When Hard Times Are Upon You.

Gosh life can get so hard at times can’t it.

Just when things are going along smoothly and you’re feeling happy and pleased with yourself and your life, bang! Up comes something, often totally unexpected that knocks you around and challenges your peace of mind and happiness.

So how do you not just endure and get through these times, but feel calm and confident in yourself and your ability to handle all life’s situations – and the people involved.

My body does weird stuff. I have ME/ CFS and Fibromyalgia, an illness – often termed a ‘mystery, invisible illness’ because of it’s myriad of debilitating symptoms even though the person often looks well and not sick at all. It’s also still termed a bit of a mystery because up until fairly recently, not much serious research had gone into discovering why the illness affects millions of people, what causes it and more importantly, how to cure it. Statistics show that only about 4% of sufferers experience long term recovery. The rest, like myself, find ways to manage and create the best life possible, despite the restrictions brought about by the illness.

I’m fortunate to know I have choices – that’s what keeps me sane and constantly progressing towards my goal of perfect health. I’m fully aware that I can wallow in self pity and frustration or keep my thoughts focused on my aims and what I want, not what I don’t want. It’s often not easy, but it’s always possible.

That’s where Mindfulness comes in – it helps me to always be aware of my feelings and what I want to do about them. My ongoing practices of Meditation and Mindfulness, along with my super healthy plant based organic nutrition plan and a great deal of time spent outdoors in nature, all help me to keep things in perspective and continue to focus on gratitude for who I am and what I have.

Mindfulness reminds me to check in with myself often and ensure my thoughts are focussed on love and gratitude and all the blessings in my life.

Know what you’re thinking and adjust accordingly, (especially during those difficult times-even though it can be harder), practice slowing down and quietening your mind with love and kindness and Every Day Gets Better.