"The more grateful I am, the more beauty I see." Mary Davis
On the fifth day of Christmas, I choose to practice gratitude. As someone with stage 4 cancer, I can let this diagnosis define me, choose sadness over happiness, and focus on what I have lost allows one and or do not have. Gratitude counters the negative voice within us. It breaks negative patterns and creates the opportunity to focus on all the good things. When I wake up daily, I try to focus on what I have, what I can do, and how to make a difference. Practicing gratitude brings positive and uplifting energy to one's mind, body, and spirit.
Gratitude is a human emotion of immense value. When we define our lives by counting our blessings, we live in joy, have purpose, and emit feelings of love. Practicing gratitude can support a more robust immune system, sharper memory, higher quality of sleep, reduced perception of chronic pain, less inflammation in the body, better mood, reduced anxiety, higher self-confidence and fewer feelings of anger, jealousy and envy. (Dr. Robert Waldinger, MD, psychiatrist and director of the Harvard Adult Development Study and co-author of The Good Life: Lessons)
On this fifth day of the countdown to Christmas, I invite you to join me in practicing gratitude. Together, we can ignite a wave of positive energy that will not only benefit us but also those around us. Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you for it. See the list below to get started on your gratitude journey, and let's spread the joy of gratitude this Christmas season.
Look for the good things, notice them, and appreciate them.
Notice the people and pets who love you; thank them for being in your life.
During difficult times, try to think about the good things; for me, it is the medical care I receive.
Take walks in nature, breathe in the cool air, feel the snow beneath my feet, listen to the birdsong, and enjoy the freedom of movement.
Take time to slow down and enjoy the Christmas decorations and lights that adorn our homes.
I am very grateful this beautiful morning after reading your message. I practice mindfulness as much as possible and it has definitely given me inner peace like I have ever known. Thank you Betty Jean.
Betty Jean I feel much more grateful today after reading your very important message. Sometimes we forget , especially during this time of the year when we are bombarded by ads to buy gifts for the Holidays. This is when I need mindfulness, peace and time out side enjoying nature. Hugs to you! 🤗 🥰 Stay strong!