Hope is a state of mind
Because hope is a state of mind, rather than a physical ‘object’, it can seem elusive to find. Hope can sometimes be something we’re always searching for but always a bit beyond us.
Sometimes we need a focus or method of finding hope and here our brains can help us. Our brains are triggered by our sensory experiences and sometimes these experiences can trigger feelings. One example is a bright sunny day can trigger cheerfulness. So what we can do to ‘trigger’ hope?
Consider for a moment;
If hope was a colour, what colour would it be?
If hope was a sound, what sound would it be?
If hope was a smell, what smell would it be?
If hope was a taste, what taste would it be?
If hope was a texture, what texture would it be?
Try this…
Why not have a go at a few of these sensory experiences to trigger hope.
Look at…
Being up high or in a wide open space might make us feel less trapped, and more aware of the bigger picture. Looking at signs of spring, new life might inspire a sense of newness and possibility.
Listen to …
Upbeat songs both in terms of tempo or lyrics might give us a sense of optimism and positivity. You could create a ‘hope playlist’ that you listen to intentionally through the week.
Listening to good news stories of people who have overcome obstacles or helping others in the midst of challenge might give us a sense of what more is possible.
Smell…
Certain scents will have a sense of freshness about them which will trigger positivity; think pine, citrus and mint smells. Buy scented candles or drink teas with these kind of scents.
Eat…
Protein is a source of tryptophan, which makes the ‘feel good’ substance serotonin in the brain. Fish, chicken, eggs, soy products, nuts, lentils and beans are all good, healthy sources of protein which may make us feel more positive.
Feel …
Feeling the sun on your body can make you feel more positive and hope filled. Likewise, getting your body involved in sorting, clearing, or organising an area of your physical space, can make your brain feel clearer and able to see past challenges.
Hope isn’t a ‘thing’, but it can be made more ‘real’ when we link physical ‘things’ to it. Give your mind a helping hand this week by using some of these ideas to make hope more real.
This article is by Ben Harper. You can continue the conversation with him on Twitter @wellbeingteach.