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An Optimist’s Checklist for Easter

Victor Perton, The Centre for Optimism

Surround Yourself with Positive People: Easter is a time for gatherings, sharing good food and enjoying chocolate in many creative forms!

Meditation and Prayer: Good evidence shows that meditation, particularly compassion meditation, enhances optimism and happiness. Prayer is a form of meditation, so this is a good time to meditate and pray on the messages of Easter.

Gratitude: Again, expressing gratitude is a beautiful way to make you and others happy and optimistic. As we gather with family for the Easter celebrations, there’s the perfect opportunity to express thanks for the day’s hospitality and memories of good times. A message to those far away is a great idea, too.

Singing: Some of the most beautiful music ever written was composed for Easter. Those going to Church will have the opportunity to sing, so take the opportunity and sing with vigour. Sing to yourself or sing with others!

Walk and Take Some Deep Breaths: Walking in company or alone is another good way to enhance your feeling of well-being and optimism. While on that walk, make sure to take some deep, slow breaths and fill your lungs with the fresh air of Easter, whether your Easter is in Spring or Autumn.

Use Positive Language: Don’t just ask, “How are you?” Ask people, “What’s the best thing happening for you?” or “What has brought you joy today?” or whatever variation feels natural to you.

Ask, “What makes you optimistic?”

This article is published under a Creative Commons Licence and may be republished with attribution.

Key Facts:

Easter is a time for Optimism. Easter and the Resurrection story celebrates faith, hope and optimism. Surround Yourself with Positive People Sing

About us:

Victor Perton is the Author of Optimism: The How and Why and the Chief Optimism Officer at The Centre for Optimism

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