What a gift to take time to be grateful, thankful, and mindful. Or, would restless, careless, and helpless better describe how you are feeling? The good news is that you are responsible for your thoughts, actions and words. So, you get to choose to be mindful or mindless. You get to be grateful or hateful. Here’s a few ways to create a better day.
Be mindful of your words. Take time to think before you speak. Would you say something different if you spoke from your heart, not your head? Whatever happened to “if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all?” Words are powerful. You want to be mindful? Think before you speak. Maybe even, mind your manners.
Be mindful of your actions. Hold the door for someone. Look someone in the eye when you shake their hand. Hug someone. Hang lights on the house with love with the intent of shining peace and hope into the lives of those that see them. Do the dishes and be grateful you have them.
Be mindful of your thoughts. What we think about we bring about. What are you putting out there? Take time to be quiet with your thoughts and consider all the things you are thankful for. Try some mindful meditation. Look at a situation from a different perspective.
Be mindful of your movement. Walk in the park holding hands with a loved one and be mindful of the beauty nature offers. Move to some music, or take time for yoga. Or perhaps, chop some wood or go sledding. Be thankful for what you CAN move, and let go of limitations.
Be mindful of your space. Surround yourself with things you LOVE. A cluttered space is a cluttered mind. Learn to let go of things that no longer support you or make you happy. Want less to manage? Have less stuff. Love your coffee cup. Love your shoes. Love your car. Love your chair.
Be mindful of others. What if today you focused more on others? Listen to learn, not to react. Witness with mindfulness what others have done for you and be grateful. Be mindful of how your words, or actions affect others.
Be mindful of what you eat. Before you taste your food, consider what happened to get on your plate. Who grew it? Who sold it? Who purchased it? How was it prepared? Slow down and taste the food. Be mindful and grateful for how the food will nourish your body.
With gratitude and mindfulness I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving, Michele