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The Framing Effect - It’s a big deal

<figure id="figure-ibgn09iiemif2oia2" class=""><img id="ibgn09iiemif2oia2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/eP6gxJZR2jpjsX6fb5n2szOrfLbp38vsplItleJKv6My43I8aiDtKme5oBwblWZJ.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/eP6gxJZR2jpjsX6fb5n2szOrfLbp38vsplItleJKv6My43I8aiDtKme5oBwblWZJ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Do you realise that every breath we take ripples through the air, touching everything around us? &nbsp;Those are vibrations, little disturbances we create with every breath and movement are like ripples in the water when you toss in a stone, and the effects of what we say and do have enormous importance in creating a life of peace and contentment. Some argue it’s the invisible force that creates happiness, a concept worthy of consideration.First things first, what is the definition of vibration? It is defined as the periodic back and forth of particles in a medium that results in disturbances in equilibrium. Basically, it means that any movement disturbs everything until it evaporates into nothingness. At least that’s the way I understand it.When I turn on the faucet/tap at the kitchen sink, the water streams straight down, but when I lather up a glass and rinse it under the water, that stream of water changes direction and as I move the glass around, the water splashes on the bowls and utensils lying in the sink. I disturbed the water and it changed. It’s the same concept with vibrations.<h3>Free vibrations</h3>There are different types of vibrations. A “free vibration” is described as something that is momentarily disturbed then allowed to move freely. Think about holding a necklace in your palm, using your fingers to grab it by the clasp, then letting it drop in front of you. It would drop quickly, a momentary disturbance, and then it will start moving by itself, probably swinging left to right until it settles and stills.Another kind of vibration is one called “forced vibration”, and this type is usually found in machines where movement is forced by mechanisms. Your washer is a great example of this type. It swishes your clothes around the drum in rhythm, and then you have the joyous noise of the spin cycle disturbing the peace in your home.Looking at vibrations from a spiritual point of view, we have the proverb “you get back what you put out”, meaning that if you do good in the world, goodness will be returned to you and vice versa. If you’re a nasty woman, you’ll probably have a miserable life. Of course, this isn’t always the case but there is something to the science of vibration.<figure id="figure-1snacc6rt8mif2qsih"><img id="1snacc6rt8mif2qsih" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16WhDmVleyufTZCGK4gw0Za17R1sFW7HRorNf3uNLEGCM5sbmBAjsgYwOT6vmy8s.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Alikiso for Pexels" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16WhDmVleyufTZCGK4gw0Za17R1sFW7HRorNf3uNLEGCM5sbmBAjsgYwOT6vmy8s.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Alikiso for Pexels</figcaption></figure>We could think of vibrations as frequencies, and like changing the channel on the radio, we are greatly affected by the vibrations around us. When we listen to uplifting music, we feel better. We’re vibrating at a higher frequency because of the positive emotion of enjoyment. But if you’re a passenger in a car and your least favourite song in the world comes on the radio, your good vibes will turn to ick and you’ll want to change the frequency.How many times have you walked into a room and just felt something wasn’t right. The air feels heavy and we can feel like the fight or flight switch has been turned on in our brain. Sometimes it happens when we meet people. We get a sense that something just isn’t right and often take an immediate dislike to them. We say things like, “I don’t know what it is about her, but I get a funny feeling around her” and prefer to keep our distance. Before I knew my boss of some 25 years was a narcissist, I called him an “energy vampire” because whenever he was around, I felt drained and uneasy. I didn’t like it when he was in the office. Not one bit.<figure id="figure-commdll82lmif2sm60" class=""><img id="commdll82lmif2sm60" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18VXdk0ragYWDtz5wM3KLndWEerw7kGNcH6ydWU5FTdiGz6jjyNVEPA7uw1BjDXH.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18VXdk0ragYWDtz5wM3KLndWEerw7kGNcH6ydWU5FTdiGz6jjyNVEPA7uw1BjDXH.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Everything has a vibration, even light poles in the street. Imagine a flagpole on a windy day. It’s not just the flag that’s moving. The wind is disturbing that pole which then disturbs everything around it like the ripples brushing against reeds. And no sooner has the air settled, another breeze blows by and the vibrations start over again. They are never ending. Even my fingers on these keys are causing a disturbance and vibrations that wave through the warm air of The Cosy.<h3>Do good, get good</h3>When I consider the evidence of vibrations in nature and knowing that my good juju spills into the lives of the people around me, brushing off the adage of “do good, get good” doesn’t seem so silly. Here’s another example of how vibrations can change your life.When it came time for us to get serious about moving to Scotland, I spent a lot of time looking for places to live and fell in love with a traditional style cottage called a “gatehouse”. These are single level houses built at the entrance of huge walled estates. I wanted a place that was quiet and somewhat hidden, and spoke aloud, “I want cows on one side and sheep on the other”. &nbsp;It seems that I manifested exactly what I spoke because for the last 6 years, we have lived in a single-story gatehouse that has sheep in a couple fields and cows in another*. &nbsp;How did that happen? Were my hopes actually wishes? Was I praying for these things? Did I inadvertently cast a spell? &nbsp;Or was it just me sending vibrations into the universe with pure, hopeful intentions? I mean, it’s kind of weird that what I envisioned and vocalised can true.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-j3mmyq67ecmif2uahn"><img id="j3mmyq67ecmif2uahn" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bUsunSm9uLC6UvoIiPYgG45E0vPGRQiQ3eYEjyd1oNyp1Se5PZfAPy8Gs3ZgDZL.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bUsunSm9uLC6UvoIiPYgG45E0vPGRQiQ3eYEjyd1oNyp1Se5PZfAPy8Gs3ZgDZL.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Spirituality talks about energy, and quantum science supports the theory that everything is made of energy that vibrates at a “particular frequency”. &nbsp;From an emotional point of view, we vibrate at different energy levels.