There is Power in your Inner Resources
We often rely on tangible factors to bring us happiness & peace. Some of these life aspects may include workplace problems, marital difficulties, financial stability, health and numerous other unpredictable events. There is power in less tangible factors; instead of depending on external events, we should practice more on focusing our energy towards our thoughts and behaviors related to those events.
Being able to work through stressful moments is not easy. Becoming aware & understanding our personal triggers & discomforts allows us to manage our response to stress levels better, moment by moment.
STOP
Stress triggers a response through-out the body & mind, often referred to as “fight or flight”. This instinctual reaction can lead to symptoms related to traumatic damage to our physical and emotional health. When stress is sustained over a longer period of time it could cause serious damage. Health experts and scientists state a large number of health conditions are stress related. When stressful pressure is experienced excessively, it has the potential to develop into distress and even worse, DISEASE. We can all equip ourselves with methods to cope. Let’s stop – breath and gather our thoughts.
BREATHE
Breathing is important and occurs with little thought. Improper breathing can contribute to anxiety, panic attacks, and various physical and emotional issues. During intense stressful moments it is helpful to your overall health (mind, body & soul) to consciously take control of your breathing and relax yourself during stressful and uncomfortable moments. Breathing with the abdomen, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth will relax muscles and mind.
GATHER
At this point, try to gather your thoughts and ask yourself questions that will give you an alternative perspective or viewpoint.
- Is my first thought factual or an assumption?
- Is there anything positive about this situation that I may be looking over?
- Is this a normal behavior for me? Is there an alternate view?
- Would I still care about it in a few years?
- Could I cope with it?
- How would my friends or family feel about what happened?
- Is there a diverse opinion?
Thyme & Mint 