Dear Gatherers,
Are you a worrier or a warrior? I have been a worrier my entire life. When I first heard the word "catastrophizing" I felt understood! That's exactly what I would do- imagine the worst possible outcome of a situation and convince myself of its probability.
I am not alone. Worrying is universal; in fact, our nervous systems are set up to worry.
So how do we manage this debilitating habit?
My meditation practice has been hugely helpful and I can say that I am less of a worrier and more of a warrior than ever before.
But worrying doesn't just go away. It kind of nestles its way into our brain on a pretty regular basis. Noticing when we begin to worry is very helpful. Pay attention the moment a worry thought comes into your head. Then notice what emotion follows. Finally, see what is happening to the body when you have worrisome thoughts and feelings.
Sit down, close your eyes and take several long deep breaths, repeating Everything is Alright on the inhalation and Right Now on the exhalation. Repeat several times and see if your body relaxes, shaking off the tension and allowing you to breathe in more rational thinking. Because most likely, everything actually is alright right now. As Janis Joplin, one of my favorite singers, said "You can destroy your now by worrying about tomorrow. Worrying will never change the result so it's definitely worth doing what we can to unhook ourselves from the almost addictive habit of worrying. There are several things to try: Ask yourself "what do I believe?" Then ask yourself "is what I believe about this situation true?" Consider whether there is a less negative way to think about the situation. Ask yourself what you would tell a friend with this worry? Get up and Move!! Take a few conscious breaths. Meditate Here's what Winston Churchill has to say about worrying:
"When I look back on all my worries, I remember the story of an old man who said on his death bed that he had a lot of trouble in his life, most of which never happened."
Such a poignant message! May we all heed the wisdom of this Chinese proverb:
"That the birds of worry and care fly over your head, this you cannot change, but that they build a nest in your hair, this you can prevent."
Sending you love, support and encouragement in your journey to a life of less worry....
Join us on Sunday at 4 PT for meditation, reflection and authentic conversation.
https://www.thegathering-la.com/events-1/sunday-hour-of-calm-5
Here's to all of you!
With love and light,
Nora Plesent
Lawyer/Entrepreneur/Mom/Immersive Meditation Leader/Ripple Maker
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