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; High frequency = Love, joy, gratitude, peace, compassion&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Low frequency = Fear, anger, resentment, anxiety, judging There are times when the life gets me really down, but I know that listening to music will lift my spirits. Other times, when I’m vibrating at a low frequency, sitting outside or talking a slow walk shifts my lousy depressed mood to one of feeling calmer, more focused, and comfort in knowing that everything will be alright. &nbsp;Here’s another way to look at vibrations and frequencies or energy.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The Law of Attraction - Like attracts like, so putting out &nbsp;good vibes brings back good vibes.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Our Wellbeing – Notice how you feel drained around certain &nbsp;people or situations, and when you’re around other people you feel at ease and able to be yourself.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Spiritual Growth – High vibrations bring growth and inner peace, especially when using focused practices like chanting, yoga, and meditation.<h3>Rippling good juju</h3>But how do we raise our vibrations to help us feel better, and ripple our good juju into the universe? Is there proof that changing our vibrations can actually change our lives? Here are some suggestions to think about bringing into your life. Helpful hint- Set an alarm on your phone to help you build practices into your daily routines.<h3>Practice gratitude – it can bring immediate results</h3>&nbsp; &nbsp;*Sit quietly in nature and appreciate the sights and sounds<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">&nbsp; &nbsp; *Make a daily ritual of giving thanks&nbsp; &nbsp; *Keep a journal of the good things in your life<h3>Create quiet time – 5 minutes, just 5 minutes</h3>&nbsp; &nbsp; *Relax while sitting on the toilet, close your eyes&nbsp; &nbsp; *Sit in your car and chill out<h3>Your circle – control your influences</h3>&nbsp; &nbsp; *You are the centre of your world&nbsp; &nbsp; *Keep happy people and uplifting music nearby&nbsp; &nbsp; *Spend time outdoors without devices&nbsp; &nbsp; *Volunteer in your community<h3>Affirmations – words vibrate so watch how your speak to yourself</h3>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*Mini pep talks. “There’s nothing you can’t handle. You got this!”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*Use famous quotes as reinforcements. “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.”1&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*Look closely and deeply in the mirror and smile at yourself!&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;* With good intentions, ask humbly for the things you want and believe you’re worthy of receiving them.<h3>Clear the way</h3>Take sea salt baths to dispel negative energy· &nbsp; Sage your home to clear bad juju**· &nbsp; Envision a beam of white light surrounding you· &nbsp; Hang bells on the inside of doors leading to the outside<figure id="figure-842q9ct9kdmif2x2i1"><img id="842q9ct9kdmif2x2i1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34Z4g0aw7KeCbm217XnXz0aq6rlxPXG16ZXQ9tda2qmZpzhoYc3IiTd3Za6NaEuy.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="One of the bells on my antique Swiss style bells that hang inside The Cosy door. I believe bells clear the air of negative energy and hang on the inside of all my outside doors. I often give them as housewarming gifts." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34Z4g0aw7KeCbm217XnXz0aq6rlxPXG16ZXQ9tda2qmZpzhoYc3IiTd3Za6NaEuy.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">One of the bells on my antique Swiss style bells that hang inside The Cosy door. I believe bells clear the air of negative energy and hang on the inside of all my outside doors. I often give them as housewarming gifts.</figcaption></figure>One of the bells on my antique Swiss style bells that hang inside The Cosy door. I believe bells clear the air of negative energy and hang on the inside of all my outside doors. I often give them as housewarming gifts.The Jem Foundation, a US based charity focused on ending youth suicide, published an article called The Influence of Vibration and Frequency on Mental and Physical Health2 (March 2025). The piece mentions that food items can vibrate at higher frequencies and suggest foods like organic fruits and vegetables which can increase good cellular vibrations, while processed foods tend to reduce them.<h3>Barefoot technology</h3>Earthing or grounding is another practice you can use to increase good juju. This can be done whilst standing barefoot on a natural surface such as sand, grass, or even a tree stump. The exchange of positive and negative ions between our bodies and the Earth are scientifically proven to help us feel better. Studies show visible changes to the body with reduced inflammation and increased immunity. Plus, feeling better is a straight line to a happier mojo. (see additional reading below)<figure id="figure-drn6sruwrmif2z0kp"><img id="drn6sruwrmif2z0kp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17fa68VVgxgC2qI9dDNDAOoW2KYINLy3MTC9YHzRereAUvLB2b5Oyvkz7bgKTJXY.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="My Flintstone feet in our back yard" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17fa68VVgxgC2qI9dDNDAOoW2KYINLy3MTC9YHzRereAUvLB2b5Oyvkz7bgKTJXY.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">My Flintstone feet in our back yard</figcaption></figure> There are lots of ways to boost our good vibrations, but nature has ensured that rules are always going to be broken. We probably know someone who’s worked hard and helped others but still suffer in ways that don’t seem fair. But absorbing all the good juju we can find in our everyday lives will raise our vibrations and ripple positivity into the world, maybe helping those people who can’t seem to get a break.I guess the moral of this story about vibrations is this…In with the good shit, out with the bad shit.* Our farmer recently sold his herd because it became too difficult for them during the winter months.** There is scientific proof that sage can purify the air, but there is a particular way to “sage your house” that should be followed to avoid bringing negativity into your home instead of dispelling it. This is the method I trust. Although it’s a bit too witchy for my taste, their methods are reliable and detailed.<a data-mce-href="https://www.wicca-spirituality.com/house-cleansing-ritual.html" href="https://www.wicca-spirituality.com/house-cleansing-ritual.html">https://www.wicca-spirituality.com/house-cleansing-ritual.html</a><h3>Additional reading</h3>Spiritual vibrations<a data-mce-href="https://wisdomofthespirit.com/the-spiritual-meaning-of-vibration/" href="https://wisdomofthespirit.com/the-spiritual-meaning-of-vibration/">https://wisdomofthespirit.com/the-spiritual-meaning-of-vibration/</a>Grounding/Earthing<a data-mce-href="https://begrounded.co.uk/is-grounding-scientifically-proven/" href="https://begrounded.co.uk/is-grounding-scientifically-proven/">https://begrounded.co.uk/is-grounding-scientifically-proven/</a>Citations1Aibileen Clark to May Mobley in The Help. Kathryn Stockett – 20092 https://thejemfoundation.com/the-influence-of-vibration-and-frequency-on-mental-and-physical-health/

