Shannon D. Martin: 0:00

Hello, beautiful, elcome to today's episode of this Thing Called Wellness. I'm your host, shannon Martin. I hope you had an amazing weekend, like I did, which we will talk about in a minute. But if you celebrate Halloween, I know you're probably getting your kids or grandsons and home decorated, or you've already decorated and getting ready for the little goblins to come by and hand out some great treats. I've decided not to participate this year, but I really enjoy seeing what the families come up with. It just reminds me of when we used to walk our feet literally all for our kids, but we passed the torch, and it's fun to see our kids enjoy this time of their lives with their young ones. To see our kids enjoy this time of their lives with their young ones. We hardly get anyone in our area because we're so far back in the subdivision, so I just decided not to participate, but I can't wait to see what my grandchild decides to be this year. It's so much fun. So what has gone on with you all in the last two weeks since we last talked? What has gone on with you all in the last two weeks since we last talked?

Shannon D. Martin: 1:05

Well, I did something amazing. I went on a women's business retreat in beautiful San Diego, California, and it was beautiful. I was in Palm Tree, blue Water Haven. I've been to San Diego before, but this time I saw this beautiful city through a different lens. I went into this retreat as an open sponge. I didn't know what to expect. I just trusted the Lord and the person who was hosting the retreat. I've been to several of her events before. I not only worked for her, but I've attended several of her events and I knew it was going to be an amazing experience. I knew the ladies who were going to be there, but I didn't know them on, you know, a personal level. So this would be a great opportunity to get to know them a little deeper. What better way than being in the same house for three days? Right, I got to see the city through kindness, from someone picking me up from the airport and inviting me with her bestie and brunch.

Shannon D. Martin: 2:08

From the lens of other women also on their journeys and their respective dreams and places in life, some who were ahead of me and some who were walking with me in the same phases as me, all wanting and seeking information and direction. I saw it through the lens of fellowship. We pray for each other daily in our respective spaces and places and allow others to pray for us and accept it fully and wholeheartedly. I saw it through the lens of great food and laughter and wisdom from those who were willing to share their stories and experiences with one another and cheer each other on, and the best part of it was each other asking how they can help the other. If you look up the word wellness, it says wellness is a holistic integration of physical, mental and spiritual well-being, fueling the body, engaging the mind and nurturing the spirit.

Shannon D. Martin: 3:11

This entire retreat fulfilled each attribute. The physical one was fueled as we walked along the beautiful Gaslight District, deciding which restaurant we wanted to try for lunch or dinner and which of the wonderful desserts we wanted to try. Taking the sights of the area, enjoying the beautiful city outside in nature, feeling the breeze and laughing, enjoying great food was enjoyable. And, of course, we trekked across our individual airports, getting our steps right. Our mental well-being was being nurtured every day with healthy conversations about our businesses, laughter, enlightening our spirits, having aha moments, awakening our minds and strengthening that muscle that we so desperately needed, having joyful discussions and sharing stories about our families and just simply enjoying each other's company. And our spiritual well-being was nurtured. As we prayed for each other every day, prayed for our visions and our businesses, prayed for our dreams and goals and aspirations and our daily lives, we all were feeling so fulfilled. That calm, loving feeling was all over the house. I couldn't have asked for more. I went into this retreat being an open sponge, wanting clarity and direction.

Shannon D. Martin: 4:31

When I began this new season of me, I decided that I would step outside of my comfort zone and show more of myself and more about my journey. Then I got nervous again. I've always been a private person, you know. I don't like to post on social media and all this. All this is new to me, right. So during this time I should be, as I'm stepping out of my comfort zone more. I should be more comfortable with being uncomfortable, right, but we're a work in progress, so it's taking me a little bit longer than it should.

Shannon D. Martin: 5:07

But after this weekend, beginning a new adventure again, I spent a weekend with no music, no TV, just beautiful views. No music, no TV, just beautiful views. Great food and engaging conversation All the things I love. But I never took the time to go it alone. I realized this was what I needed to fill my cup.

Shannon D. Martin: 5:33

How about you?

Shannon D. Martin: 5:34

Will you begin a new adventure and take time out for yourself?

Shannon D. Martin: 5:38

It doesn't have to be as elaborate as this Just time and silence or doing something you enjoy to clear your mind, to reset yourself? I hope you do. This is what this time had been for me, and I truly want more of the us, more of this, for us to experience this right. Think about where would you go or what can you do right now to have a moment to yourself, to just be still and gain clarity for your new season, your next season, right? So let me know in the text link above in the show notes.

Shannon D. Martin: 6:12

I love to hear what you would like to do. Remember, if you don't take time out for yourself to fill your own cup, I think you'll be there for others and help them build theirs. You matter and you are so deserving of some of you too. Love you, girl. If you enjoyed today's episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It helps listeners find us and join our conversation. Disclaimer I am not a licensed mental health professional. The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you need help, please consult a qualified mental health professional.