Archive for Self Empowerment
Positive Living – Gratitude in Each Moment
Posted by: | CommentsI am sitting out on my patio at dusk. It is the last unseasonably hot day in October. The forecast spans out with rain and cooler temperatures starting tomorrow, so I am sure this truly is the last HOT day to enjoy.
Have I grasped and seized the beauty of this day — certainly not enough! Of course, there was some work to do, some chores, some errands. And late in the afternoon it finally dawned on me: why was I not just EXPERIENCING this gorgeous autumn day, a day so reminiscent of summer that it makes one lose all real track of time and seasons.
So that little inner guidance voice tells me it is not too late — go out and EXPERIENCE the sunset outdoors. I bring out some music as well — melodic and beautiful Native American flute music. The mystical sound of the flute feels like the perfect accompaniment to the close of daylight. And I soak up the beauty of these moments…
And I am grateful… for this serene space in time…
I am grateful for this day — this glorious day that I get to SEE and FEEL… and be part of!
Sometimes we take all that for granted — the very essence of life. Just focusing on our breath can remind us — how natural and peaceful we can be even for but one moment in time.
I encourage you to partake of your life in a BIG way — do not sit on the sidelines and mope. Strive to EXPERIENCE the adventure of it all. Yes, we all know that some facets of our lives are not always perfect. We are often faced with challenges and drama as that is part of our existence here in the physical plane.
However, let us be in the supreme space of appreciation for BEING here, having a physical life, having interaction with others, having beautiful and loving relationships with others.
Having free will to make CHOICES and to set goals that resonate with our heartfelt dreams and desires.
We need to remember how powerful and creative we can be, for sometimes we forget. And let us be in the feeling of gratitude for having this ability and this knowing.
What are you grateful for? Tune in to your inner voice and acknowledge appreciation for your own unique life, your path, your soul’s mission…
Your life will be enriched and uplifted as the vibration of gratitude flows powerfully in your heart and mind!
Affirmations:
- I am thankful for my own abundantly fascinating and rewarding life path.
- Connecting with others who are supportive and loving brings the flow of gratitude into my entire being!
- I appreciate all the blessings in my life, both large and small!
Positive Attitude – Choices and Reactions
Posted by: | Comments“You create your own reality” — that is the catch phrase for this current time of spiritual evolution and accelerated soul development.
Have you integrated the energy of this concept into your daily life? Do you feel that you are a “powerful creator” of your life experience?
It is an enlightened time we live in — to even be able to come to an understanding that our thoughts/feelings/emotions/attitude can determine what we attract into our lives and our circumstances. It is “freeing” to know that we have a say — and a thought — into shaping our daily existence.
Years ago, most people held the belief that each of us is almost like a puppet, tossed about on the strings of life, just experiencing whatever life throws our way. We did not realize that we have so many choices and free will to make decisions about where we are headed. Life is not something that simply happens to us in a random way.
In more recent times we have come to the knowing that yes, we surely DO have the strong potential to invite those things that are significant to us, joyful to us, optimistic to us, into our day-to-day reality. That knowing is a kind of epiphany.
So now we begin to embrace the knowing, this understanding, of how to be a conscious creator. We know we need to reach for JOY, for LOVE, for OPTIMISM, and PEACE. We can become stronger and more focused in our soul/life path.
Yet being a conscious creator, a liver of the Law of Attraction, does not guarantee that our lives will be 100% positive all the time. For we are still humans living a physical life and part of our experience on planet Earth is dealing with periods of challenge or turbulence. We simply cannot control everything that comes across our life path, because we do not live in a vacuum. We interact with so many others along our journeys.
It is important to hold on to that inner strength of “Conscious Creator” when challenges/obstacles arise. And know you can remain strong and peaceful within. It all has to do with how you react. And you certainly have a choice as to how you react!
For it is this way that one reacts that determines your coping mechanism and ultimately how you will deal and heal. You can choose to handle these situations with powerful inner guidance, patience and stability.
So BE that Conscious Creator — be aware of what you attract into your life, and be aware that you CAN persevere through challenges as well. The flow of life will be easier and you will be more harmonious, more serene and better aligned with the stream of well-being!
Affirmations:
- I am a Conscious Creator and know that my thoughts and feelings determine my reality.
- I choose to remain peaceful and non-reactive when difficult situations arise and know that I can weather the storm of challenges.
- I know that positive thoughts and a feel-good attitude help me be in the flow of abundance and well-being!
Design the Highest and Best Version of You
Posted by: | CommentsYes, you are good enough! You are a beautiful creation of the Divine, perfect in every way. Sometimes we need to be in the energy of this knowing: you are fine, just the way you are.
