I resigned from my job today. I have given notice to the 21st December and then that it is for me and that chapter of my life!
I was going to write about how stressed I am about this whole moving 2000 km business, but then we got an offer on the house yesterday. I now have nothing to complain about....
So in the spirit of "Thanksgiving" in the US, I thought I would remind you all about the Art of Gratitude and how it can impact your lives, especially those who may not be feeling so great at the moment or this time of year.
So how can you start to be grateful, or cultivate gratitude in your life right now? Here are a few simple things that you can do to get you started...
- Stop to smell the roses...
Take 5 minutes to stop and notice your surroundings. Being mindful of what you have is the first step to appreciating what you have.
- Start a journal....
Put pen to paper and list the things you are grateful for. This is a great way to both start or end the day, but a few minutes any time throughout the day works just as well. If you don't like lists, then just write what you feel.
- Say "Thank You"
Say Thank You to someone at least once throughout the day. Make it sincere and meaningful, show someone you truly appreciate what they have done for you. It could be the Barista that makes your morning coffee or the check-out chick scanning your groceries... Start simple and see how good it feels.
- Look after yourself...
I know, I know, you are trying! It sounds so clichéd too, but self care is the best thing you can do for yourself and your family. Eat well - ditch the sugar and processed foods. Exercise - do what you love or just get out and walk more, preferably in nature. Sleep well - I know this is easier said than done for some, but go to bed early for at least 8 hours sleep - don't give up! I want to add "be happy" but this is another easier said than done when you suffer depression. Happiness does come with being grateful though, so again, don't give up!
- Pay it forward...
Give by being nice to a stranger or random act of kindness, volunteer your time to charity, or become a positive role model through mentoring. These actions help you give back to the community, it fosters a sense of connectedness to the community or those around you. This can only be good right?
When you are grateful or show gratitude for all you have, you become healthier, happier and more connected. It boosts your immunity, reduces stress and eases tension. It inspires joy and gives you more energy (so you can sleep better at night!). I would not be where I am today without gratitude. I love life again, and life loves me. I am completely grateful for all that I have and the journey I am on. Every day gets a little bit easier, a little bit better, a little bit clearer. I understand that for me to be the best person I can be, the best mother I can be, I have to take care of myself. I have to show my children that I value myself by taking good care of myself - well most of the time anyway!
Happy Thanksgiving to my American friends and family out there, and any readers. Let us all be grateful for our blessings everyday!
Yours forever thankful,
Mummy in Disguise
xoxo
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