So today I decided that I would use Take Notice from the 5 ways to wellbeing.
This can be quite a general method incorporating different tactics, but essentially it's purpose is taking you away from negative subconscious thoughts and feelings, and focusing your conscious mind on what is going on. This is also called grounding, and it is another way that we can help stem the flow of the chemicals I talked about in day one.
We are putting our primal fight or flight brain away and engaging our inner-intellectual.
Commonly people use mindfulness techniques like yoga or mediation, and whilst fantastic, these aren't necessarily for everyone.
This morning I decided that my technique would simply be a walk. But wait, Andy, isn't that Be Active? Well yes, but you can make anything grounding, and I find mindful walking very grounding. Whilst walking I do try and and take notice of what's around me, enjoy the views, the smells and sounds ( is anyone else hearing more birdsong at the moment?), and this of course helps me distract myself from what might be going on in my life. However, if I really want to ground myself, I start to notice how I am walking: how are my feet touching the ground, how are they leaving the ground; what parts of my feet are in contact with the ground? I try and notice how I am breathing, can i make my inhales and exhales longer?
If I do this for 5-10 minutes, I can definitely notice a positive difference in my stress levels and calmness.
Give it a go, and see if you agree with me.
See you tomorrow for the next one
Andy