Today is the first day of Women’s History Month. May these words that God put on my heart to share with an amazing group of women at @sundressbrunch exhort and empower you as you trailblaze a path of transgenerational healing. For this is women’s history - not just what we do publicly but also what we do privately. Healing in the midst of our brokenness is about living in the duality of our lived experiences. It’s not about living in the tension of the two, which causes friction and collision that often leads to frustration, disappointment, and discouragement. But when we live in the duality of the two (whatever “the two” may be for you in any given season), there is peace, joy, acceptance, and patience. And these are the intangible gifts and blessings we all need to continue journeying forward in our healing. There is healing power in the “AND.” There is healing power in your story. I am women’s history. You are women’s history. Together, we are women’s history. Special shout out and thank you to @sundressbrunch and @melissajnixon for your obedience to the Spirit of God on this day, and allowing me to pour into such a phenomenal group of women. #drgsays #womenshistorymonth #iamwomanshistory #healingandbrokenness #wholeness #womenempowerment #sisterhood #iammysisterskeeper #beencouaged #encouragement #womenhealingwomen
Acknowledgment precedes accountability. Oftentimes, we struggle to communicate a thing [aka acknowledgment] because we don’t want to be held accountable for that thing. But those who hold us accountable, also walk alongside us through that thing. Thus, accountability precedes community. We can’t be ready for community, if we aren’t open to accountability. May this year be the year for intentional accountability partners! #drgsays #accountability #accountabiltypartners #community #communication #acknowledgment
That moment when you’ve waited 13 months to enjoy your Christmas gift from 2022 this year just to see your fav, Anita Baker (the GOAT). If you know me, then you probably know my love for Anita Baker and concerts. It is what brings me pure joy and happiness. As a recovering workaholic, I’ve become more intentional about enjoying a life outside of work and curating a quality of life that is authentic to me. Listen. Idc, what the media tells us what we ought to be doing and consuming to live our best lives…to live a life of luxury…to be that girl. Do what brings you joy. Do what brings you happiness. Do what brings you peace. Do what brings you ease. Do what makes you feel alive. And then, do it all like nobody is watching! 💋💯 #drgsays #anitabaker #intentionalliving #mindfulliving #authenticliving #dancelikenooneswatching #leopardprintismyfavoritecolor
Truth be told, authenticity can be both inspiring and intimidating. But, oh does it shole look good on you either way ✨ #drgsays #beyou #authenticity #authentic #inspiring #intimidating #womenempowerment #sisterhood
The presence of peace is a sure sign of being in the will of God. Therefore, we must have a deep understanding that the enemy doesn’t solely want to rob us of the peace of God. Moreover, the enemy’s desire and ultimate plan is to rob us of being in God’s will. But, the enemy can’t rob where we choose to remain. And, the enemy can’t steal where we choose to stand. So, may we choose to remain…to stand…with a smile. Listen, God’s peace looks good on you! And you, too! Scripture & Prayer: Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace at all times and in every way [that peace and spiritual well-being that comes to those who walk with Him, regardless of life’s circumstances]. The Lord be with you all. Amen. (2 Thessalonians 3:16 AMP) #drgsays #peace #smile #abide #stillness #godswilliswhatiwantformylife #prayer #encouragement
🗣️Extra, Extra, Read All About It 🗣️ • My story & My testimony | 10.02.2011 • 12 years ago on this day, I thought I’d never see today. It was the day I just knew I would make the news indicating another black person dead from gun violence/homicide. It was the day that I just knew if I’d make it out alive, I would never be the same, physically. But instead, it was the day that I absolutely knew God to be a miracle worker…to be real…for myself. God, did not just spare my life from one bullet, but from multiple gunshots. And today, I am alive and well (physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually) to tell you that God is so real that I didn’t even have a single graze on my body. I just want to encourage and empower someone today that maybe feeling defeated by the spiritual attack(s) they’ve been experiencing this week, this month, this season, or this year. Though the weapons formed. And though the weapons even fired. You will live and you will prosper to tell your story…to tell your testimony of the goodness and miraculous works of God. To God be the glory! So grateful. So blessed. 🙏🏽😭🙌🏾😭💃🏽😭🙏🏽 #mytestimony #mystory #drgsays
