How do I stay positive during trying times? Gratitude is the answer. This small watercolor painting of the swan always fills my heart with gratitude. It reminds me of the time with my family when I was twelve at Busch Gardens in Tampa, where I took the photo of a swan with my Polaroid Swinger. I chose that moment for my reference at age thirty-seven as I experimented with a gesso and watercolor technique. Every time I look at this painting, my heart fills with gratitude that spans over decades.
You can feel the same with practice.
Give Me Examples
Being home with my children is driving me crazy.
- First, ensure your children are safe
- Then go to a quiet place
- Close your eyes
- Take 3 deep cleansing breaths
- Imagine you are at away at work, wondering how your child is feeling away from you
- Feel the sadness, the longing to be together
- Now shift back to now
- I’m so grateful they are right here with me
- Come out and give your child a comforting hug
- Repeat as needed
- Gratitude is the answer
I miss being with my best friend.
- First, move to a quiet place, where you are alone
- Take 3 deep cleansing breaths
- Call your friend
- Close your eyes and imagine they are right there with you
- Enjoy your conversation
- Tell them how grateful you are they are in your life
- Repeat as needed
- Gratitude is the answer
The Mind Shift
Dealing with fear, sadness, disgust or anger is possible. All these emotions are choices we make. Instead, using breathing techniques and being in the moment, choose joy, peace, trust and love.
How Do I Shift My Emotions?
- First, go to a quiet place, where you are alone
- Close your eyes
- Take 3 deep cleansing breaths into your heart space
- Imagine your favorite place
- Listen to the sounds
- Breathe in the fragrance
- Continue to bask in this beautiful space
- Slowly open your eyes
- Repeat as needed
- You have experienced gratitude in this exercise
How Can I Find Gratitude ____?
Fill in the blanks with your current situation. After you have performed at least one of the exercises above, go through this list. And always look for the positive.
- I have time to enjoy _____
- Explore the world virtually
- See the small delights in your surroundings, right now
- Be gentle with yourself
- Be gentle with others
- Smile
- Gratitude is the answer
This Seems Too Simple
That’s the beauty of it. We become accustomed to rushing, stress and overwhelm. By the simple act of mindful breathing, we reset our minds and emotions. It’s very simple and how wonderful to have found the space to do that now. I’m taking advantage of this more quiet time at home to reconnect with the love and peace within.
Won’t you join me?
With Love and Caring,
Dawn
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