Tag: inspiration

Posted in Grace

Count Your Blessings

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Count Your Blessings

When we start appreciating the gift of life and the experiences we have, our thankfulness grows stronger.

When we practice being thankful, we often take time to recognize the good things, like people, things, and places that make up our lives. It’s awesome to appreciate our good fortune, but real thankfulness comes from understanding that just being alive is a gift, no matter what’s going on. When we’re truly grateful, we realize that being alive is a special experience, and we feel connected to the mysterious beauty of life itself.

You know, it’s tough for most of us to tap into that deep level of awareness, right? We’re all caught up in the rollercoaster of our own lives, with all its ups and downs. But here’s the thing: the world is like a tide, it goes in and out, gets bigger and smaller, and gives and takes. It’s not always reliable. So, if we only say “thank you” when things go our way, that’s not real gratitude.

Life is full of surprises, and it can take away our belongings, relationships, and even the people we cherish at any moment. But ironically, it’s often this kind of loss that makes us appreciate life more, beyond just being happy when things go our way. Even getting sick or having a close call with an accident, or a hurricane and flooding can be a wake-up call, reminding us how lucky we are to be alive.

You don’t have to wait for a big shake-up in your life to appreciate it. Just taking a few moments each day to focus on your breath and be present in the moment can do wonders for making you feel grateful. And remember, the life force that flows through you is generous and unconditional, no matter what’s going on around you. So, let’s wake up and be more aware of that!

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Meditation

Morning Rituals

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

In my pursuit of inner peace and balance, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of guided meditations on YouTube. Recognizing their potential to uplift my spirit, I decided to share them with you. I have made them an integral part of my morning routine, believing every little bit of assistance can make a difference when caught in a cycle of negativity. These meditations serve as a powerful tool to center myself and restore equilibrium whenever I feel off balance.

“Meditation nourishes the mind in the same way that food nourishes the body.” 

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Deep-Cleaning

The Art of Detail-Cleaning

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

In the quiet corners of our homes, hidden beneath the daily bustle, lie forgotten nooks and crannies. These are the places where memories gather dust and where the essence of our lives subtly accumulates. Detail-cleaning your home is not just about tidying up—it’s about rekindling a relationship with your space, breathing life back into every room, and finding joy in the smallest of details.

Imagine the serenity that washes over you as you lift a neglected picture frame, wiping away months of dust to reveal a cherished photograph. Each swipe of the cloth becomes a stroke of nostalgia, a gentle reminder of moments past. The smell of fresh cleaning products mingles with the familiar scent of home, creating an atmosphere that is both comforting and invigorating.

As you meticulously clean the baseboards and scrub the grout, you are not just removing dirt—you are rediscovering the beauty that lies beneath. Each corner you uncover, each surface you polish, reflects a renewed commitment to your environment. It’s a process that grounds you, connecting you to the physical space that holds your life’s stories.

Detail-cleaning your home is an act of love. It’s in the careful reorganization of a cluttered drawer, where you find that long-lost trinket that brings a smile to your face. It’s in the satisfaction of seeing your reflection in a spotless mirror, a metaphor for the clarity and peace you seek in life.

The act of deep cleaning goes beyond the physical; it’s a meditative journey. As you clean, you let go of what no longer serves you, making room for new memories and experiences. It’s a practice that teaches patience, attention to detail, and mindfulness. You become present in the moment, fully engaged with your surroundings.

In this process, your home transforms from a mere shelter into a sanctuary. The energy shifts and the air feels lighter. You walk through each room with a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that every surface gleams with your care. It’s a gift to yourself and to those you share your home with—a testament to the love and respect you have for your living space.

So, embrace the art of detail-cleaning. Let it be a celebration of your home, a ritual that honors the past and prepares for the future. As you clean, remember that you are not just tidying up; you are creating a space filled with warmth, clarity, and peace. In every corner, let the love you pour into your home reflect into your heart, reminding you of the beauty in the details.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Reflections

The Power of Disconnect

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

The Power of Disconnect

Rather than engaging in mind games, pursue a life rooted in authenticity and introspection.

Individuals are often conditioned from a young age to believe that open and honest communication is ineffective in achieving their goals. Rather than fostering genuine connections, they resort to manipulative strategies like mind games and exercises of authority to align with their ego’s desires.

Individuals trapped in an outdated and ineffective communication style can range from frustrating to outright destructive. It’s tempting to engage in the same tactics to defend ourselves, but this only perpetuates confusion and conflict. The optimal approach is to be transparent and genuine in our interactions with such individuals.

In any relationship or situation, introspection is crucial in identifying the root of our problems and finding solutions. Reacting emotionally will only further entangle us. To gain clarity, we must detach from the situation, find stillness, and delve within ourselves. This introspection will help us understand the factors that have contributed to our current predicament.

