Conscious Inklings Blog. Ideas, Insights & Ink-spiration!

What Is The Most Self-Loving Choice?

We tend to weigh decisions from a linear perspective of what we think would be "good or bad", "better or worse". Often, we honestly don't know what each decision would bring. We'd just be guessing. 😳

And some us (you know who you are 😁) create elaborate charts and graphs, weighing (perhaps, heavily weighing) any and all of the potential pros and cons. This can be useful in some instances, but if you notice "decision fatigue" settling in, there may be a simpler, and even more accurate, way.

Try instead asking yourself...what would be most self-loving decision?

You may surprised by the answer.

With this question, there is no right or wrong. Better or worse. Just the simple, freeing truth...of what would be the most self-loving action for you to take at that particular time.

This perspective also taps into your subconscious that may not be readily apparent, or tracked, in even the most robust of charts and graphs.

One more important thing to be aware of when making decisions...is your state of mind. Most would agree that it may not be so wise to make a long-term decision from a temporary state of mind. Meaning if you feel tired, scared or stressed, you may want to first focus on getting some rest. Then, revisit the decision making at that time, when you feel rested, and grounded.

When you focus on self love, there are no heavy decisions to weigh. The answer is clear. Let it be. You'll no doubt feel lighter.✨

Frank Gjata
Founder, Conscious Ink

Frank Gjata

Our Body Wants To Be Healed. Our Soul Wants To Be Free.

Stuck energy, old wounds and buried emotions are stored within the cells of our body….and are kept there as long as we keep our defenses up (including a long list of our many other creative human shenanigans).

This stuck energy steals much of our life force and vitality. To our subconscious, which monitors our basic survival, the release of these old wounds and emotions would feel like certain death…since that’s what it felt like at the onset of the wound.

So there’s a good reason most of us unconsciously and consciously avoid looking at our old wounds…as to prevent the release of “scary” overwhelming feelings.

That’s why we get triggered in fight/flight, time and time again. Have compassion for yourself and others! This really does feel scary…if you don’t know what’s going and you’ve never made it through before.

But here’s the truth: You won’t die, even though it may feel that way. All feelings are simply waves of energy. There are no “bad” feelings. The damage comes from not acknowledging and allowing the feelings to move through.

If we let the rainstorm of emotion move through when it comes up, we’d reach sunny skies in no time…typically in just a matter of moments!

But until we allow the energy to move through, it may be trapped within us for a lifetime.

~Frank Gjata

founder, Conscious Ink

Frank Gjata

Celebrating Joy and Being Present: A Journey Through My 30-Day Calendar

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the small moments of joy that surround us each day. We often get so caught up in our routines that we forget to pause and appreciate the beauty right before us. That’s why I created the Celebrating Joy 30-Day Calendar—a fun, powerful tool that helps us slow down, be present, mindful, and intentional in bringing more joy into our lives.

The essence of this calendar is rooted in a simple yet fundamental concept: Be Present in the Moment. As Eleanor Roosevelt wisely said, “With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” Each day is an opportunity to embrace new possibilities and find joy in the present.

My Celebrating Joy 30-Day Calendar offers daily prompts that will encourage us to take small, meaningful actions that lead to greater happiness and fulfillment. These prompts range from practicing self-care and kindness to facing fears and trying new things. Each activity is a step toward living more joyfully in the moment.

For example, on one of the days, we’re invited to “Do 1 thing that scares you (Leap of Faith).” This challenge isn’t just about facing fears—it’s about personal growth and empowerment. By stepping out of our comfort zones, we reach new levels of confidence and joy.

Another day, the calendar prompts us to “Do something no one would expect from of you.” This encourages us to break free from our predictable patterns and surprise ourselves and others with spontaneity and creativity. These moments of unpredictability can be some of the most joyful and freeing experiences.

Throughout the 30 days, you are asked to practice self-compassion and self-care. Whether it’s setting aside time for a craft that inspires you, forgiving yourself for past mistakes, or simply taking a moment to visualize your future goals, these acts of kindness toward yourself create a springboard for a more joyful life.

What’s truly special about this calendar is its ability to foster a sense of community—knowing others are on the same journey. Feel free to share the calendar with friends, siblings, or your book club.

But the beauty of this journey doesn’t end with the calendar. The lessons we’ve learned—being present,

embracing joy, facing fears, and spreading kindness—are practices we can carry forward every day. The calendar serves as a starting point, but the journey of joy continues long after the 30 days have passed.

