What makes you great?

I've got a task for you, it's a hard one, but so worth it!

Think of a time in your life where you were happy and/or content. Can you list 5 things that made you great in that moment? Write a list down and then for the next 5 days take one of those qualities, and live it for the day. To give you a head start I am going to tell you 5 of my qualities:

1. I'm kind

2. I'm fun

3. I'm intuitive 

4. I'm honest

5. I'm strong

Feel free to steal any or all of these! I would love you to report back if you have the courage. I hope you have a fantastic day. I plan to be kind all day ;)

9 Life Lessons by Tim Minchin

This is one of the best speeches I have read in a long time. It's very witty, funny and profound. Please have a read, or even better watch the video. 

http://www.timminchin.com/2013/09/25/occasional-address/?fb_action_ids=10151957035717743&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B525588400849030%5D&action_type_map=%5B%22og.likes%22%5D&action_ref_map=%5B%5D

If you like Vitamin D, that's quite alright with me

We have been hit with an early summer here in Australia. I have had the opportunity to get out in the sunshine a bit. Although I am usually donned with sunscreen, I am still soaking up the beautiful rays. I come home a lot more relaxed and in turn sleeping better at night. 

Have you ever heard of having the SADs? Seasonal Affective Disorder or the winter blues, yes there is actually a disorder for it. Probably the reason I only lasted one winter in London! 

More people are getting Vitamin D deficiencies. Vitamin D is a hormone which controls the calcium levels in the blood - assisting your bones and muscles. 

Stepping outside for a wander each day will not only make you feel better, it's good for your insides too! All things in moderation of course...

Step 4 in the Journey to Happiness

So a bit of a recap of the first three steps, thanks to my lovely friend Michelle at Gentle Warriors:

1. Breathe - give yourself time out and don't sweat the really small stuff.

2. Fake it - even if you don't feel radiant, put the smile on your dial and get positive.

3. Believe - in yourself and manifesting miracles. By affirmations, what and who you listen to, don't give up and stay positive. 

Step 4 - Gratitude 

"The Universe is grateful for you! Appreciation for everything flows through you in great bounty. Cherish the preciousness of life and everyone and everything around you." - Soul Coaching Oracle Cards Guide Book.

I have a question for you. What kind of grateful are you?

1. The kind that was brought up to use manners and then just automatically says thank you, without really thinking about what someone has done for you. Or

2. The kind that really takes note of the things that are given to you in life and pays it forward. 

I have realised I alternate between the two. I am always grateful, I just don't always show or acknowledge as much as I should. 

Sometimes I feel that thank you is enough, other times it isn't. How do you tell the difference?  I go with my gut.  For example, I am friends with Yvonne of Essential Insights, and on the weekend I was looking in my cupboard and noticed the large amount of essences I have ordered/received from her.  I was overwhelmed by her generosity.  Is this a time where I just say thank you?  I don't think so.  I have therefore popped something in the post to her to let her know her kindness is appreciated. She is a woman that does so much for so many and I never want her to feel she is unappreciated.

I am making it my intention to show my gratitude more, I figure it's a win-win.  You get to make people realise how valued they are and that they are making a difference.  You also put it out to the universe that you and this person are deserving of good things.   This brings more good things into your life, and you start to feel a whole lot better about life in general.  How could you not love that?!

How am I going to show that I am grateful?

- I have downloaded a gratitude diary to my iPhone (I am more likely to write in this than a journal as I have my phone handy most of the time).   Gratitude 365\

- I will update my address book so I can pop a note of thanks to someone when the time comes (making sure I have stamps handy!).

- I will use up more of my credit on my phone to drop someone a text message or even just make a call to say I am thinking of them and grateful to have them in my life. 

- Instead of "just" saying thank you, I will compliment the person who has shown me kindness, and really mean it.

It may sound so simple but it pays off in so many ways.  How do you show you are grateful??

What does Frankie say?

Relax! Am I showing my age/taste of music here?!

At least once a day you should find a way to relax, even just for 10 mins. I'm not talking about sitting in front of the TV, I mean doing an activity that is just about you. 

Are you one to meditate or would like to give it a go? There are free meditations on this website and tips on how to do it

 www.meditation.org.au

Are you someone who likes to take a long bath? Add some Epsom and sea salts to help the relaxation and your limbs. If you don't have a bath, have a longer than normal shower, get a face washer and put a few drops of lavender on it,  wet it and rub your body with it.

Do you read? Join a library, get the iBook app, or borrow from friends.

Go for a walk, even just around the block.

Take some deep breaths.

Do your favourite activity - golf, fishing, yoga, or bike-riding.

Listen to you favourite album from start to finish, sing along to feel even better!

Sit outside and watch the world go by.

If you're not sure of the kind of relaxation you need, the website below gives great suggestions based on your reaction to stress.  I'm not surprised I need to do rhythmic dancing!

http://m.helpguide.org/articles/stress/stress-relief-relaxation-techniques

Are you willing to share what you do to relax? Have a cup of tea and think about it ;-)

A bit of guidance

Continuing on from my blog yesterday, if you chose a number, here are your cards:

1. Family - this situation is rooted in an emotional experience with a family member, which we can help you to understand and heal. In your mind and heart, surround this person, yourself, and the experience with calming blue light and many angels. Be open to the gifts within the situation, and allow yourself to feel peace.

2. Wedding - marriage is the union of two souls joined in love, mutual respect, and commitment. It signifies a desire to deepen love over time. Your wedding day is a testament to your well-founded faith in love's power. Continually breathe life into that faith and love, Dearest One.

3. Trustworthy Guidance - you've received a wonderful idea in answer to your prayers. This idea is real and trustworthy. You can safely move forward with it, knowing that we are with you every step of the way. Ask for and be open to receiving our support for anything that you need related to this idea. 

4. Innocence - Beloved One, everyone is guiltless in truth, as no one can alter God's handiwork of perfection. Give us your feelings of heaviness so we can lighten your load. Give us any guilt, anger, or blame that may shroud your loving outlook. Enjoy the peace within your heart once more. 

5. See Only Love - look past the seeming errors, mistakes, and misunderstandings, and see only the love within each person (including yourself). Your resolute focus upon the love that underlies every situation brings about healing in undreamed-of ways.

6. Assertiveness - this situation can be healed gently and with love, as you've requested, yet there's also a need for your strength and truthfulness with the other people involved. We will stand right behind you as you speak your truth, giving you strength and guiding words. 

Who's up for some fun and guidance?

Pick a card! The cards are numbered 1-6, top to bottom and left to right. Comment below on which number/card you are drawn to and you will receive some guidance in return. I will post the cards later today. Share the love!