Have you ever noticed that when you start to think more negative or bring in fear into a situation, more of it continues to occur? Negative emotions narrow your mind and focus your thoughts, creating a contracting experience. There are many impacts to our body, mind and spirit based upon our attitude and outlook. 

Studies have shown that when people experience positive emotions, they will see more possibilities in their life. Thinking and exhibiting positive emotions and thoughts create expansion

Each of us has challenging days periodically, remembering that each choice we make (with our thoughts and actions) will create our next moment, thought, day, and result. By shifting our outlook, we can create more options and positive outcomes for the remainder of the day and the future.

Simple Steps to Shifting to More Positive Emotions and Thinking:

• Meditation: a process of calming our mind and body from day to day activity and stress. It helps release our ego’s strong hold of insecurities and fears. By taking just 10 minutes per day to become quiet and/or follow a guided meditation, you can create a better sense of calm and balance within yourself; allowing you to become more positive over time.
  
• Awareness and Rephrasing of Words: slowing down to realize what thoughts are surfacing in our mind and then creating the discipline to rephrase those thoughts into a more positive words. For example instead of thinking or stating “I always yell”, try to rephrase to “I speak in a calm tone.”  Instead of repeating what you do not want or focusing on what you do not want (i.e. I do not want to get sick) and focus on what you do want (i.e. I am healthy), is a very powerful exercise.
  
• Gratitude Journal: documenting the positive aspects of your life helps you realize all that you have and focus on the positive. As a result, more positive situations will come to you. Writing in a gratitude journal daily can shift your perspective dramatically. If you are unable to think of things you are grateful for start with items that you take for granted such as the ability to see, hear, smile, walk, etc.
  
• Exercise: serotonin is released when we exercise. This is a very powerful endorphin and helps de-stress and create a happier sense within ourselves.
  
• Laugh: connect with friends for a fun evening or turn on a favorite comedy. Laughing spurs on positive emotions and helps give you a different perspective.