As humans we tend to naturally gravitate toward negative events rather than remembering the positive, uplifting ones. A new study suggests that holding on to negative feelings can trigger long-term effects on psychological well being. The longer your brain holds onto negative events, the more likely you are to develop chronic stress which can lead to other serious health problems including lowered immune system, digestive problems, and delayed healing.
Gratitude Journaling as a Means of Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a powerful tool to change your mental approach, one technique is through gratitude journaling. This practice aims toward training your brain to focus on the positive things present in your life rather than the things you may be lacking. First introduced in 1996 by bestselling author, Sarah Ban Breathnach, as a tool for women to record their daily moments of gratitude while also offering insight through inspirational quotes. Originally a companion book to her original title, “Simple Abundance,” the idea of a gratitude journal proved to be a worldwide success with many people taking up the habit in an effort to improve their lives and wellbeing.In a 2001 interview with The Irish Times, Sarah reflected on her own personal life after the end of her marriage, commenting that through it all, she gained a deeper understanding of herself. “When you get to know yourself and what’s important to you, life becomes simpler and more fulfilling - more abundant,” she said.
