Finding the positive place

Five actually!!!

I tend to have a pessimistic outlook on life, antidepressants are my lifelong friend. However I live close to a beach and the moment the sea comes into view a feeling of serenity just descends over me.
to all

Sorry to hear youre struggling at the moment Lily65. After a couple of very stressful years and giving everything to everyone else, I recently became so drained and low that I couldn't give anymore. So Ive been learning about mindfulness (you can google) and practising it daily, whilst out for a short walk if possible. So I take notice of what I can feel (wind, warmth from any sun etc), smell (any flowers etc), hear (wind rustling the trees or dried grasses), see etc. Believe me it takes practice and you have to stop rushing around and concentrate on these things but the sheer act of blocking out those intrusive thoughts, worries, huge pile of to-do's helps. Ive previously tried various things (bubble bath, reading, walking, art) but found I never gave anything long enough to help until I was so wound up I simply couldn't ever relax. So Im learning to stop looking for the quick-fix and instead concentrate on regular daily me-time and doing things consistently. Im far from there yet but it really is helping so hopefully you can find your "thing". Good luck

Thank You pam.

Pamhill4
Have you read 'The way of the Peaceful Warrior' if not, I think you'll like it. It takes mindfulness a little bit further.

petra, I like your DH's comment about "negative" people. So true! That's made me smile.

I'm off with my soulmate to support him through another gruelling session of chemo today. Whilst at the hospital I will visit Maggies Place - a sanctuary in this otherwise is a fragile life.

I have heard good things about Maggies. Sorry boheminan, an awful time for you .

Gonegirl, glad you liked the poems-

Happy place: Listening to Sloop John B by The Beach Boys

rosecarmel, nice choice! I'm a metalhead, but there's always room in my heart for some Beach Boys.
My happy place got rocked a bit yesterday...my elder granddaughter has chickenpox! She is fine, full of beans, am just hoping it won't affect my having surgery on Friday.

Grannymosh, I hope your surgery will be fine Positive vibes! I look like an androgynous metalhead, and do crank Enter Sandman or Chop Suey while driving country roads to clear my head from time to time, it's healing ..

Pamhill4 Thank you message about mindfulness. It is so true. It can be surprisingly hard to ‘switch off’ the negative thoughts and it takes practise.
My lovely previously reassuring and affectionate husband has suffered depression and unexpected health issues so rarely sees or says anything positive nowadays. It’s hard and lonely for both of us although in other ways we live in idyllic surroundings.
I know mindfulness can help me to be non-judgemental (even of myself), to be grateful and see things afresh. It helps clear the mind of that nagging voice within which can be so draining.

Getting a good night's sleep over several nights.

I find being with friends and able to talk about my feeling which I cannot do with my family as it just worries them, helps.

I am going to look up mindfulness and give that a go. I am pretty good at appreciating the small things in life so maybe that will be a help.

In a pretty bad place at the moment so have to do something.

Destin
You must be really fit.great for u.

Rosiebee
Lucky u.ive found the same.its Def better.

Care to translate anyone?

Translation:
Lucky you! I have found the same: it’s definitely better.