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Article written by Blog Post Contributor Tabby Ever have that day where you feel so overwhelmed and you want nothing more than to relax in a hot bubble bath and let Calgon take you away? Me to! As I get older I find that's my escape from reality. I do absolutely everything emotional while soaking in the tub or while taking a hot shower. If I need to cry, if I need to pamper myself, if I need to scream and even if its just the need to be alone. That seems like the only place I can sneak away for a few moments and regain what little bit of sanity I have left. On those days I give myself an at home Spa treatment. I keep Skinny Dip, a sugar scrub and bath salts that I make with Body Dew in my bathroom and ready to use at all time. You never know when that moment will hit you and sometimes it can be often. Sometimes we get so overwhelmed you just need to soak with a glass of wine in a hot relaxing bubble bath. Or if the kids wont leave you alone and you just can't get in the tub, use it for a foot soak while sitting on the couch or while eating dinner. We all need that moment no matter where it is and even for a short 5 minutes. It helps us regain, refocus and just get it done. I use Skinny Dip everyday as my body wash, I put a quarter size amount on my wash gloves (In Good Hands). It's ph-balanced, has no dyes, Paraben free and its gentle formula has Argan oil for moisturizing. It has such an amazing clean and light feeling, I feel like I'm at a Spa even when I take a shower. Unlike other body washes or soaps, Skinny Dip leaves your skin feeling soft and clean. It is such an amazing bubble bath I not only use it for me I use it for my Grandson's to. The bubbles last the entire time there playing in the water and it has never burned there eyes. Did you know your suppose to exfoliate your skin once a week to get rid of all the dead layers of skin cells? Yeah I didn't either until about a year ago. So you can go one of two ways for this or both. I love to use the massage gloves In Good Hands, they have a side you can use for exfoliation. In Good Hands doesn't hold any bacteria and they have multi uses. I use these with the sugar scrub I make and my skin feels like a baby, it's so soft, fresh and clean feeling. The sugar scrub exfoliates and moisturizes and makes your skin super soft and smooth. Here's how easy it is to make your own Sugar Scrub, Bath Salts and Foot Soak. First you need Body Dew its an amazing Ultra moisturizing bath oil mist that has Almond oil, soybean oil and Safflower seed oil and other ingredients, its super hydrating for your skin and for some people it helps keep bugs/mosquito's away when your outside. Get a couple Tupperware bowls with lids and a small scoop or large spoon to keep in each bowl. Sugar Scrub... Mix a 2 pound bag of sugar (I use Morena pure cane sugar by Zulka) and pour in about a 1/3 cup of body dew (what ever scent you like) mix around until sugar is all moist looking. You can use more body dew if you like, just do not make runny it is suppose to look like moist sugar. Bath salts and foot soak is made the exact same way as your sugar scrub only your using salts instead of sugar. I personally use Epson salt and pink Himalayan salt. You may use any other salt you like or enjoy. Not only will you love these but so will everyone you know. I make these and keep for myself and I also put in cute little containers, decorate with a ribbon, put in a cute box and bam super cute, loved, cheap and easy gift to give! Try Skinny Dip, Body Dew, In Good Hands by clicking here or go to TabithaDingler.com/party #guestblog #pureromance #tabbydingler #sugarscrub

