Fortunately, we all have something like a reset button that was installed as part of our original equipment. We are born with certain survival instincts.
When you’re feeling out of sorts and anxious, simply settle yourself and take a big deep breath. And then another. And again. And again. When you exhale a little longer than you inhale you get the most benefit. Often when we are feeling anxious, we breathe in and almost to forget to exhale – to let go!
This easy and natural method of intentional, focused breathing will reset your parasympathetic nervous system. You will go from the survival mode of fight/flight and transition into the rest/digest/relax mode. Just as you have the ability to control your thoughts, you have the ability to control your breathing.
And while you are breathing, become aware of the moment. The now moment. The only moment there is. The place of being rather than doing. Be aware of your breathing – the gentle rhythm of your inbreath and your outbreath – the rise and fall of your chest.
Be aware of your body – aware of how it is supported by the chair you’re sitting in; the sensation of your clothing. Feel the temperature of your surroundings; experience the quality of the light. Notice the sounds and sights around you. Use all of your senses. Be in the moment.
When you are present, you become aware that everything is okay right now. Again – the only time there is. If you begin to think about the past, you may go to shouldawouldacoulda world and feel regret or sadness. If you begin to think about the future, you may feel fear or anxiety. In either case, you are thinking about it now. And your body is experiencing it now – even though it is not happening right now.
Realize that you are making it all up… you’re making up the past because it is a reflection of your memory; you’re making up the future because it does not yet exist. And because the mind doesn’t know the difference between what you are imagining and what you perceive to be reality, your emotions and your physical body reacts as if it is happening right now.
Your power of self-mastery exists in the now moment.
Tell yourself this: I choose to be at peace in this moment. I know I’m doing the best I can. I trust all will be well. Everything is okay right now.
And then breathe! And again!