People who I respect commented on my improved state of wellbeing and sensed a new energy within me.

I am no stranger to changes and challenges in mood, having lived with a mental health ‘condition’ for about ten years. At the same time, I like to think that a Spirit of love, compassion, kindness and truth has permeated my varied experiences – from depression and low mood to elation and groundlessness along with an intolerance for the ordinary emotions of life.

Two surprises have shifted things in a positive direction over the last few months. The first came from Dr Khan, a consultant psychiatrist at my local mental health service. He blasted me with tough love when he heard of my symptom of low mood, feeling three on a scale of ten a lot of the time. He said, “You should be married with a family, have a fulfilling job, and experience meaning and purpose in life.”

Continue reading “Open to surprises” →

1) Positivity: Gravitating towards the brighter side of life.
2) Good Relationships: Close connections with a wide variety of people.
3) Open to Surprises: Going with the unpredictable changes and challenges.
4) Happy with the Little Things: Finding delight and joy in ordinary life, be it the greenness of the grass or the taste of tea or coffee.
5) Enthusiasm: Eager and keen to get stuck into work, hobbies and projects.
6) Being Loving: Taking risks to share in the life of others, even if it hurts or breaks our heart.
7) Sense of Humour: Ready to burst out with a smile, laugh or joke including making fun of ourselves.

*I will expand on each of the signs over the coming weeks