Article written by Blog Post Contributor Lucy What is a Vision Board? A vision board is a tool that we can create to help us bring clarity to our desires. It is simply a collage based on focused images and words that represent our goals. I like to think of this as a visual life plan. Visualization is powerful for success because our brain thinks in pictures. When we close our eyes and think of an object, we do not see the word physically spelled out. Immediately, our minds will go to an image. This is the same with dreaming. Our dreams are in pictures, not in words. We can verbalize that we desire something. For instance, stating that you want a new car and leaving it at that is not very specific. Not having a specific image attached is essentially just a "word". When you know exactly what year, make, model, color, and price the vehicle is; you get more of a taste and image of how you will feel owning it, what you may look like as you drive it. It also gives you an idea of exactly what you will have to do to get into that vehicle. When you take a few moments to plot out your desires, you can have a stronger clarity and focus toward what it is you wish to achieve. How to Make a Vision Board To make a vision board sit down for a few moments and brainstorm about what it is you want to create in the next 3,6,9 or 12 months. You can even look ahead five years or so. Be very specific and ask yourself questions. What am I known for? What is my purpose? How is my spirituality/faith? What do my relationships/family circumstances look like? What am I doing in career/business? How are my finances? Then take a collection of old magazines and photos and leaf through them tearing out words, phrases, and images that resonate with you and answer the above questions. Find brands, magazines, and photos that you admire. If you have negative self-talk, pasting words that affirm a positive thought can also be helpful. I like to do this in a relaxed, creative state. Try not to overthink it or stress about what is right or wrong. Just go with the flow and pick out things that look, feel, and sound right to you in the present moment. Gather quite a large stack, sort through a second time, and this time organize and cut out nicely. Start gluing your cutouts on a piece of paper or poster board. I have a yearly planner that has a dedicated space for this in the beginning pages, and it is my tradition to sit, reflect, and plan out the year on those pages. I also make individual boards throughout the year when I need a refresher or know something new is on the horizon. How to Use your Vision Board After your board is made, put it in a place that you will see it. You do not want it sitting under a stack of papers, collecting dust! Look at it daily and focus your mind on the images. Doing this exercise of staying focused on your vision can help you plan out your action steps. As you plan and take steps toward your goals, having the visual images clear in your mind can help you retain your vision, stick to your purpose, and help you recognize and utilize things from your vision as they arrive. It is powerful to give energy toward your personal growth. Staying focused and clear on what you are working toward can really transform thinking and release some of our actions that often hold us back. The brilliant thing about a vision board is when you come back to it in half a year and see that you've already checked most of the images off your list without even thinking about it! Lucy blog owner of #IntegratedMamma #momtrepreneurship #visionboards #FindingBalance #TakeAction

Save the Date! You're invited Sunday January 13th from 11-2pm at the Renaissance Hotel in World Golf Village for our Bride to Be & Wedding Expo Presented by Jacksonville Business Connections -Indoor event with over 40 Exhibitors -$5 General Admission Tickets -$12 VIP Ticket: Exclusive one hour previewing & Free swag bags -Cash Bar - Enjoy a glass of wine while viewing vendors -Promotional bags to first 100 tickets purchased -Lots of Giveaways - Check out the growing list here - https://www.jaxbizevents.com/giveaways -Complimentary Bride to Be & Wedding Expo Exhibitors Booklet So if you find your self needing something to do, make sure you check out the #jaxbizconnections and all our planned events for 2019!! Share: Share this article and comment below and win free tickets to the event!! Stay Updated: Follow the Facebook event to stay updated on all the vendors and fun additions we may add to the event!