A WOMAN EVOLVED: Sometimes, the inevitable trails and tribulations we go through can lead to feelings of hopelessness. One of the enemy’s primary goals and objectives is to take from us the very thing that keeps us in relationship with God, that keeps us in the fight, and that keeps our hope alive, which is - PRAYER. God reminded me that intercession is simply carrying those things over to God in prayer. God didn’t call us to carry the weight of the world. He calls us to carry it over to Him. So many of us are tired, heavy, and weighed down. If so, ask yourself this question: ‘What am I carrying that God never intended me to carry?’ Then, ask yourself this: ‘What do I need to carry over to God?’ The freedom and peace of giving that which we tried to carry on our own to God accesses us to increased capacity - an essential to stay in the fight… As an Empath, this is so critical for me because I have the propensity to feel and take on what others may be feeling and going through. Don’t let the enemy try to pervert your gift as an empath…your gift of intercession. If satan can get us to the point of exhaustion and fatigue, our gift of empathy turns to apathy. And this is how the enemy wins. So keep fighting! Keep praying! The enemy is also after our hearts and our minds. If the enemy can get to our heads [or mindsets], then he will also have our hearts. The enemy knows full well about the connection of the mind, body, and soul. Keeping us disconnected or dissociated from our bodies and keeping our mindset and heartset out of alignment with each another, makes us more vulnerable to the spiritual attacks of the enemy. This is why it’s also so very critical that we all heal from our past traumas because this is exactly what trauma does to the mind and body. And if we can’t feel safe in our bodies, we’ll never feel safe in the world. Furthermore, we’ll never fully witness God as our refuge, our Protector, our Healer, etc. Thus, we remain in survival mood - which looks like only fighting for ourselves.…so then we fight with pride and not prayer. And when we choose to fight with pride, nobody wins except the enemy. #womanevolve23 #drgsays #pardonthepoorvideoquality
During my walk today, God spoke to me — as He usually does. Sometimes, when I need to hear from God, with clarity, I go for a walk. God always meets me on my walks. God always speaks to me on my walks. Sometimes, He speaks to me loud and clear. But most of the time, He speaks to me with a softness and a gentleness; a whisper — like a caregiver speaks to his/her child. On this day, I heard a whisper…a repetitive whisper that said, “It’s your season to bloom, beloved.” When God is desperate to speak a word in our lives, He does so with a repetitive word, phrase, scripture, vision, etc. His voice and His words were exactly what I needed to hear…what my soul craved. And I don’t know who else needs this, but after all the dirt that has been thrown at you and after all the mess you’ve been through and maybe even going through right now (like myself), God is turning it into good soil for you to bloom. For you to flourish. For you to thrive. For you to live. And for you to live well. That’s the miracle. But here’s the blessing. When others see you bloom, it will empower them to do the same. So be encouraged today if whatever you’re going through looks and feels messy, dark, or outright dirty. It’s all working for your good. It’s all working for your growth. And be empowered today to bloom. Fully. Unashamedly. Unapologetically. In that good soil, and in your growth. Whewww chile…growth looks good on me and you! #drgsays
VALUE DIMINISHED I am not big on being an after thought to someone. I really don't need any further talk about availability or interest. That becomes entirely evident by actions or lack thereof. You know the first of a relationship is typically as good as it gets and it is downhill from there. If you are already feeling at the bottom in a relationship, and the only place lower to go is a ditch…then…. SPEAK UP & OUT! # healthyselfrespect #healthybody #bodymindbalance #personalworth #speakout #healthyboundaries #healthylifestyle #drgsays @rawok.org # #livinglifetogether #lovinglife #lovingselffirst
Gazing at the stars Basking in the moonlight Holding my attention hostage with your thoughts. Relaxing your arms in mine after carrying the world on your shoulders While spending time getting lost in time... Thought I’d share this poem I wrote several years ago in honor of Love today. #happyloveday #happyvalentinesday #drgwrites #drgsays #loveposts #lovepoem
Dear God, Give me the capacity to endure the stretching so I may have the capacity to steward my enlarged territory, and to do it well and to be well doing it. Amen. #drgsays #faith #stretchingseason #enlargemyterritory #christianquotes #takecare #wisdomforyourhealingjourney
May you release the need to “apply pressure.” And, may you embrace the need to go at “it” with ease. So many of us are overwhelmed with the new year pressure to get things running off the ground. But the reality for some is that that way of accomplishing new goals for the new year isn’t sustainable and doesn’t serve us, our goals, our future, our loved ones, or our nervous systems well. This is why most people find themselves drained, unmotivated, discouraged, irritated, anxious, depressed, etc. before the first quarter ends. We must take inventory about what our mind, body, and soul needs to sustain us as we go after whatever we desire this new year. You are not only worthy of your desires being fulfilled, but you’re also worthy of feeling fulfilled when those things you’ve desired in your heart come to fruition in your hand. #drgsays #beaffirmed #affirmationoftheday
