Gratitude is such a game changer. Especially now with the world spinning in so many directions, it is easy to spiral down into negativity and become paralyzed, feeling that every move is the wrong one. While it’s important to acknowledge your feelings and emotions and give yourself the time and space to name them and feel them, it’s important not to get stuck.
Life is a series of waves – always cycling between peaks and troughs. Some days you’re up and flying high and other days it seems like it’s just one thing after the next. It’s o.k. and it happens to everyone. No one is immune to these cycles. The key is finding that resiliency to pick yourself up once again and keep moving forward, even if it’s only a millimeter at a time.
One technique that I use to get that dial moved over even a millimeter in a positive direction, is gratitude. When I catch myself spiraling into negative thoughts, I stop myself and say, o.k., what are five things you are grateful for right this minute?
- The amazing bodysurfing session I had this morning
- Having a healthy body that allows me to move freely in the water
- The delicious bagel I had post surf
- My ceiling fan that is blowing cool air on me
- Reggae music that gives me the motivation to work
Boom – done! As you can see, it doesn’t have to be anything big or major. Some days, when I’m really feeling low, my list has included things such as
- I’m alive
- I have food
- I’m healthy
- I can walk
- The trees are pretty
Just go for it! You don’t even have to write it down. Some people like to keep a journal but if that’s too much work, just think about it. Use whatever first comes to your mind. Take note how you feel after. Remember, you’re looking for that millimeter and if you advance more, great, but if not, you’ve at least halted the spiral down.
Peace and love,
Tara
tara@wavesofwellnesscoaching.com
