Let’s face it, life has a way of throwing curve balls, tests, redirections, stress, and anxiety.
It can feel like a never-ending juggling act as you navigate new journeys and experiences in your life. From coordinating work, friends, family, to pursuing your goals, handling everyday tasks, it's a continuous flow of challenges and demands that can leave you feeling stretched thin.
We take a pause…
Nerves, anxiety, stress, frustration; pause…
We are able to make a change, shift in our energy, and have a different outcome.
What can I do in the moment to handle the stress, anxiety, frustration, or nerves?
The two primary methods that bring about significant shifts are Moving your Body and Breath Work. Personally, I have experienced situations where these powerful calming techniques would have greatly benefited me before I discovered them. Whether it be encountering stress from work, attending a wedding, coordinating a family photo session, or navigating a social gathering, these situations can often stir up intense emotions and leave us feeling overwhelmed. Having the knowledge and tools to manage stress in the moment is crucial.
Powerful Calming Techniques
I - Move That Body
Shake it out
1) Start shaking your body gently from your feet, moving upwards. Allow the shaking to spread through your legs, hips, torso, arms, and all the way up to your head. Don't force the movements; let them arise naturally.
2) Listen to your body, allow it to guide you. There's no right or wrong way to do it—simply let the movements flow and release any tension or stress you're holding.
3.)Trust your intuition to determine when it's appropriate to stop.
What does this do for you?
Restores Balance in your Nervous System
Counterbalances the "Fight-or-Flight" Response
Release Tension in your Muscles
Release Endorphins
Reconnects your Mind-Body Connection
II - Breathe it Out
Physiological Sigh
Two sharp inhales, followed by an extended exhale
Sharp inhale through the nose; as much as you can
Another sharp inhale through the nose to fill those lungs up even more
Extended exhale through the mouth
Repeat
Alternate Nostril
Using your right hand
i. Thumb
- Close Right nostril
- Breathe in Left nostril
- Hold breath
ii. Middle Finger
- Close Left nostril
- Open Right nostril
- Breathe Out Right
- Breathe In Right
iii. Thumb
- Close Right
- Open Left nostril
- Breathe Out Left
- Breathe In Left
Repeat ii + iii
4-7-8 Breathing Method
Breathe in through the nose – count of 4 seconds
Hold – count of 7 seconds
Breathe out the mouth – count 8 seconds
Repeat
These techniques provide immediate relief but also empowers us with a greater sense of resilience and well-being, enabling us to face life's challenges with greater confidence and composure.