Building Appreciation Memories
Your body and emotions are connected. Because of this, there is a powerful opportunity to remind ourselves of the good and thus change what we are experiencing in our bodies. This journaling-type method has been like a secret weapon for me when I find myself searching for BEEPS or feel a negative emotion. I also use it with my sons when they are struggling.
Philippians 4:8 says:
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
Think about a time when you could really perceive the Lord’s presence or a time where you received a gift (material or otherwise.)
Write down everything you can think of about that moment. What did you perceive with your senses? Sight? Smell? Touch? Sound? Etc.
Write down how you felt. i.e. Light in your body. Warm. Relaxed.
Give this Story a Name.
You can use this story to pivot out of a negative state of mind. Keep a journal full of them!
See also my blog on gratitude!