General self-acceptance is peaceful. Yet, most of us have aspirations of being/doing something more, perhaps something more aligned with our soul path and mission here on the earthly plane. So it is also okay to be bold, brave and beautiful and create your magnificent future self — to design the highest and best version of who you are.
And that is not in conflict with being confident in your own skin, in your own physical body. It is simply wanting to be your BEST, perhaps more joyful, perhaps with more clarity, perhaps with more compassion. You are on your own unique path, and there are always internal “signposts” that can help you be more uplifted on your journey!
Maybe you wish to further your service to others. Maybe you wish to have more meaning in your life. Maybe you want improved relationships. Maybe you want to be more patient. Or more goal-oriented.
It is okay to WANT, to DREAM, to PLAN your most amazing life. To CREATE that which will resonate with your own heart.
To gain clarity and vision, it is helpful to make special time for quietude, stillness, meditation. These are the moments when you can truly tune in to your powerful inner guidance.
Promise yourself — more “stillness breaks” — more opportunity to listen to that small, wise inner voice. Imagine the most radiant YOU. Visualize your ultimate happy, glowing self.
Promise yourself that when become physically and emotionally weary from all the tasks of your day, that you will take a few minutes and breathe… breathe in to the knowing of that beautiful, glorious YOU — the one who is in touch with inner peace, the one who knows in which direction you are navigating for your Highest Good.
Promise yourself that you will be close with those people that support you, that cheer you on. And that you will do your best to release and move away from those individuals that are negative to you, those that sap your energy.
Promise to allow yourself to create your best life — give yourself space and motivation to be who you need and wish to be — a joyful, radiant child of the Universe who walks in the illuminated path of LOVE…
Affirmations:
- I love who I am right now and who I am becoming along my life journey.
- I lovingly envision and create the very best version of me!
- I am open to new possibilities and opportunities to shine my beautiful light out to the world!
Diseña la versión Mejor y Superior de tu propio Yo.
Traducción de Elena Calderaro
!Sí, tú vales! Eres una bella creación del Divino, perfecta en todos los sentidos. A menudo es necesario envolverte en la energía de este conocimiento: eres hermoso, tal cual eres.
Generalmente nos auto-aceptamos de forma pacífica. No obstante, la mayoría de nosotros aspiramos a ser/hacer algo más, quizás algo más relacionado con nuestro camino y misión álmica aquí en el plano terrenal. También vale que seas audaz, valiente y hermoso, y así crear tu magnífico ser futuro — para diseñar la versión superior y mejor de quien tú eres.
Y si te sientes seguro en tu propia piel, en tu propio cuerpo físico, esto no creará conflicto. Simplemente es querer ser lo MEJOR, quizás más alegre, quizás con más claridad, quizás con más compasión. ¡Andas en tu camino único y exclusivo, y en tu jornada siempre existen señales internas que te ayudarán a levantar el espíritu!
Tal vez deseas servir más al prójimo. Tal vez deseas que tu vida tenga más sentido. Tal vez deseas mejorar tus relaciones. Tal vez quieras ser más paciente. O enfocarte más en tus metas.
Es bueno DESEAR, SOÑAR, PLANEAR una vida maravillosa y CREAR lo que resonará en tu propio corazón.
Para adquirir claridad y visión, es muy útil apartar un rato especial para aquietarte, calmarte y meditar. Estos son los momentos en que realmente te puedes sintonizar con tu poderoso guía interno.
Hazte la promesa de meditar más — más oportunidades para escuchar a esa sabia voz interna. Imagínate a un YO tuyo más radiante. Visualiza que eres un ser luminoso y ultra feliz.
Hazte la promesa de sacar unos minutos para descansar y respirar cuando las tareas del día te cansen física y emocionalmente… respirar hacia lo profundo de ese magnífico y glorioso YO — aquel que está conectado con la paz interior, aquel que conoce la dirección por la cual vas navegando hacia tu MAYOR BIENESTAR.
Hazte la promesa de mantenerte cerca de esas personas que te apoyan, que te alientan. Y que harás lo posible por liberarte y apartarte de la gente negativa, aquellos que minan tu energía.
Hazte la promesa de permitirte crear tu mejor vida — date tiempo y motivación para ser lo que necesitas y deseas ser — un hijo alegre y radiante del Universo, caminando por el sendero iluminado de AMOR…
Afirmaciones:
• Amo a quien yo soy ahora y a quien me estoy convirtiendo a lo largo de la vida.
• ¡Amorosamente visualizo y elaboro la mejor versión de mi propio yo!
• ¡Estoy abierto a nuevas oportunidades que me permitan brillar mi hermosa luz hacia el mundo!
Positive Attitude – Gratitude and Blessings
Posted by: | Comments“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.”
