DAVID MCMILLIAN, PH.D.
Spring is in the air, and many of us will naturally begin to think about spring cleaning around our homes and yards. As we clean closets and gutters from all that has accumulated over the winter, let’s remember to “spring clean” our internal closets and gutters as well. Here are some suggestions to get us started.
• An Attitude of Gratitude: I find that gratitude is always a good place to begin. As we move through items that need to be disposed of or sent on to recycle, it is helpful to detach from the item with a “thank you” for the service it provided. The process for internal cleaning is remarkably similar. What thoughts or beliefs am I ready to let go? Thank them and send them on with appreciation for how they have previously served you.
• Challenge internal dialogue: We all talk to ourselves. Whenever we hear negative internal dialogue, challenge them with the questions: “Is this true?” and “How would my life be different if I changed this thought?”
• Listen to music/positive podcasts: On the work commute in the morning, give yourself a “time-out” from news and negativity. Crank up your favorite tunes or listen to a POSITIVE podcast.
• Step up sleep hygiene: Deep sleep clears toxins from the brain. Studies have proven that deep sleep is critical to the brain’s waste removal system, so make sure you are getting adequate sleep nightly. No screen time an hour before bedtime; so, move computers, televisions and devices from the bedroom. Challenge yourself to make the bedroom exclusively for sleep and sex.
• Go for a walk: A brisk walk helps improve your blood flow and physical well-being in addition to soaking up the natural sun-vitamins. Notice and appreciate the little things as you walk and increase activity levels from our “long winter’s nap.” Mom used to say, “Look for signs of spring as we walk!”
• Feelings follow behavior: Studies show that filth and clutter are associated with negative thoughts, depression, anxiety and lack of sleep. Cleaning and decluttering can help diminish all of that.
Hear life coach Dr. David McMillian on “Strategies for Living” each weeknight 7 p.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday morning 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on KEEL 710 AM and 101.7 FM, on the KEEL app. or on our Facebook page, StrategiesforLiving with David McMillian.
THIS ARTICLE WAS PUBLISHED IN THE March 19 ISSUE OF FOCUS SB - THE INQUISITOR