A heartfelt thanks to Conscious Ink for inviting me to share, the 30-Day Calendar: Celebrating Joy and Being Present, here with you.

Lilliantaylorwriter.com

Midlife Blogger | Celebrating Mature & Late-Age Women

As a Midlife Blogger, I am dedicated to celebrating and empowering mature and late-age women as we navigate life on our own terms.

Conscious Ink

Conscious Ink & AFSP Team Up For Suicide Prevention

Conscious Ink is proud to support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), whose mission is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. With local chapters in all 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico, and programs and events nationwide, AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health through public education and community programs; develops suicide prevention through research and advocacy; and provides support for those affected by suicide.

In support of AFSP’s recent Long-Term Survivors of Suicide Loss Summit, the only conference of its kind, Conscious Ink created special temporary tattoos with the phrase #LivingOurStory, encouraging those with a connection to the cause to speak openly about their experiences to help bring suicide out of the darkness. For every packet of tattoos sold, Conscious Ink donates $5 to AFSP, making possible lifesaving support, programming, advocacy, research and more.

Diane Gillen, AFSP’s co-chair of the Summit who initiated this partnership, had this to say:

“We were so excited to be able to offer attendees the opportunity to apply a customized Conscious Ink tattoo that conveyed the theme of our conference. We set up a station near our conference check-in table and loved seeing the enthusiasm from everyone as they each came away with their #LivingOurStory tattoo. Not only did the tattoo represent our shared experiences, but since they are so long-lasting, I know they served as wonderful reminders of the connections that were made during our weekend together. We can’t thank you enough, Conscious Ink!”

You can help bring suicide out of the darkness by joining one of AFSP’s Out of the Darkness Walks. Take a step toward hope. Apply a tattoo to show your support and get out there and join a Walk – where you’ll find a community of people who understand and are making a difference. Find an Out of the Darkness Walk near you at afsp.org/walks.

To learn more about suicide, including resources available to survivors of suicide loss, visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at afsp.org.

Just like our special AFSP tattoos, emotions are also temporary – and help is always available. If you or a loved one is in crisis, please call or text 988 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741 to talk to someone who can help.

Conscious Ink

How To Solidify A Moment With Meaning

Whenever we make a commitment, set an intention or create an affirmation, we often need a little reminding, and words do that so effectively.

Some people write words that remind them of the commitment on Post-it Notes or in journals. That’s because words can be a powerful anchor that brings us back to what matters. They can be metaphors we can apply to all sorts of contexts or statements that move us.

Written words are something we can add to our consciousness toolbox, and printing them out on our skin - even temporarily - can deepen the commitments we’ve made to ourselves.

When we combine the life-changing power of words with the affirming effect of tattoos, the power of an intention is amplified.

How can we use words to recommit in a powerful way and deepen our relationship with ourselves? How can we use temporary tattoos to support our intentions? Can we grow and change without suffering.

3 Invitations To Live More Intentionally, And Playfully

How to tattoo a context instead of static words in a commitment
There are so many ways tattoos can be employed to remind us of what’s important and what we want to focus on. Thei r permanent nature can be intimidating for a lot of us though. Can we use ink in an open-ended way so that the body art evolves with us?

A case for play in any context
We’ve been taught to explore and talk about heavy topics by taking a serious and somber approach, it’s work after all. Can we actually achieve more by dealing with heavy topics with more light-heartedness?

How to leapfrog suffering
They say in order to have a breakthrough, we first need to have a breakdown, but that might be the messaging of our Upper Limit problem. How do we uncouple change and suffering?

~From the "Be. Play. Love." Podcast with Sophie Chiche & Katie Hendricks

To explore more on this topic, listen to this episode of the "Be. Play. Love" Podcast featuring Conscious Ink Founder, Frank Gjata: https://beplaylove.com/?p=frank-gjata#episodes

Conscious Ink

Why Not...You?

No, really, why not?

Has there been something you wanted, but you thought to yourself, "There's just no way.", "That would be impossible.", "Wishful thinking.", "Who am I to think I could do that, or have that?"

And then perhaps you witness someone else having what you want, and you don't question it all, and think to yourself, "Of course, that makes sense for that person.", or "That person is special, but I'm just ordinary."

Now, could it be that it's precisely these beliefs we have about ourselves, and others, that are keeping us from getting what we want, or even trying?

Yes, we often don't even try, due to the beliefs we hold. No wonder nothing transpires! We don't even step into the arena! And, of course, then it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. And we continue to gather more and more data to support our misguided beliefs. Sheesh.

