We often focus on what’s not working in our lives. We are stressed at work, too busy to cook, there is too much traffic, we can’t afford a vacation, it’s raining, the economy is going downhill, and on and on it goes. Think about the last time you were in a social situation. What did you talk about? There’s a good chance there was a lot of complaining and whining.

Somehow talking about all the bad things in life has become a cultural norm. It’s almost like we’re competing in misery. And I’m not talking about real sorrow like a breakup, serious illness, or other crisis, this is the water cooler brand of misery. You might feel some camaraderie from sharing a bad fortune, but other than that you are just going to confirm to each other that the world is working against you.

What would happen if you tried focusing as much on what’s good in your life? Obsessing about the negative aspects of daily living is not going to fix them, all you accomplish is feeling tired. In your yoga practice, set an intention to think of small things you feel happy about throughout your day. Nothing is too small - the smell of rain, a phone call from a friend, a good song on the radio, the taste of chocolate.

This all sounds very self-helpy, but it works. Try noticing if it makes you feel any different. Maybe, maybe not. But what do you have to loose?