Ripples and Vibes

For years I’ve been hearing older women talk about feeling invisible in society today. At first, I excused this feeling as something that applied to other older women, but the more I investigated the phenomena the more I discovered how wrong I was to think in such narrow terms.&nbsp;A 2023 UK research survey of 158 women over the age of 50, found that they recognised different types of feeling socially invisible. “Their perceived invisibility took five forms: (a) being under-seen/mis-seen in the media; (b) being mis-seen as objects of sexual undesirability; (c) being “ignored” in consumer, social, and public spaces; (d) being “grandmotherized,” that is, seen only through the lens of (often incorrectly) presumed grandmotherhood; (e) being patronized and erroneously assumed to be incompetent.”1Let’s break this survey down so we have a better understanding of how some women feel about invisibility.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-2tzq6se0hmhpd2pao"><img id="2tzq6se0hmhpd2pao" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8gXEOIgknibR4Sk2LghbLDZIQhJXG64kfNv3gQEuZJRxG5CNNvHTJQqbY0ggSN8J.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="&nbsp; Feeling unseen in the media" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8gXEOIgknibR4Sk2LghbLDZIQhJXG64kfNv3gQEuZJRxG5CNNvHTJQqbY0ggSN8J.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">&nbsp; Feeling unseen in the media</figcaption></figure><h3>Where the hell are we?</h3><ul><li>Survey point A &nbsp; &nbsp; </li></ul>In my work, I need photos of older women for The Crone Network, but it’s hard to find real women and not perfectly styled senior models. Not only that, but most of the available images are of white women and our goal is to feature all women in their glorious sizes, shapes, and colours.In TV and film, there are loads of older men cast in major roles, but where are the older women? &nbsp;And how many runway models are women over the age of 50? &nbsp;Not having media representation contributes to the underfunding of projects that benefit older women. If our “market” isn’t seen, we’re not getting the attention we need and deserve.<figure id="figure-0tgkrxdfzhmhpd4ps0" class=""><img id="0tgkrxdfzhmhpd4ps0" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6HXepri3vxROzBbniuK9V08piDyKoas1DiobSxOFaUC1xNjGGcn1uUnDRwhLv5YD.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6HXepri3vxROzBbniuK9V08piDyKoas1DiobSxOFaUC1xNjGGcn1uUnDRwhLv5YD.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Feeling sexually undesirable</h3><ul><li>Survey point B</li></ul>After menopause, lots of women lose their interest in sex. The thought of having sex is more of a turn-off than a turn-on, and we often feel less attractive because our bodies have changed. &nbsp;I used to have full, perky breasts, but now I’ve just got the bags they came in, and I’m ok with that. Everything wilts sooner or later.Some older women report hearing negative remarks when out with friends. Comments like, “Who’d want to shag that old slapper?”, or “She’s desperate so I’ll give her a quickie” can be incredibly hurtful to a woman and lead to crippling social isolation.<figure id="figure-web6g6vtdmhpd629r"><img id="web6g6vtdmhpd629r" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17hHMXm0N2B2s0xcA3jApJsuOsgDeIsO7fHazS9YAN0HOe89cjdohReTZ8mQMMQY.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17hHMXm0N2B2s0xcA3jApJsuOsgDeIsO7fHazS9YAN0HOe89cjdohReTZ8mQMMQY.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Being socially ignored</h3>Survey point CInvisible Women Syndrome is not a recognised condition, but it is described as a phenomenon by which older women are often dismissed and devalued. With society’s emphasis on youth and beauty, older women can be overlooked, like not getting served at a busy pub. It feels like, if we’re no longer fertile or beautiful, we’re just discarded like an old sweater that sits in the back of the closet - you love it, but it’s too beat up to wear anymore. &nbsp;&nbsp;Telling a woman that she “looks good for her age” implies that there’s something wrong with being her age. One woman reported waiting for a train and being shoved aside by a young person who said, “You people shouldn’t be here this time of morning, people need to get to work.” They want to push us out of the way and ignore us.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-hiatqnyog8mhpd6v5z"><img id="hiatqnyog8mhpd6v5z" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16um21nxcrzCAsDf69En3S8LNOWjf2BQw4Os9hW8MYvsRMlaJKefGIfq1ttqIIwl.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 0%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="0%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16um21nxcrzCAsDf69En3S8LNOWjf2BQw4Os9hW8MYvsRMlaJKefGIfq1ttqIIwl.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 0%;"></figure><h3>We’re all just grandmothers</h3><ul><li>Survey point D</li></ul>Older women are often stereotyped as grannies who are eager to watch the kids. There is often an expectation that we’ll be there for our family, whether in a care giving role or as a babysitter. And if you say no thanks, you’re cast as a mean old hag or told that you’re being selfish in your old age.People ask questions like, “how many grandchildren do you have?” which implies that our only purpose in life was to procreate. We are told we shouldn’t wear skirts above the knee or low-cut blouses. We’re supposed to knit and bake and be happy with that.<figure id="figure-2vbvkpcg7fmhpd7smf"><img id="2vbvkpcg7fmhpd7smf" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6tAmjW2LP0xBZxLWnaayjbLMV57OLdDsqM80dyrWcorIZIkuss2ItU4vjcKLI1DB.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6tAmjW2LP0xBZxLWnaayjbLMV57OLdDsqM80dyrWcorIZIkuss2ItU4vjcKLI1DB.