So isn't it about time that we loosen the grip of these false, rigid beliefs?

And how do we do that?

By questioning them. We need to question the #&$! out of these beliefs. Because once we question them earnestly, we'd quickly see how ridiculous and untrue they are.

So, when you catch yourself having a limiting belief about yourself, perhaps having difficulty seeing yourself attaining what you desire, say to yourself, "Wait, why not me?", "It actually IS possible", "If that person can do it, so can I."

Then follow up this inspired state with ACTION. Listen to your intuition. Follow your excitement. Act on what you're passionate about.

Your life will change. Believe you me.

Frank Gjata
Founder Conscious Ink

Frank Gjata

Manifesting Mental Wellness: 4 Ways Conscious Ink Can Boost Mental Health and Positivity.

Who wouldn’t want to be mentally and emotionally fit?

If you too are on a journey to cultivate a healthier mindset and manifest your intentions, you've come to the right place. In this blog, we'll explore the transformative power of Conscious Ink Manifestation Tattoos and how they can support mental health, foster healthy habits, and promote positivity.

How Conscious Ink Manifestation Temporary Tattoos Can Support Permanent Change

Conscious Ink are more than just temporary tattoos – they're powerful messages and symbols of intention designed to help you manifest your best self. Conscious Ink is a movement dedicated to empowering individuals to tap into their inner power and potential through the powerful act of intention setting, and making a commitment toward it.

4 Ways To get Mentally Fit with Conscious Ink

1. Intention Setting for Mental Wellness: Setting intentions is a cornerstone of mental health practices. With Conscious Ink, you can choose a word or phrase that resonates with your mental health goals, such as “Calm" or "Self-Love." This practice helps reprogram your subconscious mind for positivity and resilience.

2. Visual Reminders for Positive Thinking: In a world filled with distractions, Conscious Ink serves as constant visual reminders of your mental health journey. Whether it's a reminder to "Stay Calm" during moments of anxiety or a prompt to "Choose Love" in challenging times, Conscious Ink will keep your mental health goals front and center.

3. Emotional Anchors for Resilience: Emotional anchors are powerful tools for navigating life's ups and downs. When you wear a Conscious Ink positive affirmation, it serves as a portable anchor of resilience. In moments of doubt or stress, simply glancing at your ink can evoke feelings of strength and empowerment.

4. Community Support for Mental Wellness: Wearing Conscious Ink connects you to a community of like-minded individuals who are also prioritizing their mental wellness. This sense of belonging provides support and encouragement, reminding you that you're not alone in your journey. So, team up, grab a friend, and ink together and support one another!

In addition to supporting mental health, Conscious Ink Manifestation Tattoos also play a key role in fostering healthy habits and promoting positivity. By reinforcing positive affirmations and beliefs, these tattoos help rewire our brains for success and fulfillment. Whether you're striving to cultivate gratitude, embrace self-love, or attract abundance into your life, there's a Conscious Ink for every intention and aspiration.

So, if you're ready to embark on a journey of self-transformation and empowerment, we invite you to join the Conscious Ink movement. Together, we can harness the power of intention, cultivate positive habits, and foster mental wellness, one body at a time.

~The Conscious Ink team

Conscious Ink

Great...And Not So Great... Expectations.

Most of us have heard, and believe, that having expectations is bad. There are many quotes out there echoing this sentiment. Even Shakespeare seemed to share this belief with his quote, "Expectation is the root of all heartache."

And if we posted that on Facebook and Instagram, we're surely to get lots of likes, thumb ups, and favorable comments.

But here's the thing. We cannot not have expectations, even if we try really, really hard.

Why? Because we will always have subconscious expectations.

How do we know what our subconscious expectations are?

Simply, ask yourself...honestly.

Ask yourself what you really expect from an upcoming interaction, a job interview, or from the universe at large.

You'll get an answer.

Expectations are simply beliefs we have about ourselves, and our place in the world.

So...since we can't get rid of expectations altogether...no matter how hard we pretend...we may as well as pick expectations that we prefer. Or at a minimum challenge the self-defeating expectations we have for ourselves.

How do we that?

We question those self-defeating expectatons or limiting beliefs.

We may ask ourselves, "Where did I develop this expectation?" "Did I inherit it from someone?", "Is my expectation really valid?"

You may be thinking that you actually have data/facts/experiences that support the expectations you carry. And that may be true.

But what also is true is that not all people have the same expectations. In fact, they may have completely different data/facts/experiences than you.

Now you may be thinking...well, that isn't fair...and spiral further down the "victim" mentality black hole.

