How can we change our feelings?

My solution is to reframe my negative, self defeating thought patterns with a mantra or positive thought that reminds me of who I really am.

I cannot break myself out of a stuck mind without involving my body. It is important that we move our bodies to get our blood flowing. For me, this can be as simple as walking around the block outside of my home.

If I am feeling uncomfortable, I don’t want to force myself to feel different. That is not going to work, but believing that we are powerless when it comes to our suffering is a concept that can add to our emotional suffering, and drag us down further into pain.

It is important to feel what we are feeling, while noticing the thoughts that are making us feel like crap. This process of feeling and noticing our negative thoughts is something I have practiced daily for over ten years, at least 15 minutes every day. I highly recommended a daily practice of meditation even if it is only five minutes every morning.

The process of changing how we feel can take time and requires devotion. Even a tiny shift in perspective can lift us out of depression, and start a momentum toward a fulfilling, satisfying experience of life.