As we move into the month of April and the depth of spring, we will witness nature coming back to full life following a peaceful rest during fall and winter. We can also experience this same rebirth or resurrection as we experience more light from the sun, warmer temperatures, the bloom of colors in our plants, and foliage reappearing on the trees. We know that this sense of rebirth promotes better physical health, emotional health, and spiritual health.
Better emotional, spiritual and physical health is also achieved from the focus of our thoughts. Some people are naturally more optimists than others but for those who are not, adopting a positive mindset will help improve mental health. “People tasked with writing letters expressing gratitude reported better mental health than those who wrote about their feelings and thoughts about stressful experiences,
according to a study involving almost 300 psychotherapy clients reported in Psychotherapy Research in 2016.”
One method for adopting a positive mindset is to go complaint free for a day. As they say in AA, accept this challenge one day at a time.
When this challenge becomes more difficult than expected, when you her yourself voicing complaints or criticisms replace those words with an expression of appreciation. Do not punish yourself or chastise yourself, but be gentle, notice the slip and shift your focus. You will realize how deeply embedded criticism and complaining is in our psyche. Also, encourage the grateful, appreciative and positive thoughts by engaging in fun conversations with friends, listen to uplifting music, exercise or whatever makes you feel good.
Let us finish our 40-day journey through Lent more insightful and joyful in life and our relationship with God and all creation.
Lenten and Easter Blessings,
Rev. Gloria
2710 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007 | (602) 266-4602