Dear reader
This lunar new year is the year of the water dragon. Lunar years are based on the phases of the moon and are celebrated by different cultures in different ways.
This year the water dragon brings you positivity, valor, and delight.
Here’s what I found in the dictionary about those three words.
Positivity - that’s based on the word positive. Some of the descriptions I found to define positive were optimistic, clear, confident, showing progress, gain or improvement.
Valor - great courage in the face of danger, especially in battle.
Delight - can be used as a noun or a verb. It has to do with pleasure, enjoyment, joy, and rapture. To have it or to give it.
From my Trauma Healing background, I have learned that what we focus on engages a part brain called the prefrontal cortex. When that part of the brain is engaged it soothes, calms or controls the other parts that command our emotions and our unconscious reactions to what happens to us in our lives.
What this means is that when we focus on things such as positivity, valor and delight it neutralizes
what’s bad making it easier to handle. It doesn’t make the bad stuff go away but it gives you a different perspective.
This isn’t new news. In 1944, during World War II, John Mercer wrote these lyrics: “Accentuate the positive. Eliminate the negative. Latch on to the affirmative. And don’t mess with Mr. in between.”
We can all use a break from our troubles can’t we? This year the water dragon will help you. I encourage you to notice what is positive and good in your world. Acknowledge yourself for finishing tasks. Celebrate improvements. Figure out and make time for what delights you. And have courage to face the hard stuff.
I am here to help. I once read that the herb called Borage, which has lovely periwinkle colored flowers, is actually a misinterpretation of the word courage. Perhaps a cup of Barrage tea would help. The British seem to offer a cup of tea for whatever troubles you.
May you fly on the back of the water dragon in 2024 with positivity, valor, and delight!
Dr Linda
PS One of my favorite guiding principles; Have Fun Now! Life is Short
FUN FACT
During the Chinese New Year period, there are many superstitions; washing, sweeping, or taking out the garbage is not allowed. Washing hair or clothes is not allowed on the first day of the lunar year because it is seen as "washing one's fortune away" at the beginning of the year. Sweeping up and taking out the garbage symbolize removing the good luck from the house, so people don't do that either. Giving people pears or mirrors as gifts is also taboo.
Dr. Linda Berry Healing Arts Chiropractic Nutrition Trauma Healing
Please note: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care. Always consult with your healthcare provider for advice before you begin taking new supplements. You are responsible for all of the health choices you make.