Allison Aubrey, an NPR health correspondent, teams up with Judith Moskowitz, a research psychologist from Northwestern University, to tackle stress management. They delve into practical skills to help you navigate life's pressures, like breathing exercises and mindful reflection. The conversation highlights the power of positive thinking and the importance of recognizing small joys in daily life. Listeners will learn actionable techniques for building resilience and emotional health, promoting a more joyful outlook even in tough times.
Focusing on positive events, such as small joys, can greatly enhance emotional resilience during stressful situations and promote calmness.
Practicing gratitude regularly not only improves mental and physical health but also fosters a more positive perspective on life experiences.
Deep dives
The Importance of Noticing Positive Events
Focusing on positive events can significantly enhance emotional resilience during stressful times. Many people tend to overlook small joys, which can unknowingly diminish their coping resources. For instance, recognizing the satisfaction of enjoying a well-made cup of coffee can foster moments of happiness that build up over time. This practice not only heightens awareness of positive occurrences but also encourages savoring those moments, which can have a calming effect on the body by counteracting stress responses.
Cultivating Gratitude for Wellbeing
Practicing gratitude has been strictly linked to various health benefits, including improved mental and physical health. Studies show that individuals who regularly express gratitude generally demonstrate increased longevity and significantly reduced symptoms of conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder. Gratitude practices can be simple, such as listing things one feels thankful for, which can grow in length and depth over time. By developing a routine around gratitude, a person can shift their perspective, allowing them to focus on the positive aspects of life that may easily be taken for granted.
Building Mindfulness and Self-Compassion
Mindfulness emphasizes present-moment awareness, helping individuals to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment, which can lead to increased joy and reduced stress. It's about fully engaging in simple activities, like washing dishes, and appreciating the sensations involved rather than getting lost in negative thoughts. Additionally, self-compassion encourages individuals to treat themselves with the same kindness they would offer a loved one, promoting resilience against self-criticism. Practicing mindfulness and self-compassion together can foster a more balanced emotional state, making it easier to navigate life's challenges.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list? Going through something really tough? Stress is a part of life — but we can learn to manage it. NPR health correspondent Allison Aubrey shares evidence-based skills from a research psychologist at Northwestern University aimed to bring more ease into your life. This episode is Part 1 of the new series, Stress Less: A Quest to Reclaim Your Calm. Click here to sign up for a month-long newsletter on this topic.