The happiness lab is about to hit the gym, for our first ever New Year, New Year, Self-Talk Workout. Our guest today argues that we might want to swap at least some of those New Year's bench presses and leg curls for a different kind of training. One that focuses on toughening something that we often forget can have a big effect on our stress levels, our performance, and our happiness.
Lots of us hit the gym in January to get fit - but should we also be exercising our minds in preparation for tough times? A daily "self-talk workout" might be just as beneficial as squats and push-ups, says Seattle University psychology professor Rachel Turow.
By practicing simple self-compassion exercises each day - such as breathing techniques - we can prepare for future challenges when we'll need those tools to help us tackle crippling self-criticism or paralyzing sorrow.
Further reading: The Self Talk Workout by Rachel Turow
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