― Eckhart Tolle, A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose
Are you doing the inner work of being in the daily space of appreciation? Can you easily count your blessings?
Embracing gratitude in your own heart and mind is so essential for living ones most positive and joyful life. All the inspirational and motivational teachers encourage us to reach for that lovely “attitude of gratitude” — for when we can be in that energy, we are more optimistic and we draw more positive aspects into our reality. This definitely goes hand in hand with living an uplifting “Law of Attraction” kind of life!
Though on a theoretical level, I am totally on board with immersing myself in the feeling of appreciation, sometimes on a practical day-to-day basis, it is not always the easiest task for me personally. It is not that I am not grateful — I am certainly appreciative of my own unique and beautiful path. Sometimes it is too easy to let those “low vibration” feelings of being judgmental and critical take over. As humans living a very physical existence, we experience a wide spectrum of emotions. At times, you may find yourself sliding into the murkiness of those darker, less noble feelings. Of course, for your own well-being, it is so important to minimize these times, and motivate and teach yourself to spend way more time in “the light” with more uplifting and compassionate emotions.
Gratitude and appreciation are an excellent place to be! And sometimes when in the midst of challenges and judgement, you should just “stop, drop and APPRECIATE” — take stock of your blessings. Everyone has a list of aspects to be grateful for — even if you have to look a bit more closely to find happiness-inspiring things that you may have been taking for granted.
Appreciate the people in your life — who are those at the top of your list that bring such joy and love into your reality? Focus on them — be glad to have them… Let them know of your appreciation. Don’t ever be afraid or hesitant to say “I appreciate you.” Or hone in on something specific that someone has done that has been ultra-pleasing to you, and thank them for that wonderful action that they have taken on your behalf. They will be heartwarmingly delighted to hear of your appreciation and their vibrational level will go up — as will yours!
Be grateful for the STUFF in your life — whether it be as abstractly lovely as the scenic natural landscape outside your front door or as simple, modern and small as your brand new iPad mini… Find all things that you personally can appreciate. Look at aspects of your life in new and enchanting ways — allow your heart to be uplifted.
Remember, appreciation is a conscious choice! You have the ability to truly immerse in this — you just have to decide to take the steps and feel the feelings.
One idea is to keep a gratitude journal and write down several things each day for which you are grateful. This helps crystallize your thoughts and feelings into ones of optimistic, appreciative ones. And it may help you see more clearly the blessings that do exist for you.
Or make a mental “Gratitude List” — take a few moments of your day to do some brief reflecting on what you love and enjoy and feel blessed to have in your life. These will be moments well spent and leave you with that tingly, feel-good emotion.
Sitting in nature (even looking out a window that opens on a natural scene) can be uplifting — I enjoy being outside on a windy day in the warmer weather, when it is actually overcast. I find the warm wind blowing against my face and skin to somehow be both sweetly comforting and invigorating and in those moments I am in the beautiful space of mindfulness, peacefulness and appreciation — a feel-good “triple whammy” of positive emotion. I feel as if I am an integral part of nature, at one with the wind and the elements.
Of course, you don’t need to wait for a specific set of conditions to feel gratitude. But when those conditions happen for you (whatever they are) be sure to totally and deeply immerse yourself, because those feelings will stay with you and inspire you. Be open to the flow of gratitude and abundance.
And spend more time in that glorious place of pure appreciation — it will impact your life in an amazing and positive way!
Affirmations:
- I live and breathe in the space of gratitude each day.
- I take time to reflect on all the uplifting elements in my life — to observe and appreciate my blessings!
- Optimism and appreciation are a conscious choice, and I choose to navigate in the ocean of feel-good emotion.
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Actitud Positiva – Gratitud y Bendiciones
Traducción de Elena Calderaro
“Cultiva la costumbre de agradecer por todo el bien que recibes y dar gracias contínuamente. Y debido a que todas las cosas han contribuido a tu adelanto, debes incluirlas en tu gratitud.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
“El fundamento de toda abundancia es reconocer el bien que ya existe en tu vida.”
— Eckhart Tolle, Una Nueva Tierra: Un Despertar al Propósito de su Vida
¿Estás trabajando con tu ser interior para vivir diariamente en actitud de agradecimiento? ¿Puedes contar tus bendiciones fácilmente?
Para vivir de manera positiva y feliz es esencial abrazar la gratitud en tu propio corazón y en tu mente. Todos los maestros inspiradores y motivadores nos animan a alcanzar el bello “estado de gratitud” — ya que cuando logramos estar en esa energía somos más optimistas y obtenemos aspectos más positivos en nuestra realidad. Esto y el vivir una vida al estilo “Ley de la Atracción”, ¡definitivamente van mano a mano!
