Being happy seems simple, but it can actually be pretty complicated. When we focus on it too much, we usually get too little. Even though our ideas of happiness are dramatically different from one another, we all desire it equally so. It transforms average experiences into powerful, and dramatic moments of change and growth.
Our idea of happiness changes based on our environment. When we are poor, we believe it can be found in more wealth. When we are wealthy, we believe it can be found in more struggle. And, despite these being opposites, they teach the same lesson–that what we possess is less valuable than what we do not. Therefore, our focus is always on what is ahead of us–out of our reach–instead of what is in front of us–ready to be held. This turns most plans for happiness into a perpetual quest to reach the treat hanging at the end of a stick. As a result, we forget that all we need to do is stop, and lay down, and the treat will soon be within our reach.
Sadly, due to this endless pursuit, when some do manage find a piece of happiness–even if it is just for a moment–they usually do not notice it until after it is gone. While having the ambition to push boundaries, and reach further can lead to many great achievements, the same process can not be used for finding happiness. This is because it can never be permanently owned, only temporarily shared.
Since we spend so much time in search of it, we also become acutely aware of its opposite: sadness. Sadness defines our times of loss and unease. It also leads some to become ill. When most experience sadness, its from things like losing their job, a loved one, after moving, or from struggling financially. The impact of these painful–and sometimes unavoidable–situations manifest themselves in different physical and emotional ways. Some develop ulcers or high blood pressure while others may develop chest pains and trouble breathing from anxiety. Some develop acne, have difficulty sleeping, and some lose their appetite.
Unfortunately, facing hardship and sadness is an unavoidable part of life. Thankfully, the stark contrast of each type of moment is what makes life so rich and rewarding. But, to make things easier, through applying five rules, anyone can reduce the impact that any hardship may have on their life.
- Remind yourself of all the good things that happen, regardless of their magnitude. Sometimes, it is helpful to keep a journal about these things. This makes it easy to go back and reflect on all the positivity that you received at a later date.
- Develop meaningful, trusting relationships with others. Make an effort to express yourself to them, through art of just by talking with them. It is important to remember to listen to them just as much, if not more, than they listen to you.
- Keep yourself physically fit. Having a healthy diet, and attending a gym or exercise class regularly will ensure your body has all it needs to operate at its peak, ready to handle whatever life throws at it.
- Maintain your circadian rhythm. Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day. This ensures that your body and mind both gets enough time to “reset” for the next day.
- Practice mindfulness. Learn to slow or stop your thinking temporarily, to reduce the amount of energy and effect that stress has on your mind and your body.
If these steps do not provide enough relief, or your situation is more severe, then professional intervention may be required. Psychotherapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, and pharmaceutical medications like antidepressants, and ketamine infusions are all possible treatments. If you, or someone you love, is having difficulty being happy and enjoying their life, find a doctor or ketamine clinic near you today.
Contact restoratIV Ketamine Wellness Centers
restoratIV Ketamine is Mississippi’s leading provider of ketamine infusions for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric disorders. Request a free phone consultation today to learn if you are a candidate for ketamine infusion therapy.
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