Day 342

Day 342

I took over 6600 steps yesterday distributing the paper. It was a lovely day and I was greeted at all the stops. Also shopped to restock the empty refrigerator, and had a haircut. It was a good day. I want more good days with a stable mood and energy to fill my agenda. Finally have an end to the 1099 problem with a long call that brought us to a solution. I don’t want to do that again.

February Senior News column

We all know how to insure the health of our physical heart: no smoking, exercise, eat right, but how many of us take care of our emotional heart. What if no smoking means finding new ways to handle anger and frustration, exercise means changing the way we talk to ourselves, and eating right means finding nourishing people and activities.

We cannot always avoid conflicts and we can keep in mind that our words can prevent uncomfortable situations without resorting to angry outbursts. If the anger or an improper subject matter is coming toward us, we can visualize a protective bubble surrounding us with love while we try to understand what is really going on. We can find our voices and use our words. We can ask questions about what is happening. Often misunderstandings cause problems and can be fixed with calming words. Can’t find the keys? After looking everywhere and becoming frustrated, prevent it from happening again by keeping a second set of keys in a safe place.

The way we talk to ourselves can make us sad. Mistakes happen. By reminding ourselves to do better in the future, we can let go of the self-criticism. We can be our own cheer leaders and recognize all the good things we accomplish. Wisdom comes with experiences, good and bad.

We can find like-minded people in churches, clubs, classes, exercise groups, senior centers, all over the place. There is no need to stay in relationships that are toxic and undermine our self-confidence and peace of mind. Look around. Our people are there for the finding. One of the best ways to have a happy heart is to have a best friend. Nothing soothes like a close chat, a few laughs, warm hugs, or a shared meal with someone who understands our situations and lets us return the feelings of safety and comfort.

Our hearts are strong when we love and are loved in return. Gratitude makes our hearts smile as does compassion, and grace. Loving Nature in all her glory, acknowledging that we get to live here by the ocean, rivers, and our magnificent forests. Just getting out and walking in our neighborhoods can give us appreciation and satisfaction in our lives.

Let’s let February be Heart Healthy Month both physically and emotionally by following the guidelines for keeping the organ happy and by keeping our emotional heart smiling.