Article written by Blog Post Contributor Lucy Being both a mother and building a business with children in tow is a great responsibility that has its own special set of challenges. Momtrepreneurs have an extreme set of circumstances and working conditions and have to overcome hurdles that those without children do not have to face. The biggest hurdle that moms have to overcome when building a business from home either alone or while her spouse is working is time management. It is nearly impossible to focus for larger increments of time when small children are in the picture. I am going to share a few key actions that have helped me along the journey of building a home-based business. 1. Communication is Key Every family has their own unique set of circumstances, so communicating with your spouse or support team is a necessity. Having a clear vision and communicating helps make sense the structure and schedule necessary. In our family, we have a pretty strict schedule (that is adaptable because you never know what can arise with children), and the key to the strict schedule is using time wisely. For me, arising earlier than the family, working during toddler's nap time and bringing my computer or phone along and working during my teenager's practice times is when I get the most accomplished. 2. Be Okay With Chaos I have had to let go of some of my Type-A tendencies and embrace what I can let go of and be okay with. I like to have a tidy house, and am generally organized, and in our family, all hands are on deck with chores. However, a certain amount of my control has been released to the chaos of a toddler mess, and sometimes we go to bed at night with toys still strewn about (gasp). Since business is a priority, the 15 minutes it takes to pick up those toys can be delegated to answering some texts or emails. 3. Make Lists and Prioritize Lists are lifesavers. I have multiple lists. I start with a monthly master calendar and start there with my to-do's. Then I look at each week and prioritize by what is a right now priority, what is less urgent, and what can be delegated out. Knowing when to say no to something that is not in alignment with your ultimate goal and business plan is also necessary, or time could be wasted on tasks that are of no benefit. 4. Keep Business and Family Separate Family is first. I have been guilty of getting in a work-zone and get snippy with my spouse or children because they may interrupt me. I communicate with my spouse how much time I need to accomplish a certain task and set a timer or deadline so that I can turn work off when it is family time. Spending one-on-one time with my husband and each of my children is also a priority. If your children are old enough, it is also good to communicate what you are doing so that they understand and respect your time. Also, keeping business and family finances separate is wise, it prevents chaos and disorder down the road when it comes to taxes and organization. 5. Ask For Help The first person I go to for help is my spouse. If I have a large list or a deadline to meet, I will communicate with him what I need to make it happen. If I can delegate some of the work out to him, I will do that or will give him 100% kid duty for awhile so that I am not distracted or hold any guilt. If you have friends or family close-by, ask for help. And when your business starts earning some money, use some of your earnings to pay for child care. This took a long time for me to learn, I had a martyr complex and felt that I needed to "do it all myself", but have since realized paying for a sitter for a few hours of silence is perfectly fine, and so much can be accomplished in a short focused time-frame. A coffee shop is my best friend. Getting away from the chaos of home, sipping on a good cup of coffee and working without a self-imposed distraction is one of my best success tools. No matter where you are on your journey to momtrepreneurship, coming up with a plan and setting aside work hours are two of the first steps to success. Also, having an ability to rebound when things do not go as planned is powerful. It takes a lot of strength to be both a mom and a business-owner, and it is very rewarding and can provide so much for yourself and your family. "Balance" may seem elusive, but it is possible to find your best method to keep your business and your family healthy and happy. Lucy blog owner of IntegratedMamma #momtrepreneurship #mentalhealth #FindingBalance #Communication #MakeLists #AskForHelp #SelfCare

