Stand Tall: A simple way to shift your energy

One last word about posture…

The world is an overwhelming chaotic storm right now.  And most of us have no control over it.  I look at the news and I think: How can this possibly be happening? It’s incomprehensible.  It’s distressing and disturbing.  It’s easy to let anxiety rise and worry become constant.   So what CAN we do?  An easy everyday way to face the world today with grace, strength and courage is to stand tall.  The simple act of standing tall will change your mindset, help you to feel happier, stronger, more confident and courageous…more optimistic.   It seems so simple but it’s really true. It’s physiological. Just try it for yourself - experiment with standing/walking/sitting tall and see how it affects your mindset and your mood.  

I invite you to get yourself out of your everyday slouch that screen time and hard times can create…before it becomes chronic.  Standing tall with intention and awareness helps to retrain your body and mind.  Let it become your daily practice to cultivate mindfulness and presence.  Perhaps it’s as simple as this: each time you stand or sit, notice your posture.  Adjust it to be a little taller (spine long), a little more relaxed (shoulders down and away from your ears).  And notice how you breath.  Notice how you feel.  Remember that tiny tweaks can make a huge difference.  

Here are 10 more ways (and extra ideas in the red links) to face the world storm with grace and strength. Shift the energy of the world by shifting your own energy!

1. Stay informed but choose the news you watch with care for your mental state.
   
2. Consider donating to the Red Cross. They go everywhere and help anyone in need.
   
3. Practice yoga on the beach or sunset meditation, it’s a beautiful way to get grounded.
   
4. Just breathe...noticing your breath will anchor you in the present moment, help you to feel grounded and calm.
   
5. Connect with nature - wander in the woods, hug a tree, pick berries, dig in your garden. Ahhh!
   
6. Notice the beauty of our planet…it’s all around you…all you have to do is notice.
   
7. Hug someone you love - hugs and friends can make a huge difference to your mental state.
   
8. Make something with your hands (bake, garden, craft) and offer it to a friend or neighbour.
   
9. Do something that really challenges you to remind yourself how strong you are. Even if it's just a new and challenging yoga pose.
   
10. Find your way to take care of yourself, everyday - self-care and self-compassion are essential.

"We must realize that it is best to focus on our oneness, to re emphasize what is the same about each of us rather than dwell on what is different."
H.H. Dalai Lama