Changing the Patterns

“Talking about our problems is our greatest addiction.  Break the habit.  Talk about your joys.”              Rita Schiano

Why is it so common to focus on the negativity in our lives?  We meet a friend for lunch and the first hour is spent releasing our frustration about life events and people – partners, kids, bosses that are doing us wrong.  We like to “vent” about these things when we meet with others.  This is completely natural and is part of our habitual thought processes.  These thoughts circulate in our minds so often, even on a subconscious level, and it only makes sense that we talk about it with others as well.

How about switching up your conversation topics?  The next time you meet a friend or family member, do your best to keep it positive.  Even if your boss or colleague is driving you crazy, don’t bring it up today.  Instead, focus on all the things that are going right in your life.  This may feel strange at first because it can almost feel like we’re bragging.  This is only because it’s so uncommon to live from a positive centre within.

If you have a regular yoga practice, you might notice this more often.  At the end of each session, we spend a few minutes in quiet relaxation.  As we try to keep our mind still, it’s natural that the gaze turns to a list of all the things that aren’t happening in our lives or the things that are lacking.  A yoga practice is exactly that – it’s a practice of changing our gaze; to look to all the things that are happening in our lives.  Open your eyes and see the things that are going well.  Even if you have to start by looking at your heart….the miracle, the abundance, the beauty that has to happen for that to occur.  Once your attention begins to shift, you’ll be more pleasant to be around, both for others and yourself!