Article written by Blog Post Contributor Maria C. Inoa, LCSW There’s nothing like the holidays where you gather with your loved ones to spend time together and eat some delicious food. Maybe your family is into sports and the focus will be on the big games for the day. Maybe your family spends time playing cards or other games together. The holidays are usually a time that warms your heart with the love you feel for those closest to you. That is, until someone brings up politics. Unfortunately, the previously joyous gathering can quickly turn into a scene from Jerry Springer. Let’s face it, there’s a lot going on when it comes to politics with the mid-terms just ending and the general widening divide in our country. It’s impossible to watch the news without the political struggles being front and center, and it all tends to have a negative slant unfortunately. So, though you love your family members, each person may have very different views from one another. It’s okay that you don’t all believe the same thing. It’s pretty typical for families. Why Such a Hot Topic? Politics are a hot topic because it speaks to each person’s core values and beliefs. We each feel strongly about what we believe in, whether it be about politics or another topic. When someone offers a different opinion, we can feel threatened and as a result, get defensive. During this season, you may be seeing your family more often. You may be getting together on the actual holidays or you may be getting together at other times as well. It’s good to have a basic plan of action in your head of how you plan to handle the topic of politics, especially if you feel strongly one way or the other. Tips on Surviving My Family Gathering Every family is unique in its circumstances. With that being said, there are some things you can do to survive and hopefully, enjoy your family gathering. Don’t bring politics up. This is a great idea but certainly, not always possible. You can only control your actions, so if Aunt Sue brings up something related to politics, it’s all about how you respond.Listen first. As hard as it is, try to listen and hear what the other person is saying. That doesn’t mean you have to agree with it, but you should give them the basic respect of letting them say what they want to say.Watch your tone. Your tone says so much whether you realize it or not, so don’t raise your voice. No one wants to be yelled at, and when you raise your voice, the other person tends to tune you out anyways.You can’t expect to change someone’s opinion after one conversation. Pat yourself on the back for having expressed your beliefs in a calm and constructive manner. Remember, sometimes you have to just agree to disagree.If you feel angry or frustrated, step away. Nothing will get accomplished if you stay and argue. Likely things will escalate instead. Step outside or to a bathroom where you can cool down. What’s Your Focus Remember, the holidays should be enjoyable. Focus on what you have to be thankful for instead of what you wish you had. The truth is, we all have something we wish we could change about our lives. Try to find the good in others and talk about topics that are enjoyable for both parties. Focus on creating positive memories. Those are what we will remember years from now. Maria C. Inoa, LCSW maria@fullpotentialcounseling.com 904-204-9308 #wellness #mentalhealth #Thanksgiving #politics #Christmas #holidays #relationships #counseling #therapy #selfcare

Save the Date: Sunday November 18th from 10-4pm at the Renaissance Hotel in World Golf Village for Jacksonville Business Connection's 6th Annual Holiday Craft & Vendor Event featuring over 140 vendors. Free to the public. Indoor Event. First 50 guests receive FREE swag bags! 100 Free promotional bags with specific printed promotional bag ticket Kid friendly event - Character Meet & Greets - Winnie the Pooh (11-12pm), Olaf from Frozen (1-2pm), Santa 1-4pm , Minion (3-4pm) Charity raffle featuring products and services from our vendors. ALL proceeds benefiting local organization Project Balance Follow the event on Facebook for the latest Updates!! And of course share it with all your friends!! Check out the current Sponsors & Vendors Sponsors: 1) Perfectly posh with Denise Aiken 2) LuLaRoe Mandy Rachelle 3) Professional Stylist with Premier Designs Jewelry 4) Casella Sells Real Estate-Florida Homes Realty 5) Alesha Rose Fitness, Beachbody Coach Vendors: Cruise Planners Pure Romance Paparazzi- Lani's Jewels Origami Owl Custom Jewelry Pink Zebra by Laurie Leal, Independent Consultant Agnes & Dora by Kelly McBride Pampered Chef Scentsy Young Living Essential Oils Stitch n Grin Oceans of Ornaments Artistically Nicki Two Crafty B's Sample Handbags by Myra Lilla Rose Haircessories Le-Vel (Thrive) The Snap Diva Revolution