Most of the things we worry about never happen.  As granny used to say, “Don’t borrow trouble.”  90% of the tragedies  in life come from out of the blue.  You can’t anticipate car crashes, tsunamis, tornadoes, fatal disease, or all of the  painful happenings that human beings must endure.    How do we get through difficult times?  By strengthening ourselves during the good times, so that we’re more resilient when trouble comes  Here  are 6 ways to prepare for adversity.

1.  Cultivate the habit of thinking positively.    Enjoy the small things in life such as a sunny day or a cup of hot  coffee. . Training yourself to think positive thoughts  will help you through times of sorrow. Remember Little Orphan Annie’s song, “The Sun Will Come Up Tomorrow?”  When negative thoughts enter your mind, tell yourself, Don’t Think.  Switch over to happy thoughts or find something to laugh about.

2.

Practice meditation. .  This is a powerful way to calm yourself and lower  blood pressure.  There are various meditation apps available on the internet, but it’s all about. taking  ten minutes a day to  close your eyes and focus on your breathing.  By forming this daily habit, you’ll have a ready  coping mechanism to fall back on when you’re upset.

3.  Engage in some type of physical activity on a regular basis.  If you can’t jog, walk your way through the stress.  Exercise releases powerful endorphins in your body to improve your mood. It also lowers blood pressure and strengthens your heart muscle

4. Develop relationships with positive, supportive people.  They will be there when you need someone to listen, help, and encourage you.

5.. Take Care of Yourself.  Eat nourishing food. Get enough sleep.  Stay at home when you’re sick. Don’t smoke or drink too much alcohol.  A healthy body is more resilient.

6.   Schedule some time alone, especially if you’re feeling stressed. .  Disconnect from the outer world . Shut off your cell phone, avoid e mail and television news programs.   Listen  to music, read a book, or head for the  river and enjoy the solace of water.

Above all, stay strong.  You can make it through the tough times.