Sin embargo, a nivel teórico, estoy totalmente de acuerdo con sumergirme en el sentimiento de gratitud, aunque al ponerlo en la práctica día-a-día no es una tarea fácil para mí personalmente. No es que no sea agradecida — francamente aprecio mi camino bello y único, pero algunas veces es muy fácil permitir que se apoderen los sentimientos de “baja vibración”, sentenciosos y críticos. Como humanos vivimos existencias muy físicas y experimentamos una amplia gama de emociones. A veces te encuentras deslizándote en la punumbra de los sentimientos más oscuros y menos nobles. Por supuesto que para tu propio bienestar es importante minimizar esos momentos y motivarte y enseñarte tú mismo a pasar más tiempo en “la luz”, con emociones más edificantes y compasivas.
¡Un lugar excelente donde debes estar es en la energía de gratitud y aprecio! Y a veces, en medio de desafíos y críticas, debes simplemente “parar, liberar y AGRADECER” — contar tus bendiciones. Cada uno tiene una lista de aspectos que agradecer — aunque debas buscarlos con más detenimiento para poder encontrar las circuntancias que inspiran en tí la felicidad que das por sentado.
Aprecia a las personas en tu vida — ¿quienes son las que están al comienzo de tu lista y que traen tanta felicidad y amor a tu realidad? Enfócate en ellas — alégrate de tenerlas… Déjales saber que las aprecias. No temas ni vaciles en decir “Te aprecio.” Analiza algo específico que alguien haya hecho por tí que te ha agradado enormemente y agradécele ese gesto maravilloso. Quedará encantado al saber que lo aprecias y su nivel vibracional se elevará — ¡al igual que el tuyo!
Agradece por todas las COSAS en tu vida — ya sea por la hermosa y pintoresca vista de la naturaleza frente a tu casa o simplemente por algo tan simple como tu moderno, pequeño y nuevo iPad mini… Encuentra las cosas que tú puedes apreciar personalmente. Analiza los aspectos en tu vida de maneras nuevas y encantadoras — permite que tu corazón se eleve.
Recuerda, el agradecimiento es una elección consciente! Tienes la habilidad para sumergirte verdaderamente en ésto — sólo tienes que decidir tomar los pasos y percibir los sentimientos.
Una buena idea es mantener un diario de gratitud y escribir todos los días varias cosas por las cuales estás agradecido. Esto te ayuda a cristalizar los pensamientos y sentimientos a unos más optimistas y agradecidos. Y te ayudará a ver más claro las bendiciones que existen en tu vida.
O haz una “Lista de Gratitud” mental — saca el rato cada día para reflexionar brevemente en lo que amas, disfrutas y te hace sentir bendecido de tener en tu vida. Estos serán ratos de buen provecho y te dejarán con una linda sensación de bienestar.
Estar en la naturaleza (o simplemente mirarla por la ventana) puede ser reconfortante — Yo disfruto del aire libre en los días ventosos y nublados del verano. Siento que el viento tibio en la cara y en la piel me estimula y vigoriza, y en esos momentos me encuentro en un espacio de conciencia, paz y agradecimiento — es como ganarse una lotería de triple emoción positiva. Siento como si fuera parte integral de la naturaleza, donde el viento, los elementos y yo somos uno.
Desde luego que para sentir agradecimiento no hay que esperar por ciertas condiciones específicas. Pero cuando te encuentras con esas condiciones (cualquiera que sea) asegúrate de sumergirte total y profundamente en ellas porque esos sentimientos permanecerán contigo y te inspirarán. Mantente abierto al flujo de la gratitud y la abundancia.
Y pasa más tiempo en ese glorioso lugar de agradecimiento puro — ¡ya que hará un impacto en tu vida de manera asombrosa y positiva!
Afirmaciones:
- Todos los días vivo y respiro en el sentimiento de gratitud.
- Saco el rato para reflexionar sobre todos los elementos edificantes en mi vida — y para observar y agradecer mis bendiciones!
- El optimismo y el agradecimiento se eligen conscientemente, y yo elijo navegar en el mar de los buenos sentimientos.
Positive Attitude – Keeping Serene in A Stressful World
Posted by: | CommentsWhat is the major malady that people complain about? What is the ailment that brings most of my clients to me for Reiki sessions? If you have guessed “stress” then you are absolutely right. Stress and its negative effects are a challenge to much of modern society.
We are all incredibly crazy-busy — multitasking throughout our daily lives, trying to juggle and balance all aspects and facets that fill up each day for us. Between all this time management of home/family, business/work — our lives are PACKED! Theoretically, technology should make things easier — but often it only serves to add more complex and time consuming tasks to our day-to-day reality. Yes, I refer to smartphones, tablets, iPads, computers, etc! We are a nation consumed by stuff to do and stuff to keep up with on our devices — because of this we never truly have any “time off.” I am reminded of this every day in my own personal world view. And I am certainly not immune to all the emotions that this encompasses.
