WHAT TO DO IN TIMES OF STRESS

In this post I will offer you 6 simple strategies to feel better – no matter what is going on around you.  You will walk away with Relief, Hope, and maybe even a little JOY!

HOW TO MANAGE (MINIMIZE) YOUR STRESS AND GET OUT IN FRONT OF YOUR ANXIETY:

1. Be aware of your thoughts AND your breath – they mirror each other. Focus on your  breath.  Here's a simple way to breathe to immediately get you more relaxed (out of “fight or flight” mode)  Breathe deeply and slowly, through your nose.  Relax your jaw and shoulders.  Count slowly, in for four, hold for two, exhale to the count of six, or longer.  Do whatever feels right for you.  Just make sure your exhale is longer than your inhale.  This reduces the rate of your breathing by about 50%.  You WILL feel immediate relief! (See my other blog posts on breath work)
2. Observe your Body.  Pay attention to different sensations you're feeling in different parts of your body.  No judging or analyzing, just observe.  Every thought you have creates a sensation in your body.  Get in the habit of always being aware of what's going on “inside of  you.”
3. Observe your thoughts.  What stories are you telling yourself?  Again, don't judge, just observe.  Ask yourself, “Is this really true?”  “Am I being kind to myself right now?”  Is this thought possibly stemming from an old belief that is no longer serving me well?
4. Visualize.  Think of a more empowering thought and visualize yourself in a new situation, maybe even with a smile on your face.  Set a new intention as to how you want this stressful situation to look and feel.  Visualize the best scenario  possible for yourself.  Setting a new intention will bring you more of what it is you're  wanting.  Remember, “Energy flows where focus goes.”  And everything is energy!  Setting this new intention will also influence your choices and behaviors throughout your day.
5. Stay grounded in the present moment.  You cannot predict the future.  The past is now behind you.  Your power lies in the “here” and “now.”  One of my favorite mantras goes like this:  “I have everything I need, right in front of me.”
6. Remain grateful.  No matter what.  There is always something to be grateful for. Sending that positive energy out into the Universe gets amplified and brings back to you more things to be grateful for.  This will help you calm down and get  back to your center.  This elicits a healing response and enhances your immune system.

Stress is real, anxiety is real, depression is real, but you can implement some strategies to set you on a more joyful path.  Remember, “You hold the power.”