Complaining about the weather or politics might not seem like a big deal but complaining becomes a habit and can spill over into other areas of our life, making us more critical about ourselves and others.
According to Jack Canfield, research shows that frequent complaining actually rewires our brain making it harder to clear away negative energy.
When we complain, our body releases the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol is helpful when we are in danger but we don’t want it released in our body on a regular basis as too much can cause high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and more.
How do we stop when we don’t even realize we are doing it?
First, we have to want to stop.
Two, we have to become more aware of our thoughts and practice being more positive. Consider setting a timer for 30 minutes and make a conscious effort during that time to watch your thoughts and stop yourself before you say something negative.
Three, consider a practice of meditation. When we meditate, parts of our brain associated with compassion and self-awareness grow while parts associated with stress shrink according to research from the Massachusetts General Hospital.
Four, consider the words of Maya Angelou, “What you’re supposed to do when you don’t like a thing is change it. If you can’t change it, change the way you think about it. Don’t complain.”
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