The Little Things

Many of you have been experiencing trauma lately, whether in California dealing with the wildfires, or those of you dealing with traumatic endings or ungrounded new beginnings. You’re not alone. Many of you are in the same boat.
So for this week, just focus on the little things, the little joys: being able to open your closet and pull out your favorite sweater because the weather is starting to chill, the feel of sitting outside with the sun on your face, warming you fully, or the crunch of leaves on a beautiful fall day. Stop and notice the little things right now, and not out of fear that they could disappear (as many of you in CA are experiencing), but out of appreciation and gratitude. 
How extraordinary is it that we have electricity and running water? What a blessing. Do you have a favorite blanket to snuggle under or super soft sheets? How about those jeans/jackets/t-shirts that fit you like a glove and make you happy just putting them on? When you look around you, you’ll see it’s the little things that add up to a whole lotta gratitude.
With Thanksgiving a week away, start noticing now the specifics of your gratitude. Maybe you’re grateful for your family/friends, but what specifically about them? That they make you laugh? That they comfort you when you need? If that’s not your area of gratitude, what is? Where can you turn your focus right now to elevate your mood and open your heart? Allow an appreciation for what is in this moment versus trying to fix/solve/make better what is going on in your life. The more you feel gratitude for the present moment by focusing on the little things, the more joy will come in. 
And if you’re having a bad day and nothing sounds good, then know that I love you and I am supporting you right now as you read this. Sometimes just knowing someone out there cares, can be the little thing that makes all the difference.

​