The Power of Hobbies: A Path to Mental Wellness

On By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

Life is full of stressors, and in today’s world, it can feel like we’re constantly being pulled in different directions. The weight of responsibilities, financial strain, and global uncertainties can take a toll on our mental well-being. It’s easy to put self-care on the back burner, but finding healthy ways to cope is essential. One simple and effective way to prioritize mental wellness is by engaging in a hobby.

How Hobbies Benefit Mental Health

Hobbies are more than just pastimes; they are powerful tools that can improve our mental health in significant ways:

  • Stress Reduction: Engaging in an enjoyable activity helps lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress.
  • Improved Mood: Activities that bring joy increase dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters linked to happiness.
  • Mindfulness and Relaxation: Focusing on a creative or physical task helps bring us into the present moment, reducing anxiety.
  • Sense of Accomplishment: Learning a new skill or finishing a project can boost confidence and self-esteem.
  • Social Connection: Some hobbies provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, reducing feelings of loneliness.

Affordable Hobbies for Mental Wellness

Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of budget-friendly hobbies that offer the same mental health benefits without straining your finances:

Creative Outlets

  • Drawing or Coloring: A simple sketchbook and pencils can provide a relaxing way to express emotions.
  • Journaling or Creative Writing: Writing down thoughts can be therapeutic and help process emotions.
  • DIY Crafts: Repurposing old items or using inexpensive materials to create something new can be fulfilling.
  • Photography with a Smartphone: Capturing beautiful moments in nature or daily life can be a form of mindful appreciation.

Physical Activities

  • Walking or Hiking: A free and effective way to clear the mind while benefiting from fresh air and movement.
  • Yoga or Stretching: Plenty of free online videos offer guided practices for relaxation and flexibility.
  • Dancing at Home: Turning on some music and moving freely can boost endorphins and relieve stress.

Intellectual and Social Engagement

  • Reading: Libraries offer free access to books, audiobooks, and e-books.
  • Learning a New Language: Apps like Duolingo provide free lessons to stimulate the brain and expand knowledge.
  • Listening to Podcasts: Countless free podcasts cover various interests, from storytelling to self-improvement. Of course, you can check ours out (Thrive by The Rising Muse)
  • Joining Online Communities: Engaging in forums, social media groups, or free online classes can provide social support and learning opportunities.

Gardening and Nature-Based Hobbies

  • Growing Houseplants: Taking care of plants can be soothing and rewarding.
  • Foraging or Birdwatching: Exploring local parks to identify plants and birds is a fun and educational way to connect with nature.
  • Urban Gardening: Even if you don’t have a yard, growing herbs in small pots or window boxes can be a fulfilling activity.

Making Time for Yourself

Life can be overwhelming, but carving out time for a hobby—even for just a few minutes a day—can make a significant difference in how we feel. Whether it’s something artistic, active, or intellectually stimulating, hobbies offer a break from the chaos and an opportunity to recharge. Investing in your mental health doesn’t have to be costly; sometimes, the simplest activities bring the most peace.

If stress is weighing you down, consider exploring a new hobby. It may be just what you need to find balance and joy amid life’s challenges.

Can We Talk? A Conversation That Will Change Your Relationships

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Have you ever felt unheard, misunderstood, or stuck in unhealthy patterns in your relationships? What if the key to better communication, deeper respect, and emotional healing was just one conversation away?

In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with the incredible Rhonda Green, author of Can We Talk? and founder of Healing In Script (HIS). Rhonda’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—she never planned to become an author, but divine inspiration led her to use writing as a tool for healing and transformation.

Her newest book, Can We Talk?, is a game-changer for anyone looking to build stronger relationships. It focuses on four key areas: respect, communication, emotions, and habits—the very foundation of our interactions with others. But what inspired Rhonda to write this book? And how can we apply her insights to our own lives?

💬 What happens when we don’t set boundaries in our relationships?
💬 Why do so many struggle to truly listen and be heard?
💬 How do unhealed emotions and past trauma affect our ability to connect with others?

