Finding Solutions for Stress
Finding Solutions for Stress Wouldn’t we all just love to toss our computers in the ocean and lay by the beach sipping lemonade all day? Sure! But completely ditching the things that cause stress in our lives isn’t realistic for most of us.
Sometimes, those things that cause us stress are also the things that keep our lives together. Your job keeps your family fed, clothed and safe, and it’s important to do well at work.
That said, it’s equally important that we grab hold and take care of this “stress epidemic.” We cannot let go of our self-care. After all, without our health, what do we have?
Yes, diet and exercise are vital. But there’s another leg of the stool that must be addressed: a day-to-day routine or method of dealing with stress must be integrated into every American’s life so that each individual can come out ahead.
Meditation is one way to deal with that stress. It is a practice that is manageable, very personal, and available to everyone at any point they choose.
Try This: A Quick Meditation for Right Now
Here’s something you can try right now, it will only take 60 seconds, and you don’t even have to close your eyes.
Sit where you are, right now, and become aware of your breath. Just notice the way you’re breathing, in and out, gently. If you’re not already, transition to breathing in and out through your nose. Allow yourself to focus on a spot on your desk or computer, and continue to notice your breath.
Now, take your awareness to the tip of your nose and feel the cool air as you breath in. Notice how the air warms as you breath out. If it helps, you can say to yourself, “I’m breathing in, I’m breathing out... Cool air in, warm air out.”
That’s it. Very simple and short.
When you try this exercise even for just one minute, you will feel more relaxed, centered and focused. You’ll be able to more clearly go back and continue with your day.
I recommend inserting this meditation several times through the day. Perhaps practice it a few times as you sit at your desk, and maybe when you park your car in the driveway before you go inside to greet your family in the evening.
Meditation is a wonderful tool to feel a sense of peace and stillness while you reduce stress. If you would like to learn more about how meditation can improve your life,
Peggy Gaines,RN, BSN
Clinical Meditation Specialist II
Usui/Holy Fire Reiki Master
Sources:
Kozlowski, Lori. “Getting America to Check in with Itself.” Forbes /
Entrepreneurs. Forbes.com. 28 January 2013. Web 1 February 2016.
“Stress Management Health Centre: The Effects of Stress on Your Body.”
WebMD. WebMD. Web 1 February 2016.