MINDFUL METHODS TO BUILD RESILIENCE – PART 2

Where we place our attention makes a difference and can be the way to turn obstacles into success! I hope that you learn one-minute methods to turn self-doubt and negative thinking into affirmations of your abilities one minute at a time in this series.  No one is immune from life’s obstacles. To live with a human body and a human mind means having to confront grief, loss, disappointment, frustration, and even illusion. Fortunately, this is only part of the story. The other part is the reality that we can all decide how best to play our hand at any given minute. How we respond to life’s stumbling blocks right here in the next sixty seconds can make all the difference.

Resilience would be nearly impossible if we were constantly upset, irrational, irritated, and beset by a host of negative emotions. Calm is the elixir that brings us to a place of balance, harmony, and peace.  It is from this emotionally centered point of view that we are prepared and capable of making compassionate, caring, and sensible choices.

Consider using the following simple, yet ancient and powerful practice anytime you feel stressed, overwhelmed, or anxious:

1. Bring the palms of your hands together in front of your chest.

2. Spend a few moments noticing the warmth between your palms to get centered. 

3. Inhale and fill your belly with air as you simultaneously move both arms outwards as if you were opening an accordion.

4. Hold your breath for the count of 2 when your arms are spread fully outward.

5. Exhale slowly and completely to the count of 4 and move your arms inward until your palms come back together.

6. Repeat this practice 3 to 5 times at a sitting, standing, or lying down position.

I hope you find this practice to tone your vagus nerve helpful.  Next edition I will include exercises to improve our clarity.