More to Life with Faith and Lois

Happy New Year! After 3 years of weekly podcasts, we have decided it is time to transition on to something new. This season of 210 podcasts has been filled with hope, excitement and adventure - and we are carrying that sense of purpose to whatever is next for us. Today we share what we've learned through our podcasts, the key memories that stick with us, a few nuggets and loads of thanks to each of you who've been part of our journey. We'd love to hear from you and stay in touch!

As 2021 winds down, you may be looking ahead to what's next. We want to wrap up our theme of celebrating joy in this last month of the year by considering how you might step into the New Year with joy. What are you anticipating in your growth and work? Using what you've experienced in this year, how will it shape what you do in 2022? Be prepared to breathe and live more fully. Enjoy!

There is no escaping the challenges you've faced through this past year.  You may have been separated from those you love and care about because of COVID restrictions. You may have gained new relationships or experienced the passing of people you love. Maybe you lost your job - or transitioned to something entirely new. We want you to know that no matter what you face, there is joy to be found on the other side.

In this month of holiday celebrations - how do you find joy through all that may be on your plate? Today we share the many places we find joy. There's beauty in blinking lights and music of this season. You might reflect on those who are no longer with you. Maybe in holiday baking, you find joy. Or a trip to your local Botanic Gardens in the winter! We wish you joy wherever find it.

For the next four weeks we are focusing on how we celebrate this 12th month of the year. We are sharing what we've encountered in events and people and experiences throughout this year. And this week, we are exploring those moments that bring you joy.

When you're faced with a difficult scenario at work, what do you do? In today's podcast, we explore some ideas that might help you manage those challenges. First, remember what's in and out of your control. What about shifting your thoughts about the situation? Be the person others count on. Make sure you're responding instead of reacting. Determine the most important thing to do every day. And stay open and communicate with your team.

Turning to your spiritual source can be a path to finding peace, clarity and understanding when you're facing difficulty. In our podcast we consider what it's like to acknowledge what you believe. Maybe you're connected to a spiritual community where you find support. How does your spiritual side show up when you are creative?  And when you're grateful, you're reminded about who and what add to your wellbeing. Going deep can be powerful!

What happens to your body when you're facing difficulties? In our podcast we consider some steps to take care of yourself beginning with blocking off time to journal or reflect. We also discuss how to deal with what you're facing head on. How do you pay attention to your level of stress? Maybe you could do something fun for yourself that takes your body and mind to a different space. And remember that you are not alone, find someone who will support you wherever you are. Join us!

Our theme for the next four weeks is exploring how you navigate challenges in your life. Today we begin with your relationships - and what to do when you face difficulties with those closest to you. We wonder how you can practice responding instead of reacting. What's the mutual benefit for both of you? How about dealing with issues when they come up as you stay vulnerable? And at the end of the day, celebrate the good times you've shared, are sharing and will share. Great ways to strengthen your relationships!

When it comes to expressing compassion in the workplace, how do you do it? Today we reflect on how self-compassion increases job performance, engagement and wellbeing in the workplace. We check in how you might emotionally connect with your colleagues. How well do you pay attention to signals about burnout? What about feedback, what's your goal when you share constructive or positive recommendations? And what would it look like to nurture your connections? Great things to consider!

Compassion and spirituality intersect in the way you express yourself and care for others. In today's 200th (!!) we podcast we wonder what happens when you open your heart. One of the first things you might notice is how much you have in common with others. From there you are more free to practice being kind to end the suffering of someone else. Through it all, staying grounded with meditation and contemplation brings an awareness of where you might show kindness, bring love and be of service.

What happens when you show compassion to your body? In today's podcast we talk about the similarities between self-compassion and compassion. When you are aware of what your body is revealing to you - you have the opportunity to heal and grow. We explore the benefit of mindfulness, understanding you are not alone, being kind to yourself, planning ahead and using rest. Observation is your friend!

Compassion - it's our new theme for the next four weeks! We're going to explore its impact on your relationships, your body, your spirituality and your craft. As we think of compassion and your relationships, how might you consider what someone else is going through? Maybe it's time for you to release what you want to change in the other. When you're compassionate, you give extra support by listening, being present and sticking around. And you are kind with your words. This all means you are ready to walk together, let's dive in!

Authenticity in your craft yields a number of benefits. In our fourth podcast exploring this theme, we see how critical it is to express yourself honestly and openly in the workplace. First, you have a sense of wellbeing. You may also feel more connected and find that your leadership inspires loyalty. You recognize that's it's okay to make mistakes because that's where growth happens. And you recognize how important everyone in your team is to the whole. Find out how being authentic in your craft is a win-win!

