         It Boosts Confidence

Exercise can improve your confidence because it’s achievement-based. When you set a goal to hike up a trail and successfully reach the end, you can give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done. Besides, exercise can often improve your appearance towards your desired look, which can also help your self-esteem.

·         It Changes Brain Function

Depression and anxiety are symptoms of imbalances in the brain, and exercise can help to manage that. Research has shown that it can help the hippocampus and the hypothalamic adrenal pituitary, both parts of the brain responsible for stress response and regulation.

depression and anxietyFinal Thoughts On Some Habits That’ll Help Reduce Depression and Anxiety

It’s tough to live with and manage anxiety and depression, especially if your symptoms are severe. Practicing habits that have been proven to help with these issues can make the fight easier. If you need further assistance, know that there is no shame in seeking professional help and advice!

6 Ways To Forgive a Hurtful Person and Move On

When someone hurts you, it can leave noticeable scars that plague the rest of your life. There are some things you can recover from. But there are other ways in which a hurtful person causes pain that’s difficult to release.

You likely want to move on from the pain that you feel. Forgiveness can be an excellent way to start – but not in the way you may think! Here are six ways to forgive people who have hurt us so we can move on.

1.    Think About The Benefits

It sounds a little selfish, but sometimes the best way to do something difficult is to remember that it benefits you. There’s nothing wrong with using that as a motivating factor, especially when you’re just starting on your forgiveness journey. Here are some significant effects of forgiveness to keep in mind:

hurtful person·         It Helps Healing

Resentment is a powerful and dangerous emotion, and it’s capable of completely stalling your journey and preventing you from finding peace and moving forward. Your emotional wounds can’t heal for as long as you hold onto the pain, and sometimes those wounds can become “infected” by that anger seeping into other areas of your life.

·         It’s Good For Health

Studies have long indicated positive links between health and forgiveness. This is because the act of forgiving someone relieves stress, which provides plenty of benefits to your physical wellbeing. This includes reduced blood pressure, improved immunity, and better pain management. On the flip side, unhealthy resentment and anger can lead to heart issues, anxiety, and worsened self-esteem.

·         It Can Improve Your Relationships

Resentment towards a person changes the way you view people and human nature in the world. That negativity towards only one single being who wronged you can creep into the relationships you share with everyone, even without you knowing. Being compassionate towards yourself and those you hold resentment for can change your outlook for the positive, fostering healthier and happier relationships with others in your life who are good to you.

·         It May Lead To Positive Reconciliation, If You Want It

Resentment can stop you from reconciling with that person who wronged you. In some cases, this isn’t a problem, and you’re well within your rights to not want to “make nice” face-to-face with someone who’s wronged you. But in others, you may wish to that reconciliation but not know how to go about it. Beginning with forgiveness is a fantastic way to go about it, as it gives you and the other party the chance to learn, grow, and recover.

2.    Rethink Your Perspective On Forgiveness

Many people believe that forgiveness involves giving in to someone’s hostile treatment of you, actively condoning them, or even downplaying their toxicity. This isn’t the case at all. Forgiveness is a complex subject, and it doesn’t mean:

  • Turning the other cheek
  • Approving of someone’s actions
  • Admitting fault or invalidating your emotions
  • Pretending something didn’t happen
  • Opening yourself up to future harm from the same person
  • Letting someone walk all over you

In fact, it’s quite the contrary! Forgiveness isn’t about letting someone off the hook. It’s about finding the courage and strength to use your energy for something more productive and allowing this act of toxicity to remain in the past as you move forward. For example, forgiveness can involve:

  • Deciding to be happy instead of angry.
  • Refusing to be bound by past negativity that keeps you upset and harms you.
  • Freeing your energy for more productive endeavors.
  • Deciding that resentment no longer serves you.
  • Giving yourself a clean slate for future interactions with other or new people.
  • Choosing to move on instead of being held back.

When you realize that forgiveness is more about your personal healing than someone else’s, it’s easier to understand that it’s good for you.

3.    Take Responsibility

Taking responsibility does not necessarily mean blaming yourself for the harm caused by a hurtful person. Instead, it means remembering that your current actions and the actions you take for the rest of your life depend on you.

If you’ve held onto resentment for so long, it can be tough to let go, but your positive thinking can be damaged when you hold on to blaming others as a coping mechanism. So start taking some responsibility for your life so you can begin to forgive. Here are some ways to do so:

·         Understand Your Emotions And Disregard Those Who Caused Them

The feelings that come from being hurt are ones you must take time to reflect on and understand. Focusing too much on blaming those who caused these emotions can mess up your chances of working on self-reflection. So shift your mental concentration and energy to your feelings alone. Let yourself feel them, even if they hurt, and watch them. Then, think about why those emotions are happening, and tell yourself that it’s okay to feel those feelings and that they aren’t “wrong” to have. Finally, ask yourself how you can move forward with these emotions and how to soothe them positively, then walk on into your life with that.

·         Choose Not To Take It Personally

This sounds tough to do, and to be fair, it is. But there are awful people worldwide, and if someone did something horrible to you, it’s not a reflection of yourself. In fact, it likely had almost nothing to do with you. You were the unfortunate victim of the explosion of that person’s issues, and nothing they said or implied about you reflected on you – it was their projection, and you don’t need to be offended by that.

·         If You Did Contribute, Accept That

There are plenty of people who do hurtful things, and it truly is only on them that you were affected. But there are also times when hurt is born out of hurt, or when two people were harming each other, and one person just happened to overstep first. If you did contribute in some way to the circumstances where someone hurt you, admit and accept that fact. Reflect on how to improve in this area of your life and how to prevent repeats. However, don’t overdo this. Acknowledging your part doesn’t mean assigning all blame to yourself. It means looking at a situation factually and rationally, and correctly holding yourself and everyone else involved accountable.

moving on quote4.    Ask Yourself Perspective-Shifting Questions About Your Relationship with the Hurtful Person

Changing your perspective is often key to finding it in yourself to forgive. This is because gaining a proper understanding of something or someone that hurt you can dramatically change the way you’ve thought of that pain.

Ask yourself a few questions to get yourself started, and then once you’ve answered any of them, follow the trails of thought they lead you down and see if you find some excellent self-reflection within.

