Memories in a jar

Memory or gratitude jars are a great and really simple way of helping manage low moods and increase feelings of positivity. When life overwhelms us it can sometimes feel as though everything is hopeless and that nothing will ever change. A memory jar allows us to store thoughts and experiences that can be reflected upon again and again to remind us that bad times do pass and to re-establish balance in our thought processes.

So how do you make a memory jar?



You will need:
A large mason jar (or similar)
A pack of coloured post it notes (or small pieces of paper)
A pen
Additional ticket stubs, photos, mementos from experiences etc.

How to:
Simply write a memory on the post it note every time you have a positive experience, what it was and how you felt. It doesn't matter how big or small as long as it's something that feels good.
Perhaps you could collect mementos of good times and write on those, or maybe you could add photos of when you felt good and surrounded by people who support you. Essentially there is no wrong way to create your memory jar as it's whatever feels good to you!

So why not give it a go. Imagine what it might look like if you did this for a whole year and then emptied the jar at Christmas. What might it feel like to see a huge pile of your positive experiences and remember all your good times? How might this enable you to challenge negative thought patterns?