When life throws unexpected things at you
I have been practicing mindfulness for five years and teaching for three. To say that the practice has transformed my life, sounds like a cliché .. but it really did!
I used to be one of those restless souls who was always looking for greener pastures (ask my dear husband!). So, not only did the practice bring more contentment into my daily life, but it has also strengthened my resilience to cope with change and uncertainty. I now know that I have a choice in how I can respond in any given situation.
This is so very powerful, as our fear-based physiology (our survival instinct) often does not allow us to see this choice, and we end up reacting in unhelpful ways, such as avoiding, distracting away, ruminating, obsessing, over-worrying etc… which only increases and prolongs our distress.
For those that are not familiar with mindfulness, I’d like to share a foundational threefold process that helps us step out of reactivity, to gain a sense of clarity and stability when faced with change or difficulty:
🌱 Step 1. Becoming aware of the what is happening when it is happening ... the anxious thought, the restless emotion, the tightness in the chest ..
🌱 Step 2: Gathering attention towards sensations of grounding .. the breath, the feet on the floor, warmth in hands ..
🌱 Step 3: Expanding awareness to take in the broader context of your experience .. to begin to see choice and a possible shift in perspective.
This is the essence of a short practice called: ‘The 3-step Breathing Space’ (Mark Williams). When you infuse this practice with an attitude of acceptance and care, it can transform an initial impulsive reaction to a wiser response.
Not only does this serve your own wellbeing, by calming your nervous system and allowing you to get in touch with the choices available .. it also serves the wellbeing of those around you!
