review Archives - My Inner Shakti

Daily Habits to Build Personal and Professional Resilience

Every now and then, new corporate buzz words will pop up. Some are here to stay and actually have some substance, while others fade with time.

Personally, I think resilience is one of those concepts, and I definitely think it’s here to stay. It’s not something that can just fade way, especially given the way we live our lives now.

I learned more about what resilience means in terms of personal and professional development during the conference I attended in London back in October. One of the speakers for my team’s session was a resilience expert who talked to us about what it is, why it’s important, and how to create more of it on a daily basis. Since then, I’ve been keen to learn more. From what I know, resilience is one of those things that is the result of mindful habits/living.

Ok, first thing’s first. What is resilience? Well according to Alexia Michiels (the speaker) in her book, The Resilience Drive, it’s the range of skills that enable us to bounce back when faced with adversity. It helps us lead a successful and fulfilling life. “Resilient people demonstrate rapid bounce, courage, and creativity; they cultivate healthy connections with themselves, others, and the environment.”

I read The Resilience Drive on the way to London just last week. It’s not so much a true book as it is a pocket guide with over 100 ideas for how to cultivate resilience in our daily lives.

There are five sections based on different areas of self and life. And under each, there are ideas for how to be more resilient.

So, being the nerd that I am, I took notes while reading this on the plane. I wrote down the ideas under each of the five sections that I thought would work for me and/or things that I want to implement in 2020.

Stay calm and rejuvenate
1. Exhale – 4 seconds in and 6 seconds out
2. Close your eyes every now and then
3. Get in child’s pose a few times a day
4. Walk slower (been on my to-do list since I was like 1…ha!)
5. Disconnect from screens and limit screen time
6. Relax before bed (happy to note that I’m starting this in 2019…started meditating using the Head Space app!)

Stimulate your vitality
1. Stretch in the AM – right when you wake up
2. Adjust your posture throughout the day
3. Practice balancing exercises while doing everyday tasks/chores around the house (i.e. folding laundry)
4. Take real lunch breaks (without your laptop and/or phone)
5. Eat slowly
6. Create a sleep routine

Engage your emotions
1. Listen more actively
2. Think about and list out WWW (what went well) every day
3. Actively participate in discussions
4. Find and/or create quick wins for yourself every day

Train the mind
1. Set a daily/weekly intention
2. Schedule email breaks (only check email during specific times of the day)
3. Monotask
4. Keep things simple (stupid) – KISS!

Spirit in action
1. Do one random act of kindness a day
2. Be open to different opinions
3. Meditate (check!)

The book explains more about each of these daily resilience habits. If you’re interested, send me an email or buy the Kindle version off Amazon. It’s a great reference book to have, especially on those tough days where you feel anything but resilient!

No portion of this post is sponsored. However, affiliate links are included. There is no extra cost to you, but I do receive a small commission on anything you buy through my links. Thank you for reading and supporting My Inner Shakti!

Review – 2020 Passion Planner

written by Parita Leave a Comment

First and foremost, it may sound like it, but this post is not sponsored in any way. I found and bought this planner on my own. I love it so much (already!) that I just have to share.

Ok, a little context. I found this Passion Planner after researching unique planners online. I’m a huge paper planner person, but for 2020, I knew I wanted something different. Something to not only help me plan my days/weeks/months, but also something that allowed me to document my habits, my intentions, my dreams, etc. I also wanted something that would help me reduce the number of notebooks I use – blogging, personal, and planner.

The Passion Planner is honestly everything I could’ve asked for and more. Let’s get into why…

The monthly view

Look at this monthly view! I got the large planner, so it’s pretty huge. I have big handwriting, so this is super helpful. There’s also space for your monthly focus, people to see, places to go, and things to learn. I also love how you can list your personal as well as work projects. And the large whitespace at the bottom would be perfect for notes, accomplishments, goals, etc.

The weekly view

I’ve never used a planner with such a detailed weekly view before, but I’ve already started filling out appointments, events, etc. for 2020, and I love it. I think I’ll continue to use my virtual/online calendars as well, but I think this view and level of detail will help keep me uber organized. Like with the monthly view, I love the weekly focus + good things that happened spaces. Your to-do list space is built in, and again, the white space at the bottom is perfect for additional lists, notes, etc. And the quote lover in me loves having 52 awesome quotes to ponder on in 2020.

