What a month it has been!
The flood waters have come and gone, leaving destruction in their path.
Many lives have been impacted in so many unimaginable ways. The selfless and heroic efforts of so many have lifted our spirits in these dire times.
Stress is out of control for most of us and just over the past few weeks people have been calling about nervous stomach issues. Many of us are putting on a brave face after the hardships of the pandemic, but losing everything is much different to the threat of loss. Not trying to diminish the hardships on families
with the pandemic, but with the omicron wave many have caught the virus and survived.
This kind of stress is different, it has the added component of grieving caused by major widespread loss. The loss of our homes , business and livelihood has a much bigger impact on our stress levels which in turn affects our immune system and digestion in measurable ways.
Just the day-to-day stress can already cause a ‘nervous stomach’ as we have discussed this month in our Library. But now with all the extra stress and trauma of the flood it is even more important to use the power of thought for our physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
I realize many people in dire circumstances don’t want to hear “be more positive“ when they are in shock. In fact the madness of these times often sees people turning against each other, losing openness and compassion for others due to the devastation they are experiencing.
But this is a time for unity, understanding and tolerance. For ourselves as well as others.
Positive thinking plays an important role in what makes people happy and fulfilled. Research has found that positive thinking aides stress management and plays an important role in your overall health and wellbeing. It can help combat feelings of grief and help improve your overall outlook on life.
I am sure many of our readers know this information already but it doesn’t hurt to be reminded of it in extraordinary times.
Positive thinking does not necessarily mean avoiding or ignoring the bad aspects of life. Instead, it involves making the most of the potentially bad situations, trying to see the best in other people, and viewing yourself and your abilities in a positive light.
In recent years empirical research has found that there are many very real health benefits linked to positive thinking and optimistic attitudes. These are some of the documented benefits.
· Better stress management and coping skills
· Enhanced psychological health
· Greater resistance to illness
· Increased physical wellbeing
· Longer life span
· Lower rates of depression and anxiety
· Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease related death
As humans we have a lot of resilience and it often amazes me how even the worst situations can sometimes bring a lot of renewed clarity, energy and action into our lives.
I certainly prayed a lot during the flood and our clinic was spared. It was like we were on a little Island, surrounded by water.
As a way of supporting our community and all those who didn’t fare so well in the flood we will be donating $10 of every session in March via GIVIT.
In addition knowing that so many people have helped with the clean-up in the sewage infested waters, I am discounting our Herbal Fiberblend by 20% to help clean out those parasites that might have sneaked in.
Please try to stay positive, strong and healthy.
Sending good vibrations to all