The Five Best Feelings
"Stress is nothing more than a socially acceptable form of mental illness" Richard Carlson
We have all been there, you're stressed out. In my personal experience the best way to relieve stress is to take a step back, and think of something that is comforting. In the five instances below think about the emotional and physical feelings that you experience . Imagine what you see, smell, hear, feel, and even taste. If you would like to suggest any relaxing moments or feelings below feel free to do so.
The Warmth of a Bed
You know that feeling after a long day of work when you finally relax and climb into bed. After dealing with the chaos and confusion of the world there is a certain relaxation and happiness that overcomes oneself once you finally begin to drift off to sleep. The warm covers provide a sense of security and safety that remind you of when you were a child and used to climb into bed. The relaxation comes in waves as your body shuts down. Next time you get stressed, anxious, or just want to relax just imagine that feeling.
Above the Water
Have you ever jumped into a lake or pool on a hot day. That feeling where you are above the water for a split second and time seems to stop. You can see the suns rays glisten on the waters surface below your feet. You are sweaty and hot, the water is your aquatic sanctuary. Nothing seems to matter, you are floating above the water, suspended in animation. If you are depressed, or woke up on the wrong side of the bed imagine, jumping into the water.
Tip of Your Tongue
Have you ever been stuck, desperately trying to remember something. Your mind concentrates trying to find what you are searching for. It consumes you. You begin to express doubt, whatever you were trying to remember is impossible to conjure. Then, out of no where you find success. A certain delight, and satisfaction overtakes you. Next time you are stuck on a difficult problem think back to that time that you remembered something that you thought was forgotten.
A Much Needed Suprise
Do you ever feel like the world is working against you, that you never seem to catch a break? Remember that time you were down, and then life gave you a gift. You reach into a pair of jeans that you haven't worn in a while and your hand surrounds an unexpected passenger. A twenty dollar bill sits motionless in your hand, a reminder that good and bad things get dealt to us. That feeling of finding money is otherworldly, even if it doesn't make a difference financially. Next time when you feel like things just aren't going your way remember that life is a box of chocolates.
Letting Someone in
You are at a grocery store on your way out, and someone else is on their way in. You hold the door open for them, and for a brief moment you make eye contact. They thank you, and you can tell from their voice that they respect you, and think highly of you. Whenever you help someone you experience a sense of self worth, even if your deed may have been as simple as opening a door. Next time you feel guilty, or like a bad person, remember that everyone makes mistakes and it only takes an action to make yourself a better person.
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