There are lots of simple ways to help yourself to feel more calm and more able to cope with the stress and worry of everyday life. Practising breathing techniques or doing guided meditation can help calm and regulate your nervous system so you can get back to enjoying your best life.
Imagine a calm river flowing in front of you as you begin to meditate. Picture colourful leaves floating gently on the surface of the water. Each leaf represents a worry or thought in your mind. As you watch them drift away, let go of those worries and thoughts. Feel yourself becoming lighter and more peaceful with each leaf that passes by. Focus on the present moment, letting the river carry away your worries just like it carries away the leaves. Breathe deeply and relax, allowing the peaceful scene to guide you into a calm and refreshing meditation.
Picture yourself cycling up and down hills, breathing in and out with each pedal.Inhale deeply as you prepare to climb, feeling energised. Exhale slowly, releasing tension as you ascend. At the peak, savour the moment. Then, as you descend, breathe freely, enjoying the ride. Sync your breath with your movement, finding peace in the rhythm of cycling. Allow cycling to become a meditation, where each breath propels you forward with strength and clarity.
Imagine yourself beneath the comforting embrace of an orange tree, its roots deeply entrenched in the soil, grounding you to the earth. As you absorb the tranquil energy it radiates, finding solace in the gentle sway of its branches and the sweet scent of its fruit-laden branches, a reminder to stay rooted in the present and resilient in the face of life's challenges. The tree's steadfast presence nurtures a sense of inner peace and strength, like the unwavering support of a trusted friend standing by your side through every season ofgrowth and change.
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Life can be stressful, but some simple techniques can really help you to feel much better!
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Repeat this process for several breaths, allowing the rhythmic movement to guide your breath and bring a sense of calm and relaxation.
Kaygan (Kay) Barnard (she/they) is a queer, disabled artist, and activist residing on unceded Whadjuk Noongar Land. Proudly affiliated with local disability community networks, Kay collaborates with fellow activists to amplify voices and advocate for social justice.
With a fervent dedication to disability justice, prevention of family and domestic violence and the healing.
As an emerging artist, Kay is profoundly grateful for the support of those who engage with their work and contribute to their vision of building solidarity, fostering dialogue, and creating meaningful change through art and activism.