“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like. – Lao Tzu
“Everything comes to pass, nothing comes to stay.” – Matthew Flickstein
I have discussed wellbeing. Wellbeing includes body, mind, spirit and anything else you need to feel good about yourself. When we feel good about ourselves, we can then feel good about others. What is emotional wellness? It is the ability to handle life’s stresses and adapt to change and difficult times.
We need resilience. The ability to bounce back after disappointments or difficult times. It is trying to hold onto positive feelings and appreciate the “good stuff”. Number one on the list to develop a more positive mindset is to forgive yourself. Let go of that negative self-talk telling you otherwise. Remember all the nice deeds you have done. They are there. Go search for and savor them.
Coping with stress is an art! We are made for “fight or flight”. Our bodies react with hormones to help us through either choice. When we stay in either pattern for lengthy periods of time, these hormones stop being helpful and become part of the problem. We have to get enough sleep, build social networks, exercise (yes), think positive, try meditation and mindfulness (to be in the present and aware of your actions).
This one is tough! Learning to cope with loss. This can be the death of someone you love, or it can be from major changes in your life or the world around you. With this pandemic, we have all learned a new kind of loss. We all have our own way to deal with loss. There is no right or wrong. It is as unique as you are. It is always good to talk to someone you trust. It can help to talk to a professional. Whatever feels right for you. It takes time. Be patient and be kind with yourself.
Mindfulness is a power tool that anyone can practice. It is an ancient practice of being completely aware of what is happening in the present within and without. It is taking yourself off autopilot and taking the controls. It takes practice. One method often recited to do frequently is to take a deep breath through your nose for the count of 4, hold of 1 second and then exhale through your mouth to the count of 5. This helps to shift your thinking to remember mindfulness. Another help is mealtime. Take each bite and savor it and be aware of all the flavor and texture. Pay attention when you are full. By the way “Advertence” is another word for mindfulness. Just thought you might like a little trivia about now!
Recognize your joy!