I’ve noticed that if my morning begins badly, the tone can steer my entire day. From the time I wake up, my mind flips the “on” switch and the monologue starts up… about stuff I have to do, worries and happy or dreaded anticipation. Gremlins of negativity can lead to paralysis by analysis as I sometimes mentally rehearse what I can’t do before I’ve actually done anything yet. Whatever is going on in my life is internally interpreted, ruminated and regurgitated in my thinking all day long, much of which shows up externally one way or another.

Focusing on positive, uplifting, empowering thoughts sets the tone for a whole different kind of day. Athletes know that visualizing success supports success because they have spent countless hours mentally rehearsing the desired outcome. Likewise, exhaustively visualizing and mentally rehearsing potential failure breeds failure.

I’m glad I am learning to be more consistently vigilant about observing what my unfiltered subconscious hatches so I can catch thoughts and turn them around to what I wish to experience. When I do this, my day reflects a lighter, more joyful flow and breeds more positive thoughts.  

Helpful resources abound to help seekers “get your head on straight,” as I say. The latest neuroscience research and proven positive psychology principles show that simply viewing combinations of positive images and words in helpful sequences for a few minutes can influence our thoughts and experiences throughout the day.

I was honored to have Kim Serafini, founder and CEO of Mind Power Technology, interview me to create a Natural Awakenings video session for their self-training program, MindPT, an accelerated learning tool that helps prime the mind to start each day on a grateful, positive note. Serafini has been dubbed the “goddess of gratitude”, and after spending a couple of hours together, I discovered why.

The good news for you is that our work together has resulted in a free offer to readers to view our uplifting session as often as you like. Just download their app to your smartphone or computer to watch the series of scientifically selected images, positive statements, sounds and music all reinforcing our mission theme: feel good, live simply, laugh more.

This month’s issue of Natural Awakenings is filled with resources for making your life a more joyful, empowered experience. We’ll even assist you in finding your next love (see our Valentine’s Day discount for Natural Awakenings’ singles online dating site) or transforming the way you might relate to your mate.

We also explore how life’s ultimate transition can be lovingly planned and re-imagined in Linda Sechrist’s feature article, “Sacred Passage: Conscious Dying as a Transformative Healing Journey."

As 2017 unfolds, we hope that perspectives in these pages help support and guide your path along an ever happier and healthier journey. The blessing of being in Southwest Florida this time of year gives us all a head start!

Enjoy the journey,

Sharon Bruckman, Publisher