Do you see yourself in this picture of total “full-plate” day-to-day living?
We used to speak about the optimistic perspective of looking at life with the glass “half full.” The current reality is that we look at life with the glass as “over-full” — little time for stillness or downtime. Quietude sometimes appears to be a thing of the past.
If you check out the actual definition of “stress” in a dictionary, there are varied meanings. However, in terms of physiology, stress is a specific response by the body to a stimulus, as fear or pain, that disturbs or interferes with the normal physiological equilibrium of an organism.
To me, stress is a buildup of extreme tension within ones body and energetic field, causing an imbalance or state of “disharmony”.
Let’s face it, when one is stressed, you feel anxious, uptight, tense — basically feeling not-so-good — and this results in negative thought patterns as well. When these negative thoughts remain with you for a prolonged period of time, the emotions surrounding them lodge even further in the physical/mental body and cause the manifestation of symptoms such as digestive issues, psychological imbalances, and even serious diseases…
So basically, you want to release stress — the feeling and thinking of it! You need to strive to be in the flow of peacefulness within — and if that sounds next to impossible, then just aim at being in the flow of “semi-serenity.” Living a peaceful modern life is a bit of an oxymoron… But for your own well-being, it is essential to adapt a “mindset of mindfulness” and personal quietude with an ability to go within when things outside you and surrounding you fall into disarray and turmoil.
Realistically, it is never truly possible to quiet every thing in your external world — life these days is pretty noisy. So it is so critical to quiet your internal world when you need a break from the frantic pace that life sometimes morphs into.
Meditation is a classic, timeless practice that can certainly help with this.
The attitude of mindfulness — of being truly present in the now moment — can help with this.
Just closing your eyes and focusing on your breath while taking some long, slow cleansing belly breaths can help with this.
Five to ten minutes of simply going into stillness and tuning out the clamor and clutter of a busy environment can be utterly rejuvenating.
And sometimes you just have to develop the determined outlook that in your heart, you are going to remain serene, no matter what discord people “throw” at you, no matter what hectic happenings crop up in your little corner of the world.
You do not have to allow stress to overtake you. You can choose to create your own unique perspective of tranquility. And that doesn’t mean you have to go meditate on a mountain top or follow a ritual of silence in a monastery…
You can always access the peace within — that beautiful, glorious inner light that reminds you of your Divine or Universal connection, that reminds you that at your core, you come from a place of serenity and clarity. And if you can connect in with this, you will be more in tune with your soul purpose here on Planet Earth…as well as more joyful and of course, more in that radiant stream of well-being…
Affirmations:
- I tune in to my inner rhythms to remain peaceful, especially during challenging or turbulent times.
- Despite what happens around me, I remain tranquil within my heart and mind.
- I make a conscious choice each moment and each day to embrace an attitude of serenity!
Positive Attitude – Morning Optimism
Posted by: | CommentsHow do you feel when you first awaken — when you first come to morning consciousness? Perhaps you awaken gently and peacefully — or you might be summoned awake by a piercing alarm. Either way, do you generally feel positive and eager to face the day? Or are you cranky and thinking of the overwhelm of everything you need to accomplish that day?
How you initially greet the day can have a very powerful impact on how your day unfolds. If you start out in a negative way, chances are the flow of the day will bring much of the same.
It is essential to strive to welcome your new set of 24 hours in a positive, joyful mindset. Even if everything in your life is not totally perfect (and let’s face it, whose life is completely perfect anyway) you can still muster a connection to optimistic thoughts. In fact, I believe it is to critical to do so for your own good…
In general, our attitude and our thought patterns affect our ability to align with the flow of well-being And it has certainly been shown that successful, happy people have an uncanny knack for thinking happy, fulfilling thoughts and keeping their mindset in the stream of positivity.
Anyone can do this — it is a purely conscious choice. However, for some it is easy and for others, it is such a challenge.
Personally, I believe that the morning is what sets your tone for the remainder of the day, so your morning thoughts — and your morning rituals — are seriously important.
Coming to consciousness and recognizing comfort in your immediate surrounding is a simple and easy way to begin. So instead of thinking: “I have that awful meeting today, or I have to deal with that difficult person, so and so…” move away from those negative, downtrodden thoughts that might appear first thing like annoying pop-ups in the computer window of your psyche. Instead, just think about how cozy your bed was for your evening’s respite, how soft your pillow is, how pretty the sunlight is streaming in the window, or how peaceful the gentle sound of rain is outside… or how sweet it is to have your beloved canine laying devotedly at the foot of the bed… Whatever you can personally quickly focus on for a momentary thought-saunter into the “positive” will be helpful
The next mental step is to reach for a more definite moment of gratitude or appreciation. Affirm that you look to this day with gratitude for all the uplifting possibilities it will hold. Open your arms wide (in actuality or just figuratively) and be receptive to all the GOOD that your day will bring. Set your intention for being in the space of RECEIVING.
