Sustainable Practices for Environmental Leaders
How to Stay Calm in the Midst of a Heavy Workload
Recently, a colleague shared that the primary source of stress in their office was the seemingly overwhelming workload—a common scenario many of us face in our careers, as I did. Fortunately, we aren’t doomed to suffer silently under pressure. While there are many external factors beyond our control, our reactions to them are not.
One effective way to handle stress is by fostering a connection between the body and the mind through focused breathing. Stress often stems from our thoughts, which narrate a story, pulling us away from the present moment. Engaging in focused breathing can help us anchor in the now.
One helpful technique is to inhale slowly through the nose and exhale through the mouth for at least three counts, directing the breath towards the areas of tension in our body. Another technique is the 4X4 practice, which involves inhaling through the nose for 4 counts, holding your breath for 4 counts, exhaling out through your mouth for 4 counts and holding the last exhale for 4 counts. This method helps stabilize emotions and clear the mind.
For a quicker practice, try inhaling through the nose for two counts and exhaling through the mouth for four counts.
These simple techniques not only provide immediate relief but also empower us to maintain calm and focus in challenging work environments.
#What breath practice works the best for you?
#Suffering#Overwhelm#4x4 breath practice
Sacred Earth Science helps eco-innovators master leadership skills by learning and applying innovative tools and techniques to manage demanding workloads, reduce stress, boost their productivity, and achieve work-life balance. Our specialized training and Next Level Coaching help clients transform the way they work.
