Sweet Like Jasmine takes readers on Gray’s heart-breaking journey of faith after, at age 39, finding her long-forgotten birth certificate that sparked something that could not be ignored. She set out and uncovered family secrets found her childhood home and the father who left her when she was seven years old. As she returned to the places, culture, and stories that shaped her life, Gray realized that it’s only when we learn to embrace the truth of our past that we can finally make sense of our present and celebrate what truly matters.
I was following everyone else’s journey, except my own. I gave up on myself,” writes Gray. “But God didn’t give up on me. He tenderly gathered all the broken fragments I tried to throw away.” He whispered, ‘What no one wants, I cherish. You are worth loving. You are My beloved.’”
Unhurried in Order to Heal our Hearts
In this powerful episode, “Unhurried to Heal our Hearts,” author Bonnie Gray shares her powerful story.
I was introduced to Bonnie way back in the day when she wrote, “Finding Spiritual Whitespace.” Just take a look here and drink in the peace.
So you can imagine my ecstatic response when Bonnie said, “YES,” to be on the podcast. She is a jewel and I am so excited to share her story and presence with you all.
In this episode, you will:
- Hear Bonnie’s story and hopefully her story will inform your story.
- Recognize that you don’t have to “hide” your mental health challenges.
- Understand the powerful influence a mother has on your formation.
- Be inspired to trace God’s hand in your own life story.
- Be invited to unfold like the beautiful jasmine flower.
- Realize your value, worth, and dignity, despite the negative, limiting beliefs that have been spoken over you.
- Start your HEARTLIFTING JOURNEY today.
This week’s resources
Sometimes the story we tell ourselves is not really true. Sometimes the story others tell about us is not really true. On “Today’s Heartlift with Janell,” Author, Trauma-informed, board-certified marriage and family specialist, and Professional Heartlifter, Janell Rardon, opens conversations about how emotional health and mental fitness effects absolutely every area of our lives. When we possess and practice healthy, strong, resilient emotional health practices, life is so much better. Read Janell’s newest book, “Stronger Every Day: 9 Tools for an Emotionally Healthy You.”
Ever wondered how simply walking through a forest can soothe your soul and rejuvenate your body? Our latest episode unwraps the profound connection between well-being and the natural world, as we celebrate Earth Month with a deep dive into the biophilia hypothesis and the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. E.O. Wilson's insights lay the groundwork for our discussion, while Dr. Qing Li's expertise on forest bathing illuminates a path for not just physical health, but also spiritual growth and emotional resilience. We reminisce about personal nature encounters and reflect on the tranquil power of green spaces that often go unnoticed in our daily grind.
In a heartfelt narrative, I open up about my own health challenges with a rare esophageal disease, Achalasia, and how embracing the rhythms of the natural world has been a cornerstone of my healing journey. We also explore how simple practices like controlled breathing can amplify joy and contribute to a longer, healthier life. Learn about the POMS test and assess your current ”mood status.” Whether you're seeking solace in the serenity of nature or looking for practical advice to boost your well-being, this episode promises to be a breath of fresh air. Join us and reconnect with your true self, one step at a time, on the forest floor.
Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:
- Visit Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online coaching center and meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
- Learn more about my books and work: Janell Rardon
- Learn more about Forest Bathing by Dr. Qing Li: Forest Bathing
- Read more about Achalasia
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- Subscribe to the Substack Community
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- Learn more about Young Living Therapeutic-Grade Essential Oils and the Aroma Freedom Technique: H…
This is literally the best podcast on ITunes . Healing Strength and wholistic mind-body-Spirit ministry. You’ll want to get out the serving spoon and dig deep into the richness of this. Unhurried Holiday series is Phenomenal and what I need to infuse into my everyday life. I love you @ Janell Rardon . You are a gift to my ears and a voice that needs to be heard beyond church walls #heartlifters
Oh dear Amber, after a long week, your words lift my heart and spirits. Sending you BIG HUGS and a BIGGER HEARTLIFT this holiday season.