Lately, I have noticed new energy in the Lake Lure area. Anticipation has been building for months regarding the lake’s long-awaited reopening after Hurricane Helene’s devastation over 18 months ago. And it is not just locals who are excited. Multiple out-of-town reporters have travelled here to get updates over the last few weeks. Soon, the lake will be available again for public use to fish, water ski, paddle board, kayak, cruise, swim, or simply to admire its beauty.
Activity and preparation have been underway in the region for months. This area has come back to life in so many ways. Marinas are being restored, many hiking trails have been cleared, and businesses are continuing to reopen. Special events are being scheduled. Hopes are that tourists who have loved the region for years will hurry back after the lake’s reopening. All this good news is leading to increased “energy, enthusiasm, and passion for life,” which positive psychology calls “zest.” (Jeremy Sutton, positivepsychology.com). Zest is a wonderful, fun term that seems so appropriate. And positive emotions are “contagious”—each smile, upbeat mood, and enthusiastic interaction continue to spread the joy. All of us can be caught up in the good vibrations of this momentous season of celebration.
Take time to allow yourself to be saturated with happiness and excitement. Let relief sink deeply into your soul. Appreciate the return of normal life in this recreational paradise. This is known as savoring, a practice recommended by positive psychology. It is concentrating upon and celebrating positive feelings and events. Savoring involves “intentionally focusing on and enhancing positive experiences to boost wellbeing and happiness.” And telling others adds to positive feelings. An old proverb states that “a joy shared is a joy doubled.” Scientific research actually supports this wisdom. Sharing positive events is called capitalization, which enhances the positive feelings tied to the event, especially when others respond enthusiastically to our good news (proofpositive.org)
I would be remiss not to acknowledge the many people and businesses which are not fully recovered after Hurricane Helene. They continue to need our support. And I recognize that our nation and world are currently facing many challenges. But practicing positivity can be a healthy buffer against darker realities. It can strengthen and renew us to continue the fight to overcome challenges. After what has been a tumultuous couple of years, it is okay to rejoice! In fact, it is vital to our wellbeing. Life’s joys and pleasures, positive experiences, and loving relationships are what nourish and sustain us during tough times. We can create a reserve, a storehouse of positivity which carries us through. So, celebrate freely and savor all the good vibrations!
