Last week was dull and gloomy…….down coat, hat and scarf weather. People shuffled around NYC a bit worn down by the news and weather,
Today the world shifted……..60 degrees and sunny……..daylight savings time and in a blink the streets were filled with happy, friendly people….opening doors for each other talking to strangers, smiling……..lines went around the block for ice cream and frozen yogurt.
The restaurants and parks were full of happy people. A feeling of hope was in the air.
So, the real question is how can we stay open, heart centered and hopeful in these challenging times regardless of the weather?
Yes, gently warm days with sunshine do make a difference to our immune system and has a direct biological effect on the brain: like the release of serotonin (the feel-good chemical), the production of more vitamin D to elevate your nervous system and dopamine which affects your pleasure center and gets you more motivated.
But if we let ourselves go up and down because of outside circumstances that means we have become reactive not proactive.
First, get in the habit of making conscious choices when you wake up. Say to yourself, “today is going to be filled with adventure” or “today I choose peace in my heart mind and spirit”…You pick!
Then, surround yourself with happy colors, scents and sounds
Orange for joy
Red for energy and passion
Pink and green to sooth your spirit
Citrus fruits to uplift your spirit
Music that makes you want to dance
Be in natural light or get a bright light therapy machine
Check with your doctor to make sure you are getting enough Vitamin D
Being with friends increases dopamine and oxytocin and endorphins which stimulate your mood.
And of course you can always move to a different climate!
With love,
Barbara
P.S. I'll be in Los Angeles the week of March 23, and I'm holding space for a few private sessions while I'm there — including Personal Alignment Sessions, Readings, Space Clearings, and one intimate Spring Visioning gathering. Spring is a powerful recalibration point, and if you feel called to work together in person, simply reply to this email and we'll find a time.
If someone comes to mind — a friend, a founder, or a collaborator standing at a new edge — feel free to make an introduction. Each season asks something new of us. Spring asks us to rise.