Through introspection, we’ll likely uncover raw emotions that we can finally embrace wholeheartedly. As we do this more, the other person’s emotional turmoil will bother us less, allowing us the freedom to respond in a novel manner. This newfound awareness will unravel the situation, gradually leading to our liberation.

In the tapestry of our lives, each person who enters our orbit brings a unique purpose. They serve as mirrors, reflecting aspects of ourselves that we may have overlooked. When unhealthy individuals attempt to draw us into their manipulative games and power struggles, we have an opportunity for profound growth. By recognizing that we have lessons to learn, we tap into a deeper part of ourselves that yearns for healing. This perspective shift allows us to redirect our attention inward, empowering us to transform challenging situations from within.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Declutter

Mini-Clutter Clinic

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Mini Clinic: Organizing the Family Bathroom

Objective:
To transform a cluttered family bathroom into a functional, clean, and efficient space for all members of the family to use comfortably.

Step 1: Declutter

  • Remove everything: Clear off countertops, shelves, and cabinets. Lay everything out on a surface.
  • Sort into categories: Group items by type—towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, first aid, etc.
  • Toss expired or unused items: Discard expired products, empty bottles, and anything no longer in use.

Step 2: Establish Zones

Create dedicated zones for:

  • Daily use items: Keep frequently used products (toothbrushes, soap, hand towels) within easy reach.
  • Hair and skincare products: Use a drawer or container for makeup, skincare, and hair tools.
  • Bathing essentials: Organize shampoos, conditioners, and body washes near the shower or bath.
  • Cleaning supplies: Store under the sink or in a closet, but keep them out of reach of children.
  • Family members’ items: If several family members use the bathroom, create personal bins or shelves for each person.

Step 3: Maximize Storage

  • Use drawer organizers: Keep small items like cotton swabs, toothpaste, and razors tidy.
  • Install shelves or baskets: Make use of vertical space with wall-mounted shelves or hanging baskets for extra storage.
  • Use clear containers: For deep cabinets or under-the-sink areas, use clear bins or baskets for easier access to items.
  • Towel hooks or racks: Mount hooks for each family member’s towel, or add a towel bar to keep them off the floor.

Step 4: Label & Maintain

  • Label containers and bins: Labeling helps everyone know where things belong and keeps the system working.
  • Implement a routine check: Once a month, check for items that need replenishing or discarding, ensuring the space stays clutter-free.

Additional Tips:

  • Add a laundry hamper: Make it easy for everyone to toss dirty towels and clothes directly into the hamper.
  • Childproofing: If you have young children, ensure that any sharp or hazardous items are stored securely and out of reach.

Products to Consider:

  • Stackable bins for under-sink storage
  • Over-the-door hooks for towels
  • Clear plastic containers for small items
  • Drawer dividers for toiletries
  • A lazy Susan for easy access to products in deep cabinets

Final Thoughts:

A well-organized family bathroom can streamline the morning and evening routines, helping every family member start their day more efficiently. Plus, an organized bathroom is easier to clean and maintain!

Happy Organizing! Cheryl

Posted in Clutter Coach

Essential Space Organization

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Essential Space Organization

Organizing your spaces is not just a luxury; it’s essential to creating a balanced and productive lifestyle. Clutter and disorganization can have a profound impact on your mental and emotional well-being. When your living or working environment is chaotic, it can lead to feelings of stress, overwhelm, and even a sense of being stuck. Conversely, an organized space promotes clarity, focus, and peace of mind, allowing you to operate more efficiently and feel more in control.

A well-organized space saves time and energy. When you know where things are, you don’t waste precious moments searching for misplaced items, which reduces frustration and increases productivity. It helps you maintain a sense of calm, especially in stressful situations, because your environment is set up to support your daily routines, not hinder them. This is particularly important for people juggling multiple responsibilities like work, family, and personal care.

Additionally, organizing isn’t about making everything perfect; it’s about creating systems that work for you and your unique lifestyle. Whether it’s a kitchen where meal prep becomes effortless, a workspace that boosts creativity and concentration, or a living room that invites relaxation and connection, organizing is about making life flow better. It’s a form of self-care that enhances the quality of your life by creating physical and mental space for the things that matter most.

Far from being a luxury, organization is a necessity. It empowers you to live more intentionally, reduces anxiety, and fosters a healthier, more functional lifestyle. When your space is in order, your mind can follow suit.

Change Chaos to Calm, Cheryl

If you require more comprehensive guidance than the information provided in my article, consider my personalized coaching programs. Book a complimentary consultation to explore the factors hindering your journey toward organized living spaces. Together, we will identify your challenges and develop a tailored strategy to help you achieve your goals. I anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you in transforming your lifestyle.

