Changing our physiology is one of the best ways to change the
way we think and feel. Smiling (and I don't mean just a little
smile - a big grin will do!) has the ability to change how we
feel in an instant. Laughter too, is one of the best ways to
heal our mind and body, hence the proliferation of laughter
classes all around the world.
If you consider this idea cute, but not worthwhile, here is an
example of how I cured panic attacks by changing my physiology
alone:
For around eight years I had panic attacks almost every night
just before I went to sleep or if I woke up in the middle of
the night. They ranged from startle through to terror and
hyperventilation. I didn't think there was anything I could do
about it so I kept the problem to myself.
I came across a technique however, which allowed me to
immediately calm down my emotions so that I could logically
dispute the fears that were keeping me awake.
As soon as I experienced fear, I would relax my body, look up
at the ceiling (looking upwards has a different affect on our
body compared to looking down) and grin widely. I would not
stop grinning until the fear subsided. Sometimes the fear would
come back once I stopped grinning, and so I would just grin
again!
The effect was powerful. While I was grinning (and it had to
stay a happy grin - not a grimace) I was completely unable to
feel the terror that would normally strike me.
You don't need to be in a fearful situation to use this idea.
You can smile for no reason at all! Smiling is associated in
our minds with happiness, so the more we smile the better we
feel. And afterall, what is the point of all the things we do,
if not to ultimately create happiness?
(C) Copyright Petra Rankin 2005
Petra Rankin used powerful techniques to beat her own long-term
depression. She is now dedicated to teaching others how to be
happier and lead more successful lives. Her first book Fast Track
Your Success and Happiness is due to be launched in
September 2005 and is currently available for download as a free
e-book instead of paying $19.95. Limited time only!