Is this a difficult time of you for you too? Since my dad died, Thanksgiving and Christmas have been tough. I’ve been on edge lately, more emotional and anxious. Lethargic too, I’m tired all the time. I find myself stuffing my face with food even when I’m not hungry. Can anyone else relate?
So what should we do during a difficult time or year, or any period in our lives when we feel a little down?
1-Focus on gratitude. I have a roof over my head, food on my table and clothes on my back. I call these the three basic gratitudes. I also have running water, electricity, family and friends, a car, a job and I can go on and on. We all have problems, but also have quite a lot.
2-Move around. It’s cold outside and I’m tired and all I want to do is sit on my couch and veg out. I bet you do too. But try to move a little each day. Forget all out cardio, sometimes all I can manage is a short walk and some stretches on the floor. I tell myself, it’s a start.
3-Make healthy food choices. Regarding the first paragraph I wrote, I’m not stuffing my face with carrots and hard boiled eggs. I’m eating unhealthy meals and snacks. Cheese and crackers are my personal go to food when I want something easy and quick. And don’t get me started on hot cocoa. Once I start eating poorly, it’s downhill for the rest of the day. Small changes, adding an apple to my lunch, eating a salad before dinner seem to help.
Honestly, I still feel stressed and crappy sometimes. So during this difficult time of year I think the most important thing we can do for ourselves is…
4-Be gentle with ourselves. It’s ok to feel that way I do, hard times are difficult. We can’t expect to always feel great. It will pass and it will come again. This week, I choose to be gentle with myself. I’m grateful for that wisdom.
What are you grateful for this week?
Yours in Gratitude,
Angela
Thank you for the gratitude reminder ! During this move to a new and smaller home I also have developed poor habits. One of which is fast food because I live down the block now from a variety of fast food places. So once I get all these boxes unpacked (Oh oh rationalizing- another bad habit ) I will settle down and get into a healthy mode. In the meantime I intend to enjoy this Christmas season and to celebrate the fact that Jesus was/is born.
No matter where you are, at this time of year it seems to be difficult to eat healthy. Add the stress of moving and we’re in the same place. Thanks for sharing!
Well, you described me to a “T.” Since my mother’s passing in August, I am a mess. Thank you, Angela, for articulating your feelings so beautifully. I send you my love and gratitude as we make our way into a new year.
I think of you often Mindy. Some days are worse than others. And some days are better than others. Those are the good days. I wish a peaceful New Year for you and your family.
Your dad has a sweet face. I miss mine every day.
Thanks Donna. I miss him every day too.
So much truth there…as hard as it is, getting up each day is a gift. I can also relate to the food issues…if I don’t keep it reigned in, I will sit on the sofa and just veg out…
I’m grateful for a warm house, a fire in the fireplace…that is my comfort during the winter…and for that I am very grateful. Hugs to you sweet Angela.
You paint a cozy picture of gratitude Sandy. Thanks for sharing.