Summer is officially over, but the memories can keep on giving. Take a moment to remember three fond summer memories. Since our minds can’t tell the difference between real and imagined in terms of how it makes us feel, remembering the good times is the cheapest vacation around. Think of memories of the good times as frequent flyer points.
Joy floods our brains and body with feel-good chemicals, serotonin and dopamine. It is like taking a shower in joy. These chemicals allow us to be smarter, more creative, and to work faster. In essence, you will be more efficient with your time and be happier. The time you spend reliving positive memories is time well spent and fun.
I played with my four grandkids on an island off the coast of Maine. I loved watching their wonder and excitement when they found crabs hiding in the seaweed. I am reliving my childhood searching for crabs, trying to catch them before they scurry away. And the occasional pinch.
We dug for clams, and to their delight, we found some deep in the sand. We took them home and cooked them. I thought they were delicious. The joy of finding food and cooking it for my 4-year-old grandson was a marvelous experience. But after trying one, he decided he didn’t like them… cooked.
The discipline of remembering positive experiences increases our joy. Like a magnet, each time you remember the good times, you draw to you more positive experiences and greater joy.
What are three wonderful memories and adventures you had this summer? Remember them often with someone you love.
Let your positive experiences renew you.