Chiropractic Kelly Gowin, Independent Color Street Stylist Usborne Books and More Embellished Embroidery Datil Yum Generous Sips - viaONEHOPE Bite Out of Hunger Quilts & more Lark Bee Company LipSense by Senegence (Reel Girls Lipstick) Sweet Home Designs, LLC & Country Mermaid, LLC The Cocoa Exchange Unlimited Creations Cappucio Collectibles Taste of Jacksonville Food Tours Lucky Cat Originals Arri's Arts Creatives Koozies & More Rodan and Fields Winona Jewelry Design Therapy Threads Boutique Craftastic Designs by Sandy Madison Tupperware Classy and Sassy inc Damsel In Defense Pam's Night Design Osborne Ranch Soap Company LLC Vantel Pearls - Island Pearls with Jackie Distinctively De Sue Alluring Aluminum BB's Shebang, LLC Norwex Chloe and Isabel by Amanda SNL Boutique D~Inspired Bo & Co Signs Cork & Co. MY ALLY SHOP Body&Soul Bracelets by No.5 enjoy LLC Vasayo by Sheri Ringpfiel Awesome Merch Lucky Girl Books Vibrant Life Health Center Southern Glam Boutique SWV Design Co. Kristen'sKreations LuEls Natural Desires Soap Company Cup Of Time Fringe & Things Bosom Buddies/Custom Fit Bras Imperfectly Handmade by Rachael Butterfly Girl Signature Homestyles Nelling Bee Publications Three Bears Hair Bows VIN-TIN-AGE December Raindrop Creations VCM Jewelry & Baskets Beautycounter Tracy's Avon Chalk Craft Boutique Senior Adult Travel Inc Sue Kelly Rae of Sunshine Hand Soaps All Natural Dips All American Gutter Protection Cindy's Creations Delivering Fancy, Inc. Sock Bo$$ Touchstone Crystal by Swarovski Initial's Inc. JPA Sewing Factory Auri's Homemade Lemonade Peyton Bre | Robinson Girl's Boutique Karen Fabiola Photography Ancient Roots Apothecary PRP Wine International Modere Collagen Sciences Oceanside Boutique 16 Karen’s Creations Bobbles, Bangles & Bling Mother Hubbard Crafts Cam. Lee Crafted Company Devine Inspirations Author Terri Peel Bechtold David Tracey Designs Pure Haven A&A Wood Creations HelloFresh SoRetro Straps Dazzle Designs Jewelry Amelia Island Julz Anything but Cupcakes Crystal Concepts Art Spa Me Merry Crafty Christmas from Gym Craft Laundry eSBe Designs by Sara Blaine Kay Will Kraft Edward Jones - Cory Caplinger Thirty-One Mary Kay Cosmetics by Linda Gail Rowe HempWorx by Vangi ColourIsBeauty_Younique The GrindStone 3am ideas Totally Baked....gluten free Lil vergies creations Glass Flower Glasses by Cathy David Harper&me Bevy's Bracelets Etc. Full Lota Yoga DoughEZ Capricious Creations Haute Tribe Boutique Want to become a sponsor or vendor at this event? Check out the information and the application. Email jaxbizconnections@gmail.com if you have any questions!

Save the Date: Sunday September 30th from 10-3pm at the Renaissance Hotel in World Golf Village for a fun FREE September Health & Wellness Expo & Free Day of Health & Wellness Workshops Presented by Jacksonville Business Connections featuring over 70+ vendors. Free to the public. Indoor Event. First 50 guests receive FREE swag bags! 100 Free promotional bags with specific printed bag ticket Try products & services on-site Attend Day of Health & Wellness Workshops Charity raffle Check out the current Sponsors & Vendors (List is subject to change as vendors are added) Sponsors: 1) Florida Resort Xchange 2) Live Ultimate 3) Hearing Solutions of North Florida 4) ClearCaptions 5) Trillium Eye Care - Jacksonville 6) Wella's PR Kitchen 7) Florida Eye Specialists Vendors: 1) Doterra with Laura 2) Sheago with Ann Marie 3) Pure Romance with Tabby 4) Essential Vegan Creations 5) HempWorx with Vangi 6) The Pampered Chef with Carol 7) Pruvit with Robin 8) Young Living Essential Oils with Amy 9) Lighthouse Chiropractic 10) Lipsense Kissable by Kaisharis 11) Cruise Planners with Lori 12) Mary Kay Cosmetics with Sharon 13) Revolution Chiropractic 14) CTFO Hemp Oil/CBD with KZ 15) Tammie Mohn Hypnosis - Bemer Representative 16) Bosom Buddies/Custom Fit Bras 17) Vasayo with Edie 18) Open Mind To Be Happy, LLC 19) Premier Designs Jewelry with Rachel 20) Rodan and Field with Julia 21) Rare Patient Voice 22) Community Senior Advisors 23) Paparazzi Accessories with Kenbry 24) LuLaRoe Mandy Rachelle 25) Perfectly Posh with Denise 26) SightHealth Primary Eyecare 27) HelloFresh 28) Grab Bars by A1A 29) Rae of Sunshine Hand Soaps 30) Body&Soul 31) Athleisure by PEACH 32) Wink Naturals 33) Fitteam Global 34) Fit Mamas Tribe 35) Full Lota Yoga 36) Thirty-One with Leisa 37) Senior Adult Travel Inc 38) ATOMY with Sharon 39) Bayview Healthcare 40) Baubles and Things 41) Beachbody Healthy & Fit with Jen Want to become a sponsor or vendor at this event? Check out the information and the application. Email jaxbizconnections@gmail.com if you have any questions!

