4 ways to make 2016 a year to remember
Let’s think for a start about memories! How often are they of experiences rather than objects….or if they are of objects are they a trigger for a memory of an experience? A special moment or a particular time in your life. As I get older (in years if not in attitude!) I notice more that my memories are of people, moments, feelings & experiences. Often all of the above combined as one!
There’s a house around the corner from mine that when I pass it in summer reminds me of my grandparents! They had a beautiful garden & im not sure which smell evokes the memory but as I walk past I often pause & remember long days playing in their garden…which leads to more memories as I continue my walk! Music is another trigger for memories….sad & happy. I’m not sure if different people remember different ways. I’m not great at taking photographs & having accidentally drowned a couple of laptops have lost many of my photographs of pre 2010. However this didn’t make me as sad as it would have some of my friends as I don’t really look at photos to remember. Yet other friends have said they’d have felt that loss a lot stronger. 
So my suggestion for the year ahead is to do those things that evoke feelings, associate with music, or scent, take photos or write things down. Create your own memory bank of experiences in the way that works for you. For example I’m currently sat listening to the ocean, distant sounds of laughter & the occasional jet ski. I will forever associate with Thailand the taste of pineapple & green curry & a particular shower gel provided by the hotel. Whereas Molton Browns black pepper shower gel reminds me of times in Brighton in 2003 & more recently of Ibiza 🙂 Even on the greyest of days I can shower & reminisce 🙂
So I suggest you
1. Find what triggers a memory for you. Then be proactive in creating memories; maybe a music playlist for a great summer or a scent of a loved one.
2. When you’re having a moment….those times you want to remember forever…notice. Notice the sounds, the smells, what can you see, how do you feel in your body, what are you wearing? Whose with you. The more actively we process our senses the more easily access we can access those memories.
3. Live. Not through social media or via text. Put down those electricals & enjoy living in the moment. Don’t see your holiday through a selfie stick but with your eyes. Create memories not videos.
4. Plan ahead….you know you’ve a special occasion…well maybe wear a particular piece of jewellery or scent. Or play a song as you prepare & again as you relive that occasion in your mind. Consciously cement those associations. Do more yoga…it connects you to your body & your self allowing you to understand who you are so much better.
