
“If we can’t change the circumstances, perhaps we can alter our attitudes.” Dr. Dale Anderson
The events of the last few weeks in the U.S. Capitol are depressing. This doctor was in the Startribune this week, I hope you can find a way to brighten your day. The Actions For Happiness calendar follows.
Upbeat techniques
Dr. Anderson outlines ideas to be happy in his book, “Never Act Your Age.” They include:
• Maintain good posture in order to present yourself in an upbeat matter. There are lots of techniques for practicing good posture — including the classic book on the head — but Anderson suggests that whenever you feel yourself slumping, take three steps backward. Your body will instinctively adjust its alignment, raising your head, neck and shoulders.
• Keep your eyes wide open. Be aware of what’s going on around you, searching, exploring and connecting. Mindfulness!
• Smile, even if you’re wearing a mask. Keep your forehead and cheeks up. Strive to appear radiant and alert.
• Do something that makes you feel better. Go for a walk. Call an old friend. Turn on upbeat music. Surround yourself with pleasing aromas. I would add, find beauty in your day!
• Shake up your routine. Sit in a different chair at the dinner table. Brush your teeth with the opposite hand. “Welcome new, novel and challenging encounters.”