The Christmas season is here and there is a special spirit in the air. For many, this time can be very difficult as there are loved ones gone and challenging life difficulties, but we are given a life on this earth to accomplish much and there are many reasons to celebrate this season. Here are just a few:
5. For our Dancing: Children love to dance. So why is it that by the time we are adults, we stop dancing? Besides the improved physical attributes brought on by dancing, there are emotional improvements as well. Depending on whether we dance with a partner, group or by ourselves, dancing can reduces stress, anxiety, and depression.
“Extensive research has been invested into the benefits dancing has on mental health and research has identified that “dance and movement are known to have physical and psychological benefits for those with mental illness” (Sarah Cook, Dance Researcher from University of Sheffield, England)
Dancing with a Zumba group helps to keep physically fit, while just swaying with a partner improve endorphins, creates a closeness and the feeling of security. Dancing in a group builds friendships and establishes a feeling of well-being. Dancing is definitely on the top five reasons list to be thankful.
4. For our Laughter: Seeing the funny side of life helps to keep us lighthearted. It can derail an argument and save us from embarrassing situations. “One of the best feelings in the world is a deep-rooted belly laugh” (https://www.gaiam.com/blogs/discover/7-health-benefits-of-laughter) It’s powerful enough to boost our immune systems and help fight off illness. We trigger endorphins which are the body’s natural painkillers. Even through difficult situations, a good laugh produces a general sense of well-being. Laughter is an important reason to be thankful for the season.
3. For our Purpose: Knowing our purpose in life is a great reason to be thankful during this Christmas season. It can guide our life decisions and influence our sense of direction. Whether a full-time care taker, single mom or CEO of a major corporation, our purpose keeps us connected to who we are. It’s the foundation of our existence. Being thankful for our purpose here on earth keeps us motivated and improves our outlook on life.
From bestselling author, Shannon Kaiser says to “drop from your head to your heart. Your heart is your best tool to access your true purpose and passion. Ask yourself what you love? Start taking steps to do what you love. When you are inspired and connected to your happy self, inspiration floods your heart and soul. When you lead from your heart, you are naturally more joyful and motivated to explore. By doing what you love, you will be inspired and gain insights into what brings you the most joy.” https://www.huffpost.com/entry/3-unexpected-ways-to-find_b_5176511
Our purpose is most important to us in our life. We can be thankful for being alive; that we exist and can contribute to the world in a positive way.
2. For our Families: There is nothing like the companionship of our families to help us be grateful for the Christmas season. To have a happy and safe family is the real test of a successful life. The family is the building block of society where values are taught and relationships are formed. When we bring happiness and safety to our families, we are providing for the future.
There is such a great need for connection in the family. We need parents to care about their children. We need kindness, fairness, appreciation, and laughter along with the feeling of safety in our homes. The home should be a place for positive communication.
Be grateful for your family, even if it’s not the best environment. Get rid of the negative and work together with your family to make it better.
The number one reason to be thankful for this season:
1. For our Creator: Our sacred responsibility is to acknowledge our Creator. It’s empowering to manifest gratitude and get to know the character of the Creator.
Talk to Him: No matter how simple your words, what matters are your sincere desires. Sincerity is required when you talk to the Creator. Your words must be from the heart.
Listen to Him: Listen with your ears and heart. Often the answers are small and subtle, so be prepared to learn and recognize simple answers.
Observe Him: Observe and enjoy the beauty of the universe, the earth and everything on it. For example, the smell of a fresh rain, the laughter of your children, or the sight of a beautiful sunset.
Add more ideas to this list and before we know it, we can realize for ourselves all the blessings we have been given in this life. With this realization, we can feel gratitude for the season. Materialism will be at a minimum, our December will be more enjoyable and we will feel a great joy.