Our theme of authenticity takes on powerful meaning as it relates to your spirituality - where your potential to thrive grows as you express yourself openly. Today we consider how authentic spirituality inspires you and promotes healthy awareness. When you're spiritually authentic, you protect the most vulnerable and look at things from a broad perspective. You also seek truth in words and actions engaging in the self, others and God. Yes, you have room to grow!

Authenticity has an enormous impact on your health: emotionally, physically and mentally. In our podcast, we find there are some elements that authentic people have in common. First, you know who you are. Next, even with some doubt, you listen to your inner voice. Third, you understand that your feelings are complex and are willing to consider a fresh perspective. And finally, you are willing to face up to the truth about yourself. Are you authentic? Let's dive in!

Our new theme of authenticity begins today - and we start with your relationships. How do you show up as your authentic self with the people you care most about? In our podcast we explore what it means to really understand who you are. When you do, you are ready to step in to your relationships knowing that to connect, you are willing to share what's really going on in your life. With kindness. This might be a bumpy journey. We hope you'll join us!

Refreshing your outlook on your craft is possible - no matter what you're facing. Today we wonder what happens when you take a fresh look at what is working. How about recognizing what you accomplish? Maybe it's time to reconsider your perception of failure. You could get a boost by refreshing your surroundings. And what about scheduling breaks during the day? You might be amazed. Let us know what works best for you!

What are you doing to refresh your spirituality? In our series on refreshment - Faith and Lois consider how you revive what makes you whole. Turns out when you're grateful, you stimulate your spirituality. Whether you spend time alone or connect with others, you have a chance to restore your spiritual strength. Meditating grounds you to what matters most. And when you choose to be of service to someone, there's joy to be found. May you be inspired!

Refreshing your body - are you ready? In our podcast, we explore what it means to restore strength mentally and physically. Taking a walk outside, even for a few minutes, might do wonders for you today. When you drink water, you refresh what may feel parched throughout your body. What happens when you pause to contemplate? And as you recognize how your body and mind work with you every day, consider journaling the changes you see. This is refreshment at your core.

This has been a long hot summer - and turning the page for a new theme of refreshment sounds like a good idea! We begin this series by exploring what it would look like to refresh your relationships. Faith and Lois talk about restoring strength in your connections. What might you do to freshen up an important relationship? And how about  reconnecting to stimulate a friendship?  We hope this invites you to go deeper as you relate to those most important in your life.

Are you returning to the office? Continuing to work from home? These are the questions many of you are facing as some COVID restrictions are being relaxed. Today we'd like to consider how to adjust to these changes. How might you ease the transition? We offer some ideas about creating a new routine for returning to the office. And know that this transition will take time, maybe a few weeks or months. Planning for what's next makes a huge difference. Let us know how you're transitioning to the next phase!

Your spiritual routine may have changed throughout COVID. And now that many places of worship are easing restrictions to gather together, what does that mean for you? In our podcast we wonder about the ways in which you connect spiritually. You might have missed meeting with people on a regular basis, or maybe you've found new avenues to express your spirituality. Because of the changes, are you desiring to reconnect with your faith community or have you established another routine? So much to consider. Enjoy!

Throughout COVID, have you noticed changes in your body and mind? In our podcast today, we explore what your body has gone through over the past 15 months. We begin with your mental health and physical activity. Then we wonder how your eating habits have changed. Have you gotten better at taking care of yourself? No matter what, your body has carried you through a pandemic. Amazing!

In our new theme for the next few weeks, we're considering what's next in all areas of our lives as COVID restrictions change. In this podcast, we're wondering about the impact the pandemic has had on your relationships. What will you do to rekindle the friendships you may have set aside? As you rebuild your relationships, what might you be looking for? This time of reflection may offer you some new ideas as to what's most important.

Finding ways to celebrate milestones in your workplace can make a huge difference for you and your colleagues. In our podcast, we explore how to reward small successes. We find ways to share praise with your team. When you reflect on what you're accomplishing, you have strategies you can implement or ignore the next time around. And as you acknowledge those who helped you make key strides, you'll discover that positive reinforcements go a long way. Enjoy!

Celebrating your spirituality offers you enormous room for growth. In our podcast this week, we notice what happens when celebration and spirituality intersect. You find your voice, through your gifts and talents and how you speak into matters of life. You face your fears and find that still small place where you begin to know what happens next. Maybe you have the chance to reframe your attitude, and when you do - you know what what to do. And it's at that moment the portal into your creativity opens and you're ready to step out of your comfort zone.

