A Healthy Acceptance

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“It’s not your fault, but it is your responsibility.” 

Those words jumped out at me from an interview I was listening to online.  They resonated so deeply, I’ve found myself thinking about them again and again.  There is such truth, wisdom and emotional depth in that one simple statement.   Let me set the context.

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10 Ways to Start a Journal

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If last week’s post ‘10 Health Benefits of Journaling‘ inspired you to pick up your pen, here are some different ideas to get you started. There really is a journaling style for everyone, whether you want to simply jot down a few points or devote a whole book to a specific area of your life.  I’ve started a new Pinterest board on journaling here.  It’s full of how-to guides and images to spark inspiration.Read More

Spring

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I’ve been eagerly waiting for spring.  I’ve watched as fields and hedgerows slowly turn green.  I’ve looked out for colourful bulbs working their way up from the ground.  I’ve sat outside as the sun has teased me with its warmth.  I’ve felt relief as the days have started to stretch out and happiness as the birds have begun their first joyful song.  I long for the fresh energy that spring brings; the new growth, colour and light, and the endless possibilities that come with a new start. Read More

Mini Mindfulness Teachers

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“How do you make the sky, Mummy?”  It was a glimpse into the beautiful world that my four year old Little Niece D lives in.  It’s a world full of wonder, with little expectation and plenty of interest.  Two year old Little Niece P sings herself to sleep.  “Wind the bobbin up.  Pull, pull, clap, clap, clap.  Hooray!”  She’s not being pulled into the past, ruminating about her day, or pushed into the future, worrying about tomorrow.  At 8.30 every morning, I hear two young boys whoop with delight as they scoot down the hill to school.  Their joy is infectious.  It reminds me to start each new day with a smile. Read More

Hidden Gifts

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A seat belt digs into my shoulder.  The wheels of my chair are clamped to the ambulance floor.  I rub my eyes against the glaring blue light.  I yawn.  Even the kitties had sleepy faces this morning.  My tummy rumbles.  My breakfast is in my rucksack, out of reach.  We left two hours ago.  Where are we?  I’m going to be late.  I need to get to my appointment.  Where have the hospital drivers gone?  Are they lost again?  I try to peer out of the window.  It’s grey.  It’s gloomy.  We’re in the middle of a housing estate, goodness knows where.  And then I see it.  TIVENDALE.  It’s the block of flats named after my Great-Grandfather, Thomas Tivendale, Mayor of Hornsey 1951-2.  I’m home.  I’m present.  I’m where I’m supposed to be.  I’ve uncovered a little gift and I cannot help but smile.Read More