How to stay optimistic during turbulent times

[New Sancai Compilation and First Release] When hearing news of various unrest around the world, it is easy for people to feel depressed and unable to remain optimistic. But Deepika Chopra, who has a doctorate in clinical health psychology and is known as the "Optimist Doctor" told "Today" media that there are some simple methods that can lead you away from darkness and towards the light.

"The first thing is to accept your feelings," she told Forbes magazine. “It’s impossible to be happy or positive all the time. We are designed to experience a variety of emotions, and by overcoming them, we can ultimately have happiness and joy. To a large extent, optimism and resilience are related, and in order to increase resilience, You need to overcome challenges."

Chopra recommends taking a few moments during the day to catch your breath and let go of negative and anxious emotions. Here are some suggestions:

• Take a deep breath. One of the quickest and most effective ways to calm and soothe your nervous system is to practice 4-7-8 breathing, a time-tested breathing technique derived from ancient yoga. In 2015, integrative medicine expert Dr. Andrew Weil first introduced it to the world.

This is a simple technique called "relaxation breathing." Inhale through the nose for a count of 4, hold the breath for a count of 7, and exhale through the mouth for a count of 8 to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and digestion.

• Get outside. Spend some time in nature to relax, says Chopra. "Hug a child," she added. These simple moments help maintain balance and relieve anxiety. Research shows that spending at least two hours a week outdoors can increase positive attitudes and lower cortisol levels.
• Do charity. Experts say that helping others is helping yourself. Serving others gives us a sense of purpose and belonging. "There's no better way to lift your spirits, feel a sense of purpose and shift your mindset than to do something good, even a small act of kindness," Chopra told Forbes.
• Limited exposure to news and social media. Chopra said it is important for us to understand the global situation, but we only need limited exposure. Set a time and place for watching the news, and actively seek out inspiring stories that will uplift you rather than depress you. "There is a lot of good news in the world and people are doing good things, so please be exposed to these positive stories," she told TODAY.
• Lead by example. By showing your children how you are working to improve yourself through your own example and words, you are showing them how to embrace optimism. Remind children that emotions are temporary and that good and bad emotions do not last forever. "Avoid words like 'This will never get better' or 'I'll never be happy,'" she advises. Give hope, but don't cover up anxiety or try to hide it, Chopra said. "It just exacerbates the situation," she said.

(Compiled by: Li Mengzhen)

(Editor: Jiang Qiming)

(Source of the article: First published by Xinsancai)