An Attitude of Gratitude

An attitude of gratitude is essential to well-being. Most people would agree to that, but it's doubtful that many adhere to a daily practice of appreciation. Unfortunately, most of us buzz through life on adrenaline overload, not stopping until we're "supposed" to at bedtime.

As for me, it's about 98 degrees here today and I.....well, I'm sweltering. (Remember, we're 4 season here and the coldest one of those can last about 6 months out of the year which makes it tougher to acclimate when our summer finally arrives.) :-)

But I'm thankful even with the high heat and humidity. Why? Easy. I'm here with my feet up doing part of my workday from my laptop. I'm in a pair of shorts and said feet are bare. There are birds chirping outside my window and I have full ability to get up any time I choose and go make that tall glass of iced tea I've been craving.

I could just as easily be cussing because the humidity is horrendous, but nope......I'm not going there. I'm appreciating this moment of warmth. I'm feeling an attitude of gratitude for the fact that my heating system isn't on and running up a bill. I'm thankful that I have this ability to be able to do part of my work from the comfort of my own home. I am blessed to have legs that move me to make that iced tea.

So tell me...... how's YOUR attitude of gratitude today?

:-)

What About Me?

I've been asked a number of times what I do as a natural health care practitioner, to relax myself. Many people might think massage and other types of bodywork are the number one things on my list of things to do. I will say they are "up" on the list, of course. :-) Massage and bodywork have numerous benefits including relaxation and improving overall health and wellbeing, but there are a number of ways that I can use to take care of me. These are just a few of my favorites:

• Walking
• Breathing exercises 
• Meditation
• Reading
• Appreciate as much as possible - even the simplest thing
• Driving
• Motorcycle riding
• Petting my cat, Lucky

 You'll notice these activities are mostly free and readily available. I find it's good to have a ready-made list to help me to access that relaxing point which I might not otherwise get to when I'm feeling stressed and overwhelmed.

I urge you to make your own list today. Discover what helps make YOU feel relaxed and gives you that break that you may need, or need without knowing you need it. :-)

Oh, and........ I love coloring mandalas like the one you see below!