But it's actually good news that others have different expectations and experiences.

Why?

Because this means that expectations and beliefs are maleable and interchangeable.

Get curious and inquisitive about this. Ask friends you admire what they might expect and believe if they were in a similar situation as you.

Tune into podcasts. Listen to interviews of people you respect. Get a sense of what they expect...what they believe.

Then, acknowledge the following truth: If they can have certain (different) expectations, beliefs and experiences, so can you.

Get into the habit of seeing things from different perspectives. Try them on for yourself. See the world, and your situation, through different lenses. You'll soon notice that lenses are indeed interchangeable.

Ultimately, if they can experience something, so can you.

And yes, that includes miracles.

Because if a miracle is possible for one, it's possible for another.

And yes, that includes...you.

In joy.

Frank Gjata

Founder Conscious Ink

Frank Gjata

Manifest With Inspirational Temporary Tattoos

At Conscious Ink, we believe in the power of words and the profound impact they can have on our lives. Our range of inspirational temporary tattoos is designed not just to adorn your skin but to embolden your spirit, serving as constant reminders of your strength, resilience, and ability to manifest your deepest desires. Whether you're seeking motivation, encouragement, or a testament to your inner resolve, our tattoos offer a tangible way to embody the affirmations that resonate with you.

Frank Gjata

Healing From Cancer: Finding Strength and Support in Every Moment

At Conscious Ink, we believe in the power of positive affirmations and the strength that comes from community support. Dealing with a cancer diagnosis, whether personally or as a loved one of someone who is battling the disease, can undoubtedly be an emotionally taxing journey. This blog aims to offer guidance and emotional support for families of cancer patients and those undergoing treatment.

Frank Gjata

CREATE A NEW REALITY. BREAK OLD SUBCONSCIOUS PATTERNS.

Ever wonder why it's so hard to change self-defeating behaviors and patterns?

One of the reasons our conscious intentions don't stick is that we have a contradictory SUBCONSCIOUS belief or commitment that blocks our conscious desires. These blocks often come in the form of old beliefs or energetic patterns that we don't even realize are at play.

One way to identify a deep rooted subconscious belief or pattern is to notice a familiar theme, or feeling you're used to having, in your life, like, "nobody notices me", "I'm not appreciated", "I'm not good enough", "I'm unlovable". We will actually subconsciously create our reality to match our beliefs! And until we unhook these old beliefs, our conscious intentions will have no chance.

Once you identify one of these subconscious beliefs/patterns, ask yourself what actions and behaviors support this belief or pattern. For example, “nobody notices me” could be supported by you not sharing yourself, or your feelings, with others. Most likely, you took on this behavior because at a certain point in your life, it wasn’t safe to do so. This behavior actually is what kept you safe at that time, and that is why “your system” employed that behavior in the first place.

Well, what kept you safe back THEN is what is causing you pain and suffering NOW. Have compassion for yourself! Those old behaviors have been hard wired subconsciously for what felt like would be needed for your survival as processed in your very primitive, yet very convincing, reptilian brain.

So, what now? Identify your true conscious desire. Perhaps, in the example above, it would be something like, “I want to be seen”. Then ask yourself what new actions and behaviors would support this new conscious desire…things like, “I'm willing to be seen”, "I share my feelings”, “I express my truth” with those people it would feel safe to do so, etc. You get the idea.

Once you employ these new aligned actions/behaviors with your true desire/new commitment, you will override your old patterning, and start experiencing, your true desire, and outcomes. Your reality now will literally reflect your desire. Your entire world will look and feel different. You’ll be amazed!

Happy manifesting to you!

Frank Gjata

Founder, Conscious Ink

Frank Gjata

How Long Does It Take To Form New Habits?

In the journey of personal growth, forming new habits and breaking old ones is a transformative process that requires more than just willpower; it needs constant reminders of our goals and the positive changes we wish to embody. How long does it take to form a new habit? Although it’s different for everyone, according to the National Institutes of Health, new habit formation generally takes around 10 weeks.

Frank Gjata

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Conscious Inklings Blog. Ideas, Insights & Ink-spiration!

~From the "Be. Play. Love." Podcast with Sophie Chiche & Katie Hendricks

To explore more on this topic, listen to this episode of the "Be. Play. Love" Podcast featuring Conscious Ink Founder, Frank Gjata: https://beplaylove.com/?p=frank-gjata#episodes

How Conscious Ink Manifestation Temporary Tattoos Can Support Permanent Change

4 Ways To get Mentally Fit with Conscious Ink