I have often heard that when we experience hardships we are being strengthened by God. So, it seems appropriate to say that we should be happy or joyful when we encounter conflicts, because as we are forced to deal with them, we come out stronger at the end. Maybe it is not easy, but simple, when you think about it. With each trial we become stronger and better. Of course, we don't see that while we are in the midst of the trials.
Patience is another virtue I think most of us miss, and I am very guilty of that. I want things to be fixed NOW, get an answer or a solution to a problem NOW, get over an illness NOW, and so on. Have you ever been in a grocery line that doesn't move, or behind a slow driver, or a traffic jam, when you are late for an appointment? How about dealing with an individual who, in your estimation, is not doing things fast enough? Don't you want to scream? and tell them off... as if that would fix the delay. Sometimes, that person is me. On the other hand, my husband, Galen, is the opposite. He is patient with everybody and everything. Nothing phases him. If he cannot fix it, why get all upset over it? He always allows enough time on the road, so no matter who is in front of him, he will still get to his appointment on time. He is calm, cool and patient in all situations (well, at least most). I am working on becoming more patient and understanding, one little step at a time, and I know I have a long ways to go. I try to go outside with nature, and enjoy watching the birds and hear their beautiful songs. I love listening to the rain, and thunder. Nature can calm you down. Go to a quiet place and just close your eyes and be intune of the environment, and your surroundings.
Something I read about the other day made me feel so fortunate and so blessed. The "scientists" and "researchers" have now discovered/concluded that sunrises and sunsets are good for our health! When we lived in California our backyard faced the East, and I used to enjoy a cup of hot coffee early in the morning, watching the amazing sunrise. Although we had a great 185 view, and could also enjoy sunsets, they were nothing compared to the sunsets I have experienced here in Bella Vista, Arkansas. Our backyard faces the West, and we get the most spectacular sunsets. I have seen the most unusual colors in the sky, over the lake, at dusk, especially after a rain storm! I am never tired of taking pictures every time I encounter these amazing colors. What a privilidge to observe this awesome creation on earth.
So, these studies have shown that these daily sunrises and sunsets, are very calming, soothing and therapeutic for us. In Canada, doctors started prescribing "forest baths" to patients suffering from anxiety, and suggest to patients to get up a bit earlier so they can observ a sunrise, or timing a walk in the evening so they can see the sunsets. I remember as a little girl, living in Istanbul, Turkey, that many people who were suffering from anxiety, depression and various mental isssues, were sent to "sanitariums", usually in the mountains and forest areas, where the air was clean and they could clear their minds in nature. They got the benefit of the healing powers of nature and the outdoors, which has the ability to clear our minds, improve our moods and emotions, and help our overall well-being. I am surprised that we need scientists to confirm these things that should be just common sence.
When you see a scary and violent movie it does NOT improve your well-being, although some would probably disagree with me. When you are in nature observing a sunset or sunrise your mood is improved! No need to do a study. THAT is the study. Today we have a gloomy day, as we expect another rain storm this evening. It is a little depressing, not like when we have a beautiful, sunny day. Anyway, according to these studies published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, the effects of these fleeting moments of awe we experience, were never measured before. Hoever, since they now are measured, and proven..... well, I guess, it is official.
So, next time you get a dose of the winter blues, you will know what to do. Go outside and observ the daily natural phenomena, and they will have a positive impact on your mental health. Trust me.. you will feel happier and more aprreciative of what you have been blessed with.
Enjoy your week, and don't forget to change your clocks tomorrow morning, 2AM.
...1 hour forward.
