This book is taking longer to read than I had expected.  This is a good thing though because it has exercises that make you stop and think about what you have read and how it applies to your life.
 
I want to share a few interesting exercises that I have been reading over and trying to interpret and apply to fit my life.  Most are more mental exercises more so than physical.

Exercise 1: Happiness Habits for Empowerment

(This exercise helps you break free of old patterns and begin fresh)


1. Focus on the Solution- What this means to me is look at my life, are there un-resolved issues?  If so how can I began to create solutions to those issues rather than holding on to worry and the power of complaint.


2. Look for the Lesson and the Gift- I have begin to ask myself in uncomfortable or trying situations, "why is this happening and what can I make of this situation?"  I have had several instances this week where instead of complaining I looked for something positive in the situation.  Let me tell you, it was HARD!


3. Make Peace with Yourself- There is actually a physical exercise you can do to help release anything mentally holding you back.  It is called the M-Power March.  Google it and it will go through the physical motions that help you release negative energy from your body and mind.




Exercise 2: Happiness Habits for the Mind


(This focuses on the mental part of being content)


1. Question Your Thoughts- I am now trying to actively process my thoughts.  I also try to validate whether my thoughts are real or just insecurities.  I think a lot of women can associate with how our own "mind games" can affect our day to day emotions.


2. Go Beyond the Mind and Let Go- This was a challenge for me as I didn't really understand what this truly meant.  After I re-read a few times I somewhat can attempt to do this.  I would say this relates to letting go and being free.  Process your thoughts and then release them.  


3. Incline Your Mind Toward Joy- I have to say this is very hard to do.  It's almost as if our bodies are wired to find negativity in every situation.  I have been making an effort to think joyously.  Re-citing bible scriptures has helped me do this.


Over all these 2 exercises or train-of-thought modifications have really been neat to experience and use on myself.  There is also an idea in the book about a complaint jar.  Every time you or someone around you makes a complaint they must put money in the jar.  I took this idea to work and we are thinking about doing it.