“Just breathe”…breaking down Quotes into small action steps
Okay, so I had this on my mind for a long time, and I will make a little series out of quotes that I find less useful, when you dont know how to break them down into action. Some parts you may have seen in my social media post, but here is the FULL version:
Let's start with this one first. A phrase I often see and share myself.
But what I notice is, when you are already SO stressed, anxious or overwhelmed and someone tells you to "Just breaaaaathe"....
Wouldn't you just think "Ah come on, F off"? or "As if this would solve all my problems now!!!"🤣
I am a breathwork facilitator and I still catch myself thinking that!! (no judgement here hehe)
How can this little phrase be more helpful?
I share how I implement it for myself, some food for thought:
When I notice I could do with some calming down (and breathing), I go ahead and take some time during the day, dedicated to a breathing practise. (i.E 15 minutes- non negotiable)
I decide where I want to be (room, nature, etc) when I do it
I decide which music I listen to, or if I do it with or without guidance.
And if I feel super overwhelmed, unable to do the above steps, I simply commit to those 15 minutes, bringing awareness to my breath and observing. Noticing the sensations (air, temperature, movement in the upper body) and keeping the focus on my breath & body.
The next day, I can think about some music to add, or depending on how overwhelmed, I repeat until I have more headspace and feel more regulated to think of the other elements.
When you are in a "thrive" mode and feel pretty regulated and simply want to fine-tune your practice and dedicate more to it, maybe the below steps give some ideas:
I feel into my body (i use the Human Design strategy/authority), to pick a time of the day.
I listen to music or guided sessions and choose which I loved the most (favourite playlist or breathwork facilitator)
I create a structure and regular plan/basis (Capricorn in me loves this), to honour my time and myself and create a habit when I am able to do so
This will support me when im super dysregulated and take away that extra decision-making element, which is already hard when dysregulated.
So I recommend not only taking some time to regulate your nervous system when you NEED to. But also take the time when you have the capacity and create a sustainable routine for yourself.