When you think of celebration - how often does your body come to mind? In our podcast, we are considering several ways you can celebrate your body at any age. First, put it in perspective: your body has been with you every step of the way. Follow that up with some love for yourself. Now, are you ready to inspire and be inspired? And finally - how are you caring for your body so that you can continue to do what you want? Your body is worth celebrating!

Celebration is our new theme and we begin with how it inspires your relationships. In our podcast, we consider what happens when you appreciate people in your life. How well do you listen to understand what someone truly wants? Taking pictures is a great way to let people know you how much they mean to you. Maybe even writing a note of thanks when someone least expects it. And when you plan something together, you connect on a deeper level. Celebrate those in your life who bring you joy! And discover what happens in return.

Renovating how you go about your work offers you the ability to restore your craft to a better state. In our podcast today, we offer three ideas. First, decide what you want to change to make your job more ideal. How about a mission statement for what you do? Next, determine how that change will impact you in the long term. And finally, how will you put those new ideas into practice? We'd love to hear what you come up with!

As you consider renovation, what better place to explore its impact than in your spirituality? Today we tap into five ways to bring your spirituality to life. Begin by examining your intentions. Follow that up by forgiving yourself. Maybe it's time to let something or someone go. Appreciate what is holy in your life. And finally, embrace the unknown.We hope this offers you a few ways to experience renewal in your spiritual practice.

When you renovate your body, you bring it to a better state. And in today's podcast, we dive in with four steps to restore or revive your body. First, notice the habits that make your life possible. Then consider the things you do to make your life easier. Are your habits giving you life? Keep it up. Are they destructive? Replace them with something better. You are worth it.

Renovation - our new theme for the next four weeks. How does it show up in your relationships, your body, your spirituality and your craft? In this podcast we are tapping into three ways to restore and revive your relationships. You begin by looking at what is going well, and what is off course. How do you build a bridge in your relationships, or create stronger boundaries? And we consider what it means to foster new and healthy relationships with the most important people in your life. Use this opportunity to reset your mind, soul and habits.

When you bring wisdom to your craft, you'll find improvement in so many areas! In our podcast, we consider how your strengths impact what you do every day. Your level of focus improves how you get your job done. Emotional regulation allows you to work through challenging situations. Your authenticity shows up when people know where you stand. And you are able to problem solve as you strive to understand different points of view. You'll find how much your wisdom increases when you are aligned with your strengths.  Enjoy!

When you think of someone who's wise, spirituality often follows. So we wonder, how do the two show up for you? In our podcast, we explore a variety of spiritual traditions and their teachings. We begin with Judeo-Christian biblical teachings from the old and new testaments. Then we move to a few instructions from Tibetan Buddhist sages who address fundamental wisdom questions. And we wrap up our podcast exploring a number of 12 step sayings on how to be reminded of your personal value. What would it look like to apply these ideas into your everyday life?

Using wisdom in your body means you embrace what you need most. In our podcast, we consider how to connect with your body. When you choose to move, you're making decisions to pivot or shift. You explore how you feel - and do more of what helps you and less of what hurts. With wisdom, you incorporate reason and emotion. And you consider what you are learning as you choose to continue or stop. How does wisdom show up in your body?

Wisdom is our new theme for the next few weeks - in your relationships, your body, spirituality and your craft. In today's episode, we look for wisdom in your relationships. Maybe it's the way your friends listen to and interact with you.You find wisdom in the balance of your close relationships. How about when your friends and family are patient with you? And as you experience their love, you feel included. May you thrive in the wisdom of those closest to you!

Your work can have a significant role in your recovery from loss. It helps you put things into perspective. In our podcast, we explore how recognizing there is a time and season for everything plays out in your craft. There is structure with a routine. You are up front with your colleagues. It's an opportunity to reflect on your habits. The connection with your co-workers can heal. You are not alone. As you work through all stages of grief, may this offer you the space to begin the healing process.

Spiritual practices can make an enormous difference as you recover from loss. Today we explore five ways to go through the stages of grief. First, connect to your source of strength. Second, be still and appreciate the silence around you. Third, go into nature or a spiritual place of worship. Fourth, do something for someone else. And fifth, pull out a photo album or your phone, and remember those you love and who love you. You are not alone. We encourage you to take the time and space to breathe, begin to heal and move forward.

