Author: Rita Ricks

VOTE! MAKING CHOICES FOR THE HEALTH OF OUR PLANET AND PEOPLE!! As the sun rises on a new era of environmental consciousness, one undeniable truth emerges: our collective voices have the power to shape the future of our planet. With every election cycle that comes and goes, we hold in our hands not just ballots, but tools for transformation—tools that can protect fragile ecosystems, combat climate change, and promote sustainable development for generations to come. Your vote is more than just a mark on a page; it’s an affirmation of hope and responsibility.  Participating in elections empowers you to advocate for policies that safeguard the future of our great grands as well as this wonderful planet – which, right now, is on life support.  Your vote matters now more than ever. When we vote, we’re not only casting a ballot, we’re voicing our values and priorities, as visitors to this planet. Here’s my ask…List 3 values you live by and determine which political candidate aligns with those values.  I’m not talking party, gender, race, ethnicity, or sexual preference. I’m talking about the candidate you want your children and grandchildren to emulate. I’ll start… I want a leader who embodies the essence of hope and possibility, someone whose vision extends beyond today’s challenges to embrace an inclusive future where every American feels safe and valued in their pursuit of happiness. This leader will be rooted in the understanding that our strength lies in our diversity, welcoming individuals from all walks of life with open arms and an open heart. They will not merely react to circumstances but rather anticipate the needs of tomorrow by crafting comprehensive plans for sustainability, public health, and societal well-being. With maturity woven into their decision-making process, this leader will prioritize honesty and sincerity over rhetoric, communicating transparently about both aspirations and obstacles while remaining steadfastly grounded in principles that resonate with common decency. Moreover, their humility will reflect a deep respect for something greater than themselves, drawing inspiration from faith yet resonating universally across diverse beliefs; they’ll strive not just for progress but also purpose—guiding us toward a thriving community united by shared values rather than division. Political decisions shape our lives in profound ways. They influence our economy, education, and health care system, to name a few.  Those decisions are made by people we put in office.  These people ARE the Government – the Government we hire them to run. It’s why we must know the people we’re voting for…who they are as human beings.  You have to interview them, because you’re going to employ them. The people WE put into office, will determine how efficient the response is to crises like natural disasters or public health emergencies. Our vote holds power over legislation concerning education funding or healthcare access. making voting not just a right but a responsibility we cannot afford to ignore.  Education and healthcare are critical to our wellbeing and must not be put in the hands of anyone unable to think beyond his/her own self interest. When you choose not to vote, you give up your power as a human being. Policies are shaped by those who show up on Election Day. A missed opportunity can result in laws that don’t reflect our needs or priorities we care about most. Every time we cast a vote, we’re shaping the world our children and grandchildren will inherit. Policies on climate change, education, and healthcare are influenced by who holds political power.  This election will determine regulations that will either protect us from, or allow, harmful practices to thrive.  Every vote carries weight. When it comes to protecting our planet, voting is not just a right; it’s a responsibility.  Engagement matters now more than ever. Whether it’s local measures or national elections, each choice reflects our values regarding health and sustainability for both people and nature alike. I hope my words inspire you to take part in this vital endeavor, for it is through our collective effort that we safeguard hope—not only for ourselves but for generations yet to come.  And please share with others.    Let me hear your thoughts. I am Rita…speaking to your Spirit Contact me to discuss the sadness you’re feeling – Let me know if you have other coping skills to share. Let me know your thoughts on this blog. Contact | Spiritual Coach + Business Coach | Rita Ricks

