Mindfulness Mugs

Mindfulness Mugs – What’s in your mug?
I have an inoperable vascular malformation that sits right where the physical and emotional processes cross over in the brain. Diagnosed as a cavernous sinus   Hemangioma in 2008, this tumor causes an overactive limbic system which presents as TBI, ADHD and PTSD. What does this have to do with mugs?

To answer the question, I have to share more of my story. In 2019, my tumor struggles led me to the Amen Clinic in Atlanta where specialized brain SPECT scans are used to get a mental “mug shot”. I found humor in the psychiatrist asking, “How will you know unless you look?”, hence my catch phrase, “What’s in your mug?” The humor was also not lost as I used profit from selling my mugs to pay for the scans and treatments!
The Amen Clinic experience led me into the world of the scientific research
behind neuroplasticity and the connection with physical diet and our thoughts. A window of discovery began opening for practicing mindfulness, moment by moment, as I learned to process thoughts, and equally important, how to start or stop a habitual pattern or sequence. I also discovered throwing pottery (the process of forming clay into shapes on a potter’s wheel) has been a wonderful method to help me calm down, not shut down.
The motions of turning clay along with music helps me stay focused and centered, and is incredibly calming to my overstimulated senses and soothing to scattered emotions. Hands, clay and wheel working together creates not only a pottery piece, but harmony and peace. And that’s how Mindfulness Mugs came to be!
A Mugshot Minute -  So…what’s in your mug? 
Our thoughts produce unique vibrations in the brain and body, releasing a 
chemical cocktail into our system. With practice, brain chemistry can be improved by catching and redirecting thoughts. You can be your brain’s own barista—create a TEA you like and want to share! TEA is an acronym for Thoughts, Emotions and Actions.
I have no control over my CSH or its location in my head and how it affects me. Does this mean I’m excused or exempt from dealing with my mind battles? No, it means I must pay attention or risk getting lost in the emotional swamp of fear or get stuck in the yesterdays. I do have control over how I think about my CSH-- thoughts that can build up or destroy. The question that helps me get unstuck when a freeze-up happens is: “What am I afraid of and is it true?” 
TEA Time Journaling
Seated at the table with a steaming mug of fresh brew in hand, surrounded by Scriptures, paper and ink-filled pens, I pour out all the thoughts and ideas  that whirl and simmer in my mind. This transformative practice of dumping, reflecting and redirecting has empowered me to break free from negative thought patterns. This action allows me to see their lack of validity and erase them from existence. It is in these moments the battle is won or lost. 
The power is in the choice. A day that begins with a fresh, healthy outlook flows more smoothly. If it begins congested with junk from yesterday or the past,  there won’t be freedom to enjoy free-flowing thoughts and purpose. Therapy  and coaching have given me the skills to process the past, handle thoughts, and those moments that just happen. This doesn’t have to be overly complicated or fancy. The simple act of thinking about what you are thinking about and knowing what to do with those thoughts is a powerful skill for health and sanity.

My hope is for the message of Mindfulness Mugs to be clear to others facing sneaky negative thoughts—you are not alone and there are ways that help! Pottery and journaling are just two ways that help me. Other methods I employ for practicing mindfulness include going for a walk, tending to my sunflowers and pumpkins, and photography. These activities help me relax, be in the moment, and lead to more creativity.