Here are some questions to begin a paradigm shift in how you think about the hurtful person:

  • How would someone on the outside looking in view the situation?
  • Is there a pattern here? Have I been hurt in this way before, perhaps even many times?
  • Have I inflicted this hurt upon other people before?
  • What was the perspective, whether right or wrong or neither, of the person who hurt me?
  • Does the person who hurt me have low emotional intelligence?
  • Does the person who hurt me have significant personal issues or baggage that they unfairly took out on me, thus not reflecting my character at all?
  • Is there something positive that I can take away from this?
  • How have I grown because of this pain?
  • Have I let this pain rob me of things in my life?
  • Does the resentment and lack of forgiveness benefit me, or is it holding me back?
  • What can I learn from this situation?
  • Is my decision to hold onto this resentment keeping the pain alive?

5.    Let Go of the Victim Mentality

Victim mentality is a mindset where you excuse everything that happens to you and everything you do because you were a victim. You may even believe that you are continually being victimized to this day whenever something bad happens to you. You may say things like:

  • “If only that person hadn’t ruined my confidence, I would have aced that speech!”
  • “I would have gone much farther in life if they hadn’t held me back.”
  • “I’m only suffering all the time because of the things they did to me.”

The pain inflicted by a hurtful person can indeed cause deep wounds that take time to heal. But it becomes impossible to heal when you assign every single problem in your life to that one incident. You are a changed person, yes – but at some point, you need to learn who you are and take responsibility for moving your own life forward. Are you really going to let someone who hurt you hold you back forever? It’s time to create productivity, not drama.

6.    Work On Positivity

Positive thinking is sometimes the best way to tide you over when you’re struggling with a subject as painful and scarring as giving forgiveness. When you learn to see the world with a positive lens, you naturally find that forgiveness comes more easily. Here are some ways to promote positivity in your life:

·         Work Towards Your Happiness

Someone’s hurtful actions shouldn’t stop you from progressing towards the things you love. Find joy in life and set goals for specific achievements that you desire. It is never too late to begin seeking your happiness in life again or to start finding it in minor parts of your life.

·         Focus On Good Things

There are good and bad parts of life. Learning to focus on the good things and even find them in swathes of bad can dramatically change how you view the world. That kind of positive thinking can make you realize that the resentment isn’t serving your life.

·         Forgive Yourself

Do you harbor resentment towards yourself over the events that hurt you? Maybe you played a role in the events leading up to it. Perhaps you feel guilty for struggling to forgive or for not being able to move on. Regardless, it’s essential to forgive yourself. Learning to begin forgiveness with you means you know to give forgiveness to others.

hurtful personFinal Thoughts On Some Ways To Forgive a Hurtful Person and Move On In Life

When considering the subject of forgiveness, it’s important to note that it’s an entirely personal process. You don’t owe any individual your forgiveness, but you owe it to yourself. You don’t even need to tell a hurtful person that you forgive them if you don’t want to. But you do need to say to yourself that you’re moving on and letting go of the resentment that held you back. That, honestly, is more than enough.

How to Make the Fluffiest Japanese Soufflé Pancakes

Have you ever had soufflé pancakes? If not, you’re in for a treat! Soufflé pancakes are just like regular pancakes, except they have a more fluffy, airy texture. It’s just like eating a soft cloud that melts in your mouth, topped with butter and syrup. Yum!

We probably have you drooling by now, so we’ll go ahead and tell you how to make these pillowy pancakes. If you’re bored with cereal and toast for breakfast, change it up with these soufflé pancakes.

Here is how you can make the fluffiest Japanese soufflé pancakes:

Are you ready? Let’s get started.

souffle pancakes

Gather these kitchen supplies:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Strainer
  • Ramekin (soufflé dish)
  • Spatula
  • Large skillet
  • Spoon
  • Hand mixer

Ingredients:

  • Two egg yolks (separate from the whites)
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tbsp vanilla powder
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • Two egg whites
  • 1/8 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • Maple syrup
  • Butter
  • Powdered sugar
  • Strawberries for toppings (optional)

How to make the soufflé mixture:

  1. First, grab your mixing bowl and put the egg yolks in. Whisk until blended.
  2. Next, add in the milk and vanilla powder, whisking them in as well.
  3. Then, get out the strainer and pour in the baking powder and all-purpose flour.
  4. Shake the strainer until all the powder falls into the bowl below.
  5. Whisk until completely dissolved in the liquid. Add in a little extra flour to thicken if necessary.
  6. Now, get out a separate bowl and place the egg whites and cream of tartar inside.
  7. Grab your electric hand whisk and blend until the mixture becomes foamy.
  8. Now, add in the tablespoon of sugar, beating until it forms a thick, creamy texture.
  9. Then, use a spatula to gradually blend this mixture with the egg yolks.
  10. Next, get out a skillet and melt a pat of butter in the pan. Spread it around with a spoon or paper towel so it coats the entire pan.

Making the soufflé pancakes:

  1. Now, put the ramekin in the middle and scoop the soufflé mixture inside.
  2. Put the lid on the skillet, and turn the heat on low. Cook for a few minutes, and then add a little water into the pan. Cover once again and cook for 6-7 minutes.
  3. Flip the ramekin over to cook the other side for about 4-5 more minutes. Cover with the lid and make sure to add more water to keep the pancakes moist.
  4. Now, check on your soufflé pancake. It should be very tall and pillowy, and will probably be the fluffiest pancake you’ve ever seen!
  5. Top with melted butter, maple syrup, powdered sugar, and strawberries. (optional) Enjoy!

A few tips for perfecting these soufflé pancakes

  • If you don’t have a ramekin, you could just cook the pancakes in a giant skillet. Just make sure to spread them out enough so they don’t stick together. To create tall pancakes, you’ll want to keep adding batter as the pancakes start to form.
  • Making the meringue might take some practice. You should have a stiff texture where you can turn the bowl over and it won’t spill out. When you lift up the whisk, the egg whites should stick up firmly, having a bow at the end.
  • Keep the heat low to create the perfect soufflé pancakes. Unlike regular pancakes, these need to cook longer because of their size and thickness. Keeping the heat on low ensures that it cooks evenly throughout the pancake. If you turn it on high, the outside will cook faster, but the inside will remain raw.
  • Covering the skillet with a lid is essential for keeping moisture and heat in the pan.
  • To separate egg yolks from the whites, crack an egg and catch the yolk in your hand. Allow it to run through your fingers into a small bowl below. Then, place the egg yolks in a different bowl. This might seem messy, but it’s an easy way to ensure your whites and yolks stay separated.
  • To make sure the pancakes don’t deflate when you remove them from heat, you need perfectly beaten egg whites. If you over-beat them, they will break apart. Under-beating means you won’t have enough air bubbles to create a fluffy texture.

