Month: November 2022

Wednesday, November 30

Today is Wednesday, November 30, 2022. Reflecting on the past month and looking ahead.

A quote by Arianna Huffington.  “Living in a state of gratitude is the gateway to grace”

Photo by: Werner Baumgarten

November is the month of Gratitude. As the month closes, consider how to show gratitude for friends.

  • Be fully present when together
  • Send them a handwritten note of appreciation
  • Share a homemade meal
  • Be available and reliable
  • Share a photo from a special time

Practice this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind whenever you need a moment to reset – while waiting, before, after, or to transition between activities.

Establishing a regular practice of pausing makes it easier to reset when you need it the most. You can start your practice at any time, even now.

  • Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.  
  • Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale. 
  • Take 3 minutes to check in with your body:
    • In the first minute, ask how am I doing now—am I stressed, am I angry, am I peaceful?
    • In the second minute, focus on breathing.
    • In the third minute, focus on feeling the way breathing affects your body.

Recharge yourself, tap into your strength and share positive energy when you repeat:  

“I am [*Name*]. I can do this. This is temporary. I have successfully handled difficult challenges in the past. As I connect to my inner self, I am open to the Happiness and positive energy around me. I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP 

Monday, November 28

Today is Monday, November 28, 2022. Noticing the squirrels jumping from tree to tree.

A quote by Jay Shetty.  “There are so many things in the world that could be invisible to the material eye, and when you take a moment to stop, to pause, to be present and notice them—that’s gratitude.”

Photo by: Kenneth Keifer

November is the month of Gratitude. Thinking about ways to show gratitude for nature.

  • Plant a tree
  • Pick up litter
  • Leave some food for the winter birds and squirrels
  • Walk more

Practice this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind whenever you need a moment to reset – while waiting, before, after, or to transition between activities.

Establishing a regular practice of pausing makes it easier to reset when you need it the most. You can start your practice at any time, even now.

  • Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.  
  • Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale. 
  • Take 3 minutes to check in with your body:
    • In the first minute, ask how am I doing now—am I stressed, am I angry, am I peaceful?
    • In the second minute, focus on breathing.
    • In the third minute, focus on feeling the way breathing affects your body.

Recharge yourself, tap into your strength and share positive energy when you repeat:  

“I am [*Name*]. I can do this. This is temporary. I have successfully handled difficult challenges in the past. As I connect to my inner self, I am open to the Happiness and positive energy around me. I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP 

Friday, November 25

Today is Friday, November 25, 2022. Enjoying the energy all around today.

A quote by Mary Davis.  “The more grateful I am, the more beauty I see.”

Photo by: Callipso

November is the month of Gratitude. Our bodies are amazing machines with endless possibilities.  Consider taking some time to show gratitude towards yourself.

  • Go to sleep early, sleep in a little longer
  • Get cozy with a good book or watch your favorite movie
  • Savor a warm cup of tea
  • Go for a beautiful walk in nature
  • Take a warm soothing bath
  • Light candles

Practice this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind whenever you need a moment to reset – while waiting, before, after, or to transition between activities.

Establishing a regular practice of pausing makes it easier to reset when you need it the most. You can start your practice at any time, even now.

  • Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.  
  • Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale. 
  • Look up to the sky.
  • Let your mind relax into the awareness of the infinite open space.
  • If you wish, release your worries into the vast openness of the universe.

Recharge yourself, tap into your strength and share positive energy when you repeat:  

“I am [*Name*]. I can do this. This is temporary. I have successfully handled difficult challenges in the past. As I connect to my inner self, I am open to the Happiness and positive energy around me. I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP 

Wednesday, November 23

Today is Wednesday, November 23, 2022. In awe. This is the 500th post of The Daily Gift of Vitality. Thank you to all those who have inspired us, those who have shared quotes, comments, photos and those who continue to find ways to spread love and contribute by sharing their unique gifts with others.

A quote by Buddha, “Radiate boundless love towards the entire world.”

Photos embracing changing seasons by Dan Deziel, First snow of fall (above, submitted October 2022) & November sentinels

November is the month of Gratitude. Let’s explore possibilities, consider how our diversity can offer a bridge to connect us to each other.

Practice this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind whenever you need a moment to reset – while waiting, before, after, or to transition between activities.

Establishing a regular practice of pausing makes it easier to reset when you need it the most. You can start your practice at any time, even now.

  • Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.  
  • Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale. 
  • Look up to the sky.
  • Let your mind relax into the awareness of the infinite open space.
  • If you wish, release your worries into the vast openness of the universe.

Recharge yourself, tap into your strength and share positive energy when you repeat:  

“I am [*Name*]. I can do this. This is temporary. I have successfully handled difficult challenges in the past. As I connect to my inner self, I am open to the Happiness and positive energy around me. I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP 

Monday, November 21

Today is Monday, November 21, 2022. Receiving joy from new experiences.

A quote by Mandy Hale.  “To make a difference in someone’s life you don’t have to be brilliant, rich, beautiful, or perfect.  You just have to care.”

Photo in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, by Amy Laude, MD

November is the month of Gratitude.  Expressing gratitude can help us feel more positive emotions.  Consider sharing yourself with others from a place of gratitude:

  • Share joy maybe with a smile or a funny story
  • Share your time and talents by volunteering or mentoring with your favorite organization
  • Shovel your neighbor’s snow
  • Pick up some groceries for an elderly neighbor or a single parent

Practice this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind whenever you need a moment to reset – while waiting, before, after, or to transition between activities.

Establishing a regular practice of pausing makes it easier to reset when you need it the most. You can start your practice at any time, even now.

  • Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.  
  • Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale. 
  • Look up to the sky.
  • Let your mind relax into the awareness of the infinite open space.
  • If you wish, release your worries into the vast openness of the universe.

