Hi ,
I'm not going to sugarcoat it: 2020 has been one messed up, WTF-filled, can’t-make-this-stuff-up, “please-make-it-stop,” "hold-my-beer" kinda year. Even the Rockefeller tree seems on brand for 2020 this year.
But one practice that has consistently helped me remain hopeful, present & even playful during 2020's despairing moments, is gratitude.
Gratitude is defined as: "the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for & to return kindness." Practicing gratitude has shown to lower stress levels, activate your zen ("rest-and-digest") mode & improve overall well-being. Even something as simple as "savoring the moment" (or food) has shown to promote mental resilience.
Wouldn’t you agree the world could use more gratitude right about now?
As I was falling asleep two nights ago, I found myself making a gratitude list. It went something like this…
Thank you, 2020 for:
- meaningful virtual connections with my friends & family;
- clients who’ve entrusted me on their journey during a crisis;
- unexpected advocates, mentors & champions;
- triggers....I'm sure there's a lesson in there somewhere;
- the weekend with my parents (& their cooking);
- late-night chats with my brother;
- our neighbors who always make me smile (& their dog that peppers us with kisses);
- the gift of no plans;
- the right to vote for the very first time;
- validation that my husband is indeed the only person I can stand to be around 24/7;
- the inspiration to make homemade corn tortillas – the clear winner of 2020!
What would your 2020 gratitude list look like? I'd love to hear!
In the meantime, check out my upcoming free workshop (below) where you'll learn about anxiety, the gut-brain connection, food & yoga therapy. If you can't make it, this TED talk gives you a colorful preview.
And whatever your plans during Thanksgiving, be safe & savor every moment.
With love & gratitude,
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