Emotional Wellness is not just about being HAPPY! all the time.  It’s about being aware of what you are feeling and how that can affect your overall physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.  Some say “Depression Hurts.”  Have you ever felt the aches and pains of a depressed emotional state?

Living Consciously

This month, carve out a time every day to just be aware of your emotional state.  Try a ten-minute meditation before you eat lunch or just sit in silence and focus on what is happening around you.  You will learn to be more in tune with what is happening emotionally.

If your emotional state is positive – Why are you feeling that way?  Did someone or something make you happy? Try to incorporate more of those things every day.  Surround yourself with things that make you feel positive.

If your emotional state is negative – What is spurring that?  Was it something that happened to you or something you did?  Take steps to redeem the situation and make it right.  Even if you can’t correct it, at the very least you have learned how it makes you feel and have identified the root of a negative emotion.  Avoid future situations or change how you react to them.

When the Boat Gets Rocked

If you have had major life changes sometimes you can’t just identify the problem and make it go away.  Give yourself time to process your new normal or heal your emotional wounds.  Some days are good, some are bad.  Lower your expectations, there is no definite timeline for getting over a major life change. Take care of your body physically – Eat healthy; drink lots of water; sleep regular hours; take walks or enjoy your favorite activity.

If you just can’t shake it, reach out to someone whether it is a friend, spouse, church leader, or professional therapist.  There is always someone willing to help you that you can confide in.

If you don’t like something, change it.

If you can’t change it, change your attitude.

-Maya Angelou