What do you do for yourself when you're experiencing loss? In today's podcast, we consider what you might be facing and how to manage your body. If you're experiencing energy loss - how can you slow down and appreciate this time? Maybe you're sleeping too little or too much. Your eating habits might change. How about anxiety? Or weight gain or weight loss? The bottom line - be kind to your body.  Discover what happens as you acknowledge you are right where you need to be.

Recovering from loss is on top of many of your minds this week - and ours too. Following two mass shootings, we want to explore how to recover from loss in your relationships, through your body, using spiritual practices or in your craft. As you care for yourself, you may notice others are hurting, too. So how do you care for those in your meaningful relationships? We offer 6 ideas that range from listening and reaching out to connecting with support. We hope you will share these strategies.

Building influence in your craft allows you to make an impact in your workspace. Today, we explore 5 ways you can make a difference. When you encourage trust, you enlist the cooperation of others. Be the person others count on and you're seen as consistent. As you listen, you build influence because your clients and colleagues know they are heard. Staying relevant with your skills keeps you fresh. And when you receive and offer feedback - the lines of communication are clear. What a way to build camaraderie!

How have you arrived at your spiritual practices? In today's podcast, we are curious whether your family of origin or nationality shows up in how you practice spirituality. Maybe you practice prayer/meditation or have a longing for meaning and purpose. Or you might find support from a community in your spiritual journey. Whether this is a path you've followed for years, or one you're embarking on for the first time, appreciating those who've influenced you in what you believe can be very powerful.

Influence is a powerful way to have an effect on your character and develop behaviors. What better way than to focus on your body and mind! In our podcast, we're sharing ideas for how to make long lasting changes in four stages. First, consider shifting what you're doing that isn't working. Second, prepare for those changes by putting together a plan. Third, act on your plan to make the changes you want to achieve. And finally, you have a routine, a regular way to influence your body and mind. Join us!

Influence is our new theme for the next few weeks! We are so excited to share how it shows up in your relationships, your body, your spirituality and your craft. Today, we wonder - how are you a person of influence in your relationships? We tap into what it means to be intentional and to connect. How resilience plays a part when the unexpected happens. And how being a life long learner makes an impact on others. Join us as we explore those places where you are influencing - and being influenced!

Having strength in your craft to endure and withstand great force or pressure might be just what you need. In our podcast, we encourage you to be relevant with your skills. Listen without interruption and do what you say you're going to do. Act with integrity and give others a voice. Stay focused on what matters and engage with others. As you expand your strength at work, you make an impact in the lives of those with whom you interact.

What's the connection between strength and spirituality? In our podcast, we explore four practices that strengthen your spirituality. When you live with meaning and purpose, you discover more about where you are right now and how you arrived. How about practicing forgiveness? If you choose to forgive others - and yourself - you release so much pain. Engaging in gratitude has a way of deepening your spirituality. And when you pray or meditate - spiritual healing unfolds. Enjoy these practices by yourself or with others and see what happens!

Strengthening your body involves everything from your brain to your heart to your muscles. In this podcast we explore 6 steps to dive into better health. We begin with creating habits that will stimulate your mind. Maybe you're ready to get moving or add resistance training to the mix. Have you examined the foods you eat and how that impacts your strength? And we wrap it up with stretching, sleep and relaxation - to prevent injury, manage stress and stay positive. Here's to a year of more strength!

Strength is our new theme for the next few weeks. Whether it's about being physically strong or the ability to endure and withstand pressure. How might you manifest strength in your relationships, your body, your spirituality and your craft? Today, we are digging into eight strengths to boost your relationships. Maybe you bring them, maybe you receive them. When you incorporate these strengths, you'll find that you are clearer about yourself and those who mean the most to you. As you grow, so will your relationships.

Wonder makes an enormous difference in your workplace. In our final podcast episode on the theme of wonder - we discover how powerful you can be when you remain open to new discoveries. How about asking questions - so that you know where your colleagues are coming from? Maybe it's time to see things from someone else's perspective, so he can hear yours. You might consider a learning opportunity that challenges your thinking. And when you experience this wonder, your creativity has a chance to unfold. Wonder happens gradually...what might you do today to boost your impact in your craft?

When you experience awe, surprise, contemplation - you might say something takes your breath away. In today's podcast we explore the role of wonder in spirituality. What happens as you breathe in new ideas and breathe out that which must be released? Considering your life with a child-like perspective may be just what you need to re-set as you forge ahead into this new year. And when you pause long enough to clear your mind, and spend time in contemplation, you pave the way for more depth in your spirituality.