Many of us are looking for bright spots after so many days of social isolation. By taking a journey within through mindfulness, gratitude, and creative visualization, one can create a certain peace of mind that transcends loneliness and negative feelings.
During this past pandemic year we have seen a greater increase in loneliness because we are disconnected from friends and families. Nonetheless, a journey within can free us from anxiety and anger by creating a certain peace of mind.
Mindfulness: An ancient practice, the Mayo Clinic Health Letter, Special Report, (Oct 2013) defines mindfulness as “a conscious effort to be completely present — to set aside worries,expectations, and other thoughts and emotions and be fully aware of the current moment. By appreciating what you have and not constantly longing for something else, you learn to be content and to live with renewed purpose.”
Despite pandemic constraints, try to appreciate the time and freedom to be present in the moment and express gratitude for the here and now.
Gratitude: Begin an expression of gratitude with yourself. Be grateful for who you are. Be grateful for the moments of peace you experience through mindfulness. Be grateful for where you are living.
Buy a journal and begin making gratitude notes throughout the day.
Researches have found scientific evidence of the value of gratitude in terms of lifting one’s spirits. Robert Emmons, Ph.D., psychologist and professor, UC Davis, is considered the gratitude guru. He has often said:
“Attitude change often follows behavior change. By living the gratitude that we do not necessarily feel, we can begin to feel that gratitude that we live.”
Creative visualization: This technique is a way of training your mind to create images of peace and serenity. Create scenarios that you wish to see take place ranging from new love, to a vacation, to a new job or home. In reality these may not play out the way you imagine, but creative visualization is a tool to help you focus on the possibilities. For people who drift into a dream world of hopeful anticipation, it becomes easier to let go of unhappiness and resentment.
The benefits of mindfulness, gratitude, and creative visualization are simple, yet fulfilling. If we view social isolation from the perspective of the opportunity to journey within — the loneliness factor seems to dissipate. We all need time for solitude to help create a positive dialogue within ourselves. The challenge of solitude is to find a regular time and place to seek the serenity that connects us with our intuitive inner voice.
Copyright 2021 Rita Watson