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Being considered feeble minded</h3><ul><li>Survey point E</li></ul>Some folks mistake older women as being weak and unable. They can treat us like we’re frail creatures who can’t do for ourselves. Plus, we deal with patronising terms like “Young lady” and questions like, “Can you use a computer, dear?”For me, being offended is a choice so let them say what they want, I’ll shrug off any attempt to patronise me. But we older gals don’t like being spoken to as if we were toddlers, and when the spirit moves us, we’ll snap back with a witty, harsh response and a big sarcastic smile. <h3>It’s a good and bad thing</h3>But feeling invisible isn’t just about how society treats older women because some of us have learned that not being seen is a good thing. When our surroundings are confusing or unsettled, it’s safer to stay in the background and not use our voices when we perceive conflict or danger.A revealing article by Dolores Mosquera for the European Society for Trauma &amp; Dissociation called “The Effects of Feeling Invisible”3 (March 2018), the author points out that invisibility can be protection for some but can have shattering results for others. &nbsp;The article suggests 4 different ways that we can feel invisible.<ul><li>When - you are not seen, “nothingness”</li></ul>It can feel like no one notices or cares about you. Many times, this can be traced back to childhood when caregivers were too busy or were unable to nurture a child in the way it needs. This type of invisibility can lead to being taken advantage of by the likes of romance scammers and manipulators.<ul><li>When - what is done to you is not seen by others</li></ul>In the article, this type of invisibility is referred to as “partial blindness”. This usually occurs when a child is taken care of in one way, but things that may be happening to them are ignored by others. A prime example of this is child sexual abuse at home - one parent is the abuser, and the other doesn’t know or refuses to see.<ul><li>When – you try not to be seen because it’s dangerous</li></ul>Sometimes we feel it’s better to hide than be visible. Again, this can start during childhood but if we sense that something bad could happen, we might stay in the background and not speak out despite our desire to say what’s on our mind. Being unseen can keep you safe.<ul><li>When – you try not to be seen because everyone is overwhelmed</li></ul>If we sense those around us are overwhelmed with responsibility or worry, we tend to hold ourselves back so we’re not adding to their burden. This can lead to a sense of “not getting in the way” which can undermine our own wellbeing. We learn not to ask for what we want or need.<figure id="figure-dbehcl7m5fmhpd9yy9"><img id="dbehcl7m5fmhpd9yy9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31KgJHvLQbG3Ssk7hRXTCEHT5Jq61KMtHuGmU2DqdnwAbfXWw4YPJxppgR2obAL3.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31KgJHvLQbG3Ssk7hRXTCEHT5Jq61KMtHuGmU2DqdnwAbfXWw4YPJxppgR2obAL3.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Stepping out from the shadows</h3>It’s clear how feeling unseen can affect our overall wellbeing, so what can we do about it? &nbsp;Here are some ideas on how to improve our visibility and start being seen again. They might not work for everybody, but finding an outlet to plug into usually reaps some great benefits.<ul><li>Be courageous</li></ul>Tomorrow literally never comes, so think about how you can boost your bravery today and kick fear’s ass. &nbsp;If you want to do or say something, ask yourself why you’re holding back and then give yourself a pep talk. Could it really be as bad as you imagine?&nbsp;<ul><li>Accept that you’re not everybody’s cup of tea</li></ul>We’re all different and not everybody is going to like you. That’s perfectly ok because there’s probably people you don’t like. As long as we’re nice to each other, not getting along is acceptable with a small smile and just a wee bit of tolerance. If you’re a “too much” woman like me, be yourself and let them adjust. Their opinion is not your problem.<ul><li>Stop apologising for being yourself</li></ul>Women apologise for their weight, for how they’re dressed, if their hair is messed up. We say sorry for crying, for overcooking dinner, for being in a bad mood. Just stop. If you owe someone apology for a misstep, then you should say you’re sorry, but you don’t need to apologise for just being yourself.<ul><li>Get involved</li></ul>The best way to be seen is to put yourself out there. This could be volunteering for a local charity, joining an online club, making time to visit senior care facilities to say “Hi, how are you today?” &nbsp;Comment on those social media posts, offer your opinion on a topic that matters to you. Show up for yourself.There are women like me who are loud and feisty, and there are women who are quiet and fierce like my sister. She is an introverted person, and I admire how she stands in the shadows and observes. She doesn’t say much, unless there’s juicy gossip. Her voice is in her church and in her community work. That’s how she makes herself visible. My voice comes out of my fingertips on a small iMac keyboard.&nbsp;There is no right or wrong way to be seen. The shy Crone who writes a powerful letter to the media is just as powerful as one with a megaphone and a flower in her hair.We have enormous, untapped value and our voices matter. &nbsp;So let’s pound on the desk and make some friggin’ noise!!!We are here!We will be seen!We need representation!And we are not going away! ﻿1 Westwood, S. (2023). “It’s the not being seen that is most tiresome”: Older women, invisibility and social (in)justice. Journal of Women &amp; Aging, 35(6), 557–572. https://doi.org/10.1080/08952841.2023.21976582 https://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/houseofwellness/do-you-have-invisible-woman-syndrome/news-story/71bdc0c7199a54f24a9ddafb6de1d8b83 https://intra-tp.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/The-effects-of-being-invisible.pdf Copyright ©️ 2025 The Crone Network &nbsp;All rights reserved.&nbsp;

