In times of uncertainty, we can grasp at straws and seek to chase the illusion of control but the truth is, it's impossible. Change is the only constant. However, there are things that we can control in these times of uncertainty and increased anxiousness.
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
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The first and biggest way to stay encouraged and calm is to be mindful of our responses to daily stresses.
We can choose to quiet our critical or fearful thoughts and emotions. This act alone may seem small, yet it can help us calm, assist us in making better decisions, and support us emotionally to weather the storm.
Another great EQ strategy is gratitude. No matter how tough our life or how stressful our day, there is ALWAYS something to be grateful for.
Gratitude Is a Simple and Free Tool to Uplift Everyone
The simple and self-empowering tool of GRATITUDE can be applied by everyone!
Its power stands apart as one of the most remarkable and assessable remedies available and can be used by children and adults alike. A daily gratitude ritual will be uplifting regardless of what's happening.
Science has published numerous studies on gratitude, showing that expressing it increases well-being and positive emotions. By calling to mind our appreciation, we can keep top of mind what is most important to each of us.
Gratitude will also offset the psychological disorientation caused by having all our self-care and social routines uprooted, such as working out at the gym, dining at your favorite restaurant, or meeting a friend for coffee.
How we feel usually determines what comes next—our actions and behavior.
Creating a a healthy routine is vital for everyone. For parents, it's crucial to focus on self-care and calmness to provide stability for children and teens in the home. You are the glue that keeps the family together!
Related reading: "Moods and Actions" by Seth Godin
As human beings, it’s natural to seek comfort and safety and want to avoid uncomfortable stresses.
However, when we deny what's happening or let our minds run away with fear, we work against ourselves. Fear magnifies the stress if left unchecked, often causing the mind to spin worst-case scenarios that increase anxiety.
Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude to Find Your Balance
Without mindfulness and a disciplined mindset, our survival brain can steal away all the many things we have to be grateful for in our lives right now.
Technology alone is a huge benefit. It not only allows us to communicate with loved ones but to get instant updates, work virtually at home safely, order supplies and medications online, have FaceTime with friends, and support one another via social media, emails, and blogs. What a blessing!
The Science of Gratitude
There is nothing simpler that can relieve stress and replenish our spirits faster than gratitude.
During any time of upheaval and change, being grateful is even more important in keeping our balance. It doesn't matter if the uncertainty comes from a move across country, a loss, or disappointment with the elections.
A gratitude practice is a free, easy, and feel-good action that is scientifically shown to:
- increase happiness
- enhance health
- give more restful sleep
- shift negativity to a positive attitude
- replace anxious or depressing thoughts
- boost resiliency
- promote kindness
These are only a few of the benefits!
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Need more convincing? The Science of Gratitude: More Benefits Than Expected; 26 Studies and Counting 5 Scientifically Proven Benefits of Gratitude 14 Scientifically Proven Ways Gratitude Can Bring You Success and Happiness |
Gratitude instantly expands your awareness and shifts your attention from the negative to what is positive in your life, even during a stressful time.
Start a Gratitude Practice Today!
Last week, I committed to my own gratitude practice.
It seemed like my mind was gravitating to the things I didn't like a little TOO much! So I decided to do the following:
Whenever any discouraging comment leaves my lips or a concern ripples across my mind, I bring it to mind and say out loud three reasons I have to be grateful in that moment.
Each time, I require the items to be different than the ones named before; it's like a game that requires my mind to think differently. Converting concerns to gratitude has helped me develop a more hopeful and positive attitude.
Another great ritual is to keep a gratitude journal. There isn't any practice more uplifting and easily accessible. You can keep it by your bedside and write in it morning and night.
Or keep a blank journal in your desk at work. A practical choice to start a gratitude practice is this versatile, lined leather journal in different sizes and colors. The journal provides plenty of room for jotting down your daily gratitude.
Journaling is an awesome practice with many different types and applications.
Pick what is right for you!
Whatever your preference, just begin.
Whether it's a simple list or a paragraph of all the experiences you're grateful for, don't wait to begin a gratitude practice!
Then, when you’re feeling down or afraid, you can pull it out to remind yourself of all there is to be grateful for.
Gratitude is not just a pleasant emotion; gratitude holds the power to take control back and enables you to be the captain of your own mind and emotions.
Related reading: "The Science of Gratitude."
When practiced regularly, expressing appreciation can be an amazing stress relief and a life-changing experience. I encourage each of you to make gratitude a daily practice, especially in these challenging times. Its benefits make it one of the most powerful actions you can take. There are very few things that can shift emotions faster—and it's backed by science.
Make gratitude a habit.
If you're willing to try a gratitude practice, commit to expressing it several times a day. Experience the shifts for yourself that will help support you through hard times and expand the joy and pleasure in good times.
Related reading: "What Is Mindfulness? And Why All of the Hubbub?"
And if you would like personalized support and more proven tools, contact us at support@Heartmanity. We're here for you!
