Putting Humpty Together Again

 Have you ever felt a bit like Humpty Dumpty in the children's nursery rhyme?  Like there's a crack in your exterior shell and your confidence and faith have been shaken? Like you've been slapped in the face and told to wake up and see things from a new perspective?

 Sometimes, life throws too much at us at once and it can be tough to regroup and go on with the day- to -day routines.  Loss and difficult times can make us intensely aware of the fragility of life, of the need to just "be here now" and fully appreciate every moment.

Personally, I have been going through such a time lately and I would like to share what I have found to be helpful. These thoughts may seem simplistic, but there are times in life when simple is best.  

• Go outside first thing in the morning; smell the spring air, see the sunrise, listen to the birds, notice the crocuses and daffodils; place your bare feet on the ground and imagine you have roots that drink in nourishment from the earth.
• Take a walk, preferably in nature. The rhythm of walking is soothing and restorative.
• Practice gratitude, for everything, starting with the gift of life. Keep a journal, writing down everything you are thankful for; remember these things when you're feeling sad or disconnected.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables, which are balancing and life-giving.
• Sing, chant, listen to music...song is healing and restorative.
• Get away if you can-travel somewhere beautiful (and warm!).  Visit loved ones you haven't seen in a while; tell them that you love them.
• Get outside and dig in the dirt, clear away debris (literally and figuratively).  The soil has microorganisms that are beneficial to our mental health.
• Keep praying; don't blame God for the bad things, just accept them and ask for the strength to move on and allow your heart to heal.

So there's my list; I'm sure you can think of more, but the idea is to always focus on right here, right now, start with today and be grateful for what is (even if it's less than ideal!).

And remember, cracks in our shell can be beautiful-they let the light shine out!