The Power of Gratitude--Count Your Blessings

Health is more than just eating well. It's about how we live our life, give of our time, and nurture ourselves. Since it is true we live in a cause and effect universe and everything we plant in the form of an act, thought or judgment comes back to us multiplied, why wouldn't we chose to be more thankful on a daily basis?

After all, each moment and life event is precious and holds a seed of opportunity for us. As Dan Millman says, "there are no ordinary moments." This is essentially what gratitude is all about. When we learn to cultivate this attitude, the simple joys and even heartaches in our lives enable us to appreciate and enjoy life right here, right now. Once we see the magic and blessings that surround us on a daily basis, the door opens for more goodness to flow in.

We have all heard the sayings, 'there are no accidents', 'things happen for a reason' and 'when the student is ready the teacher will appear' etc. Based on the laws of opposites or polarities, it says that in every situation that appears to look bad there is an equal amount of good. I would like to add, if you look for it! So if you do believe that to be true, would you change how you look at your life today?

Like you, there have been times in my life when I have been totally wowed by events that have left me breathless and grateful for what I have. In fact, it happened to me this past weekend which taught me some lessons on gratitude. I went home to spend quality time with my family. Coincidentally, my siblings and I all had events going on that brought us together at our home in Westchester, NY. Everyone in the family was accounted for including the family dog. The weather could not have been better. And the days and nights were filled with genuine, heartfelt connection and conversation, belly laughs, good food and drink, apple picking, parties, ogling and vying time for my adorable 12 month old nephew, my brother's 20th high school reunion (which prompted a lot of reminiscing and laughs) and a great evening with extended family. It was chock-full and each moment was filled with magic. In fact, it was hard to say goodbye. All the fun and connecting was nourishing me on so many levels. As I was driving back to Boston, I became overwhelmed with emotion remembering the weekend. I felt grateful and blessed for my family, friends and these moments in my life!

Ironically enough, the following day I got the dreaded phone call I had been anticipating for the last month. My mother phoned to say Keegan, our beloved dog, had taken a turn for the worse. She thought it was time to put him down to rest. I had been getting mentally prepared as his health had been deteriorating. Although I had enrolled him as a "pet client" in my program, changed his diet a few times and really saw incredible results, it was time and I knew it. It was odd though, it was as if he knew and held out until we were all together once again to say our final goodbyes. As all you pet lovers know, your animals bring such profound connection and love into your life. I was so attached to this dog, although this time a little more willing to let go. Having rescued him from the pound 15 years ago, I thought about what a wonderful and long life we gave him. More importantly, how he filled our hearts and home with a lot of love. Keegan created quite a name for himself around town. It was hysterical. He loved his walks. Whenever I was home and walking him, people would stop and greet him. He knew more people than I did! He introduced my mother to a whole new circle of friends. He was a very sweet boy.... but a bull in a china shop. He would knock over whatever was in his way just to greet you with his small talk and licks! He touched a lot of people.

So I feel really blessed and grateful for all the wonderful times he gave us and how he brought us all together. When I see it from this side of the equation, I see only goodness and can easily let go. Thank You Keegan!!!

Recipe of the month: Creating an Attitude of Gratitude

1) Make a list of all the things you are grateful for.
2) Send a note to the people you care about and let them know how much you appreciate them.
3) Every time something happens to you that makes you feel good, say thank you out loud.
4) Make a list of all the things and people you are struggling with and give thanks for all they are teaching you.
5) Send thank you notes more often, not just when you receive a gift.
6) Go for a walk and find all the beauty in nature that you are grateful for.
7) Come up with your own idea of how to express gratitude in your life more often.
8) Make eye contact and smile more often at people.
9) Spend time doing nothing and appreciate how time by yourself rejuvenates you.

10) Give thanks daily.

More on counting your blessings

Be Thankful

Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire,
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don't know something
For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations
Because they give you opportunities for
improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge
Because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes
They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you're tired and weary
Because it means you've made a difference.

It is easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are
also thankful for the setbacks.

GRATITUDE can turn a negative into a positive.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles
and they can become your blessings.

~ Author Unknown ~

Amy Coughlin is a Certified Health Counselor whose practice is designed to educate and empower individuals to take significant and preventative steps in their long-term health and wellness. Ultimately, her education, coupeld with her expertise in corporate training and recruitment, has inspired her to coach individuals and corporate groups in wellness education programs.

Amy's company Interior Gardens improves both physical and mental health! If you are interested in a complimentary health consultation, call or email me today. Together we can discuss how to create a healthier balance between your eating habits and lifestyle so they reflect the real you and the life you want to be living!

For further information, you may view my website at http://www.amysinteriorgardens.com or email me at interiorgardens@hotmail.com