Happiness in life is profoundly influenced by our outlook and mindset. During perimenopause and menopause, shifting hormones can alter your outlook on life and shape it towards a more negative view.
In combination with treating the physical symptoms at this life stage, it is important to be mindful of your thoughts. It is taught that by focusing on love and positive thoughts, we can steer our lives in a positive direction, better manage suffering, and cultivate enduring happiness.
This article explores how the principle works and offers practical steps to help maintain a positive mindset.
The Influence of Mindset on Happiness
The mind is considered the root of all experiences. As the Buddha said, “We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts, we make the world.”
This teaching highlights the immense power of our thoughts in shaping our reality. By focusing on love and positive thoughts, we can transform our perception of the world and experience true happiness.
Methods to Focus on Love and Positivity
1: Practice Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is a powerful tool to start with. It involves paying attention to the present moment with a non-judgmental awareness. This practice helps us observe our thoughts and feelings without becoming attached to them. By regularly practicing mindfulness, we can learn to let go of negative thoughts and cultivate a mindset grounded in love and positivity.
Steps to Practice Mindfulness Meditation:
- Find a quiet place and sit comfortably.
- Close your eyes and focus on your breath.
- Observe your thoughts and feelings as they arise without judgment.
- Gently bring your focus back to your breath whenever your mind wanders.
2: Cultivate Loving-Kindness
Loving-kindness meditation involves directing love and goodwill towards oneself and others. This practice helps break down barriers of anger and resentment, fostering a more compassionate and positive outlook.
Steps to Practice Loving-Kindness Meditation:
- Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
- Begin by sending loving-kindness to yourself: “May I be happy, may I be healthy, may I be safe, may I be at ease.”
- Gradually extend these wishes to others, starting with loved ones, then acquaintances, and finally, all living beings.
3: Practice Gratitude
Focusing on what we are grateful for can significantly shift our mindset from negativity to positivity. Regularly reflecting on the positive aspects of our lives helps us appreciate the abundance we often overlook.
Steps to Practice Gratitude:
- Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you are grateful for each day.
- Reflect on these items and allow yourself to feel the joy and appreciation they bring.
4: Engage in Positive Actions
Our actions influence our thoughts and feelings. Engaging in acts of kindness, helping others, and practicing generosity can reinforce positive thinking and create a sense of fulfillment and happiness.
Steps to Engage in Positive Actions:
- Volunteer for a cause you care about.
- Perform random acts of kindness, such as helping a neighbor or giving compliments.
- Practice generosity by sharing your time, resources, and compassion with others.
5: Transform Negative Thoughts
When negative thoughts arise, it’s important to acknowledge these without letting them take control. Transform these thoughts by reframing them in a positive light.
Steps to Transform Negative Thoughts:
- Identify and acknowledge the negative thought.
- Challenge its validity by asking yourself if it’s based on facts or assumptions.
- Reframe the thought in a more positive or neutral way.
Conclusion
Despite what is happening in your body during perimenopause and menopause, happiness and a fulfilling life are possible. By focusing on love and positivity, you can navigate the challenges at this time of life with grace and resilience.
Through mindfulness meditation, loving-kindness practices, gratitude, positive actions, and transforming negative thoughts, we can foster a mindset that brings true happiness and peace. Remember, the journey to a positive and happy life begins with a single step.
May you find joy and serenity on your path. Combine these actions with our dietary advice and products to support your hormonal transition journey and you can successfully and most importantly, happily navigate through perimenopause and menopause.
