Avoiding Frenzy

Cave Spring in Carter County, MO just outside of Hunter, MO

Boy oh boy, a few minutes of listening to news or skimming through it online can drive us to frenzy! Remember, in times like these:

*The sun shines. A blue sky is bold and brilliant.

*The grass grows. I won’t run out of something to do.

*Nature broadcasts. I can listen to songs of birds, rustles of a turtle in leaves, chatterings of a squirrel eyeing me from a bobbing limb. I can, but I don’t often enough.

*Nature provides infinite images. I focus on the treescape through the car window and count the variations of green in that space. Then I notice the colors against the green foliage and blue sky backdrop. What a palette! ‘Twould be practicing mindfulness if I took just seconds to do this multiple times a day.

*Water soothes. Whether ripples on a lake, gurgles in the creek, currents in a river, I seek chances to relax in serene settings that include it. Even energizing showers or soothing baths can be antidotes to anxiety.

*Music mends moods. With just a fingertip I can tune into a magnificent symphony, a jazz/blues/swing masterpiece, a familiar folk tune or comforting hymn. Singing along multiplies benefits.

*Movement motivates. The first nod, clap, sway or step flips a switch to attitude alterations.

*Connections assure. There are folks who matter to me, and I to them. I work to keep communication current. I vent sometimes; I don’t want to be a chronic complainer.

*Creativity diverts the negative. Amazing talent abounds here - from painting to playing/composing music to sewing to gardening/cooking to writing/photography to designing/constructing, etc.

*Laughter enlivens. I laugh often. I search for it and share it.

Sorry, frenzy. I am trying to reduce my trips.