How to cope in the midst of Challenges - Part II
In last week's blog we reviewed some definitions reasons why we cannot always cope in a positive way. Additionally I also provided you with a way to challenge your thoughts to help turn around negative thinking. Today we will focus on three other exercises to help you to cope when feeling challenged.
Practicing Gratitude:
The benefit of gratitude is that it cultivates a sense of openness, appreciation, and kindness. Clients will also choose to journal their thoughts of gratitude in the morning or at the end of a busy day. Others have used this practice in the midst of a very challenging moment as a means to ground them. I would encourage you to find the BEST time for you. What may work for your friend, may work differently for you. Examples of basic daily gratitude are:
Roof over your head
Sunlight
Running water
Food to eat
Smiling
Light bulb
Health
Your five senses
Bed to sleep in
Take the Stress Pause:
Pausing can do wonders for our mental health - especially in moments of high stress. Try this acronym to help you take a stress pause.
S-T-O-P
S - Stand: Slow the pace by standing in place and taking two or three nice deep belly breaths
T – Tune-In: Scan your body identifying the points of tension. Breathe that tension out
O – Observe: Focus on your surroundings. Take note of at least 3 unique or pleasant things.
P – Possibility: You have just gone off of auto pilot and are now free to pick a different direction.
Visualize The Calm:
Draw from your own history: Is there something or someone from your past that has helped you to find peace or calm? Draw on that memory.
For 3 minutes visualize one or more of the following: Favorite color Favorite song Favorite wise person Favorite quote Favorite animal
All of my troubles wash away in the water *Unknown
If I can help you with additional strategies or ongoing support, contact me at 281.940.5820 or rebecca@rebeccatherapy.com
Learn more about me and how I can help at https://www.rebeccatherapy.com/area-of-treatments
N.B. This is part 2 of a multi part series to help you learn varies strategies to cope better with challenges as they arise. Please come back to visit!