“When I admire the wonders of a sunset or the beauty of the moon, my soul expands in the worship of the creator.” — Mahatmi Gandhi

By Dawn Onley

Our bodies need food and water for nourishment to survive. When we read, do puzzles, and stay active, we’re also engaging our minds to thrive. But have you ever thought about your soul and what keeps it from starving to death?

Our souls need to feel alive. Daily. We need to tap into the things that rejuvenate us and leave us feeling refreshed and renewed, and then do it again and again and again, as often as we can.

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.”

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

• Connecting with people
• Hugs from the babies
• Giving back
• A brisk stroll
• A relaxing bubble bath
• Writing a love note
• Enjoying time with family
• Laughter
• Rest
• A telephone call to an old friend
• The smell of fresh flowers
• Playing a board game
• A hike
• Drawing/Coloring/Painting
• Reading a great book
• An engaging movie
• Yoga
• Meditation
• The ocean
• A delicious meal
• Smiling
• A massage
• New experiences
• Helping someone in need
• Love7