On being grateful

I was very fortunate to get away for a few days and ski in the pristine beauty of the Rocky Mountains. While hurtling myself down the sides of said mountains, savoring the view of the snowcapped peaks against the impossibly blue sky and stately pine trees, I began reflecting upon the bounty of life. There's something about being in nature that encourages me to pause, breathe deeply, and truly be present...

I thought about how blessed I am to have set up a lifestyle which permits me to get away for an impromptu vacation (and still get tons of work done!).

After losing 50lbs and then living with bulimia for several years, choosing a lifestyle which includes healthy eating and regular exercise have kept my body strong enough to
ski for days on end (with the support of elastic and
velcro knee braces) without tiring. I'm immensely grateful that my strong body always carries me through challenges - both physical and emotional.

Working out is what gets me through so many stressors. After giving myself an ulcer (age 20), dealing with severe stomach issues (in my 20s), severe back pain (30s) and high blood pressure (40s) - ALL stress related - working out actually relaxes me. It is my go-to stress relief. I woudl rather have positive endorphins coursing through my body than any drug!

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Eliminating alcoholic beverages from my diet in 2015 contributed to much better form and a huge increase in energy, endurance, and speed. Hadn't even considered how beers at lunch and apres ski cocktails were dragging me down - and it used to be that I needed an airline-sized bottle of booze just to get my "ski legs" on!

Life is a series of choices. By choosing what works for me in my life, I'm able to enjoy every moment in a way that increases my happiness exponentially. By taking care of my body, it rewards me with boundless energy, strength and stamina. And by choosing to live in gratitude in the present moment, life unfolds more richly, more fully, and more abundantly.

And all of that contributes to a feeling of incredible wealth for which I am exceedingly grateful.

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©Catherine Borowski 2016
www.celebratingwealth.com

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