Monthly reflection questions

This monthly reflection section is completely new for me, but I love the idea of it. You can only improve and do better by reflecting on your past actions and the results. I’m going to make it a priority to sit down at the end of every month and answer these questions.

Extra blank pages

There are 24 big blank pages in the back. Personally, this will mostly be a blog notebook replacement for me where I jot down my ideas and plans for MIS. If you think about it, that’s two pages per month, which given the size of the planner itself, is a lot. Even for those of us with big handwriting!

So if my review doesn’t give it away, I LOVE this planner and am so ready to really use it in 2020. I feel like it’s setting me up for success and is going to help me capture everything in one place.

If you decide to get it, let me know. We can be Passion Planner nerds together!

P.S. I ordered the LARGE Forest Green Passion Planner with a Sunday start (you can also opt for a Monday start). It doesn’t look like the Forest Green option is available on Amazon anymore, but there are quite a few other ones in different sizes and colors.

Updates + Books + Recipes + Games

written by Parita Leave a Comment

Ready or not, here comes a random but hopefully informative post!

First up, life updates…

There have been some changes at work, which means more/elevated responsibilities for me. This also means I’ll be travelling to Rome, Italy for a week in March. So much going on!

I recently shared on Instagram that Vishnu’s on night float for the rest of this week and next. This usually throws me off, but this time around, I’m really trying not to let it get to me. I know we’re only a few days in, but I think I’m doing a great job. Positive self-talk + slowing down a little really helps.

The one thing throwing me off has nothing to do with night float. Kaiden’s been waking up earlier than usual, and it’s exhausting! He wanted to party from 1-2 am the other night! Silly boy! When he wakes up before 5:30, I bring him in our room, so we can both get a little bit more rest. I don’t know if that’s the best move because now he literally points to our room and then our bed. It’s like he wakes up just so he can come sleep with me! Not necessarily the best habit, but I kind of love it. He’s such a cute snugly bug when he sleeps! We shall see where this takes us…

Now on to a few book recommendations!

My 2019 goal is to read 24 books. That’s two per month. I’m a little behind at this point but hoping I can make up for it soon.

Here’s what I’ve read so far…

No Bad Kids by Janet Lansbury
Becoming by Michelle Obama

Up next I’ll be reading One Day in December by Josie Silver.

Now, get ready because you’re going to get a little hungry…here are a few recipes I’ve recently tried and LOVED!

IP Lasagna Soup by The Chutney Life – I’ve made this twice now, and it’s been a hit both times!

IP Masala Khichdi by The Chutney Life – not surprising…another fav! Love the masala aspect to this recipe!

Energy Balls by The Lean Green Bean – you guys know I love Lindsay’s recipes! This one is full of all the good stuff and both adult and kid tested and approved. Kaiden ate two balls last night and probably would’ve had more if I let him!

I got a few messages on Instagram about the games I shared in my stories over the weekend. We played Codenames Pictures (so fun, so hard!), 5 Second Rule (so intense…leaves me so flustered and goofy!), and the age old favorite, Cards Against Humanity. All great options to have on hand for game night!

Guys, I wanted to share some new makeup products I’m using too, but I’m tired and feel like the more responsible thing would be be to go the f to sleep! HA! I’ll share a roundup very soon.

Happy Valentine’s Thursday, y’all! Don’t forget to eat a little chocolate today!

Paperless Post – Customizable Online Stationary

written by Parita 1 Comment

When I was recently contacted about Paperless Post, I almost dismissed the email. But after scrolling through the website and looking at all the cool customizable stationary options they have, I decided to look into the opportunity. So glad I did!

Paperless Post’s products are for everyone. Throwing a party? Pick an invitation card. Saying happy birthday? Pick a birthday card. Thanking a friend? Pick a thank you card. And it’s not just all about greeting cards. You have your pick at cool stationary options too.