Unseen

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? My ambitions changed as I got older and experience so many different influences. I was probably about 7 or 8 when I wanted to be a majorette, you know, the girl in the marching band twirling &nbsp; a baton. My mom even sent me to baton lessons, encouraging me to dream.Dad once said I should be a lawyer because I like to argue, but it was just a combination of curiosity and a rebellious nature that made me question everything. I never wanted to be an astronaut, but I did think about acting or teaching, both of which would have suited me well. There was one night while I was eating dinner with my family, that I announced my intent to become a social worker with a specialty in adolescent kids, but my dad snapped, “There ain’t no goddamn money in that.” I can still feel my heart sinking as his words deflated my spirit. My real passion, however, was music and that’s why I applied to the US Air Force when I was 17, hoping to become a member of the USAF band.<figure id="figure-08cpsced58mhw1zdl5"><img id="08cpsced58mhw1zdl5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23OTSrgrHEJwodfNtvWKRT2qntxgEtXVWRH06CSAJkA4COv4q620yrsRAFdq5xLK.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo of my 5th grade report card. I was 10-11 years old" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23OTSrgrHEJwodfNtvWKRT2qntxgEtXVWRH06CSAJkA4COv4q620yrsRAFdq5xLK.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo of my 5th grade report card. I was 10-11 years old</figcaption></figure><h3>What we want vs what we get</h3>Of course, what we want and what we get are often very different things. I quit high school and decided to join the US Air Force, but the recruiter told me to lose 20 lbs which I never did. Then I went and did something stupid and lied to my parents who then kicked me out of the house. &nbsp;I went to live with a friend who took me down a long and dangerous road. Looking back though, I was just another troubled teen from a troubled family who got into trouble, and before long, I was married and raising a family. I never made it into the Air Force and never went to college.After leaving my job of nearly 40 years, I was given 6 months unemployment compensation and a free 9-month set of courses at our local community college. I was 60 years old and grateful for this long-awaited chance at higher education and decided that graphic design would be something I’d enjoy. If I was any good at design, I fancied I could work freelance in my old age to help subsidise my income. I sucked at web coding, did well with desktop publishing, and excelled in journalism which was an optional free course. And I made the Dean’s List; a prestigious listing of the top 10% of students! Some of my family suggested I should skip the graduation ceremony because “it’s mostly kids, won’t you be embarrassed? &nbsp;Hell no I’m not going to be embarrassed! &nbsp;I earned that right and I’m taking it. And though college was challenging, it was just what I needed to get myself out of a deep depression. I found structure and purpose again.<figure id="figure-vzqjnvsii8mhw21gdm"><img id="vzqjnvsii8mhw21gdm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/293t91wF2ACyFuuCX1SxlLkmfkYJOSAtAae6imQPbCxnNPhtT2GRxwxygdaLvwm8.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/293t91wF2ACyFuuCX1SxlLkmfkYJOSAtAae6imQPbCxnNPhtT2GRxwxygdaLvwm8.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Sometimes I wonder what could have been, how my life would be different if my childhood ambitions had come true. Would I be a public defender or a prosecutor? What’s the “age out” for majorettes these days? I would have been a great teacher, and I never lost my musical ability. &nbsp;Without an instrument to play, my music is a Friday night with a couple of gin and tonics in The Cosy. I put on my Bose headphones and pound on my desk with the drums or play the air bass guitar. I can belt out the blues just as well Koko Taylor!As I roam the internet looking for interesting conversation, I hear women my age talk about feeling invisible and not having a purpose or direction in their lives. I’ve been there and it sucks. But one of the things that helped me was going to college. The Crone NetworkÒ wants to provide you the opportunity to go to college for free, online and on your own terms. You don’t need to apply for a degree, but hopefully by offering these links to free education, you’ll be inspired by my story and want something new for yourself. &nbsp;Most of these courses are free so you can browse for subjects that interest you and learn as much as you want.<figure id="figure-6q07du0v8kmhw220ll"><img id="6q07du0v8kmhw220ll" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/284JkkR084QR2BJSgouIltHdCgNpvAzY7fUFtsN1vuSveBAA51EtRBUvcjkJTvSH.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to rdne for Pexels" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/284JkkR084QR2BJSgouIltHdCgNpvAzY7fUFtsN1vuSveBAA51EtRBUvcjkJTvSH.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to rdne for Pexels</figcaption></figure>The list below contains links that take you directly to free online college courses. There are plenty of subjects to choose from, and whether you’re looking to learn and earn, or you’re just curious about a particular topic, knowledge is an invaluable life tool and something that can never be taken from you. Most of these are completely free but check each course for all the details.If you decide to jump into an online college, please let us know what you’re going to study so we can support and learn from you. We’re all in this together.The Crone Network hopes you find this information useful.<figure id="figure-fn0s4pfmmmhw26hyr"><img id="fn0s4pfmmmhw26hyr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38o9EShvucuPXKlApHKhS6zyqFWx1meLNbdkVEx602rzeUFa3826hXyZRxhsZoYP.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Feeling proud on graduation day" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38o9EShvucuPXKlApHKhS6zyqFWx1meLNbdkVEx602rzeUFa3826hXyZRxhsZoYP.