These soufflé pancakes have gained serious popularity worldwide

What began as a Japanese trend quickly spread across the globe. Shops have started opening up in the US, England, the Philippines, and other countries throughout the world. In some soufflé restaurants in Japan, they actually put limits on how many people can dine each day. They even have designated dining times, so people line up hours beforehand to guarantee a spot. It sounds crazy, but it shows just how popular these fluffy sensations are in Japan.

However, you don’t have to travel anywhere to taste this Japanese delicacy. You can make it from the comfort of your own kitchen, and it will taste just as wonderful! Feel free to add any other toppings you’d like, such as whipped cream or blueberries. Have them for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or as a late-night snack.

They do require a little bit of preparation, but in total, it shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes to make. Once you get the meringue out of the way, everything else should be a piece of cake. The cross between a pancake and soufflé is becoming a huge hit, and we hope you will give it a try!

japanese souffle pancakeFinal thoughts: these soufflé pancakes taste like a sweet cloud

If you ever wondered what a cloud tastes like, you will know after trying these pancakes. Soufflé pancakes are basically a level up from regular pancakes, having an airy, pillowy texture. The pancakes don’t just look cool being stacked a mile high, but they taste delicious as well!

There are entire restaurants dedicated to making these jiggly pancakes, but you can try them from your own home. You can even make variations like chocolate, strawberry, blueberry, or other flavors. If you decide to make these soufflé pancakes, let us know how you like them in the comments!

4 Habits Keep You From Being Highly Productive

Productivity refers to being effective, efficient, and timely in finishing tasks, whether self-assigned or related to work and responsibilities. Being highly productive is a skill and trait that is pretty hard to master.

Many people joke about their lack of productivity as a result. But really, you know that it’s not a laughing matter.

If you’re one of those people who finds it tough to get things done, you may be doing a few things that seem beneficial but are jeopardizing your ability to be efficient. Here are four habits to let go of to become highly productive in life.

1.    Overloading Yourself

One of the main enemies of productivity is being overwhelmed. When you’re overloaded, you can’t focus on individual tasks nearly as well. This is why so many people are stumped as to their lack of productivity. They don’t realize that having a lot to do is often counterproductive for their motivation. Here are some ways you may be overloading yourself!

highly productive·         Having Too Many Options

Having lots of choices sounds good on paper, but it can give you fatigue trying to weigh them all and choose from them. All that information can shut down your brain, ruining your attempts at being productive altogether and degrading your positive thinking.

·         Using A Lot Of Tools

Similar to having too many options, this sounds nice on paper. If you work in a field that requires a fair number of tools and methods, it’s easy to accidentally give yourself a million different methods to use for every single little task. It’s best, however, to find few tools that perform many uses as opposed to many tools that perform few uses. The latter, after all, is how you wind up with so much to keep track of in such inconvenient ways!

·         Multitasking

A lot of people are oddly proud of their ability to multitask. Scientifically, though, there are few positive effects of such behavior. It actually slows you down and makes it harder for you to be productive – and if you do speed up, it makes it more likely that the results are of low quality. Some tasks can be done simultaneously, like small things such as brewing yourself a drink while you listen to voicemails. Tasks that require more focus, however, should not be done at the same time.

·         Always Saying Yes

You can’t commit to everything, and you shouldn’t feel like you have to always say yes to people’s requests for your assistance. You don’t owe them your efforts, and it’s okay to turn a few people down. Don’t forget that you’re showing others that you’re always available and opening yourself up to being taken advantage of by being a yes-man.

·         Filling Up Your Calendar To The Brim

Just because it can fit on a schedule doesn’t mean that it should be there. Not only does squeezing tasks mean you have no wiggle room for unexpected events or changes, but it also means you have no time to breathe or to have to yourself. That tires you out and can lead to unproductive burnout!

·         Trying To Do It All Alone

Being independent is great, but there’s a point where it’s taken too far, and you feel that you have to only rely on yourself. Learning when to ask for help or, if you’re in a leadership position, learning to delegate tasks allows for better productivity. It can be hard to trust other people, but you can’t build that trust if you never give others a chance to prove their capabilities.

2.    Never Planning, or Not Planning Well

Planning is central to all productivity. If your planning is done positively, you get positive results. And, of course, the opposite is also true. If you don’t plan well, your productivity will quickly tank, and you’ll wind up wondering why you have all these plans and still can’t get things done. It’s yet another counterproductive action that many people are surprised doesn’t work! Here are some ways you’re not planning well:

·         Never Planning Ahead

It’s okay to enjoy being spontaneous, but some things do need planning. Keep track of your deadlines, write lists for things you need to remember and develop a plan for complex tasks. If you don’t, you may wind up messing up and not doing what needs to be done. Research shows that this will have positive effects on your productivity!

·         Not Creating A Work Routine

The human brain functions best in routine. It allows you to continue functioning on all days by doing things you’re used to and know well. If you want to get into a productive mindset, getting into gear with the same routine whenever it’s work time can be positive for your ability to get to your tasks. So build those pre-work habits!

·         Having A Huge To-Do List

Being overzealous with planning can make you feel motivated at first, but let’s be real – the chances of you actually doing all of that is pretty slim! As the day wears on, you’ll find yourself feeling more panicked and overwhelmed, and then your productivity will tank. Worse still, you’ll feel bad that you didn’t get things done, and your positive thinking will only drop further from there. Stick to a to-do list with a maximum of 5 tasks per day instead!

dont give up quote3.    Getting Distracted Easily

One of the widespread ways that productivity gets tanked is via distraction. There are distractions virtually everywhere, and if you give into them even a little bit, you may find that you’ve gotten nothing done after devoting what feels like barely any time at all to a random distraction. Here are some examples of distractions that may be getting in the way of your tasks:

·         Mobile Devices

A quick check of your smartphone can devolve into your interest being piqued by a social media notification, leading to scrolling for an hour. Or it can cause you to get caught up in a group chat that’s been going for hours and isn’t dying down in activity anytime soon. Don’t check your phone unless it’s relevant for work or you’re on a break – and that applies to all mobile devices! Keep them in silent mode if you have to!

·         Environmental Noise

A noisy environment is hard to ignore. Try and set up a quiet workspace or ask those around you to respect your professional life kindly. This is especially true if you don’t work in a traditional office environment or work from home.

·         Emails

Checking emails is often a part of work. But that doesn’t mean you should obsess over it constantly throughout the day. The temptation to check your emails leads to the desire to reply to them, which can effectively distract you from your current task.

Have one or two set times daily to check and reply to emails. Or if you get a lot of them, set hour-based intervals for when you’ll check them. Then, set a time for reading and replying to them. Don’t go into your inbox otherwise unless you’re specifically asked to or if it’s relevant to your current task!

