10 Oct
A time for humour, love and gratitude
We moved into a 1970s-era house nearly three years ago so our dog Monty has had plenty of time to explore his surroundings. However, it is only in the past fortnight that he has started unearthing bones, left from previous four-legged inhabitants.
We hope these bones are not from 40 years ago because Monty has a delicate stomach that keeps us up all night when he has one of his episodes and also makes us well-known at the vet hospital.
It is interesting how we approach this latest scenario. We don’t dwell on the negative or ‘what if’ this happens – but inject humour into the situation.
‘Monty has another dinosaur bone,’ I call out, as he squeezes under a side table, his latest prize bulging in his mouth. We bribe him out with some of his low-fat, delicate-stomach food so we can dispose of his latest prize.
How wonderful it would be to bring a playful attitude to every situation – and really feel the lightness of humour flowing within.
Though you also need to be aware when humour is being misdirected and used to mask resentment, anger, frustration or insecurity – for these emotions weave a path of tightness in the body and mind.
Admittedly, a different approach is required for really challenging and emotionally-charged situations. These are the times to accept what is happening (or has happened), reflect on why the situation has presented itself, consider your options – and then step out from your pattern of life and make a change.
Dr Wayne Dyer shares some wonderful wisdom in his book, Wishes Fulfilled. He says don’t dwell on your troubles, difficulties or illnesses. The subconscious mind is not selective – it accepts all your (negative) feelings associated with your troubles and then this negativity is exactly what you experience in the world.
He advises to feel love in your body and direct this feeling at the idea you place in your imagination. The moment your subconscious mind receives a feeling, it takes action.
As it is Mental Health Awareness Week 2017, reflect if you are taking care of yourself, recognise what you are feeling – and whether the messages and ‘self-talk’ are beneficial to your health and wellbeing. Also, be realistic about what you need to do and consider the changes you may need to create so you truly nurture yourself.
Several years ago, a meditation student confided that her husband was having cancer treatment. She said before she went to sleep each night, she nominated five things she was grateful for from the day. She indicated that meditation and the gratitude practice were helping her through this challenging time.
Meditation and gratitude are a wonderful combination – both shine an inner light, creating feelings of acceptance, peace and love.