3. Techniques to lower your stress levels and anxiety.
At trying times, we need to find ways not to spiral into chaos and despair.
Here are some mindset shifts and techniques you can consider to reframe the situation.
I suggest you journal the ideas that you find most helpful, or just take yourself on an outdoor walk and ponder them.
THE CIRCLE OF CONTROL
I spoke about this in a previous edition of the newsletter, but it's worth repeating.
Think about what you can control and change if needed in your current situation: mainly, your thoughts and your actions.
There will be things you can influence: your feelings, which are a consequence of your thoughts; your body; and other people's thinking and behaviour.
Everything else is outside your sphere of control or influence.
Realising this can help make peace with the fact that there is much we cannot do - and getting anxious about it won't change things.
SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVITY
Bathing in negativity will not help the way you feel, and your energy levels, making it even more difficult to take positive action.
Take a break at least once a week and surround yourself with people and places you love, and positive news (for instance, take a look at this, aptly named, Positive News magazine). If you can, avoid the toxicity and aggressiveness of some social media platforms altogether.
LEARN TO BREATHE
Any breathing exercise is good for you, but one is proven to reduce anxiety instantly and calm your nervous system.
It's easy to learn, free and always available to you: the physiological sigh.
Listen to Dr Humberman's explanation and instructions:
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