MENTPSYCH Meet Your Self
Neurobiologist Wendy Suzuki practices these exercises herself and recommends them to others.
According to scientist and neurobiologist Wendy Suzuki, one of the most effective ways to deal with anxiety is through exercises aimed at developing what is known as mental resilience. And while it may seem easier said than done at first glance, these exercises will help you enhance your mental toughness and learn to cope with stressful situations without losing self-control.
Below, there are five types of exercises that Wendy performs daily to cultivate her own mental endurance and resilience, which she recommends for everyone else.
Visualize positive outcomes.
According to Wendy, you should start each day by mentally working through your problems, envisioning only positive outcomes. For instance, if you have a challenging meeting with your boss planned, imagine yourself attending it, interacting with your boss, and everything ending in the best possible way for you. The scientist emphasizes the importance of not underestimating yourself. Envision not just a good but the best possible result among all the possibilities.
Turn anxiety into progress.
Negative emotions like anger, fear, sadness, worry, and disappointment can either suppress a person or empower them. Suzuki encourages us to think about the positive side of emotions and how they can help us. For instance, when you’re angry, anger can either cloud your vision and hold you back or be used as a motivating force.
Add something new to your life.
Rejuvenating and refreshing your mind with new skills through online resources is easier today than ever before. Yes, staying in your comfort zone is pleasant, but Suzuki says, ‘It doesn’t have to be physical exercises or something complicated. It could be something as simple as gently pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.’ Changes may instill fear, but they help us expand our horizons and realize our capabilities.
Stay connected.
When we are in a state of stress, our first instinct is often to withdraw and isolate ourselves. However, it’s crucial to stay connected with other people. This will give us a sense that we are not alone, that we are surrounded by people who care about us and whom we care about when going through tough times and emotions.
Send yourself positive messages.
This point surprised me, but I see some logic in it. The scientist mentions that actor Lin-Manuel Miranda writes funny and optimistic messages to himself at the beginning and end of each day. She describes him as mentally resilient and predominantly optimistic. Positive reminders and messages that he sends himself daily (and it’s not necessary for the whole world to know about these messages) fill his day with life energy.
Perhaps we may feel like scolding ourselves, but instead, it’s essential to become our most devoted fan.
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