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2023! Ushered in the New Year at Tower Theater with dancing, eating, responsibly drinking (lol) and hanging out with new friends! Hope you start your new year today with a precedent of what you want in 2023! If not, start now! What is it you want for your year…more friends, cleaner house, spiritual well being, more love, better health, time for self care? Whatever you want, start with some little aspect today! What is that one thing and be like Nike and JUST DO IT! #newyear #startingover yourgoals #startingover #drgsays
May this day bring you moments of joy, peace, love, connectedness, clarity, contentment, rest, and ease. And in these moments, may we all be reminded that it’s the intangible gifts that we experience that exceed any tangible gift that money can buy. Merry Christmas! #drgsays #merrychristmas #happyholidays
LOOKING FORWARD INTO BRIGHTER DAYS Everything is busier, crazier, and bigger this time of year. It can be difficult to navigate through all of the different obstacles that come with holidays, but no matter where you are at in this season remember brighter days are still ahead! How are you dealing with everything this season? #holidays #emotions #joy #excitment #sadness #busy #season #brighterdays #forward #drgsays #rawkok.org
LIFE HAS MORE MEANING THAT MATERIAL THINGS As the holiday season keeps sneaking up on us, it is important to remember that life is about more than having everything we just want. It can be easy to become caught up in the material things this time of year, but it is more important for us to find the meaning in the gifts we are already blessed with! What is the thing that you find most meaningful this holiday? #holidays #meaning #everything #holidaymood #materialthings #gifts #blessed #drgsays #rawkok.org
IT’S CHRISTMAS TIME IN THE CITY Lights, and holiday cheer are everywhere! During this busy time of the year, don’t forget to take a deep breath and look at all the beauty surrounding you! What is your favorite part of the holiday’s? #christmas #beauty #holiday #busy #lights #holidaycheer #christmaslights #drgsays #rawkok.org
SMILING THROUGH THE CHANGE OF SEASONS We all go through changes in the different seasons of life, much like changes in the weather. You have to find what brings you joy through these different seasons and hold onto that tight. What is bringing you joy in this season? #change #seasons #joy #smiling #life #weather #holdon #mentalhealthmatters #drgsays #rawkok.org
ALWAYS BE GRATEFUL FOR WHERE YOU ARE IN YOUR JOURNEY Whether it’s big steps or small steps, any step is one step closer to where you are meant to be. Be grateful for those steps ❤️ #healing #trauma #grateful #godhasaplan #yourpurpose #yourjourney #yougotthis #drgsays #mentalhealth #rawok.org
THE IMPORTANCE OF LAUGHTER Last night I took my business partner and office manager to an Event so we could have fun WITHOUT thinking or talking about work. We had so much fun and laughed until our stomachs hurt. It’s so important to keep good people in your circle who can laugh and have fun with you but know when it’s time to get down to business. Im appreciative of my staff and our fun we have together! #puffpaintpass #laughter #paintings #laughteristhebestmedicine #coworkers #havefun #enjoylife #goodfriends #funny #rawok.org #drgsays
SHARE EVENTS & PLACES WITH OTHERS Some of my family had not yet seen the Land Run Monument in Bricktown. Although I had seen it on multiple occasions, I still enjoyed watching their expressions and finding more details on the statues than I had last seen. Something may have become less interesting to you, but remembering your first experience helps to bring enthusiasm to others. Where can you take others this holiday to experience? #landrunmonument #historical #oklahomabricktown #funandfamily #fallleaveschanging #mentalhealth #bodymindspirit #drgsays #drgsaysgoodmorning
BEING SMASHED TOGETHER WITH PEOPLE YOU AVOID ALL YEAR Some tips to set a set a exit plan and avoid extreme boundaries (They can and will be used against you in the court of family!) #thanksgiving #holidaytips #holidaystress #findingyourway #haveanexitplan #boundaries #drgsays #alcoholabuse #rawok.org
Because it is very possible to have one without the other, both capability and capacity must be present. Maturity says, ‘It’s not personal; it’s purposeful.’ And whenever we act or react with compassion and empathy, we do so from a posture and perspective of purpose. #drgsays #purposedrivenlife #wisdomforyourhealingjourney #healon #healsis #healbro #compassion #empathy #emotionalmaturity #takecare
PLAYING IN LIFE! Life has so many casualties and painful events, we often forget to play. There doesn’t have to be a game or any particular scenario to play. At any moment, you can put on a playful attitude and energy (except when it is inappropriate such as a funeral or something painful for others). Playfulness builds and releases good chemicals in the brain and body! Try some moment today and see if you feel better or make others smile around you! Comment about your results and let me know! #playfulness #lovinglife #havingfun #happyhealthycrazy #happinessinlife #bodymindmedicine #drgsays #rawok.org
How to stay happy and set healthy boundaries before Thanksgiving! #holiday #holidaystress #justsayno #holidayhappiness #live #healthyboundaries #defineyourreality #drgsays #healthybodyhealthymind
Resisting the pace voids us of the very peace we’ve been desperately praying for. What is the opposite of resistance, you ask? Rest. Perhaps the new pace that God is calling us into looks like integrating more rest. Have you ever gotten sufficient rest but still didn’t feel refreshed? Yeah, me too. That’s because there’s more than one form/type/definition of rest. If we only get physical rest, the rest of our being (pun intended lol), the mind, soul, and spirit, are oftentimes left abandoned and neglected due to a lack of adequate rest each require and need. The seven types of rest: • physical • mental • emotional • spiritual • social • sensory • creative Take a moment to get still and check in with yourself today? Honestly and authentically. Here are some journal prompts to help guide you in doing so. Journal prompts: 1. How am I really feeling today? Like frfr? 2. What are my current needs? 3. How can my needs be met through rest? What type(s) of rest can best meet these needs? 4. Who/what is getting in the way of the rest that I need? 5. What does support look like to hold me in love and accountability for the rest I need? 6. How can I begin to integrate more rest into my everyday life? (e.g., praying more, utilizing lunch breaks for lunch and not for work, going for a 15 minute walk, meditating for 5 minutes, unplugging from social media 1-2 hours before bedtime, writing a song/poem, drawing your favorite anime characters, stretching for 10 minutes, getting a monthly massage) You’ve heard the old saying, “Check yourself before you wreck yourself.” Well, I take that quote quite literally. And maybe you should too… #drgsays #soulcaresunday #wisdomforyourhealingjourney #journalprompts #selfcheck #selfcheckin #mentalhealth #faithandmentalhealth
THE TANGLED WEBS WE WEAVE 🕸 As humans we often blame life for causing difficulties and suffering. In reality it’s often our own unawareness to the web we’re weaving ourselves, that causes those things. It’s like knocking down dominoes and trying to stop them from falling. One lie leads to another to another and before we know it we are all tangled up in our own web of lies. Don’t let your mind distract and deceive you. #weboflife #tangled #deceive #distraction #mindfulness #awareness mental health #drgsays #rawok.org #halloween
HARD WORKS PAYS OFF 🥇 When you want something bad enough you can put mind over matter and achieve miraculous results. This journey was definitely a “mind over matter” situation! But it was all worth the hard work, dedication, blood, sweat, and tears. Im proud to share with you guys that I won 1st place! You can do anything you put your mind too. @npcoklahoma @houseofpaynegym @npcnewsonlineofficialpage #bodybuilding #hardwork #dedication #healthandwellness #nationalqualifier #50plusandfabulous #mindovermatter #competition #drgsays #rawok.org
Fear and frustration can have the potential of crippling our faith. But you have the power to take a deeper look into your fears and/or frustrations and allow them to inform where you need to reposition your faith. Sometimes, you have to separate yourself from everything and everyone and just sit with yourself…your thoughts…and feelings, including fear and frustration. Just take a moment to listen to what they truly have to say. These moments are opportunities for vulnerability, healing, renewal, and transformation. And perhaps, it’s difficult to have this sit down with such difficult emotions, especially if you feel like your faith is wavering. Here are a few journal prompts to guide the discussion. And yes, it’s absolutely okay to talk to yourself. I do it all the time. Research even says that mentally strong people talk to themselves more than those who are not. So build your mental strength while simultaneously building your faith muscle today! #drgsays #soulcaresunday #faith #fear #frustration #journalprompts
LIFE IS TOO HEAVY TO CARRY ALONE- BE A FRIEND ❤️ 988 - The suicide and crisis lifeline #988 #suicideprevention #crisislifeline #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #youarenotalone #rawok.org #drgsays
HAPPY BOSS DAY! I love my staff. I appreciate them and their support during competition training. Despite my flaws, they are endearing! #nationalbossday #boss #bosslady #bodybuilding #competition #staff #appreciation #appreciationpost #instagram #endearing #beststaff #raw.ok #drgsays
HARDER CHALLENGE THAN EXPECTED! BODY BUILDING Sometimes we get ourselves into an adventure or activity we had no idea that would require so much time, effort and energy. It’s important not to give up or cheat. NO REGRETS-shoulda, coulda, woulda all are things we tell ourself when we haven’t given our best. I am in it to win it. Are you? #bodybuilding #gymrat #healthylifestyle #lifechallenges #rawok.org #mentalhealth #keepingitreal #bestrong #endureallthings #hopeallthings #drgsays
Today marks World Mental Health Day! Let’s work together to raise awareness of mental health issues, mobilize efforts to support mental health and combat the stigma associated with mental health challenges. #mentalhealthday #october10 #mentalhealthadvocate #beavoice #speakup #instagood #Iloveyou #youmatter #worldmentalhealthday #drgsays #raw.ok
COMPETITION 🏈 Healthy levels of competition can help improve self-esteem and increase enjoyment of life. It’s the biggest game day of the season for Oklahoma and Texas ! Who’s ready?! 🏈😜 Who are you rooting for? #oualumni #competition #redriverrivalry #ouvstx #football #footballsaturday #challenge #excitmentoverload #oklahomafootball #instagood #drgsays Who are you guys rooting for today?!
