Sometimes I just sit and wonder how I can make people's lives better. Ways that I can help people see their true worth, capabilities, and beauty…and all that each day has to offer. I'm not always good at this myself, but I believe that feeding yourself with the right positivity can bring hard work, happiness, and gratitude. It can help you see situations and people differently, and realize who you can become… & hundreds of research studies seem to agree. If you are needing proof, flip open the book:Happiness Advantage.
At my internship here in Boston, I have been introduced to integrative medicine and the power of the body--the power of the mind. Like I mentioned in my last post, I believe that the thoughts and beliefs you feed into your mind are what you become--negative or positive. It seems fairly simple. You think negatively, you become negative, and vice versa. So how do you change your thoughts and train your mind to think more positively? Especially in those weak and low moments? ..We have all been through a number of different trials and situations that our minds hold onto and react to differently. These experiences shape our minds into what they are today, or more so, who we are. We go through ups and downs, long moments of sorrow followed by times of happiness and bliss… you must experience both..but isn't a peace of mind through it all what we ultimately strive for? So how do you prepare and gain this solid ground of peace through every situation? We all have individual things that work …but here are a few ideas of my own.
1. Express gratitude. Write down 3 things everyday that you are grateful for. Try to do this at the same time everyday and maybe even incorporate others in the new habit. Share these things with your loved ones and make a family effort..see the affect it can have in your home.
2. Form and keep relationships. Our brain needs relationships to neurologically grow and become our whole selves. Keep up the relationships you have with family & friends and constantly try to make new ones.. put yourself in somewhat uncomfortable positions and get outside of your comfort zone to meet new people.
3. Exercise. Get those endorphins pumping daily & keep your body and brain happy. When you feel good about your body, you are more positive and productive throughout the day.
4. Spirituality. Whatever it may be for you…whether its your religion or some sort of belief in nature or a higher power, find time to make it a central part of your life. I know that my religion and praying to God is what helps keep me grounded.
5. Make room for moments by yourself. Turn off your phone, shut your computer, and put away all of that social media. Find a place that is quiet and peaceful and just be by yourself for a little bit. My favorite places to do this are when I'm hiking up in the mountains, laying on the grass in the sun, or even driving in my car. I turn off my music and just think for a little bit.
I think it's important to remember that hardships and negativity are inevitable..but that there is hope in the reassurance that those moments will pass. Anger, sadness, frustration..let yourself accept these normalities..take them in completely and then let them go and start over. This may be a slow process and something you have to work at multiple times a day…but that is completely okay. You are human.
Just take a look at what you are feeding your mind and see if there needs to be a change.
An LDS talk, a heart felt prayer, writing in my journal, taking a dance or yoga class, a hard workout, looking through old writings, talking with a friend…all of these help me feel a little less crazy:)
Depending on your situation..other things that might help are:
Somatic Experiencing: A type of talk therapy (great for PTSD) that helps you recognize and heal through your senses. Some might call this stuff crazy, but I think that there is something incredible about it.
Naturopathy: Let a professional help get your diet and lifestyle on track so you can have a clear and healthy mind.
MindBody Coaching/Life Coaching: Get help planning and assessing your life goals and the best way to reach them..get in touch with your mind and body and how they work hand in hand.
The mind is powerful, but your soul is even more powerful. The more positive reinforcements we can establish, the easier it is for our souls to take the lead and get rid of the negativity more quickly. So start feeding your mind in the right way! Don't walk outside and curse the heat…be grateful that the sun is shining!
xoxo
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