·         Chores and Domestic Duties

You likely have to balance both work and home responsibilities – and they’re effortless to use against each other as distractions for one another! Dedicate precise times to each form of accountability. You can do chores either before or after work and keep work time set and sacred. You should also find quiet corners to work in, as tasks around you may also distract your workflow.

·         Family Obligation

No, this doesn’t mean to put work above family! It only really applies if you’re working from home. Sometimes, family members, especially children, may not understand that the fact that you’re working from your house means you’re still correctly, professionally busy. It’s tempting to cave into your kids asking to play or your partner asking you to do something for them. Set boundaries clearly: your work times are specific hours, the same as anyone who works in an office, and as soon as that time is up, then you’ll be free to do things with them.

4.    Perfectionism

Perfectionism is often framed as a trait that is nothing but positive. In reality, as a concept, it’s entirely flawed and even harmful to your self-esteem and everyday productivity. This is because:

·         Your Standards Are Impossible

Literally, no one is perfect! The drive for perfection is one doomed to fail from the start. It’s good to hold yourself to high standards and push yourself to work well, but once those standards are not reachable, you’re just heading for a blow to your self-esteem when you fail.

·         You’re More Indecisive

The need for perfectionism means you may feel that you must weigh every single possible pro and con before making a choice, even when everything is reasonably balanced in good and bad sides. It’s good to take time to consider things so you’re not impulsive, but there’s a point where decision-making becomes more critical than mulling it over. The longer you spend making a decision, the less time you have left to move on to the next step or return to your actual tasks.

·         You Get Thrown Off By Anything Unexpected

Perfectionism often includes a need for control. But life isn’t always going to go to plan, and things will happen that you couldn’t predict – and you’ll find setbacks and mistakes, too. When you’re too much of a perfectionist, you don’t know how to respond to unexpected events, slowing you down.

·         You Literally Spend Too Much Time Worrying About Productivity

It’s not productive to overthink productivity! If you’re a perfectionist, you may beat yourself up for any perceived slowness, even unreasonably so. That makes it even harder for you to get things done, and it erodes your positive thinking.

So, how can you overcome those aspects of perfectionism? Try:

  • Learning to get comfortable with mistakes and failure
  • Finding lessons and silver linings in difficult situations
  • Becoming a self-proclaimed completionist that wants to finish whatever they start as well as they can, even if it isn’t perfect
  • Focusing on the act of ending something and pat yourself on the back for completion

highly productiveFinal Thoughts On Some Habits To Let Go To Become Highly Productive In Life

Productivity isn’t easy to come by. But once you learn to drop habits that hinder your ability to be highly productive, it will all become more manageable. If you are significantly struggling with productivity to a point where daily tasks feel impossible, you should speak to a doctor for a professional opinion.

How to Use a Broken Garden Pot to Make a Mini-Garden

If you have broken garden pots lying around, you don’t have to throw them in the trash. Instead, you can transform them into a beautiful indoor or outdoor mini-garden! If you’re into DIY crafts, you’ll love this fun gardening project. All you need to get started is a broken garden pot, some plants, and a little creativity. For inspiration and tips, knowngarden offers great ideas on how to turn everyday items into charming garden displays.

When you’re in need of more space for your growing plants, 15 gallon pots are a game changer for my plants, offering ample room for root expansion. The durability and size of these 15-gallon pots are fantastic, ensuring they thrive with better soil aeration and nutrient absorption.

You can use whatever types of plants you like. Just make sure they’re on the smaller side. You’ll be placing them all in one pot. So succulents or herbs will work best. Also, consider the location of your garden. For more tips on organic gardening, you can explore resources from knowngarden. They offer insights on plant choices, potting techniques, and ways to nurture a sustainable garden. For example, if it’s indoors, choose plants that don’t require a lot of sun. And, if gardening isn’t your thing, we’ll list some other uses for broken garden pots.

Here’s how to use a broken garden pot to make a mini-garden:

So what are you waiting for? Let’s make this!

What you’ll need:

  • Broken garden pot
  • Your favorite plants
  • A small spoon or gardening tool to pack in the dirt
  • Duck tape or masking tape

Instructions:

  1. Gather up all the pieces from the garden pot. Tape up the hole in the bottom so dirt can’t escape.
  2. Pour out all the dirt from your plants into the pot. Make sure to pile it up higher toward the back of the pot since you’re making a tiered garden.
  3. Next, place one of the broken pieces from the garden pot near the front. Press down on the dirt with your fingers to pack it in tightly.
  4. Then, place herbs such as lavender, thyme, or rosemary in the front. It’s okay if they hang over the pot. In fact, it adds to the aesthetic appeal.
  5. Place a little more dirt around the herbs. Next, pile more dirt from other plants toward the back. Of course, you want to have plenty of dirt to accommodate all the plants.
  6. Add a couple more broken pieces, spacing them out evenly to create tiers. Pour in more dirt if necessary, pressing down with your fingers.
  7. Place a plant or two at the top of the pot behind the third broken piece. Pack the dirt in with your hands or a small gardening tool.
  8. Work your way forward, placing plants on the second tier. Make sure to have a variety of plants on hand to create a vibrant, flourishing garden. As we said at the beginning, choose plants that won’t grow too large.
  9. Keep packing in the dirt and filling the pot with as many plants as possible. You can even place small pebbles on one of the tiers to create more variety. Other ideas include stones, crystals, and seashells.
  10. When you’re done stacking the plants and other items, you’ll have a beautiful homemade masterpiece. Place your mini-garden indoors in a well-lit area or outside with other plants. Do not forget to take pictures and share your beautiful creation!

Aren’t you glad you didn’t throw away that broken garden pot? Now, it’s home to a thriving mini-garden that will add some greenery to your home or outdoor space. We hope you had fun with this DIY project!

Other innovative ways to use a broken garden pot

You’d be surprised what you can do with a broken piece of pottery. The ideas are endless, but we’ll list a few to get you started. It’s amazing how a little ingenuity can give new life to a worn-out item.

