I am always buzzing at this time of year - the extrovert side of me is in her element - I have to be careful though and remind her to rest and nourish a little so she can keep going too! As always, nature is totally giving it all in the northern hemisphere. There is so much shite going on in the world and pain for a lot of people that perhaps if we can ourselves give a little gratitude to what nature is giving us in abundance, it can help give a foundation for us to keep going forward and standing up for what is right, just and fair for all. As Maya Angelou says - "The truth is, no one of us can be free until everybody is free."
In her article about World Gratitude Day, writer Jennifer Angel points out that gratitude helps us face life's challenges. It shifts us from fear and resentment to embracing the possibility that something good may come from our struggles. Instead of feeling like everything is against us, gratitude helps us see the silver lining. This hint of hope encourages positive thoughts and actions.
Angel quotes George Colman, "Praise the bridge that carried you over," reminding us to appreciate the journey we've taken.
Six Easy Ways to Show Gratitude Every Day:
☀️Start a gratitude journal: Collect small moments of gratitude and watch the beauty in your life accumulate like the wildflowers of summer. Start with 3 things - can be anything! ☀️Verbally acknowledge someone: Let someone know you appreciate them. It can make their day and lift your spirits too. ☀️Clean up after yourself: This small act of respect for others' space mirrors the care you have for the natural world around you. ☀️Don't complain for 24 hours: (this one is hard!) Challenge yourself to find the good in every situation, much like the sun's rays breaking through clouds on the summer solstice. ☀️Write a thank you note: A handwritten note of thanks is like planting a seed of kindness that will grow and flourish. ☀️Give back to your community: Volunteer and contribute to the well-being of your surroundings, just as nature generously provides for us.
As we celebrate the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, let us reflect on the abundance of light and life. Expressing gratitude connects us to the earth, the seasons, and each other. By embracing what we have and sharing our appreciation, we grow a garden of positivity that nourishes our souls and the world around us.
Here are some affirmations that I shared with our wonderful Chair Yoga class during the week.
Pick one or two and repeat them throughout the day:
☀️ I am loved, I am loving - I am gracious and giving. ☀️ I attract opportunities and thrive doing what I love. ☀️ I forgive myself for mistakes and continue learning. ☀️ I see beauty everywhere, in everyone and everything. ☀️ I am worthy of life's abundant blessings and feel grateful for each one. ☀️ I am mindful and live fully in each present moment - I am here, now. ☀️ I have no expectations and make no assumptions. ☀️ I am healthy, prosperous, joyful, and wise. ☀️ I let go of anger, fear, desire, restlessness, anxiety, and worry. ☀️ I remain curious and find wonder in everything. ☀️ I strive for compassion in every moment of every day. ☀️ I walk the middle path gently. ☀️ I do not let my thoughts betray my greater good. ☀️ I quiet my mind and listen deeply. ☀️ I help others however I can. ☀️ I follow my bliss. ☀️ I do not attach my well-being to outcomes or my happiness to possessions. ☀️ I am remarkable and surpass every expectation, as my passions lead to great rewards. ☀️ I am mindful, centred, peaceful, patient, and calm. ☀️ I dwell only in peace.
Enjoy this Solstice meditation I recorded a few years back:
