Peace of mind is GOALS. Whether we realize it or not, our state of mind is a common denominator for A LOT. Without peace of mind, there is stress which can cause much more damage than we think. Our body’s main stress hormone is called cortisol. It aids other parts of our brain to control mood, motivation, and fear. If we stay stressed out, those levels get really out of whack. Therefore, we put ourselves at risk of experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, and other emotions that may make us lash out or hurt those around us. Furthermore, stress can make us feel weighted down, inferior, and inadequate. Also, stress may cause us to panic and jump to conclusions (usually not positive ones). Finally, stress can cause weight gain due to the imbalance in hormones and added inflammation. Bottom line, stress is something we have to get a hold of and try to prevent. Here are three things that may help…
- Stop and assess the situation. Sometimes the stressors in our lives are not actually issues worth stressing over. Think about the problem, think about how it affects you, and think about what you can do about it. I have a hard time with this. It’s like the saying “Make a mountain out of a mole hill.” I take something miniscule to my life and let it completely control me. But when I talk about it out loud and think about the bigger picture, I understand it wasn’t that big of a deal after all.
- Pray. And then talk to someone about it. Whatever you are going through, someone else has most likely experienced or are experiencing something similar. If not, hopefully they will be willing to listen and support you. A therapist doesn’t always have to be a doctor. A therapist can be a friend, hair stylist, or (cough cough) a Pilates instructor. LOL
- Eliminate the situation if possible. I love to end class with a breathing exercise and say, “breathe in new air and exhale the old.” In other words, allow freshness and positivity IN, and let everything else that no longer serves you OUT. I understand this may not be possible in all situations. But in a lot of cases, it is. It might also not be the easiest route, but in the long run you will see that it is necessary. This might be as simple as just learning to say, “no.” Just simplify your life.