DR.VANDANA RAGHUVANSHI, PRANIC HEALER, CHANDIGARH

People enjoy the company of individuals whose attitudes are persistently negative. Yet many of us tolerate the critical chatter that can originate within our own minds. Since we are so used to the stream of self-limiting, critical consciousness that winds its way through our thoughts, we are often unaware of the impact these musings have on our lives. It is only when we become aware of the power of such thoughts that we can divest ourselves of them & fill the emptiness they leave with loving, peaceful affirmations. Many people, upon paying careful attention to their thinking patterns, are surprised at the negativity they find there. But when we take notice of involuntary thoughts in a nonjudgmental way, we initiate a healing process that will eventually allow us to replace intimidating & upsetting self-talk with positive, empowering thoughts. 

While the occasional downbeat or judgmental thought may have little impact on your contentment, the ongoing negativity that passes unnoticed can have a dampening effect on your mood & your outlook. When you are aware of the tone of your thoughts, however, you can challenge them. Try to be conscious of your feelings, opinions & judgments for a single day. From morning to evening, scrutinize the messages you are feeding into your subconscious mind. Consider your thoughts from the perspective of a detached observer & try not to judge yourself based on the notions that come unbidden into your mind. Simply watch the flow of your consciousness & make a note of the number of times you find yourself focusing on gloomy notions or indulging in self-directed criticism.