Stress Awareness Week

Most of us don’t realise how much stress we are holding until we allow ourselves to let it go.

Our thoughts may race, creating tension and contraction in our bodies causing pain and discomfort. The overwhelm of so many responsibilities can show up on our faces and mistaken as signs of ageing when really it’s stored emotion waiting to be processed and released.

Stress Awareness Week is all about raising the awareness of stress, the impact it has on our mental and physical health and the importance of stress management.

But how about turning this around a little and changing perspective….?

Focus

Instead of understanding the importance of stress management and continuing to focus on the element of stress, how about focusing on the ways and rituals you know will make you feel well? Remembering what that feels and looks like.

By re phrasing your approach, you are taking “stress” out of the equation and your nervous system will be looking for soothing ways to support you in feeling and being well, even for moments at a time.

Here are some practices you can try at home to bring you back
into your state of balance and wellbeing.

Breathe

This may sound simple but breathing is something we all do.
If we don't do it we will die.
Therefore your breath is your constant.
It is always there for you.
Practice paying attention to your breath.
Breath in for 5 and out for 5.  Do this 5 times and 5 times a day.

Towel

Find a big bath sheet.
Roll it long ways so it looks like a long sausage
You should preferably be on a carpeted floor for this one.
Now, you are going to lie on the rolled towel.
The towel will run from the bottom of your spine to the top,
touching your base of your skull or shoulder blades.
Which ever feels more comfortable for you.
Lie on the towel, bend your knees and open them out and allow the
souls of your feet to meet.
Either lie with your arms out on the floor or gently resting on your ribs.
Focus on your breath, rest and breathe for about 10- 15 mins a day.

Self Soothe

Sit comfortably in a chair.
Place your right hand on your left shoulder and your left hand on your
right shoulder and stroke down your arms at the same time. 
This is a soothing practice to help regulate your nervous system.
Do this for about 3 - 5 minutes.
Give your self a hug at the end.

Walk

Get out in nature.
Be an observer of the variety of colours around.
Even though natures flowers and bright summer colours have faded away,
there are still beautiful colours, sights and sounds to connect with
during the darker winter months.
Walk with a friend or a group of people.
The added social connection will make you feel even more part of
something and bring a sense of wellness.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a wonderful treatment to experience when you are
feeling below par and need a lift to your spirits.
It supports and balances each system in your body and allows you to
experience a deep sense of relaxation.

Book your therapeutic healing reflexology treatment or luxury pamper facial and allow yourself to let all the stress go.

You WILL be walking on clouds after and glowing from within.