By Dawn Onley

Our bodies need food and water for nourishment to survive. But have you ever thought about your soul and what keeps it from starving to death?

The soul needs to feel alive. Daily. And it’s not that difficult to feed our souls. We just need to figure out what rejuvenates us and leaves us feeling refreshed and renewed, and then do it again and again and again, as often as possible.

Our senses need to be fully activated. Purposefully. I have found that when my soul is fed and my spirit is content, it does wonders in improving my attitude. I simply cannot waste an abundance of time with negative thoughts or feelings when I go out of my way to feed my soul so much beauty and love.

One of the most poignant quotes I have ever read was by Benjamin Franklin: “Some people die at age 25 and aren’t buried until 75.” Starting today, let’s repeat this chant until it becomes a personal mantra:

“Let my soul not starve to death while I am still alive.”

When I’m in need of a soul boost, I commune with God. I do this through meditation and prayer, and also through writing. I listen for the answer on quiet nature walks.

Below are some additional suggestions to keep our souls properly nourished. Feel free to add on what works for you. We all need ways to refuel.

• A Challenge
• Change (from the routine)
• A relaxing bubble bath
• Travel
• Writing a love note to your heart’s desire
• Music
• Yoga
• Laughter
• A telephone call to an old friend
• The smell of fresh flowers
• Reading poetry
• Photography
• A yoga class
• Museum
• A puzzle
• Meditating
• The ocean
• A delicious meal
• Smiling
• Sunshine
• Helping someone
• Love