By John Huntington
Special to the Nugget
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays – no shopping for gifts, lots of tasty, traditional (non-processed) food, and naps are the norm!
But what are you really thankful for? What gives you joy and ease? What makes you want to get up and get at it in the morning? (Remember being a kid – we couldn’t wait to Go!)
It is a vital to answer this for yourself, and not just because you may have to speak about it at the dinner table.
Most of us have been grinding forward on jobs, family, chores and all the other responsibilities of living for so long, we lose sight of our true purpose of joy and love.
I often ask a new patient what they do for “fun and relaxation.” Most times I get a shrug of the shoulders and a knowing look that says, “Yep, I’m too busy to even recognize fun of late.”
But with a bit of looking, they mention their passions – watching birds on the back porch, strolling in the early morning light, listening to their favorite music, making jewelry, painting, playing with kids/grandkids, being the home handyman/woman, etc.
Cultivating Joy and an Attitude of Gratitude brings us into the present moment, and helps relieve the pain of regret for the past and fear of the future.
As we practice gratitude daily, as we accept the present moment more fully, we can weather our emotional ups and downs with increasing ease.
So take it easy on yourself. Remember to be thankful for YOU.
Look at all you’ve done: You have been steadfast. You have persevered through recurring obstacles. You have faced deep sorrow and expansive love.
So give thanks. You have done well. You are a success.
Dr. Huntington practices Chiropractic, Biomedical Acupuncture and Physiotherapy in Oracle, Az. 520-896-9844 huntingtonchiro@hotmail.com.