Honestly speaking, I find actual paper cards kind of wasteful…and very expensive. I mean, if it’s the only thing you’re getting someone, go all out. Also, speaking of paper cards, as someone who’s had to write over like 300 in past year and a half, I wish I would’ve known about Paperless Post. Like in real life, you pick your card design and write individualized messages to each of your recipients. But unlike real life, you send the card via email. Same sentiments but no waste!

I’m going to use Paperless Post for our holiday card this year, and I’m so excited. Here are a few of the options I’m looking at…

If you’re into the whole digital card trend, you need to check out Paperless Post. I’m positive you’ll love it as much as I do!

While Paperless Post gave me their digital coins in exchange for this review, all opinions shared above are my own!

Why I Believe ‘The Magic of Thinking Big’ is a Worthwhile Read

written by Parita Leave a Comment

I never in a million years thought that it’d take so long to finish a book. The old me could plow through 300+ pages in a weekend. Now? It takes me weeks if not months. Oh well, at least I’m still trying!

I digress!

Today, I want to share why I believe The Magic of Thinking Big is a worthwhile read along with a caveat to go along with that sentiment.

First and foremost, let me start off by saying that this book really is for everyone, regardless of your line of work, level, etc. In my opinion, it’s about how to be human in achieving success (however you define that for yourself). The suggestions really hit home because they’re rooted in basic values and principles. It’s not about achieving overnight success, but rather about making small, simple, and very practical changes to your thinking and ultimately behavior that will allow you to win people over, be happier, achieve your goals, etc.

Let’s move on to the caveat for a second. The book was written in 1959. This means the stories and examples are very old-school (re: sales, manufacturing, male dominated, etc.). On the surface, they seem very archaic, but when you really think about it, they are things that still apply in our modern day lives. Perhaps now more than ever…? If you can get over this one thing and really allow the simplicity of the book to guide your thinking, I think you’ll gain a lot from it. I know I did!

Without giving away all the wisdom, here are a few points that really hit home for me. As you’ll see, these aren’t complex topics/ideas. It’s just simple stuff that we need to be reminded of more often.

Big people monopolize the listening. Small people monopolize the talking.
Don’t sell yourself short. Think, ‘why not me?’
Always ask, “Is it really important?” Especially before getting worked up.
Be human in your approach. Put people first.
“Life it up.” In your smile, your language, etc.
Always think about how you can add value.
Surround yourself with people who are successful and push you to be better.
How you think about yourself is directly correlated to what you can achieve. Whenever doubt creeps into your mind, think big. Focus on what you can do today, all actions welcome.
It’s not always the smartest person in the room who is the most successful. It’s the person who’s willing to build relationships, work hard, and keep trying no matter how many time he/she fails.
Always give people more than they expect to get.
Action, action, action. Action begets action.
Think about things as they can be not as they are. Visualization elevates your thinking and gets you out of the here and now to the possible.

Believe it or not, this is just a small sliver of everything you can get out of this book. Can’t wait to reread again in the future!

And for those who were holding their breath waiting for me to share my next week, it’s going to be Beartown!!! So excited to dig in!

Your turn – what’s your favorite self-help type book?

Cookbook Review | The Truly Healthy Vegetarian Cookbook

written by Parita Leave a Comment

As a vegetarian, Liz’s blog is a constant source of inspiration. She makes good-for-you vegetarian food that not only tastes delicious but is also easy to make. She takes the guesswork out of vegetarian dishes even carnivores will enjoy!

Before I tell you all about her new cookbook, let’s take a BIG step back. Like seven years big. That’s how long I’ve ‘known’ Liz! We met through our blogs and have stayed connected ever since. Personally, I was drawn to her truly down to earth approach to healthy living and life in general. Like her food, she makes it all look easy. I still smile every time I read about Liz’s fun adventures!

Ok, so now about her cookbook, The Truly Healthy Vegetarian Cookbook. If you classify yourself as a vegetarian or are trying to incorporate more meat-free dishes into your life, this is the cookbook for you. Liz is a certified health coach who’s created step-by-step recipes that anyone can make. No matter what kinds of foods you naturally gravitate towards, you’ll find something to devour. Between the pages of this book, you’ll find everything from a spicy peanut sauce to spicy enchilada soup to eggplant ricotta roll ups to chocolate chip chickpea cookies.

