Have you ever felt unbalanced, overwhelmed and out-of-sync with your ideal state of living? Things feel topsy-turvy instead of secure and grounded? Sometimes this can happen with new beginnings or the culmination of something in your life- things like graduations, anticipated new careers or moving out or into a new home. All of these transitions can bring about a sense of instability and chaos instead of a calm equilibrium.
I can relate to all of these feelings! We are in the midst of a massive transition in the O’Leary house. Our home was damaged in the winter and we are in the midst of packing up and headed into a temporary spot. Boxes head to the donation pile, long-term storage, short-term storage, our new transitory residence and the garbage pile.
Simultaneously we are working on a large project in which we are renovating an 1880’s home and bringing it back to life. (Exciting but an enormous endeavor!) Add in the fact that two of our girls head out of their small schools to new schools in the Fall. Feelings vacillate between eagerness to trepidation… such big changes!
Our world is spinning like the Tea Cup Ride in a summer carnival! How does one stay grounded in calm in the midst of the whirlwind? In this week’s article I will share some Simple Solutions to help you navigate times of change and overwhelm so that you can ride the waves like a graceful surfer.
In the midst of transition and/or chaos it is important to give yourself a strong foundation that nurtures, soothes and supports your entire being. Let’s look at a few Simple Solutions that will help you navigate stormy waters and bring you the sense of serenity of a calm harbor.
Deep Breathing
It is sometimes hard to believe that something so simple can have such a huge impact! Take a few moments at least 3 times a day to focus solely on your breathing. That means put away your cell phone and notice yourself breathing in and breathing out. If you are out of practice or have never participated in Mindful Breathing, start by breathing in for a count of 5 and out for a count of 5. Practice for a few minutes a few times a day and begin to notice how you feel.
Soothing Spot
When stress and overwhelm take over it is important to have a go-to spot that will sooth your mind, body and spirit. You can create this space virtually anywhere. I often recommend to my Elite & Private Clients that they first focus on their bedroom. Creating a bedroom that is clutter free, filled with items that have fond memories and colors that make you smile are a great start! This will help you start and end your day on a positive note.
Connect to a Positive
It can be mentally and physically exhausting to experience a move (even when you have help!) This is true of any situation that brings instability or a disturbance in your life. It is amazing how finding one silver lining thought, even if it is only a thread, can bring you peace. My Silver Lining Thought was “Amidst the chaos, it feels so good to go through the entire house and truly “Clean House”! How often do we actually get to do this?” This will help you rise out of the distress or overwhelm and connect you to a higher level of energy.
Graceful Gratitude
Beginning or ending your day reflecting on optimistic experiences that fill you with a sense of thankfulness will help you move out of the overwhelm and into a state of grace. You can connect to this blissful state throughout your day (especially when you begin to notice that unsettled feeling begin to churn in your mind and body).
These Simple Solutions can help you navigate the tumultuous tides of change where waves knock you off your feet, sending you tumbling and gasping for air. If you need your own individualized plan that supports you and your current situation schedule your Success Strategy Call here. In the meantime, take a moment right now to firmly plant your feet on the ground, close your eyes and take a deep breath.
Happy Soaring!
XOXO
