EXCELLING FROM WITHIN
EXCELLING FROM WITHIN
1. Surprise – I had lots of fun on Sunday Paying it Forward. I bought dinner for a couple, sitting at a table near me. They were pleasantly surprised when they learned I had bought them dinner. They told me that it was the first time in ages they had been out with just the two of them for a date. Their response definitely made me feel good about my choice.
Do you like surprises? Some people don’t but there are mental wellness benefits.
Boosts dopamine: Surprises trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, which can uplift mood and enhance mental wellness.
Alleviates stress: Unexpected positive events can momentarily distract from stressors, providing a mental break and reducing overall stress levels.
Stimulates curiosity: Surprises can ignite curiosity, leading to increased engagement, exploration, and mental stimulation, which are beneficial for cognitive health.
Fosters resilience: Dealing with unexpected situations builds resilience by teaching adaptability and coping skills, which contribute to improved mental well-being.
Enhances social connection: Surprises often involve interaction with others, fostering social bonds, and promoting a sense of belonging and support, which are crucial for mental health.
Sparks joy: Pleasant surprises evoke feelings of happiness, excitement, and gratitude, fostering a positive outlook and overall mental wellness.
My experience sparked joy not only for the couple but for me as well!
2. Finish – Sometimes when you have a tendency to be a bit of a “ping pong” as my husband Darcy likes to call me you don’t finish what you start because you get distracted. Similarly, not finishing the stress cycle can have a negative impact on our bodies because the stress energy gets stuck in our nervous system. The stress cycle consists of stress activating our fight-flight-freeze responses. When we aren’t in real danger or don’t complete this cycle by running away or stand our ground, the stress gets stuck in our body. This has a negative affect on our nervous system and overall wellness.
The two best treatments are physical activity or affection such as a brief 20 second hug. What Physical movements work best for you? Dancing, yoga, weight lifting are my three favorites, and I definitely appreciate a good hug! So this week focus on finishing off your stress cycle. When you have had a stress time in your day, find a way to release that either through movement or a hug.