578: Joy Spotting to relieve stress and anxiety
This week on the Anxiety Slayer Podcast we’re discussing the practice of tuning up your personal awareness by practicing one of our favorite daily rituals to relieve stress and anxiety.
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Points covered in this episode:
Many in our community are feeling stressed about what’s happening on the world stage. Whether it be political, environmental or related to the pandemic, there is a lot of intense and heavy energy trying to push its way through to each of us. Joy Spotting will help you change your internal dialogue.
Let’s begin with the benefits of exploring what we are curious about.
Curiosity
Curiosity keeps our minds young, active and supple. It makes learning an adventure rather than a challenge. It keeps our attitude light and playful. Instead of worrying about what they don't know, curious people put their focus on what they would love to know and then seek it out.
Curiosity Opens our Eyes to Simple Pleasures
Curiosity allows us to enjoy the simple things in life. A curious attitude puts us in touch with our surroundings in a very grounding and delightful way. Instead of missing the moment, we can explore it, fully present and aware. If you try taking a walk in nature with a curious mind you will connect with your surroundings more and find your walk to be as good for your mind as it is for your body.
Curiosity engages the mind
And helps us keep it present and occupied, rather than running away with anxious thoughts.
“Satisfaction of one’s curiosity is one of the greatest sources of happiness in life. ”
Generosity
The power of giving of ourselves is more potent than you think. Generosity has a positive impact on our emotional and physical well-being, and not just for those on the receiving end.
Mindful Generosity
Giving requires awareness of the needs of others. Here are several ways you can take action and make a difference to those in need.
- Offer your expertise
- Find a cause you believe in and make a donation
- Volunteer your time
- Make it a habit to compliment someone everyday
Generosity, Health and Happiness
Generosity has strong associations with our psychological health and well-being. Studies from the Cleveland Clinic and many other sources show that generosity can lower blood pressure, increase self-esteem, improve depression, reduce sadness and lower stress levels. Greater happiness and satisfaction.
“True generosity is an offering; given freely and out of pure love. No strings attached. No expectations. Time and love are the most valuable possession you can share.”
Joy Spotting Practice
Learn to replace negative stories, and judgment with more appreciation. Starting today, begin to notice and write down 10 things that bring you joy. You can also capture the beauty you experience on by taking pictures. If you’re an artist you might enjoy sketching what inspires you. The key is to practice noticing all of the little things that bring you joy. We invite you to do this for the rest of February. If you have children Invite them to participate and share your experiences at dinner time.
You are welcome to share your joy spotting lists in our private Facebook Group.
Seeking Joy and Changing our Internal Dialogue
Changing the dialogue is a powerful way to stay on joy. Steer conversations away from negative stories and complaints to positive stories and sweet experiences. It takes practice but over time you’ll find it’s much easier to radiate love and kindness in place of gossip, judgment and complaint.
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