Here are seven daily practices that you can do to help you feel calm and grounded during uncertain times.
One of the most common questions I usually get asked at 180 Sanctuary @ Puripai Villa is – How am I able to cope with my stress and anxiety that can arise in challenging times?
In this article I would like to highlight seven simple things we can do in our everyday lives in order to overcome certain situations.
- 1. Slow down
When was the last time that you actually stopped and slowed down? We can so easily get caught up in the rush of living that we actually forget at times to slow down. When you slow down your physical movements, you are actually also allowing your mind to slow down. Slowing down can be done by taking your time to do everyday tasks such as showering, washing the dishes or even walking. - 2. Release the inner critic
Try and become mindful of when you are comparing yourself to other people. Be kind and remind yourself that you don’t ever need to compare how you are are handling a certain crisis compared to how others seem to be coping. - 3. Doubt the truth or value of the news headlines and social media
When reading the headlines of the day it can be fairly easy to get overwhelmed with anxious thoughts. To counter this you can limit the spread of unwarranted fear and panic by looking past the headline and reading the whole article. Once you have done this then pause and notice if the headline is worth sharing on social media. - 4. Be realistic
Anxiety can confuse possibility with probability quite often. Ask yourself these questions “Is my thinking true?” “How does this type of thinking make me feel?” “What does this thought make me want to do?” and “What would I do if I wasn’t thinking this way?”. By answering some of these questions you will be able to judge possibility and probability with a much clearer understanding between the two. - 5. Make sure to have certain elements planned into your day
In mindfulness we learn to accept uncertainty. In contrast to this it is okay to build in elements of certainty in your day that your mind can rely on. Create a new routine that fits the reality of how your life is right now. You can use exercise, meditation and sleep to ground yourself with healthy behaviors. - 6. Look up to the sky
If you can, go outside and lay down. Look up at the sky and listen. Listen to the sounds and visuals that surround you. Allow yourself to get comfortable so you can find peace and comfort through your eyes and ears. - 7. The three-by-three practice
Calm your mind by trying this practice. Simply notice three things you can hear, three things you can feel, and three things that you can see. Experiment with whatever works best for you. You can even expand this practice to all five senses. Or even just bring your awareness to one sense at a time.
It is all about exploring and experimenting with each one of these seven practices and seeing what you notice. I just want to end this article with some words of encouragement – Whatever you are experience right now in this very moment, you are not alone.