Calming yourself & your system.
This is a simple yet effective calming technique that I recommend to my clients when they feel overwhelmed, worried or anxious. It’s a wonderful way to settle yourself and re-connect to your centre, bringing presence and more clarity.
Let's get started:
- Stand, sit or lie down comfortably
- Place one palm on your forehead - this will bring blood flow to the front (rational) part of your brain (your pre-frontal cortex), away from the back of your head (limbic system) where survival emotions are being triggered
- Place the other hand on your upper chest, resting it gently on your chest bone – this accesses the acupressure point Sea of Tranquility - as the name suggests, it reduces restlessness or agitation and enhances a sense of relaxation (it also connects you to your heart space)
- Gently close your eyes - bring your attention to your breathing and stay mindfully aware of the natural rhythm of your inhalation and exhalation
- To support the breathing and switch on your relaxation response, try and focus on extending your exhalation compared to your inhalation e.g. breathe in on the count of 4, breathe out on the count of 6 (find a rhythm that feels good for you), this will activate your Vagus Nerve
- For more information and guidance, click here: Vagus Nerve - switching on your relaxation response
- If you like, you could choose to recite a short mantra such as “I feel calm” or “I am at peace" - I find it helps keeping thoughts at bay
- For more information on mantras, click here: Mantras - simple yet powerful
- Do this for a few minutes or until you feel more settled - upon opening your eyes, take a a couple of deep cleansing breaths.
As always, listen to your body and observe whether this is beneficial for you - everyone has different needs and if in doubt, conduct further research or consult with your healthcare professional.
Please take extra care of your health & wellbeing during times of upheaval or stress - may this bring you calm, reassurance and peace, Lexi :)