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Feeling proud on graduation day</figcaption></figure> <h2>Free college courses </h2>Stanford University <a href="https://online.stanford.edu/free-courses" data-mce-href="https://online.stanford.edu/free-courses">https://online.stanford.edu/free-courses</a> Harvard University <a href="https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2" data-mce-href="https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2">https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2</a> MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) <a href="https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2" data-mce-href="https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2">https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2</a> University of Glasgow <a href="https://www.gla.ac.uk/study/free-online-courses/" data-mce-href="https://www.gla.ac.uk/study/free-online-courses/">https://www.gla.ac.uk/study/free-online-courses/</a> Coursera <a href="https://www.coursera.org/courses?query=freewww.thecronenetwork.org" data-mce-href="https://www.coursera.org/courses?query=freewww.thecronenetwork.org">https://www.coursera.org/courses?query=freewww.thecronenetwork.org </a> THE CRONE NETWORK Email: <a data-mce-href="mailto:contact@thecronenetwork.org" href="mailto:contact@thecronenetwork.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">contact@thecronenetwork.org</a>

Never too old to learn

Full length of active African plus size woman in sportswear doing stretching exercises in fitness studio

Some years ago, my son was getting married. It was a small, casual summer ceremony at a historic lakeside tavern where his soon-to-be wife worked. There was nothing in my closet that suited the “mother of the groom,” so I went to the only plus-size store in town and found a lovely black, three-quarter sleeve pullover sprinkled with tiny sequins. It was comfortable, appropriate, and made me feel pretty good about myself.The ceremony was outdoors, under the blazing August sun. My beautiful top was sticking to my sweating body, and I was miserable, happy that my son found a life mate, but miserable because I was so uncomfortable. Later, as the cocktails flowed and the music started, we moved into the tavern for dancing. I joined the crowd on the old oak floors, moving to the rhythm with absolute joy.<h3>Moving like that</h3> One of my son’s young friends came over to dance beside me. After a few minutes she leaned in and said, “Oh my goodness, you’re such a great dancer! I didn’t know big people could move like that!”<figure id="figure-b1iil4ynpqmhpckv4u"><img id="b1iil4ynpqmhpckv4u" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/128Qp8TtogCDO6sPyzZipOY1O1p5J92CKz8Z3qtd08gisfrLuSFSWvHHbJEcH1r4.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 25%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Bad photos are very difficult to fix but this was on my son’s wedding day.&nbsp;" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="25%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/128Qp8TtogCDO6sPyzZipOY1O1p5J92CKz8Z3qtd08gisfrLuSFSWvHHbJEcH1r4.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 25%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Bad photos are very difficult to fix but this was on my son’s wedding day.&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>You might think I was offended, but I wasn’t. I’ve always been a good dancer, and she had probably never seen a big woman move so freely. In that moment, I realized I’d become a living example of something she hadn’t known was possible: that body size doesn’t have to keep us from being fully, unashamedly ourselves.Having an obese body isn’t great for your physical health, but neither is hating yourself for having one. What’s the big deal if my arms flap in the wind or if I haven’t seen my pubic hair in years? Being comfortable in the body I have today is good for my mental and spiritual health. Getting fitter takes time but changing how I think about myself can start right now.But I know that being healthy isn’t just about joining Weight Watchers or hitting the gym. To me, real health has three equal parts: physical, mental/emotional, and spiritual, and I wondered if science and medicine see it that way too. &nbsp;<figure id="figure-jswyin36ikmhpcovwm"><img id="jswyin36ikmhpcovwm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21G660SS39AOV8v9NzwHizCKkGROzDNnXyrGSY8W15rV9Z2VrT41AYYNg8VYh4y3.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 35% 55%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="35%" data-positiony="55%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21G660SS39AOV8v9NzwHizCKkGROzDNnXyrGSY8W15rV9Z2VrT41AYYNg8VYh4y3.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 35% 55%;"></figure>When I looked into it, I discovered that even the World Health Organization agrees. It defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being — not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” One article I found added that health systems “miss the mark if they reduce people to a list of numbers — blood pressure, cholesterol, or genetic variants.”We’re complicated beings. I know what I should do to take care of my body, and yet I still make excuses. Maybe that’s old trauma talking, maybe it’s habit. But as I stand here in my “Cronehood,” I ask myself — if I don’t love me now, when will I?<h3>Oh so complicated</h3> Science may not have all the answers, but it’s catching up to what I’ve learned through living: true wellness comes when we care for our entire being. For me, it starts with mental health — because when I feel good about who I am, I’m more likely to care for this big, beautiful, sweaty, dancing body. These days, I see my body as a partner, not a problem. Whether she’s shimmering in sequins or wrapped in soft cotton, she’s mine — and she deserves to be loved…. Today.

