Stress is something of a creativity killer (perhaps an understatement!) but thankfully there are some great ways to reduce its iron grip on your perfect presentations. I’ve experimented with many of these blissful breathing techniques, but I particularly like this as a quick way into a calmer you. You don’t need anything other than a wall and it can be done in a very small space.
Try the following when you’re in a tight spot – literally:
1. Place your hands against the wall at shoulder height and shoulder width apart.
2. Place one leg in front (nearer the wall) but place all your weight on the straight, stretched leg at the back (always swap legs after a while to prevent strain)
3. Keep your back straight.
4. Lean into the wall but DON’T BEND YOUR ARMS so that your sockets take the strain.
5. In this stretch position begin to breathe
6. Allow the breath to flow in through the nose and out through the mouth.
7. It’s very important that you make sure there is no sound on the outbreath.
8. Imagine each in and out breath becoming longer and more restful.
9. Breathe in this position for as long as you like.
10. Come away from the wall, take a moment to feel the difference.
11. Take on the task you have assigned yourself for today.
The idea is that the push against the wall stops your shoulders from rising. This makes you breathe from lower in your body. Breathing from your lower ribs and diaphragm engages your parasympathetic nervous system, that rest and digest instigator, calming your body and brain. Simple and efficient!
If you'd like to find out more techniques to establish a calmer you, click the button below.