With Independence Day coming up, and with time-honored summer celebrations on the way, now is the time to honor the impact special events have on us.
In Volume 14 of this guest series, Psychotherapist, Dr. Francis L. Battisti and Nutritionist, Dr. Helen Battisti remind us that gratitude is a renewable resource that we always have at our fingertips.
For over 10 years, they have worked closely with us on aging concerns and have presented many webinars and in-person workshops. Their newsletter, The Zone, is a weekly mental health and nutrition tip sheet during times of change.
An important aspect of society is to remember and celebrate moments that hold a special meaning. Birthdays, holidays, graduations, and anniversaries are all significant to us and we mark them for their impact on our lives. Independence Day is celebrated for its significance on our daily lives. We also celebrate the graduations that are occurring this time of year because of the achievements that so many have reached. As we approach these moments of celebration, is it possible to experience gratitude? Defined here as, “a quality of being thankful, readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.” Gratitude can be expressed in a multitude of ways. It can be as simple as saying, “Thank you.” The feeling of gratitude has also been shown to boost both mental and physical health, for all involved.
Key Takeaways
- A basic component of living is to celebrate.
- In the United States, as with the rest of the world, we mark specific days of the year as meaningful to who we are.
- Incorporating a sense of gratitude into our celebrations can enhance our overall health.
Best Practices
- Approach Independence Day with a sense of gratitude.
- If you are able, maintain a Gratitude Journal and record things during the week that you are thankful for. Journaling can be expressed in writing, drawing, dance, singing, etc.
- When individuals show you gratitude, think about the intention and appreciate the moment.
Things to Limit
- Thinking that you can read others’ minds.
- Planning activities without intentionality.
- Self-sabotaging behaviors.
In conclusion, living with discomfort is a natural result of changes/transitions. Addressing it is a component of developing a resilient mindset. Resilient living results in growing from adversity.
Quote of the Week
“At times, our light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” – Albert Schweitzer
