A common thread in the teachings of the great sages is the ability to regulate one’s emotions, thoughts and behavior as a means of avoiding pain and suffering. It is one of the easiest and hardest things to do. In the age of social-media and political demagogues “the right to vent” has become the norm.
A single uncontrolled outburst of anger so often ruin a long-term relationship, destroy a team or scuttle a business deal.
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Toxic emotions are poison. They weaken our immune system and can spoil our day as soon as we get up and open a social media account. We are being manipulated 24-7 with emotions that have a detrimental long-term effect on our mental health.
Negative emotions get attention and attention generate “likes” and advertising revenue. It is human nature to focus more on the negative than the positive. Why do otherwise so many people follow the herd in the next shit-storm?
How you start your day will determine your day. It is important to immunize yourself against negativity. Anchor yourself with a positive meditation, visualization, or exercise routine before you do anything else. Negative thoughts and emotions have the habit of drawing more negativity into your life. It is therefore crucial that you exercise emotional shifting that will center you into positive mindset whenever you are confronted with something that disturbs or angers you.
Practicing “emotional shifting” can immediately pull you out of the maelstrom of negativity. You will become a negative person if you occupy yourself with negative thoughts and you will bring positive things into your life, if you focus your mind on the good and nice things in life. It’s that simple.
Here are some typical emotional shifters that can change your mindset from the negative to the positive in an instant:
- Take a step back and count your breath – inhaling and exhaling
- Focus your mind on that beautiful beach you remember from your last vacation or other special moments. Freeze those moments in your mind and recall them when you need them.
- Laughing is probably the best antidote to negativity.
- If its been a bad day, try walking it off with a brisk walk in the park, training your mind to focus on that special bird song or the scent of a herb along the path. Open your senses to the natural healing effects of nature.
There are many more emotional shifters you can use, anything basically that will make you feel that life is good and good things are flowing your way.
In my book “Walking on Edge: A Pilgrimage to Santiago” the main character Jake is tutored by fellow pilgrim Chuck on how to start the day in such a way that the daily hike becomes so much easier. You can read the sample chapter here.
Centering comes through regular daily practice of meditation, even if its for only a few minutes a day – and the best time to do it is in the morning.
Reino Gevers – Mentor and Author – Your Health Matters
“Walking on Edge – A Pilgrimage to Santiago” available both in Kindle and paperback.
Start your day by adding turmeric to your meals – one of the best ways to boost your immune system.
