Healthy relaxation Welcome to our fifth column on healthy ways to relax. Please be reminded that you are welcome to share your personal relaxation methods. Our souvenirs are waiting for you. Our address is: PSG, 7/F Tai Sang Commercial Bldg, 24-34 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai; Email pcp-4-psg@police.gov.hk. Think well to live well Positive thinking helps us stay calm and relaxed. It is an attitudinal tool which enables us to feel in control and organise our daily life in a systematic and manageable way. It is comprised of these learnable skills: 1. Being objective - We would discover that all of us have some subjective evaluation of the world if we care to examine our thoughts carefully. Such evaluation may lack the support of objective evidence and sometimes even lead to negative emotions such as fear and anger. But it is good practice to remain objective under most circumstances. 2. Being optimistic - It is important to see things in a positive light. Optimism motivates us to make changes and improve ourselves. It also helps regulate our emotions and remain positive and composed. 3. Adopting more than one perspective - There is often more than one way to look at things. If we can use as many perspectives as possible in understanding what is happening to us in life, it is easier for us to appreciate the positive side of those events and enjoy its beauty. 4. To stop and think - It helps us tune our mind set and become psychologically prepared if we give ourselves some time to think before doing anything. Careful planning and objective evaluation of the consequences contribute to greater confidence and comfort in us in our daily activities. 5. Pacing our thinking - To pace our thoughts is an important skill which helps to protect our mind from being stretched and made weary. Do not let your mind be entangled with too many thoughts at one time. 6. Understanding other people's thoughts - Understanding other people's thinking is key to harmonious relationships. Such understanding also results in a good ability to accommodate differences and achieve peace of mind. 7. Fantasising - Fantasies offer a break from life's hectic moments. It helps relax our mind and create room for rest and positive feelings. However, it is also important to differentiate fantasies from reality and be ready to take full responsibility for the latter. Practise and master all of these skills. And remember to stay calm, relax and enjoy life!