Slow down and take stock!
If you notice that you are feeling a little out of sorts, can’t focus, feel overwhelmed, try this strategy to figure out what you need.
N – Neutralize, do 2 to 3 minutes of deep breathing. Slowly breathe in through your nose for a count of about 8, hold it for 2 to 3 seconds, breathe out just as slowly. (2 to 3 minutes of deep breathing slows the heart rate, lowers the blood pressure and induces the relaxation response).
E – Engage, be engaged in the moment, what do you notice, what are you feeling, what are your thoughts, what is happening in your space and time.
E – Embrace, just be okay with whatever is going on, thoughts and feelings are just that thoughts and feelings, not facts, not forever, it’s okay to notice them and it’s okay to let them go. Check in with what you need to be better, some downtime, a to do list, someone to talk to, let it go, or tap on it.
D – Decide, after identifying possible options make a decision and get into action, or inaction if that is what is best for you in the moment.