When was the last time you took a step back to appreciate the fact that you’re able to see a new day or better yet, a new year? The holiday season brings a huge wave of togetherness and gratitude for most people with friends, family and community gatherings. After the busy season and while you’re recuperating from all the festivities, take a break and honor your body.
As we get older, it's only natural to want to spend time with those who have shared our life experiences. That's why retirement communities like Brandermill Woods invest so much in opportunities for our residents to socialize, learn and grow. We cultivate a supportive environment where everyone can feel comfortable, and where plenty of activities and amenities keep you active and engaged. Here, you can live your best life surrounded by friends and neighbors who care about you. Come see what all the buzz is about!
After a busy holiday season, we are taking a step back to reflect on gratitude and celebrate all that life has to offer. To join us in taking care of your body, mind and soul, here are five ideas for practicing gratitude this month:
1. Start a gratitude journal.
New Year's resolutions often focus on the things we wish to do and achieve, but the start of 2023 is a great opportunity to begin cultivating an attitude of gratitude. Keeping a "gratitude journal" is a powerful way to practice mindfulness, self-care and empowerment. Journaling our thankfulness for everything in life which brings joy can nurture our inner peace and give strength to fight whatever challenges may come up in days ahead. It doesn't require much time or effort—just a few moments here and there—but it can make all the difference in how we view ourselves and our lives throughout the year. Join the incredible optimism at Brandermill Woods by starting your own gratitude journal today!
2. Thank those who have made a difference in your life.
New Year's is a special time to check-in with yourself, practice mindfulness and take care of your mental and emotional well-being. Showing gratitude to those who have made an impact in our lives is important for self-empowerment. It's a way of saying thank you for the role they have played in our story, whether it be a teacher, friend or family member. This year, take time to offer a friendly thanks to the clerk who helps you out in a store, or write a letter to someone who has meant a lot to you over the years to express how you feel. Saying thank you is easy, but will fill you with joy.
3. Look for the best in every situation.
Practicing gratitude and self-care are easier if you can find the best in every situation, whatever that may look like for you. There’s an old Zen story called “The Farmer’s Luck,” in which a farmer’s horse runs away.
“Such bad luck,” the neighbors all say.
“Maybe,” said the farmer.
When the horse returned, two wild horses came with it. “Such good luck!” the neighbors all say.
“Maybe,” said the farmer.
The next day, the farmer’s son was thrown from one of those wild horses, breaking his leg. “Such bad luck,” the neighbors all say.
“Maybe,” said the farmer.
The next day, military officers come to draft the son, but seeing his leg is broken, they let him stay home from the war. “Such good luck!” the neighbors all say.
“Maybe,” said the farmer.
Self-care is all about remembering the “maybe” of the farmer—you never know what’s around the corner!
4. Help out a friend or neighbor in need.
Self-care isn't just about treating yourself; it's also about taking care of those close to you. Serving others is a powerful way to practice gratitude, empower yourself and grow personally. Providing help to a friend or neighbor in need offers an opportunity for meaningful connection and embodies the idea that we are all interconnected. Selfless service can be an important aspect of the mind-body connection, and by embracing the spirit of giving, we may find greater clarity and peace.
5. Surround yourself with positive people.
Gratitude has been scientifically proven to be an essential ingredient for a happy and fulfilled life. And the people we surround ourselves with play a big role in cultivating and maintaining gratitude. In fact, that’s one of the best reasons to consider moving into an independent living neighborhood. You absolutely cannot beat the social activities and the friendships formed in a retirement community—and everyone at Brandermill Woods is here for you with a bright smile and a warm welcome.
We hope you include us in your plans this year by contacting Brandermill Woods so we can help make your dreams come true. Come see what all the buzz is about! Contact us any time for a tour—we cannot wait to meet you!
