Out of all the mind-body techniques I have learned and use, mindfulness has made the most difference in my life for healing my anxiety, releasing fear and doubt, and cultivating a compassionate relationship with myself and the people around me.
Until I finally committed to a mindfulness practice, I didn’t even know how much my thoughts controlled me or how hard I could be on myself!
For years I intuitively knew it could be good for me, but I honestly thought it sounded like torture.
Me, sit still for even a couple of minutes without thoughts, yeah right?!
Luckily, I was required to start a mindfulness practice in my PhD program guided by a clear and compassionate teacher, and I can honestly say, it changed my life!
Now I am aware of my thoughts as they come up and can instantly work with them to create a new story. One that puts ME in charge and focuses on the reality I want to create, not the story my reptilian brain wants to keep me safe with.
Every time Judy would lay down, her thoughts would take over, keeping her trapped in a panic, unable to sleep and feeling wired and tired the next day. This cycle went on and on until she started practicing mindfulness with my guidance. Within a few weeks, her sleep improved, also improving her mood and relationships with her family. Judy used mindfulness to let go of her thoughts before bed so she could fall asleep easily and receive deep restorative rest during the night. Not only did her sleep improve, but so did her mood and relationships with her husband and kids!
Jaunita was under extreme financial stress from not being able to work due to a work injury. Since she was at home all day not working, her thoughts would often turn to her financial stress. She spent countless hours trying to figure out how she would get by and what her future would look like. Instead of moving her forward, her thoughts only kept her stuck in a spiral that made her feel paralyzed and anxious. Throughout our work together focused on mindfulness, she committed to a daily practice of 3 minutes a day. Within a few weeks, she created a new pattern whenever she noticed her thoughts turning towards her financial stress. Instead of getting stuck in a never-ending loop of doom about the future, she was able to bring herself to the present and her anxiety faded away. Then she took it further, taking control of her thoughts and using them to create hope and optimism for the future. This freed up all the energy she was leaking through her anxiety and allowed her to focus on small action steps towards a new, more aligned career.
Reflecting back on this party from one year ago (minus the software company visit!) I was a bundle of nerves and was not able to slip into the moment be present with those around me. What a difference a year (and a Thrive program) can make! I enjoyed myself, kept cool, kept breathing, made connections and had FUN throughout the day. This wouldn’t have happened without this program. Thank you, Leah, for being our fearless mindfulness leader! I look forward to using my new mindful ninja skills over the next few weeks!
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