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Thursday, November 10, 2011

Rise Up in Joy

For those wondering how it's possible to be happy every day, I have created a rough draft list of some things that I do. I will be adding to it as I see room to improve and grow a list such as this.

1. Wake up happy. Choose to feel grateful when you open your eyes. Think of the wonderful experiences that are just waiting for you.

2. Open the curtains or blinds. Sun is vital to your mood. If there is no sun out, or you are confined in a dark office, I would suggest a couple nice desk lights and plants to brighten the spirit.

3. Music. What music bring joy to your heart? Play it. No time to waste get on youtube, turn on your radio, turn on some HAPPY music. Something that will spark positive emotions and chemicals in your brain.

4 Eat right. I start my morning with a shot of Body Balance. It has a bunch of good stuff: Sea Veggies, Aloe Vera, Phyto-nutrients and Minerals. Whatever you choose to be good for you is fine, as long as it nourishes and nurtures your body and soul.

5. Laugh! Watch a comedy on Netflix, Listen to a funny CD, or simply find a silly video. A good one that makes me laugh every time is "Charlie bit my finger". I have many funny videos I can go to if I need to laugh. Another one of my favorites is "Double Rainbow". You can view both of these on youtube. Laughter is the best medicine!

6. Look up. Literally, look up. Look at the sky, the stars, the clouds, the birds. What do you notice? I notice that my little world and life is part of a bigger picture. There are people out there right now, just like me. My life will look up, when I see the birds flying free, they don't worry, they live in the present moment. They don't worry about bills, and jobs, and drama. They simply live.

7. Smile. Smiling will make you happier. I know you might say to yourself, "I don't have a reason to smile." But we both know that can't be true. Whether you're happy about a loved one, a rainbow, a chocolate cupcake. There HAS to be something to smile about. Authentic happiness can be created by our perception of things. When we look at the big picture and "Get Grateful", we can't help but smile. "I woke up today!" (Cue big smile)

8. Compliment yourself. Give yourself a pat on the back. Give yourself a hug. Massage yourself. We tend to be very hard on ourselves, and by giving our own self empathy and compassion we can really turn our day around. For instance, I might look in the mirror into my own eyes, and see the little girl I still am inside. I feel for her, she's been though a lot. And I say to myself, "You're gonna be just fine. You're strong, and you're gonna make it." It can be anything. Just keep it positive and true, and make yourself believe it, even if it's hard at first it will get easier with practice.

9. Compliment others or even just a smile & hello. We're all making it along in this world we all have our trials and experiences. Think about how you feel good when someone gives you an authentic compliment. It can make a difference in many people's lives, just by giving one person a thoughtful, friendly, or positive compliment. I was in the coffee shop yesterday, and noticed a girl who works there often and she is so quick and friendly and smiles to people. I said to her, "Thank you. You're good, and friendly. People really appreciate that." She was very happy, and the lady next to me chimed in, "That was a nice comment." I felt good to acknowledge someone else who is trying to be positive in this world.

10. Give to others and help others. These can be one in the same a lot of the time. I look for ways to help people. I want to help lighten someone's burden. Whether it is to hold the door open for someone, let someone in traffic go ahead of me, help an elderly person pick up their spilled groceries, visit the school for the disabled, cook a meal for a friend, bring someone juice or soup when they're ill... you get the idea. Helping and giving are ways I can instantly feel better about my life.

11. Move! Walk, Dance, Jump, Sing, Run, Swim, Stretch, Climb, Skate, Surf, Hike, Spin, Ride, Garden, do something, anything, that gets your blood and energy flowing. It is extremely important. Think of your body as a "Body of water". Would you rather be a lake or a river? I would rather be a river. Keeping the flow, will keep yourself fresh and healthy. Lakes are great and all, but the water tends to get murky, dirty, or stale. We want it to be the opposite of that. It could be a personal challenge, but there is always something you can do everyday, to move your body. You will feel better, because your brain in turn will reward you with a flow of endorphins, and you will feel alive, energetic, and grateful for another day in the life. Your life.

12. Animals and Pets. I have two little dogs, and it's hard to be depressed when I look at their sweet loving little faces. Their unconditional love and authentic joy is refreshing. They love me no matter what. If you can't have pets of your own, you can pet someone else's dog. Go visit the horse stables, get a fish, or take a visit to a pet store. Research shows people with pets are happier and calmer. And petting your animal is soothing, and actually releases those 'happy chemicals" that our brains produce naturally. Animals are kind, and they need love too. It's nice to be needed and adored. I love my pets.

Take care of yourself. Be understanding with yourself. We're soft beings in a pretty hard world. Literally, not just metaphorically. Whether I'm recognized for my deeds or not by others is irrelevant. I do it because my hearts feels full of love & joy when I do. I really thrive on living and appreciate myself for the unique person I am. I hope this list helps you find some ideas that might make your life even more wonderful. Chin up, hang in there, we're all in this together! Until next time friend, Peace and Love.

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