Posted: by Jo Tuesday, 31 October 2017 @ 13:10
As November starts, before the busy Christmas
season, it seems an appropriate month to work on our levels of calmness.
We all have days when we feel life is too
busy, hectic and stressful. We take on too many projects, have too many
responsibilities, make too many commitments. And often we have no choice in the
matter.
So, being in control of our emotions, slowing
down, and staying calm, all help us to embrace the busy-ness, rather than
finding it stressful.
Here are our five guiding principles at
Mantra for staying calm:
1. Slow
down:
When you feel overly busy and stressed, do the opposite of what you might
think: slow down, rather than speeding up. You'll feel more in control, and
you'll see how elastic time is.
2.
Breathe:
Easy and obvious maybe, but taking some slow, deep breaths, focusing on just
your breathing for maybe ten breaths, really does bring a sense of calm.
3. Move:
If you feel your
stress levels rising, and anxiety or frustration starting to set in - change
your physical state. Run up and down some stairs, go for a brisk walk, do some
star jumps! Anything to put your energy into moving your body, not churning
your mind.
4.
Sleep:
Go to bed earlier, or take a nap if it's practical. Recognise that tiredness
makes you feel overwhelmed and out of control much more rapidly.
5.
Repeat a calming mantra:
Pick a phrase, and say it to yourself, convincingly,
several times over. 'I feel calm, safe and grounded', 'I breathe in peace, I
breathe out stress', 'My heart is full of serenity and peace'. Your mind will
start to believe you.
Share with us your stories of how you remain
calm and unruffled, while all around you chaos rages.
And take a look at our new 'Breathe'
necklace, the perfect gift for someone you know who may appreciate the reminder
to slow down and embrace tranquillity.