Healthy Mind #5

OBSERVE YOUR THOUGHTS

One of the incredible abilities of the human mind, is its capacity to both, think and observe thought, simultaneously. This is often referred to as ‘Metacognition’, which is simply defined as ‘Thinking about thinking’. But why is this important? And what can we do with this awareness?

Firstly, it is important, because this ability to become aware of our thoughts, and observe them, unbiasedly, creates a space where those thoughts can be recognised, and either challenged or accepted. This distance often proves beneficial, as it can provide much needed clarity, an important foundation for any healthy and lasting change.

Secondly, the practice of metacognition, a skill that we can develop and refine over time, gives us greater knowledge and understanding of our thought patterns. Why, when and what are our triggers, habits, loops, default, etc. This awareness can be an absolute game changer, if you choose to use it.

I say, if you choose to use it, because; to use it, you need to be willing to accept responsibility for those thoughts, actions and behaviours. Which, quite honestly, many just won’t do. But, if you will, you are choosing to go from powerless, to powerful. Taking back control. No longer at the mercy of your mind.

Always remember, ‘The mind is a good servant, but it’s a terrible master.’

Healthy Choice #2

STOP…. THINK…. SPEAK

Of all the things in your life that are out of your control, I’m here to tell you, what you say is not one of them. As much as you might like to make excuses like; ‘she made me say it’, ‘what was I suppose to do, say nothing?’ or maybe ‘he made me so angry, it’s not my fault I started yelling.’ Whether you like it or not, we are all responsible for what comes out of our mouths.

That’s why I wanted to share this simple strategy with you. These 3 little words have changed the way I communicate. Stop. Think. Speak.

STOP. You have control over what words you speak, and also when you speak them. Start to use that control. ‘A fool blurts out all they know’ Proverbs 10:14 TLB. Don’t. Use your words wisely. Stop speaking without thought. Train yourself to ‘Stop’.

THINK. Next step is to ‘Think’. Think about what response would be most beneficial in the moment. Think about the outcome you desire, and what words best facilitate that outcome.

SPEAK. Now you can ‘Speak’. When you have actively engaged your conscious mind, thoughtfully constructed your language, then clearly express your thought, need or desire.

Like any new skill this takes practice, but in a world full of meaningless conversation this is definitely a skill worth developing. Please understand, the words you use, and when you use them are completely within your control. No-one can make you say anything. It’s all you. Take responsibility for your words.

Maybe it’s time you choose to ‘Stop – Think – Speak’.

Healthy Hint #5

DO HARD THINGS

Today’s world, especially in the West, enjoys comfort like no other time in history. So much is at our fingertips, conveniences that would have been unimaginable in previous centuries, or even decades. But is it all for our good? Or is there a downside?

With that in mind, there is an aspect of this luxury we need to consider. Too much comfort, too much convenience, can have the negative effect by making us less tolerant and more sensitive to any perceived discomfort.

There is a simple solution to this dilemma; ‘Do Hard Things’. What do I mean by this? If we are to continue to, not only grow, but flourish in 2025, in this era of unprecedented convenience, we must find new ways to challenge our minds and bodies. Ways to experience discomfort, pushing ourselves out of our little comfortable existence.

‘Doing Hard Things’ is going to look different for each and every one of us. What I consider hard, may be simple for you. But whatever you choose to do, must be done. Our brains and bodies thrive on the novel. Different information, experiences, movement, exercise, challenges.

In my case, it has been introducing cold water immersion into my routine. Cold water has never been my favourite. But that’s the point. It’s all about the discomfort. Putting your mind, brain and body in a position of challenge. And when we do this, change takes place. Physically, mentally, emotionally and even spiritually.

No matter what you decide to do, remember it has to be uncomfortable. It’s all about the discomfort. Don’t let comfort become a cage. ‘Do Hard Things’.

Healthy Mind #4

CULTIVATE A RESILIENT MIND

Today’s world is one of constant change and challenges. To enable us, not only grow, but to thrive in these current surroundings, it is crucial that we consciously begin to cultivate a resilient mindset.

What is Resilience? Put simply, it is ‘the capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties,’ ‘mental and/or physical toughness,’ ‘the ability to bounce back’ or to ‘adjust easily to change.’ Let me share with you a few easy ways to promote and build a more resilient you.

  1. Laughter and Play; remember to add some laughter and play back into your every day. Whether it’s watching a comedy, chatting with a friend or playing a game, take the time to laugh and play. It relieves stress, creates a positive outlook, and strengthens resilience.
  2. Mindful Walking; take a mindful walk. What is that? The practice of walking with the intention of connecting to this present moment. Take a short walk, focusing on your surroundings. Bringing attention to your breath, the sensations in your body, an awareness of what you can see, hear and smell. Experience this moment. And as your body releases the stress, you will find your mental clarity increases.
  3. Set Clear Healthy Boundaries; This one can be as easy or hard as we choose to make it. But the fact is, setting clear healthy boundaries, in both our professional and personal lives, can and does reduce stress, prevents burnout, and contributes to a more resilient mindset.

In closing, I want to encourage you that resilience is a skill, and like any skill, the more you practise the better you get. Remember if at first you don’t succeed, get up and have another go. That’s resilience…

Healthy Mind #3

TAKE A MOMENT

In the midst of this, what can be, crazy time of year. Remember to stop, and take a moment. Take a moment to reflect on the many blessings you have in your life. The simplest of things can bring great joy when a moment is taken to truly connect with the true beauty of the gift.

The morning dew on a spider’s web glistening in the day’s early light. When the rose bud first bursts forth in all its glory, dressed more magnificently than any man made copy could ever hope to replicate. A child’s giggle. The smell of freshly brewed coffee. A cool breeze on a warm summer’s day. The gentle touch of a mother’s hand. The crunch of a new season’s apple.

Life is truly a gift that should be savoured. Every moment is precious. And was bought for each of us at a great price. The gift of the Son from the Father. So in the midst of this crazy time of year, take a moment. Remember the reason for the season. The birth of the Son. The gift of Life from the Father. The True and Priceless Gift..

Healthy Body #1

MOVE YOUR BODY

Walking. Swimming. Rebounding. Pilates. Running. Dancing. Kayaking. Paddle Boarding. Surfing. Circuit Training. Weights. Skiing. Skipping. Cycling. Need I go on? There are sooo many ways to move your body. Some are cheap and easy. Others may be more expensive and take time to learn. Some need no special skill. Others will require practice.

Whatever and however you choose to do it, the most important factor is to ‘MOVE YOUR BODY.’ You and I both know, there are a plethora of benefits gained by moving our bodies daily. If this is not something you are currently doing, can I suggest to you to simply start with 10 minutes.

Move your body for 10 minutes. Choose an activity. Keep it simple. Don’t wait until you feel like it. Feelings are flexible. Make the decision. Decide, this I will do. Then do it! And when you have completed 10 minutes, review your feelings. Then choose to move your body again. Increasing the time frame. Decide. Choose.

Remember feelings are flexible. Transient. Feelings change. Feelings and Emotions are not a healthy gauge for self-development. Decision and Choice, these are what empower true change.

The Choice is Yours. The Decision is Yours. It always is…