Member Article

Three top tips for everyday well-being

With pressure increasing in all areas of life, and new reports claiming up to 85% of adults regularly experience stress, affecting everything from their work performance to their personal relationships, Christine Flanders, Owner of Wellspring Connections, shares some tips to help live a calmer life.

1 – Accept the challenges The first, and often the most effective, way to deal with a stressful situation is to acknowledge that you’re in one. Many people assume stress is a ‘temporary blip’ and that powering through, or ignoring it completely, is the best way to get rid of it. In fact, realising there is an issue to be addressed, without criticising yourself too harshly for it, is a huge first step and can help relieve a lot of the build-up pressure.

2 – Create some boundaries Life can throw up all kinds of challenges, but many people find that creating a space and routine for yourself at the beginning of the day can help give them a sense of calm. It could be as simple as a shower, time for breakfast and dressing. It could include listening to some music you enjoy or reading for 10 minutes – the key is to ensure it is something that ‘you’ choose. You are creating a sense of order and control, putting you in a better place to start off your day.

3 – Create a space to be ‘in the moment’ each day We’ve all had a scenario where, for no apparent reason, negative thoughts can start to creep up, replaying past scenarios or imagining future dilemmas. When this happens, it can be important to create a space to go where our mind has a break and can be ‘in the moment’.

Easier said than done? There are a few different ways to achieve this kind of space. Try going for a walk and really focussing on everything that is around you, letting thoughts pass by in favour of focusing on the colours you see, birds and animals. Alternatively try focussing on a gym programme or a swimming technique.

A short ‘mind break’ can be enough to help regain control and pinpoint the reason for the bad feeling, and even help to recognise practical steps you can take to aid a situation. It can have a positive impact, dissipating a negative thought before it has a chance to take hold. As an added benefit these techniques are also building mind muscle, enabling you to control your thinking in a positive way.

If the above tips aren’t enough, person-centred counselling sessions can help you to explore what is getting in the way of managing your stress levels and life balance, giving effective techniques to help you begin drawing out your best self.

I hope these top tips help to live each day a little calmer and more prepared to face life’s trials.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Wellspring Connections .