Embracing the Transformative Power of Positive Emotions and Mindfulness
Posted on October 27, 2023 by Erin Morse, One of Thousands of Health and Fitness Coaches on Noomii.
Welcome to a journey where we explore the profound potential of positive emotions and the practice of mindfulness as a path to self-discovery.
We all have moments where we feel deeply connected to ourselves, to someone else, or perhaps to the environment around us. Recently I found myself in a moment like this, of introspection and mindfulness. I closed my eyes and allowed the world around me to wash over my senses. The gentle music, the fragrant aromas of essential oils, the spacious atmosphere, and the soothing rhythm of my breath wove together, filling me with a profound sense of fullness.
In this contemplative moment, I asked myself a simple yet profound question: “Where am I right now, and how do I feel?” The answer was as clear – I felt grateful, happy, peaceful – and filled with positive emotions.
Positive psychology, reminds us of the extraordinary power of positive emotions. They set in motion upward spirals, leading to a state of open-mindedness and open-heartedness. My experience recently epitomized this upward spiral, a gift of awareness that allowed me to fully embrace the beauty within and around me.
I’ve come to realize that this experience isn’t confined to a specific place or space; it can be felt anywhere. However, as humans, we navigate a broad spectrum of emotions. Our minds, driven by an innate negativity bias, often gravitate toward life’s challenges and difficulties. It’s easy to rush past moments of triumph in our lives. Yet, when faced with adversity, we tend to linger in those spaces, ruminating on what could have been.
The disparity between these reactions is intriguing. We may hurry through moments of joy, accomplishment, and gratitude, but a sense of failure can overshadow our entire day. Research corroborates the notion that prioritizing positive emotions can lead to better sleep, reduced physical pain, improved relationships, and heightened effectiveness at work and home (Lyubomirsky, Sousa & Dickerhoof, 2006).
So, how can we create space for these positive moments? How can we embrace them, allowing their uplifting energy to permeate our very being?
Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Notice and Name: Take a moment to acknowledge the emotions and experiences that both positive and negative events elicit. Pay attention to the physical sensations and their location within your body.
2. Savor the Good: Instead of rushing through moments of joy, allow yourself to fully immerse in them. The richness lies in experiencing these moments to the fullest, even if it feels unfamiliar.
3. Create Rituals of Celebration: Identify one thing you can do to remain present and celebrate positive moments as they occur. Whether it’s indulging in a soothing bath or sharing your joy with a loved one, find ways to honor the good.
As we delve deeper into our exploration of the multifaceted and resourceful human beings that we are, I hope this article inspires you to nurture a life brimming with positivity and joy.
Wishing you an abundance of positivity, joy, and endless possibilities.
