Define what is no longer serving you.
Figure out where you can let go of old beliefs and attitudes that no longer serve you. Work, family, friends, relationships, current events… Maybe all of the above? Once you have figured what is not working you can begin to see the situation in a new light. You can begin to make changes and figure out new ways of doing things.
Turn off the television.
Do not allow the media to bombard you with the negative events of the world. You can be informed and not be blasted by the fear, violence and hatred on the news and in advertising. I love Eckhart Tolle’s explanation of the pain body…do not feed the collective pain body. Just say no…letting go of the triggers that ignite fear will keep you more relaxed.
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Unplug
Shut your laptop for a few minutes. Close your eyes. Just like your computer works better when you reboot it, so will you. Take a little time to focus on yourself. Take a few minutes out of your day and to go inside and just be.
Count your breath.
You don’t have to be in a yoga class to practice deep diaphragmatic breathing. Take a breath in, count 1, then let it go, 2. See how high you can count without letting other thoughts cloud your mind. When any thought crosses your mind, start back at 1. Getting to 10 can be tough, but it helps to recenter and trains your mind.
Think positive thoughts.
Catch yourself when you’re creating a negative thought pattern. Instead of thinking, “this day just gets worse”, change that negative mindset. Think “this is a great day! Things get better all the time!” You can use your mind to freak yourself out or to let go and calm yourself down. You can choose the thoughts that form your day. Pick the positive ones!
Treat yourself to something healthy.
Instead of going out for drinks how about spending the money on a massage, a facial, a yoga class or a favorite spa service? Visit a healthy restaurant or farmers market. Taking a walk in nature can help you to get away and think things through. Let go of the habits that no longer serve you and replace them with healthier options. Treat yourself…you deserve it.
Lie down and Let It Go…
Seriously. Lie down and let your body relax. Just show up, put your body on the floor and see what happens out of that place. Savasana (the corpse pose) has many stress releasing benefits. Combined with deep breathing and counting the breath you can refresh and recharge in about 15 minutes. You can just let it go!
This article contributed by Sue Anne Parsons, Owner of Let It Go Yoga.
Thank you for the great ideas to monitor stress. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday. Your audio tape has been a God-send. I broke my leg and it is the only yoga I feel comfortable doing.
Cheers,
Judy McCandless
Thank you!