Give the Mind a Rest!

 

Many of us are cursed with mental chatter that constantly tells us what we should be doing, what we should be thinking and commenting on everything we’re doing. Our minds can be so busy that we end up living in our heads and not accomplishing much in our physical day to day lives. We end up going round and round in circles, distracted and finding it hard to concentrate on what we want to do. In addition, most people today are so busy always rushing around trying to fit more and more into an already busy schedule that it is hard to literally find the time to stop and take a break from it all.

Our bodies are always sending us signals (a form of bio-feedback) that tell us we need to slow down and relax. These can be mental, emotional or physical and can manifest as stress, anxiety or aches and pains such as headaches and back ache. However, since we are so involved in the things that are external to us, we may easily overlook what is really going on inside. It is during these times that we need to step back from the things that occupy our minds and take time out to connect with our inner self, giving our mind, body and soul the time they need to re-energize and heal.

Initially the idea of taking a break may sound counter-productive. “How can I take a break when I’ve got so much to do?” we ask. In reality however a period of rest during which the mind is focused elsewhere enables you to come back to your daily life refreshed and with new perspective. Spend time walking outside, ideally in a park or wood, to really feel grounded. I always find trees are an amazing source of strength. Since they are so old and timeless they really put my worries into perspective because most of what we worry about this week won’t be an issue next week or the week after. An exercise class also helps you switch off the mind, as does meeting up with good friends who may be able to offer a different view point. Having a good laugh with friends always diffuses tension and stress.

 

A mindfulness form of meditation or simply tuning into the rise and fall of the breath also enables you to let go of worries. This act brings your focus back to the things that are truly essential, such as your sense of oneness with the universe and your inner peace and well-being. As you begin to get in touch with this part of yourself, you will find that your usual everyday troubles and worries become less important and you feel more capable of dealing with potential stressors. There is a very well-known piece of advice given to people who say they don’t have time to meditate – “The less time you have to meditate, the more you need to make time to meditate”. Just five minutes a day on the bus into work can help you detach from the mental chatter and think more clearly.

Giving yourself respite from your daily concerns is like giving a gift to yourself - one that is far more worthwhile than reaching for a glass of wine or a bar of chocolate! By stepping away from the problems that seem to saturate your thoughts, you lessen the weight of your troubles and instead become more receptive to the wisdom and answers the universe has to offer.

“Sometimes finding the answer is as easy as taking a break and stepping back from the situation.”

Madisyn Taylor

  

Helen is running a Meditation for Health and Wellbeing workshop on Sat 2^nd December  2017 at 15 Wheeler Gate, Nottingham. Just 1 place remains available. Please tel/text 07748 591690 if you would like to attend.

 

Helen Shortland is a Reiki Master Healer/Teacher, Meditation Teacher and Holistic Therapist based at 15 Wheeler Gate in Nottingham city centre. Helen offers several healing treatments such as Reiki, Angelic Reiki, Faery Reiki, Angel Therapy, Fairy Blessing Guided Journey and Crystal Chakra Balancing; holistic therapies including Reflexology, Indian Head Massage, Back Massage, Hopi Ear Candles & Facials; as well as Usui Reiki and Faery Reiki training courses. She has been on the spiritual path for 17 years and has extensive knowledge of healing and the healing journey. For further information about her Reiki courses, therapies and workshops, please visit her website http://helenshortland.com or visit and ‘like’ her Facebook page Helen Shortland Holistics & Healing.