We don’t celebrate thanksgiving in Finland. But seeing Meg’s awesome post about thankfulness and a discussion I had at work about what we can consider success made me think we should. Maybe not celebrate but be more aware of things to appreciate. Not take things granted, at least not things like mental health.
I work with mental health recoverers. At work I, a few other staff members and a few of our recovering members participated in the First Aid Course in Mental Health (only in Finnish) that is offered by the Finnish Association for Mental Health (FAMH). One of the core messages in taking care of your own mental health, according to the course, is to be able have a way to relax, let things go and to find enjoyment in the small things in life. For some it is to smell the forest after an Autumn rain, some go to a sauna and some do yoga.(Please find free mindfulness exercises in Finnish e.g. on FAMH’s webpage)
I drink tea.
I sneak in a bit of fresh air and few minutes of me-time in my work trip.
I love it, when my son explains that he saw a Tasmanian Devil outside of his daycare. He was serious about this.
It felt good to hear a student at work say she was able to finish her thesis because I went along to see her teacher. My work matters.
Last week I had a terrible cold. But then I realised it was the only cold I’ve had the whole Autumn. (It also gave me plenty of blogging time.)
I feel comfortable in our new home.
But…
I haven’t actually achieved anything major. I haven’t been doing any major travelling for years, we don’t have a huge and fancy house and at times I feel utterly worn out by the full days and everything that needs to be taken care of. But it’s ok.
My life may not be grandiose but I think there is so much to enjoy. All the small and big things; I feel very privileged to have the family I have.
PS Did you know that you can get a similar health promoting effect by going on a virtual forest walk than you can by actually going to the forest (you know, lowered blood pressure, less stress hormones etc)? Perfect for the autumn rains! This actually has scientific support and is therefore promoted by the FAMH, who also offers you free opportunities for this on youtube. You can choose the season and the length of your virtual walk in the Finnish forest! Try it (no language skills needed)
Free But Fun 
I love this~ It is so important to be thankful and honest with ourselves. There are truly so many little things that I just take and never think to be thankful for, the big things are so easy to remember, the small get ignored. This post has reminded me to delve in and think of all that I have to be thankful for.
Also, I never knew that about the virtual walks! Being that it can be so hot here, I do not usually walk outside for long time periods. I will have to check out the videos! Thanks!
Makes me glad to hear others appreciate what they have as well! Enjoy the Finnish forests in Thai heat 🙂
Really nice post – very true! Life gets me down sometimes, but really, we just need to give ourselves a break – we’re awesome 😉
…and we should always remember that!
Lovely post & we appreciate you.
Awww. Thanks!
I agree. Appreciate all.
This is a lovely post. It can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, especially at this time of year and forget to take the time to enjoy it. Thanks for the reminder. (:
Makes me glad to hear that! Thanks!
I like to say that my life is very small, but very full. I don’t need a bigger house or awards on my mantle, I like making a difference in the lives of the people around me. And when people talk about me, I don’t want them to say “she has a nice house” or “she has taken such great trips”. I think that the life you are living is awesome, people will remember you, people will say “V made such an impact on my life.” “I remember how she made me feel” and that is worth so much more!
Kate; that is an awesome way to put it. I couldn’t agree more!