WAITING CAN BE FRUSTRATING! I don’t know about you, but I can get very impatient when I am waiting on others. I often expect people to be prompt and timely. However, there is an unfortunate reality that not everyone is on my clock schedule. So, whether we like it or not, patience has a perfect work in us! I still have a long way to go! How about you? #patience #keepthefaith #imperfect #soimpatient #obsessive #controllers #rawok #drgsays
SPLURGE ON YOURSELF There are many psychological reasons behind why treating yourself feels so good. It involves self-worth, self-love, and self-care. My body building coach gave me a splurge meal so I treated myself to an amazing dinner tonight! Splurging on yourself is necessary sometimes when you’ve been working so hard. #Instagood #splurge #treatyourself #bodybuildingmotivation #bodybuildinglifestyle #drgsays #motivation #hardworkpaysoffs #healthandwellness #mentalhealth
“In nature, nothing is perfect and everything is perfect. Trees can be contorted, bent in weird ways, and they’re still beautiful.” - Alice Walker This quote speaks for nature but also can speak about life as well. Your life can be far from perfect but still be perfect for you. It’s all about the way you look at it. If you approach your life with a positive attitude and appreciate it for what it is, it’s hard to have a negative view on it. Speak positivity into your life and it’s hard to find any negative! . . . #drgsays #naturephotography #natureisbeautiful #positivity #mindfulness #positivevibes #beautiful #mentalhealth #healthandwellness #instagood #therapistsofinstagram #raw.ok
On this day, 7 years ago, I arrived to Dallas, TX, after taking what I thought to be just a leap of faith. What I didn’t know was that that one leap would jumpstart an entire faith walk. Initially, I was apprehensive about moving for many reasons and moving parts back home in Chicago/Da Woods. And to be honest, I’ve never been so unsure about making a decision to do a thing up to that point. But I’ll never forget when and how God spoke to me loud and clear on July 12, 2015 when He redirected me to attend Smokie Norful’s church on the south side. I had just poured out all of my fears and doubts to a friend who was accompanying me that day. When we arrived to service, I was expecting a mighty word from God, as I always do. But what I did not expect was how fast God would answer my prayer and crying out to Him just an hour later! Whew that’s a whole sermon and testimony right there 🙌🏾. Nevertheless, the title of that sermon was, “MOVE!” And I knew it was the word of God speaking decision and direction for me. I openly received and had to be obedient - cause ya girl was trying to stay comfortable in Chicago or Houston. And to be honest, I haven’t been comfortable since! But I’m grateful here. I’m planted here. I’m committed here. I’m faithful here. I’m obedient here. And I always go back to that mighty word that God spoke to me on that day to remind me that I belong here. Because sometimes the enemy wants us to believe that we made the wrong decision or took the wrong turn for countless reasons. But never forget the promises that God has fulfilled and the ones He has planned for your life! He’s such a responsive, empathic, and involved Father. And I’m grateful for every moment of the decision I made to MOVE! And I thank God for how He’s used and continue to use me and my faith journey to encourage and inspire others. Here’s to year 7! 🙌🏾✨🙏🏽 #drgsays #dallasversary
CONTEMPLATING LOSS: Well, we lost to Kansas State. Disappointment often follows a loss. We can’t stop at disappointment, but contemplation, followed by clarity- what went wrong, where were are weaknesses, what strengths do we need to enhance. Life, in reality, may have many losses, but leaning from them is the key to growth. How have you learned from some of your most recent losses? #Lifeafterdeath #keepthefaith #hopeforlife #footballfan #OUalumni #mentalhealhcare #lovelife #believe #drgsays #findyourpath #pursuethedream @ok.raw.org
Anything you do, over a period of time becomes a habit. Eating heathy is the same way. You body will crave whatever you give it as it adapts to what you are feeding it. Whether good food, or bad food. I was speaking to a woman yesterday, who said, “I stopped eating sugar, and now, after eating healthy, my body has a negative reaction to sugar!” Help your body to get the vitamins, nutrients and fiber it needs to function at its greatest capacity! What are you eating today that is a healthy habit? #healthyhabits #eatingforlife #nutritional needs #keepitup #lovinglife #loveyourbody #gameday #friendofself #drgsays
