Happiful December 2019
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You MATTER<br />
BEFORE YOU START<br />
Try not to judge your answers, or feel bad about what you uncover, just be honest. You could try using these<br />
as journal prompts. Psychotherapists say that expressive writing is helpful for those who do not typically<br />
express emotions, or have a past trauma. You could also try picking one question, and use it as part of a<br />
meditation practice to help block out external noise and think clearly.<br />
1. WHAT AM I AVOIDING AND WHY?<br />
If you’re pushing one aspect of your life into a box, then<br />
try to figure out why this might be the case. ‘Avoidance<br />
coping’ can typically lead to increased anxiety, so if<br />
you’re unable to do the thing that’s worrying you, it<br />
could be the start of a slippery slope.<br />
2. HAVE I DONE SOMETHING TODAY THAT MAKES ME<br />
FEEL HAPPY?<br />
Not getting enjoyment out of life is a key indicator of<br />
poor mental health, so try to schedule in activities<br />
that have made you happy in the past. Catherine<br />
says: “There is a growing body of scientific research<br />
out there which has found that happiness can make<br />
our hearts healthier, our immune system stronger,<br />
and our lives longer. Focus on the things that bring<br />
you joy.” I personally prioritise things that involve<br />
socialising with friends, moving my body, and<br />
experiencing nature.<br />
3. AM I MAKING TIME FOR SELF-NOURISHMENT?<br />
According to Catherine, self-nourishment is the deeper layer of self-care. “It’s doing<br />
the things that nourish your mind, body, and soul, and it’s a daily practice.” Maybe your<br />
exercise and healthy eating is on top form, but how are you feeding your soul? This<br />
could be belly-laughing with your best mate, or expressing yourself creatively through<br />
dancing, writing, or painting. “It’s about recognising and believing and being mindful<br />
that you matter, and your needs matter,” says Catherine.<br />
“...research<br />
has found that<br />
happiness can<br />
make our hearts<br />
healthier”<br />
4. HOW DO I FEEL ABOUT THE FUTURE?<br />
Taking stock of the future is a helpful way to gauge how you’re doing, because feelings of<br />
hopelessness go hand-in-hand with depression. Try to plan something in the next few days that you<br />
can look forward to, such as starting a new book, visiting family, or a day trip to the beach.<br />
Continues >>><br />
<strong>December</strong> <strong>2019</strong> • happiful • 89
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