Dancing in My Own Skin

I started to learn gratitude when I was 17 and got kicked out of my family home for deceiving my parents. I went to live with a friend in a nearby small city. For over a year, I washed my jeans in a sink and had weeks of just eating instant mashed potatoes because my roommate and I had no jobs and no money. That’s when I started to understand how fortunate I was to come from a middle-class family. <h3>A guardian angel</h3>One thing led to another, and soon I was injecting Dilaudid with my roommate and her junkie friends. I had no idea what I had gotten myself into, but the woman I am today recognises the innocence of that young girl and is grateful for surviving that wild summer. There must have been a guardian angel watching over me because most of those people died alone from overdose. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hanging out with the wrong people, so naïve and inexperienced, I found myself arrested for a rather serious crime along with my boyfriend and another man. Again, fate smiled on me by providing me with a public defender who believed I was blameless and got me out of county jail. I had the clothes on my back and $2.00 the jailers gave me to get a bus to a home, a home I no longer had. Thankfully, my boyfriend's sister took me in until I got on my feet.<figure id="figure-hb8ftnjaormhpc5oet" class=""><img id="hb8ftnjaormhpc5oet" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1euTewVDvCgVtKrU2RIq7Ha4WxV5OAeQGF5Lmgg0OCVX2mxjEgUAA8y4uUVHpzOD.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1euTewVDvCgVtKrU2RIq7Ha4WxV5OAeQGF5Lmgg0OCVX2mxjEgUAA8y4uUVHpzOD.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> <h3>Grateful for help</h3>Later in life, there were a few times that my ex wasn’t working and there wasn’t enough food in the house. The kids got school breakfast and lunch, but there were a couple times I had to make a phone call to their grandparents asking, “Can the kids have dinner with you tonight?” I know there are lots of people who don’t have school or family to help when things are bad. I’m grateful for having help.About 10 years ago I lost a lot of weight by eating better and taking walks around the hood. In the beginning, walking hurt so bad I’d be in tears from the pain of holding myself upright and moving my large body. One of the tools I used to get me through the pain was appreciation for having legs that worked properly. When I wanted to quit walking, I would think of soldiers coming home without limbs, and the excruciating pain they must endure to find their new normal. Gratitude helped me to stop feeling sorry for myself and walk on despite the pain. It helped me lose over 70 pounds.When I witness others struggling, gratitude makes my heart ache and I ask myself, “Why am I so blessed?” &nbsp;There have been times when I stood behind a woman at the grocery store and overheard her say, “I need to put this, this, and this back please”, as she fumbles with the money in her hands. &nbsp;If I have the extra cash, I’m helping her out. &nbsp;There are people who work 3x harder than I did and still live in poverty. That doesn’t seem fair so I’m coughing up the cash out of gratitude.<figure id="figure-74jqmpxlwgmhpc8rqu"><img id="74jqmpxlwgmhpc8rqu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/356owU5h9WpkyfkGuekTa3RDbHsNnYtdOkZJgOSvewqRulpyrDOfTTLRdAZd2AKP.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="photo credit to By Any Other Nerd" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/356owU5h9WpkyfkGuekTa3RDbHsNnYtdOkZJgOSvewqRulpyrDOfTTLRdAZd2AKP.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">photo credit to By Any Other Nerd</figcaption></figure>Gratitude comes in all shapes and sizes. Let’s think about charity, like giving a woman a few dollars to buy groceries. There’s a quote by Black Elk, the Oglala Sioux holy man who observed how charitable the white man could be. &nbsp;<img id="061rasa8rmhpcb1ol" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26wtQITpHXLjdRPjYHMojKFR0OHk78yuv8vFRbtzQAcLDakUt0ruCgWVogevnfbv.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26wtQITpHXLjdRPjYHMojKFR0OHk78yuv8vFRbtzQAcLDakUt0ruCgWVogevnfbv.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" style="border-color: rgba(229,231,235,var(--tw-border-opacity)); border-image-source: none; width: 640px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; aspect-ratio: 16 / 9; object-position: center center;"> <h3>Is charity a self act?</h3>There is something magical about charity. It usually comes from a place of gratitude and recognition that someone is in a worse position than yourself. &nbsp;In fact, some might argue that giving to others is a selfish act because it feels so good. Plus, those acts of kindness send ripples of positive juju into the universe and we could certainly use more of that. &nbsp; It’s hard to imagine not being grateful, but it happens all the time. Gratitude slips through my fingers when I’m upset with my husband, or when the car needs repairs. I forget about my privilege and sometimes forget to be thankful at night when I go to bed. There are days I wake up grumpy and filled with self-pity, but it’s always gratitude and the love of my Sammy that pulls me back from self-imposed misery.