If you have a morning practice, that is a beautiful way to start the day. And by this I mean meditation, prayer, intention, affirmations, etc.
My friend, Gloria, who is a hypnotherapist, presented a workshop where she encouraged participants to follow a simple, but very uplifting morning practice of positive statements to welcome their day. I so enjoy using these statements and here are a few:
Today will be a great day.
I have a good life.
My body is strong and healthy.
I move with vitality and vigor.
I am excited about the future.
Life is a fascinating adventure.
Can’t you just feel the joyfully magnetic pull of these words inspiring and uplifting you? Find several affirmations that resonate with you and recite them in the morning. Let them add a lovely flavor of optimism to your morning thought patterns.
If your morning can include a little physical exercise, that in itself can be invigorating and will awaken your endorphins to initiate you into a day of more positive sensations.
If you have breakfast (and the healthy experts advise us all to do this with nutritious fare that will fuel our physical bodies) then be mindful at breakfast. Really enjoy what you eat and focus on the nutrients energizing and preparing your body to have an amazing, strong and healthy day.
There are so many different ways you can move away from early morning negativity. Greet each day as if it counts, as if it is meaningful. Greet each day as if you are HAPPY — and as they say, if you need to “fake it till you make it” that is okay because acting happy will inspire real joy!
Begin tomorrow as you awaken — “carpe diem” — seize the day! And behold it from a powerfully positive perspective… You are WORTHY of happiness.
Affirmations:
- I greet this day with positivity and appreciation.
- I am open to all the new and exciting possibilities that this day may bring.
- I set my intention to be mindful today, to focus on the present moment with clarity and optimism.
Positive Attitude – Happiness and Mindfulness
Posted by: | CommentsThere has been so much written about finding that elusive state of being — profound happiness.
Our inspirational teachers have all come up with thousands of ways to help you be happy. Yet how many people feel they actually achieve that pinnacle of extreme exultation and positivity? And is it truly necessary for leading a fulfilling and rich life?
Optimism does not seem to be the natural way of the human condition and I am not sure why. Are we born relatively happy, and then life teaches us otherwise? Or are we born in a neutral space, and have to learn happiness? These are just questions that are food for thought.
In my years of experience here on Planet Earth, working first in the corporate world and then the holistic healing world, my observation is that people have a wide range of happiness ratio (whether they spend more time feeling good than bad.) It seems far easier for people to fall into that space of concern, stress, tension, confusion. Happiness seems to take work!
If you are one who naturally gravitates toward positive feelings, then I suspect you are more uplifted than most. If you get up in the morning, excited and optimistic about greeting the day, then you are in a beautiful space and probably among the minority.
However perhaps there is too much focus on the achievement of a total constant positive state of being — if we try hard and fall short, we feel in worse shape. And really, I don’t believe it is possible to be happy ALL the time! Part of the human experience here in the physical plane is to feel through a large range of emotions so we can understand contrast and learn the value of appreciation.
So what if we set our sights on a more neutral state of being rather than always pursuing some perfect state of bliss? That would be mindfulness — being present and focused in the now. Maybe we don’t always need to be happy, but simply “happily functioning” in the current moment, living purely right here, right now. Observing what is at hand and coping with what is right before us. Ready to move forward into our next moment, just greeting the unfolding of our own unique life experience with a sense of expectancy, openness and receptivity. As well as flexibility.
If you can wrap your mind about that kind of state, then you will likely be able to move into a more receptive space that includes peacefulness and harmony. So if you can just be peaceful (meaning non-reactive to all the challenges that happen in our surrounding reality) in the moment, with the task at hand, being in an attitude of “neutrality,” that does leave an opening for good things to flow in, thereby bringing that wave of happiness that may periodically flow with it.
It is completely spectacular to seize those clear moments of happiness, of course! Milk them for all the goodness you find streaming through you at that point in time. But don’t be judgmental when the flow abates, because like the ocean tide, there will be an ebb and flow of this sought-after emotion.
Accept yourself for who you are — and your own variety of emotions. Take those “steps” so that you are happy more than you are not happy — yes, go ahead and do the “inner work.” Yet know that it is okay if you find yourself in a sort of breezy, gentle place of “neutrality” for periods of time. The only place you DO NOT want to be is mired in serious sadness, stress or depression for any prolonged time frame. But don’t underestimate the gracefulness of living neutrally and mindfully in the moment.