Article written by Blog Post Contributor Coach Judy Prokopiak I'm not sure when it happened, but I developed a fear of heights and speed. I used to love roller-coasters as a kid, however, sometime after the birth of our children I started to hate high things, and fast things. The Space Needle in Seattle, the Twin Towers in New York, the Empire State Building. I don't even like being on the high floors in hotels. I have been to these places, stepped out into the picturesque views and pushed myself through my anxiety to visit, telling myself I am safe and trying to put on a brave face for my kids ( who were not scared by the way... well our son did not love the St Louis Arch) and although I didn't realize it at the time, I was modeling them how to be brave in the face of fear. Now to be honest I wasn't "panic attack" scared to ride the roller coasters or view the sites from up high ( that was my father in law- totally hated even ladders and escalators), but I had A LOT of anxiety. Especially waiting in the line for the coasters, listening to people scream, I would feel my panic start to kick in and boy did I have to manage my mind, and there were a few times I just said, "I can't do it". We recently we took a family trip to the beautiful country of Croatia. What did we decide to do? I very high, very fast ZIP LINE adventure! Although I had been zip lining twice before... it was terrifying and totally thrilling at the same time (check out Banning Mills near Atlanta Georgia). So as we prepared for the drive up the mountain, and the steep hike to the top and the beginning of this amazing adventure, I began to feel that anxiety and fear thinking creep in. My heart rate was racing, my mind went to all sorts of terrible thoughts and my imagination was starting to run wild that I would be the one person who would plummet to their death or get stuck out on the wire or some other crazy scene that would be in the movie Cliffhanger! So what did I do? I did exactly what I tell my clients. Take back control of your lizard brain! Our mind is telling our body what is happening and our body is telling our mind what we are feeling. I told myself that I was "excited" to do this instead of I'm scared and so my body now had a reference for why I felt this way. (see this awesome video by Mel Robbins) "It's going to be amazing", "It's going to be so fun". "I am going to be so proud of myself when I do this", "i'm going to have a story to tell" "I am going to get to share this experience forever with my family". It worked! Granted, I didn't really believe it when I was saying it. but I just kept saying it to myself and out loud to the group! I allowed myself to feel the fear. I allowed myself to scream the whole way across the gorge! Next... I asked myself, "what am I really afraid of?" The answer was that I wasn't really afraid I would die, I was afraid I would get stuck out there and not be able to get back. I asked the guides, what happens if I get stuck out there? they said we will come get you... it will be Ok. They also told me in 6 years no one has ever died or been hurt from the zip line ( they sprained ankles from the hiking part though). Sometimes getting the facts helps you realize that you are just terrorizing yourself with your own imagination. So, what does this mean for you, for your business? It means that there will be things that scare you, speaking in public, making a phone call (fear of rejection), sharing your story, asking for help, or speaking up at meetings. You will need to do it afraid. I know you have heard this before, but it's not about being "fearless". It's about feeling the fear, understanding what it is that is really scaring you, managing your mind and deciding that it is worth it to step out of your comfort zone and into confidence! Even though all 8 zip line runs were still scary, I am very proud of myself for being ringmaster of my shit show and now I have a story to tell. Now I have more confidence. Now I have memories that are priceless. Oh, and by the way, I love Stand Up Paddle boarding in the ocean, but there are sharks and other things living there. I have used this same technique and tools to manage my mind out there too. So, maybe you aren't afraid of heights, or speaking in public, or flying, but I guarantee that you have some stories or beliefs that are holding you back, keeping you stuck, or creating challenges in your life. Maybe that fear or anxiety ( that can show up as procrastination or indecision) is driving you to overeat, over drink, binge watch Game of Thrones, or go on an Amazon shopping spree. This is my specialty, helping smart successful women learn how to flip their script, change the stories they are believing about themselves, build confidence by stepping out of their comfort zone and go after their big (sometimes scary) amazing life. Want to chat? Let's do this.... #businesscoachjudy #CoachJudyProkopiak #blogcontributor #jaxbizconnections #guestpost

