Negative energy can be a subtle, but powerful thing. Not only does it limit our potential to live a happy, fulfilling life, but it has effects on our health as well. Research shows that generally negative or pessimistic people tend to have more stress and are more prone to sickness than those who choose to embody positivity.
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Of course, drawing in positivity and protecting yourself from negativity is easier said than done. Here are six techniques to lift the fog and bring in the good vibes.
1. Surround Yourself With Love
Being around positive people, especially the people you love the most, is a great way to lift one’s spirits. It might feel easier in the moment to isolate yourself when you’re feeling down, but this is exactly the opposite of what you should do. Force yourself to say “yes” to a get-together with your feel-good friends, even if it’s just for an hour or two, and let those warm, fuzzy feelings in.
2. Become Grateful
When life gets us down, it’s easy to take all the good things we’ve got for granted. An attitude of entitlement (“woe is me”) almost always breeds negativity and is a surefire way to set yourself up for a life of disappointment. When we stop complaining about what we don’t have and become grateful for what we do have, we gain a sense of perspective and harmony that welcomes positivity. Begin every morning by listing five things you are grateful for in your life, whether it’s your best friend, a roof over your head or a healthy body. By shifting your attitude from one of selfishness to appreciation, you’ll automatically feel more fulfilled and positive.
2. Meditate
The benefits of meditation are well documented. Not only can regular practice reduce anxiety and decrease tension-related pain, but it can help prevent depression and improve overall feelings of contentedness and wellbeing over time, too. Clearing your mind and focusing on deep breathing may sound simple enough, but it can make a huge difference for combatting negative thoughts. Read more about meditation, including the Relaxation Response Technique.
3. Give Back
It’s better to give than to receive. Negativity and selfishness are two peas in a pod, and people who only care about themselves will inevitably lack fulfilment and a sense of higher purpose. The best way to foster positivity within yourself is to try and do it for others first. Whether that means volunteering at local soup kitchen or simply holding the door for someone with a smile, numerous scientific studies suggest that the secret to happiness is doing good for others, so give back and let the good vibes wash over you.
4. Try Essential Oils
Our sense of smell is more closely linked to our emotional system than any of our other senses. That’s why many people swear by the healing power of essential oils. Essential oils such as sandalwood, niaouli and myrrh all have very power cleansing properties and smell great. Inhale the aroma using a diffuser, or place a few drops specifically around the back of the neck, crowd of the head and the middle of the eyebrows to experience the soothing properties that blast away negative energy.
5. Laugh More (Especially At Yourself)
They say laughter is the best medicine, and it’s been proven to help with everything from boosting the immune system to decreasing stress to burning a few extra calories. Laughter is also great for combating negative energy — especially if you’re able to laugh at yourself. Learn to stop taking yourself so seriously and not to sweat to the small stuff, and you may just find that negative cloud over your head lifting itself away.