Sunny Day Therapy's Blog- Helping Children & Caregivers Shine, Do, and Thrive

“Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it. And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places.”- Ronald Dahl

Ronald Dahl’s quote reminds me of the importance of mindfulness and intention. We want to direct our sails towards the people, environments, and lessons that lift us up. Like trimming the dead branches of a tree, our brains naturally prune the dendrites of our neurons… making us stronger by getting rid of the excess information that weighs us down and strengthening the connections of the lessons and thoughts that nurture our success. Each action starts with a step; each step starts with a thought. We build positive patterns by placing one foot after another. The first step is merely believing that there is “magic” out there to be found and opening our eyes to look for it. When we don’t have the energy or spirit at the time to see it, we can look to our mentors and friends for help. Research suggests that practicing gratitude with mindfulness helps improve improve health. At bedtime, even when I don’t feel grateful, I try to count and name at least 3 people or places/experiences I am thankful for in my life. It helps me find the perspective to focus on the big picture…. like a camera zooming out, I see the context of my life and realize that I am grateful and growing even on days I don’t feel like it. Gratitude is how we make our minds ripe for seeing magic and ripe for action. Let’s do this thing called life. #livinglifetoitsfullest #occupationaltherapy