Because “things turn out best for the people who make the best of how things turn out”, I have decided to repost one of my previous blogs. In today’s uncertain and scary times, when many of us:
I share with you this simple exercise. If done every day for 30 days, it can help change your outlook. I resend this blog with my wishes that you stay safe and healthy. I'll give you the steps so you become empowered to look at the world differently and feel the joy and contentment you deserve!
My challenge to you is based on the work of psychologist and happiness researcher, Shawn Achor. Surprising as it sounds, he says that it is possible to re-wire your brain to be happier. You don’t have to wear a smiley-face hat or tell funny jokes. Simply doing the following five activities daily can rewire your brain towards happiness. (I include my order to just give you some idea of fitting it into your day. You can organize it however it is convenient for you). 1. THINK OF THREE THINGS YOU’RE GRATEFUL FOR I like to do this – out loud – in the morning when I get up. I encourage those around me to join in. It’s a good family tradition. 2. WRITE ABOUT A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE FROM THE PAST 24 HOURS I do this in the evening. I keep a notebook on my nightstand. This simple activity has the amazing power of changing your entire mindset. You will comb through the day, tossing aside the negative and focusing on the positive. Guaranteed to make you smile. 3. EXERCISE (AT LEAST 20 MIN) I am a morning person, so I make time before breakfast to get in my exercise. Whether it is a brisk walk, time at the gym or climbing stairs, give yourself 20 minutes and increase your activity. I’m including four short videos of easy five-minute exercises on my website. Do all four in a day and you’ll have your 20 minutes! 4. MEDITATE (5-7 MIN) I find that meditating mid-afternoon works for me. No need to think mantras or posing cross-legged on the carpet. The simplest meditation can be sitting quietly listening to soothing music (no words) – and focusing on either the music, your breathing or a body scan from head-to-toe. If you want some guidance, I like the free app HEADSPACE, which you can use with your earphones while sitting at your desk. Meditation calms and centers, helping you focus and better handle whatever comes your way. 5. PERFORM ONE RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS All day every day is a good time for a random act of kindness. Performing a selfless act that helps, compliments or encourages someone has an amazing effect on all involved. You’ll enjoy every minute. To help get you started, I’ll post a list of suggestions on my website. Encourage everyone around you to get involvedPlease leave a note on one of the platforms below or comment on this blog post to let me know how you are doing.
Post some pictures of what you are grateful for and what makes you happy. I want to know how your random acts of kindness and writing about your positive experiences made you feel. Tell me about your time in meditation. And be sure to tell me when you start feeling like HAPPY is becoming a habit. Good luck! And get your camera ready – you’ll be finding yourself smiling a lot more. SHARE YOUR PROGRESS BY:
Don’t forget to include #makehappyahabit in your posts Loretta
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AuthorLoretta Saff, M.A., CPC, CPRC Categories
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October 2024
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