The power of positive thinking

We’ve all been there. You’re having a bad day of symptoms and the frustration drapes over you. It’s so easy to give in to defeatist feelings—it’s human nature. But in the long run, this vicious cycle will only accomplish two things: you will feel worse and your symptoms will increase. How do you turn things around? There are many books on positive thinking, but one I read recently has really made an impact on me. The book The Secret teaches people how to think positively with a bit of a different spin. The mantra that is referred to over and over is, “Thoughts become things, choose the good ones.” That’s it. If you decide to read this book, you won’t magically stop having negative thoughts, believe me! The difference is that you will become more aware of how often you think negative thoughts. Each time you think a negative thought, you should be prompted to replace it with a good thought.For example: Negative Thought: My legs won’t work! I don’t feel well!Positive Thought: My legs will work better soon. I’m starting to feel better.Try to visualize the symptom disappearing, or try picturing yourself strong and happy. Replacing negative thoughts with positive thoughts can only make you feel better. As you increase positive thoughts, you will start to notice that you are doing things to help yourself such as eating a better diet, exercising, or just learning to relax more. Next time you struggle with your symptoms or depression, try replacing negative thoughts. Be patient with yourself and before you know it, you won’t be so focused on your difficulties.

Posted: Sat Sep 20, 2008 7:56 pm Post subject: The power of positive thinking

We’ve all been there. You’re having a bad day of symptoms and the frustration drapes over you. It’s so easy to give in to defeatist feelings—it’s human nature. But in the long run, this vicious cycle will only accomplish two things: you will feel worse and your symptoms will increase. How do you turn things around? There are many books on positive thinking, but one I read recently has really made an impact on me. The book The Secret teaches people how to think positively with a bit of a different spin. The mantra that is referred to over and over is, “Thoughts become things, choose the good ones.” That’s it. If you decide to read this book, you won’t magically stop having negative thoughts, believe me! The difference is that you will become more aware of how often you think negative thoughts. Each time you think a negative thought, you should be prompted to replace it with a good thought.For example: Negative Thought: My legs won’t work! I don’t feel well!Positive Thought: My legs will work better soon. I’m starting to feel better.Try to visualize the symptom disappearing, or try picturing yourself strong and happy. Replacing negative thoughts with positive thoughts can only make you feel better. As you increase positive thoughts, you will start to notice that you are doing things to help yourself such as eating a better diet, exercising, or just learning to relax more. Next time you struggle with your symptoms or depression, try replacing negative thoughts. Be patient with yourself and before you know it, you won’t be so focused on your difficulties.
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Dr. OkunJoined: 19 Jan 2007Posts: 251Location: University of Florida
Posted: Tue Sep 23, 2008 9:23 am Post subject:

Thanks for another wonderful note._________________Michael S. Okun, M.D.