Recharge yourself, tap into your strength and share positive energy when you repeat:  

“I am [*Name*]. I can do this. This is temporary. I have successfully handled difficult challenges in the past. As I connect to my inner self, I am open to the Happiness and positive energy around me. I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP 

Friday, November 18

Today is Friday, November 18, 2022. The fresh crisp air invigorates my senses.

A quote by Maya Angelou.  “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”

Photo by: Marina_Poushkina

November is the month of Gratitude.  Expressing gratitude through creative gifts.  Gifts are symbols and can have significant meaning.  Make a homemade card for the special occasion. Put together a scrap book.  Include photos, articles, souvenirs, poems, stickers.

Practice this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind whenever you need a moment to reset – while waiting, before, after, or to transition between activities.

Establishing a regular practice of pausing makes it easier to reset when you need it the most. You can start your practice at any time, even now.

  • Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.  
  • Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale. 
  • Lengthen your neck and spine as you notice what part of your body is connecting you to the surface you are on, whether you are seated, laying down or standing.
  • Allow yourself to shift into a position that aligns your neck and spine in a neutral posture, releasing tension as you are fully supported.

Recharge yourself, tap into your strength and share positive energy when you repeat:  

“I am [*Name*]. I can do this. This is temporary. I have successfully handled difficult challenges in the past. As I connect to my inner self, I am open to the Happiness and positive energy around me. I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP 

Wednesday November 16

Today is Wednesday November 16, 2022. Reflecting on the beauty, calm and clarity friendships provide.

A quote by Albert Schweitzer: “At times, our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.”

Photo by: Fran Lee

November is the month of Gratitude.  Expressing gratitude through creative gifts.  Gifts are symbols and can have significant meaning.  Curate a music playlist, it’s an opportunity to express appreciation or love through music. Be sure to include music the recipient of the playlist will enjoy.  The playlist can reflect a special occasion, mood, or interest. 

Practice this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind whenever you need a moment to reset – while waiting, before, after, or to transition between activities.

Establishing a regular practice of pausing makes it easier to reset when you need it the most. You can start your practice at any time, even now.

  • Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.  
  • Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale. 
  • Lengthen your neck and spine as you notice what part of your body is connecting you to the surface you are on, whether you are seated, laying down or standing.
  • Allow yourself to shift into a position that aligns your neck and spine in a neutral posture, releasing tension as you are fully supported.

Recharge yourself, tap into your strength and share positive energy when you repeat:  

“I am [*Name*]. I can do this. This is temporary. I have successfully handled difficult challenges in the past. As I connect to my inner self, I am open to the Happiness and positive energy around me. I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP 

Monday, November 14

Today is Monday, November 14, 2022. The sun rise: bringing new clouds, new colors, new vision.

A quote by William Arthur Ward.  “Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”

Photo week by Xavier_Ascanio

November is the month of Gratitude.  Express gratitude through creative gifts.  Gifts are symbols and can have significant meaning. Compose a poem that reflects your gratitude, love, and experiences with the receiver of the gift.

Practice this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind whenever you need a moment to reset – while waiting, before, after, or to transition between activities.

Establishing a regular practice of pausing makes it easier to reset when you need it the most. You can start your practice at any time, even now.

  • Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.  
  • Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale. 
  • Lengthen your neck and spine as you notice what part of your body is connecting you to the surface you are on, whether you are seated, laying down or standing.
  • Allow yourself to shift into a position that aligns your neck and spine in a neutral posture, releasing tension as you are fully supported.

Recharge yourself, tap into your strength and share positive energy when you repeat:  

“I am [*Name*]. I can do this. This is temporary. I have successfully handled difficult challenges in the past. As I connect to my inner self, I am open to the Happiness and positive energy around me. I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP 

Friday, November 11

Today is Friday, November 11, 2022. The rock looks like it is smiling.

A quote by Marcel Proust.  “Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.”

Photo week by Susan Chubinskaya, PhD

November is the month of Gratitude.  Continue to explore ways to show gratitude through random acts of kindness.

  • Bring someone a cup of coffee or tea
  • Bring flowers to a get together
  • Invite someone for a home cooked meal
  • Say thank you

Practice this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind whenever you need a moment to reset – while waiting, before, after, or to transition between activities.

Establishing a regular practice of pausing makes it easier to reset when you need it the most. You can start your practice at any time, even now.

  • Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.  
  • Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale. 
  • Breathe in through your nose.
  • Breathe out through your mouth.
  • Repeat 3 more times.

Recharge yourself, tap into your strength and share positive energy when you repeat:  

“I am [*Name*]. I can do this. This is temporary. I have successfully handled difficult challenges in the past. As I connect to my inner self, I am open to the Happiness and positive energy around me. I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP 

Wednesday, November 9

Today is Wednesday, November 9, 2022. Frosty morning.

A quote by Willie Nelson.  “When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around”

Photo week by Susan Chubinskaya, PhD

November is the month of Gratitude. Take a moment during your day to show gratitude towards others.

  • Share a smile
  • Leave a small note for someone
  • Make a phone call
  • Embrace with a hug

Practice this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind whenever you need a moment to reset – while waiting, before, after, or to transition between activities.

Establishing a regular practice of pausing makes it easier to reset when you need it the most. You can start your practice at any time, even now.

  • Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.  
  • Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale. 
  • Breathe in through your nose.
  • Breathe out through your mouth.
  • Repeat 3 more times.

Recharge yourself, tap into your strength and share positive energy when you repeat:  

“I am [*Name*]. I can do this. This is temporary. I have successfully handled difficult challenges in the past. As I connect to my inner self, I am open to the Happiness and positive energy around me. I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP