Modern Life is full of stress and strains and demands on our system. Stress comes from the inability or difficulty to adapt due to habits, ego, attachments and fears. Stress can also be the result of not having enough Prana (energy) to cope with the demands or pressure. When we are stressed, we develop negative feelings and lose even more Prana. It can snowball into a big problem.
Here are a few ways to unblock energy and turn around the stress drain:
- Breathe consciously and rhythmically; inhale to the count of three, exhale to the count of three. This will synchronize your brain waves and your heart rhythm.
- Move calmly. Best is to regularly practice yoga postures or asanas which gently move the body, stretch the muscles and turn the mind inward to more awareness. Asanas performed consciously in the right sequence—with proper holding, concentration, breathing and relaxation—release blockages of energy and recharge you with new vitality.
- Resist spending too much effort, no matter what you are doing. Effort needs to be balanced with relaxation.
- Take time alone to find yourself. Constantly being in a network of relationships is very draining.
- Slow down. Be aware not to be trapped in the Maya (illusion) of your challenging situation.
- Do one thing at a time. This is the principle of Raja Yoga. Stress can come from too much happening at the same time, so slow down and focus on one thing at a time.
- Focus on a positive object such as the sun.
- Meditate to have the direct experience of the Self.
- Detach! Keep yourself calm and do not buy into the drama that the mind creates.
- See the big picture. Change your perspective.
- Connect with Nature. Take a walk; look at trees, the sky, flowers, stars or the moon.
- Remember your Immortal Self. Experience beingness and oneness.
- Use your senses to bring you back to positivity. For instance, listen to nice music, get a therapeutic massage, practice aromatherapy, contemplate beautiful images or taste delicate food.
- Be grateful. Count your blessings.
- Be content. Tell yourself, “I already have enough.”
- Surrender. What is happening may not be what you want, but it may be what you need. Know that everything happens for a reason.
- Balance your energy by doing different activities than usual.
- Affirm to do the best you can and let go of the results, good or bad.Tell yourself. “This too shall pass.”
- Tell yourself, “God loves me no matter what.”
- Withdraw the attention within and cease comparing.
- Refrain from judging yourself and others.
- Tell yourself, “This is my opportunity to learn.
- Realize that you are only the witness of whatever is happening.
- Avoid extremes of love and hate.
- Come back to the present.
- Rest.
- Acceptance. It is not my will; it is God’s will. Keep trust and faith.
