There is a long (but often neglected) western tradition of interest in salutogenesis, the origins of health, which is concerned with understanding the causes of health as opposed to pathogenesis, the origins of disease.
It’s a quandary that at a time when we are predisposed to hibernate with a need to curl up in front of the fire there are many demands to exercise our will in all manner of goals and resolutions for the New Year. I will try my hand at something different this year.
It would be fun to experiment a little this New Year and see if we can each find a way- a small ritual perhaps to start or end our day that brings tenderness and kindness…
“The most important aspect of the practice of grateful living is trust in life.” by Brother David Steindl Rast
Simple pleasures are different for all of us. I have had a few unexpected pleasures this week. Although the winter sun beaming through the windows is hard to beat. What are yours?
Affection broadens our minds: of all natural loves, it teaches us first to notice, then to endure, then to smile at, then to enjoy, and finally to appreciate, the people who ‘happen to be there.’ CS Lewis
December can be a beautiful last month of the year with light, love, music, good food, and wonderful people. Let’s reduce the pressure and pick a few important things to focus our attention and effort on.
I know nothing about enlightenment and I do not pursue it. I have, however, read about it so I am aware that it seems to have something to do with waking up.
“Our challenge is not to choose between the fragility and strength of life but to cultivate our wonder by holding both in our heart.” Mark Nepo
This day prompts me to also take stock and remember my family and friends who have died not though war but through illness and old age. I have anchored this practice of remembering to the 11th of November.
