Decisions

I go this gift at an exchange over the weekend. I thought this was clever and on point in today’s climate.

Some days it feels like making a decision is so complicated that using the rock paper scissors plan is the best option.

When life gets complicated we can become overwhelmed. Overwhelmed activates our sympathetic nervous systems ( think fight or flight) and part of that system shuts down the thin king part of our brain and its hide, fight or run away. Until we can get the parasympathetic nervous system to kick in , it can be difficult to make decisions.

So how do we do that?

Glad you asked……

We stop. Stop thinking. Stop obsession. Stop being afraid. stop projecting. just stop.

In the midst of overwhelm, taking a breather helps to kick in the parasympathetic nervous system. I offer clients a breathing exercise when things are not too terrible. It is called square breathing.

Square breathing is one slow, deep breath into the count of four, hold the breath for a count of four, breath slowly out to the count of four, and then wait for a count of four before breathing in again. Continue to use this technique for about five minutes and slow it down as you count across that five minutes.

Hopefully, then you will be able to have better focus.

If not maybe try the pal in the picture, giggle.

Many blessings

Counseling in Salem, Oregon Call for a 15 minutes consult