As I write this, I’m aware that some of you lovely readers are in the Northern Hemisphere and are embarking on their autumnal journey, another glorious season, filled with colours and different experiences.
Spring has sprung early here in New Zealand. Although today is only the 2nd day of spring “officially”, nature has its own rhythm and we’ve been enjoying the seasonal joys of new life emerging for a couple of weeks already. Blossom, daffodils and ducklings have all graced my property and I am feeling blessed to be alive to witness spring faithfully emerging.
As I’m sitting at my desk and looking out at the stark branches with nubs of new buds becoming increasingly visible, the pale blue sky and warm rays inviting me outside, I’m stirred with thankfulness and wonder at the intricacies of the seasons unfolding before my eyes.
NOTICING has become more of ‘a thing’ recently with the rise of mindfulness, and has been accredited with aiding mental health relief, reducing anxiety and instilling a sense of calm. Noticing the little things, like taking time to observe the wonders of a budding bud, the delicate fragrance of jasmine on a cool breeze for example, brings us into the present moment and changes our brain chemistry! And, therefore our mood.
I invite you to take 5 minutes to go outside and look, really look and watch, observe without judgement, using all of your 5 senses. Take a couple of long slow deep breaths. Slow down and check-in and ask yourself, “what can I see, what can I smell, what can I hear, from near and afar?” Notice the varying textures of plants or buildings, taste the salty sea breeze as you inhale. You’ll be amazed how this non-medical procedure can re-calibrate your nervous system, change your perspective and improve your day.
In this very moment all is well.
©Karen Lighthouse 2022
Namaste..
Thanks for reading and take care until next time.
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Words by Karen Lighthouse.
I also offer –
- One-on-one counselling/coaching via Zoom
- Group facilitation
- Mental health education
- Oracle card readings
Email me at: karenlighthouse59@gmail.com
Words from the Lighthouse 
Love the photo you shared from your window & love the wording and everything about this. It’s a beautiful thing to be mindful in this busy world we live in😰 I think nature definitely helps & somedays I just have to give myself a nudge to step outside and soak in my surroundings for the sake of my mental health
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Glad that you recognise the connection between nature and mental health ….so true
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I find that I have to make the (small) effort to narrow my focus to a particular space to truly be able to visually appreciate the beauty in it, otherwise it gets diminished in the length and breadth of the rest of the world. Not sure if that made sense – lol!
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Absolutely makes sense! Yes, focusing on one detail is powerful and not always easy as there’s so much else clamouring for our attention!
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