This is a 2 part article. To see part one, click here.
5. Be present with Yourself When You’re Alone
Even just a small amount of time being present with yourself can realign you. So don’t overthink this one. Notice the time when you’re by yourself (in the car, doing dishes, getting ready, in the shower, going for a walk) and bring yourself into a new awareness. Don’t think about past or future stuff. Here’s how;
– Notice what you’re doing
– Acknowledge what sensations you’re feeling internally and externally
– Do not judge anything. Just notice.
– Take a deep breath while still acknowledging all the sensations
– Stay in the now by continuing to notice what you’re doing, feeling and the environment you’re in without judgment. What do you see?
It’s hard for us humans to be present. But trust me, even a few minutes of this practice will provide you with a sense of calm. You can always go back to it when needed.
6. Meditate
How is meditation different from being present with yourself when you’re alone? In some ways, it’s not. Walking meditation is a real thing. But if you want or need to take it up a level, go deeper with meditation.
Meditation can definitely feel hard and uncomfortable at first – it still feels hard for me. But it’s that exact feeling that shows us, we need it as a practice in our life. Don’t get stuck on it being perfect. 10 minutes sounds great but if being attached to 10 minutes steers you away from it, then start with 2 minutes. Even guided meditation is an awesome place to start – we all have access to Youtube, right!?
Sometimes it’s the thing that we are most turned off to, that is the very thing that can help us the most.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated or surrounded by chaos, try these steps;
– Set a timer for your preferred amount of time (Nothing less than 1 – 2 minutes)
– Sit quietly with yourself for a few minutes and take deep breaths (click here to learn about breath work)
– Clear your mind, then envision yourself surrounded by a golden light
– Everytime your mind wants to wander, simply come back to the vision of you surrounded by golden light
– Focus on your breath and the golden light vision
– When the time is up, slowly come out of it. Wiggle your fingers, toes and begin to roll your shoulders. Slowly open your eyes. Take a few deep breaths.
– Stretch and be damn proud of yourself
7. Self-Talk – Mantras & Affirmations
Self-talk is a tool I use when I feel that working stuff out in my head or journaling is not supporting me because I can speak faster than I write and it feels better to speak out loud verses in my head. It sounds odd, I know but self-talk is the shit. It has worked for me for years and so, here it is.
Self-talk can be verbally processing what’s going on for you, as you literally talk yourself through a challenge or it can be repeating certain mantras or affirmations to realign yourself with what you’re working on.
Maybe it’s an affirmation around boundaries, letting go of control or self acceptance. Here are a few examples;
– Letting go: “I release control over (fill in blank), and trust that all is happening for the highest good.”
– Setting boundaries: “It is safe for me to set boundaries and protect my energy.”
– Self acceptance: “I am right where I need to be. It is safe for me to be who I am. I am enough. I accept myself with love and compassion.”
Mantras and affirmations are a way of rewriting your subconscious programming and if used consistently are a life-changing tool. Give it a go where you need it.
8. Reflect on Your Progress
Reflecting on your progress grounds you in what you’ve accomplished. It’s the end of the year, so relax into reflection. Celebrate your growth on all levels (emotional, spiritual, financial, etc.). Even if things aren’t quite how you want them to be yet, acknowledge the progress and use that as momentum. Acknowledging our successes can also remind us that we are doing a good job at this thing called Life. This can be very grounding when we are feeling scattered, chaotic and disconnected. Make a list of all the things you want to celebrate.
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EM: alexis@synergywellnesslv.com