From Grief to Growth: Discovering the Value Hidden Within Your Sadness In a world that often encourages us to mask our pain with positivity, it’s easy to overlook the profound lessons that lie within our sadness. Grief can feel like an uninvited shadow, settling heavily on our hearts and minds, but what if buried beneath those layers of sorrow is a treasure trove of growth waiting to be unveiled? In this journey through emotions, where heartache meets healing, I want to show how acknowledging and embracing your grief can transform it into one of life’s most powerful catalysts for personal evolution. Even in the darkest times, there exists a path toward resilience, understanding, and ultimately, empowerment. Walk with me… Sadness is a universal experience. It creeps into our lives unexpectedly, often leaving us feeling isolated and overwhelmed. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or even just a bad day, sadness can take many forms. We all encounter it at some point, myself included.  It’s woven into the fabric of being human. Physically, repressed emotions may manifest through tension headaches, digestive issues, anxiety, stress or fatigue. These symptoms are merely the body’s way of signaling distress from unresolved sorrow. Socially, withdrawing from others becomes common when we mask our sadness. We might miss out on valuable connections and support systems during tough times. Ultimately, by shunning these feelings, we risk becoming trapped in a cycle of emotional stagnation. But what if we looked at sadness through a different lens? Instead of seeing it solely as an emotion to avoid or suppress, what if we recognized its potential for growth and transformation? The journey from grief to personal development may seem daunting, but within each moment of sorrow lies invaluable lessons waiting to be uncovered. One powerful coping method is journaling. Writing down thoughts and feelings allows for a deeper understanding of what’s living rent free in our head. We often spend our time doing something/anything to avoid managing the sadness and grief. But this just delays the inevitable. Journaling is about recording your thoughts…whatever is in your head. My journaling is my Dear God letter. I turn it over to Him. You can share your deepest feelings with whomever. Just get those thoughts out of your head onto paper. Another effective approach is physical activity. Engaging in exercise releases endorphins, which can lift your spirits and reduce stress levels. Even a short walk can make a difference. Sweating is a good thing! Exercise/moving is critical to your overall wellness. Deep breathing while Being SILENT helps ground you. Being SILENT…no movement, no electronics, wear an eye mask, relax, eyes closed, dream. The solution is in the Silence. I sit in the dark, so I have no distractions, wrapped in my favorite blanket. You can do this. It is critical to your overall wellness. Connecting with others can also be beneficial. Sharing your feelings in a support group fosters connection and reminds you that you’re not alone in this journey. Sadness can be a profound teacher. It tends to reveal what truly matters in life or highlight areas where change is needed. Recognizing the value of sorrow doesn’t mean dismissing how you feel; it’s about honoring those feelings while searching for growth opportunities they present.  We stop viewing sadness solely as an enemy and begin to understand its role in shaping resilience and the depth of our character. Each moment spent in sorrow can unveil lessons about resilience, empathy, and strength. By confronting rather than avoiding these feelings, we pave the way for growth. Grief and sadness often walk together, but it’s important to hold on to the good times. They are a part of who you are today. No regrets—just the cherished memories that bring a smile to your heart. I am Rita…speaking to your Spirit Contact me to discuss the sadness you’re feeling – Let me know if you have other coping skills to share. Let me know your thoughts on this blog. Contact | Spiritual Coach + Business Coach | Rita Ricks

BEING UNCOMFORTABLE IS THE NEW SELF CARE PRODUCT! In a world that glorifies comfort and convenience, it may come as a surprise to hear that being uncomfortable is actually the latest trend in self-care. Yes! – embracing discomfort and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone is now recognized as an essential tool for personal growth and development. So put down the fuzzy socks and cozy blanket, because I’m here to explain why being uncomfortable might just be the best self-care product you never considered. It may seem counterintuitive, but embracing uncomfortable situations can lead to significant progress in various aspects of your life. HOW?? Consider the following… Stepping out of your comfort zone, forces you to confront your fears and limitations. This process of facing challenges head-on allows you to expand your boundaries and discover new possibilities that you might not have otherwise explored. Moreover, experiencing discomfort can help build resilience and adaptability. By learning to navigate through difficult situations, you develop the strength to overcome obstacles with grace and determination. Think about it…understanding the importance of discomfort in personal growth is accepting that growth often happens outside of the comfort zone. Embrace the discomfort, learn from it, and watch yourself grow into a stronger and more resilient version of yourself. It will help you stay focused on what really matters. Feeling uncomfortable can serve as a constant reminder of the importance of staying committed to your aspirations. It keeps you on your toes, pushing you to strive for excellence even when faced with adversity. Rather than seeing discomfort as a hindrance, view it as a catalyst for propelling yourself forward. By acknowledging and accepting discomfort as part of the journey towards success, you cultivate determination within yourself. This mindset shift enables you to channel that energy into fueling your passion and maintaining momentum in pursuing your goals. Embrace discomfort not as an enemy but as a valuable ally in your pursuit of personal growth and achievement. I encourage you to reframe how you perceive discomfort – Look at it as a sign that you are pushing yourself beyond limits and expanding your capabilities. Cultivating a mindset of curiosity towards uncomfortable situations can help shift your perspective from fear to excitement. How can you begin today, to reframe your mindset? Well guess what, my purpose is to show you how to get unstuck, how to stop doing the same thing the same way, but expect different results. That’s not productive, it’s called being busy. So Contact me today – I GOT YOU! Don’t hesitate to contact me here: Contact | Spiritual Coach + Business Coach | Rita Ricks Let Go of the Resistance! I am Rita…speaking to your Spirit