  1. Use a broken garden pot to decorate your outdoor garden. You could place the pieces to look like stepping stones or put them near plants as an accent.
  2. Please place them in potted plants as decorative mulch. That’s because it will help trap moisture in the plant and keep unwanted animals or pests away.
  3. Use smaller broken pots to create DIY plant labels. Put them near herbs or plants so you can easily see what’s growing in your garden. You can use stick-on letters or paint to make the labels.
  4. Make unique garden art with your garden pot. One idea is a fairy garden, complete with gnomes, fairies, mushrooms, and other whimsical items. You could also add moss or paint the inside green to resemble grass. Additionally, you may choose bird statues, pebbles, rocks, or whatever items you’d like.
  5. Use the garden pots to create pathway edging. If you have a lot of broken pots, this is a great way to repurpose them. So place the pots in a garden lining your driveway or walkway for a nice landscaping accent.
  6. Let your kids or grandchildren experiment with making mini-gardens. Indeed, it’s a fun project to do together and encourages a healthy imagination.
  7. Give insects or small critters a safe home. If there’s a small crack in the pot, turn it upside down to create a doorway. Then, tiny creatures like frogs, lizards, or insects seeking shelter will have a place to rest.
  8. You can even use a broken garden pot for mosaic projects. In fact, you can build a whole new pot or unique pieces like a pumpkin, birdbath, or stepping stones.
  9. If you have a small broken pot, use it as a citronella candle holder to keep insects away. Please place it in a larger pot surrounded by plants to hide the broken parts.
  10. Create a “spill pot” with the broken pieces and your favorite plants. Add potting soil or compost to an area a little bit larger than the container. Bury the pot halfway in the soil to hide the broken area. Then, plant the flowers in the soil, adding a few to the pot to create a spilled effect.

garden pot craftFinal thoughts on finding new and creative ideas that will help you repurpose a broken garden pot

There are so many ways to give a broken garden pot a second chance. No need to throw them away when you can make mini-gardens, decorations, or lizard homes out of them! If you search online, you can find dozens of more ideas for reusing garden pots as well.

Not only do DIY projects encourage upcycling, but they also rejuvenate the soul and spark creativity. So if you need something to take your mind off things, give this broken garden pot project a try.

20 Positive Statements to Recite Every Morning

Positive statements can help you get the best start to your day if you repeat them in the morning. They help you set and follow good habits that benefit you and your well-being. These positive statements will take root in your brain, and your mind will see them as the truth.

Once your mind processes the positive statements as truth, you will notice that it becomes your reality. If you tell yourself good and positive things, you will be happier and more positive. Finding positivity each day can help you be successful and driven, too.

The tone of your day is determined early on, so don’t forget to repeat these positive statements each morning. These affirmations can help you eliminate negative thoughts and replace them with uplifting ones that will help you.

Twenty Positive Statements to Recite Every Morning

Increase your positivity by stating these affirmations out loud each day.

positive statements1. I attract positive opportunities and circumstances.

When you start your day believing that you’ll attract positivity, it’ll become your reality. Repeat this affirmation as you look in the mirror and open your mind to the possibility.

2. I am taking steps to become successful.

Sometimes you will feel like you aren’t getting anywhere, and it can be a discouraging thought. When you feel that way, you will surely struggle to keep pushing forward. Instead of those negative thoughts, fill your mind with this positive statement.

Starting your day with positivity will give you the motivation to keep pushing through. You will begin to notice that each little step is leading you closer to where you need to be. With that, you will find that you become more focused and work harder than before.

3. I trust myself and the paths I choose to take.

Be confident in the decisions you have made and the path you have taken. You are wise, smart, and capable of doing the right thing. Don’t look back and regret your choices because otherwise, you wouldn’t be where you are now.

Embrace the way your life is, and remember that you can make good decisions. Trust yourself and have faith in your abilities.

4. I will have a great day today.

Every day is a new chance for a fresh start, so take advantage of it. Start your day by telling yourself that you will have a great day so that you begin looking for good things right away. When you get your mind thinking of positivity right away, it opens your eyes to the greatness around you.

This positive statement is beneficial if you know you have something uncomfortable planned that day. If you have a meeting, an event, or anything else that might cause stress, use this affirmation in the morning. It will help you stay positive throughout the day instead of fixating on the things that might make you nervous.

5. I have the wisdom needed to make smart decisions.

Smart choices are easy to make if you apply the knowledge that you already have. You are wiser than you know, so remind yourself of your abilities every morning. It will help you stay confident and positive throughout the day.

6. I love the things that make me different because they make me the person I am.

If you notice that you are bothered by your unique qualities, try using this positive statement each morning. It will help you remember that the things that make you different are what make you special.

You wouldn’t be the person you are if it weren’t for those things. Embrace what makes you who you are, and your good qualities will shine through. The best part of that is when you feel good about yourself, you will feel happier and more positive all day long.

7. I will complete all of my tasks and responsibilities.

You will sometimes feel overwhelmed by all that is going on in your life. Using this positive affirmation each morning will help you feel confident in your abilities to complete everything.

When you feel confident in yourself, you will be more productive and focused. Then, you can get all of your responsibilities taken care of without feeling like you are drowning in things to do.

8. I have endless opportunities, and the right ones will come along when the time is right.

Beginning your day thinking that nothing good will come is the wrong mindset to have. Instead, tell yourself that opportunities will present themselves when the time is right. The best situations for you to be in will come when you are ready and looking for it.

This affirmation can help you get in the position you need to be in to accept the opportunities. Stay focused, and you will attract endless possibilities and find the perfect one for you.

9. I get closer to achieving my goals each day.

Every day that you wake up and get moving, you are one step closer to your goals. When you know that success is coming, you will be more likely to do your best on your tasks. Not only will you feel better about yourself and your work, but you will help yourself move along more quickly, too.

10. I will keep a smile on my face today to help me stay positive.

Sometimes a simple smile is all you need to feel good about yourself. Keep a smile on your face, and remember the positivity that it radiates. Not only will those around you notice, but you will feel better, too.

pop quote11. I am choosing happiness today.

You can decide on the way that you feel. If you want to be happy, you must tell yourself that you will be happy.

12. I keep my focus on my goals and priorities.

This positive statement will help you remain focused throughout the day. If you repeat the affirmation each morning, you will notice that the things that used to distract you aren’t such an issue anymore.

13. I am worthy, valuable, and capable of doing anything that comes my way today.

Know your worth, and remind yourself of your greatness often. You are worthy and valuable, just as this positive affirmation states. Give yourself strength and confidence by repeating this statement each morning and any other time you need some encouragement.

14. I am committed to being the best person I can be.

Open your mind up to the possibilities that arise when you are at your best. If you can have this mindset every day, you will accomplish so much and be happier overall. When you strive to be better all the time, nothing can stop you.

15. I am not defined by negative things people say.

There will always be mean people in your life, even if you don’t see them often. Mean people will present themselves in the most unexpected situations, too.

Don’t let their words get to you. Instead, use this affirmation each morning to help yourself be more resilient against anything that may happen that day.

