Boredom is a state of mind that sets in when you’ve forgotten simple pleasures or when you allow a sense of emptiness to dwell in your heart. It’s not something you can just ignore, considering how it can affect a person’s work, relationships and perception of life in general.

It seems ironic but you can learn a simple ‘cure’ to it by observing a child, who looks at ordinary things in amazement, laughs at funny gestures and enjoys ordinary treats. Perhaps it’s time to rediscover the child in you.

We often disregard the little things that can paint smiles on our faces and leave remarkable impressions in our lives: the flowers in bloom along your way, the hot, good-smelling cup of coffee on your table, the affectionate smiles of loved ones. These are life’s simple treats, but they add up to a bigger, happier picture.

The earth is blessed with riches. You don’t need to locate the remotest goldmines or buy a mansion on a hill amid a breathtaking landscape to know how to appreciate your stay. Simply take a stroll and be mindful of the beautiful things you see around you. And when you do, in a minute or two, you’ll feel you’ve come back to life.

There are plenty of wonderful things beyond your walls. Take a stroll through those long lanes flanked by colorful flowerbeds. At the park you can observe children playing, families enjoying their time together, young and old couples taking time with each other.

Observe the grass, the sky, sunlight on the pavement, sunlight on someone’s lovely face, the breeze blowing strands of hair away from a girl’s forehead, someone whistling a tune, the flight of pigeons, leaves of trees filtering the sun’s rays, the smell of bread from a bakery, glass windows and waterways glistening in the noonday sun.

Let your feet take you to scenic locations in your area or just in ordinary places. But this time, observe everything in childlike wonder. With your senses you’ll fill the emptiness in you. You’ll feel a lot better, readier for life.

A Note From Doctor Cynthia

Hope you have been enjoying these one minute retreats. Please consider taking a 15-30 minute self-guided Gratitude Retreat. The Retreat to Go Moments of Gratitude is filled with everything you’ll need to successfully complete your self-guided retreats. It includes:

- Gratitude Journal. Consisting of lined, dated pages where you list five things you are grateful for each day plus a collection of
- Inspirational quotes to inspire you throughout the year along with “Powerful Intentional” gratitude practices
- Step-by-step user-friendly instructions. The kit includes everything you need to start planning an hour, half-day, or full day retreat, on your own Candle Pen http://www.freestyleretreats.com/retreat-to-go.html