Let’s Chat! # 860-941-8630

A TEXT  gets to me faster: (Name, Issue, the Best time to call)

Email: ccamacho@lifestyle-by-designs.com 

“Clutter is postponed decisions”

Posted in Journal Writing

Keep a Sad or Worry Journal

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Creatively express your feelings (or lack thereof)

Create a unique artistic expression that reflects your most recent emotion. Engage in activities such as writing a song, doodling in a journal, painting a picture, or crafting a collage or Vision Board/Box. Explore different mediums to convey your feelings, even if you struggle to identify them. Embrace the use of dark colors like greys and blacks to add depth to your work of art. Afterward, reflect on your emotional state. Examine whether a sense of satisfaction or any other emotion arises within you. Document these experiences in a journal, exploring the nuances of your feelings and the impact of your artistic expression.

Take care of your inner child

To heal the emotional numbing that stems from childhood trauma, it’s crucial to care for your inner child. Engage in inner child work to find ways to comfort and nurture this vulnerable part of yourself. Consider creating empowering affirmations tailored to your inner child’s needs. For instance, when faced with challenging circumstances, repeat phrases like “It’s okay for me to feel,” “It’s safe for me to feel sad,” “My anger is valid,” and “Being vulnerable is being strong.” These affirmations can help your inner child access emotions and promote emotional growth.

Dedicate space and time to feeling

In our fast-paced lives, we often seek distractions from social media, television, shopping, food, social obligations, and other external sources. While these distractions can provide temporary relief, they can also hinder our ability to look inward. Unlike external distractions, introspection requires self-discipline, which is why many people avoid it. 

To conquer emotional numbness, dedicating time and space for self-reflection is crucial. Journaling has been an effective method for me, sometimes leading to creative outlets such as drawing, poetry, or songwriting. Revisiting my journal, I consistently observe progress, even if it’s gradual. The key is to maintain forward momentum in my emotional journey.

To strengthen self-discipline, dedicate time to exploring your inner self, especially identifying and understanding repressed emotions and their underlying causes. This step is crucial for personal growth and self-awareness.

To conclude your journaling session, consider incorporating uplifting elements to counteract negative emotions. This could involve reading positive news from sources such as the uplifting news subreddit, spending quality time with a loved one, engaging in playful activities with a pet, or selecting entertaining content from platforms like YouTube or Netflix. This practice will help balance your emotional state and promote a sense of well-being.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in motivation

Motivational Monday

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Don’t Compare Yourself Celebrate Yourself~

Motivating yourself through depression can feel like an uphill battle . . . I know, but small steps forward make a big difference. It’s about recognizing that even the smallest accomplishments, like getting out of bed or taking a shower, are victories. Setting gentle, realistic goals and allowing yourself grace when you need rest is key. Surround yourself with support, whether it’s from friends, family, or a community, and remember that healing takes time. Progress may be slow, but each day brings a new opportunity to try again. Celebrate the small wins, and trust that brighter days will come. #CELEBRATEYOURSELF

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in New Beginnings

Sharing Our Spaces

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

By opening our homes and sharing their warmth, we spread radiance instead of confining it within closed doors.

Within the sanctuary of our homes, sharing our space with familiar faces brings comfort. However, the intrusion of outsiders, such as unfamiliar cleaners, contractors, or technicians, can disrupt the serenity. Additionally, acquaintances of our partners and friends of our children introduce unforeseen elements that may challenge the established dynamics of our domestic environment.

To fully embrace the presence of spirits, we must refrain from treating them as unwelcome intrusions. By resisting their presence, we impede the natural flow of energy and potentially miss out on the gifts they offer. Alternatively, we can choose to perceive their energy as a valuable exchange and an opportunity for acceptance.

In preparation for their arrival, we can engage in visualization practices. Envisioning a radiant light surrounding our bodies and extending outward from the heart of our homes can help create a welcoming and serene environment. Additionally, we may choose to enhance the atmosphere by playing meditative music or lighting incense, fostering a sense of peace and receptivity.

To alleviate tension for everyone involved, it’s beneficial to securely store our valuables beforehand. Upon their arrival, we can establish and maintain our boundaries by gently guiding them through their visit. This may involve requesting that they remove their shoes, providing a designated area for their tools, and setting an example by speaking softly and avoiding harsh language.

In summary, keep in mind that we gain life lessons through meaningful connections with others. Our homes shouldn’t serve as barriers isolating us from the outside world. Instead, they can transform into welcoming sanctuaries where we embrace and appreciate the presence and gifts of others. By sharing the joy and warmth of our homes, we radiate our inner light rather than concealing it behind closed doors. The more we engage in this practice, the greater the potential for the external world to mirror the peaceful and harmonious environment we have cultivated within our homes.

‘Hospitality is opening your home the same way you open your heart”

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl