Our mindsets are so important to our overall health. The stress that we allow into our bodies through our mindsets can wreak havoc on our health. We can eat nothing but whole foods, exercise regularly, but if our mindsets are programmed to think negatively and destructively, we are not contributing to a healthy lifestyle. Rather, we are harming our bodies. This harm has immediate and lasting effects on our overall health.
Controlling our mindsets should be one of our top priorities. We can't just say to our minds, "Alright, already-stop this way of thinking!" That's impossible. It is a process that takes time and dedication. If it were easy and quick, we would all have mindsets that support healthy living. Unfortunately, many of us have mindsets that are extremely destructive and we are so caught up in it that we don't even realize the negative effects it has on our lives and bodies.
The benefits of a healthy mindset are:
- increased longevity
- reduces depression
- lowers levels of anxiety
- increases immunity
- reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease
- promotes healthy relationships
Thankfully, there are many ways in which we can train our mindsets. They take practice, but they are so worth it. In time, you will notice more peace in your life. You will recognize when a destructive thought enters your brain and be able to push it away quickly. You will feel freer and happier.
Techniques for growing a healthy mindset:
1. Guard your minds - be mindful of what and who you are listening to and watching. Be aware of how these things make you feel and what they cause you to focus on.
2. Be proactive rather than reactive - be mindful of what and who pushes your buttons. Establish game plans on how best to deal with these situations BEFORE they happen.
3. Surround yourself with people and places that honor and promote a healthy mindset -this one needs no explanation! :)
4. Banish negative self-talk - we all have times where we allow our minds to go on a negative road trip. We have gone clear across the country before we even realize it. This leaves us feeling grumpy and depleted. Be extremely mindful of EVERYTHING you are thinking upon. If you notice ugliness, change your talk immediately. There is no room in the inn for negative self-talk. Not one good thing comes from it.
5. Live a balanced life - be sure to practice self-care. When we give to others and deny ourselves, we become overwhelmed and our mindsets are not supportive.
6. Help others - it is amazing what happens to our mindsets when we help others!
7. Be grateful - I often suggest to people that they keep a gratitude journal with them at all times. Set a goal for how many things you want to record. It often helps to break it up into times of the day. When we only do it in the morning or evening, we forget to focus on gratefulness throughout the day.
These techniques really will change your mindset for the better. With time and practice, you will feel better and happier. You will notice your stress levels diminishing and your energy levels rising.
You CAN do this! I believe in you and your health!
Proverbs 23:7...As someone thinks within himself, so he is.
Marci