“Happiness is not what makes us grateful. It is gratefulness that makes us happy.” ~Br. David Steindl-Rast
Affirmations:
- I focus on the now moment, allowing my life to unfold with a state of openness and expectancy.
- I strive to be in that space of neutrality and mindfulness, doing the inner work of remaining peaceful and non-reactive.
- I understand and accept that my human range of emotions brings a wonderful learning experience in the form of contrast.
Positive Living – Cultivating Supportive Friendships
Posted by: | CommentsAre you surrounded by mostly healthy relationships? If so, that is a joyful blessing! It is also a testament to your own mindset, outlook and personality — as well as the inner work you do to maintain and sustain these bonds.
Yet no matter how much focus we give, there are bound to be those questionable ties we have. Those relationships that make us pause and ask ourselves about how we can effectively cope with a specific person. Or silently wonder: why is that person still in my life? Some relationships are just blandly “okay” — not helpful, but not harmful. Others can be downright toxic to ones well being.
You should not remain in a relationship that is blatantly toxic. And toxic can have a range of meanings — from one that is merely somewhat unhealthy to one that is seriously emotionally abusive. If a friend is consistently putting you down in overt or perhaps even subtle ways, that is not a healthy friendship.
All the inspirational teachers say to surround ourselves with people who support us, lift us up — and cheer us on along our life path. If our friends authentically love us, then wouldn’t they want to be encouraging and uplifting to us?
Our connections with those around us should always be optimistic, loving and respectful. This makes perfect sense to us — and yet, why do we often get caught up in ties that are far less than stellar, far less then supportive?
I believe that most of us make every attempt to put our best foot forward, so to speak, and cultivate many relationships, simply assuming that if we set out to be a fine friend, then what we give out will be returned to us in kind. And though that is the case perhaps for most of the time, it does not hold true all the time.
Sometimes, despite trying to be a loving friend, the other person is not able to return that attitude. This can stem from extreme life challenges/obstacles; egotistical and narrow-minded beliefs; or sometimes simply a change in directions, as in paths becoming so divergent that there is no real commonality anymore.
And what about those fair weather friends — or barely there friends? They tend to possibly be more “takers” rather than “sharers.” They enjoy the bond and the company as long as things are going smoothly for you — but when a little turmoil lands across your path, they are suddenly GONE — or busy with their own stuff without even a sympathetic ear.
Sometimes you may experience the uncomfortable dance of trying to integrate a person into and out of your life, depending on how caring the friendship is at each moment in time. This can create havoc with your emotions… Relationships thrive on positive stability — knowing another is there for you. And of course, this should be a two way street. We need to be there for others in both peaceful and challenging times. Being totally able to count on each other when the going gets rough is essential to a healthy friendship.
Over the course of my life, I have learned that usually those vastly difficult relationships tend to dissolve out of my life (the Universe giving me some supportive assistance perhaps?) Some relationships thrive on drama. When you become aware of this and refuse to be reactive — and discourage all aspects of that volatility — the other person might simply retreat. For they are not receiving that atmosphere of emotional turmoil that they so crave.
So take the serene, shared road — be a remarkable friend. Immerse yourself in healthy relationships. Surround yourself with those who buoy you up. Release those who bring you down. And embrace those you care about with a kind, encouraging, honest, loving heart. If you strive to do the emotional “work” of sustaining healthy friendships, it is bound to bring greater joy, satisfaction and connection on this journey called LIFE…
Affirmations:
- I treat others with understanding, compassion, support and encouragement.
- It is easy for me to lend a sympathetic ear to my friends, and truly listen with my heart.
- I remain peaceful and non reactive in the face of drama that others may create.
Self Empowerment – Creating Your Best Life
Posted by: | Comments“Life is what you make of it…” That is a well known older saying. Which has recently resurfaced in my own mind and thoughts.
So I ask you this question: are you creating a life that is pleasing to you? One that resonates with your heartfelt desires and goals? One that is fulfilling the primal longing of your soul?
Sometimes we get caught up solely in the energy of challenges and obstacles — all forms of negativity. Downtrodden thoughts that bring us into feelings of powerlessness.
It is sadly the human condition to focus upon these aspects that are difficult as opposed to the beautiful aspect of life — our free will and our amazing ability to be able to make our own choices and decisions.
We have the remarkable power to design our lives to reflect the best and Highest versions of ourselves. It is just that most of us don’t truly get that — or don’t believe it. Or have no clue how to go about it.
Look back on those times that you have been strong, successful and fulfilled — even if those times were brief. There is no doubt that you have had experiences where you fully realized your own potential and inner strength. But then, instead of holding on to that knowing, you became adrift in the busy stream of life, forgetting how to tune in to your inner guidance, your core essence. You lost that Divine connection to your soul, your Higher consciousness or whatever you wish to call it.