So often we grow weary fighting battles we were never intended to fight and always needing to have the last word. We perpetuate a cycle of weariness; thereby, becoming perpetrators of our own well-being. But for so many, fighting is most familiar and has become second nature to us. However, it’s not our innate nature, but our second nature [what we’ve learned based on experience and environment] to respond from a place of trauma. Stillness, initially, can feel uncomfortable and unfamiliar, but the word of God says it’s what we “need only.” Here’s the encouraging part, “The Lord will fight for you…” I know what it’s like to feel like you have to take matters into your own hands due to a long history of let downs, disappointments, betrayal, and just feeling like nobody’s ever shown up and fought for you. “The Lord will” - period. So be still, and be open to how He will fight for His beloved child. Stillness cultivates faith, trust, patience, confidence, and discernment. Additionally, stillness calms and heals the nervous system. The more we can practice being still [it’s a practice because we won’t always get it right but God gives grace for that], the more we will grow in these areas, and the more we will grow in our relationship with the Lord and trust that He’s a keeper of His word and of His beloved. 🙏🏽🤎 #drgsays #beencouraged
TAKE A BREAK FOR BALANCE! Hard work need play time to keep your well-being! Love lake Texoma and boating! #lakelife #lakeTexoma #boatingbabes #healthandwellness #mentalhealth #keepingitreal #lovinglife #drgsays
YOU GOT THIS 💪🏽 In a world full of negativity and stress - keep pushing and keep going. The end destination is beautiful ✨ . . . #love #happyfriday #keepgoing #beautifuldestinations #drgsays #drg #mentalhealthawareness #difficultroads #ınstagood
4.1% of adults in Oklahoma had serious thoughts of suicide in the past year. 1 in 10 students reported attempting suicide in the past 12 months. Each week, approximately 300 Oklahomans are admitted for urgent care or crisis mental health services. ✨REACH OUT TO SOMEONE✨ ✨988 is the new mental health crisis line that gets you the immediate help you need.✨ 💥You are important 💥You are enough 💥You are loved 💥You are needed 💥You are wanted 💥You are valuable . . . #drgsays #suicideprevention #suicideawarenessmonth #mentalhealth #askforhelp #valueyourself #ınstagood
as i stand here contemplating (lol)… i am overwhelmed with so much love and so many blessings… from all of you who either texted, called, commented, gifted, sang, liked/loved, and just absolutely showered so much goodness on my birthday yesterday! I intentionally read and responded to every single one. Thank you immensely, and I pray much love and many blessings to you all in return! 🫶🏽 #drgsays #chapter37begins
Dear God, I thank You for allowing me to see not just a new day but a new year!!! I’m so excited for all that God has in the works that will soon be birthing through me!🙏🏽🙌🏾 sn: I ain’t gotta sneeze for you to bless me!🤣😊—> Cashapp: $GenoviaHolmes Cheers to 37 youthful years! #drgsays
TAKE TIME TO CONTEMPLATE We can get so busy in life, we often do not take the time to be mindful of the beauty close at hand- A walk in the park, a ride in a boat, the reflection of water on the lake, the sound of children playing in the park. Take a few moments to listen, see, feel, smell and taste the amazing world around you on this Labor Day weekend. . . . #drgsays #lakelife #mindfulness #liveandlovelife #beautyinnature #livinglifefull #drgsays #adventurousliving #heathylifestyle #mentalhealth #wellness #Godisgood
Y’all know how we, September babies, do lol…we celebrate ALL month long! And what better way to kickoff my bday month festivities than with some live music and jazz and one of my favs - Erykah Badu!!! And her performance last night was amazing!!! Now…as I embark upon a new chapter and year this coming Tuesday (09/06), I begin to reflect on a few things I am ever so grateful for. And I’ve decided to share 37 of them over the course of this month. On this day, I am grateful for… 1. The safe spaces I can confide in with those close to me; that they can handle me when I am strong and support me when I am weak. 2. How much I’ve grown in empathy, compassion, love, trust, forgiveness, confidence, faith, authenticity, and vulnerability. 3. Peace in the process; hope in the hurting; destiny through the disappointments; joy amidst grief; and healing despite what happened. 4. Those who have the capacity and security for the pieces of me that are just a little “too” extra, “too” deep, “too” this, and “too” that. 5. The protection and providential care of God. I am a walking testimony and a miracle. 6. That God didn’t give me the strength to ever give up. 7. Every opportunity, big or small, to inspire, encourage, help, empower, and uplift others. What are you celebrating? What are you grateful for? #drgsays #chapter37loading #September6th
