Finding Calm

Calm happens.

It is a superpower that steers the body and mind toward balance, fosters creativity,

resilience and even productivity.

Conversely, emotional or physical fear triggers the brain’s stress response, a self-preservation-oriented fight, flight or freeze cascades of hormones. The body willingly follows.

Imagine what happens as chronic unresolved stress keeps this physiological response on board while facing mundane, yet likely benign, daily hassles. Uncomfortable in the moment, unhealthy over time, and yet certainly changeable.

Calm is subjective.

Whatever captures and holds one's attention expands. The brain’s natural confirmation bias, the I-told-you-so voice, then validates those experiences, thoughts and feelings. This works in support of unhelpful often fixed thoughts (never, should, must) AND with potentially helpful thoughts (sometimes, could, may.) Mindfulness influences attention and mitigates stress.

Practice helps.

Take a breath, notice and name any unhelpful sensations or thoughts. Voice them silently or aloud. For example: noticing worry or noticing impatience. This often eases tensions and allows for healthy responses.

Practice noticing and naming when helpful thoughts and sensations arise as well. Noticing ease, intrigue or joy. Noticing____ (insert your unique helpful thoughts or sensations.)

With an accompanying release of mood boosting hormones, these practices allow the possibility of a calmer mind and body. Imagine the superpower in that!

Thank you for spending this present moment here. I look forward to providing authentic, evidence-based mindfulness guidance for your unique needs, or for finding calm.