Our mind makes up stories faster than Charlotte can weave a web that says, “That's Some Pig.”

At Christmas, I got a call from someone in my contacts, but I last talked to them over 20 years ago.

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She quickly told me she was going to pick up the pies.

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In those few seconds of seeing her name and answering, I told myself someone had died, and they must need my help getting a hold of the family.

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My body instantly went into freeze mode. I was convinced something was wrong, and I needed to be protected.

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If you've been in my community, you know I lost my mom in 2001.

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Getting that call that there was an accident and being told I needed to fly home right away changed me.?

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How my body responds, how my mind works and creates stories, and why I react and respond to different things in ways others might not even notice or recognize can impact my day.

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After that call, I was impacted. I knew I needed to take care of myself for a few minutes before gathering with my family for a holiday meal.

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These types of things happen with my clients all the time, too. Sometimes, it's before a sales negotiation, having a difficult conversation with an employee, before they get up to lead a presentation or talk with their child.

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Here are a few tools that can support you when you feel like your mind and body have been impacted by things happening around you.

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Box Breathing:

Ever feel overwhelmed? Try this: inhale for four, hold for four, exhale for four, pause for four. It's called box breathing, and it's like a mini-vacation for your mind. It's calming and grounding and allows you a moment to get ready to tackle anything.

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Getting Still:

Life's a rush. Take a breather. Find a quiet moment, let the chaos fade, and just be. Trust me, those pockets of peace are pure magic for your sanity.

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Drinking a Glass of Water or Going Near Water:

Want an instant boost? Grab a glass of water, head to the beach, pool or take a bath. It's like a reset button for your body—one of my favorite forms of self-care.

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Go to a Quiet Space:

Are you feeling drained? Escape to your own little haven. That quiet space is your refuge, whether it's a special space at home or a spot in nature. It's where you recharge, find clarity, and rediscover your calm.

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When we are impacted by something we hear, see, or smell, it can change how we respond or feel in the moment. Take a few minutes to check in and find the tools to support you.

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****When working with my coaching clients or with a group in an organization, I notice changes in my clients or shifts in body language from those in my audience.

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Making sure I'm creating safe spaces and that people know if they need to leave the room or if I need to have the group do an activity so I can pull someone privately to the side to check in with them.

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Need help communicating how you're feeling? Reach out. I would love to support you.

Keep an eye on your inbox next week for a special way we can work together.

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