The power of a state change

As the balance of power in America (undoubtedly) shifts into the hands of a new governmental team (despite the best efforts of the president's unlawful coterie), I think it is worthwhile to reflect on an important, if somewhat superficial, truth.

In politics, the state changes at a glacial pace. But in psychology, states change all the time. And, a lot of the time, you can make them change through action. 

The other day, I woke up grumpy. I realized that I would, at some point, have to get out of bed.  I was also filled with worry at the innumerable things happening in the world that were out of my control.

I decided to go for a run. I ended up going farther on my run than I thought I would. Things got sweaty.

When I came back home, I didn't just feel like a completely different person. I was a completely different person. My state of mind was no longer one best characterized by grumbling concern; I was clearheaded and almost giddy with contentment. 

So if you are ready (or want to be), go ahead.

Run. Laugh. Dance. Stretch. Breathe. Lift. Move. Do something with your body that shakes you out from under the invisible blanket of a passive state.

Do it for 5 minutes any time you feel a negative state coming on or, better yet, every day.

Change your state often enough, and it becomes automatic. 

Once it becomes automatic, that state becomes part of your identity. Just like that. Never underestimate the power of a state change.