Your physical vehicle (your being) needs to do the work of navigating life here on Planet Earth to have your most joyful, abundant and enriching experience. Part of this is to take care of YOU and realize the powerful creation abilities that you have. A second part is to understand our soulful connection in Oneness — and to have deep compassion for others and all of Life.
This realization is never easy. It requires steadfast energetic movement along your path in a most positive, uplifting way. Some general suggestions include:
1) Meditation
2) Positive living resources — affirmations, self-empowerment teachings, spiritual and personal development books
3) Holistic modalities such as Reiki and the like
4) Immersing yourself in nature and the natural world
5) Consistent time with family and friends and a continuous widening of your Circle of connectedness
6) Events that empower and inspire
7) Life coaching or something similar
8) Religious/spiritual practices that truly resonate with you
Most significantly, will you “awaken” (yes, a very popular term these days) to the multidimensional, complex being that you are at your core essence? You are not some stick figure puppet meandering around our planet aimlessly and in isolation — though sometimes you may feel that way.
Though you are undeniably unique — you have a radiant connection to others. So truly let yourself enhance and appreciate that — not wallow in the state of separation. For I firmly believe that understanding and embracing our interconnection is essential, and actually complements and enhances our uniqueness and individuality.
Your life will be exactly what you make of it. Choose to take those steps — one thought at a time if need be — that will bring you the reality of a life that is pleasing and joyful to you. A life you are passionate about living.
Affirmations:
- I seek to enhance my connection with others on a profound level of understanding.
- I take time to nurture myself with those things that inspire joy within me.
- I am a powerful creator of my life experience and I design a life that is fulfilling to me.
Appreciation – Tapping into the Vibration of Gratitude
Posted by: | CommentsWhat are you grateful for in your life? Do you actually take time to focus on appreciation, to think of those aspects of your life that inspire gratitude within you?
Right now, as I write this, I am expressing appreciation for this glorious day — because amazingly, this particular day is actually mild, sunny and almost like summer, even though we are well into the autumn weather here in my locale. And I am just “tickled” — yes that is the word that comes to mind — that I can experience this day — and maybe even eat lunch out on the patio in the middle of autumn. How delightful will that be!
But you can express appreciation for ANY day, for the gift of that day, for the possibilities, opportunities that can flow your way… Be grateful for each new morning, awakening to the potential of that particular set of 24 hours and what it can hold.
Yes, sometimes it is far easier to look at the day with negativity (and of course, we all are prone to get into that mindset periodically) and all those unpleasant tasks you may have to do. And those many responsibilities that await your attention.
However, if you choose to greet each day in the space of appreciation, wonder, curiosity, adventure — each day can become a magical gift.
Holding that beautiful, high-vibration sense of appreciation in your heart will inspire you to feel better, to align with the infinite flow of both abundance and well-being… The “attitude of gratitude” can do wonders for you — on the mind/body/spirit level!
And joyfully and deeply immersing in the mindset of appreciation will bring more of those feel-good emotions into your reality.
So try it — WHAT do you appreciate in this moment — there certainly is something and hopefully “many somethings”! Something as simple as a flavorful cup of tea, a comfy blanket, an unexpected joyful email — anything that gives you the welcoming flicker of feeling good.
WHO do you appreciate? Who are those people who truly make your heart sing and invoke a smile on your face and a happy dance in your outlook? Focus on them. I hear your mind chatter thinking — but what about those that are the opposite — those negative personalities? Give them less — or no — attention. Remain non-reactive. Meanwhile, spend time and connect with those who support you and buoy you up! Sometimes the other types will then begin to “fade” into the background.
And don’t forget the loving connection with a sweet pet — our pets can bring so much happiness into our lives. Appreciate the human/animal bond and the unconditional love it provides.
Incorporate a gratitude mindset (or a full gratitude practice) into your life. Pay more attention to being happily appreciative of the beautiful and uplifting aspects of your environment. Keep a gratitude journal or simply keep track of some of your gratitude observations. Share your gratitude with family and friends.
When you awake each morning say this affirmation: I am grateful for this day and welcome all wonderful possibilities into my life!
The beautiful vibration of gratitude can shift your life into such a deeply uplifting direction. Just be supremely open to receive all things joyful and positive — and then be thoroughly grateful when they do arrive…
Affirmations:
- I am happy and grateful for everything I have and receive daily.
- I am thankful for my blessings — and focus on the good things, giving them power to grow and multiply!
- I breathe in gratitude and breathe out love.
- I am profoundly thankful for my own unique and wonderful life.