Focusing on the present moment and practicing mindfulness can help you stay positive by allowing you to appreciate what is happening around you, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing or meditation, can also help reduce stress and anxiety.
Practicing gratitude by regularly noting things you are thankful for can help shift your focus from negative thoughts to positive ones. This can be done through journaling, talking with friends or family, or simply reflecting on what you are grateful for each day.
Engaging in physical activity, such as exercise or yoga, can help boost your mood by releasing endorphins, also known as “feel-good” chemicals, in the brain. Additionally, regular physical activity can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Building and maintaining positive relationships with family and friends can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. Cultivate these relationships by spending time together, sharing your thoughts and feelings, and being there for one another.
Setting realistic and achievable goals for yourself can give you a sense of purpose and direction, and can also help you feel a sense of accomplishment when you achieve them.
Practicing self-care and making time for activities you enjoy can help you feel good about yourself and can also help reduce stress and anxiety. Examples of self-care include getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and spending time on hobbies or activities that you enjoy.
Challenging negative thoughts and reframing them in a more positive light can help you to view situations in a more optimistic way. This can be done by questioning the evidence for and against negative thoughts, and looking for alternative, more positive perspectives.
Getting enough sleep and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can help improve your mood and overall well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, and try to keep a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.
Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote feelings of calm and well-being.
Seeking professional help if needed, such as counseling or therapy, can provide additional support and guidance for managing negative thoughts and emotions. A therapist can help you develop coping strategies, work through difficult experiences, and achieve positive changes in your life.
Mindfulness exercises and meditations can be found in various apps such as Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer. Websites such as Mindful.org and UCLA’s Mindful Awareness Research Center also offer resources and information on mindfulness practices.
Gratitude journaling can be done in a physical journal, or with the use of apps like Gratitude Journal, Day One, and Grateful. There are also online resources such as TheGratitudeProject.com that provide ideas and prompts for practicing gratitude.
Many gyms and fitness centers offer a variety of exercise classes, as well as personal training options. Yoga studios and community centers also offer yoga classes for all levels. You can also find free workout videos on platforms like YouTube or on apps such as Nike Training Club, Aaptiv, and Peloton.
Building positive relationships can be done by spending quality time with friends and family, joining clubs or groups with similar interests, or volunteering in your community.
Setting goals can be done through various goal setting frameworks such as SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) or OKR (Objectives and Key Results) . There are also various goal setting apps available such as Habitica, Goals on Track, and Strides.
Some self-care resources include finding online tutorials or workshops to learn new hobbies, or using apps such as 7 Cups, Pacifica, and Shine to support mental health.
Some resources for challenging negative thoughts include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) workbooks, such as The CBT Workbook for Anxiety, or apps like Moodfit, and CBT-i Coach
Websites such as National Sleep Foundation and Sleep.org offer information on the importance of sleep and tips for improving sleep hygiene.
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation can be practiced with the help of apps such as Breathing Space, Stop, Breathe & Think, and Ten Percent Happier.
There are many resources available to find a therapist or counselor, such as the American Psychological Association’s “Psychologist Locator,” the National Alliance on Mental Illness’s “Find Support,” and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s “Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator.” You can also search for therapists in your area on sites like Psychology Today and GoodTherapy.org