We all experience feeling out of sorts, out of balance and overwhelmed at times. These times in which we are living are like no other, that is certain. It can be very challenging to remain calm, steady and embodied. It’s easy to live from the head, thinking or even obsessing instead of feeling; on auto-pilot, mindlessly moving from one task or responsibility to the next. What practices do you use to help stay grounded in these tumultuous times? I’d love to hear from you and share your ideas in a future newsletter. There are many things that we can do to help ourselves better handle the madness. Here are 10 easy, quick suggestions that will help:
1. Take a break from the news. I’m not suggesting that one stick their head in the sand, but too much news or television in general isn’t helpful. It’s important to focus on things that we can change or impact, rather than getting caught up in the day-to-day drama.
2. Ditch the device, even for a short while. It’s easy to become attached to our phones, watches and tablets and even addicted to social media feeds. Take a time-out and connect with someone or something real.
3. Hit the ground! In recent years, “Earthing” has become a thing, which cracks me up. For years I’ve been telling my clients to turn off the news and go lie down on the Mother Earth. Even 10-15 minutes of lying down or walking barefoot on our beautiful Mother can reset your nervous system. Breathe deeply, close your eyes and connect your heart beat to the heart beat of the Mother. Let me know how it goes!
4. Breathe deeply. Just a few minutes of deep breathing can change everything. Make the exhale a bit longer than your inhale to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system and relax. Or, try a 4×4 breathing meditation. This consists of inhaling to the count of 4, holding the breath for 4 counts, exhaling for 4, then wait for 4 counts before inhaling again.
5. Spend more time in nature. Connecting to the beauty of the natural world is one of the best ways to relax, reconnect and restore one’s sense of clarity, truth and purpose. Be a tree hugger!
6. Create a daily gratitude practice. Everyone can find something to be grateful for. Taking just a few minutes each morning to count your blessings helps set a positive, uplifting vibe for your day.
7. Have more fun! This is one of my current personal favorites, or should I say “challenges?” With a stellium of planets in Scorpio, life can get pretty serious for me in a hurry. Time to lighten up, be a little silly. Let me know what you’re doing for more fun in your life!
8. Ask for help. Our culture teaches us to be independent, to “lift ourselves up by the bootstraps, and blah blah blah. We are social creatures and need others to affirm and support us, especially when we’re experiencing emotional challenges, loss or crises. Don’t hesitate to call a friend or other support person when you’re struggling. People want to be of help, so make the call. Don’t delay.
9. Help someone else. Whether it’s helping an elderly person cross the street or take their trash can to the curb, preparing a meal for someone, taking care of their pets or even just offering a smile to a stranger, being present for someone in need is a great way to feel more connected and part of community. And it shifts our focus from our own stress and worries to the needs of someone else.
10. Last, but certainly not least, meditate. There are many many ways to meditate, and even a short meditation can have a big impact on our ability to be mindful and to stay more present in the moment.
