A evidenced by the discussions of friends, family, clients, my community and larger conversations around the country and world, our collective stress baseline is high and rising.
It’s time for a reminder about how to stay as grounded as possible when things feel hard and out of your control. The rock stars to accomplish this are mindfulness and gratitude.
Start a mindfulness practice
Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment with intention and without judgment. This mindful awareness allows us to observe stress responses as they arise, creating a pause between stimulus and response. It can regulate the amygdala (the alarm center in your brain), reducing emotional reactivity and fostering a sense of calm.
You don’t need to go big. Sit quietly for five minutes every morning, eyes closed and focus on your breath. Make it a new habit. Yes, even five minutes a day can help.
Be grateful
Gratitude, the conscious appreciation of the good in our lives, acts as a buffer against stress. Studies have shown that regularly expressing gratitude can increase happiness, improve sleep and reduce symptoms of depression. By consciously appreciating the positive aspects of our lives, we reinforce a sense of well-being and cultivate a more positive outlook.
At the beginning and end of every day, reflect upon something that was positive, enjoyable, refreshing or surprising. Contemplate this for 30 seconds (also called savoring) to best integrate it. This also helps to counter a negativity bias and protect your mental health.
If you’re struggling with stress related to existential crisis, relationship, personal or other and you need more support, please reach out.
Outside of Marin but still in California? Check out my California Online Therapy services.
Not quite ready for therapy but would like feedback and guidance by me? See my online chat Ask Lisa Consultation service on LoveAndLifeToolbox.com.
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Contact me to inquire about scheduling an appointment.
