In 2020 more than ever, we’re inundated with “positive” messages. On the surface, this is a good and necessary thing. That said, staying positive requires more than mantras and social media memes. You can have positive moments and positive interactions but sustaining that mindset requires focused work.
A great start in that direction is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing or EMDR. As I described it in a recent post, EMDR is unlike many other forms of therapy. Rather than talking and analyzing, it focuses on eye and finger movements. Treatment sessions can last up to 90 minutes and are presented in eight phases. In addition, it can help you live a more positive life.
What Does a “Positive Life” Look and Feel Like?
Of course, this will be defined differently by each individual. However, there are some common, crucial components to consider:
Mindfulness
Staying positive is a challenge when you’re stuck in the past and/or fearing the future. Mindfulness teaches you to stay present. Right here, right now is where positivity thrives.
Gratitude
What good is positivity if you don’t acknowledge and appreciate it? Keep a gratitude journal to keep track of the myriad magic moments that enrich your life.
Acceptance
You can’t always feel positive. Accepting the inevitable balance of life’s ups and downs can make the ups feel much higher.
Altruism
Bringing positivity into the lives of others is a giant step toward increasing your own positivity quotient.
6 Ways EMDR Can Help You Live A More Positive Life
1. Address Chronic Health Issues
Being positive starts with feeling healthy. EMDR has been shown to alleviate stress and reduce chronic mental and physical health-related symptoms. This lays a foundation upon which you can build a sustainably positive life.
2. Live Life in the Moment
- Overcome Persistent Blocks
- Break Free from Old Patterns
- Let Go of the Past
Through EMDR, you will weaken the power of negative memories. This will build your confidence and re-introduce you to the power of positive memories.
3. Strengthen Your Thought Process
Research finds that EMDR can help you:
- Achieve peak performance
- Build resilience
- Better tolerate negative episodes and vents
The stronger your mind, the more capable it is of fending off negative influences.
4. Decrease Anxiety
Anxiety is the enemy of positivity. It takes you out of the moment and sends you to a place of dread and fear. EMDR works to challenge this by changing the way you feel on a regular basis. So, you’re not forcing anything. Positivity becomes your default setting. Even when anxiety inevitably arises, you are resilient enough to manage it.
5. Visualizing Success
Before you even try something, you may already see yourself failing. EMDR teaches you to visualize success. This is accomplished by fully processing a negative thought or memory. At that point, your therapist will help you “install” positive beliefs in its place.
6. Reduce Negativity
This is the whole idea, right? Less negativity means more positivity. As mentioned above, EMDR specifically targets your negative beliefs by clearing up the events that installed those beliefs. Transforming those past influences reduces that negative feeling of being stuck. It puts you in the ideal place from which you can access the best version of you.
Getting Started With EMDR
EMDR is not your usual therapy. It requires an introduction from a seasoned pro. I am Level 1 trained in EMDR and am happy to explain the nuances — and the many benefits — of this modality. Call me today to set up a free consultation in which we’ll discuss how you might benefit from EMDR therapy with me. I’m positive you’ll be glad you did!
Trauma Therapy in the Denver Area
Trauma therapy can be an effective way for individuals to process and cope with the effects of trauma. If you or someone you know has experienced a traumatic event, consider seeking the support of a qualified trauma therapist who can help guide you on your healing journey. To get started, you can email us, use the contact page, or call 720-551-4553 for a free, 15-minute phone consultation. You can also read more about our Trauma Therapy services on our Trauma Web Page.