Rhonda shares powerful insights, personal experiences, and real-life strategies to help you navigate the relationships in your life—whether it’s with family, friends, or even yourself.

Rhonda Green, author of Can We Talk?, uses her gift of writing to inspire and motivate others to become their greatest selves. Rhonda didn’t start as an author—it was divine inspiration that led her to pick up the pen. She’s here to talk about her newest book, Can We Talk?, which is a guide to improving relationships by focusing on respect, communication, emotions, and habits. We’re excited to unpack her story and gain some wisdom on building healthier, stronger relationships.

This episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and thought-provoking discussion. If you’re ready to start having the conversations that matter, you won’t want to miss this one!

🎧 Tune in now and let’s talk about it!

📲 Listen on your favorite podcast platform and don’t forget to share with a friend who needs to hear this!

🔗 Connect with Rhonda Green:

🌐 Website: www.rhondagreen.me
📖 Book: Can We Talk? (Available online)
🎙️ Podcast: Inspire Podcast
📱 Follow on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook (@RhondaGreenHIS)

The Importance of Observing Black History Month

On By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

Black History Month, celebrated every February in the United States, is a profound tribute to the significant contributions of African Americans throughout history. More than an annual commemoration, it’s a pivotal time for reflection, learning, and engaging with a rich cultural, social, and political legacy that continues to shape our world. Here’s why observing Black History Month is crucial:

1. Illuminating Untold Stories

Black History Month highlights stories and achievements that have often been sidelined in traditional narratives. Pioneers, intellectuals, artists, and activists from the African American community have historically had their contributions overlooked or minimized. By recognizing their impact, we not only correct historical oversights but also inspire future generations.

2. Fostering Understanding and Empathy

Celebrating Black History Month fosters a space for learning and empathy. It allows people of all backgrounds to grasp the struggles and triumphs of Black individuals throughout history. Understanding the past enables us to appreciate ongoing challenges in racial equality and strive towards a more just society.

3. Empowering Future Generations

For young Black individuals, Black History Month serves as a powerful source of empowerment. It underscores their lineage of resilience, innovation, and influence. The legacies of figures like Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and Maya Angelou offer blueprints for perseverance, creativity, and courage, instilling pride and a sense of identity.

4. Cultivating a More Inclusive Society

Beyond retrospective, Black History Month charts a course forward by promoting an inclusive and diverse culture. It underscores that Black history is integral to American history. By exploring this rich tapestry, society gains deeper understanding, respect, and openness to diverse perspectives.

5. Acknowledging the Struggle for Equality

While a month of celebration, Black History Month also prompts reflection on the historical struggles and ongoing fight for racial equality. It’s a time to acknowledge progress and recommit to activism, advocacy, and allyship against systemic racism.

6. Inspiring Transformation

Above all, Black History Month catalyzes change. By spotlighting the accomplishments of Black individuals and the challenges they still face, the month initiates conversations that drive positive societal shifts. It encourages us to challenge stereotypes, confront biases, and actively pursue a more equitable future.

Conclusion

Black History Month transcends a designated period—it’s a reminder of the indelible contributions of Black individuals across history and today. It invites reflection on the past, engagement in the present, and a commitment to shaping a future grounded in inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Whether you’re a student, professional, or community member, this month invites you to participate in a movement that honors history, celebrates progress, and advocates for a brighter tomorrow.

Breaking the Chains of Trauma

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Trauma can feel like an invisible weight, holding you back from the life you truly want to live. But what if healing was closer than you think?

In the latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with licensed clinical social worker Daniel Gospodarek, who has dedicated his career to helping men, military members, and first responders heal from the lasting effects of trauma. With personal experience overcoming a traumatic brain injury, Daniel brings a unique and deeply empathetic perspective to his work.

During our conversation, we explore:
✔️ Why men struggle to seek help and how societal expectations play a role.
✔️ The impact of trauma on the body and mind—and how it often manifests in unexpected ways.
✔️ Game-changing therapies like EMDR and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy that are transforming lives.
✔️ The power of acknowledging pain without letting it define your future.

