I have loved positive thinking strategies and tools for practically my entire life. I read The Power of Positive Thinking when I was 13 and never looked back, filling my life with affirmations, my bookshelves with self-help, and my mind with reframed narratives.
Now, I won’t lie to you and tell you that I’m perfect or that I always have a great attitude. As we all know, mindfulness and positive thinking are practices, and when you don’t practice them, they lose their effectiveness.
Like everyone, I go through tough times when it’s hard to maintain a good attitude, and I certainly experience times when I feel that all the happy talk in the world won’t help me dig out of whatever pit I’m wallowing in.
However, sometimes all it takes is one new daily habit — a new affirmation, a new book of meditations, a new mantra — to pull me out of the doldrums and help me get my mind(set) right, allowing me to move forward with a new idea, a new initiative or simply a better attitude.
Like learning styles, we all have different vibing styles
You’re probably familiar with the concept of “learning styles” and the idea that some people are visual learners, others are auditory learners, others are kinesthetic learners and so on. While the idea has been debated in academic circles, a lot of the debate centers around the methodology of studies rather than the benefits of approaching new ideas in a variety of ways.
You may know from personal experience that you have a preference for the way in which you take in new information or develop a new habit. Maybe you like to read a blog or a book to learn something new. Maybe you like to watch a video or listen to an audiobook. Maybe you like to take a class or attend a retreat.
In the same way, when you’re trying to raise your vibration, you may choose to do it in a variety of ways, including:
Physical methods
Exercise: Engage in activities like yoga, running, or dancing to energize your body.
Healthy eating: Nourish yourself with high-vibration foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Deep breathing: Practice techniques like diaphragmatic breathing to increase oxygen flow and calm the mind.
Grounding: Walk barefoot on natural surfaces like grass or sand.
Restorative sleep: Ensure you get quality rest to recharge your energy.
Creative expression
Art: Paint, draw, or sculpt to channel emotions and creativity.
Writing: Journal your thoughts, express gratitude, or write affirmations.
Music: Play an instrument or compose songs that uplift your mood.
Dance: Move freely to music to release stored energy.
Photography: Capture beauty in nature or everyday life.
Sensory-based practices
Sound healing: Use singing bowls, tuning forks, or listen to high-frequency music.
Aromatherapy: Diffuse essential oils like lavender, frankincense, or citrus.
Color therapy: Surround yourself with uplifting colors through clothing, art, or lighting.
Touch: Practice self-massage, Reiki, or enjoy a professional massage.
Taste: Savor high-vibration foods like dark chocolate, herbal teas, or fresh smoothies.
Intellectual stimulation
Reading: Explore books on personal development, spirituality, or inspiring biographies.
Learning: Take up a new hobby, skill, or language.
Mind puzzles: Engage in stimulating activities like crosswords, Sudoku, or strategic games.
Listening to podcasts: Tune into shows on mindfulness, spirituality, or positive thinking.
Attending seminars: Participate in workshops or classes that uplift your spirit.
Emotional techniques
Gratitude practice: Reflect on things you’re thankful for each day.
Forgiveness: Let go of grudges to free emotional energy.
Positive affirmations: Repeat phrases that reinforce self-worth and positivity.
Laughing: Watch comedy or spend time with people who make you laugh.
Acts of kindness: Help others to foster joy and connection.
Spiritual practices
Meditation: Quiet your mind through guided meditations, mantras, or silence.
Prayer: Connect with a higher power or your inner self.
Visualization: Imagine yourself surrounded by light, achieving goals, or in a peaceful setting.
Chanting: Repeat mantras or affirmations aloud to harmonize energy.
Connecting with nature: Spend time outdoors in forests, by rivers, or under the stars.
Social engagement
Meaningful conversations: Spend time with high-vibration individuals.
Community service: Volunteer for causes you’re passionate about.
Joining groups: Engage in activities with like-minded individuals.
Hugging: Share physical affection with loved ones.
Celebrating milestones: Recognize personal or shared achievements.
Environmental adjustments
Decluttering: Clean and organize your space to remove stagnant energy.
Decorating: Add uplifting elements like plants, crystals, or inspirational quotes to your surroundings.
Smudging: Use sage, palo santo, or incense to clear negative energy.
Lighting: Use natural, warm or soft lighting to create a calming atmosphere.
Energy clearing: Place crystals like selenite or amethyst around your space.
Action-oriented activities
Goal setting: Define and take steps toward your dreams.
Traveling: Visit inspiring or beautiful places.
Movement challenges: Participate in fitness challenges or marathons.
Skill mastery: Dedicate time to becoming better at a craft or talent.
Adventure: Engage in thrilling activities like hiking, kayaking, or zip-lining.
Connection with self
Self-reflection: Spend quiet time reviewing your thoughts and actions.
Affirming your purpose: Write or meditate on your life’s mission.
Celebrating uniqueness: Embrace and honor your individuality.
Self-care rituals: Take baths, use skincare products, or pamper yourself.
Body awareness: Practice mindful movement like tai chi or somatic experiencing.
Dip into different practices and see what resonates with you — what makes you feel better, what feels authentic and effortless — then look for ways to incorporate them into your daily or weekly routine.
Play around with the time of day for your practice. If you have trouble getting going in the morning, incorporating a new habit into your daily routine might be just the thing to get you up and at ‘em. Alternatively, if winding down at night is difficult for you, your practice may help you shake off the day and prepare for a restful night of slumber.
Most of all, don’t use this as another thing to beat yourself up about. All practices won’t feel the same for all people. Some things will feel right and others may make you feel kind of goofy or may seem a little corny. The point of this isn’t to judge yourself — it’s to make yourself feel better, more positive, and more hopeful in the new year.
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