COMPETITION KEEPS US MOTIVATED We went to the 2022 World Paddlesports Festival at Riversport in OKC. The contenders were from all over the world. Although not very familiar with paddlesports, nonetheless, watching the enthusiasm, cheering, victory and defeat gave me a sense of motivation, even as a bystander. Whether you are competing yourself or watching others compete, allow the feeling of motivation flow inside of you! #Instagramreels riversport #motivation #watersports #drgsays #mentalhealth #lovelife #competivesports #winneroflife #hopeforfuture
Sometimes spending time with family on weekends is a way to refresh and recharge! They say take time for yourself, but you also need to make time with the people who are most important to you! It’s a great reminder that you are blessed beyond your stressors! Who are you thankful and blessed to have in your life? . . . #drgsays #Mentalhealth #familyiseverything #maketimeforpeoplewhomatter #healthandwellness #mentalhealthsupport
Restorative Alternative Wellness has a new and improved website! ✨Therapy ✨Life-coaching ✨Spa services ✨Gym services Check us out! http://rawok.org/ #mentalhealth #newandimproved #therapy #mentalhealthawareness #drgsays #healthandwellness
STAGES OF GRIEF It is often difficult to know the stages of grief you are in when you have faced a loss. The stages may happen days, months, even years, thereafter. The subconscious seems to take over. An example, is yesterday I went to the wrong vets clinic to pick up Flora’s ashes. When I walked in, the receptionist looked up, and said, “so whatever happened with Flora?” All of a sudden, I realized I was in the wrong vet clinic. I had ended up in the vet clinic that had done dental surgery on Flora just over a month or so ago. At that time Flora was frolicking, running, playing and happy. Sure, for a 13-year-old greyhound her pace slowed down: however, all of her blood work was good, and the surgery seemed to go seamless. Back to the story, I looked up at the receptionist and I said, “yes, she started going downhill after the surgery. I think it was the surgery that killed her.” It felt good to blame someone. It was at that point I realized that my subconscious had to go through its stages. There are many stages of grief. DENIAL, DEPRESSION, BLAME/GUILT, ANGER and ACCEPTANCE. As I got into the car and went to the next vet to pick up the ashes, I started recognizing I was responding and reacting in stages of grief. You see, I lost my best friend from childhood in June and now here it is just a little over two months and I lost my dog of seven years. I began crying until I had a headache. I had been extra irritable at my other sweet dog (who is like my shadow), and downright hateful to others close to me. I had to contact them, make amends and promise to get some additional support for my turbulent emotions. Yes because I am a therapist, doesn’t mean I’m not vulnerable to being overwhelmed and overloaded. So if you’re facing extra stressors and unexpected losses or even expected losses, 😩 find yourself some additional support. #drgsays #griefshare #bereavement #stagesofgrief #hopefulhealing #lovinglife #helpfulhealing #helpfullives #anger-management #keepinitreal #doglovers
Burnout is very real and saying no is crucial for setting healthy boundaries! Working up the courage is perhaps the toughest part. So, practice well-being techniques such as breathwork, body awareness, and body scans that lower stress levels and help you to be more grounded in the body just before having important conversations. It helps you say “no” more confidently! . . . #drgsays #healthyboundaries #healthybodyandmind #learntosayno #setboundaries #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness
UNEXPECTED SUPPORT ❤️ My Daughter in law was very sensitive to the loss of Flora. ✨Unexpectedly, she sent this lovely doggie angel and lavender candle to help me sleep. I cried a lot! Both tears of sadness and appreciation. 🐕❤️ Have you either been an unexpected support or received unexpected support? God often knows our needs before we ask. Who have you been supporting? . . . #Drgsays #doglove #UnexpectedSupport #lovingeachother #SupportSystems #griefsupport #familylove #giftgiving #SupportYourPeople #MentalHealthAdvocate #MentalHealthAwareness
I wanted everyone to know I had to make one of the hardest decisions and put Flora down today. She was there for many of my patients thru so many of their hard sessions and even their good sessions. She was an amazing therapy dog and an even better best companion to me! She has crossed the rainbow bridge and can use her favorite thing again ; her legs! I know she’s happy, pain free, and running as fast as she can again. But, she will be missed more than anything 🐕 ❤️ #Therapydog #Companion #greyhoundlove #greyhoundsofinstagram #bestfriend #rainbowbridgedogs #drgsays #doglovers
