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Winter
is upon us, we may find ourselves burrowing in and slowing down.
For some, this is a welcome experience, for others it may create
limitations. Whatever the experience, it still offers a unique
back drop by which we can reflect on the notion of gratitude.
Appreciation can be acknowledged for those who offer support and
love in our lives. We can look for and find the small, but important
bits of joy given to us daily. The smile of a store clerk, the
kind word offered by a friend, the wonder of snow.
It
is not difficult to warm our hearts and souls with gratefulness.
In so doing, we offer that warmth to those we encounter daily.
A grateful heart cannot be masked by discontent or negativity.
The joy of appreciation is like a light in the darkness. It cannot
be ignored; and who does not appreciate it?
The
latest neuroscience research gives evidence to actual physiological
effects of gratitude and appreciation. So much so, that it is
used as one of the strategies to minimize pain and or depression.
Clients are asked to create a daily gratitude list.
Once
a person begins this practice it becomes easier and easier to
live in joy and gratitude. It is best to find a certain time each
day, (usually upon awakening or before bedtime) to create the
list. It is not hard to find five or ten things a day to reflect
upon.
Our
blessings are many; it takes no effort to appreciate the little
things as well as the obvious. Give yourself the gift of gratitude
and you will know pleasure.
We
at Healing Bridge Physical Therapy are grateful for the opportunity
to help our clients. We wish each of you the joy of Thanksgiving.
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