&nbsp;I know a woman who has a wonderful life. A modest but very cosy home. A car in the driveway. Food in the fridge. Healthy kids. But she consistently complains about what she doesn’t have, as if another trinket or new toy will make her happy. I wonder how someone can find happiness if they can’t even find satisfaction.<h3> </h3><h3>Thanks giving</h3>Years ago, we celebrated Thanksgiving at our house a few times, and I always asked our guests to give thanks before we ate, even if they did it quietly. One family member thought it was horrible that I asked people to express their gratitude, but the holiday is called Thanksgiving for a reason so if you dined at my table, if you enjoyed the juicy roast turkey and cornbread stuffing, please…. Express your appreciation in whatever form works for you.<figure id="figure-m9mpwrxiadmhpcc8pq"><img id="m9mpwrxiadmhpcc8pq" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/237RmOCvQBZV8bUm93FFQ8hUyJ1l75gTmX9St4uZWLu1OLoG4kXyVrjULAGGAN7u.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Positive Psychology" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/237RmOCvQBZV8bUm93FFQ8hUyJ1l75gTmX9St4uZWLu1OLoG4kXyVrjULAGGAN7u.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Positive Psychology</figcaption></figure>Positive Psychology featured an article by Dr. Melissa Madeson, PhD called “The Neuroscience of Gratitude &amp; Its Effects on the Brain” (September 2025). Dr Madeson talks about how the brain processes gratitude and how it triggers “good hormones and regulates effective functioning of the immune system.” &nbsp;Scholars believe that gratitude also activates the “reward centre” of the brain which can help us view ourselves and the world around us in a more positive perspective. <h3>A reduction in cortisol levels</h3>The article goes on to describe how the practice of appreciation can help our overall wellbeing. “Gratitude can boost emotional resilience by focusing on positive things in life instead of toxic emotions like envy, jealousy, resentment, and anxiety.” &nbsp;When it comes to stress, studies “found that participants experienced a reduction in cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and had better cardiac function.” &nbsp;Stress kills our good moods, our happy thoughts, and sometimes, takes our lives.Being grateful has proven benefits that include reduced anxiety and depression, improved sleep and immunity, and overall feelings of contentment and positive outlooks. But how can we practice gratitude to help us achieve better mental, emotional, and physical health?Millions of people exercise their gratitude every day through prayer. Regardless of a person’s spiritual beliefs, there is usually a ritual of giving thanks to a higher power. Many believe the simple whisper of “Thank you”, when spoken with a grateful heart, can manipulate the universe with waves of goodness. I was taught to pray before bed, and though I’m a Pagan, there can only be positivity when offering my nightly appreciation. I start with mom’s “Now I lay me down to sleep…” and finish by acknowledging my ancestors and people close to me who have passed on. This ritual is part of my gratitude routine, and though I forget sometimes, I trust the universe knows my good intentions and gives me an occasional pass. <blockquote>The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.Dolly Parton</blockquote><figure id="figure-x6f5ecy56mhpce59i" class=""><img id="x6f5ecy56mhpce59i" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/47cH4r6miF3F88I3YBdGgoui6AzzQ3QiQWS578e6pU9HAzmBKBFlOqSWabeld971.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/47cH4r6miF3F88I3YBdGgoui6AzzQ3QiQWS578e6pU9HAzmBKBFlOqSWabeld971.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>I can find gratitude in raindrops, in a great meal, in having coins in my purse. There’s gratitude in the furnace that heats my home and in my very kind neighbours. I’m thankful for friends that hold my secrets, socks that warm my feet and arms that hug my husband close to me. All I need to do is look around and there’s something to be grateful for in every glance and every sound.I’m a big fan of shifting perspectives, of looking at things from different angles, but I don’t need a scientific study to show me that being thankful for the many blessings in my life is truly, the key to finding contentment, peace of mind, and happiness.&nbsp; <a data-mce-href="https://positivepsychology.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude" href="https://positivepsychology.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude">﻿&nbsp;https://positivepsychology.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude</a>

Storytelling

The Framing Effect - It’s a big deal

Ripples and Vibes

Unseen

Never too old to learn

Dancing in My Own Skin

The key to my happiness