Reminded of the Unseen Wonders:Aquarium of Oklahoma @okaquarium We can get so caught up and limited in our worries and fears, we forget how amazing the world is around us, both seen and unseen! God is amazing and is taking care of all things great and small, including us! Make some time to investigate wonders. When was the last time you did? #drgsays #underwaterlife #wondersoftheworld #praiseworthy #mentalhealth #drgina #keepingitreal #enjoyinglife #mentalhealthadvocate
It’s so important to celebrate your staff. Especially if they have been here with you thru the good and the bad! Today we celebrated @corey_d_taylor for his 5 YEAR MARK! We couldn’t have made it this far without his compassion, kind heart, go getter attitude, his great spirit, his leadership, and just him being the great person he is! Celebrate your staff and remind them how important they are to your company. Without them your company wouldn’t succeed. . . . #DrGsays #Thankful #Happy5Years #grateful #appreciatedmuch #yourourhero
You are the most important person in your life. Be gentle to yourself so that you can be gentle to others. . . . . #Drgsays #reelsinstagram #Rewriteyourscript #BeGentle #YouMatter #Mentalhealthawareness #theworldneedslove
ROMANCE YOURSELF! I love flowers, and haven’t had any from anyone in awhile. Instead of moping around and feeling sorry for myself, I went to Trader Joe’s and found this beautiful bouquet of flowers. Each day this week, as the buds opened, it reminded me of how amazingly life can unfold before you. If you are missing that something special from someone special, you be that special one to give to yourself! Romance yourself! #instagramreels #reels #selflove #loveyourself #pamperyourself #romance #mentalhealth #hopeforfuture #drgsays
No matter how stressful life is , sometimes you need to step away and make time to travel and enjoy life. We work so hard everyday and work will ALWAYS be there. You only live once. Don’t work yourself to death and not be able to enjoy the benefits of your hard work. WORK HARD BUT PLAY HARDER ✨ Traveling is good for your mental health also. It is an incredible stress reliever and a distraction from the everyday stress of life. . . . . #Travel #travelpics #drgsays #Rewriteyourscript #MentalHealthAdvocate #StressRelief #WorkHardPlayHarder #EnjoyLife #MentalHealthMatters
ITS TRUE: laughter is strong medicine. It draws people together in ways that trigger healthy physical and emotional changes in the body. Laughter strengthens your immune system, boosts mood, diminishes pain, and protects you from the damaging effects of stress. Nothing works faster or more dependably to bring your mind and body back into balance than a good laugh! Surround yourself with people you can laugh with! • • • • • • #drgsays #rewriteyourscript #wellness #laughteristhebestmedicine #laughterisgoodforthesoul #mentalhealthawareness
Take me out to the ballgame! Are you enjoying the summer sports in your community? #community #familyfun #drgsays #rewriteyourscript #getinvolved
EVERYONE NEEDS TO UNDERSTAND WELLNESS! It is fun to educate health professionals about the concepts of wellness and balance. More than sleep, diet and exercise, learning balance begins in childhood. #healthandwellness #drgsays #rewriteyourscript #youngprofessionals
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY To all the fathers, step-fathers and the ones who stepped up to be father figures, Happy Father’s Day! Hope you get to enjoy your day with your loved ones. • • • • • • • #happyfathersday #2022 #drgsays #rewriteyourscript #restorativealternativewellness
SOMETIMES LIFE IS ABOUT WAITING AND CHANGING DIRECTION! Don’t be afraid to flex when things don’t go as planned. You may miss an even greater opportunity! • • • • • • • #dontmissout #opportunityawaits #changedirections #showyourwork #drgsays #rewriteyourscript
SOMETHING NEW: BODY BUILDING It is my third week starting something new. I am body building with Jay Payne @houseofpayne. Will keep you posted on my progress! Try something challenging today! #grindneverstops #trysomethingnew #trysomethingdifferent #helpmehelpyou #exerciseroutine #exercisemotivation #totalbodywellness #drgsays #rewriteyourscript
Pushing the boundaries of your comfort zone in certain situations is sometimes needed in order to reach your full potential. It may seem scary but once you take one step further your comfort zone expands. • • • • • • • #nofear #potiential #reachforthestars #drgsays #rewriteyourscript #comfortzone #befearless #takeachanceonyou #bigdreams #anxietyrelief #youngadults #livefree
Sometimes we get stuck in many aspects of life because we continue to use the same methods over and over again. If nothing is changing with the same methods try something new! What do you have to lose? • • • • • • • #drgsays #rewriteyourscript #reinventyourself #changeisgood #newmethod #findyourpurpose #parents #bedifferent #createexplore