Breathe.
Breathe.
How often do we hear that?
“Take a breath” “Breathe”
Well, when we breathe, we slow down. We remember we have a body. We can sense oxygen coming in and filling us up. Reminding us we are not alone; we are included, supported, and alive.
It’s just as important to remember to exhale. Taking in and letting go, receiving, and giving. The rhythm of living. One does not go without the other.
These simple truths are not new, but we can forget them. It is so easy to do. Have you heard the expression: I’m so busy I don’t have time to sneeze? It’s ridiculous, but it’s a state we can get into when pressed for a deadline, hosting an event, doing holiday shopping, cooking, cleaning, schoolwork, kid work, and so on.
Some responsibilities are unavoidable, and that’s just the way it is. Even so, do we find time to breathe? Or even notice our breath. Try asking yourself, Is my breathing shallow? Fast? Am I exhaling, fully?
Below are some quick tips for the Holidays:
- Do you sense something brewing? Pause, breathe in for the count of 3, pause, and exhale for 6. Repeat this six times. Do this anytime, anywhere. It will reset your nervous system to a calmer state.
- Are you aware you are losing your center? Step outside or into a different room, even the restroom. Count as you breathe in, then double that amount on the exhale. Repeat at least three times.
- Having a hard time paying attention? Bring your fingertips together, gently press them together like a tent, and hold.
- Feel like jumping out of your skin? Press your thumb and pointer finger together and let go, then continue but alternate right and left sides. You can even do this under the table at a holiday meal; no one will know!
I decided to make December’s Newsletter short and sweet. I hope these tips come in handy during the holidays or at any time you may be feeling overwhelmed.
Warm regards,
Mari Grande
LCSW-R, LCAT, ATR-BC, PsyA, EDMR, SEP
We are all beings of light on this blue planet, here to shine love on ourselves and each other.
