One of the cornerstones of our Solution-focused approach is positivity; we aim, through positivity and engagement, to activate the left pre-frontal cortex of the brain (that sensible, rational part that usually navigates through life calmly and comfortably) and to release lots of feel-good serotonin, endorphins and reward-inducing dopamine.
So let’s have a look at some ideas for boosting positivity:
20 Instant boosts
- Connect with somebody who makes you feel positive. In person…via zoom…telephone…write a letter…email…
- A small bunch of flowers can brighten any room…
- Do something positive for somebody…even just pay them a compliment
- Have a long soak in the bath…
- De-clutter a room…
- Go for a walk…engage with nature and take in vitamin D at the same time…
- Play your favourite music…and sing along…add your own harmonies
- Get lost in a good book…or film…
- Exercise…move your body… move in time to music…do a few arm or leg exercises…
- Wear something you feel comfortable in…
- Close your eyes and think about three things that have been good during the last few days…
- Try a breathing exercise, such as boxed breathing…breathe in for a count of 6…hold for a count of 6…breathe out for a count of 6…hold for a count of 6…
- Have a good stretch…some yoga poses, including child’s pose and downward dog, can boost mood
- Watch a funny DVD…or a you tube clip…
- Snuggle up with something sensory, like a soft throw or a blanket…
- Make plans to start a new activity…learn a new language…learn a new skill…
- Eat a small chunk of dark chocolate…
- Try the half smile…just forming a small smile will send signals to your brain that you are feeling positive…
- Start making plans for something to look forward to in the next few days…
- Relax with a cup of herbal tea…
Mood boosts for the next few weeks
- Houseplants can improve air quality as well as boost mood. I’ve had a roomful for over a year and, if I can keep them alive and growing, then anybody can…spider plants, ivies and peace lilies can also filter out toxins…
- Try growing a fruit pip…that moment when we see the first sign of a shoot can be magical…
- Think about volunteering…it’s sociable and it’s good for self-esteem…
- Keep a journal…this can help with processing emotions and releasing stored feelings…
- Introduce mood-boosting nutritious food including oily fish, eggs, walnuts, bananas and pumpkin seeds…all beneficial…
- Implement your new activity…the activity you’ve already been thinking about doing and haven’t yet started…
- Adjust your sleep pattern so that you are getting enough sleep…including deep Rapid Eye Movement sleep…
Even just adjusting your sleep pattern can help to reduce stress…which will reduce anxiety…which will boost positivity. As a Solution-focused hypnotherapist, I can help you to improve your sleep and reduce stress and anxiety.