“I think abundance, to me, would be the feeling that not only do you have what you need and what you want, but you feel like you have the ability to give to others.” Shawn Achor

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been enjoying the warmer spring temperatures outside.  Everything is blooming and what always amazes me is the sheer abundance of nature.  This got me thinking about different kinds of abundance in our lives and the myriad of ways that we can share this with others.  In May I had the pleasure of providing complimentary Indian Head Massages for some very hard working child and youth workers.  This experience reminded me that sharing our abundance often boosts our own happiness too!  
Shawn Achor, a world renowned Happiness Researcher, author and creator of Happiness Advantage training, suggests we can improve our happiness levels in just two minutes a day over 21 days.   The concept is really very simple, but can have a big impact.  It is featured in the Wellness tip of the month below!

​Wellness tip for June: Sharing Abundance
Make a list of 21 people who have had a positive impact on your life (big or small, from any domain in your life) or who have been helpful/doing a great job.  Every morning for 21 days, email, text or write one of these people.  What you say doesn’t have to be fancy.  You can write one or two lines to recognize them, thank them or offer positive praise!  You will be surprised how this simple exercise will not only boost their happiness, but yours!

"Self-care is not selfish.  You cannot serve from an empty vessel." Eleanor Brown

As a mother, wife, daughter, caregiver and holistic health practitioner, I feel that this quote really speaks to me!  I have noticed all too often that many of us put our own health at risk by doing too much and not caring enough for ourselves. 

Mental Health Week this year is May 7-13th.  Nearly all of us have had personal experience with mental illness in ourselves or in those close to us.  Whatever our experiences, it is important to keep in mind that everyone can work towards mental health.  The Canadian Mental Health Association says that mental health is more than just the absence of illness.  Mental health means having a good sense of self, purpose, hope, resilience and belonging.  How you feel about yourself and other people impacts your mental health which is key to your overall health.  

So what does mental health mean to you?  How are you looking after it?  If you would like more information on this topic, please check out: mentalhealthweek.ca.
                                                                                            
​Wellness tip for May:
Reflexology point for Anxiety:  ​Reflexing the solar plexus point is a powerful, but inconspicuous way to help you manage your own stress levels.  When you start to feel anxious, use one of your thumbs to press and hold your opposite hand between your 3rd and 4th fingers about a third of the way down your palm.  You can hold this point for 1-2 minutes to help encourage deep breathing and a sense of wellbeing!