We’re only halfway through November, but it may feel like we’ve skipped the month entirely with all the “early Black Friday” sales going on. We’ve moved directly from “Happy Halloween” into “Happy Holidays.” Each year, it seems, the commercialism of the holiday season is pushed upon us earlier and more invasively. Believe it or not, there is another month of it yet to come!
Under the rush and pressure of life, it’s easy to miss the blessings, both big and small, in our lives. Our tendency is to focus and work toward what we don’t have rather than recognize and give thanks for the true abundance in what we do possess!
When was the last time you remember sitting quietly in a place, reflecting on the good things in your life?
If you can’t quickly name it, or if in naming it, you realize just how long ago it was, it’s time for a reset!
Push back against the rush being forced upon you, and join our 2-week Gratitude Challenge to remind yourself about what really matters in life. (Hint: it’s not things.)
Let’s begin by reminding ourselves what it means to be grateful:
Gratitude is the positive state
of being grateful;
having appreciation for things;
feeling thank-full.
That feeling of thankfulness then produces a desire to return kindness to others!
Friends often foster this feeling inside of us. Following is a small list of qualities we often look for in a friend. Which ones are most important to you?
- Honest
- Loyal
- Kind
- Reliable
- Supportive
- Patient
- Generous
- Encouraging
- Forgiving
- Respectful
- Supportive
- Empathetic
- Good listener
- Understanding
- Compassionate
- Has a sense of humor
- Non-judgmental
- Selfless
- Pursues personal growth
- Fun
As you read that list, who comes to mind?
Today’s challenge is:
Name FIVE FRIENDS, past or present,
who have impacted your life for the better.
If you have the time and desire to take it a step further,
write a paragraph (or two or three!) detailing how each one has done so.
Documenting like this helps us mentally rehearse the good that is in our life, redirecting us to appreciate what we have instead of longing for what we do not. As such, it fosters a more positive outlook, thereby not just boosting our mood but also reducing stress, potentially enhancing sleep quality, and strengthening current relationships. All good things!
Like stopping by for a class at Body Moves, journaling about friends is something you won’t regret…so take five minutes and just do it!
Then call one…or all five. Say hello, catch up, express your gratefulness for their friendship.
Better yet, invite them to spend time with you…at tomorrow’s AllSpice Culinary event!
AllSpice Culinary Event
Sunday, November 17
1:00-2:30PM
Together you can learn how to add extra flair to your holiday cooking with various products from AllSpice along with ideas and recipes for making salad dressings and how to use AllSpice products for roasting vegetables and proteins. Samples of several extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars will also be available, including popular “no salt” seasoning blends.
Attending with your friend will let you know which gift box option is her favorite, simplifying your search for a unique, local gift. You will also find others that are sure to delight other friends and family! Best of all, attendees will receive a special coupon!
Click here to RESERVE your seat.
Questions? Email fitnessatbodymoves@gmail.com or call us at 319-337-4777.
See you tomorrow for our next challenge!