Sachin Sharma

Tag: Reflection

  • The Benefits of Gratitude for Mental Wellness

    The Benefits of Gratitude for Mental Wellness

    We’ve all heard the saying “count your blessings,” but did you know that practicing gratitude can have a significant impact on our mental wellness? It’s true, being thankful for the good things in our lives can lead to a happier and more fulfilled existence.

    One of the main benefits of gratitude is that it can improve our mood and overall sense of well-being. When we focus on the things we’re grateful for, we’re less likely to dwell on negative thoughts and feelings. It can also shift our perspective and make us feel more content and satisfied with our lives.

    Gratitude can also have a positive impact on our relationships. When we’re more grateful for the people in our lives, we’re more likely to show them appreciation and kindness. This can lead to stronger and more meaningful connections with others.

    Another benefit of gratitude is that it can improve our physical health. Studies have shown that people who practice gratitude have better sleep, less fatigue, and fewer physical symptoms such as headaches and muscle pain.

    But perhaps one of the most powerful benefits of gratitude is that it can help us find a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives. When we’re focused on being thankful for the good things in our lives, we’re more likely to find fulfillment and satisfaction in our daily activities.

    So, how can you start practicing gratitude? One of the simplest ways is to keep a gratitude journal. Every day, write down three things you’re grateful for. It can be anything from a beautiful sunset to a kind word from a friend. It’s also important to share your gratitude with others. Take the time to thank the people in your life for the good things they do.

    Another way to practice gratitude is to reflect on the good things in your life before going to bed at night. This can help shift your focus away from negative thoughts and help you sleep better.

    In conclusion, practicing gratitude can have a significant impact on our mental wellness. It can improve our mood and overall sense of well-being, improve our relationships, physical health, and give us a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives. So, why not start counting your blessings and see how it can improve your mental wellness.

  • My Childhood Excuse That Became a Running Joke

    My Childhood Excuse That Became a Running Joke

    Growing up in 2006, my friend Vinesh (or Vinna, as we liked to call him) and I were two young and carefree teenagers who just wanted to enjoy life. Our 12th board exams were fast approaching, and we had to attend Math tuition every day to improve our weakest subject. Our ride was a daily 4 km bicycle journey from our homes to the tuition center.

    Our parents were strict, always reminding us that we had to study hard for the board exams. But for us, being stuck inside with books felt like a prison sentence. So, whenever we could, we would leave home early and return late, just to spend more time outside of the house. We lived in neighboring areas, so our daily commute was always a joint one.

    On the way back home, we would pass by a railway crossing that was often closed to vehicles due to the high frequency of trains on that route. However, being impatient young Indians, we would cross it on our bicycles without any trouble. We would even stop our bikes at the crossing and watch the trains go by, debating on their estimated speeds. Sometimes, we would wait for one or two more trains to pass, just so we could extend our discussions a little longer.

    One day, we got carried away and were so late getting back home that it was already dark. When my parents asked why I was late, I quickly came up with the first excuse that popped into my head: “The railway crossing post was closed for too long. Even between the trains, they didn’t open it. That’s why I am so late.”

    To my surprise, my parents seemed to believe me. The next day, I told Vinna about my clever excuse and how I had managed to avoid trouble. But before I could finish my story, he pointed out the obvious flaw: “We were on bicycles, you idiot. We could have crossed the post even if it had been closed for real. Why would we just wait and watch the trains?”

    I was stunned by my own stupidity and couldn’t believe that my parents hadn’t noticed the flaw in my excuse. Vinna and I laughed and laughed about my foolishness until our stomachs ached. To this day, whenever we talk about that incident, we can’t help but laugh.

    Those really were the days! A time when we were carefree, fearless, and just enjoying the ride. I will always cherish the memories of that time, and the running joke that was born from my childhood excuse.