THE POWER SUPERFOODS BRING TO YOUR TABLE I don’t know about you, but I’ve been curious about Superfoods for a minute. I mean, who wouldn’t be intrigued by the idea of these nutrient-packed powerhouses? I’ve heard about superfood salads, but for some reason, I’ve never actually tried one. So, for this blog post, I decided to research the world of Superfoods to see if they’re worth all the hype. And let me tell you, the more I read up on them, the more excited I got! Superfoods are basically like little superheroes in your pantry – they are jam-packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can do wonders for your health and well-being. Just imagine all those essential nutrients working their magic inside your body – reducing inflammation, lowering risks of cancer and chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes… It’s an answer to my prayers. Plus, they can boost your immune system and keep your gut happy and healthy. Honestly, who wouldn’t want to add more superfoods into their diet? But here’s the thing – as amazing as superfoods are, it’s important not to go overboard with them. Some of these foods can be pretty pricey and eating too many of them might throw off the balance in your diet. So while incorporating superfoods into your meals is definitely a great idea… moderation is key! Because I’m reading all about the great benefits of these amazing nutrient-packed foods, I knew I had to learn what foods we’re talking about to determine if my body is familiar with any of them. And guess what? YAAAAAAY! I am pleased to announce that my body and superfoods have been besties for quite some time now. I mean, come on, I love regularly eating delicious blueberries, nutrient-rich spinach, crunchy almonds, zesty lemons, powerful broccoli, vibrant beets, wholesome brown rice, protein-packed black beans and chickpeas, tasty salmon packed with omega-3s,and savory garlic? And let’s not forget about the versatile olive oil that is a staple in my kitchen. I’ve been fueling my body with these incredible super foods without even realizing it. My taste buds are loving me right now! Writing this blog has opened my eyes to the incredible health benefits of superfoods. I hope that you also have learned something new and are inspired to incorporate more of these nutrient-dense foods into your diet. I would love to hear from you about your experiences with superfoods and any suggestions or feedback you may have for me. Let’s continue on our journey towards better health together! This will definitely improve our aging process. Don’t hesitate to contact me here: Contact | Spiritual Coach + Business Coach | Rita Ricks I am Rita…speaking to your Spirit

Explore the role RESISTANCE plays in Directing your Path Do you ever feel like you’re your own worst enemy when it comes to making positive changes in your life? You’re not alone. Self-sabotage – the sneaky little voice in your head that convinces you to stay stuck in old habits and patterns is alive and well. While resistance may seem like a conscious decision to oppose change, it is often fueled by underlying fears that lead to self-sabotaging behaviors. For example, if someone has a fear of failure or rejection, they may resist taking action towards their goals because they are afraid of not being good enough. This fear then manifests in sabotaging behaviors such as procrastination or making excuses for not moving forward. Moreover, resistance and self-sabotage create a vicious cycle where one feeds into the other. When you face resistance towards change due to underlying fears and insecurities, you tend to engage in self-sabotaging behaviors that reinforce those fears even further. This cycle continues until you break these patterns. At its core, resistance stems from a fear of the unknown and a desire to maintain control over one’s life. It is a natural human response to change as your brains are wired to seek comfort and familiarity. However, when faced with changes that require you to step out of your comfort zone and challenge your beliefs and habits…RESISTANCE! When faced with changes that challenge these limiting beliefs and require risk-taking or pushing beyond your comfort zone, here comes self-sabotaging behaviors as a means of protecting yourself from potential failure or rejection. thus you avoid change and opportunities for growth and hinder your personal and professional development. While there are multiple factors that contribute to resistance, two key root causes are fear and comfort zone. Fear is a powerful emotion that can paralyze us and prevent you from taking necessary action. When faced with change, your brains often interpret it as a threat to your safety and security. Your comfort zone also plays a significant role in fueling resistance to change. It refers to a psychological state where you feel at ease with your surroundings and routines. For instance, someone who has been trying for years to lose weight but has always struggled may find comfort in their current lifestyle despite its health consequences. The idea of giving up their favorite foods or incorporating regular exercise into their routine challenges this comfort zone they have created for themselves. Another way in which self-sabotage fuels resistance is through perfectionism. While striving for excellence can be beneficial, setting unrealistic standards for oneself can be detrimental. Perfectionists often have an all-or-nothing mentality and believe that if they cannot do something perfectly, then there’s no point in doing it at all. This mindset can lead to resistance towards change because individuals may feel overwhelmed by the need to achieve perfection before making any changes in their lives. Moreover, self-sabotage can also manifest itself as imposter syndrome – the feeling of being a fraud and not deserving success or recognition. People experiencing imposter syndrome tend to downplay their achievements and attribute them to luck rather than acknowledge their hard work and abilities. Past negative experiences can also contribute. Self-sabotage is a destructive behavior that can affect various areas of your life. It hinders your growth and prevents you from achieving goals critical to your career, relationships, health, emotional growth, and finances Addressing self-sabotage requires a high level of awareness about one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Mindset-shifting techniques such as positive affirmations, visualizations, journaling, and therapy can help individuals reframe their thoughts and beliefs. It allows you to embrace a more positive sense of self. Another crucial aspect of overcoming self-sabotage is developing self-compassion and forgiveness towards yourself. Physical movement is also critical in shifting your mindset. SUMMARY Resistance, while often a catalyst for positive change, can also become a formidable barrier to progress when it is rooted in an unwillingness to adapt. Clinging to the familiar and resisting new ideas or approaches stifles innovation and growth, trapping individuals and societies in a cycle of stagnation. This type of resistance prevents one from seizing opportunities, embracing necessary changes, and evolving with the times. It creates self-imposed limits ensuring that you remain confined by the very barriers you created and yet refuse to dismantle, ultimately hindering your potential. Let’s talk about this more. Share your thoughts and comments and give me examples of how resistance has impacted your life. This topic is too important for just one blog. Let’s talk about this more. Share your thoughts and comments and give me examples of how resistance has impacted your life. This topic is too important for just one blog. Leave your message here: Contact | Spiritual Coach + Business Coach | Rita Ricks I am Rita…speaking to your Spirit