My Blogging for September took an unexpected turn. On Labor Day (Sept 2nd) I woke up very sick and had been off balance literally and have been suffering ever since. This happened to me last year just as I was rededicating myself to a new exercise routine with a new trainer. However, this time it was very discouraging and took me longer to begin to feel the healing process.
So I had to remember some tools that could help my mindset make a shift to one of hopefulness and trust that I would recover and it won’t be like this forever. Engaging a positive mindset can significantly enhance the healing process and I wanted to share some methods you can implement to cultivate positivity during recovery in hopes that one or two of these may be a helpful reminder or a new source of information for you to try:
Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
Recovery is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate small victories along the way, whether it's one day of sobriety or successfully navigating a triggering situation [3]. Acknowledging your progress reinforces the belief that you're moving in the right direction.
Practice Gratitude Daily
Take a few minutes each day to reflect on what you're grateful for [3]. This simple practice can have a powerful impact on your mental and emotional well-being. Consider keeping a gratitude journal to record positive aspects of your life and recovery journey.
Visualize and think about Success
Spend time each day visualizing yourself successfully navigating recovery and living a fulfilling life [3]. Picture yourself achieving your goals, feeling confident, and surrounded by support. This mental imagery can reinforce your belief in your ability to succeed. Having positive affirmations or prayers that you can memorize to recite to yourself helps. Some say doing it in the mirror helps, but I find that you can recite them audibly to yourself when doing chores at home or taking a walk for exercise or recovering in bed or the sofa even; whatever you are able to do. People will just think you’re singing or humming if they even hear you 😊 (see more below on Engaging in Positive Self-Talk).
Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms
Replace negative habits with positive ones. Consider activities like:
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Exercise
- Creative pursuits
- Journaling
- Connecting with supportive people [2]
These tools can help manage stress and emotions without resorting to harmful behaviors.
Reframe Your Challenges as Opportunities
Instead of viewing setbacks as overwhelming obstacles, see them as opportunities for growth and learning [1]. This shift in perspective can help you approach difficulties with resilience and hope.
Practice Self-Compassion
Acknowledge your past mistakes without dwelling on them [4]. Embrace a more compassionate view of yourself, which can help release feelings of guilt and shame, opening the way for personal growth.
Surround Yourself with Positivity
Seek out supportive and encouraging individuals who uplift and inspire you [1]. A positive environment can become a pillar of strength during challenging times.
Engage in Positive Self-Talk
Transform negative self-talk into positive affirmations [7]. Challenge and reframe negative thoughts to support a more optimistic outlook. For example, instead of saying I can’t do this, consider saying I will be able to do this again soon or I will be able to do this in a different way soon or with support, if things are taking a permanent change in your healing process. By doing
this it can also give your body cells a positive boost as it aligns with your mindset.
Seek Professional Support
Don't hesitate to ask for help when needed. Professional guidance from therapists or counselors can provide valuable tools and strategies to maintain a positive mindset [3].
Remember, maintaining a positive mindset during recovery is not about ignoring difficulties, but about approaching challenges with hope and resilience. By implementing these strategies, you can cultivate a mindset that supports your healing journey and enhances your overall well-being.
After 3 weeks I’m feeling much better and able to catchup on my Blogging this week for all of September. Thanks for coming back to read my Mindset Series and look for my Movement Series tomorrow. I will do one each day this week and hope to get right back on track for this month and October! Thanks for all your patience, kindness and support!
To Your Best Health!
Dr. Tee
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