Warren M. Levin MD, Alternative Medicine, Lyme

As some of us celebrate our good fortunes, others grieve the loss of a job, the absence of a loved one, or the fear of failing health.  As we turn to the merry faces of those around us, we may find ourselves thinking: “At what point of my life did I lose the ability to laugh like that?”

Joy is not an elusive goal.  We all began as joyful beings.  Do you know of a young child who can’t warm a heart with just a smile – or who can’t burst out into a contagious laughter?  Somewhere along the way, we allowed the joy in our lives to be crushed by the circumstances in our lives.  And around this time of year, we remember that we are powerless without it.

Fortunately, we have today to turn it around.  It begins with shifting our focus to what we have and not what we lack.  Yes, that means being grateful.  Just because we already gave our thanks during turkey dinner last month, it doesn’t mean we should stop counting our blessings.  Gratitude is essential for joy.

So get busy – make that list!  No, not the one for Santa but the one in memory of those who have been there for you.  Send ‘thank you’ cards and let friends, loved ones, and business associates know that you are grateful for knowing them.  Do this with your children and you’ll help them to keep their joy.  Give to a needy cause.  One way out of depression is realizing our power to make a difference in another person’s life.  Giving to someone less fortunate reminds us of the riches we already have.

Get excited but don’t get carried away.  Be mindful of your health while you feast at the holiday table.  Enjoy the bountiful spread – but do so in moderation and your mood will less likely crash.  Don’t neglect exercise – an instant energizer that helps the body to pump up endorphin levels, while burning calories and strengthening the heart and lungs.  Don’t compromise your health in the pursuit of partying.  The celebration may be for now, but your health is for a lifetime.

This holiday, practice the art of being grateful and you’ll reclaim the single most priceless possession of joy.  Peace & joy are interchangeable.  ‘Joy is peace dancing and peace is joy at rest.’ (F. B. Meyer) If you feel yourself slipping into a blue mood, learn to dance around depression by first counting your blessings.

Please note: The information provided here is for information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your doctor. You should not use this information for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem. You should consult with your doctor before starting any diet, exercise, or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have a health problem. If you would like an appointment with Dr. Levin, please contact his office at 703-255-0313. You can also send him a private Facebook note with your email and phone # at http://Facebook.com/DrWarrenLevin and someone from the office will contact you.

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