16. I live life to the fullest, and I seize every opportunity.

With this positive statement, you will be more likely to take calculated risks and try new things. You will experience more and create many unforgettable memories. Plus, you will have opportunities that others never get.

17. I make a difference.

No matter what you do, you make a difference in the world. You make a difference in the lives of those around you, and especially for your loved ones. Never doubt the reason you are here because you make the world a special place just by being here.

18. I am going to try something new today.

Trying something new doesn’t have to be crazy or take a ton of planning. Instead, it could be as simple as tasting a new food or experiencing a new restaurant. Or, it could involve trying a new project at work or brainstorming a new idea.

19. I will overcome any obstacles or setbacks I face.

You never know what will happen in the day ahead of you, so be prepared for anything. Prepare yourself for any possible obstacles or setbacks by reaffirming that you will overcome them. You will get yourself an advantage if anything comes up because you will already be in the right mindset.

20. I deserve good things and experiences.

You are deserving of all the good things life has to offer. Don’t turn something down or hold back because you feel like you don’t deserve it. Go after the good things, and embrace situations that bring happiness and joy.

positive statementsFinal Thoughts on Positive Statements to Recite Every Morning

When you implement positive statements into your morning routine, you will be setting yourself up for success and positivity. The affirmations can help you see the good in your day, and they can eliminate self-doubt or other negative self-talk. Fill your mind with positivity first thing in the morning so that you can be ready for the rest of the day.

You have what it takes to reach all of your goals and complete your tasks for the day. Use these positive statements to start your day on the right path, and you can ensure better control of your life.

Your Zodiac Monthly Horoscope May 2021 According to Astrologer

The cosmic views for May of 2021 begin with four planets in Taurus square Saturn. Your desires are strong, but they have to be postponed or curbed. Taurus is always full of new emerging desires, ideas, passions, and opportunities. Don’t put them aside. What they need are structure and patience. Releasing these feelings will only empower you and help you get going. The Sun-Uranus conjunction is strong for the first ten days, then they separate.

There are shifts and changes in your life that have begun to take root. Embrace the new, it’s time for a change, and you don’t want to be left behind. Humans have this amazing ability to adjust. Mars resides in Cancer all month and is in trine to Jupiter. Your energy level is strong as things begin to open up.

You’ll be able to handle a multitude of projects, options, and possibilities and all at the same time. Venus and Mercury are in Gemini by the second week of the month, and your ability to juggle will surprise you. Gemini energy is always capable of handling more than what seems possible and often with ease. Jupiter enters Pisces on the 14th, and the cosmic views show that your inner strength and fortitude are enhanced.

What is required now is faith. When you have it, things happen magically. Remember, you have to believe in attracting the support you need. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 26th trines Saturn and squares Jupiter. Your beliefs and ideals are being challenged. Don’t resist. Play with your possibilities, and the answers you are seeking will become clear. The invisible parts of your life, such as ideals and beliefs, have changed, affecting your choices. Keep your vision clear, and you will achieve your dreams.

Astrologist and life coach Linda Joyce, author of the book The Day You Were Born, reveals what lies ahead for May.

Cosmic Views for Aries (March 21st – April 20th)

cosmic viewsAries is the initiator. It advances through inner motivation and is unafraid of cutting through the chaos. If this is not you, then remove the blocks of fear preventing you from owning your destiny. You live with impatience, an inner need to manifest your dreams, and if inspired, you can help others do the same. With your ruler in Cancer this month, it’s all about organizing your inner world and not so much about taking action.

Mars is at the base of the chart, and it’s challenging you to see what’s important. Don’t cry over what you don’t have. Focus on what you want and where you’re going. Jupiter enters Pisces on the 14th, and you get an extra guardian angel. Jupiter in the 12th house of the unconscious brings you invisible support and opportunity. If something happens this month, it will be unexpected. You gain control through how you respond to what happens, so think before you act. The Sun and Uranus are conjunct in your 2nd house of finance. Money is a focus now. You’re not good at saying no to yourself, but it may be a good place to begin.

Don’t run up bills for things you don’t need. It’s more important for you to feel safe and strong than have a new pair of jeans. Pluto makes a trine to Venus and Mercury during the first week of the month, and it empowers you. If you pay attention, you will gain a greater understanding of what’s happening now and in your future.

If you’re in a relationship, both the good and the bad will be felt strongly. Work on what’s important. The details will take care of themselves. If you’re single, you could meet someone or take a relationship to the next step.

Taurus (April 21th – May 20th)

Taurus has become a sign of transformation and change. That’s what happens when you have Uranus visiting for seven years. It shakes up your life, your beliefs, and your dreams. For the first week of the month, you have four planets whispering in your ear. They are all square Saturn, which doesn’t allow for short-cuts. You must do the work to get the prize. Uranus wants you more independent. Stop being in a hurry and learn like others – the hard way. Short-cuts are seldom the right choice.

Jupiter enters Pisces on the 14th, and friendships become important.  You like your friends around you, but your challenge is to pick friends that lift you, not bring you down. Having a good time is great, but not at the expense of your values. Jupiter in your 11th house helps you set goals. You’ll have guidance and help from others. Jupiter in Pisces is all about faith and support from above. It builds strength from the inside out. Early in the month, Jupiter trines Mars, and your energy level goes up. Enthusiasm is strong, and it’s a great motivational force. When you feel strong from within, you get results.

The Full Moon in Sagittarius and your 8th house reveals what needs to be changed within you. It’s time for a transformation. The emphasis this month is on you, no one else. There’s a part of you that loves to be selfish, and now is your time to use it to your benefit. Look at yourself and be critical as well as validating. See your strengths and weaknesses and fix what you can.

If you’re in a relationship, you’re going through a transformation together. Hopefully, it will make you both stronger. If you’re single, you’re either ready to take a relationship deeper, or you could fall in love with someone new—all good.

Gemini (May 21st – June 20th)

Gemini is a challenging sign. If you didn’t do the work required by Taurus, which identifies your values and desires, you won’t be clear on what you want. As a Gemini, that’s a problem. Unless your path is clear, your restless energy takes over, and it could keep you from accomplishing your goals. For the first week of the month, you have four planets in your 12th house, and two of them are square Saturn.

You may feel powerless or unable to get things done. Don’t push. Step back and look at the whole picture. If you can let go and realize your power comes from how you respond, more than what you initiate. By the 10th, both Mercury and Venus are in Gemini, and you’ll feel a greater sense of control. With Mars in Cancer, in trine to Jupiter, your money issues improve, and how you earn your living may come from a new source. If it doesn’t happen immediately, it could arrive as a future opportunity. The message is, you’re ready to expand and try something new. You may be afraid of losing control, but you’re ready to open up and restructure your boundaries.

Saturn stations retrograde on the 13th, so don’t schedule any meetings on this day. Things may change or be canceled. But don’t panic. It doesn’t mean whatever you’re trying to do won’t happen. It just won’t happen on that day. The cosmic views reveal the Full Moon on the 26th, in your 7th house of relationships, brings any lingering issues between you and your partner to head. Don’t get upset. It’s there to help you resolve what you don’t want to look at. So, meet the challenge head-on.

If you’re single, it’s not a good time to meet someone unless you want to rescue them from a crisis. If Superman is your role model, it may just work for you.

Cosmic Views for May of  2021 – Cancer (June 21st – July 22nd)

Cancer energy is private. These souls don’t open up to just anyone. With four planets in the 11th house for the first week, finds them mingling with friends and making plans. There’s a strong emphasis on not being alone.

With Mars on your Ascendant for the first week, you’ll find yourself energized and eager to get things done. It will push you out of your safety zone and open you up to new possibilities. By the 10th, Venus and Mercury will be in Gemini, and your sense of privacy returns. Saturn stations retrograde on the 13th and remain’s in square to Uranus, making change challenging. At the same time, it is trine the Sun, Moon-Venus, and Mercury in Gemini – this kind of energy keeps you busy until the last detail is done. Mars trine Jupiter brings energy and strength. You’ll have an extra dose this month which helps you finish the job.

Jupiter rules your house of work, and if you haven’t had enough to make you feel good, it will begin to pick up and offer you new opportunities to make a living. Be open to the new. Don’t hang on to the past, something Cancer’s love to do. You can make anything feel safe once you get used to it. Jupiter enters Pisces on the 14th and challenges you to acknowledge your highest ideals. What ideas lift you and connect you to your higher self? What ideals give you a sense of purpose? Take a moment to think about what they mean to you.

If you’re in a relationship, things have improved, but not all the wounds are healed. However, you have a new lease on life and how you feel about those you love. This is a source of greater happiness. If you’re single, it’s a great time to meet others through friends. Put yourself out there, and you may be surprised.

cosmic viewsCosmic Views for Leo (July 23rd – August 22nd)

Leos know who they are and what they want. What they need to pay attention to is their direct style and sometimes need to be right. When you don’t listen to others, others don’t listen to you. It’s a simple as that. With your Sun in Taurus conjunct Uranus, Venus and Mercury, you feel the push to make changes in friendship and relationships in general. Saturn squares the Sun helps you examine what’s not working and why.

Saturn is the best teacher, but it tells you the way it is. So get ready for the truth. Jupiter trine Mars adds energy to you, both physically and mentally, and it helps. When you’re too critical, you have less impact. The Full Moon in your 6th house of work brings issues around your everyday schedule to the fore. Take a good look if you’d like an improvement.

The cosmic views show that Pluto is in trine to Venus and Mercury for the first two weeks of the month, and you feel in charge and clear on your mission. Saturn squares the Sun, and Uranus offers something other than change. You can put it off for a few weeks, but eventually, things shift, with or without your consent. Venus and Mercury enter Gemini and your 12th house by the 15th. Your intuition increases, but you’ll have to rely on your faith and not something definite.

Don’t let that slow you down. The cosmic views remind you that there’s nothing more powerful than intuition when you get used to listening to it. Jupiter enters Pisces on the 14th, and your ideals and goals get expanded. It’s been 12 years since it was in this sign, so it’s time to take a look and adjust the past to fit where you are now.

If you’re in a relationship, things are challenging. Your partner doesn’t know how to reach the new you. If you’re single, it’s a time to meet a lot of people through friends. Don’t get discouraged if “The One” is not a part of the picture.

 Virgo (August 23rd – September 22nd)

Virgos are both extremist and very practical. Once they accept a person or concept, they take the relationship or the idea to the enth degree, revealing its truth. Get out of your comfort zone, and people and ideas reveal their core. With four planets in Taurus in the 9th house of ideals, your purpose and passions are on the table. These four planets on earth make a trine to your Sun in Virgo and Pluto and the Moon in Capricorn.

You feel powerful and guided from above. There is a strong desire to act and take charge of your destiny. Do it; go for what you want with faith in yourself. When you do, the magic happens.  Jupiter enters Pisces on the 14th, and relationships improve. It’s easier now to get in touch with others and to build partnerships, either in business or personally. Jupiter squares your 10th house of career, showing you where change is necessary. By the 10th of the month, Mercury and Venus are in Gemini, your house of career. There’s a lot of busy work going on; don’t lose sight of your goals. If you don’t work toward the big picture, it’s easy to get lost in the details. With the Sun and Uranus conjunct in Taurus, change is inevitable. You see what’s missing, what’s been necessary to advance, and suddenly the path is clear.

Once you know where you’re going, it’s so much easier to get there. Saturn goes retrograde on the 23rd and is square Venus, the Sun, and Uranus: new ideas are difficult to manifest. The path is not easy, but the magic happens if you take your time and do the work. The Full Moon on the 26th in Sagittarius emphasizes the home. You’re changing from within, and that leads to new paths.

If you’re in a relationship, it’s also about to shift. If it’s good, you’ll feel more connected than ever before. But if you’re single, it’s time to meet your soul mate.

Libra (September 23rd – October 22nd)

Libra is seeking a truth that does not change. What it needs to learn is how to see it in all its disguises. Just because you’ve changed your clothes doesn’t mean who you are is different. The challenge of Libra is to recognize the truth behind its many disguises. With four planets in your 8th house, in trine to Pluto and the Moon, there is a desire for power and to be in control. Some things in your life have become difficult, but the challenge will pass if you just stay focused and do the work. Jupiter enters Pisces on the 14th, and your work schedule expands.

If you haven’t been working, you will. If you are working, then who you work with and how you do your job will have some adjustments. Saturn stations retrograde on the 13th, and you feel restrained. It’s for your own good. Right now, it’s important to advance one sure foot at a time.

Here’s what the cosmic views say about your personal life. The Sun and Uranus conjunct in Taurus is pushing you to make personal changes. Just let more of who you are out, and don’t protect your talents and the quirky sides of yourself; they add to your power and personality if you can own them. Mars is in your 10th house of career for the whole month. The focus is on your goals and getting closer to that dream.

Trust yourself, be prepared, and don’t be in a hurry, even if everyone else is. Rely on Saturn and its need to get things done right…before it advances. Mercury and Venus enter Gemini by the 10th, and when Jupiter enters Pisces on the 14th, it makes a square to both of them. Get a feel for what you want before you act.

If you’re in a relationship, things should be going well. Both of you are working hard. If you’re single, it’s a good time to meet others in unexpected places. Just be yourself.

Cosmic Views for Scorpio (October 23rd – November 21st)

Scorpio is a sign that many don’t understand. Perhaps it’s because it’s all about owning your power. That’s something that very few of us do well due to a lack of good examples. However, if you know who you are and where you’re going, it’s a lot easier to stay connected to your truth. If you’re still figuring yourself out, then it’s a challenge.

Scorpio is a sign of strong instincts. When in doubt, listen to them. With four planets in your 7th house, your relationships are both supportive and changing. The Sun Uranus conjunction is bringing in new people or changing the ones you have relied on in the past. With Jupiter entering Pisces on the 14th, your sense of self is empowered. The control that is so important to you will be available without difficulty. The cosmic views say that it’s time to embrace your path and your destiny.

Saturn in Aquarius stations retrograde on the 13th, and communication and your sense of freedom are interfered with. It’s temporary, so don’t panic. Just look at what’s being revealed. It’s something you need to look at. Mercury and Venus enter Gemini by the 10th, and Jupiter squares both on the 14th. It’s time to make personal changes or at least expand and embrace a bigger picture. The Sun Uranus conjunction is changing both you and any relationship you’re in. There’s a need for freedom and the ability to do things your way. You have control issues, and change is not something you love.

If you’re not in a relationship, you have endless opportunities to meet various interesting possibilities.

who you are becoming memeSagittarius (November 22nd – December 21st)

Sagittarius is the sign of adventure and higher truth. There is a love of travel and differences and anything that challenges you. With four planets in the 6th house, in trine to Pluto, changes are happening in your work or workplace. Saturn squares the Sun and Uranus, bringing to your attention what is not right or needs to change. Another possibility – you’re ready for something new. Whatever the motivation, something shifts. Don’t wait for others to understand what you want — take charge of your destiny.

Jupiter enters Pisces on the 14th, and home life improves. You feel like redecorating or making some changes that improve or expand the space you live in. Mars in Cancer works on you from within. You see yourself and others differently, and it’s easy to see how to move forward. With clarity comes new choices. Mercury and Venus enter Gemini by the 10th, and Jupiter squares them by the 14th.

Work and friendships may be challenging, but the problems won’t last, so don’t make a big thing out of them. The Full Moon in Sagittarius brings a personal issue to head. Don’t try and avoid whatever comes up. You can’t. Something you haven’t wanted to expose may show its face. Just accept it and move on.

If you’re in a relationship, it’s a bit crazy at the moment. You’re being asked to expand and change in some way. If it’s not what you want, speak up. But some compromise needs to be made. If you’re single, it’s a time to explore, not commit. Keep your options open for now.

Cosmic Views for Capricorn (December 22nd – January 19th)

Capricorns know how to get the job done. They’re not in a hurry, so it gets finished right.  The impatience of youth has been conquered, and wisdom takes its place. With four planets in Taurus and your 5th house this month, your ego and sense of self are emphasized. No more hesitations on taking charge. It’s your duty to lead when everyone else is procrastinating.

With the Sun conjunct Uranus, your natural sense of independence is enhanced. The first week of the month makes you resistant to anyone imposing on your space.  Stay away from situations where you may have to compromise. Pluto is in trine to the SunUranus conjunction, and you feel you have the power, even if you don’t. If you’re working on a project that needs a leader, you’ll get it done.

If you’re working for someone who thinks differently than you, then it will be a challenging week. Jupiter enters Pisces on the 14th. Pisces rules your house of communication. The need to share your thoughts becomes more important. Express your point of view because you see things differently than others. They may not agree with you, but they need to hear what you have to say.

If you’re in a relationship, you’re together and in agreement on the changes in your lives. If you’re single, don’t be afraid to approach someone and introduce yourself. It will be well received.

Aquarius (January 20th – February 18th)

Aquarius knows how to connect to people who are very different than they are, and because of this, they’re not afraid to show their differences. Once the fear of being alone is gone, you’re free to be who you are. The first week of May is emotionally powerful. Whatever you feel passionate about takes the lead. You’re being driven by what you want to accomplish.

Here is what the cosmic views for May of 2021 reveal for you. With four planets in your 4th house of the home, your safe place is changing, and it’s okay. You’re opening up your world in a whole new way. It’s time to take a risk for what you want and allow the universe to show you the way. Follow your instincts and if an opportunity presents itself – go for it.

With Jupiter entering Pisces on the 14th, ways to improve your earning power present themselves. Mercury and Venus enter Gemini by the 10th, and Jupiter squares both of them by the 15th. Expansion, new ideas, and new comfort zones are being forged. Embrace your possibilities. Saturn in your sign has brought new structures and limitations to your life, but all for good reasons. This month it squares Venus, which pushes you to make changes at a core level.

Saturn stations retrograde on the 13th, and your instincts become stronger. Trust what they tell you. Mars in trine to Jupiter increases your energy level. Whatever you have to do this month will get done with ease. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 26th brings friendships to the fore. Your real friends show up when you have a need.

If you’re in a relationship, your partner is not peaceful, partially due to all the changes in your lives. If you’re single, you’re attracted to someone independent and unavailable. It’s a good time to meet others but not commit.

Cosmic Views for Pisces (February 19th – March 20th)

Pisces requires clarity and focus on being successful. If you’re not, you’ll stay stuck in indecision and distractions. The magic happens when you have faith. On the 14th.Jupiter enters your sign, and it pushes the boundaries of your life. Jupiter is expansive and strong; it gives confidence and clarity when it comes to goals. It’s time to embrace a bigger picture. With Jupiter trine Mars for the whole month, energy is high, helping you complete your tasks in record time. Saturn squares Venus and Mercury after the 10th, and Saturn goes retrograde on the 13th.

This slows things down and makes sure you deal with the small stuff before you move on. It stops you from rushing ahead to the finish line. The Pluto Moon conjunction at the beginning of the month passionately engages your emotions. When feelings are strong, you’re aware of what’s important to you. Passion helps anyone rise above the nonsense and connect to what’s important, especially a Pisces.

When feelings are clear, so are you. The trine from Pluto to Venus and Mercury for the first half of the month provides the strength and commitment necessary to get things done. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 26th draws attention to your career and where you’re going. Whatever needs your attention will be highlighted at this time. If you’re in a relationship, your partner will cooperative for the first half of the month and then feel the restraint of Saturn. Be supportive.

According to this month’s cosmic views, if you’re single, things go well until the 15th, then relationships become more difficult.

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