The Art of Ritual
You may have noticed that I always include a ritual practice in each of my newsletters. I do this because ritual invites us to slow down and step into the sacred rhythm of our lives. Through ritual, we expand our emotional landscape, honor the thresholds of change, and tend the grief that inevitably accompanies love and loss. Rituals also help us manage our emotions and stress. They offer steadiness and meaning amid life’s constant challenges.
When Times Are Turbulent, Cultivate Gratitude
Gratitude arises naturally in humans and other primates. It is woven into our very nature. When we become aware of the good things in the world or the gifts we have received, a quiet sense of thankfulness can emerge. This awareness doesn’t deny suffering in others or in ourselves. Gratitude is not a matter of positive thinking; it is a deeper recognition that our lives are sustained by sources beyond our own.
Celebrate Your Ancestors on the Day of the Dead
Psychologists now promote continuing bonds with deceased loved ones, recognizing that maintaining an ongoing relationship can bring comfort, support, and stability, especially during times of transition or hardship. Similarly, creating connection with both named and unnamed ancestors can strengthen one’s identity and foster a profound sense of belonging.