Mouth watering yet?

Hold your taste buds for 10 more seconds.

Liz graciously agreed to let me share a recipe from The Truly Healthy Vegetarian Cookbook with all of you. After considering multiple options, I decided to make her Coconut-Mango Smoothie. I know, right? Every sip took me straight to a little cabana on the beach. This smoothie is creamy, tropical, and filling. You better believe I’ll be making this weekly once Spring decides to show up!

Enough from me. Here’s the recipe so you can enjoy alongside me!

Coconut-Mango Smoothie
Serves 2
Prep time: 5 minutes

1 cup ice cubes
1 cup frozen mango chunks
1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
1 cup unsweetened coconut milk or almond milk
2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes
1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)

Blend the ice, mango, pineapple, and coconut milk or almond milk in a blender until smooth.
Divide between two glasses and sprinkle with the coconut flakes and chia seeds (if using).

Yes! It’s that easy.

If you need a little vegetarian inspiration in the kitchen and are looking for a cookbook to introduce you to new recipes that are good for you, this is the one! I mean, did you read what I wrote – CHOCOLATE CHIP CHICKPEA COOKIES. Cookies made from beans that can probably be eaten for breakfast! Wins all around!

Your turn – what’s your favorite cookbook?

P.S. Visit my Instagram page for a chance to win your very own copy of The Truly Healthy Vegetarian Cookbook!

The Lollipop Baby Monitor

written by Parita Leave a Comment

I’ve said it before and I’ll probably say it again at some point. Every first-time decision you make as a parent feels monumental. And then once you get used to whatever it is, you ask yourself, “Why did I overthink that so much?”

Vishnu and I went back and forth for a while when deciding on a baby monitor. We read reviews, we read consumer reports, we thought about our needs and what features we really needed, etc.. After a month or so, Vishnu made an executive decision and purchased the Lollipop Baby Monitor.

The Lollipop is not your average monitor, so of course, I was a little hesitant at first. I didn’t think we needed the “Tesla of baby monitors.” Once Vishnu explained how it works and good for us, I was on board.

So here’s what I love about the Lollipop…

For one, the design is pretty cool. Right now, we have it attached directly to Kaiden’s Pack n’ Play, but when he’s older, we can attach it to the wall or put it higher up somewhere and out of reach.

The other feature I love is there’s a live feed linked directly via an app to your phone and/or iPad. So for example, when my sister watched him one night, Vishnu was able to set up the app on her phone and she checked in on him as needed. This also means when we’re not home, we can see how he’s doing. Creepy? A little. Useful? Absolutely!

While we haven’t used any other kinds of monitors, I’ve caught glimpses of what my friends use, and I must say, the picture quality with the Lollipop is so clear. I love this because it means no guesswork when we hear Kaiden crying. There’s also no guesswork because of the cry detection feature where we’re alerted whenever Kaiden cries.

Other features we don’t use often but are nice to have include push to talk and remote music playing. With Kaiden, I think he’d be even more frustrated hearing our voices but not seeing us, so I tend not to talk to him through the monitor. We have, however, played classical music for him, which was nice because it doesn’t require an extra device.

If you’re interested in monitoring things like temperature, humidity, and air quality, you can purchase an additional sensor and track via the app. We decided not to go down that route, but it’s nice to have the option in case we change our minds in the future.

In terms of possible cons, I would say the price may be a detractor for some (it’s a bit of an investment), as well as the fact that good internet access must be available for this monitor to work.

Overall, we’re very happy with this monumental (kidding!) decision and would definitely recommend the Lollipop to friends, family, and internet strangers!

Daily Habits to Build Personal and Professional Resilience

Review – 2020 Passion Planner

Updates + Books + Recipes + Games

Paperless Post – Customizable Online Stationary

Why I Believe ‘The Magic of Thinking Big’ is a Worthwhile Read

Cookbook Review | The Truly Healthy Vegetarian Cookbook

The Lollipop Baby Monitor

categories

Archives

Top Posts!

Follow me on Instagram!