Staying Grounded No Matter What
As were embark upon a new year, it's a good time to recommit to taking care of yourself and making your well-being a top priority.
And while the classic self-care list includes getting enough rest, eating well, moving your body and getting a handle on your stress, it's not so easy to keep things up, especially during the tumultuous times that we are all living through. But the one thing that is consistent at all times, is your breath. Incorporating simple breathing exercises will help you through stressful events.
“Feelings come and go like clouds in a windy sky. Conscious breathing is my anchor.” - Thich Nhat Hanh
You see, breathing, and specifically deep breathing has a physiological effect on your brain and body which creates a state of calmness physically and emotionally. It helps to pull your thoughts away from your worries and connect you to your body. Breathing stimulates your parasympathetic nervous system which is the part of your nervous system that is responsible for rest and relaxation. Deep slow breathing with lower your heart rate, regulate your breathing and release calming hormones in your body.
“Seeing is believing"
And in this case, doing is believing. The simple breathing exercise below is easy to do, takes less than a minute, and is something that you can do anytime you are feeling stressed, upset or triggered by something. Check it out and let me know what you think!