Some of you wanted to know a little more about this article on awareness, so I have added a few points for you. I am so glad you are so interested in the information given here.
In these traumatic times, we can greatly reduce our stress as we mold our minds and bodies. We can do this with our breath, dynamic action, positive thinking, and relaxation. You may well think this is easy to say, but with the right exercises it is very possible, and such methods have changed my own life. You can help yourself and those you love to overcome fear and stress, and perhaps, hopefully, experience some joy and happiness in these grim times.
In my last blog post, we covered the correct BREATHING for anxiety relief. This exercise, which can be used in conjunction with the first article, covers AWARENESS. To be aware of our bodies is to have a sense of a solid base from which we face the world.
IMPORTANT
It is vital to breathe through your nose during this exercise. This way of inhaling is important to our wellbeing; mentally, and physically. You will feel refreshed, and will not suffer the dryness associated with mouth breathing.
LOCATION
It is better for you to do this lying down on a bed, comfortable couch, or a recliner. You should not attempt this standing up. As you do this exercise, be aware of your breathing, but don’t force it. Just let it happen naturally.
AWARENESS
This exercise is performed preferably with your eyes closed. Once in a comfortable position and using the belly breath, let your mind pass to the skin and muscles of your forehead. Be aware of and become interested in any sensations in the skin. But, don’t analyze – don’t judge. Just let them happen. Maybe you have never been too conscious of the sensations on the surface of your skin before – how it works, quietly interacting with your brain, sending vital messages crucial to your wellbeing.
Allow your mind to flow to the muscles beneath the skin. What are the feelings? Again, just observe them, don’t judge. In this pleasant reverie – or ‘daydreaming’ state – let your mind drift to your eyelids. What are the sensations in the skin of your cheeks, your chin, the neck, your shoulders? Again, without judgment, feel the sensations in the surface of the skin, then the muscles. You should begin to relax and be aware of your very being.
Let your mind gradually drift down to all the parts of your body, right down to your toes. In this pleasant ‘daydream’, you may slip into a state between consciousness and sleep. This is known as the Alpha state, physically, mentally, and emotionally relaxed.
Now visualize a pleasant place; one that is attractive to you. Or perhaps you could visualize yourself achieving something important in your life, or even a treasured memory. At the same time, always be aware of positive thoughts and your breathing.
As you do this exercise, your anxiety and stress should diminish. Do practice this regularly, setting aside quiet time, or when you are feeling anxious or fearful. It may take time to master this technique but the benefits are worth the effort.
I hope you find this awareness exercise useful and pleasant.
Now you can practice for the next article, the basic complete relaxation. This will help you in your journey to overcoming fear and stress.
If you want to find out more about me and my work, then visit the Katy Walters Website. Please keep yourself safe.
Love,
Katy