Article written by Blog Post Contributor Maria C. Inoa, LCSW It's summer in Florida, and it's HOT. I've lived here all my life, and still, the heat almost knocks me off my feet. Summertime, though it has it's perks, can also create sadness or perpetuate the sadness someone with depression is already trying to cope with. Maybe you long to take a European vacation, start a summer romance, or rent a beach house for some R&R but instead, find yourself living vicariously through friends on your social media feed. Let's talk about 5 ways to survive the heat and take care of your mental health this summer: 1. Hydrate Keep a bottle of water or two with you at all times. There are so many great travel cups that keep your drinks cool as well. Being dehydrated is a quick way to zap your energy, make yourself feel crummy, and increase your irritability. 2. Stay-cation If you can't afford to vacation, plan something small. Take a stay-cation and explore your city or one nearby like a tourist. You could book a hotel room for a night or two at the beach. If those are attainable, pick a day here and there and plan something for you. Maybe it's a long walk on the beach. Maybe it's getting a massage. Maybe it's buying yourself something new at one of your favorite stores. Maybe it's taking that art class you've been putting off. 3. Breathe We breathe all day long, but in the summer heat, make sure you are taking good, cleansing breaths. Many of us tend to be shallow breathers whether we realize it or not. Take a few seconds and take a deep breath in through your nose, hold for 2-3 seconds, then release the air out your mouth slowly. Feels good doesn't it? Do that again a few times. Make sure you are breathing well especially when you're spending time out in the heat. 4. Exercise Many days it'll rain. Others it will be just too hot to even think about exercising outside. Don't just squash your exercise routine, but alter it to work for you in the summer heat. Join a low-cost gym or find a community pool and swim laps. If you are a walker or jogger, aim to go outside early in the morning or later in the evening. Just keep moving. 5. Stay connected Though you and your friends may be busy working, traveling, or just taking care of daily responsibilities, stay connected through texts to check in and schedule time to hang out and have some fun. This summer, remember to take care of you. Make sure your emotional and mental needs are being taken care of. Take it one day at a time. Remember that, though you may be experiencing feelings of sadness, you are so much more than your emotions. Embrace your self-worth. #survivethesummer #followme #mentalhealth #takecareofyou Maria C. Inoa, LCSW Full Potential Counseling www.fullpotentialcounseling.com

Article written by Tabby Dingler I have always heard amazing things about Pure Romance's Coochy Shave Cream. So 3 years ago I went and bought not only Pure Romance's version but I purchased all the other versions I could find. To put them to the real test I also went and bought the cheapest razors I could find from the Dollar Tree. I wanted to make sure it was the Shave Cream and not a combination of shave and a more extravagant razor. It took me a few months time to test them all, 2 weeks of each one. I'm that person that has to know what I'm using is going to truly do what I want or what its designed to do. I was absolutely astounded by the results! It was the BEST shave I have ever had in my entire life. I definitely see why it's Pure Romance's # 1 selling product. It stops any kind of irritations, red bumps, I can shave before going to the beach now and ingrown hairs are non-existent, even most of your more sensitive people can use. The more you use the longer you can go without shaving and the close shave you get makes your legs so smooth and soft. It's Super easy to use, just start like any other shave cream however you use much less, about dime size amount on each section you want to shave, leave on for 30 seconds to a minute and you