I am still getting my feet wet with this blog writing thing. I don't consider myself a writer really but, sometimes words just come naturally, especially words of the heart. I've recently started a gratitude journal. There have been studies on how just writing down a few things you are grateful for each week can be a game-changer to your overall outlook on life. I also don't consider myself a journaller, but yoga has opened me up to writing down mindful moments. And, honestly, if a successful icon like Oprah keeps a gratitude journal, then there must be something to it. She says, "You radiate and generate more goodness for yourself when you're aware of all you have and not focusing on your have-nots" in her "10 Ways to Rediscover Everything You've Got" article (Oprah.com). I'm sharing this with you because its actually working for me! Most importantly, I've noticed how peaceful it makes me. So perhaps gratitude=peace? That thought of "counting your blessings" and focusing on the things you have does put you at ease. Try it! What are you grateful for this very moment? I can't read your mind, but that one thing is likely to cancel out any stressful moment you may have had today. There are outside entities that may have an effect on you each day (work, money, people, etc), but being at peace and knowing you are making the best of what you have is essential to a positive living.
My main point in saying all of this is that in the grander scheme of things, with all of the chaos in the world, recent terror attacks, politics, mind-boggling news and more, we must find peace within ourselves. Find what works for you. Whether it is journalling, reading, meditating, singing, dancing, taking long walks on the beach; make the positive choice to find that peaceful place every day. You will thank yourself. ;)
Peace out - Lee-Ann