On Being Positive

On Sunday, September 27th I started a 6 part workshop series entitled "Shift Into Positive." Anyone is welcome to join in at anytime. the next workshop is scheduled for 10/25. Click here for information. 
Here are 10 Simple Tricks for Keeping Positive:

1. Start the day with a positive thought. Example: “Today is a great day. I am planning on a fun time with yoga.” Or a positive affirmation: “I am feeling energetic and happy today.” Try to keep it in the present and positive.
   
   
2. Smile first thing in the morning. Even if it is intentional smiling has lasting physical and emotional benefits. Laugh too.
   
   
3. Avoid using the word “don't”. Rephrase your statement with what you want to happen. Ex: instead of “Don't step on the crack.” say “Step in the square between the cracks.” You get what you focus on.
   
   
4. Re-frame the situation. Example when someone passes you in heavy traffic and jumps in front of you, instead of being upset because they took your place and they were rude. Tell yourself that that person must be in a bigger hurry than you and has a really good reason to get to their destination in a hurry. Always look for the positive reasons for an action.
   
   
5. Get a good night's sleep or be well rested.
   
   
6. Recall memories of things that you enjoyed and/or are grateful for. It can be a pretty flower that you saw this morning or a childhood memory of your parents cuddling you and everything in between.
   
   
7. Eat a good diet. Make sure that you eat on a regular basis.
   
   
   
8. Set goals, long term and short term.
   
   
   
9. Begin the day by writing in a journal. Note the good things that happened yesterday. List what you'd like to accomplish today. You can also hash out and process troubles or confusing events.
   
   
10. Do something good for you like take an exercise class, read a book, an art project, pedicure....