05 Apr Sunshine and rain, summer and winter. What can we learn about happiness and mental health!
As I write this, sitting here in Sydney, Australia, we’re experiencing torrential rain. We have been for at least 24 hours and the predictions are it will continue for at least another 24-48. In some parts of the country there are storm and flood warnings.
But this too shall pass.
As I write this, sitting here in Sydney, Australia, we’ve also just moved from Summer into Autumn. The heat is subsiding somewhat and especially overnight, temperatures are dropping.
This too won’t be a permanent phenomenon.
Weather changes. The seasons change. These statements might sound obvious but there’s much we can learn from the notion of change and impermanence.
Our feelings, for example, don’t last forever. If we’re feeling sad or depressed, it can seem like the darkness will never leave, but it will. If we’re having negative thoughts they can seem all encompassing, overwhelming, but thoughts are just thoughts and they too will pass.
Psychological experiences, like thoughts and feelings, are never permanent. In fact, as the saying goes, the only permanent is change! Remembering this, especially during difficult times can help. Knowing that there’s an end in sight can relieve some of the extra stress.
But remembering this also during good times can also help. If we know our happiness and joy is also temporary then we might be motivated to savour it more, to appreciate it for the wondrous experience it is, and not take our happiness or positivity for granted.