Another year around the sun

Every year as I reflect on my birthday and getting older, I always think about mom. How can I not? She always tried to make birthdays special for my brother and I, and my 3 kids. I'm mixed with emotions of sadness and gratitude for having lost her far too soon and feeling blessed she was in our lives as long as she was.

Yes, practicing mindfulness is about the practice of being present. Not living in the past or worrying about the future. Yet, reflection is often part of mindfulness. It's where we find sentiments of gratitude and remember those who came before us; those who had a part to play in my being right here, right now, in the present moment.

One way to cultivate calm, is through journal writing and reflection. In my book, Focused Moments: Connecting through stories and mindful leadership, co-written with my good friend, Dr. Danielle Lord, there are many short stories and vignettes followed by questions to ponder. One journal prompt displays a photo of a beautiful sunrise in Tianjin City followed by, "how many sunrises have you experienced?"

How many sunrises have I experienced? What strikes me here is the word "experienced". Yes, I've seen many sunrises before, but experienced? Probably not as many.

Creative journalling is a way to slow down and stay present, even while reflecting. When I really stop to look at the photo of the gorgeous sunrise, it's awe-inspiring, and I'm sure even more so for the person who was there to take the actual photo. (*photographer unknown)

I have to say, I've experienced more sunsets than sunrises. I'm not really a morning person. However, there's something really special about waking up with the sun.

Words that come to mind are:

• peace

• new beginning

• calm

• fresh

• refreshed

• wonder

• awe

What words come to mind for you? How many sunrises have you experienced?

I think I would like to experience more sunrises. Starting the day off with some fresh air, watching the sunrise, feeling the cool breeze, wrapped up in my cozy robe and slippers, watching my breath curl and circulate with the steam from my coffee.... that's an experience. Slowing down, noticing, feeling, breathing.....experiencing another year around the sun.

Here's to more beautiful sunrises!

Mindfully yours,

Anika