Leave your worries behind

Sometimes it can feel like our thoughts are out of control, we can fall into patterns of endless worry, or we are tormented by repetitive intrusive thoughts that pop up out of nowhere when we are trying to get on with our day. This is a mindful exercise to help you to take a step back from your thoughts.

Settle down and relax in a comfortable quiet place. Now take slow deep breaths as you go through this exercise. Imagine you are walking through an ancient woodland. You come across a stream and stop to take in the scenery. Standing on the bank of the stream, you watch the autumn leaves falling from the trees, which then gently float away, downstream. Focus on your breath, just paying attention to the sensation of your breath, coming in and going out, and the movement of your chest as it rises and falls. Continue focusing on your breath like this for a couple of minutes, or longer, if that feels comfortable. If you become aware that your focus has shifted, and you have started to think about something else, imagine these thoughts appearing as words written on one of the leaves, and watch it as it quietly floats away downstream. Then, bring your attention back to your breath. This exercise can be helpful if you are stressed or worried. If you regularly practice this exercise, you will find it easier to use in difficult situations. Think of it as a tool, in your toolkit of mental wellbeing.

Give it a go, I hope you find it helpful

Until next time

Victoria