This is part of my healing journey. I am making progress. Slowly I heal.
I spoke with my counselor today and she helped me to deal with the 40 negative beliefs that I have. Each one has at least one maybe two positive affirmations. She told me to write them down on colored paper and place them into a bowl. Then every day when I see the bowl I am to pick one. That way I’ll get through all of them. In addition any new affirmations (ie. a new skill or trait) should be written on a different colored paper.
My positive affirmations were too general. For example: you have achieved much in life. It should be broken down into specific skill sets like you are a leader, you can do research, you are a writer. So now I have to go over the 40+ affirmations and made them more specific. I have work to do.
Now I speak of the coming holidays. People with a mental illness find the holidays stressful. There is more to do, more social interactions and just more stress. Remember to be mindful and take a moment when you are stressed to concentrate on your breathing and nothing else. Take a moment to be calm. Some too begin to worry about other things like money or travel. And they may even obsess about it. Take a moment to concentrate on only your breath and the stress will pass. Think of a positive counter statement like that’s never happened before or you are safe. Things like that. The positive counter statement will counteract your negative thought and you will have a happier day.
The photo is where I usually walk almost every day. When it’s warm I take time to sit and do mindfulness while in nature. Lately thought it’s been too cold. Walking helps my anxiety and my health. I walk even though I have knee problems. I have been shoveling snow as well. This has affected my knees slightly. But it is great exercise! And exercise is important.
I’m wishing for you all a calm during the Christmas rush. You will survive. Remember mindfulness. Slowly we heal!
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