Top performers have one thing in common: their ability to balance emotion in times of stress. For those of us living in a fast-paced, urban, always on social media world, finding a sense of inner balance can sometimes provoke an increase in tension rather than a release. Cultivating a mindset to embrace stress involves continued practice and learning to “view your body’s stress response as helpful, not debilitating … view stress as energy you can use” notes an article from Stanford News.
Inhabiting tension is something we learn and practice. Feelings of stress, agitation, despair and anxiety can become so ingrained in our body, mind, and spirit that it’s easy to forget how simple it is to let these feelings go. When we do, the nervous system will begin to settle. When the nerves settle, the body settles. Becoming skilled at recognition and release of stress is one of the top ways to achieve optimal performance professionally.
Here is a five-step quick stress relief process:
Through daily practice, cultivating new patterns for letting go and releasing tension can become immediate. Determine what works for you. From meditation and yoga, to mindful walks, journaling, and ancient practices like Tai Chi or QiGong, there are endless options. Give yourself permission to get curious about classes, online resources, and workshops that can provide a new perspective. Once you find something that speaks to you, keep it going every day for at least a week. This is the first step to starting a new habit.