Month: November 2023

Embracing Gratitude: How to Cultivate a Thankful Heart and Stronger Relationships

Posted on by b-present Team

As Thanksgiving draws near, our thoughts naturally turn to gratitude – a sentiment that warms the air and fills our days with appreciation. Beyond a seasonal tradition, gratitude becomes a guiding light, offering profound benefits for our well-being. Let’s dive into what being grateful means for us and explore how embracing this transformative emotion can enrich our lives, bolster our health, and strengthen our relationships.

The Science of Gratitude

There are lots of ways to talk about gratitude, but our favorite comes from Dr. Robert Emmons, a renowned researcher in the science of gratitude. He says…

“Gratitude is literally one of the few things that can measurably change people’s lives.”

Being grateful is not merely an emotion but a dynamic force for positive change. It brings joy, love, and optimism while protecting against destructive impulses, such as envy and resentment. Its impact on our mental and emotional health is profound, making it an invaluable tool in our journey toward overall well-being.

Dr. Emmons breaks it down into two key parts:

Recognize the Good: Make an effort to notice the good stuff in our lives. It’s like actively searching for moments of beauty, kindness, and strength when life throws us challenges. This recognition becomes the backbone for building a positive mindset and a strong spirit.

Acknowledge External Sources: Gratitude is a team sport, recognizing that the good things often come from outside ourselves. It’s the support from friends, unexpected moments of joy, and the connections we share that make our appreciation grow.

 

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How can we make gratitude a part of our everyday lives?

Mindful Moments: Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine. Whether through meditation or a mindful walk, these practices can help you appreciate the present moment and foster a sense of gratitude.

Journaling and Getting Specific: Keep a journal to document moments of positivity. Dive into the details of what (and who) you’re grateful for; the more specific, the better. Specificity intensifies feelings of gratitude, creating a lasting impact.

Express How You Feel: Gratitude is a gift meant to be shared. Let those who positively impact your life know through words, gestures, or acts of kindness. This helps strengthen relationships and fosters a sense of community.

 

It’s more than a feeling

As we stand on the cusp of gratefulness, let’s embrace this positive emotion. Not just as a seasonal sentiment but as a constant companion in our lives. By recognizing the good, acknowledging external sources, and practicing gratitude in meaningful ways, we cultivate a positive foundation for well-being. This season and beyond, let gratitude be your guiding light, reminding us of the richness that comes from a thankful heart.

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Supporting a Friend with Cancer: Avoiding Burnout and Isolation

Posted on by b-present Team

Supporting a friend with cancer is one of the most selfless and loving acts you can undertake. Your role as a supporter is pivotal, creating a safety net of care, encouragement, and hope for your friend. But let’s be real for a moment: being on the front lines of support can sometimes feel overwhelming and lonely.

In this piece, we’ll delve deeper into the challenges of supporting a friend with cancer. More specifically, the often overlooked topic of supporter burnout and isolation. We’ll discuss how to recognize it, why it’s essential to care for yourself too, and how to find your own support team.

The Realities of Burnout When Supporting a Friend with Cancer

Burnout is the result of prolonged stress and emotional exhaustion. When you’re constantly in a caregiving role, it’s easy to neglect your own needs and feelings. It’s essential to recognize when you’re feeling drained to ensure you can continue supporting a friend with cancer effectively.

Here are some signs of burnout: 

  1. Feeling constantly drained or fatigued.
  2. Becoming increasingly irritable or impatient.
  3. Feeling helpless or hopeless.
  4. Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed.
  5. Experiencing physical symptoms, like headaches or stomachaches.

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to reassess and recharge.

Isolation: The Silent Struggle of Supporters

Many supporters feel a sense of isolation because they believe that others cannot understand the weight of their experiences. This feeling can prevent you from seeking help or expressing your feelings, leading to further detachment from your social circles.

Finding Balance: You Matter Too

It’s essential to recognize that to continue supporting a friend with cancer, you need to be at your best too. You can’t pour from an empty cup, after all. Here are some steps to help you find balance:

  1. Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no or to take a break. Setting boundaries protects your energy and ensures you can continue to be there for your friend in the long run.
  2. Indulge in Self-Care: Whether it’s reading a book, taking a walk, or indulging in your favorite hobby, spend time doing what makes you happy and relaxed.
  3. Seek Professional Help: Sometimes, talking to a therapist can offer valuable insights.

 

Building Your Squad of Support

As the saying goes, “It takes a village.” Surrounding yourself with a supportive team is vital. Here’s how:

  1. Engage in Support Groups: Connect with others who understand what it’s like to be supporting a friend with cancer.
  2. Lean on Friends and Family: Sharing experiences can offer relief and provide unexpected insights.
  3. Community Involvement: Getting involved in community activities can provide a refreshing break and foster connections.

 

Your commitment to being there for your friend through the good and the bad is critical. But remember, it’s equally important to prioritize your well-being. By recognizing burnout and isolation, finding balance, and building your support squad, you ensure that both you and your friend will be better equipped to face the challenges ahead.

Remember: we’re stronger together. 

Learn more about supporting a friend with cancer: