There’s a lot going on in this world. In fact, there’s probably a lot going on in your life at the moment. So much to do, so little time, and just too much uncertainty. You probably feel as though you are constantly fighting against the odds while trying to make your way in this world. As you work through your problems you need to fight through stress, anxiety, fear, anger, frustration, overwhelm and a plethora of other emotions. These emotions leave you in a frantic state, which negatively affects your health and hurts your ability to make good decisions.
The one certainty about life is that it will put you under intense pressure situation — forcing you to make tough decisions that will either hurt or hinder your progress. And when emotions get the better of you, you will most likely fail to capitalize on your greatest opportunities moving forward. In fact, your ability to stay calm under pressure could be the difference between the success you desire to create in your life, and complete and utter failure.
Of course, thinking is necessary to survive, but most of the thoughts you have floating around in your head are false and should not be listened to. However, it is as, in your head, you have a broken record that continues replaying the same thoughts over and over again with no end. When you consciously focus on the breath you are not just cultivating mindfulness; you are also creating stillness in your mind. Giving it a much-needed break from the constant barrage of thoughts that plague most of your day. If these thoughts were just a record, you could press stop. But life is not so simple. We cannot just stop our thoughts. No matter how badly we want to or how hard we try.
A state of calmness also requires patience. Sometimes you need a little patience and time to understand the events and circumstances of your life. Sometimes you need the patience to gain a deeper insight into your predicament. And the only way you will find true and unadulterated patience in a state of calmness. Likewise, calmness also requires optimism and faith. You need optimism to help you find the motivation you need to journey through the thick dark fog of your problems. And you need faith to help you find your way when you lose yourself in the turmoil of your emotions. Optimism will help you find the desire you need to move forward, and faith will provide you with the courage you need to persist through the obstacles that stand in your way.
Ask yourself these questions:
- What things cause me to lose my cool?
- What specific people or circumstances cause me to succumb to pressure?
- How do these triggers affect me on an emotional and physical level?
- How do I typically respond during these pressure situations?
- Why do I respond in this way?
Here are some suggestions to help you find ways to relax and reflect more throughout the day:
Build a Calming Environment
Calmness, of course, begins from within, on a psychological level. However, it’s difficult to maintain an inner sense of calmness if your environment is frantic, chaotic and disorganized. Building a relaxing and nurturing working environment depends entirely on what specifically makes you feel comfortable and relaxed. The choice is completely yours to make.
Build a Calming Daily Routine
There may very well be moments of your day that are frantic and hectic. These moments are simply a part of your working life, and it can certainly be difficult to work around them. Don’t resist these moments. Let them be. It sometimes might not be possible to change part of your routine or schedule, however, what’s important is that you balance your routine and make time for yourself, for relaxation and for self-reflection.
Workout
Although physical exercise is a stressful activity, it provides good stress needed for growth. Over the long run, exercising improves your ability to handle stress. High-intensity workouts are especially good for improving stress tolerance. If you have a busy life, they are perfect since they won’t take much of your time. When life is crazy busy and you don’t have time, take every opportunity to move your body like taking the stairs and standing up when you can.
Stretch or Massage Your Body
Doing a few stretches relaxes your muscles and in turn, it relaxes your mind. You can also massage your head, temple, hands, and neck with your fingers to relieve stress. Keep a tennis or golf ball under your desk and roll your foot over to get an instant foot massage.
Take Short Naps
Sleeping significantly reduces stress, so it is important you have enough good quality sleep.
In a busy life, it’s easier said than done. When you can’t get enough sleep during the night, take short naps to instantly recharge yourself and reduce your cortisol levels. Afternoon naps can kill stress like magic.
Use Music
Music can instantly change your state of mind. If you’re working, you can listen to relaxing or nature music in the background.
Use the Power of Visualization
Visualization is a fantastic method for grounding yourself during times of intense emotional turmoil and uncertainty. Find a quiet place without distractions where you can lie down or at the very least sit down comfortably. If that’s not possible, then sit where you are or lie down on the floor while listening to tranquil music. Initially, allow your mind to wander and just find its place at the moment. However, after a few minutes take control of the images forming in your imagination and imagine a tranquil place — a sanctuary of sorts that you can escape to. This is a place filled with all the things that make you feel comfortable, at peace and relaxed.
When you have a full and complete awareness of what you are going to do in the next moment when things change, you will naturally be more calm, collected and emotionally centered. It’s often those unexpected moments when events and circumstances catch you by surprise that lead to emotional upheaval and overwhelm. However, given the fact that you are now prepared for the possibilities, you will, therefore, be in a much more favorable position to stay calm and collected during these difficult moments of your life.
Try Meditation:)
Namaste!