​

​

​

​

​

 

 

 

​

Internal Resources

 

When circumstances become overwhelming, it is easy to forget that resources exist inside of us. In fact, if you are reading this, you are in touch with a resource right now! Below are some options.

​

• Take a moment to observe how you are breathing. Maybe as you notice this, each exhale could be a bit longer. If that does not feel right, try focusing on the space where air enters and exits the body. Maybe this is the tip of your nose or the inside of your lips. Just notice the movement of air at this location.

​

• Look away from the screen for a moment and widen your gaze to include your peripheral vision. If possible keep the eyelids soft and allow the images/information out to the sides of you to enter the eyes. Notice if the rest of your body responds in some manner.

 

• Take space for yourself. Sit somewhere and observe a natural element. Look at the ocean, listen to a bird, touch a tree trunk or smell the air. Name to yourself what you notice.

 

• Imagine a place that brings you a sense of calm...perhaps a beach scene, a cabin in the woods, the middle of a city center or just laying atop the water on a float. Take a moment to imagine yourself there. Now notice what you sense in your body/mind/emotions as you imagine this space. What does calm feel like?

 

Be mindful of the story your mind might try to tell you about your ability to feel calm. Try to observe this story if it arises and then choose to not get caught up in it. Instead, go back to the breath and the image of calm.

 

• Imagine an object, place or animal that has a quality you may be wanting for yourself...maybe the courage of a grizzly bear, the slow movements of a sloth, the freedom of a hawk or the stability of a tree. As you imagine what it does, what do you notice in yourself?