QUESTION:
I get a little irritated with some people. They always seem to be happy, regardless of their circumstances. What can I do to be more like that?
ANSWER:
You might be surprised at some of the tips listed below that were developed by United Health Care. It’s not wealth. It’s not fame. It’s not any of the things that so many of us think are important to our emotional well-being. These simple habits can make a difference in your life:
Nurture social ties. Try to connect with a friend or loved one every day. It will boost your mood and theirs. Texts and emails are good timesavers, but nothing replaces face-to-face time with someone who makes you laugh.
Give thanks for blessings – both large and small. After all, it is the season to be thankful, isn’t it? Be mindful of all the little and big things that go right in your world. Writing a daily journal of all the things for which you’re grateful can really put some perspective in your life. My niece has a grateful jar. When her family sits down to dinner, they all write down on a piece of paper what made them grateful that day and place it in a jar on the table. What a great conversation starter!
Lend a hand. You will be amazed at how good you feel just to do something simple and kind. Volunteer for a cause about which you are passionate. As an added benefit, you will be more likely to meet other like-minded people who are happy.
Talk nicer to yourself. We are most often our worst enemies. If we had friends who talk to us the way we talk to ourselves, would they still be our friends?
Find joy in movement. Exercise is great, but just dancing to the music you love can make you feel like you are 16 again! Love those endorphins (feel-good hormones)!
Make time for creative play time in your schedule. Fun activities like arts and crafts, or playing cards with friends that make you laugh can do you a world of good. You will exercise the neurons in your brain that often create benefits in the rest of your life.
Catch your ZZZs. Getting a good night’s sleep can be like getting your batteries recharged.
Make the effort to look for the good in everyone. Finding the good in others (even when you have to dig really deep for it) can help you understand and appreciate someone even more.
Taking the time to assess your life and create balance in all the areas of your world can pay off in many dividends. Give it your best shot. Think of creative ways to make some inroads in the areas listed above.
Stay well.
Marty Kernion, Ph.D. is not a medical doctor. She has a doctorate in naturopathy. Naturopathy uses natural, gentle ways to bring our bodies back into balance so that they have the God-given ability to heal themselves. She is a retired professor of herbal medicine and nutrition and has written 39 college level courses in natural approaches to health. She has published two books on natural health. She can be reached at askdoctormarty@cox.net for scheduling a class or consultation, or for sending in your questions for this column.
