Gratitude

I have fond childhood memories of going to the Angel Stadium with my dad. He loved baseball and his enthusiasm for anything was contagious. Swept in the memory of a simpler time, I checked the box with a “heck yeah” I’ll volunteer!

“Life does not consist mainly, or even largely, of facts or happenings. It consists mainly of the storm of thoughts that is forever flowing through one’s head.”  ~ Mark Twain

As a therapist, one of my favorite roles is to remind people of their largeness – which I define as living a Self-led life. When describing the qualities of Self, it’s not unusual for clients to look at me quizzically. Recently someone asked “What if my “self” wants to run off to the Bahamas and drink pina coladas all day?” I smiled even though I suspected that hidden within this comical question was a fear that she had no authentic Self.

Brené Brown consistently delivers whole-hearted, thought-provoking material that helps women in their journey of personal growth and self-acceptance. Here she interviews Oprah Winfrey in classic researcher style, asking pointed questions on tender subjects.

It is the ability to find gratitude that helps us move through challenges time and time again. Gratitude helps us find our strength, open our hearts and experience the fullness of our lives. It liberates us from the prison of small mind/ego.

Your body is amazing. There is nothing like it. How you feel in it is less a question of years but a tally of habits, choices and chance. It’s the law of nature and the journey of being human that our bodies are aging and…

Delighting in another’s discovery of their innate capacities is akin to a mother celebrating her infant’s new found capabilities. Through attunement, reflection, playfulness, valuing and affirming clients are able to gain mastery over warded-off feelings. This builds resilience.

Positive psychology presents a compelling argument for cultivating happiness. Those who walk the talk report more satisfying relationships, better health and a brighter outlook on life.

Make no mistake, the goal is not to be happy all the time. It’s about developing the skill base to renew ourselves when internal resources run low.

Vibrant health is dynamic and multifaceted. Research shows a connection between body, mind and spirit, yet they continue to be treated separately. For example, soul is thought by many to be the exclusive province of religion. When in fact it extends beyond that to include…

“Silent gratitude isn’t very much to anyone.”  – Gertrude Stein There is now evidence that when we share our gratitude – whether in words, kindness, or gifts – we nurture our relationships. Expressing appreciation brings people closer together, strengthening the ties that bind. Of course,…