What is spirit?  It is more than our spiritual or religious affiliations.  Spirit includes those facets of our being that include emotions, attitudes, values and our connection to a higher being.  We will include in this section materials from experts with the hope that you will find inspiration in your own spiritual growth. 

Featured Article: Martin Seligman, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, has established the first department of Positive Psychology.  He has developed a series of studies and tests to measure our personal happiness and has designed a graduate program to train professionals in this area.  The following article identifies eight ways to be more happy.  Links at the end of the article lead you to more information as well as Seligman’s test measuring your own level of happiness.  If you believe that thoughts expand, then let’s all think happy!

Eight Steps Toward a More Satisfying Life

Want to lift your level of happiness? Here are some practical suggestions from University of California psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky, based on research findings by her and others. Satisfaction (at least a temporary boost) guaranteed.

1. Count your blessings.

One way to do this is with a “gratitude journal” in which you write down three to five things for which you are currently thankful—from the mundane (your peonies are in bloom) to the magnificent (a child’s first steps). Do this once a week, say, on Sunday night.  Keep it fresh by varying your entries as much as possible.

 
2. Practice acts of kindness.

These should be both random (let that harried mom go ahead of you in the checkout line) and systematic (bring Sunday supper to an elderly neighbor). Being kind to others, whether friends or

strangers, triggers a cascade of positive effects—it makes you feel generous and capable, gives you a greater sense of connection with others and wins you smiles, approval and reciprocated kindness—all happiness boosters. Read More...