Optimism, Gratitude, and Happiness: How everything is interconnected

“Some people grumble that roses have thorns; I am grateful that thorns have roses.”

                                                                          - Alphonse Karr, A Tour Round My Garden

Being a logophile, I always look for the origin of words that appeal to me. That definitely comes from studying the origin of English. Likewise, Optimism comes from a Latin word, optimus which means "best".

I am sharing few of my bests to have an optimistic view towards life.

Smiling first thing in the morning.

Your day really depends on how you wake up, rather what you do when you first open your eyes. The first thing I do after my morning prayers (Hasta darshan; gratitude prayer for Mother Earth) is smiling.

Try smiling and being thankful that you woke up fine; sleeping is like being half dead.

Making someone's day

Smile at a stranger, buy flowers from street vendors, make someone laugh out loud, compliment someone, or share or give away your lunch to someone who really needs it.

There are so many things that one could do to make someone happy. I feel being kind ascends all these acts.

Gratitude and being humble

Humility is everything. Start a gratitude journal; write down all the things you are grateful for. If you cannot think of anything; honor the Sun, Mother Earth, Air (all five elements). You can express gratitude through various creative mediums. 

Books and plants make best companions

I surround myself with books. They make best companions and best time travelling mediums. Imagine if you touch old, vintage manuscript by some great writer; how much of their energy you would pick up! Likewise, surround yourself with flowering plants (vinca, hibiscus, butterfly pea) and foliage plants.

Using aromatherapy to radiate positivity

Forget perfumes, simple floral fragrance can instantly lift the mood. I have been using essential oils for ages now. Lavender for sleep, Narcissus to lift spirits and help overcome emotional setbacks. Light scented candles, add essential oils in diffuser, or even dab some on your pulse points as mood enhancer. 

Meditation

Meditation is a great way to declutter your mind, making a way for positivity. If you cannot find time for meditation, listening to instrumental music (raag) can calm the mind, or simply concentrating on the rhythm of your breathing can do wonders. Take charge of your prana.

I would like to add a proverb we all grew up listening to: Charity begins at home. There is so much positivity and optimism if you really open your eyes. Today is never too late to start! :)