This is more than just a discussion—it’s a conversation about reclaiming control, embracing healing, and stepping into a life of purpose and resilience. If you or someone you love has ever felt trapped by trauma, you won’t want to miss this episode.

Daniel is a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience helping men heal from trauma and regain control of their lives. He specializes in working with populations like military members, first responders, and those dealing with traumatic brain injuries. Daniel brings a unique perspective, having overcome his own traumatic brain injury as a teenager, and now uses that experience to guide others through their healing journeys. You can reach him at https://www.revitalizementalhealth.com/

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

Love Beyond Valentine’s Day: Exploring the Depths of Love

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Valentine’s Day is often reduced to chocolates, flowers, and romantic gestures, but what if love is so much more? In our latest Thrive by The Rising Muse episode, we peel back the layers of love and explore its true essence.

From the unwavering love of God to the deep connections we share with family and friends—and even the challenge of loving those who don’t love us back—this conversation will challenge your perspective on love.

Join us as we discuss how to navigate relationships through faith, what it means to love beyond conditions, and why true love is an action, not just a feeling. We will also dive into self-love and setting boundaries, ensuring that love isn’t just something we give but something we nurture within ourselves.

This episode is more than a discussion—it’s an invitation to live out love every day. Are you ready to redefine what love means in your life? Tune in now and let’s thrive together!

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

#Podcast #ThriveByTheRisingMuse #FaithBasedLove #GodsLove #SelfLove #FamilyLove #FriendshipGoals #MentalHealth #Boundaries #ValentinesDay #LoveBeyondRomance #UnconditionalLove #ChristianPodcast #FaithJourney #Healing #Relationships

Embracing Change with Faith and Understanding: Introducing Rising Muse on Substack

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts, Writing HappeningsLeave a comment

In these times of rapid change and shifting social landscapes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of transformation happening all around us. Whether you find yourself aligned with these shifts or feeling a sense of unease, one truth remains clear: we are living in a period of profound transition.

Change, by its very nature, can be unsettling. It challenges long-held beliefs and forces us to re-evaluate the very fabric of our society. For those who are struggling with the pace of change, know that your feelings are valid. It is perfectly natural to feel apprehensive, confused, or even frustrated when faced with uncertainty.

At the same time, for those who embrace these changes, it is crucial to extend compassion and understanding to those who may see the world differently. Every individual is on their own journey of understanding, shaped by unique experiences and perspectives. Engaging in respectful dialogue, listening with an open heart, and seeking common ground can help bridge divides and foster a more inclusive and empathetic society.

The Bible provides wisdom for navigating such times: “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:5). This verse encourages us to approach others with kindness, patience, and understanding, recognizing that everyone is working through their own beliefs and challenges.

In the spirit of fostering meaningful conversations and exploring these complex issues, we are thrilled to introduce The Rising Muse on Substack! Our new platform will serve as a space to delve deeper into topics of faith, family, and mental health—areas that are essential to navigating today’s world with grace and wisdom.

At The Rising Muse, we believe that through open dialogue, shared experiences, and faith-centered discussions, we can find strength and clarity in times of uncertainty. Our goal is to create a community where we can learn, grow, and support one another as we embrace the changes that life presents.

We invite you to be part of this journey by subscribing to our Substack, engaging with our content, and joining in on the conversations that matter. Your support enables us to continue building a space for thought-provoking discussions and spiritual growth. Together, let’s walk this path with faith, understanding, and a commitment to kindness.

Subscribe today and be a part of The Rising Muse—where faith meets change, and understanding leads to transformation. See you there!

The Truth About Spiritual Warfare & Walking in God’s Authority!

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive1 Comment

Have you ever faced a battle so overwhelming that it felt impossible to overcome? What if that battle was actually a path to discovering God’s power in your life?

In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with Tom Snow, the author of The Daily Stand, a book that goes beyond the concept of spiritual warfare to reveal how walking with God transforms every aspect of our lives. Tom shares his powerful testimony of miraculous healing, overcoming deep-seated guilt, and finding true freedom through faith.

