Bring positive energy into life

A positive mind comes from a heart full of faith. If you want to stay positive when facing challenges and negative situations, here are some things you can do to help revive your positive energy.

Enjoy nature

Research shows that revelling in the great outdoors promotes human health. Spending time in serene natural environments has been scientifically proven to lower stress levels, improve working memory and provide a sense of rejuvenation.

Perform random acts of kindness

Finding ways to put a smile on the face of others affects you just as much as it affects them. It takes the focus off of you and your problems, and allows you to be a positive force in the lives of others. Doing good for others makes you feel good. It lifts your mood, improves self esteem and self-worth. It also serves as a small distraction from your current challenges.

Develop an attitude of gratitude

Noticing and appreciating the positives in our lives is a great way to lift your spirits and provide yourself a mental boost. Start to practice gratitude by being thankful for the simple things in life.

Take a mental break

Exhaustion is the silent killer of positivity. Learn to take breaks when things get overwhelming. Do something that gives your mind a break from whatever challenge you are facing–and that could just mean taking a nap.

Laugh

Laughter truly is the best medicine for most of what ails us. Laughter strengthens your immune system, boosts mood, diminishes pain, and protects you from the damaging effects of stress. Find a way to laugh–often. Watch a comedy, spend the evening with your crazy friend who knows how to keep you in stitches. Host a game night with your friends.

Hang around with positive people

Research suggests that stress is contagious — and the more you surround yourself with it, the more likely you are to let it affect your thoughts. In the same way that stress and negativity are contagious, so is happiness.

Look for the silver lining immediately

Trying to force optimistic thinking amidst emotional turmoil or a bit shocked usually don’t work that well.

Training yourself to look for the lesson and find the bright spot not only eases the burden a little, it also slowly begins to transform your entire thought process.

Breathe deeply

Breathing exercises help expel toxic air from your body and refills your body and more importantly–your brain with fresh air. It clears your mind and allows you to regain mental clarity. One moment of clarity at the right time can change everything.

Remind yourself not to dwell on negativity

Avoid dwelling on downers. Downers bring you down! Focusing on negatives isn’t just unpleasant, it also makes you less effective in tackling other tasks you face. Negativity produces more negativity. Bad things happen–try not to replay them over and over and fixate on un-pleasantries. Play positive scenes in your mind instead.

Engage in positive self-talk

Talk to yourself. Tell yourself things are going to turnaround and will work out in the end. Say it out loud. Speaking what you believe out loud reinforces and strengthens the message. You say it and hear it simultaneously.

lifehack