will have the most amazing best shave of your life. It's unisex and gives a man the same amazing shave on his face. How do I know? Well I had my hubby and sons try it of-course and they love it to. There is more! This amazing product also doubles as a hair conditioner. What? Yes you read that right! I have super frizzy thick long hair and this product is the only thing that has ever truly helped calm it. I shampoo normally, rinse, flip my hair upside down, start at ends with about a quarter size amount and work my way to the root. Leave in for 2 minutes and rinse. I have a few times used other conditions since starting with it (only because I forgot I was out before I got in shower) and I have to say I will never go back to using anything else. This stuff is AMAZING!!! Try it Now and come back her and let me know how you loved it! #pureromance #coochycream #tabbydingler #tryittoday

Categories are a great way to keep your posts organized. They also help visitors explore more content that interests them. Feature YOUR business, product, or event in an advertisement on the various Jacksonville Business Connections website directories for pennies! (Example ad spot shown above) www.jaxbizdirectory.com www.jaxbizevents.com www.boutiquefix.com Your ad will be located throughout the website you choose for 3 months! You submit your ad and the link to your website. Need help with design? We would be happy to try and create one for you! Over 5K monthly website visits. Offer limited to only 6 spots per website community (first come, first served). Sale price: $75 Regular Price: $150 per month PROMO EXPIRES ON Friday, June 22

Recently, NPR had a great article on loneliness (NPR article). How is it possible that, with the multitude of ways we have to connect with others, we can feel so disconnected? How many of us aimlessly scroll through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Snapchat once, twice, even multiple times a day? I know I'm guilty. Do you feel better after 30 minutes of mindless scrolling? I think for most of us, that's a no. As the article touches on, scrolling through social media doesn't involve any direct connection with others. Sure, we see what people ate and drank and their thoughts on the current headlines, but that's not enough to foster a true connection. Connecting with others involves more meaningful conversation. Talking about your day, your struggles, frustrations, highs, and lows. That's truly getting to know someone and also allowing them to get to know you. With so much of our lives involving being online, loneliness is bound to creep in. So let's talk about how you can feel less lonely in this technology driven world. Limit your social media time if you're just scrolling. Give yourself 15-30 minutes and then move on to something else. Better yet, instead of just scrolling, maybe send an old friend you haven't seen in years a quick message to say hello or reach out to that distant cousin you used to be close with as a child to see how they're doing. As the article noted, social media is more beneficial when you are truly connecting with others. Meet face to face.  I truly believe that humans have a basic need to connect with others and feel a sense of acceptance. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and invite a friend to meet for coffee or invite a friend or two to happy hour at one of your favorite spots. Time with friends fills our souls thus decreasing our feelings of loneliness. Get involved. What are you interested in? Research what's in your area. Perhaps a recreational sport league, an art class, dance class, knitting club, or start your own group. Start a weekly meetup with a couple friends or coworkers. If you are feeling lonely, chances are there's others in your circle who are struggling with the same feelings. Don't isolate yourself. As humans, when we began to feel loneliness, sadness, or similar, we tend to draw inward and want to be by ourselves. Push back against these feelings and get out of your home. If nothing else, head to a local coffee shop to hang out for an hour. You'll likely feel better just being around others, even if you don't know anyone. Take a look at how much time you're spending on social media. Does it leave you with a good feeling or do you find yourself feeling down? If it's the latter, try the steps above and let me know how it goes. Maria Inoa, LCSW Full Potential Counseling www.fullpotentialcounseling.com maria@fullpotentialcounseling.com