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Our thoughts play an important role in our overall health.
Positive thinking is about finding balance, noticing what is good in ourselves, being optimistic and focusing on what we can change when problems arise. People who live longest often have a positive outlook on long life. They are also more likely to cope better with stress, bounce back from adversity and engage in healthy activities.
Reflect on what went well: Everyday recognise your successes and the things you are grateful for, no matter how small.
Write a gratitude list: Take time to write down a list of what is good in your life. No matter what the challenges, it helps to remember daily what we feel grateful for.
Troubleshoot problems: Set up a time to think about the challenges in your life such as medical or mental health concerns, work stress, financial or relationship challenges.
- Try to find a short time each day around the same time to notice your thoughts, emotions, and beliefs about these situations. Allow the feelings in without judging them. Are there any problems that you think you can change?
- It can help to write your ideas down and troubleshoot them. Imagine letting go of the worry or problem to regain balance in your thinking. Remember this will pass sooner or later.
Mindful breathing: This can help you improve how you think and feel by being in the present moment.
- One easy way to start is to try just a few minutes at a time. Notice your breath moving in and out.
- Focus on your breath even while thoughts come into your mind. When your mind wanders (this is what minds do), bring your attention back to your breath. Focused attention through breathing can improve health, our ability to bounce back from illness, reduce stress, and anxiety and depression.
Shift negative thinking: When you find yourself in a difficult situation, check in with your thoughts and feelings. Sometimes our thoughts are unhelpful and can make us feel worse than we need to feel. Instead of “This is impossible” ask “What would a good friend say to me right now?” or “What will make this easier?” or “Who can help me with this?”
Treat yourself with kindness and compassion: If your thoughts tend to be self-critical, remind yourself that no one is perfect. We all make mistakes. Research shows that treating ourselves with compassion makes us happier and lowers anxiety and depression.
For enquiries about Live Well contact Dr Carmelo Aquilina, Director of Older People’s Mental Health Service of the South Western Sydney Local Health Service, at SWSLHD-FOH@health.nsw.gov.au.