You have power!

1) Are we wired to think more negatively?

Our brains constantly analyze our environment for signs of safety and signs of danger. The signs of danger are important for our survival.

The negativity bias

Our brains are wired to have stronger reaction to negativity. This is due to our evolution. For our ancestors, negative experiences meant their lives were in danger. Those who were more attuned to negative experiences (signs of danger) were more likely to survive.

Today...

We live in a society where stress is present in our everyday lives.

Being in a state of constant stress can lead to poor sleep, less exercise, unhealthy diets, negative body image, chronic pain.

Threats and perceived threats require immediate attention. We can go back to feeling safe when the threat is gone.

If we're wired to focus on the threats in our lives, negative thoughts will naturally arise...but that's normal. You can't always have positive thoughts.

If you are constantly stressed, you could constantly be in a negative state. The key is to NOTICE the thought that arises and CHANGE it.

Control your thoughts.

We might be wired to think more negative thoughts, but if we notice these thoughts, we have the choice to change them. We don't necessarily eliminate them, we recognize them when they arise, then we choose our next thought and action.

2) Being in a positive state is proven to reduce pain

Positive thoughts produce endorphins. Endorphins are hormones that give you a feeling of joy. Focusing on the positives things in your life will lead to seeing more positivity.

We might realize that many small things in our lives are positive and bring us a feeling of safety.

With safety comes calm...

With calm comes relaxation of the muscles...

Relaxation of the muscles may reduce pain as there is reduced tension and increased blood flow.

Endorphins act on the opiate receptors in our brains. They reduce pain and boost pleasure, resulting in a feeling of well-being.

3) How to train your mind to see the good in your day

Start your day with a good attitude

Creating your own routine in the morning by doing small things that bring you joy will set you up for a great day.

Watching the sun rise

Go for a walk

Drink tea on your deck

Write in your gratitude journal (list what you are grateful for with intention)

Meditate

See the "good" in "bad" situations

1) Notice how you feel after a negative situation occurs. It won't make it go away, but it will make you think: " This is the negative bias! "

If you are aware, you can think about how you can react in a positive way.