💡 What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
✔️ The life-changing moment when Tom heard God’s voice during his darkest hour
✔️ How spiritual warfare isn’t just about fighting battles—but about standing firm in God’s authority
✔️ The hidden dangers of unforgiveness and why it acts like a “spiritual cancer”
✔️ Practical steps to walk in faith, yield to God’s power, and break free from generational struggles

This conversation is raw, eye-opening, and deeply inspiring—a must-listen for anyone seeking to grow in faith and understand the true power of spiritual warfare.

Tom has over 50 years of experience walking with God, and through miraculous personal stories, they’ve uncovered profound lessons that every believer needs to hear. He’s the author of The Daily Stand, a book that’s not just about spiritual warfare but about learning to walk with God through life’s toughest moments.

Over fifty years ago, as a teenager, Tom was dying of terminal cancer. he had just lost my mother to cancer and was going through terrible guilt, blaming himself for her death. At that terrifying time in his life, he met the Lord. It was early in the Charismatic Movement and a time of many miracles, including how he met Him and how He healed him of that cancer. He started this book over forty years ago but didn’t pick it back up until going through CHF one and a half years ago. One month after CHF the Lord said “Pick up and finish the book.”

You can connect with Tom on his website.

🎧 Don’t miss it! Listen now here.

📢 Have thoughts on this episode? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments!

The Difference Between a Foothold and a Stronghold: How We Get It Twisted

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts1 Comment

In our walk with Christ, it is essential to discern the spiritual realities of footholds and strongholds. Both terms appear in Christian teachings about spiritual warfare, but they differ in significance and impact. Understanding these differences can help us guard our hearts and stand firm in faith.

What Is a Foothold?

A foothold is a small opening or opportunity that we allow the enemy to exploit. It might be an unresolved emotion, a lingering sin, or even a pattern of negative thinking. The Apostle Paul warns us about this in Ephesians 4:26-27: “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.”

A foothold begins as a seemingly minor issue. It can be something as subtle as resentment, fear, or unchecked pride. However, if left unaddressed, a foothold can grow into something more dangerous.

What Is a Stronghold?

A stronghold is a deeply entrenched pattern of thinking or behavior that opposes God’s truth. It is a spiritual fortress where the enemy has gained significant control. The Bible speaks of strongholds in 2 Corinthians 10:4-5: “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

While a foothold is an opportunity, a stronghold is a well-established position. It takes intentional effort, prayer, and the truth of God’s Word to tear it down.

How We Can Be Fooled?

The enemy often disguises footholds as harmless or justified actions. For instance, holding onto a grudge may feel warranted, but it opens the door for bitterness. Over time, that bitterness can grow into a stronghold of unforgiveness, affecting relationships and our ability to fully experience God’s grace.

The deception lies in the gradual progression. A foothold doesn’t seem threatening at first. It’s only when it has evolved into a stronghold that we realize the extent of the damage. This is why Scripture urges us to stay vigilant and guard our hearts (Proverbs 4:23).

Guarding Against Footholds and Strongholds

  1. Stay Rooted in the Word: Regularly read and meditate on Scripture to recognize lies and replace them with God’s truth.
  2. Pray Without Ceasing: Bring your struggles, emotions, and thoughts to God. Prayer equips us with discernment and strength.
  3. Practice Forgiveness: Let go of offenses quickly. Holding onto anger or hurt gives the enemy an opportunity to work.
  4. Seek Accountability: Surround yourself with godly mentors and friends who can lovingly correct and encourage you.

By identifying footholds early and relying on God’s power, we can prevent them from becoming strongholds. Remember the promise in James 4:7: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

Unlocking the Power of Faith and Healing

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Have you ever wondered how faith can transform your mental health and relationships?

In this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with the remarkable Dana Nygaard, a Licensed Professional Counselor, relationship coach, and national speaker. Dana shares her inspiring journey from high school teacher to renowned Catholic therapist, revealing how she integrates faith into psychotherapy to help individuals and couples experience profound healing and growth.

