Life is hectic and unpredictable – and sometimes it feels like stress is everywhere. Money may be tight. You’re concerned about a loved one’s health. And some days are just doomed from the beginning – no matter what you do.
All of this can take a toll on your body and mind – zapping you of your sense of tranquility and positivity.
In fact, our brains are wired to fall into the same pathways each day. So, if those pathways lead you toward stressful or depressive thoughts, then that is the direction your mind will go. Over time, your brain has trained itself to go into stress and depression mode when triggered with a life stressor.
This can lead to a host of issues such as:
Sleep disturbances
Changes in weight – significant weigh loss or gain
Fatigue
Muscle tension
Gastrointestinal problems
None of these things contribute to a tranquil or balanced life. In fact, stress and depression are often accompanied by a nagging voice filling our head with negative thoughts such as “I will never find love,” “I’m not good enough,” and “I can’t do this.”
So, what can you do?
First, quiet your mind and then take a few deep breaths – inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Repeat this at least four times. Envision a box. Breath in for four seconds and exhale for four seconds – following the outline of the box.
Think about what these negative messages are trying to communicate to you. Afterward, ask yourself what positive messages you would rather believe about yourself. What affirmation do you need to set to feel empowered to start off the day? These affirmations are meant to counter the negative messages from above. For example:
I am a good person and deserve love.
I am doing the best I can.
I am strong and capable and have done hard things before.
Affirmations are a powerful way to combat negative thoughts. Getting into the routine of setting a centering affirmation in the morning can help create new pathways for improved mental health and physical well-being.
Over time, your brain will prefer to operate out of the new pathway – one filled with hopefulness and peace.
Still need some help dealing with stress and depression? Reach out to make an appointment with a therapist at Turning Point Mental Health Center.