Hopefully, the day you are reading this is a wonderful day! I think, for most of us, if we look back over our lives, there are many more good days than bad. However, if today is not such a good day, remember, tomorrow the page of life will turn.
Life is full of twists and turns, and by the time we reach our 60s, we become accustomed to the highs and lows. Although we would rather life was always good, it is often the lower points that we learn so much from, and make the good ones seem so much better.
It’s OK
Give yourself permission to feel sad, upset, angry. These are natural emotions we all experience from time to time. It’s ok. But don’t let them drag on indefinitely or allow yourself to wallow. These emotions sap your energy, can affect your sleep and appetite, and may lead to long term health problems. Look for solutions, reframe the situation, forgive the person who has hurt you and move forward.
I like to keep a little set of drawers in my mind. One for little things that worry or upset me, one for middle size things and a final one for the really big stuff in my life. Most of the time I keep them locked, but sometimes I open them and take a peek inside. Maybe I have a little cry or feel sad for a short while, but opening the drawer takes the pressure off, just the same as the lid on a pressure cooker. That way they don’t boil over.
History
I find going to historical places – when I have problems or something I want to think over – really cathartic. It reminds me of how short our time is on this earth and that, eventually, all things will pass. Wars, plagues, famines, floods, dictatorships, etc. eventually end, and even when we don’t think it is possible, life gets back to an even keel.
Think back over your own life history. Most of the things you worried about or made you sad passed by, and here you still are. Possibly a little bruised and battered but probably stronger, braver and wiser than before.
Look for Loveliness
Look for little nuggets of loveliness even if things are not as you want them to be. Take a walk in the fresh air, listen to some music, immerse yourself in nature, cook something special. Often, we are kind and supportive of others but forget to be kind and supportive of ourselves. We all need a little hug now and then, so remember – you are the person closest to you. Give yourself a hug.
Do whatever you can to uplift yourself. Put on your favourite dress, slap on some make-up, wear your favourite perfume. Surround yourself with friends or positive people, some of it will rub off on you. Ramp up the music and sing at the top of your voice, or dance around the kitchen. It really is possible to trick your brain into believing you are happy. Then your body releases endorphins, and you actually become happy.
Remember, It Will Pass
So, if today is not one of your happy days, remember it will be a new day tomorrow. I know not everything is resolved in one day, but, even on the really big stuff in our lives, each day makes us a little stronger. One step at a time is all you can take and, hopefully before long, you will be running again and who knows, you might go on to complete a marathon!
Also read, Put Your Glad Rags On 
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Join the Conversation:
What has been your greatest page turn? How do you care for yourself when life gets tough? Have you learned to reframe situations?
