Keeping Calm in the Current Chaos!
Aviva Keren Barnett
Counsellor | Psychotherapist | Clinical Supervisor| International Lecturer| UKCP Empowering Minds , Transforming Lives, UKCP registered experienced psychotherapy services
Keeping Calm in the Current Chaos
Aviva Keren Barnett Existential Psychotherapist, Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor and International Lecturer UKCP reg, M.A. PgD
Last night I gave a talk about ways we can all keep calm in the current chaos. I thought that I would share some of the take aways for those of you that could not attend.
- How to manage with the lack of structure
- How to manage with the lack of space
- Visual Remninders
- Reduce Pressure
- Reach out for support
During these times structure as we knew it has dissapeared. We used to go to work, enter shops, grab coffee's , interact with our neighbours and friends. Now that built in structure has literally vanished. So how do we manage that? I think one way is to try to create a new structure. Even if it is just one thing that can be consistently done each day, that is structure. It will anchor you. An example may be watching the sun set each day. Find your own thing that you can commit to doing the same time each day, and you will see how much that can help.
Feeling trapped and having little space for yourself is a common theme that I am hearing about from my clients at the moment. So how can you create space? Go into a different room from those in your family even for a few minutes, go onto your balcony or garden just to change up the environment and have some 'alone time'. If that is impossible then close your eyes and breathe. Imagine a calming scene such as a field with beautiful flowers in it.
I find that visual reminders of calm can induce that calm feeling. How about placing a photo of a flower, sunset, beach etc on your fridge. Each time that you see it, you can take a breath and look at the calming image. You will be amazed at the positive calming impact you will feel! A written sentance such as ' I am doing the best I can within the circumstance I am in' can also bring relief. Stick that on your bathroom mirror, or anywhere that you are likely to see it often.
Reducing pressure is important. Try to let go of high expectations of yourself, and increase pleasure. Self care activities will re address the balance between pressure and pleasure.
Lastly reach out for support. Phone your doctor, friend, or neighbour if you are feeling overwhelmed. There are many charities offering 24/7 helplines at the moment utilise them so that you will not feel alone.
Look after yourself.
Aviva Keren Barnett