When life is tough, it's easy to focus on the negative. And I've got a secret - I'm a natural pessimist, so this habit comes so very easily to me.
But there is a simple alternative habit to start to learn that has myriad benefits for mental health - practicing Gratitude.
This might seem like a new-fangled, social media-inspired fad, and it's easy to dismiss simple ideas as modern nonsense. But being thankful, even for small things, is something that we might have lost.
With fewer of us spending time in prayer, life being busy and a focus on accumulation, we have lost the quiet time for reflection on positives - even small ones.
Research evidence is clear, practicing Gratitude has many benefits. There are studies showing that just a short daily practise, for a few weeks, can start to show:
- improved health, lowered stress
- improved mental health
- better relationships
- a more positive outlook on life
What's not to like?
So, how do we practice GRATITUDE?
You know me, Simple techniques are what I recommend, and in my own life, I'm practicing the simplest of all:
- start your day, when you wake up (and when you're sure you're awake), by listing 5 things you are grateful for.
That's it. You can list them in your mind (evidence suggests writing is more powerful) but list them with heartfelt thanks.
And they can be small things. For example, Today I AM grateful for the roof over my head, that the sun is shining, that I saw my extended family yesterday, that my sister and I just shared a cuppa and a chat over WhatsApp & that my brain is working well enough to type this. All of these are miracles in their own right and so easily overlooked! But just thinking about each of those things starts my day with a heartfelt smile.
It really can be that simple. Start now.
But I have a question for you - and I know that you are reading this (because the stats tell me that a whopping 60% of you open this email).
WHAT DO YOU DO WITH THE TIPS I SEND YOU?
Are you using them, or do you read them and then carry on with life as normal? Which help, which don't? What stops you from trying and sticking to something that could help your life be more easeful? Again, I share your struggles - we are all striving to live more valuable lives - but let's make an intention to really make a change. Let me know how you get on and perhaps we can work on these blocks to better living together. . .
I look forward to seeing some of you this afternoon for the Yoga for BackCare workshop in Ealing - There are just 2 places left if you'd like to come along at 2.30pm - link below.
SPORTS MASSAGE THIS WEEK? If you or anyone you know need help after the Ealing half marathon today - do get in touch with Mike mike@findinghealth.co.uk for details of appointments to help with recovery.
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