keep calm in crisis
Challenging times are upon us, it’s easy to get swept up in anxiety or panic or paralised by fear and worry or just to lose our sense of self and balance. In times like these I turn in earnest to the meditation, breathing and visualisation practices that have been my constant companions for the last 25 years. In particular what are traditionally referred to in meditation circles as Anchor Practices can be really helpful in coming back to the present moment and calming the nervous system so we can move through the day with more ease and peace.
I’ve recorded a few versions of some of these practices along with some other visualisations. I’m offering some of them to you in the hope that they help you find a moment of calm, and a sense of connection in a disconnected world.
These are secular meditations so feel free to practice whatever faith or religious orientation you may or may not have. They are not intended to replace any advice or support from your usual therapist or counsellor and although not intended to ‘unpack’ anything, should any uncomfortable feelings or emotions arise whilst working through these practices just breathe, pause and stop whenever you feel the need.
start simple
the following short practices are very simple and designed to bring instant space and ease to the mind. Practice them anytime you feel the need and if you’d like to build them into a routine try setting a reminder on your phone. Doing one of these on the hour every hour will create a beautifully calming framework to your day.
Please note: If you are struggling with breathlessness or difficulty breathing you may wish to start with the Flower in Focus practice. Basic breath awareness will help you deepen your breath and use all available breathing spaces, and calm in peace out brings you into close awareness of your breath. As you will be doing these alone without a teacher to hand they are best practiced when the breath isn’t compromised so if in doubt save those for when you’re feeling better and breathing has returned to normal for you.
work a little more deeply
These exercises take you a little more deeply into enquiry or relationship with yourself and your work. Some are developed from some of the themes in The Empowered Entrepreneur and others are taken from other practices i’ve worked with over the years. I hope you enjoy the exploration.
win the morning, win the day
Taking the theme of ‘win the morning, win the day’ from The Empowered Entrepreneur, these audios are the first in a new series created to help you start your day in a powerful, purposeful and meaningful way.
A short 5 minute sweet and simple guided reset for when you need a moment of calm. Sooth your nervous system, create a little space and stop a downward spiral in its tracks.