Ok - full disclosure - I'm sentimental.
In particular, at this time of year, I find myself feeling quite emotional. Tears seem to spill quite easily. Recently I watched the movie "Love Actually", and even though I've seen the film many times, I still find myself weeping during the 1st few minutes of the film. It's the scene at in the Arrivals area of Heathrow airport, Seeing people reunite is so moving - in particular the faces of grandparents when they see and hug their grandchildren - and it has me reaching for a tissue. (Yes, same thing happens when I am in an actual airport, too).
So, this morning, rather than read the newspaper, I chose to look at this link of a photo essay (sent to me by a dear friend). I hope you check it out. It reminds me that there is great kindness, compassion and love in the world; that miracles (big and small) happen all the time; that we are capable of great courage in the face of adversity.
It gives me hope.
http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/moments-that-restored-our-faith-in-humanity-this-y
And, in the words from the theme song from that movie, "Love is all around us; I feel it in my fingers, I feel it in my toes......"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meU4cxhdjJI
Let the spirit of Christmas fill your hearts.
Saturday, 22 December 2012
Wednesday, 19 December 2012
Mindfulness
There is great power in being able to focus on one thing at a time.
When we quiet our mind and focus on the present moment, we engage more effectively with our environment and those around us. Colors appear brighter, information is more easily retained, food tastes more flavorful, spoken words are more clearly heard, we are moved more easily by beauty and music. We notice details, learn more efficiently, and connect more effectively to people and events. We take in more information and are able to make better decisions.
You could equate it to hearing the entire joke, not just the punchline. Yes, it's much more enjoyable that way.
In our incredible desire to do, do, do - we often fall into the trap of trying to do, do, do everything at once. We might believe we're getting more done, but ultimately multi-tasking often leaves us feeling unsatisfied and exhausted. Herding cats is an image that comes to mind.
Here's a terrific article (December 16, 2012 NY Times) from an author of a book entitled "Mastermind: How to Think Like Sherlock Holmes'. Maria Konnikova writes about the power of focusing on one thing at a time, and the benefits (physical and mental) of mindfulness.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/16/opinion/sunday/the-power-of-concentration.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0
I encourage you to take a look at the article - and give yourself the gift of mindfulness today.
Start with a few moments during the day and see where that leads. Yes, you may need to gently remind yourself - that's ok. The more you practice it, the easier it gets and more natural it becomes.
There are so many ways to achieve mindfulness - meditation, self-hypnosis, a walk in the snow (really listen to your boots on the white stuff), prayer, singing (pay special attention to the lyrics), doing something you love to do (and really do it), etc. Next time you have a conversation with someone, really listen. If your mind slips away and begins to do a shopping list, or leaps ahead with a witty retort, gently bring yourself back and listen to what the person is saying. You may be surprised by what you hear and how they respond to being heard.
When we quiet our mind and focus on the present moment, we engage more effectively with our environment and those around us. Colors appear brighter, information is more easily retained, food tastes more flavorful, spoken words are more clearly heard, we are moved more easily by beauty and music. We notice details, learn more efficiently, and connect more effectively to people and events. We take in more information and are able to make better decisions.
You could equate it to hearing the entire joke, not just the punchline. Yes, it's much more enjoyable that way.
In our incredible desire to do, do, do - we often fall into the trap of trying to do, do, do everything at once. We might believe we're getting more done, but ultimately multi-tasking often leaves us feeling unsatisfied and exhausted. Herding cats is an image that comes to mind.
Here's a terrific article (December 16, 2012 NY Times) from an author of a book entitled "Mastermind: How to Think Like Sherlock Holmes'. Maria Konnikova writes about the power of focusing on one thing at a time, and the benefits (physical and mental) of mindfulness.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/16/opinion/sunday/the-power-of-concentration.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0
I encourage you to take a look at the article - and give yourself the gift of mindfulness today.
Start with a few moments during the day and see where that leads. Yes, you may need to gently remind yourself - that's ok. The more you practice it, the easier it gets and more natural it becomes.
There are so many ways to achieve mindfulness - meditation, self-hypnosis, a walk in the snow (really listen to your boots on the white stuff), prayer, singing (pay special attention to the lyrics), doing something you love to do (and really do it), etc. Next time you have a conversation with someone, really listen. If your mind slips away and begins to do a shopping list, or leaps ahead with a witty retort, gently bring yourself back and listen to what the person is saying. You may be surprised by what you hear and how they respond to being heard.
Friday, 14 December 2012
An Affirmation
With the many things we are consumed by this time of year, this beautiful affirmation offers a gentle place to rest and replenish yourself.
I encourage you to spend a moment (how about right now!), take time for 4 or 5 delicious 'belly-breaths' and let the feeling of relaxation settle into your body. Take it a step further and focus on the words 'calm', 'open', or the phrase 'accept all miracles and abundance' - with each inhale. Notice how good that feels.
I encourage you to spend a moment (how about right now!), take time for 4 or 5 delicious 'belly-breaths' and let the feeling of relaxation settle into your body. Take it a step further and focus on the words 'calm', 'open', or the phrase 'accept all miracles and abundance' - with each inhale. Notice how good that feels.
“I am safe and secure. I exhale any anxiety and inhale calm. As my
world expands so do my heart and mind. I am willing to stay open and
accept all the miracles and abundance the universe has to offer me.”
If you're interested in knowing more about Kris Carr - here's a link:
http://kriscarr.com/
If you're interested in knowing more about Kris Carr - here's a link:
http://kriscarr.com/
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