Hey everyone 👋 I want to pause for a moment today and ask you something important: 👉 How are you really doing this week? We often carry so much stress without even noticing it — a tight chest, racing thoughts, irritability, or just feeling “off.” That’s your body’s way of saying, “I need a break.” In this community, we’re not here to pretend we have it all together. We’re here to learn how to breathe again, reset, and grow stronger — one small step at a time. 💬 So here’s today’s challenge: Share one thing that’s been weighing on you this week. Big or small — it doesn’t matter. Naming it is often the first step toward releasing it. And then, tell us one thing you’re doing (or want to try) to take care of your mind and body this week. It could be a walk, journaling, saying “no” to something, or just taking a deep breath.

The last few weeks has caused much anxiety in my life. The murder of the young lady in Charlotte NC, the assassination of Charlie Kirk, finances, and emergency surgery on our dog [ she has lost both eyes in the last 6 months ], and overly egotistical boss at work. Each day has been a challenge but I had conversation with my wife Tammie and my friend Joe Soria. Both encouraged me in the fact of Jesus being our foundation and salvation. No matter what is thrown at us, He is our constant. I Thessalonians 5:14-18 [NKJV] says "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Keep the constant in front of you. Be in constant prayer, giving thanks, rejoicing because no matter what life, and the devil, throws at us, Jesus is Lord and He wins.

🌿 As the weekend rolls in… 🌿 Stress has a way of following us into our free time if we let it. But weekends are a gift—an opportunity to pause, reset, and focus on what truly matters. Here are a few simple strategies to relax and enjoy time with family this weekend: ✨ Step outside – a walk, picnic, or just sitting in the sun can do wonders. ✨ Be present – put the phone down and give your full attention to those around you. ✨ Laugh together – play a game, watch something funny, or share stories. ✨ Rest intentionally – it’s okay to slow down, nap, or simply breathe. ✨ Practice gratitude – remind yourself of the blessings in front of you. What are some ways you and your family unwind and recharge on the weekends? Share your favorite strategies below ⬇️

Have you ever noticed how stress seems to hijack your whole day? That’s not just “in your head”—it’s your brain doing what it was designed to do. When you feel stressed, your amygdala (the brain’s alarm system) goes on high alert. It floods your body with adrenaline and cortisol, preparing you to fight or run. This is useful if you’re facing danger—but not so useful when it’s just an email, a deadline, or an argument. The problem is, when that stress response stays “on” too long, it shuts down your prefrontal cortex—the part of your brain that helps you think clearly, make decisions, and stay calm. That’s why stress can make everything feel overwhelming, even small things. Here’s the good news: your brain is trainable. Simple daily habits can “reset” your stress response: - Deep breathing calms the amygdala and signals safety to your nervous system. - Naming your stress (“I’m feeling anxious about this meeting”) activates the rational brain and reduces the emotional charge. - Small moments of gratitude or mindfulness literally rewire your brain toward resilience. Stress will always show up—but you don’t have to let it run the show. When you take even 2–3 minutes to pause, breathe, and reset, you’re giving your brain the chance to shift from survival mode back to thriving mode. What’s one simple habit you use to reset when stress shows up? 🌱

Core Focus - Stress management strategies - Coping skills for anxiety - Practical daily routines for mental wellness - Peer encouragement and support