From her work with Cana Marriage Retreats to her guidance for singles seeking healthy relationships, Dana offers a fresh perspective on strengthening emotional intimacy and spiritual connection. Whether you’re curious about her unique approach to counseling, tips for a thriving marriage, or insights into overcoming past traumas, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice.

But that’s not all! Dana also opens up about her personal challenges, from battling breast cancer to navigating the dynamics of marriage, offering a candid and faith-filled perspective on resilience and hope.

Dana Nygaard. Dana is a Licensed Professional Counselor, author, relationship coach, and national speaker. She combines proven psychotherapy techniques with authentic Catholic spirituality, empowering her clients to experience rapid healing and lasting change. Dana’s expertise includes marriage enrichment, teen counseling, and trauma recovery, and she’s known for her compassionate and faith-filled approach. She’s also the author of 365 Dates to Renew Your Christian Marriage and the creator of Cana Marriage Retreats.

You can connect with Dana on her website. Link here!

This episode is more than just a conversation—it’s a transformative experience you won’t want to miss.

Tune in now to discover how faith, love, and intentional healing can unlock your best self.

Listen to the full episode on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share!

Living in the World but Not of It: A Call to Reflect Christ

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In recent times, many Christians have been led to believe that we are called to impose our beliefs on the world by force, forgetting a fundamental truth of our faith: we are in this world, but we are not of it. This misunderstanding has led to behaviors and attitudes that run contrary to the teachings of Jesus. It’s like asking hotel management to remodel the room we’re renting temporarily. We’ve forgotten that this world is not our permanent home. As believers, our mission is not to change the world by worldly means but to point others to Christ so that their hearts can be transformed.

Jesus’ words in John 17:14-16 remind us of our place: “I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.” Our calling is to live as ambassadors of Christ, reflecting His love, grace, and truth while remembering that hatred, division, and force are tools of the enemy, who seeks to kill, deceive, and destroy (John 10:10).

The Mission We’ve Forgotten

The Great Commission calls us to make disciples, not to coerce others into belief. Jesus commands in Matthew 28:19-20, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” This mission requires patience, humility, and love. It’s not about forcing others to conform to our standards but about lovingly pointing them to the truth found in God’s Word.

Some have even gone so far as to attempt to manufacture events to hasten Jesus’ return. This is not only an act of pride but also selfishness. In Matthew 24:36, Jesus said, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” It is not our place to decide when Christ will return. Our focus should remain on the mission He has given us. If we truly love others as ourselves (Matthew 22:39), we will desire their salvation as much as we desired our own. Remember, someone shared the Gospel with us when we were lost. Let us not give up on others who have yet to know the truth.

Jesus Was Not a Political Figure

Many Christians today seem to forget that Jesus did not come to establish a political kingdom. He didn’t seek to change the laws of Rome or Jerusalem. Instead, He came to reveal the kingdom of heaven and to transform hearts. When we focus on imposing our beliefs through political or social power, we lose sight of the example Christ set for us.

In John 18:36, Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.” This statement underscores the spiritual nature of His mission. Our task is not to make this world our home but to invite others to prepare for the kingdom of heaven.

Reflecting Christ’s Love

When we are unkind to those who are different from us, we’re not acting like Jesus. Loving the sinner while rejecting the sin is the delicate balance we’re called to maintain. Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 provide a clear picture of what Christlike love looks like: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

Sadly, many unbelievers are turned away from Christ and His church not solely because of deception but because of the behavior of Christians that fails to reflect Christ. As John 13:34-35 says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Love, not force, is the mark of true discipleship.

Staying Focused on Our Calling

As followers of Christ, our job is not to participate in the ways of the world but to preach the Word of God so that more people can be saved. Romans 12:2 reminds us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” We cannot transform hearts—only God can do that. But we can live in a way that reflects His love, inviting others to experience His grace and truth.

The enemy seeks to sow division and hatred, but we are called to be instruments of peace. Let us remember our true mission: to share the Gospel, love others as Christ loves us, and reflect the kingdom of heaven in all we do. In doing so, we honor God and fulfill the purpose He has set before us.