Managing Stress by Tabitha Gale

Feeling stressed out? Here are some quick fixes for managing and releasing stress:

Take Some Deep Breaths

Simple but effective. When we are stressed we often shallow breathe. Taking a few deep breaths down into the belly, rather than the chest, can calm us down instantly.

Do 'Emotional Stress Release' (ESR)

There are two points located on the midline of the forehead, just above the pupils of each eye. They relate to the stomach meridian (or energy pathway), which can be most effected by stress. For example, you may have heard the expression 'butterflies in the stomach' or 'feeling gutted'. Holding these points gently, whilst you think about the situation or issue that is causing you stress can defuse the emotional charge, and bring clarity of mind, giving you the opportunity to think logically about it. I use ESR frequently with clients in clinic. It is amazing to see such a simple technique bring gentle and lasting relief.

Visualisation

Take time to visualise the problem. Holding your ESR points as above will help this process. Imagine what you would like to happen. See it in as much detail as possible. If you find it easier to imagine what you will hear of feel instead, do so. Imagining what we would like to happen influences our minds into believing that it will be so. This is great for preparing for future events - for example, an exam. You can rehearse how you want to feel and take some of the emotional charge out of it before it happens.

Drink Plenty Of Water

When we are stressed or tired our body uses up more water than usual. Staying hydrated can make a big difference to our clarity of mind and general energy levels.

be Kind To Yourself

Seems simple enough... yet we are so hard on ourselves. You are at the centre of your universe. You are the one who is always there to call on for kindness and encouragement - so be there for yourself.

Support

Sometimes we need a little extra support from outside ourselves when the pressure is on and these quick fixes are not enough. There are plenty of good therapists out there who will be happy to help you, including me!

The most important investment you can make is in yourself. When things are good in yourself, so they are manageable in the world around you. Do not be afraid to ask for support when you need it. Recognising when you need support and asking for it comes from a place of personal power, not failure.

Copyright 2009 Tabitha Gale. Tabitha is a kinesiology and reiki practitioner who lives and works in Bristol (UK). She can be contacted on: 07989 37 6656 or through her website: www.bristolkinesiology.co.uk